Geopolitical situation changing fast, utmost priority is to ensure high standards of operational preparedness: Army Chief

On force modernisation, Gen. Manoj Pande said that his efforts would be to leverage new technologies through indigenisation

Stating that the geopolitical situation was fast changing and there were several challenges ahead, Army Chief Gen. Manoj Pande said on Sunday that his utmost priority would be to ensure very high standards of operational preparedness at all times while also taking forward modernisation with focus on indigenisation.

“Utmost priority would be to ensure very high standards of operational preparedness to face current, contemporary and future challenges across the spectrum of conflict,” Gen Pande talking to journalists after reviewing a Guard of Honour on the lawns of South Block. 

Chiefs of other Services, Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari and Navy chief Admiral R. Hari Kumar were also present.

The three Chiefs are coursemates, from the 61st course of the National Defence Academy. 

When asked about the significance of the presence of other Chiefs, Gen. Pande said they grew up together in their formative years.

“I have known the other two Service chiefs well. It’s a good beginning of synergy, cooperation and jointmanship among the three Services,” he said assuring that they would work together and take things forward in the cause of national security and defence.

Gen. Pande assumed charge as the 29th Chief of the Army Staff on Friday.