India is significantly advancing its nuclear submarine program to enhance its military capabilities in response to the growing naval power of China, which currently boasts the largest navy in the world. The Indian Navy is set to introduce its first indigenous nuclear attack submarine by 2036, followed closely by a second submarine within two years. This program aims to fortify India’s strategic defense posture in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and South China Sea.

Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi has publicly confirmed that the first of these indigenous nuclear attack submarines is on track for its scheduled debut in 2036. The announcement also marks the first official revelation regarding India’s nuclear attack submarine project (SSN), which is projected to cost approximately Rs 35,000 crore ($4.5 billion). In addition, Project INS Varsha—a dedicated base for these nuclear submarines—has been announced and is expected to become operational within the next two years.

The Cabinet Committee on Security, chaired by the Prime Minister, sanctioned the development of these submarines in October 2024, recognizing the Indian Navy’s requirement for a fleet of six nuclear attack submarines. Admiral Tripathi described the project as a “game changer” that would bolster India’s operational capabilities and significantly contribute to its defense manufacturing sector, aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The construction of these submarines will involve collaboration between various indigenous stakeholders, including the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), local shipbuilding centers, design agencies, and private sector partners. The anticipated involvement of the private sector in this project is expected to have far-reaching implications for related secondary and tertiary industries. The initiative reflects India’s growing confidence in its ability to design and manufacture advanced defense technologies.

The introduction of these nuclear-powered attack submarines is poised to transform the strategic landscape for the Indian Navy, enabling it to maintain an assertive presence in regional waters while supporting the country’s broader goal of achieving self-reliance by 2047. Moreover, these submarines are seen as a crucial counterbalance to the increased maritime assertiveness of China and Pakistan within the IOR.

India’s current submarine fleet includes 16 diesel-electric submarines and four operational nuclear-powered submarines. The existing nuclear submarines comprise both the INS Arihant, India’s first indigenous ballistic missile submarine, and the newly commissioned INS Arighat. The latter recently showcased its capabilities by successfully launching a K4 ballistic missile, raising significant concerns in both China and Pakistan regarding India’s evolving defense stratagem.

INS Varsha, designed specifically for nuclear submarines, is located near Rambilli in Andhra Pradesh and aims to be ready before 2025. This facility is anticipated to house over 12 nuclear-powered submarines and support further strategic collaborations with member nations of the Quad—namely, the United States, Japan, and Australia.

In addition to fortifying its own capabilities, India’s expanding naval initiative comes in the wake of regional threats. Pakistan is actively developing its naval forces, supported primarily by China, with ambitions to grow its fleet to 50 ships. Meanwhile, China is continually augmenting its undersea fleet, with plans to add five new submarines in the next year alone.

Amid these developments, India is reassessing its naval strategies to counteract the challenges posed by these regional dynamics. The final stages of negotiations for additional Kalvari-class submarines and Rafale M jets are underway, with formal procurement contracts anticipated soon. Future naval construction programs are projected to propel the Indian Navy toward a fleet of 175 warships, further solidifying its position in the IOR and Indo-Pacific region, especially in light of rising tensions that could potentially lead to large-scale maritime conflicts.

December 7 is observed as Armed Forces Flag Day in India, a solemn occasion dedicated to honoring the sacrifices of soldiers who have bravely served and lost their lives in the line of duty. This day, which has been commemorated since 1949, not only pays tribute to military personnel but also seeks to foster a sense of responsibility among citizens to support the welfare of the armed forces.

The inception of Armed Forces Flag Day can be traced back to a committee established by the then Defence Minister of India on August 28, 1949. The committee’s mission was to honor the brave soldiers, sailors, and airmen who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country while also reinforcing national unity and community support for military personnel. Over the years, the observance has evolved into an essential occasion aimed at raising funds for the welfare of veterans and their families. Notably, in 1993, the Indian Defence Ministry consolidated various welfare funds into a single entity known as the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF), streamlining the process of providing assistance.

The day holds significant importance as it mobilizes citizens to contribute towards the betterment of armed forces personnel and their families. During this observance, tokens such as flags, badges, and stickers are distributed as symbols of gratitude and support. Contributions collected on Armed Forces Flag Day are directed towards aiding war widows, ex-servicemen in need, and organizations dedicated to their rehabilitation.

