During the last year’s Galwan standoff with China in the northern Ladakh, Indian army realised the need for light tanks which can operate at those heights and provide mobile destructive fire power. Indian authorities expressed interest in Russian light tank Sprut and it appeared that India will purchase them.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved an important milestone in the development of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System by proving the land-based prototype on 8 March 2021. The plant was operated in endurance mode and max power mode as per the user requirements. The system is being developed by Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) of DRDO.
Prime minister Narendra Modi, on Saturday, addressed the valedictory session of the Combined Commanders Conference organised by the Ministry of Defence at Kevadia, Gujarat.
He emphasized the need to optimise manpower planning in both military and civilian parts of the National security architecture. He also called for a holistic approach, focused on breaking down civil-military silos and on expediting the speed of decision making. He advised the Services to rid themselves of legacy systems and practices that have outlived their utility and relevance.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out a flight demonstration based on Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology from Integrated Test Range Chandipur off the coast of Odisha at around 1030 hrs on March 05, 2021. All the subsystems, including the booster motor and nozzle-less motor, performed as expected. During the test, many new technologies were proven, including Solid Fuel based Ducted Ramjet technology.
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh,on Tuesday, approved proposal for purchase of 118 Arjun Mk1A Main Battle Tank for Rs 8400 crore. During the meeting, DAC also approved capital acquisition of proposals for anti-tank guided missile Nag along with its carrier Namica, medium power radar Arudra and 125mm tank practice ammunition.
The Union Cabinet today approved enhanced delegation of Financial Powers under Capital Procurement to levels below Vice-Chief of Armed Forces.
Heralding in a new era in the connectivity of roads and bridges in sensitive areas close to Western, Northern and North Eastern Borders, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh today dedicated 44 major permanent bridges to the Nation. He also laid the Foundation Stone for Nechiphu Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh. These bridges are of strategic importance and provide connectivity to remote areas.
The Indian Army’s recent internal report figured in the print media highlighting the poor quality of ammunition manufactured by the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in the past six years which resulted in over 400 accidents from 2014 to 2019. The Indian Army said in its report to the Ministry of Defence (MoD) that Rs 960 crores was spent on poor quality ammunition and mines produced by the state owned OFB during this period.
Indian Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), today surprised the nation when it carried out a successfully flight test of Supersonic Missile Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) at 1145 hrs from Wheeler Island off the coast of Odisha.
All the mission objectives including missile flight upto the range and altitude, separation of the nose cone, release of Torpedo and deployment of Velocity Reduction Mechanism (VRM) have been met perfectly.
The 10th Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) Group Meeting was held virtually on September 15, 2020. The meeting was co-chaired by Mr. Raj Kumar, Secretary, Defence Production, from the Indian Ministry of Defence and Ms. Ellen M. Lord, Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, from the U.S. Department of Defense.
A Customized My Stamp on India’s First Anti Satellite Missile (A-SAT) launch was released by Department of Posts on the occasion of Engineers Day today in the august presence of Shri AjitDoval, National Security Advisor (NSA).
The 13th edition of Aero India-21 will be held at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru, Karnataka from 3rd to 07th February 2021. Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh launched the Aero India 2021 website https://aeroindia.gov.in at New Delhi today giving the go ahead for space-booking.
Rafale Fighter aircraft has been formally inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) today at a formal function at Air Force Station, Ambala. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Ms Florence Parly, Minister of the Armed Forces of France graced the occasion.
General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defence Staff, Ministry of Defence today said that as India grows in her stature, the security challenges will rise proportionately in the same direction. “India's aspirations of being a regional power can no longer be held hostage to arms import,” he said.
HAL’s indigenously developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) demonstrated high altitude capability in Hot and High weather conditions in the Himalayas recently for about 10 days.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully demonstrated the hypersonic air-breathing scramjet technology with the flight test of Hypersonic Technology Demonstration Vehicle (HSTDV) at 1103 hours from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Launch Complex at Wheeler Island, off the coast of Odisha today.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting on 5th September 2020 with Iran's Minister of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics, Brigadier General Amir Hatami, at the latter’s request. Raksha Mantri was on a transit halt in Tehran enroute from Moscow to New Delhi.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh met General Wei Fenghe, State Councillor and Defence Minister of China on 4th September in Moscow on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting. The two Ministers had frank and in-depth discussions about the developments in the India-China border areas as well as on India-China relations.
Vice Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, AVSM, NM has assumed charge as Director General Naval Operations today, on 13 Aug 20. He is an alumnus of National Defence Academy Khadakwasla and was commissioned in the Navy on 01 Jul 85.
The Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singhji, on Thursday, August 13, 2020, launched through Video Conference two products — Linear Variable Differential Transducer (LVDT) and 1kW Transmitter Aerial Switching Rack, indigenously developed for use in various strategic applications, as part of the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Mr Gowtama M V, Chairman & Managing Director, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), on the occasion gave a presentation to the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri on these products, which have been indigenously developed by BEL.
Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister, inaugurated the HAL-IISc Skill Development Centre (SDC) established at IISc’s Challakere campus in Chitradurga district (Karnataka), 225 km from Bengaluru through a video conference today. Speaking on the occasion, the Defence Minister said knowledge is power and skilled workforce is basic necessity for innovation and creativity.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched here today four products each by OFB and BEML, two by BEL and one each by HAL, BDL, MDL, GRSE and GSL, developed by respective DPSUs/ OFB as part of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ week celebrations which continues till tomorrow, the 14th August 2020. Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, Defence S
Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, on Monday inaugurated through Video Conference the upgraded, state-of-the-art Maareech Integration Facility.
Mr Gowtama M V, Chairman & Managing Director, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), on the occasion gave a presentation to the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri on Advanced Torpedo Decoy System (ATDS) Maareech. This initiative by BEL is in accordance with the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of an ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, a self-reliant nation.
Consequent to release of the negative list of items for import by Ministry of Defence (MoD) on August 09, 2020, certain queries have been received with respect to inclusion of some of the items like the light combat aircraft LCA Mark 1A, Pinaka rocket system and Akash missile system, which are manufactured in India.
In another bold initiative to reduce import dependence, India, on Sunday, announced its first import imbargo list of hundred and one items for period starting from December 2020 to December 2025.
“MoD will introduce import embargo on 101 items beyond given timeline to boost indigenisation of defence production,” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said while announcing on twitter.
In order to provide impetus to self-reliance in defence manufacturing, multiple announcements were made under ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Package’. In implementing such framework and to position India amongst the leading countries of the world in defence and aerospace sectors, Ministry of Defence (MoD) has formulated a draft Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020 (DPEPP 2020). The DPEPP 2020 is envisaged as overarching guiding document of MoD to provide a focused, structured and significant thrust to defence production capabilities of the country for self-reliance and exports.
Air Marshal VR Chaudhari AVSM VM took over as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Air Command, Indian Air Force (IAF) on 01 Aug 2020. The Air Marshal took over command from Air Marshal B Suresh PVSM AVSM VM ADC.
As the first batch of five Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) Rafale jets landed in Ambala air base today, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh in a series of tweets welcomed these by saying, “The Birds have entered the Indian airspace… Happy Landing in Ambala!”
Shri Rajnath Singh congratulated Indian Air Force (IAF) on professionally executed ferry and said, “I am sure that 17 Squadron, the Golden Arrows, will continue to live up to their motto of ‘Udayam Ajasram’. I am extremely happy that IAF’s combat capability has got a timely boost.”
