India 

Defense News ,India :- India's Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) is about to connect its second 700 MW Pressurised Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR) to the power grid, according to an official on Wednesday. This comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Gujarat on Thursday, where he will dedicate two 700 MW PHWRs at the Kakrapar Atomic Power Station (KAPS) to the nation.The KAPS-3 reactor has already been synchronized with the grid, and KAPS-4 is expected to be connected soon, as per an anonymous official. These two reactors will provide power to states such as Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Goa, and the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.The first 700 MW PHWR (KAPS-3), which began commercial operations in July last year, has generated 3,182 million units up to January 2024, operating at a capacity factor of 88%, as stated by NPCIL.Prime Minister Modi will dedicate these two units, constructed at a cost of over Rs. 22,500 crore, as part of NPCIL's initiative to set up 16 PHWRs in the country. Additionally, two more 700 MW PHWRs are under construction at the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station (RAPS), along with the existing units at RAPS.Currently, NPCIL operates 23 reactors with a total capacity of 7,480 MW, and eight units with a capacity of 6,800 MW are under construction. Furthermore, 10 additional reactors with a total capacity of 7,000 MW are in the pre-project stage, anticipated to be completed progressively by 2031-32, according to NPCIL's projections. These include units at Rajasthan Atomic Power Project, Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project, and Gorakhpur Haryana Anu Vidyut Pariyojana.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 14:29:37

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Trade volumes between India and Greece have grown from approximately USD 690 million in the financial year 2021 to USD 1,950 million in 2023, said Sanjeev Agrawal, President, PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry, in a press statement issued on Wednesday.Going ahead, the trade numbers are expected to touch USD 5 billion by 2030, said Agrawal, at a time when Greece Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is in India.India-Greece trade surged in post-pandemic years and it more than doubled in the last two years, said the industry body PHDCCI.India and Greece have strategic advantages in the realm of global interconnectedness. Greece serves as an excellent entry point for India to access Europe, while India acts as a gateway for Europe to tap into the Asian market.The post-pandemic years have witnessed the resilience of supply chains, leading to a significant increase in trade."There are significant complementarities in trade between the two countries, with India exporting primary, semi-finished, and finished goods, and importing mainly primary products, especially energy commodities like mineral fuels and related products," said Sanjeev Agrawal.The main export items from India to Greece are aluminium and articles thereof, organic chemicals, electrical machinery and equipment and parts thereof, fish and crustaceans, iron and steel, articles of apparel and clothing accessories, plastic and articles thereof, paper and paperboard; other made up textile articles, and coffee, tea, mate and spices, said Agrawal.The main import items from Greece are mineral fuels, mineral oils and products, aluminium and articles thereof, pulp of wood or of other fibrous cellulosic material, edible fruit and nuts, iron and steel, copper and articles thereof, salt, miscellaneous chemical products, cotton, organic chemicals, he said."It is highly appreciable that Indian investments are attracting attention from numerous Greek companies, with various Greek conglomerates expressing interest in engaging in business activities in India. This includes exporting olive oil, olives, wine, cheese, fruits, fruit juice, consumer goods, construction materials, and aluminum products to India," said Sanjeev Agrawal.Significant investments in Greece have been made by several Indian conglomerates, and it is projected that these investments will serve as a catalyst for further growth in the coming year. The expanding areas of cooperation between the two countries are expected to play a pivotal role in driving this progress, he said.Going ahead, the future holds a promising outlook for the trade trajectory, as the strengthening of supply chains and the advancement of bilateral economic relations between the two countries are set to propel its growth. Anticipated to double every five years, the trade trajectory will be fueled by the growing people-to-people connections and the reinforced bilateral economic ties, said Agrawal.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 14:19:34

