India 

Defense News ,India :-  In a bold move to boost its combat capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to integrate a substantial fleet of advanced "Loyal Wingman" drones. This initiative aims to procure 200-250 unmanned, semi-autonomous aircraft that will work closely with the existing fleet of manned fighter jets.Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a leading aerospace company in India, is spearheading this ambitious project. HAL plans to develop two types of uncrewed combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) in collaboration with a private sector partner to speed up the process.The Loyal Wingman drones are not just support aircraft; they are highly adaptable systems that will enhance the IAF's mission capabilities. These drones can perform offensive and defensive roles, revolutionizing air combat scenarios.These UCAVs will do more than just engage in combat. They will have intelligence-gathering abilities, the potential to deploy advanced jamming equipment for electronic warfare, and serve as communication relays to extend the operational range of manned aircraft.Moreover, the drones will carry extra weapons and can engage targets autonomously or under the direct control of a manned fighter jet's pilot.The IAF is fully backing the Loyal Wingman program, recognizing its potential to change the game. Operational deployment of these UCAVs is expected between 2028 and 2030. Development is progressing rapidly, with HAL already testing a scaled-down prototype and aiming to have a full-scale version ready for advanced testing within two years.HAL is building upon previous concept designs while incorporating significant upgrades. Priority is given to engine development and other critical systems. HAL is investing its own funds, and the IAF is likely to provide additional resources to ensure swift progress.The Indian Air Force's Loyal Wingman initiative is a significant milestone in the country's air combat capabilities. By integrating these advanced UCAVs, the IAF will expand its reach and tactical options, giving India a powerful advantage in the region in the years to come.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-29 05:42:59

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) recently reached an important goal as the LCA Tejas Mk1A fighter jet successfully completed its first flight. This achievement was highlighted by HAL Chairman, Ananthakrishnan, who emphasized HAL's commitment to supporting the Indian Air Force (IAF).Ananthakrishnan stated, "This is a significant achievement for us today." He also mentioned HAL's plan to deliver another LCA trainer aircraft to the IAF by March 31. This delivery would join the four trainer versions already in use by the IAF.The Tejas Mk1A represents a notable improvement over the original LCA Tejas platform. With more than 40 enhancements, including advanced radar, better electronic warfare capabilities, and the ability to refuel mid-air, the Mk1A strengthens the Tejas' role as a powerful combat aircraft. The successful maiden flight marks the beginning of thorough testing to prepare for its integration into the IAF.Recent observations at HAL facilities indicate the production of five LCA-Tejas Trainer aircraft, with a sixth currently being built. HAL aims to manufacture a total of 18 LCA-Tejas Trainer Aircraft, showing their commitment to meeting production targets.The addition of the LCA Tejas Mk1A and the Tejas Trainer aircraft to the IAF fleet will enhance India's readiness for air combat. The advanced upgrades of the Mk1A provide Indian pilots with crucial advantages in the sky, while the trainer aircraft are vital for training the next generation of fighter pilots.HAL's dedication to delivering aircraft on time demonstrates the strength of India's growing indigenous defense industry.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-29 04:31:25

 India 

Defense News , India :-  Defence Minister Rajnath Singh spoke about making adjustments to the Agniveer recruitment plan if needed. He assured that the government is committed to securing the future of Agniveers, who are young recruits vital for the defense forces.Singh stressed the importance of youthful energy in the military and defended the scheme. He emphasized the enthusiasm and tech-savviness of young recruits and promised to ensure their future security while remaining open to necessary changes.Under the Agniveer scheme, recruits serve for four years, which includes six months of training and 3.5 years of deployment. After retirement, they can apply to continue serving in the armed forces.The scheme, also known as 'Agnipath', aims to recruit soldiers on contract for four years across the Army, Navy, and Air Force.In a push towards self-reliant India ('Aatmanirbhar Bharat'), the government aims to make India a hub for exporting engines. Singh revealed plans to collaborate with DRDO to develop indigenous engines and explore technology transfer options to boost engine production in India.Addressing concerns about border security, Singh reassured the public that India's borders are secure. He urged trust in the armed forces and assured citizens that the nation's borders remain safe from any threats.This summarization captures Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's statements regarding potential changes to the Agniveer recruitment scheme, efforts towards making India self-reliant in engine production, and reassurances about border security.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-29 04:08:42

