New Delhi, Oct 22 (NationPress) The Indian Infantry is swiftly evolving into a technology-driven, Atmanirbhar, and nimble combat force, in line with the vision for Viksit Bharat by 2047, stated Director General Infantry Lt Gen Ajay Kumar during a recent informal media briefing. He emphasized that “wars are not fought with borrowed weapons.”

Reiterating the Infantry's crucial role in the Indian Army, Lt Gen Kumar noted that the Army is experiencing a significant transformation under the Decade of Transformation initiative, which emphasizes modernisation, self-reliance, and excellence in human resources.

“The Infantry of the future will be technologically advanced, modular, and versatile — equipped to fight and prevail in multi-domain battlefields,” the DG asserted.

As he commemorated Shaurya Diwas — previously known as Infantry Day — on October 27, the DG reflected on the historic 1947 air landing of the 1 SIKH Regiment in Srinagar, which played a pivotal role in protecting Jammu and Kashmir.

“Shaurya Diwas symbolizes the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering spirit of the Infantry, linking our rich history with present-day acknowledgment,” he remarked.

Discussing insights from Operation Sindoor, Lt Gen Kumar highlighted the necessity for precision, joint operations, and a technology-centric approach to warfare.

He also mentioned the integration of advanced Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities in the context of Operation Sindoor.

He further emphasized the shift towards non-contact, technology-driven warfare — where innovations such as drones, AI systems, and precision weaponry are reshaping the battlefield.

Dedicated Drone Platoons are now incorporated into each Infantry battalion, improving surveillance capabilities and enabling FPV-based precision strikes.

The newly established Bhairav Battalions are also operational for high-mobility, high-intensity tactical missions, effectively bridging the gap between Infantry and Special Forces.

This transformation is founded on six key elements — lethality, mobility, communication, battlefield transparency, survivability, and training — all driven by indigenous innovations.

From advanced 7.62 mm rifles and cutting-edge anti-tank systems to SDR-based encrypted communications and AI-enabled frameworks, Infantry units are adopting next-generation warfare technologies.

Lt Gen Kumar underscored that India’s Atmanirbhar defense ecosystem, bolstered by collaborations with industry, DRDO, and academic institutions, is guaranteeing that “wars are not fought with borrowed weapons.”