India 

Defense News ,India :- As India marks its 75th Republic Day, significant developments in the country's defense sector reflect a commitment to 'Atmanirbharta in Defence.' Defense Minister Rajnath Singh has announced a groundbreaking allocation of 75% (approximately Rs one lakh crore) of the defense capital procurement budget for domestic industries in FY 2023-24, a substantial increase from the previous year's 68%.During the plenary session of 'Swavlamban 2.0,' the Defence Minister unveiled the Fifth Positive Indigenisation List (PIL) of the Department of Military Affairs (DMA), featuring 98 items. These items, including complex systems, sensors, weapons, and ammunition, are slated to be procured from indigenous sources in adherence to the provisions outlined in the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 within a staggered timeline.A momentous achievement in the pursuit of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' occurred when Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) delivered the first twin-seater Light Combat Aircraft 'Tejas' to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in October 2023. This marked a significant step towards self-reliance, realized in the presence of Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt.Designed, developed, and manufactured by HAL in Bengaluru, the Twin-Seater Light Combat Fighter aircraft 'Tejas' took the spotlight during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sortie in November. Notably, it was the first time an Indian Prime Minister flew a fighter aircraft sortie, showcasing the capabilities of Tejas during the 30-minute flight.To bolster the operational readiness of the Armed Forces, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Rajnath Singh, approved proposals exceeding Rs 3.50 lakh crore in total value. In a November meeting, the DAC granted approval for various Capital Acquisition Proposals, with 98% of the approved amount (2.20 lakh crore) set to be sourced from domestic industries.Diverse projects aimed at modernization and enhancing the lethality of the Armed Forces include the procurement of 26 Rafale marine aircraft, 16 Sky Guardians, 15 Sea Guardians, HALE, RPAS, HELINA ATGMS, Dhruvastra, Su-30 MKIs, HTT40 basic trainer aircraft, Cadet Training Ships, improved Akash weapon System, offshore Patrol and Missile Vessels, Fleet Support Ships, IN Shankush medium rafts, Upgraded Dornier Aircrafts for Indian Coast Guard, and contracts with BEL, such as Project Akashteer and Sarang.In a nod to 'Aatmanirbharta,' the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) will showcase its tableau and equipment during the Republic Day parade. The contribution of women scientists from DRDO to core areas of Defence Research will be highlighted, with the tableau themed 'Women Power in Protecting the Nation in Land, Air, Sea, Cyber, and Space.' Scientist Sunita Devi Jena will serve as the Contingent Commander, leading the representation of cutting-edge defense technologies, including Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), Anti-Satellite (ASAT) Missile, Agni-5, and various other strategic systems.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-27 05:18:36

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development, TATA Group and Airbus have entered into a collaborative agreement to jointly produce civilian helicopters, announced India's Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra on Friday. This strategic partnership was formalized during the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron to India.The collaboration builds upon the existing partnership between TATA and Airbus, where they are already engaged in the production of the C-295 transport aircraft in the home state of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat.Speaking at a media briefing, Mr. Kwatra highlighted the essence of the industrial partnership, stating, "TATA and Airbus have signed an industrial partnership for the production of H125 helicopters with a substantial emphasis on indigenous and localization components."As of now, there has been no immediate response from TATA and Airbus regarding this collaboration.During President Macron's visit, discussions extended to further cooperation in the defense sector. Notably, there were talks about the potential involvement of French engine manufacturer Safran in the production of fighter jet engines in India. India's Ambassador to France, Jawed Ashraf, expressed Safran's willingness to engage in a complete transfer of technology encompassing design, development, certification, and production.France holds the position of being India's second-largest arms supplier, and the nation has relied on French fighter jets for over four decades.Additionally, the visit addressed concerns related to New Delhi-based French journalist Vanessa Dougnac, who received a notice from the Indian government regarding the potential cancellation of her visa. The government characterized Dougnac's work as "malicious," suggesting that it could "provoke disorder and disturb peace." In response, Dougnac issued a statement on Wednesday denying all allegations.some of its key specifications:Performance: Maximum takeoff weight: 5,225 lbs (2,370 kg) Fast cruise speed: 136 knots (252 km/h) Hover ceiling (out of ground effect): 12,600 ft (3,840 m) Range with standard fuel tanks: 340 nautical miles (630 km) Endurance with standard fuel tanks: 4 hours 27 minutes Engine: Safran Helicopter Engines Arriel 2D turboshaft engine Dual-channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC) unit Third independent and automatic backup channel Automatic engine startup Cabin: Height: 4 ft 26 in (1.30 m) Width: 6 ft 14 in (1.89 m) Length: 6 ft 56 in (2.02 m) Volume: 61 cu ft (1.73 cu m) Door height: 3 ft 60 in (1.10 m) Door width: 5 ft 63 in (1.71 m) Seating configurations: 4, 5, or 6 passengers Other features: Five-bladed main rotor Starflex crash-resistant landing gear Heated windshield Air conditioning Full range of avionics options The H125 is a popular choice for a variety of missions, including: Passenger transport Search and rescue Aerial work Law enforcement Medical evacuation VIP transport

