The Indian Army is rapidly transforming itself into a technologically advanced and future-ready force, with a strong focus on drones, artificial intelligence, long-range precision weapons and indigenous defence systems, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi has said. Speaking during an exclusive interview, the Army Chief outlined India’s evolving military strategy and emphasized that the armed forces are prepared to tackle emerging security challenges across multiple domains.
General Dwivedi said modern warfare is no longer confined to conventional battlefields and now extends to cyber, space, electronic warfare and information domains. He stressed that the Indian Army is adapting its operational doctrines and force structure to remain prepared for future conflicts while maintaining a high level of combat readiness.
Highlighting the growing role of drones, the Army Chief noted that unmanned aerial systems have become an integral part of surveillance, intelligence gathering, precision strikes and battlefield support. He said the Army is integrating drone technology with artillery, air defence, intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities to shorten response times and improve operational effectiveness.
The Army has also introduced several new formations as part of its modernization programme, including Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs), Bhairav Battalions, Shaktibaan Regiments, Divyastra Batteries and Rudra Brigades. These specialized units are designed to improve mobility, firepower and rapid deployment while enhancing India’s preparedness for high-intensity conflicts.
General Dwivedi reiterated that technology will enhance, not replace, soldiers on the battlefield. According to him, the future combat force will combine highly trained personnel with advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, secure communication networks and precision-guided weapons to achieve greater battlefield dominance.
The Army Chief also highlighted the importance of self-reliance in defence manufacturing, saying indigenous technologies and domestically developed military equipment are playing an increasingly significant role in strengthening India’s national security. He said the ongoing transformation aligns with the country’s broader vision of building a modern, agile and technology-driven armed force capable of responding effectively to both conventional and emerging threats.
