Exercise Bharat Shakti, a tri-service fire and manoeuvre exercise, was organised under the aegis of the Indian Army on March 12 in Pokhran. The synergised demonstration of indigenous defence capabilities is a testimony to its commitment towards modernisation through indigenisation.

Displaying an array of indigenous weapon systems and platforms as a demonstration of the prowess of the country, premised on the nation’s Aatmanirbharata initiative, the ‘Bharat Shakti’ exercise simulated realistic, synergised, multi-domain operations displaying integrated operational capabilities of the Indian armed forces to counter threats across land, air, sea, cyber, and space domains.

A static display of various equipment and weapons in the display arena gave a holistic view of the indigenous platforms of the Armed Forces. Equipment & weapons on display included various drones and counter-drone systems, simulators, and communication systems, including software-defined radio (SDR), radars, LCH Prachand, ALH, Akash Missile Systems, Jammers and electronic warfare systems from all three services.

From the Army, Multi-Mode Hand Grenade (MMHG), Laser Dazzler, Thermal Imager Integrated Observation Equipment (TIIOE) and Night Sights, Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition (CALM), Low Power Jammer Systems, Mini RPAs, Aerial Targeting Sys (ATS) ER, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Munition (ULPGM), 3D Printed Bunkers, Operation Theatre on Wheel (11xALS/HMV), Weapon Locating Radar Swathi, TATA Xenon & ALS Medical Ambulance with Critical Care Equipment, NAMIS (Tracked), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Receiver, Artificial Intelligence Based Satellite Imagery Analysis System, Situational Awareness Module for Army (SAMA) were some of the prominent items on display.

Over a 50 minute duration, several top-line equipment development and license manufactured in India were put through paces, including T-90 (IM) tanks, Dhanush and Sarang artillery guns, Akash surface to air system, logistics drones, robotic mules, light combat aircraft and advanced light helicopter among others.

While the Indian Army showcased the advanced ground warfare and aerial surveillance capabilities, the Indian Navy highlighting maritime strength and technological sophistication, showcased naval anti-ship missiles, autonomous cargo carrying aerial vehicles, and expendable aerial targets. The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased the indigenously developed light combat aircraft Tejas, light utility helicopters, and advanced light helicopters to demonstrate air superiority and versatility in air operations.

Prime Minister in Attendance

The first-ever exercise of such a high magnitude was witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Witnessing the combined demonstration of indigenous defence equipment and live fire and manoeuvre exercises, he said that Aatmanirbharta for India’s defence needs is the guarantee of self-confidence in the armed forces.

Prime Minister Modi said, “Roar of aircraft mid-air, valour displayed on ground during ‘Bharat Shakti’ exercise is the call of a New India.”. Noting that the exercise was a step towards this resolution, he said that India is laying emphasis on aatmanirbharta from edible oils to fighter jets. The success of aatmanirbharta in defence can be seen with India’s tanks, cannons, fighter jets, helicopters and missile systems which reflect India’s strength, he added. “We are experiencing the flight of Made in India with arms and ammunition, communication devices, cyber and space. This is indeed Bharat Shakti,” he stated.

The exercise ‘Bharat Shakti’ not only showcased the advanced operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces but also symbolized India’s readiness to confront and overcome challenges with indigenous solutions. This event marks a pivotal moment in India’s defence narrative, showcasing the resilience, innovation, and burgeoning strength of its domestic defence industry on a global stage.

The integrated tri-services exercise Bharat Shakti displayed the indigenous defence capability of the armed forces along with the integration and jointness that are being achieved in various aspects like communications, training, inter-operability and logistics by the three defence forces.

READ MORE: Tri-services Missile Command on anvil as stand-off weapons era dawns

Exercise Bharat Shakti, a tri-service fire and manoeuvre exercise, was organised under the aegis of the Indian Army on March 12 in Pokhran. The synergised demonstration of indigenous defence capabilities is a testimony to its commitment towards modernisation through indigenisation.

Displaying an array of indigenous weapon systems and platforms as a demonstration of the prowess of the country, premised on the nation’s Aatmanirbharata initiative, the ‘Bharat Shakti’ exercise simulated realistic, synergised, multi-domain operations displaying integrated operational capabilities of the Indian armed forces to counter threats across land, air, sea, cyber, and space domains.

A static display of various equipment and weapons in the display arena gave a holistic view of the indigenous platforms of the Armed Forces. Equipment & weapons on display included various drones and counter-drone systems, simulators, and communication systems, including software-defined radio (SDR), radars, LCH Prachand, ALH, Akash Missile Systems, Jammers and electronic warfare systems from all three services.

From the Army, Multi-Mode Hand Grenade (MMHG), Laser Dazzler, Thermal Imager Integrated Observation Equipment (TIIOE) and Night Sights, Canister Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition (CALM), Low Power Jammer Systems, Mini RPAs, Aerial Targeting Sys (ATS) ER, Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Launched Precision Guided Munition (ULPGM), 3D Printed Bunkers, Operation Theatre on Wheel (11xALS/HMV), Weapon Locating Radar Swathi, TATA Xenon & ALS Medical Ambulance with Critical Care Equipment, NAMIS (Tracked), Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) Receiver, Artificial Intelligence Based Satellite Imagery Analysis System, Situational Awareness Module for Army (SAMA) were some of the prominent items on display.

Over a 50 minute duration, several top-line equipment development and license manufactured in India were put through paces, including T-90 (IM) tanks, Dhanush and Sarang artillery guns, Akash surface to air system, logistics drones, robotic mules, light combat aircraft and advanced light helicopter among others.

While the Indian Army showcased the advanced ground warfare and aerial surveillance capabilities, the Indian Navy highlighting maritime strength and technological sophistication, showcased naval anti-ship missiles, autonomous cargo carrying aerial vehicles, and expendable aerial targets. The Indian Air Force (IAF) showcased the indigenously developed light combat aircraft Tejas, light utility helicopters, and advanced light helicopters to demonstrate air superiority and versatility in air operations.

The post TRI-SERVICES EX-Indigenous Military Capability Displayed at Bharat Shakti appeared first on IMR.

Indian Navy undertook mission-based deployments in Areas of Interest in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) to safeguard national maritime interests and maintain continuous/ near continuous presence in areas of significant maritime importance in the IOR. These deployments were in consonance with the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Security And Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’. IN ships and aircraft were regularly deployed in the Gulf of Oman/ Persian Gulf, Gulf of Aden/ Red Sea, South and Central IOR, off Sunda Strait, Andaman Sea/ approaches to Malacca Strait and Northern Bay of Bengal. These deployments facilitated enhanced Maritime Domain Awareness, swift Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) assistance to IOR littorals, security to Indian and international maritime community and operational engagements with friendly navies through capability development and capacity building programmes.

Anti-Piracy Patrol in Gulf of Aden commenced in 2008 to ensure safe passage of IFMVs. 107 IN ships have been deployed in the Gulf of Aden since commencement of patrols in 2008.

Maritime Security Operation code-named Op Sankalp in the Gulf Region commenced in 2019 to ensure safe passage of IFMVs transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. Since June 2019, IN has deployed 41 warships and escorted approximately 624 Lakh Tons of cargo onboard 503 IFMVs.

In 2023, Indian Navy, has intercepted huge heroin shipments in the Arabian Sea. On May 10, 2023 an Anti-Narcotics Operation (ANO) lead to seizure of 2500 kg of contraband worth Rs. 12,000 Cr.  Since April 2021, 12 such operations have been undertaken by the IN. Narcotics worth Rs. 29000 Cr (approx. 3.5 Bn Dollars) has been seized over six operations in last three years.

P8I aircraft from INS Hansa, Goa was deployed in Northern Sector for surveillance on various occasions in support of Army/ Air Force tasking. Such deployments ensure seamless operability between all three forces and encourages jointmanship.

A Naval Special Warfare exercise off Carnic, was conducted on September 21, 2023 which included twin Air Droppable Rigid Hull Inflatable Boats (ADR) drop in tandem with Combat Free Fall (CFF).

The IN undertook its maiden operations with both the carriers in company off Goa in Early June 2023. The Western Naval Command enabled the embarkation of the largest number of carrier-borne aircraft, which included 20 helicopters of various types. These included the indigenously manufactured ALH MK III helicopters and the recently inducted, MH 60R. The event was a potent demonstration of IN’s fast-growing blue water capability and gained considerable attention from national and international media.

IN Submarine Vagir, was deployed for Long Range Deployment to Fremantle, Australia wef July 24, 2023. The submarine crew interacted with the Australian Naval representatives during OTRs at Fremantle (August 20 – 23, 2023 and August 25 – 28, 2023). The submarine returned to Visakhapatnam in early October 2023.

The Test Vehicle Abort mission (TV-D1) was launched on October 21, 2023 from Satish Dhavan Space Centre (SDSC), Shriharikota. The aim of TV-D1 launch was to validate the efficiency of Crew Escape System (CES) during an emergency abort condition while the crew module is within atmospheric limits. Post launch and successful ejection, recovery of Crew Module and recording of the launch (as required by ISRO) was successfully undertaken by IN. INS Shakti recovered the crew module which was later disembarked at Chennai. The video of crew module decent phase was also live streamed to SDSC. Assets deployed for the mission included three IN ships (Shakti, Gharial and Battimalv), SCI Saraswati, one HALE UAV and a Chetak Helicopter.

Naval Exercises

IN’s Theatre Readiness Operational Level Exercise (TROPEX), a major biennial exercise, was conducted across the Indian Ocean Region from January to February, 2023. Intense operations by more than 150 warships, submarines and aircraft, with significant participation of other Services, were conducted. The exercise culminated with a debrief at Kochi.

