Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth Reviews Exercise Rudra Shakti, Showcases Integrated Warfighting Capability

Pune/Jaisalmer, 11th February 2026: Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C), Southern Command, reviewed Exercise Rudra Shakti, a major all-arms manoeuvre exercise with live firing conducted by the Rudra Brigade at the Pokhran Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan. The exercise showcased the Indian Army’s readiness to carry out high-intensity, integrated operations in evolving battlefield conditions.

Exercise Rudra Shakti was held as a follow-up to Exercise Akhand Prahar, which had earlier validated the Rudra Brigade and new operational concepts in the desert sector. The latest drill focused on strengthening combat integration and operational effectiveness through coordinated employment of mechanised forces, artillery, air defence units, and Army Aviation assets, including ALH-WSI and Apache attack helicopters.

The exercise also featured extensive use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) and Counter-UAS capabilities, highlighting seamless coordination across land, air and digital domains. Live-fire scenarios tested the brigade’s ability to execute fast-paced, precision missions in a realistic, technology-driven combat environment.

During the review, Lt Gen Seth interacted with troops on the ground and praised all ranks for their high standards of training, professionalism and operational preparedness. He commended their ability to carry out complex tasks with speed, accuracy and cohesion.

Officials said Exercise Rudra Shakti reflects the Indian Army’s ongoing transformation, where organisational reforms, tactical innovation and technological integration are moving forward together. The drill reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to remain mission-ready, technologically empowered and future-ready to meet emerging security challenges.