Indian military’s ‘Operation Vijay’ during the Kargil War of 1999 not only established India’s expertise in high-altitude warfare fought in the freezing cold and extremely daunting mountainous terrain but it also ushered a new chapter in the India-US relations. 25 years after the Kargil conflict, India has secured hold of all the strategic peaks along its border.
However, the Kargil War also underscored the importance and need for a robust defence strategy. As reported by PTI, while presenting the Kargil Honours to mark 25 years of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan said, “The Kargil conflict highlighted the significance of maintaining vigilance and preparedness for safeguarding our borders. It also emphasized the importance of public and international diplomacy, a strategy which was used effectively to maintain the neutrality of inimical nations and gain global support”.
The Observer Research Foundation (ORF) in an article titled ‘Modernising of the Indian Army: Future Challenges’ stated that the modernisation needs of the Army require the armed forces to be equipped with modern weapons, technology-based processes and automation. It further stressed that the Army will need to upgrade or replace its ageing inventory of weapons and equipment while putting special focus on upgrading its Infantry, Artillery, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Night Vision Devices, Mechanical Forces, Army Aviation, Air Defence (AD), Bridging Equipment for engineers, to name a few.
This brings us to the question of the hour: What are the post-Kargil developments to modernize the Indian military? To understand the modernisation of the Indian military, first, we need to learn about the significant steps by the Indian government to strengthen its defence structure.
Explained: Role of Technology and Communication in Kargil War
The Kargil Review Committee
Just three days after the end of the Kargil War, the Kargil Review Committee (KRC) was set up by the Government of India on July 29, 1999. The Committee was set up to oversee and study the sequence of events and make recommendations for the future. The Committee found several flaws in intelligence collection, operational strategies, and procedural sharing of data.
The Committee also noticed that the national security system of India had undergone very few changes since the 52-year-old framework recommended by Louis Mountbatten and outlined by Hastings Ismay. It highlighted further that India had undergone the Sino-Indian War, the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965, and the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971 during the stretch of those 52 years.
Despite major defence reforms following the Sino-Indian War in 1962, India was not able to address national security in a holistic way which prompted the need to assess the defence needs on a 5-year basis. This led to the First Defence Plan.
Group of Ministers (GoM)
Following the formation of the Kargil Review Committee, a Group of Ministers along with task forces and other committees was also set up to follow up on the recommendation of KRC. These included the Standing Committee on Defence in 2007, the Naresh Chandra Task Force in 2011, and the Ravindra Gupta Task Force in 2012.
Let us look at how the modernisation of the Indian military has been done since Kargil.
The Kargil War in Popular Culture: An Overview
Modernisation of India's Military: Post-Kargil Developments
Since the Kargil War, the Indian military has undergone substantial modernisation to address the gaps identified and to enhance its operational capabilities. Here’s a look at how this transformation has unfolded across various domains:
1. Structural and Strategic Reforms
The Kargil Review Committee's findings catalyzed significant structural changes in India's defence framework. The establishment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) position in 2019, a recommendation that had been discussed for years, aimed to integrate the three branches of the armed forces—Army, Navy, and Air Force. This new role ensures better coordination and a unified approach to military strategy and procurement.
The creation of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) under the CDS has streamlined decision-making processes and improved resource management. The National Security Strategy was also revisited, focusing on multi-domain operations to address both traditional and non-traditional threats.
2. Upgradation of Infrastructure
Infrastructure development has played a crucial role in modernizing the Indian military. Efforts include:
Border Infrastructure
The construction of roads, bridges, and forward bases along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and Line of Control (LoC) has improved logistical support and troop mobility in remote and difficult terrains. Significant investments have been made in improving border infrastructure, including the construction of roads, tunnels, and airstrips in remote and strategically important areas. This ensures faster mobilization and better logistical support for troops stationed in these regions.
Mobility and Strategic Airlift
Mechanization and mobility have seen substantial improvements with the introduction of advanced tanks such as the T-90 Bhishma and Arjun Mk-1A. These tanks are equipped with cutting-edge fire control systems and enhanced armour protection, providing the necessary agility and firepower. Additionally, the induction of modern Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) like BMP-2/2K Sarath has further strengthened the mechanized forces. Upgrades to the strategic airlift capabilities, including the acquisition of C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, have enhanced the military's ability to rapidly deploy forces and equipment across the country and beyond.
