Category: war and warfare

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576: WINGS OF THE ARMY: THE ROLE OF THE AIR ARM IN GROUND OPERATIONS

 

 

 

My article published in the News Analytics Journal in the Jan 25 issue.

 

The air arm of ground forces plays a pivotal role in modern military operations, blending speed, precision, and versatility to support soldiers on the battlefield. This specialised component acts as the army’s eyes, ears, and extended arms in the skies, transforming the dynamics of ground warfare.

 

Roles and Functions.

One of the air arm’s primary functions is reconnaissance and surveillance. Aerial platforms, including helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), scout enemy positions, map terrain, and monitor troop movements, providing commanders with critical, real-time intelligence. This enables informed decision-making and swift strategy adjustment.

 

Battlefield air support (BAS) is another indispensable function. Attack helicopters, like the AH-64 Apache, deliver devastating firepower to suppress enemy forces and protect ground troops during engagements. The air arm’s ability to provide precision strikes ensures minimal collateral damage while maximising effectiveness against enemy targets.

 

Logistical support is equally vital. Transport helicopters, such as the CH-47 Chinook, and utility aircraft ensure rapid troop deployment, evacuation of casualties, and delivery of supplies to remote or contested areas. This mobility is particularly crucial in fast-moving or rugged battle environments.

 

Additionally, the air arm facilitates aerial assault operations, allowing soldiers to penetrate deep behind enemy lines. Airborne units, often deployed via helicopters or paratroopers, execute high-risk missions quickly.

 

Evolution of the Army Aviation Corps: From Observation Balloons to Modern-Day UAVs

 

The Army Aviation Corps has transformed remarkably, from humble beginnings with observation balloons to the sophisticated use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare. The journey began in the late 19th century when armies employed tethered observation balloons for reconnaissance. These early platforms provided a bird’s-eye view of enemy positions, revolutionising battlefield intelligence during conflicts like the American Civil War. Though rudimentary, they laid the groundwork for integrating air assets into military strategy.

 

The advent of fixed-wing aircraft during World War I marked the next leap. Early planes were primarily used for reconnaissance, but their roles expanded to include artillery spotting, aerial photography, and limited combat capabilities. By World War II, technological advances saw the introduction of transport planes and gliders, enabling airborne troops and rapid logistics support. The post-war era witnessed the rise of helicopters, which became a defining feature of the Army Aviation Corps. Their ability to hover, land in tight spaces, and provide mobility in rugged terrain revolutionised ground-air coordination.

 

In recent decades, the focus has shifted to Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These platforms provide real-time surveillance, precision strikes, and electronic warfare capabilities. UAVs represent the pinnacle of automation and efficiency, operating in high-risk environments without endangering human lives.

 

Air Mobility in Warzones: The Key to Quick Reaction Forces

 

Air mobility has emerged as a critical enabler for Quick Reaction Forces (QRF) in modern warfare, providing speed, flexibility, and reach in rapidly evolving conflict zones. The ability to deploy troops, equipment, and supplies swiftly via aircraft ensures that military operations can respond effectively to threats or seize opportunities on the battlefield.

 

Helicopters are at the heart of air mobility in war zones. Aircraft like the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook enable the rapid transport of soldiers and cargo to areas inaccessible by land due to rugged terrain, enemy activity, or time constraints. Their versatility allows QRFs to respond to emergencies such as ambushes, breakthroughs, or sudden escalations with minimal delay.

 

Another vital function of air mobility is medical evacuation (MEDEVAC), a role that underscores the life-saving impact of the air arm’s operations. In warzones, helicopters equipped with medical facilities extract wounded personnel from the battlefield, often saving lives by providing care within the critical ‘golden hour.’ Additionally, fixed-wing aircraft contribute to air mobility by transporting larger payloads over longer distances, facilitating the movement of reinforcements, heavy equipment, and critical supplies to support ongoing operations.

 

Helicopters in Combat: The Backbone of the Army’s Air Arm

 

Helicopters have revolutionised modern warfare. They serve as the backbone of the army’s air arm and offer unparalleled mobility, versatility, and firepower. Their adaptability allows them to serve in various roles, from swift troop deployments to battlefield air support, ensuring operational success in dynamic combat environments.

