India 

Defense News ,India :- India has increased its support for development projects in the Maldives, even as tensions have risen due to the new Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's request for Indian troops to leave the country.Amidst the competition for influence in the Indo-Pacific region, both India and China are vying for the favor of the Maldives. Historically close to India, the Maldives has recently shifted towards China under Muizzu's leadership. Despite strained relations, New Delhi has spent nearly 771 crore rupees, almost double its budgeted 400 crores, on Maldivian projects in the current fiscal year ending in March.Muizzu took office in October, pledging to end the country's "India First" policy and remove nearly 80 Indian troops. Despite this, the development cooperation between India and the Maldives has continued at an accelerated pace, driven by increased allocations from India this fiscal year.An official, speaking anonymously, mentioned that the development projects, including a ? 50-crore initiative for roads and bridges in Male, and two airports worth nearly ? 13 crores each in the distant islands, are progressing swiftly.Muizzu recently visited Beijing, but a visit to India is yet to occur. Both countries have agreed to replace the troops by May. India emphasizes its assistance in humanitarian aid and medical evacuations using the provided aircraft.The Union budget documents from February 1 reveal that India's spending in the Maldives has increased from ? 183 crores in fiscal 2022-23 to ? 771 crores this year, making it the second-highest after Bhutan, where India spent ? 2,400 crores.Despite India's continued support, the Maldives has strengthened its ties with Beijing, allowing a Chinese research vessel to dock at its port. This move raises concerns for New Delhi, as information gathered by such ships could be used by China's military in the region.An official emphasized that the presence of extra-regional powers impacting the security of the Indian Ocean region, particularly China, is a red line for India.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 07:19:22

 India 

Defense news ,India :- Tata Group's companies, Air India and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), are investing Rs 2,300 crore in Karnataka for multiple projects that will create jobs for approximately 1,650 individuals. The announcement was made on Monday in the presence of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Large and Medium Industries Minister M B Patil during an MoU signing ceremony.Air India is set to establish a Maintenance Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility, aiming to make Bengaluru the aviation hub in South India. The project's investment is approximately Rs 1,300 crore, providing direct employment opportunities for 1,200 people.A study by the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) suggests that creating this hub will increase passenger traffic, leading to direct and indirect job opportunities for 25,000 to 26,000 people, benefiting business activity, support staff, and tourism in Karnataka.TASL, on the other hand, plans to invest Rs 1,030 crore in three projects: Passenger to Freighter Aircraft Conversion facility (Rs 420 crore), a gun manufacturing facility (Rs 310 crore), and Aerospace and Defence Research and Development in Karnataka (Rs 300 crore). These projects are expected to create direct employment for 450 people.Furthermore, TASL aims to source over 50% of its 13,000 parts from Karnataka for its gun manufacturing facility, potentially generating jobs for 2,000-3,000 people across 300-350 small and medium enterprises. 

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-20 07:07:04

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Assam Rifles Finds Weapons and War Supplies in Mizoram and ManipurAssam Rifles, along with Mizoram and Manipur Police, discovered weapons and war-related items in Mizoram and Manipur, as reported on Monday.The search operation took place in the Chaltlang Sairang road area near Ruat Ruati Enterprise on February 15, based on specific intelligence. The team found a significant amount of war supplies during the operation.The recovered items included 165 boxes of Detonator (No 8), each containing 100 units, and 993 centimeters of safety fuze, which were being loaded into a vehicle. The recovered war-related items were handed over to the Bawngkawn Police Station for legal procedures.In addition, the joint team arrested a person identified as Lalrunmawia, aged 33, in connection with the operation.In another joint operation, Assam Rifles and Manipur Police successfully retrieved weapons and war supplies from the general area of Koubru ridge in Kangpokpi district to ensure the safety of the region.The recovered items included one SLR with a magazine, one 9mm Pistol, two no. 36 Hand Grenades, and 10 live rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition. Assam Rifles remains committed to maintaining peace, security, and protecting the lives of innocent civilians.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 15:54:41

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi took over as the Vice Chief of Army Staff on Monday, succeeding Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar. Previously, Lt Gen Dwivedi held the position of Northern Army Commander.Lt Gen Kumar has now been appointed as the General-Officer-Commanding of the Northern Command based in Udhampur.Lt Gen Dwivedi is likely to become the next Army Chief when General Manoj Pande retires on May 31. In his first official duty, Lt Gen Dwivedi paid tribute to the fallen heroes at the National War Memorial and inspected a guard of honour before assuming his new role.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 15:50:29

