Home Blog Page 71

MDL Begins Construction of First Fast Patrol Vessel for Indian Coast Guard

0

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), a premier Navratna defense PSU under the Ministry of Defence, laid the keel for the first of 14 Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) being constructed for the Indian Coast Guard. Held at MDL’s Ritchie Dry Dock in Mumbai, the ceremony marks the formal commencement of construction under a ₹1,070 crore contract signed in January 2024, aimed at enhancing India’s maritime security infrastructure.

The event was attended by senior dignitaries including DIG Atul Parlikar, Technical Manager and Officer-in-Charge of the Coast Guard Shipyard Division in Mumbai, and Mr. A Vinod, Executive Director (Shipbuilding) at MDL. Representatives from key classification societies such as the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) were also present, reflecting the collaborative nature of this ambitious project.

These 14 state-of-the-art FPVs are a critical part of India’s initiative to upgrade coastal defense and align with the broader Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision for self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Designed with lightweight aluminum-alloy hulls and powered by twin water-jet propulsion systems, the vessels will be capable of high-speed, agile operations in India’s 7,500-kilometre coastline and the surrounding Exclusive Economic Zone.

Each FPV will be equipped with advanced surveillance and response technologies including multipurpose drones, artificial intelligence systems, and remotely operated rescue crafts. These capabilities will support a broad range of missions such as fisheries protection, anti-smuggling and anti-piracy patrols, shallow water search and rescue, and marine pollution response.

The keel-laying ceremony featured traditional Indian rituals, with the placement of a foundation stone and floral decorations adorning the dry dock area. A prominent banner displayed the strategic collaboration between MDL and the Indian Coast Guard, reflecting a blend of modern defense production and cultural heritage.

This development comes amid India’s intensified focus on securing the Indian Ocean Region and protecting vital Sea Lanes of Communication. With an increasing number of maritime security threats, from transnational crime to geopolitical rivalries, the FPVs will play a vital role in the Indian Coast Guard’s operations, complementing naval efforts along the International Maritime Boundary Line.

MDL has long been a cornerstone of India’s naval shipbuilding, having delivered frontline assets like stealth frigates and destroyers. The FPV project is expected to stimulate ancillary industries, particularly MSMEs, supporting the broader defense ecosystem in line with national economic goals.

Officials at the ceremony reaffirmed the importance of timely execution, with the first FPV expected to set the tone for successive deliveries. The initiative represents a strategic leap in maritime preparedness and a strong statement of India’s intent to fortify its coastal security through indigenous capability and innovation.

Maj Gen Harsh Chhibber Inaugurates HDMC 21 at College of Defence Management

0

The College of Defence Management (CDM) in Secunderabad launched the 21st edition of its flagship Higher Defence Management Course (HDMC) with an inaugural address by Commandant Major General Harsh Chhibber. The commencement ceremony took place in the Ashoka Auditorium and marked a significant moment for 154 Indian officers from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, along with 12 officers from friendly foreign nations.

Major General Chhibber, who took charge as CDM Commandant on March 31, 2025, congratulated the officers on their selection and described the course as a transformative journey toward strategic leadership. Emphasizing the importance of the motto “Victory Through Excellence,” he called on participants to harness the academic and professional rigor of the HDMC to prepare for the challenges of contemporary military operations and defense management.

The HDMC is a 44-week residential program tailored for senior officers at the rank of Colonel and equivalent. It blends modern management principles with military strategy, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership, resource optimization, and inter-service cooperation. The presence of international officers reflects India’s expanding global defense partnerships and the role of CDM in supporting international military education.

The event was held in the 300-seat Ashoka Auditorium, a technologically equipped venue that symbolizes the institution’s commitment to high-quality learning environments. Visuals from the event showed a mix of tri-service uniforms and international contingents, with national flags representing participating countries and services adorning the stage.

CDM, established in 1970 in Sainikpuri, is a premier tri-services institute accredited with an NAAC A+ rating and recognized by the University Grants Commission. It trains over 500 officers annually through multiple programs, including the Senior Defence Management Course (SDMC) and Management Development Programmes (MDP). The campus features modern infrastructure such as the Aryabhatta IT Centre and the architecturally distinct CDM Officers’ Mess.

The launch of HDMC 21 comes at a pivotal time for the Indian Armed Forces, which are undergoing extensive modernization and restructuring to enhance strategic mobility and combat readiness. With recent developments such as the integration of BrahMos supersonic missiles and progress on India’s two-layered ballistic missile defense system, the focus on professional military education is seen as critical to supporting India’s evolving defense doctrine.

As global and regional dynamics continue to shift, the HDMC aims to prepare participants to lead with insight, innovation, and inter-service synergy, contributing to a future-ready Indian military equipped for complex strategic challenges.