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Zen Technologies, a company that provides training solutions for the defense sector, has recently won a big order worth ₹93 crores from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). This order includes 18% GST and is for Tactical Training Simulators. It's a significant win for Zen Technologies and shows that they are an important player in the training sector for the Indian defense.This is not the first time Zen Technologies has succeeded in the Tactical Training area. They have previously won contracts for anti-drone systems and tank training systems from the MoD. The company is trusted by India's armed forces because of its ability to create advanced training solutions.Zen Technologies has been in the business for more than three decades, providing innovative training solutions to the nation. They are known globally for offering high-quality training systems to defense and security forces. Their products include drones, anti-drone solutions, and various training simulators for land, air, and sea.The company is proud of its ability to design, develop, and manufacture these solutions independently. This aligns with the MoD's goal of strengthening India's defense by promoting domestic innovation. Zen Technologies has a strong track record in building training systems and ensuring combat readiness, demonstrating their commitment to excellence.Beyond providing top-notch solutions, Zen Technologies also offers seamless services to various defense and security forces, such as the armed forces, police, and para-military units. This dedication has earned them the trust and appreciation of the MoD and other stakeholders.With this new order, Zen Technologies is set for more growth and success in the defense training sector. Their focus on innovation, self-reliance, and excellent service positions them as a crucial contributor to India's strategic progress and the well-being of its armed forces.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 13:49:53

 India 

Defense News ,India China :- India and China held the 21st round Corps Commander level meeting on Monday at the Chushul-Moldo border to defuse tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement."The 21st round of India-China Corps Commander Level Meeting was held at Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on 19th February 2024. The discussions built on the previous rounds, seeking complete disengagement in the remaining areas along the LAC in Eastern Ladakh as an essential basis for restoration of peace and tranquillity in the India-China border areas," the official statement read."The two sides have agreed to maintain communication on the way ahead through the relevant military and diplomatic mechanisms. They also committed to maintain peace and tranquility on the ground in the border areas in the interim," statement added.Earlier, held the 20th round of Corps Commander-level talks at Chushul as part of the ongoing efforts for overall disengagement and de-escalation to resolve the stand-off in eastern Ladakh.The meeting was held at the Chushul-Moldo border meeting point on the Indian side on October 9-10.Earlier last month, India, while reiterating its long-standing position on China, said the two countries continue to engage on the diplomatic and military sides for some sort of a resolution."India's position on China is very well known. It is a relationship, which is not normal, but we have had dialogues both on the military side and on the diplomatic side in October and November. And the idea is that we engage so that we can have some sort of resolution," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Official Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during the weekly media briefing on Thursday.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 08:23:01

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India is poised to make a significant leap in its defense capabilities with the upcoming launch of its first private spy satellite, TSAT-1A. This pioneering satellite, developed by TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), a subsidiary of the renowned TATA Group, is scheduled for launch aboard a SpaceX rocket in April, marking a historic milestone in India's space and defense sector.TSAT-1A, a sophisticated Low Earth Orbit (LEO) spy satellite, is equipped with cutting-edge technology designed to provide the Indian defense forces with critical, high-resolution imagery and intelligence. This satellite will play a crucial role in monitoring strategic locations, enabling a deeper understanding of military movements, infrastructure developments, and potential threats along India's borders.Crafted to meet military-grade specifications, TSAT-1A was meticulously assembled and is currently in Florida for its final preparations before launch. This satellite signifies a major stride towards self-reliance in intelligence gathering, reducing India's dependence on foreign entities for sensitive information.With an impressive spatial resolution of 0.5 meters, TSAT-1A promises to deliver sharp, detailed imagery, enhancing India's surveillance capabilities. TASL, with its capacity to produce up to 25 satellites annually, stands ready to meet the growing demands of the Indian armed forces for bespoke payloads and advanced satellite technology.The successful deployment of TSAT-1A will mark the end of India's reliance on foreign sources for precise coordinates and intelligence, granting the country full control over its surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. A ground control center, under construction in Bengaluru in collaboration with Latin-American firm Satellogic, will oversee the satellite's operations, ensuring the efficient processing and analysis of the data collected.This satellite is not just a tool for national security but also a symbol of India's technological prowess and ambition in the space and defense arena. By sharing the imagery with friendly nations, India aims to foster stronger ties and collaborative security efforts.The inclusion of TSAT-1A will bolster India's radar imaging satellite fleet, expanding it to a total of 16 satellites and significantly enhancing the country's surveillance capabilities. This development is viewed with concern by neighboring Pakistan, given the historical tensions and conflicts between the two countries.Furthermore, TSAT-1A's capabilities extend to monitoring the Line of Actual Control with China, providing India with a strategic advantage in safeguarding its borders and maintaining peace.The collaboration between TASL and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) marks a new era of public-private partnership in India's space exploration and satellite technology development. TASL's selection by ISRO after a rigorous evaluation process underscores the company's excellence in satellite manufacturing, opening doors to future opportunities in both domestic and international markets.This venture not only demonstrates India's growing independence in intelligence and surveillance but also highlights the potential for further advancements in space technology and defense capabilities. With TSAT-1A, India is set to advance its position as a major player in global defense and space exploration, signaling a new chapter in the country's technological and strategic development.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 08:19:41

