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Indian Army Draws Inspiration from Ukraine Conflict to Modernize Its Tactics in Swavlamban Shakti Exercise.
On October 22, 2024, the Indian Army concluded the extensive Swavlamban Shakti exercise at the Babina firing range near Jhansi. This intensive six-day training, beginning on October 17, mobilized over 1,800 military personnel and a wide array of resources, including armored vehicles and aviation support. The exercise was designed to test new technologies developed by India’s defense industry, aligning with the national Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance. It also demonstrated the Indian Army’s incorporation of lessons from the Ukraine conflict, integrating swarm drones, anti-drone jammers, and resilient communication systems to adapt to modern warfare tactics and enhance troop resilience against contemporary threats.
The Indian Army adopted swarm and kamikaze drones, automated logistics solutions, and anti-drone jammers, aligning with technologies used in the Ukraine conflict to bolster defense against aerial threats (Picture source: Indian Army)
Organized by the White Tiger Division and the Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a strike unit based in Bhopal, Swavlamban Shakti received notable attention from high-ranking military officials, including Lieutenant Generals Dhiraj Seth and Prit Pal Singh. Their presence underscored the strategic importance of this event for the Indian Army’s future combat doctrines, signaling high-level support for the adoption of new battlefield technologies.
Among the advanced technologies tested were over fifty systems provided by major industry partners, such as DRDO and Tata Advanced Systems, alongside several emerging defense startups. Key technologies included swarm and kamikaze drones for precision strikes and reconnaissance missions. Additionally, logistics drones were deployed for rapid troop resupply in contested areas, while hand-held anti-drone jammers provided defense against aerial threats.
One notable technology showcased was the Tracked Hybrid Modular Infantry System (THeMIS), an unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) procured from Estonia's Milrem Robotics in 2022. This versatile UGV demonstrated its potential across various combat scenarios, particularly in evacuating injured soldiers. The exercise also emphasized advanced communication systems, including software-defined radio networks for secure real-time communication and laser-based systems resistant to jamming. Other notable technologies, such as directed energy weapons and long-endurance UAVs, enhanced surveillance and aerial defense capabilities. On the ground, robotic mules and all-terrain vehicles were deployed to support troop mobility and logistics.
These technologies were integrated into combat simulations focusing on Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs), aiming to revolutionize the Indian Army’s approach to modern battle scenarios. An additional event, the “Southern Star Drone Fair” held on October 21 and 22, showcased drones and anti-drone technologies developed by MSMEs, startups, and defense innovators.
Swavlamban Shakti reflects a deliberate analysis of Ukraine’s conflict, where new technologies play a central role. Inspired by these insights, the Indian Army adopted swarm and kamikaze drones, automated logistics solutions, and anti-drone jammers, aligning with technologies used in the Ukraine conflict to bolster defense against aerial threats. The significance of reconnaissance and precision strike capabilities observed in Ukraine drove the Army to test long-endurance UAVs and automated logistical support for contested zones. Furthermore, the deployment of jam-resistant communication systems mirrors the need to maintain secure communication lines in electronic warfare—a prevalent aspect of the Ukrainian battlefield.
This close collaboration between the Indian Army and private sector, particularly local enterprises, is part of a broader modernization strategy to anticipate and counter future threats. The emphasis on technological self-reliance under Aatmanirbhar Bharat positions India as a key player in defense innovation. By incorporating these advanced technologies into its operations, the Indian Army demonstrates its commitment to tackling the challenges of contemporary warfare and enhancing its strategic autonomy in a rapidly evolving security environment.