Today, five Indian Air Force Rafale operated by Indian Air Force pilots took off from Dassault Aviation Mérignac facility to ferry to Ambala Air Force Station for entering service in N°17 Squadron “Golden Arrows”.
After a complete training of Indian pilots and technicians by Dassault Aviation, with the French Air Force participation, the Indian Air Force will fully perform this first ferry, including an air-to-air refueling, with the dedicated support of the French Air Force.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh along with Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik, Chief of Defence Staff & Secretary Department of Military Affairs General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria paid homage to the fallen heroes at National War Memorial on the 21st anniversary of India’s victory in ‘Operation Vijay’ also known as Kargil conflict, here today.
Amidst the ongoing standoff in the Ladakh, India has sent out a Request for Information (RFI) to Russia for its Sprut light tanks. India has not yet disclosed the exact numbers of tanks to be purchased, sources informed.
In the plateau plains of Ladakh, India has deployed T-90 main battle tanks and BMP troop carriers as part of 14 corp facing China.
During the ongoing standoff, which started in May, China has deployed its ZTQ-15 light tanks.
On 18 January 1977, L. Brezhnev, the Soviet Union President, addressed a conference in Tula where the unsustainability and ineffectiveness of nuclear war as an instrument of policy was established as consensual truth amongst the soviet military, academics and political leaders. It will bring a substantial change in Soviet Military doctrine. It was also perhaps the acknowledgement of the rise of precision convention strike capabilities of new NATO doctrine of striking deep and also the concepts of Follow-on-Forces-attack (FOFA).
Amidst the ongoing stand-off with China, India, on Thursday, approved weapons systems and fighter jets worth INR 38,900 (over USD 5b). The proposals were cleared by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), apex procurement body of the Ministry of Defence, under the chairmanship of defence minister Rajnath Singh.
“Focused on indigenous design and development these approvals include acquisitions from Indian industry of Rs 31,130 crore,” government said in a statement.
Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh is in Russia to strengthen and discuss various aspects of the unique strategic partnership with Russia. He held a high level meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov yesterday. The meeting is significant as India is urgently in need of various kinds of ammunitions as situation on Indo-Tibet border in Ladakh region between India and China is very tense.
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on Tuesday, expressed satisfaction on the progress of defence contracts with Russia. He said this after a review meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister Yury Borisov.
“I have been assured that ongoing contracts will be maintained and not just maintained, in a number of cases will be taken forward in a shorter time. All our proposals have received positive response from the Russian side,” he said in a press statement.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh this morning reviewed the Ladakh Border situation in a meeting at South Block today that was attended by Chief of Defence Staff and Secretary Department of Military Affairs General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal R K S Bhadauria.
A late-night encounter on Monday ensued between Indian and Chinese troops along the Line of Actual control (LAC) in the Galwan valley in northern Ladakh, which resulted in the killing of twenty Indian Army soldiers including Col Santosh Babu of 16 Bihar, said the Indian Army. This re-ignited the already-brewing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours.
16th June 2020, will remain etched in the history of India as a major clash took place during a de-escalation process which has led to casualties on either side. Reportedly, both the armies are on their side of Line-of-Actual Control (LAC).
The political statements which were made on re-claiming the Pakistan Occupied Kashmir aimed at the Indian vote bank did not take into consideration the likely ramifications.
India since its independence have been rattled with the question that can its strategic culture be defined as pacifist? India thus continues to grapple with the evolving geo-political development that have rattled it from time to time.
Vice Admiral Biswajit Dasgupta, AVSM, YSM, VSM assumed the charge as Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Visakhapatnam on Friday, 12 Jun 20. Vice Admiral SN Ghormade, the outgoing Chief of Staff, has proceeded on transfer as Controller Personnel Services at Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence (Navy), New Delhi.
VAdm Biswajit Dasgupta is an alumnus of National Defence Academy. He was commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1985 and is a specialist in Navigation and Direction.
At a time when Indo-Russia joint venture to manufacture AK-203 is far from start, Armenia will begin production of AK-103, improved version of AK-47, from coming July. An agreement for production of 50,000 rifles was signed between Russia and Armenia on May 15, reported Interfax.
“The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.”
― Sun Tzu, The Art of War
As an aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic, India has decided to achieve self-sufficiency in Defence through local manufacturing and by restricting the import of items. It is a fact that India, like other nations, is facing an economic slowdown, which will impact the availability of funds for defence purchases.
Corporatization of Ordnance Factory Board(OFB) and ‘not privatization’ repeat ‘not privatization’ was announced with emphasis by the Finance Minister as one of the big bang reforms being undertaken in the Defence Sector as part of the Atma Nirbharta campaign. I welcome it wholeheartedly.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Wednesday inducted Tejas Mk-1 FOC aircraft into the recently resurrected No 18 Sqn, the “Flying Bullets” at Air Force Station Sulur, marking yet another important step towards enhancing the operational capability of the Air Force. The Squadron is the first in the IAF to induct this platform. This is also an important milestone in the country’s indigenous fighter aircraft program and a significant boost to the ‘Make In India’ initiative.
‘’A nation has security when it does not have to sacrifice its legitimate interests to avoid war and is able to, if challenged to maintain them by war” -Walter Lipman
There have been a plethora of defence policy reform statements over the past one month, ranging from COVID generated cuts in the defence budget, to pragmatism in the formulation of general staff qualitative requirements (GSQR) and thrust on harnessing indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has appreciated the role played by Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and other Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Nation’s fight against global Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on May 12, in his address to the nation called for a self-sufficient India (Atma Nirbhar Bharat). He also announced an economic relief package equivalent to 10 per cent of Indian Gross Domestic Product.
Talking about the pre and post COVID worlds, Prime Minister observed that in order to fulfil the dream of making the 21st century India’s, the way forward is through ensuring that the country becomes self-reliant.
The Pandemic Effect
The Pandemic is a watershed event of 21st Century. The eventual normal is more than 4-5 years away. In between there will be many false normals. Major upheavals in geopolitics, economies and lifestyles on the cards. While the Indian economy is under the pump, this period also represents a period of economic opportunity for India as we seek ‘Atma Nirbhartha’.
Lt Gen Raj ShIukla, assumed command of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) on 01 May 2020.
Rajnath Singh today reviewed through video conference the assistance being extended by various organisations of Ministry of Defence to fight COVID-19.
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) posted a turnover in excess of Rs.12,500 Crores (Provisional & Unaudited) during the Financial Year 2019-20. The company had a growth of 6% over the previous year's turnover of Rs.11,789 Crores.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited recorded a turnover of over Rs. 21,100 crores (provisional and unaudited) for the financial year ended on March 31, 2020 (corresponding figure for the previous year was Rs. 19,705 crores). The Company has posted a revenue growth of around 7% during 2019-20 for the second year consecutively, post listing as compared to 3.8% during 2017-18.
One of the contenders in the Indian Navy’s requirement for 12 Mine Counter Measure Vehicle (MCMV) Russia believes that it will emerge winner, said a top Russian official.
In an interview with Russian news agency Interfax, the head of Russia’s Federal Service for Military and Technical Cooperation (FSMTC) Dmitry Shugayev, on Monday, said that Russia is waiting for the tender and will pitch its most modern anti-mine vessel Alexandrit-E.
