NEW DELHI: Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan at the ‘RAN SAMWAD’ conclave said that decisive joint responses across domains, enabled by self-reliance and integrated logistics, will be key to victory in future wars.
He made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at RAN SAMWAD, a tri-service seminar on war, warfare, and warfighting at the Army War College in Dr Ambedkar Nagar, Madhya Pradesh.
The seminar’s theme is ‘Impact of Technology on Warfare’.
General Chauhan highlighted Aatmanirbharta in defence and integrated logistics as essential pillars for success in modern conflicts.
“Jointness is foundational to India’s transformation. We must institutionalise joint training and absorb evolving technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Cyber capabilities, and Quantum systems to enhance operational readiness,” he said.
Addressing civil-military integration, the CDS spoke about the development of Sudarshan Chakra, India’s own Iron Dome, which he described as both “a shield and a sword.” He stressed that building capabilities across multiple domains will be central to attaining victory in future wars.
Drawing inspiration from Kautilya, General Chauhan noted that India has historically been a fountainhead of ideas and knowledge, yet scholarly analysis of Indian wars and strategic discourse remains limited.
“Serious research is needed on war, leadership, motivation, morale, and technology. India must become Sashakt, Surakshit, Aatmanirbhar, and Viksit. This requires collective participation from all stakeholders in building future-ready forces,” he added.
Highlighting the objective of RAN SAMWAD, the CDS said the seminar provides a platform for young and mid-level officers, who are attuned to technological advancements, to share their perspectives. This approach aims to foster an ecosystem where innovation coexists with the experience of seasoned personnel.
The two-day seminar brings together serving military professionals to engage in strategic dialogue. On the second day, Defence minister Rajnath Singh will deliver the plenary address.
