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DRDO Completes Successful Flight Tests of Pinaka Rocket System, Enhancing Range to Over 75 km

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DRDO Completes Successful Flight Tests of Pinaka Rocket System, Enhancing Range to Over 75 km

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced a significant milestone in India’s military capabilities with the successful completion of flight tests for the guided Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) system. This achievement is part of the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) validation trials and marks an important step toward the system’s induction into the Indian Army.

In the latest tests, the Pinaka’s operational range has been increased to over 75 kilometers, a substantial enhancement from its initial range of 38 kilometers. The flight tests were conducted in three phases across various field firing ranges to assess critical PSQR parameters, including ranging, accuracy, consistency, and the rate of fire for engaging multiple targets in a salvo mode. A total of twelve rockets were fired from two upgraded in-service Pinaka launchers, with the rockets being sourced from distinct production agencies.

The Indian Army currently operates four Pinaka regiments, with six additional regiments on order. The upgrade of this multi-barrel rocket system is seen as a key element in modernizing the Army’s artillery capabilities. Plans are in place to further extend the range of the Pinaka systems to reach targets up to 120 kilometers, and potentially expand it to 300 kilometers in the future. Aside from the Pinaka, the Army also has five Grad rocket regiments and three Smerch regiments, positioning the indigenous Pinaka as a central asset in long-range rocket artillery.

The Pinaka’s precision strike variant is a completely indigenous system, developed collaboratively by various DRDO facilities, including the Armament Research and Development Establishment, Research Centre Imarat, Defence Research and Development Laboratory, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, and the Proof & Experimental Establishment. Production responsibilities for the ammunition have been delegated to Munitions India Limited and Economic Explosives Limited, while Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Larsen & Toubro are tasked with manufacturing the Pinaka launcher and battery command post.

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, confirmed that the rocket system has completed all necessary flight trials prior to its planned induction into the Indian Army, highlighting its readiness and operational potential.

International interest in the Pinaka system is also noteworthy. Reports indicate that France is evaluating the system alongside other options, with a team expected to visit India for detailed analysis in the near future. Furthermore, Armenia has already become the first export customer for the Pinaka rocket system, demonstrating the growing global interest in India’s indigenous military technology.

This development not only bolsters India’s defense capabilities but also positions the Pinaka system as a key player in the international defense arms market.

DRDO Completes Successful Flight Tests of Guided Pinaka Weapon System for Indian Army

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DRDO Completes Successful Flight Tests of Guided Pinaka Weapon System for Indian Army

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently concluded a series of flight tests for the Guided Pinaka Weapon System under the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. These comprehensive tests, conducted in three distinct phases at various field firing ranges, aimed to assess the system’s effectiveness across crucial metrics, including range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire, prior to its official induction into service.

The Pinaka system, a formidable multi-barrel rocket launcher, was developed by the DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE). It is designed to deliver a rapid barrage of 12 rockets in a mere 44 seconds, effectively striking targets within a range of 700×500 meters. Initially, the system had a maximum range of 37.5 kilometers, but it has since undergone enhancements to extend its operational capabilities.

The evolution of the Pinaka system includes several key variants:

  • Pinaka Mk-I: The foundational version boasts a range of 38 kilometers and is compatible with various warhead options.
  • Pinaka Mk-II: This improved model enhances the operational range to 60 kilometers.
  • Extended Range Pinaka: The latest iteration can engage targets up to 75 kilometers away, further solidifying its tactical advantage.

The developmental journey of the Pinaka system has involved extensive testing to adapt to the evolving requirements of the Indian Army. Significant milestones include:

  • 2020 Tests: The Enhanced Pinaka was tested at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, where it demonstrated greater firing ranges and successfully launched six rockets in rapid succession.
  • 2021 Tests: The Extended Range Pinaka was evaluated at the ITR, achieving successful launches of 25 rockets at varying distances of up to 45 kilometers.
  • 2022 Tests at Pokhran: The DRDO partnered with the Indian Army to assess the Pinaka Mk-I (Enhanced) Rocket System alongside the Pinaka Area Denial Munition (ADM) system, achieving high standards for accuracy and reliability.

