Types of Indian Army : A Comprehensive Guide to India's Military Forces

The Indian Army operates under a well-defined hierarchical structure that ensures operational efficiency across diverse terrains and mission requirements. The Types of Indian Army units are organized based on combat roles, technical expertise, and specialized functions. Each component plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Combat Arms: The Frontline Forces

Combat Arms represent the primary fighting forces of the Indian Army, directly engaged in battlefield operations.

Infantry Regiments

The Infantry forms the largest component among the Types of Indian Army forces. These regiments specialize in ground combat and are the backbone of military operations. Notable infantry regiments include:

• Rajputana Rifles
• Sikh Regiment
• Gorkha Rifles
• Madras Regiment
• Punjab Regiment
• Jat Regiment

Infantry soldiers undergo rigorous training in various combat techniques, including urban warfare, jungle operations, and counter-insurgency tactics.

Armoured Corps

The Armoured Corps represents the mechanized might of the Indian Army, equipped with main battle tanks and armored fighting vehicles. This branch of the Types of Indian Army delivers decisive firepower and mobility on the battlefield. Key armoured regiments include:

• 1st Horse (Skinner’s Horse)
• Poona Horse
• Central India Horse
• Deccan Horse

Armoured Corps officers and soldiers receive specialized training in tank warfare, combined arms operations, and mechanized infantry tactics.

Artillery Regiments

Artillery provides crucial fire support to other combat arms through long-range firepower. Within the various Types of Indian Army divisions, artillery regiments operate:

• Field Artillery
• Medium Artillery
• Self-Propelled Artillery
• Rocket Artillery
• Air Defence Artillery

These units employ howitzers, rocket systems, and anti-aircraft weapons to support ground operations and defend against aerial threats.

Combat Support Arms

Combat Support Arms provide technical and tactical support to enhance the effectiveness of combat operations.

Corps of Engineers

The Corps of Engineers delivers engineering support for military operations, including:

• Military Engineering Services
• Border Roads Organization
• Territorial Army Engineer Regiments

These specialized Types of Indian Army units build bridges, clear minefields, construct defensive positions, and maintain critical infrastructure.

Corps of Signals

The Corps of Signals maintains the army’s communication networks, ensuring uninterrupted command and control. This technological branch of the Types of Indian Army manages:

• Strategic communication networks
• Tactical field communications
• Electronic warfare
• Information technology infrastructure

Army Aviation Corps

The Army Aviation Corps provides aerial support to ground forces through:

• Reconnaissance missions
• Casualty evacuation
• Troop transport
• Combat support operations

As one of the elite Types of Indian Army branches, the Aviation Corps operates helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Services

Service branches provide logistical and administrative support essential for sustaining military operations.

Army Service Corps (ASC)

The ASC handles the supply chain management for the Indian Army, including:

• Food supplies
• Fuel distribution
• Transport management
• Logistical planning

Army Medical Corps (AMC)

The AMC provides comprehensive healthcare services to army personnel and their families. This critical branch among the Types of Indian Army includes:

• Field medical units
• Military hospitals
• Specialized medical services
• Preventive healthcare programs

Corps of Military Police

Military Police units maintain discipline and security within army installations. Their responsibilities include:

• Traffic control
• Security operations
• Investigation of military offenses
• Prisoner management