In a significant move towards bolstering its defense capabilities, India and the United States have embarked on a path of defense technology transfer and upgrades, while ensuring India’s strategic autonomy remains intact. This alliance marks a departure from India’s historical alignment with the USSR back in 1971, which, interestingly, emphasized the preservation of India’s strategic autonomy. As India stands at the threshold of a revolutionary transformation in national defense and security, it aims to incorporate systematic and logical changes against a strategic backdrop.

Strategic Evaluation and Technological Environment: The inception of India’s Integrated Defense Plan dates back to the mid-1980s when the Defense Planning Staff (DPS) undertook a comprehensive evaluation of the strategic and technological environment. This evaluation, comparable to contemporary Strategic Defense and Security Reviews (SDSR), formed the basis for the 15-year Defense Plan. Former Defense Minister KC Pant referenced this groundbreaking plan in Parliament, marking the first-ever formulation of an Integrated Defense Plan in India. Additionally, the Kargil Review Committee Report in 2000 prompted a significant change in national security policy, though its recommendations were implemented in fragmented fashion.

The Need for a Holistic Review: Despite several defense reviews and task forces issuing piecemeal recommendations, a comprehensive review or White Paper has yet to be sought or presented in the Indian Parliament. In contrast, other democracies, such as the United Kingdom, mandate Strategic Defense and Security Reviews (SDSR) to adapt to changing strategic environments. Whether during a change in government or shifts in the global landscape, these reviews provide a long-term vision for both international and domestic considerations. India’s failure to conduct a strategic assessment or holistic review thus far highlights a departure from established principles.

The Evolution of India’s Defense Policy: In 2019, India established a Defense Policy Committee led by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, tasked with formulating the National Security Strategy (NSS), akin to the SDSR. Despite the elevation of Ajit Doval to the Cabinet rank, the NSS remains a work in progress. Previously, the Defense Ministers’ Operational Directive served as the guiding document, crafted by the Army’s Military Operations Directorate and refined by the Ministry of Defense. However, it was not until 2020 that a refined Operational Directive was accepted, outlining war stocks for intense conflict. Intriguingly, the decisions regarding the nature and duration of potential conflicts were made without a formal strategic review.

The Appointment of the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS): India’s landmark reforms in 2019 included the appointment of a Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), the establishment of the Department of Military Affairs, planning for integrated theater commands, the Agniveer recruitment scheme in 2022, and a focus on self-reliance in defense. Notably, the selection criteria for the CDS underwent changes after the untimely demise of the first incumbent, General Bipin Rawat. The appointment of a retired three-star General, who had not served as a service chief, raised eyebrows. This unconventional selection process lacked a clear connection to a strategic assessment, setting it apart from global norms.

The Imperative for a Strategic Review: As evidenced by the recent National Security Strategy (NSS) document prepared by National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan under President Joe Biden’s administration, strategic assessments are crucial for informing both the public and armed forces about adversaries, threats, challenges, and opportunities. For India, the central focus lies in operationalizing integrated deterrence, as countering China’s influence requires joint efforts and cooperation. The defense ecosystem’s jointness, exemplified by collaborations like the joint production of GE414