 India 

Defense News ,India ,Bangladesh :- Bangladesh’s far right political party Bangladesh Islami Front has completely rejected a recent ‘India Out’ social media campaign in Bangladesh. The campaign has sharpened after Sheikh Hasina, who is seen to be close to India, won a record fourth term in the recently concluded national elections. S U M Abdus Samad, the Secretary General of the Bangladesh Islami Front on Tuesday hit out at the online campaign especially saying it was driven by hard-line elements who spread hate and misinformation.The Islami front is a small independent party which had put up 37 candidates in the recently concluded polls. In an interview to ANI during his visit to New Delhi, Abdus Samad said cordial ties are crucial for both the neighbouring countries as he highlighted the increased connectivity in recent years. “There is misinformation there since the beginning that India brought a lot of stuff from Bangladesh in 1971 and also did brutal acts. This kind of misinformation is there.So it is a must for India to show that we are not against Bangladesh, but we are friends”, said Samad. In Bangladesh, an “India Out” campaign has sparked off on social media. Led by medical professional Pinaki Bhattacharya, who describes himself as an exiled blogger, online activist and human rights defender, the campaign called for the boycott of Indian goods following the results of the elections. Bhattacharya’s social media followers, which number about 53000 on X and 6000 on Instagram, claim that the movement is fuelled by the Indian government’s unilateral support for Sheikh Hasina’s administration in Bangladesh. The bloggers allege that the elections in Bangladesh were neither free nor fair.Bloggers running this campaign have been using three hashtags: #Indiaout #BoycottIndia and #BoycottIndianproducts. A report by Digital Forensics and Research and Analytics Centre reveals that the trend of boycotts on social media does not appear natural. “A closer examination of this trend reveals that the group that began this campaign has always been engaged in anti-India activities in Bangladesh. Several users among them, are either indirectly associated with the political parties of Bangladesh (mainly BNP), or claim to be their supporters”, said the DFRAC report.D-FRAC is a non-partisan and independent media organisation which focuses on fact-checking and identifying hate speech. S U M Abdus Samad reiterated that this was just misinformation being spread, and that Bangladesh has been witnessing rapid growth and development for several years under Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Abdus Samad praised Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and said, “Since the Sheikh Hasina government came into power, there has been a growth in Bangladesh’s development. In 10-20 years, the development in Dhaka, Chittagong which we see now – if one knows about the suffering before – seeing it presently, it won’t be recognizable now”.The Secretary General of the Bangladesh Islami Front also stressed on the continuous improvement in people to people contact and connectivity between India and Bangladesh. “There is now train connectivity from Akhaura… Akhaura- Brahmanbaria. Trade is also happening from river fronts to Assam and Tripura. The connectivity has increased. Items are also being exported and imported to Chittagong port. There is connectivity in Ramgarh as well”, said S U M Abdus Samad. When asked about terrorism and religious fundamentalism in South Asia and Pakistan’s role, Samad emphasized the need for an establishment in Islamabad that does not let terrorism flourish. “Pakistan has no impact in South Asia as such.But there should be a good government there to curb terrorism. There should be a government in Pakistan, which does not let terrorism flourish in South Asia”. He condemned terrorism and religious fundamentalism and said, “Terrorism is against Islam. Killing an innocent has no place in Islam. We are against terrorism. Someone who is a terrorist, cannot be a good Muslim”. The message from the Islami Front leader is clear, the so called ‘India-Out’ campaign appears is confined to a small group online with support of Pro Pakistan political parties like the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist party and smaller radical parties. The campaign is unlikely to affect India-Bangladesh relations which is on solid ground

