Chindits

Annual Refit Conference – 2012 (ARC-12)

2012-01-31T13:21:00.000+05:30

Indo-Japan Coast Guard Meeting & Combined Exercises Conclude

2012-01-30T15:11:00.001+05:30

The visit of a high level Japanese delegation led by Admiral Hisayasu Suzuki, the Commandant, Japan Coast Guard (JCG), for the XI High Level Meeting and Combined Exercises with the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) concluded today. The five-day visit, was in pursuance of the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC), signed between the two Coast Guards on 24 November 2006, which stipulates that the heads of the two organizations meet alternately in India and Japan, to discuss maritime issues of mutual concerns and formulate a cooperative approach to address these.

The Memorandum of Cooperation between the two Coast Guards encompasses issues of maritime search and rescue, combating marine pollution, technical assistance for responding to natural disasters and exchange of information regarding crimes at sea, including smuggling and illicit trafficking.

The first ICG-JCG combined exercises were carried out in November 2000 off Chennai, in which one JCG ship participated and was overseen by a high level delegation of JCG, led by the then Commandant of JCG. This also laid the foundation for development of close interaction between the two organisations that included regular visits and exercises, sharing of information and expertise and training visits.

During the 11th ICG-JCG High Level discussions, it was mutually agreed to strengthen the cooperation on evolving collaborative approach, in addressing a spectrum of maritime issues concerning safety and security. The visit was also very significant in providing renewed impetus to strong ties that exist between the two Coast Guards as the Japan Coast Guard Ship has visited India, after a gap of six years, for the combined exercises with the ICG off Chennai.

A delegation from the Information Sharing Centre, Singapore established under the Regional Cooperation Agreement on Combating Piracy and Armed Robbery against Ships in Asia (ReCAAP) also participated in the exercise. This was significant in furthering the interaction among the participating agencies on anti-piracy issues.

DPR

Coast Guard Chopper Bids Delayed

2012-01-30T14:45:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Best Marching Contingent R Day Parade-2012 Awards----IAF & BSF

2012-01-28T18:12:00.000+05:30

DPR

INS Sudarshini Sail Training Ship Commissioned Today

2012-01-27T15:37:00.000+05:30

Engine Failure Halts Naval Tableau Vehicle Mid-way Rajpath At RD Parade!!

2012-01-27T13:42:00.003+05:30

Luckily it happened after it had crossed over the VVIP dias. The naval tableau vehicle stopped mid-way, and the contingent halted and began marching-on-the-spot. Probable reason given is engine failure, but it was embarrassing, as the vehicle had to be dragged out of the way. Inquiry most probably coming, with contingent commander and other officers to be blamed!

Italian Air Force Eurofighter In Air-To-Air Refuelling Mission

2012-01-26T20:39:00.001+05:30

In this picture, taken during one of those missions in January 2012, four Aeronautica Militare (Italian Air Force) Typhoons (three single seat and a twin seater), belonging to the 4° Stormo (Wing) based at Grosseto airbase, refuel from a KC-130J of the 46^ Brigata Aerea (Air Brigade) from Pisa.

Cassidian

Pix : Republic Day

2012-01-26T15:15:00.003+05:30

DPR

Nation Celebrates 63rd Republic Day

2012-01-26T13:44:00.002+05:30

DPR

10th Flight Of Lakshya-II PTA

2012-01-25T21:26:00.002+05:30

Flying at sea skimming height of about 15 meters at DRDO’s test range near Balasore, Lakshya-II the advanced version of DRDO’s Pilotless Target Aircraft today demonstrated its full capability. In a flight lasting over 30 minutes, it was made to dive down from an altitude of around 800 m to just 12 m and maintained required altitude for the specified time before demonstrating auto climb-out. The entire flight was pre-programed and was totally successful. It demonstrated various technologies and sub-systems including software correction to auto rudder scheme done to prevent loss of mission, engaging and flying in way point navigation mode while carrying 2 tow targets. During the flight one of the tow targets was released and the other was deployed while way point navigation was on. This was the 10^th flight of Lakshya-II PTA and this was the first time that the ultimate capability of the Lakshya-II, was demonstrated achieving all the user’s objectives. Lakshya-II has been designed and developed by the Bangalore base Aeronautical Development Establishment, a premiere DRDO lab specializing in UAVs and flight control systems.
DPR

