ADAPTIVE DEFENCE DOCTRINE - DEFENCE

Adaptive Defence doctrine - DEFENCE

NEWS: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the government's strong commitment to implementing an "Adaptive Defence" strategy. Announcement made during the inaugural Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD) at the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) on November 12, 2024.

  • The theme of the dialogue was "Adaptive Defence: Navigating the Changing Landscape of Modern Warfare."

 

WHAT’S IN THE NEWS?

Key Aspects of Adaptive Defence

  • Strategic Evolution: A continuous adaptation of military and defence mechanisms to counter emerging threats.
  • Proactive Approach: Not just reacting to events, but anticipating future threats and preparing in advance.
  • Core Principles:

·         Situational awareness.

·         Flexibility at both strategic and tactical levels.

·         Emphasis on resilience, agility, and integrating futuristic technologies.

 

Importance of Adaptive Defence

  • Singh emphasized Adaptive Defence as a necessity, not just a choice.
  • The aim is to go beyond mere border security and focus on long-term national security.
  • As threats evolve, India's defence systems and strategies must also transform to stay ahead.

 

Changing Nature of Warfare

  • Traditional war concepts are being reshaped by technological advances and new strategic partnerships.
  • The current era is described as one of Grey Zone and Hybrid warfare, challenging conventional defence tactics.
  • Singh advocated for continuous adaptation to keep up with these new forms of warfare.

 

India’s Security Challenges

  • Traditional Threats: Border security remains a critical concern.
  • Non-Traditional Threats:

·         Terrorism.

·         Cyber-attacks.

·         Hybrid warfare.

  • Psychological Warfare: Increasingly prominent in the digital age, with significant information overload.

 

Government’s Steps to Enhance Defence

  • Establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) for improved coordination.
  • Promotion of joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
  • Enhancements in training curriculums to align with contemporary threats.
  • New defence partnerships on a global scale.

 

Focus on Emerging Technologies

  • Emphasized India's goal to be a leader in cyberspace and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
  • Recognized the importance of preparing for AI-driven innovations in defence.
  • Aimed to harness AI and other technologies to enhance national security.

 

India’s Drone and Swarm Technology Initiatives

  • Drones are revolutionizing warfare, and India aims to become a global hub for drone technology.
  • Efforts include improved R&D, certification mechanisms, and incentives for innovation.
  • iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) and ADITI schemes introduced to reward technological advancements.
  • Focus on strengthening the "Make in India" and "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (self-reliance) programmes.

 

Role of Delhi Defence Dialogue (DDD)

  • DDD is a major platform organized by MP-IDSA to address India’s complex defence and security challenges.
  • Aims to foster collaboration and discussions among policymakers, military experts, and scholars.
  • Focus on formulating innovative ideas to enhance India's defence posture and anticipate future threats.

 

 Initiatives to Build Self-Reliance in Defence

  • Several initiatives have been launched to foster a robust defence ecosystem:

·         Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020.

·         Creation of Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar Pradesh & Tamil Nadu.

·         Notification of positive indigenisation lists.

·         Increase in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit.

·         Introduction of iDEX to encourage innovation.

 

Emphasis on Indigenous Defence Production

  • The "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" focuses on reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.
  • Commitment to indigenous defence projects while remaining open to foreign investment and joint R&D.
  • Alignment with the broader "Make in India" initiative to boost self-reliance.

 

Success in Indigenous Defence Projects

  • Notable indigenous achievements include:

·         Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas).

·         INS Vikrant: Indigenous aircraft carrier.

·         DRDO’s Missile Programmes.

  • Resulting in rising defence exports to over 100 nations.
  • Major export destinations in 2023-24: USA, France, and Armenia.
  • Target set for ₹50,000 crore in defence exports by 2029.