Government has adopted Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s mantra of “Make in India’, for India and the world” to build strong defence and security infrastructure in the country. This was stated by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh after inaugurating the new Light Combat Helicopter Production Hangar at Helicopter Division in Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Complex at Bengaluru, Karnataka today.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone of new Army Headquarters ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’ at Delhi Cantt. today. Addressing soldiers on the occasion, Shri Rajnath Singh said, all the departments of the Army as well as the Department of Military Affairs will come under one roof and collectively contribute towards national security, besides effectively dealing with defence-related issues. He added that the new building will play a significant role in saving valuable resources and contribute to administrative efficiency.
When I wrote in this very forum [i]in September 2019 that,“Quantum Technologies based on quantum computing will be one of the key transformational catalyst. We propose that India should …. Take a mission mode approach like what we took in creating the BARC and ISRO.
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has received the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) for its Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) paving the way for its productionisation.
Over 200 partnerships involving Signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs), Transfer of Technology (ToTs) , Product launches were concluded on the third day of DefExpo 2020, at ceremony tilted “Bandhan”, making it the most successful such events to be held in India. The pacts, aimed at forging and renewing partnerships for innovative collaboration, and transformation of the Defence manufacturing in the country were inked by representa
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Sigtech Wireless Technologies Pvt Ltd for the manufacture of Digital Mobile Radio (Tier II) for Paramilitary and Defence. The design and development of Digital Mobile Radio, as per ETSI standards, has been carried out by Sigtech Wireless Technologies Pvt Ltd in India.
Bharat Electronics and Tech Mahindra
On L&T’s journey in the defence sector
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has said terror and its related violence have posed serious challenge to the international security environment and the inter-play between state and non-state actors as proxies to spread violence have further increased the threat. He said the continued presence of terrorist infrastructure and state support to terrorists in the neighbouring country have tested India’s patience.
India will be organising one of the biggest DefExpo at Lucknow from February 5 to 9. It is expected that more than 1000 companies are likely to showcase their defence products. The theme for this year’s DefExpo is “Digital Transformation of Defence".
The DefExpo is a platform for global and domestic defence industries to showcase their products in the field of aerospace, defence, digital, cyber, weapons and equipment. Apart from Indian defence industries, global industries from the US, UK, Russia, South Korea, Israel, Japan, Germany and France are participating.
At DEFEXPO 2020 to be held in Lucknow, Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will showcase state-of-the-art products and systems spanning every domain of its business – Military Communication, Radar Systems, Missile Systems, Naval Systems, C4I Systems, Electronic Warfare Systems, Avionics, Anti-Submarine Warfare Systems, Tank Electronics, Electro Optics, Gun/Weapon System Upgrades, Shelters, Unmanned Systems, Homeland Security, Cyber Security, Artificial Intelligence based systems and professional electronic components.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh gave away awards and prizes related to the Republic Day 2020 at Rashtriya Rangshala Camp, Delhi Cantt. today. Assam was adjudged the best tableau among the 16 states/union territories tableaux that participated in the Republic Day Parade at Rajpath on January 26, 2020.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has said India is fully capable of giving a firm response to cross-border terrorism, and strikes against terrorist attacks in 2016 and 2019 have demonstrated the nation's firm resolve to defeat terrorism.
Lt Gen Satinder Kumar Saini on assuming the charge of Vice Chief of the Army Staff paid tributes at the National War Memorial on 28 Jan 2020. Before assuming the appointment of Vice Chief of the Army Staff, the General Officer was heading the Southern Command of the Indian Army.
The number of companies registered for participating in the 11th edition of the biennial mega defence exhibition, DefExpo 2020, to be held at Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow between February 5-9, 2020; has reached 1,000. In the DefExpo 2018, held in Chennai, 702 companies had participated.
MKU, a leading defence and security solutions provider will be participating in DefExpo 2020, scheduled to be held from February 5th to 8th at Vrindavan Yojna, Sector 15, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. MKU is committed to ‘Make in India’ and has been transforming the defence industry landscape in India by deploying newer and advanced technologies in electro optics and armour solutions.
The Lohia Group, a recent entrant into the Aerospace and Defence (A&D) sector with focus on cutting edge composites technology, will be participating in DefExpo 2020, scheduled to be held from February 5th to 8th at Vrindavan Yojna, Sector 15, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
IIT Madras entered the field of defence on its own steam on April 18. It established a stall in the Defexpo 2018 in Chennai. Many of its students and faculty got their first exposure to the exciting world of aerospace and defence. It even held a seminar at the event. However, the seminar was poorly attended since it was a last-minute inclusion, and many did not even know that IIT Madras was going to hold a seminar. Since then things have changed and IIT Madras has traversed some distance.
On February 5th, as DefExpo India 2020 is inaugurated in Lucknow, Thales will be welcoming visitors to its stand R17 in Hall 3. With a presence spanning more than six decades in the country, Thales has a rich experience of supporting India’s defence modernisation needs. In line with DefExpo 2020’s focus – ‘Digital Transformation of Defence’, Thales, a world leader in digital identity & security, will be showcasing defence technologies that are digitally driven and future focused.
A wide range of strategic and tactical weapon systems, defence equipment and technologies developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will be on display at the DefExpo 2020 to be held in Lucknow from February 05-09, 2020.
Airbus will showcase its best-in-class military products and cutting-edge defence technologies at the DefExpo airshow between February 5 and 8, 2020, in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India. Airbus’ exhibits at the show will demonstrate its capabilities and commitment to kick-start a defence industrial base in the country.
DEFEXPO 2020 sees exciting developments from MBDA as it continues to expand and deliver on its vision to Make in India.
One of the Key Result Area for Indian Navy has been fuel quality standards revision to keep pace with induction of new technology equipment and meet contemporary emission standards. With the advent of technology and refining techniques in the petroleum industry better quality of fuel abiding to more stringent specifications has become a necessity. Hence, continuous improvement in technical specification for diesels is the primary focus area.
The under development naval version of the Light Combat Aircraft –Tejas made its maiden carrier landing on INS Vikramaditya today at 1000 hrs, a statement said.
The tableau of the Indian Navy, to be showcased at the Republic Day Parade on January 26, 2020 at Rajpath, was unveiled here today. The tableau is in pursuance of the Navy Week theme ‘Indian Navy - Silent, Strong, and Swift’.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria PVSM AVSM VM ADC undertook a two day visit to Air Force Stations in Eastern Air Command (EAC). The CAS visited vital air bases and combat units operating at these locations on 08 & 09 Jan 2020.
Despite Pakistan’s economic tatters and a Chinese economic slowdown their militaries are expanding and modernizing, unabated. While our relationship with both our nuclear neighbours is increasingly adversarial, there is an increasing collusivity between them. The latest being that China is going to give 236 of the latest 155mm Howitzers to Pakistan. On the domestic front, societal events and upheavals are forcing our so-called ‘Strategic’ friends and neighbours into a rethink mode to recalibrate their relationships with us.
In a new development, after years of discussion, the Indian defence sector will finally witness the execution of Government Owned Contractor Operated (GOCO) model of Public-Private Partnership (PPP). Indian Army, on December 19, released a Request for Information (RFI) to shortlist Warehousing, Logistics and Supply Chain Management service providers to run Central Ordnance Depot (COD), Kanpur.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, dedicated five Young Scientists Laboratories of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to the nation. The ceremony was held in Bengaluru.