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  Officials from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) said that they finished the first flight of their own-made light combat aircraft (LCA) Mark 1A fighter in Bengaluru on Thursday. The aircraft, named LA5033, took off smoothly from HAL's facility in Bengaluru for its 18-minute debut flight, which is an important step in developing this advanced fighter jet.HAL reaching this milestone shows India's commitment to making the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets efficiently. The successful flight happened as part of HAL's plan to design, develop, and produce the aircraft concurrently.This approach probably meant they carefully managed their supply chain to overcome challenges caused by global politics after they signed the contract in February 2021.Gp Capt K K Venugopal (Retd), HAL's Chief Test Pilot (Fixed Wing), expertly piloted the first flight. His experience was vital in making sure the test flight went smoothly.The Tejas Mk1A is much better than the Mk-1, with improved avionics, weapon systems, operational abilities, and radar technology. These improvements make the Tejas Mk1A crucial for the Indian Air Force (IAF) as they upgrade their fleet and strengthen national defense.The success of this first flight sets the stage for more testing and evaluation of the Tejas Mk1A to make sure it's ready to enhance the IAF's combat capabilities.During the first flight, the aircraft was in the air for 15 minutes, officials added.The Indian Air Force made a deal worth over Rs 48,000 crore with HAL to buy 83 LCA planes, and they have permission to buy 97 more for Rs 65,000 crore.HAL has already done ground tests, including slow taxi runs. The LCA Mark 1 aircraft joined the IAF in 2016, and two of their squadrons include 45 Squadron and 18 Squadron.Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari called the clearance of the 97 LCAs a big event. "We already had 40 LCAs of the original IOC and FOC version. So with this, in the long run, the strength of the Indian Air Force will grow to 220 LCA Mark 1As, which will equip almost ten squadrons of the Air Force," he said after the deal got cleared by the defense acquisition council.The IAF believes the 97 Light Combat Aircraft will be perfect for replacing the diminishing number of combat aircraft in the force as they retire the MiG-series planes.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 14:41:41

