The ongoing conflict in the Middle East is being characterized as the first war significantly influenced by the integration of drones and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Iran’s deployment of long-range drones to target US military installations has garnered considerable international attention. Meanwhile, the military tactics of the United States and Israel are increasingly being redefined by AI advancements. Experts at the India Today Conclave 2026 emphasized that India has substantial work ahead to establish a strong position on the global military stage.

Transformations in Combat Strategies

Retired Lieutenant General Raj Shukla discussed with India Today how the US employed AI to strategize for ‘Operation Epic Fury.’ He noted that AI, alongside other technologies such as robotics and quantum computing, is revolutionizing contemporary combat methods. He highlighted the speed at which AI enables the targeting of locations, pointing out that during this operation, AI facilitated the swift planning process, accomplishing in a week what previously would have taken months. General Shukla recounted the comments of Brad Cooper, the chief of US Central Command, who stated that while humans will retain final decision-making authority, advanced AI systems significantly reduce the time required for data analysis.

The Importance of Modern Technology in Military Operations

Nikunj Parashar, the Founder of Sagar Defence Engineering, asserted that the current conflict underscores the necessity of employing modern technologies, such as drones, for the protection of vital sea routes. He illustrated how Iran has utilized underwater drones to implement strategies that restrict access to critical pathways, such as the Strait of Hormuz, thereby influencing global energy supply routes and deterring even the US Navy from acting in that area.

Challenges Facing India in Military Modernization

As the conflict progresses into its third week, experts indicate that India faces numerous challenges in evolving into a tech-savvy military force. Smit Shah from the Drone Federation of India noted that the nation faces issues with scaling up drone production rather than a lack of skill. He emphasized that the inconsistent ordering process has obstructed the growth necessary for production. The lack of an established procurement mechanism for drones further complicates the situation.

While acknowledging India’s efforts in naval self-reliance, Parashar pointed out that despite aspirations to be a formidable maritime nation, there are no dedicated shipyards focused on unmanned maritime systems. He stressed the urgency for rapid scaling to address this gap. General Shukla further argued that a prevailing focus on cost-cutting has hindered India’s military modernization initiatives, highlighting disparities in compensation that affect talent acquisition within the defense sector.

Opportunities for Advancement in India’s Military Technology

General Shukla endorsed India’s robust startup ecosystem as a pivotal factor in modernizing its defense capabilities. He observed that India has emerged as the fourth-largest economy, highlighting the need for increased orders from startups to further enhance military innovation. Shah pointed out the potential of Mission ‘Sudarshan Chakra’, announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to elevate India’s air defense systems through AI. This initiative aims to create an indigenous, multi-layered air defense network by 2035, moving away from previously isolated systems to an interconnected approach.

General Shukla remarked on the current era of ‘AI dominance’ and emphasized the necessity for India to leverage AI models for national security. He reiterated that at least four of the proposed twelve sovereign AI models should focus on defense. The experts concluded that while traditional military assets remain relevant, the integration of technology into conventional warfare will increasingly dictate the future of military engagements.

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