India 

Defense News ,India :- In a sorrowful incident at Hakimpet Air Force Station in Telangana, an Indian Air Force officer, Corporal Harveer Choudhary, lost his life while repairing a U-736 Kiran Aircraft on Saturday. The officer sustained a severe head injury when the aircraft's seat unexpectedly ejected around 2:10 pm. Despite immediate attention, Corporal Choudhary succumbed to his injuries on the spot, as reported on Sunday.Local authorities have initiated an inquiry into the accident, with the Alwal police registering a case. Air Force officials promptly alerted the police, who arrived at the scene and facilitated the transfer of the officer's body for a postmortem examination. The ongoing investigation aims to shed light on the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-04 16:07:02

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In the latest development of a diplomatic dispute between the Maldives and India, the Maldivian government has formally requested comprehensive details from the Indian government regarding an incident where its coast guard personnel allegedly boarded three Maldivian fishing vessels within the Maldives' economic zone. This tension has emerged following the election of President Mohamed Muizzu, perceived as a pro-China leader, in November last year. The request adds another layer to the strained bilateral ties between the two nations.There has been no immediate response from the Indian government to the allegations made by the Maldives. The incident in question occurred on January 31 when the Indian Army intercepted a Maldivian fishing boat within the Maldives' Special Economic Zone, leading to accusations of a breach of international maritime laws and regulations.The statement from the Maldives' defense ministry highlighted that Indian troops boarded the fishing boats without prior consultation with relevant authorities. In response, the Maldivian government, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has initiated an official request seeking comprehensive details from the Indian government.President Mohamed Muizzu, who defeated the India-friendly incumbent in September last year, has been actively shaping the foreign policy of the Maldives. His government previously requested the withdrawal of 88 military personnel from India, citing a "strong mandate" from the Maldivian people. The relationship between the two nations further soured after derogatory social media posts by three of Muizzu's ministers against Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.A recent high-level meeting in New Delhi resulted in an agreement for India to replace its military personnel operating aviation platforms in the Maldives. Approximately 80 Indian military personnel are currently stationed in the Maldives, primarily managing two helicopters and an aircraft that conduct medical evacuations and humanitarian missions. The replacement process is set to be completed by May 10, with the first phase concluded by March 10, according to the statement from the Maldivian foreign ministry.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-04 13:55:29

 India 

Defense news ,India :- The Indian Navy's submarine INS Karanj has docked at the port of Sri Lanka for an official visit, just ahead of the country's Independence Day celebrations this Saturday.During the visit, the Sri Lanka Navy accorded a ceremonial welcome to INS Karanj, upholding naval traditions. INS Karanj, a member of the Kalvari class submarines, boasts a length of 67.5 meters and a crew comprising 53 members. Commander Arunabh currently commands the submarine, according to reports.This visit assumes particular significance in the context of India-Sri Lanka bilateral relations, occurring in the lead-up to Sri Lanka's 76th National Day celebrations. An official statement underscores the purpose of the visit as strengthening maritime ties between India and Sri Lanka. Notably, a similar visit was made by INS Vagir, another Kalvari-class Indian submarine, to the Colombo port on June 19, inviting locals to explore the vessel.The official visit of INS Karanj to Colombo is scheduled to conclude on February 5. The statement emphasizes that the visit symbolizes the ongoing "cooperation and friendship" between the two nations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-04 05:36:06

