New Delhi: The two-day event HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 started on September 17 in Leh, Ladakh to enhance military operations in high-altitude terrains.
The groundbreaking event, organised by the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI), is designed to explore the capabilities of indigenous drone technology, advancing India’s military readiness in extreme conditions while aligning with the nation’s broader vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India). It aims to showcase indigenous drone technology for surveillance, logistics, and communication.
The event is an ambitious step toward revolutionising high-altitude military operations. Taking place at the Wari La Pass, at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet, the two-day event (September 17-18, 2024) provided an opportunity for over 20 Indian drone manufacturers to showcase cutting-edge drone solutions tailored to high-altitude operations. From surveillance and logistics to loitering munitions, swarm capabilities, and first-person view (FPV) operations, the diverse array of technologies highlighted the rapidly evolving role drones are playing in modern warfare.
With its unique location, HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 served as a real-world testing ground for the drones, allowing manufacturers to demonstrate their systems’ performance under extreme conditions. The challenging terrain of Ladakh and its testing environment is expected to have far-reaching implications, not only validating the reliability of these drones in high-altitude scenarios but also enhancing India’s position as a leader in the global drone industry. Participants were felicitated for their contributions, with special recognition awarded to the top performers in the logistics and FPV categories.
According to officials, the drones are increasingly playing a significant role in modern warfare as seen in recent conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. The roles are expanding across various domains to include surveillance, logistics, precision strikes, communication etc. Their growing role reflects their versatility, effectiveness and potential to transform military operations.
As part of the Indian Army’s vision for 2024 as the ‘Year of Technology Absorption’, the event highlights the essential role that drone technology will play in future military operations considering army’s continuous efforts to integrate technology into its operations. The event served as a platform for the Indian Army to identify promising products for potential procurement, as well as offering feedback to participants on possible improvements. It also provided an opportunity to collaborate with domestic innovators. The army is fostering a culture of homegrown technological advancement, helping to propel India toward its goal of Aatmanirbharta in defence.
Continuing to refine its military strategy for high-altitude warfare, India with its focus on indigenous innovation and self-reliance, is well poised to push its drone capabilities to new heights. Set to be a catalyst for advancing India’s global standing in military innovation, HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2, more than just a military exercise, is a testament to India’s growing ambitions in the global defence technology arena and to position the nation as a front runner in the emerging drone industry.
