Vice Admiral R Hari Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Western Naval Command on 28 Feb 2021 at Mumbai. He succeeds Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, who retires upon superannuation, after an illustrious career, spanning forty years, in the Indian Navy.
It’s raining success for missile programmes of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). On Monday, it conducted two successful launches of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM).
The VL-SRSAM is based on Astra air-to-air missile.
On February 20, the 10th round of China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting was held on the Chinese side of the Moldo/Chushul border meeting point. The two sides positively appraised the smooth completion of disengagement of frontline troops in the Pangong Lake area noting that it was a significant step forward that provided a good basis for resolution of other remaining issues along the LAC in Western Sector. They had candid and in-depth exchange of views on other issues along the LAC in the Western Sector.
Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff presided over the debrief of TROPEX-21 (Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise) at Kochi. The exercise had commenced in January 2021 involving all three Commands of the Indian Navy, the Tri-Services Command at Port Blair, and elements of Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard. The Biennial exercise is the largest exercise conducted by Indian Navy aimed to validate its concepts of war-fighting across the entire spectrum of warfare.
Indian Naval Ship Pralaya arrived at Abu Dhabi, UAE today 19 Feb 21 to participate in the NAVDEX 21 (Naval Defence Exhibition) and IDEX 21 (International Defence Exhibition), scheduled from 20 to 25 February 2021.
Joint User Trials for Helina (Army Version) and Dhruvastra (Air Force Version) Missile Systems have been carried out from Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) platform in desert ranges. The missile systems have been designed and developed indigenously by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
The Union Cabinet today approved enhanced delegation of Financial Powers under Capital Procurement to levels below Vice-Chief of Armed Forces.
Indian Navy’s largest war game – the biennial Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX 21) - which commenced in early January, is currently underway with participation of all operational units of Indian Navy including ships, submarines, aircraft as well as units of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard. The exercise will culminate by third week of February.
The Defence Testing Infrastructure required for realisation of ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’ in Defence sector, got a major boost with inauguration of the upgraded Naval Environmental Test Facility (NETF) by Vice Admiral MS Pawar, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff on 04 Feb 21.
Indian Naval Fast Attack Craft (IN FAC) T-81 of the Super Dvora MK II class, was decommissioned on 28 Jan 21 at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai after having served the nation successfully for more than 20 years. Rear Admiral V Srinivas, Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area was the Chief Guest on the occasion.
The 25 meters long vessel with 60 tonnes displacement was built at Goa Shipyard Ltd. In collaboration with M/s Ramta of Israel. She was commissioned into the Navy on 05 Jun 1999 by the then Governor of Goa, Lt Gen JFR Jacob (Retd).
On the occasion of 72nd Republic Day, a spectacular Passing out Parade (POP) was held at Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, on Tuesday, 26 January 2021, 62 trainees including 15 women trainees passed out with flying colours, marking the culmination of their ab-initio training.
DRDO conducted the successful maiden launch of Akash-NG (New Generation) Missile from Integrated Test Range off the coast of Odisha on 25 January 2021. Akash-NG is a new generation Surface to Air Missile meant for use by Indian Air Force with an aim of intercepting high maneuvering low RCS aerial threats.
On January 24, the 9th round of China-India Corps Commander Level Meeting was held on the Chinese side of the Moldo-Chushul border meeting point. The two sides had a candid and in-depth exchange of views on disengagement along the Line of Actual Control in the Western Sector of China-India border areas.
1.A total of 42 aircraft including 15 Fighters, 05 transports, 17 Helicopters, one vintage aircraft of the Indian Air Force and 04 Helicopters of the Indian Army will participate in this years’ flypast.
2. The ftypast would be flown in two blocks. The first block is planned along with the parade between 1004 to 1020 hrs and the second block is planned after the parade between 1120 to 1145 hrs.
The Republic Day is traditionally showcased with the display of the might of the Indian Armed Forces. As has been the custom IAF will be an integral part of the armed forces during the Republic Day Parade.
The tableau is being fabricated on a 50 feet long platform consisting of trailer towed by a tractor and would display the IAF motto 'Touch the Sky with Glory'. It will showcase scaled down models of Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter, Sukhoi-30 MKI and Rohini Radar
The Indian Army carried out a live demonstration of Drone Swarming capability using 75 indigenously designed and developed drones which executed an array of Artificial Intelligence (AI) enabled simulated offensive missions and close support tasks during the Army Day Parade held at Delhi Cantt on 15 January 2021.
Indian Army celebrated its 73rd Army Day today. Every year Indian Army celebrates 15th January as ‘Army Day’ to commemorate the day when General (later Field Marshal) K M Carriappa took over the command of Army from General Sir FRR Bucher, the last British Commander-in-Chief in 1949 and became the first Commander-in-Chief of Indian Army post Independence.
The celebrations commenced with wreath laying ceremony at National War Memorial where CDS Gen Bipin Rawat and the three Service Chiefs paid homage to the Martyrs.
Vice Admiral Atul Kumar Jain PVSM, AVSM, VSM Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief(FOC-in-C) Eastern Naval Command(ENC) reviewed the operational preparedness and combat-readiness of Eastern Fleet at sea over four days. 22 ships of the Eastern Fleet participated in the Operational Readiness Inspection. During the review, force protection against asymmetric attacks, weapon firings, anti-submarine drills including torpedo firings and fleet manoeuvres were demonstrated under realistic conditions.
Exercise Sea Vigil, the two day coastal defence exercise was conducted on 12 and 13 January 2021. The conceptual and geographical expanse of Sea Vigil included the entire coastline and EEZ of the country and contingencies from Peace to War-time were exercised. In addition, mitigation measures, on shore, in case of any breach in coastal security were also validated.
Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria PVSM AVSM VM ADC, Chief of the Air Staff, Indian Air Force undertook a visit to Air Force Stations and Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) in Eastern Air Command area of responsibility from 05 to 07 Jan 21. During the visit, CAS interacted with senior IAF & Army commanders and reviewed operational preparedness of units deployed at these locations. He also visited Itanagar to call on Hon'ble Governor and Hon'ble Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh.
Indian Naval Ship Kiltan arrived at Sihanoukville Port, Cambodia on 29 December 2020 as part of ongoing Mission Sagar-III. The ship will deliver 15 Tons of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) Stores for the flood-affected people of Cambodia, which will be handed over to Cambodia’s National Disaster Management Committee (NDMC). This assistance is reflective of the deep people-to-people connect between the two friendly countries.
In a major push to support Atmanirbharta and to promote an innovation ecosystem, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), conducted an outreach webinar for startups in emerging technologies. 89 startups pitched their indigenously developed innovations, ideas and proposals to Indian Army through virtual presentations in webinar format from 17 to 28 Dec 2020.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major milestone today with the maiden launch of Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM), Army Version from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the Coast of Odisha around 1600 hrs.
Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani, AVSM, VSM, has assumed charge as the Controller Warship Production and Acquisition on 21 Dec 2020. A graduate of the National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla Pune, he was commissioned into the Electrical Branch of the Indian Navy on 01 Jan 1985. The Admiral is a Post Graduate in Radar and Communication Engineering from IIT Delhi and a distinguished alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC) and the National Defence College (NDC).
In December 1971, the Indian Armed Forces secured a decisive and historic Victory over Pakistan Army, which led to creation of a Nation - Bangladesh and also resulted in the largest Military Surrender after the World War – II. From 16 December, the Nation will be celebrating 50 Years of Indo-Pak War, also called ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’. Various commemorative events are planned across the Nation.
Indian Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh, on Thursday, said that Navy must have third aircraft carrier. “We are very clear that air power is integral to navy so air power is required. And it is required here and now,” navy chief said during his annual press conference ahead of Navy Day on December 4.
The fourth of December is celebrated every year as the Navy Day.
Lt Gen SK Saini, the Vice Chief of Army Staff (VCOAS) addressed the participants of National Defence Course Bangladesh on “Security Challenges Post COVID – 19 Pandemic” via a virtual platform on 02 December 2020. Earlier in his career, the VCOAS had attended the National Defence College Bangladesh in 2011. The address covered the impact of Corona virus on the emerging world and focused on its impact on military, the security challenges and his views on ways and means to tackle them.
Air Marshal HS Arora PVSM AVSM ADC, Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS), witnessed Surface to Air Guided Weapons Firing as a part of Combined Guided Weapons Firing 2020 at Air Force Station Suryalanka on 01 Dec 20.
The exercise was conducted from 23 Nov to 02 Dec 2020. Indigenous Akash Missile System along with Russian short range Igla missiles were fired and engaged the Manoeuverable Expendable Aerial Targets (MEAT) providing near realistic training to the combat crew.
BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile in Anti-Ship mode was successfully test fired today at 0900 hrs against a decommissioned Ship. The test firing was carried out by Indian Navy. The missile performed highly complex manoeuvres and hit Bull’s eye of the target.
As India deploys its famed marine commandos in Pangong lake region of Ladakh as part of tri-service operations to counter China, Indian Navy is looking for freezing diving suit for its special operation divers.
On October 29, Indian Navy sent out a Request for Proposal (RFP) to global vendors for supply of 20 extreme cold water diving suits to allow them to perform optimal at 0-5 Celsius temperature for three hours.
Indian Navy (IN) Ships including indigenously built ASW corvette Kamorta and missile corvette Karmuk are participating in the 2nd edition of India, Singapore and Thailand Trilateral Maritime Exercise SITMEX-20, from 21 to 22 November 20 in Andaman Sea.
The 24th edition of MALABAR maritime exercise, hosted by Indian Navy (IN) in two phases, concluded in the Arabian Sea on 20 Nov 20. Phase 1 of the exercise involving participation by Indian Navy (IN), United States Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and Royal Australian Navy (RAN), was conducted off Visakhapatnam in Bay of Bengal from 3-6 November 2020. The second phase was conducted in the Arabian S
Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Chief of the Air Staff undertook his maiden flight in HAL designed and developed Light Advanced Helicopter (LCH) here today. The aircraft took to the skies at 11.45 hours and remained airborne for an hour.
In yet another flight test, the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) System tracked the target accurately and successfully neutralised the airborne target. The flight test, second in the series was conducted today at around 1542 hrs from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, off the coast of Odisha.
The second phase of Exercise Malabar 2020 will be conducted in the Northern Arabian Sea from 17 to 20 November 2020. Taking forward the synergy achieved in the recently concluded Phase 1 of Exercise Malabar 2020, which was conducted in the Bay of Bengal from 03 to 06 November 2020, this phase will involve coordinated operations of increasing complexity between the navies of Australia, India, Japan and the United States.
Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) System has achieved a major milestone by a direct hit on to a Banshee Pilotless target aircraft at medium range & medium altitude.
The missile launch took place from ITR Chandipur on 13th Nov 2020 at 1550 hrs off the Odisha Coast. The missile is propelled by a single stage solid propellant rocket motor and uses all indigenous subsystems. The Missile is canisterised for transportation and launch using a mobile launcher capable of carrying 6 canisterised missiles.
The Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, visited INS Baaz, the Naval Air Station located at Campbell Bay, Great Nicobar Island on 13 November 2020. The visit was aimed to express solidarity with personnel on the occasion of Deepawali.
The CNS was received by Lieutenant General Manoj Pande, AVSM, VSM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman & Nicobar Command (CINCAN). He was briefed on the operational preparedness and infrastructure aspects of the Command, including readiness in the prevalent security scenario.
