Introduction: India’s Drone Revolution
Indian armed forces have used quick unmanned air systems (UAS) to monitor, unite, target and strengthen accurate strike functions. With an increase in the risk of border, modern war requires fast, quiet and precise operation, which stands out in drones. In 2025, India’s drone arsenal reflects a strategic mix of imported platforms and indigenous innovation, strengthening all three services – Army, Navy and Air Force. Here, we have detailed information on the Drones Used by the Indian Armed Forces.
1. Heron Mk2 – The Long-Endurance Israeli Workhorse
Advanced Heron MK2 drones offer India’s important real-time monitoring functions at high altitude, especially with the Line of Actual Control (LAC). IAF has distributed them on a large scale in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.
2. Searcher Mk II – Tactical Recon Support
All three services are supported by means of the Searcher UAVs, which have been in use for this reason since the early 2000s. Despite being smaller than the Heron, they remain an integral part of short-to-medium range surveillance missions.
3. DRDO Rustom Series – India’s Indigenous MALE Platform
The TAPAS-BH-201 is DRDO’s flagship indigenous MALE drone. After multiple trial runs, it is expected to be inducted by the end of 2025. TAPAS can rival foreign drones in ISR missions and is a stepping stone towards India’s UCAV capability.
4. DRDO Lakshya – The Aerial Target Drone
In order to allow the military to test missiles and radar systems in realistic settings, Lakshya is mainly used to mimic enemy aircraft during training exercises.
5. DRDO Abhyas – High-Speed Expendable Target Drone
Designed to be used in floor-to-air and air-to-air schooling drills, Abhyas facilitates the Air Force and Army to calibrate and exercise their fight strategies.
6. MQ-9B Sea Guardian – US-origin Strategic Drone
India is ready to acquire 31 MQ-9B drones from America. These long-endurance UAVs can display widespread oceanic zones, especially inside the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Armed versions could also carry missiles and bombs in the future.
7. Harpy and Harop – Loitering Munitions from Israel
India has used Harop drones in operations against enemy radar systems. These loitering munitions are launched during high-alert conditions and crash into identified targets, destroying them with pinpoint accuracy.
8. Rudrastra – India’s Advanced Loitering VTOL UAV
Tested successfully in mid-2025, Rudrastra adds agility and adaptability to India’s counter-terror and battlefield strike operations. It works well in urban warfare and mountainous terrain.
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9. Nagastra-1 – India’s First Suicide Drone in Service
This backpack-carried drone allows frontline troops to perform real-time ISR and quick neutralisation of enemy posts. Its silent electric motor and real-time video feed enhance combat effectiveness in low-intensity conflicts.
10. Nishant – Tactical UAV for the Army
Despite limited deployment, Nishant was a significant step in India’s journey towards UAV self-reliance.
11. Ghatak UCAV – India’s Stealth Bomber Drone (Upcoming)
Ghatak is set to be India’s answer to the world’s top combat drones. Once operational, it will support deep-strike missions and electronic warfare.
12. Indian Navy’s UAVs
- Examples:
- MQ-9B SeaGuardian (soon to be deployed)
- Searchers & Herons for coastal and shipboard ISR
- SWiFT prototype – DRDO’s stealthy combat drone project for naval use
The Indian Navy prioritises UAVs for extended patrols, especially in the IOR, ensuring early detection of enemy vessels and submarines.
Conclusion
India is investing in drone warfare skills. The goal is obvious: Reduce human risk, increase monitoring and do smart strikes. With new indigenous developments such as Rudrasra, Tapas and Nagastra and acquisitions like MQ-9B, India is preparing for a drone-creating battlefield.
FAQs about Drones Used by Indian Armed Forces
Ans. Heron MK2 and MQ-9B Seaguardian are currently the most advanced for monitoring.
Ans. Yes. Harop and Nagastra are loitering munitions used for offensive operations.
Ans. Yes. TAPAS-BH-201 and Ghatak UCAV are under active development by DRDO.
Ans. Absolutely. The Indian army, the Navy and the Air Force have drone features that fit their mission.
Ans. India develops anti-drain systems such as D4 and distributes radar-keeled Jammer.