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Beyond civil-military fusion: India’s path to national security fusion
Context:
In a rapidly changing global security environment, the definition of national security has expanded to address multifaceted threats. India, given its unique geopolitical position and democratic framework, requires an adaptive and comprehensive strategy. This has sparked discussions about moving beyond the Chinese model of Civil-Military Fusion (C-M Fusion) to a broader National Security Fusion framework.
Chinese Civil-Military Fusion vs. India’s Proposed National Security Fusion Framework:
Chinese Civil-Military Fusion (C-M Fusion):
- A strategy developed under China’s one-party system to integrate civilian and military efforts.
- Emphasizes technological dominance and military modernization.
- Includes policies like the “Sixteen Character Policy”:
- Combine the military and civil.
- Combine peace and war.
- Prioritize military products.
- Let the civil support the military.
National Security Fusion (NS Fusion):
Reasons for This Debate: Recent Incidents Highlighting the Need for National Security Fusion:
- Sabotage of submarine optic fibre cables in the Baltic and Africa’s Atlantic regions.
- DDoS attacks on global systems like Microsoft.
- Alleged foreign interference in India’s general elections.
- Rising threats from climate change, including wildfires and typhoons.
- Accelerated testing of hypersonic missiles and unconventional warfare.
- A uniquely Indian framework that goes beyond just integrating civilian and military technologies.
- Encompasses broader aspects like economic security, environmental sustainability, cybersecurity, and political integrity.
- Leverages India’s democratic values and diverse ecosystem of public, private, and not-for-profit entities.
About Chinese Civil-Military Fusion:
- Historical Context:
- Originated during Deng Xiaoping’s era as “civil-military integration.”
- Evolved under Xi Jinping’s leadership into an aggressive strategy for technological and military dominance.
- Centralized through the 2015 Defence White Paper, emphasizing:
- Strategic science and technology projects.
- Development of a world-class defence technology base.
- Alignment with China’s Political System:
- Fits seamlessly into China’s one-party framework, where the State Council and Central Military Commission ensure alignment between civilian and military domains.
- Prioritizes the party’s control over military and civilian sectors.
- Why Civil-Military Fusion Does Not Suit India:
- Democratic Military Framework:
- India’s military operates independently of political parties, unlike in China.
- Civil and military domains in India are distinct and decentralized.
- Unique Challenges:
- India’s democratic structure and diverse stakeholders require a more inclusive approach.
- Blindly mimicking China’s C-M Fusion could undermine India’s democratic principles.
The Proposed National Security Fusion Framework
- Key Features:
- A “system of systems” integrating scientific, technological, economic, and theoretical capabilities.
- Involves contributions from:
- Governmental and non-governmental entities.
- Public and private sectors.
- Startups and conglomerates.
- Focuses on encyclopedic goals, including cybersecurity, AI, space operations, and environmental security.
- Comprehensive Approach:
- Addresses unconventional domains like biological and chemical warfare, pandemics, and economic sabotage.
- Prepares for Black Swan events, such as extreme space weather or global supply chain disruptions.
- Why National Security Fusion is Better for India:
- Holistic Scope: Encompasses military, economic, cybersecurity, and environmental sustainability.
- Indigenous Innovation: Reduces dependency on foreign military technologies and Encourages homegrown technological development.
- Democratic Alignment: Preserves India’s democratic ethos by fostering partnerships without political interference.
- Adaptability: Enables India to respond effectively to unpredictable and complex challenges.
- India’s Unique Challenges Requiring National Security Fusion:
- Geopolitical Threats:Hostile neighbors, including Pakistan and China. Unstable regional dynamics in South Asia.
- Cybersecurity Risks:Rising cyberattacks targeting critical infrastructure.
- Environmental Vulnerabilities:Frequent natural disasters like floods, cyclones, and droughts.
- Internal Security Issues:Insurgencies and terrorism.
- Economic Pressures:Vulnerability to global market fluctuations and external economic sabotage.
Indian Government Steps in This Direction:
- Development of indigenous defence technologies, such as the Tejas fighter jet and BrahMos missiles.
- Strengthening cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent attacks like DDoS.
- Enhancing disaster management capabilities to tackle climate-related events.
- Fostering public-private partnerships in critical sectors, including AI and space technology.
