Pune: Troops of the Indian Army’s Southern Command on Monday showcased their capability to undertake high-intensity, integrated operations as Southern Army Commander Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth reviewed Exercise Rudra Shakti, a major all-arms manoeuvre with live firing at the Pokhran field firing ranges.Conducted by the newly raised Rudra Brigade, the exercise marked a key step in validating new operational concepts and combat readiness in the desert sector. Senior commanders observed close coordination among multiple combat arms, reflecting the Army’s evolving doctrine centred on speed, precision and jointness.Rudra Shakti followed Exercise Akhand Prahar, which earlier validated the brigade’s organisational structure. The latest drill focused on live firing and battlefield integration, employing mechanised forces, artillery, air defence units and Army Aviation assets, including ALH-WSI and Apache helicopters, along with UAS and Counter-UAS capabilities.Lt Gen Seth commended the troops for their professionalism and preparedness, stating the exercise reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to remain mission-ready, technologically empowered and future-ready.
