Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, who assumed command of the Indian Army’s Northern Command on May 1, 2025, conducted a strategic visit to the Siachen Glacier, reaffirming India’s commitment to safeguarding its territory at the world’s highest battlefield.
Situated over 6,000 meters above sea level, the Siachen Glacier has been under Indian control since Operation Meghdoot in 1984, a critical military operation that secured more than 1,000 square miles in the contested region. During the visit, Lt Gen Sharma paid tribute at the Siachen Memorial to honor the over 900 Indian soldiers who have lost their lives due to extreme conditions and combat.
He inspected the operational preparedness of forces at both forward posts and the base camp, commending the troops for their exceptional courage, endurance, and professionalism. He emphasized the need to maintain high standards of readiness in the face of continuous challenges posed by terrain, weather, and regional tensions.
The visit also brought attention to the ecological impact of sustained military presence. A 2011 study by The Energy and Resources Institute projected that the Siachen Glacier could shrink by 80% by 2035, driven by climate change and military activity. In response, the Defence Research and Development Organisation launched a 2023 initiative to develop waste-decomposing bacteria, aiming to reduce environmental damage in the sensitive Himalayan ecosystem.
Lt Gen Sharma’s visit highlights both the strategic importance of the Siachen Glacier and the Indian Army’s evolving approach to operational excellence and environmental responsibility.
On June 12, 2025, Air India Flight AI171, a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, crashed moments after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, killing 241 of the 242 people on board and at least 28 on the ground. The tragedy, the first fatal crash of a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, shocked the aviation world and sparked intense speculation about its cause. As investigations continue, no definitive root cause has been confirmed, but preliminary findings, expert analyses, and witness accounts point to several potential factors. This article explores the leading theories, the context of the crash, and the ongoing efforts to uncover the truth behind this catastrophic event.
The Crash: A Tragic Sequence of Events
Flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick, departed Ahmedabad at 1:38 p.m. local time, carrying 230 passengers and 12 crew members. According to Flightradar24, the aircraft reached a maximum altitude of 625 feet before issuing a Mayday call, indicating an emergency. Seconds later, communication ceased, and the plane crashed into a medical college hostel in the Meghani Nagar residential area, triggering a massive explosion fueled by approximately 100,000 liters of aviation fuel. The sole survivor, Vishwas Kumar Ramesh, reported hearing a “loud noise” 30 seconds after takeoff, followed by flickering lights and the plane’s rapid descent.
The aircraft, registered as VT-ANB, was an 11-year-old Boeing 787-8 delivered to Air India in January 2014. Piloted by Captain Sumit Sabharwal and co-pilot Clive Kunder, both highly experienced with over 9,000 combined flying hours, the plane appeared to struggle to gain altitude. Video footage showed the aircraft descending with its nose up and landing gear down, an abnormal configuration for takeoff.
Investigating the Root Cause: Key Theories
With one black box recovered and the second located on June 13, 2025, India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), supported by the US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the UK Air Accidents Investigation Branch, Boeing, and General Electric (the engine manufacturer), is leading the probe. While a conclusive report may take months or years, several theories have emerged based on initial evidence, expert insights, and posts on X.
1. Engine Failure or Loss of Thrust
One of the most prominent theories suggests a catastrophic loss of engine power. The Boeing 787-8 is powered by two General Electric GEnx engines, and some speculate that both engines may have failed simultaneously, leaving the aircraft without sufficient thrust to climb. A post on X claimed that “both engine compressors stalled,” resulting in a 240-tonne aircraft unable to generate lift.
Aviation experts note that dual engine failure is rare but possible, with potential causes including:
Bird Strike: Dr. Jason Knight from the University of Portsmouth suggested that a bird strike could have caused both engines to fail, given the low altitude and proximity to the airport. Bird strikes are a known hazard during takeoff, and Ahmedabad’s urban environment may increase such risks.
Fuel Contamination or Delivery Issues: Contaminated fuel or a failure in the fuel delivery system could have starved the engines, though this would require significant maintenance or supply chain lapses.
