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Military drone is evolving rapidly, enhancing cutting-edge technology and growing demand from defense forces worldwide. One of the most exciting developments is the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous features. These advancements allow drone to carry out complex missions with minimal human input. AI is making drone smarter, helping them identify targets more accurately, process data faster, and make better decisions during surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions.
Another game-changing trend is drone swarming. This involves using multiple drones together in a coordinated manner for various military operations. Imagine a group of drones working as a team to overwhelm enemy defenses, gather intelligence from multiple angles, or launch synchronized attacks. For instance, in August 2023, the Indian Air Force struck a significant deal worth Rs 300 crore with Veda Aeronautical Pvt Ltd, a local drone manufacturer. This contract involves the production of 200 advanced long-range swarm drone, marking a major step in India's defense capabilities. These drones, developed through the innovative Mehar Baba Swarm Drone competition, are designed to work together in coordinated groups, enhancing their effectiveness in both attack and defense scenarios. This move not only bolsters India's military strength but also showcases the government's strong support for homegrown drone technology, giving a substantial boost to the country's emerging drone startup ecosystem.
As drone become more common in military operations, there's a growing need for ways to defend against them. This has led to a surge in counter-drone technologies. Defense agencies are investing heavily in systems that can spot, track, and neutralize enemy drone. These include advanced electronic warfare tools, laser systems, and even specialized drone designed to take down another drone. In November 2023, the U.S. led a landmark international effort, with 47 countries endorsing the "Political Declaration on Responsible Military AI and Autonomy." This initiative promotes ethical AI use in military systems, including drone. AI-enhanced decision support improves intelligence, surveillance, and precision operations, making defense missions more efficient and safer while upholding ethical standards in military technology.