In a significant boost to India’s defence preparedness along its northeastern frontier, the Indian Army showcased advanced drone technologies at the newly established Drone Excellence Centre at Likabali Military Station. The facility was recently visited by Lieutenant General Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps.
The visit reflected the Army’s growing focus on integrating indigenous drone solutions into its surveillance and logistics operations, especially in the strategically sensitive region of Arunachal Pradesh. Known for its rugged terrain and proximity to the Line of Actual Control with China, the area poses unique operational challenges that the new drone technologies aim to address.
Lt Gen Pendharkar was briefed on the design and development process of several state-of-the-art drones created by the in-house team. One of the key highlights was a newly developed 3D-printed tactical glider designed for reconnaissance and light cargo missions. This innovation offers a cost-effective and customizable solution suited to the Army’s high-altitude operational needs.
The centre also displayed a range of unmanned aerial systems equipped with both surveillance and cargo capabilities, tailored to boost operational efficiency in border zones. Commending the professionalism and technical expertise of the team, Lt Gen Pendharkar stressed the importance of such indigenous innovations in reducing dependence on foreign technologies.
This development aligns with global trends in modern warfare. A RAND Corporation study reported a 30 percent rise in drone deployments for reconnaissance missions in active conflict areas, underlining the growing reliance on unmanned systems.
The visit also coincided with the station’s recent participation in the Van Mahotsav 2025 tree plantation campaign, demonstrating a balance between technological advancement and environmental responsibility. As India continues to modernize its military infrastructure, the Likabali Drone Excellence Centre stands as a symbol of the Army’s commitment to innovation and self-reliance.
