Indian Army To Induct 25 Bhairav Battalions Over Next Six Months, Five Already Deployed

Last Updated:October 22, 2025, 23:19 IST

The Indian Army confirmed that five Bhairav battalions are already undergoing field training, with 25 in total to be operational within the next six months.

The Indian Army has already deployed five Bhairav Battalions. (PTI Image)

In a move that can boost combat readiness and plug the gap between conventional infantry and special forces, the Indian Army has initiated a fast rollout of its newly raised Bhairav battalions. The Indian Army confirmed that five Bhairav battalions are already undergoing field training, with 25 in total to be operational within the next six months.

These compact, multi-domain units are designed to deliver disproportionate operational impact through agility, technology, and precision and were announced by the Indian Army Chief on the occasion of Vijay Diwas. The on-the-job training for the first batch began on October 1 and will conclude by October 30, after which the battalions will be fully mission-ready.

Speaking on the development, Lt Gen Ajay Kumar Singh, DG Infantry in the Indian Army said, “Each Bhairav battalion comprises about 250 personnel, positioned between an infantry and special forces battalion in both structure and capability. Another four battalions will start their field training next month, forming the second phase of deployment. We will have 25 such battalions in the next six months."

Equipped with lightweight, disposable weapon systems and a large fleet of drones for surveillance, deep strikes, and target acquisition, these battalions are capable of operating independently in complex terrains. They are also armed with anti-aircraft missiles and precision-guided artillery support, allowing them to execute targeted operations deep inside contested zones.

ALSO READ: ‘Rudra, Bhairav, Shaktibaan’: Army Ready For All-Arms Brigades, Exclusive Drone Units, Special Ops Battalions

“Like infantry battalions have 800-900 personnel, special forces are lesser in number. this is a force created to bridge the gap, meet the challenge to meet the space between infantry battalions and special forces, commando battalions, to carry out the task…lean and mean," said Lt. Gen Kumad.

Designed for high-impact missions such as surprise attacks, counter-insurgency, and border patrols, these units integrate modern technologies like drone platoons and loitering munitions. Lt. General Ajay Kumar Singh explained they can carry out strikes on “vulnerable areas" of the enemy.

News18 had earlier reported that all of this is a part of the army’s ‘Decade of Transformation’ initiative. Other than Bhairav Battalions, Rudra Brigades, ShaktiBaan, Divyastra and other concepts are also being implemented on the ground.

Akash Sharma

Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin...Read More

Akash Sharma, Defence Correspondent, CNN-News 18, covers the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Railways. In addition, he also follows developments in the national capital. With an extensive experience coverin...

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News india Indian Army To Induct 25 Bhairav Battalions Over Next Six Months, Five Already Deployed

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