In a progressive move towards sustainable operations, the Indian Navy is actively investigating the use of hydrogen fuel crafts, according to Southern Naval Command Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice Admiral V Srinivas. During a media interaction aboard the Navy’s tank landing vessel INS Shardul, he highlighted the collaboration with Cochin Shipyard, which has developed a small craft powered by hydrogen fuel. The Navy is exploring the potential application of these innovative vessels for future operations.

Vice Admiral Srinivas emphasized the Navy’s commitment to environmentally friendly fuels and operational practices. He expressed the importance of maintaining constant communication with various agencies that are advancing the use of alternative fuels, including hydrogen. “We have always been actively promulgating environment-friendly fuels and operations,” he stated, adding that the Cochin Shipyard’s advancements in hydrogen fuel technology have captured their interest.

The Vice Admiral also assured that the Navy is dedicated to achieving the highest standards of environmental sustainability in its operations throughout the nation. Alongside these efforts, he addressed the issue of narcotic drug seizures in 2024, indicating a decline compared to the previous year. This reduction is attributed to the Navy’s vigilant presence in the Indian Ocean Region and North Arabian Sea, as part of its broader mandate to combat piracy, drug trafficking, and terrorism. “We have a robust structure to apprehend this kind of operations in collaboration with other agencies such as the Coast Guard and state governments,” he noted.

Furthermore, responding to queries regarding the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, Vice Admiral Srinivas highlighted the Navy’s commitment to indigenization and technology export. He stated that Southern Naval Command has been significantly contributing to various aspects of indigenization, particularly in aviation and shipbuilding. The establishment of the Centre for Indigenisation and Self Reliance (CISR) in Coimbatore is one such initiative making significant strides in the sector.

Through these initiatives, the Indian Navy aims to not only enhance its operational efficiency but also align with global trends in sustainability and self-reliance in defense technology.

India is set to make a significant leap in its naval capabilities with the government’s recent approval for the development of its first indigenously designed nuclear attack submarines, expected to be operational by 2036. This initiative underscores a growing confidence in India’s ability to design and manufacture complex defense systems. Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi commented on the plans, highlighting that the initial submarine will likely be delivered by 2036, with a subsequent vessel following within two years. The Indian Navy has outlined a requirement for a total of six such submarines.

Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the government’s approval reflects its belief in India’s domestic capacity to handle such advanced projects. He expressed optimism about the timeline for the induction of these submarines, expected between 2036 and 2037, and noted that the initiative would not only enhance India’s combat capabilities but also stimulate growth in ancillary industries related to the defense sector.

Currently, India operates nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed submarines under the Arihant class. However, the new attack submarines, designed for stealth operations and equipped with conventional weapons, are set to provide India with an advanced strategic edge. With this development, India is poised to join an exclusive group of nations, including the United States, Russia, and China, that possess similar capabilities.

The Cabinet Committee on Security has cleared a substantial budget of Rs 35,000 crores for this program, indicating that a significant portion of the construction work is likely to be entrusted to the private sector, further diversifying India’s defense manufacturing landscape.

Unlike conventional submarines, nuclear attack submarines possess the unique capability to remain submerged indefinitely, enhancing the Navy’s ability to monitor strategic maritime areas and deter potential adversaries. Historically, India has operated nuclear attack submarines on lease from Russia, but the forthcoming submarines will be completely designed and constructed in India without foreign aid. Reports suggest that all necessary technologies for building these submarines, including a sophisticated miniaturized nuclear reactor, are readily available within the country, minimizing reliance on foreign components.

In addition to the nuclear attack submarine program, Admiral Tripathi provided updates on other submarine modernization efforts. The acquisition process for six new submarines equipped with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) technology is currently underway, with commercial proposals for the project yet to be reviewed. This initiative, known as P 75I, features keen competition between a consortium of Mazagon Dock Limited and TKMS, as well as offerings from L&T and Navantia.

Furthermore, the navy chief announced that plans to acquire three additional Kalvari-class submarines are progressing, with a contract expected to be finalized with Mazagon Dockyard Limited in the near future. The continuous expansion and modernization of India’s submarine fleet highlight the nation’s commitment to bolstering its maritime defense capabilities in a rapidly evolving strategic landscape.