 

Air mobility is one of their most significant contributions, allowing forces to bypass terrain obstacles and reach otherwise inaccessible areas. Their ability to insert and extract units in active combat zones is pivotal for rapid response and maintaining the momentum of operations.

 

In combat, attack helicopters have redefined battlefield tactics. Armed with precision-guided missiles, rockets, and advanced targeting systems, these helicopters provide close air support by neutralising enemy tanks, vehicles, and fortified positions. Their agility and firepower make them indispensable for suppressing threats and protecting ground forces.

 

Modern technological advancements have further enhanced combat helicopters’ capabilities. Night vision systems, stealth features, and advanced avionics allow them to operate effectively in diverse conditions, from deserts to dense urban landscapes.

 

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Expanding the Army’s Air Arm

 

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, have revolutionised modern warfare, becoming an indispensable part of the army’s air arm. Their ability to operate without a human pilot on board, combined with advanced technology, has significantly expanded the army’s operational capabilities.

 

One of the most prominent roles of UAS is reconnaissance and surveillance. Equipped with high-resolution cameras and sensors, drones provide real-time intelligence to ground forces. They monitor enemy movements, map terrain, and identify threats, enabling commanders to make informed decisions quickly and accurately. UAS also excel in precision strikes, delivering munitions with remarkable accuracy. Armed drones have become a game-changer in counterterrorism and asymmetric warfare, allowing the army to target adversaries with minimal risk to soldiers and reduced collateral damage.

 

In addition to combat roles, drones support logistics and resupply missions, particularly in contested or remote areas. Lightweight delivery drones are increasingly used to transport critical supplies like ammunition and medical equipment directly to frontline units. The versatility of UAS extends to communication and electronic warfare. Some drones act as airborne relays, maintaining communication between dispersed units, while others are equipped for electronic jamming or cyber operations.

 

The armies worldwide are exploring new capabilities as technology advances, including autonomous swarming drones that can overwhelm enemy defences and AI-powered UAS for independent mission execution. These innovations promise to enhance battlefield efficiency further.

 

Airborne Forces: From Paratroopers to Aerial Assault Units

 

Airborne forces remain a critical component of military strategy. They have long been a symbol of speed, surprise, and tactical precision in military operations. These elite units, deployed via aircraft, have evolved from traditional paratroopers to versatile aerial assault units capable of executing complex missions in modern warfare.

 

The origins of airborne forces date back to World War II when paratroopers were first used to disrupt enemy defences by landing behind their lines. Iconic operations like D-Day and the Battle of Arnhem showcased the effectiveness of this approach. Dropped from transport planes, paratroopers brought the element of surprise, cutting off reinforcements and capturing key objectives.

 

As warfare evolved, so did the role of airborne forces. Modern aerial assault units, often deployed via helicopters, now complement traditional parachute operations. Helicopters like the UH-60 Black Hawk and CH-47 Chinook have transformed these units into highly mobile and adaptable forces. Unlike static parachute drops, helicopters provide precision insertion, allowing soldiers to land precisely where needed, even in hostile or rugged terrain.

 

Airborne forces excel in executing high-risk missions, such as seizing enemy strongholds, conducting raids, and rescuing hostages. Their ability to deploy rapidly and strike deep behind enemy lines makes them a valuable asset in asymmetric warfare. Advances in technology, such as improved navigation systems and night vision equipment, have further enhanced their effectiveness.

 

Integrated Air-Ground Operations: A New Era in Combined Arms Tactics

 

Modern warfare has entered a new era where the integration of air and ground forces is redefining battlefield tactics. Known as integrated air-ground operations, this approach emphasises the seamless coordination of assets in the air and on the ground to achieve strategic objectives with precision and efficiency.

 

The foundation of this synergy lies in real-time communication and intelligence sharing. Advanced systems enable ground commanders to direct air assets, such as fighter jets, attack helicopters, and drones, to provide battlefield air support (BAS), reconnaissance, and logistical aid. Simultaneously, aerial platforms transmit critical data about enemy positions and terrain, giving ground forces a tactical advantage.

