Third Joint Logistics Node (JLN) In Mumbai.:
The Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat has operationalized the third Joint Logistics Node (JLN) in Mumbai.
- Other operationalized JLNs are in Guwahati and Port Blair.
- These JLNs 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 also engineering support in an effort to synergise their operational efforts.
- It would accrue advantages in terms of saving of manpower, economical utilization of resources, besides financial savings.
- This is the precursor to the joint logistics command which is being planned and is imperative for the optimization of the combat potential of integrated theatres.
- One of the means to achieve jointness is through the setting up of integrated theatre commands for the best use of military resources to fight future battles.
Integrated Theatre Command:
- An integrated theatre command envisages a unified command of the three Services, under a single commander, for geographical theatres (areas) that are of strategic and security concern.
- The commander of such a force will be able to bear all resources at his disposal—from the Army, the Indian Air Force, and the Navy—with seamless efficacy.
- The integrated theatre commander will not be answerable to individual Services.
- Integration and jointness of the three forces will avoid duplication of resources.
- The resources available under each service will be available to other services too.
- The services will get to know one another better, strengthening cohesion in the defense establishment.
- The Shekatkar committee has recommended the creation of 3 integrated theatre commands—northern for the China border, western for the Pakistan border, and southern for the maritime role.
