India 

Defense News ,US & India :- Expressing concerns over media coverage, US-India Business Council (USIBC) President Ambassador Atul Keshap strongly criticized certain outlets on Thursday for disseminating "uninformed, erroneous gossip" without proper fact-checking. While upholding the principles of a free and independent media, he underscored the importance of responsible journalism, particularly when dealing with sensitive topics such as defense deals between nations.In a recent interview with ANI, Keshap remarked, "What I find interesting is there’s a lot of absolutely uninformed, erroneous gossip being spread in media organs that, frankly, have a track record of not checking their facts and stories are completely at variance with the actual facts… but people ought to do the bare minimum of fact-checking before they go out and publish what is essentially erroneous gossip."The Biden administration has formally notified the US Congress of its intent to sell nearly $4 billion worth of arms, primarily consisting of MQ-9B drones armed with Hellfire missiles. Keshap highlighted the complexities of arms deals between democracies, emphasizing transparency and the rule of law in the process. He emphasized the need for a systematic approach involving the executive, legislative, and judicial branches in the US for evaluating and approving arms deals, clarifying that the ongoing drone deal follows the same procedural steps as any other defense agreement.Shifting focus to the broader India-US relationship, Keshap acknowledged the positive momentum in both governments' efforts to implement the joint statement made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden. Despite impending elections in both countries, he observed a shared commitment to advancing the strategic partnership.Keshap conveyed optimism about the ongoing collaboration in areas such as ISET, Indus X, and the innovation handshake, highlighting progress in key sectors like semiconductors, cybersecurity, outer space, and defense enterprises. He commended the serious work happening on the ground, showcasing the resilience and strength of the strategic relationship between India and the United States."We have more and more Indian leading companies joining our board because USIBC is where a lot of this work is converging. And I see a lot of movement, a lot of intent by both governments to make the most of the ground game in US-India relations in an election year, even as both systems are focused on elections," added the USIBC President. Ambassador Atul Keshap emphasized the continuous convergence of interests and the unwavering commitment of both nations to address challenges and deepen cooperation as the US-India partnership navigates through election cycles.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 06:52:10

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has reached a pivotal milestone with the successful completion of the 120 mm Cannon Launched Missile Development Program (CLMDP), known as SAMHO  (or Semi-Active Mission Homing) . This cutting-edge missile, designed for the Arjun Main Battle Tank (MBT), has surpassed all trials and is now poised for production.The SAMHO marks a significant leap forward in India's anti-tank warfare capabilities. The missile's first trial took place on September 22, 2020, followed by tests in October 2020 and June 2022. The culmination of these efforts resulted in a successful live firing test on August 4, 2022.Tailored for deployment on the Arjun MBT, SAMHO packs a formidable punch against contemporary and future armored threats. Its semi-active laser homing guidance system enables precise targeting of enemy main battle tanks, including those protected by explosive reactive armor, hardened point targets, and even low-flying helicopters. The weapon system also utilizes a High Explosive Anti-Tank Warhead (HEAT) to neutralize heavily armored modern vehicles and tanks.SAMHO exhibits remarkable versatility with two distinct firing modes. The Top Attack Lifted Trajectory, ideal for engaging heavily armored targets from above, offers enhanced protection against countermeasures with a range of 2-5 km. The Direct (Flat) Trajectory, designed for rapid engagements or closer distances, provides a range of 1.5 to 2 km.Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) like SAMHO are primarily designed to hit and destroy heavily armored military vehicles. SAMHO's flexibility extends to its guidance system, capable of receiving laser targeting information from the Arjun tank's co-mounted laser designator or a separate third-party designator, maximizing operational possibilities.The successful development of SAMHO signifies a significant stride in India's pursuit of self-reliance in defense and critical defense technologies. Its potent capabilities not only enhance the offensive and defensive firepower of the Arjun Tank but also provide a formidable advantage on the battlefield. The platform's versatility hints at potential integration with other armored vehicles in the future, further strengthening India's ground forces. Looking ahead, DRDO aims to integrate SAMHO missiles on the T-90 Bhishma Tanks used by the Indian Army's Armored Corps.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 06:42:27

