Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently commissioned the INS Tushil, a multi-role stealth guided missile frigate, at the Yantar Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. This ceremonial event took place during Singh’s three-day official visit to Moscow, marking a significant milestone in India-Russia relations and showcasing India’s growing maritime capabilities. Singh described the INS Tushil as a “proud testament” to India’s increasing naval power in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

During his address, the Defence Minister emphasized the Indian Navy’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the IOR, highlighting its essential role in combating piracy, arms trafficking, and other non-state actors. He reaffirmed India’s pledge, along with other friendly nations, to ensure the safety and security of maritime trade, which is crucial for unhindered trade across seas from the Gulf of Oman to Malacca, and beyond.

What sets the INS Tushil apart is not only its advanced capabilities but also the rich collaboration involved in its construction, particularly the Ukrainian-made engine, produced by Zorya Mashproekt, a recognized leader in marine gas turbine technology. As the seventh installment of the Krivak III-class frigate, the INS Tushil is built on the advancements seen in previous vessels such as the Talwar and Teg class ships, with plans for two more to follow.

The INS Tushil is equipped with a potent arsenal designed to enhance India’s defensive and offensive capabilities. It measures 125 meters in length and has a displacement of 3,900 tonnes. It carries eight BrahMos missiles, medium- and short-range surface-to-air missiles, a 100 mm gun, and systems for anti-submarine warfare. The ship is also designed for high mobility, capable of exceeding speeds of 30 knots, driven by a modern gas turbine propulsion plant.

The commissioning of INS Tushil comes amid growing concerns regarding China’s expanding naval presence in the Indian Ocean. Experts have noted that the Chinese navy is rapidly modernizing and may soon outpace Western navies in certain aspects of naval strength. Observers believe that the INS Tushil, with its advanced anti-air and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, will not only bolster India’s defensive posture but also play a strategic role in maintaining a balance of power in the region.

Moreover, this new addition is anticipated to enhance India’s operational effectiveness at sea, allowing it to conduct multiple missions and further secure its geopolitical interests. The ship’s capacity to integrate advanced radars, sonar systems, and electronic warfare capabilities ensures that it remains prominently equipped to address modern naval challenges. As INS Tushil prepares to join the Indian Navy, it symbolizes the substantial military cooperation between India and Russia and represents a significant step towards fortifying India’s maritime security strategy.

Nepali Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel has embarked on a four-day visit to India, focusing on strengthening bilateral military relations and exploring new defense collaborations. This visit, taking place from December 11 to 14, follows a recent official trip by Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi to Nepal. Upon his arrival in Delhi, General Sigdel was received with warmth and respect by the Indian Army.

During the visit, a series of official engagements are planned. On Wednesday, General Sigdel will pay his respects by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial, followed by a ceremonial guard of honour at the South Block Lawns. This will be a precursor to a key meeting with his Indian counterpart, General Upendra Dwivedi, where they will discuss matters of mutual military interest.

In a comprehensive schedule, General Sigdel will receive briefings on India’s security perspective from the Director General of Strategic Planning and insights into the Indian defense industry from the Additional Director General of the Army Design Bureau. Their discussions are expected to pave the way for enhanced collaboration between the two countries in defense matters.

The Nepali Army chief’s itinerary includes high-level meetings with significant political and military figures, including External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. Such meetings underscore the importance both nations place on their military partnership.

A highlight of General Sigdel’s visit will take place on Thursday when he attends an investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Here, following a time-honored tradition, he will be bestowed the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army by President Draupadi Murmu. This prestigious recognition will be celebrated with interactions during a high tea event at Rashtrapati Bhavan, offering opportunities to engage with other dignitaries.

The Nepalese Army chief will also have a significant meeting with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh before attending a hosted lunch at the Nepal Embassy. In a continuation of cultural cooperation, General Sigdel plans to plant a sapling at the Manekshaw Centre before heading to Pune later that day.

