Military leaders and international air force representatives discuss integrated capabilities, unmanned systems, operational resilience and evolving warfare
Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) jointly organised a seminar on October 9, 2026, at the Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi, as part of the engagements surrounding Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026.
The seminar, themed “The Central Role of Air Power in the Evolving Battlespace,” brought together representatives of partner air forces from across the world, senior military leaders, academics, industry representatives and media professionals to discuss how air power is adapting to changing warfare requirements.
Building on operational experiences gained during the multinational flying exercise, the discussions focused on emerging military doctrines, operational challenges and opportunities for cooperation among participating air forces.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, delivered the inaugural address, emphasising the need for integrated capabilities, operational resilience and stronger interoperability to address emerging challenges in air warfare.
He highlighted the importance of developing manned and unmanned operations simultaneously, supported by clear operational doctrines. He also stressed that sensors, weapon systems and unmanned platforms should be integrated with communication and data networks from the outset.
IAF chief called for stronger supply chains, innovative training methods and improved capabilities to sustain prolonged military operations.
He also highlighted the contribution of air power to humanitarian assistance, support for partner countries and strengthening India’s international standing. He urged participants to focus on information warfare, perception management, sharing operational experiences and expanding cooperation to address common security challenges.
The first working session examined the transformation of air warfare in the 21st century. It was chaired by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, former Chief of the Air Staff.
Discussions explored the shift from traditional air superiority towards broader battlespace control and decision dominance, alongside the growing role of media as a strategic instrument.
Participants discussed how modern air power increasingly depends on an integrated operational ecosystem rather than control of the skies alone.
Second working session was chaired by Air Marshal Stephen Chappell, Chief of the Air Staff of the Royal Australian Air Force. It examined air power as an instrument of national power, including its role in deterrence, coercion and escalation control.
The session also addressed human capital development and the reforms needed to prepare air forces for emerging and future battlefield requirements.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor (Retd.), Director General of CAPSS, delivered the welcome address, outlining the role of air power in contemporary conflicts and the organisation’s contribution to research and strategic analysis.
Established in 2001, CAPSS is an autonomous research and analysis body focused on national security, nuclear affairs and aerospace issues. The year 2026 marks its Silver Jubilee.
Seminar provided a platform for military professionals and strategic experts to exchange perspectives on future air warfare, identify areas for collaboration and discuss operational lessons.
The discussions concluded with an emphasis on strengthening cooperation, improving preparedness and adapting air power capabilities to the changing character of conflict.
