Genesis of the Bhairav Force
Bhairav Force and India’s Shift to Drone-Centric Warfare: In January 2026, the Indian Army announced the creation of a new modern warfare force named Bhairav, marking a decisive shift toward technology-driven combat. This initiative reflects India’s effort to adapt its land forces to evolving battlefield realities shaped by drones and network-centric operations.
The Bhairav force is envisioned as a next-generation combat arm where every soldier is trained in drone operations. With this move, the Army aims to integrate aerial intelligence and strike capability directly at the unit level.
Scale and Composition of the Force
A defining feature of the Bhairav force is its unprecedented scale. The force will consist of over one lakh trained drone operatives, making it among the largest dedicated drone warfare formations globally.
Static GK fact: A standard Indian Army infantry battalion usually has around 800–900 soldiers, highlighting the massive manpower commitment involved in raising drone-centric units.
Currently, 15 Bhairav battalions have already been raised and deployed across key formations along both northern and western borders. Plans are underway to expand this to around 25 battalions in the near future.
Core Operational Capabilities
The Bhairav battalions are designed for high-intensity and high-tempo operations. Drone integration enables commanders to obtain real-time battlefield awareness and conduct precision actions with reduced risk to troops.
Key capabilities include offensive drone strikes, continuous surveillance and reconnaissance, rapid response in hostile terrain, and technology-enabled dominance across tactical depth. These features reflect lessons drawn from recent global conflicts where drones acted as decisive force multipliers.
Role of Bhairav Battalions
Bhairav battalions function as highly agile, drone-centric combat units. Their operational design allows them to execute missions traditionally associated with Special Forces, while retaining the numerical strength of regular infantry.
Their strategic aim is to bridge the operational gap between Para Special Forces and conventional infantry battalions. This ensures seamless mission execution from close tactical tasks to deeper operational objectives.
Static GK Tip: Indian Para Special Forces are among the Army’s most elite units, primarily tasked with covert and high-risk missions behind enemy lines.
Public Debut at Army Day 2026
The Bhairav force is set to make its first public appearance at the Indian Army Day Parade on 15 January 2026. The event will be held in Jaipur, Rajasthan, symbolising India’s transition toward a future-ready, technology-led military posture.
Army Day commemorates the day in 1949 when General K.M. Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army.
Complementary Modernisation Through Rudra Brigades
Alongside Bhairav, the Army has also raised Rudra Brigades, which represent all-arms integrated formations. These brigades combine infantry, mechanised units, tanks, artillery, Special Forces, and unmanned aerial systems.
The Rudra Brigades enhance jointness and rapid response, while Bhairav battalions provide focused drone-centric combat power. Together, they strengthen India’s preparedness for multi-domain warfare.
Static GK fact: The Indian Army, established in 1895, is the largest component of the Indian Armed Forces and operates under the motto Seva Paramo Dharma.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Bhairav Force and India’s Shift to Drone-Centric Warfare:
| Topic | Detail |
| Force Name | Bhairav |
| Announced | January 2026 |
| Created By | Indian Army |
| Core Focus | Drone-based modern warfare |
| Drone Operatives | Over 1 lakh |
| Battalions Raised | 15 |
| Planned Expansion | Around 25 battalions |
| First Public Showcase | Indian Army Day Parade |
| Parade Date | 15 January 2026 |
| Parade Venue | Jaipur, Rajasthan |
