The Indian Army’s Spear Corps successfully conducted a high-intensity airborne exercise named ‘Winged Raider’ from December 15 to 16, 2025, showcasing its preparedness to respond to evolving operational and strategic challenges.
As part of the exercise, specialist airborne troops executed a series of complex insertion techniques at the Majuli Island Drop Zone (DZ). These included Combat Free Fall (CFF) jumps, Guided Para Aerial Delivery System (GPADS) drops, and Static-Line parachute jumps from the C-130J Hercules transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force.
The exercise focused on enhancing joint operational capability, rapid force deployment, and precision insertion of troops and equipment in diverse and challenging terrain. Majuli Island’s unique geographical conditions provided a realistic environment to validate airborne tactics, coordination, and logistics under near-combat conditions.
Senior military commanders observed the exercise and lauded the professionalism, coordination, and high operational standards displayed by the participating troops. The successful execution of ‘Winged Raider’ underlined Spear Corps’ combat readiness, operational flexibility, and ability to undertake swift airborne operations in support of national security objectives.
The exercise reaffirms the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on modern warfare preparedness, jointness, and rapid response capabilities, particularly in strategically sensitive regions.