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India is on the brink of testing a submarine-launched cruise missile (SLCM), showcasing a crucial advancement in its naval capabilities and strategic posture. This move holds significance in the context of India's relations with Pakistan and its growing competition with China in the Indian Ocean. The upcoming test, though preannounced, may contribute to easing tensions with Pakistan.Scheduled for March, the test involves a 500-kilometer range SLCM developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO). This missile is expected to be integrated into indigenously manufactured conventional submarines (SSK) as part of Project-75 India, also known as the Kalvari-class SSK. India plans to have a total of nine Kalvari-class submarines, contributing to its naval modernization.Project-75 India's SLCM comes in two variants: the Land Attack Cruise Missile (LACM) and the Anti-Ship Cruise Missile (ASCM). Both variants incorporate advanced technologies like thrust vector control, in-flight wing deployment, and in-flight engine start. Following thorough testing and induction into the Indian military, there are plans to offer the SLCM to friendly nations.The capabilities of the SLCM are comparable to the Nirbhay ground-launched cruise missile (GLCM), featuring a 450-kilogram payload and an 800-1,000-kilometer range. The Nirbhay, equipped with a solid fuel booster motor and a turbojet engine, can carry various warheads and boasts an inertial navigation system (INS)/GPS receiver for guidance.India has also explored the submarine-launched version of its BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. The BrahMos SLCM was successfully launched from a submerged platform, demonstrating its versatility and effectiveness. The integration of subsonic Nirbhay and supersonic BrahMos missiles provides commanders with diverse options during potential conflicts, optimizing resources based on the nature of the target.In addition to land-based missile systems, the introduction of SLCMs enhances India's sea-based capabilities. This diversification is crucial for maintaining precision long-range strike capabilities, with SLCMs potentially serving as the first salvo in a conflict, targeting rear facilities such as command and control posts, logistics hubs, airfields, and communication nodes.India's missile arsenal plays a vital role in supporting its nuclear deterrent against regional rivals Pakistan and China. With advancements in missile delivery systems by both Pakistan and China, India seeks to diversify its delivery systems, increasing their survivability. The successful integration of SLCMs onto submarines will strengthen India's naval deterrence and power projection capabilities significantly.The deployment of SLCM-armed Kalvari-class submarines complements India's sea-based nuclear deterrent, represented by the nuclear-powered Arihant ballistic missile submarines (SSBN). While India currently has two Arihant SSBNs, plans include four units armed with the K-15 or K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). The K-15 SLBM, with a range of 740 kilometers, is seen as an interim solution, with the upcoming K-4 expected to have a range of 3,500 kilometers.SLCMs offer India a sea-based delivery system for tactical nuclear weapons, aligning with its strategic-level second-strike capability rather than tactical battlefield use. However, the introduction of SLCMs may trigger a missile race between India and its longtime adversary, Pakistan, as both nations strive to modernize their naval capabilities.The geopolitical dynamics surrounding India's SLCM test underscore the need for confidence-building measures (CBMs), direct communication hotlines, and shared norms between nuclear-armed rivals. While positive norms have been developed for ballistic missile tests, cruise missiles lack similar oversight. The absence of specific agreements for cruise missiles raises concerns about the potential nuclear capability of these strategic assets.India's announcement of the upcoming SLCM test reflects progress in the realm of transparency, but whether Pakistan reciprocates to lower regional tensions remains uncertain. As both nations increase their inventories of long-range and short-range missile systems, the importance of addressing complex security dilemmas and promoting open communication becomes increasingly critical.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 07:07:21

