The Indian Armed Forces will mark a significant milestone with the launch of the first-ever tri-services "Future Warfare" course, set to take place in New Delhi from September 23 to 27, 2024. Organized under the aegis of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS), the course is a pioneering initiative led by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, aimed at preparing officers for the evolving dynamics of modern warfare.
This unique course will bring together officers from all three services, ranging from Major Generals to Majors, and their equivalents. The rank-agnostic nature of the program is designed to offer participants an in-depth understanding of the operational and technological shifts that are reshaping the future of warfare.
Key topics include the nature of future conflicts, which could manifest as contact or non-contact, kinetic or non-kinetic, as well as psychological and informational warfare. The course will also delve into the domains in which future battles may be fought, such as cyberspace, outer space, and the electromagnetic spectrum. Additionally, participants will explore the influence of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), robotics, and hypersonics on warfare tactics and strategies.
The course arises from the urgent need for officers to stay ahead of technological advancements and adapt to new global dynamics and threats. It aims to foster greater jointness between the services and promote the development of a unified, technologically advanced force capable of protecting India's national interests in a rapidly changing world.
Curated by subject matter experts, both veteran and serving, from the Integrated Defence Staff, this course is the first in a planned series of future warfare programs. Longer and more comprehensive courses are expected to follow, with the ultimate goal of making the Indian Armed Forces "future ready."