In a decisive step towards strengthening India’s frontline combat readiness, the Indian Army has officially begun raising its Bhairav Light Commando Battalions-specialised units designed for quick deployment and swift strike missions along sensitive borders.
The move comes as part of the Army’s broader modernisation drive, announced earlier this year during Kargil Vijay Diwas 2025 by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. These battalions are expected to provide India with a sharper edge in tackling emerging threats along both the China and Pakistan frontiers.
Unlike traditional infantry or elite Special Forces, the Bhairav battalions are being structured as high-mobility shock units, capable of executing reconnaissance, disruption, and short-duration offensive tasks. Each battalion will consist of roughly 250 commandos, carefully selected from regimental centres and given advanced training to prepare them for high-intensity missions.
By October 2025, the Army aims to have 23 Bhairav battalions operational, with five units already nearing deployment. These units will not only ease the burden on Special Forces but will also enhance the Army’s ability to deliver swift tactical responses without expanding overall troop strength.
The creation of Bhairav battalions is part of a larger structural transformation that includes the induction of Rudra Brigades, Divyastra artillery units, drone platoons, and Shaktibaan regiments-all geared towards making the Army faster, more agile, and future-ready.
Military experts believe this step reflects a shift from conventional massed formations to modular, technology-integrated combat forces, enabling the Army to operate effectively in high-altitude regions and counter simultaneous two-front challenges.
With the Bhairav units moving closer to full operational status, India’s border defence strategy is set to gain a new dimension of speed, precision, and flexibility.
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