New Delhi: In a significant update regarding the guided missile frigate INS Brahmaputra, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi has confirmed that the ship has been successfully returned to an upright position. This announcement comes nearly five months after the vessel experienced a fire incident while undergoing routine refits at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai, which led to its tilting.

During the unfortunate event, the ship’s crew faced a tragic loss as Leading Seaman Sitendra Singh was reported missing. Following an extensive diving operation carried out by the Navy, he was eventually declared dead. This incident not only highlights the dangers associated with naval operations but also underscores the harrowing reality faced by the families of those who serve.

To address the damage incurred by the fire and to facilitate the recovery efforts, the Navy enlisted the assistance of a team of international experts, including a specialized firm from Singapore. Their expertise has been crucial in assessing the extent of the damage and planning the necessary salvaging operations.

At the recent annual Navy Day press conference in New Delhi, Admiral Tripathi expressed relief at the progress made, stating, “We had an unfortunate incident onboard INS Brahmaputra which led to its tilting. I am happy to report that the ship has been righted and is presently in a dry dock in Mumbai for assessing the extent of damage, and thereafter we will decide as to what is to be done with the ship and to what level you want to take it.” He emphasized that a board of inquiry is currently underway to investigate the fire and subsequent capsizing, which will ultimately determine the cause of this alarming incident.

The fire was initially detected by the ship’s duty staff during routine maintenance work and was brought under control with the combined efforts of the crew and dockyard firefighters. However, the situation escalated, leading to the ship tilting and resting precariously on one side.

As the Navy works to evaluate the damage and plan the next steps, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks faced by maritime forces and the importance of safety protocols during naval operations.

In a notable development for the Indian Navy, the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) has announced an operational demonstration (Op Demo) scheduled to take place at RK Beach in Visakhapatnam on January 4, 2025. This supplementary event will replace the traditional Navy Day operational demonstration, which is typically held on December 4 each year. Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the ENC, shared the details during a media briefing ahead of the upcoming Navy Day celebrations.

In line with the Union Government’s initiative to host Navy Day celebrations in different cities and historical locations, the Navy Day 2024 festivities will be held at Puri Beach in Odisha, where President Droupadi Murmu is expected to attend as the chief guest. The operational demonstration aims to highlight the capabilities and versatility of the Indian Navy, showcasing a range of naval ships, submarines, aircraft, and Special Forces.

Although the people of Visakhapatnam will miss the annual December event, they can look forward to the additional Op Demo in January, with Chief Minister Nara Chandra Babu Naidu confirmed as the chief guest for the occasion. The Navy Week in Vizag will feature several activities, including a Band Concert, interactions with veterans, and opportunities for children to visit naval ships.

Vice-Admiral Pendharkar underscored the Navy’s commitment to ensuring a free, open, safe, and inclusive maritime space in accordance with an internationally recognized rules-based order. He emphasized the Navy’s objective to remain “Combat Ready, Credible, Cohesive, and Future Ready,” ensuring the safeguarding of national maritime interests at all times.

Discussing future capabilities, Vice-Admiral Pendharkar highlighted the steady progress in the Navy’s capability enhancement plans. This includes the recent commissioning of INS Sandhayak, the first vessel in the Survey Vessel (Large) Project, on February 3 of this year at the Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam. The second ship, Nirdeshak, was delivered in October and is set to be commissioned on December 18.

The scheduled commissioning of the first Nilgiri Class Frigate, commencing with Nilgiri, and the first Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, with Arnala, are also on the horizon. Additionally, the Navy is integrating a multitude of unmanned and autonomous platforms into its operations. The initial deployment of rotary UAVs from naval ships marks a significant step forward. Other projects, including autonomous surface vessels like ‘Matangi’ and various subsurface platforms, are progressing through their developmental stages.

Vice-Admiral Pendharkar also provided an update on the ongoing infrastructure initiatives within the Navy, noting over Rs 1,200 crore worth of projects currently in various stages of execution. Noteworthy among these is the laying of the foundation stone for a Very Low Frequency (VLF) Station in Vikarabad, a project that is expected to significantly enhance long-distance naval communication capabilities. To accommodate the expected growth of naval assets in Visakhapatnam, augmentation projects for the berthing space in the Naval Dockyard are also underway.

