The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to host Dronathon 2026 at the Pokhran range in Jaisalmer. The event is intended to showcase drone technologies as well as counter-drone systems, including capabilities aimed at addressing threats posed by unmanned aerial vehicles.
Both reports say the exercise will bring together drones and related technologies, with one source highlighting a broader set of themes that includes swarm technologies and systems designed to detect and counter drones. The participating technologies are expected to come from Indian startups and manufacturers, reflecting an emphasis on indigenous development. Times of India also links the event to India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliance) initiative, describing it as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the military and the domestic defense sector.
Overall, the outlets converge on the location and purpose—demonstrating drone and counter-drone capabilities—while differing mainly in how they frame the event’s scope, with one report focusing on drone and counter-drone tech and the other also emphasizing swarm and startup involvement.
