The Indian Army is taking a significant leap in enhancing its rapid response and strike capabilities along its sensitive borders by raising new light commando battalions called ‘Bhairav’ units. These nimble and specialized battalions are designed to fill the operational gap between conventional infantry forces and elite Para-Special Forces, offering a potent mix of speed, agility, and advanced tactical firepower to swiftly counter threats from two of India’s most challenging fronts — China in the north and Pakistan in the west.

By the end of October 2025, the Army plans to have the first five Bhairav battalions operational, with a long-term vision to raise up to 23 such units. Each battalion is considerably leaner than a standard infantry battalion, comprising around 250 specially trained soldiers equipped with state-of-the-art weaponry, gadgets, and drones. This smaller size enhances their mobility and enables rapid, high-impact tactical operations in diverse terrains from the snow-capped heights of Ladakh to the arid deserts in the western sector.

Three of these initial battalions will be strategically placed under the Northern Command based in Udhampur, covering critical areas such as Leh, Srinagar, and Nagrota. The remaining two have been allocated to the desert and hilly eastern sectors, ensuring a broad geographic spread to address multi-front operational challenges.

What sets the Bhairav units apart is their dual role: while they will undertake swift strike and reconnaissance missions to disrupt enemy plans and fortify defensive lines, they also serve to relieve the pressure on Para-Special Forces. These elite forces can then focus on deeper, high-risk special operations that demand clandestine expertise, while the Bhairav units handle tactical engagements that require speed and precision but do not necessitate the full spectrum of Special Forces capabilities.

Their formation forms a part of a broader modernization effort under Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi’s vision, which also includes the raising of integrated “Rudra” all-arms brigades and technologically advanced artillery regiments equipped with precision loitering munitions and electronic warfare support. Additionally, every infantry battalion will now feature dedicated drone platoons, reflecting a decisive shift toward network-centric warfare.

The Bhairav battalions exemplify how the Indian Army is evolving to meet modern warfare’s demands by embracing agility, technological integration, and operational versatility. These units will be vital in managing localized flare-ups, hybrid warfare scenarios, and conventional frontline confrontations with quick, effective responses—strengthening India’s defensive and offensive posture on some of its most volatile borders.

In essence, the Bhairav commando units aspire to be a force multiplier, enhancing the Indian Army’s ability to conduct swift, impactful military operations without expanding troop numbers—achieving more with optimized resources, better training, and cutting-edge equipment. This layered approach enhances overall force readiness and resilience against evolving threats in a complex geopolitical landscape. This development adds a critical new dimension to India’s defense capabilities, reflecting a thoughtful and adaptive military strategy aimed at securing peace and stability amid ongoing regional challenges. This move is not just about raising new units; it’s about redefining how India prepares for and responds to multi-domain conflicts in the 21st century.