In a significant event for the city of Visakhapatnam, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is scheduled to attend an Operation Demonstration at Ramakrishna Beach on January 4 of the upcoming year. This demonstration will showcase the Indian Navy’s three-dimensional capabilities. Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-In-Chief, confirmed the Chief Minister’s participation as the chief guest for the occasion.

During a press conference held at the Eastern Naval Command headquarters, Vice Admiral Pendharkar highlighted that the Navy Day operational demonstration would occur on December 4 off the coast of Puri Beach, Odisha, with President Droupadi Murmu as the chief guest. This major event aims to showcase the Navy’s maritime strength through various displays involving ships, submarines, and aircraft.

Beyond the Operation Demonstration scheduled for January, several additional activities are planned in Visakhapatnam to commemorate Navy Day. These include a concert by the Navy Band, visits to warships by school children, and a Navy marathon set for December 15.

Emphasizing the Navy’s critical role in national security, Vice Admiral Pendharkar pointed out that an overwhelming 90 percent of trade by volume and over 70 percent of energy needs traverse the Indian Ocean. As a crucial arm of India’s maritime military power, the Indian Navy bears the responsibility of maintaining stability in these waters, which are vital to India’s security and economic well-being.

Since its establishment as a small outpost in 1968, the Eastern Naval Command has significantly evolved, now boasting multiple bases along a coastline that extends 2,562 kilometers. The command’s jurisdiction covers the east coast of India stretching to the western Pacific and extending into the southern Indian Ocean.

In the past year, the Eastern Naval Command has effectively utilized its resources across multiple dimensions to secure sea trade routes, provide coastal defense, and monitor maritime activities of strategic interest. Additionally, the command has engaged in various humanitarian missions, responding proactively to natural disasters like floods, leveraging both personnel and equipment to provide aid to affected communities. The upcoming demonstrations and events reflect the Navy’s commitment not only to national security but also to community engagement and support in times of need.

Rescue and relief operations by the Indian Army are ongoing in Puducherry and Chennai following the devastation of Cyclone Fengal. The Southern Command of the Indian Army announced that they deployed an additional rescue column from the Madras Engineers Group from Bengaluru to Chennai in response to the rising water levels in low-lying areas after assessing the critical situation with the District Collector of Puducherry. Alongside this, four additional columns are on standby at Wellington and Thiruvananthapuram for immediate deployment as needed.

The army reported successful rescues of over 1,000 stranded individuals, emphasizing their commitment to saving lives amid the calamity. Following a request from the Puducherry District Collector, troops from the Chennai Garrison Battalion commenced relief operations early on December 1. A Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) column, consisting of one officer, six Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), and 62 personnel, set out at 2:00 AM. They traveled 160 kilometers overnight, arriving in Puducherry by 5:30 AM. Major Ajay Sangwan led the team, which focused on rescuing stranded civilians from roughly 500 houses in the Krishnanagar area, where water levels had surged to almost five feet in some spots.

In light of severe flooding due to water released from the Veedur Dam on the Sankaraparani River, another relief column was deployed to NR Nagar, Puducherry, at the request of the District Collector. This unit, comprised of 60 personnel, is fully equipped with boats, rafts, medical supplies, and food supplies for efficient response to the needs of residents in affected areas.

Indian Army relief teams have reported that they successfully rescued 600 individuals from various locations, including Krishnanagar, Kuber Nagar, and Jiva Nagar, ensuring the safety of all, including a seven-day-old infant. In addition to rescues, teams distributed food packets, emergency rations, and water while providing medical aid to those injured. The army also acknowledged the support of veterans and local volunteers who joined efforts with them, highlighting the spirit of unity and compassion in serving the residents of Puducherry during this crisis.

Coordinated operations are also being carried out in collaboration with the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), local authorities, the police, and state rescue teams. In critical areas like Krishnanagar and Kuber Nagar, over 100 individuals have been rescued from each site.

The impact of Cyclone Fengal has been severe, resulting in 12 fatalities, flooding over 211,139 hectares of agricultural and horticultural lands, and significant damage to infrastructure, including 1,649 kilometers of electric conductors, 23,664 electric poles, and 997 transformers. Roads, culverts, and tanks have also suffered extensive damage, exacerbating the devastation caused by the cyclone that initially formed as a low-pressure area on November 23 and affected 14 districts across Tamil Nadu.

The cyclone’s first impact brought heavy rain to Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, and Mayiladuthurai, followed by exceptionally heavy rainfall in Chennai and surrounding areas. Its landfall on December 1 particularly devastated regions like Villupuram, Kallakurichi, Cuddalore, and Tiruvannamalai, with wind speeds reaching 90 km/h, further damaging roads and electrical infrastructure.

This natural disaster has led to widespread displacement and disruption, affecting around 69 lakh families and 1.5 crore individuals. Villupuram, Tiruvannamalai, and Kallakurichi experienced more than 50 cm of rainfall in a single day, equivalent to an entire season’s average, leading to severe flooding and extensive damage to agricultural lands and infrastructure.