In continuation of the ongoing humanitarian mission ‘Sagar-II’, Indian Naval Ship Airavat arrived at Port Massawa, Eritrea on 06 November 2020. The Government of India is providing assistance to Friendly Foreign Countries to overcome natural calamities and COVID-19 pandemic, and towards the same INS Airavat is carrying food aid for the people of Eritrea.
Enhanced PINAKA rocket, developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been successfully flight tested from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha today, 04 November 2020. Development of Enhanced Pinaka system was taken up to achieve longer range performance compared to earlier design with reduced length.
The 24th edition of the MALABAR naval exercise is scheduled in two phases in November 2020. Phase 1 of the Exercise MALABAR 20 involving participation by Indian Navy (IN), United States Navy (USN), Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), and Royal Australian Navy (RAN) is set to commence off Visakhapatnam in Bay of Bengal from 03 to 06 November 2020.
MALABAR series of maritime exercises commenced in 1992 as a bilateral IN-USN exercise. JMSDF joined MALABAR in 2015. The 2020 edition will now witness participation of the RAN in this joint maritime exercise.
The Army Commanders’ Conference, an apex level biannual event, is being held in New Delhi from 26 to 29 October 2020. During the event, Indian Army's apex leadership is comprehensively deliberating upon all aspects of existing security scenarios, situation along the borders and in the hinterland and challenges for the present security apparatus.
INS Kavaratti (P31), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) stealth corvette built under Project 28 (Kamorta Class) was commissioned into the Indian Navy by General Manoj Mukund Naravane PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM, ADC, Chief of the Army Staff at a ceremony held at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam today, 22 October 20.
he Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Mukund Naravane visited Ambala Cantonment on 19 October 2020 to review the security and operational preparedness of Kharga Corps.
The Eighth Edition of annual Indian Navy (IN) – Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) bilateral maritime exercise SLINEX-20 is scheduled off Trincomalee, Sri Lanka from 19 to 21 October 2020. The Sri Lanka Navy will be represented by SLN Ships Sayura (Offshore Patrol Vessel) and Gajabahu (Training Ship) led by Rear Admiral Bandara Jayathilaka, the Flag Officer Commanding Naval Fleet, Sri Lanka Navy. Indigenously built ASW corvettes Kamorta and Kiltan under the command of Rear Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, will represent the Indian Navy.
BrahMos, the supersonic cruise missile was successfully test fired today on 18th October 2020 from Indian Navy’s indigenously-built stealth destroyer INS Chennai, hitting a target in the Arabian Sea. The missile hit the target successfully with pin-point accuracy after performing high-level and extremely complex manoeuvres.
Calling Indian Air Force (IAF) operationally of the best, Air Chief Marshall RKS Bhaduria, on Monday, stated that IAF is well positioned to handle China.
“There is no question that in case of any conflict, China can get the better of us,” the air chief said while addressing annual press conference ahead of the 88th IAF Day on October 8.
The Naval Investiture Ceremony - 2020 for Western Naval Command (WNC) was held at INS Shikra on 30 Sep 20. Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar , Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command presented gallantry and distinguished service awards to recipients. The FOC-in-C (West) also presented Unit Citations to selected Units for their contributions in the past year.
The 4th edition of India - Japan Maritime bilateral exercise JIMEX, which is conducted biennially between the Indian Navy and Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) will be held in North Arabian Sea from 26 to 28 September 2020. JIMEX series of exercises commenced in January 2012 with special focus on maritime security cooperation.
An important milestone was achieved today on 25 September 2020 when Authority Holding Sealed Particulars (AHSP) responsibility of Pinaka weapon system was handed over by DRDO to DGQA. AHSP transfer marks successful establishment of production of Pinaka rockets, Launchers, Battery Command Posts, Loader Cum Replenishment and Replenishment Vehicles as well as successful establishment of Quality Assurance processes.
Vice Admiral AK Chawla PVSM, AVSM, NM, VSM, ADC, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command (SNC), on behalf of the President of India, presented Gallantry and Non-Gallantry Awards, (announced on Republic day 2020) to meritorious naval personnel at the Naval Investiture Ceremony (NIC) conducted at naval base, Kochi on 25 Sep 20. In addition, personnel who demonstrated leadership, professional achievements and distinguished service of high order,
In yet another first in the history of Indian naval aviation, two women officers have been selected to join as “Observers” (Airborne Tacticians) in the helicopter stream. They would in effect, be the first set of women airborne combatants who would be operating from warships.
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.
The Chief of the Army Staff, General MM Naravane concluded a two day visit to Leh today. The COAS arrived at Leh on 03 September 2020 and proceeded to forward areas to undertake a firsthand assessment of the situation along the LAC. The COAS interacted with soldiers and local commanders deployed in difficult High Altitude forward areas. He appreciated their high morale and standards of professionalism exhibited by the units in safeguarding own territorial integrity. The COAS urged all ranks to remain vigilant and maintain a high order of operational readiness.
The 11th edition of exercise INDRA NAVY, a biennial bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy is scheduled in the Bay of Bengal from 04 to 05 September 2020.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh addressed Naval Commanders on the inaugural day of the Naval Commanders’ Conference on 19 August 2020. He complimented the men and women of Indian Navy for their role in protecting the maritime interests of the nation and expressed confidence in the Indian Navy’s preparedness to meet any challenge through a proactive response in deploying its ships and aircraft.
On May 31, 2008 the ‘Bheem’ of Indian Air Force (IAF) bore witness to a key event at Daulet Beg Oldie (DBO). The name DBO is quite familiar now along with Depsang plains, due to the ongoing Sino-India standoff and a palpable sense of an impending conflict.
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.
Vice Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Harjit Singh Arora PVSM AVSM ADC on 07 Aug 2020 visited forward air bases in Ladakh sector of Western Air Command (WAC).