130 Helicopter Unit Launches Fresh Rescue Operation In Snow Bound Remotest Part Of J&K

2012-01-25T21:00:00.006+05:30

130 Helicopter Unit under the leadership of Wg Cdr Anurag Kumar of Air Force Station Jammu lunched a fresh rescue and relief operation in remotest part of Kishtwar region in J&K today morning. The synergized rescue operation between Civil Administration and Air Force was supervised by Air Commodore Nitin Sathe, AOC Air Force Station Jammu and Dr. Pawan Kotwal, Divisional Commissioner Jammu.

Though J&K Govt had already requested for airlift of stranded civilians in these region, the Jammu based Helicopter unit was on stand by for last few days due to blowing snow and poor visibility over the Natha Top and Patni Top region. “As soon as we got clearance, we immediately took off from Jammu air field early morning today to rescue these snow trapped civilians of Jammu & Kashmir” said Captain of the mission Wg Cdr Anurag Kumar.

Tehsildar, Kistwar, Inderjeet Singh told that approx 300 passenger are stranded in between Kistwar, Marwah, Nawapachi and Soundar region after snow fall started on 07 Jan 12. Nb Tehsilder Kishtwar Mr. Bhat told that civilians from remotest part of this region came for official job or medical treatment were stranded due to heavy snowfall. He also told that these all regions are connected by foot only. There is no vehicle communications. There are villages which takes 2-3 days by walking to reach those villages. So far, 108 civilians excluding children have been air lifted. He also told that the communication for these places are on foot only.

Braving cold waves and extremely chilly condition, in a dare devil rescue mission, Wg Cdr Anurag Kumar along with his crew members Flt Lt Ashim Momin, JWO Nautiyal and Sgt MK Sharma rescued these snow trapped civilians to bring a sigh of relief and smile on their face. The visibility was very low and it was snowing in Nawapachi during first landing. The temp was also chilling with minus 5-6 degree centigrade.

After rescuing 108 civilians and 13 children the operation was suspended due to severe blowing snow in Nawapachi, Inchan area in Kishtwar. The pilots were waiting for weather clearance.

Md Abbas of Marwah and Hasina Banu of Nawapachi who also been airlifted by AF along with their children and family said “ We were stranded here for two weeks. We had to go to Kishtwar for treatment, but everything was closed. Every Year we faced these problem but Air Force Helicopter is always reach us as an angel to rescue us.” The other stranded civilians also thanked the civil Administration for their safe transit. The unit motto of 130 Helicopter Unit is COUNT ON US –who are always with the people of J&K.

DPR

Video : F-35 Performs First Night Flight

2012-01-25T16:45:00.000+05:30

Photos : Western Army Command Banner

2012-01-25T16:09:00.000+05:30

DPR

Gallantry Award Winners-2012

2012-01-25T13:33:00.002+05:30

The 63rd Republic Day celebrations at Rajpath will commence with the Nation’s highest peacetime Gallantry award, ‘Ashok Chakra’ being conferred posthumously to Lieutenant Navdeep Singh of the Indian Army by the Honourable President, Smt Pratibha Devisingh Patil, on behalf of a grateful Nation.

Lieutenant Navdeep Singh, unhesitatingly sacrificed his young life in the service of the Nation, on 20th August 2011, in a fierce anti-infiltration operations on the Line of Control, in the remote Gurez Sector of North Kashmir.

Lieutenant Navdeep, a third generation soldier and an alumnus of the Officers Training Academy, Chennai, was commissioned on 19th March 2011. A born leader, Navdeep’s intrinsic talent and raw fighting spirit soon shone through with his Battalion entrusting him with the coveted leadership of its crack Commando Platoon, which he trained and honed into a superbly fit fighting unit. Raring to go and seeking challenges at every step, Navdeep was deployed with his crack team to destroy infiltration attempts by hardcore terrorists from across the Line of Control.

