How Are AI, Drones, and Sensors Shaping Future Warfare in the Himalayas?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Integration of AI and drones enhances battlefield effectiveness.
- Real-time data flow improves decision-making.
- Focus on self-reliance aligns with national defense strategies.
- Exercise Divya Drishti showcases modern military capabilities.
- Continuous innovation ensures preparedness for future threats.
Gangtok, July 28 (NationPress) Aiming to adapt to the complexities of the modern battlefield, the Indian Army conducted ‘Exercise Divya Drishti’ in the scenic state of Sikkim, officials announced on Monday.
Defence Spokesperson Lt Col Mahendra Rawat emphasized that, on today's battlefield, the capability to observe comprehensively, analyze swiftly, and respond promptly is crucial for achieving success.
“To fulfill this requirement, the Indian Army executed ‘Exercise Divya Drishti’. This exercise, held in the elevated terrains of East Sikkim, evaluated innovative technologies aimed at enhancing battlefield awareness, providing real-time surveillance, and facilitating rapid decision-making,” he explained.
Troops from Trishakti Corps utilized a combination of ground systems and aerial platforms, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and drones, to simulate realistic scenarios.
The spokesperson highlighted a significant aspect of the exercise, which was the employment of AI-powered sensors connected with sophisticated communication systems.
This arrangement ensured a seamless and secure flow of data between command centers, thereby enhancing situational awareness and enabling quicker, more informed decisions, thus establishing a robust sensor-to-shooter linkage, he noted.
Lt Gen Rakesh Kapoor, the Deputy Chief of Army Staff, assessed the exercise and its results on behalf of the Army headquarters.
“Exercise Divya Drishti has proven to be highly successful. We tested cutting-edge technologies in realistic field conditions. The insights gained will assist in the development of future technologies, doctrines, and tactics across the Indian Army, ensuring our readiness against any adversary and in any environment,” stated Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding of Trishakti Corps.
According to Lt Col Rawat, Exercise Divya Drishti marks a significant milestone in the Army’s modernization journey, reflecting its commitment to technology and self-reliance, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and the decade of transformation initiative.
In a related note, another Defence spokesperson mentioned that Lieutenant General Abhijeet S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding of Spear Corps, observed Exercise Drone Prahar, a sophisticated military drill aimed at validating the integration of drone technology into infantry and supporting operations.
Conducted under authentic operational conditions, this exercise demonstrated the effective use of drones for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), real-time sensor-to-shooter links, and precision targeting across tactical and operational layers on the battlefield.
A primary goal was to enhance command reach and situational awareness for tactical commanders via layered surveillance and support for dynamic decision-making, the spokesperson shared.
Recently held in the northeastern region, the exercise also evaluated essential elements for battlefield drone integration, including airspace deconfliction, secure communications, and coordination protocols among various arms and services.
“With a vision for a technology-enabled Army, the Indian Army is at the forefront of adopting niche technologies that enhance preparedness and adaptability for future challenges. Exercise Drone Prahar symbolizes a significant achievement that reinforces the Indian Army’s commitment to innovation, agility, and technological superiority on the contemporary battlefield,” the spokesperson concluded.