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Business Standard
15 hours ago
- Politics
- Business Standard
Indian Army's 'Rudra' all-arms brigades reflect change, not rehash
While building on earlier initiatives such as the Integrated Battle Group concept, experts emphasise that the shift should be recognised as a distinct evolution Bhaswar Kumar New Delhi Listen to This Article The Indian Army's reorganisation into new frontline formations — the 'Rudra' all-arms brigades, 'Bhairav' light commando battalions, and 'Shaktibaan' artillery regiments — marks the latest stage in a two-decade effort to reshape land warfare. This aims to shorten the interval between political decision-making and military action, and to respond to the 'new normal' established by Operation Sindoor and doctrinal changes by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA). While building on earlier initiatives such as the Integrated Battle Group (IBG) concept, experts stress this is a distinct evolution — aligning force structure, technology, logistics, command and control, and doctrine to create an
The Diplomat
4 days ago
- Politics
- The Diplomat
The Indian Army's Pakistan-Centric Restructuring
Following the four-day conflict between India and Pakistan in May, the Indian army has initiated numerous reforms to enhance the operational efficacy of its combat units. The reorganization did not happen all at once, but it is an extension of the decisions made during the tenure of former Chief General Manoj Pande. The announcement of new amendments to the existing force infrastructure at the lower echelon indicates that the Indian Army is boosting its capability to conduct proactive cross-border land incursions while retaining the element of surprise. This demands enhanced vigilance from Islamabad as the restructuring of combat units is specifically designed for launching strikes along Pakistan's borders. The Indian army chief announced several new initiatives to reorganize the ground force's structure and to integrate additional firepower into existing units. One change is establishing a new all-arms brigade concept called 'Rudra.' The Rudra brigade is an upgraded version of the Integrated Battle Group (IBG), equipped with modern weapons and a redesigned formation to address current battlefield demands. Similar to the IBG model, it consolidates all warfighting and support units (infantry, mechanized infantry, armor, artillery, special forces, and drone units, supported by tailor-made logistics) into one formation to improve operational efficiency. Two brigades deployed in the border area have been converted into Rudra so far, and they will have independent logistics and combat support elements. Besides Rudra brigades, the Indian Army has established new 'Bhairav Light Commando Battalions,' a specialized unit with advanced weapons and sensors to shock the enemy, as illustrated by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. The army's higher command has ordered infantry regimental centers to start raising Bhairav battalions, so that the initial units can be ready for deployment in less than a month. These new battalions will be equipped with Mahindra Armado Light Specialist Vehicles (LSV), which are already operational with troops stationed along India's northern and western borders as of May 2025. The Mahindra LSV is an all-terrain vehicle that can be used for various tasks, including rapid troop deployment to remote locations, bunker busting missions, and anti-tank roles. The Indian Defense Ministry signed a contract with the Mahindra group to procure 1300 LSVs in 2021, with the first deliveries beginning in 2023. The LSV can carry six ready-to-fire anti-tank missiles. In addition, it can also be integrated with 81mm and 120 mm vehicle-mounted mortar systems, which can destroy targets beyond 5 km and 8.2 km, respectively. On the small arms side, the soldiers will have newly inducted AK-203 and Sig-716 assault rifles, equipped with night vision devices. The Bhairav concept is an extended version of the Ghatak platoon. According to Indian media sources, the Bhairav units will have around 250 personnel, less than regular infantry battalions in the Indian Army, consisting of around 800 troops. Currently, each infantry battalion of the Indian army has one Ghatak platoon, consisting of 20 soldiers, specializing in special operations. This indicates that the army wants to increase the number of troops for special operation missions, for which the new Bhairav battalions are being raised. This is part of India's broader strategy to enhance its capability to conduct pre-emptive cross-border actions. They are likely to conduct raids on the adversary's artillery gun positions, destroying the adversary's bunker along the Line of Control (LOC), sabotaging forward fuel and ammunition dumps, and acting as a spearhead for newly formed Rudra brigades by clearing the immediate obstacles, such as forward defensive posts of the adversary. As their role is to conduct pre-emptive cross-border strikes, given the vast length of India's borders and