Tri-Services Amphibious Exercise (AMPHEX 23) was conducted at Naval Enclave Kakinada, with Visakhapatnam as the mounting base. This edition of the exercise was the largest in terms of force levels from Indian Army, with over 800 troops (being the maximum participation till date). Further, loading of large number of A and B type vehicles was also undertaken, which was the highest thus far in any AMPHEX.

ALSO READ: Vishakhapatnam to host MILAN 2024 multinational naval exercise

IN Sailing Vessel Tarini was deployed for Open Sea Sailing Expedition wef 22 Nov 22 with a crew of five (including 02 Women Officers). Tarini successfully completed a 17,000 Nm trans-ocean inter-continental voyage to South Africa and South America (Cape to Rio Race). A grand Flag-in ceremony for the crew of INSV Tarini was conducted at INS Mandovi on May 23, 2023, with Shri Pramod Sawant,   Chief Minister of Goa, as the Chief Guest. Smt Smriti Irani, the Union Minister of Women and Child Welfare, accompanied by CNS, also graced the occasion.

Exercises with Friendly Countries

IN ships Kolkata, Sahyadri and P8I participated in the 31st edition of Exercise MALABAR 23 scheduled at/off Sydney, Australia from August 11 to 23, 2023, along with ships and aircraft from US Navy, JMSDF and RAN. MALABAR 23 was conducted in two phases viz the Harbour Phase (August 11-15, 2023) encompassing cross deck visit, pre-sail conferences and delegation visits, followed by the Sea Phase (August 16-21, 2023) comprising various surface, sub-surface and air exercises involving units from all participating countries. The ships also participated in the 77th Independence Day Celebrations at Sydney, Australia.

IN ships Chennai and Teg, along with aircraft (MiG 29K, P8I, Dornier, ALH and Sea King), participated in the 21st edition of Exercise Varuna – 23 with French Navy Carrier Strike Group (comprising Charles De Gaulle, Forbin, Provence and Marne), alongwith maritime patrol aircraft Atlantique 2 off Goa from January 15 to 20, 2023. Subsequently, the FN ships Charles De Gaulle, Forbin and Provence entered Goa, while Marne entered Mumbai for the Harbour Phase of the Exercise. French aircraft Atlantique, A330 MRTT and A400M operated from INS Hansa, Goa.

IN ships Sahyadri and Jyoti participated in the 3rd edition of the Multilateral Exercise La Perouse conducted in Southern Bay of Bengal from March 13 to 14, 2023. Eight warships from six countries (Australia, India, France, Japan, UK and USA) participated in the exercise.

Sea Dragon is a multilateral Air ASW exercise conducted by US Navy. IN P8I aircraft participated in the 5th edition of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) Theatre Exercise Sea Dragon 23 conducted at Guam, USA from March 15 to 29, 2023. Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) from four countries (USA, Japan, Canada and South Korea) and USS Hampton (Los Angeles Class SSN) participated in the exercise.

IN Ship Trishul and Dornier aircraft participated in the annual bilateral maritime exercise Konkan 23 with Royal Navy ship HMS Lancaster off Mumbai from March 20 to 22, 2023. Both ships undertook multiple maritime drills to enhance interoperability and imbibe best practices. The exercises covered all domains of maritime operations viz air, surface and sub-surface.

IN ships Delhi and Satpura, alongwith P8I aircraft, participated in the maiden ASEAN India Maritime Exercise (AIME) and International Maritime Defence Exhibition (IMDEX) conducted at Singapore from May 02 to 08, 2023.

INS Sumedha participated in Multilateral Tri-Services Exercise Bright Star 23 conducted in the Mediterranean Sea from 6 to 13 Sep 23. The Exercise was conducted in two phases, Harbour phase and Sea phase.

IN and USN have been participating in a combined Salvage exercise since 2005. Seventh edition of IN – USN Diving, Salvage and EOD exercise (SALVEX) was conducted from June 26 June to 6 July 2023 at Kochi. For the duration of the exercise, USNS Salvor (T-ARS 52) made port call at Kochi.

IN Ships Savitri and Kiltan participated in India – Sri Lanka bilateral exercise SLINEX 23 with Sri Lankan Navy ships SLNS Vijaybahu and Samudura at/ off Colombo, Sri Lanka from 3 to 8 April 2023. IN-SLN SF exercise was also conducted as part of SLINEX 23 from 3 to 6 April  2023 at Colombo, Sri Lanka.

INS Kavaratti, along with one Dornier aircraft participated in the 4th edition of Exercise Samudra Shakti 23 conducted at Batam, Indonesia from 15 to 19 May 2023.

IN ships Tarkash and Subhadra, alongwith one Dornier aircraft, participated in bilateral exercise Al-Mohed Al-Hindi conducted at Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia, from 21 to 25 May 2023. Royal Saudi Naval Forces (RSNF) ships Badr, Abdul Aziz and two HIS-32 FACs, one Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA), MH60R helicopter and Karayel UAV participated in the exercise.

INS Tarkash participated in the maiden India-France-UAE trilateral exercise with FS Surcouf and Maritime Patrol Aircraft ex-UAE in Gulf of Oman from 6 to 8 June 2023.

Maiden India-France-UAE trilateral PASSEX was conducted from 7 to 8 June 2023, off Gulf of Oman. INS Tarkash, FS Surcouf and UAE Navy helicopter (Panther) participated in the exercise.

INS Satpura participated in the fourth edition of Multilateral Naval Exercise KOMODO-23 conducted at Makassar, Indonesia, from 4 to 8 June 2023. The exercise saw the participation of navies from 36 countries and was conducted between Borneo and Sulawesi.

The 5th edition of AUSINDEX was conducted from 22 to 25 August 2023 at/ off Sydney, Australia. IN Ships Sahyadri and Kolkata participated in the exercise, along with HMAS Choules and HMAS Brisbane from RAN. In addition to the ships and their integral helos, the exercise also witnessed participation of fighters and Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) from Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

IN ships Ranvijay and Kavaratti, alongwith submarine Sindhukesari and P8I aircraft, participated in the 30th edition of SIMBEX-23, with Singapore Navy ships Stalwart, Valour, submarine Invincible and Fokker aircraft at/ off Singapore from 20 to 27 September 2023.

Assistance to Foreign Govts

INS Tarmugli was handed over to Maldives on 2 May 2023 towards capability building. The ship was re-commissioned into Maldivian Navy as MCGS Huravee. The handing over ceremony was attended by the RM. Further one Landing Craft Assault (LCA) was also handed over to Maldives.

INS Kirpan was decommissioned and handed over to Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN) on 22 July 2023 at Cam Ranh, Vietnam in the presence of CNS and RAdm Pham Manh Hung, Deputy C-in-C & Chief of Staff, VPN. CNS also visited VPN Headquarters at Hai Phong for bilateral interaction with Vice Adm Tran Thanh Nghiem, C-in-C, VPN. The transfer of ex-Kirpan symbolises the status of IN as the ‘Preferred Security Partner’ in the IOR and would be a catalyst for enhancing the existing bilateral relations between the two navies.

Towards providing assistance to friendly foreign nations, IN is undertaking refits of MCGS Victory from Mauritius. Further, INS Sharda undertook towing operation to tow MCGS Victory from Port Louis, Mauritius to Visakhapatnam.

A Tri-Services Scoping Delegation was deputed to Suriname in July 2023 to identify and evaluate the requirement of Surinamese Armed Forces. On the Naval front, technical assistance to undertake repairs of six Patrol Craft was highlighted by the Suriname side and accordingly, suitable technical team is planned to be deputed.

A five member IN Technical Team was deputed to Sri Lanka in February 2023 to assess the existing Trials Team infrastructure of Sri Lankan Navy (SLN) and indicate measures in setting-up of Trials Unit of SLN akin to IN units. As a follow-up of the visit, IN is conducting customised courses for SLN in India, as per the request of SLN. Further, spares worth Rs 1.7 cr were gifted to SLN, towards ensuring optimal availability of GoI gifted ships.

Indian Navy has progressed WSIE agreements with 25 countries and one multinational construct, till date. While such agreements with several other friendly foreign countries are being progressed, a WSIE agreement was concluded with Tanzania on 9 October 2023.

aIN ships Tir, Sujata and CGS Sarathi as part of 1st Training Squadron, whilst on overseas deployment, were utilised to provide assistance to Mauritius and Seychelles besides enhancing foreign cooperation

HADR & SAR operations

‘Operation Kaveri’ was executed towards evacuating Indian nationals from Sudan owing to military clashes between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Force (RSF). In order to contribute to the national effort for evacuating Indian nationals from Sudan, three mission deployed IN ships viz Teg, Tarkash and Sumedha, with HADR items and medical teams, were diverted to Red Sea. In a challenging mission, in the absence of any support infrastructure ashore, Sumedha, the first ship to arrive, entered the war zone and undertook Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations. Thereafter, various multi national forces including China, France, USA and UK also undertook alongside evacuation. A total of 1490 Indian nationals were evacuated by three IN ships.

ALSO READ: DEFENCE REVIEW 2023 – IAF Operations and Exercises

In the aftermath of devastation caused by Severe Cyclonic Storm Mocha off Sittwe, Myanmar, on 14 May 2023, India launched Operation Karuna, as part of Mission SAGAR, to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) material to Myanmar. Four IN ships namely Shivalik, Kamorta, Savitri and Gharial, were deployed to Yangon, Myanmar for transhipment of HADR items from 18 to 20 May 2023.

P8I aircraft was launched on a benign mission on 17 and 18 May 2023 for search of Chinese fishing vessel Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028. P8I sighted the capsized CFV Lu Peng Yuan Yu 028 and a life raft. The positions were relayed to PLA(N) 44th APEF operating in the area. This was the first occasion in which an IN aircraft provided SAR assistance to a Chinese vessel.

