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India Unveils Project Akashteer: A Game-Changer in Air Defence Modernization

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In a significant advancement for the Indian Army’s defence capabilities, the launch of Project Akashteer marks a pivotal moment in India’s air security strategy. This next-generation air defence system is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing the country’s ability to respond to contemporary aerial threats with increased speed, accuracy, and precision. Project Akashteer is part of the Army’s broader initiatives known as the “Decade of Transformation” and the “Year of Tech Absorption,” which aim to modernize India’s military infrastructure.

Recently, the system underwent a meticulous real-time validation process, where it demonstrated its capabilities in a simulated environment designed to replicate potential future combat scenarios. A senior military official attending the validation praised the project team for their commitment and highlighted Akashteer’s potential to transform India’s air defence readiness significantly.

The phased induction of Project Akashteer is progressing as planned, with the army currently deploying the systems to enhance its air defence network. Out of the total requirement of 455 systems, 107 have already been deployed, with an additional 105 systems scheduled for delivery by March 2025. The remaining units are anticipated to be inducted by March 2027, which will systematically bolster air defence coverage across various Army units and formations.

Project Akashteer stands as a testament to the Indian Army’s focus on technological innovation and its strategic shift toward self-reliance in defence capabilities. By leveraging advanced automation, decentralization, and real-time data integration, the Indian Army aims to establish itself as a leader in regional air defence technology. As the Akashteer project continues to roll out, it is expected that India will enjoy improved oversight and protection of its airspace, ensuring preparedness against evolving aerial threats in the years to come.

Indian Navy Enhances Regional Security Cooperation through Maritime Support and Ship Maintenance

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Indian Navy Enhances Regional Security Cooperation through Maritime Support and Ship Maintenance

In a significant display of its commitment to regional security cooperation, the Indian Navy is extending its ship maintenance expertise to several neighboring nations and countries within the Indian Ocean region. At the request of the governments of the Maldives and Mauritius, the Indian Navy is currently undertaking the maintenance and repair of two coast guard vessels: the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee and the Mauritius Coast Guard vessel, MCGS Valiant. These refits are being conducted without charge to the host countries, highlighting India’s dedication to fostering strong diplomatic and defense relationships in the region.

The MCGS Huravee, which was originally commissioned by India in 2016, was ceremonially handed over to the Maldives in 2023. The vessel is now undergoing extensive refitting at the Naval dockyard in Mumbai. This process focuses on crucial repairs and upgrades to bolster its operational capabilities. The decision to proceed with the refit was established during a state visit to India by Maldives President Muizzu in October. The Indian High Commission in the Maldives issued a statement indicating that the refit would incur an estimated cost of over $4 million, which will be covered by the Indian government, underscoring the deep-rooted friendly ties and multifaceted defense cooperation between the two nations.

Simultaneously, the MCGS Valiant, constructed by Goa Shipyard Ltd for the Mauritius Coast Guard in 2017, is undergoing a scheduled four-month refit in Visakhapatnam. This effort is aimed at ensuring that the vessel remains ready for a range of critical missions, including patrolling, anti-piracy operations, and search and rescue efforts.

The Indian Navy’s involvement extends beyond maintenance. In an effort to bolster maritime security capabilities in the region, India recently gifted two Fast Interceptor Crafts (FICs) to Mozambique. Delivered by the Indian Navy ship INS Gharial, these crafts were formally handed over to the Mozambican government by Indian High Commissioner Robert Shetkintong. This aid is particularly significant as it will enhance Mozambique’s ability to combat maritime terrorism and address ongoing insurgencies in the Cabo Delgado province. India had previously gifted two large interceptor boats to Mozambique in 2019, followed by two FICs in January 2022.

Last year marked a notable development in India’s naval cooperation, as the Indian Navy vessel INS Kripan was transferred to the Vietnam Navy. This transfer was historic, being the first instance of an active warship being gifted by India to another country, which reflects the strengthening defense ties between the two nations.

This comprehensive approach, described as “Womb to Tomb” support, aligns with the Indian government’s “Neighbourhood First” policy and its vision for “Security and Growth for All in the Region” (SAGAR). The Indian Navy continues to play a crucial role in fortifying relationships and promoting security in the Indian Ocean, illustrating India’s commitment to collaborative maritime governance.