 

The success of these operations depends on joint planning, extensive training, interoperable equipment, and shared strategic objectives. Integrated air-ground tactics have transformed warfare, ensuring that armies can operate as unified, adaptive forces capable of dominating complex and dynamic battlefields.

 

Air Arm of the Indian Army

 

The Air Arm of the Indian Army, officially known as the Army Aviation Corps (AAC), plays a vital role in enhancing the Indian Army’s operational capabilities. It was established in 1986 to provide specialised aviation support to ground forces, operating helicopters and other aircraft to support various military and logistical operations. Over the years, the Army Aviation Corps has become indispensable to the Indian Army’s combat and support operations.

 

The Indian Army’s aviation capabilities are especially significant given India’s diverse geography, including the Himalayas, dense forests, and vast border regions. The ability to swiftly deploy troops and supplies via air ensures that the army can maintain high operational readiness, even in areas with limited infrastructure.

 

The future of the Indian Army’s air arm involves integrating advanced technologies, such as UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) for surveillance and reconnaissance, next-generation helicopters like the Apache AH-64E attack helicopters, and a fleet of indigenous helicopters.

 

The Army Aviation Corps remains a key component as India modernises its military forces. It ensures rapid reaction and mobility for ground forces and significantly enhances India’s strategic defence capabilities.

 

The Future of the Army’s Air Arm: Emerging Technologies and Strategic Challenges

 

The future of the Army’s air arm is poised for a transformation driven by emerging technologies that promise to redefine the way ground forces conduct operations and engage in warfare. The air arm’s capabilities will expand from autonomous systems to advanced weaponry, bringing new opportunities and strategic challenges for military planners and decision-makers.

 

One of the most significant technological advancements on the horizon is the growing use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These systems offer several advantages, including reduced risk to personnel, long endurance surveillance, and the ability to strike targets with precision. Future UAVs are expected to become more autonomous and capable of performing missions without direct human intervention. This shift could lead to the development of swarming drones, where multiple UAVs operate in unison, overwhelming enemy defences and providing real-time intelligence to ground forces.

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) will further enhance the operational efficiency of the Army’s air arm. AI-powered drones and helicopters can make real-time decisions based on battlefield data, optimising flight paths, targeting, and coordination with ground forces. This increased automation will allow air assets to act faster and more decisively, potentially reducing the reliance on human operators and increasing battlefield agility.

 

Another key focus area is the development of next-generation helicopters and vertical lift aircraft. Newer platforms with tilt-rotor design promise to deliver unprecedented speed, range, and agility, enabling faster troop insertion, mobility in complex terrains, and effective response to emerging threats.

 

Innovation and adaptation will shape the future of the Army’s air arm. As technology evolves, so must the strategies for effectively utilising air assets in combat, humanitarian missions, and national defence. The integration of advanced technologies and the challenges of modern warfare will determine how the air arm continues to shape the outcome of military operations in the years to come.

 

Conclusion. The air arm is not just a support element but a force multiplier, bridging the gap between land and air operations. Its unmatched ability to provide reconnaissance, firepower, and mobility ensures ground forces maintain their tactical edge, making it an indispensable component of today’s armies. As modern warfare increasingly relies on hybrid strategies, integrating air-ground coordination and joint operations between air forces and ground units continues to be a strategic focus for armies globally. In modern warfare, air and ground forces integration has become increasingly seamless. Advanced communication systems enable real-time coordination, ensuring air assets complement ground manoeuvres effectively. The future of army aviation will likely see further advancements in combat helicopter design, drone warfare, and next-generation vertical lift aircraft to enhance mobility, lethality, and precision in ground operations.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

