The militaries of India and Pakistan have used advanced fighter jets, missile systems, and artillery in military conflicts for decades. However, the four-day fighting in May was the first time both sides had extensively used drones.
The fighting was stopped with the mediation of the United States. According to Reuters, India and Pakistan, which spent more than $96 billion on their defense last year alone, are currently engaged in an arms race for drones.
Two sources told Reuters that the nuclear-armed countries are likely to increase their use of drones shortly, as such devices allow them to strike targets in small-scale attacks without the risk of losing personnel or escalating the conflict.
India plans to invest heavily in its domestic drone industry. Smith Shah, a representative of the Indian Drone Federation, which represents more than 550 companies and works with the government, said: “India could spend up to $470 million on drones in the next 12-24 months, about three times the pre-conflict spending.”
