Army Chief Highlights Importance of Tech Advancements to Outpace Rivals

Quick Summary

• Event: Chief of army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi spoke at the 52nd National Management Convention by AIMA in New Delhi on September 9, 2025.
• Key Message: Emphasized the importance of constant technological advancements and self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) to stay ahead of adversaries.
• Operational Insights: Revealed deployment of long-range rockets, missiles, UAVs, UCAVs, and loitering munitions during recent conflicts; highlighted threats from adversaries like Pakistan using Turkey and China-made UCAVs.
• Secure Mobile Ecosystem: introduced SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version), a secure dialog platform developed indigenously and deployed during “Operation Sindoor.”

– SAMBHAV enabled joint operational intelligence for commanders without relying on external platforms such as WhatsApp. Upgrades are underway for enhanced capabilities.

• Future Strategy:

– Expansion into swarm drones and loitering munitions with extended ranges up to 750 kilometers.
– Push for spiral development to continuously improve defence technology.

Indian Opinion Analysis

General Dwivedi’s address reflects a strategic shift in India’s defense landscape towards greater reliance on indigenous innovation through initiatives like Atmanirbharta (self-reliance). The use of SAMBHAV during Operation Sindoor highlights India’s focus on cybersecurity while combating evolving technology-driven warfare challenges.

The discussion around enhancing missile ranges and deploying swarm technologies aligns with global trends in modern military strategies involving automation and precision weaponry. Security experts may see this as critical for maintaining deterrence against technologically advancing adversaries such as Pakistan and China.

India’s intention to adopt a whole-of-nation approach-integrating soldiers, scientists, policymakers-could enhance collaboration across diverse domains crucial for national security resilience. Continued advancements promise multifaceted benefits but will require robust investment in R&D capacities alongside fostering international partnerships when necessary.

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