During the year, the Indian Navy provided assistance to civil authorities for fire fighting, SAR and humanitarian assistance.

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VVIP Ops by B-777 Aircraft: IAF took over independent VVIP operations on B-777 ac wef 31 Mar 23. As a milestone achievement, IAF undertook nonstop flight from Delhi to New York with full cockpit complement by IAF and further on to Washington and Cairo. In addition to the aircrew, ground handling, catering uplift and engineering support services were also independently handled by IAF.

Para Trials & Ops: ADRDE is developing HDS for C-130J and C-17 aircraft under Technology Demonstration mode. Post CEMILAC certification and fitment trials, out of total eight trials sorties approved for HDS (12 Ft Platform), seventh HDS trial was conducted on 17 Oct 23 at Mahajan Field Firing Range (MFFR). Trial was successful and load landed safely at the designated landing point.

ADR & CRCC Trials from C-17 ac: Flight trials for Single/Twin ADR (Air Droppable Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) and CRRC (Combat Rubberised Raiding Craft) were successfully completed on C-17 ac in the month of Sep 23, in coordination with Indian Navy and ISRO (Toroidal Buoy Equipment).

Akash Missile System: Three squadrons of Akash missile system, employing advanced Rajendra Mk-II radars has been commissioned in the last one year. Additional Akash Sqns are likely to be inducted by Dec 23.

HERON MKII: Heron Mk II RPA has been inducted and operationalised in Indian Air Force. The system is capable of undertaking SATCOM based operations along with advanced sensors and avionics suite. The payload is more capable and can locate targets in depth in enemy territory. The induction has boosted the IAF’s capability to undertake ISR missions beyond Line of sight ranges at higher altitude of operations.

Bison (MiG 21 Upgrade) Drawdown Plan: The drawdown plan has been approved and re-equipping of one operational squadron having this ac, with Su-30 MKI has commenced. Re-equipping of one more squadron with the ingenious Tejas LCA MK-IA, has been announced.

Integration of Weapons: The New Generation Close Combat Missile was fired for the first time this year. Long Range SCALP missiles were also fired and validated. Apache Attack Heptrs also carried out successful firing of Stinger Msl against an airborne slow moving target. IAF is working towards induction of indigenous Astra entire long range BVR missile, which is likely to commence shortly.

Long Range Mission: Long Range Missions were undertaken deep into the IOR. These missions were flown along multiple axes to cover the IAF’s area of interest to control the sea and dominate the air space.

Training and Exercises

The IAF continued to train hard this year exercising not only with sister services for enhancing jointness, but also with Air Forces of friendly foreign countries. Listed below are a few:

Ex Veer Guardian-23: Held in the period 12-27 Jan 23, this was the first air exercise between India and Japan.

Ex PASSEX with France: On 29 Jan 23, the IAF conducted ‘Ex PASSEX’ with French fighter aircraft sailing onboard the aircraft carrier ‘Charles De Gaulle’ in the IOR.

Ex Desert Flag-8 in UAE: IAF participated in ‘Ex Desert Flag-8’ in Al-Dhafra, UAE from 24 Feb-20 Mar 23. This was the first ever participation by the Tejas in an international air exercise.

Ex Cobra Warrior-23: IAF participated in multinational Air Exercise ‘Ex Cobra Warrior-23’ in UK from 06-24 Mar 23. This exercise saw IAF aircraft staging through Saudi Arabia for the first time.

Ex Cope India-23: The USAF and the IAF participated in ‘Ex Cope India-23’ at AFS Kalaikunda (fighters) and Panagarh (transport aircraft) from 10-21 Apr 23. The Japan Air & Self Defence Force participated with one observer.

Ex Orion-23: IAF participated in multinational exercise ‘Ex Orion-23’ in France from 17 Apr – 05 May 23. The exercise saw the IAF’s Rafale aircraft ferrying directly from France to India.

Ex INIOCHOS-23: IAF participated in a multinational exercise ‘Ex Iniochos-23’ in Greece from 24 Apr – 05 May 23. This was the first Air Exercise between India and Greece.

Ex Bright Star-23.   IAF took part in Ex Bright Star-23 with Egypt from 27 Aug -16 Sep 23. The IAF’s MiG-29 fighters ferried directly from India to Egypt.

Integrated Exercises and Joint Training

The following training exercises were conducted with sister services, aimed at increasing joint capabilities:-

Ex Kranti Mahotsav from 08 May 23 to 10 May 23 with 01 MLH.

Exercise Ex Chakra Drishti-23 from 10 May 23 to 12 May 23 with Fighter, RPA and AEW&C.

IAF participated in EWT of 33 Armd, 16 Rapid, 6(I) Armd Bde and 47          Engr Bde from 08 May 23 to 27 May 23 wherein IAF’s Helicopters operated       along with IA.

Exercise Western Command Theatre Spl Ops validation from 10 to 25 May 23 and Helicopters along with Transport aircraft. It also witnessed     RPA and fighter operations.

Exercise 2 Corps EWT on 23 – 24 May 23 with Su-30MKI.

Exercise Long range Maritime strike over Western seaboard on 02 Jun 23 with fighters, transport and AWACS.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief

International HADR Ops.

Op Dost – HADR at Turkiye and Syria: The Middle East nation of Turkiye and adjoining Syria were struck by a catastrophic earthquake on the morning of 6 Feb 23. The IAF was immediately alerted and a prompt aid and assistance was launched under ‘Operation Dost’. The first C-17 aircraft got airborne from Hindan for Adana, Turkiye at the midnight of 7 Feb 23. Subsequently, four more C-17 aircraft followed suite, while one C-130J aircraft was tasked with 5.8 tons of medical load to Damascus, Syria. The operations continued with the final de-induction on 20 Feb 23. The IAF transport fleet flew 28 sorties (188 hrs) and carried 307 tons of load, of which 278 tons load was airlifted for Turkey and 29 T for Syria.

Op Kaveri – HADR at Sudan: The break out of hostilities between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Force (RSF) in Sudan had resulted in stranding of approximately 4000 Indian nationals and PIOs. On extremely short notice, IAF air operations towards evacuation of Indian diaspora commenced on 19 Apr 23. C-130J and C-17 were tasked for the ops with Garud SF teams onboard, in the event of special ops if required. Initial rescue missions were flown from Jeddah to Port Sudan. Subsequently, on 27 Apr 23, in a daring night operation, IAF aircraft rescued 121 Indians from a small airstrip at Wadi Seyidna airport. While the crew used Electro Optical-Infra Red to evade obstructions and inimical forces, ERO (Engine Running Ops) plan was carried out when Garud commandos operated on ground. The total flying effort by the IAF was 22 sorties (115 hrs), airlifting 2100 passengers from Sudan to Jeddah and 915 passengers from Jeddah to India, in addition to 58 tons of critical load.

Op Ajay (Israel – Hamas Conflict): Towards Op Ajay, first IAF C-17 aircraft was launched on 22 Oct 23 in support of Palestinian citizens affected by the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. IAF C-17 airlifted 6.5 tons of medical relief items and 32 tons of disaster relief material including essential life-saving medicines, surgical items, tents, sleeping bags, tarpaulins, sanitary utilities and water purification tablets among other necessary items. The medical relief was delivered at Al-Arish, Egypt to the Red Crescent, for onward distribution in Gaza.

HADR Ops – Nepal: On 03 Nov 23, a devastating earthquake struck Nepal, resulting in heavy loss of life and property. Relief aid was planned to be inducted close to the affected areas in Nepal, resulting in operations on short runway airfields like Nepalganj. IAF C-130J aircraft inducted NDRF relief equipment and HLL medicinal payload at Nepalganj on 5-6 Nov 23. As a first responder, essential medical cum hygiene supplies, tents, and other relief materials were provided for earthquake affected families. The IAF C-130J aircraft undertook day/ night operations at Nepalganj, and flew 02 sorties, airlifting 21 tons of relief load.

Domestic HADR Operations

HADR Ops – UT of Ladakh: In Feb 23, IAF heptrs served as a vital link in the UT of Ladakh when the roads saw a heavy blockage due to snow activity. Heptrs sprang into operations on 15 Feb 23 for airlift of stranded passengers from Zanskar to Leh. The task was carried out by Chinook and MI-17 1V helicopters wherein 200 passengers were airlifted.

Disaster Relief Ops (Forest Fire) at Goa: On 08 Mar 23 Govt of Goa requested IAF to provide aid towards dousing forest fires at far flung areas in the state. Mi-17 V5 helicopters deployed for the task undertook massive ops. In 20 sorties, the heptrs dispensed 1, 40,000 litres of water by 14 Mar 23.

Disaster Relief Ops (Forest Fire) at Tamil Nadu: On 15 Apr 23, Govt of Tamil Nadu requested IAF effort towards dousing forest fire in Madukkarai range of Coimbatore (Tamilnadu).  MI-17 V5 helicopter deployed for the ops dispensed 22, 450 litres of water on 16 Apr 23.

Disaster Relief Ops (Flood Relief) at Himachal Pradesh: In response to damages caused by monsoon triggered cloud bursts, flash floods and landslides in Himachal, IAF deployed Mi-17 V5 and Cheetal helicopters. Rescue ops were carried out in Chandratall and Samundar Tapu Axis. IAF inserted disaster relief crew and air dropped ration, medicines and essential supplies. The relief operations which started on 11 Jul 23 continued till 30 Sep 23. 68 tons of relief material and 1355 citizens were airlifted in 275 sorties (138 hrs).

Disaster Relief Ops (Flood Relief) at Ambala: In the second week of Jul 23, several villages around Ambala (Punjab) were affected by severe floods. From 14 to 17 Jul 23, one Mi-17 helicopter was tasked towards disaster relief operation, which carried out airdrop of critical sustenance ration to the affected citizens. 10 sorties were flown airlifting 10 tons of relief material and 14 personnel.

