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New Painting in Army Chief’s Lounge Replaces Iconic 1971 Surrender Artwork, Sparking Veteran Backlash

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New Painting in Army Chief's Lounge Replaces Iconic 1971 Surrender Artwork, Sparking Veteran Backlash

A newly unveiled painting in the Army Chief’s lounge has sparked controversy among veteran military officials, leading to a range of reactions online. The painting, titled ‘Karam Kshetra – Field of Deeds’, replaces a historically significant artwork depicting the 1971 surrender of Pakistani forces in East Pakistan, which marked a crucial moment in India’s military history and the creation of Bangladesh.

However, neither of the paintings has been replaced; both remain displayed in the COAS meeting room.

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Sources within the Indian Army revealed that the fresh artwork, created by Lt. Col. Thomas Jacob of the 28 Madras regiment, portrays the army as not only a protector of the nation but also as a guardian of righteousness or ‘Dharma’. This painting depicts the Army’s evolution into a technologically advanced integrated force, against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the serene Pangong Tso lake in Eastern Ladakh. Notably, it features iconic imagery including the chariot of Krisha and symbols of modern military power such as tanks, all-terrain vehicles, patrol boats, and combat helicopters, encapsulating the message of a nation that values its rich civilization and ready to use just force when necessary.

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The painting serves as more than just an artistic expression; it encapsulates an ideology rooted in ancient Indian texts and strategic thought, merging traditional wisdom with contemporary military readiness. It reflects the Army’s commitment to principles derived from the Mahabharata and the teachings of Chanakya, aiming to cultivate an indigenous strategic vocabulary aligned with India’s philosophical and cultural heritage. The Army source commented that the artwork symbolizes the institution’s dedication to defending its borders while honoring its legacy of sacrifice and discipline.

However, dissatisfaction has emerged among veterans regarding the decision to replace the historical painting. Prominent voices from the veteran community have voiced their concerns, particularly about the erasure of a symbol of India’s first significant military victory in over a millennium. Former Northern Army Commander Lt. Gen. H.S. Panag criticized the leadership for seemingly prioritizing mythological and feudal themes over historical facts. He highlighted the significance of the original painting, which depicted the surrender of 90,000 Pakistani soldiers and the establishment of Bangladesh.

Veterans have taken to social media to express their dismay, questioning the rationale behind the removal of the iconic surrender photograph. Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Singh (Retd.) underscored the importance of this historical moment, remarking on how military dignitaries and foreign heads of state would see the representation of a pivotal event in India’s and the Indian Army’s legacy.

ThyssenKrupp Plans $5 Billion Submarine Deal to Make India a Global Naval Hub

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ThyssenKrupp Plans $5 Billion Submarine Deal to Make India a Global Naval Hub

In a significant move towards enhancing its naval capabilities, the Indian Navy is in the running for a Euro 5 billion deal that could see the acquisition of six diesel-electric stealth submarines from German defense giant ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS). The announcement was made by TKMS CEO Oliver Burkhard, who emphasized the company’s intention to position India as a global hub for the construction of submarines and warships, driven by the rising demand for naval platforms amid escalating geopolitical tensions.

During an exclusive interview, Burkhard expressed confidence that securing the submarine deal would mark the beginning of a strong and enduring partnership between Germany and India, noting the bipartisan support in Germany for enhancing bilateral defense ties. He pointed out that the demand for naval assets is expected to increase significantly, particularly in light of ongoing global conflicts, positioning India as ideally suited for the role as a manufacturing hub for maritime defense.

The collaboration between TKMS and India’s state-run Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) has been established to jointly pursue the Rs 44,000 crore submarine project, one of the most substantial ‘Make in India’ initiatives in recent times. They are vying for the opportunity against a competing consortium formed by Spanish defense contractor Navantia and Indian firm Larsen & Toubro Ltd. The Indian Ministry of Defence is currently evaluating the bidders as it prepares to finalize the winner of Project 75 India (P75-I).