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  AvGarde Systems, a startup based in Assam, recently achieved a significant milestone by winning the prestigious Dream 4.0 contest. This victory has solidified their position as leaders in the domestic defense technology sector. The competition focused on finding innovative solutions to combat the threats posed by both individual drones and coordinated drone swarms. AvGarde's winning entry, called "DroneSafe," has garnered attention for its groundbreaking approach to addressing these challenges."DroneSafe" is not just another technology; it's a sophisticated, AI-powered Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) designed specifically to tackle the increasing threat of malicious drone and UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) activities. Its functionalities are cutting-edge and geared towards comprehensive threat mitigation.One of the key features of "DroneSafe" is its advanced detection capabilities. It utilizes state-of-the-art AI algorithms to accurately identify and locate drones and UAVs within its operational range. This ensures that potential threats are detected and addressed swiftly.Moreover, the system goes beyond mere detection by intelligently classifying the identified aerial objects. This classification enables a detailed assessment of the potential threats they may pose, allowing for a more targeted response.In the event of a recognized threat, "DroneSafe" initiates appropriate countermeasures to neutralize the rogue drone or UAV promptly. This ensures a swift and effective response to potential security breaches, mitigating risks effectively.Additionally, the system provides detailed reports on detected aerial threats, facilitating well-informed security decisions. This comprehensive approach to threat management sets "DroneSafe" apart from other solutions in the market.In addition to "DroneSafe," AvGarde Systems showcased two supplementary offerings during the Dream 4.0 contest:DIWAR: An all-band GPS jammer designed to disrupt the navigation systems of drones, preventing them from reaching their intended targets effectively.BirdsEye: An intelligent Bird Detection and Monitoring Radar (BDMR) with dual functionality. Initially developed to enhance aviation safety by issuing early warnings of bird activity near airports, BirdsEye can also detect and monitor drone threats efficiently.AvGarde Systems' performance in the Dream 4.0 contest is a testament to India's growing commitment to indigenous defense technology development. Their innovative solutions address modern security challenges head-on, spanning various sectors including drone detection and countermeasures, low-altitude airspace monitoring, critical infrastructure protection, unmanned traffic management, military, homeland and border security, multilayer perimeter intrusion detection, drone fleet operations, and airspace situational awareness.The key features of AvGarde Systems' solutions include:Smart Radar Sensor providing 360-degree coverage for continuous scanning and tracking.Exceptional range resolution and micro-target detection capabilities.AI-based classification of different targets and their parametric information for precise threat assessment.Soft-kill countermeasures integrating jammer and spoofer functionalities.Jamming capabilities targeting GNSS, WiFi, and telemetry bands.Instant alarm system via message, email, and sound alerts ensuring prompt response to threats.User-friendly dashboard offering real-time monitoring and reporting functionalities.Rugged design with flexible ground and vehicular mounting options for versatile deployment scenarios.Overall, AvGarde Systems' success in the Dream 4.0 contest highlights their innovative approach to addressing modern security challenges and underscores India's growing prowess in indigenous defense technology development.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 14:31:12

 India 

Defense News ,Israel :-  Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has set up its Indian branch, AeroSpace Services India (ASI), in New Delhi, marking a significant step towards India's self-reliance vision."IAI is thrilled to introduce ASI, marking a crucial milestone in India's journey towards self-reliance. The partnership between India and Israel has seen remarkable achievements. This collaboration will go down in history as we blend IAI's technology with India's talent in the Defense sector, paving the way for Atmanirbhar Bharat," stated Boaz Levy, President, and CEO of IAI.ASI, headquartered in New Delhi, employs a workforce predominantly composed of Indian nationals, striving to enhance efficiency and reduce costs by operating locally.ASI conducts transactions in Indian Rupees and holds the exclusive authorization as the Technical Representative for the entire Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system, extensively utilized by the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The system encompasses sophisticated radar technology, command and control infrastructure, mobile launchers, and advanced interceptors. Developed jointly by IAI and India's Defence Research & Development Organisation, MRSAM fortifies India's defense capabilities.The establishment of ASI follows IAI's strategic partnership with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, aimed at promoting collaborative research projects, training initiatives, and research consultancy, underscoring the commitment to technological advancements in early March.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 13:13:53

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  India's aerospace aspirations surged forward yesterday with the indigenous Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft, codenamed LA5033, completing low-speed and high-speed taxi trials (LSTT and HSTT).These trials mark a significant advancement toward the much-anticipated maiden flight, now slated for today pending final checks.Certifying authorities are expressing confidence in LA5033's preparedness, instilling optimism for today's potentially historic flight.Yesterday's taxi trials were conducted under the helm of veteran test pilot Group Captain K K Venugopal (Retd), part of the esteemed Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Civil Test Pilot (FW) group.The successful completion of taxi trials signifies a pivotal milestone in the evolution of the Tejas Mk1A, an upgraded and more formidable version of the Tejas light combat aircraft.The impending maiden flight stands as a monumental achievement for India's indigenous fighter jet program, showcasing the nation's burgeoning prowess in aerospace engineering.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 04:57:53

