Indian Army Conducts Exercise Jai Se Vijay on NH-911 Near India-Pakistan Border

On September 29, 2026, the Indian Army carried out Exercise Jai Se Vijay on National Highway 911 near Dantour in Rajasthan. This highway segment, located close to the sensitive India-Pakistan international border, was temporarily converted into a military runway for helicopter operations.

Strategic Location and Significance

The exercise took place in Rajasthan under the jurisdiction of the South Western Command, also known as the Sapta Shakti Command. Using NH-911 as a makeshift airstrip highlights the Indian Army's focus on maximizing infrastructure utility in border zones where permanent airfields may be limited, thus ensuring rapid deployment and enhanced operational flexibility in conflict scenarios.

Helicopter Operations During the Exercise

The drills involved the Army Aviation Corps deploying the following helicopters:

• Rudra – an armed variant of the Advanced Light Helicopter.
• Dhruv – an indigenous advanced light helicopter used for multiple roles.
• Chetak – the Indian license-built version of the Aérospatiale Alouette III.

These helicopters executed precision takeoffs and landings directly on the highway, demonstrating the capability to use road infrastructure as alternative landing and operational zones.

Operational Purpose and Theme

Exercise Jai Se Vijay was aimed at testing and enhancing the army’s operational preparedness, agility, and ability to use non-traditional landing sites. The drill’s theme, “Mission Ready, Future Ready”, underlines the emphasis on readiness for future battlefield challenges using flexible, multi-role infrastructure solutions, especially in strategically sensitive border regions.

Relevance for Competitive Exam Learners

This exercise exemplifies India’s military strategy of utilizing dual-use infrastructure for logistical and tactical superiority in border defense. Key facts to remember include:

• Exercise date: September 29, 2026.
• Location: NH-911 near Dantour, Rajasthan—close to the India-Pakistan international border.
• Command: South Western Command (Sapta Shakti Command).
• Helicopters used: Rudra, Dhruv, Chetak.

Understanding such exercises provides insights into India’s border security measures and military modernization efforts.