In a bid to evaluate state-of-the-art weapon systems and technology, the Indian Army is actively preparing for an extensive combat exercise known as 'Trishakti Prahar.' This exercise serves as a crucial testing ground for new concepts in long-range firepower, the readiness of troops for battle, and the preservation of military strength.

Notably, 'Trishakti Prahar' takes inspiration from the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, drawing valuable insights and lessons from the unfolding events in Eastern Europe. This exercise underscores India's commitment to ensuring its armed forces remain at the forefront of modern warfare capabilities.

The exercise seeks to enhance the Indian Army's combat proficiency and strategic preparedness by incorporating cutting-edge weaponry and tactics. It serves as a proactive measure to bolster the nation's defense capabilities in an ever-evolving global security landscape.

The upcoming 'Trishakti Prahar' exercise also holds the objective of applying lessons garnered from the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. Preparations are currently in full swing in Rajasthan's western front for the exercise led by the 21 Corps, recognized as one of the Indian Army's four major "strike formations." According to sources cited in the Times of India, the groundwork for this significant military exercise is well underway.

Scheduled for the first half of November, the concluding phase of the exercise is anticipated to involve a formidable contingent, exceeding 30,000 troops. The operation will encompass the deployment of advanced military assets such as T-90S and Arjun main-battle tanks, a diverse array of howitzers, helicopters, and a range of other equipment. This exercise aims to further elevate the readiness and capabilities of the Indian Army's forces in line with evolving defense strategies.

A source was quoted as saying by ToI, "Fighter jets, Apache attack and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters and other aircraft from the IAF and Navy will also be there.”

During the war game, the Indian Army will be putting various capabilities to the test, including integrated air-land operations, combined arms operations, swift mobilization, and deep-strike offensive capabilities. These encompass the concept of "degradation by long-range vectors" and precision high-volume strikes. These operations will be bolstered by intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and electronic warfare capabilities.

Another significant area of focus will be enhancing mobility and the effectiveness of shoot-and-scoot capabilities. These lessons are drawn from the recent Russia-Ukraine conflict, providing valuable insights into the Indian Army's strategy.

Additionally, the exercise will incorporate the use of armed swarm drones and kamikaze drones, representing cutting-edge technology and tactics.

In light of the ongoing military standoff with China in eastern Ladakh, the Indian Army has undertaken substantial emergency procurements. These acquisitions encompass a wide range of niche technologies, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs/drones), precision-guided missiles, loiter munitions, counter-drone systems, communication systems, and automatic spectrum monitoring systems.

The 'Trishakti Prahar' exercise will serve as a crucial testing ground for several of these newly-inducted weapon systems and technologies. It underscores the Indian Army's commitment to modernizing its capabilities and ensuring preparedness for any future contingencies.

“Parallelly, a large number of cases for modernization and technology infusion are also underway to ensure an agile future-ready force, incorporating niche technologies through indigenous solutions,” he added.

The Russia-Ukraine war has underscored the importance of self-reliance in defense production and the need for resilient supply chains. It has also emphasized the necessity of preparing for longer multi-domain conflicts.

Amid ongoing tensions along the 3,488-km Line of Actual Control, the Indian Army has redeployed additional forces and firepower to the border with China. The Army, organized into 14 corps, is rebalancing its resources for improved preparedness.

The Emergency Procurement program has seen 68 contracts worth Rs 6,600 crore in the first three phases, and an additional 49 contracts worth Rs 7,600 crore in the fourth tranche. Approximately 34 more schemes worth around Rs 7,000 crore are in the final stages of development, reflecting the military's commitment to enhancing its capabilities in response to evolving security challenges.

Image source: ANI