Amid escalating tensions over recent U.S. sanctions targeting 19 Indian companies, including Lokesh Machines Limited, the Indian Army has bolstered its operational capabilities by inducting 550 units of the Asmi machine pistol into its Northern Command units. This significant move underscores India’s commitment to enhancing self-reliance in defense manufacturing, as announced by the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI).

The Asmi machine pistol, designed for close-quarter battles and specialized operations, represents a crucial advancement in India’s indigenously developed weaponry. The development of this pistol is a collaboration between Colonel Prasad Bansod of the Indian Army and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Lokesh Machines, headquartered in Hyderabad, is responsible for its manufacturing.

In a statement on social media, the ADGPI described the Asmi weapon as “robust, compact, and reliable.” Notably, its semi-bullpup design allows for single-handed operation, functioning efficiently both as a pistol and a submachine gun. The induction of the fully indigenous Asmi machine pistol is a testament to the Indian Army’s steadfast commitment to the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at achieving self-sufficiency in defense production.

Earlier in October, Lokesh Machines Limited had delivered its inaugural major order of the Asmi submachine gun (SMG) to the Northern Command of the Indian Army. The order of 550 SMGs was based on a design developed in collaboration with the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in Pune. The Asmi SMG, which weighs under 2.4 kg, is approximately 10-15% lighter than comparable international models, providing the Indian Army with a tactical advantage in various combat scenarios.

However, this technological achievement has been overshadowed by controversy. Lokesh Machines Limited was recently sanctioned by the U.S. government for alleged business dealings with Russia, raising questions about the implications for Indian defense manufacturing. The sanctions, which include a total of 19 Indian companies and individuals, were implemented on October 30.

In response to the sanctions, India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has come to the defense of the affected companies. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that the transactions cited in the sanctions do not breach Indian laws. The Ministry is actively engaging in discussions with U.S. authorities to address concerns regarding export controls while ensuring that Indian companies remain informed about any regulatory developments that may impact their operations.

“Our understanding is that the sanctioned transactions and companies are not in violation of Indian laws. Nevertheless, in keeping with India’s established non-proliferation credentials, we are working with all the relevant Indian departments and agencies to inform Indian companies about applicable export control provisions and new measures being implemented that could affect them,” Jaiswal emphasized during a recent press briefing.

As the situation unfolds, the Indian Army’s induction of the Asmi machine pistol marks a significant step towards operational readiness, while the Ministry of External Affairs navigates the complexities of international relations and trade compliance in the defense sector.

The Indian Army has officially notified the commencement of its 35th Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry Scheme, slated to begin in October 2025. This recruitment initiative is open to unmarried male and female law graduates, who aspire to serve as Short Service Commissioned (SSC) Officers in the JAG branch of the Army. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to submit their applications via the Indian Army’s official recruitment portal at joinindianarmy.nic.in. The application window will close on November 28, 2024, with a total of eight vacancies available—four for male applicants and four for female applicants.

To be eligible for the 35th JAG Entry Scheme, candidates must adhere to specific criteria. The age limit is set between 21 and 27 years, meaning applicants must have been born between July 2, 1998, and July 1, 2004. Furthermore, candidates must possess an LLB degree—whether through a three-year or five-year program—with at least 55% aggregate marks. Additionally, a valid score in the CLAT PG 2024 examination is a requisite for application.

The selection process involves multiple stages to ensure that only the most qualified individuals advance. Initially, candidates will be shortlisted based on their performance in the CLAT PG 2024 exam. Those who qualify will then undergo a comprehensive five-day Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, which will assess both their physical and mental acumen. Candidates who succeed in the interview will also need to pass a medical examination to ensure they meet fitness standards. The final merit list will be generated based on candidates’ performances during all selection stages along with their overall eligibility.

For those selected, a rigorous training program awaits. Successful candidates will engage in a 49-week training regimen at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) located in Chennai, which will equip them with the necessary skills for their roles in the JAG branch of the Indian Army. Upon graduating from the training program, candidates will be commissioned as Lieutenants, starting with a basic salary of ₹56,100 per month. In addition to their salary, they will receive various allowances, including ₹15,500 in Military Service Pay, leading to a total pay scale that ranges from ₹56,100 to ₹1,77,500 for Lieutenants.

The Indian Army has announced the commencement of its 35th Judge Advocate General (JAG) Entry Scheme, inviting applications from eligible unmarried male and female law graduates for Short Service Commissioned (SSC) Officer positions within the JAG branch. Candidates interested in applying can submit their applications through the official recruitment website, joinindianarmy.nic.in. The recruitment drive aims to fill a total of 8 vacancies, evenly split between male and female applicants, with the application deadline set for November 28.

