HIGHER COMD (HC) WG
General
The Higher Command (HC) Course was conceived after the 1971 war by Maj Gen E.A. Vas, PVSM, then Commandant, to impart strategic-level thinking among mid-level Army officers. The HC Wing was established under Brig S.L. Sinha, and the first course (HCC-1) was conducted from Apr 1972 to Jan 1973 with 24 Indian Army officers.
To foster jointmanship within the Armed Forces, two IAF officers joined HCC-2, and one Naval officer participated in HCC-13. The course strength has grown steadily; from HCC-42 onwards, it included 100 participants (Army, IAF, and Navy). From HCC-51, IAF strength increased to 14 and Navy to 4. The most recent course (HCC-53) was conducted over 40 weeks, from 24 Jun 2024 to 26 Mar 2025.
Aim
To train selected future commanders and staff officers in the art of warfare at the strategic and operational levels, with particular emphasis on jointmanship.
Strength & Duration
The course accommodates 100 officers of the rank of Colonel (and equivalent) who have successfully completed command appointments. The duration of the course is 40 weeks.
Curriculum
4.1. Professional Military Education
- Ten instructional tutorials
- Three theatre study tours
- Naval and industrial tours
- Foreign study tour
- Mid-course break in late December / early January
4.2. Academic Curriculum
- Individual Research Projects (IRP)
- Joint Research Projects (JRP)
- Written examination for academic qualification
- Submission of written work
Focus Areas
1.1 Broadening of Professional Horizon
Promoting strategic culture and thinking to address issues of national security.
1.2 Operational Art
Understanding the application of operational art in the national context, its relationship with military strategy, and achieving objectives.
1.3 Command and Staff
Preparing participants for higher staff and command responsibilities by encouraging strategic thinking and innovation.
1.4 Military Planning Process
Exposure to analytical military planning methods like MDMP, Joint Operations Planning, and Appreciation techniques.
1.5 Joint Operations
Emphasising joint planning and coordination to achieve inter-service synergy and preparing officers for joint-service appointments.
1.6 Verbal and Written Expression
Enhancing speaking and writing skills to better analyse and articulate operational issues.
1.7 Shaping the Environment
Developing long-term vision through holistic thinking, organisational behaviour, introspection, and self-awareness.