In a noteworthy revelation about the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) operational and strategic readiness, it has come to light that the IAF continues to store around 40 retired MiG-23 fighter jets. Despite having retired this aircraft model from active service more than a decade ago—with the MiG-23MF variant being the first to retire in 2007 followed by the MiG-23BN in 2011—the IAF retains these jets under the supervision of its Maintenance Command.

The storage of these aircraft is not merely a relic of the past; it serves multiple potential purposes. Firstly, these retired jets could serve as a critical reserve of spare parts, providing necessary components for the upkeep of current operational aircraft. Additionally, they hold significant value as training assets. Ground staff, engineers, and technicians can use the MiG-23s for practical training, such as learning about assembly, placement, and research of aircraft parts. This hands-on experience is invaluable, offering insights and knowledge gleaned from an aircraft that has previously been operational.

Moreover, the MiG-23s present opportunities for testing new maintenance methodologies, which can enhance the longevity and operational efficiency of newer aircraft in the IAF’s fleet. These legacy jets can also be used for live weapons testing, avionics assessments, and other evaluation tasks without putting the current active fleets at risk.

The MiG-23 itself is a notable piece of aviation history, classified as a third-generation fighter jet equipped with variable-geometry wings that can be adjusted in-flight for optimal performance. Originally designed by the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau in the Soviet Union, the MiG-23 boasts a maximum speed of 2,500 km/h and was the first Soviet fighter to incorporate a look-down/shoot-down radar system. Furthermore, the MiG-23 was pioneering in its armament capabilities, being one of the first fighters outfitted with beyond-visual-range missiles. During its tenure, over 5,000 units were produced, making it the most manufactured variable-sweep wing aircraft in history.

While the majority of the MiG-23s have been retired, a limited number of MiG-23UB trainers remain operational, serving essential roles in pilot training exercises, including target towing and simulating enemy aircraft.

The IAF’s retention of these retired aircraft underscores a strategic approach to training and experimentation, ensuring that legacy knowledge and experience continue to inform and enhance the capabilities of current and future personnel.

A court in Jammu and Kashmir has made a landmark ruling, ordering the Indian Army to pay rent compensation for 46 years to a local landowner whose property has been occupied since 1978. This decision is being celebrated as a significant victory for individuals seeking redress in similar compensation cases.

The disputed land, situated in the Pulwama district, was taken over by the Army several decades ago without any formal lease or agreement. The landowner repeatedly appealed for compensation over the years but received no response until the intervention of the court.

Following years of neglect, the landowner pursued legal action, leading to the court’s ruling that mandates the Army to pay cumulative rent for nearly five decades, calculated according to the current market rate. The ruling highlights the obligation to compensate citizens when government or military use extends to private property.

This judgment emphasizes the need for swift resolution of land disputes involving governmental or military entities and sets a crucial precedent for other landowners facing similar issues to seek justice through legal means.

As of now, the Indian Army has not released an official comment regarding the court’s decision. Legal experts believe that this ruling may catalyze systemic changes in the management and resolution of land acquisition and rent disputes within the region.

The case underscores the importance of legal recourse for property owners and reinforces the principle that compensation is warranted when public or military interests affect private landownership.

In a significant operation on the high seas, the Indian Navy, in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Navy, intercepted two fishing vessels engaged in drug smuggling. The operation, which spanned two days, commenced on November 24, following a tip-off from the Sri Lankan Navy that flagged two vessels were transporting narcotics through the Arabian Sea.

The Indian Navy acted swiftly upon receiving the intelligence, deploying a long-range maritime patrol aircraft and a remotely piloted drone to monitor and identify the suspicious boats. Their surveillance efforts were bolstered by a naval ship tasked with additional support. Utilizing data from the Information Fusion Centre located in Gurugram, the aircraft successfully located the Sri Lankan-flagged vessels.

Upon identifying the targets, personnel from the naval ship boarded the boats, leading to the substantial seizure of 500 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine, an addictive substance that poses significant public health risks. Alongside the seizure of narcotics, nine men who were presumably part of the smuggling operation were taken into custody.

The operation’s success highlights the effectiveness of international maritime cooperation in combating drug trafficking in the region. The Indian Navy has now handed over the captured individuals, the seized narcotics, and the boats to the Sri Lankan Navy, who will conduct further investigations into the matter.

