Abstract
A well-developed logistics infrastructure that is in tune with the operational requirements of a nation is vital for staying power, stamina and reach of any military. India, with its varied terrain, vast geographical expanse and complex security environment, poses major challenges with respect to its defence logistics system. With the nature of warfare undergoing a major change owing to development of technologies in the domains of AI, robotics, cyber and space systems & applications, drone and counter drone systems, miniaturisation of electronics, and precision technology have led to increased speed & tempo of operations, increased lethality and accuracy of mentions, dense information environment, blurring of lines between conventional and unconventional warfare (leading to emergence of hybrid warfare) and possibility of tech parity between state and non-state actors. The logistics system required in such an environment needs to be robust, endowed with a high degree of endurance, survivable, cost effective and highly flexible. Keeping in mind the logistic stamina required for any future war, true civil military fusion is the need of the day which would ensure economy of effort and a high degree of scalability. These brief major operational logistic lessons that emerged during the Russia Ukraine war, analyse their applicability in the Indian context and suggest reforms needed by the defence forces to adapt to modern warfare demands. This would call for doctrinal shifts, technological integration and structural changes required to create a robust, agile, and integrated logistics system capable of supporting India’s defence forces in the 21st century.
