The Indian Army has begun forming ‘Ashni’ drone platoons and special units named ‘Bhairav’ to enhance its operational capability and strategic strength in future warfare, Western Command General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar said.
Lieutenant General Katiyar stated that the Army is working at multiple levels to strengthen its combat capabilities in view of the challenges of modern warfare. As part of this effort, ‘Ashni’ drone platoons are being constituted within infantry battalions, artillery units and armoured regiments.
Integration of Drone Technology Across Formations
According to Lieutenant General Katiyar, drone technology has been integrated across formations ranging from the smallest sub-units to larger military structures. The ‘Ashni’ drone platoons are being incorporated specifically into infantry battalions, artillery and armoured regiments. He said the use of drones will assist the Army in real-time surveillance, intelligence gathering and precise target acquisition, enhancing soldier safety and enabling more effective conduct of operations.
Formation of ‘Bhairav’ Special Units
The Indian Army has also initiated the formation of special operations units named ‘Bhairav’. These units will be tasked with conducting operations deep inside enemy territory and neutralising key targets. Lieutenant General Katiyar said future wars will require small, rapid and independently operating teams. The ‘Bhairav’ units have been created to enable swift action within enemy areas and to strengthen the Army’s offensive and special operations capabilities.
Indigenous Development of Drones
The Indian Army has started manufacturing its drones in Army workshops as part of efforts toward self-reliance. Lieutenant General Katiyar said the Army is designing and producing drones in accordance with its operational requirements. He stated that indigenous manufacturing will provide greater flexibility and technical control, and large-scale production will accelerate enhancement of preparedness and capability.
Drone technology has become an important component of modern warfare, with expanding roles in surveillance, target identification and precision strikes. The Indian Army is incorporating this technology into its war strategy to enable continuous monitoring of enemy activity and rapid action when required, reducing operational risk during conflict.
