India
Defense News ,India :- India has sent its research vessel, RV Samudra Ratnakar, to the waters off its eastern coast. This move places it near two Chinese survey ships. Tensions have risen because a Chinese military survey ship, Yuan Wang 3, is also operating in the same area.The RV Samudra Ratnakar is a special ship used for studying oceans. It belongs to the Geological Survey of India (GSI). People think India is sending this ship to counter China's survey work.China's ships, XIANG YANG HONG 01 and XIANG YANG HONG 03, are with Yuan Wang 3. They are possibly tracking ballistic missiles. This worries India because these ships are close to important places for India.Though India hasn't officially said why it sent RV Samudra Ratnakar, it's likely trying to stop the Chinese ships from collecting data.What RV Samudra Ratnakar Can DoThis ship is quite advanced. It was made in South Korea by Hyundai Heavy Industries. Here are its main features:It can stay at sea for up to 45 days at a time.It has room for 73 people, including 25 scientists who study Earth.It's equipped with advanced tools like:Positioning Systems (to know where it is)Sonar Systems (to see under the sea)Seismic Equipment (to study movements under the seabed)Tools to measure magnetism and gravityA remote-controlled underwater vehicle (to explore deep areas)Tools to take samples from the seaA system to manage all the data collectedWhat This Means StrategicallyThis situation shows how India and China are not getting along, especially in the Indian Ocean, which is very important.It's a sign that both countries are competing for resources and power in this area.India wants to show that it's also a big player in the Indian Ocean and can protect its interests.India's decision to send RV Samudra Ratnakar to the waters near the Chinese survey ships is significant. It demonstrates India's capability to respond to activities that it perceives as a threat to its strategic interests. With tensions simmering between India and China, such moves can have broader implications for regional dynamics in the Indian Ocean. As both nations continue to assert their presence and compete for influence, developments like these highlight the complexities of geopolitics in the region.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 06:32:47
India
Defense News ,India :- India is making a big move in the world of aerospace. The country is getting ready to produce its own fighter jet engines through a deal between General Electric (GE) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). This deal will allow India to build engines for its LCA Tejas MK-2 fighter jets. The cost of this deal is expected to be less than a billion dollars for 99 engines. This information comes from top officials in India's Defense Ministry, although the final price is still being negotiated.This deal is significant because it will give India access to advanced military technology. Currently, only a few countries, like the US, Russia, and France, have this capability. The discussions for this deal began back in 2012 when India's Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) started talking with GE about transferring the technology for GE F414-INS6 engines. These engines are needed for India's LCA MK-2 project, which aims to replace old fighter jets in the Indian Air Force.Initially, the US agreed to transfer only 58% of the technology, but now they've agreed to 80%. This means that more of the engine manufacturing process will happen in India. This is a big step because it increases India's self-reliance in producing fighter jets. Additionally, due to inflation over the years, the cost of the deal has gone up. However, with the guidance of India's Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, the agreements with the US have been successfully signed.So, what does India gain from this deal? Firstly, the technology transfer from GE is unprecedented. It involves critical military technology that has never been shared with any other country at this scale. This shows the trust that the Biden administration has in India. The technology includes things like special coatings to protect against corrosion and erosion, as well as advancements in turbine blade and nozzle guide vane manufacturing.Comparing negotiations between India and the US in 2012 and 2023 reveals that GE has agreed to transfer more technology this time around. This includes 11 key technologies that will significantly boost India's capabilities in aerospace manufacturing. India's Defense officials believe that this deal will enhance the performance of their fighter jets, improve maintenance efficiency, and reduce turnaround time for repairs.HAL, the Indian aerospace company, is expected to start producing LCA MK-2 jets in about three years. This will further strengthen India's defense capabilities. The deal will also contribute to India's goal of becoming self-reliant in manufacturing fighter jets. It will support other ongoing efforts in developing military and civilian aircraft.The manufacturing of the engines will largely happen in India, except for some small components. The Indian Air Force plans to order between 120 to 130 LCA MK-2 jets, which will further boost the country's defense capabilities.The GE-HAL aerospace deal marks a significant milestone for India's defense industry. It not only enhances India's self-reliance but also paves the way for future advancements in aerospace technology. With this deal, India takes a giant leap towards achieving its goal of manufacturing world-class fighter jets domestically.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 06:16:28
India
