The Indian Army’s Spear Corps completed a high-intensity airborne exercise dubbed ‘Winged Raider’ on December 15 and 16, 2025. This exercise demonstrated the Corps’ readiness to tackle evolving operational and strategic challenges.
During the operation, specialist airborne troops executed a variety of complex insertion techniques at the Majuli Island Drop Zone (DZ). Among the maneuvers conducted were Combat Free Fall (CFF) jumps, Guided Para Aerial Delivery System (GPADS) drops, and Static-Line parachute jumps from the C-130J Hercules transport aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force.
The primary focus of the exercise was to enhance joint operational capabilities, ensuring rapid deployment of forces and precise insertion of both troops and equipment in a variety of challenging terrains. The unique geographical conditions of Majuli Island provided an ideal setting to test airborne tactics, coordination, and logistics, simulating near-combat situations.
Senior military commanders were present to observe the exercise and praised the professionalism, coordination, and high operational standards exhibited by the participating troops. The successful execution of ‘Winged Raider’ highlighted the combat readiness and operational flexibility of the Spear Corps, emphasizing their capability to conduct swift airborne operations that are crucial to national security objectives.
This exercise reinforces the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to modern warfare preparedness, joint operational capabilities, and rapid response strategies, especially in regions of strategic significance.
