In a significant stride towards self-reliance in defence and military preparedness, the Indian Army has launched extensive trials of cutting-edge defence technologies under simulated combat conditions across key strategic zones in the country. The ongoing “Capacity Development Demonstrations” are being held at Pokhran, Babina, and Joshimath, with dedicated air defence trials scheduled at Agra and Gopalpur.
The Indian Army is conducting major defence trials nationwide, testing advanced indigenous technologies under near-combat conditions. These efforts boost self-reliance and readiness.
Find the complete story on #PBSHABD. Free to sign up and use for media organizations on… pic.twitter.com/04BNXDbmk7
— PB-SHABD (@PBSHABD) May 31, 2025
These trials, part of the Army’s vision for a “Decade of Transformation,” aim to fast-track the integration of next-generation systems into active operations. The demonstrations feature sophisticated electronic warfare simulations designed to mirror real-world battlefield scenarios, enabling a comprehensive assessment of the performance and resilience of the latest indigenous systems.
On May 27, 2025, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Babina Field Firing Ranges to personally oversee the trials and interact with industry representatives. His visit underlined the strategic importance of these trials in enhancing India’s combat readiness and technological capabilities.
A wide array of systems is undergoing evaluation, including:
- Unmanned aerial systems and loitering munitions
- UAV-launched precision-guided weapons
- Runway-independent remotely piloted aerial vehicles
- Counter-drone and integrated drone interdiction systems
- Lightweight radar and next-gen air defence platforms
- Electronic warfare and multi-munition delivery systems
- Specialized vertical launch drones and infrared air defence systems
The trials also showcased highlights from Operation Sindoor, with senior officials emphasising how indigenous weapons systems played a decisive role in the operation’s success. According to a Defence Ministry briefing, precision strikes enabled by locally-developed platforms underscored the critical value of India’s domestic defence innovation.
Reflecting the goals of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the trials see significant participation from Indian defence manufacturers. This growing collaboration between the military and the domestic defence sector signals a deeper synergy aimed at building a robust, self-sustained military-industrial ecosystem.
