Operation Sindoor: A Glimpse Into India's Future Military Structure
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, has revealed that Operation Sindoor served as merely a preview of how India's future integrated theatre commands will function. He made these significant remarks during his address at ANI's National Security Summit on November 28, 2025.
The Future of Joint Military Operations
The senior military official emphasized that the demonstration during Operation Sindoor provided crucial insights into the joint decision-making processes and real-time information flow that will define future theatre operations. According to Dixit, the establishment of dedicated theatre operations rooms will enable commanders to respond to situations with unprecedented speed and coordination.
Fast and fail-safe communication networks connecting all three services - Army, Navy, and Air Force - will form the backbone of these integrated commands. This interconnected system will allow for seamless coordination and rapid response capabilities during critical operations.
Strengthening Critical Infrastructure Protection
Addressing the security of vital national assets, Air Marshal Dixit outlined comprehensive measures being implemented to safeguard critical infrastructure. India is actively developing counter-Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) grids alongside integrated air defence systems to address emerging threats.
The military leader stressed that organizations operating critical infrastructure must implement robust anti-drone measures to counter the growing threat posed by disruptive drone technology. He revealed that the armed forces are making substantial investments in counter-drone technology as part of broader efforts to enhance national security preparedness.
The significant financial commitment to advanced counter-drone systems reflects the seriousness with which India views this emerging security challenge. These systems will work in tandem with the integrated theatre commands to provide comprehensive protection against modern threats.
Transforming National Security Architecture
The integration of theatre commands represents one of the most significant transformations in India's military structure in decades. The lessons learned from Operation Sindoor are directly informing the development of these new command structures, which aim to eliminate operational silos between different military branches.
This strategic shift toward integrated theatre commands marks a fundamental change in how India plans to conduct military operations in the future. The emphasis on real-time information sharing and joint decision-making processes demonstrates the military's commitment to adapting to 21st-century warfare requirements.
As Air Marshal Dixit concluded, the successful implementation of these systems will significantly enhance India's defensive capabilities and response readiness against evolving security challenges.
