India must spend right for two-front deterrence. ‘Jugaad’ against China & Pakistan won’t cut it

[@ThePrintIndia]

Exclusive content, privileges & more - Subscribe to ThePrint for special benefits: theprint.in/subscribe/

[@amansaxenaa7]

As an Indian I hate the word jugaad. Being proud of the word jugaad is a disaster. Within India, we have so many other things we can draw our inspiration from. I like the term “Finesse”. Indian produce was about finesse.

[@PremSalunkheApr16]

Why?

[@anuragbanerjee2879]

@@PremSalunkheApr16 becuase thats what Indian produce lacks

[@user-ln3dn7rx3u]

Indians love to downgrade any R&D work, it's called "innovation" if done by others but "jugaad" when done by Indians.

[@hera-nf8mz]

what does jugaad mean?

[@navan1087]

​@@hera-nf8mz something that does the thing done but is made in an unconventional/non standard way.

[@vinayakdeodhar8641]

You are absolutely right. Having served in IAF for about 30 years, I can definitely say that Jugaad never works in the long run. It's at best an emergency short term solution. We must not play with the security of the country and should always look for proper and long term solutions.

[@counterpoint9260]

the PM himself is 'jugaad' guy

[@billubadshah897]

Indian Politician & General want Commission & Escorts and So keep Re modernization 40 /30 Outdated Hardware

[@ranjitpal9937]

What's Your View of GE not Supplying Tejas 1 Engine and Air force Taking Big of Tejas Mark 2 😂😅😅

[@ThePrintIndia]

Quite right, Vinayak. Thank you for writing in, and for supporting our journalism...best wishes, Shekhar

[@warnpassion]

Jugad is a culture and work ethic symptom of our country's poor country infrastructure not matching upto the population growth.

[@NiradGrover]

Mr Gupta, Thanks for the regular videos on defence. The establishment and the population needs to wake up and address a situation that is actually dire now. Brave soldiers can only take you so far in a modern war scenario. Look forward to continuing defence analyses and calls to action from The Print.

[@Name-pq9xn]

We have money to construct low quality bridges which fall apart but not for defense acquisitions.

[@ranjitpal9937]

GE / USA Is Twisting India Airforce by ✋️ Delaying Purposefully Tejas 1 Engine and Think About USA - MODI FRIENDSHIP

[@mbhang834]

Massage chairs and Selfie points at Railway stations is more important than Railway safety, that is how the Administration prioritizes.

[@warnpassion]

@@mbhang834 Rail accidents happen all over the world. It's not something unique to India.

[@gouravmoondra9451]

J 35 will be a major threat. Because the Chinese have been pouring billions and a significant amount on that aircraft. Like its prototype was made in 2012 and they probably have solved most of its issues. In the coming year, production will likely hit 100+ every year, just like they did with j 20. While there are no signs of amca prototype. And what if Pakistan gets their hands on it? . Its time to wake up cause chinese weapons are improving and becoming more reliable.

[@ranjitpal9937]

Perfectly Said Chinese Weapons are Improving day by Day 😮 GE and USA Is Twisting Modi's Arms by Not Supplying Tejas 1 Engine and India is Day Dreaming of Gen 5 Fighter Jet 😂 😅

[@ajayrawat-bf9pc]

Pakistan has got it's hand on it already

[@ArkoProvoMukherjee]

Thanks!

[@ThePrintIndia]

Thank you, Arko! Your contributions are invaluable to us.

[@2000murthykk]

Very important aspects of India’s defence forces very well brought out. Thank you Print.

[@surendrabarsode8959]

1. There is no doubt that Pakistan has always had something which was more advanced, more lethal than India even though India had overwhelming superiority in a long fought war. This leads to the critical gaps that Shekhar is talking about. We waste lots of time on procurement and we procure big rather than for very specific purposes. Pakistan is getting 5th Gen fighters from China or Turkey and we are busy just talking about AMCA or even Tejas II. 2. Hope Raksha Mantri is listening to this podcast and drawing right lessons. 3. Though Shekhar did not speak much about China, we must say that so far we have given a good account of ourselves since 2020 Galwan clashes but unlike Pakistan, where specific, fit to the purpose approach will do, we need a broader, strategic approach to deal with China. But we are moving there, though slowly. 4. Trump Presidency should be the best time for India to get whatever technologies we need from USA and get ready to face China. Modi should go all out and embrace USA.

[@prastagus3]

Under Trump, India would need to pay a lot or else face sanctions from US.

[@amartyaray]

Indians, as a people, are jugaadu. Consequently, there is a flavour of jugaad in every aspect of our lives-even governance and policymaking. But that's not why the situation is hopeless. It's hopeless because we are proud of it!

[@ThePrintIndia]

That's a fair point, Amartya...that has become our culture. Thank you for watching and writing in...best wishes, Shekhar

[@warnpassion]

Jugad is a culture and work ethic symptom of our country's poor country infrastructure not matching upto the population growth.

