The Indian Army moves to significantly upgrade its training exercises with the potential creation of a specialized Opposing Forces (OPFOR) unit. This development, reported by The Indian Express, stems from discussions at the recent Army Commanders' Conference and awaits final approval from Army leadership.
The purpose of the OPFOR would be to meticulously portray a highly skilled adversary during drills and wargames, providing an invaluable learning experience for Indian soldiers.
In traditional exercises, the Indian Army designates "blue forces" as friendly troops, opposing a less-defined counterpart. The OPFOR unit would introduce a highly structured approach, meticulously simulating the tactics, deployment of weaponry, and strategic doctrines utilized by potential adversaries. This heightened realism creates a dynamic training environment that closely mirrors the complexities of actual combat.
Inspired by successful implementations in countries like the United States, the proposed OPFOR unit would draw personnel and resources from existing Army formations. These specialized troops would receive in-depth training to fully replicate the strategies and assets of potential opponents.
The Indian Army's Army Training Command (ARTRAC) employs a "REDFOR" (Red Forces) unit to analyze wargame plans through simulations. The OPFOR would expand this concept to live, on-the-ground opposition. Regular troops could actively engage with a skilled, adaptable foe during exercises.
The creation of a dedicated OPFOR unit highlights the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to maximizing the effectiveness and preparedness of its forces. By exposing soldiers to the tactics and operational techniques of potential adversaries in a realistic setting, this forward-looking initiative will undoubtedly strengthen core combat skills and bolster the readiness of the Indian Army.
Importantly, while current wargames and simulations primarily target officers and select ranks, the OPFOR would expose a wider range of troops to these invaluable training experiences. This aligns with the evolving nature of warfare, prioritizing comprehensive training to ensure future battlefield success.
