Army tests next-gen indigenous defence systems under simulated combat conditions, showcases 'Aatmanirbhar' capabilities across India

NEW DELHI: The Indian Army is currently carrying out extensive Capacity Development Demonstrations at multiple key locations across India, including Pokhran Field Firing Ranges , Babina Field Firing Ranges, and Joshimath. Separate air defence demonstrations are scheduled at Agra and Gopalpur. These trials are being conducted under simulated operational conditions, with integrated electronic warfare (EW) environments to rigorously evaluate the performance of advanced defence systems.

Earlier this week, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Babina Field Firing Ranges, where he reviewed the ongoing trials and engaged with all stakeholders, including defence industry partners and Army officials.

The demonstrations are part of the Indian Army’s larger roadmap for a “Decade of Transformation” and aim to fast-track the absorption of emerging technologies, particularly those developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative . A wide range of platforms is undergoing trials, showcasing the synergy between the Indian Army and indigenous defence manufacturers .

Key systems being evaluated include:

• Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
• UAV Launched Precision Guided Munition (ULPGM)
• Runway Independent (RWI) Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS)
• Counter-UAS Solutions
• Loitering Munitions
• Specialised Vertical Launch (SVL) Drones
• Precision Multi Munition Delivery Systems
• Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS)
• Low Level Light Weight Radars
• VSHORADS (Next Generation) Infrared Systems
• Electronic Warfare (EW) Platforms

These demonstrations are designed to assess combat viability and ensure that the Indian Army remains technologically superior and operationally prepared for future conflicts. The trials underscore the Army’s commitment to strengthening national defence through indigenous innovation and self-reliance.

The latest trials come days after India launched Operation Sindoor, retaliatory strikes deep into Pakistani territory and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 people, including civilians.

Speaking at rallies in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described Operation Sindoor as a powerful demonstration of India's indigenous defence capabilities, asserting that the operation was "just an arrow in the quiver" and not over yet.

The PM issued a stern warning to terror outfits, saying that if terrorism “tries to raise its hood again, it will be dragged out of its hole and trampled.”

The Prime Minister said the armed forces used domestically developed weapons, including BrahMos missiles, to destroy terror hideouts and military installations, compelling Pakistan to “plead to stop the war.”

By showcasing advanced indigenous technologies during the Army’s ongoing trials, the military is reaffirming India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence. The synergy between the Army’s field evaluations and the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative underlines a broader strategic vision to deter future threats with homegrown firepower.