India Considers Establishing Rocket-Missile Force Amid Regional Security Changes

In response to changing regional security dynamics, India is contemplating the establishment of a rocket-missile force, as highlighted by General Upendra Dwivedi. This strategic move aims to counter threats from China and Pakistan, both of which have developed similar military capabilities. The evolving nature of warfare, characterized by the use of missiles and drones, necessitates this shift. With a robust arsenal of indigenous missiles and a focus on integrated command, India seeks to enhance its military readiness. This article explores the implications of this proposed force and the lessons India can learn from regional military developments.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 20:18 IST

Strategic Shift in India's Defense Approach

General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff, has indicated that in light of evolving regional security dynamics, India is contemplating the formation of a 'rocket-missile' force. This consideration arises as both China and Pakistan have established similar military units. He emphasized, "It is essential for us to have such a force at this time." The proposed force would incorporate a significant number of drones, missiles, and air defense systems. General Dwivedi noted, "We are actively working towards establishing a rocket-missile force. Pakistan has already set up its rocket force, and China has developed a comparable unit." The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force (PLARF) in China is regarded as a powerful component of its military, with its combat capabilities being enhanced consistently since 2016.

Changing Nature of Warfare

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine and persistent tensions in the Middle East have underscored that future warfare will likely occur without direct engagement. Traditional ground battles are becoming obsolete, replaced by decisive missile, rocket, and drone operations. In this shifting global landscape, India appears to be moving towards a significant strategic decision. With aggressive neighbors like Pakistan and China, India is seriously considering the establishment of a rocket-missile force. General Dwivedi's statement reflects not just a proposal but an acknowledgment of the realities of future battlefields.

Current Missile Operations in India

Currently, missile and rocket operations in India are managed by the army's air defense branches and artillery regiments. However, in modern warfare, rockets and missiles have become complementary. Therefore, the army chief has clearly stated that an integrated command is necessary for effective impact. India boasts a robust arsenal of indigenous and jointly developed missiles, including Agni, BrahMos, Prithvi, and Pralay. Recently, a successful test of the Pinaka guided rocket, capable of striking targets up to 120 kilometers away, was conducted. According to the army chief, contracts for systems with ranges of 300 to 450 kilometers have already been finalized.

Regional Military Developments

Both China and Pakistan have made missile capabilities the backbone of their military strength. The PLARF in China operates both conventional and nuclear missiles. A U.S. defense report indicates that China possesses over 1,250 ballistic and cruise missiles, with its nuclear arsenal rapidly expanding. Following Operation Sindhura, Pakistan hastily established its Army Rocket Force Command to address its vulnerabilities, modeled after China's approach to exert pressure on India through saturation attacks in limited conflicts. However, it is important to note that India significantly outpaces Pakistan in both quality and range. Nonetheless, this new Pakistani unit could pose a temporary challenge in smaller, intense conflicts.

Lessons from Iran's Military Strategy

While China's missile capabilities surpass India's, Iran's model offers valuable insights. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force, established in 2009, operates independently from the regular air force and possesses ballistic, hypersonic, and cruise missiles, along with drone warfare capabilities. Iran demonstrated its strength in a limited conflict with Israel last year when its missile strikes breached the Iron Dome, causing significant damage to key targets. Iran's greatest asset lies in its underground tunnels, where missiles are securely stored and launched from concealed locations. U.S. assessments suggest that Iran has approximately 3,000 ballistic missiles, the largest stockpile in the Middle East, which has become an effective tool for political and military pressure, especially amid challenges from the U.S. and internal instability.

The Future of India's Military Strategy

For India, the proposed rocket-missile force represents not just a new military unit but a strategic tool for maintaining balance. It would enable integrated command, expedite decision-making, and facilitate decisive strikes within limited timeframes. This force would provide India with an advantage in both preemptive and defensive operations along the Line of Actual Control with China and the western border with Pakistan. Additionally, it could eliminate resource conflicts between the air force and army. Centralized control of missiles would reduce confusion and delays during wartime, steering India towards a model where conflicts are shorter but highly impactful.

Conclusion: A Call for Comprehensive Military Reform

India now stands at a critical juncture where half-measures will no longer suffice. The establishment of a rocket-missile force is not merely a response to a single nation but a necessity for understanding future warfare. Conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East have shown that nations leading in missile and drone technology dictate the terms of war. India must not only create this force but also focus equally on indigenous technology, underground infrastructure, and rapid decision-making systems.