GS 3 – Defence
Context:
The Indian Army conducted Exercise Siyom Prahar from 8–10 September 2025 in Arunachal Pradesh. This major field training exercise focused on integrating drone technology into tactical operations, enhancing operational preparedness and combat effectiveness under realistic battlefield conditions.
Objectives:
- Validate tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) for drone employment in modern warfare.
- Ensure seamless coordination between drones and conventional forces.
- Promote rapid decision-making using drone-derived data for effective battlefield management.
Scope of Drone Employment:
- Surveillance and Reconnaissance: Persistent monitoring of battlefield activities.
- Target Acquisition: Identifying enemy positions for timely strikes.
- Precision Strikes: Drones assisted in enhancing the accuracy of artillery and infantry operations.
- Demonstrated transformative role of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in situational awareness and combat effectiveness.
Integration with Conventional Forces:
- Synergy between traditional combat arms and emerging drone technology.
- Joint targeting processes refined for accurate, rapid strikes.
- Enabled effective coordination of drone inputs with artillery and infantry actions.
Operational Innovation and Preparedness:
- Tested flexible operational concepts adaptable to fluid combat scenarios.
- Emphasised quick response capabilities and future-ready operational strategies.
Lessons and Future Implications:
- Highlighted technology as a force multiplier in modern warfare.
- Reinforced the importance of drones for battlefield superiority.
Demonstrates the Army’s continued focus on military innovation and enhanced combat readiness for evolving threats