The Indian Navy is poised to start the year 2025 with significant advancements in its naval capabilities, as it prepares to commission two major vessels in January. This pivotal development includes the commissioning of the last vessel in the Kalvari-class series of submarines and the inaugural ship of the Nilgiri-class frigates.

Initially scheduled for commissioning in December, the timeline for these events has been revised, according to sources within the defense and security establishment. The submarine Vagsheer represents the sixth and final addition to the Kalvari-class, a series that has seen significant technological collaboration with France. Launched in April 2022, Vagsheer marks the culmination of a project initiated by the Indian Navy in 2005, which has seen all submarines constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders under a transfer of technology from the French firm Naval Group. The Indian variant of these submarines is designated as Kalvari-class.

The Kalvari-class submarines are versatile 2000-ton vessels, designed to undertake a variety of missions, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, long-range strikes, as well as special operations and intelligence gathering. Equipped with six weapon-launching tubes, these submarines can carry a total of 18 weapons, such as torpedoes and missiles. The first of this class, INS Kalvari, was incorporated into the Indian Navy in 2017, and further augmentations of this fleet will follow, with plans for three additional submarines to be constructed under Project 75, pending contract signing expected by next month.

Concurrently, the Nilgiri-class frigate, which is also being constructed at Mazagon Dock, is anticipated to be the first of seven new stealth frigates aimed at enhancing the Navy’s operational capabilities. These vessels are based on the advanced specifications of the earlier P17 Shivalik-class frigates and are designed with enhanced stealth features and indigenous systems for weaponry and sensors. The development of these Project 17A frigates utilizes an integrated construction methodology and is expected to offer improved survivability, maneuverability, and sea-keeping abilities, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.

In recent naval developments, India commissioned the INS Tushil on December 9 into its Western Fleet, known as the Sword Arm. The forthcoming ship, Tamal, is projected to be delivered by early next year, as part of a $2.5 billion agreement made with Russia in 2016 to procure four frigates. This contract stipulates that two vessels are to be constructed in Russia while the other two will be built at the Goa Shipyard in collaboration with Russian technology.

Additionally, the commissioning of Nirdeshak, the second ship of the Survey Vessel Large (SVL) class, is scheduled for December 18, with Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth officiating the event in Visakhapatnam. The lead vessel, INS Sandhyak, was inducted into service earlier in February. The SVL ships play a pivotal role in conducting hydrographic surveys of ports, navigational channels, coastal regions, and deeper waters, ensuring safe marine navigation while also supporting various naval operations.

As these vessels prepare for their commissioning, the Indian Navy continues to strengthen its maritime capabilities, reflecting India’s commitment to advancing its defense infrastructure and enhancing its operational readiness.

A high-ranking official from the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), Russia’s state-owned aircraft manufacturer, recently shared insights regarding the integration of sixth-generation technology into Russia’s fifth-generation Su-57 stealth aircraft. During an appearance on the ‘Military Acceptance’ broadcast, UAC Director General Vadim Badekha emphasized that the development of the Su-57 was approached with a long-term modernization strategy, envisioning advancements over the next 50 years.

Badekha elaborated on this vision, indicating that the design of the Su-57 included provisions for future modifications based on evolving customer requirements and technological advancements. He noted that “we are already introducing sixth-generation elements into this aircraft,” although specifics regarding these technologies were not disclosed.

In response to inquiries about potential sixth-generation features integrated into the Su-57, Air Marshal Anil Khosla (retd) provided insights to the EurAsian Times, suggesting that if such features exist, they may consist of modular capabilities or technology laying the groundwork for future upgrades. He speculated on several possible enhancements, including multi-spectral stealth capabilities, advanced combat networking, the integration of hypersonic missiles, directed energy weapons, sophisticated sensor suites, and enhanced cyber-security.

Amid these advancements, Russia is also pursuing the development of a dedicated sixth-generation fighter jet, with aspirations for deployment by 2050. As noted by Evgeny Fedosov, Scientific Director of the State Research Institute of Aviation Systems, discussions and conceptual planning for a sixth-generation aircraft are actively underway, signaling a focus on enhancing aerial combat performance and airspace dominance.

Globally, several sixth-generation aircraft programs are in varying stages of development, including the U.S. Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD), the Global Combat Air Program led by Italy, the UK, and Japan, the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) involving France, Germany, and Spain, and China’s Baidi initiative. Notably, Russia has yet to publicly reveal its vision for a manned sixth-generation aircraft, making Badekha’s assertions particularly compelling within the context of ongoing worldwide advancements in military aviation.

However, the scope of such claims has faced scrutiny, particularly from Western analysts questioning the legitimacy of the Su-57’s fifth-generation classification. Critics argue that the aircraft exhibits design shortcomings, particularly concerning its stealth characteristics, drawing comparisons to established fifth-generation offerings like the U.S. F-35. Some analysts have even suggested that the Su-57 functions more akin to a sophisticated fourth-generation fighter.

These discussions around sixth-generation technology come at a time when Russia is grappling with challenges pertaining to the Su-57’s marketability. Despite attempts to promote the aircraft internationally, progress has been sluggish, hindered by issues stemming from the prolonged conflict in Ukraine, production obstacles exacerbated by international sanctions, and lingering skepticism regarding the aircraft’s capabilities.

Since its inaugural flight in 2010, only a limited number of Su-57 aircraft—fewer than 40—have entered service, a stark contrast to the hundreds of J-20s produced by China and over 1,000 F-35s by Lockheed Martin. The Su-57’s manufacturing timeline, which did not commence until 2019, alongside limited combat deployment, has further challenged Russia’s efforts to position the aircraft favorably in the global market.

The recent statements from UAC, particularly regarding the potential integration of sixth-generation technology, may be an attempt to bolster the Su-57’s attractiveness to potential buyers amid growing competition from Western and Chinese military aircraft. As evidence of this intent, Russia’s state arms exporter Rosoboronexport recently announced an initial export order for the Su-57, with Algeria speculated as a prospective buyer, although official confirmation remains pending.

Experts have observed a waning interest among traditional Russian military equipment purchasers, who are increasingly exploring alternatives to diversify their arsenals. Russia’s persistent efforts to sell the Su-57, including renewed proposals to India emphasizing advancements in combat capabilities and cost reductions, may signal desperation to expand its export profile.

Amid ongoing global military aviation dynamics, Air Marshal Anil Chopra (retd) emphasized the evolving nature of sixth-generation technologies, noting that any advancements incorporated into the Su-57 would require time to mature and prove their operational effectiveness. As nations navigate shifting paths in aerial warfare, the ultimate impact of Russia’s claims regarding the Su-57’s technological advancement will depend on its ability to convince potential buyers of its viability against a backdrop of competitive offerings from other nations.

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.