Disaster Relief Ops (Flood Relief) at Yavatmal: On 22 Jul 23, one MI-17 V5 helicopter was launched from Raipur, which undertook five sorties towards rescue of villagers marooned in Yavatmal village of Maharashtra.

Disaster Relief Ops (Flood Relief) at Telangana: From 27 to 30 Jul 23, two Chetak helicopters were deployed at Warangal for flood relief operations. While the heptrs rescued seven personnel, 25 sorties (22 hrs) were flown towards the ops.

Disaster Relief Ops (Flood Relief) at Sikkim: Several districts of Sikkim were severely affected by the flash floods on 4 Oct 23. HADR operation centre was set up at Bagdogra. Helicopter were positioned as per the requirement projected by the State Govt. IAF deployed helicopters from almost all the fleets, including Chinook to undertake the disaster relief. The IAF helicopters undertook 287 sorties (125 hrs), airlifting 205 tons of load. 3027 personnel were evacuated by the helicopters, which included foreign nationals from Thailand, Belgium, Russia, Bangladesh and America.

Tunnel Rescue Ops at Uttarakhand: A portion of the under construction Silkyara tunnel in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand collapsed on 12 Nov 23 trapping 41 construction workers. On 15 Nov 23, IAF deployed three C-130J aircraft to airlift 27.5 tonnes of critical heavy equipment, rescue loads and rescue experts to Dharasu ALG that was not in use since 2013. Between 17 and27 Nov 23, heavy Augur machinery from Indore, DRDO robots from Pune and drill bit and metal wire load from Mumbai were airlifted to Dehradun. On 29 Nov 23, Chinook helicopter airlifted all 41 rescued workers to AIIMS Rishikesh. The tasks were successfully carried out with minimal notice utilising C-130, C-17, Dornier, AN-32 and Chinook. The IAF aircraft operated over 79 hours lifting 104 tons of load.

Nation Building & Internal Security

Manipur situation: On the directions from MoD, IAF deployed its transport and helicopter assets towards airlift and deployment of CRPF, BSF, Indian Army and Assam rifles teams with load from Hindan, Ranchi, Kolkata, Agartala, Kumbhigram, Guwahati and Mohanbari to Imphal to assist in containing the situation in Manipur. The ops by IAF which started on 23 May 23 continued till 25 Sep 23. 10,120 troops and 652 tons of relief material were airlifted in 605 sorties (399 hrs).

Haryana situation: IAF deployed C-130, C-17 and IL-76 aircraft for airlift and deployment of CRPF and RAF troops to contain the situation in Nuh, Haryana. Overnight operations (18 sorties/18.5 hrs) achieved airlift and deployment of 824 troops (with 58 tons load) from Jammu, Prayagraj and Hindan.

G-20 Task: IAF helicopters were extensively utilised for various operational tasks towards G-20 summit in September. The assets were utilised for ORP duties, DIADC duty, CASEVAC / Emergency response and NSG tasks.

Elections-Chhattisgarh: IAF was tasked to provide air effort to the election officials during the Chhattisgarh assembly elections held in November. IAF Mi-17 helicopters carried out 404 sorties amounting to 194 hrs of air effort. 1,707 personnel and 15 tons of load including polling parties and EVMs were airlifted.

PM Kedarnath Redevelopment Project: Since 31 Oct 22, IAF has tasked one Chinook helicopter on regular operations towards “PM Kedarnath redevelopment project”. Till 31 Mar 23, under slung operations could result in airlift of 575 tons of load against the initial projected load of 500 tons. As on 12 Nov 23, 866 tons had been airlifted towards the project.

RLV Trials: IAF provided its helicopters to progress the scientific cause of ISRO. Chinook heptr flew 25 sorties towards ISRO RLV trials at Chitradurga for testing of load in under slung mode on 02 Apr 23.

Digitisation

Dedication of e-MMS: In line with the Government’s initiatives for digital transformation, IAF has migrated to digital workflows for recording of maintenance activities through e-Maintenance Management System. All maintenance activities of the IAF have been declared paperless by the Raksha Mantri in February during Aero India 2023. The IAF is also progressing cases for implementing e-MMS for nine fleets from the Indian Army, Navy & Coast Guard.

Digitisation of THD-1955 Radar: THD-1955 radar has been the main stay AD Radar in IAF since 1976. To meet the operational commitment, the THD-1955 radar fleet is planned to be utilised in service till 2035. Presently, due to ageing of the fleet, obsolescence and depleting vendor supports, THD-1955 radar fleet is facing significant challenges towards its maintenance and sustenance for operations. To address these issue, BEL has come up with a proposal to digitise the Receiver and Transmitter cabinets along with upgrade of IFF systems of radar.

Bio-jet Fuel Trials on Do-228 Aircraft: Post successful completion of ground run and test flight, RCMA (Kanpur) accorded FCN for Biojet fuel trials on 21 Sep 23. The first sortie for two hrs with 10% blended fuel on one engine was successfully flown on 22 Sep 23. Two sorties with 10% blended fuel on both engines was flown for four hrs on 26 Sep 23. Third sortie was flown on 27 Sep 23. The trials on Do-228 aircraft using 10:90 admixtures of Bio-jet fuel with ATF were successfully completed at 5 BRD on 28 Sep 23. Additional 6,000 Ltrs of Bio-jet fuel is under procurement which would be used in next phase of trials.

Development of Airfield at Nyoma, Ladakh: To enhance the operational reach of IAF in the Northern Sector, Government sanction to develop a new Air Base at a cost of ₹219.39 Crore was accorded in March 2023. e-Shilanyas of the airfield was performed by   RM on 12 Sep 23 from Jammu. Construction of runway is in progress and the works services are planned to be completed by April 2025.

Real Time Aircraft Tracking System (RTATS). The feasibility of RTATS with the help of equipment provided by ISRO, using Navigation with Indian Constellation (NavIC) satellites is reaching fructification. Series modification on AN-32 will start soon. While trials on MLH are underway later to be followed by AVRO & Do-228 in due course.

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All surface combatants of the Indian Navy including Destroyers, Frigates, Corvettes as well as submarines and aircraft were put through complex maritime operational deployments to validate and refine the Navy’s Concept of Operations including operational logistics and interoperability with other Services.

The overall exercise construct included Coastal Defence exercise Sea Vigil and the Amphibious Exercise AMPHEX.

Set in the Indian Ocean including the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, the theatre of operations for the exercise extended approximately 4300 nm from North to South upto 35 deg South Latitude and 5000 nm from Persian Gulf in the West to North Australia coast in the East, spanning an area of over 21 million square nautical miles. TROPEX 23 witnessed participation of approximately 70 Indian Navy ships, six submarines and over 75 aircraft.

The culmination of TROPEX 23 brought to an end an intense operational phase for the Indian Navy that commenced in Nov 2022. As part of the final Joint Phase, the defence minister spent a day at sea onboard the newly commissioned Indigenous Aircraft Carrier Vikrant on 6 March 2023. He reviewed the Indian Navy’s operational preparedness and material readiness wherein the Navy demonstrated operational manoeuvers and various facets of combat operations, including deck operations of indigenous LCA and live weapon firings.

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The biennial Tri-Services Amphibious Exercise, AMPHEX 2023 was conducted at Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh from 17 to 22 January 23. AMPHEX was aimed at joint training of elements of all three services in various facets of amphibious operations to enhance interoperability and synergy. The exercise culminated in a successful amphibious assault. The exercise witnessed the participation of a number of amphibious ships consisting of Large Platform Dock (LPD), Landing Ships and Landing Crafts, Marine Commandos (MARCOS), helicopters and aircraft from the Indian Navy. Indian Army participated in the exercise with over 900 troops which included Special Forces, Artillery and Armoured vehicles. Jaguar fighters and C 130 aircraft from the IAF also participated in the exercise.

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A well-supported network is required for integrated cooperation that can share information and data across all domains. Using dual-use satellites to create a secure information network is one possibility.

As per the US Army’s perspective on MDO, no service can conduct multi-domain operations alone. The conduct of operations by a joint force or anything resembling multi-domain operations is challenging since it is dependent upon common understanding of the situational awareness amongst Services. The US military is still coming to grips with its efforts to raise MDO into joint all domain operations.

IAF and MDO

The IAF does not already have in place its integrated air defence system (IADS) where the most dominant sensor, i.e., the airborne warning and control system (AWACS) is intermeshed with airborne and land-based radar networks. The meaningful IADS would need to be extended to other battlefield and shipborne sensors and made more robust with ground-based air defence systems. The combination of manned and unmanned aircraft, surface-to-air missile systems, surface to surface systems, shipborne systems, electronic jammers and cyber systems will have to be, thus, well conceived. For example, SEAD attack could be carried out on the enemy air defence system either by using aerial bombing or cyber-attack on routers, data base, computers or displays or a combination depending on the effects desired. In network centric warfare, the time compression in decision making and consequent force application is pivotal for a winning result.

Leveraging Air Power and Space Domain in MDO.

There is a convergence of the Army and Navy towards leveraging air power in the future conflict. Multiple agencies from air, space, sea and ground sensors are collecting huge data in the battlefield which is the essence of MDO. It entails joint air domain and joint C4ISR. MDO involves multiple forces – surface, marine surface, sub-surface, air, space, missile force, cyber, electro-optical, and various other agencies, including the government. It is for surveillance, battle assessment, command and control, navigation, synchronisation in time and space.

There is a need to have kinetic and non-kinetic anti-satellite capability, space-based laser electronic warfare can also affect air and surface operations. The key to MDO is ambiguity, and the advantage that satellites provide, in influencing the space, which then becomes another battleground.