Mechanical Failure: Engine corrosion or component failure, as seen in past 787 incidents with Rolls-Royce engines, could have played a role, though GE engines have a different track record.
The loud noise reported by the survivor could indicate an engine-related issue, such as a compressor stall or explosion. However, the 787 is designed to fly on one engine, so a dual failure would point to an extraordinary event.
2. Flap Configuration Error
Another theory focuses on the aircraft’s wing flaps, which are critical for generating lift during takeoff. Video analysis by aviation experts, including former British Airways pilot Alastair Rosenschein, suggested that the flaps may not have been extended properly. Incorrect flap settings could prevent the plane from climbing, especially with a full fuel load.
The 787’s Takeoff Configuration Warning System (TOCWS) is designed to alert pilots to improper flap settings, but a post on X noted that pilots could theoretically ignore these warnings, though this would be highly unusual given the experienced crew and multiple pre-takeoff checklists. Former pilot Mr. Chan told BBC Verify that flap errors are “highly unusual” due to rigorous procedures.
If flaps were retracted or misconfigured, the aircraft would require a longer runway to gain speed, consistent with reports that Flight AI171 used the full 11,499-foot Runway 23. The plane’s shallow climb and dust at the runway’s end, as noted by former United Airlines captain Laura Savino, support this theory.
3. Human Error and Automation Dependency
Some aviation professionals, including a former jet pilot on X, have suggested that human error, possibly compounded by over-reliance on automation, could be a factor. The pilot, claiming 6,000 hours of experience, described the crash as a “textbook breakdown of automation dependency, flawed data inputs, and eroded stick-and-rudder basic airmanship.”
This theory posits that incorrect data entry, such as weight or performance calculations, could have led to improper thrust or flap settings. Former Air Force accident investigator David Scholl, cited in a post on X, also pointed to possible “incorrect data entry” or “flap setting error” as potential causes.
However, Captain Sabharwal’s 22 years of experience and the crew’s adherence to checklists make gross human error less likely, though not impossible. The 787’s advanced automation systems, while reducing pilot workload, have been criticized in past incidents (e.g., Boeing 737 MAX crashes) for creating dependency or confusion under stress.
4. Structural or Manufacturing Defects
The crash has reignited concerns about Boeing’s manufacturing quality, particularly after whistleblower allegations in 2024. Boeing engineer Sam Salehpour testified to Congress that the 787’s fuselage had “thousands of gaps” due to improper fastening, potentially reducing the aircraft’s lifespan. Another whistleblower, John Barnett, alleged in 2019 that faulty parts were used on 787s, though Boeing denied these claims.
Between 2021 and 2023, 787 deliveries were halted due to assembly defects, including fuselage gaps and improperly fastened components. While the aircraft involved (VT-ANB) was delivered in 2014, long-term structural stress could theoretically contribute to a failure. However, no evidence currently links these issues directly to the crash, and Boeing has stated there is “no indication” of a manufacturing fault.
5. Maintenance Issues
Air India’s maintenance practices have come under scrutiny, with a post on X alleging that a “maintenance issue” caused the engine compressors to stall. India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) reportedly warned Air India about safety lapses in the past, and the airline’s 2020 Kozhikode crash raised questions about its safety culture.
The 787 involved had 41,000 flight hours, considered average, but maintenance records are being examined for missed inspections or deferred repairs. Air India grounded its entire 787 fleet pending the investigation, suggesting concerns about systemic issues.
6. External Factors
Less likely but not ruled out are external factors like sabotage or weather. A post on X by a user claiming National Security Guards (NSG) recovered the black box stated that sabotage was “apparently” not involved, though this remains unverified. Weather conditions in Ahmedabad on June 12 were not reported as severe, making factors like wind shear unlikely.
The Investigation: Challenges and Next Steps
The recovery of one black box and the location of the second are critical milestones. The 787’s flight data recorder, which monitors thousands of parameters, and the cockpit voice recorder will provide insights into the aircraft’s systems, pilot actions, and final moments. However, the intense fire and explosion may have damaged the boxes, complicating data retrieval.
