Weapons, Wars and Economics

There are innumerable books on the valour of our armed forces but this is different; it contains imperishable personal experiences in battles fought by us since 1914 and highlights the importance of weapons. We are capable of producing high-tech missiles like Brahmos, yet failure to manufacture even trainer aircraft, results in our air force pilots being sent to UK for training in the 58th year of our Independence! Ordnance Factories claim that their 155-mm guns exhibits at Abu Dhabi were acclaimed. Then why the ongoing trails of Swedish, South African and Israeli 155-mm guns? Is it due to the clich?’ “It’s cheaper to import than to manufacture” ! or because the decision-makers don’t know Lancaster’s Law. The author highlights instances of poor planning and suggests ways for development and production of weapons at affordable costs. After active service on North West Frontier, got his first Independent Command at Penang, on outbreak of War. Back in India, among the first to command a Field Company-attended the Staff College Quetta, raised and commanded another company in operations with the 17th division in Burma; was decorated. Then had the unique distinction of being the only Indian on the Staff of 14th Army. Towards the end of war, promoted to command an Engineer Group. On Independence after a spell worked as Chief Engineer Air Force, and Brig. Engineer Staff. Appointed Military Advisor to the High Commission in London, was sole signatory of contract for purchase of the Centurian tanks. On return became Chief Engineer; then was promoted Major General i/c Administration Southern Command. Appointed Controller General of Production in the Ministry of Defence by Krishna Menon not an easy person to work with. Took premature retirement and held various appointments including as Consultant for UNIDO. Was member of study team on Defence of the Administrative Reforms Commission.