India, Nov. 12 -- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday urged the military to strengthen both the offensive and defensive aspects of the "element of surprise" to maintain combat readiness against conventional and emerging threats posed by the evolving nature of modern warfare.

In an address at the Air Force Commanders' Conference here, he emphasised the need to continue bolstering intelligence and surveillance capabilities and identify potential threats before they unfold.

The defence minister added that a rapidly shifting security environment demands continuous adaptation and a forward-looking approach to military preparedness.

"Our defence forces must develop capabilities and methods that leave the adversary with no time to reac...