Defense News ,India :- India has revealed initial images of its next anti-tank missile vehicle, the NAMICA MK2. This new version shows a shift in focus. While it still excels at destroying tanks like its predecessor, the MK2 is designed to be more versatile on the battlefield.What is NAMIC MK2 ?The NAMICA MK2, which stands for Nag Missile Carrier Mark 2, is an Indian tracked anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) launcher vehicle currently under development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is an upgrade to the NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier) which is based on a stretched BMP-2 chassis. Although detailed information on the NAMICA MK2 remains limited due to its ongoing developmental phase, it is anticipated to feature several enhancements compared to its predecessor:Extended Range and Enhanced Precision: The NAMICA MK2 is projected to boast a longer firing range and heightened accuracy in comparison to the original model. This advancement may stem from the incorporation of a new fire control system and state-of-the-art optics.Augmented Crew Protection: Expectations point towards improved crew protection mechanisms in the NAMICA MK2, likely including upgraded armor and a more sophisticated active protection system (APS).Enhanced Mobility: The NAMICA MK2 could potentially leverage a more potent engine or refined suspension system, resulting in superior maneuverability across diverse terrains.Advanced Electro-Optical Systems: Anticipated to be outfitted with cutting-edge electro-optical sights, such as a thermal imager and laser rangefinder, the NAMICA MK2 is poised to enable effective operations in various lighting conditions, including day, night, and low-light scenarios.Although specific specifications for the NAMICA MK2 have not been officially disclosed due to its developmental status, insights gleaned from open-source channels offer some anticipated details:Chassis: Upgraded BMP-2 chassisArmament: 12 Nag anti-tank missiles (8 ready to fire, 4 in reserve)Crew: 4 personnelWeight: Approximately 14.5 tonnes (combat weight)Engine: Enhanced diesel engine (exact specifications remain undisclosed)Maximum Speed: Exceeding 60 km/h (on road)Water Speed: Approximately 7 km/hChanges in WeaponsThe biggest change is in its main weapons. The MK1 had six missile launchers for NAG (Fire and Forget) anti-tank guided missiles. But the MK2 has only four of these launchers. However, it makes up for this by adding a 30mm cannon. This cannon can target not only tanks but also lighter armored vehicles, infantry, and even fortifications more effectively.Evolution of RoleThis change in weapons suggests that the NAMICA MK2 might have a different role on the battlefield. While it's still great at fighting tanks, the addition of the 30mm cannon means it can handle other tasks too. This flexibility allows it to play a more active role in combined operations, where it might need to deal with various threats.Building on a Proven BaseThe NAMICA MK2 still uses the reliable BMP-2 chassis, known for its ability to move well in different terrains. Like the MK1, the passenger compartment of the BMP-2 has been removed. This change likely makes room for more missile reloads, ensuring the MK2 keeps its strong anti-tank capability.What This MeansThese early designs show that the NAMICA MK2 is making progress in its development. By focusing on versatility while keeping its anti-tank power, it could become an important asset in future battles involving armored vehicles. Military experts are likely to keep a close eye on its development as it gets ready to join the Indian armed forces.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 06:10:30
India
Defense News ,India :- India's navy made a big move on Friday by sending out 11 regular submarines all at once, marking a huge moment for the Navy in 30 years.This action is quite different from what we've seen in the last 20 years. During that time, the submarine fleet faced problems like decreasing numbers, accidents, and submarines being written off.One source, who has served for over 25 years, said, "This is a very important moment for us. In all my years in the Navy, I haven't seen so many submarines deployed at once. Usually, we didn't have this many submarines available for operations because many were being repaired or upgraded."According to sources in the defense sector, the last time India had such a strong submarine fleet was in the early 1990s. Back then, the Navy had 8 Kilo-class submarines, four HDWs, and four Foxtrot submarines from Russia."But since then, the submarine fleet has faced many challenges. Even the delivery of Scorpene submarines was delayed," another source mentioned.Currently, India has 16 regular submarines in operation, including five Scorpene class (from France), four HDWs (from Germany), and seven Kilo-class (from Russia). Another Scorpene class submarine is yet to be officially commissioned.Although India will have 17 regular submarines next year, sources point out that this might not translate to actual operational capability."What matters more is how many submarines are available for operation. Scorpene submarines are new, so they are more available. Next are the German HDWs, which are reliable and perform well. These submarines can serve for another 10-15 years," the second source explained, highlighting the challenges the Navy faces with its submarine fleet.The source added that while India initially had 10 Kilo-class submarines, it now only has seven."The Kilo submarines are good, but their availability has decreased. They've been upgraded, but they won't last as long as the HDWs. Most of them were commissioned in the 1980s, and one has already been decommissioned. Another was given to Myanmar after being refitted. The third one was new, but we lost it in an accident in 2013," the source noted.This means that the submarine fleet will continue facing challenges.India plans to acquire three more Scorpene-class submarines, but this process will take time from signing contracts to delivery, sources said.The Navy's plan to buy six more advanced submarines with better technology has been delayed for over a decade. The chances of the first one being delivered by 2030 are slim, according to sources.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 05:55:54