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  India is taking a big step forward with its "Made in India" initiative for electronic warfare. They want to make their own high-tech military planes for spying and jamming enemy communications.Western companies like L3Harris from America and Thales from France are interested in helping India with their project. India needs their expertise because making these spy and jamming planes is very complicated.The planes they're planning to use are Airbus A319, which are usually used for passengers. But India's Air Force and Defence Research and Development Laboratory want to change them into military planes for spying and electronic warfare.They want to use Indian technology as much as possible for this project because it's part of the "Made in India" vision.India's Defence Intelligence Agency, which is like the country's spy agency for the military, will be in charge of using these spy and jamming planes. They'll work closely with the Air Force.This project started in 2019 by the Centre for Airborne Systems. They wanted to fulfill the Air Force's needs for better intelligence gathering. The main aim is to sneak into enemy territory and quietly listen to their radio signals. This helps to find out where the enemy's radar and communication systems are and what weapons they have.These planes will also be able to jam enemy communications. This can give India's military an advantage in battle.One big goal of this project is to make a map of the enemy's electronic systems in real-time. This map will show where the enemy's electronic stuff is and what it's doing. The Centre for Airborne Systems is leading this project, working with the Defence Research and Development Laboratory and the Defence Electronics Applications Laboratory to make these spy and jamming planes just right for India's Air Force.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 04:39:12

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The Central government just announced that they're extending the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, in Nagaland. They've declared eight districts and 21 police stations as 'disturbed areas' for six months, starting from April 1 this year.The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) made this announcement. They said the AFSPA will be in force in Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, and Peren districts of Nagaland for the next six months.Also, the AFSPA will cover areas under 21 police stations in five districts of Nagaland. That's six police stations each in Zunheboto and Mokokchung districts, five police stations in Kohima, three police stations in Wokha, and one police station in Longleng district.These 21 police stations include Khuzama, Kohima North, Kohima South, Zubza, and Kezocha police stations in Kohima district. In Mokokchung district, there are Mangkolemba, Mokokchung-I, Longtho, Tuli, Longchem, and Anaki 'C' police stations. Then there's Yanglok police station in Longleng district. In Wokha district, it's Bhandari, Champang, and Ralan police stations. And in Zunheboto district, there are Ghatashi, Pughoboto, Satakha, Suruhuto, Zunheboto, and Aghunato police stations.The notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs states, "Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, and Peren districts in Nagaland, and areas in Nagaland falling under the jurisdiction of police stations mentioned above, are declared as 'disturbed areas' under Section 3 of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958. This is effective for six months from April 1, 2023, unless withdrawn earlier."The decision came after the Central Government reviewed the law and order situation in Nagaland.Previously, on October 1, 2023, the Central Government had declared eight districts and 21 Police Stations in five other districts of Nagaland as 'disturbed areas' for six months under the same Act.The AFSPA gives special powers to security forces. They can arrest someone without a warrant, enter or search premises without a warrant, and take some other actions.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 04:29:33

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  In a strong statement on the Israel-Palestine issue, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that whatever the rights and wrongs in the whole conflict between Israel and Palestine, the underlying fact is that the Palestinians have been denied their rights and homeland.He stated that what transpired on October 7 was a ‘terrorist attack’ but also acknowledged, in reference to the Israeli counteroffensive in Gaza, that every response must take into account something called international humanitarian law.Mr Jaishankar, who is on a visit to Malaysia, was interacting with the Indian community during an event.“How different pulls and pressures can be. On one hand, what happened on October 7 was terrorism. On the other hand, nobody would countenance the death of innocent civilians. Countries may be justified in their own minds in responding, but you cannot have a response that…every response must take into account something called international humanitarian law,” Jaishankar said.“The fact is whatever the rights and wrongs of the issue, there is underlying issue of the rights of the Palestinians and the fact that they have been denied their homeland,” he added.Hamas launched a horrific terror attack in Israel on October 7 killing more than 1200 people and holding more than 250 people as hostages, out of which over 100 are still in captivity.In response, Israel launched a strong counteroffensive in the Gaza Strip targeting the Hamas units. However, the operation has also resulted in civilian casualties. According to Gaza ministry, more than 32,000 people have been killed in Gaza including women and children.Notably, PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to condemn the horrific terror attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7.However, India has also continued with its weight behind the ‘two-state solution’ to the long-running Israel-Palestine conflict.Meanwhile, Mr Jaishankar is on an official visit to Malaysia, followed by his visits to Singapore and the Philippines.Earlier in the day, he called on Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and expressed admiration for his vision aimed at fostering stronger ties between India and Malaysia. He also emphasised that this vision will serve as a catalyst for crafting a more ambitious agenda to advance the relationship between the two nations.He also held a round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia and appreciated their growing interest in partnering with Indian industries.“A productive round-table meeting with CEOs in Malaysia. Glad to hear about growing interest in partnering with Indian industries. Encouraged them to join in India’s growth story. Discussed geopolitical developments that can provide more opportunities in business interactions,” the EAM posted on X.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 04:25:07

