The Indian defense establishment is grappling with the need for theatre commands amid a changing strategic landscape marked by China’s military modernization and its alliance with Pakistan. While the Chief of Defence Staff advocates for unified commands to enhance operational efficiency, dissent exists, particularly from the Air Force, which prefers maintaining current structures. Despite some progress, such as the establishment of joint nodes and new laws empowering tri-service commanders, the reform process is slow. The urgency for theatreisation is underscored by the evolving nature of warfare, where integrated command structures could enhance deterrence against adversaries and optimize resource allocation for modernization efforts.