Dhanush, Pinaka, K-9 Vajra feature at Army’s annual firepower exercise

Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the event, Lt Gen Sarna said, “Most of our equipment is indigenous and the focus is on Atmanirbhar Bharat. Exercise Topchi showcases all the artillery systems in our inventory and its firepower and lethality along with the training standards of the School of Artillery.” Speaking about the training at the School of Artillery, Lt Gen Sarna said, “Drawing lessons from the recent conflicts, we are putting a lot of focus on UAV training. We are focussing on dispersed deployment of the systems and also on how we can quick responses.”

The exercise showcased the integrated employment of a wide range of firepower and surveillance assets to include guns, mortars, rockets, Army Aviation assets and paratroopers. The event’s highlight was the live firing of state-of-the art artillery gun systems, including K-9 Vajra Self Propelled Gun System, 155mm M777 Ultra Light Howitzers, 155mm Dhanush, 155mm Field Howitzer 77B02 (Bofors). Adding to the spectacle was the display of cutting-edge technologies such as the Pinaka rocket system, Smerch rockets, swarm Drones, loitering munitions and advanced drone capabilities.

“The exercise reaffirmed the commitment of the Indian Army to remain prepared for any operational challenge while promoting indigenous defense capabilities in line with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” said a press statement in this regard.