The Indian Army’s Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a part of the Southern Command, is currently conducting a large-scale exercise called ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’ at the Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi. The exercise started on October 17, 2024, and will conclude on October 22, 2024. It focuses on enhancing the Army’s combat capabilities by integrating niche and emerging technologies. This initiative highlights India’s progress in strengthening indigenous defense systems.
Objectives of ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’
- Integration of New Technologies: The primary objective is to incorporate New Technology Equipment (NTEs) into the Army’s combat strategies.
- Readiness for Future Warfare: Ensuring preparedness for modern warfare by adopting critical technologies.
- Promoting Indigenous Development: Emphasis on fostering collaboration between the Indian Army and local defense industries to boost self-reliance.
Key Details
| Key Aspect | Details |
| Location | Babina Field Firing Ranges, Jhansi |
| Dates | October 17 – October 22, 2024 |
| Participants | 1,800 personnel, 210 armored vehicles, 50 aircraft |
| Focus | Integration of New Technology Equipment (NTEs) |
| Leadership | Led by Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh |
| Technologies Showcased | Swarm Drones, Robotic Mules, Directed Energy Weapons |
Technologies Displayed
More than 50 NTEs from over 40 partners, including DRDO and defense startups, were demonstrated during the exercise. Some of the technologies tested include:
- Swarm Drones: Multiple drones working together for surveillance and attack.
- Kamikaze Drones: Drones designed to crash into targets.
- Handheld Drone Jammers: Devices to disable enemy drones.
- Robotic Mules: Robots used for transporting supplies across rough terrains.
- Directed Energy Weapons: Utilizing energy-based systems for combat.
- Logistics and Precision Delivery Systems: Efficient and accurate supply chain solutions.
Enhancing Local Development and Industry Collaboration
‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’ emphasizes India’s mission of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) by promoting local manufacturing, especially in drone and anti-drone technologies. It offers a platform for MSMEs and young entrepreneurs to showcase and validate their innovations, encouraging further development in the defense sector.
About the Sudarshan Chakra Corps
The Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a strategic strike corps of the Indian Army, is headquartered in Bhopal and is known for its offensive operations. Formed in 1996, it played a significant role during the Kargil War and has been a part of various joint exercises. The Corps specializes in counter-insurgency and mountain warfare, enhancing India’s defense against diverse threats.
Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI Summary
- The Indian Army’s Sudarshan Chakra Corps is conducting ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’ near Jhansi to integrate new technologies.
- The exercise is set from October 17 to October 22, 2024.
- Over 1,800 personnel and 210 armored vehicles are participating.
- Technologies like swarm drones, robotic mules, and directed energy weapons are being tested.
- The exercise encourages local defense manufacturing and collaboration with the industry.
Also Read Latest Current Affairs 2024
The main objective is to integrate new technology equipment into the Indian Army’s combat strategies, preparing for modern warfare.
Technologies such as swarm drones, kamikaze drones, robotic mules, and directed energy weapons were tested.
The exercise is being led by Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, General Officer Commanding of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps.
The exercise is being conducted at the Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi.
By collaborating with over 40 industry partners, including DRDO and startups, the exercise fosters indigenous manufacturing in the defense sector.
The Corps is a strike force specializing in fast offensive operations, counter-insurgency, and mountain warfare.
Integrating new technologies ensures that the Army remains prepared for modern combat scenarios, enhancing effectiveness and operational readiness.