World
Defense News ,UK :- Rolls-Royce is happy about the news that the Australian Government will put money into its AUKUS preparations. This adds to the money the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has already promised.The Royal Navy needs more stuff, especially because of the AUKUS deal. So, Rolls-Royce is making its Submarines site in Raynesway, Derby, twice as big. This is because they need to make more things for the Navy.The work to make the site bigger will get money from both the UK MOD and the Australian Department of Defence. They said this last summer. Making the site bigger will create over 1,000 new jobs in Derby. People will do different jobs like making things and engineering. They will also build new places to work and offices on the land near the current site.In March 2023, it was said that Rolls-Royce Submarines will make all the nuclear reactor plants for new attack submarines. This is part of a deal between Australia, the UK, and the US.To get ready for AUKUS and to do more work for the MOD, Rolls-Royce said they will open two new offices. These offices will be in Glasgow and Cardiff. They picked these places because there are lots of skilled workers there. Each office will create more than 100 jobs.To make sure there are enough skilled workers for the future, Rolls-Royce opened a new school in Derby in 2022. This school will give 200 apprenticeships every year for at least 10 years.Right now, Rolls-Royce Submarines has more than 4,000 workers. They design, make, and help with the reactors that power every Navy submarine.Rolls-Royce is helping with the Astute and Dreadnought boat programs by giving them reactor parts. They also help fix things all around the world from their center in Derby. They help with the submarines when they're in Barrow-in-Furness and at the naval bases in Devonport and Faslane.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 05:48:40
India
Defense News ,India :- India's dream of making its own fighter jets is moving ahead. On March 22nd, something big happened: the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet, built in India, passed its Second Low-Speed Taxi Trials (LSTT).This is a very important step. It means the jet might soon take its first flight. An expert in defense matters, Anantha Krishnan M, confirmed this news.The head of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is checking everything carefully before the first flight. HAL and the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) are working together closely. If everything goes well, the Tejas Mk1A might fly for the first time this week, maybe even before March 31st.The successful LSTT is just the beginning. Next comes the High-Speed Taxi Trials (HSTT), which might happen very soon. These trials are important to make sure the jet can take off and land safely before its first flight.The Tejas Mk1A is much better than the previous model, the Mk1. It has a very advanced radar called Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, and other high-tech features for electronic warfare.The Indian Air Force (IAF) knows how good the Tejas Mk1A is. They've already ordered 83 of these jets, and might order more in the future.Passing the LSTT and getting ready for the first flight is a huge deal for India's aerospace industry. It shows that India is serious about making its own defense equipment and improving its Air Force with top-notch planes made at home.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 05:41:19
India
Defense News , India :- In a big move showing how strong the Indian Navy is becoming, a special submarine called Kalvari-class has visited Campbell Bay for the first time ever. This port is in the Nicobar Islands, which is the farthest point in the south of India.This visit by the submarine is a very important event because it shows how the Navy can now reach faraway places from the main part of India. Campbell Bay is in a really good spot that helps the Navy be more active in this area. The Kalvari-class submarine being there shows that India can quickly send its advanced, very sneaky submarines to important places, which makes it harder for any enemies and gives more options for the Navy.The Kalvari-class submarines are super modern submarines that run on diesel and electricity, and they're really famous for being very hard to detect and can last a long time underwater. Having one in Campbell Bay makes India's Navy even stronger in this part of the world.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-25 05:14:45
World
