In a bid to bolster its combat capabilities through the integration of cutting-edge and emerging technologies, the Indian Army’s Sudarshan Chakra Corps, under the Southern Command, is conducting ‘Exercise Swavlamban Shakti’ at the Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi. The exercise, which commenced on Thursday and will run until October 22, was announced by the Indian Army.
The XXI Corps, also known as the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, is a strike formation headquartered in Bhopal. This exercise is focused on incorporating New Technology Equipment (NTEs) into the Army’s offensive operations, ensuring preparedness for future conflict scenarios. Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, the General Officer Commanding the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, was present at the launch.
The exercise is expected to help the Army identify and prioritize critical technologies and equipment for future development and procurement, playing a pivotal role in shaping the force’s modernization efforts.
Around 1,800 personnel, 210 armoured vehicles, 50 specialist vehicles, and various aviation assets participate in the exercise. In addition, over 50 New Technology Equipment (NTEs) from more than 40 leading industry partners—including DRDO laboratories and innovative defence startups—are being showcased during the event, according to the release.
The exercise showcases a range of advanced technologies, including swarm drones, kamikaze drones, logistic swarm drones, handheld drone jammers, Software-Defined Radio (SDR)-based mobile ad hoc network systems, and robotic mules. Other notable systems being evaluated include All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)/Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicles (LAMVs), Guided Precision Aerial Delivery Systems (GPADS), LASER-based communication systems, directed energy weapons, and indigenous long-endurance UAVs.
This event marks a significant step in strengthening collaboration between the Indian Army and the defence industry. It is also designed to boost indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, particularly in drone and anti-drone technologies. The exercise offers young entrepreneurs and MSMEs a platform to showcase and validate their innovations, according to the release.
Ravi Shankar
