Warfare goes hybrid: Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps validates manned-unmanned teaming in major tactical breakthrough

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaApril 6, 2025

In a major stride toward future warfare, the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps has successfully demonstrated Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) capabilities during Exercise SARVSHAKTI, held in a key operational theatre in the Northeast. This breakthrough highlights the Army’s readiness to merge cutting-edge technology with traditional combat roles in preparation for high-intensity, multi-domain conflicts.

The exercise, which showcased the seamless integration of drones, AI-powered platforms, and autonomous systems alongside manned units, marks a significant shift in India’s battlefield strategy—blending boots on the ground with eyes in the sky and algorithms in the loop.

“This is a proud milestone,” said Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps. “SARVSHAKTI not only validates the MUM-T concept but also proves the Indian soldier’s adaptability in integrating with next-gen systems. This is the battlefield of the future—fast, flexible, and fused.”

Key highlights from Exercise Sarvshakti: Real-time surveillance and target acquisition using a mix of unmanned aerial systems and traditional platforms.

Demonstration of AI-enabled decision-making loops that dramatically shortened response time on the battlefield.

Live validation of man-machine coordination for reconnaissance, situational awareness, and tactical superiority.

The execution of MUM-T is more than a technological achievement—it represents a paradigm shift in operational doctrine, bringing India closer to global military innovators that are moving toward Multi-Domain Operations (MDO).

As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision, the Army emphasized the importance of indigenous innovation and self-reliance in defence tech. The systems deployed were largely sourced from or developed in collaboration with Indian defence startups, signalling the growing role of homegrown solutions in national security.

The Northeast, given its strategic terrain and sensitive borders, provides the ideal backdrop for stress-testing such future capabilities. With Trishakti Corps at the helm, the Indian Army is clearly sending a message—it’s not just ready for the next battle; it’s ready for the next kind of battle.