Exercise Cold Start: India’s Mega Tri-Service Drone Drill
Syllabus: Defence and Security (UPSC GS III, Prelims)
Source: The Hindu
Context
India will conduct a large-scale tri-service military exercise ‘Cold Start’ in Madhya Pradesh in October 2025.
It will be the biggest joint drill on drones and counter-drone systems since Operation Sindoor.
What is Exercise Cold Start?
- A tri-service military drill involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
- Focused on drones, UAVs, and counter-drone systems in modern warfare.
- Host: Madhya Pradesh, first week of October 2025.
Key Objectives
- Test and enhance operational readiness against drone-based threats.
- Simulate aerial attacks and defence responses.
- Identify gaps in India’s air defence systems.
- Strengthen capabilities in counter-drone and jamming technologies, especially vis-à-vis adversaries like Pakistan.
Participation
- Indian Armed Forces: Army, Navy, Air Force (joint operation).
- Industry and Academia: Defence R&D agencies, private industry, and universities will contribute to technology development.
Major Features
- Live demonstrations of drones and counter-drone systems.
- Use of GPS jamming, electronic warfare, and surveillance tools.
- Concept inspired by the Sudarshan Chakra for integrated air defence against drones, UAVs, and hypersonic missiles.
- Testing of indigenous technologies developed in collaboration with Indian industry and research institutions.
Significance
- Promotes jointness among the three armed forces.
- Demonstrates India’s preparedness for technology-driven future conflicts.
- Provides a platform for military–industry–academia collaboration in defence R&D.
- Enhances India’s ability to counter emerging aerial threats effectively.
