Integrated Theatre Commands Await Defence Minister's Nod, Focus On Restructuring And Indigenous Capabilities

India’s defence sector is on the verge of a transformative overhaul, with advanced-stage preparations for implementing the Integrated Theatre Commands (ITC). The ITC will restructure the warfighting framework under the concept of ‘One Border, One Force.’ 

Spearheaded by the Chief of Defence Staff in collaboration with the Army, Navy, and Air Force chiefs, the proposal is awaiting final vetting by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh before being ratified by the Cabinet Committee on Security.

The Maritime Theatre Command in Karwar, Karnataka, will oversee coastal and maritime operations. The Western Integrated Theatre Command will focus on Pakistan, while the Northern Integrated Theatre Command, headquartered in Lucknow, will manage the northern border with China.

198 Initiatives for Defence Restructuring

The restructuring plan outlines 198 initiatives aimed at overhauling operational frameworks and force deployment. The integration will empower unified commanders with assets from all three forces, streamlining operations and strengthening the nation's defence strategy.

Boosting Indigenous Defence Capabilities

Aligned with the government’s push for ‘Aatmanirbharta’ (self-reliance), indigenous arms and equipment will play a pivotal role in this transformation. The Ministry of Defence’s year-end review emphasised a revamp of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, with a complete overhaul expected in 2025. The goal is to make the procurement process more adaptive to the services' evolving needs.

Future Acquisition Plans

A robust pipeline of more than 500 schemes has been charted for acquisition over the next 15 years, focusing on force application, battlefield awareness, command and control, sustenance, and protection. For FY 2024-25, the Defence Procurement Board has sanctioned 25 schemes worth approximately Rs 40,695 crore, targeting their conclusion within the financial year.

Notable projects under this plan include:

1. Construction of six advanced conventional submarines equipped with air-independent propulsion systems.

2. Procurement of 114 multi-role fighter aircraft, a key component of India’s aerial defence modernization.

Hi-Tech Warfighting

The Ministry of Defence has highlighted the importance of adopting advanced warfighting technologies being utilized in active conflict zones worldwide. This shift underscores India’s commitment to upgrading its forces with cutting-edge technology for enhanced battlefield efficacy.

With 25 acquisition schemes already identified, the government is prioritizing high-profile projects to bolster India’s defence capabilities. This landmark overhaul aims to secure the nation’s borders, modernize its armed forces, and reduce dependence on foreign defence suppliers.

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