The Indian Army has made significant strides in enhancing its aerial capabilities with the development of the ‘Kharga,’ a kamikaze drone designed for intelligence and surveillance operations. Priced at Rs 30,000 per unit, this innovative aerostat system boasts impressive features, including a remarkable speed of 40 meters per second and a capacity to carry up to 700 grams of explosives.

Equipped with advanced technology, the ‘Kharga’ incorporates GPS navigation and a high-definition camera that can operate effectively at a distance of one and a half kilometers. Furthermore, the drone is designed with a countermeasure system that protects it from enemy electromagnetic spectrum jamming, ensuring its functionality in contested environments.

The ‘Kharga’ is classified as a ‘suicide’ drone, which means it can be deployed to effectively target and destroy enemy positions. Officials have noted its capability to evade detection, as it operates outside conventional radar ranges. Drones of similar functionality have previously been used in conflicts such as the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, illustrating their tactical importance in modern warfare.

In a related development, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) introduced a new line of indigenous kamikaze drones in August. These advanced drones feature home-built engines with impressive ranges of up to 1,000 kilometers. Their use in the Ukraine conflict has proven their effectiveness against both infantry and armored vehicles, drawing parallels to historical kamikaze missions from World War II, when Japanese pilots employed suicide attacks against Allied naval vessels and aircraft.

On the border security front, Union Home Minister Amit Shah recently announced that the Border Security Force (BSF) has successfully neutralized 55 percent of unauthorized drones along the India-Pakistan border in Punjab. This achievement has been made possible through the use of ‘Dronaam,’ India’s indigenous counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS). During the BSF’s 60th raising day, Shah expressed his confidence in the system’s performance, stating, “I sleep fearlessly at night knowing you are guarding our borders. The new system has been a remarkable success.”

Developed by Gurutvaa Systems, ‘Dronaam’ is a modular C-UAS that offers extensive protection against illegal drones, adapting to various security needs through its flexible design. With both directional and omnidirectional coverage, it represents a significant advancement in the effort to secure India’s borders from potential aerial threats. As the defense landscape continues to evolve, these technological innovations position India at the forefront of modern aerial warfare capabilities.

In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of India has granted permanent commission to a woman Army officer with an exemplary service record, emphasizing the need for equitable treatment among armed forces personnel. The decision was made possible through the court’s extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, which allows it to intervene in cases where justice requires.

A Bench comprising Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan highlighted the injustice faced by the officer, who had been unjustly excluded from consideration for permanent commission while other similarly situated officers received such benefits. Justice Viswanathan, who authored the judgment, articulated the court’s concern for fairness, stating, “Will it be fair to tell them that they will not be given relief even if they are similarly situated, since the judgment they seek to rely on was passed in the case of certain applicants alone who moved the court? We think that would be a very unfair scenario.”

The court’s observations underscored the dedication and sacrifices of Indian soldiers serving in challenging environments like Siachen, where thoughts regarding service conditions and job perks are far from their minds. The justices criticized the stand taken by the authorities, arguing that it would not only disadvantage the appellant but also establish a precedent that could reinforce unreasonable practices within the military.

The case arose from an appeal by the woman officer, currently serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Dental Corps in Agra. She contested a January 2022 ruling by the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) Regional Bench in Lucknow, which denied her the same benefits afforded to her male counterparts. The Supreme Court’s ruling instructs that her application for permanent commission must be processed with the same recognition and effective date as those of other officers who benefited from a prior AFT judgment made on January 22, 2014.

In its decision, the court has not only remedied the specific case of the appellant but has also sent a broader message about fairness and equity within the armed forces, reinforcing the idea that service conditions should be just for all personnel, irrespective of gender. The ruling marks a significant step towards greater gender equality in the Indian military, addressing long-standing issues relating to the treatment and recognition of women in uniform.

In a significant ruling, the Supreme Court has instructed the Union government to grant permanent commission to a woman officer serving in the Army Dental Corps, who had been unjustly excluded from benefits available to her peers. The bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and K V Viswanathan characterized the situation as one of discrimination, stating, “What is sauce for the goose ought to be sauce for the gander,” thereby emphasizing the need for consistency and fairness in the application of policies.

The court’s decision comes in response to an appeal filed by the officer, who holds the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and is stationed in Agra. The justices noted that her distinguished service record, including the commendation card awarded to her by the Chief of Army Staff in January 2019, should have warranted inclusion among those considered for permanent commission. The court utilized its plenary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution to rectify the oversight, asserting that the exclusion was improper.

During the proceedings, the justices highlighted the profound commitment of Indian soldiers, drawing attention to the challenging conditions under which they serve, such as in Siachen glacier and other difficult terrains. They questioned the fairness of denying relief to similarly situated officers based solely on technicalities, reinforcing the idea that equitable treatment should extend to all deserving individuals within the armed forces.

