IAF conducts Exercise ROTOR CLAP-III at Pokhran

9 August 2026NationalRajasthan

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted the 3rd edition of Exercise ROTOR CLAP-III, a Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) exercise, at the Pokhran Field Firing Range, Jaisalmer (Rajasthan) on 1-2 August 2026. It validated helicopter-based operational concepts against emerging drone threats. The exercise featured AH-64 Apache, Mi-25/35, HAL Prachand (LCH), CH-47 Chinook, Mi-17 and HAL Dhruv (ALH) helicopters — underscoring the IAF''s focus on countering low-cost drones and swarms.

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IAF founded: 8 October 1932 | Motto: Nabhah Sparsham Diptam (Touch the Sky with Glory) | HAL Prachand is India''s indigenous Light Combat Helicopter | Pokhran also hosts Exercise Vayu Shakti

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The IAF held Exercise ROTOR CLAP-III, a counter-drone (C-UAS) helicopter exercise, at Pokhran, Rajasthan (1-2 Aug 2026).

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