NEW DELHI: In order to keep up with the rapid infusion of technology and be prepared for future military endeavors, Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Marshal VR Chaudhari emphasized the necessity of adopting an "evolved approach" for grooming future military leaders. 

Speaking at a capstone seminar jointly organized by the Indian Air Force and the Centre for Air Power Studies, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari addressed the need for new investments in military concepts. He stressed the importance of embracing novel ideas and organizational strategies, preceded by a progressive approach to intellectual preparation of future military leaders. Recognizing the significant technological and numerical advantage held by adversaries today, Chaudhari firmly believed that this could be offset by developing an intellectual edge – the ability of individuals to outthink, outplan, and outsmart the enemy. This can be achieved through focused self-learning, with support from esteemed educational institutions like the College of Air Warfare (CAW).

The seminar, held at the Air Force Auditorium in New Delhi, was conducted under the auspices of the College of Air Warfare and the Centre for Air Power Studies. It attracted senior officers from all three services, air power scholars, and academia from prominent think tanks and premier colleges across the country.

Chaudhari further added that despite the evolving nature of warfare, the work undertaken by humans will continue to transform. To adapt to these changes, a combination of formal education and curated self-learning programs is required. Recognizing the symbiotic relationship between humans and emerging technologies, Chaudhari emphasized the need for a re-education process for generations of officers in the coming years to ensure everyone remains updated in the face of accelerated technological advancements.

Drawing upon the timeless wisdom of the book "Makers of Modern Strategy: Military Thought From Machiavelli to Hitler," Chaudhari asserted that the definition of grand strategy remains as relevant today as it was in 1943. The interests and means of securing them have undergone significant transformations since then. Hence, as uniformed men and women, it is imperative to study, analyze, and evolve strategies to confront the challenges of future wars.

This Capstone Seminar serves as a platform to showcase the learning objectives of the Warfare and Aerospace Strategy Program (WASP) and enables the IAF leadership to validate the desired outcomes of the program. Participants presented their research papers on contemporary topics related to the application of air power in recent conflicts and the evolving doctrinal precepts that establish the paramount role of air power in national security.

The WASP was conceptualized by the IAF with the aim of nurturing a group of mid-career air power practitioners equipped with strategic insight and a profound understanding of the history and theory of warfare. The program seeks to enhance the participants' doctrinal vision and cultivate their ability to articulate effective arguments on strategy. It also aims to refine their capability to connect diverse thoughts and theories concerning a comprehensive approach to statecraft within the government.

This comprehensive course was conducted at the College of Air Warfare (CAW), the premier institute for Air Power Studies within the Indian Air Force

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