Land Warfare Doctrine

The Land Warfare Doctrine propagates deterrence by denial, especially against China’s layered defence and offensive capabilities. India’s Land Warfare Doctrine has set out the case for emerging technologies such as AI and directed-energy weapons. These have the potential to be the foundation for India’s efforts to develop MDO and act as a bulwark against A2AD technologies. MDO will also permit Indian defence forces to pursue Indian national security objectives by compensating for any weaknesses in certain domains. This can be done by combining capabilities in others and producing asymmetric returns and avoiding the unnecessary diffusion and scattering of assets.

MDO at Sea

MDO at sea has four domains and three enablers – sea and land , under-sea, and air domain – all battle winning factors. The electromagnetic spectrum, space, and cyber are the three enablers. MDO, as conceived today are fundamental extension of air-land battle. The Navy and Air Force have the air-sea battle, which becomes the joint axis in the manoeuvre. real time networking and command & control  are the two main challenges in MDO.

Integration of Networks

An encrypted data link architecture for net-centric warfare across each domain would be best suited tool for such a task. To facilitate information sharing for enhanced situational awareness, such a network system would need to have a high degree of connectivity and take the least time to establish an accurate common operational picture.

There is a need to combine aspects of network-centricity, combat cloud and combined fires to build a connect between sensing and targeting across domains. Also, there is a need to define the grid construct of the sensing, information, effects and command grids, as well as, layer them to receive, process, store and communicate information over the network. In other words, quick and secure exchange of tactical data like pictures, text messages, imagery and digital voice in real time to be used by combatants/platforms /entities in each domain.

For MDO, the Indian armed forces must evolve the conceptual understanding of strategies, operations, communications mechanisms, enabling policies, C2 styles, force as well as support structures.

Integration of Cyber Domain

Integration of the cyber domain into the Armed Forces Joint Doctrine and operational concepts is required to be effective in regular as well as irregular wars in, from and through cyber space. Our enemies will leverage technological advances to blend space and cyber operations as the battlefield acquires a multi-domain complexion. Structuring multi-domain warfare capability through a Net-Centric structure will not be easy and will require defining the roles and responsibilities, nature of information to be exchanged, connectivity and the degree of coupling of capability across domains. Success, as with any new military concept, will depend on the leadership’s commitment to change and to accord a forceful direction to bring disparate Service interests and functional areas (space, air, sea, land and cyber) together to function through a common network.

Enhancing Jointness through MDO

A joint force certainly facilitates cross-domain synergy, but a single service should also have cross-domain capabilities to some extent. In a joint force, cross-domain synergy creates and exploits symmetrical advantages. Indian Armed Forces have embarked on this challenging route recently and much work needs to be done. Our forces need to focus on their core expertise, including focus in the new military domains.

The main challenges which are foreseen in conduct of MDO includes collusion of our adversaries across the complete spectrum, technology driven ISR capabilities to achieve situational awareness, investment in development of disruptive technologies which have changed the character of war and building fully networked joint command & control structures across all domains. To achieve convergence and to overcome the challenges, it is recommended that joint Multi-Domain Task Forces be created to train and build a cohesive force and build capacities & capabilities towards modernisation in achieving cohesion.

Theaterisation: Way Ahead in Achieving Convergence

There is a need to upgrade existing capacity significantly in the newer domains of cyber, space and human cognition as the mastery of traditional domains of land, air and sea no longer suffice. A typical MDO engagement which is enabled by low orbit technologies, a tri-service combat cloud, a cyber strike, a swarm of offensive drones to take on the counter attacking forces? Therefore, mere structure corrections will not be enough but other cognitive corrections are important along the route to jointmanship. There is a need to create a new kind of mindset and HR skills as investment in softer layers of hard power is a reality – faster the better. The key to decision-making in MDO is harnessing disruptive technologies to create a combat cloud with integrated networks. What is also critical are critical for achieving cohesion in MDO is civil-military fusion, inter-agency cross-pollination, strategic partnerships and a whole of nation approach. MDO is not an option but it is a reality that must be adopted

Cohesion through Convergence of a Joint Force in MDO

It is extremely difficult to capture the exact nature of a future war with definite certainty. It could be assumed that the future war will be multi-dimensional and multi -domain wherein our enemies will tend to blend conventional or asymmetric and hybrid capabilities across all domains, thereby compelling us to re-examine existing military concepts and doctrines. There is a need to incorporate the advanced technologies in a command and control system. A multi-domain connection is necessary if one has to integrate and exploit information from multiple sources, including sensors, databases, intelligence, reconnaissance, and surveillance to formulate an integrated response.

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Background

The Union War Book recognised the threat from the air for the first time in the 1930s. The concept of AD included “Coastal Defence, Anti Aircraft Defence and cooperation of military forces” under the Army measures. While Air Force measures comprised of “Home Defence against air attack and AD intelligence scheme”. That is how AD of air bases, coastal assets and strategic/industrial installations has continued to be provided since then. The distinction between Anti-Aircraft Defence and Air Defence continued to be maintained and the same formed the basis of procurement of various Land-Based Air Defence (LBAD) equipment with the Army till the 1980s. All operations from Independence till 1971 were fought on the above principle of jointness and clear division of responsibility. The meagre anti-aircraft resources of the Army were required to protect mechanised formations, troop concentrations, artillery deployment areas, ammunition/logistic nodes, choke points, logistic convoys, as also shore-based assets of the Navy and other industrial assets. Thus, Army AD started getting stretched due to increasing importance of assets in the combat zone and in rear areas as well. This led to the Air Force venturing into Land Based Anti-Aircraft Defence, making the well defined roles, overlapping. It was during 1993 that the “Anti-Aircraft Defence” was changed to “Air Defence” and with the inclusion the clause “The responsibility of providing Air Defence of Indian Air Space rests with Indian Air Force” in the Union War Book. With this commenced the vicious wheel of disjointed efforts for jointness, each Service acquiring weapons independently without looking at the core competencies, established war-fighting ethos, etc. While air-to-air combat against all enemy air intrusions in general was the domain of the Air Force, the ground-to-air engagement for AD was the domain of Army. That is the rationale for far more LBAD weapon system with Indian Army. Air Force understanding of LBAD weapon systems was purely from air bases (static) point of view.

Current Philosophy

The current philosophy of AD of the country is territory-based. The defence of the airspace falls upon the IAF and its air-breathing and unmanned platforms, while the LBAD weapon platforms look after the defence of critical assets, classified as Vulnerable Areas (VAs) and Vulnerable Points (VPs). This LBAD is divided between the IAF and the Indian Army’s Corps of Army AD. While Army AD is a specialised corps, with its own career personnel, the AD organisation of the IAF is still ad-hoc with personnel being posted on deputation. In terms of ground assets, IAF’s AD weapons look after its selected air bases. While the mobile and semi-mobile weapon systems of Army AD provide protection to the mechanised elements, critical logistics and operational assets during conventional operations in the Tactical Battle Area (TBA) – a contested terrain where the battle is being currently fought. Airbases and naval assets not covered by AD of IAF are handled by Army AD.

Foreign Models

How does an AD organisation work? The most basic principle of employment of any AD system is based on detection, identification, interception and destruction (DIID). Here, three unique functions are in play, that of control and reporting (C&R), which looks after the first two in the series, the effectors, which look after the last two and, finally, the battle management system (BMS), which forms the transitory link between detection and destruction. Most AD systems in the world work on this model, with variations in ranges and types of kinetic platforms and the assets to be defended. The United States’ model of AD was first envisaged as defensive air shield against the erstwhile USSR’s long range manned bombers and incorporated multiple ‘radar lines’ (McGill, Pine Tree and Dew Line) crisscrossing the territory of both US and Canada. However, with advent of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs) in the 1970s, the focus shifted to aerospace defence and Ballistic Missile Defences (BMDs), interceptor aircraft, increased use of Airborne Warning & Control Systems (AWACs) aircraft, pushing out the radar lines to the Arctic – called the North Warning System (NWS) – and ruggedisation of the command and control structure took priority.

With the US splitting most of its prime air, naval and land resources to its various geographic commands, AD of the continental US was handed over to the Air National Guard (ANG) and North American Aerospace Defence Command (NORAD). The LBAD weapon systems for all operations outside the US are being controlled and managed by the US Army Air Defence. Russian AD setup is more focussed on providing AD to its combat assets both during battle and on the march. The major focus is on ground based mobile AD systems such as S series, Pantsir, Buk and Tor with Sukhois providing the air component. The fighting philosophy of each country provides the basis for its AD setup. Since there is no hostile country located contiguously to the US, its AD is mostly based on AWACS and BMD, with the interceptor aircraft of ANG forming the supplementary tier. Russia’s LBAD platforms focused on protecting combat assets and being mobile. In case of both countries, the ‘kill chains’, process from sensor to shooter are so optimised that instead of a linear chain, multiple parallel kill chains are created using a number of sophisticated communication technologies such as 4G/5G, public switch telephone networks, cloud computing and Wi-Fi. This prevents loss of information in case of break in chain. An all-round optimisation is a norm rather than an exception in conceptualising an AD strategy for any country. This is especially true when states also face airborne attacks by non-state actors such as the Houthi attack on Saudi oil fields.

Indian Requirement

How should India’s AD Command look like? What are the likely challenges being faced? The present arrangement of performing AD tasks by the three Services differently may not be an optimum solution. There is a need to identify commonalities/ overlaps and find a via media to integrate the three Services and align the responsibility to a single commander. The focus needs to be on enhancing the operational effectiveness. The AD Command, when it takes shape, should not eventually be shunted off to a single service, that is, the IAF.