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 07:21:04

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development for India's transportation and railway infrastructure, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the country's longest transportation tunnel as part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project. This historic event, held on a Tuesday, also marked the launch of the first electrified trains in the Kashmir valley, heralding a new era of connectivity and progress for the region.The inauguration was conducted through a virtual event by Prime Minister Modi from Jammu, where he flagged off two electrified trains. One train journeyed from Srinagar to Sangaldan in the downward direction, and the other from Sangaldan to Srinagar in the upward direction, with over 100 school children and their teachers onboard as special guests for this inaugural trip, symbolizing the bright future this project promises for the coming generations.During this event, the Prime Minister also officially opened the 48.1-km-long Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangaldan section, which features the T-50 tunnel. Stretching over 12.77 km, the T-50 tunnel is not only the longest in this section but also represents the most challenging engineering feat among the 11 tunnels that comprise the Banihal-Khari-Sumber-Sangadal corridor. The operationalization of this tunnel is a culmination of years of meticulous planning and hard work. The initial survey work for the tunnel began around 1996, but it wasn't until December 2013 that the tender was finally awarded, leading to about a decade of efforts to bring this project to fruition. The Northern Railway officials highlighted that with the opening of this section, trains can now traverse from Baramulla to Sangaldan via Banihal, thus extending the rail network significantly.Safety has been a paramount concern in the design and construction of the T-50 tunnel. In addition to the main tunnel, an escape tunnel runs parallel to it, ensuring a safe evacuation route for passengers in emergencies. This escape tunnel is connected to the main tunnel at intervals of every 375 meters, allowing for quick and efficient rescue operations. Moreover, comprehensive fire safety measures have been implemented, including water pipes along both sides of the tunnel, capable of dousing flames efficiently in the event of a fire.The extension of the railway line to Sangaldan and the electrification of the trains from Baramulla to Banihal, now extended to Sangaldan, mark significant milestones. This development not only enhances the connectivity within the Kashmir valley but also moves the country a step closer to realizing the dream of a seamless railway link from the northern reaches of Kashmir to the southern tip of India in Kanyakumari.The project's journey began with the operationalization of the Quazigund-Baramulla section in 2009 by the then Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. This was followed by the opening of the Banihal-Quazigund section in July 2013, which included the T-80 Pir Panjal tunnel spanning 11.2 km. As the USBRL project progresses towards completion, passengers will soon witness the marvels of modern engineering, including the world's highest railway bridge over the Chenab and the Anji bridge, Indian Railways' first cable-stayed bridge. Spanning a total length of 272 km and costing ₹41,119 crore, the USBRL project stands as a testament to India's commitment to enhancing its infrastructure and connectivity, bringing together diverse regions of the country and fostering growth and development.The inauguration of the longest transportation tunnel and the launch of electrified trains in Kashmir by Prime Minister Modi is not just a leap forward in the nation's railway expansion but also a symbol of technological advancement and unity, promising a brighter, more connected future for India.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 06:59:11