Investigators face additional challenges:
Ground Casualties: The crash site’s residential location and the destruction of a medical college hostel make it difficult to distinguish between aircraft and ground victims, delaying identification and analysis.
Public Pressure: With 241 fatalities, including 53 British nationals, and global attention on Boeing, there is intense pressure for quick answers, risking premature conclusions.
Complex Systems: The 787’s advanced composite structure and automation systems require specialized expertise to analyze, prolonging the investigation.
The AAIB’s final report will likely identify a chain of events rather than a single cause, as modern aviation accidents often involve multiple failures. For example, the 2018 and 2019 Boeing 737 MAX crashes revealed a combination of design flaws, pilot training issues, and regulatory oversights.
Implications for Boeing, Air India, and Indian Aviation
The crash has profound consequences:
Boeing: The Dreamliner’s flawless safety record is shattered, and Boeing’s stock fell over 8% post-crash. Renewed scrutiny of manufacturing practices and whistleblower allegations could lead to further FAA inspections or delivery delays.
Air India: The airline, under Tata Group’s revival efforts, faces a crisis of confidence. Grounding its 787 fleet disrupts long-haul operations, and past safety concerns amplify calls for stricter oversight.
Indian Aviation: As India aims to become a global aviation hub, the crash highlights gaps in regulatory enforcement and infrastructure. The DGCA’s role in monitoring Air India and airport safety is under review.
Current Sentiment and Speculation
Posts on X reflect a mix of grief, anger, and speculation. Some users blame Boeing’s quality control, citing whistleblower warnings, while others point to Air India’s maintenance or pilot error. Unverified claims, such as dual engine failure or automation issues, fuel public debate, but experts urge caution until the investigation concludes.
Conclusion: A Complex Puzzle
As of June 13, 2025, the root cause of the Boeing 787 crash in Ahmedabad remains unknown. Leading theories include dual engine failure, flap configuration errors, human error, manufacturing defects, or maintenance lapses, but no single factor has been confirmed. The investigation, bolstered by black box data and international expertise, will aim to unravel the sequence of events that led to this tragedy.
For now, the focus remains on supporting victims’ families and preventing future disasters. The crash of Flight AI171 is a sobering reminder of the complexities of modern aviation and the need for rigorous safety standards across manufacturers, airlines, and regulators. As the world awaits answers, the lessons from this tragedy will shape the future of the Boeing 787, Air India, and global air travel.
An Apache helicopter of the Indian Air Force (IAF) made an emergency landing on Friday in Punjab’s Nangalpur area, according to reports from PTI. The incident occurred earlier today, though the specific reason behind the emergency landing has not yet been confirmed.
Officials stated that both the pilot and co-pilot are safe.
This incident comes just days after another IAF Apache helicopter was forced to make a precautionary landing in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur due to a technical issue during a routine sortie.
Further updates are awaited as more information becomes available from IAF sources.
An Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner operating as Flight AI171 crashed just seconds after takeoff from Ahmedabad’s Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport en route to London Gatwick. The devastating crash killed 241 of the 242 people onboard and claimed additional lives on the ground, making it India’s worst-ever single-plane disaster and the first fatal accident involving a Boeing 787-8 since its commercial launch.
Final Moments of Flight AI171
Flight AI171 departed 29 minutes behind schedule at 1:39 PM IST with a full fuel load. Just 32 seconds after takeoff, pilots issued a “Mayday” distress signal. The aircraft lost altitude rapidly and crashed into a nearby medical college campus, erupting in a massive fireball.
No adverse weather was reported at the time. However, eyewitnesses and radar data suggest the aircraft struggled to climb, staying between 625–825 feet before crashing.
Locals saw the jet flying abnormally low, trailing smoke. The sole survivor—a British national—recalled a loud noise moments before the crash and described the plane “struggling to gain height.”
Air India and India’s Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) confirmed the crash within hours. Global aviation bodies including the UK’s AAIB, the US NTSB, and Boeing are participating in the ongoing investigation.
