Indian Army Boosts Drone Warfare: 850 Kamikaze Drones, 30,000 More Planned

• Indian Army plans to acquire 850 Kamikaze drones for all three defense forces and special forces.
• The proposal is in advanced stages and expected to be approved by the Defense Acquisition Council this month.
• Procurement will be fast-tracked, acquiring 850 loitering munitions and launchers from indigenous sources.
• The Army aims to integrate 30,000 drones into all combat units, with 'Ashni' platoons for drone operations.
• Drones were effectively used in Operation Sindoor, destroying terrorist hideouts and targeting the Pakistani army.

Why It Matters: Indian Army is rapidly modernizing its drone warfare capabilities with massive acquisitions and integration.