Hand-to-Hand Combat Training for Regular Infantry Soldiers in the Indian Army

The Indian Army places a significant emphasis on the combat readiness of its regular infantry soldiers, ensuring they are well-equipped for modern warfare. A key component of this readiness is the hand-to-hand combat training that is meticulously integrated into the overall training regimen. This training not only enhances physical fitness but also equips soldiers with essential close-quarter combat skills.

Key Components of Hand-to-Hand Combat Training

Hand-to-hand combat training in the Indian Army is designed to prepare soldiers for situations where firearms cannot be feasibly used. This training involves a combination of unarmed combat techniques and the use of basic weapons. The focus is on close-quarter combat, which typically occurs in enclosed spaces where mobility and quick reaction times are crucial.

Diverse Training Methods

The Indian Army utilizes a variety of training methods to enhance the combat readiness of its soldiers. These methods include:

Traditional Indian martial arts like Kalaripayattu Modern combat techniques from various disciplines Incorporation of martial arts elements from different styles

The training is comprehensive and structured, covering a wide range of techniques and skills. This ensures that regular infantry soldiers can effectively defend themselves and engage in combat in scenarios where guns may not be an option.

Structured Training Programs

The training programs are designed to build proficiency in hand-to-hand combat skills. Regular exercises and drills are conducted to maintain and improve these skills throughout a soldier's service. The training programs are based on the Fairbairn system, a combat technique developed during World War II. The Indian Army has modified this system to suit its needs.

Army Battle Combatives (ABC)

A recent development in the Indian Army's hand-to-hand combat training is the introduction of the Army Battle Combatives (ABC) program. This program was developed by Hon. Major Deepak Rao and is aimed at both regular infantry soldiers and elite commando units.

The ABC program includes 125 techniques designed to both terminate and cripple the enemy. These techniques are derived from a variety of modern martial arts and combat training methods, including:

Israeli Krav Maga Pekiti Tirsia Kali Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Muay Thai US Army Combatives Shaolin Chinna Pencak Silat Vale Tudo Shuto Fairbairn Defendo Russian Systema Bison System

Major Rao has extensive experience in training elite units in close-quarters battle (CQB) and unarmed combat, having worked with these units for over two decades. The ABC program is designed to be practical and easily applicable, with techniques that are straightforward and effective.

The Indian Army is known for its innovative training methods, and the ABC program is a testament to this. While the details of the ABC program are not widely known outside the military, it is gaining recognition within the armed forces and beyond. As it becomes more popular, it is expected to shape the future of hand-to-hand combat training in the Indian Army.

For more information and updates on the training programs of the Indian Army, please visit their official website or contact relevant military personnel.