the number of soldiers in each battalion, at least 40-50 battalions are expected to be raised soon. Moreover, the Indian army chief revealed that each infantry battalion will have a drone platoon to improve battlefield situational awareness. According to media reports, the newly announced drone platoons will be equipped with First-Person-View (FPV) and other surveillance drones. Twenty to 30 soldiers are expected to run the designated drone unit. The army has been operating surveillance drones for quite some time; however, units have also started inducting the indigenously developed FPV drones with an anti-tank payload. This initiative will enhance the land force's ability to see beyond the horizon on the battlefield, conduct ISR missions independently, and target the adversary's stationary and moving platforms. Army artillery regiments will also undergo restructuring, which includes using drones for target identification and acquisition in each battery. The army has begun training its soldiers to employ drones for target acquisition in the School of Artillery at Deolali. They will also have counter-drone systems, most probably soft kill systems within the artillery regiments to neutralize drones. The indigenously developed D-4 anti-drone system by DRDO is likely to be transferred to the newly established Shaktiban regiments. In addition, the army will also raise new special batteries under the ambit of an artillery regiment, known as Divyastra, housing loitering missiles of different types and ranges. In the early phase, Nagrasta-I loitering munitions are expected to be inducted in Divyastra batteries. The reorganization is part of the Indian Army's strategy to instill confidence in the political leadership that it can still conduct cross-border surgical strikes at a moment's notice. In the recent confrontation with Pakistan, the political leadership gave a leading role to the Indian Air Force for carrying out strikes. The introduction of new warfighting units like Rudra, Bhairav, Divyastra, and Shaktiban is a means to influence the political leadership, indicating that the army has the capability to conduct operations at the lower echelon, using forces and equipment deployed close to the borders, therefore not losing the element of surprise, which remains cardinal in regards to the launching of pre-emptive strikes. These initiatives will require some time before becoming operational. The reforms are not only structural changes within the Indian Army, but also meant to increase the units' warfighting capabilities. They are intended to augment the ground force's ability to launch surprise strikes across the border promptly. This will provide New Delhi with additional options in the future, if it decides to launch a pre-emptive strike against Islamabad. Therefore, Pakistani decision-makers should view this development as an emerging threat and take appropriate actions at the operational level to nullify the advantage that the Indian Army seeks to achieve.
The Wire
10-08-2025
- Politics
- The Wire
Rudra, Bhairav, Shaktibaan: Army's Mythology-Infused Brigades Revive an Old War Plan in New Garb
Security Rahul Bedi Unveiled with fanfare and Sanskritised names, the Army's new frontline formations promise speed, autonomy and high-tech punch. Yet beneath the political symbolism and mythological flourish lies a rebranding of the long-stalled Integrated Battle Group concept – with many of its old doctrinal and logistical hurdles still unresolved. In this image released by @adgpi on X on July 28, 2025, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi during a visit at headquarters of Fire and Fury Corps and Siachen Brigade to review the operational preparedness of the formation, in Leh, Ladakh. Photo: X/@adgpi/PTI. Chandigarh: The Indian Army's (IAs) proposed frontline formations – Rudra, Bhairav and Shaktibaan – recently unveiled by Chief of Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and named after Hindu mythological figures, reflect more continuity with earlier, abandoned schemes than with any meaningful doctrinal shift. For beyond their Indic monikers, these formations amount to little more than a conceptual reboot of the old Integrated Battle Group (IBG) idea, first floated in 2019 by former Army Chief General Bipin Rawat, who later became India's first Chief of Defence Staff . Wrapped in symbolism, the all-arms offensive Rudra ('destruction') brigades – two of which already exist – comprising infantry, armour, artillery, engineers, and signals units , for rapid thrusts into enemy territory, were announced by Gen. Dwivedi on Kargil Vijay Diwas in Drass on July 26. According to official sources, each of the proposed Rudra brigades of around 3,000-odd personnel were envisaged as self-sufficient units, capable of autonomously launching high-intensity, short-duration warfare, along India's northern and western unsettled borders. Evoking aggression and spiritual symbolism, these Rudra formations were thus named to blend Hindu mythology with modern day military intent. What's new? Unveiled some 10 weeks after