BANGALORE: In order to meet future threats and challenges the Indian military needs to modernize and create force structures that are capable of undertaking network-centric warfare on land, at sea, and in the air. It is seen that from last few years that the war potential of Indian military is washing away. Yes it is true that gradually, but perceptibly, the Indian armed forces are upgrading their capabilities, enhancing their kinetic effectiveness and improving interoperability. But more attention is needed before the situation becomes worse. Due to lack of policy decisions and missing contracts by the last government the new government has to bring more change in defense preparedness.
The first and foremost issue to be addressed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government is modernization of the equipment inventory of the forces. Be it the decades old case of induction of 155mm guns or additional submarines, the pending contract for fighter aircraft or replacement of the aging helicopter fleet - a new dynamism is the need. Even the basic weapon of a soldier, the INSAS rifle currently in use, needs to be replaced.
Our defence acquisition procedures and offset clauses need a relook. The steps required have already been in focus with the new ministry. However, to hasten up equipment induction, the whole process of lengthy, cumbersome and rigid equipment trials needs a relook.
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