Jaisalmer: The Indian Army’s General Officer Commanding (GOC), 31 Armoured Division, Maj.-Gen. Mandeep Singh, emphasized the necessity for any army to be technologically enabled and self-reliant, during a high-intensity integrated manoeuvre exercise, ‘Exercise Agni Varsha 2026’, held at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer district.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Singh highlighted the complexity of modern battlefields, which demand agile, networked forces capable of operating across various domains. He stated that the Indian Army is fully equipped and technologically enabled to meet future challenges. Singh further asserted that any army aiming to succeed in future conflicts must ensure self-reliance, technological capability, and seamless operation with partners while safeguarding national interests.
The live exercise, as Singh noted, showcased only a portion of the army’s combat potential. The manoeuvre involved integrated operations of tanks, infantry combat vehicles, long-range artillery, rockets, and air defense systems, all supported by advanced software-driven intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities. These forces would operate simultaneously in real combat conditions, often at night.
Singh elaborated on the army’s doctrine, which emphasizes persistent surveillance, precision strike, and coordinated manoeuvre using real-time data from satellites, UAVs, and ground sensors. This sequence was validated during Operation Sindur, where controlled escalation and achievement of objectives were prioritized.
The demonstration, though conducted in daylight for public understanding, underscored the army’s increasing focus on joint operations with the Navy and Air Force, synchronised in battlefield scenarios. It showcased advances in speed, precision, protection, and decisive firepower, reflecting the evolving nature of modern conflict.
Observers pointed out that contemporary warfare now includes cyber disruption, misinformation campaigns, drones, missiles, air power, and mechanised forces. The exercise oriented participants to desert landmarks simulating enemy forward defences and depth positions, integrating intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) assets with long-range precision strike systems to create a fully activated ‘kill chain’.
ISR capabilities featured military satellites for persistent monitoring and UAVs flying at high altitudes, with data transmitted directly for rapid decision-making. A significant highlight was the introduction of newly raised Bhairav battalions, specialised commando units trained in rapid-response missions, close combat, precision shooting, and advanced battlefield skills. These units reflect India’s focus on Atmanirbhar, or self-reliance, prioritizing indigenous technology and readiness to counter modern battlefield threats.