A notable aspect of the Pinaka program is the involvement of Indian industry partners such as Munitions India Limited and Economic Explosives Limited for ammunition supply. Additionally, Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Larsen & Toubro play vital roles in the development of the launcher and command post, enhancing domestic production capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.

Interest in the Pinaka system has extended beyond national borders, with Brigadier General Stephane Richou of the French Army recently expressing intrigue regarding its potential utility for France’s military applications. This development highlights India’s emerging status as a key player in the global defense industry.

The Indian government has been actively expanding its defense exports, with equipment supplied to over 100 nations, including the United States, France, and Armenia. The Pinaka system is poised to significantly contribute to India’s ambitions of establishing a stronger foothold in the global defense market. As it stands ready for induction into the Indian Armed Forces, the Pinaka represents a powerful and precise artillery option capable of delivering extended-range strike capabilities.

Iran’s Missile Support for Russia Intensifies Global Tensions Amid Ukraine Conflict

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Iran Claims Missile Production Remains Unharmed by Israeli Strikes

Iran’s recent missile campaign targeting Israel has significantly heightened tensions in the region, with far-reaching consequences that extend beyond the Middle East. The Islamic Republic’s decision to supply Russia with military support in its conflict with Ukraine serves to amplify these concerns for both Europe and the Middle East.

The acquisition of hundreds of Iranian Fath-360 missiles by Russia represents a pivotal shift in the dynamics of the ongoing war in Ukraine. These tactical missiles, comparable in range, precision, and mobility to the U.S.-made HIMARS systems, provide Russian forces with a critical advantage on the battlefield. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has highlighted that this bolstering of Russia’s short-range firepower allows it to reallocate its own missiles toward longer-range targets, thus amplifying the threat faced by Ukraine. As Russia intensifies its use of glide bombs, cruise missiles, and drones, the potential for even more devastating attacks this winter looms large, putting immense pressure on Ukraine’s air defenses and infrastructure.

The extent of Russia’s need for Iranian assistance underscores a significant miscalculation and lack of preparedness by President Vladimir Putin regarding the invasion of Ukraine. Iran’s involvement not only aids Moscow in its military endeavors but also reinforces its ambitions to escalate hostilities against Ukraine and challenge NATO’s support for Kyiv. The Iranian regime, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, is expected to gain substantial benefits from this collaboration, including crucial technical insights from the combat deployment of these missiles that could enhance its military capabilities against U.S. and Israeli air defenses.

Iran’s military strategy has increasingly evolved to include direct assaults on Israel, with its past attacks serving as a foundation for the recent missile strikes. This tactical cooperation is mutually beneficial; while Iran seeks to bolster its defenses and capability against U.S. adversaries, Russia gains valuable operational data that may improve its own military efficacy in Ukraine. The partnership is indicative of an ongoing trend of deepening ties between Iran and Russia, suggesting an avenue for shared military intelligence and operational support that could extend into more significant areas, including future threats to both Ukraine and Israel.

Moreover, this missile transfer is emblematic of burgeoning cooperation between several global adversaries, including Russia, Iran, China, and North Korea. This coalition has increasingly collaborated to evade Western sanctions and bolster military supply chains, posing a real risk to nations like Ukraine, Israel, and potentially Taiwan.

The implications of this developing cooperation extend further, particularly in the context of Iran’s ongoing nuclear ambitions. As Tehran strengthens its military ties with Russia, there are concerns that similar support could emerge for North Korea’s nuclear infrastructure, thereby escalating global threats.

Amid these escalating tensions, the U.S. and European Union’s responses to Iranian aggression—including sanctions on specific officials and airlines—appear insufficient to deter continued provocations. The nature of Iran’s recent actions suggests a willingness to disregard international warnings related to its nuclear program and proxy warfare, indicating the need for a more robust strategy to counter its ambitions.

