New Delhi: In a strategic move after recent military disengagement at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh, India is conducting a comprehensive tri-service exercise, ‘Poorvi Prahar,’ along its eastern border with China. Scheduled to run from November 10 to 18, the exercise aims to demonstrate India’s robust integrated defence capabilities in this critical region, while strengthening its joint combat readiness across the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Involving a coordinated approach by the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, ‘Poorvi Prahar’ will showcase India’s latest advancements in military technology and the seamless integration of multiple forces.
Integrated operations for enhanced combat readiness
Key assets such as Infantry Combat Units, Artillery Guns, Light Combat Helicopters, and UAVs will be deployed by the Army, while the Air Force will activate essential airbases at Kolkata, Hashimara, Panagarh, and Kalaikunda. These airbases will see operations from advanced aircraft, including the Sukhoi-30MKI, Rafale, C-130J, and Hawk jets, in addition to various helicopter units. The Indian Navy will deploy MARCOS Commandos, further demonstrating the tri-service cooperation.
As part of its modernized approach, the exercise will include Swarm Drones, First Person View (FPV) Drones, and loitering munitions, which will boost surveillance and situational awareness. The recently inducted M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer artillery and Chinook helicopters, along with Rudra Advanced Light Helicopters, will play vital roles, providing the forces with precision capabilities that are well-suited for the challenging mountainous terrain of the eastern sector.
Strengthening joint command structures
An important feature of ‘Poorvi Prahar’ will be the establishment of joint command structures, which will create a unified Common Operating Picture (COP) using satellite communications and AI-driven analytics. The structure aims to enhance real-time decision-making and synchronization across forces, promoting operational synergy for swift and coordinated action.
The timing of the exercise is crucial as it coincides with recent diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions with China. Following successful disengagement agreements in eastern Ladakh’s Demchok and Depsang, India is seeking a peaceful resolution through bilateral talks while fortifying its defence posture. Ongoing dialogues include efforts to restore patrolling rights in the Yangtze area of the Tawang sector, where India’s patrols were restricted after a clash with the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in December 2022.