DRDO Young Scientist Laboratories (DYSLs) are located in five cities viz, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Hyderabad. Each lab will work on a key advanced technology of importance to the development of futuristic defence systems viz, Artificial intelligence, Quantum technologies, Cognitive technologies, Asymmetric technologies and Smart materials.
General Bipin Rawat assumed office of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) here today. As the CDS, General Rawat will be the Principal Military Advisor to the Raksha Mantri on all Tri-Services matters. He will also head Department of Military Affairs (DMA). The CDS will have a key role in ensuring optimum utilisation of allocated budget, usher in more synergy in procurement, training & operations of the Services through joint planning and integration.
As expected General Bipin Rawat, India’s outgoing Chief of Army Staff has been appointed the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). He was retiring tomorrow.
Given the charter of the CDS, Gen Rawat will lead the tri-service organisations and restructure and integrate the three services in the areas of logistics, training, procurement which would lead to the establishment of theatre commands.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the mobile app of the forthcoming DefExpo 2020 here today. The app is available on Apple App Store and Android Play Store. The main features of the app are ‘inform, engage and feedback’.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched Dashboard of Department Defence (DoD), Ministry of Defence here today.
In a landmark decision with tremendous reform in higher defence management in the country, the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved to create the post of Chief of Defence Staff in the rank of a four-star General with salary and perquisites equivalent to a Service Chief. The Chief of Defence Staff will also head the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), to be created within the Ministry of Defence and function as its Secretary.
The following areas will be dealt by the Department of Military Affairs headed by CDS:
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has termed Integrated Finance as the backbone of any ministry/department, saying that desired objectives can only be achieved when a ministry/department is able to manage within its budgetary resources without compromising on operational needs.
Indian Army in its quest for modernisation through use of emerging technologies, conducted Army Technology Seminar on the theme 'Technologies for Non Contact Warfare' at Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantonment on 23 December 2019.
Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was successfully flight-tested from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the Odisha coast at 1145 hrs today. The missile was flight-tested with full configuration in deployment mode intercepting the target mid-air, meeting the mission objectives.
As part of the series of flight trials of Pinaka missile system, two test firings have been conducted by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The first trial was conducted on December 19, 2019, wherein one missile was fired at 75 kilometre range.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar met US Secretary of Defense Dr Mark T Esper and Secretary of State Michael R Pompeo in Washington DC on December 18, 2019 for the second annual India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue.
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) organised the 18th National Maritime Search and Rescue Board (NMSARB) meeting here today to discuss policy issues, formulate guidelines & procedures and assess the efficacy of National Search and Rescue Plan. The apex-level meeting was chaired by Director General Indian Coast Guard and Chairman NMSARB Shri K Natarajan and attended by 48 Board members from various ministries, agencies, all Coastal States & Union Territories.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited the Naval Air Station (NAS) Oceana and Naval Station Norfolk on December 17, 2019 during his visit to the United States of America. The visit highlighted the depth of the US-India defence partnership and the close ties between the Navies of the two countries.
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Air Force (IAF) and BrahMos, on Tuesday jointly successfully conducted two BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles tests today, one each from land and air platforms.
Government has decided to appoint Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen Manoj Mukund Naravane, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, as the next Chief of the Army Staff after the retirement of General Bipin Rawat, UYSM, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, ADC on December 31, 2019.
Leading Defence PSUs Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) today at Delhi organised a Roadshow in the run-up to the 11th biennial edition of DefExpo India-2020, scheduled to be held in Lucknow from February 5-8, 2020.
The road-show was organised to urge vendors from the private sector, MSMEs and start-ups based in Delhi-NCR area to actively participate in the upcoming Defence exhibition and take advantage of the potential business opportunities in the offing.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh chaired the meeting of Consultative Committee of Parliament for the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi today. The subject of the meeting was Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
The fourth edition of International Seminar cum Exhibition on Naval Weapon Systems ‘NAVARMS - 2019’ with the theme ‘Make in India - Fight Category: Opportunities and Imperatives’ was inaugurated by Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff on 12 Dec 19 at Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses
Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme has been promulgated to promote the development of defence and dual-use systems, subsystems, components, or technologies, for a product that is Indian Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM). The idea is mainly to promote Micro, Small, Medium Enterprises (MSME) including Start-ups to develop innovative products for our forces. This article aims to provide an objective view of the scheme and encourage companies to apply for the projects.
2019 IISS Military Balance published its theme article titled Quantum Computing and Defence[i] with an interesting statement, “The integration of quantum technologies currently represents one of the most anticipated advances for armed forces, yet their precise impact remains difficult to predict.” Its definitely in the news especially this decade (2011-2019) which has advanced physics
The Ministry of Defence has signed more than 180 contracts valued at over Rs 1,96,000 crore with the Indian Industry since 2014 while a few are in the pipeline to be signed in near future.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed the passing out parade of Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun today where 377 gentlemen cadets (GCs) of 145 Regular Course, 128 Technical Graduate Course, including 71 GCs from ten friendly countries passed out from the portals of the Academy.
Mrs Shikha Gupta took charge as the new Director (Other Units) of Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) on December 1, 2019. She had served as the General Manager of BEL’s Strategic Planning Division, Satcom and Cellular Communication Systems SBU at BEL-Ghaziabad and Export Manufacturing SBU at BEL-Bangalore, before her elevation as Director.
Hari Mohan has taken over the charge as Chairman, Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) w.e.f. December 01, 2019 from Shri Saurabh Kumar who superannuated from the services. A 1982-batch Indian Ordnance Factories’ Service (I.O.F.S.) officer with Post Graduate Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Shri Hari Mohan had been a topper of University of Allahabad & University of Pune while obtaining his Bachelor & Masters in Mechanical Engineering. He holds an M.
Indian Naval Air Squadron 314, the sixth Dornier aircraft squadron was commissioned on 29 Nov 19 at an impressive ceremony held at Naval Air Enclave, Porbandar. Vice Admiral MS Pawar, AVSM, VSM, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, met today and accorded approval for Capital Procurement for the Services amounting to over Rs 22,800 crore. To boost the 'Make in India' initiative, the DAC accorded approval for indigenous design, development and manufacturing of 'Thermal Imaging Night Sights' for Assault Rifles.
Israel, the foremost military and technology power of West Asia, is just one year younger to the Republic of India. Both India and Israel were created in 1947 and 1948 respectively. The two friendly nations share very similar hostile neighbourhood and security challenges and are fighting religiously motivated militant neighbours since their birth.
About a year ago, there were press reports of China building “underground bomb-proof shelters” to park fighter aircraft at Lhasa’s Gonggar/ Kongka Dzong airfield. While this small news item did not receive the attention it deserved in the Indian media, it is a signal to India that China is preparing for a conflict. There are also reports that China is building new airfields in Tibet. Since the 1990s China has been rapidly modernising its military with advanced weaponry.
Shri Ram Nath Kovind, the Hon’ble President of India and the Supreme Commander of Indian Armed Forces, awarded the President’s Colour to Indian Naval Academy (INA) on 20 November 2019. The President’s Colour - the highest honour that is bestowed upon a military unit - was received by Academy Cadet Captain Sushil Singh on behalf of the INA in an impressive parade comprising 730 cadets of INA and a 150 - men Guard of Honour.