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.”
As the Indo-Pacific region faces an aggressive and belligerent China amidst the Covid-19 pandemic, Prime Minister of Australia Scott Morrison, on Wednesday, announced strategic plan to counter the Chinese expansion in the region.
The challenges and changing nature in the Indo-Pacific have meant we need a new approach and one that actively seeks to deter actions that are against our interests,” the Prime Minister said.
Indian Army, on June 26, released a request for information (RFI) for ballistic helmets for Indian Army. According to the RFI, “Indian Army seeks Normal and Commander’s Ballistic Helmet with desired protection level in lightest weight so that the soldier can operate with maximum combat efficiency during prolonged operations with adequate protection against Small Arms fire.”
The helmet is expected to be as light as possible with protection against “7.62x39 mm MSC/ HSC from 10m”.
Anti - Submarine Warfare capability of the Indian Navy has received a major boost today with the conclusion of a contract for Advanced Torpedo Decoy System Maareech capable of being fired from all frontline warships. Design & Development of this anti-torpedo decoy system has been undertaken indigenously DRDO labs (NSTL and NPOL). Bharat Electronics Limited, a Defence PSU, would undertake the production of this decoy system.
The United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday announced that the US is re-assessing their troops currently deployed across the European Union, aiming to shift focus on China in an effort to counter the rising threat from the Communist Party of China to India, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Pompeo was commenting at the Brussels Forum 2020 virtual Conference.
Russia is celebrating the 75th anniversary of victory of the then Soviet People in the great Patriotic War of 1941-1945. Indian Armed Forces contingent participated in the Victory Day Parade at Red Square Moscow on 24 Jun 2020. The Tri-Service contingent of the Indian Armed Forces comprised of 75 all ranks and marched along with contingents of Russian Armed Forces and 17 other countries.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) held at Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal on June 20, 2020. He formally conferred the ‘President’s Commission’ on 123 Flight Cadets as well as awarded ‘Wings’ to 11 officers from Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard.
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.
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.
In a major boost to ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government, Acquisition Wing of Ministry of Defence (MoD) with the approval of Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, has today placed an Indent on Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) for supply of 156 BMP 2/2k Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICV) with upgraded features for use of the Mechanised Forces of the Indian Army. Under this Indent, the ICVs will be manufactured by Ordnance Factory, Medak in Telangana at an approximate cost of Rs 1,094 crore.
Foundation Stone for a Missile Park "AGNEEPRASTHA" was laid at INS Kalinga by Cmde Rajesh Debnath, Commanding Officer, in the presence of Vice Admiral Atul Kumar Jain, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, FOC-in-C (East) on 28 May 20.
The Missile Park ‘AGNEEPRASTHA’ once completed will be dedicated to all the Officers, Sailors and Support Staff of INS Kalinga, who have served in this premier op-support Base of the ENC since its establishment in 1981. The Park also commemorates the award of the prestigious Unit Citation to INS Kalinga for the year 2018-19.
A sudden increase in terrorist activities in the Indian state of Jammu & Kashmir during the preceding few weeks forced everyone to take note of the situation. Loss of five soldiers of elite Special Forces in early April followed by loss of a Commanding Officer along with another officer, two soldiers and a police officer in another terrorism-related incident did sound alarm bells.
Lieutenant General PS Rajeshwar, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, Commander-in-Chief A&N Command, commissioned INLCU L57 into the Indian Navy on 15 May 2020 at Port Blair. INLCU L5
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh commissioned Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sachet and two interceptor boats (IBs) C-450 and C-451 in Goa via video conference from here today.
Lt Gen Raj ShIukla, assumed command of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) on 01 May 2020.
Even through there is nationwide lockdown Daporijo bridge over Subansiri river has been constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO), keeping in mind utmost precautions against COVID-19 so as to connect this strategic Line of Communication in Arunachal Pradesh.
A deadly encounter to foil an infiltration bid in the Keran Sector of Kupwara, Kashmir, resulted in the ignominious death of all five terrorists infiltrated from Pakistan. Sadly, it also led to the falling of five brave Indian soldiers tasked to hunt them down. The courageous and noble soldiers sacrificed their lives, and by so doing, also rid Kashmir of the lowest form of Vermin whom Pakistan nurtures to spread imbecility wherever they go.
As the world is struggling to contain the Novel Corona (Covid-19) pandemic, it has begun to impact businesses in the defence sector too. In one such case, reportedly, India may not receive the first batch of Rafale jet fighters from France on schedule.
According to a top source, the delivery date can only be finalised once the pandemic subsides and normal work resumes in France.
The National Defence College (NDC), New Delhi is a premier institute on the highest seat of strategic learning of the country. The prestigious and much sought-after Course at this college provides a trans-disciplinary and comprehensive approach to all aspects of national security and strategy.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh presented trophies of best marching contingents for Republic Day Parade 2020, here today. The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent was adjudged the best among the three Services. Air Marshal M S G Menon and Flight Lieutenant Shrikant Sharma received the trophy.
Indian Navy’s Annual Refit Conference (ARC) and Annual Infrastructure Conference (AIC) commenced at Headquarters Eastern Naval Command, Visakhapatnam on 18 Feb 20. The two-day conference chaired by Vice Admiral GS Pabby PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Chief of Materiel (COM), Integrated Headquarters, Ministry of Defence(Navy) is being attended by all the stakeholders representing the Naval Headquarters, three Naval Commands, the Tri-Services Andaman & Nicobar Command at Port Blair, Dockyards, Repair Yards and Material Organisations of the Navy.
Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff, Indian Navy is visiting Myanmar from 17 to 20 February 2020. The visit is intended to consolidate and enhance the bilateral maritime relations between India and Myanmar.