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-27 05:10:00

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent interview, Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), revealed that nearly ₹4.94 lakh crores worth of products developed by DRDO have been successfully inducted into defense operations or have received the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC).Kamat emphasized the accelerated pace of developments, stating that "the rate of product induction has surged significantly, with more than 60 to 70 per cent of the inducted products materializing within the last five to seven years. This trend is expected to continue and witness further growth in the future."Addressing an upcoming milestone, Kamat mentioned that the initial batch of BrahMos missile systems is anticipated to reach the Philippines by the end of March. He elaborated, saying, "The ground systems are set to be dispatched in the next 10 days, and we aim to send the missiles to the Philippines by March."This shipment marks a historic moment as the export of BrahMos missiles to the Philippines represents the largest defense contract ever signed by India with a foreign nation. The agreement, valued at USD 375 million and inked in January 2022, involves the supply of the shore-based anti-ship variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile.The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system stands out as one of the world's most successful missile programs. Recognized as the globe's premier and fastest precision-guided weapon, BRAHMOS has significantly bolstered India's deterrence capabilities in the 21st century. Developed by the joint venture entity BrahMos Aerospace, a collaboration between India and Russia, the supersonic cruise missile continues to evolve, with the next-generation variant featuring smaller, lighter, and smarter dimensions tailored for deployment across a wider range of modern military platforms.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-27 04:58:31

 India 

Defense News ,India & France :- In the ongoing diplomatic exchanges between India and Safran concerning the Shakti jet engine deal, Ambassador Jawed Ashraf, India's representative in France, shed light on the intricate nature of the negotiations. The primary focus of these discussions, according to Ambassador Ashraf, is to align the specifications with India's future fighter jet requirements."This is a subject of ongoing discussions," Ambassador Ashraf emphasized, underscoring that the deliberations go beyond mere technology transfer. The deal aims to delve into the actual design phase, metallurgical aspects, and other critical elements essential for the development of advanced jet engines.During a special briefing on French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India, Ambassador Ashraf highlighted the significance of a comprehensive approach. He stressed, "What we are looking for is not just a manufacturing transfer of technology but to work in the actual design phase, metallurgical aspects, etc."Safran, a key player in the aerospace industry, has expressed its willingness to engage in a 100% transfer of technology across various phases of the project, including design development, certification, and production. Despite this openness, Ambassador Ashraf acknowledged the complexities involved and emphasized the need to align discussions with India's overall future defense requirements."So Safran is fully willing to do it with 100% transfer of technology, 100% transfer of technology in design development, certification, production and so on and so forth," Ashraf stated. He recognized the complexity of the subject and its integration with India's future defense needs, emphasizing that ongoing discussions form a crucial part of the defense industry roadmap.In a significant decision in July 2023, India and France extended their defense cooperation by supporting the joint development of a combat aircraft engine. The collaboration also included industrial cooperation for the motorization of heavy-lift helicopters under the Indian Multi Role Helicopter (IMRH) program with Safran Helicopter Engine. This decision followed talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Macron in Paris.Earlier in April 2023, Safran's Group Chairman, Ross McInnes, discussed a technological partnership with PM Modi in the defense and space sectors. The French firm, known for manufacturing aircraft and rocket engines, had previously signed a workshare agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) in February 2023 for the joint development of engines intended for the future 13-tonne Indian MultiRole Helicopter (IMRH) and its naval version Deck-Based MultiRole Helicopter (DBMRH).