Military Generals have often been accused of fighting tomorrow’s war with yesteryear experiences which will never occur in the future. Hitherto fore, they could get away with it since warfare was evolutionary. One could relate to the past and project it into the future without missing the woods for the trees. The much-touted Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA) revolutionized the weapon systems through technology but the battlefield remained confined to Land, Sea and air. That was the past.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organised a workshop titled ‘DRDO-Academia Interaction for Achieving Leadership in Future Technologies’ here today.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has emphasised on the importance of ‘Ideation, Innovation and Incubation’ in cutting edge-technologies to achieve the goal of indigenisation and self-reliance in the defence sector.
A delegation led by the visiting Indian Minister of Defense Rajnath Singh paid a business visit to the UEC-Klimov plant in St. Petersburg (part of the United Engine Corporation (UEC) of Rostec State Corporation), UEC has officially reported.
During the visit Minister of Defence was introduced to the main product line of the enterprise and the key stages of the production process. The guests visited the mechanical, assembly and testing workshops.
India and Russia, on Wednesday, agreed to form working groups for after-sales support to India on key defence systems. The two strategic partners also discussed the Logistic Support Agreement (LSA), north ocean joint passage of ships, sources informed.
India is looking to equip its three services with modern state-of-the-art software-defined radios (SDR). After the failure to procure them in the previous attempt, the Indian Army has initiated a process to map industrial capacity in for this programme, sources informed. The combined requirement for the three services-Army, Navy, and Air Force is over 55,000 wherein army share is around 50,000 of these radios.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has approved issuance of two Open General Export Licences (OGELs) for export of certain parts & components and intra-company transfer of technology to select countries. It will give a boost to defence exports and enhance ease of doing business.
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has paid a total dividend of 340% on its paid up capital to the Government of India for Financial Year 2018-19.
DEFCOM, India’s International Conference & Exposition on Military Communication, has evolved over the years to become a landmark platform for collaboration between the Indian Armed Forces, Academia, Research and Development Organizations and the Industry on all aspects pertaining to Information and Communications Technology applications in the defence forces.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the Naval Commanders’ Conference here today and expressed his pleasure in meeting the senior leadership of the Navy.
Navaratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics (BEL) has signed an MoU with Tamil Nadu Industrial Explosives Limited (TEL), a state-government undertaking of the Government of Tamil Nadu, for co-operation in the explosives segment where BEL is eyeing business growth, keeping in view its ongoing and upcoming ammunition programmes.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh after flying a sortie in the newly inducted Rafale aircraft in France on October 8, 2019
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh briefing the media after flying the sortie.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh today emphasised on the focus to equip Indian Air Force and enhance its capabilities, saying that the new Rafale Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) will make India stronger and will give a boost to its air dominance exponentially to ensure peace and security in the region.
Today, on the auspicious day of Dusserah, Eric Trappier, Dassault Aviation Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, hosted the handover ceremony of the first Indian Air Force Rafale in Mérignac, Dassault Aviation’s Rafale final assembly facility. The event was placed under the high patronage of the Honourable Shri Rajnath Singh, Minister of Defence of India and the Honourable Mrs. Florence Parly, Minister of the Armed Forces of France.
Clearing doubts over the Indian Air Force’s support for under development Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Bhaduria on Thursday said that air force will give its full support to the project.
ACM Bhaduria, took over on September 30, was addressing annual press conference ahead of Air Force Day on October 8.
Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria PVSM AVSM VM ADC took over as the 26th Chief of the Air Staff at a ceremony held at Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan) today.
BRAHMOS supersonic cruise missile featuring Indian propulsion system, airframe, power supply and other major indigenous components, was successfully test fired at 10.20 AM today from ITR, Chandipur in Odisha. The missile was successfully test-fired for its full range of 290-km during the launch jointly conducted by DRDO and BrahMos Aerospace.
A seminal achievement was accomplished in the quest for technologies related to operation of indigenous fighter aircraft from aircraft carriers. On 29 September, 2019, LCA Naval Prototype-2 launched off the ski jump at 1621 hours and then subsequently “trapped” at 1631 hrs on the arresting gear site (both locations situated at Shore Based Test Facility INS Hansa, Goa).
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh launched the website of 11th edition of DefEXpo, to be held in Lucknow from 05 - 08 February, 2020, here today. The website, www.defexpo.gov.in, provides online services to exhibitors, besides hosting informative content about the product profile of DPSUs and Ordnance Factories.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh today said, the Government is making concerted efforts to modernise the Navy and equip it with the best platforms, weapons and sensors to deal with any conventional and unconventional threats to India’s maritime interests. Shri Rajnath Singh was speaking at the launch of INS ‘Nilgiri’, the first of the Navy's seven new stealth frigates, at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai.
Government has decided to appoint Air Marshal RKS Bhadauria, PVSM, AVSM, VM, ADC, presently Vice Chief of Air Staff as the next Chief of the Air Staff after the retirement of Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VM, ADC on 30th September 2019.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight tested the Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) ‘Astra’ from Su-30 MKI platform off the coast of Chandipur, Odisha. The trials were held from 16th to 19th September 2019.
VAdm G Ashok Kumar, AVSM, VSM, the Vice Chief of Naval Staff with the Controller of Warship Production and Acquisition and Director General of Naval Design in attendance held a curtain raiser today, for the commissioning of ‘Khanderi’, the second Project 75 Submarine, launch of ‘Nilgiri’, the first ship of Project 17A and inauguration of Aircraft Carrier Dry dock at Mumbai on 28 Sep 19. Shri Rajnath Singh, the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri will be the chief guest for all the three events.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has said the Government is committed to work towards achieving a USD 26 billion Defence industry by 2025. Addressing the second annual session of Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers here today, he said the Defence sector has been identified as one of the most prominent sectors under “Make in India” Initiative to realize USD 5 Trillion Economy by 2024.
Air-to-Air missile, ASTRA, has been successfully flight tested on 16 September 2019 off the coast of Odisha. The missile was launched from Su-30 MKI as a part of User trials.
Institute for Systems Studies and Analysis (ISSA) Delhi, a premier DRDO laboratory, has designed and developed a new generation Wargaming Software in collaboration with Maritime Warfare Centre, Visakhapatnam to meet the contemporary operational and tactical level wargaming requirement for the Indian Navy.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh here today and accorded approval for Capital Procurement for the Services amounting to approximately Rs 2,000 crores.
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has signed a contract with the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, today, September 13, 2019, for procurement of Seven Squadrons of Akash Missile System for the Indian Air Force.
This is a turnkey contract with specialist infrastructure. The total value of the contract is Rs.5,357.00 Crores (Rupees five thousand three hundred and fifty-seven crores only) and the delivery will be completed in 3(three) years. These systems will be commissioned at seven Air Force locations spread across Pan India.
Today is a golden letter day in the history of Indian Naval Aviation.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh chaired the first meeting of the Apex Committee for DefExpo 2020 here today, in the presence of Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath.
HAL designed and developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) successfully demonstrated high altitude capability in hot and high weather conditions in the Himalayas. The trials were carried out by the test pilots from HAL, IAF and the Army from August 24 to September 2, 2019.
