Modern tech tested in the Himalayas
Troops from the Trishakti Corps conducted the exercise using a combination of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), drones, and ground-based systems. These platforms helped simulate real battlefield scenarios where quick coordination and decision-making are crucial.
The systems tested during the exercise are designed to improve the Army’s ability to detect, assess, and respond to threats in real time. AI-enabled sensors connected with secure communication systems were used to ensure seamless data sharing between field units and command centres.
AI improves command decisions
As per the Indian Army, a key outcome of the exercise was the successful integration of these systems, which established a clear “sensor-to-shooter” link. This means that once a threat is detected by a sensor, the data is instantly passed on to the decision-makers, and the response can be launched quickly.
Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of Army Staff, reviewed the exercise on behalf of Army Headquarters.
Focus on future technologies
“Exercise DIVYA DRISHTI has been a great success. We tested cutting-edge technologies in realistic field conditions. The lessons will help develop future technologies, doctrines, and tactics across the Indian Army, making us ready for any adversary and any terrain,” said Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps.The Army sees this exercise as part of a broader effort to modernise its forces under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) vision. The technologies tested are also aligned with the Army’s ‘Decade of Transformation’ initiative, which focuses on making the force more agile and technology-driven for the challenges ahead.
Operation Sindoor begins with drone-enabled precision strikes
In May, India’s Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting nine terrorist-linked locations in Pakistan and PoK. The mission included the deployment of loitering drones, also known as suicide or kamikaze drones, for surveillance and strikes alongside missile weapons. SkyStriker drones, in collaboration with Indian and Israeli firms, were used to loiter over target areas and effect precision hits on terrorist infrastructure without excessive collateral damage.
Neutralizing incoming threats and drone warfare dynamics
Between May 7 and May 10, Pakistan launched over 600 drone attacks against Indian military installations. India’s integrated air defence systems, Akash missile batteries, Akashteer control systems, legacy anti-aircraft guns, radar nets and C-UAS tools, neutralised the majority, preventing damage to civilian or military infrastructure
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan stated that Pakistan used unarmed drones and loitering munitions on 10 May, but “none of them could actually inflict any damage” on India’s infrastructure.
Strategic impact and future readiness
Operation Sindoor marked a major shift in India’s approach to drone warfare. Indian forces combined reconnaissance drones, loitering munitions, high-speed decoy drones, and precision missiles like SCALP and HAMMER to achieve rapid and coordinated effects. Indigenous systems such as SkyStriker, Harop, and Nagastra‑1 were instrumental in target acquisition and engagement. Air defence units integrated these with the IACCS (Integrated Air Command and Control System) for real‑time operational command across services.
