Western Command executes integrated exercise featuring 'upgunned' Shilka system

The Agrasar Athanve Brigade in the Airawat Division, a part of the Western Command, executed integrated manoeuvres in challenging, ‘obstacle-ridden’ terrain on October 23rd. The exercise, as per Defence officials, were planned to ensure swift and effective strike capabilities.

Amphibious assault showcase & thundering tanks in Rajasthan

During the manoeuvres, the BMP 2 vehicles of the Indian Army exhibited their amphibious assault capabilities, showcasing their ability to navigate diverse terrains. Visuals of the submerged BMP, with dynamics resembling a gangetic gharial moving towards its intended target, were shared by the Western Command.

Meanwhile, the Army's camouflaged T-72 Ajeya tanks thundered through the arid expanses of Rajasthan, showcasing their mobility on the sandy terrain.

Upgraded air defence system: The ZSU-23-4 Shilka

A highlight from these drills was the deployment of the Army’s Point Air Defence System, the ZSU-23-4 Shilka. This system, which underwent a significant upgrade by Bharat Electronics Limited in 2021, boasts an array of ‘cutting-edge’ features.

Enhanced operational capabilities, advanced features of the upgraded Shilka

The upgraded Shilka, a 4-barrel, all-weather self-propelled Air Defence Weapon System, is primarily designed to safeguard mobile formations against aerial threats. According to an official statement, it is equipped with a state-of-the-art 3D planar Active Phased Array Solid-State Radar and an Electro Optical Fire Control system, ensuring ‘round-the-clock’ capability for target detection, acquisition, and tracking.

Notably, it can now carry out critical operations such as rapid target acquisition, determining gun aiming points, and ballistics calculations, whether in motion or stationary. Additionally, as per BEL, the system is fortified with a built-in simulator for operator training and a Nuclear Biological Chemical (NBC) protection system.

Specifications of the upgraded Shilka system include a calibre of 23 mm, featuring four automatic water-cooled barrels. With a rate of fire of 3400 rounds per minute across all four guns, it boasts a maximum range of 2000 metres. The system's radar detection range now spans around 15 kilometres, with tracking capabilities extending up to 9 kilometres. Operating on an average output power of 49 watts, it achieves speeds of 50 kilometres per hour on roads and 30 kilometres per hour across rugged terrains.

Intensive training for ‘Cutting edge’ recce warriors

Meanwhile, the Cutting Edge Brigade of the South Western Command also embarked on intensive training for their Recce Warriors today. The program placed special emphasis on refining battle drills, ensuring mastery of specialised tasks, and honing survival skills, as per defence officials. Echoing the sentiment of dedication, the South Command conveyed a message, stating, 'Train through sweat; forge oneself to win battlefields' in a recent post on X.