GS-3:Role of External State and Non-state Actors in creating challenges to Internal Security;Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks;Security Challenges and their Management in Border Areas

In News:House panel to study armed forces’ preparedness to deal with ‘non-kinetic warfare’

1.With the increasing reliance on technology in modern conflicts, what are the potential risks associated with non-kinetic warfare for India? Suggest measures to enhance India’s defence capabilities against such threats.

Non-kinetic warfare involves using indirect tactics, such as information manipulation and technology, to achieve objectives without direct physical confrontation. Recent pager blasts in Lebanon highlight non-kinetic warfare’s potential to cause chaos and influence modern conflicts.

Potential risks of non-kinetic warfare (NKW) for India

1. Cyber vulnerabilities:
   ● The threat of cyber attacks on critical infrastructure, such as power grids and financial systems, poses a significant risk to national security.
   ● Recent incidents, including 2020 Mumbai electricity outage attributed to state-sponsored actors, highlight the susceptibility of India’s digital landscape.
2. Information manipulation:
   ● Non-kinetic tactics can be used to spread misinformation and propaganda, undermining public trust in government institutions and creating social unrest.
3. Economic disruption:
   ● NKW targets economic stability through cyber attacks or economic sanctions, potentially crippling essential services and disrupting trade.
4. Technological dependence:
   ● Over-reliance on foreign technology for defence capabilities may expose India to vulnerabilities if adversaries impose technology denial during crises
5. Espionage and intelligence theft:
   ● Advanced cyber capabilities can enable adversaries to steal sensitive information and undermine India’s intelligence advantage.
6. Interoperability challenges:
   ● Ensuring seamless communication and coordination among different branches of the armed forces can become complex as they adopt various technologies to counter non-kinetic threats.

Measures to enhance India’s defence capabilities against non-kinetic threats:

1. Strengthening cybersecurity frameworks:
   ● Developing robust cybersecurity protocols to protect critical infrastructure.
   ● Investing in advanced cybersecurity technologies and training for personnel to effectively detect and respond to threats.
2. Promoting indigenous technology development:
   ● Encouraging domestic research and development in defence technologies through initiatives like “Aatmanirbhar Bharat.”
   ● Fostering partnerships between defence organisations, private sector firms, and academic institutions to innovate in non-kinetic warfare solutions.
3. Enhancing information warfare capabilities:
   ● Establishing dedicated units within the armed forces to specialise in countering misinformation and conducting psychological operations.
   ● Developing strategies to promote information integrity and combat disinformation campaigns.
4. Building strategic alliances:
   ● Forming international partnerships for data sharing and collaborative defence initiatives.
   ● Participating in joint exercises with allies to improve interoperability in responding to hybrid warfare scenarios.
5. Investing in training and awareness programs:
   ● Conducting regular training programs for military personnel on non-kinetic warfare tactics and countermeasures.
   ● Raising awareness about the implications of non-kinetic warfare among policymakers and the general public.
6. Establishing a national defence strategy for NKW:
   ● Formulating a comprehensive national strategy that addresses the challenges posed by non-kinetic warfare, integrating military, economic, and informational dimensions.
   ● Allocating resources effectively towards building a resilient defence posture capable of countering diverse threats.

By addressing these risks through proactive measures, India can enhance its defence capabilities against the evolving landscape of non-kinetic warfare while ensuring national security and stability.

PYQ

1. The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) by our adversaries across the borders to ferry arms/ammunitions, drugs, etc., is a serious threat to the internal security. Comment on the measures being taken to tackle this threat.2023
2. The terms ‘Hot Pursuit’ and ‘Surgical Strikes’ are often used in connection with armed action against terrorist attacks. Discuss the strategic impact of such actions.2016
3. Keeping in view India’s internal security, analyse the impact of cross-border cyber attacks. Also discuss defensive measures against these sophisticated attacks. 2021

Source:

https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/house-panel-to-study-armed-forces-preparedness-to-deal-with-non-kinetic-warfare/article68769409.ece