Indian Army tests next-gen military tech in Pokhran, Agra, Joshimath to simulate future battlefield scenarios
File photo: Indian Air Force's Rafale fighter jets fly past during the "Aero India 2021" air show at Yelahanka air base in Bengaluru, India, February 3, 2021.
Synopsis The Indian Army is actively conducting large-scale trials to evaluate new indigenous battlefield technologies, including drones, EW systems, and air defense solutions, under near-combat conditions. CDS Chauhan emphasized India's self-reliance in defense, citing the successful integration of indigenous systems during Operation Sindoor. He also highlighted India's strategic advantage over Pakistan due to long-term strategic planning and economic growth. The Indian Army is conducting large-scale capacity development demonstrations at key locations including Pokhran, Babina, and Joshimath, with dedicated air defence trials in Agra and Gopalpur.
ADVERTISEMENT These field trials aim to evaluate new-age battlefield technologies under near-combat conditions, including integrated electronic warfare (EW) simulations.
As part of its 'Decade of Transformation,' the Army is fast-tracking the absorption of cutting-edge defence platforms developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. These trials are seen as critical to strengthening India's technological edge and ensuring operational readiness for emerging military threats.
The Ministry of Defence has outlined a wide range of indigenous technologies under evaluation, including: Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
UAV-Launched Precision Guided Munitions (ULPGM)
Runway-Independent Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS)
Counter-UAS Solutions
Loitering Munitions
Specialised Vertical Launch (SVL) Drones
Precision Multi-Munition Delivery Systems
Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS)
Low-Level Light-Weight Radars
VSHORADS (Next-Gen Infrared Systems)
Advanced Electronic Warfare Platforms Earlier this week, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited Babina Field Firing Ranges to review the trials and interact with Army personnel and defence industry stakeholders. The demonstrations reflect growing synergy between the Army and India's private defence sector.
ADVERTISEMENT Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, speaking on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Saturday, had emphasised India's self-reliant defence systems. Highlighting Operation Sindoor, he said India successfully used indigenously developed systems like the Akash missile and built its own air defence networking infrastructure.'We've integrated radars from multiple sources—both Indian and foreign—into a cohesive network across the country without relying on external vendors. This was crucial for our defence posture during recent operations,' Chauhan said.
ADVERTISEMENT He also noted the increasing convergence of warfare domains: 'Modern conflict demands integration of air, land, sea, cyber, and space. We're shifting from large, static platforms to distributed, deceptive and non-linear strategies.'In a candid assessment, CDS Chauhan contrasted India's strategic evolution with Pakistan's stagnation.
ADVERTISEMENT 'When we gained independence, Pakistan was ahead in several metrics—GDP per capita, social indicators, economic performance. But today, India is ahead on all fronts—military capability, economic power, social harmony. That's a result of deliberate long-term strategy,' he said.He further stated that while Pakistan likely sought Chinese or commercial satellite imagery during Operation Sindoor, there is no confirmation of real-time targeting support. 'India relied on its own satellite and electronic systems. Our response during the operation was swift and effective, with no further losses beyond the initial strike.'Chauhan argued that India's preference for disengagement after decisive military actions is rooted in economic logic. 'Prolonged mobilisations are expensive. Our aim is decisive, short operations that avoid long-term disruptions to national development.'
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The trials and strategic posture echo India's growing focus on readiness for high-technology warfare. CDS Chauhan highlighted the role of Indian academia, startups, and private industry in pushing the innovation envelope. 'We produce the largest number of STEM graduates globally. Give them a defence problem, and you'll have hundreds working on it. That's an untapped advantage we must harness," said CDS Chauhan.
(With inputs from ANI, PTI)
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