Indian Army Strengthens Weapon Systems in Eastern Ladakh
The Indian Army has recently introduced new weapon systems in the Eastern Ladakh sector to enhance its capabilities and firepower. With over 50,000 troops deployed in the region, the Army is reinforcing its reaction capability. The additions include the made-in-India Dhanush howitzer, M4 quick reaction vehicles, and All-Terrain Vehicles.
Nyoma military station, situated at an altitude of around 14,500 feet, where these new combat equipment and vehicles are deployed. These advancements aim to facilitate operations for the troops and reduce fatigue.
The Dhanush howitzer, developed based on the Transfer of Technology for the Bofors howitzers, has been made more advanced. Captain V Mishra, from the Regiment of Artillery, stated that the Dhanush howitzer can strike targets up to 48 km away and was inducted into the Eastern Ladakh sector last year.
The M4 Quick Reaction Force Vehicle, a Made in India platform, has proven to be valuable for transporting troops swiftly to forward locations along the Line of Actual Control. It can carry 10 combat-ready armed troops and operate at speeds of 60-80 km per hour, even in Ladakh’s harsh terrain.
The Army has also inducted All-Terrain Vehicles in significant numbers, which can carry four to six troops at once and transport loads and equipment to sustain troops at forward posts. Additionally, these vehicles aid in the rapid deployment of troops and equipment during emergency situations.
The Army’s surveillance capabilities have been strengthened with the induction of the new Tata Rajak system. This system enables the observation and detection of humans at distances over 15 km and vehicles at distances exceeding 25 km, allowing the Army to monitor adversary movements across the Line of Actual Control.
In its continuous efforts to fortify its defensive capabilities, the Army plans to induct the Made in India K-9 Vajra self-propelled artillery guns in the Eastern Ladakh sector. These guns have proven successful in recent years, and the Army may acquire over 100 of them from the L&T group’s Hazara plant.
To equip troops in countering enemy tanks and armored fighting vehicles, the Indian Army has provided Spike anti-tank guided missiles in the Eastern Ladakh sector. Further acquisitions of such third-generation missiles through the Make in India initiative are expected.
With the military standoff between India and China entering its fourth year, the Indian Army continues to strengthen its presence in the Eastern Ladakh sector. These new weapon systems and capabilities aim to tackle emergency situations and enable effective conventional operations, ensuring the Army’s readiness.
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