Seoul, Sept. 6 -- South Korea's Defense Ministry on Thursday announced an ambitious initiative to cultivate half a million troops proficient in drone operations, underscoring the growing role of unmanned systems in modern warfare and the country's drive to foster a domestic drone industry.

Defense Minister Ahn Gyu-back unveiled the plan at the Republic of Korea Army's 36th Infantry Division base in Wonju, Gangwon Province, designating the unit as the military's first dedicated training ground for drone operations.

The initiative to foster "500,000 drone warriors" is built around two pillars: giving every soldier the chance to earn drone piloting credentials and practical experience, and forging closer ties between the armed forces and t...