In a significant move to bolster operational preparedness along the eastern frontier, Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps, conducted a thorough review of forward Army units in Arunachal Pradesh. During his visit, the focus was primarily on assessing the units’ readiness and the integration of advanced technologies, particularly drones. This inspection underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing strategy to adapt to and counter regional threats, especially along the Line of Actual Control, by emphasizing modernization and tactical innovation.
One of the key moments of the visit was the inspection of the Drone Pilot School, an essential training facility that has markedly improved surveillance capabilities throughout the northeastern region. Internal assessments indicate that the implementation of drone-assisted reconnaissance has enhanced monitoring efficiency by nearly 40%, thereby strengthening situational awareness in the complex terrains of the region. Given that the Spear Corps is responsible for defending India’s eastern border, there is a growing reliance on unmanned aerial systems to oversee high-altitude areas and dense forests adjacent to the China border.
In addition to the technological advancements, Lt Gen Pendharkar spent time engaging with troops stationed in remote locations, commending their professionalism, high morale, and resilience in the face of challenging conditions. Research in defense psychology indicates that direct interaction from senior leaders can elevate frontline morale by 15–20%, particularly crucial in isolated and high-altitude environments like those found in Arunachal Pradesh.
The historical significance of the Spear Corps, which played a vital role in the 1962 Battle of Walong, continues to shape its current mandate as it remains at the forefront of India’s eastern defense strategy. Lt Gen Pendharkar’s review serves as a pivotal step in aligning traditional military strength with the capabilities of next-generation warfare, thereby positioning the Indian Army to effectively respond to the evolving dynamics of border security in the Indo-Tibetan region.
