In a strategic move to enhance its defensive capabilities along the contentious border with China, the Indian Army is in the final stages of acquiring a new field firing range in one of the northeastern states. This development comes on the heels of the decommissioning of a crucial firing range in Uttar Pradesh due to the establishment of an airport in Ayodhya, a situation that has necessitated an urgent shift in training locations.
Field firing ranges are indispensable for the Indian Army, serving as the backbone of its training programs. These ranges are critical for honing the skills of new recruits and ensuring that seasoned personnel remain battle-ready. The absence of a secure and functional firing range poses significant challenges to maintaining the operational readiness of the armed forces.
A senior Army official emphasized the need for the new range, citing safety concerns arising from the airport’s presence in Ayodhya. “With the new airport operational, it is no longer safe to conduct maneuvers or artillery firing in that area. We are, therefore, at an advanced stage of acquiring a new field firing range in the northeastern region, close to the border with China. This will allow us to continue essential training exercises without compromising safety,” the official stated.
The new range, once operational, will support the Army’s training needs for deploying heavy weaponry, including tanks and infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). These maneuvers are crucial for preparing the Army to defend India’s borders, particularly in the rugged and challenging terrains of the northeast. The acquisition is also seen as a strategic move to reinforce India’s military presence along the border with China, where tensions have flared in recent years.
The necessity of relocating the firing range from Ayodhya highlights the delicate balance the Indian Army must strike between national development and military preparedness. The airport’s construction, while a significant infrastructure project, inadvertently compromised the viability of the existing range, prompting the search for an alternative location.
The Army’s forward-thinking approach is not limited to acquiring new ranges. In line with global trends and environmental considerations, the Indian Army is also pioneering the adoption of green technologies within its operations. Electric buses are being introduced, with plans to induct electric cars, motorcycles, and buses into the fleet. Collaborations with Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) are underway to establish green hydrogen plants and buses, particularly in high-altitude regions like Leh and Chushul.
Furthermore, the Army’s focus on last-mile connectivity in mountainous terrain is evolving, with a gradual transition from traditional animal transport to more modern vehicles like all-terrain and rugged-terrain vehicles. The Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) continues to expand its use of military dogs, incorporating indigenous breeds such as Mudhol hounds and Rajapalayams, which are trained for a variety of roles, including explosive detection and search and rescue operations.
The Indian Army’s efforts to enhance its training capabilities through the acquisition of a new field firing range and the adoption of cutting-edge technologies underscore its commitment to maintaining a robust defense posture in the face of evolving threats. As the Army continues to innovate, it ensures that its personnel are equipped with the skills and tools necessary to protect the nation’s sovereignty and security.