OP TOPAC: The Kashmir Imbroglio

IDR think-tank war-gamed and published in July 1989 the anticipated course of action by Pakistan in Kashmir under the title OP TOPAC.. This came true in the subsequent years!. We reproduce this war gaming done by IDR, in original that was published in the issue of July 89 to show that New Delhi despite the [...]

The Indian Fault Line

The genesis of the Indian fault line can be traced to many centuries of foreign domination of the subcontinent. Its scars are deeply etched in our psyche. It inhibits us from developing a cogent strategy for the nation. Notwithstanding the large resources, genius, skills, young population profile and an imposing geographical location in Asia, this [...]

IDR Interview “…IAF has to maintain its sharp edge.”

  In an exclusive interview, Air Chief Marshal FH Major, PVSM, AVSM, SC, VM, ADC, shared his perception about the Indian Air Force with Bharat Verma, Editor, Indian Defence Review. 

Fratricide Incidents in The Army

The number of incidents of fratricide in the Indian Army as well as para-military forces is disconcertingly on the increase. The term fratricide has been used in this article because army is not a profession but a family, a way of life, where soldiers are brothers in arms. The victims have been personnel at the [...]

Transformation of The Chinese Military

China’s fifth white paper, published in December 2004, outlines the objectives of a military policy focused on Taiwan1. Weaponry and equipment are identified as “the crucial material and technological basis for pushing forward the Revolution in Military Affairs with Chinese characteristics” and “building a strong military by means of science and technology”. Addressing the Cross [...]

Theatre Commands

The Kargil war identified certain inadequacies in the functioning of our Higher Defence Organisation. Subsequently, the Kargil Review Committee enumerated the need for a thorough review of the national security system and recommended instituting the post of CDS. After the report of the Group of Ministers was submitted, substantial reforms did take place in the [...]