The Indian Army is set to expedite the procurement of approximately 850 indigenous kamikaze drones, known as loitering munitions, following the successful Operation Sindoor, which effectively targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan. This initiative, part of a broader strategy to enhance operational capabilities, will see the Army induct nearly 30,000 such systems, establishing ‘Ashni’ platoons within infantry battalions to ensure decentralized access to drone assets for precision strikes and surveillance. The fast-tracked acquisition, aligned with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, reflects a significant doctrinal shift towards drone-centric warfare, aiming to bolster the Army’s offensive and counter-terrorism capabilities while minimizing risks to personnel. This development underscores India’s commitment to modernizing its defense infrastructure with indigenous technology, enhancing operational readiness across various terrains.