Drones In Every Jawan’s Arsenal: How Army Is Readying ‘Soldier Of Tomorrow’ With Eagle In The Arm Concept
Time doesn’t stop for anyone and if there is anything that is constant, it is change itself. With this understanding in mind, the Indian Army is not just getting ready and advancing for the future warfare, it is also sharing the “soldier of tomorrow” with new tactics and trainings, including drones.
The Indian Army is accelerating the induction of drones and counter-drone systems across formations, embedding unmanned platforms into core operational structures. Multiple Drone Centres have already been established at premier training institutes, including the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, the Infantry School in Mhow, and the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
These facilities are intended to make drone operations a standard skill set for soldiers across all arms of the Army. The focus was underscored when the Chief of Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, visited one such operational facility in Likabali, Arunachal Pradesh, highlighting the Army’s commitment to field-ready drone capabilities.
Why is the Army expanding drone and counter-drone capabilities?
Ever since the success of India’s retaliatory strike against terror hideout in Pakistan and PoK – Operation Sindoor – the army has been taking steps not just incorporate more drones to its arsenal but also equip and train the soldiers for the same. Drones are being dubbed as the future of modern warfare.
What does ‘Eagle in the Arm’ mean for soldiers?
At the heart of the Army’s new approach lies the concept of “Eagle in the Arm” – the idea that every soldier, much like carrying his personal weapon, must be capable of operating a drone. Depending on mission requirements, drones will be used for combat, surveillance, logistics, or even medical evacuation.
To counter enemy use of unmanned platforms, the Army is simultaneously inducting counter-drone measures, ensuring a layered ecosystem where soldiers can both harness and neutralize drone technology on the battlefield.
What structural changes are being planned?
The scale of transformation was laid out by General Dwivedi during his address at the 26th Kargil Vijay Diwas in Drass on July 26, 2025. He announced that:
Every infantry battalion will have a dedicated drone platoon.
Artillery regiments will be equipped with counter-drone systems and loiter munitions.
Composite Divyastra batteries will be created to enhance precision and survivability.
How is Army balancing drones and counter-drones?
The dual thrust of arming soldiers with drones while simultaneously bolstering counter-drone defences reflects the Army’s recognition that unmanned systems are no longer a niche add-on but a battlefield necessity. This balance ensures that the force is prepared not only to exploit drone advantages but also to deny the same edge to adversaries.
By institutionalizing drone training, operationalizing specialized units, and restructuring formations, the Indian Army is redefining the role of the individual soldier. Tomorrow’s warrior will not just march with a rifle but will also wield an “eagle”, a drone that extends his vision, reach, and lethality on the battlefield.
