The United Service Institution of India was founded in 1870 by a soldier scholar, Colonel (later Major General) Sir Charles MacGregor. The story of its growth is the story of the growth of the Indian Armed Forces. It was founded for ‘furtherance of interest and knowledge in the art, science and literature of the Defence Services.’
Driven by China’s ambition to achieve military superiority and secure its strategic interests, the PLA is aggressively integrating disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), unmanned systems, cyber warfare, and advanced missile capabilities into its operational doctrine and force structure. This technological evolution is reshaping the character of potential conflicts, demanding a corresponding shift in India’s threat assessment and countermeasures. These advancements pose significant challenges for India, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), where the difficult terrain and logistical constraints already complicate military operations. The PLA’s adoption of disruptive technologies enhances its ability to conduct rapid, coordinated, and multi-domain operations, potentially overwhelming traditional defensive measures. The research intends to examine how the PLA is deploying disruptive technologies along the northern borders, particularly the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India. Identify and recommend effective countermeasures, both technological and doctrinal, to neutralise or mitigate the threats posed by PLA’s disruptive technologies. Provide actionable recommendations for policymakers and military planners to adapt to the rapidly evolving technological landscape at the border. Finally, suggest frameworks for continuous monitoring, technology adoption, and capacity building to stay ahead of PLA advancements.