In a moment of pride and unity, the renowned Suryakiran Aerobatic Team met with the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Anil Chauhan PVSM UYSM AVSM SM VSM. This meeting symbolized the seamless integration, unwavering determination, and impeccable coordination among the three formidable arms of the Indian Armed Forces— the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Suryakiran Team, known for its breathtaking aerial maneuvers and precision flying, has long been a representation of excellence, teamwork, and professionalism within the Indian Air Force.
Their meeting with General Anil Chauhan highlights the synergy between the armed forces, reinforcing the spirit of jointmanship and collaboration crucial for national security and operational preparedness.
General Chauhan commended the Suryakiran Team for their relentless dedication to upholding the highest standards of skill and discipline, inspiring both military personnel and citizens alike.
The interaction underscored the collective strength and unity of India’s defence forces, working in unison to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty.
In a historic first for the Indian Armed Forces, Brigadier Poonam Raj has assumed the prestigious role of Commandant at the General Hospital in Rajouri, Jammu & Kashmir, on January 21, 2025. This appointment marks a significant milestone as Brig.
Brigadier Poonam Raj becomes the first female officer to hold such a position in the rank of Brigadier, commanding a forward hospital in a challenging Counter Insurgency/Counter Terrorism (CI/CT) environment.
Brigadier Poonam Raj, an esteemed ENT surgeon with specialized training in cochlear implants and middle ear surgery, brings a wealth of experience to her new role. Throughout her career, she has held various administrative and clinical positions within the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), showcasing her versatility and commitment to military healthcare.
The appointment was celebrated by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), who extended her compliments to Brig. Raj, recognizing her pioneering role and the importance of her leadership in such a critical position.
The event was marked by a formal ceremony, as evidenced by images shared on social media, where Brig. Raj was seen receiving the command, signing official documents, and posing with fellow officers in a display of camaraderie and respect. This transition of command not only highlights the increasing role of women in high-ranking military positions but also underscores the AFMS’s commitment to excellence in medical services under diverse and demanding conditions.
Brigadier Poonam Raj’s appointment is a beacon of progress in gender equality within the military, serving as an inspiration for aspiring female officers and reinforcing the capabilities of women in leadership roles within the armed forces. Her leadership at the General Hospital in Rajouri is expected to bring innovative medical practices and enhanced care to the personnel stationed in one of the most sensitive regions of the country.
In a prestigious event held at Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, the Northern Command of the Indian Army conducted its Investiture Ceremony for the year 2025 on February 12. During the ceremony, the 34th Battalion of the Assam Rifles was awarded the esteemed General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command Unit Citation for their exemplary performance.
The award was presented by Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, PVSM, AVSM, YSM**, VSM, who currently holds the position of General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command. Lt Gen Kumar, known for his distinguished career in the Indian Army, has previously served as the Vice Chief of the Army Staff, Deputy Chief of the Army Staff (Strategy), Director General Military Intelligence, and General Officer Commanding XVI Corps.
Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General of Assam Rifles, extended his congratulations to the battalion for their splendid achievement. The ceremony was a testament to the valor, dedication, and outstanding service of the Assam Rifles personnel.
The backdrop of the ceremony was adorned with various flags of different Indian military units, showcasing the unity and pride of the Indian armed forces. This honor not only recognizes the hard work and commitment of the 34th Assam Rifles but also serves as an inspiration for other units to strive for excellence in their duties.
The event was widely acknowledged on social media with positive reactions from users like Pramod Yadav, who commented on the greatness of the Assam Rifles, and Farhat, who highlighted the unit’s reputation with the phrase “Tufani is Tufani.”
This investiture ceremony underscores the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of military units to national security and peacekeeping efforts. The Assam Rifles continue to play a pivotal role in maintaining law and order, counter-insurgency operations, and border security, especially in challenging regions like Northeast India and Jammu & Kashmir.
Mathura, Uttar Pradesh – In a prestigious event held on February 12, 2025, at the Mathura Military Station, the Northern Command of the Indian Army conducted its Investiture Ceremony 2025.
