Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released the Indian Army's Land Warfare Doctrine 2026 at the Army Commanders' Conference on 23 October 2026, the first revision since 2018, emphasising artificial intelligence, drones and multi-domain operations drawing on lessons from Operation Sindoor.
WHAT HAPPENED
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released the Land Warfare Doctrine 2026 on the concluding day of the Army Commanders' Conference in New Delhi, on 23 October 2026.
KEY FACTS
- This is the first revision of the doctrine since December 2018, and the first since Operation Sindoor (May 2025).
- Key themes: artificial intelligence, drone warfare, manned-unmanned teaming, multi-domain operations and resilient logistics.
- The doctrine draws lessons from Operation Sindoor, where unmanned systems and information warfare were significant.
- It is aligned with "Defence Forces Vision 2047" and stresses Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) and a "Whole-of-Nation Approach."
- Singh urged commanders to plan on a 20-30 year horizon while staying ready for immediate threats.
EXAM ANGLE
Note the gap since the last revision (2018 to 2026, ~8 years) and the direct link drawn to Operation Sindoor as the doctrine's practical trigger.
SOURCE AND DATE
India TV News, The Tribune and WION, all dated 23 October 2026, reporting Rajnath Singh's release at the Army Commanders' Conference. Added to this collection on 26 October 2026.