 India 

Defense News ,India-China :-   India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced that India and China talked about solving problems along their border. They want to withdraw their troops from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Western Sector. The MEA made this statement on Thursday.India and China had their 29th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) in Beijing on Wednesday.The MEA said that the Indian delegation was led by the Joint Secretary of MEA. The Chinese side was led by the Director General of the Boundary & Oceanic Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.The MEA said, "The 29th meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs (WMCC) was held on 27 March 2024 in Beijing. Joint Secretary (East Asia) from the Ministry of External Affairs led the Indian delegation. The Chinese delegation was led by Director General of the Boundary & Oceanic Department of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs."Both sides talked deeply about withdrawing their troops and fixing issues along the LAC in the Western Sector of India-China border areas.After the meeting, both countries agreed to keep talking through diplomatic and military channels. They want to keep peace along the border areas according to their agreements.In the last meeting (28th), held in November last year, they reviewed the situation along the LAC in the Western Sector. They had a good discussion on fixing problems and withdrawing troops in Eastern Ladakh.Both countries agreed to keep peace along the border areas and avoid any problems.India rejected China's claims about Arunachal Pradesh. India said that Arunachal Pradesh is a part of India and will continue to be. India also said that people in Arunachal Pradesh will benefit from India's development programs.The Chinese defence ministry repeated its claim over Arunachal Pradesh, saying it is a part of China's territory. They don't recognize Arunachal Pradesh as a part of India.The Chinese military's comments came after India objected to China's comments about Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Arunachal Pradesh.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 04:14:29

 India 

India :-  The Delhi High Court, on Wednesday, declined to provide interim relief to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case linked to the excise policy 'scam'. The court stated that the issue at hand raises significant concerns that cannot be hastily decided without hearing the agency's stance.Justice Swarana Kanta Sharma issued a notice on the petition filed by the Aam Aadmi Party leader challenging his arrest and subsequent remand by the ED. The court directed the agency to submit its response, including on interim relief, before April 2, and scheduled the matter for final disposal on April 3, without granting any adjournments.Senior advocate Abhishek Singhvi, representing Kejriwal, argued for relief, asserting that the arrest was based on unverified statements of co-accused individuals whom he labeled as "Jaichands and Trojan horses" for their betrayal. He emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating that democracy, the basic structure, and a level playing field were all implicated. Singhvi alleged that the timing of Kejriwal's arrest, just before the Lok Sabha elections, was aimed at politically incapacitating him and his party.However, the court rejected Singhvi's assertion that no response was necessary from the respondent, stating, "This court deems it appropriate to issue notice of the main writ petition as well as application for grant of interim relief, returnable on 03.04.2024."Furthermore, the court ordered the Directorate of Enforcement to ensure that responses to the main petition and the application for interim release be filed by April 2, 2024.Kejriwal, arrested on March 21 and remanded to ED custody till March 28, sought immediate release on the grounds of the illegality of his arrest. Additional Solicitor General S V Raju, representing the ED, requested time to formulate their response, citing the recent service of the "bulky" petition.During the hearing, Singhvi reiterated that the coercive action against Kejriwal was based on uncorroborated statements of co-accused-turned-approvers. He emphasized the need for prompt adjudication of the case due to several glaring issues.Justice Sharma highlighted the necessity of allowing the ED an opportunity to counter the petitioner's claims, especially when both the main petition and the interim application sought similar relief. The court emphasized that crucial additional material gathered during the petitioner's custodial interrogation may influence the case's outcome.The court underscored the importance of addressing the issues raised in the main petition before deciding on interim relief. It clarified that any release from custody would amount to interim bail, and its writ jurisdiction was not a substitute for a bail application.Singhvi argued against the arrest's timing, stating it was against the principles of a level playing field for elections. He criticized the arrest as unnecessary under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).Singhvi further accused the ED of suppressing exculpatory statements and employing delay tactics. He stressed that democracy, the basic structure, and a level playing field were at stake.Regarding vicarious liability, Singhvi contended that Kejriwal should not be held accountable for any alleged PMLA violations by his party.On April 22, the trial court extended Kejriwal's remand to ED custody until March 28 for detailed interrogation. The case revolves around alleged corruption and money laundering in the formulation and execution of the Delhi government's excise policy for 2021-22, subsequently scrapped.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 03:59:42

