Tensions Escalate in First Drone Warfare Between Nuclear-Neighbouring Nations**

The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan has entered a precarious phase as both countries have resorted to drone strikes and exchanges. Experts warn that these unmanned systems could alter military dynamics and instigate a dangerous escalation in hostilities.**

The first documented drone conflict between the atomic-armed nations of India and Pakistan has begun, marking a significant development in their long-standing rivalry. On Thursday, India accused Pakistan of launching drone and missile attacks on its military bases in Indian-administered Kashmir, a claim that Pakistan categorically dismissed. As the situation escalates, Islamabad asserted that it had successfully intercepted 25 Indian drones recently, while India opted for silence in response.

Analysts suggest that the use of drones could represent a perilous evolution in the relationship between these two nations, which have exchanged artillery fire at a frequent pace over the years. The tensions have captured global attention, with major powers including the US urging both sides to exercise restraint in the face of what has now become a drone-centric conflict. “The conflict is entering an era of drone warfare where capability dictates the outcome,” explained military expert Jahara Matisek.

Since the onset of hostilities mid-week, reports have emerged suggesting that at least 36 individuals were killed in Pakistan due to cross-border strikes from India, with India also reporting 16 civilian deaths from Pakistani artillery. India's military responded to an attack on Indian tourists in Pahalgam last month, an incident Pakistan denies involvement in. On the battlefield, drones have transformed modern military operations by enabling improved precision in targeting and surveillance.

India's drone capabilities predominantly consist of Israeli-made systems including reconnaissance drones such as the IAI Searcher and Heron, along with precision weaponized platforms like the Harop. This enhances India's operational capabilities and is augmented by a recent $4 billion procurement of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States, which further solidifies its aerial striking force. Moreover, India is developing swarm drone tactics meant to saturate enemy air defenses.

In parallel, Pakistan boasts a considerable and varied drone fleet, integrating indigenous and foreign systems from nations like China and Turkey. With an inventory reportedly exceeding a thousand drones, its armed forces are also focusing on the deployment of loitering munitions, gearing up for a more robust aerial confrontation. The shift in aerial dynamics has been further influenced by models such as the Bayraktar Akinci and the Chinese CH-4.

Despite the potential of these unmanned systems, experts caution that unlike the extensive drone warfare observed in the Ukraine-Russia conflict, the India-Pakistan drone exchanges may not evolve to that scale just yet. “While drones offer a lower-risk military option, they represent a pivotal moment. If this leads to a more extensive aerial campaign, the implications would be significant,” noted Manoj Joshi, an Indian defense analyst.

The emerging drone conflict is noted to still be nascent, as both nations also deploy conventional aircraft alongside drones in their aggressive posturing. While India appears to be adopting a precision-strike strategy through drones, both countries risk escalating tensions with every drone shot down or missile exchanged.

In conclusion, the current trajectory of this drone warfare could foreshadow either a newfound restraint or a drastic escalation in military actions between two nuclear powers. The evolving nature of air warfare and the implications of drone technology are raising urgent questions about future regional stability and operational conduct.