The Western Fleet, known as the ‘Sword Arm’ of the Indian Navy, witnessed a change of helm on 14 Feb 2020. The change of command was held at sea onboard the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya. The baton of the Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet was handed over by Rear Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, AVSM, NM to the new Fleet Commander, Rear Admiral Krishna D Swaminathan, VSM.
The Hon’ble President of India and the Supreme Commander of Indian Armed Forces, Shri Ram Nath Kovind awarded the President’s Colour to INS Shivaji, Lonavala, commanded by Commodore Ravnish Seth, on 13 Feb 2020.
Indian Navy Ship Airavat, whilst mission deployed in the Southern Indian Ocean has been diverted to Antsiranana based on request received from Madagascar. The ship will undertake Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief mission as part of 'Operation Vanilla' which has been launched to provide assistance to the affected population of Madagascar post devastation caused by Cyclone Diane.
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.
To counter emerging threats from China in Indian Ocean Region, India, on Monday, inducted recently resurrected 222 Squadron, the Tigersharks, with Sukhoi 30 MKI armed with air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) BrahMos at the Air Force Station Thanjavur. The Indo-Russian all weather BrahMos ALCM will allow the Su-30MKI to destroy any adversary naval ship at a distance of 290 km.
Three of latest acquisition of Indian Air Force will make their debut in the republic day parade this year. The US made attack choppers Apache and transport helicopter Chinook will participate in the fly past where as the French fighter jet Rafale will be showcased as part of IAF’s tableau, an official said.
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’.
After successfully hosting the International Fleet Review (IFR) in Feb 2016, the City of Destiny Visakhapatnam is gearing up to host another International Naval event ‘MILAN’ in March 2020. With about two months to the mega event, the preparations were reviewed at the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) by Vice Admiral SN Ghormade, Chief of Staff ENC on 07 January 2020. The review meeting saw an overwhelming and positive response from the civil administrators and stakeholder organisations, with participation by Dr G.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
Members of the Media, Ladies and Gentlemen. It is indeed a pleasure for me to welcome all of you to this year’s Navy Week Media interaction.
At the outset I would like to acknowledge your contribution towards shaping the maritime discourse in the country. We are also happy to note that the media has presented news, opinions and enlightened debates on naval and maritime matters quite regularly.
A batch of three trainee officers of the 7th Dornier Conversion Course (DOCC) including a lady officer qualified as Dornier pilots and were awarded the coveted golden “Wings” at a simple and solemn ceremony held at INS Garuda on 02 Dec 19.
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.
Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Naval Staff visited INS Baaz, Campbell Bay, Great Nicobar Island and spent a day with the personnel stationed in various units in Campbell Bay and extended Warm Greetings and Best Wishes to the personnel and their families on the auspicious occasion of Diwali.
The second edition of bi-annual Naval Commanders’ Conference 2019 which commenced on 22 October 2019, concluded on 24 October 2019 after three days of fruitful deliberations.
The Indian Air Force today conducted a successful test firing of BRAHMOS surface-to-surface cruise missile in combat mode at 0930 hrs at the Trek Islands in Car Nicobar Islands region off India’s Eastern coast. The successful launch comes a day after another successful test of the weapon in practice configuration by the IAF carried out in the same location.
The twin successful launches were conducted by the IAF’s user unit in operational configuration to assess mission readiness and swift deployment of the tactical missile over long distance.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh addressed the Naval Commanders’ Conference here today and expressed his pleasure in meeting the senior leadership of the Navy.
Indian Air Force is participating in a Bilateral Joint exercise with Royal Air Force Oman (RAFO), named EX EASTERN BRIDGE-V, scheduled from 17-26 Oct 19, at Air Force Base Masirah. The last exercise, EX EASTERN BRIDGE-IV was held in 2017 at Jamnagar.
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.
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 inaugurates the Aircraft Carrier Dry Dock at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. Also seen in the picture are Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Shripad Naik and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh.
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 is deeply conscious of the requirements of the Armed Forces and remains committed in providing requisite focus and financial support for its modernisation, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh said today at the Commissioning Ceremony of indigenously built submarine INS Khanderi in Mumbai.
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.
India, on Thursday, signed contract with Russia for up gradation of air defence capability of Delhi class Destroyers. The contract was signed between Ministry of Defence (MoD) and JSC Rosoboronexport, the Russian defence exporter, said a statement.
“The modernisation of Radar and Missile systems would substantially enhance the Air Defence capability of the P-15 Ships,” MoD said.
Today, a Resurrection ceremony for 17 Squadron, AF was held at Air Force Station Ambala. Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa PVSM AVSM YSM VM ADC Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Air Staff presented a memento to Group Captain Harkirat Singh SC to commemorate the occasion. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries from Indian Air Force and Indian Army.
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.
A Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) between Naval Air Enclave (NAE), Kochi and Cochin International Airport Limited(CIAL) was signed on 08 Aug 19 in a formal function held at CIAL.
Post Balakot, India is on a purchasing spree to enhance the combat capability of its armed forces. In a recent decision, a high powered committee of the Ministry of Defence(MoD), has cleared an Indian Army’s proposal to equip its Special Forces with weapons and equipment used by the US Special Forces.
Since the surgical strike on the terror launch pads in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK), India Army has been mulling over the idea to equip its Special Force (Para) with best weapons and equipment available in the market. What better than what is in service with the US SF?
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.
Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS) 313, the fifth Dornier aircraft squadron was commissioned into the Indian Navy by Admiral Karambir Singh, PVSM AVSM ADC Chief of the Naval Staff at an impressive ceremony held at Naval Air Enclave, Meenambakkam, today, on 22 Jul 19. Vice Admiral Atul Kumar Jain, AVSM, VSM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command (ENC), Rear Admiral KJ Kumar VSM, Flag Officer Commanding Tamil Na
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.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh pays homage to Lance Naik Mohammad Jawed, who fell to enemy action during ceasefire violation along the Line of Control in Poonch Sector in J&K at Technical Area, Air Force Station Palam, New Delhi on 11 Jun 2019.