While in Pune, he will delve into India’s defense capabilities by visiting industrial facilities and participating in a Static Equipment Display. This engagement will allow General Sigdel to meet and exchange views with representatives of the Indian defense industry, further solidifying defense ties.

The visit will culminate with General Sigdel’s attendance at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun. He is scheduled to take part in the reviewing officer’s dinner and will preside over a parade where he will review gentleman cadets, including two Nepali Army cadets being commissioned. Throughout this engagement, he will have the chance to observe and participate in key ceremonial traditions, reinforcing the bond between the two countries’ armed forces.

Concluding his visit, General Sigdel will travel to Ayodhya to visit the Ram Temple before returning to Delhi for a dinner hosted by Chief of Defence Staff General Chauhan. He will depart for Kathmandu on December 15, marking the end of a significant visit that is aimed at fostering military cooperation between Nepal and India.

Nepali Army Chief General Ashok Raj Sigdel arrived in India on December 11 for a four-day visit aimed at enhancing military cooperation and exploring new opportunities for defense collaboration between the two countries. This visit follows the recent trip by Indian Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi to Nepal.

Upon his arrival in Delhi, General Sigdel received a warm welcome from the Indian Army. His itinerary for the visit includes significant ceremonial and diplomatic engagements. On December 12, he is scheduled to lay a wreath at the National War Memorial, followed by a guard of honour at South Block Lawns. The day will also feature a meeting with General Upendra Dwivedi, where they are expected to discuss various aspects of military cooperation.

During this visit, General Sigdel will receive a briefing on India’s security perspective from the Director General of Strategic Planning (DGSP) and explore insights into the Indian defense industry with the Additional Director General of the Army Design Bureau. His meetings will also include discussions with key Indian defense and diplomatic figures, such as External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.

A highlight of General Sigdel’s visit will be on December 13, when he attends the investiture ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. In a gesture embodying the historical ties between the two armies, he will be conferred the honorary rank of General of the Indian Army by President Draupadi Murmu. The day will also provide opportunities for General Sigdel to interact with other dignitaries during a high tea at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Following these formalities, General Sigdel will meet with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh before a lunch is hosted at the Nepal Embassy. Later that day, he is slated to plant a sapling at the Manekshaw Centre, symbolizing the strengthening of relations, before departing for Pune in the evening.

On December 15, General Sigdel will visit the Pune Defence Industries to witness the Static Equipment Display and engage with representatives of the Indian defense sector. He will then travel to the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun, where he is expected to participate in a dinner as the reviewing officer.

On December 16, he will have the momentous role of reviewing the parade of gentleman cadets at the academy, taking the reviewing officer’s salute. His day will include signing the visitors’ book and presenting awards to exceptional cadets, including a special focus on two Nepali Army gentleman cadets who will be officially commissioned. Additionally, he will participate in the pipping and oath-taking ceremonies.

The visit will also see General Sigdel pay his respects at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya before returning to Delhi for a dinner hosted by Chief of Defence Staff General Chauhan. His four-day tour will conclude as he departs for Kathmandu on December 15.

Trials for the indigenous Zorawar light tank are currently taking place in the challenging high-altitude terrain of Ladakh, with successful test firings reported. The trials, which are being conducted in Nyoma, are expected to conclude by the end of this month. Sources familiar with the developments indicate that the Zorawar is being evaluated based on critical criteria such as firepower, mobility, and protection features.

Following the completion of these trials, the Zorawar light tank is slated to be handed over to the Indian Army for further user trials next year. This tank is part of a significant order involving 59 units placed with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its private-sector partners, underscoring the Indian Army’s urgent need to bolster its mobility and maneuverability capabilities in the strategic Ladakh area.

The development of the Zorawar comes in response to the deployment of numerous Chinese light tanks in the region, prompting the Indian Army to pursue similar technological advancements. This strategic initiative has recently gained formal approval from the Defence Acquisition Council.

In collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), as part of the Make in India initiative, DRDO is focused on creating a light tank that weighs approximately 25 tonnes and is capable of rapid maneuvering in the demanding and mountainous terrains. Among the key features being developed is an active protection system designed to defend the vehicle against anti-tank guided missiles and other projectiles, enhancing its survivability and effectiveness in combat scenarios.

Moreover, the Indian Army aims for the Zorawar to possess amphibious capabilities, allowing it to operate in riverine environments. This feature is particularly pertinent for areas such as the Pangong Tso Lake in eastern Ladakh, where Indian forces have faced logistical and tactical challenges stemming from the presence of Chinese light tanks. The completion and subsequent user trials of the Zorawar are viewed as critical steps toward enhancing India’s defense readiness in this strategically significant region.

The Indian Army has made significant strides in enhancing its aerial capabilities with the development of the ‘Kharga,’ a kamikaze drone designed for intelligence and surveillance operations. Priced at Rs 30,000 per unit, this innovative aerostat system boasts impressive features, including a remarkable speed of 40 meters per second and a capacity to carry up to 700 grams of explosives.

Equipped with advanced technology, the ‘Kharga’ incorporates GPS navigation and a high-definition camera that can operate effectively at a distance of one and a half kilometers. Furthermore, the drone is designed with a countermeasure system that protects it from enemy electromagnetic spectrum jamming, ensuring its functionality in contested environments.

The ‘Kharga’ is classified as a ‘suicide’ drone, which means it can be deployed to effectively target and destroy enemy positions. Officials have noted its capability to evade detection, as it operates outside conventional radar ranges. Drones of similar functionality have previously been used in conflicts such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, illustrating their tactical importance in modern warfare.

In a related development, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) introduced a new line of indigenous kamikaze drones in August. These advanced drones feature home-built engines with impressive ranges of up to 1,000 kilometers. Their use in the Ukraine conflict has proven their effectiveness against both infantry and armored vehicles, drawing parallels to historical kamikaze missions from World War II, when Japanese pilots employed suicide attacks against Allied naval vessels and aircraft.

On the border security front, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced that the Border Security Force (BSF) has successfully neutralized 55 percent of unauthorized drones along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab. This achievement has been made possible through the use of ‘Dronaam,’ India’s indigenous counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS). During the BSF’s 60th raising day, Shah expressed his confidence in the system’s performance, stating, “I sleep fearlessly at night knowing you are guarding our borders. The new system has been a remarkable success.”

Developed by Gurutvaa Systems, ‘Dronaam’ is a modular C-UAS that offers extensive protection against illegal drones, adapting to various security needs through its flexible design. With both directional and omnidirectional coverage, it represents a significant advancement in the effort to secure India’s borders from potential aerial threats. As the defense landscape continues to evolve, these technological innovations position India at the forefront of modern aerial warfare capabilities.

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has granted permanent commission to a woman Army officer with an exemplary service record, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment among armed forces personnel. The decision was made possible through the court’s extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, which allows it to intervene in cases where justice requires.

A Bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan highlighted the injustice faced by the officer, who had been unjustly excluded from consideration for permanent commission while other similarly situated officers received such benefits. Justice Viswanathan, who authored the judgment, articulated the court’s concern for fairness, stating, “Will it be fair to tell them that they will not be given relief even if they are similarly situated, since the judgment they seek to rely on was passed in the case of certain applicants alone who moved the court? We think that would be a very unfair scenario.”

The court’s observations underscored the dedication and sacrifices of Indian soldiers serving in challenging environments like Siachen, where thoughts regarding service conditions and job perks are far from their minds. The justices criticized the stand taken by the authorities, arguing that it would not only disadvantage the appellant but also establish a precedent that could reinforce unreasonable practices within the military.

The case arose from an appeal by the woman officer, currently serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Dental Corps in Agra. She contested a January 2022 ruling by the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) Regional Bench in Lucknow, which denied her the same benefits afforded to her male counterparts. The Supreme Court’s ruling instructs that her application for permanent commission must be processed with the same recognition and effective date as those of other officers who benefited from a prior AFT judgment made on January 22, 2014.