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In response to concerns about the decline of tanks, the Indian Army, with a strength of 12 lakhs, is gearing up for a significant overhaul of its existing tanks and the introduction of next-generation tanks for upcoming battles.According to a report by The Times of India (TOI), senior officers have pointed out that the substantial destruction of Russian tanks in the ongoing Ukraine conflict was mainly due to "poor tactics." They highlighted that Russia deployed tanks without proper logistical support and failed to provide adequate backup from infantry, artillery, electronic warfare, and close-air support units.A senior officer emphasized the importance of "combined-arms operations" in the conflict and stressed that tanks remain crucial for both offensive and defensive operations, offering mobility, firepower, and armored protection essential for large-scale ground battles.The Army is set to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) this year for a mega project worth an estimated Rs 57,000 crores. The project aims to produce 1,770 Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs) in India, replacing the old Russian-origin T-72 tanks from 2030.These FRCVs will incorporate advanced technologies such as AI, drone integration, active protection systems, and high situational awareness. They will also have the capability for manned-unmanned teaming and seamless integration with land and air elements in a network-centric environment.In addition to this project, the Army has already inducted 1,200 T-90S 'Bhishma' tanks and will introduce the first five of the 118 indigenous Arjun Mark-1A tanks this year. These tanks have undergone significant upgrades to enhance firepower, mobility, endurance, and protection.Furthermore, the Army plans to induct 354 indigenous light tanks under Project Zorawar, designed for high-altitude warfare. These tanks, with a weight of less than 25 tonnes, boast superior firepower and protection.The officer emphasized that T-72s and T-90S tanks are also undergoing upgrades, receiving thermal sights, fire detection and suppression systems, automatic target trackers, digital ballistic computers, and commander thermal imagers."The FRCVs will be inducted in three phases, with 590 units in the first phase. Each phase will introduce newer technologies to ensure the highest levels of survivability, lethality, and agility. Tanks, by no means, are dead," the officer added.The Army is also implementing various upgrade plans, including the approval to replace the existing 780 hp engines in its T-72 fleet with 1000-horsepower engines. These measures are aimed at enhancing the overall capabilities of the Indian Army's tank fleet in response to evolving threats and tactics.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 06:59:49

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The spotlight was on the Indian Air Force's (IAF) domestically engineered SAMAR air defence system during Exercise Vayushakti 24, showcasing its distinctive launch characteristics. Specifically designed to counter low-flying threats such as fighter jets, helicopters, and UAVs, the system exhibited several noteworthy features during the exercise.One standout feature of the SAMAR launch was its initial flat trajectory, resembling the launch profile of an air-to-air missile launched from an aircraft. This is attributed to the system's utilization of repurposed Vympel R-73E infrared-guided air-to-air missiles (AAMs) that retain their "off-boresight" capability. This unique capability allows the missiles to be launched at targets not directly in front of the launcher, providing increased flexibility in engagement scenarios.Another remarkable aspect was the missile's pitch-down maneuver post-launch. This maneuver enables a swift transition from the initial ascent to a horizontal flight path, optimizing its range and efficacy against low-flying targets.The collaborative effort between the IAF's 7 Base Repair Depot (BRD) and 11 BRD, in conjunction with Indian private companies, resulted in the development of SAMAR, marking a significant stride towards self-reliance in air defence systems. The decision to refurbish existing R-73E missiles rather than procuring new ones contributes to the system's cost-effectiveness. Additionally, the involvement of private companies fosters technological innovation, strengthening the Indian defence ecosystem.The successful demonstration of SAMAR at Vayushakti 24 underscores the IAF's dedication to developing indigenous air defence solutions. The system's distinctive launch profile, coupled with its cost-effectiveness and potential for further enhancements, positions it as a valuable addition to the IAF's arsenal, enhancing its capacity to safeguard critical air assets against a spectrum of threats.SAMAR Air Defence System Technical Specifications: General: Developed by: Indian Air Force's 7 Base Repair Depot (BRD) and 11 BRD in collaboration with Indian private companies. Purpose: Short-range air defence against low-flying targets like fighter jets, helicopters, and UAVs. Status: Inducted into Indian Air Force in 2023. Missile: Type: Refurbished and upgraded air-to-air missiles adapted for surface-to-air use. Variants: SAMAR-1: Infrared-guided Vympel R-73E with 12 km range. Future variants: Semi-active radar homing Vympel R-27 R1/ER-1 and infrared homing Vympel R-27 ET-1 are under development. Speed: Mach 2 to 2.5 Launcher: Type: Twin-turret rail launcher. Firing mode: Single or salvo. Other components: Fire-control unit. Electronic control unit. Self-loading knuckle crane. Power supply system. Servo mechanism feedback unit.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 06:55:15

