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US and European Powers Submit Resolution Censuring Iran Over Nuclear Cooperation Issues

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US and European Powers Submit Resolution Censuring Iran Over Nuclear Cooperation Issues

European powers, along with the United States, have put forth a resolution aimed at censuring Iran due to its inadequate cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), according to diplomatic sources who spoke to AFP on Wednesday. This action coincides with the commencement of an IAEA board meeting in Vienna, where representatives from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the U.S. have formally introduced the resolution.

The motion is anticipated to be voted on Thursday, leading to heightened tensions as Iranian officials respond assertively. In a call with IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned that Tehran would issue a “proportionate” response should the resolution pass. Araghchi characterized the censure as a move that contradicts the positive engagements previously established between Iran and the agency, expressing deep concerns about the implications of such a resolution.

Earlier in the day, Araghchi voiced strong condemnation of the initiative, claiming it would only exacerbate ongoing tensions. This action follows Grossi’s recent visit to Iran, during which he inspected key nuclear sites at Fordo and Natanz. Notably, Iran has perceived Grossi’s visit as a step in a constructive direction, as the IAEA has noted some progress from Tehran concerning the halt in the expansion of its stockpile of highly enriched uranium, based on a confidential report released prior to the board meeting.

The drive for censure embodies an attempt by Western diplomats to exert increased pressure on Iran to comply with international norms and alleviate long-term concerns regarding its nuclear activities. The resolution explicitly demands IAEA chief Grossi deliver a comprehensive report on Iran’s nuclear program by spring 2025, which will explore Tehran’s cooperation with the agency, particularly regarding uranium traces identified at undeclared sites.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot has underscored the urgency of the situation, calling Iran’s advancements in its nuclear program “very worrying” and indicative of significant proliferation risks. The backdrop of this development includes a fraught relationship between Iran and the IAEA that has escalated since the breakdown of the 2015 nuclear agreement, which aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for relief from sanctions. The deal unraveled after the U.S. exited the agreement in 2018 and reinstated severe sanctions, prompting Iran to progressively abandon its commitments under the accord and elevate its uranium enrichment levels to near-weapon-grade levels of 60 percent.

Despite these developments, Tehran maintains that its nuclear ambitions are solely for civilian and peaceful purposes, consistently denying any intent to develop a nuclear weapon. Currently, Iran is reported to be the sole non-nuclear weapon state enriching uranium to this level. The IAEA has noted that Iran’s stockpile of enriched uranium has ballooned to more than 32 times the limit established under the 2015 agreement, with recent estimates placing this stockpile at approximately 6,604 kilograms as of late October, an increase from preceding reports.

In a recent dialogue with Grossi, Araghchi asserted that Tehran is open to negotiations but will not succumb to external pressures or intimidation. He cautioned that a resolution against Iran could provoke new retaliatory measures in its nuclear program, which he indicated would be unwelcome by international stakeholders. Araghchi’s experience as Iran’s chief negotiator during the 2015 nuclear deal underscores his position as a seasoned diplomat in this complex geopolitical landscape.

Major General KTG Krishnan Inaugurates Smart Small Arms Firing Range at Dhana

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In line with the vision of ‘Strengthening Combat Readiness with Indigenous Excellence,’ Major General KTG Krishnan, General Officer Commanding, Shahbaaz Division, inaugurated a cutting-edge Smart Small Arms Firing Range at Dhana.

Major General KTG Krishnan

This state-of-the-art facility, developed indigenously by Bholanath Precision Engineering Pvt Ltd, significantly enhances the training capabilities of the Shahbaaz Warriors, offering advanced technology-driven solutions to improve marksmanship and operational proficiency.

Major General KTG Krishnan

The initiative reflects the Army’s dedication to operational excellence while promoting the ethos of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, leveraging indigenous innovation to bolster combat readiness and self-reliance.

This development marks a major step in modernizing training infrastructure, ensuring that the Indian Army remains equipped to face evolving challenges with unmatched precision and professionalism.

Army Commander Lauds Rashtriya Rifles for Restoring Peace in Jammu and Kashmir at Biennial Conference

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In a significant address during the 13th Rashtriya Rifles Biennial Conference held in Udhampur, Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Suchindra Kumar praised the exemplary role played by the Rashtriya Rifles in fostering peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir over the years. He commended the force for its contributions to both community welfare and national development, highlighting their critical role in counter-terrorism efforts within the Union Territory.

