New Delhi, Jul 4: Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan emphasized the rapid transformation of warfare due to technological advancements during his address to a gathering of Army officers, junior commissioned officers (JCOs), and soldiers from the 18 Grenadiers in New Delhi on Thursday. The occasion marked the 25th anniversary of the battles of Tololing and Tiger Hill fought during the Kargil war in 1999.
Tiger Hill, a crucial victory for the Indian Army, was captured on July 4, 1999, with the 18 Grenadiers battalion playing a pivotal role. The annual ‘Vijay Diwas’ on July 26 commemorates India’s triumph over Pakistan in the Kargil conflict.
Gen Chauhan highlighted the trust and prestige bestowed upon the armed forces by the people of India, attributing it to the legacy earned through past sacrifices. He stressed the responsibility borne both individually and collectively by the armed forces in upholding this trust.
Acknowledging the evolving nature of warfare, Gen Chauhan underscored the necessity for readiness to adapt to rapid changes. He expressed aspirations for India to become a professional armed force and a global power, emphasizing the importance of embracing new energy and innovative thinking.
Quoting scientists and philosophers, the CDS emphasized the inevitability of change, asserting that the armed forces cannot remain insulated from rapid technological developments shaping modern warfare. He noted that while valor remains critical, future conflicts will require flexibility, imagination, and an open-minded approach.
Discussing advancements in weaponry and strategies, Gen Chauhan highlighted the shift towards multi-domain warfare, integrating conventional domains like land, sea, and air with cyber, electromagnetic spectrum, and space domains to enhance military capabilities.
He reiterated the people’s trust in the armed forces and emphasized the imperative of maintaining it through effective adaptation to new challenges. Gen Chauhan emphasized the role of reforms, including the establishment of the CDS post, in fostering jointness and integration among the three Services to enhance operational effectiveness.
In conclusion, Gen Chauhan extended his regards to the 18 Grenadiers battalion and Veer Naris, honoring the sacrifices of soldiers and their families who have contributed to the nation’s defense.