In a significant security operation, security forces successfully neutralized a terrorist in the upper reaches of the Dachigam forest, located in the Harwan area of Srinagar. This operation, a joint effort by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police, commenced on Monday night and continued into Tuesday.

Sources indicate that the operation was initiated following credible intelligence regarding suspicious activity in the forested region. Intelligence reports suggested a potential terrorist presence, prompting the security forces to act swiftly. As they conducted their search and cordon operation, they encountered resistance, with gunfire reported in the vicinity. This led to an escalated response from the joint teams.

The Kashmir Zone Police confirmed the operation via social media platform X, stating, “Based on specific intelligence input, joint parties of SFs launched CASO in the upper reaches of Dachigam forest. Contact established. OP is in progress. Details shall follow.” This acknowledgment highlights the coordinated efforts of security forces in the area to address the ongoing security challenges.

The Dachigam forest region has been a focal point for security operations in recent times, particularly due to the potential for terrorist infiltration and activity. The effective collaboration between different branches of security forces aims to enhance safety and counter-terrorism measures in Kashmir, which has seen intermittent unrest and terrorist activities.

As the operation continues, further details are anticipated regarding the outcomes and implications of this successful engagement against terrorism in the region. The proactive stance taken by the security forces underscores their commitment to maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.

In a significant leadership transition, Air Commodore Vikassheel Singh Saini has officially taken over as the Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Hakimpet during a ceremonial parade held on Monday. He succeeds Air Commodore Pankaj Jain in this pivotal role.

Commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on June 20, 1998, Air Commodore Saini brings to the table an impressive portfolio of experience and expertise. He is an esteemed alumnus of the National Defence Academy (NDA) and has furthered his military education as a graduate of the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC). Additionally, he completed the Higher Air Command Course at the College of Air Warfare in Secunderabad, where he later served as Directing Staff, highlighting his commitment to professional development within the IAF.

Boasting over 2,100 hours of flying experience, Air Commodore Saini has honed his skills across a diverse range of fighter and trainer aircraft, which includes notable models such as the MiG-29, MiG-29 UPG, MiG-21, HJT-16, and HPT-32. His qualifications as a flying instructor and a member of the renowned Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team further underscore his exceptional flying proficiency and dedication to aerial excellence.

Throughout his illustrious career, Air Commodore Saini has held several vital positions that have contributed to the operational readiness of the IAF. Notably, he commanded a premier forward base in the western sector and a frontline fighter squadron, where he played a crucial role in the operationalisation of upgraded MiG-29 aircraft, enhancing the combat capabilities of the service.

In addition to his national contributions, Air Commodore Saini possesses international experience, having served as an Aviation Staff Officer under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). This role added a valuable dimension to his career, showcasing his ability to operate effectively in multinational and diverse environments.

His exemplary service has not gone unrecognized; he was honored with the Vayu Sena Medal by the President of India on January 26, 2018, a testament to his dedication and contributions to the Indian Air Force.

As he embarks on this new chapter at Air Force Station Hakimpet, Air Commodore Saini’s leadership is anticipated to further strengthen the operational capabilities and strategic readiness of the station and the Indian Air Force as a whole.

In a significant maritime incident off the Goan coast, the Yellow Gate police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) following a collision between the Indian Navy submarine INS Karanj and the fishing trawler FV Marathoma. According to the Navy’s complaint, which was filed by Kamal Preet Singh, the executive officer of the submarine, the collision occurred while INS Karanj was engaged in operational deployment on the evening of November 21, leading to extensive damages estimated at approximately ₹10 crore.

Details from the police report indicate that the submarine was navigating towards the southeast at a speed of six knots while maintaining a periscope depth when it detected the fishing trawler on its sonar system. As the submarine crew attempted to maneuver away to avoid a collision, the FV Marathoma struck the submarine, resulting in the sinking of the trawler.

The Navy acted swiftly, rescuing 11 individuals from the water despite an oil spill from the sinking vessel. During follow-up searches conducted on November 28, authorities discovered the bodies of two fishermen who had likely been unable to escape the vessel before it went under.

In light of the incident, the FIR cites several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including causing death by negligence, endangering lives through rash or negligent actions, rash navigation of a vessel, and mischief. A board of inquiry has been established to investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision, and the findings are currently pending.

