Artificial Intelligence in India's Defence Sector: Powering the Next-Gen Armed Forces

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer just a buzzword, it's a strategic gamechanger, especially in defence. Across the world, militaries are reimagining their operations with AI, and India is very much part of this transformation. As the country grapples with complex security challenges and shifting geopolitical landscapes, AI is helping Indian forces modernize, respond faster, and stay ahead.

This article dives into how AI is being woven into India's defence fabric, from policy-level pushes and high-tech applications to real-world deployments, ethical challenges, and what lies ahead.

Why AI Matters to Indian Defence

  • Back in 2018, the Defence AI Council (DAIC)and Defence AI Project Agency (DAIPA)were set up to put AI on the military's fast track. Their goal? To make India one of the world's leading AI-powered defence forces.
  • The Defence Production Policy 2020 takes this vision further, aiming for greater self-reliance in defence tech and a target to export $5 billion worth of defence products by 2025, with AI playing a key role.
  • The Union Budget 2024-25 earmarked over ?1,000 crore for AI research in defence, a significant boost for labs like DRDO, CAIR, and for start-ups in the space.
  • Through platforms like iDEX, India has nurtured over 100 AI-driven defence start-ups, with more than 75 products already launched since 2022.

How AI Is Actually Being Used on the Ground

 

a) Smarter Surveillance & Border Patrol

  • AI-powered drones like the Drishti-10 MALE and MQ-9B Reaper are now watching over borders with real-time surveillance, target tracking, and terrain mapping.
  • AI tools combine inputs from satellites, ground sensors, and UAVs to help security teams respond faster and smarter.

b) Faster, Better Battlefield Decisions

  • Systems like AIDSS and TAC-C3I give commanders real-time battlefield insights. Think logistics updates, enemy movement forecasts, and operational plans powered by predictive AI.
  • These systems help troops make faster, data-driven decisions that can change the outcome of a mission.

c) Stronger Cybersecurity and Info Warfare Defences

  • With cyber threats becoming more sophisticated, AI is being used to detect, analyze, and neutralize attacks, from malware to deepfakes.
  • During standoffs and hybrid warfare scenarios, AI tools help track and counter hostile propaganda or fake news campaigns.

d) Autonomous Weapons & Combat Robotics

  • India's homegrown tech like Muntra UGVs and swarm drones is already in action, handling everything from logistics to reconnaissance and combat roles.
  • The Navy now uses Autonomous Fast Interceptor Boats (AFIBs) for coastal security and anti-piracy operations, AI onboard helps make quick, tactical decisions at sea.

e) Streamlined Logistics and Smarter Maintenance

  • AI is helping the forces predict when equipment might fail, allowing for proactive maintenance. For example, HAL's PRO-HM+ system for aircraft components has already improved fleet readiness by 20%.
  • It's also optimizing supply chains ensuring the right equipment gets to the right place at the right time.

f) Realistic Training with Virtual Combat

  • AI-driven simulators are transforming training across forces. Using virtual reality, troops are trained for real-world combat scenarios without the real-world risks or costs.

The Roadblocks Ahead

  • Data security is a big concern. With so much sensitive military data in play, keeping it secure from cyber espionage is non-negotiable.
  • There's also the question of algorithmic bias and accountability, how do we ensure an AI system makes ethical choices in the heat of battle?
  • As AI steps into lethal territory, international laws and ethical oversight become even more critical. India is actively engaging with global frameworks to keep AI use within humane boundaries.

5. What's Coming Next?

  • Indigenization is key. Under the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, India is pushing for homegrown AI tech, cutting down reliance on foreign systems and creating export-ready innovations.
  • Expect to see AI-integrated joint ops, where the Army, Navy, and Air Force sync up through shared AI-powered systems for seamless coordination.
  • India is also eyeing defence exports, especially AI-powered tools, to emerging markets in Southeast Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, turning military tech into both a strategic and economic lever.

Artificial Intelligence is no longer an experimental concept in Indian defence, it's already making an impact. From smarter drones to AI-assisted decisions in high-stakes scenarios, India is building a future-ready military with a strong AI backbone.

Yes, challenges around ethics, security, and indigenous development remain. But with clear policies, robust investments, and a thriving ecosystem of innovation, India is on track to become a key player in the global military AI race. The real question now is: how responsibly and how rapidly can we scale this transformation?