Kolkata is set to host a vibrant military tattoo event to commemorate the 53rd Vijay Diwas, with Indian Army personnel currently engaged in rehearsals for their performances. Scheduled to take place between 2 pm and 4 pm at the military training area of the Royal Calcutta Turf Club (RCTC), this open event is expected to draw a large audience, including the possibility of attendance by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, according to an army spokesperson.

The event promises an impressive lineup of activities designed to showcase the valor and skill of the Indian Army. Highlights will include breathtaking equestrian feats performed by Army riders alongside their horses. Attendees will also witness a thrilling flypast featuring Army Combat Helicopters, presenting a striking aerial display.

In addition to airborne exhibitions, guests can look forward to an array of ground-based combat maneuvers executed by Indian Army Aviators, illustrating the strategic capabilities of the armed forces. The event will further encompass a diverse mix of cultural and martial performances. Spectators can expect traditional Indian martial art demonstrations such as Kalari Payattu, vibrant Bhangra performances, and displays of Mule Trick Riding.

Moreover, the event will feature a dog show and an advanced robotic mule demonstration, adding a modern twist to the proceedings. Visitors will also have the opportunity to explore a display of weapons and cutting-edge military equipment, highlighting some of the latest advancements in military technology.

As the Army prepares to present these impressive acts, the military tattoo at RCTC stands as a tribute to the nation’s heroes and serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made for the country’s security and sovereignty.

The Indian Navy is set to commission INS Nirdeshak, the second vessel in its Survey Vessel project, during a ceremony scheduled for Wednesday, December 18, at the Naval Dockyard in Vishakapatnam. The event will be presided over by Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, with participation from senior naval officials, dignitaries, and representatives from the Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), the shipbuilder responsible for its construction.

Alongside the commissioning, the Navy has unveiled the crest for INS Nirdeshak, designating it as “the Pathfinder of the Seas.” The crest epitomizes maritime excellence, precision, and India’s pride in its naval capabilities. According to the Navy, the symbol reflects the country’s maritime sovereignty and technological advancement. Central to the crest is a depiction of a hydrographic survey ship navigating through waves, integrated with advanced satellite-based navigation and communication systems, as well as state-of-the-art sub-surface sensors designed for precise underwater terrain mapping.

The new INS Nirdeshak is seen as a successor to its namesake, the original INS Nirdeshak, which served for 32 years before its decommissioning in December 2014. This next-generation vessel is expected to enhance India’s strategic positioning in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) while also facilitating international cooperation through joint surveys, thereby furthering India’s maritime diplomacy and regional partnerships.

Key features of INS Nirdeshak include its construction by GRSE in Kolkata, with approximately 80 percent of its components sourced from within India. The ship measures 110 meters in length, has a displacement of roughly 3,800 tons, and is powered by two diesel engines capable of propelling it to speeds exceeding 18 knots. Definitely equipped with cutting-edge hydrographic and oceanographic instruments, the vessel is designed to conduct hydrographic surveys, aid in navigation, and support a range of maritime operations. Importantly, INS Nirdeshak boasts an endurance of over 25 days at sea, enabling effective operations in both domestic and international waters, marking a significant advancement in the Indian Navy’s capabilities.

Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi is set to embark on a significant four-day visit to Indonesia, starting Sunday, aimed at reinforcing the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Indonesia, particularly in the maritime domain. This diplomatic endeavor highlights both nations’ commitment to strengthening their maritime ties amid regional security challenges.

During his visit, Admiral Tripathi will engage in discussions with key figures of Indonesia’s defense establishment. These discussions will include talks with Defence Minister Lt Gen Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin (retd), the Commander of the Indonesian Armed Forces Gen Agus Subiyanto, and the Navy Chief Admiral Muhammad Ali. The Indian Navy has outlined that the agenda is expected to cover a broad spectrum of defense cooperation areas, especially focused on maritime security and joint training initiatives. Furthermore, they will explore opportunities for deepening operational collaboration between the two navies.

