India is set to host its largest-ever drone and counter-drone exercise, codenamed “Cold Start”, in the first week of October 2025. This ambitious exercise will bring together the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with top defence research organizations, private industry players, and academic institutions. The focus will be on simulating real battlefield scenarios, testing drones for reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike capabilities, as well as neutralizing potential drone threats. The exercise is expected to cover a range of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and counter-UAS technologies, ensuring India is better prepared for evolving aerial challenges. Beyond just training, “Cold Start” has strategic importance as it aligns with India’s plan to build a comprehensive indigenous air defence umbrella, “Sudarshan Chakra,” by 2035. This system aims to integrate drones, hypersonic defence measures, and advanced early-warning systems into a single robust shield. The exercise will also incorporate lessons learned from recent operations such as “Operation Sindoor,” giving India an edge in modern warfare preparedness and boosting self-reliance in defence technology. #news #Newsone #ColdStart #IndiaDefense #DroneExercise #IndianMilitary #DefenseTechnology #CombatReadiness #MilitaryDrills #IndiaNews