The ceremony, a solemn tribute to the valor and service of its personnel, saw Lieutenant General M.V. Suchindra Kumar, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Northern Command, felicitating 55 awardees for their exemplary acts of bravery and distinguished service.
Highlighting the occasion, Lt. Gen. Kumar awarded the Army Cdr Unit Citation to 40 units for their outstanding professionalism and remarkable achievements. This event not only serves as a recognition of individual and collective valor but also reinforces the core values of loyalty, selflessness, and patriotism integral to the Indian Army’s mission.
The ceremony was attended by a large number of military personnel, civilian dignitaries, and the proud family members of the award winners, underlining the community’s support and pride in the soldiers’ contributions. The choice of Mathura Military Cantonment, with its rich cultural heritage, as the venue added a layer of historical significance to the proceedings.
This investiture ceremony is a reflection of the critical role these heroes play in safeguarding the nation’s freedom and security, setting an example for future generations to uphold the legacy of excellence and service.
Lt Gen Sanjeev Chauhan, President of the Gorkha Brigade, recently visited the 39 Gorkha Training Centre (GTC) in Varanasi to assess the center’s training methodologies and administrative preparedness. His visit highlighted the continuous efforts undertaken by the centre to uphold and enhance the legacy of the Gorkha Brigade through rigorous training and modern administrative practices.
During his visit, Lt Gen Chauhan was briefed on several new initiatives aimed at integrating cutting-edge technology into the training programs for Agniveers. These advancements are designed to enhance the operational readiness and skill sets of the trainees, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the demands of modern warfare and national security challenges.
Interacting with Agniveer Batch 05, Lt Gen Chauhan commended the young recruits for their indomitable spirit, enthusiasm, and dedication towards serving the nation. The Agniveers had the opportunity to showcase various developments in the training infrastructure, reflecting the center’s unwavering commitment to excellence in military training.
Lt Gen Chauhan lauded the 39 GTC for maintaining exceptional training standards and a well-structured administrative framework. He appreciated the centre’s efforts in fostering a professional environment that nurtures discipline, leadership, and combat readiness among the Agniveers.
The visit reaffirmed the pivotal role of the 39 Gorkha Training Centre in shaping future soldiers of the Gorkha Brigade, ensuring they carry forward the rich heritage and unmatched valor associated with the regiment.
In a demonstration of India’s commitment to enhancing its defence capabilities through global collaboration, General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff of India, attended the Aero India 2025 exhibition in Bengaluru. During his visit, General Chauhan witnessed a static display of military aircraft from friendly foreign countries, underscoring the international aspect of the event.
General Chauhan engaged with pilots and crew members of several advanced aircraft on display, including the F-35 from the USA, the MRTT from Germany, the A400 from Spain, the SU-57 from Russia, and the H125 from France. He was briefed by the manufacturers on the capabilities and performance parameters of these aircraft, highlighting a focus on technological exchange and potential military collaborations.
The F-35, known for its advanced stealth capabilities and multirole functions, and the SU-57, noted for its agility and combat range, were among the high-profile aircraft featured. This engagement at Aero India 2025 not only showcases the technological prowess of these nations but also reflects India’s strategic military partnerships as it looks into modernizing its air force fleet.
Aero India 2025, held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, has been a significant platform for India to exhibit its defence advancements and foster international military partnerships. This year’s event emphasizes India’s ambition towards self-reliance in defence technology while also engaging in dialogues for technology transfer and joint military exercises.
The presence of General Chauhan at the event underscores the importance of these international collaborations in the context of India’s defense strategy, particularly as the country plans to acquire 114 multirole fighter aircraft in the coming years. The insights gained from such interactions are crucial for India’s defense procurement decisions, aiming to balance indigenous development with strategic international partnerships.
This development comes at a time when India is enhancing its defence diplomacy, aligning with key global players to ensure a robust and versatile military capability. Aero India 2025 thus serves as a testament to India’s growing stature in the global defense arena and its commitment to a technologically advanced and internationally cooperative military future.