Kargil Conflict and it's Lasting Impact on Indo-Pak Relations
3. Technological Advancements
India has invested heavily in upgrading its military technology. The armed forces have embraced cutting-edge technologies to bolster their capabilities:
Infantry and Artillery modernisation
The modernisation of the Indian Army’s infantry and artillery has been a critical focus area. To enhance combat effectiveness, the Army has inducted advanced assault rifles, light machine guns, and sniper rifles. The induction of the M777 howitzer and K-9 Vajra-T self-propelled howitzer has significantly boosted the artillery capabilities. These systems offer superior firepower and mobility, crucial for high-altitude and challenging terrains like those encountered during the Kargil War.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and Surveillance
The acquisition and deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) like the Heron and Searcher, along with the deployment of satellites such as the RISAT series, have significantly enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. These UAVs provide real-time intelligence and target acquisition, crucial for modern warfare. The induction of indigenous UAVs like the Rustom and the development of armed drones further bolster the military’s capabilities.
Air Defence and Army Aviation
Modern air defence systems like the Akash Surface-to-Air Missile System and the Israeli SPYDER system have been deployed to provide robust protection against aerial threats. The Army Aviation Corps has also been modernized with the induction of advanced helicopters like the AH-64E Apache, CH-47F Chinook, and the domestically developed HAL Dhruv. These helicopters enhance the Army’s ability to conduct rapid troop movements and provide close air support.
Enhancing Cyber and Space Capabilities
Recognizing the importance of cyber and space domains in modern warfare, India has established dedicated agencies like the Defence Cyber Agency (DCA) and the Defence Space Agency (DSA). These agencies focus on developing capabilities to protect and project power in cyberspace and outer space, ensuring the security of India’s critical infrastructure and space assets.
Technological Integration and Network-Centric Warfare
The adoption of technology has been a cornerstone of the modernisation efforts. The Indian military has embraced network-centric warfare capabilities, integrating advanced communication systems, surveillance platforms, and battlefield management systems. Projects like the Tactical Communication System (TCS) and the Battlefield Management System (BMS) aim to provide real-time data sharing and situational awareness, enhancing command and control capabilities.
4. Focus on Indigenous Production
India has placed a strong emphasis on self-reliance in defence production to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and bolster domestic industries:
Make in India Initiative
India has placed a strong emphasis on indigenisation and self-reliance in defence production. Initiatives like the “Make in India” campaign and the establishment of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) have led to the development of indigenous platforms like the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), the Arjun Main Battle Tank, the INS Arihant nuclear submarine, missile systems such as the Agni and BrahMos, and various other weapon systems. These platforms not only reduce dependency on foreign suppliers but also enhance the strategic autonomy of the Indian military.
5. International Cooperation and Alliances
India’s strategic partnerships with other countries have strengthened its defence posture:
Defence Acquisitions and International Collaborations
In addition to indigenous development, India has pursued strategic acquisitions and collaborations to enhance its military capabilities. Notable acquisitions include the Rafale multi-role fighter jets, S-400 Triumf air defence systems, and P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. India has expanded its defence partnerships with various countries, including the United States, Russia, France, and Israel. These partnerships involve joint exercises, technology transfers, and collaborative defence projects. India has also engaged in strategic alliances and defence dialogues with organizations like the Quad (comprising the US, Japan, Australia, and India) to enhance regional security and counterbalance emerging threats.
Organizational Reforms and Strategic Initiatives
The formation of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) position and the establishment of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA) have been significant organizational reforms aimed at enhancing jointness and synergy among the armed forces. The integration of tri-services commands like the Andaman and Nicobar Command and the creation of integrated battle groups (IBGs) are steps towards a more agile and cohesive military structure.
Conclusion
The post-Kargil era has witnessed a profound transformation in the Indian military’s capabilities and strategies. From structural reforms and technological advancements to enhanced infrastructure and international cooperation.
The modernisation of the Indian military post-Kargil has been a comprehensive and multi-faceted effort. By upgrading weaponry, embracing technology, pursuing indigenization, and implementing strategic reforms, India has significantly enhanced its military capabilities.
These developments ensure that the Indian armed forces are well-prepared to face contemporary and future security challenges, maintaining the nation’s sovereignty and strategic interests.
Modernising India's Military: Key Developments After the Kargil War
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