Lt Gen Kumar urged the commanders and personnel of the Rashtriya Rifles to sustain their commitment to operating “for the people and with the people,” emphasizing the importance of grassroots connections with the local population. He underscored that the Rashtriya Rifles, as representatives of the Indian Army, are strategically positioned to effectuate meaningful change while advancing community building and national integrity.

During the conference, attended by senior military officials, including Major General Anupam Bhagi, additional director general of the Rashtriya Rifles, Lt Gen Kumar called for a continued evolution within the force. He advocated for a reorientation towards becoming a “lean and mean technology-enabled force” capable of addressing current operational challenges and adapting to future threats in the region.

The discussions at the conference encompassed a range of critical topics, including the prevailing security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, operational preparedness of the troops, training methodologies, and strategies for counter-insurgency operations. The focus was on ensuring that the Rashtriya Rifles remain adaptable and effective in their mandates, reinforcing their established legacy of dedication and sacrifice in the face of adversity.

Lt Gen Kumar took the opportunity to congratulate all ranks of the Rashtriya Rifles for their unwavering commitment to the counter-terrorism mission in Jammu and Kashmir, recognizing the sacrifices made by the troops in their enduring fight against terrorism and their proactive role in stabilizing the region. He reaffirmed the necessity for ongoing efforts that align with both the security needs and the aspirations of the local populace, outlining that this mission should be central to all operational strategies employed by the Rashtriya Rifles moving forward.

General Upendra Dwivedi to Receive Honorary Rank from Nepalese President During Visit to Strengthen Military Ties

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COAS Gen Dwivedi Stresses Vigilance and Preparedness During Visit to Western Command

Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi is poised to receive the honorary title of “General of the Nepal Army” from Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel during his ongoing visit to Nepal. This prestigious accolade is part of a long-standing tradition that began in 1950 and reflects the deep-rooted military relationship between India and Nepal.

This honor has been previously bestowed upon other Indian Army Chiefs, such as General Manoj Pande (retired) and General MM Naravane (retired). General Dwivedi’s visit, which commenced on Wednesday, is expected to bolster the defense cooperation between the two neighboring countries.

Throughout his visit, General Dwivedi plans to engage in several key meetings, starting with his Nepali counterpart, General Ashok Raj Sigdel. The Ministry of Defence has disclosed that he will receive a Guard of Honour at the Nepali Army Headquarters on Thursday. Following this ceremonial reception, the COAS will be briefed by the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of the Nepali Army, a session aimed at discussing shared strategic interests between the two nations.

Additionally, General Dwivedi is scheduled to address student officers participating in the Nepali Army Command and Staff Course at Shivapuri. He will also hold discussions with Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Defence Minister Manbir Rai, where mutual areas of concern and cooperation will be explored.

One of the highlights of General Dwivedi’s itinerary includes attending an Ex-Servicemen Rally in Pokhara on November 24. During this event, he will honor Veer Naris—widows of soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the country—as well as Gallantry Awardees. This engagement serves not just to recognize the sacrifices made by these individuals but also to foster ties with Indian Army veterans residing in Nepal.

This visit underscores the importance of military diplomacy and the commitment both nations have towards sustaining and enhancing their longstanding defense relationship.

Europe’s Defense Industry Sees 16.9% Growth Amid Ukraine War, Employment Rises to 581,000

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Europe's Defense Industry Sees 16.9% Growth Amid Ukraine War, Employment Rises to 581,000

ROME — The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has spurred a significant increase in military spending across Europe, leading to a remarkable growth in the continent’s defense industry. According to a report released by the Aerospace, Security and Defence Industries Association of Europe (ASD), the sector experienced a 16.9 percent rise in revenue during the previous year, reaching nearly €160 billion (around $170 billion).

This growth in the defense sector was accompanied by a notable increase in employment, with the workforce expanding by 8.9 percent, resulting in a total of 581,000 jobs in the industry. The ASD, representing around 3,000 member firms in 17 countries, highlighted that the response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has prompted governments to rapidly enhance their military capabilities, thus benefitting defense companies across the continent.