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant stride toward solidifying the mega deal announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Washington in June last year, the Biden administration has officially informed the US Congress about its proposal to supply 31 MQ-9B Predator long endurance drones to India. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of the US government provided the necessary certification for the potential sale, marking a crucial step in the approval process.Initiating the Congressional notification process on Thursday, insiders revealed that a letter of approval is anticipated to be dispatched to India approximately 30 days after Congress approves the procurement. The State Department has determined and approved a potential foreign military sale to the Government of India for MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft and related equipment, estimated at USD 3.99 billion, as disclosed by the DSCA.Following the Congressional approval, negotiations on pricing will commence, with the DSCA emphasizing that the mentioned figure of USD 3.99 billion serves as a threshold to avoid exceeding costs. The DSCA asserted that the proposed sale aims to bolster the US-Indian strategic relationship, enhance national security objectives, and contribute to the foreign policy goals of the United States.Describing India as a vital force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region, the DSCA outlined that the MQ-9B drones would empower India to address current and future threats through unmanned surveillance and reconnaissance patrols in sea lanes of operation. Stressing India's commitment to modernizing its military, the DSCA expressed confidence in India's capability to absorb the equipment and services into its armed forces without disrupting the regional military balance.General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, based in Poway, CA, is designated as the principal contractor for the sale, with potential offset agreements to be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal acknowledged the internal processes of the US for such supplies and reiterated New Delhi's respect for those procedures during a media briefing. The article also addresses the ongoing negotiations, internal timelines, and media reports surrounding the drone sale to India, shedding light on the diplomatic intricacies involved.The article concludes by highlighting the significance of India's procurement of MQ-9B drones to enhance surveillance capabilities, particularly along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. The drones, categorized as 'hunter-killer' and capable of extended endurance, are set to be distributed among the Navy, Air Force, and Army, playing a pivotal role in reinforcing India's defense capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-02 06:24:14

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant move on Wednesday, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) directed Paytm Payments Bank to cease all banking services, including deposit acceptance and payment processing, within a month. Effective February 29, the central bank froze all essential transaction services conducted through Paytm's platforms, such as Unified Payments Interface (UPI), IMPS, Aadhaar-enabled payments, and others.These disciplinary actions, considered unprecedented in the financial services industry, will impact both Paytm app users and the broader merchant community relying on Paytm for payment processing, wage disbursals, and quasi-banking functions. While Paytm will continue offering products in travel, movie tickets, and more, the order is expected to have a significant impact on various fronts.The RBI's directive will particularly disrupt Paytm Payment Bank's Fastag users and National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) holders, given the bank's full support for these services. Paytm Fastags recorded 57 million transactions in December, among the highest in the industry.Notably, Paytm Payments Bank must halt new customer onboarding, deposits, credit transactions, and wallet top-ups from March 2022. Existing customers will be unable to add money to their accounts after February 29, though they can withdraw and utilize existing funds until exhausted. RBI has mandated the settlement of all transactions initiated before February 29 in nodal accounts held by One 97 and Paytm Payments Services by March 15.This regulatory action follows Paytm Payments Bank's earlier embargo on adding new customers since March 11, 2022. An external audit revealed persistent non-compliances and supervisory concerns, leading to a showcause notice from RBI in July 2021 and a subsequent fine of Rs 1 crore on the bank.The impact of this order extends beyond Paytm Payments Bank, affecting various payment channels, including wallet, Paytm UPI, NACH, Fastag, and fixed deposits. Paytm may need to relocate many backend services for its wallet offerings to other banks.The regulatory scrutiny on Paytm has been ongoing, with the company facing obstacles in obtaining licenses for its insurance and payment aggregator businesses. Alleged Chinese shareholding in the past was cited as a reason for these setbacks, though China's Alibaba has since divested its entire stake in Paytm.RBI's actions are viewed as a response to persistent non-compliance and supervisory concerns, potentially related to data localization and access issues. The regulatory move underscores the importance of data security and national security in the tech space, with implications for businesses handling user data within India's territory.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 16:46:33

