January 22, 2025: The Indian Army held its annual firepower training exercise, Exercise TOPCHI, at the Devlali Field Firing Ranges in Nashik, Maharashtra, on Tuesday, demonstrating the strength, precision, and adaptability of the country’s artillery. Organised by the Regiment of Artillery, the exercise served as a powerful display of the Army’s commitment to operational readiness and modernisation.

The highlight of the event was a live demonstration of advanced artillery systems, showcasing the Indian Army’s ability to deploy cutting-edge technology in various combat scenarios. Among the weapons displayed were the K-9 Vajra, a self-propelled gun system known for its speed, mobility, and precision; the 155mm M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer, valued for its high mobility and capability for high-altitude deployment; and the 155mm Dhanush, an indigenous upgrade to the iconic Bofors gun. Additionally, the proven 155mm FH 77B02 (Bofors) was also featured as a critical component of India’s artillery arsenal.

The exercise also included live demonstrations of advanced rocket systems, such as the Pinaka and Smerch, and cutting-edge unmanned aerial technologies. Swarm drones, loitering munitions, and other advanced drone capabilities were showcased, highlighting the Army’s growing proficiency in unmanned systems and their role in modern warfare.

Exercise TOPCHI also underscored India’s push towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), with an emphasis on integrating domestically developed systems. The use of homegrown systems like the Dhanush artillery and Pinaka rocket launcher demonstrated the country’s increasing self-reliance in defence production and its goal of reducing dependence on foreign imports.

As the Indian Army continues to modernise and adapt to the rapidly changing nature of warfare, Exercise TOPCHI served as a testament to its preparedness to meet contemporary security challenges. The successful integration of advanced technologies and indigenous defence systems highlighted India’s determination to strengthen its armed forces and position itself as a leading global military power.