major-military-exercise-begins-in-eastern-ladakh

Amid ongoing tensions with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, India has commenced significant military exercises, involving all branches of its armed forces.

 

These exercises are aimed at boosting the morale of troops, already high due to over four years of substantial deployments in the conflict zones of Eastern Ladakh.

 

The Indian Army is ramping up its preparedness along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in eastern Ladakh. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi is set to visit the region soon to oversee military exercises and review the readiness of troops, media outlets say quoting defence sources.

 

These large-scale exercises are expected to enhance the army's quick response capabilities to potential conflicts and ensure that the troops are prepared for any challenges in the mountainous terrain.

 

“The exercises are crucial for identifying and addressing any shortcomings,” an official stated. The drills are concentrated on hot spots while covering the entire eastern Ladakh area.

 

The exercises incorporate advanced technologies such as loitering munitions, swarm drones, counter-drone systems, and improved surveillance tools to counter potential Chinese advancements.

 

Since May 2020, Indian and Chinese forces have been in a standoff in several regions of eastern Ladakh.

 

Although there has been disengagement in some areas, troops remain stationed in other conflict zones, with multiple meetings failing to achieve further resolution.

 

The 1 Strike Corps, now responsible for operations in Ladakh, has been working under Northern Command to develop new fighting concepts suitable for high-altitude areas.

 

“These exercises will help validate new concepts and the infusion of modern technologies in contemporary warfare,” officials said.

 

In recent years, the Indian forces have constructed vital infrastructure, including housing, all-weather roads, and communication systems, to support operations in the harsh winter conditions of eastern Ladakh.

 

Over 500 tanks and armoured fighting vehicles, including T90 and T72 main battle tanks, K9 Vajra self-propelled artillery guns, and various missile systems, have been deployed since 2020.

 

Despite no major incidents being reported along the LAC recently, the Indian Army remains vigilant. “We are not taking any chances,” an official added.

 

The ongoing exercises are part of regular drills to test the operational preparedness of the troops against any potential threats from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China.

 

 Gen Dwivedi is expected to visit Eastern Ladakh in the coming days to witness these exercises first-hand, although the exact date of his visit has not been finalised.

 

Meanwhile, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar reviewed the operational preparedness at the Nanak Hill military station in Ladakh, commending the formation and urging all ranks to maintain high standards of professionalism.