Indian Army Unveils First Official Images of Bhairav Battalion Commandos
Highlighting its enhanced border security measures, the Indian Army has unveiled official photographs of its Bhairav Light Commando Battalions in action. These images, which showcase the elite forces conducting high-altitude training near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC), mark a significant step in India's military readiness. The commandos, equipped with advanced camouflage and state-of-the-art weapons, reflect the Army's push towards specialized operations capabilities.
The Bhairav Battalions, named after a fierce form of Lord Shiva, were introduced by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on July 26, 2025, during the Kargil Vijay Diwas celebrations in Ladakh. General Dwivedi described these battalions as a "highly lethal special force" capable of delivering strategic surprise and impact at the borders. Unlike typical infantry units of 800 personnel, each Bhairav Battalion consists of 200-250 members, integrating expertise from various military domains such as infantry, signals, artillery, and air defense.
The images, taken during live-fire exercises in the Himalayas, depict commandos carrying out precise drone-assisted strikes, night infiltration drills, and quick heliborne insertions. One notable photograph shows a team navigating cliffs under drone surveillance, their faces camouflaged for stealth, with night-vision goggles on their helmets. Another captures a team deploying loitering munitions from elevated positions, underscoring the unit's focus on technology-driven autonomy. These visuals send a strong message to adversaries amid rising tensions with neighboring countries.
According to Lieutenant General Ajay Kumar, Director General of Infantry, five Bhairav battalions have already been established and are operational in various regions. These units became active on October 1, with plans for full combat readiness by the end of the month. The commandos undergo 2-3 months of training at regimental centers, followed by sessions with elite Para-SF units to prepare for deep strikes, unconventional warfare, and high-stakes operations in mountainous and contested areas. The Army aims to have 23 such battalions by 2030, restructuring existing formations in a cost-efficient manner without recruiting additional troops.
This development aligns with broader reforms, such as deploying 'Ashni' drone platoons across all infantry units and forming 'Rudra' all-arms brigades for integrated warfare. Lt Gen Kumar emphasized the Bhairav model's ability to deliver rapid results with minimal logistical needs, focusing on speed, stealth, and autonomy in crucial border areas.
Military experts view the Bhairav initiative as a transformative element in India's defense strategy, combining the agility of Special Forces with the stamina of traditional infantry. Retired Lt Gen Prakash Katoch, a counter-insurgency veteran, remarked that these troops are more than mere soldiers—they are a crucial force for modern warfare. As the images circulate on social media, they evoke a sense of national pride and determination, reminding viewers of the legacy forged in Kargil.
The Indian Army plans to provide further updates as more battalions come into operation. For now, these initial images serve as a testament to the country's fortified frontier defenses. In the face of evolving threats, Bhairav is not just a name—it's a strategic message.
