Future warfare in the Indian subcontinent will require more than upgraded weapons and equipment, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth said at the Mechanised Forces Symposium 2026 in New Delhi on November 11, 2026. He delivered the keynote address, “Vision for Future Warfighting in the Indian Subcontinent”, at the Manekshaw Centre.
The symposium brought together senior military commanders, veterans, defence scientists, industry representatives and strategic thinkers to discuss changing warfare, emerging technologies and potential future battlefield challenges. General Seth said the Indian Army’s transformation should foster innovation, technological adaptability and operational agility, while keeping the soldier, or Yoddha, at its centre.
He identified jointness, integration and Atmanirbharta as important to developing future military capabilities. He also stressed indigenous defence technology and stronger collaboration among the Armed Forces, defence industries, research institutions and academia.
General Seth highlighted the need for India’s Mechanised Forces to prepare for changing operational requirements as battlefields become more technology-driven. He said mechanised formations must adapt while preserving their traditional strengths of mobility, firepower and battlefield dominance.
Recognising the Mechanised Forces’ legacy and contribution to India’s military capabilities, the COAS reaffirmed their pivotal role in future warfighting. He reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to building a technologically advanced, agile and future-ready fighting force under the vision of VIJAY.
The symposium featured the unveiling of “Armour 2040: Steel, Silicon & The Future Battlespace”, authored by Lieutenant General AB Shivane (Retd). The book focuses on the future of armoured warfare and the evolving relationship between traditional mechanised combat capabilities and emerging military technologies.
The event offered military leaders, defence experts and industry stakeholders a platform to exchange perspectives on future warfare and the transformation of India’s mechanised capabilities. Discussions reflected the Indian Army’s emphasis on indigenous innovation, technological advancement and integrated warfighting to address emerging security challenges and strengthen preparedness for future conflicts.