Burkhard articulated a vision that transcends the immediate contract, indicating that the establishment of a submarine production hub in India is central to TKMS’s strategic plans. He underscored the company’s commitment to technology transfer, which would enable India not only to bolster its own naval strength but also to position itself as a supplier of submarines to other nations.

Highlighting the economic advantages, Burkhard claimed that constructing submarines in India would be more cost-effective compared to European counterparts. He stated that the TKMS intends to collaborate closely with MDL to produce submarines for both the Indian Navy and export to other countries.

Additionally, Burkhard stressed the importance of deeper defense cooperation between India and Germany, particularly in the context of maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, where China’s assertive actions have raised concerns. He noted that TKMS is a leader in the non-nuclear submarine sector, with many of its vessels equipped with air-independent propulsion systems, a crucial requirement articulated by the Indian Navy.

Citing the operational success of their submarines, Burkhard claimed that adopting their designs would significantly enhance India’s national security. He also remarked on the rising importance of India within European defense considerations, aligning with comments from Germany’s defense minister advocating for relations with India akin to those with Japan and Australia.

This submarine initiative comes in the backdrop of a strategic partnership established between India and Germany in 2000, which has been reinforced through ongoing inter-governmental consultations since 2011. The June 2021 approval for the procurement of six conventional submarines was a pivotal moment, setting the stage for enhanced local manufacturing and reduced reliance on imports under India’s strategic partnership model.

INS Nirdeshak, India’s Latest Survey Ship with Over 80% Indigenous Content, to be Commissioned on December 18

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INS Nirdeshak, India's Latest Survey Ship with Over 80% Indigenous Content, to be Commissioned on December 18

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its maritime capabilities with the commissioning of its latest survey ship, INS Nirdeshak, scheduled for December 18 at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. A senior Navy official announced that the ceremony will be presided over by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and will take place in the presence of distinguished guests, including senior naval officials and representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), which constructed the vessel.

INS Nirdeshak, which boasts over 80 percent indigenous content, signifies a significant stride towards India’s goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing, known as Aatmanirbharta. The ship was built at GRSE in Kolkata and is built to modern standards, reflecting India’s advancements in ship design and marine technology. The vessel is 110 meters in length with a displacement of approximately 3,800 tonnes, and it is powered by two diesel engines.

Equipped with state-of-the-art hydrographic and oceanographic survey equipment, INS Nirdeshak is the second ship of the Survey Vessel (Large) Project. Its primary functions include conducting hydrographic surveys, aiding navigation, and supporting various maritime operations. This new ship is a reincarnation of the original ‘Nirdeshak,’ which served the Indian Navy commendably for 32 years until its decommissioning on December 19, 2014.

With an operational endurance exceeding 25 days at sea and a top speed of over 18 knots, INS Nirdeshak is expected to significantly bolster India’s maritime capabilities. The ship is designed to play a vital role in mapping India’s waters, thereby enhancing the country’s strategic presence in the Indian Ocean Region. Additionally, it will assist in foreign cooperation surveys aimed at strengthening regional maritime ties.

The Navy also introduced the crest for INS Nirdeshak, encapsulated with the motto ‘the Pathfinder of the Seas.’ This emblem symbolizes India’s maritime sovereignty and technological capabilities. The design features the proud symbol of the nation’s territorial integrity, illustrated against a backdrop of the ship navigating through waves, utilizing advanced satellite-based navigation and communication systems, as well as state-of-the-art sub-surface sensors for precise underwater mapping. This commissioning marks a significant milestone in India’s growing naval prowess and commitment to enhancing maritime security in the region.

Indian Navy Submarine Incidents Raise Concerns Amid Aging Fleet and Rising Chinese Naval Power

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Indian Navy Submarine Incidents Raise Concerns Amid Aging Fleet and Rising Chinese Naval Power

In recent years, the Indian Navy has faced several incidents involving its submarines, raising concerns about the safety and operational readiness of its underwater fleet. Notably, in 2015, the Kilo-class submarine INS Sindhughosh collided with a fishing vessel off the western coast, resulting in minor damage to its periscope. This incident underscored the potential risks posed by navigating busy maritime routes.

