What is Exercise DRONE KAVACH Conducted by the Indian Army?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Exercise DRONE KAVACH showcases the Indian Army's commitment to modern warfare.
- Collaboration with ITBP enhances operational efficiency.
- Focus on tactical maneuvers and drone technologies.
- Insights from the exercise will shape future operations.
- Rapid induction of drones reinforces national security.
New Delhi, Sep 30 (NationPress) The Indian Army's Spear Corps, part of the Eastern Command, recently carried out Exercise DRONE KAVACH in the strategically significant regions of Eastern Arunachal Pradesh over four days, as announced by officials on Tuesday.
The exercise, held from September 25 to 28, demonstrated the Indian Army's combat readiness for the evolving landscape of drone warfare while also validating advanced drone technologies and counter-drone systems.
According to a statement from the PRO Defence, Exercise DRONE KAVACH involved personnel from the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) stationed in forward areas, showcasing a collaborative effort in enhancing operational capabilities.
A range of tactical maneuvers and combat scenarios were conducted to confirm the Indian Army's preparedness for functioning in a technologically advanced multi-domain battlefield.
Under simulated conditions, tactics, techniques, and procedures regarding target acquisition, active and passive counter-drone measures, and effective target neutralization were practiced successfully, as stated by the officials.
The exercise also focused on newly formed structures at the unit level, aimed at refining tactics, techniques, and procedures in alignment with the broader operational philosophy and assigned tasks.
Insights gained from this exercise will help the Indian Army develop a thorough understanding of the future operational landscape and enhance its capabilities for successful drone warfare.
Exercise DRONE KAVACH marks a crucial advancement in the Indian Army’s commitment to modernization and the integration of technology for achieving operational excellence.
It is noteworthy that the Indian Army has been concentrating on drone warfare over the past few years, significantly upgrading its security infrastructure to include advanced drone systems.
Additionally, the Army is rapidly increasing the deployment of drones and counter-drone equipment, with various units already operational and Drone Centers established at leading training academies such as the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, Infantry School in Mhow, and the Officers Training Academy in Chennai.
On September 18, Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi visited a facility at Likabali in Arunachal Pradesh, emphasizing the Indian Army's dedication to operationalizing its drone capabilities.
Officials highlighted the Indian Army's philosophy encapsulated in the notion of “Eagle in the Arm” — the belief that every soldier should be skilled in operating a drone, just as they are with their standard weapon.