This command has to be aligned and responsive to the present day aerial threats from varied platforms starting from ballistic missiles, stand-off-weapons, rocket-artillery-mortars, drones/UAS and swarm attacks, like being witnessed in various parts of the world. The primary concern being the threat must be neutralised, before delivery of its payload. Thus, the need for centralized planning with decentralized execution at the ground level, where the action is. The trio of surveillance-network-weapons of the three Services needs to be integrated in a bottom up manner to create a common grid. An ideal AD command will likely integrate AD assets of only the Army and IAF, since the Navy’s coastal assets are looked after by the Army and the Navy’s on-board AD systems are for close-in protection or AD protection of a particular task force (TF).

The most critical link for fighting AD battle in an integrated manner will be a real time, robust communication network with adequate redundancy. For communication requirements, IAF has already evolved a sophisticated and automated command and control AD system which integrates the data feed of its multiple radars employed across India’s territory called the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS). IACCS rides on the backbone of the Air Force Network (AFNET), which is highly reliable owing to permanent static location of air bases. For integration to be effective, this flow of information must be shared down to the lowest level. The focus needs to be on interoperability, which is a standard norm in all countries.

Since Army AD’s role is unique in terms of providing and catering for AD of its combat elements both during war and peace and especially in the TBA (a combat experience not available with IAF), an ideal scenario would envisage a ‘plug and play’ model, where different units of the Army and Air Force, without losing their organic strength, will share the same air picture and communications system and be integrated within the AFNET. The employment of the AD assets, especially that of Army AD will remain with local army commanders, being aware of the real time situation and in the ‘thick of the battle’. In other words, a graded responsibility matrix can be created where territorial AD looking after TBA is with Army AD and aerospace defence with attendant threats of cruise missiles, inter-continental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and hypersonic vehicles goes to the IAF, with all systems gaining communication redundancy through sophisticated networks.

Command & Control

Another issue that needs to be examined is the interplay between the functional AD command and the envisaged Theatre Commands. We need to also look at the final control of these AD resources. Once the Theatre Commands come up, the AD resources need to be earmarked in the theatre. This reinforces the need for AD Command to be a functional one only to start with. Land forces in the combat zone and beyond borders will face threats of all kinds and will be the first responders to the air threat. Therefore, the AD assets up to medium level (under 100 km) must be dedicatedly allotted to the TBA, to function most effectively. The operational affiliation of Corps of Army AD with field forces and war fighting ethos have given rich dividends in all wars/operations that have been fought till date.

One of the important aspects that needs deliberation is the command and control of AD elements in the TBA. The TBA is where the field force commander executes his mission and the operating environment is immensely dynamic where combined arms operations are coordinated by him with all combat and combat enablers under his command. Hence, it is essential that all AD resources, too, are available at his disposal in order to ensure freedom of operation through unity of command while the operations control (Control & Reporting) chain can flow up through to the IAF control nodes.

Finally, the integration and jointness will be achieved only when the structures under IADC are well represented by all stake holders, as per their domain expertise and core-competencies. The apex structure should be a single ‘purple’ entity with jointness at Command, Corps and lower levels with minimum disruption to the proven structures. What one needs within this envisaged AD Command is a ‘system within a system’ and a threat hierarchy based on TBA versus aerospace, differentiating AD systems based on where they are employed instead of their range. This means aggregation of all communication including control & reporting, coordination of administration, logistics, procurement and training and disaggregation of kinetic capabilities. A seamless system that takes the best of both worlds approach will succeed spectacularly in the Indian context.

Conclusion

Jointness and integration is the need of the hour. For effective integration, the process should be deliberate with caution in a phased manner like test-bed process, without causing any turbulence in the existing set up. It should factor in the core competencies, limitations and concerns of all stake holders.

Air Defence Weapon Systems

•             Prithvi Air Defence (PDV) Mark I Flight ceiling of 150 km

•             Prithvi Air Defence (PDV) Mark II

Ballistic missile defence system/ Anti-satellite weapon 2000 km range and flight ceiling of 50 to 80 km.

•             Advance Air Defence (AAD) Surface-to-air missile Ballistic Missile Defence system

150 km range and flight ceiling of 30 km.

•             S-400 Triumf Mobile surface-to-air missile system Order includes 5 battalions, consisting of Transporter Erector Launchers (TELs), missiles and fire control radar.

•             Barak-8 Medium range surface-to-air missile        

•             Akash surface-to-air missile Two regiments ordered by Army, one delivered. Akash Mk2 with increased range of 100 km under development

Two additional regiments ordered.

•             QRSAM Quick Reaction surface-to-air missile. Under development. 30 km range.

•             Kub surface-to-air missile to be replaced by Akash

•             S-125 Neva/Pechora SA-3 EP surface-to-air missile Being Upgraded.

•             S-200 surface-to-air missile                        

•             9K33 Osa (SA-8 Gecko) surface-to-air missile system 6×6 amphibious system

•             9K35 Strela-10 surface-to-air missile        

•             9K22 Tunguska 2S6M self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon 

•             ZSU-23-4M ‘Shilka’ self-propelled anti-aircraft gun to be upgraded.

•             ZSU-23-2 Twin 23mm AA gun

•             Bofors L70 40mm anti-aircraft gun

Some have Dutch Flycatcher FCS.

•             IGLA-S MANPADS

•             FIM-92 Stinger MANPADS and air-to-air version

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A theatre command will provide all assets for war under a single commander. One of the key objectives behind jointness, or jointmanship, is the setting up of theatre commands for the best use of military resources to fight future wars. Theaterisation refers to placing specific units of the army, the navy and the air force under a theatre commander. Such commands come under the operational control of an officer from any of the three Services, depending on the function assigned to that command.

“There can be a number of theatre commands, including the Peninsular Command (for the southern part of the state), an Air Defence Command, a Joint Logistics Command, a Space Command, a Training Command and other theatre commands in the eastern, northern and western commands, which take care of China and Pakistan. The commands could be divided into more than one theatre commands,” Gen Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and head of the newly created DMA, said on 4 February.

The aim is to cut costs and right-size manpower, in the backdrop of the ballooning pay and pension bills of the almost 15-lakh strong armed forces, as well as build an integrated land-air-sea machinery for wars of the future. With the annual defence outlay unlikely to register a major jump, Gen Rawat said there must be better utilization of resources.

During the transitional phase the current command & control structures will continue with the theatre commanders reporting to their respective service chiefs.

CDS’s Brief

In a landmark decision, the government, on 24 December 2019, had approved the creation of a CDS in the rank of a four-star general who acts as the principal military adviser to the defence minister on all matters relating to the tri-services.

The government also decided to create a new Department of Military Affairs (DMA) under the defence ministry, which is headed by the CDS as its secretary.

The CDS has been given three years for the creation of theatre commands. It will require a firm push due to bitter turf-wars among the three Services, institutional resistance and strong objections in the past from the IAF.

The CDS said a complete analysis of the threats is underway and there would be inter-theatre or intra-theatre re-allocation of resources on that basis, which would also result in cutting costs.

The process to set up joint theatre commands will kick off from next year onwards, after first integrating air defence, drone operations, logistics, medical services and the like among the Army, Navy and Indian Air Force (IAF).

The CDS has a key role in ensuring optimum utilisation of allocated budget, ushering in more synergy in procurement, training and operations of the services through joint planning and integration.

Another major mandate of the CDS is to facilitate indigenisation of weapons and equipment to the maximum extent possible while formulating the overall defence acquisition plan for the three Services.

Geographical Theatre Commands

The setting-up of “geographical” theatre commands, where all assets and manpower of the Army, Navy and IAF will be placed under one operational commander in a region, along with “functional” tri-Service commands for air defence, logistics and training, will be the biggest-ever military restructuring in India’s history. At present, the Army, Navy and the Air Force have separate commands.

The proposed plan is to establish one or two commands (a northern one west of Nepal and an eastern one east of Nepal) to handle China, one or two commands on the western front with Pakistan (one in J&K and the other to include Punjab, Gujarat and Rajasthan) and a southern command for peninsular India.

Air Defence Command

In his first official directive after stepping into the new role of CDS, Gen Rawat directed top officers of HQ Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), in January, to prepare a proposal to create an Air Defence Command to enhance military synergy.

“In order to become the armed forces of the Union, we need to start working on some of the aspects where we think immediate integration can happen. There, we find that air defence is one area, which according to me, is a low hanging fruit and can happen in a time-bound manner,” the CDS said.

A team headed by Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force is conducting a study to set up the air defence command and it has been told to complete the study by March 31. The report was expected by March 31. It would integrate all air-defence assets under the IAF, including the coastal guns of the Navy and ground-based air-defence missile launchers of the Army.

The responsibility of the management of the airspace is that of the Air Force, therefore, the security and safety of the airspace must rest with that one Service. To be headed by an IAF officer, the it will include air defence resources of all the three Services. While the air defence is primarily the responsibility of the IAF, every Service has its own air defence systems, which Rawat said, should integrate under one Service so that the command and control issues are simplified.

 “While air assets will be integrated,” and put in the Air Defence Command, those with very specific duties such as fighters with the Indian Navy or air elements with the Strike Corps of the Indian Army will continue to be with the respective forces, he explained. Integrating the logistics units of all three services “has great potential” in increasing “efficiency”, and cutting costs through “common contract management”, the CDS said.

Peninsular Command

India is looking at integrating the western and eastern naval commands to create a Peninsular Command, which will look to merge the eastern and western naval commands. The Navy has been sounded out and a formal study is being ordered. The idea being that the security of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) has to be the responsibility of a single commander. He will be given air assets and Army troops (for carrying out amphibious operations), according to Gen Rawat.

The existing tri-Services command at Andaman and Nicobar Islands would remain as it is, he said. There is a plan to upgrade the three runways available on the island chain.

