The Indian Army’s Panther Division, part of the Vajra Corps (XI Corps), teamed up with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to conduct a high-intensity Special Heliborne Operations (SHBO) exercise, focusing on refining drills and procedures for seamless air-land coordination. The operation featured soldiers equipped for battle alongside a Mil Mi-17 helicopter, showcasing rapid troop deployment and tactical precision.

The exercise took place at an airbase under clear skies, with soldiers from the Panther Division assembling on the tarmac, preparing for deployment, and practicing rappelling techniques from the hovering Mi-17 helicopter. This operation highlights the Indian military’s commitment to enhancing jointmanship, a key element in modern warfare, emphasizing the importance of integrated operations among the Army, Air Force, and Navy to secure India’s borders and execute effective tactical maneuvers.

Vajra Corps, headquartered in Jalandhar under the Western Command, has a long history of defending India’s western frontier since its formation after 1947 to counter threats from Pakistan. The Corps played a significant role in the 1971 Indo-Pak War, where coordinated air-ground operations drastically reduced casualties, supported by over 7,000 IAF sorties (Indian Air Force records). Lessons from past conflicts, such as the 1999 Kargil War’s Operation Safed Sagar—where Mi-17 helicopters were adapted for high-altitude combat after the Mi-35 proved ineffective—continue to inform such exercises.

The Mi-17 helicopter, a Soviet-designed mainstay in the IAF’s fleet since 1975, remains a vital asset for such operations. Known for its reliability in challenging terrains like Kargil and Sikkim, the Mi-17 excels in troop transport and combat support, despite occasional setbacks like the 2017 Arunachal Pradesh crash, where a friendly fire incident involving a SPYDER missile claimed seven lives.

This joint exercise builds on recent drills, including a Tri-Services helocasting and underwater diving exercise in Sikkim on September 1, 2024, reflecting the armed forces’ dedication to unified operations. As India advances toward theaterisation, such exercises ensure its forces remain mission-ready, capable of executing complex air-land maneuvers with precision and efficiency.

With the IAF and Army continuing to modernize—drawing on post-Kargil advancements like the Sukhoi Su-30MKI—this operation reaffirms India’s focus on integrated defence strategies to safeguard its sovereignty and maintain operational readiness along its frontiers.

In the wake of the recent deadly terror attack that claimed the lives of several tourists in Pahalgam, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has intensified security measures in the region. A tweet from journalist Jay Wankhade confirmed that CRPF personnel are maintaining a heightened state of alert across key areas of the tourist town, which has been left shaken by the attack.

According to The Telegraph India, the targeted attack on civilians has triggered widespread outrage and renewed calls for stringent action against the perpetrators. The attack, believed to be orchestrated by Pakistan-based terror outfits, has led to a review of existing security protocols in the valley.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has formally taken over the probe and is currently investigating possible security lapses that may have led to the tragedy. Initial reports suggest that the attackers exploited vulnerabilities in local policing and surveillance.

In response to growing political and public pressure, the central government is likely to convene an all-party meeting to assess the situation and chalk out a unified strategy to combat cross-border terrorism and safeguard civilians in conflict-prone zones.

This latest act of terror underscores the persistent threat to peace in Jammu and Kashmir and highlights the urgent need for bolstering intelligence, coordination among security forces, and robust counterterrorism mechanisms.

In a major counter-terror operation launched in the Basantgarh area of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir, a valiant soldier of the Indian Army, Havildar Jhantu Ali Shaikh of the elite 6 PARA (Special Forces), laid down his life while fighting terrorists during Operation Birli Gali.

Based on specific intelligence inputs, a joint operation was launched earlier today by the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police. As the forces closed in on the location, a fierce firefight broke out between security personnel and the hiding terrorists.

During the initial exchange of fire, Havildar Jhantu Ali Shaikh sustained grievous injuries. Despite the best efforts by the medical team, he succumbed to his wounds, leaving the nation in mourning for yet another braveheart who gave his all in the line of duty.

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of White Knight Corps and all ranks paid rich tributes to the fallen hero, stating:

“His indomitable courage and the valour of his team will never be forgotten. We salute his supreme sacrifice and stand in solidarity with his family in this moment of grief.”

Havildar Shaikh was known among his peers for his exceptional dedication, sharp operational skills, and unwavering commitment to the nation. His sacrifice underlines the relentless efforts of India’s Special Forces in maintaining peace and neutralizing terror threats in the sensitive region.

Security forces have cordoned off the area and the operation remains ongoing to neutralize the remaining terrorists involved in the encounter.

About 6 PARA (Special Forces):
Part of the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment, 6 PARA SF is one of the most decorated and battle-hardened units, often at the forefront of India’s counter-terrorism operations, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

As the nation mourns the loss of Havildar Jhantu Ali Shaikh, his courage and sacrifice will be etched in the annals of India’s military history forever.