General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), recently conducted a comprehensive assessment of the operational preparedness of the Indian Army’s Red Eagle Division, which is recognized for its pivotal role in integrating advanced technologies to tackle contemporary security challenges. This visit highlights the Army’s ongoing transformation and dedication to self-reliant modernization.
During his assessment, General Dwivedi evaluated the division’s combat readiness and praised its commitment to implementing state-of-the-art tools such as counter-drone systems, encrypted communications, and secure mobile technologies. He particularly highlighted the extensive deployment of SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) handsets, which are part of a wider initiative to enhance the communication infrastructure throughout the Indian Army.
General Dwivedi remarked, “The Red Eagle Division exemplifies the spirit of combat readiness and innovation that the Indian Army strives for in this decade of transformation.” He emphasized that the division’s alignment with the “Year of Tech Absorption” underscores the Army’s priority of incorporating indigenous capabilities as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission.
Established in 1938, the Red Eagle Division has a distinguished history, having participated in various theaters across Africa, Europe, and Asia during World War II. It gained international acclaim for its remarkable achievements, including the capture of over 150,000 enemy prisoners while sustaining approximately 25,000 casualties. British Field Marshal Archibald Wavell famously recognized the division as one of the greatest fighting formations in military history, celebrated for fostering unity among soldiers from diverse regions and backgrounds.
General Dwivedi’s review comes at a crucial time when there is an increased emphasis on high-tech warfare capabilities, especially in reaction to the rising use of drones and artificial intelligence in conflicts around the world. His visit follows earlier evaluations in strategic locations, such as the Sir Creek sector on the India-Pakistan border, reinforcing his dedication to operational excellence and modernization efforts within the Army.
With a history of serving as the former Vice Chief of the Army Staff and head of Northern Command, General Dwivedi has played a vital role in shaping national defense policy. He has been instrumental in leading transformation initiatives in sensitive regions, including Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh. Under his leadership, the Indian Army is progressing towards establishing a technologically empowered force, with the Red Eagle Division serving as a benchmark for readiness and resilience in modern military operations.
