SOURCE: AFI
The recent visit of a US Army delegation to the Indian Army’s High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) at Sonamarg has highlighted the growing importance of high-altitude operations in the changing geo-strategic landscape.
India, with its extensive Himalayan border, has long recognized the significance of high-altitude warfare. However, the 2020 standoff with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) has further intensified the focus on this domain.
The Indian military has since been undertaking significant efforts to enhance its capabilities in high-altitude operations, including:
- Prolonged Deployments: The Indian Army has extended the duration of troop deployments at ‘super high altitudes,’ which were previously considered challenging and unsustainable.
- Human Physiology Research: Extensive research is being conducted to understand the physiological effects of high-altitude environments on soldiers, enabling the development of effective countermeasures.
- Equipment Development: The military is developing specialized equipment designed to withstand extreme cold and harsh conditions, ensuring the safety and operational efficiency of troops.
- Infrastructure Development: The construction of critical infrastructure, such as roads, shelters, and logistics facilities, is underway to support sustained operations at high altitudes.
The collaboration between India and the US in the field of high-altitude warfare is a testament to the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. By sharing knowledge and expertise, both countries aim to enhance their capabilities in this challenging domain. As the global geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, high-altitude warfare is likely to remain a critical area of focus for both India and the US.