basic doctrine of the indian air force technologies. In the Indian context, it may not always be possible for doctrine to drive technology due to resource and technological constraints. Instead, doctrine may be limited to playing an interactive role with technology. As such, our doctrine must be receptive to the potential advantages that new technologies have to offer. India has taken many strides in exploiting the new technologies for defence applications. An example of technology driving doctrine is the evolution of net centric warfare. Doctrine evolves post the absorption of such technological developments. DOCTRINE AND FORCE STRUCTURE DEVELOPMENT Doctrine is an important element in the development of future force structures and capability requirements. Although force structures keep changing they also exhibit enormous inertia and must be given the right direction and impetus. The guiding influence of doctrine in relation to force structure and capabilities can best be illustrated by an example. A decision on whether or not to acquire Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) will depend on a host of factors that include cost, maintainability, operational characteristics and doctrine. The impact of doctrine on this decision is not to select a particular type of RPA or the numbers to be acquired, but to determine the applicability of this technology or capability to the employment of air power. The doctrinal argument in favour of its acquisition may proceed along the following lines: In isolation, the RPA is neither an offensive weapon system like an aircraft, nor a defensive weapon system like a SAM. The key to its usefulness, however, is in the opportunities that the RPA offers to other offensive weapon systems with its ability to provide real time reconnaissance and intelligence that is so vital for targeting and making the battlefield transparent. In addition, the use of RPAs for Battle Damage Assessment would make air power more responsive and make it unnecessary to risk manned aircraft for the same purpose. The doctrinal argument thus supports the procurement of RPA technology. 28