A respected pilot with over 8,200 flight hours, Captain Sabharwal was known for his integrity and calm leadership. A resident of Mumbai, he had recently discussed retiring to care for his elderly father. Colleagues described him as a role model with a spotless safety record.
First Officer Clive Kunder
A promising young pilot with 1,100 hours of flying experience, Kunder was admired for his enthusiasm and meticulous approach to flight operations. Tributes from peers highlight his bright future and dedication to aviation safety.
Rescue, Recovery, and Ground Casualties
Emergency services responded within minutes, deploying more than two dozen ambulances and firefighting units. Of the 242 onboard, only one survived. At least five students on the ground also perished in the impact.
Investigators recovered the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR), critical for piecing together the final seconds of AI171.
Investigators are exploring several leads including possible engine thrust failure, a technical systems malfunction, or bird strike, though no conclusions will be drawn until black box data is fully analyzed.
Impact on Aviation Safety and Airline Operations
The crash has triggered a sweeping review of Air India’s 787 Dreamliner fleet. Temporary grounding of select aircraft and intensified maintenance checks are under discussion.
Experts and regulators are urging for enhanced pilot training, more rigorous aircraft inspection protocols and revamped emergency response systems.
National and Global Mourning
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, civil aviation authorities, and international leaders offered condolences. Flags at Air India offices and major airports were flown at half-mast.
Airports in India and the UK held candlelight vigils. Social media was flooded with tributes using hashtags like #AIF171Heroes and #CaptainSabharwal.
Remembering the Legacy of Captain Sabharwal and First Officer Kunder
Both pilots are being hailed as heroes for attempting to save the aircraft under dire conditions. Aviation communities are advocating for scholarships and facilities named in their memory to inspire future aviators.
Conclusion
The crash of Air India Flight AI171 is a solemn reminder of the high stakes in modern aviation. As investigations continue, the legacy of Captain Sabharwal and First Officer Kunder will live on in the collective memory of a grieving nation and an industry now called to do better.
Global tensions are on edge as senior Israeli officials, speaking to Al Arabiya, have warned that Iran may launch hundreds of ballistic missiles targeting Israel within hours. This alert follows Israel’s recent military campaign, “Operation Rising Lion,” which struck key Iranian nuclear and missile infrastructure.
Among the targets were the enrichment site at Natanz and locations described by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as integral to Iran’s ballistic missile program. While the United States has distanced itself from the operation, Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that Washington was not involved. President Donald Trump, emphasizing diplomatic priorities, urged caution to avoid further escalation during ongoing nuclear negotiations.
⚡ Two Israeli officials tell Al Arabiya that Iran is expected to launch hundreds of ballistic missiles within hours.
The potential Iranian retaliation draws parallels with the April 2024 incident, when Iran launched over 300 drones and missiles, the majority of which were intercepted with help from allied forces including the US, UK, and Jordan. Analysts suggest a similar pattern could emerge, though concerns persist that this time the response may be more severe.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has appealed for maximum restraint on all sides, condemning attacks on nuclear facilities and warning against jeopardizing fragile diplomatic efforts. The international community remains deeply concerned about a possible widening of the conflict, particularly if Iranian responses extend beyond missile launches to more sustained military action.
Defense analysts also remain divided on the operational success of Israel’s recent strikes, especially against fortified targets like the Fordow facility, located deep underground and protected by complex tunnel systems.
As events unfold, the risk of a major regional conflict looms large. Governments and security agencies around the world are closely monitoring the situation, with further updates anticipated in the coming hours.
Joining the flying branch of the Indian Air Force represents the pinnacle of many aspirants’ dreams, but earning the opportunity to pilot supersonic jets is highly competitive. If you’re preparing for the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) interview and aiming for the flying branch, this comprehensive guide covers critical interview questions you might encounter, particularly those focused on aircraft and flying knowledge.
Why Flying Branch Questions Matter
The AFSB interview process is designed to assess candidates based on their chosen branch, educational qualifications, and specific application path. For flying branch candidates, interviewers expect a fundamental understanding of aeronautics, aircraft operations, and IAF fleet knowledge. All flying branch applicants must have completed Physics and Mathematics at the 10+2 level.