Vice Admiral Arti Sarin Visits Command Hospital Central Command Lucknow

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Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, AVSM, VSM, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), visited the Command Hospital, Central Command, as part of her two-day visit to the Lucknow Military Station. The visit underscored the DGAFMS’s focus on enhancing medical infrastructure and patient care within the armed forces.

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During her visit, Vice Admiral Sarin was briefed on the progress of the new hospital project, an ambitious initiative aimed at completely modernizing the infrastructure of the tertiary care facility. The project envisions state-of-the-art operating theaters (OTs), radio-diagnosis units, and laboratory centers, transforming the hospital into a more efficient and effective patient care center. The modernization effort seeks to streamline operations by transitioning from a horizontally spread-out layout to a compact, patient-centric design, ensuring enhanced care and convenience.

The DGAFMS toured various departments of the hospital, engaging with officers and staff to understand their operations and challenges. As part of her visit, she inaugurated “Aastha,” a dedicated waiting hall for cancer patients, aimed at providing comfort and support to those undergoing treatment.

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In her address to the hospital staff, Vice Admiral Sarin encouraged them to continue their exemplary work, with a specific emphasis on ensuring patient satisfaction, particularly for the veteran population. She lauded their dedication to delivering high-quality care and stressed the importance of maintaining a compassionate approach while adopting modern medical practices.

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Her visit provided a significant boost to the morale of the Command Hospital team, reflecting the DGAFMS’s commitment to fostering excellence and innovation in armed forces medical services. The focus on modernization and patient-centric care reinforces the Indian Armed Forces’ dedication to supporting the health and well-being of their personnel and veterans.

Vice Admiral Arti Sarin Inaugurates Continuing Medical Education (CME) Program

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Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, AVSM, VSM, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), inaugurated a two-day Continuing Medical Education (CME) program on the theme “Changing Paradigms of Military Medicine: Imperatives and Way Forward” at the Officers Training College (OTC), AMC Centre & College, Lucknow, on November 22, 2024. The event, scheduled for November 22-23, brought together domain experts and professionals to discuss critical advancements and strategies in military medicine.

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During her inaugural address, Vice Admiral Sarin highlighted the transformative changes in the nature of modern warfare and their impact on Combat Medical Support. She emphasized the inevitability of Jointness and Integration across services for efficient and effective medical support in battlefield scenarios. She stressed that the seamless coordination between various branches of the armed forces is essential to adapt to the complexities of contemporary combat environments.

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Vice Admiral Sarin also advocated for the holistic adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military healthcare, noting its potential to revolutionize the delivery of medical care to wounded soldiers. She underlined the importance of building robust data repositories, standardizing training protocols, and staying abreast of the latest technological and medical advancements to enhance operational efficiency.

The DGAFMS further emphasized the need to assess the specific requirements of commanders while ensuring enhanced interoperability among medical teams. She underscored that these initiatives would enable the Indian Armed Forces to elevate their military medicine capabilities to match global standards.

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The CME is set to feature a series of enlightening talks by leading domain experts in Combat Medicine, addressing topics ranging from trauma care and evacuation protocols to innovations in medical technology and training methodologies. The event aims to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, fostering collaboration, and identifying actionable steps to advance the field of military medicine in India.

The inauguration of the CME reflects the armed forces’ commitment to equipping medical professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to meet the challenges of modern warfare and enhance the overall quality of healthcare for military personnel.

IAF AFCAT 1 Exam 2025: Registration Begins December 2, 2024, for 336 Vacancies

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IAF AFCAT 1 Exam 2025: Registration Begins December 2, 2024, for 336 Vacancies

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially announced the commencement of the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) 1 for the year 2025. The registration for this prestigious examination is set to begin on December 2, 2024, and will close on December 31, 2024. Aspiring candidates are encouraged to visit the official IAF website to submit their applications.

The recruitment initiative aims to fill a total of 336 vacancies across various branches, including the Flying Branch, as well as the Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches, along with special entries. Specifically, the breakdown of available positions is as follows:

  • Flying Branch: 30 vacancies
  • Ground Duty (Technical): 189 vacancies
  • Ground Duty (Non-Technical): 117 vacancies

To be eligible for these positions, candidates must meet certain age criteria. For the Flying Branch, applicants should be within the age range of 20 to 24 years, while those seeking Ground Duty positions must be aged between 20 and 26 years. It is also important to note that all candidates must be single.

