In an exclusive and extensive interaction with Manish Kumar Jha of SP’s Naval Forces, Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), outlined the crucial role of the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) in strengthening jointness, indigenisation, and long-term capability development, across the Indian Armed Forces. He described the CISC as a linchpin in aligning the strategic, operational, and procurement visions of the Army, Navy, and Air Force to ensure a unified national defence posture.

A major focus of CISC’s work lies in developing the Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP) — a comprehensive 10-year roadmap that integrates modernisation priorities, technological advancements, and fiscal realities. Supported by the Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR) 2025, the ICDP ensures synchronisation between defence planning and indigenous R&D efforts.

CISC’s office also drives joint training initiatives, crosspostings, and integrated logistics nodes to build operational synergy and enhance efficiency. Air Marshal Dixit highlighted that evolving warfare dynamics, especially the integration of advanced technologies and network-centric systems, are shaping future capability needs. The emphasis now lies on R&D-led acquisitions, seamless interoperability, and data-driven decisionmaking to ensure readiness for modern conflicts.

Indigenisation remains a critical pillar, with HQ IDS coordinating tri-service requirements under initiatives such as iDEX and the Technology Development Fund (TDF). Efforts extend to building Centres of Excellence, enhancing private industry participation, and encouraging academia through defence technology programmes. The CISC’s spectrum management role and work on Network Centric Warfare further underline its technological stewardship.

Internationally, the CISC fosters defence diplomacy through multilateral exercises and capacity-building initiatives with over 38 countries, reinforcing India’s image as a “Preferred Security Partner and “First Responder. Air Marshal Dixit’s vision reflects India’s evolving approach to a self-reliant, networked, and future-ready defence ecosystem.

Recently, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing the 42nd Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Commanders’ Conference, hailed the ICG as a “true force multiplier” in safeguarding India’s maritime domain. With a formidable fleet of 152 vessels and 78 aircraft, the ICG has transformed into a vital pillar of national security, combining external and internal security roles. Rajnath Singh highlighted its success in countering smuggling, trafficking, and maritime pollution, while also leading disaster relief and humanitarian operations. Emphasising indigenisation – with nearly 90 per cent of its capital budget spent on Indian assets – he urged the ICG to adopt AI, drones, and cyber capabilities as it crafts a futuristic roadmap toward 2047. A detailed report on the conference is included in this issue.

Wishing all discerning readers happy reading!