To be eligible for the JAG Entry Scheme, candidates must be between 21 and 27 years of age, specifically born between July 2, 1998, and July 1, 2004. Additionally, applicants are required to have completed an LLB degree, either a three-year or five-year course, with a minimum aggregate score of 55 percent. A valid score from the CLAT PG 2024 examination is also necessary for consideration.

The selection process for the JAG Entry Scheme includes multiple stages. Initially, candidates will be shortlisted based on their performance in the CLAT PG 2024 exam. Those who qualify will proceed to a five-day Service Selection Board (SSB) interview, which evaluates both their physical and mental aptitude. Following the interview, candidates who pass will undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the physical fitness standards.

The final merit list will be compiled from the performance of candidates at all stages of the selection process, alongside their eligibility criteria. Successful candidates will then attend a comprehensive 49-week training program at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, specifically designed to prepare them for their roles as officers in the JAG branch.

Upon graduation from the 35th JAG course, candidates will be commissioned as Lieutenants in the Indian Army, receiving a basic salary of Rs 56,100 per month. In addition to the base salary, they will also be entitled to various allowances, including a Rs 15,500 Military Service Pay. The total pay scale for a Lieutenant ranges from approximately Rs 56,100 to Rs 1,77,500, reflecting the commitment and responsibilities associated with their position.

In a significant move reflecting the enduring defense partnership between India and Russia, discussions are underway regarding the potential acquisition of the latest generation Pantsir mobile air defense system by India. This development follows a memorandum of understanding (MoU) signed last week between Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Russia’s state-owned Rosoboronexport, aimed at fostering cooperation on various Pantsir variants.

The Indian Army is actively searching for Carrier Air Defence Tracked (CADET) systems that meet the requirement of at least 50 percent indigenous content. The CADET systems are slated to support mechanized columns, a strategic initiative that comes as multiple air defense projects are under review.

According to defense sources, the version of the Pantsir being offered by Russia is the latest, but specifics remain unclear, as there are multiple variants available. The latest iteration is specifically designed to operate effectively in extremely cold temperatures. Notably, Russia has demonstrated the Pantsir-S1 mounted on a tracked GM-352 chassis. This chassis, produced by Mytishchi Machine-Building Plant, is versatile enough to accommodate various systems, including infantry combat vehicles and the Pantsir itself.

Upon selection, the CADET chassis is expected to serve as a foundational platform for other air defense projects the Indian Army is considering. Future purchases of the CADET systems will likely see upgraded capabilities incorporated.

The CADET platform is designed as a box-shaped, tracked chassis with a raised structure, creating ample internal space for a crew of four and necessary equipment. Additionally, it will feature external attachment points for various systems related to both current and future air defense technologies.

This is not the first time the Pantsir has been in consideration for an Indian Army project. Back in 2013, it was among the contenders for a similar air defense initiative. During that competition, the Indian Army shortlisted offerings from South Korea’s Hanwha Defense Systems, which proposed its Hybrid Biho system, as well as Russian firms Almaz Antey and KBP Tula, which each pitched upgraded variants of their systems. Ultimately, the South Korean bid was selected, but the deal fell through, largely due to disputes over indigenous content requirements.

Army officials have indicated that the Biho system remains significant, with a tracked version available. The CADET systems are intended for deployment across varied terrains—plains, deserts, semi-deserts, and mountainous regions up to 5,000 meters.

Additionally, this development arrives as China has unveiled its latest SWS2 35mm self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, which incorporates both artillery and missile capabilities aimed at countering diverse aerial threats, particularly drones and low-flying aircraft.

The Pantsir system, initially developed in the late 1980s as a successor to the 2K22 Tunguska, saw multiple iterations before its finalized version was adopted for service in 2003. Its operational use has stretched across numerous countries, notably in conflict zones such as Syria and during the ongoing hostilities in Ukraine. Reports indicate the Pantsir systems are strategically positioned on rooftops of significant buildings within Russia, including the residence of President Vladimir Putin.

In an interesting twist, a Pantsir-S1 system was reported to have been smuggled out of Libya by U.S. forces in June 2020 after it was seized from Russian-aligned forces. Subsequently, it was transported to Ramstein Air Base in Germany for analysis.

Upgraded versions of the Pantsir are currently under development, including the Pantsir-SM, which boasts a detection range of up to 75 kilometers and an engagement range of 40 kilometers. This model was first tested in 2019 and has since been reported to enter service. The Pantsir-S1M export variant features a new missile and an engagement range of 30 kilometers, showcasing the system’s evolving capabilities. The Pantsir-S1 is equipped with twelve surface-to-air guided missiles along with dual 30mm automatic guns, emphasizing its robust defensive arsenal.

COLOMBO: The Indian submarine INS Vela has docked in Sri Lanka for a three-day visit, according to the Indian High Commission. Measuring 67.5 meters in length and manned by a crew of 53, the submarine is commanded by Commander Kapil Kumar. INS Vela is a state-of-the-art Kalvari-class diesel-electric submarine, which officially joined the Indian Navy on November 25, 2021.