In a show of solidarity and celebration, Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Odisha are set to partake in the Navy Day festivities in Puri on December 4. This announcement was made by Assembly Speaker Surama Padhy, who highlighted the significance of the event, which will also be graced by the presence of President Droupadi Murmu.

To facilitate their participation, MLAs are expected to travel to the coastal pilgrimage town in special buses, with the option for them to bring along their spouses to experience the naval display. The Assembly is likely to be adjourned on the same day to allow lawmakers to attend the celebrations, and an official notice regarding this adjournment is anticipated to be issued soon, according to sources from the assembly secretariat.

Preparations for the Navy Day event have been underway, with personnel from the Indian Navy conducting full-dress rehearsals at Puri beach for two consecutive days leading up to the celebrations. Scheduled to kick off at Blue Flag Beach at 3:45 PM on Wednesday, the event will showcase a variety of naval displays, including bomb burst maneuvers, submarine sail pasts, and anti-submarine firing exercises.

The celebrations promise to be grand, featuring 15 warships and 40 aircraft that will illustrate the diverse capabilities of the Indian Navy. These activities are designed not only to entertain but also to enhance maritime awareness among citizens, while paying homage to India’s rich maritime heritage.

In terms of logistics, the Indian Navy has been working closely with the Odisha government to ensure the event runs smoothly. Special arrangements are being made to accommodate local spectators and tourists expected to attend. Additional attractions will feature anti-air firing demonstrations, combat free fall displays, and horn pipe dance performances by naval personnel, all aimed at showcasing the exemplary skills of the navy.

This year’s Navy Day celebrations serve as a vital opportunity to honor India’s longstanding seafaring history while emphasizing the modern maritime prowess of the Indian Navy. The collaborative efforts between local authorities and naval forces underline the importance of this annual event in fostering national pride and enhancing public interest in the maritime domain.

New Delhi: The fourth edition of Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI, a collaborative military training exercise between India and Malaysia, commenced today at the Bentong Camp in the Pahang district of Malaysia. Running from December 2 to 15, 2024, this exercise is designed to enhance bilateral defense cooperation and improve the interoperability of both nations’ armies in conducting counter-insurgency operations within challenging jungle environments.

The Indian contingent is represented by 78 personnel from the MAHAR Regiment, while the Royal Malaysian Regiment has sent a larger group of 123 troops. This annual training event alternates locations between the two nations, with last year’s exercise taking place in November 2023 at Umroi Cantonment in Meghalaya, India.

The structure of Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI is divided into two distinct phases. The first phase will primarily involve cross-training activities such as lectures, demonstrations, and specialized drills adapted for jungle terrains. Following this initial phase, the exercise will transition into a final segment that includes a counter-insurgency operation conducted under the framework of Chapter VII of the United Nations Mandate.

During this latter phase, troops from both countries will participate in tactical drills that encompass reconnaissance patrols, ambushes, and assaults on positions held by terrorists. This collaborative approach is aimed at fostering a practical exchange of strategies and operational techniques between the two forces.

An Indian Army spokesperson 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 to address common regional security concerns, Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI serves as a significant vehicle for enhancing defense cooperation and solidarity between India and Malaysia, underscoring the commitment of both nations to tackle emerging security challenges collaboratively.

In a significant leadership transition within the Indian Air Force, Air Commodore Vikassheel Singh Saini has taken over as the new Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Hakimpet. The handover of command took place on Monday, marking a new chapter for the station as Air Commodore Saini succeeds Air Commodore Pankaj Jain.

Air Commodore Saini’s illustrious career in the Indian Air Force began when he was commissioned into the fighter stream in June 1998. He is an esteemed graduate of the National Defence Academy and the Defence Services Staff College, institutions renowned for shaping leaders in the Indian Armed Forces. Over the years, he has distinguished himself not only as a skilled pilot but also as an accomplished flying instructor.

With over 2,100 flying hours to his credit, Air Commodore Saini has experience with a range of aircraft, including the MiG-29, MiG-29 UPG, MiG-21, HJT-16, and HPT-32. His expertise also includes serving as a member of the elite Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, showcasing his commitment to aerial precision and excellence.

Beyond his operational experience at various air bases, Air Commodore Saini has contributed to international peacekeeping efforts, having served as an Aviation Staff Officer under the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). His dedication to service and excellence has been recognized at the highest levels, culminating in the prestigious Vayu Sena Medal, awarded to him by the President of India on January 26, 2018.

As he steps into his new role at Air Force Station Hakimpet, Air Commodore Saini’s extensive background and leadership experience position him well to guide the station and its personnel. The transition commences with high expectations from both superiors and colleagues alike, as the station continues its mission of maintaining operational readiness and contributing to national security.

A tragic incident has unfolded in Kishtwar District of Jammu and Kashmir, where a 24-year-old army personnel, identified as Sepoy Satnam Singh, lost his life due to a gunshot injury. Sepoy Singh, a resident of New Dewan Grah, Chakroh Suchitgarh in Jammu, was serving with the 11 Rashtriya Rifles, Company A, in the Chatroo area.