The report also indicated a significant increase in defense exports, which rose by 12.6 percent in 2023 to reach €57.4 billion. The association emphasized the importance of these exports, stating, “These exports play a vital role in sustaining the competitive economic performance of the European defense industry, considering the relatively modest size of domestic European markets and the substantial development costs involved.”

When examining specific sectors, the ASD found that Europe’s defense aerospace sector saw a revenue increase of 15.8 percent, amounting to €64.8 billion. Both the naval and land sectors experienced identical growth rates of 17.7 percent, generating revenues of €37.9 billion and €56.2 billion, respectively. Collectively, these sectors brought in approximately €158.8 billion.

In terms of employment distribution, of the 581,000 individuals working within the defense sector, approximately 217,000 are engaged in aerospace, which includes 17,700 new positions created during 2023. The remaining workforce of 364,000 individuals is split between the land and naval sectors.

Despite this constructive growth trajectory, the ASD noted that the defense sector is currently facing critical challenges. It pointed out that years of underinvestment and reliance on off-the-shelf procurement from non-European suppliers have severely diminished production capabilities in Europe. This strategic vulnerability became evident following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Moreover, the dependence on external suppliers for essential components such as critical minerals and semiconductors poses additional challenges. The ASD stressed that overcoming these obstacles necessitates a unified approach to boost investments, streamline demand and supply, and formulate strategies to lessen reliance on foreign sources for critical manufacturing supplies.

Since the annexation of Crimea by Russia in 2014, the collective defense budget of EU Member States has increased by only about 20 percent. This figure is starkly lower compared to the near 300 percent and 600 percent growth seen in the defense budgets of Russia and China, respectively, during the same period.

In broader terms, when factoring in the combined aerospace, space, and defense sectors, the ASD reported a total revenue growth of 10.1 percent in 2023, culminating in €290.4 billion. Consequently, firms in these sectors added 76,000 jobs, bringing the total workforce to 1,027,000.

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi Visits Nepal to Strengthen Defense Ties and Honorary Rank Ceremony

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Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi Visits Nepal to Strengthen Defense Ties and Honorary Rank Ceremony

Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi arrived in Nepal on Wednesday for a four-day visit aimed at enhancing the already robust defense and strategic partnership between India and Nepal amid shifting regional security dynamics. Highlighting the historical ties between the two nations, Gen Dwivedi is scheduled to be awarded the honorary rank of “General of the Nepal Army” by Nepalese President Ramchandra Paudel on Thursday. This accolade marks a continuation of a tradition that dates back to 1950, underscoring the deep-rooted connections between their military forces.

Throughout his visit, which extends from November 20 to 24, Gen Dwivedi will engage in extensive discussions with key figures in the Nepalese government and military, including his counterpart Gen Ashok Raj Sigdel, as well as President Paudel, Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli, and Defence Minister Manbir Rai. These discussions will be pivotal in exploring new avenues for collaboration while reinforcing existing military cooperation.

On Thursday, Gen Dwivedi is expected to receive a briefing from the Director General of Military Operations of the Nepali Army, specifically addressing issues pertinent to both nations’ security interests. This interaction is anticipated to foster a more cohesive approach to defense strategies between the two neighboring countries.

In addition to official engagements, Gen Dwivedi is likely to visit the Shri Muktinath temple in the Mustang region, a site of spiritual significance. This visit carries particular resonance as the late Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat had expressed an intention to visit this sacred location. In memory of Gen Rawat, a bell named the “Bipin Bell” was installed at the temple in February 2023.

The focus of Gen Dwivedi’s visit also includes discussions on ongoing defense modernization efforts within both militaries. One of the cornerstone initiatives of India-Nepal military cooperation is the annual ‘Surya Kiran’ joint military exercise. This exercise, centered on enhancing interoperability in counterterrorism, disaster relief, and humanitarian assistance, is set to reach its 18th edition in December in Nepal. Plans to expand the scope and complexity of the exercise indicate a commitment to improving operational synergy between the Indian and Nepalese armed forces.

India has been an active partner in Nepal’s military modernization efforts, consistently supplying a range of military equipment and hardware, including small arms, vehicles, and advanced training simulators. This collaboration is seen as an integral part of strengthening the overall security architecture in the region.

