India’s strategic readiness along its northeastern border takes centre stage as the “Eastern Prahar” tri-service exercise commences today and runs from November 10 to 18. This comprehensive exercise, spearheaded by the Indian Army, brings together the Army, Navy, and Air Force to conduct joint operations across the region’s challenging mountainous terrain. Its primary aim is to bolster operational preparedness and ensure seamless coordination among India’s armed forces, a necessity in the eastern sector, which remains a focal point of border tensions with China.
“Eastern Prahar” will focus on strengthening interoperability between the three services of India’s military, enhancing joint tactics and communication systems critical to high-altitude warfare. Through realistic combat simulations against a fictional adversary, troops will refine tactics, requiring real-time integration of land, air, and naval capabilities.
A wide array of advanced military platforms will be featured, demonstrating India’s enhanced capabilities, as per military sources. The Indian Army will deploy Special Forces, Infantry, M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer artillery systems, UAVs, and helicopters from its aviation wing, including Chinook heavy-lift and Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters. The Indian Air Force will contribute fighter jets, such as the Sukhoi and Rafale, alongside reconnaissance aircraft, helicopters, and transport planes, while the Navy will deploy its P-8I long-range reconnaissance aircraft, enhancing joint surveillance and response.
A standout feature of this exercise is the integration of cutting-edge warfare technologies. Swarm drones, FPV drones, and loitering munitions will improve situational awareness, precision targeting, and operational speed, marking advancements that significantly elevate military strategy. Additionally, AI-driven analytics and satellite communication systems will optimize coordination across the three services, enabling a shared, real-time operational picture for more informed decision-making.
The exercise will test joint control structures, enabling improved communication and rapid decision-making, both vital for maintaining a tactical edge along the volatile Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. A major emphasis is also placed on rapid troop deployment and mobility—key elements for high-altitude operations. Simulated combat scenarios will include swift deployment of special forces and commandos to forward positions near the LAC via airlifts from northeastern bases, with helicopters facilitating trans-valley movements and final assault simulations.
“Eastern Prahar” will also evaluate the Indian Air Force’s responsiveness to dynamic situations, such as urgent medical evacuation and deploying troops in active zones with minimal delay. By fielding tactical transport aircraft like the C-130J Super Hercules and heavy-lift helicopters, the exercise highlights India’s capability for rapid mobilization in emergencies.
The timing of “Eastern Prahar” underscores India’s vigilant stance amid persistent tensions along its northeastern border, particularly in regions like Arunachal Pradesh, where China continues to assert territorial claims. Areas such as Yangtze, Fish Tail 1, Fish Tail 2, and Upper Subansiri remain disputed. While the region is currently calm, India’s military is prepared for any escalation.
With China’s growing assertiveness, exercises like “Eastern Prahar” are a robust signal of India’s commitment to a formidable defence posture in the eastern sector. The drill strengthens operational readiness and reinforces deterrence, assuring both India’s military and regional allies that the nation stands prepared for contingencies along the LAC.
Team BharatShakti
