During a seminar on unmanned aerial systems (UAS) on May 14, 2026, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh of the Indian Air Force (IAF) stated that drones are evolving from mere surveillance tools to significant offensive assets in modern warfare. He emphasized that the battlefield is shifting towards a decentralized and autonomous approach, with drones now described as 'claws in the sky.' This reflects their lethal potential as demonstrated in recent global conflicts and specifically in Operation Sindoor, where India's effective coordination thwarted enemy UAS attacks. ACM Singh noted that counter-drone operations have become a complex 'cat-and-mouse game,' necessitating advancements in both drone technology and defensive systems. He highlighted the benefits of drones, including lower operational costs and reduced risk to human lives, making them increasingly appealing for armed forces. The seminar gathered military officials and defense experts to discuss emerging trends in unmanned warfare and the importance of developing indigenous counter-UAS capabilities to enhance India's defense preparedness. Singh also called for rapid innovation in unmanned systems to ensure military relevance.