New Delhi (Agency): Drone technology has been transformative in both civil and defense sectors, enhancing efficiency and reducing risks while providing new capabilities. The use of drones in India has been on the rise, encompassing both military and civilian applications. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has extensively employed Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) for Intelligence Surveillance & Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. Recognizing the potential of indigenous drone design and development, the IAF has initiated efforts such as the Meher Baba Swarm Drone competition to tap into this capability.
To leverage its experience with unmanned platforms, the IAF is collaborating with the Drone Federation of India to co-host ‘Bharat Drone Shakti 2023.’ This event, scheduled for September 25th and 26th, will take place at the IAF’s Hindan airbase in Ghaziabad and will feature live aerial demonstrations by the Indian drone industry.
‘Bharat Drone Shakti 2023’ aims to showcase the full capabilities of the Indian drone industry and will include over 50 live aerial demonstrations covering various types of drones, including survey drones, agriculture drones, fire suppression drones, tactical surveillance drones, heavy-lift logistics drones, loitering munition systems, drone swarms, and counter-drone solutions. The event will witness participation from more than 75 drone startups and corporates.
Anticipating an audience of approximately 5,000 attendees, the event will include representatives from central and state government departments, public and private industries, armed forces, paramilitary forces, representatives from friendly countries, academicians, students, and drone enthusiasts. Most importantly, ‘Bharat Drone Shakti 2023’ will play a significant role in advancing India’s commitment to becoming a global drone hub by 2030.
This event underscores the importance of drone technology in India’s evolving defense and civilian sectors and demonstrates the nation’s determination to play a leading role in the global drone industry.