 India 

Defense News ,India :- On February 3, 2024, the Indian Navy is set to achieve a historic milestone with the commissioning of INS Sandhayak, the inaugural ship of the Survey Vessel Large Project. Crafted entirely in India by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), this event marks a significant achievement in indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and a substantial leap forward in bolstering the nation's maritime strength.The Survey Vessel Large Project signals a groundbreaking era in coastal and deep-water hydrographic survey capabilities for the Indian Navy. Illustrated by the capabilities of INS Sandhayak, these survey ships are well-equipped to conduct comprehensive hydrographic surveys of ports, harbor approaches, and navigational channels. Beyond their primary survey functions, they excel in exploring maritime limits and gathering crucial oceanographic and geographical data vital for defense applications.Propelled by two Marine Diesel Engines and featuring Fixed Pitch Propellers, these vessels are equipped with Bow and Stern Thrusters, ensuring precise maneuverability even at low speeds during survey operations. Their versatility extends to secondary roles such as Search and Rescue missions, Disaster Relief operations, and emergency medical assistance, with provisions for limited onboard hospital facilities.A distinctive feature of these survey vessels is the inclusion of a retractable hangar designed to accommodate a utility helicopter, enhancing operational flexibility and aerial reconnaissance capabilities.The contract for constructing four survey ships was signed between the Ministry of Defence and GRSE on October 30, 2018, with a total cost of Rs 2,435 crore. Meticulously designed by GRSE’s proficient team, these vessels adhere to the Indian Navy's exacting standards through the principles of ‘Integrated Construction’ and compliance with classification society regulations. The specifications of the INS Sandhayak (2021): Displacement: 3,300 tonnes Length: 110 metres (360 ft 11 in) Beam: 16.5 metres (54 ft 2 in) Draft: 4.5 metres (14 ft 9 in) Propulsion: Two MAN 8L21/32H diesel engines, 5,360 kW (7,200 hp) each Speed: 18 knots (33 km/h; 21 mph) Range: 6,500 nautical miles (12,000 km; 7,500 mi) Complement: 18 officers and 213 sailors Sensors: Multibeam echosounder Sidescan sonar Sub-bottom profiler Magnetometer Gravity meter GPS Aircraft: 1 × HAL Dhruv helicopter The INS Sandhayak (2021) is capable of conducting a variety of hydrographic surveys, including: Coastal and deep-water hydrography Port and harbor surveys Navigational channel surveys Oceanographic data collection

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 15:35:05

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant move on Thursday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the eagerly awaited budget of the Narendra Modi government, setting a pivotal milestone ahead of the upcoming 2024 Lok Sabha elections scheduled for May. The focus of the budget was particularly centered on the defense sector, with the Ministry of Defence receiving an unprecedented allocation of ?6.1 lakh crore.This allocation represents a substantial increase from the previous year's budget of ?5.94 lakh crore, marking a growth of 2.7%. The funds are earmarked to bolster critical areas such as military modernization, infrastructure development, and the promotion of indigenous defense production.The notable surge in defense allocation follows a discernible trend observed in the previous fiscal year. Demonstrating the government's proactive approach to defense spending, the BJP-led NDA government significantly increased the defense budget for the fiscal year 2023/24 by 12.95%, escalating from ?5.25 lakh crore to ?5.94 lakh crore. This reflects a steadfast commitment to strengthening India's defense infrastructure and enhancing its military capabilities.The heightened emphasis on defense expenditure underscores the evolving security landscape, emphasizing India's imperative to assert itself as a formidable regional power in the Indo-Pacific region. In the face of escalating security challenges, including border tensions and asymmetric threats, the need for a robust and modernized defense apparatus has never been more evident.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 15:23:10

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India's Director of the Department of Defence Production, Amit Satija, highlighted the nation's significant progress in defence production, revealing that 2,920 out of 4,666 listed items have already been indigenized. Speaking at a state-level conclave organized by FICCI in Nagpur, Satija emphasized the Ministry of Defence's initiatives, particularly those driven by the Department of Defence Production.Satija underscored the industry-friendly provisions within the Make-1 and Make-2 categories, such as relaxed eligibility criteria and streamlined documentation processes, facilitating the consideration of proposals from both industry and individuals. Notably, 102 projects for the Army, Navy, and Air Force have received in-principle approval under Make-2, while 44 projects fall under the Make-1 category. Additionally, three projects have gained in-principle approval under the Make-3 category.Highlighting the Department of Defence's commitment to swift and steady progress, Satija noted that 40 to 50 licenses are issued annually in the field of defence production. The 'Make-I' category pertains to government-funded projects, while 'Make-II' encompasses industry-funded programs. The introduction of the Make-III category reflects the government's objective of achieving self-reliance through import substitution. India's defence sector continues to advance rapidly, demonstrating a strong focus on indigenization and fostering collaboration with Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 06:23:04

