Air Chief Marshal A P Singh has said drones are “not revolutionary, but evolutionary” and ruled out creating a separate drone force for the Indian Air Force.

Speaking at the IAF’s annual press conference in New Delhi on October 3, the Air Chief said drones should be integrated with other weapon systems rather than treated as a standalone arm. He said the IAF is expanding the numbers and types of drones in its fleet, including loitering munitions.

The Air Chief acknowledged concerns about declining aircraft numbers and slow inductions. He said the force is working to fast-track indigenous programmes, including the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s planned fifth-generation fighter.

“We need to absorb new technologies and adapt our tactics,” he said, adding that unmanned systems are changing how air wars are fought. The IAF has increased its focus on drone warfare after the Russia-Ukraine conflict showcased their impact.

The press conference was held ahead of Air Force Day on October 8. The IAF is expected to showcase its latest aircraft and systems at the celebrations in Hindon.