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development, HMAS Warramunga, an Anzac-class frigate from the Royal Australian Navy, made its arrival on Sunday for the multinational naval exercise, 'MILAN 2024,' as announced by the Eastern Naval Command.The Eastern Naval Command highlighted that the presence of the Australian warship is indicative of the strong maritime collaboration between Australia and India. "The Sunrise Command of the #IndianNavy warmly welcomes HMAS Warramunga, an Anzac Class Frigate of the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The ship's participation in #MILAN2024 reflects the close #maritime partnership between the two nations and navies," posted the Eastern Naval Command on X.Today, the Eastern Naval Command extended a warm welcome to Corvette 20 of the Vietnam People's Navy and USS Halsey (DDG-97) of the United States Navy. "Naval vessels from Vietnam and the United States have arrived in Visakhapatnam for the MILAN 2024 maritime exercise," noted the post on X.This visit not only underscores the commitment to regional security but also strengthens defense partnerships. MILAN 2024 serves as a platform for navies to engage in joint exercises and enhance interoperability, as stated in the official statement.Commenting on the significance of 'MILAN 24,' the post emphasizes, "As Visakhapatnam hosts these naval vessels, it reaffirms its role as a key maritime hub, fostering cooperation among nations committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific. The exercise is expected to deepen bonds of friendship and promote peace and stability across the oceans."The 12th edition of the MILAN exercise is scheduled to take place from February 19 to 27 in Visakhapatnam, with the participation of over 50 countries. The theme for this year's exercise is "Forging Naval Alliances for a Secure Maritime Future.""The 12th edition of the MILAN exercise to be held at #Visakhapatnam 19 - 27 Feb 24 aims to provide a platform for the participating navies to share ideas to enhance #security on the high seas & ensure safety of #maritime commerce for growth & prosperity of all," shared the Indian Navy on X.The release further highlighted, "MILAN would be an excellent platform for the participating navies to share ideas to enhance security on the high seas and ensure the safety of maritime commerce for the growth and prosperity of all. In addition to building bridges of friendship and strengthening relationships, sea exercise would enhance interoperability, enable the exchange of best practices and boost confidence to undertake missions together in the future, to tackle common challenges."

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 06:39:11

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a major stride towards enhancing its capabilities, the Indian Navy has achieved a significant milestone with Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar announcing the approval of a crucial deal to acquire 31 Predator drones from the United States. The decision, sanctioned by the Defence Acquisition Council, paves the way for the imminent signing of the contract.Chief Admiral Kumar expressed optimism about the deal's progress, stating, "We are the lead servers who are steering it. The letter of request has been cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council, and the letter of request has gone to the US government. They have given us a draft letter of availability. Now the final one will come. It has to be placed before the (the US) Congressional committee thereafter it will come."The acquisition of these drones is poised to significantly enhance India's surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, particularly in the maritime domain. Valued at approximately USD 4 billion, the contract includes provisions for weapons and other operational equipment.The procurement process entails a lead time for manufacturing and delivery, with the first aircraft expected to be operational in around 36 months. Admiral Kumar underscored the importance of this acquisition for bolstering India's national security interests, especially in the maritime domain.Apart from acquiring Predator drones, the Indian Navy is actively involved in fostering regional maritime cooperation. The upcoming MILAN 2024 exercise, scheduled to take place in Visakhapatnam from February 19 to 27, will witness the participation of over 50 countries. This exercise highlights India's commitment to ensuring safe and secure maritime environments in collaboration with international partners.Furthermore, the Eastern Naval Command recently hosted Corvette 20 of the Vietnam People's Navy and USS Halsey (DDG-97) of the United States Navy for the MILAN 2024 exercise. This signifies the growing cooperation and camaraderie among nations in the Indo-Pacific region.The MQ-9B Predator drone, a variant of the MQ-9 "Reaper" developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), is a high-altitude, long-endurance UAV designed for extended flight durations at altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet. With a maximum endurance of 40 hours, it provides a reliable platform for prolonged surveillance missions.Equipped with strike missiles, the MQ-9B Predator is capable of engaging and eliminating enemy targets with high precision. This capability enhances its effectiveness in various roles, including land and maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, electronic warfare, and expeditionary missions.The MQ-9B drone has two variants - SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian, with the latter being in operation by the Indian Navy since 2020. Its automatic take-off and landing capabilities, along with its ability to integrate into civil airspace, make it a versatile asset for joint forces and civil authorities, providing real-time situational awareness in the maritime domain.The procurement of 31 Predator drones by the Indian Navy marks a significant leap forward in enhancing India's maritime capabilities. This acquisition, coupled with the ongoing MILAN 2024 exercise, reinforces India's dedication to promoting regional maritime security and cooperation.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-19 06:33:01