 India 

Defense News ,India ,Iran :- On the sidelines of the Milan 2024 Exercise, Indian Navy Deputy Chief Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti interacted with Commodore Jalil Mughadam, Deputy Commander of the Iranian Navy's Southern Fleet and discussed ways to enhance cooperation between the navies of the two nations.The two sides also exchanged views on the contemporary maritime security environment and challenges. The 12th edition of multilateral naval exercise Milan 2024 commenced in Visakhapatnam on February 19 with the arrival of warships and one maritime patrol aircraft from FFC.In a post on X, Indian Navy spokesperson stated, "VAdm Tarun Sobti, #DCNS, interacted with Cmde Jalil Mughadam, Dy Commander of IRIN Southern Fleet, on the sidelines of #MILAN2024. Views exchanged on contemporary #MaritimeSecurity environment & challenges. Avenues to enhance cooperation b/n both navies also discussed."For Milan 2024, nearly 20 ships from Indian Navy, including aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, and nearly 50 aircraft including MiG29K, LCA, Tejas and P8I are participating in the exercise.The Indian Navy welcomed the naval ships of Russia, Australia, Seychelles, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Vietnam and the US.The many naval ships that arrived in Visakhapatnam included: Marshal Shaposhnikov (BPK 543), a Udaloy Class Cruiser of the Russian Navy; Varyag (011), a Slava Class Cruiser of the Russian Navy; PS Zoroaster of Seychelles Coast Guard; IRIS Dena, a Moudge Class Frigate of the Iranian Navy; BNS Dhaleshwari, a Castle Class Missile Corvette of Bangladesh Navy and KD Lekir (FSG 26), a Kasturi Class Corvette of the Royal Malaysian Navy.Earlier, HMAS Warramunga, an Anzac-class frigate of the Royal Australian Navy, arrived in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.Corvette 20 of the Vietnam People's Navy and USS Halsey (DDG-97) of the United States Navy had also docked in Visakhapatnam to participate in the MILAN exercise.During the Harbour Phase, a Table Top Exercise (TTX) was conducted at Maritime Warfare Centre in Visakhapatnam. 48 officers from 14 navies, including the Indian Navy, collaborated in crafting coordinated plans for convoy protection and disaster relief.Taking to X, Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command stated, "Harbour Phase highlights at #MILAN2024! As part of the multinational naval exercise, a Table Top Exercise (TTX) was conducted at #Maritime Warfare Centre, #Visakhapatnam today. 48 officers from 14 navies, including the #IndianNavy, collaborated in crafting coordinated plans for convoy protection and disaster relief. Thought-provoking discussions led to robust operational plans, fostering camaraderie and preparedness."During the Harbour Phase, International City Parade rehearsal at RK Beach in Vishakhapatnam also included a scintillating operational display by the Indian Navy ships and aircraft.In a post on X, Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command stated, "International City Parade rehearsal at #RKBeach #Visakhapatnam also included a scintillating operational display by the #IndianNavy ships and aircraft. #AirDemo The display left the audience awestruck with its precision and elan."The marching contingents of our sister services and foreign partners also lent grandeur to the event As we share some moments of the event here, we welcome you to join us live on # IndianNavy's official You Tube channel and Facebook page for the live streaming of final parade on 22 February 2024!," it added.In the press release, the Indian Navy stated, "During the sea phase from 24 to 27 Feb 2024, participating Navies will conduct advanced Air Defence, Anti-Submarine and Anti-Surface Warfare drills. Gunnery shoots on aerial and surface targets, manoeuvres and underway replenishment would also be conducted.""MILAN 2024 aims to strengthen regional cooperation and maritime security, foster interoperability and understanding between participating navies and provide a platform for sharing best practices and expertise," it added.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-21 06:53:13