In a significant development for India’s naval defense capabilities, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh Tripathi addressed the successful test firing of the 3,500-km range solid-fuelled K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from the INS Arighaat. The missile’s trajectory is currently under analysis by relevant agencies, with Admiral Tripathi confirming that the missile was launched successfully. However, it was noted that while the launch itself was a success, the missile may not have met all performance parameters as expected.

The test, conducted recently, marked the first time the K-4 missile was launched from a submarine, following previous tests conducted from a fixed underwater pontoon. This advancement is critical for India’s strategic capabilities, as it showcases the operational readiness of the INS Arighaat, which can carry up to 12 K-15 or four K-4 missiles. In contrast, the INS Arihant, which has previously operated the shorter-range K-15 SLBM with a capability of 750 km, falls short in terms of range, making the K-4 missile’s capabilities a vital addition to India’s nuclear triad.

During a media briefing, Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the K-4 missile did not carry a warhead during the test. The Navy Chief’s comments came in response to inquiries regarding the test’s success, affirming that while the missile had been launched successfully, further evaluations on its flight path and overall performance were ongoing. The completion of these assessments is necessary for a comprehensive understanding of the missile’s capabilities.

India maintains a unique position among a select group of nations with the ability to launch nuclear missiles from land, air, and undersea platforms. This capability significantly enhances India’s deterrence posture in the region. As the Navy prepares for subsequent tests of the K-4 missile, the focus remains on ensuring that it meets the strategic requirements laid out by the armed forces.

Admiral Tripathi also hinted at larger plans for India’s nuclear attack submarine capabilities, although details were not disclosed during the briefing. The advancements in submarine-launched ballistic missile technology signify a pivotal moment for India’s defense initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to bolstering national security in a complex geopolitical landscape.

India is moving forward with plans to procure 26 Rafale Marine warplanes, with the deal expected to be finalized in the coming year. This announcement came from Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi during the annual Navy Day press conference. He noted that negotiations for the Rafale Marine deal are currently at an advanced stage and are just one step away from being presented to the Cabinet Committee on Security.

The Rafale Marine aircraft is the naval version of the Rafale jets that have already been integrated into the Indian Air Force (IAF). India had previously acquired 36 Rafale jets for the IAF in 2016, with the first aircraft entering service in 2020. The ongoing discussions indicate a significant push towards strengthening the Indian Navy’s capabilities through modern aviation assets.

Admiral Tripathi also mentioned plans to enhance the naval fleet by purchasing three additional Scorpene-class submarines, which are diesel-powered attack submarines manufactured in France. The move to acquire these submarines aligns with India’s objective to bolster its maritime defense.

Reports have suggested that India is negotiating the Rafale Marine deal at a considerable discount, indicating France’s willingness to support India’s defense procurement endeavors. The French government is reportedly committed to aiding India’s self-reliance initiative, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, by offering a comprehensive transfer of technology. This includes manufacturing the Rafale warplanes and the Safran aircraft engines domestically in India.

Furthermore, it has been reported that the French manufacturer, Dassault, has reduced the overall cost of the Rafale Marine deal by nearly 500 million euros, which could facilitate quicker approval and finalization of the agreement. This development signifies a strategic partnership between India and France, aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities while fostering local manufacturing in the defense sector.

The Indian Navy is on the brink of finalizing three significant defense deals estimated to exceed ₹1.25 lakh crore by the end of this financial period. These acquisitions include an order for 31 MQ-9B drones, three additional Scorpene submarines, and 26 Rafale-M fighter jets. According to Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, negotiations have progressed to the final rounds regarding the procurement of these additional assets, signaling a critical enhancement to the Navy’s operational capabilities.

The deal for the Scorpene submarines, for which Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is set to play a pivotal role, has been revised with a substantial bid reported at around ₹40,000 crore. The construction of these submarines will be undertaken in partnership with the French Naval Group and Mazagon Dock, ensuring that advanced technology is integrated into the vessels.

