Indian Army marks Vijay Diwas showcasing modern warfare techs

As India celebrated Vijay Diwas (Victory Day) today (16 December), the Indian Army marked the victory of allied forces over Pakistan in the 1971 war, which led to the birth of Bangladesh, by showcasing its transformation since that landmark event into a modern-day force using home-grown warfare technologies and innovations through drone and artificial intelligence.

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi opened an exhibition during an "at home" event on the eve of Vijay Diwas in New Delhi yesterday that displayed a wide range of technologies, including AI-operated systems that can function even in regions with no internet connectivity and an unmanned firefighting robot designed to operate in areas of risky human intervention. 

A highlight was an AI-based satellite imagery analysis system that helps interpret satellite pictures quickly and accurately. Instead of manually studying images, the system uses artificial intelligence to identify changes, track developments and flag important observations.

Developed with Indian start-ups and academic institutions, the technology supports better planning, monitoring and decision-making.

The system can also support civilian agencies in disaster monitoring, land management, agriculture assessment and infrastructure planning.

Also on display was a compact, portable AI system designed to function even in areas with no internet or network connectivity. This "AI-in-a-Box" allows users to analyse information, plan tasks and receive decision support independently. Built to work in tough conditions, the system ensures technology remains available even in remote locations.

Developed with Indian research institutions and industry partners, it highlights how artificial intelligence can be adapted to Indian conditions rather than relying on imported solutions. The same technology can also support disaster relief teams and emergency planners working in isolated regions.

The army showcased an indigenous and secure artificial intelligence platform designed for sensitive environments. It enables users to analyse information, manage documents and support decision-making without dependence on foreign software or external cloud systems.

Also on display was a drone analysis system developed in India to study recovered drones and extract useful information. The tool helps understand how drones were used and supports better preparedness against emerging threats.

There was also an indigenously developed Advance Truss Bridge designed to quickly restore connectivity across rivers, gaps and damaged roads. Unlike older bridge systems that needed large human personnel and long assembly times, the new bridge can be set up much faster using fewer men. Its strength allows it to support heavy vehicles, while its modular design makes transportation and assembly easier in difficult terrains.

Other than military application, the bridge has significant value during floods, earthquakes and landslides, where rapid restoration of road links is critical for civilian relief and rescue operations.

The army also presented a made-in-India all-terrain vehicle developed specifically for narrow, steep and rugged mountain tracks where conventional vehicles cannot operate.

Designed after extensive field trials, the vehicle can carry supplies, evacuate injured personnel and support rescue operations in high-altitude and remote areas. Its development was driven by the practical experience of soldiers working in extreme conditions.

An unmanned firefighting robot that uses cameras and sensors to help firefighters tackle intense fires from a safe distance was also showcased. Controlled remotely, its use can save lives in defence installations, industrial areas and disaster situations.