New Delhi: The Indian Army has initiated comprehensive field trials of advanced indigenous defence technologies at key locations across India. These demonstrations are designed to test the systems under near-combat operational scenarios, including electronic warfare simulations.
Field Trials at Strategic Locations
The trials are taking place at the Pokhran and Babina Field Firing Ranges, Joshimath, with dedicated Air Defence demonstrations scheduled in Agra and Gopalpur. On 27 May 2025, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, personally visited Babina to review the ongoing demonstrations and interact with defence personnel and industry partners.
Focus on Indigenous Innovation and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’
These trials mark a significant milestone in the Indian Army’s “Decade of Transformation” roadmap, which aims to fast-track the adoption of cutting-edge technologies. The initiative strongly supports the government’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, encouraging greater collaboration with domestic defence manufacturers. A large number of Indian industry stakeholders are participating in the demonstrations.
Technologies Under Evaluation
The platforms and systems undergoing rigorous testing include-
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS)
- UAV Launched Precision Guided Munitions (ULPGM)
- Runway Independent Remotely Piloted Aerial Systems (RPAS)
- Counter-UAS Solutions
- Loitering Munitions
- Specialized Vertical Launch (SVL) Drones
- Precision Multi-Munition Delivery Systems
- Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction Systems (IDDIS)
- Low Level Lightweight Radars
- Next-Generation Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS)
- Electronic Warfare (EW) Platforms
Strengthening Operational Readiness and Self-Reliance
Through these trials, the Indian Army aims to sharpen its technological edge, enhance battlefield preparedness, and support indigenization in defence capability development. The outcomes will guide future procurement and deployment decisions, ensuring the Army is equipped to face evolving security challenges.
Boosting India’s Defence Ecosystem
The trials also underscore India’s growing stature as a hub for defence innovation and manufacturing, reflecting a strategic push towards self-reliance. This initiative not only fortifies national security but also energizes the domestic defence industry.