Defense News ,Russia Ukraine War :- Russia started bombing Ukraine's capital, Kyiv, and the western area of Lviv on Sunday. The news came from officials reported by AFP.The mayor of Kyiv, Vitali Klitschko, warned people on Telegram about explosions in the capital and advised them to stay in shelters. Maksym Kozytskyi, the governor of the Lviv region, mentioned that the Stryi district, south of Lviv, was also being attacked.This attack happened while Russia was mourning a tragic terrorist incident at a concert hall in Moscow. They blamed Ukraine for it.Serhiy Popko, the head of Kyiv's military administration, said Ukraine's air defence forces destroyed around twelve missiles launched by Russia. He said there weren't any casualties or major damage from these attacks, according to initial reports.Poland got worried about the safety of its airspace because of Russia's attack on Ukraine. They sent jets to the border to ensure safety. It's said that Russian missiles flew near Poland's border with NATO countries.Poland's armed forces mentioned that Polish and allied aircraft were activated, which might cause more noise, especially in the southeastern part of Poland.Russia continued its military offensive against Kyiv, partly as revenge for Ukrainian attacks during its recent presidential election.The US Ambassador, Bridget Brink, mentioned that Ukraine had been under an air alert for three early mornings in a row. They advised people to seek shelter. Bridget Brink criticized Russia for launching drones and missiles without caring about civilians, which is against international law.The mayor of Lviv, Andriy Sadovyi, said on Telegram that there were no attacks on the city. However, about twenty missiles and seven attack drones targeted critical infrastructure in the broader Lviv region.This situation shows that tensions between Russia and Ukraine are escalating, and innocent civilians are at risk. It's essential for everyone to understand what's happening and to hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:54:24
Space & Technology
Space News ,India :- India's space program has achieved a big milestone! The International Astronomical Union (IAU) has officially named the landing site of Chandrayaan-3 as 'Shiva Shakti'. This special name was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in August 2023 and is now officially recorded in the IAU's list of planetary names.The name 'Shiva Shakti' comes from Indian stories and represents two important forces of nature: masculine (Shiva) and feminine (Shakti). This name shows how India's culture is deeply connected to its achievements in space.On August 23, 2023, Chandrayaan-3 made history by landing softly near the Moon's south pole. This made India the first country to do so, joining the group of top explorers of the Moon.The 'Shiva Shakti' name celebrates the mix of India's scientific skills and its rich culture. It's a very important moment for India's space program.Chandrayaan-3's mission has big scientific goals. The chosen landing site could have valuable water ice. The mission's tools and the Pragyan rover will help scientists learn a lot about what the Moon is made of and what resources it might have.The IAU recognizing 'Shiva Shakti' shows that India is becoming a strong space power. This official name is proof of Chandrayaan-3's success and will inspire India for more space missions in the future.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:46:58
World
Defense News Red Sea :- A Chinese-owned oil tanker faced an attack off the coast of Yemen. The attackers were Houthi rebels who fired ballistic missiles, said the US military.The tanker, named Huang Pu, which is owned by a Chinese company and flies the Panamanian flag, sent out a distress call. However, it did not ask for help, according to the US Central Command (CENTCOM). The incident happened on a Saturday, and CENTCOM shared the information on a social media platform the next day.Thankfully, there were no injuries reported, and the tanker continued its journey after the attack.These rebels, who are backed by Iran and control parts of Yemen's Red Sea coast, have been targeting ships for the past four months. They claim these actions are to show support for Palestinians in Gaza.After the attack, a fire broke out on the tanker, but it was put out within 30 minutes, reported both CENTCOM and the British navy's United Kingdom Marine Trade Operations (UKMTO).Later on, tracking data showed the tanker moving out of the Red Sea towards the Gulf of Aden. Its destination was New Mangalore in India, as per the maritime security agency Ambrey.The attack occurred about 23 nautical miles west of the Yemeni port of Mokha. It involved the firing of four anti-ship ballistic missiles by the Houthi rebels. One of these missiles hit the Huang Pu, despite the rebels' previous statement that they wouldn't attack Chinese vessels.Interestingly, the tanker had its registration details changed in February 2024, according to Ambrey. Initially registered in 2019 by a British firm called Union Maritime Ltd, another ship linked to the same company had been targeted by the Houthis in the past.The rebels have threatened to target ships from Israel, Britain, and the US, as well as those heading to Israeli ports. This poses a risk to the important trade route passing through these waters.To counter such threats, the United States has been leading an international coalition to safeguard shipping in the Red Sea. Since mid-January, US forces have been targeting Houthi positions in Yemen.Following the attack on the Huang Pu, US forces also intercepted six drones launched by the rebels. Five of these drones crashed into the Red Sea, while the sixth entered an area controlled by the Houthis in Yemen.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:43:31
India
