Based on data related to imports/exports of drones between 1985 and 2014, India tops the list of drone-importing nations with 22.5 percent of the world’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imports says a report on SiliconIndia News. These pilot-less aerial vehicles are used for reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence gathering and aerial combat missions.
The data has from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, shows that Israel is the leading exporter , having shipped 783 drones since 1980, accounting for 61percent of all drones sold. The U.S., with a 24 percent of UAV exports, ranks second, followed by Canada with 6.4 percent.
India’s first UAV delivery came from Israel’s IAI in 1998. Of India’s 176 UAVs, 108 are Searcher reconnaissance aircraft (called Meyromit in Israel) s and remaining 68 are medium-altitude long-endurance Herons. American companies are eager to enter India’s lucrative UAV market.
Last updated: December 26th, 2025
