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Indian Army Declares 2026 as ‘Year of Networking & Data Centricity’ for digital integration
Indian Army declares 2026 as the “Year of Networking & Data Centricity” to enhance digital integration, real-time data sharing, and modern warfare capabilities. The announcement is made in January 2026 under the leadership of COAS General Upendra Dwivedi as part of the Army’s long-term vision for a technology-driven force.
Indian Army: “Year of Networking & Data Centricity - 2026”
| Dimension | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Current Trigger | Indian Army declares 2026 as the “Year of Networking & Data Centricity”. |
| Announced by / Leadership | Announced in January 2026 under the leadership of the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Upendra Dwivedi. |
| Initiative | Provides for treating data as a critical operational asset. |
| Operational Mechanism | Authorises leveraging advanced networking systems to ensure seamless connectivity across all levels of command and operations. |
| Primary Objective | Enhanced situational awareness, faster decision-making, and improved combat effectiveness through integrated digital networks and real-time data flow. |
| Networking Connectivity Coverage | Comprises seamless digital connectivity among soldiers on the ground, command and control centres, sensors and surveillance systems, weapon platforms, and intelligence and logistics units. |
| Data-Centric Operations Focus | Real-time collection of battlefield data, rapid processing and analysis, and secure sharing of information across platforms. |
| Jointness | Promoting joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force through shared data platforms and interoperable communication systems. |
| Indigenisation Focus Areas | Indigenous communication systems, Battlefield Management Systems (BMS), and secure defence networks. |
| Digital Integration Provision | Provides for integrating legacy systems with modern digital platforms while ensuring smooth information flow without compromising security. |
| Previous Theme (2024–25) | Indian Army observed 2024–25 as the “Year of Technology Absorption”. |
| Transformation Roadmap | Comprises structural reforms, innovation and emerging technologies, enhanced jointness, and self-reliance in defence manufacturing. |