These tests are being conducted just after Operation Sindoor.
New Delhi: During the recent tensions with Pakistan, the Indian Army showcased some of its weapons to the world. In addition to this, the army is also testing weapons and defense technology at several locations. The trials conducted by the army are taking place in field firing ranges such as Pokhran, Babina, and Joshimath. Additionally, tests related to air defense technologies are ongoing in Agra and Gopalpur.
Purpose behind the tests
If you are wondering what the purpose of the testing is, the answer is that it is being conducted in conditions similar to war and with electronic warfare (EW) systems to see how effective these weapons will be in real combat. Moreover, these tests are also part of the Indian Army’s ‘Decade of Transformation’ plan. The aim of this plan is to rapidly incorporate new technologies developed in India into the army, especially those created under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
Recently, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Babina field firing range and also reviewed the ongoing trials there. He also held discussions with army officers and private defense companies.
The following weapons and systems are being tested:
- Drones and Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
- Precision bombs dropped from drones (ULPGM)
- Drones that can fly without a runway (RPAS)
- Technology to counter enemy drones (Counter-UAS)
- Weapons that attack while loitering (Loitering Munitions)
- SVL drones that attack directly from above
- Systems that drop multiple bombs at once
- Systems for identifying and destroying drones (IDDIS)
- Light radar systems
- Next generation VSHORADS (Very Short Range Air Defense Systems)
- Electronic warfare platforms
These tests are being conducted at a time when just a few days ago, India conducted a counterattack on terrorist bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) under ‘Operation Sindoor’. This attack was in retaliation for the Pahalgam terrorist attack that resulted in the death of 26 people.
