Exercise Drone Kaushal-II Highlights Indian Army's High-Altitude Drone Warfare in the Himalayas
"Ekta aur Dridhata – Where Skill Meets Altitude" served as the central theme for Exercise Drone Kaushal-II, a pioneering high-altitude drone warfare exercise organized by the Golden Key Division of the Indian Army. Conducted at an elevation of 14,000 feet in the Himalayan landscape, the exercise demonstrated the integration of state-of-the-art drone technology in mountain warfare and contemporary battlefield strategies.
This unprecedented initiative involved 74 Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) from various combat units, showcasing their proficiency across diverse mission parameters. The exercise concentrated on crucial aspects of drone deployment in tactical scenarios, including navigation under extreme weather, long-range surveillance, real-time reconnaissance, target tracking, and mission simulation. These operations aimed to boost situational awareness, enhance battlefield decision-making, and offer a technological edge in intricate operational settings.
The Golden Key Gunners were instrumental in both planning and executing the exercise, illustrating how drone technology can expand the reach and effectiveness of conventional forces in high-altitude missions. The use of indigenous drone platforms highlighted India's commitment to Aatmanirbharta, reflecting the advancing capabilities of the domestic defense sector in supplying dependable, mission-ready unmanned systems.
Maj Gen Naveen Mahajan, the General Officer Commanding of the Golden Key Division, praised the troops for their extraordinary skill, adaptability, and innovation during the exercise. He noted that drones will be transformative in future conflicts, enhancing the Army's reconnaissance, logistics, and combat capabilities in challenging terrains. Furthermore, he underscored the necessity for ongoing technological adaptation and training to develop a future-ready, tech-enabled force prepared for evolving security challenges.
Exercise Drone Kaushal-II marks a significant milestone in the Indian Army's modernization efforts. By merging altitude, advanced technology, and tactical expertise, the exercise not only demonstrated the transformative potential of unmanned aerial systems in warfare but also reinforced the Army's dedication to remaining at the forefront of innovation in defense operations.
