Indian Army to recruit cyber, IT domain experts for advanced warfare capabilities

The Indian Army is set to induct domain experts into its regular cadre to ensure a technologically advanced and battle-ready force. This initiative, announced by Deputy Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor, marks a significant step in restructuring the Army in line with global military advancement.

Addressing the media, Lieutenant General Kapoor said that the Army is actively monitoring recent global conflicts to adapt its structure, strategy, and operational approach to the challenges of modern warfare.

As part of this transformation, the Army plans to recruit specialists in critical domains such as information warfare, cybersecurity, linguistics, and IT at both officer and non-commissioned officer (NCO) levels.

PILOT SUCCESS AND RECRUITMENT PLANS

A pilot project for the induction of domain specialists has already been conducted and was successful. The first phase of regular recruitment will feature 17 specialised entries, including five for strategic linguistic experts.

Officers will be recruited at the postgraduate level, while soldiers will be inducted at the graduate level. The selection process will include Service Selection Board (SSB) interviews, with advertisements for the new entries expected to be released soon. The induction of these specialists will be for men and women both to ensure gender neutrality in the armed forces.

While the Territorial Army (TA) has already begun inducting domain experts, this initiative will now extend to regular Army recruitment.

TECHNOLOGY AS A FORCE MULTIPLIER

Emphasising the critical role of technology, Lieutenant General Kapoor said that the Defence Ministry declared 2024–25 as the ‘Years of Technology Absorption’ for the Indian Army. To spearhead this vision, the Army is working on 16 technology clusters, focusing on cutting-edge advancements such as:      

• Cybersecurity and Quantum Computing
• 5G/6G Networks and IoT
• Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning
• Directed Energy Weapons and Robotics
• RPA (Remotely Piloted Aircraft), Counter-UAS, and Loitering Munitions
• Blockchain Technology and 3D Printing

TRANSFORMING THE INDIAN ARMY

“The relationship between technology and military strategy is symbiotic,” Lieutenant General Kapoor said.

“These initiatives are aimed at transforming the Indian Army into a niche, technology-driven force capable of meeting evolving security challenges,” he added.

With these forward-thinking measures, the Indian Army is not only preparing for future wars but also setting the stage for becoming a global leader in defence innovation.