In reflecting upon the day’s significance, various military leaders and thinkers have shared poignant thoughts. General George C. Marshall emphasized the integral nature of the soldier’s heart and spirit, while General JJ Singh noted the fierce resolve required in warfare. Other quotes underscore the deep connection between citizens and soldiers, portraying the armed forces as vital protectors of national sovereignty, safety, and well-being.

The Kendriya Sainik Board oversees the administration of the Armed Forces Flag Day and encourages contributions throughout the year. The military actively engages in cultural programs and public events that celebrate the sacrifices made by soldiers and foster community spirit. To facilitate contributions, the Kendriya Sainik Board provides various options for donations, including online payments and bank transfers to designated bank accounts.

For those looking to make a difference, ample information is available on the official Kendriya Sainik Board website, which provides details about the donation process and account information for contributing to the AFFDF. Such contributions are not only a display of gratitude but also a moral obligation for every citizen towards the heroes who work tirelessly to secure the nation’s safety and honor.

In a remarkable demonstration of skill and determination, two Agniveer women sailors from the SNC team took part in a challenging sailing expedition, showcasing the potential of female sailors in the Indian Navy. Commander Vikas praised the newly inducted sailors for their performance, noting their impressive ability to navigate the complexities of sailing despite their lack of experience. This development is viewed as promising for the Navy’s future plans regarding the Agniveer program, which aims to empower young individuals in service.

The recent race, covering a distance of 200 nautical miles, involved maneuvering through the dynamic currents and diverse wind conditions of the Arabian Sea. Starting from Goa and circumnavigating the distinctive heart-shaped Netrani Island, the competition required participants to rely solely on wind power, as the use of engines was strictly prohibited on the sailing vessels. This aspect of the race highlights the importance of sailing skills and seamanship, tested under real-world conditions.

The Inter Command Sailing Race, now in its third year, has become a highly anticipated event within the Navy, serving as an invaluable proving ground for aspiring sailors. During the inaugural edition in 2022, the Western Naval Command triumphed, securing first place, while the Eastern Naval Command, representing Andaman and Nicobar, claimed second place.

Among the successful participants in past races are notable sailors Lieutenant Commanders Dilna K and Roopa Alagirisamy, who represented the Western Naval Command in 2022. Their notable performance has since led them to join the crew of INSV Tarini, where they are currently engaged in an ambitious mission to circumnavigate the globe.

Commander Vikas expressed optimism for the future of naval sailing, stating, “With more races like this, I am confident we will see many more Dilnas, Roopas, and even Abhilash Tomys in the future.” This sentiment reflects a growing recognition of the potential for excellence and leadership in sailing among the Navy’s personnel, particularly as more women take on vital roles in maritime operations.

The Indian Navy has announced the opening of applications for the 10+2 (B.Tech) Cadet Entry Scheme (Permanent Commission) Course, set to commence in July 2025. This program invites both unmarried men and women who meet the nationality conditions stipulated by the Government of India to pursue a career as Permanent Commissioned Officers in the Executive and Technical branches after completing a four-year B.Tech course at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) located in Ezhimala.

A total of 36 vacancies are available across the Executive and Technical branches, including a provision for a maximum of seven vacancies dedicated to women. The allocation of branches within the Executive and Technical categories (Engineering and Electrical) will take place during training at INA. These vacancies are tentative and may be adjusted based on training slot availability.

Eligibility criteria specify that applicants must be born between January 2, 2006, and July 1, 2008. To qualify, candidates should have completed their Senior Secondary Examination (10+2 Pattern) or an equivalent from a recognized board, achieving a minimum aggregate of 70% in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM), along with at least 50% in English from either Class X or Class XII. Furthermore, candidates must have taken the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2024, specifically Paper 1 for B.E/B.Tech.

Those recommended by the Service Selection Board (SSB) will be required to undergo a detailed medical examination as per the standards applicable to the 10+2 (B.Tech) entry scheme. It is essential to note that there will be no relaxations in medical standards for any reason. The Naval Headquarters will determine the cutoff for shortlisting applications based on the All India Common Rank List (CRL) of JEE Main 2024.