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-26 14:41:25

 India 

Defense News ,India :- India’s Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R. Hari Kumar, clarified on Thursday that the Indian government has not directed its defense personnel to withdraw from the Maldives despite a formal request from Male, as reported by CNN-News18.The bilateral relations between India and the Maldives have faced tension following the election victory of Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu last year. President Muizzu had campaigned on ending the "India First" policy and later advocated for the withdrawal of Indian troops by March 15.Observers view Muizzu's decisions as a strategic shift away from India, signaling an intent to foster closer ties with China. This move unfolds in a geopolitical context where New Delhi and Beijing actively vie for influence in the region.Admiral Kumar stated, "We await instructions; whatever is the decision," in response to queries about the potential return of defense personnel from the Maldives. He added that as of now, New Delhi has not communicated any directives to the navy regarding the matter.Approximately 80 Indian soldiers are currently stationed in the Indian Ocean archipelago nation, tasked with providing support for military equipment supplied to Male by New Delhi and assisting in various humanitarian activities. The evolving situation in the Maldives raises questions about the geopolitical alignments in the region and the potential ramifications for India's strategic interests.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-26 14:09:55

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The inaugural celebrations commemorating the birth of the Republic of India did not unfold on Rajpath (now Kartavya Path), the renowned avenue associated with the ceremony over time. Instead, it was the 1930s-era Irwin Amphitheatre that served as the venue for the festivities following the appointment of the country's first president. On the night of January 26, 1950, the capital city transformed into a mesmerizing "fairyland," with iconic public buildings, parks, and railway stations illuminated to mark the historic occasion.As India marks its platinum jubilee, reflecting on its journey from gaining independence in 1947, it's worth revisiting the vibrant celebrations that ensued after Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the nation's inaugural president. The first Republic Day function took place at Irwin Stadium, now known as the Irwin Amphitheatre.Fast forward to the present day, India celebrated its 75th Republic Day with a spectacular display of women power, rich cultural heritage, and military prowess. The grand event featured an impressive showcase, including missiles, warplanes, surveillance gadgets, and lethal weapon systems, with French President Emmanuel Macron as the distinguished chief guest.The historical significance of Irwin Amphitheatre dates back to its construction in 1933 as a gift to Delhi from the Maharaja of Bhavnagar. Originally named after the former Viceroy of India, Lord Irwin, who inaugurated the new British capital 'New Delhi' in 1931, the amphitheatre underwent a transformation in 1951 when it was renamed the National Stadium just before hosting the Asian Games. In 2002, Major Dhyan Chand's name was added in honor of the legendary hockey player.On the momentous day of January 26, 1950, India, having cast off the British colonial yoke in 1947, officially became a "Sovereign Democratic Republic" at a solemn ceremony held in the brilliantly lit Durbar Hall at Government House. Dr. Rajendra Prasad was sworn in as the president shortly after the declaration, accompanied by a salute of 31 guns.In his historic speech, President Prasad expressed the significance of this moment in India's history, emphasizing the unity of the vast land under one Constitution and one Union. The ceremonial procession through the streets of Delhi symbolized the coming-of-age of the nation, resonating with the cheers of the jubilant crowds.Although the venue for Republic Day celebrations shifted to Rajpath in 1951, the Irwin Amphitheatre, with its rich history, witnessed one of the most magnificent military parades in India's recent history on that memorable day in 1950. While Rajpath took over as the primary venue, the images of the Irwin Amphitheatre on that day remain etched in the annals of history.In conclusion, India's Republic Day celebrations have evolved over the years, and as the nation commemorates its 75th anniversary, it's essential to acknowledge the historical significance of the Irwin Amphitheatre in shaping the early chapters of independent India's grand narrative.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-26 14:05:37