Boeing [NYSE: BA] today formally handed over eight of 22 AH-64E Apache helicopters to the Indian Air Force at the Air Force Station, Pathankhot. Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa, Chief of Air Staff, officers from the Indian Air Force and officials from Boeing attended the induction ceremony.
The Fifteenth Finance Commission, headed by Shri N.K. Singh, held a meeting with the Ministry of Defence led by the Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh here today. During the meeting, MoD gave its Fund Projections for the period 2020-2025 which is also the award period of the 15th Finance Commission.
A contract for installation and commissioning of nine Precision Approach Radars (PARs) was concluded today between Ministry of Defence and M/s Data Pattern (India) Pvt Ltd at a cost of Rs 380 crores under ‘Buy Indian’ category.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his Independence Day address, announced that India will soon get its first Chief of Defence Staff. Within a week, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh suggested a change in India’s nuclear doctrine and approved restructuring of Army headquarter. In the meantime, the defence circle began discussing the impending approval of the draft National Security Strategy (NSS).
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has approved certain decisions regarding re-organisation of Army Headquarters. The approval has been given based on a detailed internal study conducted by the Army Headquarters. The decisions are as follows:
Inaugurating the Seminar on “Modernisation and Indigenisation Plans of the Indian Air Force”, organized by the Indian Air Force, CII and SIDM today in Delhi, the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh said that “the government has just approved the proposal for providing test facilities of the Government entities to the private sector after incorporating the comments of stakeholders, particularly indigenous defence manufactures”. A formal Government order would be issued soon which will remove various bottlenecks which used to come in the way of using these test facilities by private ent
Six months after the inauguration of the much anticipated Indo-Russian joint venture (JV) to manufacture AK-203, the Indian soldiers will have to wait a bit more for a modern assault rifle. The JV failed to honour the Request for Proposal (RFP) sent out by Indian Army as it could not finalise the price of the gun, sources informed.
Two weeks after the historic bill to change the constitutional status of Jammu and Kashmir, Union government is all set to give India its first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). This is going to be the most important reform in the defence sector. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Independence Day speech.
Mr Shripad Naik, Hon’ble Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush & Minister of State for Defence, today inaugurated the new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for Composite Materials, Environmental Testing & Finishing, established at the Navi Mumbai Unit of Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Mr Gowtama M V, CMD, Mr Nataraj Krishnappa, Director (Other Units), Mr Koshy Alexander, Director (Finance),
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has voiced government’s desire to encourage private industry investment in defence sector while also strengthening defence PSUs and Ordnance Factory Board (OFB).
To give a boost to indigenisation, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, accorded approval for procurement of indigenous Software Defined Radio (SDR Tactical) and Next Generation Maritime Mobile Coastal Batteries (Long Range) for the Indian Navy here today.
China has released its new defence white paper titled, “China’s National Defense in the New Era”. It proclaims that we are now an “information society” in an increasingly multi-polar world with economic globalization and developing cultural diversity. In contrast, the previous white paper released in 2015indicated “rapid emergence of information society”. Chinese goal of“mechanization of the military” will be complete by 2020 coupled with substantial “informationization” of the military.
Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) today successfully flight-tested its state-of-the-art Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM) against live aerial targets from Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur.
Mr Rakesh Asthaana, Director General, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), Government of Indiatoday said that the Ministry of Civil Aviation is working on finding solutions to counter rogue drones in the country.
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has achieved a Turnover of Rs. 2041.98 cr, during the 1st quarter of FY 2019-20 over the Turnover of Rs. 2077.84 cr recorded in the corresponding period of the previous year.
Profit Before Tax (PBT) during 1st quarter of FY 2019-20 stood at Rs. 290.39 cr, registering a growth of about 16% over the Profit Before Tax (PBT) of Rs. 250.21 cr recorded in the corresponding period of the previous year.
Admiral Karambir Singh, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, Chief of the Naval Staff, addressed the delegates from the industry and SENIOR ECHELONS OF Indian Navy during the FICCI international Seminar on ‘Nation Building Through Shipbuilding’, today, at New Delhi.
Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff, Indian Navy today said that there is enough headroom in mercantile marine sector for India to attain the critical mass and become a hub for defence shipbuilding.
Speaking at the ‘International Seminar on Nation Building through Shipbuilding’, organised by FICCI, Admiral Singh said that shipbuilding can contribute immensely to the vision of making India a $5 trillion economy by 2024.
The 11th biennial edition of DefExpo India- 2020 is scheduled to be held for the first time in Uttar Pradesh capital Lucknow. It offers an excellent opportunity for the Indian defence industry to showcase its capabilities and promote its export potential. Main theme of the DefExpo India- 2020 will be ‘India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub’ and focus will be on ‘Digital Transformation of Defence’.
The Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh visited the Kargil War Memorial at Dras in Jammu and Kashmir today. The Raksha Mantri commenced his visit by laying a wreath in memory of the gallant martyrs of Operation VIJAY at the iconic Kargil War Memorial, which was followed by observing of one minute silence as a mark of respect for the fallen heroes.
Indian Army has successfully carried out summer user trials of third Generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile NAG at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges. The trials of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) developed Missile were conducted between July 7-18, 2019.
The Chief Guest VAdm AK Saxena, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition (CWP&A), addressed the media, delegates from the industry and Indian Navy during the Curtain Raiser on FICCI international Seminar on ‘Nation Building Through Shipbuilding’ today at FICCI Conference room, New Delhi.
The newly elected Union Government at New Delhi, in its first budget, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, on July 5, allocated over 15 per cent of the funds to defence. She also announced exemption from the basic customs duty to defence equipment not manufactured in India.
In a significant development in the indigenous shipbuilding, Ministry of Defence has issued four shipbuilding Requests for Proposal (RFP) amounting to Rs 15,000 crore for the acquisition of various ships and craft for the Navy and the Coast Guard. While the RFP for 06 nos Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs) has been issued to seven shipyards, RFPs for 08 nos Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) and 12
India’s quest to successfully design and develop an indigenous gas turbine engine that can meaningfully power military and civilian aircraft has been on for well over half a century. And indications are that this quest is still a bridge that isn’t going to be crossed too soon. A day-long seminar held in Bengaluru - India’s aerospace capital - highlighted the many failures, the inadequacies and the various steps that have been taken to cobble together an engine programme.
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is arriving in New Delhi on June 25 for a two-day visit. This is the first visit of a senior minister from the USA after the formation of the new government in India. The significance of this visit has increased due to heightened hostility in the Middle East, the trade dispute between the two countries and US’ opposition to Indo-Russian S-400 missile deal.
Mr Sanjay Jaju, JS (DIP), Department of Defence Production Ministry of Defence, Government of India today said that government will, within a month, launch new ‘Open General Export License’ scheme to boost Indian defence exports.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh today reviewed the progress of research and development activities in the area of defence technologies at Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Headquarters.
Hon'ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh met General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff, Lieutenant General Devraj Anbu, Vice Chief of the Army Staff and all the GOC-in-Cs today.
In October 2018, the Cabinet Committee on Security gave approval to the formation of three agencies for the armed forces namely, Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Space Agency (DSA) and Special Operations Division. These agencies would directly serve under the command of the Chairman, Chief of Staff Committee. All three agencies would be headed by a two-star officer (Major General equivalent). Service personnel from the Army, Air Force and Navy would be posted in these agencies based on the requirement and qualifications.