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent incident, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Chinook CH-47F(I) helicopter executed an emergency landing in Dhadrian village of Sangrur district on a Sunday morning due to a technical snag. The helicopter is part of the 126 Helicopter Unit, also known as 'Featherweights,' based in Chandigarh. This marks the first emergency landing of this helicopter in India since its induction into the IAF in March 2019.IAF officials assured that both the crew and the helicopter were unharmed, and a technical team was dispatched to the landing site to carry out necessary repairs.Initial reports had suggested an emergency landing in Barnala district, but the Barnala Deputy Commissioner clarified that it occurred in Dhadrian village in Sangrur district.It's worth noting that in July 2022, the US Army grounded its CH-47 Chinook helicopters due to incidents of engine fires. However, after resolving the issues, the fleet was cleared for operational flying.When the US Army grounded its Chinooks, the IAF sought details of the technical problems but did not ground any Chinooks during that period.The CH-47 F(I) Chinook is a versatile multi-mission tandem rotor helicopter designed for heavy payload deliveries at high altitudes, making it ideal for operations in the challenging Himalayan region. The helicopter, part of the modernization effort for the IAF's helicopter fleet, has been customized to meet the force's future requirements and capability roadmap.Under a contract signed in September 2015 with M/s Boeing Ltd, the IAF acquired 15 Chinook helicopters. These helicopters are equipped with advanced features, including a fully integrated digital cockpit management system, advanced cargo handling capabilities, and an electronic warfare suite.Boeing completed the delivery of 15 CH-47F (I) Chinook helicopters to the Indian Air Force in 2020. One squadron is based in Chandigarh, primarily serving operational needs in Ladakh for the Army, while another squadron is stationed in Mohanbari in Assam.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-18 16:48:20

 India 

Defense News ,Pakistan :- As political parties in Pakistan engage in discussions to form the government, the official announcement of victories for most independent candidates who secured seats in the National Assembly (NA) during the general elections is still pending, as reported by Dawn on Sunday.Unofficial results indicate that more than 101 independent candidates, largely supported by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), have emerged victorious in the NA seats. However, the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has yet to officially notify the results for a majority of these candidates. This delay has sparked concerns among voters and stakeholders, especially amidst the ongoing political maneuvering for government formation at the Centre.Until Saturday evening, the ECP had officially declared the results for only eight independent candidates, with the victory of 33 more being announced through a late-night notification. The ECP has, so far, notified the results for 154 out of the total 265 NA constituencies where elections took place on Feb 8, including 41 independents.According to Rule 92(6), independent candidates have three days to join a political party after the official notification of their victory. The ECP, however, faces criticism for the slow pace of notifying results, affecting the overall political landscape.Dawn reported that Raja Khurram Nawaz from NA-48 (Islamabad) was the first independent candidate to be officially notified as the returned candidate on Feb 12, two days after announcing his affiliation with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The delay in notifying victories has also affected PTI-backed independent candidates, such as former Punjab Governor Mian Mohammad Azhar from NA-129 (Lahore) and Ghulam Mohammad from NA-93 (Chiniot).The situation started to improve with the ECP notifying victories for various candidates, including former prime minister Raja Pervaiz Ashraf, former NA speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, and IPP leader Abdul Aleem Khan.Despite the challenges, the ECP continues to release victory notifications, with the latest on Feb 16 including an independent candidate from NA-54 (Rawalpindi) Aqeel Malik, and three PTI-backed independents Mohammad Ilyas Chaudhary, Osama Malik, and Nisar Ahmad from NA-62 (Gujrat), NA-83 (Sargodha), and NA-100 (Faisalabad) respectively.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-18 16:44:10

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The Sarang Helicopter Display Team of the Indian Air Force is gearing up to showcase its breathtaking aerobatics at the Singapore Airshow 2024, set to take place at the Changi Exhibition Centre from February 20-25. The team, consisting of 71 IAF personnel, will feature five Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH), popularly known as 'Dhruv.'The Dhruv helicopter, designed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, is a versatile, all-weather aircraft with rigid, hingeless rotors, making it highly maneuverable and ideal for military roles.The Sarang team will present the ALH MK-I variant, with other versions like ALH MK-II, ALH MK-III, and the latest armed variant, ALH MK-IV. The Defence Ministry highlights the IAF's participation in the Singapore Airshow, emphasizing the helicopter's capabilities.Formed in 2003, the Sarang Helicopter Display Team initially featured three helicopters and has now evolved into an impressive five-helicopter display. Over the years, they have performed at more than 1,200 displays across 385 venues worldwide, with their international debut in Singapore in 2004.The Singapore Airshow 2024 is a five-day mega event that will witness the participation of over 1,000 companies from 50 countries and regions. Notable exhibitors include Airbus, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and more, making it a global aviation gathering. Additionally, 16 country pavilions, including China, the Czech Republic, and Korea, will be present.Experia Managing Director Leck Chet Lam emphasizes the importance of the event in the aviation sector's growth, providing a platform for industry leaders to discuss solutions, ideas, and partnerships. The AeroForum series, a thought-leadership platform within the Singapore Airshow, will delve into areas such as advanced air mobility, sustainability, and international cooperation.AeroForum will anchor the event's commitment to sustainability, featuring the Sustainable Aviation Forum in collaboration with McKinsey & Company. The forum will bring together experts from Airbus, Boeing, Cathay Pacific, and Neste to explore challenges and opportunities in achieving net-zero emissions in the aviation industry.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-18 16:23:48