The court underscored that accepting the government’s stance would endorse an “unreasonable stand” and detrimental discrimination. The officer had been serving since 2007, and the bench emphasized that her exclusion from opportunities granted to others in similar situations was a significant oversight.

Moreover, the court mandated that the government implement its directive within four weeks, ensuring the officer receives all consequential benefits, including seniority, promotion, and any monetary dues. The ruling was delivered following a challenge to a January 2022 order from the Armed Forces Tribunal that had denied the officer’s request for relief comparable to that provided to others by a previous ruling in 2014.

The bench outlined that the officer was commissioned as a short service officer in March 2008, and regulations at that time allowed for three chances to take the departmental examination for permanent commission. However, amendments in 2013 restricted her opportunities, inadvertently barring her from the chance to compete for permanent commission alongside her peers, as she was in an advanced stage of pregnancy during the relevant litigation.

The justices noted the prior ruling found validity in the amendments but nonetheless offered one-time age relaxation to some applicants for their permanent absorption, of which the officer had not been a part due to her circumstances at that time. The bench observed that the absence of provisions prohibiting similar considerations meant the officer was entitled to the same relief granted to others.

Ultimately, the Supreme Court ruled in favor of the officer, affirming her right to parity with other applicants who had received benefits under the previous judgment of the Armed Forces Tribunal. The court articulated that the authorities should proactively extend the benefits of prior rulings to all similarly situated individuals, remarking on the essential principles of justice and nondiscrimination in governmental actions.

In a heartfelt ceremony at Windsor Castle, King Charles has awarded the prestigious Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) to the late Havildar Major Rajindar Singh Dhatt, a distinguished 103-year-old British-Indian army veteran. The Royal Family shared the news on Instagram, accompanied by a series of nostalgic photographs that celebrate Dhatt’s remarkable life and service.

Rajindar Singh Dhatt was born in 1921 in pre-partition India, where his educational journey was interrupted by the outbreak of the Second World War. Motivated by a sense of duty, he joined the British Army, quickly distinguishing himself through his dedication and skill. By 1943, he had risen to the rank of Havildar Major, demonstrating exemplary leadership during his deployment to the Far East campaign. There, he played a significant role in the Battle of Kohima, a critical confrontation that was part of the Allied Forces’ efforts to break through Japanese defenses.

Following the end of the war, Dhatt returned to India, but his journey did not end there. In 1963, seeking new opportunities, he relocated with his family to Hounslow, UK, contributing to the South Asian community and enriching the cultural tapestry of his new homeland.

The Royal Family emphasized the importance of Dhatt’s contributions not only in military history but also to the South Asian community in the UK. This recognition coincided with a somber remembrance by King Charles earlier in the day, where he paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the line of duty from 1948 to 2019, further underscoring his commitment to honoring service members and their sacrifices throughout history.

The award highlights the significant contributions made by veterans in shaping modern Britain and acknowledges their lasting legacy within the community. The recognition of Dhatt serves as a poignant reminder of the bravery and dedication of those who have served in the armed forces, as well as the invaluable role of immigrants in the development of British society.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to enhance its capabilities with a significant upgrade to its fleet of Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, particularly following recent geopolitical developments that have heightened security concerns. This upgrade comes in the wake of Israeli missile threats, prompting a reevaluation of the IAF’s operational effectiveness and readiness.

The enhancements to the Sukhoi-30 fighters are expected to include modern avionics systems, improved weaponry, and advanced electronic warfare capabilities. This upgrade is crucial not only for maintaining air superiority but also for ensuring that the IAF remains competitive in the rapidly evolving landscape of aerial combat. Recent conflicts and technological advancements by adversarial nations have necessitated such upgrades, reinforcing the need for robust defense systems.

In a broader context, the Indian government’s recent decision to approve a substantial ₹21,772 crore boost in defense procurement signals a strategic commitment to enhancing national security. This financial allocation highlights the importance of modernizing defense assets and advancing indigenous capabilities in the face of external threats.

Several key players in the defense sector, such as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are positioned to benefit from this procurement drive. Analysts at ICICI Securities have identified these firms as potential beneficiaries of the government’s initiatives, which will likely spur growth and innovation in India’s defense manufacturing capabilities.

The expected upgrades to the Sukhoi-30 fleet are integral to India’s maritime and aerial defense strategies, particularly as tensions in the region continue to escalate. The Indian Navy’s recent emphasis on strengthening its maritime security further underscores the necessity of inter-service collaboration and comprehensive defense planning.