[@shambo-rm8ql]

How Drone Swarms and Hypersonic Missiles Could Paralyze India in a China Conflict In a potential India-China conflict, the technological and manufacturing edge of China could decisively tilt the balance, particularly through the use of drone swarms, hypersonic missiles, and a numerically superior military. One of the most vulnerable components of India’s defense strategy in this scenario would be its naval and aerial assets, which could be rendered ineffective in a short period. To counter such threats, India must rethink its defense investments and prioritize scalable, modern technologies. The Threat to the Indian Navy Aircraft Carriers as Liabilities: India’s two aircraft carriers-INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant-are high-value targets with limited defenses against hypersonic missiles. Chinese hypersonic missiles, capable of traveling at speeds exceeding Mach 5, are nearly impossible to intercept with current missile defense systems. In a conflict, these missiles could neutralize India’s carriers in the opening hours of the war. Impact of Naval Paralysis: With its aircraft carriers incapacitated, the Indian Navy would lose its ability to project power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). China’s naval forces, supported by marine drones and stealth submarines, could then dominate key sea lanes, such as the Malacca Strait, cutting off India’s trade and resupply routes. Historical Lessons: In the 1971 war, a significant portion of the Indian Navy was deployed to protect INS Vikrant, reducing its operational flexibility. Modern hypersonic and drone threats exacerbate this vulnerability, making aircraft carriers a strategic liability. A Tactical Shift: Prioritizing Scalable Assets To counter these evolving threats, India must pivot its defense strategy away from legacy platforms like aircraft carriers and focus on building a resilient, decentralized defense network: 1. Drone Manufacturing and Deployment: Offensive Drones: Develop and deploy suicide drones, FPV drones, and AI-enabled swarms to counter Chinese forces in contested areas. Marine Drones: Invest in underwater drones for surveillance and sabotage in the Indian Ocean. 2. Missiles and Anti-Air Defenses: Ramp up production of surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and deploy them in dense networks across vulnerable regions like the Northeast. Encourage private sector participation to ensure scalability in missile production. 3. Artillery and Mobile Defenses: Increase reliance on self-propelled artillery for rapid mobility and reduced vulnerability to drone attacks. Deploy Gepard-like anti-drone systems to counter surveillance and combat drones effectively. 4. Submarine Warfare: Shift focus from large, nuclear-powered submarines to smaller, cost-effective diesel-electric ones. Aim to build a fleet of 500 conventional submarines to maintain dominance in the IOR and secure chokepoints like the Andaman Sea. Why This Shift is Urgent China’s Manufacturing Edge: China’s industrial capacity allows it to produce drones, missiles, and other war-fighting assets at a scale that India cannot currently match. This numerical advantage would overwhelm India in a long-drawn conflict. Air Superiority Risks: The Indian Air Force (IAF) could face severe challenges operating against a better-equipped People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF). Disabling Indian airfields and airstrips through drone and missile strikes would further negate IAF’s effectiveness. North East Vulnerabilities: With border posts, SAM systems, and logistics hubs destroyed, China’s infantry could quickly advance into the Northeast. This region’s difficult terrain and limited infrastructure would hinder India’s ability to mount a counteroffensive. Conclusion To mitigate these risks, India must overhaul its defense strategy by abandoning legacy investments in platforms like aircraft carriers, which are increasingly obsolete against modern threats. Instead, the focus should be on building drones, missiles, artillery, and submarines. These systems offer scalability, mobility, and survivability-key attributes for defending against a technologically superior adversary like China. By learning from the Ukraine war and China’s own military innovations, India can build a robust defense posture capable of addressing future challenges.

[@BilluBadshah-kh1gd]

Good Stuff What are India Get with Friendship with USA change of India Friendly Regime In Bangladesh ? What a Mutual Friendship

[@ajayrawat-bf9pc]

Beg to differ 1. 100 drones = 1 manned aircraft 2. Conventional subs good in defence role have limited ranges. For Indian Ocean we need SSNs, conventional subs and LRMP aircrafts. 3.China has also carriers which will also come to our waters. It's their offensive punch which will engage our bulk assets. Every asset is vulnerable to drones. And UUV.... We need multi role. Offensive platforms.

[@shambo-rm8ql]

@@ajayrawat-bf9pc 1. I am talking about FPV drones. Russia has 100 times bigger Air force than Ukraine and yet it is not using them. What is working on battlefield in Ukraine is FPV suicide drone, a drone worth few thousand dollars can destroy a tank worth few million dollars. You see the cost difference there. 2. India has Andaman nicobar and Laksdeep islands that already extends the range of our shores. 3. You do not fight careers with carriers, you fight them with submarines, missiles and marine drone swarms. If we arm Andaman & Nicobar and Laksdeep, no carrier will dare to come near our shores

[@BilluBadshah-kh1gd]

@ajayrawat-bf9pc Indeginious Quality Drones etc Dominence in Peninsular Indian Ocean & Sub Continent Politic is the Key to Counter China and Pakistan

[@ajayrawat-bf9pc]

@BilluBadshah-kh1gd Drones against 5 gen fighters, SSN, Bombers, cruise missiles, BM, Rockets, , ain't happening

[@RP-qs1tp]

Jugaad will definitely cut it if done smartly and on time. Problem is we are even bad in that! Learn from Enemy: When India ordered 250 Su30mki, Pakistan ordered 500 Aim120 c5 To make up squadrons PAF inducted JF17 which was not any good in 2010s and now is a worthy adversary I can go on and on…. The armed forces establishment in India needs overhaul with new minds. The babu mindset will harm us the same way it harmed Russia in Ukraine!