“The Navy Chief looks at the entire Indian Ocean region from east coast of Africa to Australia,” Rawat explained. Therefore, with the creation of the Peninsular Command, the Navy Chief can disinvest himself from the closer Indian Ocean region and look at the bigger picture. While the peninsular theatre commander will deal with the maritime boundaries, the Navy HQ at New Delhi would look at the “big picture” of the Indian Ocean Region to safeguard India’s interests stretching from East Africa to Australia and Malacca Strait.

Rawat said a study to create the Peninsular Command, responsible for securing India from seaborne threats, will be ordered by March 31, with a report to be submitted three to four months thereafter. He said the Peninsular Command was likely to be functional by 2021-end with army and air force elements under it. The Port Blair-based Andaman & Nicobar Command, India’s first tri-Services command, would remain as it is.

The peninsular command will integrate the existing Western Naval Command (HQs at Mumbai), Eastern Naval Command (Vizag), Southern Naval Command (Kochi) and Southern Army Command (Pune).

IAF’s Reservations

The IAF believes it would be operationally irrational to divide the country’s “limited air assets” among different theatre commands. IAF stands to lose the most with the proposed restructuring. Both the 1.4-lakh IAF and the over 12-lakh Army have seven commands each, headed by three-star Air Marshals or Lt-Generals, with the 59,000-strong Navy restricting itself to just three commands.

When the joint commands do come up, IAF is likely to be left only with the Air Defence Command, along with commands to handle space and training in the future. Though IAF headquarters will retain some air assets, each theatre command will also be given some integral fighter jets and helicopters.

Procurement System

The prioritisation of military purchases to be made by the three Services also comes under CDS’s purview. He indicated that he prefers a procurement model that involves buying weapons and systems in a staggered way so that the requirement of the three Services can be met within the available budget.

“I believe we should not go in for a large number of procurements at one time. If you have a requirement for, say, 10 submarines, 100 fighter jets and 1,000 tanks, you can either buy the submarines or the jets or the tanks. You can’t buy all three together. But you can spread out the purchases over 10 years and buy that equipment in four or five tranches,” said Gen Rawat.

He said buying equipment in one go would also result in all of it becoming due for repairs and overhaul at the same time. He added that he would prefer the IAF’s requirement for 110 new fighter jets to be met in phases.

Gen Rawat said the newly created Department of Military Affairs will handle revenue procurement while the capital procurement will continue to be looked after by the defence secretary.

Logistics Command

The armed forces are likely to create a Logistics Command. The CDS said “There is a great scope of logistics issues being integrated. Giving the example of medical resources, Rawat said among all three Services, surpluses and deficiencies need to be better managed so that the doctors are neither overworked nor under-utilised.

The Joint Logistics Command would look at common contract management for the three services and be responsible for common inventories for maintaining reserves. He said a countrywide analysis of surpluses and deficiencies of resources is underway and there is a scope of jointmanship for better optimisation and utilisation of facilities.

Gen Rawat said the medical arm of all the services should begin operating jointly and not in silos, and hospitals of individual services should operate as tri-service hospitals such as the R&R Hospital in Delhi.

In military stations, where services are co-located, there is scope for management of resources, he said. “For example, in Delhi, we are looking at a common transport management,” he said.

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The 17-single service commands, which lack the requisite coordination among them, has led to needless wasteful expenditure and silo-mentality. The only two tri-Service commands are the geographical Andaman and Nicobar Command and the functional Strategic Forces Command to handle the country’s nuclear arsenal.

The US Department of Defense has 11 combatant commands, while China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has five theatre commands.

The IAF has in the past opposed the setting up of theatre commands as many in the service believed the air force had the speed and reach to project military power across geographies without being confined to theatres. However, all the three service chiefs have extended their full support to the CDS in creating new military structures.

The CDS is focusing on creating avenues that allow the officers of the army, navy and air force to interact more with each other at different stages of their careers to have a better understanding of the three services. Theatre commands are required since no single force is capable of discerning and countering growing threats alone. India’s strategic frontiers are expanding, it is time to look at the bigger picture and not be confined to silos. The threats from other countries need to understood and prepared for.

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The overall responsibility of thwarting an enemy air invasion will continue with IAF, while the Ground-based AD resources need better synergy. Integrating AD assets will assist in avoiding ‘fratricide’ during heightened security conditions. The incident of shooting down of a Mi-17 helicopter at Budgam on 27 February 2019, during the Balakot strike was an avoidable loss. Further, the shooting down of Ukranian passenger aircraft on a routine flight by Iranian forces, on 8 January, was also attributable to Iran’s Air Defence Command and Control problems. Even though transponders for Identification of Friend or Foe (IFF) were installed onboard the aircraft and warships for target classification, this may not be a fool-proof method.

The AD Command is meant to integrate AD verticals of the three armed forces, while retaining the uniqueness of each Service to execute its own AD operational role in its own single service battle space. Each service has different assets to defend and must maintain weapons special to its requirements.

It makes sense to have a common AD command, since the common aim of all three armed forces is to defeat the air threat from the enemy. The enemy will not differentiate between the vulnerabilities or assets of one Service or the other.

Existing Tri-services Air Defence Effort

All the three Services – Indian Army, IAF and Navy so far have maintained their own AD resources to counter specific threat perceived by each, sometimes even having overlapping areas.

Indian Army has it’s ground-based Army Air Defence (AAD) Corps, responsible for the protection of air space for Army’s operations from enemy aircraft and missiles. Plans are afoot to upgrade the existing vintage AD equipment and to create a responsive AD for Army’s strike formations in plains and tactical AD in mountains. Also, the procurement and upgrades of AD guns and equipment are being pursued as part of the modernization of the army.

The IAF has been on a technology pursuit to get superior surface-to-air guided weapons (SAGW) and AD radars to bolster its operational capability, and to integrate all sensors, weapon systems and command and control structures to create an Integrated AD Command for its operations. Surface-to-air weapon systems are planned to be interfaced with IAF’s indigenous C4I system viz. Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) using Software Defined Radios (SDR). Integration of IACCS with surveillance network of civil aviation is also underway in a phased manner. Further, IAF also plans to deploy an Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system to support AD and offensive strike missions over the tactical battle area and for this, one AEW&C aircraft was inducted in IAF in 2018.

To meet their immediate AD requirements, IAF has procured Israeli Spyder low level quick reaction missile (LLQRM) System, equipped with Python 5 and Derby missiles. This system is meant to provide AD against aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and UAVs.

On the other hand, Indian Navy maintains its AD assets mainly on the sea platform, in the expected lines of its operational role. For detection of air targets including missiles, modern naval warships are fitted with advance phased array radars with specialized radar beams to search and track multiple aircraft and missiles simultaneously.

On naval ships, two SAM complexes in fore and aft configuration give complete 360-degree air engagement capability. Ships are also fitted with Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) like rapid-fire AK-630 systems for engaging air targets a couple of kilometres away. On the high seas, carrier-launched fighter jets provide the key AD cover to deter any battlespace air threat. All high-value naval units at sea are provided at least two layers of AD cover by other ships part of the formation.

AD Integration

An AD Command will have all AD resources of all three Services at its disposal and will seamlessly address the issue of resource allocation. The battle theatres can at times overlap especially among the Army and the Air Force. This leads to duplication of weapons procurement and excessive spending. Hence, AD Command can ensure appropriate resource allocation for its optimal utilization.

AD is intrinsically linked to every Service command with a prime responsibility to protect the nation from threat as large as nuclear threat to small ones such as drone incursions. In these situations, rather than seeking which Service’s resources will be more apt to nullify the threat, an integrated command will have at its disposal all available resources and its deploy the resources corresponding to the threat.

For the nation, the overall AD threat perception in military terms means evaluation of its ‘susceptibility and vulnerability’ against the enemy’s offensive capabilities. India routinely has skirmishes on its borders with nuclear-armed neighbours – Pakistan and China. These two hostile nations perpetually maintain a ‘minimum credible deterrence’ against India by strategic deployment of various ballistic and cruise missiles, both conventional and nuclear capable.

From assessing air threat perception to creating a common integrated air defence shield over land, sea and air, all factors have to be looked into by the office of the CDS. Any shortcoming in the concepts and doctrines document at this stage shall lead to irrecoverable damage and can be fatal for AD during hostilities.

Indigenization of AD Capability

India has an ambitious Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) for the development of the two-layered programme to defend vital assets against ballistic missile attacks. The capability was demonstrated in 2018 by intercepting two kinds of missiles – endo-atmospheric interceptor missile mission against long-range simulated targets and an exo-atmospheric interceptor missile (PDV04) tested against two-stage ship launched target missile.

Anti-satellite missile test (Mission Shakti) was completed in 2019 in which BMD interceptor missile engaged Indian target satellite in low earth orbit (LEO) in a ‘Hit to Kill’ mode. It gave India the capability to defend its assets in outer space and was significant against inter-continental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).

The Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), a system capable of engaging multiple targets at ranges of up to 30 km is under development. An Indigenous AD Fire Control Radar (ADFCR) ‘Atulya’ with its associated anti-aircraft guns for point air defence system at short and very short ranges. And, Indian Army is indigenizing an AD Tactical Control Radar (ADTCR) as a successor to existing Indian Doppler Radar (INDRA) and P19 radars.

Control & Reporting

The prime responsibility of the AD of the national air space lies with the Air Force. That does not mean that the Air Force can go it alone. The execution of its function depends on the type of threats being faced and in what way to respond. The main responsibility of the AD Command would now be to provide a structure to the command & control (C&C) of AD. The C&C of AD, ie, the AD Control and Reporting System (ADCRS) exists with all the three Services. If a weak ADCRS operates even the best weapon system will operate sub optimally.