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a prominent player in the public sector shipyard domain, has successfully secured a prestigious international contract valued at €500 crore (approximately USD 63 million). The contract, announced on January 31st, 2024, through an official exchange filing, entails the design and construction of a cutting-edge Hybrid Service Operation Vessel (SOV) tailored for the European offshore wind farm industry.Crafted to meet the specific requirements of servicing, maintaining, and operating offshore wind farms, this state-of-the-art vessel is set to make a significant impact in the burgeoning sustainable energy sector, especially in Europe. The contract achievement represents a major milestone for Cochin Shipyard, showcasing its prowess in delivering specialized vessels for the expanding offshore wind energy market and further solidifying its standing as a premier shipyard in India with a growing global footprint.The order underscores Cochin Shipyard's strategic focus on meeting the increasing demand for sustainable energy solutions in the European market. As the world shifts towards renewable energy sources, the global offshore wind energy market is poised for substantial growth, offering lucrative opportunities for shipyards like Cochin Shipyard to specialize in constructing vessels tailored for the industry.Key Project Details:Contract Value: €500 Crore (approximately USD 63 million)Client: European Client (identity undisclosed)Vessel Type: Hybrid Service Operation Vessel (SOV)Purpose: Service, Maintenance, and Operation of Offshore Wind FarmsDelivery Timeline: 2026.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 06:17:01

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Paras Defence and Space Technologies recently clinched a significant contract valued at ?53 crore from the Indian Ministry of Defence. The contract, granted by the Instrument Research & Development Establishment (IRDE) under DRDO, focuses on the design, optimization, fabrication, and qualification of optical periscopes intended for integration into combat systems for submarine applications within the Indian Navy.Scheduled for completion in the financial year 2024-25 (FY24), this landmark agreement positions Paras Defence as a potential frontrunner in providing state-of-the-art periscope technology for the Indian Navy. The contract aligns seamlessly with the government's strategic emphasis on "Make in India" initiatives in the defense sector.Key Contract Details:Date of Award: January 30, 2024 Client: Instrument Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), DRDO Project Scope: Design, Optimization, Fabrication, and Qualification of Optical Periscopes for Integrated Combat Systems (ICS) for Submarine ApplicationContract Value: ?53 CroreDelivery Timeline: Financial Year 2024-25 (FY24)Significance of the Contract:1. Enhanced Capabilities: The implementation of these cutting-edge periscopes is anticipated to elevate the stealth, situational awareness, and operational effectiveness of Indian submarines.2. Boost to Domestic Defense: By entrusting this contract to a local entity, the government reinforces its commitment to fostering self-reliance in critical defense technologies.3. Expertise Leverage: Paras Defence's extensive experience in this domain is poised to yield high-performance periscopes that meet the stringent requirements of the Indian Navy, potentially opening avenues for future contracts and collaborations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-01 06:06:56

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Mahindra Group's chairman, Anand Mahindra, has expressed enthusiasm for the deployment of Light Specialist Armoured Vehicles (LSVs) in the Jammu & Kashmir Valley for the Indian Army. Fondly referred to as "The Army’s Armados!" by the billionaire, the LSVs were introduced last June as India’s first Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle, exclusively designed and developed for the Indian Army by Mahindra Defence.In response to Mahindra's initial announcement, numerous netizens eagerly urged the commercial launch of this innovative vehicle. One user even envisioned it as the "Indian Humvee," expressing a keen interest in being the first to purchase one for personal use.The Ordnance Depot in Avadi has successfully dispatched these indigenously developed LSVs to the Jammu & Kashmir Valley. Tasked with special duties, these vehicles, with their modular design, aim to provide efficient support to the Northern Command forces, allowing for easy maintenance and field configuration.Marking a significant stride towards the 'Make in India' initiative, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) inked a contract with Mahindra Defence Systems Ltd (MDSL) on March 22, 2021. Valued at Rs 1,056 crore, the contract outlines the supply of 1,300 Light Specialist Vehicles to the Indian Army, with an anticipated completion within four years.Equipped to carry Medium Machine Guns, Automatic Grenade Launchers, and Anti-tank Guided Missiles, the Light Specialist Vehicle is authorized for use by various fighting units. Developed by MDSL, these combat vehicles boast agility and comprehensive protection against small arms fire, addressing the operational needs of small independent detachments.This initiative is not just a military advancement but also stands as a flagship project for India's defense industry, showcasing its indigenous manufacturing capabilities. A monumental achievement in the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan' and the 'Make in India' campaign, it underscores the nation's commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.(Unedited release)For helping forces of Northern Command, Ordnance Depot, Avadi under the aegis of Dakshin Bharat Area of Indian Army has despatched Light Specialist Armoured Vehicles for special duties in the Jammu & Kashmir Valley. These LSVs are indigenously designed &… pic.twitter.com/xp7UXM5cWC— Anantha Krishnan M🇮🇳 (@writetake) January 30, 2024

