Indian Army Inducts Logistics Drones to Replace Animal Transport Fleet

Defense News ,India :- In a significant move towards modernization, the Indian Army has initiated the deployment of logistics drones to replace its long-standing reliance on robust mules for transporting essential military supplies. For over a century, these surefooted animals have been instrumental in ferrying crucial loads to forward border posts that lack proper roads or tracks.

This shift towards logistics drones is a pivotal component of the army's ongoing "force restructuring and optimization" initiative, aiming to reduce manpower by approximately 100,000 personnel by the year 2027, as highlighted in a report by The Times of India. In addition to drones, the army plans to utilize robotic mules and all-terrain vehicles to deliver supplies across challenging terrains and under extreme weather conditions.

As part of this modernization effort, the Indian Army has set a target to disband its entire animal transport fleet by 2025. Already, steps have been taken to decrease the number of "mountain artillery mules" by 1,500, and by the end of the decade, over 3,300 "general service mules" responsible for transporting rations, fuel, water, and ammunition will be retired.

In a gesture of recognition for their years of service, retired mules are expected to receive commendation cards from the Indian military. This symbolic acknowledgment underscores the invaluable role these animals have played in supporting the armed forces over the years.

To facilitate the transition to modern logistics solutions, the Indian Army has awarded contracts totaling 320 crore Indian rupees ($38.5 million) for the procurement of 563 logistics drones, as reported by The Times of India. These unmanned systems are specifically designed to operate in high-altitude areas, surpassing 12,000 feet (3,657 meters). Sources indicate that these drones will play a crucial role in last-mile delivery to troops stationed along the borders, effectively reducing the dependency on soldiers, porters, and animal transport companies for transporting supplies and ammunition.

This strategic move not only marks a technological leap for the Indian Army but also aligns with global trends in military logistics, emphasizing efficiency, reduced manpower, and enhanced capabilities in challenging terrains.