The Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps, tasked with securing Sikkim and the strategically important Siliguri Corridor, recently completed a month-long live-firing exercise with T-90 tanks.

GUWAHATI: The Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps, tasked with securing Sikkim and the strategically important Siliguri Corridor, recently completed a month-long live-firing exercise with T-90 tanks.

The exercise aimed to boost combat readiness and test armoured warfare tactics in different operational environments. Special focus was given to developing high-altitude warfare capabilities and incorporating cutting-edge technologies to address contemporary battlefield challenges.

The T-90 tank is arguably the most advanced main battle tank in the inventory of the Indian Army. Equipped with highly advanced fire control systems, enhanced mobility, and improved protection, the T-90 is ahead of its class. One major strength of the T-90 is that it can fire the anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) accurately, allowing the tank to take out enemy armored units at significant ranges. The tank’s advanced thermal sight and sensor capabilities guarantee effective nighttime operations, giving the Army continuous combat capability during all weather conditions.

The live firing exercise focused on a few important areas to enhance operational effectiveness:

•Firing of sophisticated ammunition and guided missiles to test precision strike capabilities.

•Drone integration for real-time surveillance and target detection.

•Man-machine teaming exercises to promote crew coordination and combat readiness.

•High-altitude operational readiness to support the Army’s combat power.

•Encouragement of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance) through the use of indigenously designed defense technologies, such as locally produced ammunition and surveillance systems.

A top Army official, hailing the exercise’s successful completion, pointed out the importance of these exercises in contemporary warfare.

“This exercise was aimed at proving and developing our armored warfare capability in difficult terrain. The integration of T-90 tanks with air power and sophisticated surveillance equipment has boosted our combat readiness. Our soldiers have shown outstanding competence so that the Indian Army is always prepared to counter any operational situation. Also, this exercise has consolidated our resolve towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ by further integrating indigenous defense systems, bolstering our self-sufficiency in military readiness.

The exercise follows on the heels of Exercise Devil Strike, which involves airborne and special forces operations aimed at improving rapid deployment and precision strikes in challenging environments. The consecutive conduct of these intensive exercises reflects the Indian Army’s holistic approach to contemporary warfare, to ensure the smooth coordination between armored, airborne, and special forces across varied combat environments.