Bharat Forge’s defense arm, Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd (KSSL), emerged as the lowest bidder in the Indian Army’s recent procurement tender for unmanned aerial systems, winning a contract that includes 120 loitering munitions and 2,720 drones. This development, announced on October 20, 2025, marks a significant milestone in India’s push for indigenous defense capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The bidding success comes amid ongoing border tensions, underscoring the Army’s urgent need to modernize its drone arsenal affordably. Previously, the Army faced procurement challenges, but this fresh contract reflects a renewed focus on enhancing asymmetric warfare capabilities with indigenous technology. The drones, equipped to operate in complex combat environments, represent a strategic upgrade to India’s defense preparedness. Analysts view this contract as a demonstration of India’s growing defense manufacturing self-reliance, though some express concern over whether the quantities procured will support sustained operations in prolonged conflicts. Bharat Forge’s win strongly positions it as a key player in India’s defense ecosystem and signals a new era of domestic innovation and strategic autonomy in drone technology for the Indian Army.