JOIN USDescribing terrorist organisation IS as one of the best users of internet technology, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on Monday warned the armed forces to be on the guard for the threat of communication disruption.
“The future wars may be in the form of cyber wars. My worry is information blackout which can result out of disruptive mechanisms,” Parrikar said here, inaugurating a conference on defence communication, organised by the Corps of Signals and Confederation of Indian Industries.
He said IS used internet technology for expanding its support base and recruiting fresh blood. “One can take the example of terrorist organisations like Daish or IS. They use the internet to ensure a lot of recruitment or support, and they are one of the best users of internet technology for promoting their cause,” Parrikar said.
Though the Army was being digitalised with the integration of new technologies, disruption by the adversaries continues to be a threat. “My worry is information blackout which can result out of disruptive mechanisms,” he said.
In his last combined commanders conference in October 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also underscored the importance of cyberspace in India’s security matrix. “Control of cyberspace may become as critical as that of land, air and sea,” Modi stated.
The government, however, is yet to take a decision on the creation of the tri-service cyber command, as was recommended by an expert panel three years ago.
The committee, headed by former Cabinet secretary Naresh Chandra, suggested creation of three joint commands for cyber warfare, space and special forces to be spearheaded by the Navy, Air Force and Army, respectively.
Army Chief Gen Dalbir Singh previously stated that cyberspace emerged as the new domain of warfare where India was constantly under threat.
Parrikar said the Army should not only use the digital advantage but also protect itself against destructive technology of adversaries.
Notwithstanding India's success in software, he underlined the need to have better hardware designing and integration to thwart the risks.
Currently, the operational networks of the armed forces are shielded from internet. Also defence services established cyber emergency response teams to prevent and react to cyber attacks. Safeguards have also been instituted in the form of audits and physical checks.