Why in News?
India’s Army, Navy, and Air Force will conduct the mega drone exercise “Cold Start” in Madhya Pradesh next month, testing drones, counter-drone systems, and air defence readiness, with industry, academia, and R&D agencies participating.
Description:
- A military strategy developed by India for rapid mobilization and limited offensive strikes against Pakistan without crossing nuclear thresholds.
Origin / Rationale:
- Formulated after Operation Parakram (2001–02) when India took weeks to mobilize after the Parliament attack.
- Objective: Close the strategic gap in responding quickly to provocations.
Core Concept – Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs):
- Self-sufficient, multi-arm units (infantry, tanks, artillery, air support, logistics).
- Example: An IBG in Punjab can start operations within 48–72 hours instead of weeks.
Nature of Operations:
- Limited objectives: Target terrorist camps, launchpads, or key military posts near the border.
- Not full-scale war: Designed for retaliation, not regime change or deep territorial conquest.
Offensive vs Defensive:
- Offensive in operation, defensive in intent.
- Aims for deterrence and rapid retaliation without escalating to nuclear war.
Role of Speed:
- Operations begin within 2–3 days of provocation.
- Limits enemy mobilization and international pressure.
Nuclear Escalation Avoidance:
- Avoids deep incursions into Pakistan.
- Keeps strikes below nuclear threshold.
Diplomatic Significance:
- Demonstrates capability without international backlash.
- Example: Surgical strikes post-Uri and Pulwama attacks reflect Cold Start elements.
Limitations / Criticism:
- Risk of misjudged escalation.
- Relies heavily on coordination among armed services.
- Terrain and infrastructure can delay execution.
Official Status:
- Denied officially for a long time.
- Acknowledged publicly in 2017 by a senior Indian Army officer.
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