These new submarines are expected to be equipped with cutting-edge technology, featuring an Indian combat management system that will significantly bolster India’s naval capabilities. The acquisition is also seen as a strategic move to upgrade the operational readiness of the Indian Navy, allowing for a more robust defense infrastructure in a rapidly evolving security landscape.

The impending finalization of these defense contracts is anticipated to not only enhance military assets but also stimulate local defense industry growth, fostering partnerships with Indian manufacturers and enhancing indigenous technological capabilities. The strategic value of these acquisitions lies in their potential to improve India’s maritime power and ensure a well-prepared naval force in the face of regional challenges. It is expected that these deals will be officially sealed within the next two months, marking a significant step forward for India’s defense procurement strategy.

The Indian Air Force is preparing to launch the recruitment exam for Agniveer Vayu Intake 02/2025, with the admit cards for the exam expected to be released shortly. Although the exact release date and time for the Airforce Agniveer admit card 2024 have yet to be announced, candidates are advised to check the official website, agnipathvayu.cdac.in, for updates.

According to information available on the official portal, the admit cards will be made accessible to candidates 24 to 48 hours prior to the examination date. Candidates are urged to stay informed by regularly visiting the website for the most current updates regarding the recruitment process.

The recruitment board has already divulged the exam date and city details for the upcoming Agniveer 02/2025 examination. Candidates can review their designated exam cities by logging onto the official website, where a dedicated link has been provided for this purpose. This allows candidates to access the login window directly for checking their details.

On the official website, a notice indicates that the exam date and corresponding exam city information for Agniveer Vayu 02/2025 is available in the candidates’ login section. The admit card will only be available for download through the candidates’ login 24 to 48 hours prior to the exam date, ensuring that all candidates are adequately prepared.

For those looking to download the Airforce Agniveer admit card 2024, the process is straightforward:

1. Visit the official website, agnipathvayu.cdac.in.
2. Locate the link for the ‘Airforce Agniveer admit card 2024.’
3. You will be redirected to a login page.
4. Input your registration number, roll number, and other required details.
5. The Airforce Agniveer admit card 2024 will appear on your screen.
6. Download the admit card and save it for future reference.

In addition to the admit card details, the Airforce Agniveer Recruitment 2024 exam will be conducted online and is anticipated to be highly competitive, adhering to stringent physical and medical standards. The exam format includes one mark awarded for each correct answer, while unattempted questions do not contribute to the score. Importantly, candidates should be aware that there is a negative marking system in place, where 0.25 marks will be deducted for each incorrect response.

India has successfully demonstrated its missile capabilities with a recent launch from the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arighaat, further solidifying its position as one of the few nations capable of launching nuclear missiles from land, air, and underwater platforms. Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi announced this significant milestone on Monday, though specific details regarding the missile’s trajectory are still under analysis.

During his address, Admiral Tripathi confirmed the successful test, highlighting that relevant agencies are currently examining the missile’s flight path and are expected to provide insights in the near future. This advancement reflects India’s ongoing initiatives to enhance its deterrence capabilities amid the evolving security dynamics in the region.

In light of increasing Chinese naval presence, Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the Indian Navy is closely surveilling the activities of the Chinese Navy, which has been operating more frequently in the Pacific Ocean. He stated, “We are monitoring extra-regional forces operating in the Indian Ocean, including the PLA Navy, warships, and their research vessels.”

The strategic landscape is further complicated by the growing military capabilities of Pakistan, with the Indian Navy chief expressing concerns over Pakistan’s ambitions to expand its naval fleet to 50 ships. “They have chosen weapons over the welfare of the people,” he remarked, underscoring the priority placed on military enhancement in the face of socio-economic challenges.

Admiral Tripathi also provided updates on India’s nuclear deterrent capabilities, mentioning that the INS Arihant has successfully completed numerous deterrence patrols, and the recent missile test conducted by INS Arighaat aligns with its mission objectives. He assured that the conventionally powered submarines (SSNs) would be ready as per the timeline agreed upon with the government.

Ongoing naval expansion efforts include the construction of 62 warships and one submarine, with significant investments in advanced capabilities. The Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has overseen the commissioning of the second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Arighaat. In addition to this, plans are underway to procure an additional 31 potent warships and submarines, which encompass six submarines under the Project 75 India initiative and 60 utility helicopters for naval operations.