hostilities with Pakistan were paused under Operation Sindoor, the Bhairav ('ferocious') light commando battalions were also introduced by Gen. Dwivedi as shock-and-awe units, likely tailored for urban warfare and close-quarter combat. Also announced were Shaktibaan ('divine power') artillery formations, augmented by Divyastra ('precision') surveillance UAVs, drone batteries, and loitering munitions to enhance hi-tech lethality. The Bhairav units appear to be scaled-up versions of Ghatak platoons – 20 to 30-man assault teams within regular infantry battalions – tasked with reconnaissance and behind-the-lines operations. Yet, beyond their fierce branding, little has been disclosed about the Bhairav formations, leaving their structure, role and doctrine somewhat opaque. The proposed Shaktibaan brigades, equipped with precision artillery and assorted ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) unmanned aerial systems, were intended for rapid cross-border strikes. Significantly, they are expected to include cyber and electronic warfare units, marking a departure from legacy structures where artillery and ISR were traditionally considered 'support' elements. In Shaktibaan, these become the primary strike instruments in a digital-first battlespace. Also read: From 'Samudraraja' to 'Garuda Nayak', Imagining BJP's Vision of an 'Atmanirbhar', Sanskritised Military Furthermore, at Shaktibaan's core is the Divyastra unit – an integrated precision strike and drone warfare element, combining loitering munitions, swarm drones, and real-time targeting capability. Divyastra is designed for fast, disruptive attacks against enemy assets, including suppression of air defences and logistical hubs, all the while limiting troop exposure much like what transpired during Op Sindoor. IBGs Official sources said no fresh recruitments were planned for these aforementioned units. Instead, select units from the Army's existing pool of 250-odd single-arm brigades would be reorganised and repurposed into these broader, multi-arm structures, without expanding manpower. Gen. Dwivedi's unveiling of these 'Sanskritised' operational units marks a formal revival of the long-stalled IBGs originally conceived under the Army's 'Cold Start' doctrine. Designed for swift, limited offensives against Pakistan without triggering full-scale war, the doctrine gained traction after the 2001-2o02 Operation Parakram standoff, sparked by the terrorist attack on India's parliament building which New Delhi blamed on Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). IBGs, led by major general-rank officers, were envisioned as agile formations of 5,000-6,000 troops each, combining infantry, armour, air defence, logistics, and attack helicopters. Their goal was to compress the lag time between political decision and military action, enabling rapid punitive strikes under a nuclear overhang before the adversary could respond or escalate. The Army's revised 2018 Land Warfare Doctrine further refined the IBG concept, with Gen. Rawat advocating their deployment across both the Pakistani and Chinese fronts, but the project remained mired in doctrinal disagreements and bureaucratic inertia. Also Read: No Takers for Modi's Plan to 'Decolonise' Navy by Introducing Kurta-Pyjama in Dress Code One of its most contentious proposals was the scrapping of the brigadier rank – an idea that faced stiff resistance from within the Army. Gen. Rawat also sidestepped a more pressing issue: the chronic lack of funding needed to operationalise these ambitious formations. Strategic agility, it turned out, was easier to theorise than to finance. Despite these limitations, the IBGs were formally validated in 2019 after multiple field exercises. But implementation soon stalled, due to defence ministry sluggishness, logistical ambiguity and doctrinal friction among various Army commands. The broader shift envisioned by Cold Start theorists never took root – until it was resurrected last week, rebranded in mythological garb as Rudra. What of Rawat's proposal? Tellingly, these new brigades are to be led by brigadier-rank officers, whose status remains intact, reversing Rawat's controversial proposal. Rudra's nomenclature – like the other associated 'Sanskritised' formations and systems – also echoes the BJP government's broader drive to 'decolonise' Indian military traditions and assert a Hindutva-inflected national identity upon it. And, while the political packaging has changed, the underlying military structure remains unmistakably IBG in design. What differentiates Rudra from its predecessor remains vague. Army brass describes it as an 'upgrade', while making no reference to the shelved IBG framework. They also maintain that over time, the Rudra brigades are expected to absorb advanced technologies – real-time ISR from drones, networked artillery, battlefield surveillance and high-speed communications – to speed-up the offensive kill chain and improve tactical autonomy. Strategically too, these innovations are eventually expected to align with the under-implementation vision of