Rudra, Bhairava, Divyastra and Shaktibaan: How Indian Army is preparing for next-gen warfare through comprehensive transformation
General Dwivedi said, “The Indian Army today is effectively addressing contemporary challenges while rapidly advancing as a transformed, modern, and future-oriented force.” He also stated, “Every infantry battalion now includes drone platoons, while the artillery’s lethality has been significantly enhanced through Divyastra Batteries and loitering munitions batteries. The Army Air Defence is being equipped with indigenous missile systems.”
Army Air Defence expands capabilities with new missile regiments
The Army’s Air Defence (AAD) branch is also strengthening its capabilities with the deployment of two new regiments of Akash Prime surface-to-air missiles, specifically designed for high-altitude areas along the border with China. These systems are capable of intercepting aircraft, helicopters, and drones up to 25 km away.
Additionally, three regiments of the newer Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM), with a range of 30 km, are being procured at a cost of Rs 36,000 crore. These mobile, short-range missile systems will be shared between the Army and the Indian Air Force to provide rapid defence against aerial threats.
Together, these systems reinforce India’s multi-layered air defence network, which was put to the test during Operation Sindoor. Army sources confirmed that this network played a key role in preventing drone and missile attacks from Pakistan, including threats posed by Turkish-origin drones and Chinese-supplied missiles.
Bhairav Battalions to bridge elite and regular forces
By the end of August, the Indian Army is expected to raise five Bhairav Battalions. These lethal special forces units serve as a bridge between elite special forces and conventional infantry. While similar in nature to special forces, Bhairav battalions focus on less strategic tasks, freeing up elite units for high-priority, deep-penetration missions.In addition to these, the army is also forming new Bhairav light commando battalions designed to operate close to the border with speed and precision. These units will support the existing Para-Special Forces and Para (Airborne) battalions.
The Bhairav units are raised from regular infantry and equipped with updated weapons, technology, and drones. The target is to form 40 to 50 such battalions in phases.
Named after “Bhairav,” meaning “the terrifying one,” these battalions will conduct rapid surprise strikes, cross-border raids, and tactical disruptions as shock-and-awe troops.
Drone integration at the infantry level
Efforts are underway to equip all infantry battalions with drone platoons by the end of August. These platoons are intended to improve surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities in real time, reflecting a shift in battlefield dynamics.
Rudra Brigades to integrate multiple combat arms
Two Indian Army brigades have already been converted into Rudra Brigades. These all-arms formations combine infantry, artillery, and armoured units into a single operational structure. Designed for flexible deployment and increased combat effectiveness, Rudra Brigades represent a structural shift toward integrated warfighting teams.
Divyastra and Shaktibaan units for advanced artillery warfare
The artillery arm is also undergoing changes. At least five regiments will include Divyastra Batteries, which integrate traditional guns with drones and loitering munitions for hybrid precision attacks. According to an officer, “The primary goal of Divyastra batteries is to enhance the artillery’s firepower and operational effectiveness by enabling deep-strike capabilities, real-time target tracking, and precision engagement of both static and moving threats.”
Shaktibaan units, in contrast, will operate as purely technological formations, relying exclusively on drones and loitering munitions for “see-and-strike” missions. These units will not include conventional guns and are designed to function as dedicated drone artillery forces.
Recent operations showcase evolving capabilities
The Indian Army’s capabilities were recently demonstrated during ‘Operation Sindoor’, which was launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation highlighted the army’s evolving offensive and defensive preparedness. Experts believe the ongoing transformation will further strengthen India’s ability to respond to emerging threats along contested borders.