Candidates who qualify for SSB interviews will be notified via email and SMS from March 2025 onwards, with interviews scheduled at various locations including Bangalore, Bhopal, Kolkata, and Visakhapatnam. Those shortlisted will be responsible for downloading their call letters upon receiving notification. The rules for change in SSB dates will be communicated via the call-up officer of the relevant SSB. Candidates will receive compensation for AC 3 tier rail fare for attending the SSB interview, provided it is their first attempt for that specific commission type.

The merit list will be compiled based on the marks obtained during the SSB assessment. Candidates who pass the medical examination will be appointed following police verification, character verification, and depending on the availability of vacancies in the entry scheme.

Successful candidates will enter a four-year B.Tech course in Applied Electronics & Communication Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Electronics & Communication Engineering, in alignment with the requirements of the Navy. Upon graduation, a B.Tech degree will be awarded by Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), and the allocation of cadets to the Executive and Technical branches will comply with existing policies of the Navy. The Indian Navy will finance the full cost of training, including textbooks and other educational materials, and will provide essential clothing and meals for the cadets.

Prospective applicants can submit their applications online at www.joinindiannavy.gov.in until December 20, 2024. Applicants must indicate their rank according to the Common Rank List (CRL) from JEE Main Paper 1 in their applications. Detailed instructions for the online application process can be found in the official notification on the Indian Navy’s website. Additional information related to pay, allowances, insurance, gratuity, leave entitlements, and duties of officers can also be accessed through the same platform.

In a significant boost to India’s naval capabilities, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to commission the latest addition to the Indian Navy, the multi-role stealth-guided missile frigate ‘INS Tushil,’ at the Yantra Shipyard in Kaliningrad, Russia. The commissioning ceremony is scheduled for Monday and will also see the participation of Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, the Chief of the Indian Navy, along with other senior defence and civilian officials from both India and Russia.

‘INS Tushil’ represents an upgrade to the Krivak III Class frigate under Project 1135.6 and will be the seventh ship in its class, following six others already in service. These include three Talwar Class ships built in St. Petersburg and three Teg Class vessels constructed in Kaliningrad. The Indian government signed a contract for this advanced frigate with JSC Rosoboronexport in October 2016, amidst growing defence cooperation between India and Russia.

During his official visit to Russia from December 8-10, Rajnath Singh is expected to engage with his Russian counterpart, Andrey Belousov, to co-chair the 21st meeting of the India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military and Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M& MTC). This meeting will be pivotal in reviewing the extensive military relations and cooperation between the two nations, focusing on industrial collaboration and addressing current global and regional security challenges.

In addition to the commissioning of ‘INS Tushil,’ Singh plans to pay homage at the ‘Tomb of the Unknown Soldier’ in Moscow, commemorating the Soviet soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The visit also includes interactions with members of the Indian community in Russia.

INS Tushil, measuring 125 meters in length and weighing 3,900 tonnes, boasts a formidable blend of advanced Russian and Indian technologies, demonstrating the best practices in modern warship construction. Its construction has been meticulously overseen by India’s Warship Overseeing Team, ensuring quality and alignment with Indian naval standards.

The vessel has undergone rigorous testing, including factory sea trials, state committee trials, and delivery acceptance trials conducted by a specialized Indian team. Impressively, during these trials, it achieved speeds exceeding 30 knots (approximately 55 km/h) and is expected to arrive in India in a near-combat-ready state.

The name ‘Tushil’ translates to ‘protector shield,’ and its crest symbolizes the ‘Abhedya Kavacham’ or ‘Impenetrable Shield,’ embodying the Indian Navy’s enduring commitment to safeguarding maritime security. The frigate’s motto, ‘Nirbhay, Abhedya aur Balsheel’ — which means ‘Fearless, Indomitable, Resolute’ — further emphasizes this dedication.

A noteworthy enhancement in the frigate’s design is the increase in indigenous content to 26%, with the number of systems manufactured in India more than doubling to 33. Leading companies such as BrahMos Aerospace Pvt Ltd, Bharat Electronics Ltd, Keltron, Nova Integrated Systems from Tata, Elcome Marine, Johnson Controls India, and others played significant roles in equipping the vessel.

Upon its commissioning, ‘INS Tushil’ will become a vital asset within the ‘Sword Arm’ of the Indian Navy, reinforcing the capabilities of the Western Fleet under the Western Naval Command.

