Not opposed to creation of new structures: IAF Chief, Pg14.

Key Highlights:

• IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh stated that the IAF is not opposed to new structures under the proposed theaterisation plan, but it should be taken forward after deliberations.
• CDS General Anil Chauhan said that Operation Sindoor has yielded new lessons which would be incorporated in the new structures.
• ACM Singh highlighted the need to create a joint structure that also comprises paramilitary forces and civilian entities to deal with issues related to the use of drones.
• The IAF had earlier expressed reservations on the proposed creation of theatre commands.

Detailed Insights:

• Theaterisation aims to integrate the Army, Navy, and Air Force into joint commands for better synergy and resource optimization.
• ACM Singh emphasized that any decision on creating a new structure for synergy among the tri-services will be based on national interest.
• Operation Sindoor was a reflection of tri-services synergy, reaffirming the primacy of air power.
• General Chauhan said that in Op Sindoor, the service chiefs also had a major role as part of COSC (Chiefs of Staff Committee), and we need to rework the role of COSC.
• The rising use of drones in global conflicts can do things up to a certain level, but can’t help win wars.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Theaterisation: Integrating military commands of different services under a unified command.
• COSC (Chiefs of Staff Committee): A committee comprising the chiefs of the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
• Operation Sindoor: A joint operation reflecting tri-services synergy.