In a demonstration of the deepening military-technical cooperation between India and Russia, Lieutenant General JP Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), along with Lieutenant General DS Rana, Director General of the Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), attended a static display of the Russian SU-57 aircraft at the Aero India 2025 event in Bengaluru. The high-ranking officials were briefed by Russian defense equipment manufacturers on the sophisticated capabilities and performance parameters of the fifth-generation stealth fighter.
The SU-57, known by its NATO reporting name ‘Felon’, is a twin-engine, stealth multirole fighter developed by Sukhoi, marking a significant advancement in Russian military aviation technology. It is designed for air superiority, precision strikes, and advanced electronic warfare, featuring stealth technology, supermaneuverability, and a large payload capacity which makes it a formidable asset.
This event underscores the robust defense partnership between India and Russia, a relationship that has evolved from a buyer-seller dynamic to encompass joint research, development, and production of cutting-edge military platforms. The display is part of a broader showcase at Aero India 2025, themed “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities,” which is not only a platform to exhibit India’s own defense advancements but also to strengthen international military collaborations.
Aero India, held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station, has become a pivotal venue for defense diplomacy, technology exchange, and strategic discussions. During the event, Indian defense officials engaged with delegations from various countries, discussing avenues to enhance defense ties, technology transfer, and future military cooperation.
The theme of self-reliance in defense technology was prominent, with India showcasing indigenous developments like the LCA Mk2 and the Vehicle-Mounted Counter-Drone System. However, the presence of advanced foreign aircraft like the SU-57 highlights the continued importance of international partnerships in bolstering India’s defense capabilities.
The SU-57’s presence at Aero India 2025 not only signifies the trust and cooperation between India and Russia but also serves as a testament to Russia’s commitment to modernizing its military offerings, aiming to compete with Western fifth-generation fighters. The event concluded with discussions on potential collaborations, technology sharing, and the mutual benefits of such military-technical partnerships.
As India continues its journey towards self-reliance in defence, events like Aero India 2025 play a crucial role in showcasing indigenous capabilities while also fostering international relations that are vital for technological and strategic advancements in the defence sector.
In a significant move to bolster India’s air defence capabilities, Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) have signed an agreement for the initial supply of Laser Beam Riding Man Portable Air Defence systems (LBRM) to the Indian Ministry of Defence. The announcement was made on 11 February 2025, marking a milestone in the strategic defence collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.
This agreement follows the 2021 Partnership Agreement between Thales and BDL, supported by both the Indian and UK Governments, aimed at advancing the development and deployment of LBRM systems. The supply will include Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missiles and launchers, designed to significantly enhance India’s air defence infrastructure with state-of-the-art, highly accurate, and countermeasure-resistant technology.
The LBRM systems, with up to 60% of their components manufactured in India, are optimized for defence against a variety of aerial threats, including fixed-wing fighter ground attack aircraft, late unmasking attack helicopters, and drones. This aligns with the Indian Government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, emphasizing self-reliance and domestic production in the defence sector.
Bengaluru, 10 February 2025, witnessed the formal signing of this landmark agreement. The first batch of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers is scheduled for delivery within this year, marking the introduction of this advanced VSHORAD capability into India’s defence arsenal. The contract also establishes a foundation for long-term collaboration between Thales and BDL, focusing on technology transfer (ToT) and strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Lord Vernon Coaker, UK Minister of State for Defence, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “This exciting partnership not only enhances India’s air defence capability but also strengthens the UK-India defence relationship, supporting global security and driving economic growth.”
Pascale Sourisse, President & CEO of Thales International, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting, “This is a momentous occasion that contributes to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. The UK-India strategic partnership gains renewed strength through this contract, promising a significant impact on India’s air defence landscape.”
Cmde A Madhavarao (retd.), Chairman and Managing Director of BDL, emphasized the alignment of this initiative with national programmes, saying, “Our collaboration with Thales enhances our role in the defence ecosystem and supports our Government’s initiatives, boosting the local industry through global partnerships.”
