Stories
IAF Chief: No Separate Drone Force Needed, Existing Structure Sufficient
- •Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated the Indian Air Force does not require a separate drone force, as drone capabilities are already integrated into its existing structure.
- •Singh emphasized that the IAF views drones as an evolution of current capabilities, not a revolutionary change, and is increasing its inventory of drones and loitering munitions.
- •The IAF has not considered creating a separate drone force, believing drones should remain part of the existing setup and operate alongside other capabilities.
- •Regarding theatre commands, Singh confirmed the IAF is not against the concept and has been actively involved in discussions, which were influenced by developments post-Operation Sindoor.
- •Singh highlighted the need to consider not only the organizational structure of theatre commands but also the implementation sequence, whether in one go or incrementally.
Key Questions Answered
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated that the Indian Air Force does not see a need for a separate drone force because drone capabilities are already integrated into its existing structure. He noted that the IAF views drones as an evolution of current capabilities rather than a revolutionary change and has not considered creating a separate force.
The IAF is actively increasing the number of drones and loitering munitions in its fleet, operating them alongside other traditional weapons and capabilities. Furthermore, the IAF has initiated an indigenous kamikaze drone program to build a dedicated development and production facility at Air Force Station Sulur in Tamil Nadu.
The IAF is not against the concept of theatre commands and has actively participated in ongoing discussions. According to Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, while discussions began before Operation Sindoor, subsequent developments require careful evaluation regarding the organizational structure and the implementation sequence.
