With transformations in higher defence organization taking place, integrated theatre commands have become a hotly discussed flavour, in the last few months. Most experts have batted for this structural reform, though there have been a few naysayers too. In this essay, the author has elaborated upon the major advantages of integrated theatre commands and also discussed how the negative effects can be assuaged. The bottom line is that the final reshaping and restructuring of integrated theatre commands should take place after an objective analysis, and not be pushed along preconceived pserceptions.
The last few months have seen major restructuring initiatives in the higher defence organization of India. With the appointment of the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and establishment of Department of Military Affairs under the CDS, there is likely to be better synergy and coordination between the Ministry of Defence and the Services Headquarters. Tri-services issues should progress well towards resolution. It is clear that India’s higher defence organization is evolving for INSIGHT future requirements and is better poised for joint warfare. But jointness is not merely integration at the topmost level, it also needs to be fused at the operational control level, that is, at the theatre command. In the words of Dwight D Eisenhower, ”The need for greater unity today is most important at two points – in the office of the Secretary of Defence and in the military commands responsible for actual combat in the theatre in the event of 1 war (security crisis)”. It is hence apt for us to examine the necessity of integrated theatre commands for India.