On the fateful night of 19th August 2011, Lieutenant Navdeep Singh and his Commando Platoon were deployed in the Kanzalwan Sub Sector in response to intelligence inputs about a desperate bid by a large group of highly trained terrorists, fully equipped and armed to the teeth with deadly weapons. Leading from the front and demonstrating the highest standards of tactical acumen, field craft and fire control, this brave heart quickly sited his ambush, correctly appreciating the path that the terrorists would adopt. In a display of sheer unbridled courage coupled with steely grit, Navdeep allowed the unsuspecting terrorists to walk into his trap. Springing his ambush at the last moment, Navdeep singlehandedly engaged and eliminated three hardcore terrorists from close range. Despite being hit and severely injured in the violent return fire, Navdeep, continued to control the encounter, marshalling his resources with cool presence of mind. Living upto the highest military ideals, despite being grievously injured, he saved the life of his buddy while gunning down a fourth terrorist, before eventually succumbing to his injuries. His gallant action resulted in his team eliminating twelve hardcore terrorists in one of the fiercest encounters on the Line of Control, dealing a crippling body blow to the terrorist groups.

The Nation and the Armed Forces fraternity stands as one to salute this young Lion, as his outstanding deed of courage is proudly acknowledged. Honorary Captain (Retired) Joginder Singh, his proud father will receive the ASHOK CHAKRA, on Late Lieutenant Navdeep’s behalf, with fierce pride and aplomb, representing his entire family. An accomplished veteran Bengal Sapper with distinguished service following in the footsteps of Navdeep’s grandfather who served in 8 SIKH, Honorary Captain (Retired) Joginder Singh, will represent a very proud set of relatives, friends and fellow brothers in Uniform, many with a wistful tear and a prayer of resolve, as he steps up to the dais amidst thunderous applause. Navdeep’s mother, Mrs Jagtinder Kaur, the fountainhead of pride, courage and strong sense of values that run through the family and fully epitomized by her favourite son, will solemnly accept this ultimate Honour, with a silent prayer on her lips. Lieutenant Navdeep’s younger brother, Sandeep, an aspiring Engineer and his doting sister, Navjot Kaur, both unabashedly proud of his achievements, stand tall with a firm resolve clearly reflecting the ‘go getter’ spirit all pervasive in the family.

Capt Ashutosh Kumar, 5 Raj Rif
Based on receipt of specific info from own and police sources about the presence of armed cadres of terrorists in general area Rangpisso Gaon, a joint search operation was launched under the officer with strength of one JCO and 15 ORs alongwith a police team. At 4.30 am, while own troops were cordoning the village; move of suspected individuals was noticed. On being challenged, the individuals started firing indiscriminately. He closed on to the terrorists making use of thick foliage and despite being under heavy effective fire, fired at the terrorists, killing one of them and injuring another who later succumbed to his injuries. The rest of the terrorists panicked and tried to escape while spraying heavy volume of bullets towards own troops. Determined not to let the fleeing terrorists escape, the officer ordered his troops to change position and pursue the escaping terrorists that led to the killing of one more terrorist by his party while apprehending one cadre alive. Arms and Ammunition, money and other war like stores were recovered from the slain terrorists.
In the face of extreme adversity, inhospitable terrain, and stringent human rights regulations, the officer displayed utmost physical courage killing two dreaded terrorists included Commander. In addition, the officer displayed inspiring leadership and utmost tactical acumen in executing the operation leading to the killing of another terrorists and apprehending one alive, ensuring no collateral damage. This act of the officer is testimony to his dauntless courage, determination and professionalism for which Capt Ashutosh Kumar has been awarded ‘KIRTI CHAKRA’.

Lieutenant Colonel Kamaldeep Singh, 18 RR Bn, originally 13 Raj Rif, was mission commander for Op Maidanpura on 15 July 2011. On receipt of hard intelligence of presence of five hardcore terrorists in the area in Dist Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir, the officer, at 10.50 pm led five quick reaction teams and established cordon of target house. After confirmation of presence of terrorists, he tightened the cordon with another 17 quick reaction team members, thereby sealing all possible exit routes and evacuated five civilians held hostage. While under fire, he readjusted his cordon parties to effectively engage the terrorists leading to immediate elimination of two terrorists. The officer while in close cordon sited a terrorist bringing down heavy fire onto the cordon party. The officer while controlling the operation himself maneuvered to an advantageous position through deft battle craft, eliminated one hard core terrorist and seriously decapacitated another. In an operation lasting over two days, he displayed absolute calmness, exemplary tactical acumen, and motivated his troops leading by personal example.
For his professional acumen, astute leadership, indomitable courage and personal bravery which led to elimination of five hardcore terrorists, Lieutenant Colonel Kamaldeep Singh is awarded ‘KIRTI CHAKRA’.

