IAF to host Dronathon 2026 at Pokhran range to showcase drone, counter-drone tech
The Indian Air Force (IAF) will host Dronathon 2026 at Pokhran from September 14-16, showcasing indigenous drone and counter-drone technologies through static displays and live demonstrations focused on surveillance, autonomy and swarms.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is conducting a 'Dronathon' at Pokhran range in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer from September 14-16, aiming to offer domestic manufacturers an opportunity to exhibit their capabilities and advancements in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and counter-UAS, officials said on Tuesday.
The event is designed to help stakeholders witness emerging drone and counter-drone technologies along with their operational demonstration, and foster mutual learning.
The event will comprise static display and live demonstrations.
"It will help to identify contemporary solutions and evaluate their combat effectiveness," the defence ministry said.
The IAF is organising 'Dronathon 2026' with an aim to offer domestic manufacturers an opportunity to exhibit their capabilities and advancements in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS), it said.
The event is scheduled to take place at Pokhran range from September 14-16 .
Key areas of focus include surveillance and reconnaissance, autonomous operations, swarm technologies and electronic warfare, the officials said.
"Aligning with the national vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, Dronathon-2026 aims to bolster the indigenous defence ecosystem by integrating industry experts, start-ups, and innovators. Through such initiatives, the IAF remains committed to building a technologically advanced, indigenous and future ready force capable of meeting security challenges in the rapidly changing operational environment," the ministry said in a statement.