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant operation, the Berhampur Police and Military Intelligence Unit in Odisha seized a whopping 488 meters of fake army combat uniforms from a local garment shop. This joint effort sheds light on a critical security issue and uncovers an black market trying to exploit the new army uniform design.Acting on a tip from the Military Intelligence Unit in Gopalpur, the police conducted a raid on the shop and confiscated the counterfeit uniforms. These replicas imitated the new digital pattern design introduced by the army in January 2022, replacing the old uniform. Unauthorized sales of these fake uniforms pose a serious security risk.The concern arises from the potential misuse of these uniforms. With their close resemblance to the official design, they could be used for impersonation, infiltration, or other illegal activities, posing a threat to national security. To address this, the army has secured Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for the design, giving them exclusive rights and the ability to take legal action against unauthorized sellers.The investigation is ongoing, and the shop owner disclosed that they obtained the uniforms from Kolkata, who, in turn, sourced them from Ludhiana. This trail is guiding investigators towards the origin of the manufacturing and the individuals involved in this unlawful operation.This incident emphasizes the importance of staying vigilant and collaborating to protect sensitive military equipment and designs. The successful operation highlights the effectiveness of joint efforts between law enforcement and intelligence agencies in combating such illicit market activities.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 16:01:15

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Defense News ,India :- In a significant diplomatic move, Rear Admiral David Proctor, Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy, received a warm welcome during his visit to Delhi. Admiral Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, greeted him at the South Block, fostering camaraderie between the naval leaders.A poignant moment unfolded as Admiral Proctor laid a wreath at the National War Memorial, honoring the sacrifices of fallen soldiers. This gesture underscored the shared values and mutual respect between the two nations.India and New Zealand have a longstanding relationship since the establishment of bilateral ties in 1952. Their friendly relations are deeply rooted in the Commonwealth, parliamentary democracy, and the English language, as highlighted by the Ministry of External Affairs. New Zealand's commitment to strengthening ties with India was evident in its "Opening Doors to India" policy, first outlined in 2011 and reiterated in 2015.Recent discussions between the two nations, as mentioned by New Zealand's High Commissioner to India, David Pines, have focused on addressing trade barriers and boosting economic cooperation. The bilateral trade volume reached USD 1 billion in 2022-23, making India the 11th largest trading partner for New Zealand.Pines emphasized the need for increased collaboration between business groups from both countries to identify trade opportunities. Despite the existing trade volume, both governments believe there is untapped potential for growth. Pines stated, "Trade in goods between the two countries is still pretty low," and highlighted the current efforts to facilitate regular dialogue between business communities.Efforts have been made to address specific trade barriers, such as regulations affecting the export of logs from New Zealand to India. Pines acknowledged India's concerns about pests and emphasized the importance of ensuring compliance. Similarly, steps have been taken to allow the export of Indian mangoes to New Zealand, showcasing a commitment to resolving trade issues.Rear Admiral David Proctor's visit not only strengthened the diplomatic ties between India and New Zealand but also marked a concerted effort to enhance economic collaboration. The ongoing discussions and initiatives aim to unlock the full potential of the bilateral relationship, with a focus on removing trade barriers and fostering mutual prosperity.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 15:45:17

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Milan 2024, a naval exercise hosted by India every two years, has caught attention for its emphasis on underwater search and rescue capabilities. The standout moment was the Indian Navy's live demonstration of its Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV), showcasing India's dedication to regional maritime safety.The DSRV, a remarkable feat of Indian engineering, can operate at depths of up to 650 meters. Its primary function is to rescue personnel from disabled submarines, playing a crucial role in ensuring the safety of lives at sea.The live display of the DSRV at MILAN 2024 symbolized regional cooperation and shared responsibility for maritime safety. Participating foreign navies witnessed the DSRV's capabilities firsthand, fostering understanding and trust in collaborative operations.MILAN 2024 goes beyond just showcasing technology. It serves as a platform for navies from the Indo-Pacific region to exchange best practices, enhance interoperability, and build trust. This collaborative spirit is crucial for effectively addressing maritime challenges, from natural disasters to humanitarian crises.Emphasizing advanced underwater search and rescue capabilities, MILAN 2024 sends a clear message: India is committed to taking a lead role in ensuring a safe and secure maritime environment for the region. This focus on collaboration sets the stage for a future where navies can seamlessly work together to safeguard lives and interests at sea.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 15:31:08

