Joint Military Readiness in the Desert
Operation Trishul Showcases India’s Desert Warfare Power: The Indian Army and Indian Air Force jointly carried out a large-scale war exercise titled “Maru Jwala” near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The 12-day event was part of Operation Trishul, a major demonstration of joint combat readiness along the western frontier.
The exercise aimed to enhance desert warfare capability, showcasing how coordinated ground–air strikes can neutralize threats effectively in hostile terrain near the Pakistan border.
Static GK fact: Jaisalmer district houses the Longewala battlefield, the site of India’s famous 1971 war victory over Pakistan.
Integration of Air and Ground Forces
“Maru Jwala” simulated precision strikes on enemy positions using both aerial and ground units. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) identified targets and guided evacuation alerts, followed by armoured assaults using T-90 tanks supported by attack helicopters.
This marked a significant step in the Indian Army’s effort to achieve real-time data integration and network-centric warfare. The coordination between the Army’s mechanised units and the Air Force reflected a high degree of interoperability.
Technological Innovation in Modern Warfare
A highlight of the operation was the use of AI-based logistics systems and autonomous platforms. The forces deployed robotic mule dogs for battlefield medical supply and transport, and drones for surveillance and rapid supply delivery.
The exercise also underlined the emphasis on self-reliance through indigenous technologies under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Static GK Tip: The Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan was launched in May 2020 to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce import dependence in key sectors, including defence.
Command Leadership and Strategic Oversight
The exercise was conducted under the Southern Command and led by Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth (PVSM, AVSM), General Officer Commanding-in-Chief. He inspected the operational zones and lauded the synergy between the Konark Corps and Battle Axe Division.
Lt Gen Seth termed “Maru Jwala” as a reflection of the Army’s “JAI Mantra” — Jointness, Atmanirbharta, and Innovation, aligning with the nation’s strategic defence vision.
Operational Validation and Future Readiness
As part of Operation Trishul, the exercise validated multi-domain operational capabilities and readiness to tackle modern hybrid threats. Lt Col Nikhil Dhawan, Defence PRO, confirmed that Lt Gen Seth also reviewed Exercise Akhand Prahar, another major component under the same command.
These combined operations demonstrate India’s growing capacity for rapid deployment, integrated warfare, and indigenous technological adaptation across its desert borders.
Static GK fact: The Southern Command was established in 1895 and is headquartered in Pune, Maharashtra.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Operation Trishul Showcases India’s Desert Warfare Power:
| Topic | Detail |
| Exercise Name | Maru Jwala |
| Operation Name | Operation Trishul |
| Location | Jaisalmer, Rajasthan |
| Duration | 12 days |
| Forces Involved | Indian Army and Indian Air Force |
| Command Authority | Southern Command |
| Commander | Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth (PVSM, AVSM) |
| Supporting Divisions | Konark Corps, Battle Axe Division |
| Key Features | AI-driven logistics, robotic mules, drones, T-90 tanks |
| National Initiative Linked | Atmanirbhar Bharat |
