Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS India)

Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS) is an autonomous defence research and strategic analysis institution focused on India’s national security, defence, aerospace power, and the changing international security environment.

Founded in 2001 by Air Commodore Jasjit Singh, AVSM, VrC, VM, CAPS India has evolved as a platform for research, strategic analysis, and informed dialogue on issues shaping India’s defence and security landscape. On 25 July 2025, the Centre for Air Power Studies (CAPS) was rechristened as the Centre for Aerospace Power and Strategic Studies (CAPSS), reflecting its expanding focus on aerospace power and the increasingly important role of air and space capabilities in modern warfare.

Strategic Focus

CAPSS undertakes multidisciplinary research into the changing character of warfare and emerging security challenges. Its areas of focus include air and space power, aerospace strategy, military doctrines, defence technologies, national and international security, military history, and non-traditional security issues.

The Centre also examines the civil and military applications of aerospace power, along with emerging challenges related to technology, energy, and the environment.

Its research draws on expertise from across the defence and strategic community, bringing together serving and retired officers from the Indian Armed Forces, academic scholars, and members of the diplomatic community.

Research & Strategic Engagement

Beyond research and publications, CAPSS serves as a forum for strategic dialogue and professional engagement. The Centre conducts seminars, discussions, research programmes, and focused orientation capsules for personnel from the Armed Forces, security organisations, and technology institutions.

By bringing together military professionals, researchers, academics, diplomats, and strategic experts, CAPSS contributes to a broader understanding of India's security environment and the challenges likely to shape future conflict.

Leadership & Governance

CAPSS is governed by the Forum for National Security Studies, an independent, non-profit, non-governmental body. Its Board of Trustees brings together senior military leaders, diplomats, academics, and professionals with extensive experience in defence, national security, foreign policy, and strategic affairs.

The Centre is led by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, VM (Retd), as Director General, with Air Vice Marshal Prashant Mohan, VM (Retd) serving as Additional Director General.

The institution also benefits from the guidance and experience of distinguished former Chiefs of the Indian Armed Forces, senior military officers, diplomats, academics, and strategic affairs experts.