Indian Army to Establish Initial 'Bhairav' Commando Battalions by End of October
The Indian Army is poised to enhance its combat capabilities along the borders with Pakistan and China by establishing the first five 'Bhairav' light commando battalions by October 31. Each battalion will consist of 250 specially trained and well-equipped soldiers, aimed at bridging the gap between standard infantry and elite Para-Special Forces.
The army's long-term strategy involves creating a total of 23 'Bhairav' units. These units will be formed progressively using existing infantry formations based on the "save and raise" model, avoiding the need for additional troops. Unlike traditional infantry battalions, which typically include 800 soldiers, the 'Bhairav' battalions will be leaner, more mobile, and equipped with advanced weapons, drones, and surveillance systems for conducting rapid and high-impact tactical operations.
Among the initial five battalions, three will be integrated into the Udhampur-based Northern Command, with one battalion each assigned to 14 Corps in Leh, 15 Corps in Srinagar, and 16 Corps in Nagrota. The other two battalions will be stationed in the desert terrain of the western sector and the mountainous terrain of the eastern sector.
Soldiers selected for the 'Bhairav' battalions will undergo specialized training for two to three months at regimental centers, followed by advanced attachment with Special Forces units in their operational areas. Each battalion will include seven to eight officers to lead the teams.
These new battalions will support the existing 10 Para-Special Forces and five Para (Airborne) battalions of the Army, allowing them to focus on critical clandestine operations behind enemy lines by relieving them from routine tactical duties.
This development follows structural reforms announced by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, which include forming new 'Rudra' all-arms brigades, 'Shaktibaan' artillery regiments, and dedicated drone platoons within all infantry battalions.
The expansion is in line with the recently released tri-service joint doctrine for Special Forces operations, emphasizing precision engagement, deep insertion, and unconventional warfare as crucial components of modern combat. India's Special Forces currently comprise approximately 1,600 Garud commandos in the Indian Air Force and over 1,400 Marine Commandos (MARCOS) in the Navy.