The Indian Army has made significant advancements in aerial warfare technology with the development of the ‘Kharga’ Kamikaze drone, designed for intelligence and surveillance operations. This innovative aerial vehicle is characterized by its high speed and low weight, reaching speeds of up to 40 meters per second. Officials have highlighted that the ‘Kharga’ can carry a payload of 700 grams of explosives and is equipped with advanced features including GPS navigation and a high-definition camera.

One of the notable capabilities of the ‘Kharga’ is its countermeasures against enemy electromagnetic spectrum jamming, enhancing its operational effectiveness during missions. With an operational range of approximately one and a half kilometers, this drone poses a significant threat to enemy targets, allowing it to execute precise attacks without detection, as it reportedly does not fall within the radar range.

The construction of the ‘Kharga’ drone has been achieved at a relatively low cost of Rs 30,000, showcasing the Indian Army’s commitment to developing cost-effective yet advanced military technology. This type of drone is categorized as a ‘suicide’ drone due to its design and purpose, focusing on the destruction of enemy positions with high accuracy.

The introduction of the ‘Kharga’ aligns with global trends in warfare, particularly evidenced by the extensive use of similar drones during the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. In August, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) unveiled their own indigenous Kamikaze drones, capable of covering distances up to 1,000 kilometers, demonstrating a growing emphasis on developing autonomous aerial vehicles for combat scenarios.

The concept of Kamikaze drones is not new, with historical roots tracing back to World War II, where Japanese pilots conducted suicide missions by crashing their aircraft into targets. The contemporary evolution of such aerial systems represents a transformation in military strategies, underscoring the importance of innovation in maintaining national defense capabilities. As the situation in global conflict zones continues to evolve, technologies like the ‘Kharga’ are likely to play pivotal roles in future military operations.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) marks a significant milestone with the SEPECAT Jaguar, an Anglo-French supersonic attack aircraft that has been a cornerstone of its operational capabilities for 45 years. Known as ‘Shamsher,’ meaning Sword of Justice in Persian, this low-flying, sea-skimming fighter bomber has often been the subject of humor among military circles, with quips about its reliance on the Earth’s curvature for flight. However, its critical role in India’s nuclear strategy and various military operations cannot be underestimated.

Inducted into the IAF in 1979, the Jaguar was developed during a period of heightened defense needs post-1971. The aircraft was designed for deep penetration strike capabilities, with the ability to effectively locate and hit strategically significant targets deep within enemy territory while maintaining survivability through its twin-engine design and versatility in operating from semi-prepared airstrips. This adaptability has made the Jaguar a unique asset, especially in the face of evolving aerial threats.

While the emergence of short-range surface-to-air missiles had initially raised concerns about the relevance of low-flying tactics, the ongoing global conflicts, such as the one in Ukraine, have renewed interest in low-altitude operations. The conflict has demonstrated how aircraft can evade radar by flying low, and the Jaguar’s “lo-lo-lo” (low-low-low) combat radius of action—350 nautical miles—positions it effectively in this context.

Amidst debates about its operational significance, the Jaguar has showcased its utility in contemporary scenarios. During the 2019 Balakot strike against terrorist camps in Pakistan, IAF Jaguars served as decoys, drawing Pakistani F-16 fighters away from the Mirage jets tasked with the actual attack. This successful utilization highlights the Jaguar’s role in modern warfare as an effective asset within a combined arms approach.

The IAF currently operates around 120 Jaguars across six squadrons, each playing distinct roles within the service. Air Marshal Anil Khosla, a retired Vice Chief of the IAF and former Jaguar pilot, notes that mid-life upgrades have extended the operational life of these aircraft. Enhanced with modern electronic warfare suites, smart weapons, and advanced avionics, the Jaguar remains a cost-effective solution complementing newer fighter jets in India’s arsenal.

Significantly, the Jaguar represents a successful Indo-French collaboration, with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) producing a substantial portion of the aircraft under a transfer-of-technology agreement. This local manufacturing capability has combined Indian innovation with legacy technology, making the Jaguar proficient in integrating indigenous weapons systems, such as the recently tested smart anti-airfield weapon (SAAW).

The future modernization plans for the Jaguar include equipping it with advanced armaments similar to those found on modern fighter jets like the F-35. The integration of MBDA’s Advance Short Range Air-To-Air Missile (ASRAAM) will enhance its combat capabilities, allowing for off-boresight engagement of a variety of aerial threats without reliance on onboard radar systems.

