Days before the foundation day of the Indian Army, China reinforced its military focus on readiness and logistics support in harsh conditions by conducting a combat rehearsal in a high-altitude plateau area.

Following a historic disengagement deal in October 2024, India and China have been negotiating a precarious peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) at the time of the military drill. Sources claim that a regiment of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Xinjiang Military Command led the drill, which included cutting-edge military equipment including drones, unmanned systems, exoskeletons that improve troop endurance and mobility and all-terrain vehicles. In response to the exercises, the Indian military has heightened its vigilance along the India-China border.

The disengagement deal between China and India was a significant step in reducing tensions that had been building since the fighting in the Galwan Valley in 2020, which killed 20 Indian soldiers, including Colonel B Santosh Babu, the commanding officer of the 17th Battalion of the Bihar Regiment. China and India agreed to begin patrolling in dispute-prone areas, such as Demchok and Depsang, which are both seen as long-term flashpoints, as part of the disengagement process. The agreement was followed by important talks between India’s National Security Advisor, Ajit Doval and China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi. The talks aimed at finding a broader solution to the LAC issue, focusing on the need for a stable and peaceful boundary agreement.

While these diplomatic efforts show promise, the situation is still tense, as both countries continue to keep a large number of troops stationed in difficult conditions. China’s logistics support exercise underscores its strategic intent to enhance operational readiness in high-altitude environments, particularly in the Xinjiang region, which borders Ladakh. The inclusion of cutting-edge technologies, such as unmanned vehicles and drones, reflects Beijing’s focus on modernising its military capabilities for asymmetric warfare. These drills are not just training exercises; they are a way of showing China’s capability to quickly move and maintain forces in disputed areas. For example, the use of exoskeletons could provide PLA soldiers with an edge in handling the physical challenges of fighting in high-altitude conditions.

These events underscore the need for India to remain vigilant and promote its own military upgrading initiatives in Ladakh. In order to thwart any possible Chinese assault, the Indian Army has also been implementing sophisticated monitoring systems, modernising infrastructure and holding winter combat drills. The resumption of patrolling in areas like Depsang and Demchok shows signs of improving relations. However, China's continued military drills suggest that achieving lasting peace will not be easy. These ongoing activities show that both countries are preparing for all possible situations, even as peace talks continue. The recent military drills highlight the strategic importance of the Himalayan region. For India, these exercises should not be seen as isolated events, but as part of a bigger picture that emphasises the importance of staying alert, modernising and engaging in proactive diplomacy.

India has responded to changing threats and China's ongoing military actions by greatly increasing its readiness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). Through intense combat drills, such as the annual Him Vijay exercises, which focus on coordinated troop manoeuvres and harsh weather operations, the Indian Army has improved its capacity for high-altitude warfare. India has implemented advanced surveillance systems, drones and satellite imaging to track Chinese movements in real-time. Additionally, the country has quickly accelerated the construction of key border infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and tunnels, to ensure fast troop movement and logistical support. 

Modern weapons like the S-400 missile defence systems and K9 Vajra howitzers have been introduced to enhance India's battle readiness. These steps along with joint military exercises such as Indra and Garuda Shield with partner countries show India’s dedication to protecting its borders and ensuring a strong defence to prevent any aggression along the LAC.