An integrated firepower exercise, dubbed Kharga Shakti, was carried out by the Ambala-based 2 Corps this month to practice and validate the synchronized delivery of firepower by a strike corps. The exercise emphasized complete integration with surveillance resources and various air power assets of the Indian Air Force. The culmination of the maneuvers was reviewed by Lt Gen Manoj Katiyar, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Command, at the Mahajan Field Firing Ranges located in north-western Rajasthan.
Present during the evaluation was Lt Gen Rajesh Pushkar, the GOC of Kharga Corps, along with senior officers from Command and Corps Headquarters and formation commanders. During the exercise, the Army Commander engaged with officers and soldiers, emphasizing that the event highlighted the strengths of the Indian Army and marked a critical milestone in the operational preparedness of the Kharga Corps.
In his remarks, the General Officer stressed the vital importance of synergy with the Indian Air Force, urging the participating soldiers to pursue excellence and uphold the storied history and ethos of the Corps, represented by the “Kharga of Maa Kali.” This emblem is viewed as the ultimate weapon against adversaries in battle.
The Kharga Shakti exercise showcased seamless and impactful integrated firing in a simulated operational environment, particularly tailored for operations in terrain heavily obstructed by obstacles. The synchronized delivery of firepower saw all elements of the Kharga Corps coordinate effectively with missions conducted by fighter bombers, photo reconnaissance sorties, and attack helicopters from the Air Force.
Additionally, the exercise included the use of several newly inducted technologies aimed at enhancing battlefield efficiency. These innovations included swarm drones, loitering munition systems, quadcopters, and logistic drones, all of which were validated through newly established tactics, techniques, and procedures. This integration of advanced systems reflects the evolving landscape of modern warfare and the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to adapt and enhance their operational capabilities.
