The Bhairav Battalion, the Indian Army's "lean and mean" force that represents the country's resolve to "fight smarter and strike faster" in the modern battlefield, showcased its operational capabilities at the Dhyan Chand Stadium in Punjab's Pathankot on Thursday.
Bhairav Battalion, a newly formed elite light commando force of the Indian Army that officially debuted in January 2026, bridges the gap between conventional infantry and Para Special Forces, symbolises Indian Army's strategic shift towards modern, agile and lethal warfare capabilities, specifically designed for rapid, high-impact operations along its borders.
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During the investiture ceremony-cum-demonstration organised by the Western Command, the Bhairav Battalion showcased its various operational capabilities ranging from anti-terror operations to heliborne and border defence operations as the stadium was transformed into a simulated battlefield. The drill included aerial and ground operations, including simulated destruction of terrorist camps.
During the drill, BrahMos and Akash missile batteries enacted operational and battle manoeuvres while armed helicopters, including Apache attack helicopters, along with drones and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) backed it, according to media reports.
The battlefield scenario also featured coordinated heliborne operations and ground assaults, including the demolition of a simulated terror hideout involving robotic mules and sniffer dogs, reported news agency PTI.
Mamun Military Station "reverberated with the roar of combat drills and the precision of tactical excellence during the Western Command Investiture Ceremony, celebrating the finest traditions of valour, leadership and dedicated service," the Western Command said in a social media post.
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Defence PRO Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said the capabilities showcased during the investiture ceremony-cum-demonstration highlighted India's modern weaponry and platforms while displaying its operational preparedness through the indomitable Bhairav Battalion.
The General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, who presideded over the ceremony, addressed the troop, saying "Instead of a ceremonial display, we showcased modern equipment and operational capabilities. This is our way of thanking the units that performed exceptionally well during Operation Sindoor."
"These specialised battalions are meant to further enhance our strike and special operations capability. In the coming times, small, agile teams capable of operating independently and penetrating deep into enemy territory will be required," he added.
"Army Commander congratulated the award recipients and participating teams for their exceptional display of operational proficiency and reaffirmed Western Command’s steadfast resolve and operational preparedness to deliver a befitting response - stronger and more decisive than before - in the event of any future conflict," the tweet from Western Command read.