Indian officials and defense experts assert that without timely upgrades and strategic investments in military technology, the country risks falling behind in a global defense landscape increasingly characterized by rapid advancements and shifting alliances. Therefore, the enhancements to the IAF’s Sukhoi-30 jets represent not just a response to current threats but also a proactive approach to future challenges.

As the situation unfolds, the focus on defense stocks and strategic procurement will continue to attract attention from investors and analysts, with many observing closely how these initiatives could reshape India’s defense capabilities and its standing in the international arena.

In a touching tribute to technological advancement and service, the Indian Navy held a de-induction ceremony for the Searcher Mk II unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) at INS Garuda in Kochi. The ceremony, which took place on Tuesday evening, marked the retirement of eight Searcher Mk II UAVs that were part of the INAS 342 squadron. This iconic system has been in service for an impressive 22 years, thus heralding the end of an era.

The Searcher Mk II UAV has been credited with transforming maritime reconnaissance and surveillance within the Indian Navy. An official statement highlighted its pioneering role, calling it a “trailblazer” that not only enhanced the capabilities of naval operations but also laid the groundwork for future technological advancements in the field. The legacy of the Searcher Mk II is firmly embedded in India’s maritime history, having successfully paved the way for newer, state-of-the-art technologies.

The de-induction ceremony was led by Rear Admiral Upal Kundu, Chief of Staff of the Southern Naval Command, who expressed his admiration and respect for the UAV’s contributions to the Navy. The event drew numerous senior naval officers, dignitaries, and veterans from the UAV squadron along with their families, all gathered to pay homage to the aircraft’s achievements and the personnel who operated it.

As attendees reflected on this significant occasion, the atmosphere was filled with a mix of pride and nostalgia. Remarks made during the ceremony underscored the Searcher UAV’s critical role in enhancing naval reconnaissance capabilities, setting the benchmark for future innovations. The retirement of the Searcher Mk II brings a bittersweet conclusion to a chapter that has been marked by progress and success in maritime operations, signaling a hopeful vision for the next generation of UAVs in service with the Indian Navy.

Agra: Authorities are rigorously pursuing an Indian Army Canteen Stores Department (CSD) clerk who has gone into hiding after allegedly embezzling over Rs 2 crore in government funds. Deepak Kumar, a clerk based in Rohtak, Haryana, stands accused of transferring the significant amount into bank accounts held by himself and his wife, Monica, utilizing a series of seven cheques.

In a recent development, law enforcement arrested Monica on Monday in Rohtak, intensifying the investigation into the financial misconduct. Police have reported that Deepak Kumar, a resident of Lal Bahadur Shastri Nagar, made notable purchases with the misappropriated funds, including an SUV, a plot of land, and gold worth more than Rs 20 lakh. This spending has raised further suspicions as investigators scramble to piece together the full extent of the alleged fraud.

Deepak and Monica’s bank accounts have been frozen as a precautionary measure to prevent any further mishandling of the funds. Moreover, police have summoned several family members of the couple for questioning to ascertain any potential involvement or if there have been unlawful transfers to their accounts.

The investigation began on Thursday when Pankaj Yadav, the officer in charge of the CSD at the 7001 Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME), filed a formal complaint at the Sadar Bazar police station after noticing discrepancies in the financial records. Based on his report, an FIR was registered against Kumar, citing sections BNS 316 (5) for criminal breach of trust and 318 (4) for cheating involving property or valuable securities.

Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Praveen Malik provided an update on the operation, stating, “Three police teams, equipped with surveillance technology and local intelligence, are scouring probable locations where the primary suspect may be hiding. Family members are being summoned for questioning, and we are examining transactions related to Kumar’s relatives to ensure all avenues of investigation are pursued. We are committed to apprehending the accused soon.”

The case highlights a concerning breach of trust within a military department, leading to a broader investigation as authorities aim to bring the perpetrators to justice and recover the misappropriated funds.

In a tragic incident on Monday, Havaldar V Subbaiah Varikunta of the 25 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) lost his life in a landmine explosion during an area domination patrol in the Thanedar Tekri region of Poonch district. The 38-year-old soldier, hailing from Ravipadu village in the Kambam mandal of Andhra Pradesh, dedicated nearly two decades of service to the Indian Army.

The incident transpired while Subbaiah and his patrol team were conducting a search operation in the area. They accidentally triggered a landmine, resulting in a deadly explosion that claimed Subbaiah’s life as he led his team. Despite immediate efforts to evacuate him to a nearby hospital, he succumbed to his injuries shortly thereafter.

The devastating news has cast a shadow over Subbaiah’s hometown, where residents are in mourning for the fallen soldier. He leaves behind a grieving family, including his wife, son, and daughter, who are enduring this profound loss.