This visit, scheduled from December 15 to 18, falls within the framework of ongoing efforts to bolster bilateral defense relations in alignment with the comprehensive strategic partnership between India and Indonesia. The emphasis will be on enhancing naval cooperation, which is critical for maintaining stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.

As a testament to the robust maritime relations between the two countries, the Indian Navy noted that their existing cooperation spans a variety of activities such as joint exercises, port visits, and training initiatives aimed at building capacity for both nations’ naval forces. Currently, the 43rd India-Indonesia coordinated patrol is taking place from December 10 to 18 along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL), exemplifying the ongoing collaborative efforts in maritime safety.

The Indian Navy expressed confidence that Admiral Tripathi’s engagements in Indonesia will fortify the bonds of friendship and cooperation, paving the way for increased collaboration in areas of mutual concern and interest. This visit is seen as a pivotal step toward ensuring a cohesive maritime strategy between India and Indonesia, reinforcing both countries’ intentions to contribute to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific maritime domain.

India has reached a significant milestone in the development of its new light tank, Zorawar, designed specifically for rapid deployment and high mobility in mountainous terrains. According to a statement from the defence ministry, the tank successfully fired several rounds at varying distances at an altitude exceeding 4,200 meters, achieving accurate results.

The user trials for Zorawar are anticipated to span 12 to 18 months. During this period, the tank’s performance will be evaluated under different conditions, including summer and winter at high altitudes, before moving into production. This latest development comes following the tank’s initial firing at the Mahajan firing range near Bikaner three months ago, where the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) reported exceptional preliminary field trials.

Zorawar is classified as a 25-tonne class armoured fighting vehicle, specifically engineered to fulfill the Indian Army’s requirements for high-altitude operations. The defence ministry highlighted that the design and demonstration of its capabilities, particularly at high altitudes, have been accomplished in just three years. The recent firing trials were conducted in the Ladakh sector, an area of strategic importance.

Developed under Project Zorawar in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro, the light tank aims to fulfill the Indian Army’s demand for 354 units. Remarkably, it was developed from the ground up in a mere two years. DRDO chief Samir V Kamat recently reviewed the first prototype of Zorawar at L&T’s Hazira facility in Gujarat.

Additionally, the Indian Air Force demonstrated the tank’s airlift capability, which is vital for rapid deployment in remote areas that are hard to access via traditional road or rail networks. The ongoing trials have been supported by both the Indian Army and the IAF, with further tests planned before the tank is officially submitted for user trials.

The anticipated induction of Zorawar into service is expected to enhance the Indian Army’s capabilities against Chinese forces stationed along the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC). The Chinese People’s Liberation Army has fielded several modern tanks, including light tanks with high power-to-weight ratios, in this region. In contrast, the Indian Army has been operating heavier Russian-origin T-72 and T-90 tanks in Ladakh, which, while robust, are primarily designed for operations in plains and deserts and come with limitations.

The urgency for light tanks boasting sufficient firepower, protection, surveillance, and communication capabilities became apparent following recent border tensions with China. The total investment for developing this new capability is estimated at around ₹17,500 crore. The Zorawar light tank will not only be air-transportable but will also be capable of amphibious operations, adept at firing at high angles of elevation and performing some artillery roles. Its name honors the legendary general Zorawar Singh, known for leading the Dogra forces to multiple victories in Ladakh and Tibet during the early 19th century, notably capturing the Mantalai flag from the Chinese forces in 1841.

The Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun witnessed a remarkable event on Saturday as 456 new officers completed their training and showcased their exceptional marching skills during the Passing Out Parade. Alongside the Indian cadets, 35 officers from 13 friendly nations also graduated, marking a significant moment for international military cooperation.

The parade took place at the historic Drill Square in front of the iconic Chetwood Building and was reviewed by the Chief of the Nepal Army, General Ashok Raj Sigdel. In his address, General Sigdel expressed gratitude to Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi for the invitation to preside over the ceremony, emphasizing the symbolic importance of his presence as Honorary General of the Indian Army—a title underscoring the enduring military ties between India and Nepal.

