capture maximum territory and cause criticality. This to a large extent has been addressed by strengthening of the obstacle profile including both artificial and natural as also deployment of additional resources based on envisaged threat.
Restructuring Of Forces
The process of expansion and reorganisation of Armed Forces started post 1962. This was still in process when the 1965 War started. However having learnt the lessons they were in a better state to fight which was evident during the war. The performance of Armed Forces during 1971 conflict bears testimony to the fact of our ability to give a crushing defeat to Pakistan which led to its bifurcation and creation of Bangladesh. Modernisation and restructuring of Armed Forces is a continuous process which is based on various factors viz envisaged threat perception, geopolitical realities etc. This has enabled us to optimise our level. While we have gone in for establishment of forces in a manner that the areas of responsibilities Integrated Defence Staff, the one point advice to the today are reduced and are much better managed. government is still not possible for want of Chief of We have also been able to create dedicated forces Defence Staff despite recommendation by various for offensive operations. We need to equip our committees. Creation of above is imperative to bring forces with the best and latest weapon platforms in greater synergy between Services, joint planning, to meet the future challenges. Our dependence on integration and optimum utilisation of resources. external purchases has to reduce which can only be done by indigenisation of defence industry and Integrated Training restructuring of Defence Research and Development Success in war for a country is directly proportional to Organisation (DRDO) and making them more how well-trained, equipped and motivated are accountable. Modernisation requires Another its Armed Forces. The 1965 War brought tremendous resources and time out a number of shortcomings in our issue of but also the political will to take hard training at tactical and operational concern has been and timely decisions for acquisition. levels. These have been reviewed and Any delay in this regard will be at the lack of integration the curriculum has been suitably cost of national security. modified at formation and training of Services to establishments. Integrated training at jointly prosecute formation levels and with other Services External Linkages And Diplomacy The war did witness some movements continues to be a focus area based on plans by China in support of Pakistan with envisaged threat perception. minimal effect. However in future conflict we will have to factor the growing strategic Logistics Sustenance relationship between these two countries. This can History bears testimony to the fact that wars can be seen in the form of build-up of infrastructure be won if the country has a strong economic base in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and other areas, and has the ability to sustain the efforts of its provisions of latest weapons, nuclear and missile Armed Forces for a prolonged period of operations. technologies, support in various international We have made reasonable progress in this regard. forums etc. Our future planning will have to cater However what is required is to make up the for a multiple front threat and prepare for related deficiencies of our weapon systems, ammunition and contingencies. Our diplomacy will have to play a equipment as also build-up our infrastructure and major role in mitigating such linkages and creating logistic facilities in border areas. our own support base in international forums.
Joint Planning And Integration
Another issue of concern has been lack of integration of Services to jointly prosecute plans. Lack of coordination between Indian Army and Indian Air Force was visible during 1965 operations. Air power in future wars will play an important role. The success of any future conflict will be dependent upon integration of effort at national
Conclusion
The Indian Army today is one of the most professional, well-trained and motivated armies in the world. It can justifiably be proud of its valour and dedication to the nation. The need of the hour is to speed up the process of modernisation, acquisition, build-up of infrastructure, making up of the deficiencies and restructuring of its Armed Forces to meet the future challenges.
August 2015
Defence AND security alert
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