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant strategic move, India is poised to acquire 31 MQ-9B Predator drones following the United States' approval of the sale during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the US in June last year. The formal notification of the deal, valued at $3.99 billion, was presented to the US Congress on Thursday.The approval initiates a crucial step in bolstering India's national security, as the MQ-9B is a high-capacity, high-altitude endurance drone with the ability to operate at 27,000 feet and reach heights of 50,000 feet. Equipped with advanced missiles and surveillance systems, these drones are set to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy, reinforce the Indian Army, and provide improved battlefield transparency to the Indian Air Force.The government-to-government deal, involving no intermediaries, requires a letter of request from the Indian government to the US, which is followed by a letter of acceptance. With the deal valued at $3.99 billion, the draft letter of acceptance is currently under consideration by the US Congress for 30 days before the final letter is sent to India.The MQ-9B drones hold critical significance for India's defense along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China and the Line of Control (LOC) with Pakistan. Their multi-faceted capabilities include offering clear battlefield transparency along the LAC, enabling the assessment of Chinese PLA's capabilities, including aircraft, bunkers, rockets, and missile systems.Additionally, the armed MQ-9B drones act as a deterrent against aggressive movements by the PLA, providing the ability to respond to challenges at various altitudes and terrains. This acquisition is a notable advancement from India's current usage of leased Sky Guardian drones for surveillance, particularly during the Chinese transgression in East Ladakh.The MQ-9B's arsenal includes four Hellfire missiles with an 11-kilometer range and at least two laser-guided bombs boasting a range of 150 kilometers using a glide vehicle. This places India on a competitive footing with neighboring nations, such as China and Pakistan, which possess armed drones like the Wing Loong-1 and 2.In the evolving landscape of regional security, the MQ-9B Predator drones signify a game-changing asset for India, ensuring a robust and technologically advanced defense capability against potential threats.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-04 05:30:05

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In the aftermath of a high-level meeting between Indian and Maldivian officials last Friday, the Maldivian government has officially announced that India will execute a phased withdrawal of its military personnel stationed in the island nation, with completion set for May 10th. This strategic move comes in response to rising tensions surrounding the presence of Indian troops and recent diplomatic controversies.The decision is a direct response to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu's request for India to fully withdraw its military personnel by March 15th, fueled by concerns about foreign troop presence and exacerbated by a social media controversy involving disrespectful remarks made by Maldivian ministers toward Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.India's plan involves the gradual phase-out of military personnel responsible for operating three aviation platforms in the Maldives. The first phase will witness the replacement of personnel on one platform by March 10th, followed by the replacement of the remaining two platforms by May 10th.In a notable shift, India intends to replace the military personnel with experienced ex-servicemen. These individuals will possess expertise in operating Dornier Do-228 and HAL Dhruv helicopters, accompanied by the necessary ground crews and technicians.While the withdrawal of Indian military personnel may have implications for bilateral relations and regional security dynamics, the use of ex-servicemen could potentially address concerns about foreign troop presence while ensuring the retention of technical expertise. However, the long-term consequences of this decision warrant further analysis.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 15:30:38

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  In a significant event at the Naval Dockyard, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, accompanied by Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, officiated the commissioning of INS Sandhayak on Saturday. The ceremony began with the Defence Minister's early-morning arrival in Visakhapatnam, where he was accorded a Guard of Honour.During his address at the commissioning ceremony, Rajnath Singh emphasized the formidable strength of the Indian Navy, positioning it as the primary responder for security in the Indian Ocean and the Indian Pacific region. He underscored the global significance of the Indian Ocean in trade, highlighting choke points like the Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Guinea as vital areas for international commerce, albeit fraught with threats, particularly from pirates.Asserting India's stance against maritime piracy and smuggling, Singh declared, "I will again say that people involved in maritime piracy and smuggling will not be tolerated under any circumstances; this is the pledge of new India." He lauded the Indian Navy's recent rescue of 80 fishermen and outlined the Navy's growing role in combating illegal fishing, narcotics, and human trafficking in the Indian Ocean and Indo-Pacific region.Indian Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, also addressing the commissioning ceremony, expressed the Navy's commitment to shaping a balanced 'Atmanirbhar Force' in service of an ascended Bharat. Admiral Kumar welcomed Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and highlighted the Navy's prowess in indigenous warship and submarine construction over the years.Introducing INS Sandhayak as the 34th addition to the Navy's assets, Admiral Hari Kumar disclosed that it is the first of four advanced Survey Vessels. The vessel, a new iteration of its predecessor that served from 1981 to 2021, was launched on December 5, 2021, and officially delivered to the Indian Navy on December 4, 2023. The commissioning marks a significant milestone in India's naval capabilities, reinforcing its commitment to safeguarding maritime interests and enhancing regional security.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 15:27:06