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a groundbreaking development, the Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU) Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) is playing a pivotal role in advancing India's aero engine manufacturing capabilities. The DPSU is currently providing specialized materials for the innovative Kaveri dry engines, a project undertaken by Godrej Aerospace with technical guidance from the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO’s) Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE). Anticipated for completion around mid-2024, the Kaveri engines are set to undergo rigorous trials before obtaining airworthiness certification, opening up possibilities for integration into TEJAS platforms.MIDHANI's foray into the global supply chain is marked by its strategic supply of nickel-based alloys to a British aerospace company through a Navratna defence firm. This international exposure is crucial as India seeks to finalize a deal with US-based GE Aerospace for domestic manufacturing of F414 fighter jet engines, reinforcing India's pursuit of 'Atmanirbharta' in aero engine manufacturing.The DPSU, with a rich history of contributing to missions such as Chandrayaan and the upcoming Gaganyaan, is actively engaging with international partners. Notably, MIDHANI is undergoing the process of securing development certification from an American aerospace company, demonstrating its commitment to delivering high-quality products on a global scale.The unique properties of the materials supplied by MIDHANI, capable of withstanding temperatures beyond 1,000 degrees centigrade and being lighter than standard materials, position the DPSU as a key player in the aerospace industry. The company's visibility is expanding in Europe, benefiting from disruptions in the international supply chain caused by geopolitical conflicts.MIDHANI is further enhancing its capabilities by signing a Memorandum of Understanding with an indigenous private defence player, exploring the potential for manufacturing critical materials as import substitutions. The company's latest export volume stands at ₹38 crore, with a substantial ₹78 crore in the order book from global markets, demonstrating its growing influence in the aerospace sector.According to MIDHANI CMD Dr SK Jha, the focus is on aligning with the aerospace segment to meet both domestic and international demands. With ambitious projects commissioned for modernization and expansion, MIDHANI aims to play a significant role in the future of aerospace and aero engines.Ongoing projects include the supply of critical materials for HAL’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and the development of specialized materials for the Kaveri engines. MIDHANI's versatility is evident in its contributions to combat jets, M-17 helicopters, tanks, and the creation of "Hastealloy," a special-grade steel for de-desulphurization in thermal power plants.As MIDHANI continues to diversify and expand its capabilities, its role in advancing India's self-reliance in aerospace technology becomes increasingly vital. The company's open order book of ₹1,700 crore and growing revenue underscore its positive trajectory and contributions to India's defense and aerospace sectors.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 16:23:25

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Union Home Minister Amit Shah declared a paradigm shift towards peace in Jammu and Kashmir, citing a significant 66% reduction in terrorist incidents and an 81% drop in civilian casualties since the revocation of Article 370. In a virtual address, Shah attributed this transformation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, emphasizing the region's evolution from a terrorism hotspot to a burgeoning tourism destination.As part of the celebration, Shah virtually inaugurated 100 e-buses in Jammu and handed out appointment letters to Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) officers and compassionate appointees. He shared, "There has been a fall of 66% in terrorism-related incidents, an 81% decline in civilian killings, and a 48% decrease in security force fatalities since the scrapping of Article 370."Highlighting the positive changes, Shah revealed that no organized stone-pelting incidents occurred in 2023, compared to 2,654 in 2000. He also noted the absence of organized shutdowns in 2023, contrasting with 132 occurrences in 2010. Furthermore, he pointed out that no civilian lives were lost due to stone-pelting in 2023, unlike the 112 casualties recorded in 2010. The minister emphasized the significant decrease in incidents of stone-pelting-related injuries, citing 6,235 civilian injuries in 2010.Shah underscored the successful efforts in curbing terror financing, including the sealing and attachment of properties and the banning of several terror organizations. He commended the prime minister for the remarkable transformation of Jammu and Kashmir, once synonymous with terrorism, into a thriving tourism hub.Contrary to skeptics who predicted minimal impact following the scrapping of Article 370, Shah pointed out the substantial positive changes. The region, once marred by bomb blasts and unrest, has transitioned into a space focused on education, with the establishment of schools, colleges, medical institutions, management centers, industries, and infrastructure.The minister highlighted the economic progress, revealing that investments in Jammu and Kashmir surged from Rs 297 crore in 2019-20 to Rs 2,153 crore in 2022-23, with nearly Rs 6,000 crore more in the pipeline. Jammu and Kashmir's Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) has also seen a noteworthy increase from Rs 1 lakh crore in 2014-15 to Rs 2,27,927 crore in 2022-23.In a final appeal, Shah urged the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to actively participate in the democratic process by enrolling as voters. He acknowledged the positive contributions of the tech-savvy youth, with over 7 lakh individuals engaging in sports, signaling a promising trajectory for the region's progress.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 13:51:32

