Indian Army’s Red Shield Division carried out a specialised K9 slithering exercise in Manipur to enhance its rapid deployment capabilities in challenging terrain.
Troops practised fast-roping from helicopters using specialised techniques. The exercise focused on quick insertion and extraction of soldiers into dense forest and hilly areas. It tested coordination between ground forces and aviation units under realistic conditions.
The Red Shield Division, responsible for security in parts of Manipur, regularly conducts such training to maintain high readiness. The K9 slithering drill improves the ability of troops to reach remote locations swiftly during counter-insurgency or disaster relief operations.
A senior Army officer said the exercise was conducted successfully. He added that all participating units met the set standards and demonstrated good teamwork and precision.
K9 slithering involves soldiers sliding down ropes from hovering helicopters. It allows troops to deploy without landing the aircraft, which is useful in areas with limited open ground. The training also included safety procedures and different rope techniques suited to Manipur’s difficult landscape.
This type of specialised training forms part of the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to prepare for operations in the Northeast. The Red Shield Division continues to focus on mobility, rapid response, and joint drills with other security forces in the region.
The Indian Army regularly holds such exercises across different formations to sharpen skills and ensure operational effectiveness in varied terrains. These efforts support internal security duties as well as readiness for any contingency in the sensitive border areas of the Northeast.