An application fee of Rs 550, in addition to applicable GST, is required to process the application.

To apply for the AFCAT 1 Exam 2025, candidates should:

  1. Visit the official IAF website.
  2. Click on the AFCAT 01/2025 registration link.
  3. Complete the application form, upload the necessary documents, and make the required payment.
  4. Submit the application and download a copy for personal records.

The admit cards and the exam schedule will be released at a later date, providing candidates with further details on the examination process.

Candidates who are successful in their recruitment can expect a range of perks and privileges associated with being an officer in the Indian Air Force. These benefits include furnished accommodation, comprehensive medical cover, access to subsidized loans, and contributory insurance coverage amounting to Rs 1.10 crore. Moreover, officers can enjoy various sports facilities and participate in adventure activities.

As for the training aspect, flight cadets will receive a monthly stipend of Rs 56,100 during a one-year training period. It is crucial to highlight that physical fitness is a mandatory requirement for selection and training, which includes running and strength training.

The IAF maintains a strong stance on a fair and merit-based selection process, cautioning candidates against any attempts to influence the procedure, as such actions may lead to termination or legal consequences. For those interested in detailed information, including eligibility requirements and the application process, the notification is available on the IAF’s official platform.

Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin Concludes Successful Two-Day Visit to Lucknow Military Station

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Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, AVSM, VSM, Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), undertook a comprehensive two-day visit to the Lucknow Military Station, highlighting her focus on advancing healthcare services and infrastructure within the armed forces.

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During the visit, the Flag Officer visited the Central Command Military Dental Centre (CMDC) and the Base Hospital, Lucknow. At the CMDC, she received detailed briefings on various aspects of patient care, including patient load management, advancements in dental treatment, and the state-of-the-art training being imparted to dental officers and dental assistants. The modernization efforts and incorporation of cutting-edge technologies in dental sciences received high praise from Vice Admiral Sarin, who expressed her satisfaction with the centre’s commitment to excellence and continuous improvement.

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The DGAFMS commended the CMDC team for their relentless efforts to remain at the forefront of dental sciences, ensuring optimal care for armed forces personnel and their dependents. She emphasized the importance of staying updated with the latest advances in the field to meet the evolving needs of the community they serve.

Vice Admiral Sarin also visited the Base Hospital, Lucknow, where she interacted with the officers and staff. She lauded their dedication and encouraged them to continue their selfless service, particularly in the treatment and rehabilitation of orthopedic and dermatological patients. Her motivational address underscored the critical role of healthcare providers in maintaining the physical and mental well-being of armed forces personnel and their families.

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The two-day visit provided a significant morale boost to the medical and dental teams at Lucknow Military Station. The Flag Officer’s keen interest in reviewing patient care, training initiatives, and modernization efforts reflected her commitment to enhancing the overall healthcare system within the armed forces.

Her visit concluded with a message of encouragement and gratitude for the continued dedication of all personnel involved in delivering high-quality healthcare services, reaffirming the DGAFMS’s vision of a robust and advanced medical services network for the armed forces.

Vice Admiral Arti Sarin Visits Armed Forces Medical Stores Depot in Lucknow

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In a significant visit underscoring the importance of medical logistics in the armed forces, Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, AVSM, VSM, and Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), visited the Armed Forces Medical Stores Depot (AFMSD) in Lucknow. The visit aimed to review and enhance the efficiency of medical stores procurement and supply chain management within the armed forces.

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During her visit, the esteemed Flag Officer was briefed on the intricate processes involved in procuring and managing medical stores, which play a vital role in ensuring uninterrupted healthcare services to armed forces personnel and their families. The comprehensive overview included discussions on the latest advancements in logistics, technology integration, and challenges faced in maintaining an effective supply chain.

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Vice Admiral Arti Sarin interacted extensively with both military personnel and civilian staff working at the depot. She expressed her appreciation for their dedication and the critical role they play in patient care and overall medical readiness. Highlighting their efforts, she acknowledged that their contributions form the backbone of the healthcare services provided to the armed forces.

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The DGAFMS also emphasized the importance of continuous improvement and modernization in the procurement and supply chain systems to meet the evolving needs of the armed forces. Her visit is seen as a morale booster for the personnel at AFMSD, reaffirming their crucial role in the larger framework of national defense and medical preparedness.

