India’s top military leaders have gathered for a two-day Joint Commanders’ Conference (JCC) in Lucknow to review the final blueprint for the country’s proposed theatre commands. This significant reorganization, focused on threats from China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean Region, represents the most substantial overhaul of India’s military structure since Independence. The move aims to improve coordination and joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, paving the way for a more integrated and effective defence system.
Theatre Commands to Enhance Operational Efficiency
The blueprint, prepared by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, outlines command, control, and operational structures for the proposed theatre commands. These commands will consolidate the operational efforts of India’s military into three geographic regions:
- Northern Theatre Command (focused on China) with headquarters in Lucknow.
- Western Theatre Command (focused on Pakistan) based in Jaipur.
- Maritime Theatre Command, for addressing threats from the Indian Ocean Region, with Thiruvananthapuram as a potential location
This reorganization would replace the current 17 single-service commands (seven each for the Army and Air Force, and three for the Navy) that lack synergy in operations, planning, and logistics. Each new theatre command would integrate the Army, Navy, and Air Force into a single unit to manage security in their respective geographical areas.
The Indian Air Force will have to relinquish its Southern Air Command based in Thiruvananthapuram, and the Army will vacate its South-Western Command in Jaipur. The Army’s Central Command, currently based in Lucknow, will also be relocated under this new structure.
Command Structure and Leadership Changes
The proposed theatre commands will be led by four-star generals, marking a shift in India’s military leadership structure. This would place theatre commanders on the same level as the CDS and service chiefs, who are also four-star officers. The existing 17 single-service commands are currently headed by three-star officers (Lieutenant Generals, Air Marshals, or Vice Admirals).