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  Admiral R Hari Kumar announced on Sunday that the Indian Navy is set to undertake significant operations involving both of its aircraft carriers along the west coast in the next ten days.In an exclusive interview with ANI, Admiral Hari Kumar revealed that both aircraft carriers, namely the INS Vikramaditya and the indigenous INS Vikrant, would be part of the upcoming 'Exercise Milan' in Vishakhapatnam. However, the actual twin carrier operations are scheduled to take place after a ten-day period."Both carriers will participate in Exercise Milan. Nevertheless, the operationalization, integration into the fleet, and active fleet participation will commence in ten days," stated the Navy chief.Upon the completion of Exercise Milan, he explained, "The carriers and escort ships will head to the western seaboard, where integration will take place."Highlighting the heightened operational tempo in the western seaboard, Admiral Hari Kumar emphasized, "Currently, 10 of our ships are deployed for anti-drone measures, and an additional 3-4 ships are engaged in anti-piracy operations, marking an unprecedented level of activity."Addressing the positioning of INS Vikrant, the Navy chief clarified that it would be stationed on the east coast after the necessary infrastructure is established.Regarding the approval of C295 aircraft-based surveillance planes, Admiral Hari Kumar informed, "The Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) granted approval yesterday. The Navy will receive nine aircraft, while six will be allocated to the Coast Guard, making a total of 15 aircraft."He added that the C295 aircraft would now be manufactured in India, aligning with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative for a self-reliant India. "The key development is the collaborative effort between DRDO and Tata Advanced Systems Limited in developing the sensor suite and information management system. The delivery of the first aircraft is expected in 4-5 years, given the developmental nature of the project," concluded the Navy chief. 

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-18 16:18:39

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In an attempt to fuel unrest among protesting farmers leading up to the scheduled government talks on Sunday evening, Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, a Khalistani terrorist, has released a video promoting violence against police officials in Haryana and Punjab.As the founder of the banned organization Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) based in the United States, Pannun's recent video specifically calls on farmers at the Shambhu and Khanauri points along Punjab's border with Haryana to acquire weapons from the Kartarpur border. He encourages them to utilize these arms to confront Indian authorities and apply pressure on the Centre to address their grievances. Pannun boldly asserts, "Arm yourself to fight Indian bullets. Weapons are available at the Kartarpur border near Pakistan."The dissemination of such a video raises serious concerns regarding the potential escalation of violence and emphasizes the urgent need for decisive action to maintain peace and order in the region.In conclusion, Pannun's incitement to arms marks a perilous escalation in the ongoing tensions between protesting farmers and the government, presenting significant challenges to the endeavors aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the crisis.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-18 16:14:51

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The recent Vayu Shakti 2024 exercise conducted by the Indian Air Force showcased the impressive capabilities of the Tejas light combat aircraft. During the exercise, the Tejas successfully demonstrated its prowess by deploying the Griffin Laser Guided Bomb (LGB) with a time delay fuze on a simulated C2 facility. Despite initial claims on social media suggesting a failure of the bomb to explode, official sources and visual evidence have debunked these rumors.Numerous Twitter accounts had circulated misinformation about the Griffin LGB's performance in Vayu Shakti 2024. However, the Indian Air Force released a video providing clear evidence of the bomb's successful detonation upon hitting the target. The explosion caused significant damage to the simulated C2 facility, proving the effectiveness of the Griffin LGB.The Griffin LGB, equipped with a laser guidance system and a time delay fuze, is a precision-guided weapon designed to penetrate a target before detonating. This capability makes it highly effective against hardened and buried structures. The Tejas' successful deployment of the Griffin LGB underscores the aircraft's ability to deliver precision strikes against various targets, including those designed to withstand conventional munitions.The achievement in Vayu Shakti 2024 stands as a testament to the growing capabilities of the Tejas and India's advancements in indigenous defense technology. In the realm of national security, relying on official sources and verified information is crucial to combat the spread of misinformation.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-18 16:00:03