Military Modernisation

India’s defence budget is a subject of intense scrutiny and debate, drawing the attention of a diverse range of stakeholders, including economists, defence experts and policymakers. The defence budget must cater for the long-term requirements of defence forces, their equipping philosophy, modernisation requirements and the aspirations of the rank and file of the organisation. This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the key aspects of defence budgeting, allocation and expenditure, with a particular focus on the perspectives of the defence establishments as the end-users of the budget. The article is broadly divided into two parts. The first part examines the quantitative aspects of the defence budget, delving into the composition of the overall allocation, the relative shares of the three armed forces, and the distribution between revenue and capital expenditures. The analysis reveals that while the nominal defence budget has been increasing over the years, the share of defence spending in the central government’s total expenditure has been declining, raising concerns about the adequacy of resources to meet the long-term requirements of the defence forces. The second part of the article undertakes a qualitative analysis of the defence budgeting process, exploring the challenges and constraints faced by the defence establishments. These include the need to balance manpower costs with equipment procurement and modernisation, the impact of rising inflation on the purchasing power of the defence budget, and the implications of the revenue–capital expenditure mix on the overall readiness and combat effectiveness of the armed forces.

• Dheeraj Kumar Singh , Munish Matta
• October-December 2025
• Journal of Defence Studies

This article explores the evolution of mobile artillery, from oxen-drawn cannons and camel-mounted swivel guns to today’s self-propelled, precision-guided systems. It highlights how battlefield mobility, rapid fire-and-move tactics, and integration with digital command networks have made mobile artillery indispensable in modern warfare. Drawing lessons from recent conflicts like the Russia–Ukraine war and the Azerbaijan–Armenia clashes, this article analyses how mobile artillery—augmented by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), smart munitions and autonomous logistics—has adapted to fast-paced, multi-domain operations. The study underscores mobile artillery’s unique role as a survivable, flexible and cost-effective firepower solution amid evolving threats and terrain-driven challenges.

• Amit Sharma
• October-December 2025
• Journal of Defence Studies

The Philippines has set aside US$ 35 billion for the ‘Re-Horizon 3’ military modernisation initiative.

• Simran Walia
• Issue Brief

This monograph explores the varying approaches of the United States, China, Russia, the United Kingdom, and Israel towards military engagements in cyberspace, detailing their initial strategies, underlying expectations, and the resultant outcomes. By examining these diverse national strategies, the study provides insightful analysis into the evolving perspectives and practices regarding military involvement in cyberspace across different states.

• Cherian Samuel
• January 22, 2025
• Monograph

• Mandip Singh
• Book

The military applications of Virtual Reality include those relating to combat training and simulation.

• Akshat Upadhyay
• September 14, 2023
• Issue Brief

The suggestions being offered to rein in the advancements in AI need to move into the domain of regulation, to ensure that the unwarranted effects of these technologies do not spill over onto the modern battlefield.

• Akshat Upadhyay
• July 28, 2023
• IDSA Comments

NATO countries are adopting Emerging and Disruptive Technologies (EDTs) to maintain their strategic advantage and to mitigate transnational threats.

• Sanur Sharma
• May 24, 2022
• Issue Brief

• Ajey Lele
• Book

In the current geopolitical situation, India needs to increase the indigenous defence production and build a strong military force armed with technologically advanced defence equipment to create a robust security framework that meets the requisites of modern warfare.

• Richa Tokas
• November 05, 2021
• IDSA Comments