Imphal, Sep 26: In a move aimed at strengthening technology-enabled warfare capabilities, 160 soldiers underwent structured flight training at a Drone Training Node of a formation under the Spear Corps in Manipur.

The training was conducted through a Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-approved Remote Pilot Training Organisation (RPTO), providing the personnel with structured instruction in operating unmanned aerial systems.
All 160 trainees were subsequently awarded official Remote Pilot Certificates (RPCs), marking an important step towards creating a trained operational cadre of personnel capable of employing drone technology in military environments.
The initiative is part of efforts to institutionalise Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) tactical training and integrate emerging technologies into operational preparedness. The trained personnel, described as part of the emerging cadre of “Drone Yoddhas”, are expected to strengthen the formation’s ability to employ drone-based capabilities.
The structured training is also aimed at developing standardised expertise in drone operations and enhancing the ability of personnel to operate such systems effectively in varied operational conditions.
The certification of all 160 soldiers reflects the focus on building in-house expertise in emerging technologies and preparing personnel for the evolving requirements of modern warfare.
The initiative also underscores the growing role of unmanned systems in surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics and other military applications, while strengthening the overall technological readiness of formations operating in challenging environments.