The visit concluded with Vice Admiral Sarin encouraging the team to maintain their high standards of excellence and commitment, ensuring the availability of quality medical supplies across all armed forces medical establishments. Her engagement reflected the DGAFMS’s commitment to fostering innovation, efficiency, and care within the medical services of the armed forces.

AFCAT 1 2025 Notification Out for 336 Posts, Apply Online Begins From 2 December 2024

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) has officially released the AFCAT 1 2025 Notification, announcing a total of 336 vacancies for various branches, including Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical). The online application process will commence on 2nd December 2024 and will remain open until 31st December 2024.

This recruitment drive offers a prestigious opportunity for aspirants to serve in the Indian Air Force, with training scheduled to begin in January 2026 at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Hyderabad.

Overview of AFCAT 1 2025 Notification

The AFCAT 1 2025 notification opens a gateway for ambitious individuals to join the esteemed Indian Air Force. This year, the recruitment process includes Short Service Commission (SSC) for Flying and Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical) branches. Candidates selected will undergo rigorous training to prepare them for an illustrious career in the armed forces.

  • Application Start Date: 2nd December 2024
  • Application End Date: 31st December 2024
  • Total Vacancies: 336
  • Training Commencement: January 2026
  • Training Location: Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad
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Branch-Wise AFCAT 1 2025 Notification Vacancy Details

The 336 vacancies are distributed across different branches as detailed below:

BranchCoursePostMen’sWomen’sTotal
Flying219/26F/SSC/ M & W210930
Ground Duty (Technical)218/26T/SSC/108AEC/ M & WAE(L)9527122
AE(M)531467
Ground Duty (Non-Technical)218/26G/SSC/ M & WWeapon Systems140317
Admin421153
LGS130316
Accts110213
Edn070209
Met070209
Total26373336

AFCAT 1 2025 Notification Eligibility Criteria

Age Limit

  • Flying Branch: 20 to 24 years as of the course commencement date.
  • Ground Duty (Technical and Non-Technical): 20 to 26 years.

Candidates must be unmarried at the time of the course commencement.

Application Fee

The application fee for AFCAT 1 2025 is ₹550 + GST, payable online.

Selection Process for AFCAT 1 2025

The selection process for AFCAT 1 2025 includes multiple stages:

  1. AFCAT Exam: A written exam to test aptitude, reasoning, and general knowledge.
  2. Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) Testing:
    • Stage 1:
      • Officer Intelligence Rating Test.
      • Picture Perception and Discussion Test (PP&DT).
    • Stage 2:
      • Psychological Tests.
      • Group Tests.
      • Personal Interview.
  3. Flying Branch Candidates: Additional Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS) test.
  4. Medical Examination: Conducted at Institute of Aviation Medicine (IAM), Bengaluru, or Air Force Central Medical Establishment (AFCME), New Delhi.

Training Details

Selected candidates will undergo training as per their branch:

  • Flying & Ground Duty (Technical): 62 weeks.
  • Ground Duty (Non-Technical): 52 weeks.

Salary Structure

The starting basic pay for commissioned officers is ₹56,100 under the 7th CPC Pay Matrix (Level 10). During training, flight cadets will receive a stipend of ₹56,100 per month. Additional allowances and perks include:

  • Military Service Pay.
  • Transport Allowance.
  • Uniform Allowance.
  • Other benefits like subsidized accommodation and medical services.

Application Process

Interested candidates can apply through the official IAF portal starting 2nd December 2024. Ensure the following:

  1. Verify eligibility criteria.
  2. Prepare scanned copies of necessary documents (educational certificates, photo ID, etc.).
  3. Submit the application fee.

Candidates are encouraged to visit the official Indian Air Force recruitment portal to stay updated and apply before the deadline. This is your chance to serve the nation and embark on a fulfilling career in the Indian Air Force!

Putin Announces Continued Testing and Production of Hypersonic Oreshnik Missile After Strike on Ukraine

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Putin Announces Continued Testing and Production of Hypersonic Oreshnik Missile After Strike on Ukraine

In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, President Vladimir Putin announced on Friday that Russia will conduct further tests of the hypersonic Oreshnik ballistic missile in “combat conditions.” This declaration follows the missile’s deployment in an attack on the Ukrainian city of Dnipro on Thursday, marking an escalation in the intensity and scale of military operations in the nearly three-year conflict.

