The Indian Army’s South Western Command conducted the “Sentinel Strike” integrated fire and manoeuvre exercise at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in the Thar desert from October 28 to 30, 2025. The three-day drill showcased coordinated ground manoeuvres by mechanised forces, including T-72 tanks, BMPs, and artillery, combined with live firing from both aerial and ground platforms within a simulated drone-threat environment. The exercise demonstrated comprehensive integration of combat arms and support elements, leveraging indigenous weapons systems and advanced network-centric warfare capabilities. It also emphasized counter-drone operations and real-time battlefield intelligence sharing to enhance operational transparency and effectiveness. Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Chief of the South Western Command, praised the exercise for high training standards and robust coordination. This exercise reinforces India’s preparedness in multi-domain operations, boosting synergy among various forces in the strategically vital Thar desert region. Sentinel Strike follows earlier major exercises in the region, highlighting India’s focus on self-reliance and advanced warfare tactics amid evolving security challenges.