India’s expanding use of drones across its armed forces is now being matched by a parallel focus on securing them, with the Ministry of Defence outlining a “secure-by-design” framework for its unmanned systems. The framework reflects a growing recognition that drones are not just platforms, but complex information systems vulnerable to cyber and electronic warfare threats. Risks identified include communication interception, GPS spoofing, control hijacking, and data exfiltration, each capable of compromising missions or even turning systems against their operators. To address this, the Ministry is pushing for long-term indigenisation, aiming to develop drones and their critical components domestically, including chips and communication systems, while ensuring supply chain integrity. However, given current limitations in domestic capabilities, the framework mandates rigorous testing and certification of both hardware and software components. The move aligns with a broader doctrinal shift as unmanned systems become integral across formations from infantry and artillery to armoured units. In this context, securing drones is no longer optional; it is fundamental to operational effectiveness.