20-year roadmap released to transform Armed Forces into a modern, integrated and technologically-advanced military

To transform the Indian Armed Forces into a modern, integrated and technologically-advanced military capable of supporting India’s aspirations in the coming years, Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff has prepared a 20-year roadmap.

Titled ‘Defence Forces Vision 2047: A Roadmap for a Future-Ready Indian Military’, it was released by the Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh, at South Block in the Capital on Tuesday.

The vision document outlines the strategic reforms, capability enhancements, and organisational changes required within the Defence Forces to effectively address the evolving geostrategic, technological, and security environment, according to an official statement.

“It envisages the transformation of the military into an integrated, multi-domain, and agile force capable of deterring adversaries, responding across the full spectrum of conflict, and protecting expanding strategic interests, amid the rapidly changing global and regional dynamics,” the Ministry of Defence said.

A central pillar of the vision is the emphasis on jointness and synergy among the Services, promoting greater coordination in planning, operations, and capability development. The document also highlights the importance of innovation, advanced technologies, and a modern training framework to build a force that is adaptable to future warfare challenges.

Another key focus area is self-reliance in defence, encouraging the development and adoption of indigenous technologies and solutions tailored to the country’s unique security requirements. Strengthening domestic defence manufacturing and technological capabilities is expected to enhance operational readiness while contributing to overall national growth.

The vision document adopts a calibrated roadmap with clearly prioritized capability goals across short-term, mid-term, and long-term timelines. This structured approach will guide the development of critical military capabilities, institutional reforms, and strategic partnerships required to build a world-class defence force.

Recognising the complexity of future security challenges, the vision document underscores the need for a whole-of-nation approach, integrating military strength with diplomatic, technological and economic power to ensure national security, the ministry said.

Through sustained reforms, innovation, and national commitment, it aims to ensure that by the centenary of India’s independence, the nation's military stands as a globally-respected, technologically-advanced and combat-ready military, contributing to a strong and resilient country.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lieutenant General Pushpendra Singh, and other senior officials were present on the occasion.