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

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a strategic move to showcase unity among the defense forces and highlight its expanding strategic capabilities, the Indian Air Force has scheduled three extensive war games on February 17. The exercises, named Vayu Shakti, Gagan Shakti, and Tarang Shakti, aim to demonstrate the integration of various defense forces and the Air Force's growing strategic reach and firepower.The inaugural exercise, Vayu Shakti, will feature a massive live-fire demonstration in the Thar Desert, Pokhran. Different aircraft from various fleets will engage in precision bombing on diverse targets, as disclosed by defense officials to India Today.The second major undertaking, 'Gagan Shakti,' will activate the entire air fleet, spanning from north to south and west to east. This exercise is designed to test integrated war-fighting strategies and tactics in collaboration with the other two forces and relevant stakeholders. Noteworthy participants include potent weapon systems such as the Rafale fighter aircraft and the S-400 air defense systems, along with a mix of other new and old systems.Occurring once every five years, 'Gagan Shakti' is poised to become the largest exercise in the series, featuring active involvement from the other two services.The third and final major exercise, Tarang Shakti, will mark a historic moment as the first-ever multinational exercise hosted by India. Friendly air forces from countries like the US, Germany, France, Australia, and neighboring nations will participate, making it a truly collaborative and diverse demonstration of military prowess.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-30 14:14:11

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a rapid and compassionate response, the Australian Air Force executed the airlift of emergency relief assistance provided by India to Papua New Guinea on Monday. The relief consignment, valued at USD 1 million, was transported from Port Moresby, the capital of Papua New Guinea, to Kimbe, the capital of West New Britain, for efficient distribution within the province.The Indian High Commission in Papua New Guinea expressed gratitude, stating, "Responding to the immediate needs of PNG, emergency relief assistance worth US$ 1 million from India was swiftly airlifted to Kimbe (from Port Moresby) by @AusAirForce @AusHCPNG, for onward distribution within West New Britain province. A friend in need is a friend indeed!"This initiative follows a commitment made by India to provide relief to the victims of the volcanic eruption in Papua New Guinea. Last month, a special charter flight, laden with supplies, departed from New Delhi as part of the USD 1 million aid package announced by India. The relief materials include approximately 11 tonnes of disaster relief supplies and 6 tonnes of medical aid.India's assistance, framed as High Availability Disaster Recovery (HADR) supplies, aims to aid the people of Papua New Guinea affected by the volcanic eruption of Ulawun, the nation's most active volcano. The eruption, reported by Al Jazeera, sent smoke soaring up to 15km (9.3 miles) on November 20, marking its first significant eruption in years.This gesture solidifies India's commitment to standing by Papua New Guinea during times of crisis, echoing similar support provided after the earthquake in 2018 and the volcanic eruption in 2019. Ulawun, having a history of eruptions since the 1700s, experienced its last significant eruption in 2019, leading to the evacuation of over 5,000 people, according to Al Jazeera.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-30 05:53:00

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant stride towards India's clean energy goals, the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) has reached a major milestone with the successful installation of the reactor vessel for Unit 4. Russia's state nuclear corporation, Rosatom, proudly announced this achievement, marking substantial progress in the collaborative Indo-Russian project.The reactor vessel, weighing an impressive 317 tons, serves as the nucleus of the nuclear steam generation system. Its successful installation marks the conclusion of a crucial phase in the construction of Unit 4, setting the stage for the subsequent setup of essential equipment. The project's focus now shifts towards incorporating components vital for the plant's operation, bringing KKNPP one step closer to realizing its full potential.Nestled in Tamil Nadu, KKNPP stands as India's largest nuclear power plant, underscoring the robust technological and energy partnership between India and Russia. As Unit 4 nears completion and additional units are in the pipeline, KKNPP is poised to play a pivotal role in securing India's future in clean energy.The Kudankulam nuclear power plant exemplifies Indo-Russian collaboration in technology and energy, showcasing the enduring partnership between the two nations. Situated in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu, the plant already boasts two operational units with a combined capacity of 2,000 MW. Once Unit 4, along with Units 5 and 6 currently under construction, comes online, an additional 4,000 MW will be contributed to India's power grid, reinforcing the country's commitment to a sustainable energy future.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-30 05:47:24

