Shillong/Meghalaya, May 26: The Indian Army’s four-legged warriors stole the spotlight during Exercise PRAGATI 2026, a multinational military exercise held at Umroi Military Station in Meghalaya. Amid high-intensity tactical drills and joint training with armed forces from 12 friendly nations, the Army’s K9 teams demonstrated their unmatched versatility and operational relevance. 

Defence spokesperson Lt Col Mahendra Rawat highlighted the dogs’ role as “silent force multipliers,” showcasing their ability to detect IEDs, track hostile movements, and support intervention operations. The demonstration featured three standout canine warriors: Alan, a Belgian Malinois assault dog; Victor, a Rampur Hound tracker dog; and Deo, a Labrador trained in explosive detection. Each dog displayed specialized skills, underlining the discipline, courage, and loyalty that make them indispensable in modern warfare.

A key highlight was the inclusion of India’s indigenous breed, the Rampur Hound, represented by Victor. Known for resilience, disease resistance, and adaptability to diverse climates, the Rampur Hound reflects the Army’s push towards self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. By integrating indigenous breeds into operational roles, the Army strengthens its capabilities while promoting native resources.

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The K9 teams also demonstrated adaptability across terrains ranging from deserts to glaciers, proving their effectiveness in diverse operational environments. Their speed, instinct, and loyalty make them invaluable assets in high-risk scenarios where human limitations may arise.

Adding a futuristic dimension, the exercise also showcased robotic dogs, symbolizing the evolving synergy between tradition and technology. Together, trained K9 units and robotic platforms presented a compelling vision of how modern militaries can blend instinct-driven animal skills with cutting-edge innovation to enhance operational effectiveness.

As Lt Col Rawat aptly summarized, “At Exercise PRAGATI 2026, the K9 warriors stood out as silent force multipliers, embodying courage, loyalty, and readiness.” Their performance not only highlighted the Indian Army’s operational excellence but also underscored the growing importance of canine and robotic integration in future military operations.

Exercise PRAGATI 2026, which began on May 20, brought together personnel from Bhutan, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, the Philippines, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. The two-week-long event aims to strengthen regional cooperation, interoperability, and strategic coordination among participating nations.