Following the aerial incursions by Pakistan during Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army has launched a focused five-day trial at Babina Field Firing Ranges in Uttar Pradesh. This extensive testing phase is designed to assess a broader range of drones and advanced counter-drone technologies suited for future battlefield requirements.
These trials involve several state-of-the-art systems. Included are drones that can deploy miniature munitions, loitering ammunition able to hover before striking targets, and electronic warfare tools like jamming and spoofing technologies. These innovations aim to quickly and accurately neutralize enemy drones.
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, personally observed the field demonstrations at Babina. An official Army statement noted that these developments will greatly enhance India’s operational efficiency, troop protection, and precision targeting across varied combat environments.
Though the Army has been incorporating these technologies for some time, the urgency surrounding their deployment has intensified following the events of May 8–9. On that night, Pakistan’s military breached Indian airspace in an orchestrated drone campaign that spanned from Leh to Sir Creek in Gujarat. Approximately 300 to 400 drones were deployed across 36 locations, according to sources.
The Indian Armed Forces acted swiftly and effectively. Using a combination of kinetic and non-kinetic methods, they intercepted and neutralized most of the hostile drones. The Army later confirmed that Pakistan’s attempts were met with strong resistance and that a decisive retaliatory response was delivered.
Operation Sindoor served as a wake-up call, highlighting the evolving nature of warfare where drones and unmanned systems play a central role. The current trials reflect India’s proactive steps to remain ahead in drone warfare, by expanding its drone arsenal and enhancing its electronic warfare capabilities.
With these new trials, the Indian Army is clearly positioning itself for future threats by ensuring both offensive and defensive drone tactics are fully optimized. The outcome of this testing phase will likely shape India’s battlefield readiness in the years ahead.