Defense News ,India :- In a recent practice, the Indian Army's Northern Command displayed their strong commitment to being ready for battle. Despite harsh winter weather, soldiers practiced using weapons like Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs), mortars, and rocket launchers with precise accuracy. They showed they can handle these weapons well even in extreme cold.A video posted by the Army on social media showed soldiers shooting at targets in freezing temperatures. The practice aimed at achieving precise targeting, ensuring that each missile hits its target, especially armored threats.This recent drill highlights the Indian Army's continuous effort to stay prepared across all their units. It comes after a similar successful practice by the Eastern Command in February, where they also used ATGMs. The February exercise involved over 1500 soldiers, more than 260 missiles, and the Trishakti Corps.Being able to use advanced weapons effectively, even in tough conditions, is essential for India's defense strategy. These practices show the Indian Army's strong dedication to staying ready for action at all times.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:39:14
World
Defense News ,Philippine :- In the latest clash between the Philippines and China, three Filipino soldiers got hurt. This happened when China's Coast Guard sprayed water cannons at a Filipino supply ship near a reef in the South China Sea. Eduardo Ano, who advises the Philippine government on national security, shared this news on Sunday.The Philippine government said the attack severely damaged the ship called Unaizah May 4. The ship was carrying troops and supplies to a Philippine navy ship stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal.China says it owns almost the entire South China Sea, ignoring claims from other countries like the Philippines. They even dismissed a ruling by an international court that said their claim wasn't legal.Ano mentioned that three navy personnel on the ship got hurt during Saturday's incident. However, details about their injuries weren't given. The military said they got treated on a coast guard ship escorting them.This wasn't the first attack. Earlier on March 5, four crew members were hurt when China's Coast Guard attacked the same ship with water cannons, causing broken glass injuries.Ano expressed his frustration, saying it was a routine operation to rotate and resupply troops. But he couldn't believe the aggressive reaction from the Chinese.The United States, which has a defense agreement with the Philippines, criticized China's actions. They called it destabilizing for the region and a violation of international law. The US reaffirmed its commitment to support the Philippines through their mutual defense treaty.China's Coast Guard defended its actions, saying they were within the law. They claimed they were just stopping a foreign ship from entering Chinese waters forcefully.After the attack, the damaged ship managed to restart its engine and return to Palawan, a province in the western Philippines. Ano made it clear that despite the incident, they won't back down. They're determined to keep supplying their troops stationed at the Second Thomas Shoal.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:34:53
India
Defense News ,India :- India's Defense Ministry, through the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), has given the green light for a big upgrade to the BMP-2 infantry fighting vehicle. This vehicle is very important for the Indian Army.This upgrade is happening at a crucial time, especially with the tensions in Eastern Ladakh, where BMP-2s are vital in facing off against Chinese forces.Making It Stronger with Homegrown InnovationThe BMP-2 is made in India under a license from Russia by the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). Now, it's set to get much better thanks to a big boost in performance. Pinaka Aerospace Solutions, based in Bangalore, is leading this effort. They've created a fully Indian Transmission Control Unit (TCU), which is a central part of the vehicle's engine upgrade.A Full MakeoverImproving the BMP-2 goes beyond just upgrading the engine. The project includes a bunch of upgrades to make the vehicle better in combat:1. Night Vision: Making it easier to see and operate in the dark.2. Better Targeting: Improving the accuracy of firing for more effective hits.3. Improved Communication: Making it easier for soldiers to talk and share information during battles.4. Stronger Armor: Increasing protection for the crew against enemy attacks.Handling Tough TerrainOne big challenge for the upgraded BMP-2s is how well they can work in India's varied and often difficult terrains, especially in places like Eastern Ladakh.Pinaka's TCU aims to solve this challenge by:1. Automatic Gear Changes: Making gear shifts smoother and quicker, which is important for driving on rough ground.2. Maximum Power: Ensuring the vehicle gets the most power possible for good performance in all situations.3. Better Handling: Combining steering and braking for easier control in tricky landscapes.India's Own Strong ArmyWith the BMP-2 upgrade and Pinaka's TCU, India is taking a big step toward making its army stronger and more independent in terms of defense technology.This upgrade will give India a more powerful and flexible BMP-2 fleet, which is very important for the country's defense.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:08:56
World