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References and credits

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References:-

    1. Chhina, Rana T.S. The Indian Army: An Illustrated Overview. Centre for Armed Forces Historical Research, 2005.
    1. Singh, Bikramjeet. “Army Aviation Corps: A Key Element in India’s Operational Strategy.” Indian Defence Review, Vol. 30, Issue 4, 2020.
    1. Joshi, Rajesh. “Transforming Army Aviation: Challenges and Opportunities.” Force Magazine, June 2019.
    1. Nambiar, A.G. “Indian Army Aviation: The Role and Future Prospects.” South Asia Defence and Strategic Review, Vol. 12, Issue 2, 2021.
    1. Indian Army Official Website. “Army Aviation Corps.” https://indianarmy.nic.in.
    1. Press Information Bureau (PIB). “Strengthening Army Aviation with Indigenous Platforms.” Government of India, 2023.
    1. Bharat Rakshak. “History and Evolution of Indian Army Aviation Corps.” http://bharat-rakshak.com.
    1. Pubby, Manu. “Army Aviation Corps Modernization: Induction of ALH Dhruv and Rudra.” Economic Times, 2022.

9. Chant, Christopher. Warfare and the Third Dimension: Aircraft, Rockets, and Missiles. Hamlyn, 1990.

    1. Zaloga, Steven J. Airborne: A Combat History of American Airborne Forces. Stackpole Books, 2010.

11 Singer, P.W. Wired for War: The Robotics Revolution and Conflict in the 21st Century. Penguin Press, 2009.

    1. Gertler, Jeremiah. U.S. Unmanned Aerial Systems. Congressional Research Service, 2012.
    1. Freedman, Lawrence. The Future of War: A History. Public Affairs, 2017.
    1. Kallenborn, Zachary. “The Era of Drone Swarms: What to Expect and How to Counter.” The Modern War Institute at West Point, 2020.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

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575: BOOK REVIEW: 7 SECONDS TO DIE

 

 

 

BOOK REVIEW: 7 SECONDS TO DIE

 

BY JOHN C. ANTAL

 

Review by: Air Marshal Anil Khosla (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, VM

Former Vice Chief of Air Staff, Indian Air Force.

 

 

John C. Antal’s 7 Seconds to Die offers a compelling and detailed analysis of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War (2020), a conflict that showcased the decisive role of modern military technologies, particularly drones and artificial intelligence. This book transcends being a mere war chronicle; it is a profound exploration of how technological advancements reshape 21st-century military strategies. Antal’s approach, combining vivid storytelling with rigorous military analysis, makes this work indispensable for military professionals, strategists, and anyone interested in the future of warfare.

 

The Second Nagorno-Karabakh War erupted between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Though deeply rooted in historical and ethnic tensions, this war became a showcase for implementing cutting-edge technologies in combat. Azerbaijan, backed by Turkish military technology and Israeli-made drones, demonstrated a level of precision, speed, and lethality that overwhelmed Armenian forces. Antal contextualises the war within the broader framework of global military trends, emphasising that this was not just a regional conflict but a harbinger of future warfare. The title, 7 Seconds to Die, refers to the average time Armenian soldiers had to react once a drone detected their position. This chilling statistic underscores the deadly efficiency of unmanned systems.

 

Antal positions the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War as a critical case study in the ongoing Revolution in Military Affairs. He argues that integrating unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), loitering munitions, and advanced surveillance systems signifies a paradigm shift in combat operations. The book methodically details how Azerbaijan utilised these technologies to achieve information dominance, disrupt enemy supply lines, and conduct precision strikes with minimal human risk. Antal’s narrative is filled with examples of this technological edge. For instance, Azerbaijan’s use of Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones and Israeli Harop loitering munitions not only neutralised Armenian air defences but also demoralised their troops. These systems enabled Azerbaijan to conduct a “kill chain”—identifying, targeting, and neutralising enemies—in seconds.

 

One of the book’s most striking insights is how technology levelled the playing field between two unevenly matched nations. Despite its superior terrain and entrenched positions, Armenia was unable to counter Azerbaijan’s technological superiority. Antal describes this as a shift from traditional measures of military strength—numbers, firepower, and fortifications—to a new era where speed, data, and adaptability are decisive. The author provides a nuanced analysis of the asymmetry created by drones. He explains that these technologies are not merely force multipliers; they are force disruptors. Traditional tactics, such as the use of trenches, tanks, and static artillery, became liabilities under constant drone surveillance.

