Indian Army Top General Says ‘Master Drone Warfare or Fall Behind’ as China–Pakistan Threats Rise
A senior Army commander’s call to master drone warfare underscored how quickly the battlefield is changing and why India’s preparedness cannot afford to slip. Image courtesy: RNA
In a sharp warning aligned with the evolving nature of modern conflict, a senior Indian Army commander has said that drone warfare will define the future battlefield, and India must master it at every level to stay ahead of emerging security threats.
Army’s Western Command General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar delivered the message during the 33rd Biennial Conference on Regimental Matters held at the Rajput Regimental Centre in Fatehgarh, Uttar Pradesh, from December 5 to 7, 2025.
How has Indian Army begun training troops on modern warfare?
Addressing serving and retired officers, battalion Commanding Officers, and Subedar Majors, Lt Gen Katiyar said the Army has already begun integrating drone operations and counter-drone skills into the training of Agniveers.
With unmanned aerial systems redefining warfare globally, he emphasised that India cannot afford to lag behind. “Drones will play a very important role. We are training Agniveers at every level. We need to master drone warfare at every level,” he stressed.
What is the Rajput Regiment’s legacy?
Placing the regiment’s legacy in perspective, the Western Army Command chief recalled the Rajput Regiment’s proud history, noting that India’s first Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal K M Cariappa, hailed from the regiment.
He also highlighted the Param Vir Chakra awarded to a Rajput warrior during the 1947–48 war.
How has Indian Army redefined counterterrorism operations?
Lt Gen Katiyar also praised the Army’s swift response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, stating that under Operation Sindoor, forces dismantled the camps of those who planned and executed the assault.
Sounding a strategic alert, he underlined that threats from China and Pakistan remain persistent and require constant vigilance. “We must not let operational preparedness falter,” he cautioned.
During the conference, senior officers paid homage at the Cariappa War Memorial, with Central Command PRO Shantanu Pratap Singh confirming floral tributes were offered to honour fallen soldiers.