Defense News , Argentina :- Argentina has decided to buy 24 ex-Danish F-16A/B MLU fighter jets to make its air defense stronger. The deal costs $650 million USD. Argentina picked the F-16 over India's LCA-Tejas and China's JF-17 Thunder planes.The choice shows how important it is for countries to get good value and trust in their defense buys. Argentina gets better planes to replace its old ones, and it's spending less money.Even though Tejas and JF-17 are good planes, Argentina went with the F-16 because it has a good track record in combat and many countries use it.Price was a big reason. Each ex-Danish F-16 costs around $14 million, way cheaper than new Tejas and JF-17 fighters.Along with the planes, the $650 million deal includes weapons worth $312 million, like advanced air-to-air missiles.Some experts think choosing the F-16 might mean Argentina wants to get closer to the United States. The US and its allies use F-16s a lot, so Argentina could work better with them.This decision shows that even though India and China are big in defense exports, Western planes like the F-16 still have a strong appeal.Argentina likely went for the ex-Danish F-16s because they're affordable, well-known, and could help Argentina work with NATO countries.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 15:00:17
India
Defense News ,India :- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that the people of Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) are themselves raising the demand for a merger with India. He expressed the confidence that the people of PoK will merge with India.He made the remarks during the 'AAP ki Adalat' programme on India TV. Asked about Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's recent remarks about Kashmir, Rajnath Singh said, "Can they ever take Kashmir? They should be worried about Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. I had said almost one and a half years ago that there will be no need for us to attack and occupy, because a situation is developing there that people of PoK themselves are demanding merger with India."On being asked whether the government was making any plan, he responded, "I will not say anything more, I should not. We are not going to attack any country. India has a character of never attacking any country in the world, nor has it occupied an inch of other's territory. But PoK was ours, PoK is ours, and I am confident that PoK will itself merge with India."Earlier in February, a political activist from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), Amjad Ayub Mirza, has claimed that the people in PoK are fed up with Pakistoccupation and they are now demanding merger with India.In a video released by him, activist Mirza said, "The people of PoK in the last few days have told me that they now demand to be merged into India, as they are officially their citizens"."The recent elections in Pakistan have just given us a fractured mandate. The upcoming elections will have a fruitful result for India but we the people of PoK ask that, for how long will we have to wait to get rid of Pakistan's oppression and get merged in India?" the PoK activist added.He stated that India has a character of never attacking any nation and not occupying anyone's land. However, he asserted that India will give a befitting response if its prestige is attacked by anyone.Asked if China attacks India, Rajnath Singh said, "God should give them the good sense not to commit such mistakes. India has a character of never attacking any country, but if any country attacks us, we do not spare them. But the truth is that if anyone asks us, we have good relations with all our neighbours.""We want to maintain ties but not at the cost of India's self-respect. But if any country attacks India's prestige, it has the power to give it a befitting reply. We want to have good relations with neighbours because Atal ji used to say that we should keep in mind that we can change friends in life but neighbours never change," he added.He asserted that India will tackle any threat that arises from China. He emphasised that India has become a powerful nation in the world.On being asked whether there was any threat from China now, the Defence Minister said, "We will tackle if any threat arises, what's there in it. But, we cannot sit holding our head in hands thinking about the threat. If the threat arises, it will be tackled. India is no more a weak country. India has become a powerful country in the world."On Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's allegation that China has occupied nearly 2,000 square kilometres of India's territory, he expressed sadness over his remarks and stated that he does not want to remind him about the activities China did in 1962.He said, "I am feeling really sad that he is questioning the valour of our jawans. He should not be making such remarks. How much territory was occupied by China in 1962 and what activities have been done by China. I do not want to remind him and do not talk about it. Rest assured, today, we can say that we will not like to lose even an inch of our territory. I cannot disclose much about the details because India and China are engaged in talks, and the talks are going on in a right manner. Talks are going on in a cordial atmosphere. Otherwise, I would have disclosed more details. Please do not compel me to disclose more. I cannot disclose much."Earlier in February, India and China held the 21st round of Corps Commander level meeting on Monday at the Chushul-Moldo border to defuse tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.The two nations have been engaged in a standoff since April-May 2020 over the transgressions by the Chinese Army in multiple areas including the Finger area, Galwan Valley, Hot springs, and Kongrung Nala. The situation worsened after violent clashes with Chinese troops in Galwan Valley in June 2020.Lauding the bravery of India's defence personnel, he stated, "I just want to say that whatever happened with China this time too, I feel proud of the courage shown by soldiers of Indian Army, Air Force and Navy personnel. There are many such incidents that if countrymen are made aware of about the army of our country, their respect will increase further."Recalling the fight between India and China in Galwan, he stated that India's soldiers did not fire a single shot and instead were engaged in a physical combat. He said India lost 20 soldiers during the fight. However, China did not disclose information regarding their soldiers.He said, "You have seen what happened in Galwan during our fight with China, our brave jawans did not fire a single shot, they were engaged in physical combat. 