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent announcement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO), Telangana has been chosen as a pivotal location for the establishment of India's second very low-frequency (VLF) communication transmission station by the Indian Navy. The upcoming facility is planned for the Vikarabad district, specifically in the Damagudem forest area near Puduru in the Vikarabad mandal.The VLF communication transmission station plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between the Navy and its ships and submarines. The first of its kind, INS Kattabomman Radar Station in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu, has been in operation since 1990. The Eastern Naval Command in Visakhapatnam had previously identified Telangana as a suitable location for the establishment of a second radar station.The statement from the CMO highlighted the Navy's efforts since 2010 to collaborate with the state government. Despite securing environmental permits and clearances, the land allotment faced delays due to the negligence of the previous government. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy's special initiative successfully cleared obstacles to the project.During a meeting with CM Reddy, Commodore Karthik Shankar, Circle DEO Rohit Bhupathi, and Captain Sandeep Das finalized the agreement for the transfer of forest lands. The Damagudem Reserve Forest contributed 1174 hectares of land to the Navy. The Union Forest and Environment Department approved the Navy's proposals in 2014. Campa funds amounting to Rs 133.54 crores were allocated for the forest land transfer, and the Navy has paid Rs 18.56 crores for land conservation measures.According to the CMO's statement, the Damagudem Forest Protection filed a petition in court seeking to cancel the project. The court has issued orders to implement precautions in line with government-specified conditions.In addition to the Navy station, the township will feature schools, hospitals, banks, and markets, catering to approximately 600 naval personnel and civilians. A comprehensive plan for preserving biodiversity and ecological balance includes extensive planting, and a 27 km road around Damagudem Reserve Forest is set to be constructed. The new VLF center is expected to be completed in 2027.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 13:40:48

 India 

Defense News ,India & Philippines :-  India is on the verge of exporting ground systems for the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, with plans to dispatch the missiles to the Philippines by March this year. This development signifies a crucial achievement in India's defense export initiatives, as highlighted by DRDO chairman Dr. Samir V Kamat in a recent interview with ANI.Dr. Kamat revealed that the export process is set to kick off within the next 10 days, with the ground systems taking the lead. The initial batch of BrahMos missile systems is expected to reach the Philippines by the end of March. This venture is part of an unprecedented defense export contract valued at USD 375 million, marking the largest such agreement India has ever engaged in with a foreign nation.Expressing confidence in the future of defense exports, Dr. Kamat stated, "I am sure over the coming years exports are going to become a very important part of our portfolio." He emphasized the increasing role of exports in the defense sector, citing successful exports of products such as hull-mounted sonars, lightweight torpedoes, and radar systems to various countries.Details of the Philippines DealThe deal with the Philippines, inked in January 2022, focuses on the supply of the shore-based anti-ship variant of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. This underscores the global demand for India's advanced defense capabilities and solidifies the country's position as a reliable partner in the international arms market.DRDO's Export AchievementsDr. Kamat highlighted DRDO's success in exports, noting that products developed by the organization have either been inducted into the defense system or received Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC). The total value of these DRDO-developed products stands at approximately Rs 4.94 lakh crores. Furthermore, he emphasized the accelerated pace of product development, with 60-70% of inducted products accomplished in the last 5-7 years.BRAHMOS Supersonic Cruise MissileThe BRAHMOS supersonic cruise missile system, a joint venture between India and Russia under BrahMos Aerospace, ranks as one of the world's most successful missile programs. Recognized as the best and fastest precision-guided weapon globally, BRAHMOS has significantly enhanced India's deterrence capabilities in the 21st century. The next-generation variant of the missile, characterized by smaller, lighter, and smarter dimensions, is designed for deployment on a broader range of modern military platforms.This landmark deal not only strengthens diplomatic ties but also positions India as a key player in the global defense arena. The successful export of cutting-edge defense technology marks a significant milestone in India's journey towards becoming a leading contributor to international security and stability.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 13:30:22