 

Another profound theme in 7 Seconds to Die is the psychological toll of drone warfare. Antal vividly describes how Armenian soldiers, constantly under threat from an invisible and omnipresent enemy, experienced fear, confusion, and helplessness. This psychological dimension, he argues, is as significant as the physical destruction caused by drones. Antal also explores the implications of this psychological warfare for global militaries. The fear of being watched and targeted in real-time may fundamentally change the nature of combat, making it more about outwitting algorithms and less about confrontation.

 

Antal’s analysis extends beyond the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War to extract lessons for militaries worldwide. He emphasises the need for nations to adapt to this new reality, where traditional doctrines may no longer apply. His key recommendations include investing in counter-drone technologies, training soldiers to operate in environments dominated by UAVs, and developing doctrines prioritising speed, flexibility, and decentralisation. The book also raises critical ethical and strategic questions. How do nations balance using autonomous systems with the principles of humanitarian law? What happens when such technologies fall into the hands of non-state actors or rogue states? These are challenges that the global military community must address as the era of drone warfare matures.

 

Antal’s writing is both accessible and authoritative. He balances technical detail and engaging prose, making complex military concepts understandable to a broad audience. The book is well-structured, with each chapter building logically on the previous one. Antal’s use of maps, diagrams, and first-hand accounts enhances the reader’s understanding of the conflict’s dynamics. Moreover, the book’s pacing mirrors the rapid tempo of the war itself. Antal captures the urgency and unpredictability of modern combat, immersing the reader in the battlefield’s chaos while maintaining analytical clarity.

 

While 7 Seconds to Die is a ground-breaking analysis, it has shortcomings. The book is heavily focused on Azerbaijan’s success, sometimes at the expense of a more balanced view of Armenia’s strategies and failures. A deeper exploration of Armenia’s countermeasures (or lack thereof) would have provided a fuller picture of the conflict. Additionally, while the book excels in describing the tactical and operational implications of drone warfare, its treatment of the broader geopolitical consequences is relatively brief. For instance, how might the proliferation of such technologies affect regional stability in the South Caucasus? These questions deserve more attention.

 

Beyond its analysis of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War, 7Seconds to Die is a wake-up call for nations and militaries worldwide. The book highlights the growing accessibility of advanced military technologies, raising concerns about democratising lethality. As Antal notes, the cost of entry for drone warfare is relatively low, meaning that even smaller nations or non-state actors can achieve disproportionate effects. The book also underscores the need for robust international norms and agreements to regulate the use of such technologies. Without clear rules, the risk of escalation, misuse, and collateral damage increases significantly.

 

7 Seconds to Die is a landmark work that captures the essence of 21st-century warfare. John C. Antal’s meticulous analysis of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War offers valuable lessons for military professionals, policymakers, and scholars. The book is a sobering reminder that the future of warfare will be dominated by speed, precision, and technological ingenuity. While some gaps remain in its geopolitical analysis, Antal’s work is a testament to technology’s transformative power in shaping the battlefield. 7 Seconds to Die is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the future of military conflict.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

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571: THE BOOMERANG EFFECT: WHEN MILITANT GROUPS TURN ON THEIR SPONSORS

 

Pic Courtesy Net

 

My Article Published in the Life of Soldiers (a premier monthly defence magazine) on 30 Dec 24.

 

The Wagner Group, a Russian private military company, played a significant role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, particularly in the battle for Bakhmut. In May 2023, Wagner forces captured Bakhmut for Russia after intense fighting. In June 2023, tensions between Wagner’s leadership and the Russian military culminated in a brief mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, Wagner’s chief. The rebellion ended with an agreement brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, and charges against Prigozhin were later dropped. Following Prigozhin’s controversial death in a plane crash in August 2023, the future of Wagner became uncertain. By October 2023, elements of the group were integrated into Russia’s National Guard, Rosgvardia, indicating a restructuring under state control.

 

Boomerang Effect.