These developments mark a pivotal period for India’s maritime defense strategy, as it seeks to bolster its naval forces against a backdrop of regional tensions and competition. The strategic enhancements underscore India’s commitment to maintaining a formidable presence in the Indian Ocean and beyond.

In a vibrant display of camaraderie and maritime pride, the Indian Navy is set to host the Sea Riders Odyssey 2024, a two-wheeler rally across Tamil Nadu, kicking off on December 4 as part of the Navy Day celebrations. This engaging initiative is organized by the Headquarters of the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area in partnership with Royal Enfield, Orazo, and Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.

The rally, which will span 13 days and cover an impressive distance of approximately 2,500 kilometers, aims to enhance public awareness regarding the crucial role played by the Indian Navy in ensuring national security. It seeks to establish a deeper connection with communities, showcasing the Navy’s values and contributions to the nation. Throughout the journey, participants will stop at various schools, colleges, and heritage sites, engaging with local populations to instill a sense of pride in India’s naval heritage.

The participants of the rally will culminate their journey at a grand finale event at INS Adyar in Chennai on December 16, where they will be received by the Flag Officer Commanding of the Tamil Nadu and Puducherry Naval Area. This event represents a strategic effort by the Navy to rekindle maritime consciousness and inspire youth by emphasizing India’s rich naval heritage and its ongoing relevance in contemporary society.

The Navy Day celebrations are held annually on December 4, commemorating the Indian Navy’s pivotal role in Operation Trident during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. This operation, remembered for the sinking of four Pakistani vessels, including the notable PNS Khaibar, exemplifies the Navy’s strategic brilliance and unyielding courage in safeguarding the nation’s interests.

This year, the primary event for Navy Day will be held in Puri, Odisha, with President Droupadi Murmu serving as the chief guest. Attendees can expect a grand operational demonstration featuring 24 warships and 40 aircraft, highlighting the Navy’s state-of-the-art capabilities. A highly anticipated segment will include a demonstration of stealth operations by Marine Commandos (MARCOS), reaffirming the Navy’s commitment to readiness and its vital role in protecting the nation’s maritime interests.

Bhubaneswar is set to welcome President Droupadi Murmu, who is scheduled to arrive tomorrow for a five-day visit that includes a series of significant official engagements. This visit is particularly noteworthy as it coincides with Indian Navy Day on December 4.

President Murmu is expected to touch down at Bhubaneswar airport at 5 PM on December 3. Following her arrival, she will embark on a packed agenda, starting with a visit to the illustrious Jagannath Temple in Puri on December 4. Her visit to the temple is slated for the morning, where she will offer her prayers from 10:15 AM to 10:40 AM.

Later in the day, at 3:55 PM, President Murmu will serve as the Chief Guest for the Navy Day celebrations at Puri’s scenic Blue Flag Beach. This event, hosted by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, the Chief of Naval Staff, will feature a spectacular operational demonstration by the Indian Navy. The occasion commemorates the anniversary of Operation Trident, which was a pivotal naval offensive during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.

The Navy Day celebrations are expected to showcase an impressive array of military assets, including over 15 ships and submarines, alongside more than 40 aircraft. The event will also highlight the skills of the Marine Commandos (MARCOS) and personnel from the Indian Army. Attendees can look forward to a series of dynamic displays, featuring aerial maneuvers from MiG-29K and Hawk fighter jets, innovative combat exercises by the MARCOS, along with submarine operations and amphibious landings. Additionally, the ceremony will include demonstrations of rocket firing from warships, all aimed at emphasizing the Navy’s capabilities and its unwavering commitment to safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

On December 5, President Murmu will return to Bhubaneswar to participate in the 40th Convocation of Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT). Following the convocation, she will also act as the Chief Guest at the inauguration of the New Judicial Court Complex in the city.

The President’s itinerary continues with a visit to her home district of Mayurbhanj on December 6 and 7. After a series of engagements in her home region, she is scheduled to return to New Delhi on December 7. This visit marks an important opportunity for President Murmu to engage with her constituents and promote key initiatives in the state.