Defence Chiefs Convene for Strategic Review Amid Evolving Security Landscape

Strategic Review Underway: Defence Chiefs Convene for CORE Programme

The Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) has initiated a comprehensive review of contemporary security challenges and national security through its Combined Operational Review and Evaluation (CORE) programme. This five-day event, taking place from 14 to 18 September 2026 at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, brings together senior officers from the Defence Forces, Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, and Home Affairs.

The CORE programme serves as a platform for distinguished experts to share their insights on emerging regional and global security challenges. These experts, renowned for their knowledge in diverse fields, will engage with senior leaders to provide a deeper understanding of the complex issues at hand. The programme's focus on technological transformation in warfare, strategic communication, and civil-military understanding aims to equip participants with the necessary tools to make informed decisions in their future leadership roles.

The IDS's commitment to strengthening professional competencies and fostering jointness is reflected in the CORE programme. By bringing together defence chiefs from various ministries, the programme seeks to promote integrated thinking and prepare senior leadership to effectively address the dynamic and evolving challenges of national security.

The CORE programme's diverse range of themes will be addressed through a series of interactive sessions and presentations. Participants will engage with subject matter experts, share their experiences, and learn from one another's perspectives. This collaborative approach will enable the development of a comprehensive understanding of the security landscape and inform decision-making processes.

The IDS's Director-General will address the gathering, emphasizing the importance of jointness and integrated thinking in addressing complex security challenges. The programme's success will be measured by the extent to which it fosters a culture of collaboration and promotes a deeper understanding of the security challenges facing the nation.

Expert Insights on Emerging Security Challenges

The CORE programme will feature presentations from distinguished experts on various aspects of security challenges. These experts will share their knowledge and experiences, providing valuable insights into the complex issues at hand. The programme's focus on emerging regional and global security challenges will enable participants to develop a comprehensive understanding of the security landscape.

Technological Transformation in Warfare

The CORE programme will also explore the impact of technological transformation on warfare. Participants will engage with experts who will discuss the latest developments in military technology and their implications for national security. This session will provide a unique opportunity for defence chiefs to learn about the latest advancements in military technology and their potential applications.

Strategic Communication and Civil-Military Understanding

The CORE programme will also address the importance of strategic communication and civil-military understanding in addressing complex security challenges. Participants will engage with experts who will discuss the role of communication in building trust and cooperation between defence forces and civil authorities. This session will provide valuable insights into the importance of effective communication in addressing security challenges.

Key Takeaways

• The CORE programme aims to provide senior leaders with exposure to contemporary national and regional security issues.
• The programme will facilitate a deeper understanding of emerging challenges and enable participants to take balanced and well-informed decisions.
• The IDS's commitment to strengthening professional competencies and fostering jointness is reflected in the CORE programme.
• The programme will promote integrated thinking and prepare senior leadership to effectively address the dynamic and evolving challenges of national security.
• The CORE programme will provide a unique opportunity for defence chiefs to learn about the latest advancements in military technology and their potential applications.