India’s Army Reinvents Warfare with Drone-Savvy Bhairav Battalions
Recognizing how modern warfare is rapidly evolving, the Indian Army has built an extensive and highly skilled force of over 100,000 drone operators. At the heart of this transformation is its newest special force concept—the Bhairav units—designed to confront every challenge of 21st-century combat. Every Bhairav soldier is trained in drone operations, reflecting the Army’s shift toward technology-driven warfare.
During a visit to a Bhairav battalion raised in the desert sector under Southern Command, it became clear how rigorously these troops are being prepared. Selected from regular infantry regiments, the soldiers undergo advanced training that goes beyond physical endurance. Equal emphasis is placed on mental resilience and technical mastery, ensuring they are fully equipped for the complexities of future battlefields.
A New Force Structure for a New Kind of War
Drawing lessons from global conflicts and its own operational experience, Army Headquarters conceptualized the Bhairav battalions to conduct fast-paced offensive missions and execute specialized operations across multiple levels of warfare. Around fifteen Bhairav battalions have already been raised and deployed along both borders under different formations. Plans are in place to expand this number to twenty-five in the near future.
These units are designed to bridge the gap between Para Special Forces and conventional infantry. Bhairav battalions will operate from tactical frontlines to deeper operational zones, taking on missions that demand speed, precision, and adaptability. According to a Bhairav battalion’s Commanding Officer, today’s conflicts are no longer traditional—technology, information dominance, and rapid maneuvering now define victory. Bhairav units have been built with this new reality in mind.
Desert Warfare and the “Sons of the Soil” Concept
Operating in desert terrain presents unique challenges, requiring specialized skills, high endurance, and smart use of technology. Bhairav battalions have therefore been developed as technology-enabled, self-sufficient forces capable of functioning independently and supporting future multi-domain operations.
The desert-based Bhairav battalion follows the “Sons of the Soil” philosophy, with most soldiers recruited from Rajasthan. Their deep familiarity with the terrain, climate, language, and local conditions gives them a natural operational edge. Rooted in the legacy of Rajput valor and sacrifice, this cultural strength further enhances their fighting spirit.
Over the past five months, Bhairav units have undergone extremely demanding training. Their combat readiness was successfully tested during Exercise Akhanda Prahar, where they demonstrated speed, precision, and firepower in the presence of Southern Army Commander Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth.
A Rising Force in India’s Military Posture
The Commanding Officer emphasized that Bhairav formations are evolving rapidly and are emerging as a swift, capable, and decisive force for Southern Command and the Indian Army as a whole. On January 15, during the Army Day Parade in Jaipur, a Bhairav battalion—known as the Desert Falcons—will take part, marking a significant public showcase of this new capability.
Beyond Bhairav units, the Army has undertaken a broader reorganization to meet operational demands. This includes the formation of Rudra Brigades, which integrate infantry, mechanized units, tanks, artillery, special forces, and unmanned aerial systems into a single combat structure. Artillery, mechanized infantry, and armored corps are also being equipped with drones and advanced systems to enhance battlefield effectiveness.
A Clear Strategic Message
The creation of Bhairav battalions sends a strong signal: the Indian Army is thinking ahead of its time. At a moment when border tensions are a constant reality and adversaries are adopting new tactics, Bhairav units underline India’s readiness—not just to respond, but to seize the initiative.
Each Bhairav soldier represents the modern warrior, capable of fighting simultaneously across land, air, and information domains. By blending local knowledge with cutting-edge technology, the Army has highlighted the deep link between regional expertise and national security. Ultimately, the Bhairav battalions stand as a symbol of India’s confident, forward-looking military doctrine—one that aims to keep the nation secure and strong.