Driving Jointness, Indigenisation, and Future Capability-The CISC Perspective

CISC's role in the integrated capability development plan is crucial within the broader national security architecture. In an exclusive and comprehensive interaction, Manish Kumar Jha speaks with Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) at Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) on the role, mandates, and warfare capability roadmap.

- By Manish Kumar Jha

THIS IS THE FIRST-EVER detailed outline of the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) at Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff (IDS). In the crucial interaction, Air Marshal Dixit outlines the indigenisation, a unified strategic outlook for indigenous platform development and, most critically, the Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR) 2025, prepared by HQ IDS.

Manish Kumar Jha (Manish Jha): Could you elaborate on the role of the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) at the HQ Integrated Defence Staff in the National Security Structure?

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit (Dixit): The Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee plays a key role in supporting the Chiefs of Staff Committee and the Chief of Defence Staff in matters related to joint planning, capability development, and inter-service coordination. The position is largely focused on integration, bringing together the perspectives of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, to ensure coherent planning and operational preparedness.

One of the focus areas of this office is also in regards to optimising joint procurements through a process-based scientific modelling and an integrated capability development plan. Within the broader national security architecture, the role is advisory and facilitative, helping to bridge the services with other stakeholders, including the Ministry of Defence, while ensuring that decisions are well-informed and aligned with long-term strategic objectives.

Manish Jha: The CISC is an apex-level body for military Jointness. How do you promote a culture of Jointness? What are the other mandates which work towards building military capabilities?