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The US State Department has spoken up again, saying India needs to have fair and transparent legal procedures. Matthew Miller, a spokesperson for the State Department, mentioned this when asked about India calling in Gloria Berbena, the US Acting Deputy Chief of Mission, over remarks on the arrest of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.Miller said they are closely watching these events, including the arrest of Arvind Kejriwal. He mentioned this in response to questions about India's summoning of Gloria Berbena. The meeting at India's foreign ministry went on for about 40 minutes, during which India strongly objected to the US comments about Kejriwal's arrest.Miller also commented on the freezing of bank accounts belonging to the Congress party. He acknowledged the allegations made by the Congress party about tax authorities freezing their accounts, which could make it difficult for them to campaign effectively in upcoming elections. He stressed the importance of fair, transparent, and timely legal processes for all these matters.Regarding private diplomatic discussions, Miller declined to provide details but reiterated the US stance on fair legal processes. He emphasized that nobody should oppose fair and transparent legal procedures.Arvind Kejriwal was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) last week in connection with an alleged liquor policy scam. He's the third leader from the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) to be taken into custody, following Manish Sisodia and Sanjay Singh.The US State Department, on Tuesday, expressed concern about Kejriwal's arrest and urged India to ensure a fair and timely legal process for him. India responded by warning of "unhealthy precedents," emphasizing that countries should respect each other's sovereignty and internal affairs, especially among fellow democracies. India defended its legal system, stating that it's based on an independent judiciary committed to fair and timely outcomes.These remarks from the US came shortly after Germany's Foreign Office emphasized Kejriwal's right to a fair trial. This led to India summoning the German envoy, condemning their statement as interference in internal matters.The liquor excise policy in Delhi was intended to reform the liquor business but was scrapped after an investigation into alleged irregularities. The Enforcement Directorate believes that bribe money from the policy funded AAP's election campaigns and has labeled Kejriwal a "conspirator" in the case.Kejriwal's arrest, just before the 2024 Lok Sabha election, has sparked protests from the opposition.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-28 03:47:56