[@ajayrawat-bf9pc]

Babus will never allow us to do a Ukraine... Ergo there won't be a Russia scenario for Us. They are too safe players just worrying about their own career and money to think strategic. Don't worry we are in safe hands. 😂

[@sb9060]

Today in whole South Asian region and Indian ocean region India has the best ASW vessels and aerial platforms: 1.) P-8I Poseidon-12 ( best in the world) 2.) MH-60 Romeo - 6 inducted, 18 more to come. (Best in the world) 3.) Kamorta class frigates-4 4.) Shallow water ASW vessels-12 , 8 launched, to be commissioned. *I agree that India can't be complement* regarding MBRLs with at least 400 km range to boost her rocket force, Attack subs, aerial refuelling assets, AWACs, anti tank rounds like HEAT and APFSDS, loitering munitions, sub sonic cruise missiles, Howitzers, SIGINT / ELINT aircrafts for acquiring land targets, production of pralay, prahar missiles, more K-9 Vajras, FCRVs, towed artillery, more and aggressive swarm drones, more aggressive cyber unit, more electromagnetic weapons etc.

[@ranjitpal9937]

All Great in Paper 📃 No Realtime Use / export . GE not Sending Engine for Tejas 1 😂 Tejas 2 in 3 Year 😂

[@BRAHMOSPOWER]

​@@ranjitpal9937 The late for engines are caused by supply chain issues with GE ENGINES. KOREAN supplier is facing some issues to supply some critical components.Soon supply of engine will start...... INDIA is planning local manufacturing of GE414 Engines for Tejas mk2 jet with 80% TOT. India also demanding transfer of technology of critical components which Korean manufacturer producing so no supply chain issue will happen in future.

[@ranjitpal9937]

@BRAHMOSPOWER Transfer of Technology is A Catchy Phrase

[@BRAHMOSPOWER]

@@ranjitpal9937 Yes......but India has experience in Local manufacturing of Russian Engines under TOT. SO, Transfer of Technology with local manufacturing model is best for India's requirements.

[@ranjitpal9937]

@BRAHMOSPOWER Russian Technology eg Russian Ukraine War

[@nitinpatel1039]

The more and more we move towards competitive populism more these critical sector will see squeeze out, govt simply doesn't have money,right air force need atleast 5-6 squadron of aircraft. Navy extra submarine, army rifles

[@mohitanand1844]

God protects this nation . Nobody else does

[@iHarsh918]

IAF is short of 15 squadrons... not 5-6... even 1/4th of those in service are outdated

[@mg.f.9023]

What's the amount ruling party spends on PM's ADs and on Election campaigns?

[@iHarsh918]

@@mg.f.9023 That amount won't buy you even a single Rafale fighter.

[@iHarsh918]

@mg.f.9023 but the loot of gandhi family for last 75yrs can buy you several fighter squadrons.

[@Terrorstar-gbp]

Exactly, we can't be as strong as china, so be strong enough that,they think twice before attacking

[@Butergo]

😂

[@shantanushekharsjunerft9783]

India doesn’t want to spend on defense and rightly so. Unfortunately the neighborhood we live in requires a big stick.

[@AbidAli-bo8sv]

Neighborhood is sick because of your own wrongdoings, indulging in their matters with non state actors and funding propaganda groups. Accept your mistakes and talk to them. All of your neighbors will be your best friends.

[@shubs3566]

@@AbidAli-bo8sv Bhai this delusional lecture may work in Pakistan, but in the rest of the informed world it's called psychological projection.

[@swapnildhotre5321]

Happy to see that “Jugad” is not celebrated anymore. Its mention in serious discussions always gave me the hebbie Jebbies.

[@anilsinha4968]

There is no forward planning by the armed forces. Previously the thinking in the armed forces was that there would be sudden and sharp exchange and that the army would not sustain a long campaign of more than a month. After the Galwan clash there was a realisation that China was the number 1 enemy and troops were re- deployed. This is the type of shortsightedness that plagues our defence forces. These people are bereft of original thinking. Now they are learning things about drone warfare.

[@BilluBadshah-kh1gd]

Indian Navy Knew About Pak Having a Sub BUT was Happy Boosting Aircraft Carrier ( which was Also to be Hidden in Vizak 😂 😅

[@ajayrawat-bf9pc]

Yeah when we shelled East Pakistan ports from Vikrant, they didn't have any counter. Indian Intelligence lured PN sub to Vizag , misinformation. Rest is history.

[@Protonkz]

submarine se kya hogaya , east porkistan to gaya 💩💩💩, 91000 soldiers of your goat fucker hijda army surrendered 🤣🤣🤣, and were later stripped and were made to do mujra in front of our army 😘😘😘.

