Additional joint logistics nodes on the cards for Army, Navy, Air Force

While the last joint logistics node was operationalised in Mumbai in April 2021 by former Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Bipin Rawat, the ones in Guwahati and Tri-Services, Andaman and Nicobar Command, Port Blair were operationalised in January 2021.

As per officials, there are now plans to establish three more joint logistics nodes which are likely to be established at Leh, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu soon.

These nodes will provide integrated logistics cover to the armed forces for their small arms ammunition, rations, fuel, general stores, civil hired transport, aviation clothing, spares and engineering support, thus integrating their operational efforts, especially during a conflict or a war.

A senior official privy to the development said the locations were selected keeping in mind their proximity to rail and air infrastructure while ensuring that adequate space is available for the stores to be spread out in case of any contingency.

“Every node will cater to troops deployed across a vast geographical area,” the official said.

The stocking policy for these nodes would be drafted keeping in mind the number of troops deployed in the region, as well as any increase that may need to be carried out especially in the mountains. It would also look at weather and other challenges leading to certain areas getting cut off thus affecting resupply. The policy will take into account the timely turnover of ammunition so as to ensure they are used within their specified shelf life.

A second official said that a robust infrastructure would be created and will comprise specialised storage and maintenance shelters as per the equipment profile in them. Over a period, officers of all three services would be posted there to ensure complete integration. Each node will come under either of the three services.

While the creation of the integrated theatre commands is likely to take some time, efforts are underway towards greater integration in training and logistics among the services.