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India has fortified its defenses along the de facto border with Pakistan in the disputed Kashmir region, citing concerns about potential surprise attacks by militants inspired by the successful infiltration of Israel by the Palestinian Hamas movement. The military aims to deploy a drone defense system along some border areas by May, with continuous border monitoring becoming a priority due to ongoing tensions with neighboring China and Pakistan, particularly along the Himalayas.The Indian Army spokesperson informed Newsweek, "The innovative tactics used by Hamas during the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel have raised alarms globally." Measures have been implemented along the Line of Control and International Border Sectors to thwart any potential malicious attempts from across the Western Border.The Line of Control, spanning nearly 500 miles, divides nuclear-armed rivals India and Pakistan across Kashmir, akin to the smaller barrier separating Israel and the Hamas-held Gaza Strip. The region has witnessed frequent insurgent activity, high-profile clashes, and all-out wars.In response to the heightened threat perception, the Indian Army has established robust Counter Infiltration and Terror Grids in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Adequate troops and advanced technology are deployed dynamically to counter emerging drone threats.Security measures in India-administered Kashmir escalated after Prime Minister Narendra Modi revoked the region's semi-autonomous status in August 2019. The move, aimed at quelling a longstanding insurgency, sparked international controversy and drew ire from Pakistan.Accusing Islamabad of sponsoring militias across the Line of Control, the Indian Army spokesperson expressed skepticism about Pakistan's attempts to draw connections between the Kashmiri and Palestinian struggles for independence. Both issues share historical roots, stemming from the 1947 and 1948 withdrawals of the United Kingdom from colonial holdings.While India historically supports the Palestinian cause, it has strengthened ties with Israel since 1992. Pakistan, not recognizing Israel, aligns its support for Palestinians with the Kashmir issue.In an interview with Newsweek, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Munir Akram, emphasized the historical intertwining of the Palestinian and Kashmir causes, centered around the principle of self-determination.Tensions persist as India accuses Pakistan of orchestrating militant activity, while Pakistan accuses India of waging a "hybrid war." The region faces heightened security concerns amid a surge in militant activities, with Iran and Pakistan grappling with deadly attacks by groups pushing separatist and Islamist agendas.As the Middle East experiences security challenges, Indian and Pakistani officials express concerns about potential second-order effects in their region. The Indian Army remains vigilant, acknowledging the impact of international security developments and implementing a comprehensive government approach to address emerging challenges.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 14:26:53

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development reported by Shephard Media, Adani-Elbit Advanced Systems India Ltd, India's first private UAV manufacturing facility, has successfully delivered more than 20 Hermes 900 medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAVs to Israel. The Hyderabad-based joint venture between Adani Defence and Aerospace and Israel’s Elbit Systems has become the first entity to produce these UAVs outside of Israel.These Hermes 900 UAVs, complete with carbon composite Aerostructures manufactured at the Adani facility in Hyderabad, boast high-performance sensors capable of detecting ground or maritime targets over a wide spectral range. Furthermore, they can be employed for ground target attacks.Apart from fulfilling orders for Israel, Adani-Elbit has also secured orders for two UAVs each from the Indian Navy and Indian Army.The Indian Navy recently marked a significant milestone on January 11 with the receipt of its first indigenous medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) drone, the Drishti-10 Starliner unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). Manufactured by Adani Defence and Aerospace in Hyderabad, this UAV, developed with technology transfer from Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems, is a variant of Elbit Systems’ Hermes-900 Starliner drones.Navy chief Admiral R Hari Kumar, present for the drone’s unveiling and delivery, emphasized the strategic importance of the Drishti-10 Starliner in boosting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities in the Indian Ocean region. The drone is set to play a crucial role as a force multiplier, addressing the array of security challenges faced by the region.Admiral Kumar highlighted the advanced features of Drishti-10 Starliner, including state-of-the-art sensors, enhanced endurance of 36 hours, advanced communication capabilities, and new-age technologies such as automatic take-off and landing. With a payload capacity of 450 kg, the drone is 70% indigenous and will significantly contribute to ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) operations across the Indian Ocean region.The Indian Navy, facing challenges such as China’s calculated power play for influence and tensions in the Arabian Sea, has intensified surveillance efforts, deploying task groups of approximately 10 warships. The modularity and mobility of ground support equipment provided by Drishti-10 Starliner offer versatility and flexibility, enabling the navy to operate the drones from various naval air stations across the country.As a testament to its commitment to strengthening national defense capabilities, Adani Defence and Aerospace will transport the Drishti-10 Starliner from Hyderabad to Porbandar for integration into naval operations, with the remaining systems set to be delivered in the coming months. The armed forces have expressed a requirement for approximately 100 such drones, showcasing the increasing significance of UAVs in modern defense strategies.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 14:18:51