[@arunhuddar]

To spend more on tech and armaments, we need to spend less on doles and freebies. Spend less on pension schemes

[@RM-lg2cm]

Hard truth of defense budgets is that most of it gets used paying salaries, pensions and benefits. With little left for equipment. Fix this.

[@ManpreetSingh-es9vc]

Indian acquisition works like any pakistani battlefield offensive, great tactically but strategical blunders.

[@GururajBN]

Good NI. You have brought out the proverbial tale of losing the battle for want of a horseshoe. We must also thank the former defence ministers like Mulla Singh Yadav and Saint Anthony for enfeebling the Indian defences. It is easy to cause damage mere inaction will do it. Correction of the damage is time consuming, what with the galloping technology.

[@Mr_Gony]

Well said SG. I hope government also has similar thought and plans.

[@dilsekibaat529]

So that’s where agniveer will help Reduce the cost on manpower and more investment in Eqipment and technology

[@AhmedAli-wt2qh]

f-16s were delivered to Pakistan in 1985, when they were the most advanced fighter planes in US airforce. And now Pakistan is going to induct a squadron of J-35A before 2027. Howcome cash-strap pak is always able to get better airforce than much bigger and much richer india? Why china is giving these advanced planes to pak,knowing full well pakistan doesnt have $$ to pay for these planes?

[@prastagus3]

Gwardar Port

[@shubs3566]

Because they don't give a flying f about their people. It's like when your dad earns 100 rupees and spends 95 on cheap booze while his wife and kids starve. Not that complicated really. He'll always be boozed and happy. Hope that clarifies 🤣

[@AhmedAli-wt2qh]

@@prastagus3 yeh,if Gwadar if become functional will harm india's interest.And China has almost equal stake in Chabahar too.

[@t5ruxlee210]

Serious countries start out with enough heavy artillery ammunition and manned guns already on hand to fight a one year war. Everything else is open for discussion...

[@amarnathpranav3343]

India should spend more on internal security as .5 of 2.5 front war with traitors within india are far more dangerous than external 2 enemies which our army can easily handle...

[@jitmick]

Indian politicians are useless when it comes to national strategy and security. The BJP government began with some promising aspects but lack of thoughtfulness has now turned it into another INC...hate to see the lethargic attitude in national level politics

[@joshuacherian6718]

India without a modern airforce is as good as a sitting duck...

[@ianwilson8759]

Unfortunately India hasn't spent enough on defence for at least 10 years and closer to 20 years. India has fixated on growing GDP, even though most of it has been in in-country and on crucial infrastructure projects like road and rail which had been neglected for generations. So, much like Russia's GDP figures, inflated by war consumption, India's is by entirely domestic infrastructure consumption on things that should have been spent 50 years ago. What does this mean? Nothing much really, India has as much a wartime economy as Russia. As soon as the war is over, both economies will collapse or if oil prices drop under Trump. If Russian oil production dries up under low oil prices this does not benefit India, as counter-intuitive as it may seem. India will struggle to find a new source of cheap oil. Further, no western country now looks at India as a beacon of democracy and human rights in a wasteland of Asian pragmatism and zero morality. They see India as a benign cancer.

[@arakinayaki]

Why u need the support of the west as they r staggering on their own. Come out of colonial mins set

[@Random-pk7sl]

Just look what we are doing to submarine fleet...its already too late.

[@ranabirsarkar6750]

Our Generals and defence planners simply don't have the guts to tell the Indian political establishment the truth of their capabilities vis a vis China and Pakistan , what weapons are needed to maintain an overwhelming edge and always deter Pakistan from any misadventures. It is the skill of our fighter pilots and the valour and sacrifice of our soldiers that we have always won against Pakistan.

[@crkamathtube]

Wasn't the creation of the office of CDS meant to solve these issues?

[@happyeastwood]

The main goal at first is to solve logistics synergy between three defense Forces.

[@saratsaratchandran3085]

Great analysis and reporting. Government has to channel more money for procurement of needed defence materials!

[@arjunpatil9685]

Mr Shekhar Gupta we never heard about this concern since 2007 why now? Do you mean to say we had solid deterrence before and now it has liquidified to jugaad? Or previously certain steps had been planned which has been discontinued now? Or now print is been funded to raise this point disrespecting the current Armed forces inefficiency?

[@CamSam09]

Sir, from Karnataka. All we need is some 10% of the money that our deputy CM DK Shi has stacked up. If he or his daughter gives it, Indian army can have required advanced equipment. 🎉

Russia does not have engines to fly their civilian planes due to Western embargo. During Kargil war, the US simply turned off its GPS for the Pakistani army and airforce which made them blind and useless. Same thing can happen to India. But, technology domination by the West is something India can never overcome today. The same applies to China. Hence, simply buying weapons at great cost for wars fought in our imagination is something we can very well do without. The insurgency by Jihadists in Kashmir makes it a good training ground for our army because that is the way present and future wars are fought. First line of defense in the border areas is to make the borders alive with civilian villages and towns. That needs infrastructure building in remote areas and forests. No enemy will try to attack civilian towns and villages unless they want to get bogged down with heavy casualties in street-to-street fighting.