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant move towards self-reliance, the Army Design Bureau (ADB) is spearheading nearly 350 design and development, as well as research and development projects, in collaboration with around 450 industries, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Army Chief General Manoj Pande highlighted that these projects, totaling approximately ₹1.8 lakh crore, will pave the way for the Indian Army to achieve 100% indigenous procurement, aligning with its commitment to observe 2024 as the "Year of Technology Absorption."General Pande emphasized the Army's focus on transitioning into a modern force built on domestically produced weapons and systems. Recent displays at the Republic Day parade showcased indigenous prowess, featuring weapons like the LCH Prachand chopper by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), Pinaka rocket launchers, and Nag anti-tank missiles.Discussing advancements at the western and northern borders, General Pande highlighted the deployment of 'Made-in-India' weapon systems, including infantry protected mobility vehicles and various drones. Furthermore, he revealed that the Army is on the verge of completing Quantum Computing trials, anticipating enhanced secure communication through Quantum Computing encryption and technology.Reflecting on lessons learned from the pandemic and global conflicts, the Army Chief underscored the imperative to reduce import dependency to near zero. Additionally, he expressed a commitment to leveraging the country's innovation potential and fostering a vibrant start-up ecosystem. This strategic shift aims to enhance self-reliance and strengthen the Indian Army's position in the ever-evolving landscape of defense technology.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-30 05:42:21

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In an official announcement, the Indian Navy reported a successful rescue operation conducted by the warship INS Sumitra on Monday. The mission involved thwarting a plot to hijack the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel Al Naeemi off the East Coast of Somalia, ultimately saving 19 Pakistani nationals who had been taken hostage by pirates.This marked the second rescue operation in as many days for the Indian Navy, following the successful anti-piracy operation that saved 17 crew members on the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel FV Iman along the east coast of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden.The INS Sumitra, acting in accordance with established procedures, successfully coerced the pirates into releasing the crew and the boat. Afterward, a confirmatory boarding was conducted to ensure the well-being of the crew members who had been held captive by Somali pirates.In a tweet, the Indian Navy stated that "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, and prevented misuse of these Fishing Vessels as Mother Ships for further acts of Piracy on Merchant Vessels."Prior to this, the INS Visakhapatnam, a guided missile destroyer on an anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden, responded effectively to a distress call from the Marshall Island-flagged MV Genco Picardy. The vessel had been targeted in a drone attack on the night of January 17. The INS Visakhapatnam intercepted the vessels at midnight on January 18, 2024, providing immediate assistance and showcasing the Indian Navy's rapid and effective response capabilities.#INSSumitra Carries out 2nd Successful #AntiPiracy Ops – Rescuing 19 Crew members & Vessel from Somali Pirates.Having thwarted the Piracy attempt on FV Iman, the warship has carried out another successful anti-piracy ops off the East Coast of Somalia, rescuing Fishing Vessel Al… https://t.co/QZz9bCihaU pic.twitter.com/6AonHw51KX— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) January 30, 2024

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-30 05:36:12

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant development, the inaugural session of the joint military exercise between India and Saudi Arabia, titled 'SADA TANSEEQ,' commenced in Rajasthan on Monday. The exercise, designed to cultivate interoperability, camaraderie, and bonhomie among the participating troops, is scheduled to run until February 10.According to the defense ministry's statement, the Royal Saudi Land Forces are representing the Saudi Arabian contingent, consisting of 45 personnel, while the Indian Army contingent, also comprising 45 personnel, is represented by a battalion from the Brigade of the Guards (Mechanised Infantry).The primary objective of the exercise is to provide training for joint operations in semi-desert terrain, adhering to Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The focus is on sharing best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures related to sub-conventional domain operations.The exercise will involve various activities such as establishing mobile vehicle check posts, conducting cordon and search operations, practicing house intervention drills, refining reflex shooting, slithering, and sniper firing techniques. Officials anticipate that the exercise will facilitate the development of strong bonds and enhance mutual understanding between the troops.Highlighting the significance of 'SADA TANSEEQ,' the statement emphasizes that the exercise serves as a platform to achieve shared security objectives, elevate defense cooperation levels, and strengthen bilateral relations between the two friendly nations.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-29 15:52:15

