The Indian Armoured Corps: A Legacy of Velour and Strength
The Indian Armoured Corps, a vital component of the Indian Army, stands as
a symbol of power, precision, and strategic dominance. Established in 1941,
the Corps has evolved into one of the most formidable Armoured forces in
the world, playing a pivotal role in India's military history. With a rich legacy
of valour, the Indian Armoured Corps has consistently demonstrated its
prowess on the battlefield, earning a reputation for excellence and resilience.
This article delves into the history, structure, regiments, and modern
advancements of the Indian Armoured Corps, highlighting its enduring
significance in India's defense architecture.
Historical Background:
The origins of the Indian Armoured Corps can be traced back to the early
20th century when the British Indian Army recognized the need for
mechanized forces. The first Indian cavalry regiments were raised during
World War I, primarily for reconnaissance and support roles. However, the
advent of tanks and mechanized warfare during World War II led to the
formal establishment of the Indian Armoured Corps in 1941. The Corps
quickly adapted to the changing dynamics of warfare, transitioning from
horse-mounted cavalry to Armoured tanks.
The Indian Armoured Corps played a decisive role in several key conflicts,
including the Indo-Pak wars of 1947, 1965, and 1971. During the 1965 war,
the Corps achieved legendary status in the Battle of Asal Uttar, where it
decimated Pakistan's Patton tanks, earning the title "Graveyard of Patton
Tanks." In the 1971 war, the Corps was instrumental in the liberation of
Bangladesh, showcasing its tactical brilliance and unwavering courage.
Structure and Role:
The Indian Armoured Corps is organized into regiments, each with its own
unique history, traditions, and insignia. These regiments form the backbone
of India's mechanized forces, operating a diverse fleet of battle tanks,
including the indigenously developed Arjun MBT, the Russian-origin T-90
Bhishma, and the T-72 Ajeya. The Corps is tasked with providing the Indian
Army with rapid, mobile, and lethal firepower, capable of dominating the
battlefield in both offensive and defensive operations.
The primary roles of the Armoured Corps include:
1. Breakthrough Operations: Penetrating enemy defenses to create
opportunities for follow-on forces.
2. Exploitation: Capitalizing on breakthroughs to disrupt enemy lines and
secure strategic objectives.
3. Defensive Operations: Holding critical terrain and repelling enemy
advances.
4. Reconnaissance: Gathering intelligence and providing situational
awareness to commanders.
Regiments of the Indian Armoured Corps:
The Indian Armoured Corps comprises several distinguished regiments, each
with a rich heritage and a proud record of service. Some of the most notable
regiments include:
1. The President's Bodyguard (PBG): The oldest regiment of the Indian
Army, established in 1773. Originally a cavalry unit, it now serves as
the ceremonial bodyguard of the President of India.
2. 17th Horse (Poona Horse): Known for its gallantry in the Battle of
Asal Uttar during the 1965 war, the Poona Horse is one of the most
decorated regiments in the Indian Army.
3. Skinner’s Horse: It was one of the oldest and finest Indian
Armoured. It is also known as Sikandar Saheb’s regiment.
4. 4th Horse (Hodson's Horse): Established in 1857, this regiment has a
distinguished history of service in both World Wars and post-
independence conflicts.
5. 7th Light Cavalry: Raised in 1784, this regiment played a crucial role
in the liberation of Bangladesh during the 1971 war.
6. 8th Light Cavalry: Known for its participation in the Battle of
Basantar during the 1971 war, this regiment has a proud legacy of
bravery and sacrifice.
7. 14th Horse (Scinde Horse): Established in 1839, this regiment has a
rich history of service in various conflicts, including the World Wars and
the Indo-Pak wars.
18. 8th Cavalry: This regiment has earned numerous accolades for its
performance in both wartime and peacetime operations.
9. 62nd Cavalry: The only armoured regiment of the Indian Army to
have been raised post-independence, in 1957. It has quickly
established itself as a formidable force.
10. 63rd Cavalry: Raised in 1957, this regiment has played a significant
role in various operations, including counter-insurgency and
peacekeeping missions.
Modernization and Technological Advancements
The Indian Armoured Corps has consistently embraced technological
advancements to maintain its edge on the battlefield. The Corps operates a
mix of indigenous and imported tanks, each equipped with state-of-the-art
technology. The Arjun MBT, developed by the Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO), is a testament to India's growing self-
reliance in defense manufacturing. With advanced features like a 120mm
rifled gun, composite armor, and a sophisticated fire control system, the
Arjun MBT is a formidable addition to the Corps' arsenal.
The T-90 Bhishma, a Russian-origin main battle tank, is another key
component of the Armoured Corps. Known for its mobility, firepower, and
protection, the T-90 has been extensively customized to meet the specific
needs of the Indian Army. Similarly, the T-72 Ajeya, though older, remains a
reliable workhorse, with upgrades enhancing its combat effectiveness.
In recent years, the Indian Armoured Corps has also focused on integrating
modern technologies like artificial intelligence, unmanned systems, and
network-centric warfare. These advancements enable the Corps to operate
more efficiently, with enhanced situational awareness and coordination.
Training and Leadership
The Armoured Corps Centre and School in Ahmednagar, Maharashtra, is the
premier institution for training tank crews and officers. The center
emphasizes rigorous training, simulated combat scenarios, and the
integration of modern technology to prepare soldiers for the complexities of
modern warfare. Leadership development is a key focus, with officers trained
to make quick, informed decisions in high-pressure situations.
The Indian Armoured Corps stands as a testament to India's military heritage
and its commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty. With a rich history
of valor, a diverse fleet of advanced tanks, and a focus on modernization, the
Corps remains a formidable force on the global stage. Its regiments, each
with a unique legacy, continue to inspire future generations of soldiers. The
Corps' motto, *"Veer Bhogya Vasundhara"* (The Brave Shall Inherit the
Earth), encapsulates its spirit of courage, determination, and excellence. As
the Indian Armoured Corps marches into the future, it remains a pillar of
strength, ready to defend the nation against any threat.
