The Indian Army’s Para Special Forces are currently showcasing their capabilities in a joint exercise with their U.S. counterparts, the Green Berets, as part of the 15th edition of the annual wargame known as ‘Vajra Prahar’ or ‘Thunderbolt Attack.’ This exercise, which has garnered attention for its strategic importance, involves 45 soldiers from the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment and is being held at the Orchard Combat Training Center in southwest Idaho.

The Vajra Prahar 2024 exercise will focus on various critical military operations, including planning joint team missions and conducting reconnaissance missions. During these operations, participants may need to call upon external resources for support, a task typically handled by the Joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC). The training will also cover essential areas such as aerial resupply using drones and strategies related to psychological warfare.

Special forces, by their very nature, are adept at carrying out unconventional warfare tactics and are trained to perform secretive operations behind enemy lines rather than engaging in standard conventional battlefields. The Parachute Regiment of the Indian Army, distinguished by their maroon berets and ‘Balidan’ badge, consists of 14 battalions, including nine special forces and five airborne units, adept at being airdropped deep into hostile territories to secure significant tactical advantages for ground forces.

In previous iterations of Vajra Prahar, the two forces have collaborated on complex combat free fall (CFF) insertions from safe distances, allowing for stealthy disembarkation, as well as water insertion drills. The ongoing exercises demonstrate a commitment to enhancing joint operational capabilities between the Indian Army and U.S. Special Forces.

The Indian Army has maintained a level of discretion regarding the specific identities and faces of the soldiers currently engaged in the exercises, underscoring their sensitivity toward the operations of their special forces. Historically, the Parachute Regiment, known for its elite status, won the ‘Race of the Rambos’ competition in 2002, triumphing over 12 participating nations, including the U.S.

The Indian Para commandos carry a rich legacy, having participated in significant military operations over decades, including the wars of 1965 and 1971, the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka during Operation Pawan in 1987, and the crucial Operation Cactus in 1988, aimed at thwarting a coup in the Maldives.

One of their most notable actions came in 2016 when Indian para commandos executed a surgical strike against terrorist launch pads in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir, in direct retaliation for a terror attack in Uri that claimed the lives of 19 Indian soldiers. This operation marked a pronounced shift in India’s approach to counterterrorism, being the first overt declaration of a covert military operation.

On the other hand, the Green Berets have a storied history characterized by their adaptability and effectiveness in combat. Pioneering U.S. military efforts post-9/11, they played pivotal roles in the initial phases of the War on Terror by assisting the Northern Alliance to overthrow the Taliban and have since been involved in various counterinsurgency and special operations around the globe, including Iraq, the Philippines, and parts of Africa.

The collaboration between these elite forces is indicative of an increasing focus on joint operational synergy, highlighting the strategic partnership between India and the United States in addressing contemporary defense challenges.

In a proactive move to enhance community relations and bolster regional security, the Indian Army conducted a public meeting in Jagal village, located within the Mendhar sub-division of Poonch district. This initiative comes in the wake of a notable uptick in terror attacks across the region this year, prompting the Army to seek the cooperation of local residents in safeguarding their community.

The meeting emphasized the importance of vigilance among local residents, with officials urging them to report any suspicious activities without hesitation. Lieutenant Colonel Suneel Bartwal, a spokesperson for the defense, noted that the gathering was not only a platform for disseminating crucial security information but also an opportunity for locals to voice their concerns and challenges.

During the session, the Army outlined various welfare initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for residents. These programs included medical assistance, distribution of sports equipment, solar lighting, and tarpaulins, all designed to support the community’s needs.

Attendance at the meeting encompassed a wide range of local leaders, including the village lambardar, former sarpanch, ex-servicemen, and other notable figures, underscoring the collaborative spirit that the Army hopes to foster. The initiative appears to have been well-received, reinforcing a sense of trust and faith in the Indian Army among the populace.

Officials highlighted that the event was more than just a communication exercise; it was a significant step towards building a robust and peaceful relationship between the Indian Army and the community, essential for maintaining order and tranquility in a region often affected by conflict. The overall objective remains clear: to create an environment where residents feel empowered to contribute to their own safety and security.

In a significant meeting held at the Raj Bhavan, the General Officer, Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, AVSM, emphasized the vital partnership between the Indian Army and state administration in enhancing disaster response capabilities and ensuring internal security. This collaboration is deemed essential for addressing emergencies in a timely and effective manner, underscoring the importance of joint efforts in safeguarding the well-being of citizens.

During his discussions with Governor Jishnu Dev Verma, LG Seth expressed his gratitude on behalf of the ex-servicemen community for the benefits announced in a recent state managing committee meeting. This acknowledgment reflects the ongoing efforts to support veterans and improve their welfare through strategic initiatives.

The dialogue extended beyond immediate concerns, as both officials explored innovative welfare schemes aimed at enhancing the lives of veterans. The focus on creating new opportunities and resources for former military personnel signifies a commitment to recognizing their service and addressing their needs in civilian life.

At the conclusion of the meeting, LG Seth presented a commemorative memento to Governor Verma, symbolizing the strengthened ties between the Indian Army and the state government. This gesture not only commemorates the collaborative efforts but also reinforces the shared commitment towards maintaining peace and security in the region.

In a significant development, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, has initiated a joint operation in the Panipura area of Sopore, Baramulla district. This operation commenced on November 7, following actionable intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the region. Observations by alert troops led to the engagement of the armed individuals, who responded with indiscriminate gunfire. Security personnel have actively retaliated as the operation continues.

The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army shared updates on social media platform X, indicating both the vigilance of the army troops and the ongoing conflict. The increased terrorist activities have prompted security forces to engage in multiple encounters across the region in recent days.