Captain Rheeya K. Sreedharan has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first second-generation woman officer to receive the prestigious Aviation Wings. This remarkable accomplishment was celebrated during the Valedictory Ceremony held at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) in Nashik.

Captain Rheeya’s journey is particularly inspiring as she follows in the footsteps of her father, Brigadier Kaushal Sreedharan. The occasion was made even more special by the presence of her family, including her mother, Deeju Sreedharan. This milestone marks the completion of an intensive 11-month training program, which emphasizes not only her determination but also the evolution of women’s roles in the Indian Armed Forces.

CATS, located at the Gandhi Nagar airfield on Nashik Road, is recognized as a premier flying training institution under the Indian Army, functioning under the Army Training Command (ARTRAC). The institute is known for its rigorous training regimen that prepares officers for various aspects of aviation, including aerodynamics, navigation, operational flying, and tactical deployment.

Captain Rheeya’s achievement is a testament to the increasing presence and participation of women in specialized fields of the military, particularly aviation, where they continue to break barriers and set new precedents. This landmark event not only honors individual success but also underscores the progress being made towards greater gender inclusivity within the armed forces.

Captain Rheeya K. Sreedharan has achieved a significant milestone in her career, becoming the first second-generation woman officer to be awarded the prestigious Aviation Wings. This historic accomplishment was celebrated during the Valedictory Ceremony at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CATS) in Nashik on Friday.

Captain Rheeya’s journey is particularly momentous as she follows in the footsteps of her father, Brigadier Kaushal Sreedharan, also an esteemed figure in the armed forces. The ceremony was attended by her proud parents, including her mother, Deeju Sreedharan, who shared in the joy of this remarkable achievement. Captain Rheeya’s success comes at the culmination of 11 months of rigorous training designed to hone her skills for a career in military aviation.

This accomplishment is not just a personal victory for Captain Rheeya; it is also emblematic of the changing dynamics within the armed forces, where women are increasingly assuming significant roles in specialized areas such as aviation. The Combat Army Aviation Training School, positioned at the Gandhi Nagar airfield on Nashik Road, serves as a premier institution for flying training within the Indian Army. There, officers receive comprehensive training that encompasses critical skills including aerodynamics, navigation, operational flying, and tactical deployment.

The significance of Captain Rheeya’s achievement extends beyond individual recognition; it signifies progress toward gender equality in a field that has been traditionally male-dominated. As more women break barriers and embrace roles in the armed forces, their contributions continue to reshape the landscape of military service in India.

In a significant anti-drug operation, the Indian Navy successfully intercepted two Sri Lankan fishing vessels in the Arabian Sea, seizing approximately 500 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine. The operation took place on November 24 and 25, 2024, and was facilitated by crucial intelligence provided by the Sri Lankan Navy, which alerted the Indian authorities to suspected narcotics smuggling activities.

In response to this intelligence, the Indian Navy swiftly mobilized a comprehensive response team. This included deploying a naval ship, along with long-range maritime patrol aircraft and remotely piloted drones, to effectively search for and intercept the targeted vessels. The operation was marked by precise coordination between the naval ship and aerial assets, enabling the successful boarding of both fishing boats.

Further enhancing the operation was the involvement of a ship dispatched from the Information Fusion Centre based in Gurugram, designed to bolster efforts in the Indian Ocean Region. A second Indian naval ship was also positioned to provide additional support in what has become a concerted campaign against drug trafficking in the region.

As a result of this operation, both fishing vessels, along with their crew members, have been detained. The seized narcotics and the individuals involved are in the process of being transferred to Sri Lankan authorities, where they will undergo further legal proceedings related to the smuggling activities.

The successful capture of such a significant quantity of illicit drugs underscores the effectiveness of international maritime cooperation in combating drug trafficking and enhancing regional security. This operation exemplifies the ongoing commitment of both the Indian and Sri Lankan navies to work collaboratively against the menace of narcotics, an issue that poses serious challenges not only to the nations involved but to global security as a whole.

As the highly anticipated 2024 Valencia Marathon approaches, all eyes are on AB Belliappa, a 32-year-old international distance runner representing the Indian Army. Scheduled to take place on December 1, this marathon marks a significant competition for Belliappa, who aspires to break the long-standing national record of 2:12:00, a mark set by the late Shivnath Singh in 1978.

