The Indian Army recently conducted an operational readiness exercise near the Zojila Pass in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to prepare for the harsh winter conditions. The exercise, conducted by the artillery regiment of the army under the Northern Command, aimed to refine professional skills and demonstrate the power of firepower in extreme weather conditions.
The 15 Medium Regiment, also known as the ‘Batalik Bombers’, set up action stations in a valley surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The soldiers used thermal image observation equipment and sight dials to set the target, and artillery shells were loaded into the guns. With the elevation of the field guns calibrated according to the target, the soldiers unleashed a deafening sound, forging thunderstorms amidst the frozen whispers of high altitudes.
The exercise was supervised by a Brigadier-rank officer and showcased the army’s ability to stay battle-ready in treacherous terrains. The Zojila Pass has historical significance in battles fought in the region. During the 1947-48 India-Pakistan war, the pass fell to Pakistani raiders and had to be captured before winter to defend Leh. The army launched Operation Bison and successfully captured Zojila, with tanks operated at such high altitudes for the first time.
In the 1999 Kargil conflict, the Indian Army faced threats to its access to the Zojila pass from Pakistan. However, the army, with the support of the artillery regiment and the newly acquired Bofors gun, played a crucial role in turning the tide against Pakistan and securing the pass. The ‘Batalik Bombers’ were deployed during the conflict.
The recent exercise near the Zojila Pass demonstrates the army’s commitment to maintaining operational readiness and refining its professional skills. As winter sets in, the army remains prepared for any challenges that may arise in the region.
