Indo-Pacific Armies Unite for Peace and Stability: IPACC, IPAMS, and SELF-2023 Culminate in New Delhi

A momentous three-day event, the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC), Indo-Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS), and Senior Enlisted Leaders Form (SELF)-2023, hosted by the Indian Army with co-hosting by the U.S. Army, came to a successful conclusion today in New Delhi. This prestigious gathering welcomed participants from 30 countries, with 18 nations represented by their Army Chiefs and 12 countries by their Heads of Delegations. The primary objective of the event was to facilitate discussions on security and contemporary issues with a paramount focus on promoting “Peace and Stability” in the Indo-Pacific region.

The event commenced on September 25, 2023, with a call-on by General Randy George, the Chief of Staff (COS) of the U.S. Army, to General Manoj Pande, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army. During this initial meeting, both Chiefs engaged in constructive dialogues on topics of mutual interest and shared their insights on contemporary issues.

On September 26, 2023, the Chiefs and Heads of Delegations gathered at the National War Memorial to pay their heartfelt tributes to the fallen heroes. Following this solemn moment, a Joint Press Briefing was conducted by COAS Indian Army and COS of the U.S. Army. COAS Indian Army emphasized the Indo-Pacific region’s unique blend of cultures, histories, resources, and opportunities, while also acknowledging its complexities and challenges. The COS of the U.S. Army underscored the pivotal role of land power in ensuring regional security and its significance in crisis management.

The prestigious Opening Ceremony, graced by the presence of Honorable Raksha Mantri, Rajnath Singh, and General Anil Chauhan, Chief of the Defence Staff, marked a significant milestone in the event. The ceremony featured the hoisting of IPACC and IPAMS flags and the playing of the national anthems of the USA and India. COAS Indian Army and COS of the U.S. Army extended warm welcomes to all participants.

Raksha Mantri delivered the Inaugural Address, highlighting the untapped potential and complexities of the Indo-Pacific region. He reiterated India’s unwavering commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. Raksha Mantri also released a Commemorative Journal.

As part of the 13th IPACC, a Chief’s Round Table Conference convened on the theme “Together for Peace: Sustaining Peace and Stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.” Distinguished speakers discussed topics such as enhancing collaboration and interoperability, the role of military diplomacy in crisis mitigation, and the imperatives of self-reliance for modern armies. The Chiefs and Heads of Delegations engaged in candid discussions, emphasizing the need for an open and inclusive Indo-Pacific that adheres to a rules-based world order.

COAS Indian Army conducted bilateral meetings with Chiefs of participating countries, including Japan, Australia, Vietnam, Kenya, Nepal, Bangladesh, New Zealand, UK, Cambodia, Republic of Korea, France, and Malaysia. Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, Vice Chief of the Army Staff, also held bilateral meetings with the heads of delegations of Brazil, Singapore, Mongolia, and Thailand.

The 47th IPAMS featured plenary sessions focused on three crucial themes: “Partnering for Sustainable Peace and Security in the Indo-Pacific,” “Cooperation to Enhance Interoperability,” and “Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR)- Evolving Mechanisms for Crises Response.” Senior officers from various nations shared their perspectives, emphasizing the imperative for collaborative efforts to strengthen collective responses in the region.

The 9th SELF included sessions on “Interoperability Amongst Indo-Pacific Armies,” “Grooming Junior Leaders for Modern Battlefield,” and “Beyond the Barracks- Addressing Senior Enlisted Leaders’ Concerns.” This unique forum provided an invaluable platform for junior leaders to exchange ideas and insights at the functional level.

A Special Plenary dedicated to spouses centered on their roles and challenges in fostering military communities and sharing best practices. Participants also paid their respects at the National War Memorial and explored an AWWA Exhibition showcasing the entrepreneurial success of Indian Military personnel spouses.

The ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ Equipment Display featured India’s indigenous military equipment capabilities, with 31 corporates participating in the exhibition. The exhibition generated significant interest, showcasing products such as drones, counter-drone systems, modular firing ranges, small arms, NAVIC-based devices, surveillance systems, protective gear, self-propelled artillery guns, military vehicles, and more.

Participants also enjoyed a guided tour of the Gandhi Smriti and an evening dedicated to India’s rich culture. The cultural program featured performances by the Indian Army’s Symphony Band and dance forms showcasing India’s vibrant traditions and art under the theme ‘Colours of India.’

The event culminated with the Closing Ceremony at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt, on September 27, 2023. Honorable Raksha Rajya Mantri Ajay Bhatt delivered the closing address, expressing gratitude to all participants. The conference concluded with a Flag Handing Over Ceremony, where the Indian Army transferred the IPACC and IPAMS flags to the U.S. Army.

This all-encompassing event facilitated intense discussions and engagements among Chiefs, Heads of Delegations, Senior Officers, Junior Leaders, and their spouses, fostering strong bonds between the participating Armies. The forum offered a unique opportunity for all participants to hear distinguished speakers and engage in discussions on a wide range of themes. The event successfully achieved its goals, including the evolution of a shared vision for military cooperation, the strengthening of a collective sense of responsibility, the sharing of best practices, and the reinforcement of the importance of open and sustained dialogue to address issues impacting the Indo-Pacific countries. Participating nations expressed their gratitude to the co-hosts for their warm hospitality and looked forward to continued cooperation and partnerships.