Phil Siveter, CEO of Thales in the UK, added, “This contract represents a major stride in our partnership with India. Thales’ expertise in air defence will provide vital, battle-proven capabilities to the Indian Armed Forces.”
The LBRM, specifically the STARStreak missiles, are among the fastest in their class, exceeding Mach 3.0, and are designed to counter late-unmasking threats effectively. This agreement not only underscores the robust defence ties between India and the UK but also reflects Thales’ 70+ years of commitment to India’s defence sector.
About Thales and BDL
Thales, a global leader in advanced defence technologies, has been present in India since 1953, contributing to various sectors, including defence, aerospace, and digital security. With a workforce of over 2,200 in India, Thales continues to play a pivotal role in India’s growth story.
Bharat Dynamics Limited, established in 1970, is a key player in India’s defence technology landscape, specializing in the manufacture of state-of-the-art missile systems and allied defence equipment for the Indian Armed Forces.
This agreement marks a new chapter in the strategic partnership between India and the UK, reinforcing their shared commitment to global security and defence innovation.
In a significant development within the Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja, SM, VSM**, has officially assumed the appointment of Director General Medical Services (Air) on 10 February 2025. The esteemed officer brings with him a wealth of experience and a distinguished record of service in the medical domain of the Indian Air Force.
Prior to taking over this pivotal role, Air Marshal Thareja served as the Director and Commandant of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, one of India’s premier medical institutions that plays a crucial role in training medical professionals for the armed forces. His tenure at AFMC was marked by numerous contributions to medical education, research, and healthcare management, further solidifying his reputation as a visionary leader and an accomplished medical professional.
On this occasion, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, AVSM, VSM, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), along with all ranks of the AFMS, extended their heartfelt congratulations to Air Marshal Thareja on his new appointment. Their best wishes underscore the collective pride and confidence the AFMS holds in his leadership capabilities.
Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja’s assumption of charge as DGMS (Air) is expected to usher in new advancements and strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing medical services across the Indian Air Force. His exemplary service record, combined with his vast experience, is anticipated to contribute significantly to the continued growth and excellence of the AFMS.
The Indian Navy invites applications from eligible unmarried men and unmarried women candidates for Short Service Commission (SSC) Officers for the Jan 2026 (ST 26) Course. The training will be conducted at the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala. This entry is open to various branches including Executive, Education, Engineering, Electrical, and Naval Constructor. Selected candidates will be granted Short Service Commission initially for 12 years, extendable up to a maximum of 2 more years (subject to service requirements, performance, etc.).
Important Highlights
Online Application Start Date: 08 February 2025
Last Date for Online Application: 25 February 2025
Course Commencement: January 2026
Location of Training: Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, Kerala
2. Eligibility Conditions
Nationality: Applicants must fulfill the conditions of nationality as laid down by the Government of India.
Marital Status: Only unmarried men and women are eligible to apply.
Age Criteria: Varies by branch. See tables below for exact date‐of‐birth requirements.
Academic Qualifications: Minimum 60% marks in the qualifying degree (unless otherwise stated). Different branches/cadres have specific degree requirements described in the tables below.
3. Branch‐Wise Details
The notification covers multiple branches under the headings Executive Branch, Education Branch, Technical Branch, and Naval Constructor. Below is a simplified table capturing the main details:
BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
60 (including 08 Hydro)
Men & Women (10 for GS(X), 02 for Hydro in Women’s quota, etc.)
