Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Anil Chauhan has confirmed that the highly anticipated theaterisation proposal of the Indian Armed Forces is nearing completion and will soon be submitted to the Ministry of Defence. Speaking at the Ran Samvad event in Bengaluru, Gen. Chauhan described this proposal as a significant reform in the military framework, the likes of which have not been seen since India achieved independence.
Internally dubbed “Operation Tiranga,” the initiative has involved extensive discussions among the three branches of the armed services, as well as consultations within the Chiefs of Staff Committee. Gen. Chauhan stated that the proposal is finalized from the armed forces’ side and is prepared for submission to the Defence Minister before reaching the Cabinet Committee on Security.
The proposed theaterisation model aims to establish three integrated theatre commands:
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Western Theatre (focused on the Pakistan front), which is likely to be led by the Indian Air Force.
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Northern Theatre (focused on the China front), expected to be under the command of the Indian Army.
- Maritime Theatre (concerning naval operations), which is proposed to be commanded by the Indian Navy.
In a noteworthy structural twist, each theatre will have a Deputy Commander from a different service branch, ensuring improved jointness and inter-service coordination.
Additionally, the proposal incorporates the establishment of the position of Vice Chief of Defence Staff (Vice CDS), a four-star officer designated to assist in managing operational matters alongside the CDS and service chiefs. While there seems to be a general consensus among the services on the overarching concept of theaterisation, Gen. Chauhan acknowledged the existence of minor disagreements concerning the specifics of implementation, particularly related to the pace and sequencing of the changes.
A significant feature of the proposal is the control of strategic air assets. High-value resources such as refuellable aircraft, transport planes, Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS), and future space-based systems will remain under the jurisdiction of Air Headquarters, even with the advent of theaterisation. This decision aims to address concerns from the Indian Air Force regarding the optimal use of these critical assets.
Once the proposal is submitted to the Ministry of Defence, it will undergo a review and may be subject to revisions before being presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security for final approval. Gen. Chauhan’s term as CDS has been extended until May 2026 to allow him to oversee the implementation of this reform, indicating the importance and potential impact of the theaterisation project.
The initiative seeks to transform India’s military structure by fostering greater integration among the Army, Navy, and Air Force, thereby enhancing operational effectiveness and efficiency. If fully realized, this reform could mark a pivotal shift in India’s defense capabilities, positioning the nation alongside global military powers such as the United States and China.