The ADCRS system is responsible for:

•             Surveillance of air space.

•             Detection of aerial threat.

•             Cancelling out duplication of inputs from multiple radars.

•             Identification of aerial vehicles into friend or foe.

•             Prioritization of air threat.

•             Selection of most suitable weapon to take  on the threat.

•             Designation of target in auto mode.

•             Successive firing from guns to missiles in a seamless manner.

•             Maintain minute to minute control of the air defence battle.

The IAF has an integrated C&C that rides on the Air Force Net (AFNET). It has national level linkages from national command (source) down to the weapons. The Army has its own AD C&C – Akash. The Navy too has one of its own called Trigun. The latter two work perfectly but unilaterally and, hence, there are serious voids. A proper integration of these three C&C systems is required.

Responsibilities

The AD Command will have multiple responsibilities, viz:

•             To wipe out voids in the AD C&C and shape it properly.

•             Ensure inputs on air threats are available from the three Services and other national agencies on a 24×7 basis and maintain updated data on air threat.

•             Prioritise multiple AD assets to be deployed for the defence of vulnerable assets identified by the three Services and also national strategic assets. The AD Command will have to steer each Service’s perspective into a national perspective.

•             AD Command will allocate weapons to each Service according to the vulnerabilities it deals with so that it can manage it better.

•             Optimize training value through optimal use of training resources with each Service and give training a national identity

•             Collaborate and coordinate with civil aviation authorities and resources for better effect.

Comments

There is a falacy that there is a turf war among the three Services and an integrated AD Command would bring them together. This is far from true. The three Services are very clear about each other’s domain of operations.

In a nut shell, an AD Command will help in integrating the hardware of the three Services, bring in economy in their procurement, prioritise their employment to effectively neutralise aerial threats, use the operational core competencies of each Service to report threats, bring in commonality of procedures, optimise training, prevent fratricide and brig in efficiencies on the battlefield. It is expected that CDS under its ambit shall be able to ensure exploitation of these S-400 complexes as part of an Air Defence Command.

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Inter-services issues and the reluctance of the three Services to let go of their respective turfs were some of the biggest hurdles in achieving greater jointmanship. The CDS will also be the permanent chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC). Until now, the COSC chairmanship was held in rotation by the senior-most service chief. It is no secret that Service chiefs have a tendency to be driven by the interests of their own Service. The creation of the CDS is therefore seen as a significant reform in higher defence management.

The Need

The existing model for cross-service cooperation was weak, with each Service working in its own silo. The efforts for jointmantship in the military were proceeding slowly, resulting in duplication of efforts, wastage of resources and delay in decision making. The appointment of a CDS will address the fragmented approach of the forces and bring about synergy at a time when the nature of warfare is evolving swiftly.

The Service Chiefs

The three chiefs will continue to report to the defence minister. They will not report to the COS, although it is widely accepted that he will be a first among equals. The CDS will be the principal military adviser to the defence minister on tri-services matters. The three military chiefs will continue to advise the minister exclusively on issues concerning their respective services. While the CDS will be in charge of tri-services organisations, their military command will be under the chief of the duly notified service. However, tri-services agencies and commands related to cyber, space and special operations will be under the command of the CDS.

Long Term Goals

The CDS’ first task will be to lead the integration of the different services, who have operated in silos, have got embroiled in inter-services disputes, and have been reluctant to let go of their own institutional interests. The CDS will have to build trust between the three Services and then use that to push for greater integration and jointness in training, capabilities, acquisitions, operations and planning. The nature of threats has changes with the newer technologies; so has the nature of warfare where distinctions between land, air and waters, and now cyber, are blurred. Ensuring India’s forces are prepared is now the CDS’ job, along with that of the respective Service chiefs.

The CDS will be responsible for establishment of theatre/joint commands. Theaterisation refers to placing under a Theatre Commander, specific units of the army, the navy, and the air force. There is stiff resistance from the IAF to theaterisation, or setting up of integrated commands where the assets of all three defence arms will come under the operational control of a three-star officer from any of the three services, depending on the function assigned to that command. In another important role, he will assign inter-services prioritisation to capital acquisition proposals based on the anticipated budget at a time when the military is facing a funding crisis,

The Challenges

The idea of creating the CDS’ post is that India should not have a fragmented approach. The entire military power must to work in unison. The three Services should move simultaneously at the same pace.

The second core challenge for the CDS is to become an effective link between the Services and the civilian bureaucracy, for the relationship has been mired in distrust. Being housed within the ministry will help. The Services are resentful that those who lack expertise and experience take all the decisions, while sitting in South Block, and ignore genuine concerns of the armed personnel. The bureaucrats see many demands of the Services and the leadership as unreasonable, and believe that political control of the armed forces will inevitably mean administrative oversight. The CDS will have to mediate these relationships and ensure that all sides remain committed to the big picture – of making India secure, while the forces continue to operate under the democratic framework of civilian control.

The charter of the CDS, if implemented properly, will prepare the 15-lakh strong armed forces for the wars of the future. The CDS is mandated to ensure the Army, Navy and IAF, which often pull in different directions, truly integrate to slash wasteful expenditure amidst the ongoing severe fund crunch for military modernization because of the ballooning pay and pension bills.

Over 70 countries like the US, UK, France and Germany, among others, have a CDS-like post for integration in military planning and operations. In the US, for instance, the chairman of joint chiefs of staff is the highest-ranking military officer and principal military advisor to President. But chiefs of the combatant theatre commands, who handle different parts of the globe, also report directly to the political leadership.

This is needed because India currently has 17 single-Service commands (Army 7, IAF 7 and Navy 3), while there are only two tri-Service commands in the shape of the Andaman & Nicobar Command and the Strategic Forces Command to handle nuclear weapons. Theatre commands, where all the assets and manpower of the Army, Navy and Air Force are placed under one operational commander, are cost-effective, save resources and prepare forces for integrated operations.

The most far-reaching and consequential job allocated to the CDS will be the restructuring of 17 single-service military commands, which currently operate independently, into tri-service commands that include all the army, navy and air force components needed for combat operations.

“[CDS will facilitate] restructuring of military commands for optimal utilisation of resources by bringing about jointness in operations, including through establishment of joint/theatre commands,” said the government release.

For now, the CDS will only command the new cyber and space commands. “Tri-service agencies/organisations/commands related to cyber and space will be under the command of the CDS,” said the notification.

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CDS: Roles & Responsibilities

•             Act as the principal military adviser to the Raksha Mantri (RM) on tri-Service matters (Army, Navy & IAF chiefs will continue to advise the RM on matters concerning their forces).

•             Head a new Department of Military Affairs (will include the armed forces) within MoD.

•             Will also be the permanent chairman of the chiefs of staff committee, but will not exercise any military command (three Service chiefs will continue to have full operational control of their forces).

•             Will function as the military advisor to the PM-led Nuclear Command Authority.

•             Will administer all tri-Service organizations, with direct command over space & cyberspace agencies.

•             Facilitate restructuring of military commands to bring jointness in operations, including establishment of theatre commands.

•             Provide integrated inputs to relevant authorities. Will be member of Defence Acquisitions Council &Defence Planning Committee.

•             Assign inter-Service prioritization to arms procurements based on the anticipated budget.

•             Bring about reforms in the functioning of three Services by augmenting combat capabilities & reducing wasteful expenditure.

•             Bring jointness in operations, logistics, transport, training, support services, communications, repairs, maintenance etc of the 3 Services within 3 years of the first CDS assuming office.

•             Evaluate plans for ‘Out of Area Contingencies’ as well as other contingencies such as humanitarian assistance & disaster relief.

•             Implement 5-Year Defence Capital Acquisition Plans, and 2-Year roll-on annual acquisition plans (AAP), as a follow-up of Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP).

•             Integrate and rationalize international cooperation plans.

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Govt Creates Department of Military Affairs

The appointment of Gen Bipin Rawat as the first chief of defence staff (CDS) was accompanied with the notification of the creation of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) in the Ministry of Defence (MoD) with Gen Rawat as the secretary of the department.

A day after the announcement, prime minister Narendra Modi tweeted, “Creation of the Department of Military Affairs with requisite military expertise and institutionalisation of the post of CDS is a momentous and comprehensive reform that will help our country face the ever-changing challenges of modern warfare.”

The DMA, having a mix of military and civilians, will deal with the three Services and HQ-Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), Territorial Army, works relating to Services and procurements, except capital acquisitions. The DMA will promote inter-service jointness in planning, integrated requirements, restructuring of military commands and indigenous equipment.

President Ram Nath Kovind approved changes in the Government of India (Allocation of Business) Rules, 1961, and following this, the department was set up.

With the latest changes, the defence ministry will have five departments under it and these are the Department of Defence, the Department of Military Affairs, the Department of Defence Production, the Department Defence Research and Development, an order from the Department of Exservicemen said.

The Department of Military Affairs will have an integrated headquarters of the Defence Ministry comprising of the Army HQ, the Naval HQ, the Air HQ, the Defence Staff HQ and the Territorial Army.

The DMA will function parallel to the Department of Defence (DoD) headed by the defence secretary, and other departments. The CDS will be one secretary among equals of the other departments headed by bureaucrats. This downgrades the four-star rank in protocol, though the CDS will draw higher pay. Till now, Service Chiefs were ranked alongside the Cabinet Secretary, which was higher than the secretaries in the MoD, including the defence secretary.

The composition of the DMA has not been announced and will take time to form and function. It will, however, include the armed forces and an “appropriate mix of military and civilian officers at every level” in a bid to also bridge the festering civil-military divide.

The CDS will enjoy financial powers. This will be the first uniformed officer since 1950-when the armed forces were structured after Independence – to enjoy such powers.

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