The might of India's growing indigenous defence industry will be on full display in the upcoming Exercise 'Bharat Shakti.' This tri-services demonstration, showcasing entirely made-in-India weapons systems and platforms, is set to take place on March 12th in Pokhran, Rajasthan.
The exercise will highlight the firepower of key indigenous systems including the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, Arjun tanks, Dhanush howitzers, Tejas fighter aircraft, and various versions of the ALH Dhruv helicopters.
Among the expected attendees are Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan, and Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande.
This large-scale demonstration underscores India's determination to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing, a key component of Prime Minister Modi's "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant India) initiative.
The exercise also serves as a vital platform for the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force to assess joint operations capabilities and ensure seamless interoperability.
"Exercise 'Bharat Shakti' is a testament to India's commitment to building a robust, indigenous defence industry," a senior defence official, who requested anonymity, commented.
"This exercise demonstrates our capability to produce world-class weapon systems and platforms, reducing our reliance on foreign imports and bolstering our strategic autonomy."
Security analysts anticipate that 'Bharat Shakti' will send a powerful message to India's regional neighbors and potential adversaries, highlighting the nation's rapidly modernizing military capabilities.