"Hybrid Warfare Will Be Part Of Future Wars, Forces Need To Be Ready," Says Rajnath Singh At Army Commanders Conference

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stated that unconventional, asymmetric and hybrid warfare will be part of future conventional wars, and the armed forces should be ready for it, in an address to top army commanders yesterday (18 October).

Singh highlighted the need for the military to remain prepared for any uncertainties.

He expressed full confidence in the army's capability to effectively address any contingencies, all the while emphasising that talks for a peaceful resolution of the ongoing dispute would continue at all levels.

He was speaking at the ongoing five-day (16-20 October) Army Commanders' Conference, where learnings from the Israel-Hamas and Ukraine-Russia conflict, Agniveers, theaterisation, security of border areas are to be discussed.

Singh also commended the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for its remarkable efforts in improving road networks in challenging areas along the Western and Northern frontiers.

He acknowledged the global complexities and ambiguities, urging the army's leadership to be ready for the unexpected and to strategize accordingly.

Singh emphasised the government's commitment to modernising weaponry for every soldier through 'Atma Nirbharta' (self-reliance) and highlighted the significance of defence diplomacy, indigenisation, information warfare, defence infrastructure, and force modernisation.

"War preparedness should be a continuous phenomenon and we should always be ready for the uncertainties that may crop up any time. We should always be strengthening our fighting skills and weapons technologies so as to act effectively wherever called for," Singh said.

He praised the army's response to cross-border terrorism along the Western borders and noted the persistence of proxy war by Pakistan in J&K.

"The nation is proud of its army and the government is committed to facilitate the army in their forward movement, on the road to reforms and capability modernisation," the defence minister stated.

Singh also commended the 'excellent synergy' between the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF), state police forces, and the army in counter-terrorism efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, contributing to enhanced stability and peace in the region.

Singh lauded the army's operational preparedness and capabilities, expressing his deep respect for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the nation.

The Defence Minister noted that unconventional warfare would likely be a component of future conventional conflicts, a trend observed in recent global conflicts.

"Unconventional and asymmetric warfare, including hybrid war will be part of the future conventional wars and the same is evident in the recent conflicts happening in various parts of the world," Singh stated.

The Defence Minister also praised the army for its contributions to military diplomacy, strengthening cooperative relationships with foreign armies to further India's national security interests.

Additionally, he acknowledged the outstanding performance of army sportspersons in the Asian Games 2023.

Singh concluded by highlighting the army's esteemed position as one of the most trusted and inspiring organisations in the nation.