 India 

Defense News ,India :- High-level discussions between Indian and German officials have taken place regarding a significant deal for the procurement of advanced conventional submarines. The talks were initiated during the visit of German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius to India in June 2023, where Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) presented a compelling bid. The German delegation recently visited Delhi to progress the negotiations.Sources confirm that Germany has put forth a government-to-government proposal for the sale of six advanced conventional submarines to India under the Navy's P-75I procurement program. A senior German delegation held productive discussions in Delhi two weeks ago, aiming to advance the procurement process. The deal, valued at over ₹45,000 crore, is currently contested between Germany and Spain, with the process experiencing notable delays.During Minister Pistorius's visit in June 2023, he advocated strongly for TKMS's bid in discussions with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, envisioning the submarine deal as a potential "flagship project" between the two nations.The P-75I procurement process, operating under the 'strategic partnership' of the defence procurement procedure, has seen significant developments. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Limited are shortlisted to collaborate with foreign submarine manufacturers for the in-country production of six advanced conventional submarines through technology transfer.TKMS, initially in talks with L&T, has now partnered with MDL for the bid. Meanwhile, L&T and Spanish submarine manufacturer Navantia have entered into a 'teaming agreement' to jointly bid for the project. Navantia will handle the submarine design based on its S80 class, while L&T will be responsible for construction. Both bids are currently under evaluation.India has raised concerns with Germany, urging the relaxation of licensing requirements for the export of spares and components. The Federal Office for Economic Affairs and Export Control (BAFA) clearance is integral to this, with a submitted list addressing the Indian concerns.The P-75I process faced challenges, including specifications related to the submarine's 'Air-Independent Propulsion' (AIP) module with a two-week endurance. This condition, narrowing down the contenders to two manufacturers, has since been addressed by the Defence Acquisition Council. AIP modules enhance submarine endurance by allowing longer periods submerged, reducing the risk of detection. An indigenously developed AIP module is set to be installed on Scorpene submarines during their refit later this year.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-29 14:55:16

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a swift and resolute move, the Indian Navy's warship INS Sumitra effectively rescued the Iranian-flagged fishing vessel, Iman, and its 17 crew members from the clutches of pirates off the eastern coast of Somalia. The prompt response came after the distressed vessel fell victim to hijackers, triggering a mission to ensure the safe release of the crew and their ship.Anti-Piracy Operations by INS Sumitra:Commander Vivek Madhwal, spokesperson for the Indian Navy, highlighted the vessel's active involvement in anti-piracy operations along the east coast of Somalia and the Gulf of Aden. In response to the distress call, INS Sumitra adhered to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and successfully compelled the pirates to release all 17 crew members and the fishing vessel Iman. Following the operation, the vessel underwent thorough sanitization and was cleared for onward transit.Commitment to Maritime Security:Commander Madhwal reiterated the Indian Navy's unwavering commitment to maritime security operations in the Indian Ocean region. He emphasized that the successful rescue mission reflects the Navy's dedication to ensuring the safety of vessels and seafarers at sea. The operation is a testament to the Navy's consistent vigilance and operational efficiency in addressing maritime threats.Recent Naval Operations:This successful anti-piracy operation occurred just two days after INS Visakhapatnam intervened to extinguish a fire on a commercial oil tanker hit by a missile in the Gulf of Aden. The timely response showcased the Navy's vigilance in dealing with maritime incidents. The incident involved Iran-backed Houthi militants firing a missile at the Marshall Islands-flagged vessel MV Marlin Luanda, with 22 Indian crew members on board.Unwavering Vigilance:Recent accomplishments include thwarting an attempted hijacking of the Liberian-flagged vessel MV Lila Norfolk in the North Arabian Sea on January 5, where all crew members were successfully rescued. Other incidents, such as a drone attack on the Liberian-flagged vessel MV Chem Pluto and a suspected drone strike on another oil tanker in the Southern Red Sea, highlight the heightened vigilance maintained by the Indian Navy.Enhanced Deployment for Maritime Security:In response to the evolving maritime environment and the critical sea lanes in the North and Central Arabian Sea, the Indian Navy has intensified the deployment of its frontline ships and surveillance aircraft. This strategic move aims to bolster maritime security operations, ensuring the protection of vital sea routes and responding effectively to potential threats.Reaffirmation of Commitment:The recent successful rescue operation reaffirms the Indian Navy's commitment to safeguarding maritime interests, showcasing its proactive stance in countering piracy and other maritime threats. The Navy's timely and effective responses underscore its crucial role in maintaining security and stability in the strategically significant Indian Ocean region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-29 14:44:18

