India 

Defense News IndiaIn a significant move towards enhancing India's defence capabilities and technology absorption, the induction of 'Akashteer Command and Control Systems' has commenced in the Indian Army's Corps of Army Air Defence.The deployment of Akashteer begins with the flagging off of the first batch of Control Centres from BEL Ghaziabad on April 4, 2024.According to defence officials, the project developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative is poised to significantly enhance the operational efficiency and integration of the Army's air defence mechanisms. The Akashteer Project is a cutting-edge initiative designed to automate Air Defence Control and Reporting processes by digitising the entire process.It is highlighted that the Indian Army has declared the year 2024 as the "Year of Tech Absorption' and undertaking various initiatives to induct niche technology and systems in its inventory. The induction of Akashteer Control Centres is one of the major milestones achieved by the Indian Army on its Path to Transformation that will meet the current and futuristic requirements of complex air defence operations."By integrating radar and communication systems at all levels into a unified network, Akashteer aims to deliver an unprecedented level of situational awareness and control. This will enable swift engagement of hostile targets, significantly reduce the risk of fratricide, and ensure the safety of friendly aircraft in contested airspace," defence officials said.As per the officials, a noteworthy aspect of Akashteer is its emphasis on mobility and resilience. The system's Control Centres, designed to be vehicle-based and mobile, can maintain operational capabilities even in challenging communication environments.The system will facilitate the achievement of complete automation of air defence operations and significantly enhance the air defence posture of India.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 15:51:53

 India 

Defense News IndiaIndia has expressed concern over the recent attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Syria, calling for restraint and adherence to international law. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, emphasized India's distress regarding the escalating tensions in West Asia and urged all parties to refrain from actions contrary to international norms.The attack, which occurred on April 1, 2024, resulted in the tragic loss of seven officials from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), including senior commanders Mohammed Reza Zahedi and Mohammad Hadi Haji Rahimi. The assault on Iran's consulate in Damascus has been condemned by Iranian authorities, who have vowed a robust response.Iran has accused Israel of orchestrating the attack, alleging the use of F-35 warplanes. The IRGC confirmed the deaths of its officials and blamed Israel for the aggression. Among the casualties was Zahedi, a prominent commander responsible for various operations, including smuggling weapons into Lebanon.In response to Iran's allegations, Israel has refrained from direct comments on the incident. However, Rear Adm. Daniel Hagari, a military spokesperson, disputed Iran's claims, stating that the targeted building was a military structure disguised as a civilian facility.The Iranian ambassador in Damascus, Hossein Akbari, denounced the assault as a violation of international laws and pledged a decisive response. Meanwhile, the Iranian Embassy in Lebanon condemned the attack, labeling it a breach of diplomatic norms and international conventions.The incident has raised concerns about the potential for further violence and instability in the region. India, along with the international community, has called for restraint and adherence to established norms of conduct. As tensions escalate, diplomatic efforts are underway to de-escalate the situation and prevent further hostilities.The attack on Iranian diplomatic premises in Syria underscores the volatile nature of the region and the complex geopolitical dynamics at play. With Iran vowing retaliation and Israel denying involvement, the situation remains tense, raising fears of further escalation and instability in West Asia.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 15:19:25

 India 

Defense News IndiaAn Apache helicopter belonging to the Indian Air Force had to make an emergency landing in Ladakh due to challenging terrain and high altitude conditions, the IAF confirmed on Thursday.The incident occurred on Wednesday during an operational training mission. Fortunately, both pilots aboard the helicopter are safe, the IAF stated. However, the aircraft sustained damage during the landing process.The IAF has initiated a Court of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the incident. The pilots have been safely recovered to the nearest airbase.The IAF issued a brief statement saying, "An IAF Apache helicopter carried out a precautionary landing during an operational training sortie in Ladakh on April 3. During the process of this landing, it sustained damage due to undulating terrain and high altitude."This incident underscores the challenges faced by military aircraft operating in the region, known for its rugged landscape and extreme weather conditions.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 15:15:22