In May 2017, Ministry of Defence (MoD) introduced a new chapter in the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) – 2016 titled as ‘Revitalising Defence Industrial Ecosystem through Strategic Partnerships’. It is better known as SP Model. Through this groundbreaking policy initiative, MoD aims to develop “the defence industrial eco-system in the country through the involvement of both the major Indian corporate as well as the MSME sector.”
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh took a meeting of senior officers of Ministry of Defence to review operational matters and procurement issues of the Armed Forces. He discussed important revenue procurement cases regarding maintenance of platforms and assets with the Armed Forces. He was briefed by the officers regarding ongoing infrastructure projects and plans for future upgradation.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh reviewed activities of the Ministry of Defence. The RM was briefed regarding Defence Cooperation activities with Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs). He was also briefed about planning activities of the Armed Forces including Tri-Services agencies viz. HQ IDS and Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Space Agency and Armed Forces Special Forces Division which were approved by the CCS in 2019.
Shri Rajnath Singh took over the responsibility as the Defence Minister, today. On his arrival at the Ministry of Defence in South Block, Shri Rajnath Singh was received by the Minister of State for Defence Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, three Services’ Chiefs, Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra, Chairman DRDO Dr G. Satheesh Reddy, Secretary (Defence Production) Dr. Ajay Kumar and Mrs S Kutty, Secretary ESW.
Recently, a news piece on NDTV's website suggests that the Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to procure a longer range non-Russia air-to-air missile for its Su-30 fleet. The report claims that post-Balakot strike India is planning to procure Israel made I-Derby ER, an air-to-air missile with 100 km range. This is 20 km more than the range of R-77, a Russian medium-range air-to-air missile which is part of Indian Su-30 MKI arsenal.
Shri Shripad Yesso Naik took over charge as Minister of State for Defence, here today. On his arrival at the Ministry of Defence in South Block, Shri Yesso Naik was received by Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra and other senior officials of the Ministry. Apart from Ministry of Defence, Shri Shripad Yesso Naik will also serve as Minister of State (Independent Charge) in the Ministry of AYUSH.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully test fired AKASH-MK-1S missile from ITR , Chandipur, Odhisa on 25 and 27 May 2019. Akash Mk1S is an upgrade of existing AKASH missile with indigenous Seeker. AKASH Mk1S is a surface to air missile which can neutralize advanced aerial targets. The Akash weapon system has combination of both command guidance and active terminal seeker guidance. Seeker and guidance performance have been consistently established in both the missions. All the mission objectives have been met.
HAL (standalone) achieved an all-time high turnover of Rs. 19,705 crores, registering a growth of 7.8% for FY 2018-19 over the turnover of Rs 18,284 crores in the corresponding previous year.
Since 2014, ‘Make in India’ is the buzz word in defence. The Narendra Modi led NDA government, in its tenure, has made some very significant policy changes in the defence sector to give more avenues to private players, provide level playing field between the public and private sector. Some of these changes have created some new challenges for the government of one of them is a reduction in the capital budget due to the introduction of Goods and Services Tax (GST).
Vela, the fourth Scorpene class submarine being constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited for the Indian Navy, was launched today, on 06 May 2019, by Mrs Veena Ajay Kumar, wife of Dr Ajay Kumar, IAS, Secretary Defence Production, who was the Chief Guest on the occasion. VAdm AK Saxena, CWP&A was also present during the launching ceremony.
The Defence Acquisition Council, the apex procurement body of the Ministry of Defence, on Friday, approved a proposal to buy 10 airborne early warning (AEW) helicopters for Rs 3600 crore ($500million) from Russia. The Ka-31s are expected to be deployed on the aircraft carrier and the Grigorovich-class frigates.
The Ka-31 is an upgraded version of the Ka-28, operational with the Navy. Since 2003, India has purchased 14 Ka-31 helicopters.
Mission Shakti, the historic event held on March 27 that made India the fourth nation in the world after US, Russia and China to successfully demonstrate an indigenous A-SAT weapon employing a "Hit to kill" technology. A matter of great Pride for every citizen, in addition to boosting the public moral and enhancing India's status in the world, it has rattled anti-India forces.
Ministry of Defence (MoD), on Monday, awarded a contract to build eight anti-submarine vessels to public sector shipyard Garden Reach Shipyard and Engineers. The Kolkata based shipyard will deliver the boats within 84 months.
According to an MoD statement, “The 1st ship is to be delivered within 42 months from contract signing date and subsequent balance ships delivery schedule will be two ships per year.”
Leading an Indian delegation, Defence Secretary Sanjay Mitra, on Friday, visited the Russian shipyard to overview the manufacturing of the Project 11356 Frigates. The Kaliningrad based shipyard is currently manufacturing the hull and the body of the ship. The Shipyard is also involved in the capability enhancement of the Ministry of Defence owned Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) in building the other ships of the project.
Admiral Sunil Lanba, PVSM, AVSM, ADC the Chief of the Naval Staff, inaugurated the maiden ‘state-of-the-art’ Virtual Reality Centre (VRC) at the Directorate of Naval Design (Surface Ship Group), today.
Continuing with the trend of showing confidence in Russian weapons, India, reportedly, on Monday agreed to procure 464 T-90MS tanks. The new batch is expected to be manufactured in India through the extension of the production license, Russian news agency TASS reported.
The Sixth edition of the joint military training exercise between the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army, Exercise Mitra Shakti concluded today at Diyatalawa in Badulla district of Sri Lanka. The two week long training that had commenced on 26th March, came to an end with a grand Closing Ceremony that witnessed a smart and scintillating joint parade by the two contingents. It was reviewed by the Indian Army Contingent Commander that also had the trooping in of the national flags of the two friendly nations and a rousing display by the Sri Lankan Army band.
A special interaction session was organized by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), here today to present first-hand account of the mission details, development milestones including technological aspects of Mission Shakti.
The Indian Navy and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) today inked a MoU to undertake joint research and development of advanced technologies for the Indian Navy. This will be a collaborative arrangement between labs of CSIR, the Indian Navy and Indian industry.
The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to India of twenty-four (24) MH-60R Multi-Mission helicopters for an estimated cost of $2.6 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
General Bipin Rawat, Chief of the Army Staff is scheduled to visit United States of America from 02 April to 05 April 2019 on an official visit. During the visit, General Bipin Rawat led delegation will interact with senior military hierarchy of the US Armed Forces with an aim to take forward the military to military cooperation.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited recorded a turnover of over Rs. 19,400 crores (provisional and unaudited) for the financial year ended on March 31, 2019 (corresponding figure for the previous year was Rs.
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has achieved a turnover of Rs.11,700 Crores (Provisional & Unaudited) during the Financial Year 2018-19, sustaining double digit growth (an increase of 16%) over the previous year's turnover of Rs.10,085 Crores.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) today successfully conducted an Anti-Satellite (A-SAT) missile test ‘Mission Shakti’ from the Dr AP J Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha. A DRDO-developed Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Interceptor Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a ‘Hit to Kill’ mode. The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Tracking data from range sensors has confirmed that the mission met all its objectives.
Yard 2097 (LCU L 56), the sixth of the class of LCU MK IV ships, have been built and delivered by M/s GRSE Ltd today, on 30 March 19 at Kolkata. This is the 100th ship delivered by the DPSU in Kolkata. The construction of the ship was overseen by Warship Overseeing Team, Kolkata.
