Military Affairs

About Centre

The Centre for Military Affairs comprises of a mix of serving officers of the Indian Armed Forces and civilian experts. The Centre adopts an inter-disciplinary approach to various issues that impinge upon India’s national security in general and the armed forces in particular. Its research focus is on issues that impact upon national security and capacity-building of the Indian armed forces. Specific areas of focus include: emerging contemporary challenges in warfare, jointness, defence co-operation, maritime security, and military training needs. In addition, the Centre also addresses China- and Pakistan-related issues with a bearing on their interface with Indian security. The Centre closely interacts with military establishments in India and abroad and contributes to policy making by conducting research in areas of significance for the armed forces.

Back to the Basics: Foot and Hoof Mobilty in the Mountains

This Brief argues that foot mobility is central to mountain warfare. It first uses historical evidence to show the advantageous use of this capacity by the victor. It then argues for preserving this ‘military biodiversity’ by including indigenous breeds of animals.

Asymmetric Wars In The Indian Context

Strategic Interaction theory suggests that India must employ direct strategies towards a weaker Pakistan and indirect strategies towards a stronger China.

Mandip Singh
October 13, 2011
IDSA Comments

What Does Pakistan Hope to Achieve with Nasr?

The commentary addresses the pros and cons of Pakistan’s development of Nasr and concludes that it can be neutralised by India through innovative measures.

Ali Ahmed
August 17, 2011
IDSA Comments

Increasing Normalisation of the Turkish State

With the resignation of the service chiefs and Erdo?an’s consolidation of control, Turkey has taken a huge step towards political normalization and consolidating its democracy.

Rumel Dahiya
August 01, 2011
IDSA Comments

The Indian Navy Chief’s Visit and Indo-Russian Defence Cooperation

Given the legacy of defence cooperation and ongoing projects, Russia will remain for the foreseeable future India’s major defence partner.

Amit Kumar
July 29, 2011
IDSA Comments

Libya: Evaluating NATO’s Strategic Concept

An expanded role beyond its borders, including R2P, needs to be included in NATO’s concept to ensure its future relevance.

Faulty Manpower Policy in Indian Armed Forces: Time for Action

Faulty promotion policies and the unsatisfactory professional education of the officer corps deprive Indian military officers of the opportunity to master strategy and develop capacities for handling high level issues.

Rumel Dahiya
June 13, 2011
Issue Brief

Pakistan’s ‘First Use’ in Perspective

The article fleshes out Pakistani first use options for an informed discussion on the implied nuclear threat that Pakistan sometimes resorts to.

Ali Ahmed
May 12, 2011
IDSA Comments

Making Sense of ‘Nasr’

In rethinking Cold Start as a default option and working towards proactive ‘contingency’ options, India is a step ahead in doctrinal shadow boxing.

Ali Ahmed
April 24, 2011
IDSA Comments

China’s Aircraft Carrier: Some Observations

China’s aircraft carrier programme will not only affect the balance of power in the Asia Pacific region but also add impetus to the Chinese maritime intent.