Ladakh, October 9, 2026: Lieutenant General Madanraj Pande, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army’s Fire and Fury Corps, witnessed a live firing exercise conducted by the Vyomari Vidhwansak Brigade at a field firing range to assess the formation’s operational preparedness and equipment readiness in challenging high-altitude conditions.
During the exercise, the brigade demonstrated the firing capabilities of its Air Defence (AD) weapon systems, showcasing its ability to maintain effective air defence preparedness in demanding mountainous terrain.
The Army Commander closely observed the firing drills and assessed the operational efficiency, equipment readiness and combat preparedness of the participating personnel. The exercise provided an opportunity to evaluate the formation’s ability to operate air defence systems under challenging environmental and geographical conditions.
Following the demonstration, Lt Gen Madanraj Pande commended all ranks of the Vyomari Vidhwansak Brigade for their professionalism, dedication and high state of combat readiness. He appreciated the efforts of the personnel involved in maintaining operational standards in one of the country’s most demanding military environments.
The Fire and Fury Corps, also known as XIV Corps, is responsible for military operations in the strategically important Ladakh region. The formation operates in extreme high-altitude conditions, where difficult terrain, harsh weather and logistical challenges demand specialised training and continuous operational preparedness.
Air defence formations play a critical role in protecting military installations, troops and other important assets against potential aerial threats. Their responsibilities include detecting, tracking and engaging hostile aerial targets using specialised weapon systems and coordinated air defence procedures.
Operating such systems in high-altitude regions presents additional challenges because of extreme temperatures, reduced oxygen levels, difficult terrain and demanding maintenance requirements. Regular firing exercises help personnel maintain proficiency while testing the reliability and effectiveness of equipment under operational conditions.
The Vyomari Vidhwansak Brigade’s firing demonstration highlighted the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on maintaining air defence capabilities in strategically sensitive regions. Such exercises form an important part of combat training, enabling formations to assess their readiness and identify areas for further improvement.
The visit by Lt Gen Madanraj Pande reinforced the importance of regular operational assessments, realistic training and equipment readiness in ensuring that Indian Army formations remain prepared to respond effectively to emerging security challenges along the country’s northern frontiers.
