Drones are ‘evolutionary, not revolutionary’ for the IAF, says Air Chief Marshal AP Singh

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has said drones will complement, not replace, the Indian Air Force’s fighter jets. He spoke at his annual press conference on Saturday, 3 October, ahead of Air Force Day on 8 October.

Drones are not revolutionary for the Indian Air Force. Yes, they are evolutionary. — Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh

No separate drone force

Asked whether India needs a dedicated drone or unmanned force, as some militaries have set up, the IAF chief said no.

Whether we need a separate drone force, I don’t think so. They should be a part of the same setup and you have to be operating together. — Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh

He pointed out that the IAF has operated drones for more than two decades, and said unmanned systems should be integrated with fighters, missiles and other weapons rather than run on their own.

The lesson from Operation Sindoor

Singh cited Operation Sindoor, India’s strikes on Pakistan in May 2025, as an example. He said the combined use of drones, fighters and other weapons ensured that the conflict “ended within four days on their own terms”.

Why it matters

Wars in Ukraine and West Asia have prompted a global debate on whether cheap drones make expensive manned aircraft less relevant. The IAF chief’s answer is that India will invest in both. That has implications for the IAF’s long-running effort to rebuild its fighter squadron numbers alongside drone purchases.

Sources: ThePrint.