 India 

Defense News IndiaChina has stirred up geopolitical tensions by renaming 30 locations in the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh, a region it claims as its own. In response, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has urged the Indian government to consider a reciprocal move by renaming 60 geographical locations in areas administered by China, particularly in Tibetan regions.Sarma made this statement during a press conference in Guwahati, stressing the need for a firm response to China's unilateral actions. He emphasized the principle of reciprocity in international relations, advocating for a balanced approach.Asserting that India should respond in kind to China's attempts to alter geographical names in disputed territories, Sarma refrained from delving into specifics, leaving it to the Indian government to decide on policy matters.India has firmly rejected China's renaming efforts in Arunachal Pradesh, maintaining that such actions hold no legal or diplomatic weight and do not change the established status of the region as part of India. India's stance reaffirms its sovereignty over Arunachal Pradesh.China's move to rename places in Arunachal Pradesh is viewed as part of its ongoing territorial assertiveness in the region, where border disputes between the two nations have long been contentious. Many see the renaming exercise as a tactic aimed at bolstering China's territorial claims and challenging India's sovereignty.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:53:09

 India 

Defense News India & U.STwo senior US Treasury officials are currently in India, urging the government to maintain the implementation of an oil price cap designed to limit profits to Russia. Acting Assistant Secretary for Terrorist Financing Anna Morris and PDO Assistant Secretary for Economic Policy Eric Van Nostrand are on a visit to New Delhi and Mumbai from April 2-5 for meetings with both government and private sector representatives. The aim is to discuss bilateral issues, including cooperation on anti-money laundering and countering the financing of terrorism, as well as ensuring the continued implementation of the price cap. This cap was introduced by G7 nations, the European Union, and Australia following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. It prohibits the use of Western maritime services for tankers transporting Russian oil priced at or above USD 60 per barrel.In 2023, Russia became India’s top oil supplier, and given India’s strong economic and defense ties with Russia, it has refrained from openly criticizing Moscow over its conflict with Ukraine.Morris and Nostrand are set to speak on the price cap and engage in a Q&A session hosted by the Ananta Aspen Centre in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a statement, they emphasized in a blog post last month that the second phase of the price cap is achieving its goals of restricting Russia’s oil profits and maintaining energy market stability.The decline in the price at which Russia sells its oil since the second phase began reflects not only global oil price trends but also a significant widening in the discount Russia earns relative to other global oil suppliers. This increase in the discount on Russian oil has been linked to the Coalition’s increased enforcement activities reflected in the second phase of the price cap, indicating its effectiveness.The price cap is playing a role in ensuring a steady supply of energy to global consumers and businesses while providing key importers like India with more leverage in negotiations. Additionally, it is reducing Putin’s profits from selling oil due to key sanctions enforcement measures.In conclusion, the visit of these US Treasury officials underscores the importance of maintaining the oil price cap to achieve the dual objectives of limiting Russian profits and promoting stability in global energy markets.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 14:44:49

 India 

Defense NewsIndia & RussiaNational Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday met with his Russian counterpart Nikolay Patrushev and discussed measures to strengthen counter-terror cooperation. A special focus will be on the Afg-Pak and Eurasian region in the backdrop of the recent terror strike in the Moscow region that killed 144 people.The two NSAs, who met at the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation in Kazakhstan, discussed countering terrorism both bilaterally and in multilateral formats, and emphasised on regular exchange of information about terrorist and extremist elements, sources told ET.Doval strongly condemned the "barbaric" terrorist attack at the Crocus City Hall in Moscow on March 22 and expressed condolences to the families who lost their loved ones. Doval conveyed India's solidarity with the government and the people of the Russian Federation and discussed addressing the threat from terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 06:22:36

