Defence
Road To Theatre Commands: Armed Forces To Create Three Additional Joint Logistics Nodes, After Cross Staffing Officers
File photo of a Joint Exercise in A&N Islands (via PIB).
The Indian armed forces will establish three additional joint logistics nodes nationwide to enhance integration and streamline supply chains, in pursuit of creating integrated theater commands.
This move comes just days (29 May), after the Armed forces have agreed to cross staff Major and Lieutenant Colonel level officers within each other establishments to kickstart integration.
India Armed Forces had earlier, in 2021, established three joint logistics nodes to integrate logistics for the three services. The Joint Operations Division under the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) oversaw their creation.
The Mumbai joint logistics node was operationalised by former CDS Gen Bipin Rawat in April 2021, while the ones in Guwahati and Andaman and Nicobar Command, Port Blair were operationalised in January 2021.
Now the forces plan to set up additional joint logistics nodes in Leh, West Bengal, and Tamil Nadu.
The nodes offer comprehensive logistics support to the military for their small arms ammunition, fuel, rations, general stores, engineering, civil transport, aviation clothing, and spare parts.
The integration of these, improves the operational effectiveness of the services, particularly in times of conflict.
According to sources, locations for the nodes were chosen based on accessibility to rail and air infrastructure, as well as ample space for spreading out during war.
The establishment of joint logistics nodes, will help in effective use of workforce and resources, along with improved interoperability and logistics processes between defence units. The creation of country-wide joint nodes represents a significant step towards greater military integration as integrated theatre commands are developed.
One officer said, “Every node will cater to troops deployed across a vast geographical area”.
Drafting the stocking policy for the nodes involves considering the number of troops in the region and possible increases, particularly in mountainous areas.
Additionally, the policy must account for weather conditions and other challenges that may result in certain areas being cut off, thereby affecting the resupply process. It also aims to ensure the timely turnover of ammunition, ensuring that it is used within its specified shelf life.
According to another official, a strong infrastructure will be established with customised storage and maintenance shelters for specific equipment.
All three service officers will be stationed there for seamless integration, with each node falling under either one of the services.
Although, the road to 'integrated theatre commands' is a long one, but creating additional joint logistics nodes and cross staffing officers within each other commands is a right step towards creation of joint theatre commands.
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