 India 

Defense News ,Myanmar & India :- In a recent incident at Mizoram's Lengpui airport near Aizawl, a Myanmar military cargo plane crash-landed after encountering engine trouble. The Assam Rifles announced on Wednesday that, one day after the mishap, 92 Myanmarese soldiers involved in the incident were sent back to their country.The Y-8 cargo plane from the Myanmar Air Force overshot the tabletop runway, crash-landing into a bush. The aircraft, carrying 14 people, had arrived to retrieve 92 soldiers who had crossed into India the previous week after clashes with an ethnic insurgent group. The 14 crew members, miraculously surviving the crash, were later airlifted to Sittwe port town in Myanmar's Rakhine state by another Myanmarese aircraft.This latest evacuation brings the total number of repatriated Myanmarese army personnel from Mizoram to 635 since November of the previous year. These soldiers had entered Mizoram after their camps were overrun by rebel forces.Officials stated that the aircraft accident resulted from a malfunction in one of its two engines. Despite the experienced pilot, who had previously landed at Lengpui airport, the engine issue led to the unfortunate incident. Mizoram shares a 510-km-long border with Myanmar.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 06:52:26

 India 

Defense News India :- In a diplomatic move, Badruddin Haqqani, a prominent figure within the Taliban and currently serving as the Charge d'Affaires (CdA) for the 'Islamic Republic of Afghanistan,' has received an invitation from the Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi to attend the Republic Day celebrations, as per reliable sources.This invitation adheres to standard diplomatic procedures, with sources in Kabul confirming that it was sent to the duly accredited CdA of Afghanistan, recognized by the Government of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Notably, the UAE does not officially recognize the Taliban.Despite the Taliban's preference for the title 'Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan,' the invitation was formally addressed to the Charge d'Affaires of the Embassy of the 'Islamic Republic of Afghanistan,' as reported by India Today. The Afghan Embassy in Abu Dhabi consistently upholds the practice of displaying the Republic flag, distinct from the Taliban flag.This routine invitation, part of the Republic Day reception for all accredited Ambassadors/CdAs, was extended to Badruddin Haqqani, who assumed the role of Charge d'Affaires in October 2023 and holds accreditation from the UAE government. He is the son of Jalaluddin Haqqani and the brother of Sirajuddin Haqqani, the Interior Minister of Afghanistan.India's decision to invite Haqqani aligns with its commitment to diplomatic norms and the engagement of representatives from accredited missions. This approach, while not recognizing the Taliban regime, reflects India's adherence to international diplomatic protocols.India has engaged with Taliban officials in various capacities, exemplified by the reopening of its embassy in Kabul with a team of 'technical experts.' However, formal recognition has been withheld, mirroring the broader international approach to the Taliban-led administration in Afghanistan.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 05:20:11

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant milestone, the Indian Navy, in collaboration with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL), achieved a successful engagement of a land target at an extended range using an advanced supersonic cruise missile on Wednesday.The test is believed to be for the 800 km extended range version of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, reaffirming India's commitment to 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in extended-range precision strike capabilities from combat-ready ships.Earlier this year, the Indian Army conducted a successful test of the extended-range variant known as BrahMos-ER, with reports indicating that the trial took place in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as part of the induction trials for the extended-range version.The BrahMos-ER variant, with a maximum range of 400 to 500 kilometers, is designed to strike both land and sea targets. An Indian Army officer emphasized that the missile is yet to be formally inducted, and its induction will depend on the outcomes of the trial. Further trials are anticipated before the missile becomes part of the army's arsenal.The BrahMos missile, initially tested in June 2001, had a baseline range of 290 km for striking sea-borne targets. Jointly developed by Russian NPO Mashinostroyeniya and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation, it is based on the Russian P-800 Onyx missile. Over the years, the missile has undergone iterative developments, extending its range to 500 km and incorporating an advanced 'Made-in-India' active radar seeker.India has diversified its BrahMos arsenal by introducing an air-launched version named BrahMos-A, which is lighter at 2.5 tonnes compared to the ground and ship-launched variant weighing 3 tonnes. Additionally, work is underway on the BrahMos-NG missile, a lighter and faster variant, which is compatible with Tejas Mk-1A fighter jets. The BrahMos-NG is poised to enhance India's aerial precision strike capabilities in the near future.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-25 05:09:18

