The Indian Air Force recently conducted an extensive aerial exercise known as \’Poorvi Akash\’ to assess the efficacy of its critical weapon systems. This exercise prominently featured the deployment of S-400 air defense missiles, the indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft, and the LCH Prachand.
The Indian Air Force has acquired three squadrons of S-400 air defense missile systems from Russia, giving them the moniker \”Sudarshan,\” in reference to Lord Krishna\’s Sudarshan chakra weapon. This exercise entailed the seamless integration of S-400 missiles with fighter jets such as Su-30, Rafales, and Tejas, all in coordination with ground forces.
According to senior defense officials, \”The exercise involved significant operations, including the use of S-400 air defense missiles, in conjunction with fighter jets such as the Su-30, Rafales, and Tejas, along with the presence of Army personnel on the ground.\”
The Eastern Air Command (EAC) conducted its annual Command-level exercise, \’Poorvi Akash,\’ spanning from October 30 to November 4. The primary objective of this exercise was to showcase the operational preparedness of the Indian Air Force, particularly within the Eastern Air Command, which oversees air operations across a vast region encompassing 12 states, including the seven states in the North-East.
\’Exercise Poorvi Akash\’ placed a strong emphasis on demonstrating the defensive and offensive capabilities of air power, addressing various perceived threats. These exercises were conducted both during the day and at night, with a primary focus on enhancing coordination between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
The exercise involved collaborative operations with the Eastern Command (EC) of the Indian Army, taking place in the challenging terrain of the Eastern Sector, which saw the activation of the entire Eastern Sector. This encompassed participation from Special Forces belonging to both the Indian Air Force (Garuds) and the Indian Army, engaging in special missions and the deployment of air defense assets to simulate realistic battle scenarios.
The exercise encompassed a wide array of activities, ranging from operational tasks to maintenance and administrative duties, all designed to evaluate operational readiness and provide realistic training opportunities.
In addition, the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter \’Prachand\’ conducted its inaugural deployment at a high-elevation Advance Landing Ground. It engaged in joint training exercises with ground forces, various combat platforms, and systems. Furthermore, the indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft \’Tejas\’ and the heavy-lift Chinook Helicopters were actively involved in a diverse range of missions as part of the exercise.