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development, Senator Ben Cardin, Chairman of the powerful Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has withdrawn his objection to the USD 3.9 billion drone deal with India. The decision comes after months of meticulous discussions with the Biden administration, which provided assurances regarding New Delhi's commitment to investigating an alleged plot to assassinate a Khalistani separatist on American soil.Following Senator Cardin's approval, the State Department officially notified Congress that the US Government has given the green light to sell 31 armed drones to India at an estimated cost of USD 3.9 billion.On Thursday, the US approved the sale of 31 MQ-9B armed drones to India, a move expected to enhance India's capabilities in addressing current and future threats. The acquisition will enable unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in vital sea lanes of operation.Under the terms of the deal, India will receive 31 High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs. The Navy is set to acquire 15 SeaGuardian drones, while the Army and the Indian Air Force will each receive eight of the land version - SkyGuardian.Senator Cardin, a Democrat, emphasized that his approval of the deal hinged on the Biden administration's assurance of India's commitment to a thorough investigation and full cooperation with the US Department of Justice's probe into the alleged Indian connection to the foiled plot to kill separatist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.The investigation, revealed in an unsealed indictment in November of the previous year, charged Indian national Nikhil Gupta with collaborating with an Indian government employee in the foiled plot to assassinate Pannun, who holds dual US and Canadian citizenships, on American soil.Chairman Cardin, 80, declared, "As the Chairman of this committee, I fully intend to hold the Administration to these commitments." He highlighted that his approval was the result of months of careful discussions with the Biden administration, expressing awareness of the deal's significance for US national security and strategic interests.While supporting the importance of the US-India partnership in Indo-Pacific stability, including through mechanisms like the Quad, Cardin stressed the need for mutual trust and respect in the partnership. He affirmed his commitment to championing human rights and democratic values globally, adding that difficult discussions on these issues are essential for the growth and longevity of the partnership.Looking ahead, Senator Cardin asserted his determination to continue addressing human rights issues with the Administration and Indian counterparts, emphasizing the fundamental role of shared values in the growth and longevity of the partnership.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 07:07:34

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a commendable move, India has added another feather to its cap by remitting USD 32.89 million to the United Nations Regular Budget for the year 2024. This prompt payment has earned India a coveted spot on the "honour roll" alongside 36 other Member States that have fulfilled their regular budget obligations to the UN within the stipulated 30-day period.The UN Committee on Contributions disclosed that as of January 31, 2024, a total of 36 Member States have met their financial responsibilities, adhering to the UN's regulations for timely payment of regular budget assessments.Highlighting the achievement, Stephane Dujarric, Spokesperson for Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, expressed gratitude on Thursday, stating, "We extend our appreciation to our friends in New Delhi for their timely contribution." This acknowledgment solidifies India's consistent track record of being among the nations that faithfully meet their financial commitments to the UN, underscoring its dedication to international cooperation and diplomacy.In a demonstration of responsible global citizenship, India contributed a substantial sum of 32.895 million dollars to the 2024 United Nations Regular Budget and completed the transaction on January 31, 2024. This accomplishment not only showcases India's financial reliability but also reinforces its commitment to supporting the initiatives and functions of the United Nations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 06:46:22