Following the incident, the submarine was transported to the Indian Navy base located in Karwar, Karnataka, where initial inspections revealed severe damage necessitating costly repairs. The implications of this incident raise important questions regarding maritime safety and the responsibilities of vessels operating in overlapping jurisdictions.

In a significant advancement for India’s strategic capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to conduct its inaugural test flight and landing this month on the newly constructed runway at Nyoma Air Base. This base is strategically located in Eastern Ladakh, just 30 kilometers from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) that demarcates the region between India and China. At an elevation of 13,700 feet, Nyoma stands as the highest airfield in the country and ranks among the highest fighter operational airfields globally.

The ambitious project, which has an investment of Rs 214 crore, aims to upgrade the existing rudimentary mud-paved runway into a fully operational paved airfield that can accommodate modern fighter jets. This initiative was set in motion by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, who laid the foundation for the enhancements in September 2023. Upon completion, Nyoma Air Base will facilitate crucial aircraft launch and recovery operations, in addition to supporting minor maintenance tasks.

With a strategically designed flat terrain and an expansive 3 km runway, the upgraded airfield will allow aircraft to operate efficiently from both ends of the runway. Previously, the site was utilized predominantly by helicopters and transport aircraft, such as the C-130J. The enhancements will considerably bolster the IAF’s operational capabilities in a region that is critical for national security.

Nyoma Air Base will join the ranks of other significant IAF installations in the Ladakh region, namely those at Leh, Kargil, and Thoise, marking it as the fourth operational base in this strategically vital area. The construction of the runway was accomplished in record time, reflecting the engineering prowess and commitment of the personnel involved, especially given the demanding climatic conditions that can see temperatures plunging to minus 30 degrees during peak winter months. The project was completed within a narrow window of just six months, spanning from May to November 2024.

This development holds particular importance in light of rising tensions along the LAC, where China has been rapidly enhancing its infrastructure. By establishing an advanced airbase in Nyoma, India is not only fortifying its defense posture but also ensuring that its response capabilities are more agile and effective in the face of potential challenges in the region.

NEW DELHI: In a stark assessment of regional security dynamics, Admiral Dinesh Tripathi highlighted concerns over Pakistan’s military priorities amidst its dire economic situation. Speaking on the evolving strategic landscape, he emphasized that Pakistan appears to be favoring military expansion at the expense of its citizens’ welfare. This statement comes as India recalibrates its operational strategies in response to the increasing maritime collaboration between Pakistan and China.

Admiral Tripathi, the Chief of the Indian Navy, pointed out that the Navy is closely monitoring the activities of extra-regional powers, especially the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy, in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). “We are keeping a watch on extra-regional forces in the IOR, including the PLA Navy, their warships, and research vessels,” he stated, underscoring India’s vigilance regarding China’s naval operations.

The Admiral expressed particular concerns regarding the Pakistan Navy’s growth ambitions, which aim to enhance its fleet to a total of 50 warships. “They have chosen weapons over the welfare of their people. So, good luck to them,” he remarked, reinforcing India’s commitment to safeguarding its strategic interests in the region. He assured that the Indian Navy is fully prepared to counter any threats.

The discussion also touched upon the robust naval capabilities being developed by China, which operates over 360 warships and submarines. Admiral Tripathi noted that China’s presence in the IOR is marked by a consistent deployment of survey and research vessels, designed to gather vital oceanographic data that could bolster its naval operations.

He specifically pointed out that many of Pakistan’s naval enhancements are occurring with Chinese assistance. “Many Pakistan Navy warships and submarines are being built with China’s support,” he said, referencing the recent acquisition of four Type 054A/P multi-role frigates by Pakistan, along with the future delivery of eight Yuan-class diesel-electric submarines slated for 2025-26. “These eight new submarines will add significant combat potential to the Pakistan Navy. We are fully aware of their capabilities,” he added.

In light of these developments, Admiral Tripathi affirmed that India is adapting its strategies to mitigate any potential threats to its interests in the IOR. “That is why we are tweaking our plans and concepts to negate any infringement of our interests. We are fully ready to take on any challenge,” he stated confidently.