During its stay in Colombo, the crew of INS Vela is set to engage in various activities organized by the Sri Lankan Navy, aiming to enhance the collaborative spirit and camaraderie between the maritime forces of the two nations. As part of the visit, personnel from the Sri Lanka Navy will have the opportunity to tour the submarine and participate in an awareness program focused on its operational capabilities.

In addition to the official engagements, the crew members are looking forward to experiencing some of Sri Lanka’s notable tourist attractions. The submarine is scheduled to conclude its visit and depart from the island on November 13. This stop is characterized as an Operational Turn Around (OTR), during which the submarine will replenish necessary provisions, as noted by the Indian embassy.

The regular port calls by Indian Navy and Coast Guard vessels, including submarines, underscore the ongoing maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. This visit is seen as a commitment to strengthen bilateral relations and reflects India’s ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy along with the vision of ‘SAGAR’—an acronym for “Security and Growth for all in the Region.”

As part of the diplomatic engagements, Commander Kapil Kumar is expected to meet with Rear Admiral WDCU Kumarasinghe, the Commander of the Western Naval Area, at the Western Naval Headquarters. Additionally, personnel from both the Sri Lanka Navy and the Indian High Commission are set to visit the submarine. A friendly basketball match has also been planned between the submarine crew and Sri Lanka Navy personnel at the Sri Lanka Naval Base in Welisara, aiming to further foster goodwill between the two maritime forces.

Kolkata: In a significant event celebrating India’s naval strength, the Indian Navy is set to conduct an “Operational Demonstration” at Blue Flag Beach in Puri, Odisha, on December 4, coinciding with Navy Day. This event will be graced by the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, who will serve as the Chief Guest, further underscoring the importance of this occasion.

The Operational Demonstration aims not only to showcase the Navy’s extensive capabilities but also to enhance maritime awareness among the general public. By organizing this event in Puri, a city with profound coastal traditions deeply intertwined with the maritime history of Odisha, the Navy intends to highlight its connection to the region.

Collaboration with the Odisha state government and local authorities has been emphasized to ensure the event is accessible to the local populace. Special arrangements have been made to provide seating for residents and visitors at the beachfront, allowing an up-close view of the live demonstration. This initiative is designed to foster community engagement and promote a sense of pride in the country’s naval forces.

For those unable to attend in person, the Indian Navy has made provisions for a broader audience engagement. The event will be broadcast live on national television channels and will also be available for streaming on the Indian Navy’s YouTube channel, ensuring that viewers across the country can witness this pivotal demonstration of naval prowess.

The forthcoming demonstration is not only a display of military strength but also a celebration of India’s rich nautical heritage, reinforcing the importance of maritime security in the nation’s overall defense strategy. As the day approaches, anticipation builds for what promises to be a landmark event in promoting naval operations and fostering public interest in India’s maritime affairs.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is navigating new challenges in the production of its Tejas Mk1A fighter aircraft due to further delays in the delivery of essential GE F-404 engines. Originally anticipated by mid-2024, these delays have compelled HAL to activate a contingency plan that substitutes the delayed engines with Category B F-404 engines for the early production models of the Tejas Mk1A.

The Tejas Mk1A is a significant enhancement for the Indian Air Force (IAF), featuring upgraded avionics and sophisticated radar systems that aim to bolster the fleet’s capabilities. Despite its advancements, the persistent delays have raised alarms within the IAF concerning the potential effect on operational readiness.

In response to the situation, HAL has opted to use Category B engines, which, while not the primary engines, are sufficient for conducting pre-delivery flight tests and ensuring that the aircraft remains operational. These interim engines will facilitate critical testing and quality assurance processes until the main GE F-404 engines are received.

A HAL official, during a conversation with India Today TV, stated that the decision to use Category B engines is crucial for sustaining production momentum. The official remarked, “Our goal is to ensure there is no lapse in production or readiness. Using Category B engines allows us to conduct essential flight tests and keep up with our production targets. Once the GE engines arrive, we will seamlessly integrate them into the aircraft.”

The delays in the delivery of engines have been largely attributed to ongoing disruptions in the supply chain, yet HAL’s strategic decision to deploy interim engines underscores its commitment to adhering to production schedules. This approach is vital to ensuring that the Tejas Mk1A continues to progress toward eventual delivery to the IAF.

Once the GE F-404 engines become available, HAL intends to collaborate with the IAF to conduct 2-3 pre-delivery flight tests. These tests will verify that the aircraft meets all performance requirements prior to final delivery. This pragmatic approach serves as a means to alleviate current bottlenecks and prevent any further delays in the rollout of the Tejas Mk1A, which is integral to India’s ambitions of modernizing its air force with indigenous defense technologies.