Lt Sushil Khajuria, 18 Grenadiers, while leading his team in a search operation in the main area in District Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir came face to face with two terrorists. Displaying exceptional presence of mind he opened fire on them allowing his team to take cover. In the prolonged fire fight, the officer advanced from cover to cover and with unflinching resoluteness and raw courage, closed in and eliminated the terrorist from close range. The other terrorist brought down intense fire on the team. Sensing danger, the officer exhibiting conspicuous bravery of highest order immediately engaged and forced the terrorist to retreat. He pursued the terrorist, using the difficult folds in the ground, approached from an unexpected direction and personally eliminated the second terrorist. The officer, displaying exceptional sence of responsibility and camaraderie as a true leader unmindful of his personal safety immediately crawled forward to evacuate one of his injured colleague upholding the highest traditions of the Indian Army. For his act of conspicuous gallantry, exceptional leadership and camaraderie in the highest traditions of Army, Lt Sushil Khajuria has been awarded ‘KIRTI CHAKRA (POSTHUMOUS)’. Lieutenant Sushil Khajuria was born on 28 Aug 1985 at Samba (J&K). He completed his schooling from KV No 1 Gandhi Nagar, Jammu. Om completion of his graduation he joined OTA. On 20 Mar 2010 he was commissioned in ASC on attachment to The 18th Battalion The GRENADIERS Regiment. A second generation officer whose elder brother Capt Anil Khajuria is presently serving with 22 Assam Rifles and also has a younger sister.
Lt Sushil Khajuria joined the unit at Panzgam on 14 Apr 2010. He was the Ghatak Platoon Commander from the beginning and soon he was in the thick of the action and was conducting counter terrorist operations in treacherous mountainous terrain in the frontiers of District Kupwara Jammu and Kashmir. His first real encounter was on 29 July 2011, where he gave an excellent account of himself and the battalion was successful in neutralising one hardcore terrorist.
On 26 Sep 2011, based on specific input by higher formation headquarters and neighbouring formation regarding presence of an infiltration column of approx 5-6 terrorists in the general area Kopra, teams were launched to search and destroy the terrorists. Lieutenant Sushil Khajuria was leading his team in a rugged and difficult terrain with steep slopes and thick undergrowth. Simultaneously, he was also coordinating his move with other four teams, who were carrying out search. While carrying out search of a nalas, he alongwith his team came under heavy volume of fire. His buddy was pinned down by accurate fire from the terrorists. Realising that the terrorists were entrenched in an advantageous position behind a big rock, he crawled through thick foliage to a flank and spotted the terrorists under covering fire from his team.

Unmindful of his personal safety, he charged at the terrorists up slope killing two of them. Officer continued leading from the front. The operation resumed on 27 Sep 2011, another team whose leading scout was Havildar Ravi Kumar got shot by the terrorists at approx 10.30 hrs am and was severely injured. Havildar Ravi Kumar could not move and was effectively covered by fire by the terrorist. Lieutenant Sushil Khajuria volunteered to retrieve injured Havildar Ravi Kumar. He risked himself to move from his present location to retrieve Havildar Ravi. While crawling towards Havildar, Lieutenant Sushil Khajuria was fired upon by a terrorist and was injured. He later succumbed to his injuries and achieved martyrdom. A true “ Braveheart” who will always remain in our hearts.

DPR-Army

Photos : Beating Retreat Rehearsals

2012-01-24T21:20:00.001+05:30

Photos : Pradip Dasgupta-DPR

Austrian Eurofighter On Duty During World Economic Forum In Davos

2012-01-24T15:20:00.001+05:30

From the 24th to the 29th January, Austrian Eurofighter Typhoons will again protect the skies over the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The operation known as “Daedalus 12” will see four Austrian Eurofighters deployed to protect the area in a temporary no-fly zone over Western Austria and Davos in particular. The Eurofighter will work alongside Austrian Air Force turboprop PC-7 trainers and OH-58 Kiowa helicopters protecting the skies against potential ‘slow moving aerial threats’ for the duration of the Forum.