Prior incidents also highlight serious challenges. In February 2014, a fire broke out on the INS Sindhuratna, tragically claiming the lives of two officers onboard. This unfortunate event raised questions about fire safety protocols on naval vessels. Earlier, in August 2013, the INS Sindhurakshak was severely damaged by explosions while berthed at the naval dockyard near Mumbai, leading to the loss of fifteen sailors along with three officers, a devastating incident that prompted a thorough review of submarine safety measures.

The history of the INS Sindhughosh also includes a significant collision in January 2008 with the foreign merchant vessel MV Leeds Castle while attempting to surface near Mumbai. These incidents are part of a broader narrative regarding the aging fleet of submarines operated by the Indian Navy, which includes vessels that are over 20 years old.

Currently, the Indian Navy operates a total of 16 submarines across various classes, including five Kalvari (Scorpene) class submarines, four Shishumar class (HDW SSKs), and seven Sindhughosh class submarines. The introduction of new submarines into service has been sluggish, with only five Scorpene boats currently operational and a sixth yet to be commissioned.

In stark contrast, China has significantly bolstered its naval capabilities, boasting a fleet that now consists of 355 warships and submarines, making it the largest navy in the world. This expansion includes a continuous deployment of Chinese warships and submarines into the Indian Ocean, further heightening strategic concerns for India. The comparison between India’s 130-strong naval fleet and China’s growing maritime power underscores the urgent need for India to modernize and expand its underwater capabilities in response to the shifting balance of power in the region.

India’s Indigenous Light Tank Achieves Successful High-Altitude Trials at 4,200 Metres

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India's Indigenous Light Tank Achieves Successful High-Altitude Trials at 4,200 Metres

In a landmark development for India’s defense preparedness, the indigenous Indian Light Tank (ILT) has successfully completed its trials, demonstrating impressive performance by firing several rounds at varying ranges from an altitude exceeding 4,200 meters. This achievement marks a crucial step in enhancing the Army’s operational capabilities along the sensitive border with China.

Weighing in at 25 tonnes, the ILT is an adaptable armored fighting vehicle designed specifically to strengthen India’s military presence in challenging terrains. The tank’s development is strategically significant, primarily countering China’s deployment of similar tank models in the region.

The ILT has also proven its versatility in logistics, as the Indian Air Force has confirmed its ability to be airlifted to remote locations, thus ensuring swift deployment in areas traditionally hard to access via conventional transport methods such as road or rail.

Plans are in place for the Indian Army to acquire over 350 units of the light tank, predominantly for deployment in the mountainous border regions where such vehicles can operate effectively. This latest trial follows a previous phase conducted in September that focused on desert environments, underscoring the ILT’s adaptability to diverse operational conditions.

Developed by the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment, the Chennai-based laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the ILT has been aligned with the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements set forth by the Indian Army. The manufacturing of this tank involves collaboration with the industry partner, Larsen & Toubro Precision Engineering & Systems.

The defense ministry released a statement highlighting that the completion of these two phases of internal performance trials was bolstered by collaborative efforts from the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. The ILT is set to undergo further evaluations before the commencement of user trials, which will assess its functionality and readiness for operational deployment.

Acknowledging the success of the high-altitude trials, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended his praise to DRDO, the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and L&T for their concerted efforts and achievements in advancing India’s military capabilities. This development is a clear indication of India’s commitment to enhancing its defense infrastructure in response to evolving security challenges in the region.

Lt General Sadhna S Nair Commends Army Hospital Research and Referral for Exceptional Patient Care

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Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, Director General Medical Services (Army) and Senior Colonel Commandant of the Army Medical Corps, visited the prestigious Army Hospital Research and Referral (AHRR) today. The visit highlighted the Army’s unwavering commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery.

