Context
India is preparing to conduct a mega tri-service drone drill ‘Exercise Cold Start’ in Madhya Pradesh in October 2025. This will be the largest joint exercise on drones and counter-drone systems since Operation Sindoor, reflecting the increasing significance of unmanned aerial warfare and air defence preparedness in the country’s security strategy.
About Exercise Cold Start
- A tri-service military exercise focused on testing drones and counter-drone systems.
- Designed to simulate aerial threats and evaluate defensive responses in modern warfare scenarios.
- Scheduled for the first week of October 2025, hosted in Madhya Pradesh.
Organisations Involved
- Participation by Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force (joint effort).
- Supported by industry partners, R&D agencies, and academic institutions as knowledge collaborators.
Aims of the Exercise
- To assess operational readiness against drones, UAVs, and aerial swarm attacks.
- To identify existing gaps and strengthen India’s air defence capabilities.
- To maintain technological edge over adversaries like Pakistan in counter-drone and jamming technologies.
Key Features
- Live drills with drones and counter-drone systems.
- Integration of GPS jamming, electronic warfare, and surveillance systems.
- Concept inspired by the Sudarshan Chakra, representing integrated defence against UAVs, drones, hypersonic missiles, and other threats.
- Testing of indigenous technologies developed with collaboration between industry and academia.
Significance
- Enhances jointness among armed forces in the domain of counter-drone warfare.
- Showcases India’s preparedness for future conflicts dominated by drones and AI-driven technologies.
- Provides a platform for synergy between military, industry, and academia, accelerating defence R&D and innovation.
Conclusion
Exercise Cold Start is more than a routine drill—it represents India’s strategic shift towards future warfare. By focusing on drones, counter-drone technologies, and integrated electronic warfare, the exercise not only strengthens national security but also establishes India’s technological edge in the region. It reflects a forward-looking defence posture designed to secure the nation against evolving aerial threats.
Source : The Hindu