 

The phenomenon where militant groups turn on their sponsors is often called the “boomerang effect.” This happens when organisations or groups created, funded, or supported by a state or another actor shift their allegiances or use their skills and resources against their former backers. The reasons for this shift can be complex and multifaceted, involving ideological differences, changing power dynamics, or disillusionment with their sponsors’ objectives. Contributing factors are as follows:- 

 

Ideological Divergence. Initially, militant groups are often created with shared goals and objectives aligned with their sponsors. However, as they gain strength and experience, they may develop their agendas. Differences in ideology can lead to clashes, especially if the militants feel their sponsors are manipulating them for geopolitical gain.

 

Loss of Control. Sponsors often lose control over the militants they support. As these groups gain legitimacy and power, they may increasingly act independently, pursuing their objectives, which might not align with those of their sponsors. This can lead to a strategic shift where militants view their sponsors as obstacles rather than allies.

 

Disillusionment and Frustration. Sometimes, militants feel let down by their sponsors. They may believe that their resources or support are inadequate or misdirected. This frustration can lead to losing loyalty, with groups turning against their sponsors.

 

Changing Power Dynamics. As the geopolitical landscape changes, so too can militants’ strategic interests. They may switch sides in pursuit of more favourable conditions, especially when they see greater opportunities to achieve their goals with a different sponsor or on their own.

 

The Wagner Group Story

 

Wagner Group, a Russian private military contractor (PMC), provides a recent example of a sponsored organisation turning against its sponsor. Initially backed by the Russian government, Wagner became a powerful, semi-autonomous entity with ambitions and interests, ultimately leading to a public confrontation with the Russian state.

 

Background. The Wagner Group was founded around 2014 by Dmitry Utkin, a former Russian military officer, and Yevgeny Prigozhin, a businessman with close ties to the Kremlin. It served as a proxy force for Russian interests in global hotspots, allowing Russia to exert influence without direct military involvement or the political risk of deploying official troops. Wagner operated in Syria, Libya, the Central African Republic, and other countries, carrying out missions aligned with Russian geopolitical interests and reportedly receiving support and resources from the Russian state, including training facilities and equipment.

 

Tensions Leading to Conflict. As Wagner’s activities grew, so did its autonomy and influence. Wagner played a significant role in the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, taking on critical combat roles. However, Prigozhin became increasingly outspoken about the Russian military’s failings, explicitly criticising the Ministry of Defence’s handling of the war. Wagner’s leadership grew resentful, accusing Russian military officials of incompetence, neglecting logistical support, and underestimating Wagner’s sacrifices on the front lines.

 

The Wagner Rebellion of 2023. This tension culminated in a dramatic turn in June 2023, when Wagner launched an armed rebellion against the Russian military leadership. Prigozhin led his forces into the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, seizing an army headquarters, and then began an advance toward Moscow. Prigozhin demanded changes in the Russian military leadership, mainly targeting Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and General Valery Gerasimov. Although it was ultimately short-lived, this direct challenge to the Kremlin marked a sharp break with their previous sponsor, the Russian state. The rebellion ended after negotiations, reportedly brokered by Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko. Prigozhin agreed to stand down in exchange for a safe passage to Belarus, and Wagner’s forces withdrew. However, the incident exposed significant rifts between Wagner and the Russian government, highlighting how sponsorship of militant or paramilitary organisations can backfire when these groups gain enough power to pursue their agendas.

 

Aftermath and Fallout. The fallout from the rebellion was significant. Prigozhin’s death in a plane crash in August 2023 was widely speculated to have been orchestrated by elements within the Russian state. Wagner’s operations were subsequently restructured, with many members reportedly re-assigned or integrated into other units more directly controlled by the Russian government.

 

Lessons and Analysis. The Wagner Group’s rebellion is a cautionary tale about the risks of using paramilitary organisations for state purposes. Once such groups gain power, resources, and a sense of autonomy, they can become difficult to control, and their interests may diverge from those of their original sponsor. In Wagner’s case, the group’s loyalty to Prigozhin and its operational independence contributed to a volatile situation where, ultimately, Wagner’s ambitions turned against the very state that enabled its rise.