As a celebratory prelude to the Passing out Parade on 08 June 2019, a Multi Activity Display showcasing extraordinary military skills and breathtakingly gripping performances was held at Officers’ Training Academy, Gaya.
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.
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa received the baton of Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee from outgoing Chairman COSC and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba, here today.
Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa PVSM AVSM YSM VM ADC, Chief of the Air Staff, led a four aircraft, MiG-21 'Missing Man' formation flypast today, at Air Force Station Bhisiana, to honour the valour and supreme sacrifice of men killed in action during Operation Safed Sagar at Kargil. Air Marshal R Nambiar PVSM AVSM VM & Bar ADC, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Air Command a Kargil veteran,was also a part of the formation.
Today, IAF successfully fired the BrahMos air version missile from its frontline Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft. The launch from the aircraft was smooth and the missile followed the desired trajectory before directly hitting the land target.
The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone in enhancing its Anti Air Warfare Capability with the maiden cooperative engagement firing of the Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM). The firing was undertaken on the Western Seaboard by Indian Naval Ships Kochi and Chennai wherein the missiles of both ships were controlled by one ship to intercept different aerial targets at extended ranges.
Directorate of Indian Defence University (IDU) is organizing a two day workshop on “Space Warfare and Technology” for senior and middle level officers from the three Services on 02-03 May 19 at the Purple Bay, India Gate Circle, New Delhi.
Air Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria PVSM AVSM VM ADC took over as Vice Chief of the Air Staff (VCAS) today.
Post Pulwama suicide attack, India and Pakistan are maintaining a very delicate peace which may not survive another similar attack. Since the Uri terror attack, India has given up the policy of restrained and is now believes in punishing retaliation.
In case such situation arises, India wants to be ready for it.
Indian Navy Ships Kolkata and Shakti are scheduled to arrive Qingdao, China on 21 Apr 19 to participate in the International Fleet Review as part of 70TH Anniversary celebrations of PLA (Navy). International Fleet Review (IFR) is a parade of naval ships, aircraft and submarines, and is organised by nations to promote goodwill, strengthen cooperation and showcase their organisational capabilities. IFR also serves as an ideal platform for world’s navies to showcase their prowess and indigenous ship designing and ship building capabilities in a global/ international arena.
Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) today successfully test fired indigenously designed & developed Long Range Sub-Sonic Cruise Missile “Nirbhay” from the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur Odisha.
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.
Ships of the First Training Squadron (1TS) INS Tarangini, INS Sujata, INS Shardul and ICGS Sarathi entered Port Victoria, Seychelles on 06 Apr 19. While Tarangini had sailed from Kochi, the other three ships had arrived from Port Beira, Mozambique after undertaking a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief mission Op Sahayata in the wake of the devastating Cyclone Idai which hit that country. The visiting ships were accorded a warm reception and were received alongside by Cdr Varun Panicker, Naval Attaché (NA) along with his staff.
The Naval Investiture Ceremony for 2019 was held at the naval helicopter base INS Shikra of Western Naval Command (WNC), Mumbai on April 10.
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.
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.
A 12 member Indian Army patrol along with a police representative recovered wreckage of a World War II vintage US Air Force aircraft in Roing district of Arunachal Pradesh on 30 Mar 2019. The patrol located the aircraft debris covered by thick undergrowth and buried under five feet of snow. Based on the information received from local trekkers of Lower Dibang district through the police, a special patrol of Army was sent to locate the wreckage in a remote location, 30 kms from Roing.
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.
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.
Opening ceremony of Exercise MITRA SHAKTI VI, a 14 days joint training exercise of the Indian Army and the Sri Lankan Army has been held on 27 March at Diyatalawa Parade Ground in Diyatalawa, Badulla District, Sri Lanka.
On 25 March 2019, the IAF formally inducted the CH 47 F(I)- Chinook heavy lift helicopters into its inventory at Air Force Station Chandigarh. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa PVSM AVSM YSM VM ADC, Chief of the Air Staff was the Chief guest and the event was attended by various dignitaries.
As part of the inaugural Africa-India Field Training Exercise, AFINDEX-19 which commenced on 18 March 2019 at Pune, a number of activities in planning and conduct of Humanitarian Mine Assistance has been undertaken by all 18 participating nations.
Exercise Sampriti-VIII, a joint Indo-Bangladesh military exercise which witnessed participation of a company group of 9th Battalion the Rajputana Rifles from the Indian Army and the Company of 36 East Bengal Battalion, Bangladesh Army concluded at Tangail, Bangladesh on 14 March 2019. The closing ceremony was graced by HE Mrs Riva Ganguly Das, Indian High Commissioner who highlighted the special bonds between the two nations.
As the dust and din of last week's Indo-Pak crisis settle down, it is now time for India to reflect on the events of the last few weeks and review the state of its military power, the air force in particular. The horrendous suicide bomb attack on the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) convoy in Pulwama on February 14th breached the limits of India’s patience with Pakistan, expecting it put an end to cross-border terrorism.
Just four days after the inauguration of a joint facility for manufacturing of AK-203 rifles in Amethi, India, on Thursday, signed a three billion dollar deal with Russia for the lease of second Akula class nuclear submarine. This is the third nuclear submarine lease agreement between the two nations.
India, currently, operates INS Chakra, an Akula Class nuclear attack submarine (SSN), operational with the Eastern Naval Command. Russia leased the SSN to India for a period of ten years in 2012.
