New Delhi, November 11, 2026: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Dhiraj Seth, delivered a keynote address on “Vision for Future Warfighting in the Indian Subcontinent” at the Mechanised Forces Symposium 2026, held at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi.
The symposium brought together senior military commanders, veterans, defence scientists, industry representatives and strategic thinkers to discuss the evolving nature of warfare, emerging technologies and the challenges likely to shape future battlefields.
Addressing the gathering, General Seth emphasised that the transformation of the Indian Army must go beyond the modernisation of weapons and military equipment. He highlighted the need to foster a culture of innovation, technological adaptability and operational agility, with the soldier, or Yoddha, remaining at the centre of the Army’s transformation efforts.
The Army Chief stressed that jointness, integration and Atmanirbharta would be critical enablers of future military capabilities. He underscored the importance of developing indigenous defence technologies and strengthening collaboration between the Armed Forces, defence industries, research institutions and academia.
General Seth also highlighted the growing importance of preparing India’s Mechanised Forces for the changing character of warfare. As modern battlefields become increasingly technology-driven, mechanised formations will need to adapt to emerging operational requirements while maintaining their traditional strengths of mobility, firepower and battlefield dominance.
Commending the Mechanised Forces for their distinguished legacy and contribution to India’s military capabilities, the COAS reaffirmed their pivotal role in future warfighting. He reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to developing a technologically advanced, agile and future-ready fighting force under the vision of VIJAY.
A significant highlight of the symposium was the unveiling of the book “Armour 2040: Steel, Silicon & The Future Battlespace”, authored by Lieutenant General AB Shivane (Retd). The book focuses on the future of armoured warfare and the evolving relationship between traditional mechanised combat capabilities and emerging military technologies.
The Mechanised Forces Symposium 2026 provided a platform for military leaders, defence experts and industry stakeholders to exchange perspectives on future warfare and the transformation of India’s mechanised capabilities.
The discussions reflected the Indian Army’s continued emphasis on indigenous innovation, technological advancement and integrated warfighting capabilities to address emerging security challenges and strengthen operational preparedness for future conflicts.
