Ex topchi 2026 - integrated firepower exercise school of artillery, Devlali

**Executive Summary** The document reports on Exercise TOPCHI 2026, the annual firepower demonstration and training event of the Regiment of Artillery, held at the School of Artillery, Devlali, on January 21, 2026. The exercise showcased integrated firepower and surveillance technologies and demonstrated the spirit of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' by featuring live firing of various guns including indigenously manufactured artillery systems. The event involved various units and showcased operational excellence and technological advancement. **Key Points / Main Content** * **Event Overview:** * Exercise TOPCHI 2026 was conducted on January 21, 2026, at the School of Artillery, Devlali Field Firing Ranges. * It's the flagship annual firepower demonstration and training event of the Regiment of Artillery. * **Leadership and Attendance:** * The event was organized under the leadership of Lieutenant General N S Sarna. * The Chief Guest was Lieutenant General Manish Erry. * Attendees included student officers from Defence Services Staff College, Wellington & Defence Services Technical Staff Course, Nepal Army Command & Staff College, key officials from the Indian Army, civil administration, local populace, and students from Maharashtra. * **Demonstration Highlights:** * Showcased the integration of advanced firepower and surveillance technologies, including guns, mortars, rockets, drones, and aviation assets. * Featured live firing of various guns, including the K-9 Vajra, M777 Ultra Light Howitzer, 155 mm FH77B02 (Bofors), Soltam, Dhanush, 105 mm Indian Field Gun (IFG), Light Field Gun (LFG), 120 mm Mortar, GRAD BM-21, and Pinaka Multiple Rocket Launcher. * Included participation from gun detachments of the Border Security Force (BSF) and Indian Navy sailors with drones. * Paratroopers from the Parachute Regiment, along with paramotors and hand gliders, showcased their capabilities. * **Purpose and Significance:** * Demonstrated the professionalism and operational excellence of the Indian Artillery. * Underscored operational preparedness, technological advancement, and emphasis on indigenous defence manufacturing. * Reflected India's focus on self-reliance and modernisation in defence. **Impact Analysis** **Regiment of Artillery** * **Impact**: The exercise demonstrates capabilities, professionalism, and operational readiness. * **Action Required**: Maintain high standards of operational excellence and continue embracing technological advancements. **Indian Army** * **Impact**: Reinforces commitment to indigenous defence manufacturing and modernisation, enhances operational readiness. * **Action Required**: Continue to support and encourage indigenous defence manufacturing initiatives. **Ministry of Defence** * **Impact**: Showcases the effectiveness of defence strategies and capabilities. * **Action Required**: Use the positive outcomes of the exercise to further strengthen the defence capabilities and promote self-reliance. **Defence Service Staff College, Wellington, Defence Services Technical Staff Course, and Nepal Army Command & Staff College Students** * **Impact**: Provides practical exposure and training in integrated firepower and surveillance technologies. * **Action Required**: Apply the knowledge and experiences gained during the exercise to future training and operational activities. **Border Security Force (BSF) and Indian Navy** * **Impact**: Showcases the integration of different units and technologies in defence operations. * **Action Required**: Continue to collaborate and integrate capabilities with other defence forces to enhance operational effectiveness.

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