Admiral RK Dhowan, Chairman National Maritime Foundation, Adm Arun Prakash, Former CNS,
Adm J Colombage Former Commander Srilanka Navy,
Adm S Jayantha Perera Former Commander Srilanka Navy, Flag Officer, esteemed veterans, luminaries of the academic and industrial sectors, friends from foreign countries, representatives of the media, Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.
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.
The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, presented Colours to Air Force Station, Hakimpet, and 5 Base Repair Depot at the Air Force Station, Sulur, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, today (March 4, 2019).
Air Marshal Raghunath Nambiar, PVSM AVSM VM & Bar took over as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Air Command, Indian Air Force on 01 March 2019. All the Principal Staff Officers (PSOs) of the Western Air Command along with spouses were present on the occasion. The Air Marshal is an alumnus of National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla.
Certain events are capable of refuting years of prevalent narrative. One such incidence took place on February 27, when an Indian Air Force’s MiG-21 Bison shot down the Pakistan Air Force’s F-16D (Block 50). With the unfortunate aircraft, the narrative of the supremacy of western aircraft over Russian aircraft came crashing down.
Leaving no window for uncertainty, IAF displayed the wreckage of the AIM-120 missile, only available with F-16 in the PAF.
The Army Chief, General Bipin Rawat, flew the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) during the ongoing Aero India at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, here today. The helicopter was piloted by Wg Cdr S John, HAL’s Test Pilot.
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.
Four days after the crash of Jaguar aircraft, Indian Air Force (IAF) lost an upgraded Mirage 2000 multi-role fighter during an acceptance sortie in Bengaluru killing its two pilot crew. "HAL regrets to inform that one upgraded Mirage 2000 aircraft crashed during the customer acceptance flight at HAL airport here today around 10.30 am resulting in loss of lives of two pilots Sqn Ldr Sameer Abrol and Sqn Ldr Siddartha Negi," Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) said in a statement.
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.
Indian Army Chief Gen. Bipin Rawat, spoke at length on various issues at the annual press conference before the Army Day (15 January). Here are some important excerpts
On helicopters
‘White Shipping’ information refers to the information on merchant shipping. This information is available primarily through the Automatic Identification System (AIS), which are equipment fitted on merchantmen with more than 300 Gross Registered Tonnage as mandated by the International Maritime Organisation. The AIS information from ships comprises name, MMSI number, position, course, speed, last port visited, destination etc.
Mrs. Nirmala Sitharaman, the Honourable Raksha Mantri, launched the Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) today, 22 Dec 18, at Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) Gurugram. Apart from representation by officials from the MoD, MEA, MHA, Ministry of Shipping and the NSCS, Ambassadors and Resident Defence Attaches of partner countries also participated in the event.
Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) on Wednesday successfully launched GSAT-7A, a communication satellite, from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) in Sriharikota by the three-stage fourth-generation launch vehicle Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F11).
Vice Admiral Ajit Kumar P, AVSM, VSM, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, commissioned IN LCU L55 into the Indian Navy today at Port Blair. IN LCU L55 is the fifth ship of Landing Craft Utility (LCU) Mk-IV class to be inducted into the Indian Navy. The ship has been indigenously designed and built by M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata. The Commissioning of IN LCU L55 is yet another manifestation of the country’s indigenous design and ship building capability.
There is a debate on why a woman should not be deployed in combat arms. This issue needs to be looked at from the operational imperatives and service conditions rather than looking at it from a gender biased approach. It is important to understand how young officers are groomed to be able to lead their men till death, an ethos that requires a close physical and mental connection with the men. This connects come by living and competing with the men that a woman may find difficult to do so.
In an effort to evaluate its own ‘Rapid Airlift Capability’ and to enhance crew currency in the role, Western Air Command of the IAF, airlifted a record 463 tonnes of load from its airbase at Chandigarh to airfields and drop zones in the Ladakh region, in a single wave.
On 17 December 2018, Experimental Test Pilots and Test Engineer from IAF’s premier testing establishment ASTE, flew India’s first military flight using blended bio-jet fuel on the An-32 transport aircraft.
Indian Navy's first flyaway Deep Sea Submarine Rescue System was formally inducted by Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of the Naval Staff, at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. Vice Admiral Girish Luthra, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command, former CNS/Cs-in-C as well as the senior management of the Original Equipment Manufacturer, M/s James Fisher and Sons Pvt. Ltd, UK were present during the induction ceremony. Aquisition of this capability is a significant and pioneering jump in the Indian Navy's capability in deep submarine rescue.
“Battle Scene in the Year 2020” was perhaps the first national workshop of its kind held in February 1998 at Delhi that invited experts from armed forces, paramilitary and defence R&D to discuss geopolitical scenarios and technological change and impact on military evolution. A book was published on the proceedings. The author of this article participated as a Scientist from DRDO and also contributed a few papers.
Naval cooperation between India and the United Kingdom is based on the long term strategic relationship between both countries. Both Navies have, over the years, undertaken bilateral activities such as training exchanges and technical cooperation. The Bilateral KONKAN exercise provides a platform for the two Navies to periodically exercise at sea and in harbour, so as to build interoperability and share best practices.
The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, presented Standards to 118 Helicopter Unit and Colours to Air Defence College in Guwahati, Assam today (November 29, 2018).
The advent and proliferation of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles(UAV) enabled commanders to “Look Over the Hill” and kindled “Precision” in firepower delivery. UAVs with their ability to carry out surveillance, acquire targets and direct/deliver firepower accurately heralded a new trend of “One Warhead One Target”. From this trend, the“Hunter Killer” UAV concept came into being.
Matthew Symonds argues that “War is still a contest of wills, but technology and geopolitical competition are changing its character”. In the 19th century, it was considered that the army that can mobilize fast and fire artillery guns would win decisive wars. Mobility changed the way wars were fought because military commanders could manoeuvre their forces to an advantageous position to surprise the enemy. In the 20th century, the focus was on attrition through superior firepower to achieve a decisive victory.