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Defense News ,India :- The External Affairs Minister on Tuesday reaffirmed defence and trade cooperation with Russia and said that many Western countries used to supply arms to Pakistan and not India, adding that the trend has changed in the past decade."In terms of inventory, yes, because many Western countries have long preferred to supply Pakistan and not India. But that has changed in the past ten or fifteen years with the USA, for example, and our new purchases have diversified with the USA, Russia, France and Israel as the main suppliers," he said.In an interview with a leading German economic daily, Handelsblatt during his visit to the Munich Security Conference in Germany, EAM Jaishankar highlighted the infrastructural imbalance of supply chains in the world and said that the world's economic model is unstable and unfair."The world has created an economic model that is unstable and unfair. In the name of globalization, we have seen over-concentration in the world. Production has been shifted to a limited number of countries. The economies of many countries have been hollowed out," EAM Jaishankar said."Many countries depend on others for very basic things - and we notice this immediately when we have disruptions like COVID, like the climate or the problems in the Red Sea at the moment. The problem is so profound that it's not so easy to say: "Let's do these three or four things - and things will be fine again," he added.He said further, "The global order is currently facing multiple kinds of stress. Due to shocks like Covid, the war in Ukraine, the war in Gaza, the NATO withdrawal from Afghanistan and disruptive climate events that are happening more and more frequently. That is our challenge. However, it is not just about strengthening the international order, but also about changing this order. Who shapes it and on what basis? The international order must evolve further."India and Russia have maintained a robust strategic partnership, rooted in historical ties and shared interests, over decades. Central to this relationship is extensive defence cooperation, with Russia serving as a major supplier of military equipment to India and both nations engaging in joint military exercises, co-development of advanced military platforms, and technology transfers, according to the Russian news agency.More recently, energy collaboration has become another strong pillar of bilateral ties. The Kudankulam nuclear power plant (KNPP), India's largest, is being built in Tamil Nadu with technical assistance provided by Moscow.Russia's expertise in nuclear technology has been instrumental in advancing India's capabilities, fostering a mutually beneficial partnership, according to RT. The two countries have pledged to deepen their nuclear cooperation, recognizing its strategic importance for energy security and technological advancement.Over the past 18 months, India has emerged as one of the largest importers of Russian oil--a stand New Delhi has had to defend on many occasions from accusations by Western media, and even some political leaders, of funding 'Russia's war' with Ukraine.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 15:27:50

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The Indian Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) looking for a 155mm/52 calibre Towed Gun System (TGS), which has sparked a debate on whether such artillery is suitable for modern warfare. The focus seems to be on the Israeli ATHOS system, but concerns are raised about the vulnerability of towed guns to evolving threats.Retired Major General Atanu K. Pattanaik points out that the RFI's weight limit of 15 tonnes favors ATHOS over its indigenous counterpart, the ATAGS, raising concerns about potential bias towards the Israeli system.Pattanaik highlights the vulnerability of towed guns in the face of evolving threats, especially after the lessons learned from the Ukraine war. Towed guns are increasingly susceptible to counter-battery fire due to faster target acquisition and engagement by advanced long-range weaponry. Their limited mobility makes them vulnerable within a reduced reaction time of 4 minutes, questioning their continued relevance.Emphasizing the need for vigilance, both in the military and media, Pattanaik warns that relying on outdated technologies like towed guns could hinder India's long-term security goals.The RFI marks a critical juncture for the Indian Army to reassess its artillery needs, prioritize solutions that align with modern warfare realities, and uphold strategic autonomy aspirations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 15:20:58

