Indian Army Chief Stresses Evolving Warfare and Self-Reliance in Defense

New Delhi, September 27 (Daily Kiran) : General Dheeraj Seth, the Chief of Army Staff, addressed the evolving nature of warfare and the importance of self-reliance in defense during a recent speech in New Delhi. He stated that self-sufficiency in the defense sector goes beyond merely producing weapons and military equipment domestically. India must develop the capability to sustain its military strength in prolonged conflicts.

He described modern warfare as characterized by intermittent fighting rather than clear endings, contrasting it with historical battles like the 1971 surrender in Dhaka, which had a definitive conclusion. Today’s conflicts are often protracted, featuring intense skirmishes without clear resolutions. While technology can shorten the duration of battles, it does not necessarily reduce the length of wars, which he termed as “intermittent warfare.”

General Seth highlighted the lengthy process of developing, testing, and integrating military capabilities into the army, noting that technological advancements occur at a much faster pace. This presents a dual challenge: not only must India produce indigenous weapons, but it must also ensure that these technologies remain relevant and modern by the time they are integrated into the military.

He emphasized that a one-size-fits-all solution is ineffective. The Indian Army operates in diverse geographical conditions, from sea level to high altitudes, and in extreme temperatures. Thus, military capabilities must be tailored to India’s unique geographical and operational needs. He pointed out that a low-cost drone could pose a significant threat to expensive military platforms, underscoring the importance of affordable and widely available technology in modern warfare.

Moreover, General Seth noted that technology is no longer the exclusive domain of a few nations. Adversaries may possess similar technological capabilities, making it imperative for India to innovate rapidly and respond effectively. He cautioned against prematurely dismissing older military systems, stating that they can still be effective when integrated with modern technologies.

He asserted that the Indian Army requires both long-range strike capabilities and strong ground forces. While long-range weapons can influence the battlefield, the ultimate responsibility for seizing and holding territory rests with soldiers. He stated, “The Indian Army needs both long-range strike capability and strong ground forces.”

Despite the growing significance of information, cyber, and space in warfare, General Seth maintained that control of the ground remains the most direct indicator of success in military operations. Soldiers establish and defend this control, so every decision related to military capability should enhance the soldier’s effectiveness. He emphasized that the warrior should be at the center of self-reliance initiatives, as military capabilities are ultimately designed for their benefit.

In light of these realities, General Seth introduced the concept of “Samarth,” aimed at developing future military capabilities. He noted that Indian defense products are now reaching over 80 countries, with 159 out of 175 types of ammunition having been indigenized. Approximately 16,000 micro, small, and medium enterprises are involved in defense production. He concluded, “Self-reliance gives us the freedom to fight. Capability provides us the strength to fight. The warrior gives us the will to fight. Together, they equip us with the capacity to win.”