Thus, the urgency for a coordinated response against Iran and its partnership with Russia is paramount. The United States and its allies must consider reinstating stringent UN Security Council sanctions regarding Iran’s arms dealings and recommitting to previously threatened sanctions on its financial sectors to diminish Tehran’s capacity to operate freely.

In this increasingly precarious environment, the need for practical support to allies like Israel and Ukraine is clear. Providing crucial munitions and permissions for these nations to neutralize Iranian missile threats is essential for maintaining regional stability. Only through decisive action can allies hope to curtail Iran’s destabilizing efforts in both the Middle East and Europe.

Lt Gen Karanbir Singh Brar Interacts with Inspector General Datwinder Singh Saini

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Lieutenant General Karanbir Singh Brar, AVSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Dakshin Bharat Area, held an important interaction with Inspector General Datwinder Singh Saini, TM, who recently assumed command as the Commander of Coast Guard Region (East).

Lt Gen Karanbir Singh Brar

The discussion focused on key issues of regional security, the need for seamless coordination between the Indian Army and the Indian Coast Guard, and strategies for conducting joint operations.

The meeting underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration to address emerging maritime and coastal security challenges effectively.

Lt Gen Karanbir Singh Brar

This interaction reflects the commitment of both the Indian Army and Coast Guard to maintaining a robust security framework in southern and eastern regions of India.

Strengthening joint efforts ensures operational readiness and enhances the nation’s ability to respond to any contingencies in a coordinated manner.

Lt Gen Karanbir Singh Brar

The engagement between Lt Gen Karanbir Singh Brar and IG Datwinder Singh Saini highlights the shared vision of securing the nation’s coastline and fostering interoperability among the armed forces and paramilitary services.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh Visits 2nd Battalion of The Madras Regiment

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Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command and Colonel of the Madras Regiment, paid an official visit to the 2nd Battalion of the Madras Regiment. During his visit, he interacted with all ranks of the battalion, recognizing and applauding their professionalism, dedication, and exemplary service to the nation.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh

The Army Commander commended the battalion for its unwavering commitment to the welfare and support of the people of Kerala, an effort that earned the battalion the prestigious Unit Citation from the Honorable Governor of Kerala. This honor reflects the unit’s tireless service and strong bonds with the local populace.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh

As the Colonel of the Regiment, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh upheld the highest traditions of the Indian Army by visiting the revered Shri Mahaganapati Temple.

There, he sought blessings for the continued success and well-being of the battalion and the Indian Army as a whole.

Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh

The 2nd Battalion of the Madras Regiment, known for its rich history and illustrious legacy, continues to demonstrate exceptional performance and remains a source of pride for the regiment and the nation.

The Army Commander’s visit served as an inspiration for the troops to continue their commitment to excellence and service to the country.

Lt General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha Visits Army Air Defence College

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In a significant event aimed at bolstering the operational preparedness and training standards of the Army Air Defence Corps, Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D’Cunha, Director General of Army Air Defence (AAD), visited the Army Air Defence College (AADC) in Gopalpur.

During his visit, Lt Gen Sumer Ivan D’Cunha inspected the latest state-of-the-art training infrastructure at the premier institution, which plays a pivotal role in shaping the skills and competencies of Army Air Defence personnel. The focus of the inspection was on the integration of advanced technologies, particularly in the domain of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS).

The Director General emphasized the importance of modern training methodologies to address evolving security challenges and highlighted the role of innovation in achieving operational excellence. Interacting with the instructors and the training team, he commended their relentless efforts in ensuring the college remains at the forefront of technological adaptation and capability enhancement.

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He encouraged the team to continue their dedication towards modernisation and seamless integration of cutting-edge technology to prepare the Corps for future operational challenges. The visit underlined the Army’s commitment to enhancing its air defence capabilities to counter emerging threats effectively.

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The Army Air Defence College, located in Gopalpur, is a premier institution known for its rigorous training programs and advanced technological orientation. The college continues to play a critical role in equipping the Army Air Defence Corps to safeguard the nation’s airspace.

