Indian Army and IAF Showcase Joint Warfare Proficiency at High Altitude in Exercise Dhruv Tara
At an altitude of 14,000 feet in the Panchshul Sector, the Indian Army and Air Force collaborated in Exercise Dhruv Tara, a high-altitude joint operation designed to test India's rapid deployment and integrated combat abilities in mountainous areas.
This exercise was notable not only for its tactical complexity but also due to the participation of high-ranking officials from both the Air Force and the Army. The involvement of the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Central Air Command, and the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Surya Command, highlighted the strategic emphasis on joint planning and operational synergy—essential elements in modern warfare.
A significant feature of the exercise was the Special Heliborne Operation (SHBO), where Mi-17V5 helicopters from the Central Air Command transported combat troops from Central Command to a forward high-altitude post. This operation simulated rapid deployment in difficult conditions, exemplifying the effective coordination between ground forces and air units.
The exercise involved coordinated troop insertion, tactical airlift, and synchronized combat drills, which are crucial for maintaining strategic dominance in the Himalayas and other regions.
Carried out in challenging weather and rugged terrain, Exercise Dhruv Tara showcased the adaptability of India's armed forces to future challenges. It is part of a larger initiative to improve interoperability, enhance response times, and ensure swift, decisive action in high-altitude theaters—a critical focus given the changing regional security environment.