During a televised meeting with military leaders, Putin stated, “We will continue these tests, including in combat conditions, depending on the situation and character of the security threats posed to Russia.” The Oreshnik missile, which is capable of reaching speeds of Mach 10—ten times the speed of sound—represents a new generation of Russian weaponry that the Kremlin is eager to develop further.

Putin emphasized the importance of moving towards serial production of the Oreshnik missile, stating, “We need to begin serial production. The decision… has in effect been taken.” He praised the missile’s capabilities, referring to it as a testament to the strength and power of Russia’s military technology.

In his remarks, Putin made a bold claim regarding the global status of Russia’s missile technology, asserting that no other country currently possesses such advanced hypersonic capabilities. Although he acknowledged that other nations would likely develop similar technologies in the near future, he underscored the strategic advantage Russia holds at this moment, saying, “But we have this system now. That’s important.”

The backdrop of these announcements points to a rapidly escalating situation in Ukraine, as Putin asserted that Russia’s missile launch was a response to Ukrainian forces utilizing U.S. and U.K.-supplied missiles against Russian territory for the first time. He stated that Russia reserves the right to target military facilities in countries whose weapons are being employed by Ukraine, particularly calling out the United States and Britain.

Putin’s comments highlight a significant shift in the operational dynamics of the conflict, as Russia seeks to demonstrate its technological prowess and respond to perceived threats from Western support of Ukraine. The introduction of advanced military capabilities like the Oreshnik missile raises concerns about the trajectory of the conflict and the potential for further escalation in hostilities between Russia and Ukraine, as well as their respective allies.

Sudanese Army Retakes Strategic Capital of Sinja from Paramilitary Forces

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Sudanese Army Retakes Strategic Capital of Sinja from Paramilitary Forces

The Sudanese army announced on Saturday that it has successfully retaken the strategic state capital of Sinja, located south of Khartoum, from the control of rival paramilitary forces. The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) had held Sinja for the past five months amid an ongoing conflict that has persisted for 19 months between the regular army and the RSF.

The military characterized the recapture of Sinja as a significant victory, emphasizing the city’s importance due to its position on a critical road that connects areas controlled by the army in eastern and central Sudan. In a statement released through social media, the army declared that Sinja had been “liberated… from the terrorist militia.” To bolster this assertion, the army shared footage purportedly filmed at the main military base within the city.

Khaled al-Aiser, the information minister for the army-backed government, expressed his sentiments in a statement, proclaiming that “Sinja has returned to the embrace of the nation.” The armed forces chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, traveled to Sennar, situated about 60 kilometers (40 miles) north of Sinja, to oversee the military operation and commemorate the city’s liberation.

The RSF had initially captured Sinja, along with other key cities, during a swift offensive in June, which led to an exodus of approximately 726,000 civilians, according to United Nations estimates. This mass displacement has fueled concerns over the human rights violations occurring amidst the conflict, with reports indicating that countless individuals unable or unwilling to flee have suffered severe violence at the hands of RSF fighters.

Local residents, such as teacher Abdullah al-Hassan, expressed relief at the army’s return, sharing his feelings of “indescribable joy” following months of uncertainty and fear under RSF rule. He recounted the constant anxiety faced by civilians, who lived in dread of militia fighters entering their homes to inflict harm or theft.

Both warring factions in Sudan have faced accusations of committing war crimes, with allegations including indiscriminate attacks on civilian structures such as homes, markets, and medical facilities. The RSF has been specifically charged with engaging in summary executions, systematic sexual violence, and extensive looting activities. The paramilitary group currently maintains dominance over vast regions of Darfur in the west and significant territories in Kordofan, as well as considerable areas of the capital, Khartoum, and the agricultural state of Al-Jazira to the south.

Since the onset of hostilities in April 2023, the conflict has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced over 11 million people, leading the UN to label it as the world’s largest displacement crisis. One displaced individual, Asia Khedr, 46, from Gedaref, where over 1.1 million displaced persons are currently residing, expressed hope for an end to her family’s suffering. “We’ll finally go home and say goodbye to this life of displacement and suffering,” she remarked, indicating a longing for stability and peace.