USA and Indian Army Leaders Strengthen Ties at 28th Executive Steering Group Meeting

0

In a significant reaffirmation of growing defense cooperation, senior military leaders from the United States and India convened in Chennai for the 28th Executive Steering Group (ESG) Meeting. The engagement brought together Lt. Gen. JB Vowell, Deputy Commanding General of the U.S. Army Pacific, and Lt. Gen. NS Raja Subramani, Vice Chief of the Indian Army Staff, to review and strengthen bilateral military collaboration.

Held annually since 2002, the ESG meeting is a critical platform for reviewing defense ties, enhancing mutual trust, and aligning strategic priorities in the Indo-Pacific. This year’s session emphasized the shared commitment of both nations to advancing military interoperability and regional stability. A ceremonial exchange of mementos between the two generals symbolized the ongoing partnership.

Key discussions reportedly focused on expanding joint military exercises, improving intelligence sharing, and deepening cooperation in defense technology. These priorities align with the broader framework established under the U.S.-India Defense Framework Agreement renewed in 2015. The backdrop of the meeting—featuring the emblem of the Indian Vice Chief of Army Staff alongside both national flags—reflected the bilateral depth and diplomatic symbolism of the gathering.

The meeting took place against a backdrop of increasing joint defense activities. As of 2023, the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM) and Indian armed forces participated in over 50 bilateral engagements annually, covering areas like maritime security and disaster response. These collaborations are part of a concerted effort to counterbalance China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.

Since India’s recognition as a Major Defense Partner in 2016 and its inclusion in the U.S. Strategic Trade Authorization Tier 1 list in 2018, defense trade and high-end technology cooperation between the two countries have seen rapid growth. Joint exercises such as Yudh Abhyas and cooperative peacekeeping training have further institutionalized the defense partnership.

The 28th ESG Meeting not only reinforced mutual military trust but also reiterated a shared vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. As security dynamics evolve across the region, the India-U.S. military partnership remains a vital pillar of regional stability and global peace.

India’s Defence Boost: Rs 3,000 Crore INVAR Missile Deal Awaits Cabinet Nod

0

The Ministry of Defence is in the final stages of clearing a significant acquisition proposal worth Rs 2,000–3,000 crore for INVAR anti-tank guided missiles, designed to be fired from India’s T-90 tanks. The deal, once finalized, is expected to strengthen the Indian Army’s offensive capabilities on the modern battlefield.

Official sources stated that while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has the authority to approve defence deals up to Rs 2,000 crore, any proposal exceeding that threshold will require clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. If approved, the deal will result in a major enhancement to the Indian Army’s mechanized warfare capabilities.

The INVAR missile system is known for its high accuracy, tandem warhead, and compatibility with T-90 main battle tanks, which form the backbone of India’s armoured corps. It provides the ability to defeat explosive reactive armour and engage targets at longer ranges, giving Indian tank regiments an operational edge.

In a parallel development aimed at strengthening indigenous defence production, the Ministry of Defence has approved the execution model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme—India’s next-generation stealth fighter jet project. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will lead the programme in collaboration with both public and private Indian defence firms.

The AMCA is envisioned as a medium-weight, stealth-capable fighter jet designed for deep-penetration and high-end air combat missions. The initial development phase of the project has been estimated at Rs 15,000 crore. The execution model allows Indian companies—either individually, as joint ventures, or consortia—to participate, promoting equal opportunity within the domestic aerospace ecosystem.

The CCS had given in-principle approval to the AMCA project last year. The initiative represents a major step forward in India’s goal of achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies and follows the successful development of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

These dual developments—in the missile and aerospace domains—underscore the government’s focus on modernising India’s military while also nurturing indigenous capability in high-end defence production.

BSF to Rename Border Outpost in Samba Sector as “Sindoor” in Honor of Operation Sindoor

0

The Border Security Force (BSF) has announced that a forward post in the Samba sector along the International Border (IB) in Jammu will be renamed “Sindoor,” in honor of Operation Sindoor—a recent counter-terror offensive that marked a significant shift in India’s approach to cross-border terrorism.

Operation Sindoor was carried out on the night of May 7–8, 2025, as a swift retaliatory strike following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam. The operation targeted nine terrorist launchpads and infrastructure sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. High-resolution aerial footage released by the BSF shows successful hits on the intended targets, with Pakistan Rangers seen fleeing under heavy fire.

The renaming of the post as “Sindoor” also serves to honor the memory of BSF personnel who lost their lives in the aftermath of the operation. On May 10, Pakistani forces launched a low-flying drone offensive targeting BSF positions along the IB. One such drone dropped a deadly payload that killed BSF Sub-Inspector Mohammad Imtiyaz, Constable Deepak Kumar, and Indian Army Naik Sunil Kumar. These men were actively engaged in intercepting further threats when they were killed. The BSF has additionally proposed naming two border posts after the fallen heroes to commemorate their bravery and sacrifice.

