Months ago, the Army submitted a draft Government Sanction Letter (GSL) for the creation of the IBGs, which aim to enhance combat capabilities along the frontiers.What is the Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs)? The IBGs are envisioned as agile, brigade-sized combat formations designed to make the Army more lethal and better suited for modern warfare with the support of technology. These formations will be tailor-made based on three factors: Threat, Terrain, and Task.”Every IBG will be self-contained, mixing elements of every arm and service according to the terrain and operational requirements,” General Dwivedi noted. In case of hostilities, the IBGs will be capable of launching swift strikes against the enemy.As reported earlier, two IBGs were initially planned. One is expected to be under the 9 Corps, which operates on the Western Border with Pakistan, and the other under the 17 Strike Corps, operating along the Northern border with China.The IBGs are expected to be led by a Major-General rank officer. Each IBG will have a troop strength of around 5,000 personnel, larger than a brigade (3,000-3,500 troops) but smaller than a division (10,000-12,000 troops).These self-sufficient formations will include Infantry, Artillery, Armoured units, Engineers, Signals, Air Defence, and other arms and services, enabling them to prepare for combat within 12-48 hours.The final decision on the IBGs remains pending, with the Army hopeful of achieving a breakthrough by 2025.
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