A drone war in South Asia has opened a dangerous new chapter in the India-Pakistan conflict, with both nuclear-armed nations now locked in high-tech, unmanned hostilities. India accused Pakistan of launching drone and missile attacks on its military bases in Indian-administered Kashmir. In response, Pakistan claimed it downed 25 Indian drones across major cities including Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi.
Drone Attacks and Denials
While Pakistan swiftly denied India’s initial accusations, Delhi has remained largely silent. However, reports suggest Indian forces carried out retaliatory missile strikes, targeting air defence systems in Lahore—claims Islamabad has dismissed. Both nations have now employed loitering munitions, surveillance UAVs, and electronic countermeasures in real-time combat.
Civilians Caught in the Crossfire
The fallout is grim. Pakistan reports 36 dead and 57 injured in its territory, while India confirms 16 civilian deaths from Pakistani shelling. Tensions soared after India blamed a militant attack on its tourists in Pahalgam on Pakistan—an allegation Islamabad denies.
Read: US Can’t Control Pakistan-India Conflict, Says JD Vance
Global Powers Call for Restraint
The United States and other world powers have urged both sides to exercise restraint. Yet, with drones offering deniability, precision, and minimal risk to personnel, their use is rapidly changing the rules of engagement.
Arsenal and Capabilities
India’s drone fleet includes Israeli-made Harop drones, IAI Herons, and Searcher Mk IIs—capable of long-range reconnaissance and precision strikes. India is also eyeing enhanced capabilities through a $4 billion deal for U.S.-made MQ-9B Predator drones. These can fly for up to 40 hours and reach 40,000 feet, significantly boosting strike range.
Pakistan, meanwhile, fields a vast and diverse drone arsenal, with over 1,000 UAVs from China, Turkey, and local production. Platforms like the CH-4, Bayraktar Akinci, Burraq, and Shahpar provide both surveillance and offensive strength. Pakistan has also advanced in loitering munitions technology.
New Face of Conflict
Experts warn that drone technology is becoming the centerpiece of regional military strategy. Precision strikes, electronic warfare, and swarming tactics now define a conflict once dominated by tanks and troops.
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