In its decision, the court has not only remedied the specific case of the appellant but has also sent a broader message about fairness and equity within the armed forces, reinforcing the idea that service conditions should be just for all personnel, irrespective of gender. The ruling marks a significant step towards greater gender equality in the Indian military, addressing long-standing issues relating to the treatment and recognition of women in uniform.

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has instructed the Union government to grant permanent commission to a woman officer serving in the Army Dental Corps, who had been unjustly excluded from benefits available to her peers. The bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan characterized the situation as one of discrimination, stating, “What is sauce for the goose ought to be sauce for the gander,” thereby emphasizing the need for consistency and fairness in the application of policies.

The court’s decision comes in response to an appeal filed by the officer, who holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and is stationed in Agra. The justices noted that her distinguished service record, including the commendation card awarded to her by the Chief of Army Staff in January 2019, should have warranted inclusion among those considered for permanent commission. The court utilized its plenary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to rectify the oversight, asserting that the exclusion was improper.

During the proceedings, the justices highlighted the profound commitment of Indian soldiers, drawing attention to the challenging conditions under which they serve, such as in Siachen glacier and other difficult terrains. They questioned the fairness of denying relief to similarly situated officers based solely on technicalities, reinforcing the idea that equitable treatment should extend to all deserving individuals within the armed forces.

The court underscored that accepting the government’s stance would endorse an “unreasonable stand” and detrimental discrimination. The officer had been serving since 2007, and the bench emphasized that her exclusion from opportunities granted to others in similar situations was a significant oversight.

Moreover, the court mandated that the government implement its directive within four weeks, ensuring the officer receives all consequential benefits, including seniority, promotion, and any monetary dues. The ruling was delivered following a challenge to a January 2022 order from the Armed Forces Tribunal that had denied the officer’s request for relief comparable to that provided to others by a previous ruling in 2014.

The bench outlined that the officer was commissioned as a short service officer in March 2008, and regulations at that time allowed for three chances to take the departmental examination for permanent commission. However, amendments in 2013 restricted her opportunities, inadvertently barring her from the chance to compete for permanent commission alongside her peers, as she was in an advanced stage of pregnancy during the relevant litigation.

The justices noted the prior ruling found validity in the amendments but nonetheless offered one-time age relaxation to some applicants for their permanent absorption, of which the officer had not been a part due to her circumstances at that time. The bench observed that the absence of provisions prohibiting similar considerations meant the officer was entitled to the same relief granted to others.

Ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the officer, affirming her right to parity with other applicants who had received benefits under the previous judgment of the Armed Forces Tribunal. The court articulated that the authorities should proactively extend the benefits of prior rulings to all similarly situated individuals, remarking on the essential principles of justice and nondiscrimination in governmental actions.

In a heartfelt ceremony at Windsor Castle, King Charles has awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) to the late Havildar Major Rajindar Singh Dhatt, a distinguished 103-year-old British-Indian army veteran. The Royal Family shared the news on Instagram, accompanied by a series of nostalgic photographs that celebrate Dhatt’s remarkable life and service.

Rajindar Singh Dhatt was born in 1921 in pre-partition India, where his educational journey was interrupted by the outbreak of the Second World War. Motivated by a sense of duty, he joined the British Army, quickly distinguishing himself through his dedication and skill. By 1943, he had risen to the rank of Havildar Major, demonstrating exemplary leadership during his deployment to the Far East campaign. There, he played a significant role in the Battle of Kohima, a critical confrontation that was part of the Allied Forces’ efforts to break through Japanese defenses.

Following the end of the war, Dhatt returned to India, but his journey did not end there. In 1963, seeking new opportunities, he relocated with his family to Hounslow, UK, contributing to the South Asian community and enriching the cultural tapestry of his new homeland.