General Sigdel reflected on the historical connections built through the IMA, noting that over 200 cadets from Nepal have passed through its prestigious corridors and have gone on to achieve significant ranks, including four Chiefs of the Nepal Army. He used the opportunity to inspire the young officers by quoting the ancient Indian strategist Chanakya, who highlighted the importance of individual merit over mere credentials with the words, “Your Karma decides your future.” He urged the graduates to think of themselves as the future leaders and warriors of the nation, inspiring them to dedicate their lives to serving their country.

In a personal note, General Sigdel reminisced about his own Passing Out Parade experience 37 years prior, sharing in the elation and pride felt by the graduating cadets on this significant occasion. As an alumnus of the IMA, he emphasized the meaningful journey that lay ahead for each of them.

The IMA has a proud legacy, having commissioned a total of 66,119 young military leaders who have served in the Indian Army and forces of allied nations. Specifically, it has trained 2,988 officers for other friendly nations, underscoring India’s commitment to fostering military partnerships.

The atmosphere during the parade was charged with energy as the newly commissioned officers displayed their enthusiasm, marching in perfect unison to the nationalistic tunes of “Sare Jahan Se Achha” and “Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja,” embodying the spirit of pride and dedication.

In preparation for the significant event, authorities heightened security measures around the academy. The area surrounding the IMA, particularly the national highway that connects the north and south campuses, was temporarily declared a no-entry zone to ensure the safety and security of the proceedings, reflecting the heightened vigilance regarding the importance of the event.

As the new officers take their first steps into military leadership, their commissioning marks not just an end but the beginning of a duty to their nation, poised to uphold the values of service and sacrifice imbued in them during their training at the Indian Military Academy.

Indian Navy Day is celebrated annually on December 4 to recognize the dedication and bravery of the men and women who protect India’s maritime boundaries. This day is particularly significant as it honors the naval forces who laid down their lives during the 1971 Pakistan War, emphasizing their sacrifices for the nation. The year 2024 marks the anniversary of Operation Trident, a key military operation that underscores the importance of the Indian Navy in the country’s defense strategy.

In 2024, the celebrations will be held in Puri, Odisha, with President Droupadi Murmu attending as the chief guest. The day is intended to highlight the vital role of the Indian Navy in ensuring maritime security and defense, showcasing the unwavering commitment of naval personnel and their patriotism in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

The festivities on Indian Navy Day typically include a variety of events designed to engage the public and foster awareness about maritime security. The Indian Navy organizes naval parades, educational programs focusing on maritime issues, and displays of technological advancements in naval warfare. This year’s agenda will feature public access to aircraft and warships, which allows citizens to gain a closer look at the Navy’s capabilities. Participants can look forward to events such as the Navy Half Marathon, aerial displays for schoolchildren, and an open sea swimming competition, aiming to promote a spirit of camaraderie and national pride.

The theme for Indian Navy Day 2024 is “Strength and Power through Innovation and Indigenization.” This reflects the Navy’s commitment to advancing its capabilities through indigenous technology and innovation, which is increasingly crucial in today’s dynamic security environment.

The origins of Indian Navy Day can be traced back to a meeting of senior naval officers in May 1972, where it was proposed to commemorate this day annually. The date of December 4 holds historical significance due to its association with the 1971 war. On the eve of the conflict, December 3, the Pakistan Armed Forces launched an aggressive attack on Indian soil, prompting a decisive response from the Indian Navy. The execution of Operation Trident during the night of December 4 and 5 marked a pivotal moment in the naval and military operations of the time, solidifying the Navy’s reputation as a critical component of India’s defense apparatus.

As the nation prepares to celebrate Indian Navy Day, the focus remains on acknowledging the sacrifices made by naval personnel while also highlighting the advancements and future potential of the Indian Navy in safeguarding the country’s maritime interests.