Reports indicate that following the incident, Singh’s colleagues rushed to the scene, where he was found lying in a pool of blood. Despite their quick response, he was declared dead upon arrival at the hospital. The circumstances surrounding his injury are currently under scrutiny, with sources suggesting that it may have been the result of an accidental discharge of his weapon.

Local police have confirmed that a case has been registered and investigations are underway to ascertain the details of the incident. As the community mourns the loss of a young soldier, officials are working to provide clarity on how this tragic event occurred. The armed forces and local authorities are united in their commitment to investigate the matter with thoroughness and transparency, emphasizing the importance of safety and accountability in such situations.

As developments unfold, residents and fellow service members remember Sepoy Satnam Singh’s dedication to his duty and service to the nation during this difficult time.

India is making significant strides in its defense capabilities as it finalizes major contracts with France worth around Rs 1 lakh crore for 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets and three additional Scorpene submarines. This development follows the successful establishment of a Rs 32,350 crore agreement with the United States for the acquisition of 31 armed MQ-9B Predator drones. Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi announced on Monday that both the Rafale and Scorpene deals are in the final stages, with expectations that they could be signed as early as next month.

Admiral Tripathi highlighted the recent bolstering of India’s underwater capabilities with the induction of the INS Arighaat, the nation’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). He indicated that this enhancement plays a vital role in India’s nuclear triad. On November 27, INS Arighaat successfully test-fired the K-4 missile, which has a striking range of 3,500 kilometers. Tripathi confirmed that the results of the missile launch are currently being analyzed by relevant agencies. Once it completes its trials, INS Arighaat will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, which is equipped with 750-km K-15 missiles, on deterrent patrols.

Looking ahead to conventional warfare, India is set to begin the induction process for the first of two 9,800-tonne nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), which are part of a Rs 40,000 crore initiative that received approval from the Prime Minister-led cabinet committee on security in October. The first of these submarines is projected to be ready for service by 2036-37, with the second following a few years later.

Currently, the Indian Navy is actively engaged in constructing 63 ships and vessels at domestic shipyards, alongside two guided-missile frigates produced in Russia. This effort aligns with India’s strategic goal of developing a robust blue-water navy to safeguard its expansive geostrategic interests and counter China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The Navy consists of over 130 warships, 150 aircraft, and 130 helicopters, with preliminary approval for the addition of 31 more vessels, which includes seven new-generation frigates, eight corvettes, and six stealth diesel-electric submarines, alongside the three additional Scorpene submarines.

Despite these advancements, projections suggest that the Navy will reach a strength of only about 155-160 warships by 2030. This is attributed to the slow pace of shipbuilding in Indian shipyards and the ongoing decommissioning of older vessels. The anticipated Rs 63,000 crore agreement for the direct procurement of 22 single-seat Rafale jets and four twin-seat trainer aircraft, along with associated weapons systems, simulators, and logistics support, is on track for final consideration by the cabinet committee on security. Admiral Tripathi emphasized that since this is a government-to-government deal, the approval process should proceed swiftly.

The contract for the three additional Scorpene submarines, valued at around Rs 36,000 crore, will be executed at the Mazagon Docks in Mumbai. The first of these submarines is expected to launch in six years, with subsequent units following at one-year intervals. This initiative will bolster the existing fleet of six Scorpene submarines, known as the Kalvari-class, which were constructed under the Rs 23,000 crore Project-75. The sixth and final submarine of this class, named Vagsheer, is poised for imminent commissioning.

The Indian Navy is on the verge of finalizing significant acquisitions, with plans to secure 26 Rafale Marine combat aircraft valued at ₹90,000 crore. This announcement was made by Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi during the annual Navy Day press conference, where he also indicated that talks regarding the purchase of three additional Scorpene submarines are actively progressing and may conclude by next month.

During his address, Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the Navy is in negotiations with France for the procurement of the Rafale Marine fighter jets. These advanced aircraft are expected to enhance the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities significantly. In tandem, discussions with the French Naval Group are ongoing to facilitate the construction of the three new Scorpene-class submarines at Mazagon Dockyards Limited. According to the reports, these submarines will serve alongside the existing six Scorpene-class submarines already constructed by the dockyard.

This strategic move aims to bolster India’s naval capabilities, particularly in the context of the Project 75 India program, which focuses on augmenting indigenous submarine development. Admiral Tripathi highlighted the importance of this initiative in reinforcing the Indian Navy’s operational readiness and capabilities.

In light of regional dynamics, the Navy Chief reaffirmed the service’s vigilance over the activities of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLA Navy) within the Indian Ocean Region. He stated, “We are keeping a close watch on the extra-regional forces operating in the Indian sea, including the PLA Navy, their warships, and even their research vessels. We know what they are doing and where they are.” This statement underscores India’s commitment to maintain a robust maritime defense posture amid growing regional challenges.

Notably, the Indian government has already approved the construction of two indigenously designed nuclear attack submarines, with ambitions to complete the first by 2036-37 and the second two years thereafter. This initiative is part of a broader strategy, which, over the next decade, envisions the induction of approximately 95 ships into the Navy. This concerted effort aims to solidify India’s status as a formidable maritime power and ensure credible deterrence in the region.