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The Unified Payments Interface (UPI) took a monumental step onto the global stage with its formal launch at the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, as announced by the Indian Embassy in France on Friday. The move is hailed as a pivotal moment, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visionary goal of globalizing UPI, and the inauguration ceremony took place during the Republic Day reception held in France.In a social media post on X, the Indian Embassy in France declared, "UPI formally launched at the iconic Eiffel Tower at the grand Republic Day Reception, implementing PM @narendramodi's announcement & the vision of taking UPI global."UPI, India's innovative mobile-based payment system, enables users to conduct round-the-clock transactions through a virtual payment address. This address is created by the customer, streamlining multiple banking features, seamless fund routing, and merchant payments into a single mobile application, encompassing various participating banks.The year 2023 witnessed a commitment between India and France to foster a thriving digital ecosystem and build collaborations empowering their citizens. According to the joint statement, NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) and France's Lyra Collect entered into an agreement to implement the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) in France and Europe.Prime Minister Narendra Modi had previously announced during his visit to France in July of the preceding year that India and France had agreed to adopt the UPI payment mechanism. The historic launch from the Eiffel Tower symbolizes the initiation of this collaboration, allowing Indian tourists in France to make payments in rupees through UPI.Addressing the Indian community at La Seine Musicale in Paris on July 14, PM Modi remarked, "India's UPI and other digital platforms have brought about significant social transformation, and I am pleased that India and France are working together in this direction. The agreement to use UPI in France signifies a new era, starting from the Eiffel Tower, enabling Indian tourists to make payments in rupees through UPI."French President Emmanuel Macron, who recently visited India as the Chief Guest during the Republic Day Parade, embraced UPI during his stay. During a visit to Jaipur, Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted over tea at a local stall, with Macron using UPI for payment. Earlier in their visit to Hawa Mahal in Jaipur, PM Modi had introduced the UPI digital payments system to Macron. This further underscores the growing collaboration between the two nations in the digital payment domain.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-03 06:42:30

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent announcement, Air Force Vice Chief, Air Marshal AP Singh, confirmed the participation of all frontline aircraft, including Rafale fighter jets and Prachand attack choppers, in the upcoming Indian Air Force Exercise Vayushakti. Set to take place on February 17 in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer, this exercise has been a staple since 1954, with this edition promising some groundbreaking additions.For the first time, Rafale fighter jets, Prachand choppers, and the Samar surface-to-air weapon system will join the lineup. Air Marshal AP Singh highlighted the exercise's focus on showcasing the Air Force's capability for accurate bombing, with the Made in India LCA Tejas, Prachand attack helicopters, and ALH Dhruv participating. The exercise aims to drop around 40-50 tonnes of ordnance within a one- to two-kilometer radius in just two hours.A notable inclusion in this edition is the involvement of the Army, which will fire weapons from Rudra choppers, and the Ultra Light Howitzer displayed underslung a Chinook chopper. The Air-to-air missile demonstrations will feature the MICA missile from Rafale and R-73 missiles from LCA Tejas.Vayushakti-2024 promises a major firepower demonstration in Jaisalmer, with major fighter aircraft like Rafale, Su-30MKIs, LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000, and MiG-29s showcasing their capabilities by launching various missiles and bombs at designated targets. A total of 77 fighter planes, 41 helicopters, and five transport aircraft will participate, including demonstrations of Surface To Air, Air To Air, and Air-To-Ground weapons.Following Vayushakti-2024, the Indian Air Force is gearing up for Exercise Gaganshakti, slated for April this year. This pan-India-level exercise, conducted once in five years, will see the activation of nearly all fleets of fighter aircraft, transport planes, helicopters, and drones. The exercise encompasses offensive and defensive missions along all frontiers, featuring close coordination with naval assets, including the P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft and MiG-29K fighters. The activation of the S-400 Sudarshan long-range air defense system is also anticipated on both western and northern fronts during these extensive wargames.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 15:48:18