[@prastagus3]

China now do have their own engines for civilian planes. It was on display at the recent air show. All C919 and later C929 will be using them instead of GE in the near future.

[@tm73827]

Dear Shekhar Gupta, while you often use the term 'Jugaad' to critique Indian-made products, history shows the power of this approach. Books on WWII detail how the U.S. overpowered Germany with its own 'Jugaad'-mass-producing tanks and equipment, sometimes of questionable quality, while Germany focused on small batches of perfection. This laid the foundation for America’s world-class arms industry today. For India, which spends massively on importing arms, prioritizing domestic manufacturing isn’t just about economics; it’s about reducing long-term risks. Overall a very thought-provoking segment-thank you!

[@siddharthgoyal4008]

This is a mis-conception that US weapons were of inferior quality compared to Germans. What US lacked was in long planned projects like cruise missiles etc. US Air force assets especially bombers like B-24 were best in the world, American navy ships were heaviest and had best guns. India never had good manufacturing capacity for even basic items, case in point we had to ask US to supply cold weather clothing in Galwan standoff. Forget arms and ammunition.

[@tm73827]

@@siddharthgoyal4008 As a military historian, Sir, I can assure you that there are many references to the point I am making. Stanley Sandler's "Ground Warfare: An International Encyclopedia" highlights the scale of American production but also notes instances where quality was compromised for quantity. The National WWII Museum emphasizes how American factories out-produced Axis powers but also acknowledges that not all produced items met superior standards compared to German technology. Military historians often reference specific battles where American equipment faced difficulties against German innovations, illustrating this point further. In summary, while American wartime production capabilities were unparalleled and played a crucial role in the Allies' victory, there were notable instances where certain American weapons were considered inferior to their German counterparts. This duality of quantity versus quality remains a topic of discussion among historians analyzing WWII military strategies and outcomes. But as you note, quite rightly, currently American weapons are the best in the world. But it did not always start out that way. If India keeps importing it will never get to world class.

[@PankajSingh-kz6ql]

Developing indigenous engines is a must , it's been 40 years and we have not been able to develop any engine , be it for tejas, or helicopters, tanks, submarines etc

[@maysleeps2372]

In india human life is cheap. So politicians send army and navy to die😢. Instead of weapon superiority, indian politicians wants number of superiority, which is foolishness. Pakistan is a state serving army. So army gets best. In india , politicians get best 😂

[@ks20234]

I dont know when the time will come - when we will say that there are enough fighter aircrafts to have credible deterrence for a 2 front war plus also a naval war. We are always behind the curve on this. Similarly on submarines and aircraft carriers.

[@hemanthkumar7078]

Well said , Sir.

[@akshaypatil8589]

1. You forgot about AD eqpt. 2. What pak did with us post Balakot was to have a AD wall along entire frontier and placing only one CAP of 02 F16s in air. 3. When you can’t acquire state of the art offensive assets, you fill the gap with what Chinese call Assassin’s Mace. A good, capable and networked AD will do a lot for us against an adversary who has advantage in air, in all aspects including Drones, Aircraft’s and Ballastic and cruise missiles.

[@nrusimha11]

One sincerely hopes Shekharji doesn’t get a commission for this public service.

[@muhammadhasnainkhalil7437]

India should use diplomacy to reach an agreement with Pakistan whereby all issues will be resolved without war, and trade between the two countries will be maximised. This will allow India to only be concerned about China.

[@indranuj38]

Beautifully explained Sir....please do an extensive episode on COP29 and how the developed world is pushing the developing countries regarding carbon tax

[@ThePrintIndia]

Thank you, my friend, I'm glad you found this episode insightful. We will certainly look into doing a COP video. Thank you for appreciating and supporting our journalism...best wishes, Shekhar

[@JT-wc2xq]

With its robotic factories that have minimal workers, China can easily produce at least 400,000 ballistic, cruise missiles a year and millions of military drones.

[@jaykumar_khot]

Astra mk2 has already been outranged by PL15, maybe even by PL15 export version.

[@sabesankandasamy9331]

India must spend at least 5% of her GDP on Defence

[@pallavved3888]

Very well cluttered

[@advaithrajendra]

1:57 having a high resolution colour image of a ship which was active in the 71 war should probably tell that you have the wrong ship Or, more accurately, you have the right ship (Kuthar) but the wrong ship (new Kuthar) in the image. I rely heavily on The Print for my dose of news and I just assume everything to be correct but even the best can be mistaken sometimes I guess 😅

[@orunabho]

56" is not very decisive, contrary to popular propaganda. Trying to be a hero everywhere, pleasing everybody is his problem.

[@Nilanjan-biswas]

I see jugaad everywhere. It's good to a certain extent. But it can't be replacement for proper way.

[@His-story-teller]

The artist who made that thumbnail deserves a raise.

[@docyusuf258]

It is such a shame that even Pakistan is outdoing India in defence. 😢

[@saviofrancisfernandes413]

Pakistan is being supported by US and China plus the Muslim brotherhood countries. If Pakistan did not have the support of these powers, India could have gotten Kashmir long time ago. US plays double game of supporting both india and Pakistan - so, it cannot be trusted. Now, a new war front is opened via Bangladesh also.