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 14:56:15

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a solemn ceremony presided over by Vice Admiral Adhir Arora, Chief Hydrographer to the Government of India, the Indian Navy bid farewell to its indigenously designed and built survey ship, INS Nirupak, at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on January 29, 2024. Launched on June 4, 1981, at GRSE and commissioned into service on August 14, 1985, by Vice Admiral Jayant Ganpat Nadkarni, the ship served with distinction for nearly four decades.Operating out of Visakhapatnam under the administrative and operational control of FOCINC, ENC, INS Nirupak received recognition for its unwavering commitment to hydrography. The ship was honored with the Admiral Jal Cursetji Rolling Trophy for the best Survey Ship in 1994, 1995, 2005, and 2009. Beyond its surveying duties, INS Nirupak played a crucial role in humanitarian and disaster relief operations, notably during Operation Gambhir Tsunami Relief in 2004, where it provided critical aid as a hospital ship to Indonesia.With a legacy spanning 20 Commanding Officers, INS Nirupak has left an indelible mark on maritime excellence, shaping naval operations and advancing scientific understanding of oceanography. The hydrographic survey data collected by the ship has significantly contributed to enhancing navigational safety in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and beyond.As the naval ensign and commissioning pennant were ceremoniously lowered on January 29, 2024, in the presence of officers and sailors who served onboard INS Nirupak, the decommissioning marked the end of an era. However, it also signifies the dawn of a new chapter in the Indian Navy's survey capabilities, paving the way for future advancements and achievements in maritime exploration.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 14:31:43

 India 

Defense New ,India :- In a recent development, security personnel have made a significant discovery in the dense forests along the border of Dantewada and Bijapur districts in the Bastar division. A 70-meter-long tunnel, believed to be a bunker cum dumping place used by Naxalites, was unearthed during an anti-Naxal operation conducted by a joint team of security forces.The tunnel, approximately 6 feet deep, was spotted on Tuesday by personnel from the District Reserve Guard, Bastar Fighters, state police units, and CRPF's 230th battalion. This marks the first instance of such an underground tunnel being discovered in the Bastar region.Dantewada Additional Superintendent of Police, RK Barman, revealed that during patrolling near Todopat-Uspari village, the security personnel noticed the tunnel opening covered with long woods, bushes, and soil. It is suspected that Naxalites manually dug the tunnel to use it as a hideout during security operations and as a storage facility for Naxal-related materials.While this discovery confirms earlier suspicions about the existence of underground passages in the Bastar division, further details about the tunnel's purpose will be revealed after a thorough investigation.The anti-Naxal operation was initiated based on intelligence about the presence of Bhairamgarh and Indravati area committees of Maoists in villages along the Dantewada-Bijapur border. A brief exchange of fire occurred, with Naxalites using barrel grenade launchers before fleeing the scene.In a related development, security personnel encountered Maoist memorials and successfully dismantled three of them. Additionally, a cooker bomb planted in the forests was discovered and safely neutralized.This discovery follows a recent encounter between security forces and Naxalites, resulting in casualties among CRPF personnel. The operation aimed to counter the influence of Maoists in the region and maintain the security of the Dantewada and Bijapur districts within the larger Bastar division.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 14:28:06