Integrated Theatre Commands under CDS Gen. Anil Chauhan. Yet, many of the challenges that scuttled the IBGs persist: doctrinal discord between commands, fractured logistics systems, patchy communication interoperability and unresolved air support coordination. Procurement delays – both indigenous and imported – of platforms and associated equipment only exacerbate these challenges. So the question remains: will the IA finally deliver on its promise of nimble, autonomous, integrated formations along its unresolved borders. Or will these mythologically named units – anointed with a tilak – become yet another repackaged slogan wrapped in political symbolism, to be unveiled once more with fanfare at a future Kargil Vijay Diwas by another Army chief with yet a new allegorical name? The Wire is now on WhatsApp. Follow our channel for sharp analysis and opinions on the latest developments.
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First Post
13-05-2025
- Politics
- First Post
How Operation Sindoor signals India's shift towards theatre commands and IBG doctrine
Operation Sindoor marked a decisive shift in India's military strategy reflecting progress toward theatre commands and the IBG doctrine read more (File) Operation Sindoor displayed on the screen during a press briefing by the Indian armed forces, in New Delhi on May 11, 2025. PTI On May 7, 2025, India launched a bold and a military operation as Operation Sindoor, aimed at destroying terrorist camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). This powerful response came just two weeks after the brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 civilians were killed, including 25 Indians and one Nepalese citizen. The scale and cruelty of the Pahalgam attack shocked the nation and made it clear that a strong, direct response was needed. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'The barbarity displayed by terrorists in Pahalgam on April 22 had shocked the entire country and the world. The merciless killing of innocent citizens in front of their family and their children on the basis of their religion was a very gruesome face of terror and cruelty,' Prime Minister Narendra Modi said in his address to the nation on 12 May 2025. Operation Sindoor was that response—a clear signal that India would no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism. The operation didn't just eliminate key terrorist targets—it also marked a shift in India's counter-terror strategy, showing that the country was now prepared to act with greater precision, speed, and coordination. This growing capability reflects planned structural reforms in the military, such as the creation of Integrated Theatre Commands and Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs). These changes, now in advanced stages of planning, aim to make India's armed forces more effective in joint operations. Operation Sindoor, currently on pause, offered a glimpse of a response strategy that goes beyond retaliation—one rooted in long-term preparedness and a stronger, more integrated defence posture. 'Operation Sindoor has carved out a new benchmark in our fight against terrorism and has set up a new parameter and new normal,' Prime Minister Modi said. The trigger: April 22 Pahalgam attack The immediate impetus for Operation Sindoor was the Pahalgam terror attack, in which terrorists opened fire on tourists killing 26 civilians. This incident triggered public outrage and a call for swift retribution. Probe and security agencies traced digital footprints of the terror attack to Pakistan. Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)-backed The Resistance Force claimed responsibility of the attack, and retracted later with strategic backing from Pakistan. Against this background, the Indian government authorised a robust and coordinated military response. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'This was also a disgusting attempt to break the harmony and unity of the country. For me personally this was very painful,' he said. Operation Sindoor: Execution and objectives Operation Sindoor was launched with well-defined objectives, aimed at significantly altering India's counter-terror strategy. At its core, the operation focussed on neutralising terrorist infrastructure by dismantling active camps and training centres in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) and deep within Pakistan. A key goal was to eliminate high-value targets, particularly the terrorist leaders who were behind planning and executing attacks on Indian soil. 'Operation Sindoor is not just a name but it's a reflection of the feelings of millions of people of the country. Operation 'Sindoor' is our unwavering commitment to justice,' Prime Minister Modi said. Beyond the immediate objective of neutralisation, Operation Sindoor also served as a powerful demonstration of India's growing military precision and capability, showcasing the armed forces' ability to conduct coordinated, multi-domain strikes with minimal collateral damage. