Tech Desk: The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to host the highly anticipated IAF Dronathon 2026, a three-day event commencing September 14 at the historic Pokhran range. This critical initiative will spotlight emerging Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), cutting-edge swarm technologies, and advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities, underscoring India’s commitment to indigenous defence innovation.

Designed to foster collaboration, Dronathon-2026 offers a unique platform for domestic manufacturers, startups, and innovators to showcase their advancements. Participants will engage in both static displays and live operational demonstrations, allowing stakeholders to witness the combat effectiveness of contemporary drone and counter-drone solutions firsthand. Key focus areas include surveillance, reconnaissance, autonomous operations, and sophisticated electronic warfare.

Aligning with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, this event is more than a display; it’s a strategic move to bolster India’s self-reliance in defence. By integrating industry expertise with military needs, the IAF aims to identify and evaluate solutions that can rapidly equip a future-ready force capable of addressing evolving security challenges. This Dronathon is poised to be a pivotal step in strengthening India’s aerial defence ecosystem and technological sovereignty.