The Indian Air Force (IAF) has outlined a bold vision for future warfare, one that prioritises innovation, integration, and self-reliance as the cornerstones of military success. Speaking at a recent defence symposium, Air Marshal Dhirendra Kumar Bharti, Vice Chief of the Air Staff, articulated a framework that challenges traditional notions of strength, asserting that future conflicts will be won by those who adapt swiftly and harness indigenous capabilities.
Bharti’s vision is rooted in a phased approach to warfare, beginning with the pre-kinetic phase—a critical period where intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) will dictate the trajectory of conflict. “Persistent, survivable ISR capabilities in a highly informatised environment will be paramount,” he stated, underscoring the need for real-time data engines powered by artificial intelligence (AI). These systems must be capable of processing vast amounts of information instantaneously, providing decision-makers with the clarity needed to act decisively.
To achieve this, Bharti called for the integration of quantum-resilient communications, blockchain technology, and a network of sensors spanning ground, air, and space platforms. This multi-domain approach ensures redundancy and resilience, mitigating the risks of disruption in contested environments. “We must leverage cutting-edge technologies to maintain an information edge,” he emphasised, highlighting the importance of staying ahead of adversaries in the digital domain.
The IAF’s push for indigenous innovation is evident in its demand for advanced systems, including additional Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS) aircraft, cutting-edge fighter radars, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) equipped with sophisticated sensors. Bharti stressed the need for a mix of radio frequency (RF) sensors alongside electro-optical and infrared technologies, ensuring comprehensive coverage and adaptability across different operational scenarios.
This focus on self-reliance aligns with India’s broader defence modernisation efforts, which aim to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and foster a robust domestic defence industry. By investing in homegrown technologies, the IAF seeks not only to enhance its operational capabilities but also to position India as a leader in defence innovation.
Bharti’s remarks signal a strategic shift in how the IAF views future warfare—one that transcends brute force and instead prioritises agility, technological superiority, and indigenous ingenuity. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, the ability to innovate faster and integrate more effectively will be the defining factors in determining military success. The IAF’s vision serves as a call to action for the defence sector, urging stakeholders to embrace a future where adaptability and self-reliance are the ultimate measures of strength.