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Additionally, the operation was designed to establish strategic deterrence, sending a clear and direct message to both state and non-state actors that India would no longer tolerate cross-border terrorism and would respond with swift, decisive force. The operation's execution reflected the seriousness of its intent. Indian forces successfully struck nine major terrorist camps, including those affiliated with LeT, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Hizbul Mujahideen, causing significant damage to their logistics and training networks. 'More than 100 dreaded terrorists have been killed in these attacks by India,' the prime minister said. One of the most notable achievements was the elimination of Yusuf Azhar, a top JeM commander and a relative of Masood Azhar, who was directly linked to the 1999 IC-814 hijacking. The mission's focus was on eliminating top terror leaders, particularly from JeM in Bahawalpur and LeT in Muridke. 'Terrorist bases, like Bahawalpur and Muridke are universities of global terrorism,' he said. In a move that shocked Pakistan, nine key locations were identified and targeted successfully. These locations included: Bahawalpur, Muridke, Gulpur, Bhimber, Chak Amru, Bagh, Kotli, Sialkot and Muzaffarabad. Each of these strikes was executed with precision marking a significant blow to the terrorist networks operating in the region. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD In addition to these ground operations, the Indian military launched air and missile strikes on military targets in Rafiqui, Murid, Chaklala, Rahim Yar Khan, Sukkur, Chunian, Pasrur and Sialkot areas of Pakistan, emphasising the depth and reach of the operation. This happened in response to Pakistan's attempt to hit India military and civilian areas. Integration with military reforms: Theatre commands and IBGs While Operation Sindoor was largely reactive, its successful execution was made possible by India's ongoing military reforms, particularly the advanced stage plans on the implementation of integrated theatre commands and IBGs (Integrated Battle Groups). 'After the surgical strike and air strike, now Operation Sindoor is India's policy against terrorism,' Prime Minister Modi said. These reforms have been central to India's vision of modernising its armed forces and improving jointness among the army, navy and air force ensuring better coordination and operational efficiency. A key element of these reforms is the restructuring of India's military into theatre commands, which integrate the command structures across the three services. This model is designed to enhance inter-service coordination, streamline decision-making and improve resource utilisation. The proposed theatre commands include the Western Theatre Command, focussed on operations along the Pakistan border, the Northern Theatre Command, primarily tasked with addressing threats from China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Maritime Theatre Command (MTC), responsible for operations in the Indian Ocean Region and the Air Defence Command (ADC), which integrates air surveillance and response capabilities. Each theatre command is expected to be led by a three-star general, with resources pooled from all three services to enhance operational readiness and synergy. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Another significant innovation is the introduction of IBGs, which play a crucial role in India's defence strategy. IBGs are brigade-sized units that are highly mobile, self-sufficient and tailored for swift offensive and defensive operations, particularly in response to border threats. These groups are designed to be highly flexible and capable of rapid deployment, with a size of 5,000 to 7,000 troops. IBGs incorporate a wide range of capabilities, including infantry, armour, artillery, engineers, logistics and air defence. They are capable of mobilising within 12-48 hours ensuring rapid response to emerging threats. Additionally, the terrain-specific configurations of IBGs—whether for mountainous, desert or plains regions—allow them to be optimised for the specific challenges of different theatres. Although infantry and mechanised infantry were not deployed at a full-scale level, their deployment would have also reflected the ongoing military reforms. The introduction of IBGs significantly enhances India's ability to conduct short-duration, high-intensity conflicts aligning with the Cold Start doctrine for limited conventional warfare. This combination of theatre commands and IBGs marks a shift toward a more integrated and agile military capable of responding quickly and effectively to a wide range of threats. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Technological integration and precision Operation Sindoor also highlighted India's growing reliance on network-centric warfare, real-time intelligence and precision weapon systems. 'We will take strict action at every place from where the roots of terrorism emerge,' PM Modi said. The operation showcased how advanced technologies have become central to modern military strategy, enabling more targeted and efficient strikes. Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities played a critical role with satellite surveillance, drone reconnaissance and signal intelligence all working in tandem to identify and track terrorist targets with precision. In terms of offensive capability, India utilised advanced missile and air power with platforms like the Su-30MKIs, Mirage 2000s, Rafales and BrahMos cruise missiles deployed to strike terrorist camps and military installations. Moreover, electronic warfare and cyber operations were essential in disrupting enemy communications and disabling radar systems ensuring that the strikes could be carried out with minimal interference. This approach represents a significant departure from traditional, large-scale military deployments reflecting a shift toward more surgical, technology-enabled operations. The integration of these advanced capabilities allowed India to execute the operation with greater precision and effectiveness minimising risks and maximicing impact. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Geopolitical and strategic implications Operation Sindoor had far-reaching geopolitical ramifications affecting both domestic and international relations. 'India caused heavy damage to Pakistan in the first three days itself, which it had never imagined,' the prime minister said. Domestically, the operation significantly bolstered public morale, demonstrating the Indian government's firm resolve against terrorism and reinforcing its commitment to national security. This display of strength resonated with citizens, who viewed it as a strong response to cross-border terrorism. On the international stage, while some nations called for restraint, many others, including US, France and Australia, expressed support for India's right to self-defence, acknowledging the legitimacy of India's actions in response to terrorism. In contrast, Pakistan found itself in a difficult position. 'Terror and talks cannot go together… Terror and trade cannot go together…. Water and blood cannot flow together,' PM Modi said in his address on Monday evening. Hit hard by the operation, Pakistan's military response was aggressive but was thwarted by India's air defence systems. Pushed into a corner and not able to garner much international support, Pakistan sought truce. From a China perspective, the operation held particular significance. With the growing ties between China and Pakistan, the operation sent a clear message to Beijing about India's willingness to act decisively across multiple fronts to protect its interests. This served as a reminder of India's military capability and its readiness to counter threats not just from its immediate neighbours but in broader regional dynamics as well. Future outlook Operation Sindoor may be remembered as a key moment in India's military evolution. Its successful execution has not only validated the ongoing shift toward theatre commands and IBGs but is also likely to accelerate further reforms within India's defence strategy. 'Today the world is witnessing that in 21st century warfare the time has come for Made in India defence equipment,' the prime minister said. The operation demonstrated the effectiveness of these reforms and highlighted the need for continued modernisation of India's armed forces to meet evolving security challenges. Looking ahead, there are several key developments on the horizon. One of the most significant is the full operationalisation of theatre commands, which is expected to be completed by 2026, marking a major step in improving inter-service coordination and operational effectiveness. Additionally, the expansion of IBGs will continue with more units being tailored for diverse terrains, including the strategic North East. To further enhance combat readiness, India is also increasing its focus on joint exercises with global partners like US, France and Japan, which will help improve interoperability and strengthen defence ties. Moroever, there is a growing emphasis on indigenous defence production, aiming to reduce dependency on foreign systems and build long-term strategic autonomy for India's defence industry. Operation Sindoor: Not a mere military operation Operation Sindoor was more than just a retaliatory strike. It was a clear display of India's growing military strength and its evolving strategy. 'This is certainly not the era of war but this is also not the era of terrorism. Zero tolerance against terrorism is the guarantee for a better world,' Prime Minister Modi said. The operation showed that India is capable of combining intelligence, technology and combat power across different areas to carry out a coordinated response. As India continues to reshape its military with theatre commands and more flexible BGs, the lessons learned from Operation Sindoor will help guide future military actions. With these changes, India is moving towards a defence strategy that focusses on precision, speed and strategic depth—all of which are crucial in today's security challenges.