1. What are the three sub-branches of the flying branch?
Answer: The flying branch is divided into three specialized categories: Helicopters, Fighters, and Transport aircraft.
2. Name three helicopters used by the Indian Air Force.
Answer: The IAF operates several helicopter models including Mi-17, Mi-35, and ALH Dhruv (Advanced Light Helicopter).
3. What principle enables aircraft flight?
Answer: Aircraft fly based on aerodynamic principles, specifically Bernoulli’s principle. The pressure differential between the upper and lower wing surfaces generates lift, while engines provide forward thrust.
4. Explain Bernoulli’s principle with an example.
Answer: Bernoulli’s principle states that an increase in fluid velocity corresponds with a decrease in pressure or potential energy, expressed as A₁V₁ = A₂V₂. A practical example is a venturi tube, where fluid speeds up as it passes through a narrowed section, creating lower pressure.
5. How is buoyancy related to aircraft?
Answer: Buoyancy refers to the upward force exerted on objects immersed partially or completely in fluid. For flight, an aircraft must displace a mass of air downward equal to its own mass each second. This principle is fundamental to understanding how aircraft remain airborne.
6. What is the most recently inducted aircraft into the IAF?
Answer: The indigenous Light Combat Aircraft Tejas was recently inducted into the IAF. Its squadron is known as “The Flying Daggers.”
7. What roles do aircraft serve in the IAF?
Answer: Aircraft constitute the backbone of any air force. In the IAF, they are essential for maintaining air superiority and defending national borders during conflicts.
8. How does the Air Force utilize aircraft during peacetime?
Answer: During non-combat periods, the Air Force conducts Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operations (HADR), participates in multinational exercises with allied forces, and maintains combat readiness through training.
9. Which aircraft was recently added to the IAF’s vintage fleet?
Answer: The Dakota (also known as Parashuram) was added to the IAF’s heritage aircraft collection.
10. What is the largest aircraft operated by the IAF?
Answer: The Ilyushin Il-76 “Gajraj” is the largest transport aircraft in the IAF inventory.
11. Name five transport aircraft operated by the IAF.
Answer: The IAF’s transport fleet includes the C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster, Il-76 Gajraj, An-32, and the Il-78 aerial refueling tanker.
12. Define knots, nautical miles, and Mach.
Answer:
A knot represents one nautical mile per hour
A nautical mile equals 1.8 kilometers
A standard mile equals 1.6 kilometers
Mach measures speed relative to sound velocity (Mach 2 means twice the speed of sound)
13. Name five fighter aircraft in the IAF inventory.
Answer: The IAF operates Tejas, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29, MiG-21 Bison, and Jaguar fighter aircraft.
14. What is streamline shape and why is it important?
Answer: A streamlined shape minimizes friction drag between a fluid and an object moving through it. This aerodynamic design significantly reduces drag, improving fuel efficiency and performance.
Advanced Questions for NCC Candidates
15. What trainer aircraft does the IAF use?
Answer: The IAF training fleet includes the Pilatus PC-7, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (HJT), Kiran, and Dornier aircraft.
16. Explain the fly-by-wire system in modern aircraft.
Answer: Fly-by-wire replaces conventional mechanical flight controls with electronic interfaces. Pilot control inputs are converted to electronic signals that operate flight control surfaces. This digital system enhances flight safety, efficiency, and control precision.
17. Name five essential instruments in a microlight aircraft.
Answer: Key microlight instruments include the Airspeed Indicator, Altimeter, Slip/Skid Indicator, Compass, and Fuel Indicator.
18. Identify aircraft components from nose to tail.
Answer: Aircraft components sequentially include the cockpit, fuselage, wings, undercarriage, stabilizers, ailerons, elevators, and rudders.