US, Australia, and UK Partner on Hypersonic Technology Development Amid Rising Global Security Concerns

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US, Australia, and UK Partner on Hypersonic Technology Development Amid Rising Global Security Concerns

The US Department of Defense has formalized a collaborative agreement with Australia and the UK aimed at advancing both offensive and defensive hypersonic technologies. This partnership seeks to expedite the development, testing, and evaluation of advanced hypersonic vehicles, including long-range missiles that can travel significantly faster than the speed of sound.

This initiative, termed the Hypersonic Flight Test and Experimentation Project (HyFliTE), is set to involve as many as six joint flight test campaigns by the year 2028. Notably, the partnership emphasizes the sharing of resources, knowledge, and expertise among the three nations, reflecting a unified approach to enhancing military capabilities.

With a total funding allocation of $252 million, the project is designed to bolster security measures amid growing global complexities and challenges. UK Defence Secretary John Healey underscored the importance of this collaboration, stating, “This work will keep us ahead of our adversaries on the battlefield, enhance our collective security, and contribute to maintaining peace and stability in an increasingly complex and dangerous world.”

Central to the project is the acceleration of crucial technologies, including high-temperature materials, advanced propulsion systems, as well as guidance and control mechanisms. These technological advancements are essential for the effectiveness of hypersonic weapon systems and are expected to enhance operational capabilities significantly. Heidi Shyu, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, explained that these technologies are fundamental to improving performance in the field.

The collaboration builds upon the AUKUS partnership, which was launched in 2021 and includes security initiatives among Canberra, London, and Washington. This trilateral security alliance not only focuses on hypersonic capabilities but also encompasses joint testing and exercise initiatives under two primary programs. One of these aims to equip the Royal Australian Navy with nuclear-powered submarines, while the other emphasizes operational integration and interoperability across various advanced fields, including cyber defense, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and undersea systems.

In recent developments, AUKUS partners have conducted several tests intended to enhance their systems’ interoperability. Most notably, last month, they successfully managed remotely operated unmanned vessels over a distance exceeding 10,000 miles (16,093 kilometers), controlling operations in Australian waters from a command station located in Portugal. Additionally, in August, the three partners announced successful tests of AI-enabled unmanned aerial vehicles capable of precisely intercepting, disabling, and destroying enemy assets.

These ongoing efforts and advancements underline the significance of international collaboration in fortifying military capabilities and ensuring strategic advantage in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

Landmines and Unexploded Munitions Claim Over 1,000 Victims in Myanmar, Highest in the World

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Landmines and Unexploded Munitions Claim Over 1,000 Victims in Myanmar, Highest in the World

Landmines and unexploded munitions have emerged as the leading cause of casualties in Myanmar, according to the International Campaign to Ban Landmines (ICBL), which reported that approximately 1,003 individuals were killed or wounded by these devices in 2023. This staggering figure places Myanmar ahead of other conflict-affected nations, including Syria, Afghanistan, and Ukraine, which recorded 933, 651, and 580 casualties respectively.

The rise in landmine-related injuries and deaths can be attributed to decades of conflict between the military and various ethnic rebel groups, which have left the landscape of Myanmar perilously littered with these deadly devices. The military’s ousting of Aung San Suu Kyi’s government in 2021 marked a significant escalation in violence and conflict, resulting in the emergence of numerous self-organized “People’s Defense Forces” (PDFs) now actively engaged in combat against the military regime.

The ICBL highlighted a disturbing reality: due to severe conflict and associated restrictions, the true number of casualties is likely significantly underestimated. Yeshua Moser-Puangsuwan from the ICBL emphasized the inadequacies of Myanmar’s medical surveillance system, suggesting that the actual toll could potentially double or triple the reported figures. “How many more? Double? Triple? Quite possibly…” he mused, underlining the challenge of obtaining accurate casualty data amid the ongoing conflict.

The report revealed that Myanmar is not a signatory to any UN conventions banning the use of anti-personnel mines, leading to increased military usage of these munitions in recent years, particularly around critical infrastructure like mobile phone towers and energy pipelines. Such infrastructure has become a target in the ongoing conflict, leading to further civilian endangerment.

The implications of these landmine deployments are severe. The ICBL indicated that forces from Myanmar’s military have been observed coercing civilians to walk ahead of their columns to “clear” mine-affected areas. Evidence suggests that anti-personnel mines manufactured within Myanmar fall into the hands of militant groups at a startling rate, with data showing these mines captured consistently from military supplies between January 2022 and September 2024 across various regions of the country.

