Indian Army’s Sudarshan Chakra Corps Holds ‘Swavlamban Shakti’ Exercise

The Army’s Sudarshan Chakra Corps of the Southern Command is currently conducting ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’ at the Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi, with the primary objective of enhancing combat capabilities through the integration of niche and emerging technologies. The exercise commenced on 17th October, 2024 and is set to continue until October 22, as stated in a defense release.

The XXI Corps or Sudarshan Chakra Corps, a strike corps of the army, is headquartered in Bhopal.

Details

Objective

• To integrate New Technology Equipment (NTEs) into the Army’s operational strategies.
• Ensure readiness for evolving warfare scenarios and prioritize critical technologies for future development.

Leadership

• Launched in the presence of Lt Gen Prit Pal Singh, General Officer Commanding of Sudarshan Chakra Corps.

Participation

• Approximately 1,800 personnel are participating in the exercise.
• Includes 210 armored vehicles, 50 specialist vehicles, and various aviation assets.

Technological Showcase

Over 50 NTEs from more than 40 industry partners, including DRDO labs and emerging defense startups, are being showcased. Cutting-edge technologies evaluated include,

• Swarm Drones
• Kamikaze Drones
• Logistic Swarm Drones
• Handheld Drone Jammers
• Software Defined Radio-based Mobile Adhoc Network Systems
• Robotic Mules
• All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) / Light Armored Multipurpose Vehicles (LAMVs)
• Guided Precision Aerial Delivery Systems (GPADS)
• LASER-based Communication Systems
• Directed Energy Weapons
• Indigenously developed long-endurance UAVs

Collaboration with Industry

• The exercise is a significant step towards fostering collaboration between the Indian Army and the defence industry.
• Aims to boost indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities, particularly in drone and anti-drone technologies.
• Provides a platform for young entrepreneurs and MSMEs to showcase and validate their capabilities.