This task, in full coordination with the Swiss authorities, demonstrates the perfect interoperability of the Alpine Air defence system and builds on the successful experience gained from previous operations including the Euro 2008 football championships in Austria and Switzerland as well as the World Economic Forum meetings in Davos in 2011.

Cassidian

DRDO – DU MOU For Enhanced Academic Interaction And R&D Collaboration

2012-01-24T15:11:00.001+05:30

DRDO

Pix : DRDO RD Parade Contingent

2012-01-23T18:02:00.002+05:30

DPR-DRDO

Wants Harmonisation, Re-conciliation Of Records, Not Correction Of DoB!!

2012-01-23T15:50:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

DRDO Contingent In RD Parade To Showcase Agni-4!!

2012-01-23T15:27:00.002+05:30

The DRDO contingent in the Republic Day Parade this year, commanded by Lt. Col V S Thapa, showcasing three of its latest products, accompanied by a tableau depicting innovative technologies for handling hazards of snow and avalanches, is symbolic of DRDO’s contributions to nation building and self-reliance in critical defence technologies through science and innovation.

Agni 4, the most potent and technologically advanced among India’s strategic arsenal, adds a new dimension to country’s capabilities in terms of strategic deterrence for peace and security. Capable of being launched from a self contained road mobile launcher from anywhere in the country, the two-stage Surface-to-surface missile with solid-propulsion can reach targets over 3000 km away. A quantum leap in indigenous technology, Agni 4 incorporates Composite Rocket motor casing, highly accurate guidance and navigation system, modern and compact avionics, digital control system and many other contemporary and advanced technologies making it comparable to the best in the world.

Prahar missile is an another marvel of technology recently developed by DRDO for national security. It is a Tactical Battlefield support high speed Missile based on solid propulsion and is equipped with high precision inertial Navigation System giving it capability to hit targets around 150 kms away with pin point accuracy. The missile is mounted on a road mobile launcher, carries significant payload and can be equipped with a variety of warheads. Each high mobility launcher carries six missiles; Multiple launchers can be interlinked to deliver a near simultaneous Multi Axis Attack on the target with devastating effect. With its long range, high accuracy and short reaction time, 'Prahaar', would be an invaluable addition to the Arsenal of Armed Forces.

Rustom - 1 is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) that takes-off and lands like a conventional aircraft. External pilot standing close to the runway exercises the take-off and landing of the UAV and hands over the control to the internal pilot, operating from the ground control station, for carrying out rest of the mission. Payload operator controls the various payloads from ground control station to capture essential video pictures and data. Rustom - 1 can fly for 12 - 15 hours, at speeds upto 250 km/hr. Rusom- 1 is intended to be used for surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, fire correction and battlefield damage assessment. Three armed forces and internal security organizations like State Police Forces, BSF, CRPF and Coast Guards, are the prospective users of Rustom – 1.

Tableau showcasing snow & avalanche hazards & their mitigation schemes developed by SASE- In the inhospitable snow-bound avalanche-prone mountainous areas of Indian Himalaya, our Jawans keep constant vigil to ensure no attempt of intrusion is made by our enemies. To facilitate our troops perform this task with ease, Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment, a DRDO laboratory at Manali ensures safe mobility and living of our troops by issuing timely avalanche and weather forecast and controls avalanches to safeguard the facilities created in the region. Using remote sensing data such as satellite imageries and a network of manual and automatic weather stations established all across Northwest and Central Himalayas, SASE issues accurate avalanche and weather advisories based on various models developed by them. They also train soldiers performing duty in these areas, on avalanche safety and rescue methods. SASE is thus known as 'Saviours of Cold Regions'.

The DRDO contingent this year commanded by Lt. Col V S Thapa, a 4th generation officer from the Regiment of Artillery was commissioned from the officers Training Academy on 25 Aug 1990 and is certified as External Pilot from IAI, Malat, Israel. He was awarded the commendation card by GOC–in–C Eastern Command for outstanding achievements during OP “Hifazat” in the year 2008 and 2010. He also received Unit citation from GOC-in-C Eastern Command in 2010 during his command of UAV Troop. The officer is presently posted as External Test Pilot to ADE, Bangalore, a premier DRDO laboratory. He was awarded the Commendation certificate by Director, ADE in Jan 2011for conventionally flying India’s first successful maiden flight of Rustom-1 UAV on 16 Oct 2010.