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaIndia successfully conducted a nighttime test launch of the Agni-Prime ballistic missile, showcasing its enhanced strategic capabilities. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), in collaboration with the elite strategic forces command, the test took place from Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha.The Agni-Prime, a two-stage solid-propellant missile, boasts a strike range between 1,000 and 2,000 km. This successful test, the first of its kind, validates the missile's reliability and accuracy, potentially leading to its induction into India's armed forces.Prior to the launch, India issued a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) for the area, indicating a planned test within a specific timeframe. Although the DRDO did not officially confirm the launch, its occurrence was corroborated by local sources.Replacing older Agni-I and Agni-II missiles, the Agni-Prime signifies a significant advancement in India's missile technology. Equipped with dual redundant navigation and guidance systems, including advanced ring laser gyro-based inertial navigation and micro inertial navigation systems, it offers enhanced precision and reliability.With its canisterized launcher and transportability by road and rail, the Agni-Prime ensures mobility and flexibility in deployment, further bolstering India's strategic deterrence capabilities. This successful test underscores India's commitment to developing indigenous defence technologies and strengthening its national security posture.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-04 06:20:23

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaIn a recent address at the Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar shed light on significant historical exchanges between India's founding leaders regarding international diplomacy and security challenges.Jaishankar highlighted a pivotal discussion between India's first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru, and his deputy, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, regarding India's aspirations for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Contrary to expectations, Nehru advocated for China's inclusion in the UNSC before India, despite Patel's warnings about potential threats from China. Patel expressed concerns about facing simultaneous challenges from both Pakistan and China, a situation unprecedented in India's history. However, Nehru dismissed these concerns and prioritized China's UNSC seat over India's.Moreover, Jaishankar referenced Sardar Patel's opposition to taking the Kashmir issue to the United Nations. Patel believed in dealing with the matter internally, considering the UN's potential biases. Nonetheless, India decided to raise the Kashmir issue at the UN in 1948, resulting in subsequent complexities and pressures.Jaishankar emphasized India's ongoing efforts to address historical challenges inherited by successive governments over the past decade. Despite facing complexities in boundary disputes and territorial issues, the government remains steadfast in asserting India's boundaries while acknowledging the need for continued efforts to resolve inherited challenges.The revelations made by Jaishankar offer insights into India's historical diplomatic decisions and the enduring challenges it faces on the international stage. These reflections underscore the complexities of navigating international relations while safeguarding national interests and territorial integrity.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 16:26:14

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaThe United States has made it clear that it strongly opposes China's attempts to assert claims over Indian territory, particularly in Arunachal Pradesh. This opposition was reiterated by a representative of the US State Department, who emphasized that any unilateral efforts to advance territorial claims, whether through military or civilian means, across the Line of Actual Control are not acceptable.This stance from the US aligns with its previous statements, affirming Arunachal Pradesh as Indian territory. The State Department's position was reaffirmed in response to China's recent actions, wherein it renamed 11 places in Arunachal Pradesh using Chinese characters, Tibetan, and pinyin, following rules set by China's cabinet, the State Council.India, on its part, has promptly rejected China's attempt to rename these places within Arunachal Pradesh. The Ministry of External Affairs has voiced its outright refusal to accept such actions by China, maintaining India's sovereignty over the region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 16:05:44

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaMaritime security agencies of the country conducted a two-day exercise off the Lakshadweep Islands on April 1-2, aimed at testing coastal security mechanisms against potential threats from the sea. Known as Sagar Kavach 01/24, the exercise involved assets from the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, Marine Police, fisheries, customs, and other security agencies.Officials stated that the exercise focused on validating the effectiveness of coastal security measures in dealing with asymmetric threats originating from the sea. The event showcased enhanced preparedness, response capabilities, surveillance, and coordination among the various stakeholders involved in coastal security.During the exercise, scenarios simulating potential threats were enacted to evaluate the response of maritime security agencies. This included assessing their ability to detect, intercept, and neutralize threats to ensure the safety and security of coastal areas.The exercise emphasized the importance of coordination and collaboration among different agencies to safeguard maritime interests and protect coastal communities from potential threats. Officials highlighted the significance of such exercises in maintaining vigilance and readiness to address evolving security challenges in the maritime domain.Overall, Sagar Kavach 01/24 served as a platform for maritime security agencies to assess and enhance their capabilities in securing the nation's coastal borders and responding effectively to emerging threats.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 16:01:26

