IAF chief AP Singh backs phased theaterisation tailored to India's security needs

India's military theaterisation plan must be tailored to the nation's specific security requirements rather than built by copying foreign models, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh has said, calling for a phased implementation that protects national operational readiness.

Speaking on the ambitious tri-service integration drive initiated in 2019, the Air Chief Marshal clarified that the Indian Air Force does not view theaterisation as a plan to permanently divide fighter assets geographically. Instead, he advocated for a structure centered on centralised control where necessary and decentralised execution where appropriate, preserving the defining strengths of air power—its speed, reach, and flexibility.

India's theaterisation plan

The ongoing reform seeks to integrate the operational capabilities of the Army, Navy, and Air Force under unified theatre commands to maximise combat efficiency across domains.

Highlighting recent joint operations, Air Chief Marshal Singh pointed to Operation Sindoor as evidence of effective integration. Under the joint architecture established by the Chief of Defence Staff and the service chiefs, centralised allocation and swift reallocation of critical resources proved decisive, he said.

Indo-Pacific vigilance and readiness

Addressing strategic developments in the broader Indo-Pacific region, the IAF Chief noted that growing military activity and competition require continuous vigilance and credible deterrence. India remains fully prepared to safeguard its sovereignty, national interests, and freedom of action across multi-domain environments.

He added that the IAF remains a committed partner in building a distinctly Indian integration model, ensuring all three services operate seamlessly together in future military scenarios.