The 25th edition of SIMBEX, an acronym for “Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise” is scheduled from 10th to 21st November 2018 off Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. Bilateral cooperation between Singapore and India was first formalised when RSN ships began training with the Indian Navy in 1994. What began as a modest endeavour to exchange best practices in the field of Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), has in the recent years evolved into a complex high stakes exercise with both nations attaching premium in terms of time, complex advanced exercises and type of platforms involved.
Marking a major milestone towards capacity building and capability enhancement of the Indian Army, Smt Nirmala Sitharaman, Honorable Defence Minister, today dedicated the globally combat proven M777 A2 Ultra Light Howitzers, K-9 Vajra-Tracked Self Propelled Guns and 6x6 Filed Artillery Tractors to the service of the Nation.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi received today the crew of Strategic Strike Nuclear Submarine (SSBN) INS Arihant. The submarine recently returned from its first deterrence patrol, completing the establishment of the country’s survivable nuclear triad.
Stressing the significance of the successful deployment of INS Arihant for the completion of India’s nuclear triad, the Prime Minister congratulated the crew and all involved in the achievement which puts India among a handful of countries having the capability to design, construct and operate SSBNs.
The Indian Navy successfully concluded maiden trials of the Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) on 15 October 2018. The DSRV carried out under water mating with a bottomed submarine, at a depth of over 300 feet. On successful mating the DSRV opened its hatches and the submarine hatches and carried out transfer of personnel from the submarine to the DSRV. These sea trials have proven the newly inducted DSRV’s ability to undertake rescue operations from disabled submarines at sea and have provided the Indian Navy with a critical capability.
INS Rana which is currently on Operational Deployment to the North West Pacific region in the pursuance of India’s Act East Policy, arrived Jeju, Repubic of Korea to participate in the International Fleet Review (IFR) being held at from 08 – 15 Oct 18. During the 7-day visit, INS Rana, commanded by Capt Atul Deswal will have a series of confidence-building engagements with Republic of Korea Navy and other foreign Navies participating in the IFR.
“Situational Awareness” is the most important aspect in the ISR Cycle (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) for winning any war. A military that has good situational awareness will win the day, even if it has lesser No of tanks and aircraft. In modern times the best asset available for acquiring that “situational awareness” is the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).
Vice Admiral Ajendra Bahadur Singh, AVSM, VSM took over as the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Eastern Naval Command (ENC) from Vice Admiral Atul Kumar Jain, PVSM, AVSM, VSM at an impressive Ceremonial Parade held at the Naval Base here today, 01 March 2021. Vice Admiral AB Singh inspected the Ceremonial Guard and reviewed platoons of naval personnel drawn from various ships and establishments of the ENC. The ceremony was attended by all Flag Officers and Commanding Officers of ships, submarines and establishments.
Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria PVSM AVSM VM ADC, Chief of the Air Staff arrived at Colombo today on an invitation from Air Marshal Sudarshana Pathirana, Commander of Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF). SLAF is celebrating its 70th anniversary on 02 Mar 21 and presentation of the President's colours to two of its Units on 05 Mar 21.
Augmented Reality Head Mounted Display (ARHMD) System is conceived as a capability enhancement to Land Based Air Defence Weapon Systems such as IGLA shoulder fired Infra Red Homing Air Defence Missile System and ZU 23mm 2B AD Gun System which will provide the operator with radar and Thermal Imaging (TI) sight outputs as overlays.
Rear Admiral Atul Anand, VSM, has assumed the office of Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area on 22 Feb 2021. The formal handing/ taking over ceremony was held at INS Kunjali, where Rear Admiral Atul Anand was presented a guard of honour at a ceremonial parade.
Furthering the relationship between Indian Navy and IIT Delhi on research in underwater domain of Naval Electronic Systems, a Memorandum of Understanding has been signed. The relationship dates back to 1970s and key technologies for Navy in the field of underwater electronics have been developed by the Centre for Applied Research in Electronics (CARE) at IIT Delhi since then. The research carried out at IIT Delhi has played an important role in the technological advances made by the Indian Navy.
Indian Air Force operates a variety of aircraft fleets of foreign origin ranging from legacy MiG-21 Bison to the state-of-the-art Rafale aircraft. For increased self-reliance and to meet sustenance requirements in product support of IAF aircraft and systems, indigenisation of aircraft as well as systems spares and setting up of indigenous Repair and Overhaul (ROH) facilities for aggregates are key focus areas of IAF.
Lieutenant General Chandi Prasad Mohanty, PVSM, AVSM, SM, VSM assumed the appointment of the Vice Chief of the Army Staff on 01 February 2021.
Towards enhancing joint operational readiness, Indian Armed Forces conducted a large-scale conjoint military training exercise “KAVACH” along with “AMPHEX-21” in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal. The exercise was conducted under the aegis of Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC) with participation of Eastern Naval Command (ENC) and Army Southern Command (SC) involving assets of Army, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard.
The second edition of the biennial pan-India coastal defence exercise ‘Sea Vigil-21’ will be conducted on 12-13 January 2021. The exercise, inaugural edition of which was conducted in January 2019: will be undertaken along the entire 7516 km coastline and Exclusive Economic Zone of India and will involve all the 13 coastal States and Union Territories along with other maritime stakeholders, including the fishing and coastal communities.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) along with Indian Navy conducted the successful maiden test trial of ‘SAHAYAK-NG’ India’s first indigenously designed and developed Air Dropped Container from IL 38SD aircraft (Indian Navy) off the coast of Goa.
The trial was conducted by Indian Navy to enhance its operational logistics capabilities and provide critical engineering stores to ships which are deployed more than 2000 km from the coast. It reduces the requirement of ships to come close to the coast to collect spares and stores.