In a heartfelt tribute on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the White Knight Corps honored Havaldar Subbaiah, stating, “GOC Corps and all ranks pay solemn tribute to the braveheart Havaldar V Subbaiah Varikunta of 25 RR, who made the supreme sacrifice during an area domination patrol in the general area of Thanedar Tekri in Poonch following a mine blast. Our deepest condolences to the bereaved family. We stand steadfastly with them in this hour of grief.”

Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, also expressed his condolences, stating, “I salute the supreme sacrifice of our Army braveheart Havaldar V Subbaiah Varikunta. His valour and sacrifice will never be forgotten. The entire nation stands firmly with the family of the martyr in this hour of grief.” The outpouring of respect and sorrow reflects the high regard in which the soldier was held for his dedication and service to the nation.

General Ashok Raj Sigdel, the Chief of the Army Staff of the Nepali Army, has embarked on a crucial four-day official visit to India, commencing on Tuesday. This visit not only includes a series of important meetings but will also feature the conferral of the honorary rank of Indian Army General upon General Sigdel.

The Indian Army has outlined that the visit, scheduled from December 11 to December 14, 2024, aims to bolster bilateral military cooperation and investigate new opportunities for defense collaboration between the two nations. Such engagements are pivotal in fostering stronger ties and understanding between India and Nepal, particularly in the context of regional security dynamics.

During this visit, General Sigdel is set to engage with both the political and military leadership in India. His itinerary begins with a ceremonial wreath-laying at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, which honors the sacrifices made by the armed forces. Following this, he will receive a formal Guard of Honour at the South Block Lawns, underscoring the significance of his visit.

One of the key meetings will be with General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff of the Indian Army, where General Sigdel is expected to discuss various aspects of military cooperation and strategic issues. Additionally, he will receive a briefing on India’s security perspective delivered by the Director General of Strategic Planning. This session is likely to offer insights into India’s defense policies and strategies.

Furthermore, the Nepali COAS will engage in discussions regarding the Indian Defense Industry, led by the Additional Director General of the Army Design Bureau, marking an opportunity to explore collaboration in defense manufacturing and technology.

General Sigdel’s visit will also include high-level interactions with several senior Indian officials. He is scheduled to meet S. Jaishankar, the External Affairs Minister, Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor, and General Anil Chauhan, the Chief of the Defence Staff. Additionally, discussions with Rajesh Kumar Singh, the Defense Secretary, and Vikram Misri, the Indian Foreign Secretary, are anticipated, facilitating a comprehensive dialogue on bilateral relations and security cooperation.

This visit emphasizes the commitment of both nations to reinforcing their defense ties and addressing shared security challenges in the region, fostering a collaborative approach to enhancing stability and peace.

In a significant milestone for India’s ambitious Gaganyaan human space mission, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully conducted “well deck” recovery trials in collaboration with the Indian Navy on December 6. The trials took place at the Eastern Naval Command, specifically off the coast of Vishakhapatnam, and were aimed at refining the recovery procedures for the Crew Module post-mission.

According to ISRO, the “well deck” design of a naval ship permits flooding with water to facilitate the docking of boats, landing crafts, or the recovered spacecraft itself. This capability is crucial for the effective recovery of crew members once the Crew Module touches down in the sea upon completion of the mission. Ensuring the swift and comfortable retrieval of the crew is a primary concern, as outlined by ISRO.

The recovery strategy involves towing the Crew Module into the ship’s well deck, allowing the crew to disembark with minimal discomfort. During the recent trials, a mock-up of the Crew Module was utilized to simulate the mass and shape characteristics of the actual spacecraft. The operational sequence demonstrated during the trials included critical steps such as the attachment of a recovery buoy, towing procedures, entry into the well deck ship, positioning of the Crew Module, and the subsequent draining of the well deck.

ISRO reported that this trial validated the entire sequence of operations and the ground fixtures involved. The insights gained from this exercise will be instrumental in fine-tuning the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) for the recovery operations, which are essential not only for standard conditions but also for potential off-nominal scenarios.

The Gaganyaan mission, which was approved by the Union Cabinet, represents India’s inaugural foray into human spaceflight. The project is designed to showcase the country’s capacity for human spaceflight by launching a crew of three into an orbit approximately 400 kilometers above the Earth for a mission lasting three days, ultimately returning them safely to Indian waters.

ISRO Chairman S Somanath has expressed confidence that the Gaganyaan mission will be ready for launch by the end of 2024, marking a historic achievement in India’s aerospace endeavors. The collaboration between ISRO and the Indian Navy signifies a pivotal step toward operationalizing this groundbreaking mission, which is poised to elevate India’s status in the global space exploration landscape.