Mhow
The Army War College (AWC), the Indian Army’s premier institution for operational and strategic education, hosted an insightful lecture on the art of strategic deception for officers of the Higher Command Course. The address was delivered by Major General M Khalid Zaki of the Army War College.
Keywords: Strategic Deception, Army War College Mhow, Higher Command Course, Maj Gen M Khalid Zaki, Indian Army professional military education, AWC lecture series
Maj Gen Zaki emphasised the critical role of deception in shaping battlefield outcomes. He highlighted how carefully planned deceptive measures can mislead an adversary’s decision-making cycle, create favourable conditions for one’s own forces, and influence the broader operational and strategic environment. Drawing on historical and contemporary examples, the lecture underscored that deception remains a force multiplier even in an era dominated by advanced sensors, real-time intelligence and multi-domain operations.
The Higher Command Course at AWC is designed for Colonels and equivalent officers from the three Services who are earmarked for higher responsibilities. The course focuses on operational art, jointmanship, logistics, and the evolving character of warfare. Lectures by experienced senior officers form an integral part of the curriculum, bridging theory with practical insights from the field.
Strategic deception has long been recognised as a core element of military art, from classical texts to modern campaigns. In today’s contested information environment, the ability to control narratives, mask intentions and induce the enemy into erroneous actions has assumed renewed importance. Maj Gen Zaki’s presentation reinforced the need for future commanders to integrate deception planning into all levels of operations rather than treating it as an afterthought. The session reflects AWC’s continued emphasis on preparing officers not only for conventional warfighting but also for the cognitive and informational dimensions of contemporary conflict. By examining the enduring principles of deception alongside emerging technologies, the College aims to equip its students with the intellectual tools required to succeed in complex, multi-domain battlefields.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.