[@veerapandyan8403]

The scheme is 'detrimental to the combat effectiveness' of the military and the Agniveers are fit for only 'sentry duties', said Admiral Arun Prakash, former Chief of the Naval Staff

[@arshadali1441]

End of every conflict is negotiations. These things are a waste.

[@Salvo08]

Kudos to The Print team to talk on this neglected issue. The BJP Govt started off well but then lost steam to stay in power as the opposition was on a spree to announce freebies and BJP too joined that.

[@Rookieplayer07]

No Sir India should prepare for 4 front war and immediately deploy troops in china pak and bangladesh borders. Fourth front will be on the ocean so navy should prepare for 4th front on 3 sides which makes it 6 front war type scenario on india

[@nikaawan9555]

Technically not even sound to safeguard one front AND THEY TALK ABOUT TWO FRONTS 🤦

[@SS-eu2ef]

Jugaad only works until it does'nt

[@ranjitpal9937]

Shekhar ji , A Small % increase in Defense Budget & Atmanirbhar Stories are Great . BUT The Reality GE Not Supplying Tejas Mark 1 Engine Etc ?

[@TestTest-cc1dz]

Who said GE is not supplying, just 3-5 month delay.. Delay is inevitable in large contracts. 3 - 5 months is nothing

[@bakinnayak]

Pic of INS Kuthar is wrong...not expected from The Print

[@INDIAN-sx9kc]

So we can now say that no F 16 was shot down by wing commander abhinandan?

[@AbidAli-bo8sv]

Did he down with his fart? All his missiles with broken plane is in the museum in Islamabad. Check youtube videos.

[@ShafiqUl-rehman]

His mig bison wreckage in pakistan still has its missiles intact he didn't even fire them Godi media and hindutva army started this propaganda for public consumption for face saving due to the embarrassment that PAF did to them in broad daylight whole world saw it

[@ankushdoshi8947]

Tejas is coming now at a time where countries are shifting to 6th generation 😂😂😂😂

[@mg.f.9023]

What's the amount ruling party spent on PM's ADs and on Election campaigns so far?

[@DataCrusade1999]

India is still wandering whether to have a 3rd aircraft carrier or not meanwhile China is making a nuclear powered aircraft carrier. This is the state of Indian defense under a so called Nationalist government. I also don't understand why we're not selling all the Ordnance factories they were corporatorized few years back now is the time to sell them.

[@deeell9305]

Defence sector gobles too much budget resource in India. The Modi government has been contemplating rationalise it with the Agniveer programme.

[@thottankaraharidasannair6290]

It is quite unfortunate that inspite of repeated experience we still follow our complacency. Only when another war looms large we go to the market to look for equipment and supplies. When the things will improve or who will bell the cat only god knows.

[@lifefundadosto1255]

The airforce is being neglected due to gov incompetence and lethargic attitude.

[@ankushdoshi8947]

Teh congress era had wasted 10 years of defence purchase . Modi started well but now even they have become slow with a very incompetent defence minister who dosent has the will to purchase and is scared to face the the opposition

[@kushagravlogs5627]

Arihant submarine was developed in Manmohan government. Now India is building it's copy. There are no new development in Modi government

[@Ronifromearth]

Vishva guru is sleeping what to do When So called nationalist government doesn't makes the military strong 😑😑 Do we expect the Congress to do this !

[@TalhaTahir-by6ny]

Pakistan Army is scared of India.

[@srinum6774]

I am really disappointed with Mod government. They turned out to be worse than Congress!

[@koibatnahi4683]

Our preparedness is lacking as always. Corruption, lethargy and freebies more important than defence.

[@SAIPRADEEP070]

this is one of those rare occassions where shekhar speaks something really sensible. Rest of all the times he just rants against anything and everything that is favourable to the country as long as the BJP its done by the BJP

[@daniyalamed2960]

Why fight a two fromt war. Make peace with your neighbors.

[@PB-hf9of]

Can you

[@souma_sinharoy]

That's like saying Poland should have given their land to Germany in the 1940s lol make peace bro😂

[@daniyalamed2960]

@soumaSR Pakistan literally has no ability to hurt India. In anyway. China has bigger problems to deal with. India has literally brought these two enemies together upon themselves.

[@vladimiraggarwal293]

​@@daniyalamed2960aah here you go wrong my friend pakistan to this day has the ability to hurt india not conventionally but unconventionally for sure second china I don't think they are willing to negotiate and both pak and china are the aggressors for sure

[@sriken9]

Actually it's 2.5 front deterrence The Print is one of the .5 guys India needs to defend itself against

[@VictimHood-qv1hx]

I think we should go for Gripen E and skip Tejas MKII and concentrate on AMCA.

[@viveksingh526]

But thinks are looking better, especially with new defense industry

[@billubadshah897]

Indiam Want to Have 3 Aircraft Carrier " It's For Indian Defence or Commission ❤ French Escort ?

[@prithviraj160876]

Couldn't agree more

[@rajshekhar1147]

SG will never talk about Third Front . Bechara still living in idealistic world.

