In a recent interview on the WION podcast, Lt Gen Adosh Kumar, the Director General of Artillery and head of the Indian Army’s Artillery Division, highlighted the pivotal role of India’s indigenous weapon systems in the success of Operation SINDOOR. He emphasized how these systems effectively neutralized the enemy’s advanced imported weapons, underscoring the importance of continuing advancements in defense indigenization and increasing investments in research and development.
Lt Gen Kumar, who has an extensive military background since his commissioning in June 1986 and assumed his current role in May 2023, noted a shift in modern warfare towards multi-domain, high-precision non-contact operations. He introduced the concept of "Zero Tolerance" as the new norm for military strategy, aiming for punitive retaliation that substantially cripples the enemy’s infrastructure to deter future aggression.
Reflecting on lessons learned from Operation SINDOOR, Kumar outlined several focus areas for the Regiment of Artillery:
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Loitering Munitions: He highlighted low-cost, high-impact loitering munitions as crucial for precision-target destruction. He advocated for extended-range versions with improved endurance and modular warhead capabilities, well-suited for operations in dense electronic-warfare environments.
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Range and Precision: The need for enhanced capabilities to engage targets at greater distances with precision was emphasized, proposing a combination of guided rockets, missiles, and tube artillery to leverage operational advantages.
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Persistent Surveillance: Kumar advocated for robust surveillance at all operational levels, utilizing satellite imagery, aerial photography, radars, and drones for comprehensive target acquisition, fire direction, and post-strike assessments.
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Mobility and Protection: He stressed the significance of overhead protection for gun areas and the importance of mobility in artillery systems to evade detection after firing.
- Electronic Warfare and Digitization: The necessity for improved electronic warfare capabilities and accelerated digitization was discussed to ensure survival and effectiveness in contested environments.
Kumar detailed the modernization plan driven by several factors, mentioning progress on multiple projects. This includes the induction of additional Pinaka rocket regiments, trials for guided extended-range Pinaka rockets—which are expected to expand both range and precision—delivery of K9 artillery systems, and ongoing development of longer-range rocket options.
He characterized the Pinaka rocket system as a hallmark of India’s self-reliance in defense. Notably, he pointed out that guided, extended-range variants are currently being tested, with contract actions anticipated within the fiscal year.
On the topic of unmanned systems, Kumar acknowledged their transformative impact in contemporary warfare, with references to global instances of kamikaze drones targeting strategic assets. He advocated for the development of AI-enabled unmanned aerial systems that ensure precision targeting. Changes are being made within the Indian Army, including the establishment of Shaktiban regiments and Divyastra batteries to enhance UAS capabilities, alongside initiatives like the Drone Experience Centre and new training methodologies with virtual-reality technology.
To maintain technological relevance, Lt Gen Kumar emphasized the necessity for training to evolve in tandem with advancements, merging simulator training with live-firing experiences to build operator proficiency.
Looking to the future, he predicted a complex battlefield landscape characterized by hybrid and multi-domain engagements, requiring higher operational transparency and simultaneous high-intensity actions. Kumar proposed a balanced approach in artillery capabilities, advocating a strategic mixture of guns, rockets, and missiles that adapts to evolving threats and terrain.
Concluding his vision, Lt Gen Kumar articulated a significant transformation for the Regiment of Artillery. The focus is shifting from merely being an arm of influence to becoming an arm of decisive action. Geared by the Chief of Army Staff’s transformation agenda, the approach emphasizes modernization through indigenization, integration of public and private sectors, and the establishment of a technology-driven artillery force capable of shaping the outcomes of future battles.
