Pune: The Indian Army successfully concluded its large-scale fire and manoeuvre training, Exercise Swavlamban Shakti, at the Babina Field Firing Ranges, demonstrating the integration of indigenous technologies developed by India’s defence sector.
The exercise, held from October 17 to 22, is a significant step in the Army's efforts towards self-reliance, in line with the Government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The exercise featured advanced technologies tested under battlefield conditions to shape future combat strategies, with over 1,800 personnel, 210 armoured vehicles, 50 specialist vehicles, and multiple air and aviation assets participating.
Over 40 industry partners, including DRDO, Tata Advanced Systems, Bharat Forge, and several emerging defence startups, provided more than 50 new technologies for evaluation.
Among the cutting-edge technologies tested were Swarm and Kamikaze drones for precision strikes, robotic mules for troop support, and LASER-based communication systems for aerial defence.
These technologies were integrated into the Army’s tactical drills, paving the way for enhanced battlefield effectiveness and adaptability.
Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, commended the Army’s focus on indigenously developed technologies.
“Exercise Swavlamban Shakti reaffirms our commitment to self-reliance, and the innovations from Indian industry are playing a transformative role in our operations,” he said. He emphasized the Army’s ongoing efforts to integrate advanced technology into its future strategies.
One of the event's highlights was the Southern Star Drone Mela, held on October 21-22, which provided a platform for MSMEs, startups, and defence innovators to showcase their latest drone and anti-drone technologies.
Lieutenant General Seth noted, “This event underscores our determination to adapt to emerging technologies while highlighting the government's commitment to supporting the drone industry.”
This large-scale exercise not only reinforced the Indian Army's focus on technological modernization but also highlighted the importance of collaboration with the private sector.
The synergy between the Army and India’s defence industry under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative is positioning the country as a leader in defence technology innovation.