principles of war and the nature of air power
elements of national power for achievement of national objectives.
This is even more valid in limited wars/asymmetric conflicts where
limitations of time, space or method demand synergy of effort. In
the future, there is a likelihood of large and varied forces including
non-military elements being employed; hence unity of command
may not be feasible at all times. It is here that coordination and
cooperation between different agencies becomes the guiding
principle. Joint planning, training, a clear perspective about
the functioning of the other services and the establishment of
supportive organisations will be essential to ensure synergy. This
would also enhance survivability.
Generation & Sustenance of Favourable Asymmetry. The
increase in battle space transparency may reduce the impact of
surprise at all levels of wars. Therefore, the emphasis now has to
be, not only on, catching the enemy off guard but also on keeping
him off balance. This would require generating asymmetry at the
desired time and place, for wresting significant combat advantage.
The methods employed include generating surprise in terms of
time, space and force, a favourable differential in technology and
weapon systems at the decisive point, exploiting sound operational
art, formulating effective and synergistic strategy and maintaining
information superiority.
Administration. A sound administration and responsive logistics
are a pre-requisite for success in military operations. A disregard
of sound logistics has led to failure in wars on numerous occasions
in the past. Sustainability is the ability of a force to maintain the
necessary fighting power during the time needed to achieve
military objectives. The physical and moral sustenance of
personnel, the maintenance and repair of equipment and aircraft,
the provision of combat supplies and expendable commodities
and the treatment, evacuation and replacement of casualties are
all aspects of sustainability.
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