19. What are the three fundamental aircraft motions?
Answer: Aircraft movement operates on three axes:
Pitching (controlled by elevators) – up and down nose movement
Rolling (controlled by ailerons) – side-to-side wing movement
Yawing (controlled by rudder) – left-right nose movement
20. In which atmospheric layer do aircraft typically operate?
Answer: Commercial and military aircraft primarily fly in the stratosphere, which provides stable conditions above the troposphere’s turbulent weather patterns.
Preparation Tips
While comprehensive aviation knowledge demonstrates your commitment to the flying branch, interviewers understand that not all candidates have extensive technical expertise. If you encounter a question beyond your knowledge, respond honestly with “I don’t know, sir” rather than attempting to fabricate an answer.
The interview assesses your character, aptitude, and genuine interest in aviation—not just memorized facts. Focus on understanding fundamental concepts while demonstrating your passion for flight and willingness to learn.
Remember that this technical knowledge represents just one component of the broader AFSB evaluation process that examines your officer-like qualities and leadership potential.
An Air India flight traveling from Phuket to New Delhi was forced to make an emergency landing this morning following a bomb threat received mid-air. Flight AI 379, carrying 156 passengers, departed Phuket International Airport at 9:30 AM local time (2:30 AM IST) but soon executed a large turn over the Andaman Sea before returning safely to Phuket.
According to Airports of Thailand officials, the threat was identified onboard, triggering swift emergency response procedures. All passengers were safely evacuated upon landing, and no injuries have been reported. Authorities have yet to disclose the source or credibility of the threat as investigations continue.
This incident follows closely after a recent Air India crash in Ahmedabad, intensifying public scrutiny of the airline’s safety standards. Nonetheless, aviation analysts point out that India’s overall air safety record remains robust, citing International Civil Aviation Organization data indicating just 0.1 incidents per million flights over the past decade.
The timing of the threat also coincides with Air India’s ongoing financial rebound, with the carrier cutting its annual losses by 60% to ₹4,444 crore in FY 2024. Some observers speculate that the airline’s heightened visibility amid economic gains could make it a potential target.Officials are working to determine whether the threat was credible or a false alarm, a phenomenon on the rise globally.
A 2023 U.S. Federal Aviation Administration study revealed a 600% increase in bomb threat hoaxes, often driven by psychological or geopolitical factors.Further updates are expected as Thai and Indian authorities continue their investigation.
In a dramatic escalation of regional tensions, Israel launched a large-scale military operation dubbed Operation Rising Lion, targeting Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure. The strikes resulted in multiple high-profile casualties, including the head of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Major General Hossein Salami, and several other top military and nuclear officials.
The move comes just a day after the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) issued its first formal censure of Iran in two decades over its nuclear program. While Israel maintains that the action was necessary to ensure national security, Iran has threatened severe retaliation, raising concerns over broader regional instability.
Here are 10 key developments you need to know:
Hossein Salami Killed in Strike IRGC chief Major General Hossein Salami was reportedly killed when Israeli fighter jets bombed the IRGC headquarters. His death marks one of the highest-ranking Iranian military losses in recent history.
Iran’s Top Military Command Targeted Alongside Salami, Iran’s military chief Mohammad Bagheri and several other high-ranking commanders and nuclear scientists were also killed in the initial wave of strikes, according to Israeli military sources.
Israel Declares Operation Will Continue Until Threat Is Neutralized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation is a “targeted military campaign” to roll back the Iranian threat and vowed continued action until the risk is fully eliminated.
Khamenei Issues Dire Warning to Israel Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned the attack and warned that Israel will face a “bitter and painful fate” for its actions, suggesting severe military retaliation is imminent.
State of Emergency Declared in Israel Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz declared a home front emergency, warning of expected missile and drone attacks from Iran or its proxies. Citizens have been instructed to follow strict safety guidelines.
US Denies Involvement but Was Briefed in Advance Secretary Rubio clarified that the US was notified in advance but did not participate in the operation. He urged Iran not to target American assets and said the US’s primary concern remains protecting its personnel.
US Senator Warns of Escalation Senator Jack Reed criticized the Israeli move as reckless, warning it could ignite a broader conflict in the Middle East and endanger American forces stationed in the region.