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Comprehensive Review

During her visit, Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair:

  • Reviewed Operations: Assessed the overall functioning and efficiency of the hospital’s operational systems.
  • Inspected Wards and Departments: Evaluated the facilities and services provided across various wards and specialized departments.
  • Interacted with Patients: Engaged directly with patients, understanding their experiences and feedback on the care they received.
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Acknowledgment of Excellence

Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair lauded Lt Gen Shankar Narayan and the AHRR team for their dedication to delivering exceptional patient care. She commended their professionalism, innovative approaches, and relentless efforts in maintaining the hospital’s status as a center of excellence.

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A Testament to AMC’s Commitment

The visit reaffirms the Army Medical Corps’ dedication to providing world-class medical care to serving personnel, veterans, and their families. The recognition of the AHRR team highlights the importance of continuous improvement and patient-centered care in military healthcare.

The visit by Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair underscores the critical role of the Army Hospital Research and Referral in advancing healthcare standards within the Indian Army. Her commendation serves as a motivation for the AHRR team to continue setting benchmarks in medical excellence and compassionate care. Jai Hind!

Kongsberg Completes First Australian-Made Naval Strike Missile Launcher Test

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Kongsberg Completes First Australian-Made Naval Strike Missile Launcher Test

Kongsberg has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing a Blast Test Vehicle (BTV) firing, marking the first test of a Naval Strike Missile (NSM) launcher manufactured in Australia. This critical demonstration involved the utilization of an NSM Booster Rocket Motor combined with a dummy missile, designed to assess the entire functionality of the launcher under live-firing conditions.

The test took place at the Commonwealth Joint Proofing Experimental Unit located in Port Wakefield, South Australia. John Fry, Managing Director of Kongsberg Defence Australia, emphasized the importance of this event, stating that it represents a crucial step in delivering the NSM capability to the Royal Australian Navy.

Fry also highlighted the test as a pivotal moment for enhancing the domestic supply chain capabilities by allowing Kongsberg Defence Australia to initiate full-rate production of the Australian-made NSM launchers for the broader NSM program. Notably, the successful production of launcher components involved collaboration with several small to medium-sized Australian companies. The canister was crafted by Aerobond Defence in Adelaide, while Marand Precision Engineering in Melbourne contributed the frame and rail. Additional components were supplied by Australian Precision Technologies and QPE Advanced Machining, further underscoring a commitment to local manufacturing.

In a broader context, the Australian government is making considerable efforts to bolster its military production capacity, specifically in the domain of guided weapons and explosive ordnance (GWEO). In a strategic move, a substantial fund of $4.1 billion was designated in 2023 to accelerate the nation’s GWEO program. Further reinforcing this initiative, Project SEA 1300 Phase 1 was launched in 2021, aimed at enhancing the Royal Australian Navy’s guided weapons capabilities with an investment of $1 billion. This multifaceted approach showcases Australia’s dedication to strengthening its defense capabilities through local production and technological advancement.

Lt General Abhijit S Pendharkar Concludes Three-Day Operational Review in Manipur

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Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Spear Corps, completed a comprehensive three-day visit to key locations in Manipur, including Mao, Imphal, Churachandpur, Leimakhong, and Pallel.

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Focus on Operational Readiness

During the visit, the Corps Commander assessed the operational preparedness of Indian Army and Assam Rifles units stationed in the region. His review included:

  • Evaluating the effectiveness of existing security measures.
  • Assessing readiness to address emerging challenges.
  • Observing the implementation of strategic and tactical operations.
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Acknowledging Commitment

Lt Gen Pendharkar appreciated the dedication and professionalism of all ranks in fulfilling their mandated tasks under challenging circumstances. He highlighted their role in maintaining peace and security in a sensitive and strategically significant area.

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Exhortation for Excellence

In his interactions with personnel, the Corps Commander emphasized the importance of:

  • Maintaining the highest standards of operational readiness at all times.
  • Upholding the ethos of discipline, vigilance, and professionalism.
  • Strengthening the resolve to address any emerging threats effectively.

Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar’s visit underscores the Spear Corps’ commitment to ensuring security and operational efficiency in Manipur. His recognition of the troops’ efforts and emphasis on continuous improvement reflect the Indian Army’s dedication to safeguarding the nation’s integrity and fostering stability in the region. Jai Hind!

