India's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan, has called for a paradigm shift in the Indian Armed Forces' approach to warfare, emphasising the need for data-driven and integrated strategies to address the challenges of modern conflicts. Speaking at the International Centre, General Chauhan highlighted the transformative impact of technological advancements on military operations and stressed the importance of doctrinal changes to remain future-ready.

The CDS underlined the urgency of developing innovative concepts for warfare, moving beyond traditional strategies to embrace data-centric methods. He highlighted the establishment of a joint Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) framework, integrating the capabilities of all military branches to enhance operational effectiveness.

Highlighting the need for cross-domain integration, General Chauhan proposed managing naval assets through the Air Force when required, advocating a seamless synergy across air, land, and maritime operations. This integrated approach, he noted, would be pivotal for the armed forces to adapt to evolving conflict scenarios.

The CDS called for original ideas and thought leadership from military personnel and academic institutions to shape India's response to new warfare paradigms. He stressed that replicating Western models would not suffice and urged the development of a distinct Indian approach tailored to the nation’s unique challenges and opportunities.

General Chauhan outlined a comprehensive roadmap for the armed forces leading up to 2047, aimed at transitioning into an integrated all-domain force. This vision includes implementing key reforms over the next decade and achieving operational excellence by the mid-21st century.

As part of this transformation, he advocated for the creation of joint structures in logistics, ISR, and air defence, which have historically functioned independently. Integrating these systems across military branches, he argued, would significantly enhance combat readiness and operational efficiency.

The CDS’s remarks signal a significant shift in India's military strategy, underscoring the incorporation of advanced technologies and a unified approach to warfare. This vision is expected to bolster the armed forces’ ability to respond dynamically to emerging threats and secure the nation's strategic interests in an increasingly complex global landscape.