On November 13, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen. Anil Chauhan led the 35th Tri-services Commanders’ Conference (TSTCC), at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. He emphasized the need for inter-service cooperation, as it can counter the emerging threats faced by our nation more effectively. The landmark event was also attended by the senior commanders from the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. Personnel from the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) were also in attendance. The Tri-services Commanders’ Conference also served to highlight India’s focus on joint training initiatives and fostering military readiness in a dynamic strategic environment.
Focus on and Integrated Joint Training
In his opening address, CDS Gen Chauhan signified the importance of “jointmanship” and a unified training regime to address future threats in an integrated manner. He further went on to highlight the current joint training initiative and how it will enhance operational superiority. The Tri-services Commanders’ Conference continued from where the last TSTCC left off and thus outlines a roadmap for a much refined joint training program and interoperability amongst the various armed forces of the country.
He also noted how the term “Jointmanship” was integral to the agenda. This exhibits a cohesive approach that already transcends traditional military boundaries that have existed between the armed forces. We should note that Gen Chauhan’s leadership has continued to drive the need for building a “theaterised” force structure. Such a structure would be capable of thwarting any evolving threats by coordination between the Army, Navy, and the Air Force.
General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff chaired the 35th Triservices Training Commanders' Conference #TSTCC at Southern Naval Command, #Kochi. Discussions held on optimial utilisation of training infrastructure & resources and exploiting the collective potential of our… pic.twitter.com/4mt1po8Dcn
— HQ IDS (@HQ_IDS_India) November 13, 2024
Enhanced Training Infrastructure and Future Readiness
The 35th Tri-services Commanders’ Conference reviewed the current training infrastructure across all branches of the military. This review aimed to help optimize the existing facilities in order to prepare for cohesive joint exercises. Discussions were held to determine the way forward and how to properly leverage existing resources. The review also took into account the possibility of integrating cutting-edge technology and ensuring that the supposed exercises align with the challenges of the evolved warfare dynamics.
Possible innovative training strategies were also explored following the discussion, as things like integrating digital technologies and advanced warfare concepts were brought up by the attendees. The use of cyber warfare and space-based creation were the highlights, as it was deemed possible to equip army personnel with the required skills to sufficiently wield them. In the end, the Tri-service Commanders’ Conference also took a look at the previous suggestion made during the earlier installments of the TSTCC.
How Collaborative Efforts Can Strengthen India’s Defence Capabilities
The Tri-services Commanders’ Conference, held annually by rotating the training commands of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, is a foundational platform. It serves to strengthen joint efforts of the armed forces of the nation and sits in line with the Government’s vision of Adaptive Defence. The current TSTCC once again reinforced the importance of joint training towards developing a cohesive military force, capable of outgunning dynamic threats against the country.
The structure of the TSTCC allows for the development of a unified front and a joint operational doctrine, thus bringing together training staff across the different branches of the military. This convergence is crucial to fostering mutual understanding and enhancing the operational readiness of the armed forces. Hence, each successive conference lays the groundwork for a more integrated and efficient joint training method.
CDS Gen Anil Chauhan’s First Visit to Southern Naval Command
The 35th Tri-services Commanders’ Conference also marks the first time CDS Gen. Chauhan visited the Southern Naval Command. During the visit, he discussed the critical aspects of joint training and the tri-service collaboration with Vice Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief. There was also a presentation to highlight the role Southern Naval Command plays in supporting India’s maritime security.
