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be essential to institutionalise methods for assimilating
technology and adapting, and even anticipating, changes in
doctrine, tactics and organisations. In so doing, special
attention needs to be paid to the impact of RMA on LIC and
asymmetric warfare waged by non-state actors.
3.38 RMA is termed as ‘a major change in the nature of
warfare brought about by the innovative application of new
technologies, which, combined with the dramatic changes in
military doctrine, operational concepts and operations,
fundamentally alters the character and conduct of military
operations’.
3.39 The main constituents of RMA are doctrine, technology,
tactics and training. Although the revolution is driven by
technology, changes in doctrine, tactics and training are
equally if not more important. Thus, the RMA, apart from the
aspect of routine evolution that an Army undergoes in the
process of modernisation, involves a transformation in the
nature and conduct of military operations. It is the synergetic
outcome of advances in technology suitably absorbed and
applied by armed forces. There is a need, therefore, to focus
on emerging technologies available to the armed forces to
meet the strategic, operational and tactical requirements of the
future and analyse the effect of cutting-edge technologies on
future requirements. While doing so, aspects relating to
orchestration of human resources and re-orientation of
training, which are imperative for unleashing the full potential
of emerging technologies, must be factored in as technology
alone can not influence the course of war unless there is a
transformation in the manner armed forces think, train and
fight.
3.40 The backbone of RMA is a C4I2SR system which
facilitates dominant battle-space awareness and will therefore
constitute a major thrust area. Five major components of RMA
are IW, dominant manoeuvre, precision engagement, full
dimensional protection and focused logistics. Advances in
C4I2SR also make possible a new concept in war fighting viz
NCW.