Army Commanders’ Conference 2026 in New Delhi Highlights Focus on Future-Ready Force and Data-Centric Warfare
The Army Commanders’ Conference (ACC) 2026, led by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, concluded in New Delhi on April 16 following four days of intensive discussions.
The biennial meeting, which began on April 13, saw participation from senior military officials and key government figures, including the Cabinet Secretary, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary, Chairman NSAB, and Chief of Naval Staff Dinesh K Tripathi.
Focus on Future-Ready Force
As part of its transformation agenda, the Indian Army has designated 2026 as the Year of “Networking and Data Centricity,” with objectives to boost operational efficiency through technological advancements.
Key Areas of Discussion
The conference addressed numerous strategic and operational topics, such as:
| Military modernisation and technology infusion |
| Doctrinal and training reforms |
| Networking and data-centric warfare |
| Enhancing operational readiness for emerging threats |
Lessons from Operation Sindoor
Reflecting on Operation Sindoor and global conflicts, Army leaders highlighted the importance of:
| Increased use of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) |
| Strengthening Counter-UAS capabilities |
| Adapting to evolving battlefield dynamics |
Emphasis on Self-Reliance and Jointness
Speakers stressed the necessity for:
| Accelerated indigenous defence production |
| Reducing dependency on global supply chains |
| Strengthening civil-military synergy |
| Adopting a whole-of-nation approach to security |
Addressing Emerging Security Challenges
The discussions highlighted the critical role of hard power, inter-ministerial coordination, and integrated national response mechanisms in addressing complex and evolving security threats.
Way Ahead
The conference reaffirmed the Indian Army's dedication to evolving into a technology-driven, agile, and future-ready force, ensuring the protection of national interests amid an increasingly intricate global security environment.