Associated Press
02-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Innovation Beverage Group Expands U.S. Distribution of its Award-Winning Bitters Through One of the Nation's Largest Beverage Alcohol Distributors
Republic National Distribution Company opens new distribution channels in six states including California, one of the largest markets in the U.S. SEVEN HILLS, AU / ACCESS Newswire / April 2, 2025 / Innovation Beverage Group Ltd ('IBG' or the 'Company') (Nasdaq:IBG), an innovative developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, announced today it has signed a distribution agreement with Republic National Distribution Company (" RNDC"). IBG's Australian Bitters Company and BITTERTALES brands will be distributed by RNDC in six states: California, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, Arizona, and Michigan. 'We are very pleased to partner with RNDC, one of the top distributors in the U.S. in our category. Their distribution reach is vast and their product expertise and executional excellence are ideal to promote the expansion of our award-winning bitters brands in the U.S.,' stated IBG's Chairman and Interim CEO Sahil Beri. 'Having recently achieved 45% market share in cocktail bitters in Australia, we are eager to gain similar momentum in the U.S.' With roots extending before Prohibition, RNDC is one of the U.S.'s leading wholesale beverage alcohol distributors specializing in wine and spirits. Operating in 39 states across the U.S. and the District of Columbia, RNDC is ranked #46 on Forbes 's list of America's Top Private Companies, with $11 billion in revenues. IBG's flagship product, Australian Bitters Company, hand crafted in small batches in Australia from the finest natural botanical herbs and spices, won the Gold Medal at the Los Angeles Spirts Awards in 2018. BITTERTALES, the Company's premium cocktail brand, won Best in Show and a Platinum Medal at the 2020 LA Spirits Awards, and a Gold Medal at the 2018 and 2021 LA Spirits Awards. IBG's bitters brands are produced at its state-of-the-art U.S. FDA and GMP certified facility in Australia and shipped worldwide. About Innovation Beverage Group Innovation Beverage Group is a developer, manufacturer, marketer, exporter, and retailer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands for which it owns exclusive manufacturing rights. Focused on premium and super premium brands and market categories where it can disrupt age old brands, IBG's brands include Australian Bitters, BITTERTALES, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker, and more. IBG's most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which disrupted a 200-year-old market leader, giving the Company a market dominating position in several territories including a partnership in Australia with Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. Established in 2018, IBG's headquarters, distillery, innovation, and manufacturing facility are located in Sydney, Australia with a U.S. sales office is located in New Jersey. For more information visit: Forward Looking Statement This press release contains 'forward-looking statements' and 'forward-looking information.' This information and these statements, which can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts, are made as of the date of this press release or as of the date of the effective date of information described in this press release, as applicable. The forward-looking statements herein relate to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as 'expects,' 'anticipates,' 'plans,' 'projects,' 'estimates,' 'envisages,' 'assumes,' 'intends,' 'strategy,' 'goals,' 'objectives' or variations thereof or stating that certain action events or results 'may,' 'can,' 'could,' 'would,' 'might,' or 'will' be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) and include, without limitation, statements with respect to projected financial targets that the Company is looking to achieve. All forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company's management team. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. We caution any person reviewing this press release not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as several important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions, and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Company or on behalf of the Company except as may be required by law. Contact: TraDigital IR 917-658-2602