Just the day before, on November 6, clashes erupted in the Margi area of Lolab in Kupwara as security forces confronted terrorists. In another instance, one terrorist was neutralized in Bandipora following a sustained and strategic operation. Earlier that week, a combined effort involving the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was initiated in the Chuntawadi Kaitsan area of Bandipora after hostilities broke out with terrorists.

Further emphasizing the rising security challenges, the Jammu and Kashmir Police reported that on November 2, two terrorists were killed during an engagement in Anantnag district, which followed an anti-terror operation in the Halkan Gali area. The concerning trend of violence has also led to apprehensions; on November 6, a suspect identified as Ashiq Hussain Wani, associated with terrorist activities, was captured in Sopore.

The escalation of terrorist activities has impacted civilians as well. Notably, on November 3, a grenade attack at the Tourist Reception Centre and the nearby weekly market in Srinagar injured twelve individuals, including one woman.

This uptick in terrorist encounters is indicative of ongoing tensions in the region, highlighted by a significant incident on October 29, when security forces neutralized three terrorists following an attack on an Army convoy in Akhnoor. Earlier in the month, on October 20, an observed attack on a construction site along the Srinagar-Leh national highway resulted in the tragic deaths of a doctor and six laborers, underscoring the perilous security situation.

The coordinated efforts of the army and police continue as they strive to combat the threats posed by terrorist factions in Kashmir, addressing not only the safety of security personnel but also the protection of civilian lives in a region marked by unrest.

The Indian Army is intensifying its modernization initiatives with a clear focus on developing “SMART Soldiers” equipped with state-of-the-art technologies. This was recently announced by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi during his address at the 64th National Defence College (NDC) Course, where he underscored that the ongoing advancements, including the F-INSAS (Futuristic Infantry Soldier as a System), will significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Army. These developments are aimed at preparing the force for future conflicts, particularly in high-altitude environments and diverse terrains.

Speaking on the theme “Decade of Transformation: Indian Army in Stride with the Future and Nation Building,” General Dwivedi articulated that the modernization efforts are integral to India’s vision of achieving a self-reliant and future-ready military by 2047, aligning with the broader goal of “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India). The advancements will see an increase in surveillance capabilities through the deployment of nano drones and satellite technology, alongside establishing dedicated Research & Development centers for drone innovation.

The focus on precision strike capabilities is also pivotal in this strategy, with enhancements targeting accuracy, long-range munitions, and comprehensive post-strike assessments. Furthermore, the communications infrastructure will undergo significant upgrades with the introduction of Software Defined Radios, SAMBHAV secure networks, and anti-drone technologies. The operational readiness of the Army will be bolstered by integrating new assets, including light tanks and swarm drones, into its arsenal. Logistics systems are set for improvement through the incorporation of logistic drones and robotic mules, as well as employing a tri-service approach to more efficient inventory management.

To further optimize its warfighting capabilities, General Dwivedi outlined structural changes that involve the introduction of Rebal 1.5. This initiative aims to streamline command, control, and training processes, while Rebal 2.0 focuses on adapting to the evolving interdependencies of the Diplomatic, Informational, Military, and Economic (DIME) frameworks. Significant initiatives in this regard include the establishment of Integrated Battle Groups tailored for the Mountain Strike Corps and the creation of specialized units such as the Signals Technology Experimentation & Adaptation Group (STEAG) to enhance secure communications.

Additionally, there will be an expansion of cyber and electronic warfare capabilities and intelligence operations within the Army. To further bolster its linguistic and cyber competencies, the Army Knowledge & Enabler Corps will be activated. Recognizing the changing landscape of warfare, artillery regiments will standardize on 155mm guns, while the roles played by Territorial Army units will also be expanded.

This comprehensive modernization strategy reflects the Indian Army’s commitment to transforming into a more capable and self-sufficient force ready to meet the challenges of modern warfare.

In a significant event aimed at commemorating and promoting India’s rich military heritage, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, is set to inaugurate the second edition of the Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) in New Delhi on Friday.

The festival, which will span two days, is designed to engage a diverse audience, including think-tanks, corporations, non-profit organizations, and scholars focused on national security and military history.

The festival’s opening ceremony will also mark the launch of a new initiative called Project ‘Shaurya Gatha’. This endeavor, introduced by the Department of Military Affairs in partnership with the United Service Institution of India (USI), aims to preserve and elevate India’s military heritage through educational programs and tourism activities.

The participation of the three Service chiefs further underscores the importance of this initiative. The event is characterized by a variety of activities aimed at engaging the youth, including contributions from NCC cadets and students from various educational institutions across Delhi and the National Capital Region. Informative stalls will be set up to showcase the roles of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, as well as the career opportunities available within these esteemed institutions.

The festivity will highlight notable publications on military topics, featuring books such as ‘Because of This: A History of the Indo-Pak Air War December 1971’ by retired Air Marshal Vikram Singh, and a collaborative work titled ‘Valour and Honour’ by the Indian Army and USI. Additionally, Mrinmayee Bhushan’s ‘Silent Weapons, Deadly Secrets: Unveiling the Bioweapons Arms Race’ will also be presented.

In a show of its achievements, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) plans to feature a photo exhibition detailing its contributions to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ through innovation in defense research.

This year’s festival enjoys the support of several government bodies, including the Ministry of Defence, Department of Military Affairs, and the Ministry of Culture, alongside the British High Commission. The inaugural edition of the IMHF took place last year at the Manekshaw Centre, showcasing performances by military bands and various exhibits that reflected the diverse dimensions of India’s armed forces. This year’s festival is anticipated to build on that foundation, fostering a greater appreciation and understanding of military service and heritage among the public.