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari announced on Saturday that Nagpur is poised to become a manufacturing center for Rafale fighter jets. Speaking at the inaugural event of Advantage Vidarbha, aimed at attracting investments, Gadkari revealed that the renowned French company Dassault will undertake the production of Rafale fighter jets in Nagpur.Gadkari emphasized that the manufacturing unit, located in the Mihan-SEZ, is operated by Dassault Reliance Aviation Limited (DRAL), a joint venture between France’s Dassault and the Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Reliance Group. During a technical session at the event, Prakash Lute, CEO of DRAL, outlined the plans for Rafale production.In addition to Rafale jets, Gadkari highlighted that the TAAL unit in Mihan-SEZ is currently producing at least 1,200 spares for both Airbus and Boeing aircraft. This development underscores the growing significance of the region as a hub for aerospace manufacturing.During the same event, Lt General Vinod Khandare (Retd), the principal advisor to the Ministry of Defence, was present for a technical session. Gadkari pointed out that Vidarbha, with 75% of Maharashtra's minerals, is becoming increasingly attractive to industries. He predicted that Gadchiroli would emerge as the highest tax-paying district in the state within the next five years, attributing it to the influx of industries.Furthermore, Gadkari reiterated that the DRAL unit in Mihan-SEZ is a testament to the collaborative efforts between Dassault and the Ambani Reliance Group. As the manufacturing of Rafale jets and aircraft spares gains momentum, Nagpur is set to play a pivotal role in the aerospace industry's landscape.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-29 04:41:43

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a significant achievement, the Border Road Organisation (BRO) marked a major breakthrough at the Naushera tunnel, a crucial segment of the 200-kilometer-long Jammu-Poonch highway connecting key border districts. Under the supervision of BRO Director General Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, precision in tunnel construction was achieved through a well-executed blast, signaling a crucial step forward in regional connectivity.The Jammu-Poonch highway, known as the "Golden Arc road," spans through important border districts such as Akhnoor, Rajouri, and Poonch, featuring four major tunnels: Kandi tunnel, Sungal tunnel, Naushera tunnel, and Bhimber Gali tunnel.Highlighting the breakthrough at the Naushera tunnel, a defense spokesman emphasized the project's significance as a pivotal infrastructure link connecting Akhnoor and Poonch. Lt Gen Srinivasan, present at the breakthrough ceremony, stressed the project's importance in enhancing regional connectivity and facilitating smoother transportation along the national highway.The defense spokesman mentioned that the breakthrough at the Kandi tunnel, achieved on November 25 last year, showcased the BRO's commitment to providing connectivity in the Rajouri and Poonch areas. The overall progress of the highway project is on track for completion by 2026, ahead of schedule.Lt Gen Srinivasan, in his address, emphasized the BRO's role in spearheading crucial road projects to connect remote areas with major centers in the Jammu-Poonch region. He assured that the development of defense infrastructure along the Line of Control (LoC) is a continuous process, with the BRO committed to strengthening strategic roads across the International Border (IB), LoC, and Line of Actual Control (LAC).The BRO, in collaboration with Project Sampark, remains steadfast in its commitment to "Create, Connect, Care," aiming to save lives and contribute to the socio-economic progress of its area of responsibility. The organization reiterates its belief in the transformative power of roads in nation-building, rededicating itself to the construction of border road infrastructures.

Read More → Posted on 2024-01-28 14:57:15