[@bakinnayak]

Second pic is of the new INS Khukri

[@kbmehta4208]

It’s rare to see support for equipping the armed forces, though criticism of their leadership abounds. Good beginning. Sadly, the Govts, almost all, have seen Indian armed forces personnel lives as expandable. After all they are paid to this job. Aren’t they? Even present Govt that came with a promise to strengthen defence forces though hasn’t hesitated to use them hasn’t done much in terms of budget support. Priorities are elsewhere.

[@Harsh-nandwana]

Cover Manipuram

[@Red.bulldozer3]

There is no logic indian army requesting more money as the chinese army had pulled out from occupied indian areas and promised not to set foot in indian soil anymore This is one Major achievement for Modi😂

[@doonnair]

Sir, you are doing a great service to the country. Our FM and Government needs to understand the importance of defence preparedness

[@ranjitkamath2417]

SG Please tag this episode to Defence Minister and FM, Your voice has weight

[@sumanneogi2679]

Upgrading sukhoi to atleast rafael standard with new engine gan based aesa radar sensor fusion and jamer along with new missile should be our prime objective. At least rightly said awacs

[@joydeepdas32]

@shekhar the changes you are suggesting can be taken care by sector command with their financial powers. I pay 2LPM TAX cannot support this NONSENSE OF DEFENCE. My car got damaged by a large roadside boulder.

[@Harsh-rf9k]

Why BJP govt is also spending less on army? Strengthening army is first priority. National security is paramount. We should go in the direction on 2.5% of gdp on defense.

[@greekman414]

Good topic. Well analysed

[@shambo-rm8ql]

Future wars, as evident from conflicts like the Ukraine war and the Israel-Iran skirmishes, are increasingly dominated by drones and precision-guided weapons. India must rapidly adapt its defense strategy by learning from these conflicts and focusing on emerging technologies rather than legacy systems. What India Should Avoid 1. Aircraft Carriers Budgetary Constraints: Aircraft carriers are prohibitively expensive, both in terms of procurement and maintenance. With two carriers already operational, additional ones would strain India’s defense budget. Vulnerability: They are highly vulnerable to hypersonic missiles and drone swarms, technologies that adversaries like China are rapidly advancing. Geostrategic Alternatives: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep Islands can serve as "unsinkable aircraft carriers." Developing airstrips and military bases on these islands is not only cost-effective but also strategically advantageous for projecting power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Strategic Priorities 1. Drone Warfare Suicide Drones & FPV (First-Person View) Drones: Proven effective in Ukraine for precision strikes. AI-Enabled Terrain-Mapping Drones: Essential for reconnaissance in diverse terrains like the Himalayas and dense coastal zones. Marine Drones: Critical for naval warfare, as seen with Ukraine’s use of marine drones to disrupt Russia’s Black Sea Fleet 2. Self-Propelled Artillery These systems, such as the K9 Vajra, are mobile and can evade drone detection and strikes, making them ideal for high-intensity conflicts 3. MANPADS (Man-Portable Air-Defense Systems) and MANPATS (Man-Portable Anti-Tank Systems) Effective in guerrilla warfare and countering armored threats in the Himalayas, where mobility and ease of deployment are paramount 4. Missile Systems India must ramp up the production of surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) and integrate the private sector into manufacturing to ensure scalability. Saturation Defense: Deploy SAM systems extensively in regions like the Northeast to counter aerial threats 5. Gepard-Type Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft Guns The Gepard system, or equivalent indigenous designs, provides a robust defense against drones, including swarms. India should aim to manufacture at least 50,000 units to cover critical border zones and protect strategic assets 6. Submarines Stealth Capability: Submarines, particularly smaller diesel-electric ones, can act as force multipliers in the IOR. Quantity Over Quality: Building a fleet of 500 conventional submarines, alongside a smaller nuclear-powered fleet, would ensure control over chokepoints like the Malacca Strait Geostrategic Justifications The Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Dominance in the IOR is critical to safeguarding India's trade routes and countering China’s String of Pearls strategy. Adaptation to New Threats: With adversaries deploying hypersonic missiles and AI-based drones, India needs a paradigm shift from traditional large platforms to distributed, mobile, and technologically advanced systems. Conclusion India must pivot from legacy systems like additional aircraft carriers and focus on technologies and platforms that reflect modern warfare realities. A combination of drones, mobile artillery, advanced missile systems, and a robust submarine fleet will provide a decisive edge in future conflicts, ensuring India's security in the evolving global landscape.