 India 

Defense NewsIndia & MaldivesMaldives President Mohamed Muizzu has said that Indian military personnel manning the second aviation platform would be withdrawn "within the current month" and reiterated that the entire process would be completed by May 10, a media report said here on Wednesday. Muizzu's statement comes three weeks after the first batch of approximately 25 Indian military personnel stationed in the Maldives manning a helicopter gifted by India departed from the island nation after handing over the operations of the chopper to an Indian civilian crew as agreed ahead of the March 10 deadline.Eighty-eight Indian military personnel were operating two helicopters and a Dornier aircraft which were providing humanitarian and medical evacuation services in this archipelagic nation.Following a high-level meeting in New Delhi on February 2 between the two sides, India agreed to replace its military personnel operating the three aviation platforms in the Maldives by May 10. The first batch left the island nation well before March 10.State-owned Public Service Media reported that Muizzu made the fresh statement during a public meeting. He also reiterated his commitment to preserving Maldives' independence, emphasising that his government is dedicated to fulfilling this promise.The President elaborated that, in line with agreements reached between parties, the withdrawal process of Indian military personnel is already underway.He said that the troops stationed on the second platform will be withdrawn within the current month, while those on the third platform will be withdrawn by May 10, psmnews.mv reported.Muizzu, seen as a pro-China leader, has repeatedly affirmed that no Indian military personnel, not even those in civilian clothing, would be present inside his country after May 10.Last year, Muizzu rode to power on an anti-India stance and within hours of taking oath, demanded India to remove its personnel from the strategically located island nation in the Indian Ocean.Since assuming office as the President in November, Muizzu has travelled to Beijing in January and met China's top leadership to cement the Male-Beijing relationship.Muizzu's government has also signed a defence agreement with the Chinese military under which the People's Liberation Army will assist the Maldivian security and defence forces.Last week, the Maldives Industrial Development Free Zone under the State Trading Organisation and China Harbour Engineering Company Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding to establish an Agriculture Economic Zone in the Maldives by reclaiming land from Uthuru Thila Falhu for sustainable agriculture purposes.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 15:42:04

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaIndian Air Force (IAF) recently conducted trial runs of emergency landings for fighter jets and helicopters on a newly constructed 3.5-kilometer emergency landing facility in Anantnag, South Kashmir. The exercise, conducted during the night, aimed to assess the facility's readiness and effectiveness in handling various emergency situations.The emergency landing facility, built at a cost of Rs 119 crore, is strategically positioned on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway at Bijbehara. It is intended to support operations during wartime, natural disasters, and other emergencies, including relief material air drops and transportation of stranded individuals. The completion of this facility marks a significant milestone in enhancing the region's emergency response capabilities.Construction on the project began in 2020 and concluded in late 2023 under a joint initiative by the IAF and the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. It falls under a program aimed at establishing Emergency Landing Facilities (ELFs) at various locations across the country.Located along the busy Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, the emergency landing strip features essential amenities tailored for fighter aircraft. It includes designated parking slots for swift deployment, an air traffic control (ATC) tower for managing flights, and two entry gates on the highway for easy access and egress of aircraft.During the trial runs, extensive security measures were implemented, including deployment of security forces, radars, and CCTV cameras. Traffic on the national highway was diverted to alternative routes between Wanpoh to Sangam to facilitate the exercises.Various aircraft, including Sukhoi fighter jets and Chinook and Mi-17 helicopters, participated in the trial runs. The exercises demonstrated the precision and capability of these aircraft in utilizing the emergency landing facility, highlighting their readiness for emergencies.Authorities suspended all traffic on the highway during the exercises to ensure safety. Additional security personnel were deployed to prevent unauthorized access to the landing facility, emphasizing the importance of safety measures during critical operations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 15:24:46