20 of our jawans were killed, and how many Chinese soldiers were killed? I am not saying, but foreign agency reports say 35 to 40 Chinese soldiers were killed in the clashes. We have not said anything related to China. We have accepted it that 20 of our jawans were killed."He noted that "it is true that China is carrying out infrastructure development near Line of Control at a fast pace since a long time." He further said that Defence Minister during Congress government asked not to develop infrastructure on India-China border. He stated that India has started developing infrastructure at a fast pace after the Modi-led government came to power.He said, "it is true that China is carrying out infrastructure development near Line of Control at a fast pace since a long time. During Congress government, Defence Minister said that if we develop infrastructure on the India-China border, China will enter India, so do not develop infrastructure. After the Modi government came to power, we have also started developing infrastructure at a fast speed on border."Refuting Rahul Gandhi's claims that PM Narendra Modi fears China, he responded, "I am surprised when somebody says Modiji Darte Hain. It is not in his nature to be afraid. There is nothing to be afraid of. The problem is these people do not understand. Why are they raising questions about India's strength and valour".
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 14:55:50
India
Defense News ,India :- Mehbooba Mufti, the president of the PDP, made a statement on Sunday, expressing concern that the lithium reserves in Jammu and Kashmir might be given to companies. She believes these companies may then give a portion of the profits they make from these reserves to the ruling party at the Centre.Her concern arose after reading a news report suggesting that the government plans to auction off the lithium blocks in Jammu and Kashmir again. In a post on X, she stated, "Now J&K's lithium reserves too are being plundered & gifted to dubious companies who will then donate a part of these illicit proceeds to the ruling party as ‘party fund’.”Mufti also pointed out the connection she sees between the BJP and wealthy individuals, suggesting it's why the government is ignoring the legitimate requests of the Ladakhi people to be included under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.She remarked, “Now that the nexus between BJP & crony capitalists stands exposed it offers the perfect explanation why GOI continues to ignore the legitimate demands of Ladakhis. Disturbing visuals of a frail Sonam Wangchuk too have not evoked a shred of empathy or concern.”Sonam Wangchuk had been on a hunger strike to support the statehood and constitutional safeguards under the Sixth Schedule for the Union Territory of Ladakh.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 14:48:06
Space & Technology
Space News ,India :- NASA and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) recently took an interesting step to keep their mission running smoothly. The reflector dish, which is like a big mirror, at the center of their joint project, called the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR), had to travel from India to the United States and back again. This was because there were some possible issues that needed special attention.The reflector dish, which is covered in a thin layer of gold, is very important for the NISAR spacecraft. It helps to gather information about Earth by focusing radar signals.When ISRO was testing the equipment, they found out that the reflector dish could get too hot in space. This could have caused problems when they tried to unfold it during the mission.To fix this problem, NASA decided to put a special coating on the reflector dish. This coating would help to reflect sunlight, keeping the temperature under control.A NASA plane called a C-130 cargo aircraft flew the reflector dish back from Bangalore, India to a special lab at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California. There, they applied the special coating. After that, the reflector dish will go back to India to be put back into the NISAR spacecraft.This unexpected twist shows how NASA and ISRO are committed to solving any problems that come up during their joint project. By taking this step, they make sure that the reflector dish can keep doing its job well, gathering important information about Earth for the NISAR mission.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 07:00:40
India
Defense News ,India :- Leaked sketches provide a sneak peek into India's big plans for its Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) program. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working hard on creating a special radar system called the High Power Radar (HPR) that can move around easily. This radar is meant to make the Indian Air Force (IAF) better at defending against attacks from the air.The HPR is a vital part of the LRSAM program. It's a heavy piece of equipment, weighing 30 tons, with a huge antenna that's 10 meters by 6 meters. It can detect things like planes and missiles better than anything before. It will be carried on a special vehicle that can handle its weight and move at a speed of 20 kilometers per hour, even in tough areas.The goal of the LRSAM system is to protect against many different kinds of threats from the air, like hidden fighters, regular planes, missiles of different types, and drones. If everything goes as planned, this system will be able to cover an area of about 350 kilometers, which is a big improvement in how well India can guard its airspace.The project is called "Project Kusha," and it's still in the early stages. The IAF hopes to have the full LRSAM system ready to use by around 2028 or 2029. This shows that India is serious about building a strong defense using its own technology.The HPR's large antenna shows that it's really good at using radar. It's made to quickly find and stop many different kinds of threats from the air, including stealth planes, regular planes, missiles, precision-guided bombs, and drones.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 06:57:06
