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The Indian Army conducted Exercise Topchi 2026 at the School of Artillery firing ranges in Devlali on January 21. The exercise is the Regiment of Artillery’s annual firepower demonstration and training event.
Exercise Topchi showcased the Army’s integrated use of firepower and surveillance systems. Guns, mortars, rockets, drones and aviation assets were employed during the demonstration.
Several artillery systems were fired during the exercise. These included the K-9 Vajra self-propelled gun, M777 ultra-light howitzer, 155 mm FH77B02, Dhanush, 105 mm Indian Field Gun, Light Field Gun, 120 mm mortars, GRAD BM-21 and Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers. Many of these systems are indigenously manufactured, according to army officers.
For the first time, gun detachments from the Border Security Force and Indian Navy personnel operating drones participated in the exercise. Paratroopers from the Parachute Regiment also took part, using paramotors and hand gliders.
The exercise was organised under the leadership of Lieutenant General N.S. Sarna, Commandant, School of Artillery and Colonel Commandant, Regiment of Artillery. Lieutenant General Manish Erry, Commandant, Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, was the Chief Guest.
Student officers from the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and the Defence Services Technical Staff Course attended the event. Officers from the Nepal Army Command and Staff College were also present. Senior Indian Army officials, representatives of the civil administration, local residents, and students from schools and colleges across Maharashtra witnessed the exercise.
Exercise Topchi 2026 highlighted the Indian Army’s operational readiness and growing reliance on indigenous defence systems. The event reflected the Army’s focus on modernisation, joint operations and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Team BharatShakti