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaThe Indian Air Force (IAF) and Ministry of Defence (MoD) are under scrutiny following their acquisition of Bharath Panther Crash Fire Tenders (CFTs) from a Noida-based MSME firm. Critics online are questioning the authenticity of the purchase, pointing out striking similarities between the Bharath Panther and the Rosenbauer Panther 6x6 CFT manufactured by Rosenbauer International, an Austrian company.The controversy stems from the undeniable parallels between the two vehicles. Both the Bharath Panther and the Rosenbauer Panther share a 6x6 configuration and reportedly utilize the same Volvo Penta D-16 engine. This has led to concerns about whether the Bharath Panther is genuinely an indigenous product or merely a rebadged import.The IAF contends that the contract with the Noida-based firm ensured swift delivery of the CFTs within 14 months, despite ongoing global supply chain disruptions. This rapid procurement process is seen as a success for Indian defence manufacturing.However, critics online highlight a recurring issue within India's defence sector: the potential for rebranding foreign products as domestic creations. Such practices undermine the "Make in India" initiative and raise doubts about the transparency of procurement processes.To address these concerns, the IAF and MoD could release detailed specifications of the Bharath Panther, particularly focusing on its engine and chassis origins. Additionally, fostering genuine technological innovation within the Indian defence industry is crucial to achieving greater self-reliance and avoiding future accusations of rebadging.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 15:18:15

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaIn a recent encounter in central India, at least 13 Maoist insurgents lost their lives during a clash with security forces, as confirmed by the police on Wednesday. The skirmish occurred in a remote forest area within Chhattisgarh state's Bijapur district on Tuesday.According to local police chief P. Sundarraj, the confrontation between security personnel and the guerrillas persisted for approximately 14 hours. Sundarraj mentioned that authorities managed to seize a considerable arsenal including rifles, machine guns, grenade launchers, and ammunition from the insurgents.As of now, the identities of the deceased Maoists are yet to be determined. However, Sundarraj noted that among the casualties, three were women.This incident marks a part of the ongoing conflict between government forces and Maoist rebels in the region. In total, this year alone, over 50 Maoists have been killed, with 46 casualties reported in Chhattisgarh and four in Maharashtra state, according to police records.India has maintained a significant deployment of security personnel to tackle the Maoist insurgency within the "Red Corridor," an area spanning central, southern, and eastern states. Despite its historical significance dating back to 1967, the size of the insurgent-dominated region has been gradually shrinking.The Maoist insurgents, also known as Naxalites, claim to fight for the rights of the rural poor. However, the Indian government has undertaken extensive measures including substantial investments in infrastructure development in remote regions. As a result, the insurgency's reach has reportedly been contained to 45 districts in 2023, down from 96 in 2010.The annual count of rebel casualties has significantly decreased over the past decade, according to official figures released by the government.With India's general election scheduled to commence on April 19, the recent clash underscores the ongoing security challenges faced by the country in certain regions plagued by insurgency.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 15:09:24

 India 

Defense NewsIndiaIndia's External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, asserted today that India's bid for permanent membership in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is gaining momentum. Speaking at an interaction in Rajkot, Gujarat, Jaishankar emphasized the need for concerted efforts to secure this position.Jaishankar highlighted the current composition of the UNSC, dominated by five permanent members since its inception, despite a significant increase in the number of independent countries globally. He noted the growing global sentiment favoring India's inclusion as a permanent member.Acknowledging the challenges ahead, Jaishankar emphasized the necessity of diligent efforts. He mentioned the collaborative proposal by India, Japan, Germany, and Egypt to the UN, indicating a step forward in the process.Regarding the sensitive case of Ariha Shah, a baby girl separated from her Indian parents in Germany, Jaishankar assured that the matter is being closely monitored. Expressing dissatisfaction with the situation, he affirmed India's commitment to ensuring the child's upbringing in accordance with her cultural heritage.Reflecting on India's democratic prowess, Jaishankar underscored the country's resilience amid the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining a commendable growth rate. He highlighted India's potential as a global economic powerhouse, supported by its technological capabilities and advancements in social sectors.Jaishankar reiterated the world's expectations of India's role in addressing global challenges, emphasizing the need for India to leverage its position as the fifth-largest economy with a vast population to contribute positively to the international community.

Read More → Posted on 2024-04-03 07:57:57