![](https://bharatshakti.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/LT-BSI-Defence.gif")
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan gave an insider’s view on India’s theaterisation journey, highlighting how joint operations, technology adoption, and strategic integration are reshaping the country’s military preparedness.
Speaking with Nitin Gokhale, Editor-in-Chief, General Chauhan described theatre commands as a game-changer for India’s armed forces, tailored to the nation’s unique strategic and geographic needs.
Strategic Coordination, Not Direct Operations
Clarifying his mandate, General Chauhan noted that the CDS does not command troops in the field. Instead, he focuses on aligning the three services, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring joint planning. Operational responsibility continues to reside with the Army, Navy, and Air Force, but coordination at the CDS level ensures cohesion across domains.
Learning from Experience
Success in recent operations, the CDS said, is driven by political clarity, inter-service collaboration, and timely execution rather than any single factor. Lessons from these missions are being applied to theaterisation, helping refine command structures and decision-making processes.
10th India Defence Conclave | Fireside Chat With CDS General Anil Chauhan
Theatre Commands and Future Warfare
About 90% of theatre command planning is complete, General Chauhan revealed, with remaining refinements based on operational lessons. He emphasized the growing importance of emerging domains like cyber and cognitive warfare, as well as collaboration with industry and startups to accelerate technological adoption. Military seminars are being redesigned to focus on practical outcomes and actionable strategies.
Key Takeaways
- Joint integration is essential for operational success.
- Rapid technological change must be met with agility and innovation.
- Theatre commands are being tailored to India’s strategic realities.
- Lessons from current operations inform future planning.
Chauhan concluded that theaterisation is not just an organizational change but a strategic leap, ensuring India’s armed forces remain agile, integrated, and prepared for the challenges of modern warfare.