02 Jan 2001 to 01 Jul 2006
(b)
Pilot
BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% marks
26
Men & Women (max 05 vacancies for women)
02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2007*
(c)
Naval Air Operations Officer (Observer)
BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% + 60% aggregate marks in Class X and XII, and 60% in English in X or XII
22
Men & Women (max 05 vacancies for women)
02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2007
(d)
Air Traffic Controller (ATC)
BE/B.Tech in any discipline with minimum 60% + 60% aggregate in Class X and XII, and 60% in English in X or XII
06
Men & Women (max 06 for women)
02 Jan 2001 to 01 Jan 2005
(e)
Logistics
1) BE/B.Tech in any discipline with First Class 2) MBA with First Class 3) B.Sc / B.Com / B.Sc (Hons.) with First Class along with PG Diploma in Finance / Logistics / Supply Chain Management / Material Management 4) MCA / M.Sc (IT) with First Class
28
Men & Women (max 06 for women)
02 Jan 2001 to 01 Jul 2006
Education Branch
—
Education
– 60% in M.Sc. (Maths/Operational Research) with Physics in B.Sc. – 60% in M.Sc. (Physics / Applied Physics) with Maths in B.Sc. – 60% in M.Sc. (Chemistry) with Physics in B.Sc. – BE/B.Tech with min 60% (Mechanical / Electrical / Electronics & Comm Engg) – 60% in M.Tech (relevant streams)…
7
Men & Women
02 Jan 2001 to 01 Jan 2005
Technical Branch
(a)
Engineering Branch (General Service) [GS]
BE/B.Tech with min 60% in one of the following streams: – Mechanical / Mechanical with Automation – Marine Engineering – Instrumentation Engineering – Production Engineering – Aeronautical Engineering – Automobile Engineering – Industrial Engineering & Mgmt – Aerospace, Mechatronics, Metallurgy…
38
Men & Women (max 08 for women)
02 Jan 2001 to 01 Jul 2006
(b)
Electrical Branch (General Service) [GS]
BE/B.Tech with min 60% in streams such as: – Electrical Engineering – Electronics Engineering – Electronics & Communication – Control Engineering – Electronics & Instrumentation – Instrumentation & Control – Power Engineering – Avionics, Applied Electronics & Instrumentation, etc.
Some branches have very specific date ranges (e.g., Pilot has 02 Jan 2002 to 01 Jan 2007).
Hydro, Pilot, Observer, ATC entries require stricter conditions (including 60% in English in Class X or XII).
4. Additional Important Notes
Vacancies: The number of vacancies in each branch (as shown above) is tentative and may be changed based on service requirements and availability of training slots.
Submarine Arm: Male candidates shortlisted for GS(X), GS(Engineering), and GS(Electrical) are also eligible to volunteer for submarine arm, subject to meeting medical, aptitude, and other additional requirements.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) Specialization: Candidates selected under GS(X) may be nominated to undergo specialization in RPA after successful completion of initial training, subject to service needs.
Merchant Navy Personnel:
Those holding Government of India, Ministry of Shipping & Transport Certificate of Competency (Foreign going) either as Second Mate, Mate, or Master and born between 02 Jan 1996 to 01 Jul 2006 may be eligible for Executive (General Service) [GS] entry.
Similarly, candidates having Government of India, Ministry of Shipping & Transport Certificate of Competency as 1st Class Engineer of a steamship by the Govt. and born between 02 Jan 1996 to 01 Jul 2006 can apply under Technical Branch (SSC Engineering).
5. Who Can Apply and Educational Requirements
Minimum Aggregate: Candidates who have graduated / are in the final year of graduation with minimum 60% marks in aggregate or equivalent CGPA from a recognized university.
University Recognition: The institution/college/university must be recognized by the Government of India under relevant Acts (UGC, AICTE, etc.).
Provisional Submission: Final year students can apply provided they can submit proof of completion of the degree (with the specified % marks) by the time they join INA (January 2026).
6. How to Apply
Online Registration: All applications are to be filled online only, by visiting the Indian Navy website: www.joinindiannavy.gov.in.
Application Form:
Register if you are a new user.
Fill in the application with personal, educational, and communication details.
Upload scanned copies of relevant documents (marksheets, certificates, photographs, signature) as per instructions.
One Application per Candidate: Multiple submissions will lead to cancellation of candidature.