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  India on Wednesday “strongly” objected to a US State Department spokesperson’s remarks “about certain legal proceedings in India”, a reference to the arrest by the Enforcement Directorate of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents.” “India’s legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted,” the spokesperson added.On Monday, a US State Department spokesperson said the US was closely following reports of Kejriwal’s arrest and encouraged a fair legal process.Arvind Kejriwal US envoy summonProtests have broken out across Delhi over the arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal. (Express Photo)India on Wednesday “strongly” objected to a US State Department spokesperson’s remarks “about certain legal proceedings in India”, a reference to the arrest by the Enforcement Directorate of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.Ministry of External Affairs official spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, “In diplomacy, states are expected to be respectful of the sovereignty and internal affairs of others. This responsibility is even more so in case of fellow democracies. It could otherwise end up setting unhealthy precedents.”“India’s legal processes are based on an independent judiciary which is committed to objective and timely outcomes. Casting aspersions on that is unwarranted,” the spokesperson added.On Monday, a US State Department spokesperson said the US was closely following reports of Kejriwal’s arrest and encouraged a fair legal process.Sources said that a senior US diplomat was called to South Block and that the Indian government’s response was conveyed.This is the second time in the last two weeks that India has hit back at the US. On March 15, Delhi said the Citizenship (Amendment) Act was an “internal matter” and that it “supports human rights”.“Citizenship (Amendment) Act is an “internal matter”, the Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson said responding to the criticism from Washington. “As regards the US State Department’s statement on the implementation of CAA, we are of the view that it is misplaced, misinformed and unwarranted,” he added.Reuters reported on Tuesday that the US State Department spokesperson had said in response to an emailed query about Kejriwal’s case, “We encourage a fair, transparent, and timely legal process for Chief Minister Kejriwal.”On March 23, Germany said it had “taken note” of the arrest of Kejriwal and hoped the standards relating to the independence of judiciary and basic democratic principles would be applied.Responding to this, India summoned the German deputy chief of mission in New Delhi on March 23 and lodged a strong protest against the German foreign ministry’s remarks.This was the third face-off between the German foreign ministry and the Ministry of External Affairs in the last three years over Indian judicial actions against Opposition and civil society leaders.German deputy envoy Georg Enzweiler was summoned by Indian officials and told that the German foreign ministry’s remarks on Kejriwal’s arrest were an interference in the country’s judicial process and that any “biased assumptions” were “most unwarranted”, an official said.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-27 16:19:27

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari on Wednesday said as nations increasingly rely on space-based assets for building strategic advantage, "militarisation and weaponisation" of space have become the "inevitable reality". He said this in his address at a seminar on "Aerospace Power in Future Conflicts" at Subroto Park here."Through the annals of human history, the skies have often been regarded as realms of wonder and exploration, where dreams take flight and boundaries dissolve into the vast blue expanse," he said.Yet, beneath this calmness lies a domain "fraught with competition where contest for aerial superiority" has shaped the destiny of many nations and decided the outcome of many wars, the chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF) said."As we navigate these uncharted skies, air power being a key component of national power, would undoubtedly play a pivotal role and also serve as a symbol of national strength, a tool for peace and cooperation," he said.Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari said over the last few decades, understanding of the military operational environment has "significantly transformed" from primarily a force, time and space-driven battlefield to an arrangement of systems capable of simultaneous and independent operations across multiple domains."We all need to acknowledge that the wars of the future will be fought differently," he said.Future conflicts will be characterised by a blend of simultaneous application of kinetic and non-kinetic forces, high-levels of battle space transparency, multi-domain operations, a high-degree of precision, enhanced lethality, a compressed sensor-to-shooter cycle, and of course, all under intense media scrutiny, he also said.In his address on Wednesday, Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari added that space has also emerged as a "critical domain for conduct of military operations", wherein seamless communication, navigation and surveillance capabilities would enhance survivability of modern military forces."As nations increasingly rely on space-based assets for building strategic advantage, militarisation and weaponisation of space has become an inevitable reality," he said.Air and space control along with denial capabilities "will prove to be decisive" for furtherance of all operations. For that to happen, "we would need to gain and maintain not only information superiority but also decision superiority", he said."Emerging technologies like CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) sensors, smart decision support matrices, manned-unmanned teaming and robust and redundant C2 networks are critical capabilities that need to be developed," the IAF chief added.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-27 15:38:44