The Government have appointed Vice Admiral Karambir Singh, presently Flag Officer Commander-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) Eastern Naval Command as next Chief of the Naval Staff with effect from afternoon of May 31, 2019. The present Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba retires on the same day.
Defence Research and Defence Organisation (DRDO) today successfully test fired the Guided PINAKA from Pokhran ranges. The weapon system is equipped with state-of-the-art guidance kit comprising of an advanced navigation and control system. In both the missions, the weapon systems impacted the intended targets with high precision and achieved desired accuracies. Telemetry Systems tracked and monitored the vehicle all through the flight path.
Ministry of Defence has taken steps to ensure implementation of announcement by the Prime Minister on 15th August, 2018 regarding grant of Permanent Commission to Women officers in the Armed Forces.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, on Sunday, inaugurated Indo-Russian joint venture to manufacture AK-203 assault rifle. The Indo-Russian Rifles Pvt Ltd, a partnership between Indian Ordnance Factory Board and Russian Kalashnikov Concern, will manufacture around 7.5 lakh rifles which will go on to replace the INSAS rifle, the current standard issue to Indian soldiers. These guns are also expected to equip other Indian forces.
Rafale controversy, though not new to high profile defence procurements, has generated unprecedented and avoidable acrimony and bitterness among various stakeholders, be it political parties or different wings of the same Government! later is far more damaging for the nation; while politicians are what they are and will be politicians, any persistent disharmony within various wings of the government can have far-reaching and damaging consequences for the nation! Before attempting to find a solution, it is pertinent to analyse and understand the problem.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman met here today and accorded approval for acquisition of defence equipment for about Rs 2700 Crores
20th February 2019 is a significant day in the journey of Light Combat Aircraft Tejas MK I for Indian Air Force (IAF), when the formal declaration of Final Operational Clearance (FOC) of the aircraft was made by Secretary Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy.
With elections round the corner, the Minister of Defence, Nirmala Sitharaman used the platform of the 12th edition of Aero India, which got underway in Bengaluru, to make a point on how in these past four years, the government had made enormous strides in aerospace and defence sectors. In line with tagline of Aero India, ‘The Runway to a billion opportunities’, she indicated how thousands of crores of contracts in defence had been signed between 2014-15 till 2018.
In the background of the Pulwama terrorist strike, the former Scientific Adviser to Minister of Defence and presently a member of NITI Aayog, Dr V.K.Saraswat, urgently called for a major push to manufacture and equip the armed forces with ‘low-intensity conflict equipment’. In non-contact warfare, we need to deploy directed energy weapons for which there has to be a substantial contribution from industry, national laboratories and academia.
At a time when Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing a rapid decrease in its fighter strength, the trusted old friend of India, Russia has once again came up to its rescue with the offer of 21 MiG-29, enough to populate one fighter squadron. The offer was made when last month when an IAF delegation was on a visit to Russia.
In a first of its kind, Ministry of Defence has issued Expression of Interest (s) for shortlisting of potential Indian Strategic Partners and foreign OEMs for the ‘Procurement of 111 Naval Utility Helicopters (NUH) for the Indian Navy on 12 Feb 19. These helicopters will replace Chetak Helicopters and will be utilised for albeit SAR, CASEVAC, LIMO, passenger roles and torpedo drops. 95 helicopters out of 111 will be manufactured in India by the selected Indian Strategic Partner. The case was approved by DAC on 25 Aug 18.
The intent of the government at the Centre has been very clear – to aggressively indigenise the Indian defence industrial sector. But from ‘intent’ to ‘delivery’ there is a huge mismatch, primarily because the bureaucracy has been playing spoilsport.
Union Government, on February 1, in its budget for the current financial year 2019-20, has allocated over Rs 3, 18, 000 crore for the defence needs excluding the defence pension. This is for the first time that the allocation for the defence has exceeded three lakh crore mark.
The Land Warfare Doctrine -2018 of the Indian Army is a comprehensive document that covers national threat perception in its entirety and offers a detailed outline of the vision to address the same. It speaks of safeguarding the “sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of India against external threats and internal subversion by deterrence or by waging war.” By and large, it covers all challenges that would be posed in meeting the stated objective.
State-owned aerospace and defence major Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has recorded the highest ever turnover of Rs 18,28,386 lakh in 2017-18, stated the government in the Lower House on January 2. In a written reply in Lok Sabha, Union Minister of State Dr Subhash Ramrao Bhamre gave details of revenues and profits of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) from 2015- September 2018.
“Russian SU-30 and indigenously manufactured SU-30MKI are not the same. Hence, one to one comparison of cost may not be appropriate,” said Union Minister of State Dr Subhash Ramrao Bhamre in a written reply to a question in Lok Sabha on January 2.
It was an eventful year for Ministry of Defence. Government of India took policy decision to set up two Defence Production Corridors, one each in Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Tamil Nadu. These would go a long way in making India self-reliant in defence production through ‘Make in India’ initiatives. It was also a year of another milestone for women empowerment in the country when the first-ever all-women crew circumnavigated the globe in an indigenously built 56-foot Indian Navy Sailing Vessel, ‘INSV Tarini’.
Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman has formally launched ‘Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti’, here today. The event showcased salient inventions and innovations achieved by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factories (OFs) which have resulted in successful filing of Intellectual Property Right (IPR) applications. Smt Sitharaman also felicitated some of the scientists, who invented and innovated useful products for the nation.
An Engineers’ Conclave was held for three days, October 5 – 7, at Lonavala. It was heartening that one of the themes adopted by the Industry was “Defense Manufacturing”. I addressed the participants on the shifts required in defence research and development (R&D) from the users’ perspective. I interacted with defence scientists and industrialists. A major issue which struck me was that many tend to see research or manufacturing as an end to itself.
Indigenously developed Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), was successfully flight tested for the second time from the Ahmednagar range today. All the mission objectives have been met. The two missions on 15 and 16 September 2018 have been successfully flight tested for different ranges including the maximum range capability.
Raksha Mantri Nirmala Sitharaman congratulated the team DRDO, Indian Army and associated Industries for the twin success of MPATGM weapon system.
Pic - PIB
The Indian Air Force lost two highly accomplished Test Pilots in a Mirage trainer aircraft crash, early this month, at the Bangalore complex of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The aircraft was on an acceptance test flight by the two pilots after HAL had completed its upgrade modification on the aircraft. The aircraft reportedly had a major malfunction on the take-off role, forcing the pilots to eject, which resulted in their unfortunate fatalities.
Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa PVSM AVSM YSM VM ADC, Chief of the Air Staff Indian Air Force is embarking on a four day official visit to Bangladesh from 11 to 14 February 2019. This is a bilateral goodwill visit to a SAARC nation wherein the CAS is scheduled to visit operational and training units of Bangladesh Air Force.
Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has during the second quarter of FY 2018-19, achieved a robust growth in turnover and consequently recorded a healthy growth in profit as compared to the 1stquarter of current year and corresponding quarter of the previous year.
The company has achieved a turnover of Rs. 3282.40 crore, during the 2ndquarter of FY 2018-19, registering a growth of about 35 %, over the turnover of Rs. 2431.73 crore recorded in the corresponding period of the previous year.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Hon’ble Defence Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, met on 25 Aug 2018 and accorded approval for procurement for the Services amounting to approximately Rs. 46,000 crores.
