JAISALMER: Amid rising tensions between Iran and the United States, the Indian Army has tested the strength and operational capability of its air defence systems.The Air Defence Brigade of the Army’s Southern Command conducted a high-intensity field firing exercise at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer district on Tuesday, demonstrating the Army’s growing capability to counter modern aerial threats, including autonomous and swarm drones.An Army official said the large-scale exercise was aimed at validating the operational effectiveness and precision engagement capability of advanced air defence systems against a wide spectrum of contemporary aerial targets.During the drill, troops carried out live firing and simulated combat scenarios designed to replicate evolving battlefield conditions, where drones, loitering munitions and other unmanned aerial platforms are increasingly becoming key elements of warfare.Officials stated that the exercise highlighted the high level of operational preparedness maintained by Army Air Defence units under the Southern Command. Troops executed complex battle drills with precision, integrating surveillance, detection and engagement systems to neutralise simulated hostile aerial targets.The training activity also tested the response time and coordination between different air defence elements, ensuring seamless command and control in a dynamic operational environment. By engaging multiple types of targets, including small autonomous drones and coordinated swarm formations, the exercise validated the brigade’s ability to tackle emerging threats that are rapidly redefining modern warfare.Military officials emphasised that the exercise reflects the Indian Army’s continuous efforts to adapt to the changing character of war, where technological advancements are playing an increasingly decisive role. The integration of advanced sensors, radar systems and modern weapon platforms during the drill demonstrated the Army’s commitment to accelerating the absorption of new technologies into operational units.The successful execution of the exercise underscored the combat readiness of the Air Defence Brigade and its ability to dominate the emerging aerial battlespace. It also reaffirmed the Indian Army’s resolve to maintain a robust and responsive air defence shield capable of protecting critical assets and troops on the ground.By conducting such realistic training exercises in demanding field conditions, the Army continues to strengthen its preparedness to respond effectively to future threats and remain mission-ready to safeguard the nation’s skies.
