In brief
The introduction of drones into the conflict between India and Pakistan has significantly altered the dynamics of warfare between the two nuclear-armed nations. Both governments have claimed to have identified foreign-made drones being used against each other, with India citing Turkish drones deployed by Pakistan and Pakistan attributing Israeli drones to India. These claims remain unverified by independent sources.
The ongoing skirmishes, particularly following conflict in the contested Kashmir region, have seen both nations ramp up their drone capabilities. The ongoing conflict has reportedly seen the use of "one-way Kamikaze drones," a tactic made prominent during the war in Ukraine. Experts anticipate these drones will further entrench themselves as essential instruments in future military engagements.Drone warfare expert at Cornell University, James Patton Rogers, expressed a mixed outlook, indicating that while the situation is grave, both countries appear to employ drones cautiously to test air defenses, avoiding larger escalatory steps thus far. The proliferation of drone technology globally means that many countries, currently 118, are now integrating unmanned aerial systems into their military arsenals, with drone availability rapidly increasing since 2010. While Pakistan's drone capabilities are comparatively modest and predominantly sourced from China and Turkey, India's capabilities are more advanced, encompassing a range of advanced aerial systems.Despite both nations using drones primarily for reconnaissance and limited strikes, experts warn that frustration with their effectiveness may lead to an escalation involving traditional aircraft or missile systems, raising further concerns about potential nuclear implications given both countries' arsenals.Reporting from Rome, journalist Lara Jakes specializes in military and diplomatic affairs and has extensive experience covering significant global conflicts.