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a statement on Friday, the defense ministry revealed that Indian Navy units are strategically stationed in Djibouti, the Gulf of Aden, the East Coast of Somalia, as well as the North and Central Arabian Sea. The primary objective is to safeguard merchant vessels amid the prevailing regional maritime security challenges, according to Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt.Bhatt, speaking in the Lok Sabha, highlighted the Navy's continuous efforts in the Gulf of Aden and along the East coast of Africa since 2008, primarily for anti-piracy patrols. Notably, over 3,440 ships and more than 25,000 seafarers have been successfully escorted during these operations.The article emphasizes the growing global concerns over attacks on merchant ships in the Red Sea by Iran-backed Houthi militants since November, likely in response to Israel's military actions in Gaza. In response to this, Bhatt mentioned that the Navy is actively collaborating with friendly foreign nations to identify the sources and players involved in these attacks.Recent weeks have seen the Indian Navy providing assistance to numerous merchant vessels in the Arabian Sea following attacks. Bhatt emphasized that the Navy is proactively engaging with both regional and extra-regional navies and maritime forces to enhance security in the Indian Ocean region.Bhatt also underscored the Navy's commitment to mission-based deployments in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) since 2008, with units regularly engaged in anti-piracy patrols. These deployments aim to enhance maritime security, conduct surveillance for increased maritime domain awareness, and address potential contingencies.Moreover, Bhatt highlighted the role of the Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR), which has established linkages with 25 partner nations and over 40 international multinational organizations. This collaborative effort facilitates real-time information exchange to bolster maritime security in the region.In conclusion, Bhatt reiterated that, given the ongoing maritime security situation, Indian Navy units are strategically deployed in critical areas like Djibouti, the Gulf of Aden, the North and Central Arabian Sea, and off the East Coast of Somalia. This deployment is aimed at protecting merchant vessels and providing necessary assistance as required. Additionally, information exchange and intelligence sharing with friendly foreign countries remain integral to identifying the sources and reasons behind maritime incidents and attacks.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 15:10:48

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent update to the Lok Sabha on Friday, the Indian government announced the appointment of women personnel on warships and as Special Naval Air Operation (NAO) officers in the Indian Navy. Minister of State for Defence, Ajay Bhatt, revealed that women officers are now granted permanent commission in 12 arms and services of the Army, including the medical and dental corps and military nursing service.Responding to a question about the strength of women in the armed forces, Bhatt mentioned that the experimental scheme initiated by the Indian Air Force in 2015 to induct women officers in all combat roles was regularized into a permanent one in 2022.Additionally, Bhatt outlined various measures to boost India's defence manufacturing, including the implementation of a 'green channel policy' for the procurement of military stores and spares. This policy awards 'green channel' status to firms with predefined financial and quality credentials, providing a waiver of pre-dispatch inspection and acceptance of stores under supplier's guarantee/warranty.Highlighting the government's action plans, Bhatt mentioned the establishment of two defence industrial corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu to attract investment for defence industries and develop domestic supply chains. He also introduced the defence testing infrastructure scheme, aiming to set up greenfield defence testing infrastructure as a common test facility.Moreover, Bhatt noted that defence public sector undertakings are collaborating with various centers of excellence and academic institutes, such as IITs and IIMs, for developmental projects. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has introduced a new transfer of technology (ToT) policy with zero ToT fee for industry partners, promoting the transfer of developed technologies to enhance domestic defence and aerospace manufacturing.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 14:36:26

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India and the Maldives are currently engaged in crucial talks on Friday, focusing on finding a mutually agreeable solution to sustain the operation of Indian military platforms in the island nation, according to individuals familiar with the matter. This marks the second meeting of the India-Maldives high-level core group, taking place in Delhi, occurring over two weeks after the initial meeting in Male failed to make significant progress on the contentious issue.The ongoing core group meeting aims to identify a solution that is mutually acceptable, as stated by one of the sources mentioned earlier.The decision to establish the core group was made following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maldivian President Muizzu on the sidelines of the COP28 summit in Dubai in December.In the previous month, President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives requested India to withdraw all its military personnel from the island nation by March 15. Currently, approximately 80 Indian military personnel are in the Maldives, primarily tasked with operating two helicopters and an aircraft that have conducted numerous medical evacuations and humanitarian missions.The relationship between the two countries has faced strain since Muizzu assumed power in November. As a perceived pro-China leader, Muizzu has maintained his election promise to evict Indian military personnel from the country. The 45-year-old leader defeated the India-friendly incumbent Ibrahim Mohamed Solih in the presidential runoff held in September last year.The Maldives holds strategic importance as one of India's key maritime neighbors in the Indian Ocean Region. The overall bilateral ties, including defense and security cooperation, saw positive development under the previous government in Male.Muizzu was sworn in as the new Maldivian president on November 17. Soon after taking office, he called for the withdrawal of Indian military personnel from the Maldives.Following the first core group meeting on January 14, the Ministry of External Affairs stated that both sides are actively exploring a mutually workable solution to ensure the continued operation of Indian aviation platforms providing humanitarian and medical evacuation services to the people of the Maldives.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 14:31:59