Indian Army's Rudra Brigade Showcases High-Intensity Multi-Domain Combat Prowess at Pokhran
In a powerful demonstration of modern military capabilities, the Indian Army's cutting-edge Rudra Brigade executed the high-intensity all-arms exercise Rudra Shakti at Pokhran. This live-firing drill highlighted the seamless integration of mechanized forces, artillery, air defence units, and Army Aviation assets, including newly inducted Apache helicopters. The exercise was reviewed by Southern Army Commander Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, who commended the troops for their professionalism and operational readiness.
Exercise Details and Strategic Significance
The Southern Command stated that Exercise Rudra Shakti validated the Indian Army's ability to undertake high-intensity, integrated operations in evolving battlefield environments. As a follow-up to Exercise Akhand Prahar, which earlier tested the Rudra Brigade and new operational concepts in the desert sector, this exercise focused on enhancing combat integration and effectiveness through synchronized employment of various assets.
Key components of the exercise included:
- Mechanized forces and artillery units working in tandem.
- Air defence systems and Army Aviation assets, such as Advanced Light Helicopter – Weapons Systems Integrated (ALH-WSI) and Apache helicopters.
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Counter-UAS capabilities, demonstrating synergy across land, air, and digital domains.
Leadership Review and Troop Interaction
During the review, Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth interacted with troops on the ground, praising their exemplary training standards, professionalism, and operational preparedness. He lauded their ability to execute complex missions with speed, precision, and cohesion, underscoring the exercise's role in showcasing the Indian Army's ongoing transformation.
Technological Integration and Future Readiness
Exercise Rudra Shakti stands as a testament to the Indian Army's commitment to organizational innovation, tactical evolution, and technological integration. It reaffirms the Army's unwavering dedication to remaining mission-ready, technologically empowered, and future-ready to meet emerging security challenges. The newly inducted Rudra Brigade, a cutting-edge mechanized formation, is designed for rapid, high-intensity operations and enhances multi-domain combat capabilities.
Background and Previous Exercises
In 2025, the first batch of Apache attack helicopters was inducted into the Southern Command, bolstering the Army's aerial firepower. Exercise Akhand Prahar, conducted in October-November last year, aimed to validate the Indian Army's capability for integrated, multi-domain operations. This exercise was part of the broader tri-services framework of Exercise Trishul, a major military drill held along the Western border with Pakistan, highlighting the strategic importance of such training in national defence.