Flight Diversions Over Iranian Airspace Commercial flights flying over Iranian airspace were forced to reroute or hastily exit the region during the strikes. Flight tracking data confirmed abrupt changes in aircraft routes following the attack.
Strategic Targets Hit in Iran Israeli military officials stated that the strikes were aimed at nuclear enrichment facilities, ballistic missile stockpiles, and infrastructure used by Iran to support regional proxies like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Oil Prices Soar Amid Fears of Wider Conflict Global oil markets reacted sharply, with prices rising over 6%. West Texas Intermediate crude hit $72.29 per barrel (up 6.3%), while Brent crude rose 5.7% to $73.29, reflecting fears of supply disruptions.
As tensions reach a boiling point, the international community has called for immediate de-escalation. However, with threats and counter-threats still flying, the situation remains highly volatile.
Satellite imagery has confirmed major progress in the construction of a large-scale military base by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Shannan, Tibet, located approximately 62 kilometers from the Indo-Tibet border near Arunachal Pradesh. The expansion marks a strategic shift from temporary structures to permanent facilities, suggesting China’s long-term military intent in the sensitive border region.
The base falls under the Tibet Military Region within the PLA’s Western Theater Command. Recent images show the presence of reinforced barracks, storage sheds protected by earthen berms, vehicle positions, and interconnected trench systems. Defense analysts believe that these enhancements point to a strengthened capacity for high-altitude military operations and sustained troop deployments.
PLA is in process of constructing a large military base in Shannan, Tibet. This is around 62 km from Indo-Tibet border in Arunachal Pradesh. The project seems to have been started around 2017-18, but most of the initial construction was not of permanent nature. Latest satellite… pic.twitter.com/0kCHSHDx0X
The Shannan build-up aligns with a broader pattern of PLA militarization across the Line of Actual Control (LAC), particularly following the 2017 Doklam standoff and the deadly 2020 Galwan Valley clash. China’s military command in Tibet was upgraded in 2016 to improve combat readiness in response to perceived border threats, and the pace of infrastructure development has since accelerated.
Sources suggest that the newly fortified base may be associated with PLA Unit 77563, although this remains unconfirmed. The move toward permanent infrastructure could significantly impact the regional military balance, offering logistical advantages and quicker deployment capabilities for Chinese forces near the disputed border.
India has yet to officially respond to the development, but the situation is expected to figure prominently in upcoming military and diplomatic dialogues. Experts warn that such expansions could raise the risk of friction and miscalculation along the LAC, as both nations continue to assert competing territorial claims in one of the world’s most geopolitically tense regions.
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army’s Vajra Corps has conducted a detailed review of the Panther Division’s operational readiness and infrastructure modernization. The review, held earlier this week in Punjab, spotlighted the division’s strategic advancements, particularly in the deployment of drone technology and the upgradation of mission-critical infrastructure.
Accompanied by senior military officers, the GOC closely inspected a range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that form part of the division’s new-age surveillance and combat toolkit. These drones represent a broader effort by the Indian Army to incorporate cutting-edge technology for real-time intelligence, enhanced situational awareness, and improved operational effectiveness.
The review also reaffirmed the division’s capability to respond swiftly and decisively to emerging threats. The Panther Division played a key role in Operation Sindoor, a precision strike against terrorist camps conducted in May 2025. During his address to troops, the GOC lauded the professionalism, tactical innovation, and dedication exhibited by the division during the operation.
In his remarks, the GOC emphasized the need for continued modernization and agility in the face of dynamic security challenges. He linked these efforts to national defense initiatives, including the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s upcoming test of the ET-LDHCM (End-to-End Test of Long-Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile). With capabilities of exceeding Mach 5 and advanced maneuverability, the missile represents a major stride in India’s indigenous hypersonic technology program.
The Panther Division’s preparedness review aligns with the Indian Army’s strategic objectives to build a technologically empowered, future-ready force. Investments in homegrown defense solutions and infrastructure are seen as key to maintaining operational superiority amid evolving regional and global threats.
