Warfare and Aerospace Strategy Programme (WASP) was conceived by IAF to cultivate critical thinking in its future leaders. Operational decisions must be informed by a clear understanding of context, consequence, and long-term intent. WASP prepares officers to think through politico-military environmental layers, to interpret the frameworks within which decisions are made, and to assess outcomes including second-order effects. The graduates of WASP subsequently go on to occupy positions in NSCS, Air War Strategy Cell, Think-tanks, and military educational institutes.

            This edition of WASP featured the participation of twelve officers, comprising ten from the Indian Air Force and two from the Indian Navy. The participants engaged in an intensive curriculum that blended military theory with political, technological, and behavioral analysis. Each module was structured around analytical reading, written submissions, and detailed discussions led by subject matter experts from military, academic, and policy backgrounds.

            The programme was conducted under the aegis of the Centre for Air Power Studies and College of Air Warfare. The theme for this year's seminar was, "Aerospace Power: Preserving India's Sovereignty and Furthering National Interests". The Capstone Seminar of No. 4 WASP marked the culmination of a six-month journey of strategic inquiry and cross-domain learning by selected officers of the armed forces, with the Chief of Defence Staff as the Chief Guest. He spoke on the evolving role of the military professionals and the growing relevance of a 'Scholar Warrior'. He underlined the importance of decision-makers who have the ability to move across domains without hesitation, linking strategic intent to executable plans. He emphasised the value of in-depth strategic knowledge and intellectual clarity in shaping military outcomes.

            The seminar featured presentations from WASP participants on the topics which included "Contours of Security Environment", and "Aerospace Power: Imperative for Deterrence and Victory in War".

            WASP continues to support the IAF's path to build intellectual depth within its leadership. Officers emerging from this programme are equipped to engage across operational and policy levels. They bring with them the ability to think independently, speak across disciplines, and align military thinking with broader national aims. The sustained support to this programme reflects the IAF's intent to embed nuanced thinking into military planning and execution.

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VK/JS/SM

(Release ID: 2148543)