INS Nirdeshak: Indian Navy’s Latest Survey Ship Set for Commissioning on December 18

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The Indian Navy is poised to enhance its operational capabilities with the commissioning of its latest survey ship, INS Nirdeshak, scheduled for December 18 at Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam. This significant event will be presided over by Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth and is expected to draw attention from senior naval officials and representatives from Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), which constructed the vessel.

INS Nirdeshak, measuring 110 meters in length and displacing approximately 3,800 tonnes, stands out with over 80 percent indigenous content. This achievement underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to self-reliance and ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in naval capabilities. The vessel is powered by two diesel engines that enable it to reach speeds in excess of 18 knots and provides an endurance of more than 25 days at sea.

The ship is equipped with cutting-edge hydrographic and oceanographic survey technology, emphasizing its designed purpose to conduct hydrographic surveys, aid navigation, and support various maritime operations. This new addition to the fleet is particularly notable as it represents the reincarnation of the original Nirdeshak, which served the Indian Navy effectively for 32 years before its decommissioning on December 19, 2014.

Highlighting its significance, the Navy has unveiled the crest of INS Nirdeshak, aptly named ‘the Pathfinder of the Seas.’ This emblem symbolizes India’s maritime sovereignty and technological advancement, featuring an image of the hydrographic survey ship navigating through waves. The crest also incorporates advanced satellite-based navigation and communication systems alongside state-of-the-art sub-surface sensors, illustrating the ship’s capabilities in accurately charting underwater terrains.

As India seeks to bolster its strategic foothold in the Indian Ocean Region, INS Nirdeshak is expected to play a vital role in mapping national waters and supporting maritime cooperation with other nations. The commissioning of this ship marks a significant step for the Indian Navy as it continues to develop indigenous capabilities and further its mission in naval operations.

US Marine Corps to Test Sikorsky’s MATRIX Autonomy System with UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopters

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US Marine Corps to Test Sikorsky’s MATRIX Autonomy System with UH-60 Black Hawk Helicopters

The United States Marine Corps is set to conduct tests of Sikorsky’s MATRIX flight autonomy system next year, which will be installed on UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters. This advanced system is designed to enhance pilot operations, providing assisted flight capabilities when two pilots operate the aircraft together, as well as serving as a virtual co-pilot for single-pilot missions. Notably, the MATRIX system also enables fully autonomous flight operations without any pilots on board, whether the helicopters are launching from naval vessels or land-based expeditionary bases.

Marines will interact with the MATRIX-equipped aircraft using a user-friendly tablet interface, allowing personnel to input and adjust mission parameters both prior to takeoff and during flight. Rich Benton, Sikorsky’s vice president and general manager, highlighted the capabilities of aircraft with the MATRIX autonomy, stating that they can perform a wide range of complex missions reliably and safely, including internal and external cargo transport without any crew onboard.

The collaboration with the Marine Corps aims to investigate how a fleet of autonomy-driven uncrewed aerial systems, encompassing both rotary and fixed-wing aircraft, can effectively support the expeditionary force with precise resupply missions during high-tempo, distributed operational scenarios.

The MATRIX system is part of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)’s ALIAS (Aircrew Labor In-cockpit Automation System) program. This initiative is intended to improve safety and operational efficiency for crewed helicopters. Previous demonstrations of the system took place in 2022 and involved simulated medical resupply operations. During these exercises, MATRIX-equipped helicopters autonomously transported 14 boxes containing a total of 400 units of actual and simulated blood, weighing approximately 500 pounds (226 kilograms).

The autonomous mission spanned 83 miles (133 kilometers) and was completed in just 50 minutes. The aircraft skillfully navigated through valley terrain, descending to an altitude of 200 feet (61 meters) above ground level to minimize visibility from potential threats. Throughout the flight, it maintained an impressive airspeed of 100 knots (approximately 115 miles or 185 kilometers per hour), demonstrating the operational effectiveness of the MATRIX system in challenging environments.