Lt Gen Sumer Ivan D’Cunha’s visit reflects the Army’s focus on continuous development and readiness to tackle modern-day challenges with precision and advanced technology.

Assam Rifles Celebrates Children’s Day with Enthusiasm

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The Assam Rifles celebrated Children’s Day with great enthusiasm and festivity across various locations in Manipur and Assam, engaging local communities and fostering unity, joy, and patriotism among children and families.

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In Manipur, Assam Rifles hosted vibrant events in multiple villages of Tamenglong and Noney districts. At Charoi Chagotlong, Tupul, a lively gathering of 310 attendees, including children, teachers, and parents from nearby rural areas, marked the occasion with warmth and festivity.

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In Khoupum Valley, Children’s Day was celebrated at Tazei Public High School, Noney District. The event aimed to strengthen bonds with local children and bring joy to the community while inspiring a sense of unity and patriotism among the young participants.

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At Assam Rifles High School, Lokra, Sonitpur District, a vibrant program was organized to celebrate the spirit of childhood, encourage creativity, and foster camaraderie among students. The event brought together children, teachers, and parents, highlighting the Assam Rifles’ commitment to nurturing young minds.

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The Children’s Day celebrations across Manipur and Assam showcased the Assam Rifles’ dedication to community engagement and nation-building, leaving a lasting impression on all participants.

North Korea to Mass Produce Attack Drones Amid Rising Military Ties with Russia

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North Korea to Mass Produce Attack Drones Amid Rising Military Ties with Russia

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has issued directives for the “mass production” of attack drones, as reported by state media on Friday. This announcement comes amid growing unease regarding North Korea’s escalating military cooperation with Russia, which has raised alerts among regional powers.

The drones, first showcased in August, are believed to have been influenced by technological advancements stemming from North Korea’s emerging alliance with Russia. The relationship has deepened following a landmark defense pact, which has led to accusations that North Korea may have dispatched thousands of troops to aid Moscow in its ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This heightened military collaboration prompted South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol to express concerns over potential transfers of sensitive military technologies from Russia to North Korea.

Reports indicate that Kim Jong Un personally oversaw the testing of drones capable of targeting both land and maritime objectives, developed by North Korea’s Unmanned Aerial Technology Complex. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) quoted Kim as he emphasized the urgency of establishing a serial production system and transitioning to full-scale mass production of the drones.

These unmanned aerial vehicles are engineered to carry explosives and execute deliberate crashes into enemy targets, functioning similarly to guided missiles. KCNA highlighted that the recent tests demonstrated the drones’ precision in hitting predetermined targets after navigating set flight paths.

Kim characterized the drones as an “easy to use” and economically viable “component of striking power,” indicating their diverse applications within military operations. He noted that the development of unmanned hardware systems had recently gained significant priority in North Korea’s military strategy.

Experts analyzing the images released by state media observed similarities between the North Korean drones and several foreign models, such as the Israeli-made “HAROP,” the Russian-made “Lancet-3,” and the Israeli “HERO 30.” The consensus is that North Korea may have acquired some of these advanced technologies from Russia, which itself is believed to have received them from Iran. Iran, in turn, is suspected of obtaining access to the technologies through hacking or other means targeting Israeli sources.

The dynamics on the Korean Peninsula further complicated in 2022 when North Korean drones crossed the border, largely evading interception by South Korean military forces due to their small size. In response to the increasing drone threats, South Korea established a dedicated drone operation command last year. Tensions further escalated earlier this year when Pyongyang accused Seoul of infringing upon its sovereignty by deploying drones over its territory to distribute propaganda materials, an allegation that South Korea’s military has dismissed.

In a significant shift of rhetoric, North Korea amended its constitution in October to explicitly label South Korea as a “hostile” state, reflecting a pronounced deterioration in relations since Kim Jong Un’s declaration in January that Seoul was considered North Korea’s “principal enemy.” The North has persisted in its defiance of United Nations sanctions with ongoing ballistic missile tests and, in a recent show of force, destroyed transportation infrastructure connecting it to South Korea.

