Answer

Introduction

At the 2025 Combined Commanders’ Conference in Kolkata, PM Modi stressed moving from service silos to integrated theatre commands. Steps like the Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations and tri-service agencies for cyber and space show progress. Yet, integration remains slower than what India’s two-front threat scenario demands.

Body

Preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces in Integrating New Technologies & Joint Command Structures

• Creation of Tri-service Agencies: Agencies for cyber, space, and special operations under HQ IDS signal a move towards domain integration.
  Eg: Cyber and space commands already operationalised to address multi-domain threats.
• Modular Combat Formations: New “Rudra” and “Bhairav” units combine infantry, artillery, armour, engineers, drones, and surveillance for flexible deployment.
  Eg: These Integrated Battle Groups can mobilise within 12–48 hours along volatile borders.
• Doctrinal Evolution: Joint Doctrine for Amphibious Operations (2025) and Joint Doctrine of the Armed Forces (2017) provide frameworks for synergy.
  Eg: First tri-service seminar Ran Samvad deliberated on hybrid warfare and tech-warrior roles.
• Procurement of Cutting-edge Systems: MQ-9B drones, Rafale-M, Akashteer AI-enabled C2, and Pralay missile trials enhance multi-domain joint capabilities.
  Eg: Akashteer integrates Army Air Defence with IAF’s IACCS for seamless command-and-control.
• Civil-Military Fusion Efforts: Emphasis on PME reform and collaboration with DRDO, DPSUs, private industry, and universities.
  Eg: Push for rapid prototyping, code/data sharing, and tech-oriented military education.

Challenges in Preparedness of the Indian Armed Forces

• Slow Pace of Structural Reform: Despite a decade of emphasis, integrated theatre commands are yet to be operationalised.
  Eg: Jointness remains more aspirational, with limited tested outcomes since doctrines of 2017–18.
• Inter-Service Differences: Resistance over command control, budget allocation, and roles delays theatrisation.
  Eg: Theatrisation models are still being debated to ensure “indigenous” fit unlike China’s established model.
• Limited PME Integration: Joint PME has only recently begun, lagging behind operational needs.
  Eg: Highlighted by Modi’s remark that PME progress is not proportionate to military requirements.
• Technological Absorption Gaps: Procurement is ongoing, but seamless integration of AI, ISR, and missile systems into a unified network is incomplete.
  Eg: MQ-9B drones and Akashteer exist, but cross-service data standards are still evolving.
• Civil-Military Coordination Deficit: Weak linkages between defence industry and operational forces delay effective adaptation.
  Eg: DRDO and industry products require faster trial–feedback cycles to keep pace with battlefield dynamics.

Conclusion 

India must fast-track theatre commands, strengthen PME for tech-driven leaders, and deepen civil–military fusion with DRDO, industry, and academia. Jointness needs testing through tri-service exercises with clear metrics. Only synergy of technology and integration can prepare India for multi-domain warfare.

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