Defence reforms a priority: Modi

Stating it was “sad” that many defence reform measures in the past have not been implemented, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday identified reforms in the armed forces as a priority as he pitched for a military that was agile, mobile and driven by technology, not just human valour.

He also called for “jointness at the top” and for senior military commanders to have a wide range of experience while stressing on the need for developing capabilities to win swift wars as the “the luxury of long-drawn battles” will not be there in the future. Mr Modi said that at a time when major powers are reducing their troop strength and relying more on technology, India is still constantly seeking to expand the size of its forces.

“Modernisation and expansion of forces at the same time is a difficult and unnecessary goal,” he said addressing the country’s top military commanders on board aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya here.

The PM, who witnessed an operational demonstration of India’s naval and maritime air capabilities while attending the annual Combined Commanders Conference, said the country needs forces that are agile, mobile and driven by technology, not just human valour. “We need capabilities to win swift wars, for we will not have the luxury of long-drawn battles. We must re-examine our assumptions that keep massive funds locked up in inventories,” he said.