KBC 16: Amitabh Bachchan Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Indian Navy, Dreams of Boarding Aircraft Carrier

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KBC 16: Amitabh Bachchan Pays Heartfelt Tribute to Indian Navy, Dreams of Boarding Aircraft Carrier

In the latest episode of Kaun Banega Crorepati 16, currently hosting its special segment for younger contestants, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan paid a heartfelt tribute to the Indian Navy. The ongoing KBC Juniors features young participants aged 8 to 15, showcasing their knowledge and aspirations, and in this particular episode, Bachchan’s remarks resonated deeply with pride and reverence for the naval forces that safeguard India’s waters.

During the episode, a young contestant named Tritee Ranjhana from Assam shared her passion for serving the nation and expressed her dream of joining the Indian Navy. Bachchan, visibly moved by her ambition, praised her vision, stating, “Wow! It’s inspiring to see a young person with such a strong vision and dreams like yours. Serving the nation is indeed a noble ambition.”

The veteran actor elaborated on his admiration for the Indian Navy, highlighting a recent interaction with high-ranking naval officers who sought assistance in raising awareness about their operations. He mentioned his participation in a documentary aimed at shedding light on the significant work carried out by the Navy, which often goes unnoticed by the general public. “The Indian Navy is a formidable force,” Bachchan asserted. “It has evolved considerably over the years, becoming equipped with advanced weaponry and resources.”

Bachchan reminisced about the challenges faced during landing operations on an aircraft carrier, emphasizing the complexities that many are unaware of. He expressed a desire to witness these operations firsthand, revealing, “I even told them I’d love to learn more firsthand by visiting one of their ships—perhaps even an aircraft carrier—to understand and share the details of their operations.” His fascination extended to naval maneuvers, specifically when two ships come side by side at sea. He described the process where the captain transfers to another ship using a ropeway with a leather seat, stating, “I told them I’d love to try it myself someday.”

The admiration shown by Amitabh Bachchan in this episode highlights the importance of recognizing the efforts of the Indian Navy and inspires young viewers to consider a future in service to their country. KBC Juniors, which kicked off on November 4, continues to provide a platform for these young minds to express their dreams and aspirations, fostering a spirit of patriotism and ambition.

Hindustan Shipyard Limited Celebrates Keel-Laying Ceremony for First Fleet Support Ship

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Hindustan Shipyard Limited Celebrates Keel-Laying Ceremony for First Fleet Support Ship

Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam recently marked a significant milestone with the keel-laying ceremony for the First Fleet Support Ship. Conducted by Vice Admiral B Sivakumar, the Controller of Warship Production & Acquisition from the Indian Navy, the ceremony underscored the strengthening partnership between the Indian Navy and HSL, highlighting the shipyard’s growing capabilities in modern warship design and construction.

The Fleet Support Ship, which will weigh approximately 44,000 tons, is notable for its high degree of indigenous content, with about 80% of the materials and technologies sourced locally. This ship is set to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy by providing essential supplies such as fuel, water, ammunition, and other stores while at sea. This capability is crucial for extending the Navy’s strategic reach during missions.

The keel-laying ceremony was described as a landmark occasion in HSL’s history, representing a long-held aspiration since the shipyard’s transition to the Ministry of Defence in 2010. This event signals not only a leap forward for HSL in shipbuilding competencies but also aligns with the Indian government’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing, as encapsulated in the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The project is expected to have significant economic implications, generating an estimated 169 lakh man-days of employment over the next eight years. It will create opportunities for skilled workers within the shipyard and foster collaboration with approximately 550 micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), thereby promoting industrial growth and enhancing the local economy.

The completion of the Fleet Support Ship is anticipated to strengthen the operational readiness of the Indian Navy, ensuring that it remains a formidable presence in maritime security and operations. The ceremony at HSL has set a positive tone for the future of shipbuilding in India, reinforcing confidence in indigenous capabilities and innovation in defense production.