In a significant stride towards integrating cutting-edge technology into military training, the 39 Gorkha Training Centre in Varanasi recently conducted a 3D Printing and First-Person View (FPV) Drone Development Course, aiming to equip soldiers with advanced skills in various technological domains. Spearheaded by Surya Command, this innovative program focused on drone assembly, programming, and real-time flight control, fostering a culture of innovation and technical excellence essential for modern warfare.
Throughout the course, participants engaged in hands-on experiences, learning to build and operate fully functional FPV drones. Practical sessions allowed soldiers to apply theoretical concepts and develop tangible prototypes, enhancing their comprehension of emerging technologies. This immersive training environment, which seamlessly blended technology with rigorous instruction, provided an unparalleled learning experience for the trainees.
The 3D Printing and FPV Drone Development Course builds on the earlier inauguration of a state-of-the-art 3D Printing Lab at the 39 Gorkha Training Centre, underscoring the Indian Army’s commitment to harnessing modern technology for defense advancements. Utilizing 3D printing for military applications enables the on-site production of spare parts, thus minimizing logistical challenges and bolstering self-reliance in remote operations. This trend is increasingly adopted by militaries worldwide, as highlighted in NATO’s 2017 Additive Manufacturing Feasibility Study.
FPV drones have become instrumental in modern military operations, offering capabilities such as real-time reconnaissance, precision strikes, and electronic warfare. Their tactical significance has been proven in various conflicts, including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, where drones have emerged as low-cost, high-impact tools for both offensive and defensive maneuvers. The Indian Army’s training program strategically incorporates lessons learned from such conflicts, equipping soldiers to effectively utilize and counter FPV drone technology on the battlefield.
The 39 Gorkha Training Centre serves as a crucial training hub for the 3rd and 9th Gorkha Battalions, marking a pivotal move in the Indian Army’s broader strategy to cultivate next-generation soldiers. By integrating skills in 3D printing and drone technology into their training regimens, the Army is preparing its forces to tackle evolving challenges in modern warfare. This initiative aligns with efforts under hashtags such as #YearOfDefenceReforms and #OnPathToTransformation, emphasizing the ongoing development of capabilities and technological empowerment within the armed forces.
The program has received acclaim as a vital advancement in tech-driven military operations, with trainees being acknowledged for their achievements. Brigadier Ashish Gupta presided over the course’s closing ceremony, presenting certificates and awards to the participants, thereby highlighting their significant contributions to driving innovation at the ground level. As the Indian Army continues to establish a benchmark in military training, it ensures that its personnel remain at the cutting edge of technological advancements in defense.