The humanitarian implications of this ongoing conflict are profound, with over three million people displaced by violence related to the military coup, as reported by the United Nations. The use of landmines has reportedly been “indiscriminate” on all sides of the conflict, as acknowledged by the UN children’s agency. Rebel groups, too, have admitted to laying mines in territories under their control.

Globally, the ICBL recorded at least 5,757 casualties from landmines and explosive remnants of war last year alone, with civilians constituting 84 percent of those affected. The 2023 figures contrast sharply with those from 2022 when 4,710 casualties, including 1,661 fatalities, were documented. With the situation in Myanmar worsening, the international community faces urgent calls to address the humanitarian crisis and work towards establishing a safer, mine-free environment for its citizens.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Emphasizes Indian Air Force’s Role in National Security at Commanders’ Conference

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Emphasizes Indian Air Force's Role in National Security at Commanders' Conference

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh underscored the indispensable role of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in bolstering national sovereignty during his address at the Air Force Commanders’ Conference held in Delhi. He called upon senior leadership within the IAF to prioritize operational preparedness and advance indigenous capabilities, reinforcing the government’s commitment to achieving ‘atmanirbharta’ or self-reliance in defense.

During his address, Singh emphasized the need for the Air Force to enhance processes related to capability and capacity building, ensuring they resonate with the broader national aspirations of the country. He commended the Air Force for its relentless professionalism and adaptability in responding effectively to evolving global challenges.

Before addressing the conference, Singh was welcomed by Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who provided a comprehensive briefing on the IAF’s current operational capabilities. The conference saw notable attendance from key defense officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Defence Secretary RK Singh, DRDO Chairman Dr. SV Kamat, and Secretary of Defence Production Sanjay Kumar, alongside the senior leadership of the Indian Air Force.

This ongoing conference serves as a vital platform for in-depth discussions surrounding critical operational, administrative, and strategic issues facing the IAF. It allows the leadership to evaluate contemporary challenges while strategizing future pathways to sustain excellence in airpower.

As part of the conference proceedings, IAF leaders will also engage with chiefs from the Army and Navy, highlighting the imperative of operational synergy among the three branches of the armed forces. This collaborative approach is aimed at fostering a unified front in ensuring national security in an increasingly complex geopolitical landscape.

Indian Navy Releases Admit Card for INCET-01/2024 Civilian Entrance Test

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Indian Navy Releases Admit Card for INCET-01/2024 Civilian Entrance Test

The Indian Navy has initiated the availability of admit cards for the Indian Navy Civilian Entrance Test (INCET-01/2024), a significant step for candidates aspiring to secure Group “B” (non-gazetted) and Group “C” civilian positions within the organization. The positions available through this entrance test include roles such as chargeman, tradesman, and firefighter, among others. Interested candidates can conveniently download their admit cards from the official Indian Navy website at www.joinindiannavy.gov.in.

To facilitate the download process, candidates should follow these straightforward steps: First, visit the official Indian Navy website. Next, navigate to the ‘Join Navy’ tab and locate the ‘Civilians’ section. From there, click on the “INCET-01/2024 Admit Card” link. Candidates will be prompted to enter their password and registration number before they can download and print their admit card.

In terms of vacancies, there are a significant number of positions available across various roles. The breakdown is as follows:

– Fireman: 444
– Tradesman Mate: 161
– Fire Engine Driver: 58
– Pest Control Worker: 18
– Chargeman (Mechanic): 18
– Multi-Tasking Staff (MTS): 16
– Chargeman (Factory): 10
– Cook: 9
– Scientific Assistant: 4
– Chargeman (Ammunition Workshop): 1

The Computer-Based Test (CBT) for the INCET will feature a total of 100 questions, categorized into four distinct sections, each contributing 25 marks to the overall score. These sections comprise General Intelligence, General Awareness, English Language, and Quantitative Aptitude. Candidates are strongly advised to focus their preparations on these key areas to ensure comprehensive readiness.

Following the completion of the CBT, candidates will undergo a Physical Standard Test (PST) and a Skill Test for certain positions. The final steps in the recruitment process will include essential procedures such as document verification and a medical examination, ensuring candidates meet the necessary standards for selection.