Drones Escalate Tensions Between India and Pakistan Amid Kashmir Conflict

As both nations deploy drones in their ongoing conflict, experts warn that this technological advancement could lead to further military engagement and instability in the region.

May 9, 2025, 1:43 p.m. ET

In a troubling development in the prolonged tension between India and Pakistan, both nations have begun utilizing drones in military operations, leading to fears of a new era in warfare for these nuclear-capable adversaries. Recent reports emerged claiming that India has spotted Turkish drones allegedly in the possession of Pakistan, while Pakistan asserted it had detected Israeli drones used by India. However, these allegations remain unverified by independent sources.

Experts agree that the introduction of drones in this conflict is alarming, yet not entirely unexpected given the global military trend towards drone warfare. Both India and Pakistan have been enhancing their respective drone manufacturing capabilities, creating a robust supply chain involving foreign allies. The drones currently seen in conflict—particularly in the restive Kashmir region—appear to be kamikaze models, similar to those widely used in the ongoing war in Ukraine, hinting at their likely prominence in future battles.

James Patton Rogers, a specialist in drone warfare from Cornell University, confirmed that while neither country has deployed drones with nuclear capabilities, the situation remains "incredibly worrying." Rogers observed that drone usage often represents a more restrained method of escalation, commonly used to challenge and evaluate the opposing side's air defenses. He expressed cautious optimism, noting that these limited deploys signal each nation's ability to conduct targeted strikes when necessary.

As of now, it is estimated that approximately 118 countries have incorporated drones into their military arsenals, a marked increase from just over 60 nations in 2010. While Pakistan's drone capabilities remain relatively modest, it has engaged in the development of various attack drones and kamikaze models, along with importing armed drones from allies like China and Turkey. In contrast, India boasts a more advanced drone industry encompassing aerial, naval, and land platforms, complemented by acquisitions from Israeli suppliers.

Experts caution that the mutual use of drones may be more aligned with reconnaissance and pressure tactics rather than significant military offensives, as highlighted by defense analyst Shuja Nawaz. He remarked that both countries are testing each other's defenses without acknowledging international norms concerning airspace. This dynamic, he warned, could lead to heightened frustration, potentially prompting each side to escalate their strategies toward aircraft and missile deployments—making the risk of nuclear engagement all the more conceivable.