The Royal Family emphasized the importance of Dhatt’s contributions not only in military history but also to the South Asian community in the UK. This recognition coincided with a somber remembrance by King Charles earlier in the day, where he paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty from 1948 to 2019, further underscoring his commitment to honoring service members and their sacrifices throughout history.

The award highlights the significant contributions made by veterans in shaping modern Britain and acknowledges their lasting legacy within the community. The recognition of Dhatt serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and dedication of those who have served in the armed forces, as well as the invaluable role of immigrants in the development of British society.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to enhance its capabilities with a significant upgrade to its fleet of Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, particularly following recent geopolitical developments that have heightened security concerns. This upgrade comes in the wake of Israeli missile threats, prompting a reevaluation of the IAF’s operational effectiveness and readiness.

The enhancements to the Sukhoi-30 fighters are expected to include modern avionics systems, improved weaponry, and advanced electronic warfare capabilities. This upgrade is crucial not only for maintaining air superiority but also for ensuring that the IAF remains competitive in the rapidly evolving landscape of aerial combat. Recent conflicts and technological advancements by adversarial nations have necessitated such upgrades, reinforcing the need for robust defense systems.

In a broader context, the Indian government’s recent decision to approve a substantial ₹21,772 crore boost in defense procurement signals a strategic commitment to enhancing national security. This financial allocation highlights the importance of modernizing defense assets and advancing indigenous capabilities in the face of external threats.

Several key players in the defense sector, such as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are positioned to benefit from this procurement drive. Analysts at ICICI Securities have identified these firms as potential beneficiaries of the government’s initiatives, which will likely spur growth and innovation in India’s defense manufacturing capabilities.

The expected upgrades to the Sukhoi-30 fleet are integral to India’s maritime and aerial defense strategies, particularly as tensions in the region continue to escalate. The Indian Navy’s recent emphasis on strengthening its maritime security further underscores the necessity of inter-service collaboration and comprehensive defense planning.

Indian officials and defense experts assert that without timely upgrades and strategic investments in military technology, the country risks falling behind in a global defense landscape increasingly characterized by rapid advancements and shifting alliances. Therefore, the enhancements to the IAF’s Sukhoi-30 jets represent not just a response to current threats but also a proactive approach to future challenges.

As the situation unfolds, the focus on defense stocks and strategic procurement will continue to attract attention from investors and analysts, with many observing closely how these initiatives could reshape India’s defense capabilities and its standing in the international arena.

In a touching tribute to technological advancement and service, the Indian Navy held a de-induction ceremony for the Searcher Mk II unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at INS Garuda in Kochi. The ceremony, which took place on Tuesday evening, marked the retirement of eight Searcher Mk II UAVs that were part of the INAS 342 squadron. This iconic system has been in service for an impressive 22 years, thus heralding the end of an era.

The Searcher Mk II UAV has been credited with transforming maritime reconnaissance and surveillance within the Indian Navy. An official statement highlighted its pioneering role, calling it a “trailblazer” that not only enhanced the capabilities of naval operations but also laid the groundwork for future technological advancements in the field. The legacy of the Searcher Mk II is firmly embedded in India’s maritime history, having successfully paved the way for newer, state-of-the-art technologies.

The de-induction ceremony was led by Rear Admiral Upal Kundu, Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command, who expressed his admiration and respect for the UAV’s contributions to the Navy. The event drew numerous senior naval officers, dignitaries, and veterans from the UAV squadron along with their families, all gathered to pay homage to the aircraft’s achievements and the personnel who operated it.

As attendees reflected on this significant occasion, the atmosphere was filled with a mix of pride and nostalgia. Remarks made during the ceremony underscored the Searcher UAV’s critical role in enhancing naval reconnaissance capabilities, setting the benchmark for future innovations. The retirement of the Searcher Mk II brings a bittersweet conclusion to a chapter that has been marked by progress and success in maritime operations, signaling a hopeful vision for the next generation of UAVs in service with the Indian Navy.