India
Defense News ,India :- Prime Minister Narendra Modi unequivocally condemned the recent terror assault in the Moscow region, extending India's unwavering support to the Russian government and its people during this distressing period.A large concert hall in the Moscow region fell victim to a vicious terrorist attack on Friday night, as assailants unleashed gunfire on the crowd, resulting in the tragic loss of more than 90 lives, with over 100 individuals sustaining injuries. The perpetrators further exacerbated the situation by setting fire to the venue, prompting heightened security measures in Moscow and adjacent areas, leading to the cancellation of mass gatherings.In a statement, Modi denounced the barbaric act, expressing heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. He reiterated India's solidarity with the Russian Federation, emphasizing the nation's steadfast commitment to stand by its ally in confronting such challenges.Earlier in the week, Modi had conveyed his congratulations to Russian President Vladimir Putin on his re-election. Subsequently, the two leaders engaged in a comprehensive discussion encompassing economic, energy, and connectivity initiatives, underscoring the robust counter-terrorism partnership shared between India and Russia.While reports have surfaced alleging the ISIS's claim of responsibility for the attack through social media channels, the Russian government has refrained from attributing the incident to any specific terrorist organization. However, Moscow has been alerting the international community about the potential role of ISIS in Eurasian regions, given its history of combatting the group's influence in Syria.Nevertheless, conflicting narratives have emerged, with some Russian security analysts implicating Ukraine or Ukrainian-extremist elements in the assault. Notably, Sergei Goncharov, a seasoned member of the Russian Alpha anti-terrorism unit, pointed fingers at Ukrainian military intelligence chief Kyrylo Budanov for orchestrating the attack. Conversely, an advisor to the Ukrainian Presidential Office, Mikhail Podolyak, denied any involvement from Kiev's end.Addressing the situation, Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) head Aleksandr Bortnikov briefed President Putin on the detention of eleven suspects linked to the Crocus City Hall attack.Amidst these developments, sources have suggested that Russian authorities investigate the potential influence of Pakistani radicals on the perpetrators of the terror strike. With a rising number of Pakistani nationals in Russia for educational or trade purposes, concerns have been raised regarding the presence of radical elements among them. Strengthening visa protocols and scrutinizing the socio-academic background of Pakistani visa applicants are proposed as essential measures to curb the proliferation of extremist ideologies within Russia.The swift condemnation and expressions of solidarity from Prime Minister Modi underscore India's commitment to global security and cooperation, as nations unite in the face of terrorism's grave threats.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 06:50:31
India
Defense News ,India :- India’s ability to watch over its skies and communicate effectively is about to get much better. Mira Aerospace, based in Abu Dhabi, and Indian startup VEDA Aeronautics are teaming up. They're working together to create advanced High-Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS) for the Indian Air Force (IAF).This partnership aims to bring a big change to how India keeps an eye on things from above. HAPS are special drones that use solar power and fly high in the sky, giving continuous surveillance over large areas. They are cheaper and more flexible than regular satellites and can stay up longer than typical drones.Mira Aerospace knows a lot about making these advanced drones, while VEDA Aeronautics is great at researching and developing new things. Together, they want to make HAPS that work especially well in Indian airspace.This partnership builds on a successful test flight done in India’s sky about a year ago. Dipesh Gupta, the boss at VEDA Aeronautics, sees huge possibilities for these drones, especially in line with the IAF's ‘Make in India’ effort.He predicts that at first, they'll need about 20-30 of these drones, each able to carry 20-30 kilograms of stuff. But as the Indian Navy and Coast Guard may also want them, they might end up needing 40-70 drones in the coming years.This project between India and the UAE to develop HAPS is a big step forward for India's defense and surveillance. It shows how important advanced drone technology is becoming in modern warfare and highlights India's dedication to making its own high-tech gear.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-24 06:42:26Search
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