IAF schedules live drone and counter-drone demonstrations at Pokhran
Dronathon 2026 will test domestic unmanned and counter-unmanned systems from 14 to 16 September.
The Indian Air Force has announced Dronathon 2026 for 14 to 16 September at the Pokhran range in Jaisalmer.
Domestic manufacturers, start-ups and innovators are expected to demonstrate unmanned and counter-unmanned aerial systems. The stated focus areas include surveillance, autonomous operation, swarms and electronic warfare.
Why it matters
Live operational demonstrations can expose capability gaps and help defence users compare emerging systems under more realistic conditions than static exhibitions.
SCULTRA point of view
The evidence to watch is the disclosed evaluation method: test conditions, scoring criteria, shortlisted systems, procurement links and indigenous content. Participation alone does not validate capability.
Limitations
This is a pre-event announcement. It names no participants, performance results, procurement commitment, budget or detailed safety and test protocol.
Source: Press Information Bureau / Indian Air Force, 8 September 2026.