Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, on Thursday, observed that in the past few years, the Army has undergone a clear shift in thinking.
Speaking on the occasion of the 78th Army Day, the Army chief said the force is not only responding to current challenges, but is also preparing deliberately for future forms of warfare.
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"To meet these requirements, new structures are being created, equipped, and trained to operate effectively in evolving and complex operational environments. As part of this transformation, formations such as Bhairav Battalions, Ashni Platoons, Shaktiban Regiments, and Divyastra Batteries have been raised."
These formations represent India's efforts to build agile, responsive, and mission-oriented forces aligned with future operational needs, he said.
General Dwivedi noted that at the heart of this transformation journey is Atmanirbharta, and this, he observed, was evident during the parade through the ‘Made in India’ equipment on display.
The country needs weapon systems and equipment that are designed and developed in India, he said, adding that indigenisation is no longer an aspiration; it is a strategic necessity.
Highlighting the advantages of indigenisation, he said it offers operational flexibility, long-term reliability, and greater confidence in our preparedness.
"We are also emphasising dual-use resources: capabilities that can serve both military and civilian purposes. Infrastructure, technology, and innovation developed for national security should also contribute to national development. This approach strengthens resilience, sustainability, and overall national capacity," news agency ANI quoted him as saying.
Army chief on Op Sindoor
Speaking about India's Operation Sindoor, the Army chief said it established a new normal.
According to him, the military operation demonstrated the Indian Army’s ability to respond with speed, coordination, and precision. “The operation reflected a mature and confident force, capable of safeguarding national interests through measured, firm and responsible action..."
Indigenisation on display at Army Day
The parade marking the 78th Army Day showcased the BrahMos missile, advanced armoured platforms, the formidable Bhishma Tank (T-90), and the indigenous Arjun Tank.
The grand display of the Army's modern military capabilities included upgraded BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, Nag missile system, K-9 Vajra artillery system, all-terrain patrol vehicles, specialised mobility vehicles, anti-mine quick reaction platforms, mobile anti-tank teams, advanced HELINA missile system, and ZU-23 twin-barrel anti-aircraft gun.
The Dhanush weapon system, modern artillery gun systems, and universal rocket launcher systems were also displayed, alongside a modular bridge capable of rapid deployment in combat zones, and communication and electronic warfare assets such as SATCOM vehicles and drone jammers.
"The Indian Army is fully prepared at all times for any kind of attack. We are fully prepared for future warfare. We demonstrated this in the parade. Such preparations will continue to increase in the coming days," the Army chief said.
He said with the display of 'Made in India' equipment, the parade reflected that the foundation of transformation is self-reliance.
—With agency inputs