 India 

Defense News ,India & Bangladesh :- In the early hours of Tuesday morning, a Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) sepoy, identified as Mohammed Raisuddin, was reportedly shot dead by the Border Security Force (BSF). The incident occurred near Sutia in Bongaon, North 24-Parganas, along the India-Bangladesh border.According to the BSF, Raisuddin, aged 35, was allegedly part of a group involved in cattle smuggling and had crossed into Indian territory. The BSF claimed that the group, armed with sharp weapons, attacked on-duty BSF personnel who were attempting to thwart their smuggling attempt through an unfenced stretch of the border.A.K. Arya, the BSF’s South Bengal Frontier spokesperson and Deputy Inspector General, stated, "Our jawans spotted the gang and tried to prevent the smuggling attempt. But the smugglers retaliated when one of our jawans opened fire in self-defence, resulting in the death of one person while others managed to flee."The BSF discovered Raisuddin lying injured around 5 am and rushed him to the Bongaon subdivisional hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.Arya expressed shock at the revelation that a BGB jawan could be involved with smugglers and infiltrate Indian territory wearing a lungi and T-shirt for cattle smuggling.The BGB authorities identified Raisuddin as missing and contacted the BSF, leading to a flag meeting. The BGB shared a picture of the missing jawan, who belonged to the Jessore-based 49-Battalion, and it matched the appearance of the smuggler killed by the BSF.A BSF source reported that a team from the Sutia outpost spotted a group of four smugglers at around 4:30 am on Tuesday.Expressing suspicion about the involvement of other BGB jawans in smuggling activities, a senior BSF official stated, "It is quite suspicious... How can a BGB jawan move with the smugglers unless he was involved in smuggling activities?"Senior BSF officers in Calcutta deemed the matter serious and reported it to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. Bangladeshi media reported that the BGB authorities demanded a thorough investigation and sent a "protest note" to the BSF.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-24 16:26:53

 India 

Defense News ,India & France :- French President Emmanuel Macron's upcoming visit to India is poised to bolster significant defense agreements, particularly the sale of Rafale fighter planes and Scorpene-class submarines. The visit, scheduled to commence in Jaipur, marks President Macron's participation as the Chief Guest in India's 75th Republic Day celebrations, featuring French armed forces and fighter aircraft in the parade on Rajpath, New Delhi.The anticipated discussions between President Macron and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are expected to kickstart price negotiations for the acquisition of Rafale-M (Marine) fighter jets and submarines for the Indian Navy, as per official sources from ABP LIVE. These multi-billion dollar deals received clearance from the Ministry of Defence's Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) in July, preceding Prime Minister Modi's Bastille Day visit to France.India's plans include the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter planes, designated for deployment on aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. The Indian Navy expressed a preference for the French Rafale-M over Boeing's F/A-18 Super Hornet in early 2023. Additionally, the Navy aims to acquire three more Scorpene-class submarines, to be constructed at Mazagon Dockyard Ltd. (MDL) in Mumbai under a repeat order for Project-75.During Modi's visit to France in July, concerns arose as both deals were omitted from the joint statement. Subsequently clarified by both governments, the deals, although approved, required price negotiations that had not commenced.President Macron's inclusion of Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu in the visit signals an intent to initiate these negotiations. Preliminary discussions took place in October during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Paris for the 5th Annual Defence Dialogue.The visit coincides with heightened tensions around the Red Sea, where Iran-backed Houthis target merchant vessels amid the Israel-Hamas conflict. India, along with the US and the UK, is closely monitoring the situation. Discussions on this crisis are expected during talks between Modi and Macron.India and France, strategic partners under the Indo-Pacific framework, are set to discuss the unfolding situation and determine their next steps. The Indo-France Indo-Pacific Roadmap, signed in July, emphasizes the crucial role of their partnership in the region.President Macron, previously in India in 2018, will tour Amber Fort in Jaipur, engage with artisans and stakeholders of Indo-French cultural projects, and join Prime Minister Modi in visiting landmarks like Jantar Mantar. The Republic Day parade will be a key event during President Macron's visit, concluding with his departure on the same day.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-24 15:56:54