Branch/Cadre Preferences: Candidates must indicate the branch(es)/cadre(s) in order of preference. Non‐selection for one preference does not guarantee selection for others.
7. Selection Procedure
The selection process has multiple stages:
Shortlisting
Normalized Marks: The shortlisting of application is based on normalized marks or the marks in the qualifying degree.
For candidates in the final year of BE/B.Tech, marks obtained up to the fifth semester will be considered for shortlisting.
For candidates of post‐graduate degree programmes like M.Sc, MCA, M.Tech, the marks in all previous semesters will be considered.
SSB Interview Call‐Up
Shortlisted candidates will be informed via email or SMS regarding SSB interview dates and centers.
SSB interviews usually comprise two stages: Psychological Tests, Group Tasks, and Personal Interviews.
Medical Examination
Candidates clearing the SSB stage will undergo a medical examination as per the Indian Navy’s norms (Height/Weight/Visual standards, etc.).
Merit List
A final merit list for each branch/cadre is prepared based on SSB marks, medical fitness, and availability of vacancies.
The final selection is subject to document verification and meeting all eligibility criteria.
8. Medical Standards / Relaxations in Height & Weight
Medical Fitness:
Candidates must be fit as per Indian Navy norms (detailed guidelines available at www.joinindiannavy.gov.in).
Any permanent body tattoos, if present, must comply with the Indian Navy’s policy (only certain placements permitted).
No Change Allowed: Change of medical hospital/test centre is not permissible under any circumstances.
9. Training
Induction
Candidates will be inducted in the rank of Sub Lieutenant and undergo Induction Medical Examination at INA, Ezhimala.
Duration
Training duration can vary across branches; however, it is typically 22 weeks to a year depending on the specialization, followed by further professional training.
Marriage Provisions
Candidates must remain unmarried until completion of training. Marriage during training results in discharge and liability to refund all pay and allowances.
Probation
The initial probation period for SSC Officers is three years. During probation, officers may be discharged if found unsatisfactory.
10. Pay and Allowances
Rank on Commission: Sub Lieutenant
Initial Basic Pay: Starts from approx. INR 56,100 plus other allowances (such as DA, House Rent Allowance, etc.).
Submarine / Pilot / Observer / ATC / RPA: Additional allowances if selected for these specializations.
Uniform and Equipment Allowances: Provided as per existing rules.
11. Other Key Instructions
NCC Candidates
Holders of valid ‘C’ certificate of NCC Air/Wing or Naval Wing may get relaxation of up to 5% in cut‐off marks, subject to certain conditions (must have served 2–3 years in NCC, etc.).
Commercial Pilot License (CPL)
Candidates holding valid CPL issued by DGCA (India) and born between 02 Jan 2001 to 01 Jan 2007 can apply for Pilot entry if meeting other eligibility criteria.
Documentation
Original certificates and mark sheets must be produced during SSB for verification.
Call‐up for SSB
No compensation is admissible for any injury sustained during SSB interviews.
Withdrawal from Training
If a candidate withdraws from training or is removed for unsatisfactory performance, they may be liable to pay the training cost as determined by the government.
12. Important Dates to Remember
Start of Online Applications: 08 February 2025
Last Date to Apply Online: 25 February 2025
SSB Interview Call‐Ups: Tentative; details emailed to shortlisted candidates
Course Commencement: January 2026
13. Conclusion
The Indian Navy SSC Officer Notification 2025 for the Jan 2026 (ST 26) Course offers a prestigious opportunity for young men and women to serve the nation. It encompasses multiple branches—Executive, Education, Engineering, Electrical, and Naval Constructor—each with specific academic and age requirements. Interested aspirants should thoroughly verify their eligibility, submit applications online before the deadline, and prepare rigorously for the multi‐stage selection process.
For further information and to apply, visit the official Indian Navy recruitment website: www.joinindiannavy.gov.in
Note: All details above are for reference. Any updates, corrigenda, or changes issued by the Indian Navy will take precedence. Always cross‐check the latest official notification.