 

Boomerang Effect: Notable Instances

 

Several historical examples exist of militant organisations that initially received sponsorship from governments or other entities but later turned against their sponsors. This phenomenon often results from shifting political dynamics, ideological conflicts, or changes. in militant groups’ objectives.

 

Al-Qaeda and the United States. During the 1980s, the United States, along with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, provided financial and military support to Afghan mujahideen fighters to combat the Soviet Union’s invasion of Afghanistan. Many of these fighters, including Osama bin Laden, received resources and training indirectly through the CIA’s Operation Cyclone. After the Soviet withdrawal, some of these fighters, including bin Laden, formed Al-Qaeda. Al-Qaeda grew increasingly antagonistic toward the United States, particularly due to its military presence in the Middle East and its support for governments seen as oppressive or contrary to Islamic principles. This hostility culminated in the September 11, 2001 attacks, marking a complete break from their former indirect sponsor.

 

The Taliban and Pakistan. Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) supported the formation of the Taliban in the 1990s, seeing them as a potential ally to ensure a friendly government in Afghanistan, which would provide Pakistan with strategic depth against India. While the Taliban still maintains some ties with Pakistan, there have been periods of tension. Taliban-linked groups, such as the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), have turned against the Pakistani state, conducting attacks within Pakistan. The TTP aims to overthrow the Pakistani government and establish a stricter interpretation of Islamic law, which has led to significant violence and conflict within Pakistan itself.

 

Hamas and Israel. During the early years of the Palestinian resistance, Israel indirectly supported groups that would later form Hamas, aiming to create a counterbalance to the secular Palestinian Liberation Organization (PLO) led by Yasser Arafat. This was based on the notion that Islamist movements could divide the Palestinian resistance, making it easier to manage. Hamas eventually became a formidable opponent to Israel, adopting a hardline stance and engaging in numerous conflicts with the Israeli state. Today, Hamas is a prominent political and militant force in Gaza and has carried out attacks against Israeli targets, becoming one of Israel’s most persistent adversaries.

 

The Islamic State (ISIS) and the Gulf States. During the Syrian Civil War, several Gulf States, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, provided funding and weapons to Sunni rebel groups to oppose the Assad regime in Syria. Some of these groups either merged with or evolved into extremist groups like ISIS. Although Gulf States may not have directly funded ISIS, their support for anti-Assad rebels indirectly bolstered ISIS’s power. Once ISIS gained control of territory and declared a caliphate, it posed a threat to all governments in the region, including those in the Gulf. ISIS targeted these governments rhetorically and sometimes directly, seeing them as illegitimate and corrupt.

 

M23 Rebels and Rwanda. The M23 rebel group in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was reportedly supported by neighbouring Rwanda, which viewed them as a means to secure influence in the DRC and counter the presence of anti-Rwandan Hutu militias. Over time, M23 developed its political ambitions, creating sporadic tensions with Rwanda. Although the relationship between Rwanda and M23 is complex and fluctuates, there have been instances where M23 acted independently, with a leadership not fully aligned with Rwanda’s objectives.

 

Fatah al-Islam and Syria. Syria was alleged to have supported Fatah al-Islam, a militant group in Lebanon, to destabilise the Lebanese government, particularly during times of political tension between Syria and Lebanon. Fatah al-Islam later became a problem for Syria and the broader region. The group’s activities and increasing autonomy led to clashes with the Lebanese government and other regional actors, pushing them further away from Syrian influence.

 

 

Conclusion

These examples illustrate how sponsorship of militant groups is fraught with inherent risks and unintended consequences. Such alliances with unpredictable partners often backfire as these organisations evolve ideologically, gain independence, or shift their focus based on changing political landscapes.  The short-term gains can lead to long-term instability, undermining the sponsor’s original goals and threatening regional and global security. They are stark reminders of the dangers of using militancy as a proxy for power, underscoring the need for more sustainable and ethical approaches to conflict resolution and statecraft.

 

 

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The Boomerang Effect: When Militant Groups Turn On Their Sponsors

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References and credits

To all the online sites and channels.

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  1. Galeotti, Mark. “The Russian Way of War: From Chechnya to Ukraine.” Foreign Affairs, 2022.

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