Belliappa, a native of Coorg, recently achieved a personal best of 2:14:26 earlier this year during the Vienna Marathon, showcasing his potential to surpass the national record. As he prepares for the upcoming race, he expresses gratitude for the substantial backing he has received from army veterans, particularly Major General Arjun Muthanna (retd), who has initiated fundraising efforts to support his training and competition expenses.

The support from the Kodagu Educational and Social Service Trust, consisting of well-wishers from Coorg, has proven to be crucial for Belliappa. This is the third time in two years that the trust has financially aided the runner to gain valuable international experience in elite competitions. Major General Muthanna shared that they were quick to assist upon learning of Belliappa’s needs, confirming that they “cross-checked details” before extending their financial backing.

A strong performance in Valencia could significantly boost Belliappa’s chances of qualifying for the upcoming marathon event at the 2025 Tokyo World Athletics Championships, according to KC Ramu, the military’s athletics coach overseeing Belliappa’s training. Ramu explained that consistent top performances in marathons are pivotal for improving Belliappa’s world ranking and ultimately securing a spot at the prestigious championships.

Despite facing challenges that have hindered previous performances, including baggage issues during the Vienna Marathon, Belliappa has shown resilience. He trained diligently in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, amid a structured regimen with fellow distance runners. Reflecting on past experiences, he acknowledges his misjudgment of pace during the 2022 Valencia Marathon, where he finished in a slower time of 2:16:51. The disappointment continued at the 2022 Asian Games, where he clocked 2:20:52 and fell short of a medal. However, his recent success in Vienna has revitalized his confidence.

For the upcoming race in Spain, Belliappa plans to adopt a conservative pace in the early laps, mindful of the local weather conditions to optimize his performance. He emphasized that consistent training has positioned him well for this competition and that he is hopeful luck will be on his side as he strives to break the national record.

With the support of his community and fellow athletes, Belliappa’s determination is palpable as he gears up for one of the most critical races of his career. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown, and fans worldwide will be cheering for this promising athlete as he pursues his dream in Valencia.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised for a significant enhancement of its capabilities as Russia unveils the next generation of fighter jet engines intended for its Su-30MKI and Su-35 warplanes. This development comes at a strategic time when the IAF is looking to upgrade one of the largest fleets of Su-30MKI aircraft globally, in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The newly introduced engine models, AL-31 and AL-41, represent a substantial advancement in both performance and durability for these Russian-made jets. Among the most noteworthy attributes of the next-generation engines is their lighter weight, achieved through a redesigned architecture coupled with wide-chord fan blades that enhance both structural strength and aerodynamic efficiency—particularly during high-stress flight maneuvers.

Extensive testing conducted at the Central Institute of Aviation Motors (TsIAM) has corroborated the engines’ remarkable capabilities, surpassing international benchmarks and setting new standards within their category. The upgraded engines are designed for longevity, boasting a remarkable operational resource of 6,000 flight hours that translates to reduced maintenance needs and lower operational costs compared to previous models.

In addition to enhanced flight hours, the new engines exhibit improved resistance to environmental hazards such as bird strikes and challenging weather conditions, ensuring the operational range and reliability of the jets across diverse terrains and climates is significantly increased. Moreover, these engines provide greater endurance during high-speed and supersonic flight, further amplifying the operational capabilities during critical missions.

The integration of the Fan and Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system signifies a leap forward in optimizing performance, fuel efficiency, and overall engine control. What makes this advancement particularly user-friendly is the engines’ plug-and-play compatibility with existing AL-31 and AL-41 airframes, negating the need for extensive modifications to the aircraft for integration.

Furthermore, reports indicate that Russia has constructed four prototypes of the new engines, which have successfully undergone testing to validate their technical capabilities. With design documentation finalized, preparations for mass production are in progress, leveraging over 70 percent of components adapted from existing production lines, thus facilitating cost-effective scalability. The projected output capacity is expected to exceed 1,500 units.

For the IAF, the introduction of these advanced engines signifies a pivotal opportunity to modernize its Su-30MKI fleet comprehensively. The potential upgrade is anticipated to bolster the combat performance and operational efficiency of the jets, extending their service life, and ensuring that the IAF maintains a competitive edge in aerial capabilities. As the collaboration between the IAF and HAL advances in this upgrade initiative, the implications for India’s air power projection and strategic capabilities are substantial.