The Indian Air Force (IAF) has been steadily increasing its reliance on unmanned aerial systems to bolster its operational capabilities. According to recent reports, the military has utilized loitering munitions and one-way attack drones since the 1990s, with a significant expansion in their deployment during events such as 'Operation Sindoor' last May.

As the IAF faces a 'squeeze'—a term used to describe the pressure of maintaining a modern fleet amid budgetary and procurement challenges—experts are increasingly pointing toward autonomous 'wingmen' as a viable solution. These systems, which involve AI-driven drones flying alongside manned fighter jets, are designed to perform high-risk tasks, provide additional sensor coverage, and act as force multipliers.

While the concept is gaining traction in global defense circles, the transition for the Indian military involves navigating both technical hurdles and strategic integration. Proponents argue that these autonomous systems could effectively bridge the gap between current inventory levels and the requirements of modern aerial warfare. However, the implementation remains in the developmental phase, with the IAF continuing to evaluate how these technologies can best support existing manned platforms without compromising operational control or safety standards.