The Samba sector, which forms part of the 198-kilometer-long Jammu IB, has long been a focal point for infiltration attempts and ceasefire violations. Known for its dense foliage, rocky terrain, and proximity to the Shivalik Hills, the sector presents both strategic importance and operational challenges. On May 8, a day after the precision strikes, BSF surveillance picked up movement of a large terrorist group—estimated to be between 40 and 50 militants—attempting to breach the IB. A preemptive strike was launched, successfully dispersing the group and thwarting the infiltration attempt.

Following the initial offensive, Pakistani forces escalated tensions through continued drone incursions and targeted shelling of BSF positions. In a series of counter-responses, BSF units neutralized seven terrorists and destroyed a Pakistani bunker near the Dhandhar post, reinforcing India’s robust response mechanism.

Operation Sindoor has been widely seen as a declaration of India’s zero-tolerance policy toward cross-border terrorism. The renaming of the Samba sector outpost stands as a symbol of the operation’s success and the sacrifices made in its wake. BSF authorities have confirmed that security remains heightened across all vulnerable points, particularly in the Samba sector, as vigilance continues against further incursions and threats.

Indian Naval Academy Hosts Grand Dinner Night, Honors Cheetah Squadron and International Trainees

0

On May 26, 2025, the Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala hosted its prestigious Academy Dinner Night at the Katari Cadets’ Mess, marking the culmination of the academic term with a celebration steeped in tradition, discipline, and camaraderie. The formal evening brought together cadets, officers, instructors, and dignitaries in a vibrant tribute to the values and achievements of the Academy community.

The centerpiece of the event was the awarding of the Champion Squadron trophy to the Cheetah Squadron, recognized for their exemplary performance over the course of the term. This honor builds on their previous victory at the Inter Squadron Rowing & Pulling Championship in February 2024 and cements their reputation as a unit defined by teamwork, resilience, and excellence. The trophy was presented by Vice Admiral C.R. Praveen Nair, Commandant of the Indian Naval Academy and the evening’s Chief Guest. He congratulated the cadets of Cheetah Squadron for upholding the Academy’s guiding principles of duty, honor, and courage.

The evening also celebrated the contributions of international trainees, reflecting INA’s role as a center for maritime cooperation and global military education. Midshipman MBM Fernando from Sri Lanka received the FOC-in-C (South) Trophy for the Most Improved Trainee, while Midshipman Kamrul Hasan from Bangladesh was honored with the Best International Trainee Trophy. These accolades highlighted the commitment, adaptability, and enthusiasm of the international cadets who contribute to the Academy’s diverse learning environment.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Ezhimala hills and the Kavvayi backwaters, the Dinner Night featured ceremonial traditions, naval decorum, and a sense of shared purpose that defines life at the Academy. The presence of the Indian flag and naval insignia throughout the event served as a reminder of the proud legacy of naval service that INA fosters among its cadets.

The Indian Naval Academy, located on a sprawling coastal campus with a 7-kilometer stretch along the Laccadive Sea, continues to serve as the premier institution for training officer cadets of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. Events like the Academy Dinner Night reinforce the Academy’s mission to develop leaders of character, equipped to face the complex demands of modern naval operations.

Additional Troops and Para Commandos Airdropped in Chatroo as Operation Trashi Enters Day 6

0

Operation Trashi, a high-stakes counter-terrorism operation in the Chatroo region of Kishtwar district, has entered its sixth consecutive day. Additional troops and elite Para Commandos have been deployed to support the ongoing efforts to locate and neutralize a group of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists believed to be holed up in the dense and rugged forest terrain.

The operation commenced on May 22 in the Singhpora area and has since progressed into the adjoining Chatroo forest belt. Security forces estimate that three to four militants, including a known operative named Saifullah, are trapped within the cordoned zone. These individuals are believed to be part of a group that previously escaped during an earlier encounter.

So far, the operation has resulted in the elimination of two terrorists. However, the mission has come at a cost, with a District Reserve Guard (DRG) jawan losing his life to an IED blast on the eve of the initial confrontation. On the first day of the gunfight, Sepoy Pandurang of the 17th Rashtriya Rifles was also martyred in action.

Security has been tightened around the encounter site with troops from the Army’s 11 Rashtriya Rifles, 7th Assam Rifles, two Para Special Forces units, and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Kishtwar sealing off all possible escape routes. Senior law enforcement and military officials, including Kishtwar SSP, IGP (Jammu Zone) Bhim Sen Tuti, and DIG Shridhar Patil, are monitoring the situation from the ground.