[@NeelanjanBandyopadhyay]

Thnx ChatGPT 🥸

[@shambo-rm8ql]

@@NeelanjanBandyopadhyay Future belongs to those who can effectively use ChatGPT, journalists with english skills will not be needed. What will be needed is people with insight, analytical abilities and imagination (which ChatGPT cannot provide on its own). And I am one of the best in these capabilities and can tell you India is too complacent, China can take whole of nth east in a few months if it wants. Our babus are busy investing in aircraft carriers as they provide a lot of contracts to corrupt companies. We have to move to drones and MANPADS, MANPATS and learn from Ukraine

[@NeelanjanBandyopadhyay]

@@shambo-rm8ql Shant UPSCJeet

[@VijayBalan-x4z]

Nice overview. Beyond the 'jugaad' culture, the problem stems from political leadership and MoD bureaucrats not knowledgeable about defence- the closest India had to a knowledgeable head was Parrikar. This is too specialized a task for generalists. For Mod, perhaps a trained cadre- an IDS like the IFS. The procurement process is abysmal. After Balakot, forget the missile gap, Abhinandan's MiG did not have Software-Defined-Radios that are not easily jammed. His plane did not also have an jammer pod like the ELTA 8222. So, he was blind and incapable of blinding- thank the heavens the warrior survived! This doesn't even scratch the surface of intense electronic warfare India will face from China.I would also add training. Just having shiny new toys is inadequate. Are the warriors sufficiently trained? Are processes in place beyond 'chalta hai'? Why do ships fall over in dry dock when being repaired (2 of them)? Did a seaman really forget to shut the hatch on the INS Arihaant? Did the IAF hit anything at Balakot, or only trees as the Pakistanis claim? Don't know the answers to the last two, but with new tech comes a formidable training burden. Are there adequate skills, plans and processes in place?

[@ShafiqUl-rehman]

The whole international community western, eastern neutral defence analysts all concluded that IAF didn't achieve anything in balakot other than using stand alone munitions which hit few trees and killed few crows lol the world saw what PAF did next morning in broad daylight easily targeted indian military installations destroyed a sukhoi and mig bison capturing abhinandan jammed electronic communications effecting indian SAM's in shooting down its own rescue helicopter which was heading to the site where sukhoi was shot down abhinandan's mig wreckage showed that his missiles were intact, he never shot down a F16 US conformed all F16's were accounted for defence analyst prof Christine fair proved infront of indian military officials that no F16 was shot down. Godi media used this fake F16 story for public consumption to save face after PAF humiliated them. Pak controlled the escalation ladder and was ready for any further indian misadventure. Neither india nor pakistan can have a long war it will always be a short skirmish and india can't do anything to Pakistan in any short clash

[@CamSam09]

Why GOI taking pussy foot approach. Indian capability must be aimed to match China and even to match dual deterrence. India must march far ahead of Pakistan. Common guys, pump over 5% of GDP at least. But invest in our own R&D and manufacturing.

[@rajibdas-in8rs]

But how irdia will spend people join army for secure job and Agnioatj like reform is widely protested

[@ankushdoshi8947]

The issue is in the entire system :- 1. Govt with its bureaucracy which bogs down the procurement process 2. Army and Air Force both clueless as to what they need especially the army who keeps on changing its requirements and decades of moon and mars testing which delays the induction (Arjun tank and tejas)and becomes outdated and the worst part they won’t even buy in numbers . And last but not the least their never ending love for imported stuff!!!! Even if they will import it will be minuscule 3. Indias holy grail and the NAVRATNA DRDO, HAL AND THE ORDINACE FACTORY and other PSU . If there was Oscar awards given to defence companies on basis of wasting money , time , delay pe delay and talent . Then these three anmol Ratna would have made India proud by getting Oscar’s every year and probably would have broke all world records . I mean there are no words to describe these PSU . So I’ll just end this point over here 4. An incompetent defence minister The only PROS is that the navy is well aware as to what it need but the poor chaps are denied with funds . Sometimes I feel Pakistan even after begging buys good stuff compared to our armed forces . People might abuse me but this is the harsh reality of our defence

[@memaze29]

SG was talking about the 70s and 80s . At least hear the full episode and comment. Today, the Indian forces have well advanced technologies and equipments and the government is spending resources in the right place. So you can sleep comfortably, and no one will take your country for granted nor take vast areas of our land. Relax.

[@advaityachandhoke1406]

I feel PMO should project 2025-26 as an year of transformation of IAF. Order the 97 additional Tejas Mk1A along with 65 LCH for IAF (+90 for Army). Ordering 6 Netra Mk1A AWACS would be a bonus. Along with that order Brahmos & Pralay Missiles in good enough quantity to start the formation of Indian Rocket Force. That will provide you with sizeable deterrence and a cushion for a while against China. 2025-26 will also likely see the induction of first Tejas Mk1A Sq. (Delayed dur to GE F404 engine delivery delay by US) and first flight of Tejas Mk2. It is a well known fact that in today's day and age it is the Air Power that decides the fate of any conflict. Its because Air Power is not restricted by Geography or Borders or Regions. If you want to take the fight to your enemy, focus on enhancing your Air strength followed by Naval strength (which we are doing well). Precisely the reason why US, China and Russia focus a lot on enhancing their Air fleet. Key examples can be seen in Russia-Ukraine conflict as well as Israel-Hamas/Hezbollah/Iran conflict. The ones with a superior air power are leading. Unfortunately in the last 2 decades, there has been almost no efforts made to even maintain the strength of IAF, let alone increasing it.

[@rajeshbhagat863]

@ 6:20 'how small increases in Defense budgets could make big difference' - Why was it not done then? Dosen't it say volumes about the mind-set and prioritization of the then government? If Khangressis had taken natonal security a tad more seriuosly....