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a major development, the Defence Ministry has given the green light to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), for a massive upgrade of the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet. This ambitious Rs 60,000 crore project aims to enhance the aircraft's capabilities by integrating new radars, mission control systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and weapon systems.Private Sector Plays Key RoleHAL Chairman and Managing Director CB Ananthakrishnan emphasized that the private sector would play a significant role in the project, with HAL taking the lead in the upgrade process. The project is divided into two phases, focusing initially on installing new avionics and radars, followed by enhancements to the flight control systems."The upgrade will see significant private sector participation, with HAL as the lead integrator," said CMD of HAL CB Ananthakrishnan.Indigenous Upgrades for Self-RelianceThis project underscores India's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing, as it involves replacing several Russian-origin components with indigenous systems. Key upgrades include the installation of a new indigenous radar system, which will enhance target detection and engagement capabilities. Additionally, a new electronic warfare system will be added to counter incoming threats and disrupt enemy communication.Better Targeting CapabilitiesThe integration of indigenous infrared search and track systems is expected to significantly improve air-to-air and air-to-ground targeting capabilities. The Indian Air Force is set to commence work on integrating these new systems within the year, with approximately 90 fighters slated for upgrade in the initial phase, all to be conducted in India.Global Market PotentialWith over 600 Su-27/30 type aircraft manufactured globally, countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Algeria present a substantial export market for these upgrades. India's initial order of 272 Su-30MKI jets from Russia forms the backbone of the Air Force's fighter fleet, with an additional order for 12 jets cleared last year.Defence Acquisition Council ApprovalThe Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the indigenous upgrade of Su-30 MKI Aircraft by state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).Future Upgrades and Russia's InvolvementThe Su-30MKI fleet has undergone continuous upgrades for over a decade, integrating new weapons and sensors. Indigenous additions to Su-30MKI weaponry include BrahMos and Astra air-to-air missiles, with further integration anticipated involving new generation anti-radiation missiles (NGARMs).New Engine for Su-30MKIRussia has consistently recommended India consider the AL-41F-1S engine for the Sukhoi-30MKI fleet. The AL-41F-1S engine boasts a thrust of 142.2 kN, a significant improvement compared to the current AL-31FP engines with 122.6 kN of thrust.The approval of the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet upgrade represents a major stride in enhancing India's defense capabilities and achieving self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The successful execution of this project is expected to bolster India's standing in the global defense market while ensuring the operational readiness of the Air Force's fighter fleet. This comprehensive upgrade project not only signifies technological advancement but also underscores India's commitment to being a key player in the defense sector.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 15:07:00

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India has initiated a large naval exercise called 'Milan 2024' in Visakhapatnam, featuring approximately 50 navies. The exercise is taking place amidst global concerns about the worsening security situation in the Red Sea. The participating nations, including the US, Japan, Australia, France, Bangladesh, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, aim to strengthen maritime cooperation.The nine-day event kicked off with the arrival of 15 warships and one maritime patrol aircraft from friendly foreign countries. The Indian Navy is actively participating with nearly 20 ships, including aircraft carriers Vikrant and Vikramaditya, along with around 50 aircraft, such as MiG 29K, Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, and P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare aircraft.Milan, a biennial multinational naval exercise that began in 1995, focuses on enhancing collaboration among like-minded nations. The exercise has evolved under the Andaman and Nicobar Command, and this 12th edition demonstrates its continued importance.The harbor phase, from February 19 to 23, includes various activities like the opening ceremony, international city parade, international maritime seminar, Milan Tech Expo, and table-top exercises. The sea phase, scheduled from February 24 to 27, involves complex drills and maneuvers, including advanced air defense, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare drills.Officials highlight that Milan 2024 aims to strengthen regional cooperation, foster interoperability, and enhance maritime security. The exercise emphasizes India's growing strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region, providing a platform for nations to build partnerships, exchange ideas, and share best practices. The previous edition of Milan took place in 2022 in Visakhapatnam.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 07:26:58