As the IAF reflects on the Jaguar’s enduring legacy—characterized by adaptability, resilience, and strategic significance—it sets a precedent for future acquisitions and modernization efforts, ensuring that this storied aircraft continues to play a vital role in India’s defense strategy for years to come.

In a dazzling display of aerial prowess, the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) of the Indian Air Force captivated the citizens of Hyderabad during the Praja Palana Vijayostavalu celebrations, commemorating the first year of the Congress government. The airshow took place over the picturesque Hussainsagar lake, where both residents and dignitaries gathered to witness the remarkable performance.

Among the attendees at the event were Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy, along with key ministers N Uttam Kumar Reddy, Ponguleti Srinivas Reddy, and Komatireddy Venkat Reddy, who observed as the skies dazzled with the precision and skill of the elite nine-aircraft team. The intricate aerial maneuvers executed by the Hawk Mk 132 jets, including loops, rolls, and inverted flying, left the audience in awe, with many capturing the moment from Tank Bund and their rooftops. The aircraft flew as close as five meters apart, an impressive feat that amplified the thrill of the display.

The aerial show was not just a feast for the eyes; it also symbolized the Congress party’s themes, with the jets painting the sky in a tricolor formation. This vivid display echoed the slogans “Indiramma Rajyam” and “Prajaapalana,” reinforcing the government’s message during the nine-day-long celebrations highlighting its achievements.

Alongside the aerial extravaganza, the event served as a platform to showcase Telangana’s rich cultural heritage. A variety of traditional art forms were presented, reflecting the progress made across various sectors and departments under the Congress leadership. Performances included Chindu Yakshaganam, Oggu Katha, and Perini Natyam, enhancing the festive mood at the venue.

Cultural activities ranged from vibrant dance performances to theatrical renditions, including classic Indian dance forms such as Kathak, Kuchipudi, Bharatnatyam, Odissi, and Mohini Attam. The festivities were further enlivened by captivating performances like the Bhakta Prahlada Surabhi Natakam and soulful Qawwali and Sufi music, creating a celebration atmosphere that resonated with the spirit of the community.

The culmination of these activities framed a day filled with national pride and local heritage, showcasing not only the talents of the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team but also the diverse cultural tapestry of India, uniting the people in celebration and reflection on their achievements over the past year.

In a heartfelt reunion, Group Captain Ajay Dasarathi and the celebrated pilots of the Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran aerobatic team met with Capt. Uttam Kumar Reddy, the state irrigation minister and a former IAF officer, on Sunday in Hyderabad. This gathering was particularly meaningful for Reddy, who has a distinguished background as a decorated fighter pilot.

During his distinguished service, Reddy flew the iconic MiG-21 and MiG-23 fighter aircraft. Over the years, he played a crucial role in safeguarding India’s airspace, particularly along the sensitive borders with Pakistan and China. Reflecting on his military career, he expressed a deep sense of fulfillment: “Those were the most fulfilling years of my life. Serving in the IAF, flying from forward air bases, and contributing to the security of our nation was both an honor and a duty I will always cherish.”

The Surya Kiran aerobatic team, often regarded as the ambassadors of the Indian Air Force, is globally renowned for its stunning aerial displays that captivate audiences with their precision and artistry. Reddy took the opportunity to commend the ongoing efforts of the IAF, stating that their unmatched skill and bravery continue to defend India’s borders, rising to every challenge that presents itself. He emphasized that this remarkable commitment instills immense pride in every Indian citizen.

Beyond his military past, Reddy also has a significant political career, having served on the Parliamentary Committee on Defence from 2019 to 2023. In this capacity, he has been a passionate advocate for the welfare of defense personnel. “Our servicemen and women, both active and retired, along with their families, make immense sacrifices for the nation. It is our responsibility to ensure they are met with respect, proper facilities, and support,” he said, highlighting the need for continued attention to their needs.

Reddy assured that the Congress government in Telangana is dedicated to the welfare of these brave individuals and their families, reaffirming a commitment to supporting those who serve the nation selflessly. This meeting between military and governmental figures exemplifies a shared dedication to honoring and uplifting the sacrifices made by those in the defense services.