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a well-coordinated and strategic operation, the Indian Navy, in collaboration with naval forces from Sri Lanka and Seychelles, has successfully rescued a hijacked fishing vessel in the sea lanes east of Mogadishu. The Sri Lankan-flagged fishing trawler, Lorenzo Putha, fell prey to three pirates on January 27, triggering a prompt response from the Indian Navy.Multilateral Collaboration and Efficient CoordinationThe Indian Navy, deploying INS Sharada and utilizing Sea Guardian long-range drones, swiftly located the hijacked fishing vessel. Commander Vivek Madhwal, spokesperson for the Indian Navy, emphasized, "In a coordinated multilateral response to the hijacking of a Sri Lankan fishing vessel, the Indian Navy, in collaboration with Seychelles defense forces and Sri Lankan Navy, successfully intercepted and rescued the hijacked vessel."Effective operational coordination and information sharing through the Sri Lanka and Seychelles International Liaison Officers at IFC-IOR, New Delhi, played a pivotal role in the successful interception, Madhwal added.Pirates Surrender and Safe Crew RescueThe three pirates surrendered to the Seychelles Coast Guard, ensuring the safety of all six crew members. The hijacked vessel is currently under escort to Mahe in Seychelles. Madhwal highlighted the proactive measures taken by the Indian Navy, stating, "INS Sharada and Sea Guardian long-range drones were deployed to locate and intercept the hijacked fishing vessel."Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR)Established in 2018, the Indian Navy's Information Fusion Centre-Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) serves as a collaborative framework with like-minded countries to monitor shipping traffic and critical developments in the region.INS Sumitra's Remarkable Anti-Piracy OperationsIn a noteworthy development, INS Sumitra, engaged in anti-piracy and maritime security operations in the east of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, successfully rescued two hijacked fishing vessels along with 36 crew members in the Southern Arabian Sea within 36 hours.On Monday, INS Sumitra rescued 19 Pakistani nationals after thwarting a plot to steal the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi off the East Coast of Somalia. The warship intercepted the distressed vessel and compelled the pirates to safely release the crew and the boat.Swift and Relentless Efforts"INS Sumitra, over the course of less than 36 hours, through swift, persistent, and relentless efforts has rescued two hijacked Fishing Vessels along with 36 Crew (17 Iranian and 19 Pakistani) in Southern Arabian Sea approximately 850 nm West of Kochi," stated the Navy in an official statement.Previous Successful Mission by INS VisakhapatnamBefore this, the Indian Navy's guided missile destroyer, INS Visakhapatnam, effectively responded to a distress call from the Marshall Island-flagged MV Genco Picardy on January 18. The vessel had faced a drone attack on the night of January 17, prompting INS Visakhapatnam, currently on an anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden, to intercept and provide immediate assistance.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 06:59:50

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development, the renowned warship building company, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE), and Rolls-Royce sealed a collaborative deal on Tuesday through a Frame and Individual License Agreement. This partnership is focused on the license production and localization of MTU IMO Tier II compliant Series 4000 Marine Engines, exclusively designed for governmental ships.The Diesel Engine Plant of GRSE in Ranchi has been designated as the manufacturing hub for these engines as outlined in the agreement. This strategic collaboration aligns with the 'Make in India' initiative and is poised to capture substantial market potential in the upcoming years, particularly in Fast Patrol Vessels, Interceptor Boats, and Fast Attack Craft projects for both the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard, according to a company press release.Rolls-Royce's Power Systems arm has developed the MTU Series 4000 engines, boasting a power output ranging from 746 to 4300 KW. These engines are tailored to provide optimal propulsion for a wide spectrum of naval vessels, from small patrol boats to frigates and large submarines. Noteworthy features include high-power density, an impressive power-to-weight ratio, a compact design, and robust mechanical and thermal stability.The License Agreement encompasses various aspects to meet the end customer's requirements, including the assembly of Licensee-built Products, manufacturing or procurement of Licensee-built parts and/or components, engine testing, and finishing (including painting). Additionally, the agreement covers the manufacturing or procurement of Licensee-built parts and/or components to produce Licensee-built Products within the designated Territory, along with the sale and after-sales services of Licensee-built Products within India for the specified application. This collaborative effort signifies a crucial step towards bolstering indigenous production capabilities and technological self-reliance in the defense sector.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-31 06:40:14

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent encounter along the Sukma-Bijapur border in Chhattisgarh, five CRPF commandos sustained injuries in a firefight with Naxals. The clash unfolded during a routine search operation near Tekalgudem village, highlighting the persistent security challenges faced by personnel in the region. One jawan suffered a bullet injury, while others sustained minor wounds, leading to immediate evacuation from the forest, as reported by the Bastar Range Inspector General of Police.This incident underscores the ongoing efforts of security forces to combat Naxal activities in Chhattisgarh. The injured jawans are currently undergoing necessary medical attention, emphasizing the risks faced by personnel in their line of duty.Earlier on the same day, security forces successfully averted a potential tragedy in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district by discovering and defusing two improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Acting on a tip-off, the police located the 5 kg and 3 kg explosive devices strategically placed on dirt tracks. The intention was to target security personnel during routine patrolling activities."The explosives were planted on dirt tracks to target security personnel who pass through the area during patrolling. The bombs were later defused by the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS). A major tragedy has been averted," stated a police officer, emphasizing the significance of timely intervention.This incident serves as a reminder of the persistent security threats faced by law enforcement in regions affected by Naxal insurgency. The successful neutralization of the improvised explosive devices highlights the importance of intelligence-based operations in preventing potential disasters. While the injured CRPF commandos are expected to recover, security measures remain heightened in the area to address any further threats.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-30 14:35:55