The Indian Army’s plans to set up the Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) have gained momentum with discussions being held to create four IBGs from two different divisions of Mountain Strike Corps (MSC), also known as the XVII Corps.
IBGs are brigade-sized, agile, self-sufficient combat formations proposed by the Indian Army, integrating infantry, artillery, armor, engineers, signals, air defence, and logistics, to enable rapid mobilisation and strikes, particularly along borders with China and Pakistan, capable of carrying out both offensive and defensive roles.
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According to an exclusive report by the Indian Express, the implementation of the IBGs will begin with the the 59 Division and the 23 Division of the XVII Corps, after the government grants permission. Headquartered at Panagarh, XVII Corps, also known as Brahmastra Corps, is one of the four strike corps of the Indian Army.
The proposed formation of IBG—which has been under discussion for seven years—is part of the restructuring plan of the Indian Army, which also includes the formation of Bhairav battalions, Rudra brigades, Divyastra batteries, and Shaktibaan units.
The report said each of the IBGs will be commanded by an officer of Major General rank and will comprise 5,000 troops.
The IBGs will be able to access logistics and other support from the corps units under the corps headquarters, as well as from the other holding formations of the XVII MSC, whenever necessary, the report said.
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A separate group may also be created under the corps headquarters to provide fire support for the IBGs.
These plans are still in the discussion phase and will be refined further before being implemented.
These IBGs are part of a broader restructuring initiative within the Army, which also includes the formation of Bhairav battalions, Rudra brigades, Divyastra batteries, and Shaktibaan units. The Rudra brigades are being established with a concept similar to that of the IBGs.
According to the report, the formation of IBGs will be an important force multiplier in mountainous terrains as their swift and agile nature will ensure rapid deployment in any area.