The Director General of Police has praised the personnel involved, acknowledging their bravery and reaffirming the commitment of security forces to sustaining counter-terrorism operations to secure long-term peace in the region.

Para Commandos, who were airdropped into the operational zone, have brought specialized capabilities in counter-insurgency, reconnaissance, and high-risk assault tactics. Their deployment underscores the gravity of the mission. These elite units of the Indian Army’s Parachute Regiment have a distinguished legacy, dating back to World War II, and have played critical roles in past conflicts including the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the Kargil conflict, and numerous anti-terror missions across the country.

Operation Trashi follows a major security success in Pulwama district last week, where three JeM terrorists were gunned down in the Nadir village of Tral. The sustained operations across Jammu and Kashmir reflect an intensified effort to root out terrorism and restore lasting stability in the region.

Military Hospital Bareilly Trains Military Personnel Under Indian Army’s ‘Train the Trainers’ Initiative

0

The Military Hospital (MH) Bareilly conducted a comprehensive Trauma Life Support Workshop at the Junior Leaders Academy (JLA), aimed at enhancing emergency response capabilities among junior military leaders. Held under the Indian Army’s ‘Train the Trainers’ initiative, the one-day program focused on pre-hospital trauma care and first response skills critical to saving lives in field conditions.

Participants engaged in hands-on training and interactive sessions that covered core trauma management techniques. Dressed in combat uniforms, soldiers practiced medical interventions on mannequins, simulating battlefield and peacetime emergencies. The emphasis on realistic scenarios ensured that trainees gained practical competence to perform under pressure.

The workshop was conducted with the support of the Directorate General of Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), Ministry of Defence, underscoring the Army’s commitment to advancing trauma care preparedness. The training builds on insights from a 2011 Medical Journal of Armed Forces India study, which highlighted the need for improved trauma response training across military ranks.

As a premier institution for defense training in Uttar Pradesh, the Junior Leaders Academy provided an ideal environment for the initiative. The focus on first responder training is a vital component in bridging gaps between injury and hospital care, especially in hostile or remote operational zones.

The workshop reflects the Indian Armed Forces’ broader efforts to institutionalize trauma care protocols, including regular training courses and trauma registries. Attendees expressed increased confidence in their ability to handle real-life emergencies, marking the event as a meaningful step toward enhancing the Army’s life-saving capabilities on and off the battlefield.

BSF Releases Footage of Operation Sindoor: Visuals Show Precision Strikes on Pakistani Posts at Putwal, Chaprar, and Chota Chak

0

The Border Security Force (BSF) has unveiled footage from Operation Sindoor, revealing a series of strategic strikes on key Pakistani military posts in retaliation to recent cross-border aggression. The operation, carried out in early May, targeted heavily fortified Pakistani positions at Putwal, Chaprar, and Chota Chak, causing significant damage and forcing enemy units to retreat.

The released video captures the intensity of the strikes, including coordinated firepower and rapid maneuvers by Indian forces. Pakistani rangers are seen retreating amid the destruction, marking a tactical victory for Indian border security forces.

BSF officials emphasized that these actions were part of a larger defensive strategy designed to protect Indian sovereignty, particularly in the Kashmir region where infiltration threats remain high. Operation Sindoor, launched after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April, is being hailed as a strong message of deterrence to hostile elements across the border.

Defence analysts have described the operation as a continuation of India’s evolving approach to border security—quick, targeted, and technology-backed responses to provocation. The release of the footage also serves to rally public support and enhance transparency, showcasing India’s preparedness and resolve amid rising regional tensions.

Suspected Babbar Khalsa Terrorist Killed in Amritsar Blast

0

A powerful explosion in the Majitha Road Bypass area of Amritsar on Tuesday morning killed a man later identified as a suspected terrorist linked to the banned Babbar Khalsa outfit, officials confirmed. The incident occurred around 9:30am and triggered immediate police response and an intensive investigation.

Initially, authorities believed the blast resulted from the mishandling of explosive material by a scrap dealer, as the victim was found with severe injuries, including both arms blown off. He was rushed to a local hospital in critical condition, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Local residents, startled by the loud explosion, alerted the police, who cordoned off the area and began forensic analysis. Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with fragments of metal scattered and emergency teams arriving swiftly.

While initial police assessments ruled out gangster or terrorist links, subsequent investigations and intelligence inputs led officials to reconsider the circumstances. A government spokesperson confirmed to ANI that the deceased is being treated as a suspected terrorist, prompting counter-terror units to take over the probe.

The incident has raised serious security concerns in Punjab, especially given the region’s history with pro-Khalistan groups. Investigators are now exploring whether the explosive device was being prepared for a larger terror plot or accidental detonation occurred during fabrication.