Looking ahead, the Admiral expressed the view that, while the Chinese Navy may focus more on expanding its presence in the Pacific Ocean, India remains vigilant to ensure that its maritime interests in the Indian Ocean are not compromised. His remarks underscore the prevailing tensions and the strategic recalibrations taking place in response to shifting power dynamics in the region.

The fourth edition of Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI, a significant joint military exercise between India and Malaysia, commenced today at Bentong Camp, located in Malaysia’s Pahang district. Running from December 2 to December 15, 2024, this exercise aims to enhance bilateral defense cooperation and improve the interoperability of the Indian and Malaysian armies, particularly in counter-insurgency operations within challenging jungle terrains.

Representing India in this crucial exercise are 78 personnel from the MAHAR Regiment, while the Royal Malaysian Regiment is contributing a contingent of 123 troops. This annual training program alternates between the two nations, with the previous edition taking place in November 2023 at Umroi Cantonment in Meghalaya, India.

Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI is meticulously structured into two phases. The first phase will emphasize cross-training activities, including a variety of lectures, demonstrations, and drills specifically designed for operations in jungle environments. The second phase will culminate in a counter-insurgency operation that adheres to the guidelines outlined in Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate. During this phase, troops from both nations will collaborate on tactical drills, which encompass essential operations such as reconnaissance patrols, ambushes, and offensive maneuvers against terrorist positions. This collaborative effort is intended to foster a practical exchange of strategies and techniques between the two armies.

An official spokesperson from the Indian Army remarked, “Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI reflects the growing trust and partnership between the armed forces of India and Malaysia. It provides an excellent platform to share best practices in jungle warfare and counter-insurgency, strengthening the camaraderie and operational synergy between the two armies.”

Initiated in response to common regional security concerns, Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI plays an essential role in enhancing defense cooperation between India and Malaysia. The exercise not only reinforces military ties but also underscores a mutual commitment to addressing security challenges that affect both nations.

India is poised to finalize crucial defense agreements with France by January 2025, moving forward with the procurement of 26 new Rafale-M fighter jets and the construction of three additional Scorpene-class submarines. Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi announced this significant development during a media briefing ahead of Navy Day. He indicated that negotiations for the aircraft deal are in advanced stages and now await approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security.

Emphasizing the importance of enhancing naval capabilities, Admiral Tripathi stated, “Both deals should be signed by next month.” The fighter jets are intended to operate from India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, with the acquisition expected to cost around ₹50,000 crore. This procurement serves as an interim solution to fulfill the navy’s immediate operational needs while India develops its own twin-engine deck-based fighter (TEDBF), slated for its maiden flight in 2026.

In addition to the Rafale-M jets, the Indian government is also pursuing the construction of more Scorpene-class submarines at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. This initiative reflects India’s strategic response to increasing maritime challenges, particularly posed by China’s expanding influence in the Indian Ocean Region.

Admiral Tripathi highlighted that a total of 62 warships and a diesel-electric submarine are currently under construction at various Indian shipyards. The government has recently approved a project for the indigenous construction of two nuclear-powered submarines, signifying a commitment to bolster India’s underwater capabilities. The first of these submarines is anticipated to be completed by 2036-37, with the second expected two years later. The plan includes a goal to deploy six nuclear-powered submarines to enhance deterrence capabilities in the Indo-Pacific.

The navy chief further disclosed that India has received an Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) from the defense ministry for 31 ships and submarines, all to be manufactured domestically. This includes plans for seven stealth frigates under Project-17B and six modern diesel-electric submarines under Project-75(I).

During the press conference, Admiral Tripathi also underscored the Indian Navy’s vigilant monitoring of extraregional forces operating in the Indian Ocean, particularly noting the presence of Chinese naval units and the ongoing construction of several Pakistani warships with Chinese support. He remarked, “We know who is doing what and where,” reflecting the navy’s awareness of the regional security dynamics.

India commemorates Navy Day on December 4 each year, marking the anniversary of Operation Trident, a significant naval operation against Karachi during the 1971 war with Pakistan. This year, the celebrations will be highlighted by the presence of President Droupadi Murmu as the chief guest at the function in Puri, Odisha.

As the Indian Navy prepares for these enhancements, it aims to reinforce its role in maintaining a rules-based maritime order in the region, safeguarding national interests against evolving security challenges.