The battlefield, change and the Indian armed forces, Pg8

Key Highlights:

• Prime Minister Modi emphasized the move towards integrated theatre commands at the combined commanders conference in Kolkata.
• The Ministry of Defence is reviewing structural and operational matters, including the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Rules, 2025.
• Tri-service agencies for cyber, space, and special operations have been raised under Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS).
• New battle formations like "Rudra" and "Bhairav" combine various elements into modular combat groups for faster deployment.
• Recent procurement includes MQ-9B drones for enhanced ISR and precision strike capabilities across land and sea.
• The Army's Integrated Battle Groups are designed for rapid deployment within 12 to 48 hours.
• Pralay quasi-ballistic missile completed user trials in July 2025, enhancing land-based theatre fires.

Detailed Insights:

• Past attempts at building jointness have yielded limited results, necessitating faster and more comprehensive reforms.
• The Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Rules, 2025 aim to empower commanders in joint operations.
• The creation of tri-service agencies and battle formations reflects a shift towards integrated and modular operational capabilities.
• The declassification of India’s Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations provides a framework for integrating maritime, air, and land forces.
• Doctrinal evolution must consider that future wars will be multi-domain, with speed and information playing crucial roles.
• Integrating Akashteer with the Air Force’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) is a standard step in advancing jointness.
• Establishing stable and effective jointness requires setting common data and interface standards.
• Civil-military fusion is indispensable for integrating the DRDO, DPSUs, private industry, and universities into military education and exercises.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Jointness: Integration of the armed forces to enhance operational effectiveness.
• Theatre Commands: Unified command structures integrating different services under a single commander.
• ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance): Activities that collect information to support decision-making.
• Civil-Military Fusion: Collaboration between civilian and military sectors for technological and strategic advancement.