The 82nd Staff Course has officially commenced at the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) in Wellington, gathering over 500 military officers from the Indian Armed Forces alongside representatives from friendly foreign nations. This esteemed professional military education program kicked off on June 1, 2026, with a focus on enhancing operational capabilities and fostering international military cooperation.
Lieutenant General Manish Erry, the Commandant of DSSC, inaugurated the course and delivered an insightful address to the participants, which included officers from all three branches of the Indian military as well as 49 international attendees. In his speech, Lt Gen Erry emphasized the ongoing shifts in the global security landscape, highlighting the necessity for military leaders to be adaptive and forward-thinking in the face of rapid technological advancements and evolving warfare strategies.
He pointed out that future military leaders must cultivate skills to effectively tackle emerging geopolitical challenges while leveraging new technologies to ensure operational readiness across various domains. The program is meticulously designed to prepare mid-career officers for elevated command and staff roles by advancing their comprehension of operational art, military strategy, joint operations, and pertinent national security issues.
A significant aspect of the course is its commitment to enhancing joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This inter-service cooperation is viewed as crucial for developing integrated military planning and executing operations effectively. The curriculum will also focus on fostering strategic thinking, decision-making capabilities, and leadership skills, equipping officers to adeptly navigate the complexities of contemporary warfare and prospective security challenges.
Moreover, the inclusion of international officers enriches the learning experience by enabling participants to share their professional insights, perspectives, and best practices. This exchange is vital for reinforcing professional relationships and promoting defence collaboration among partner nations.
Officials highlighted that the beginning of the 82nd Staff Course reaffirms DSSC Wellington’s enduring commitment to cultivating the next generation of military leaders. The program aims to build a robust cadre of commanders and staff officers who are equipped to lead integrated, technology-driven forces in a security landscape that continues to grow increasingly complex.
