Nashik: The Indian Army’s Regiment of Artillery demonstrated its massive fire strike capabilities on Wednesday during "Exercise TOPCHI," a high-intensity annual drill that saw the earth-shaking deployment of both modern and indigenously built long-range weaponry.

The exercise, held at the School of Artillery’s Devlali Field Firing Ranges, centred on the seamless synchronisation of heavy firepower with cutting-edge surveillance technology, including drones, rockets, and aviation assets.

Observers witnessed the K-9 Vajra self-propelled gun and the M777 ultra-light howitzer "breathe fire" alongside a formidable array of artillery, including the 155 mm FH77B02 (Bofors), Dhanush, and the Pinaka Multiple Rocket Launcher. According to the event's commentary, many of the featured systems had previously seen action in several offensive campaigns, including "Operation Sindoor."

This year’s iteration marked a milestone with the first-ever participation of "Gun Dets" from the Border Security Force (BSF) and Indian Navy sailors operating surveillance drones. The display also featured airborne manoeuvres by troopers from the Army's Parachute Regiment using paramotors and hang-gliders.

The exercise was led by Lieutenant General Navneet Singh Sarna, Commandant of the School of Artillery. Lieutenant General Manish Erry, Commandant of the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington, attended as the chief guest.

"The exercise served as a powerful testament to the professionalism and operational excellence of the Indian Artillery," Sarna said. "It underscores operational preparedness, technological advancement, and the emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing, reflecting India's focus on self-reliance and modernisation."

The audience included student officers from the DSSC and the Nepal Army Command and Staff College, as well as local civil administrators and students from across Maharashtra.

With inputs from PTI