DRDO is the R&D wing of the Ministry of Defence, with a vision to empower India with cutting-edge defence technologies by achieving self-reliance in critical defence technologies and systems, by indigenisation and innovation, while equipping the armed forces with state-of-the-art weapon systems and equipment. Dr DS Kothari, the eminent scientist and educationist was the first to head the Organization which has been led over the years by illuminati of the caliber of Dr APJ Kalam our former President. The current head of the organisation is Dr. Vijay Kumar Saraswat. The Fifty two DRDO laboratories, based on their core-competence, are classified into to nine clusters namely, Aeronautics, Armaments, Combat Vehicles and Engineering, Electronics and Computer Sciences, Materials, Missiles and Strategic Systems, Micro Electronics & Devices, Naval Research and Development, and Life Sciences. Devoted to innovation and excellence, the DRDO remains committed to make India strong and self-reliant. It has led to the design, development and productionization of world class weapon systems, equipment, and complex technologies associated with such systems. These include Strategic and tactical missiles, Combat aircrafts and Aeronautical systems, unmanned aerial vehicles, Combat vehicles, armaments and ammunition, Radars, Electro-optic and acoustic sensors, Electronic warfare systems, Life support systems and Materials. The production value of major DRDO systems inducted into Services during the last decade stands at over Rs 120,000 crores.

IAF Carries Out Its Biggest Peacetime Rescue & Relief Ops In Snow-capped J&K!

2012-01-21T20:51:00.004+05:30

IAF's one of the biggest peace-time day-night rescue and relief operations for the stranded civilians of J&K in recent years started with ferrying of over 1,100 people, including ladies and children in the snow-bound Kashmir Valley, which remained cut off since 07 Jan 2012 today.

" On the request of Jammu and Kashmir Government, Indian Air Force, launched rescue and relief operation in snow-hit Jammu and Kashmir since today morning, and has successfully conducting its night-long operations carrying over men and material to Kashmir," Air Commodore Nitin Sathe, Air Officer Commanding of Air Force Station Jammu said today to the reporters at Technical Air port Jammu.

"In the first-ever massive relief operation in this year, we had several sorties of IL-76 and AN-32 aircrafts to ferry men and material to Kashmir," he said. “ We are happy that our main aim has fulfilled as every passengers went home safely” he added.

"Our choppers flew over various avalanche-hit areas to drop essential commodities to the people on 09, 13 and 17 Jan 2012," the AOC said.

Dr Pawan Kotwal, Div Com of Jammu Division who was personnaly supervising the administrative measures in the technical airport said “ we have given preference to those who are stranded for a long time and ladies and children”. He also told that if requires more rescue sorties will be organized. He also thanked the Air Force for prompt action at their end.

DPR-IAF

IAF Participation In Republic Day 2012

2012-01-21T15:33:00.003+05:30

IAF TABLEAU SHOWCASING ‘PEOPLE FIRST MISSION ALWAYS’

The IAF Tableau showcases the men from our special forces and special operations capabilities of the Indian Air Force. We have the C-130J Super Hercules the World’s most advanced and tactical aircraft. The Aircraft has already demonstrated its responsiveness during the recent Sikkim earthquake where it undertook relief operations within three hours. Also on the tableau is the latest acquisition in the IAF-Mi-17 V5 Helicopter. This multipurpose Helicopter is intended for airlift of Special Forces to combat area , both by day and night. These two platforms will cater to the need of joint operation with Army Commandos, Marine Commandos, IAF’s Garuds and NSG Commandos.

RD MARCHING CONTINGENT

The IAF Marching contingent comprises of 4 officers and 144 Airmen. The Contingent will commanded by Flt Lt Sneha Shekhawat and will be followed by 3 supernumerary officers. The Air Force contingent will marches abreast in 12 by 12 formation.

IAF BAND

The IAF Band consists of 72 musicians and three drum majors. The Band will be led by Sergeant M Thakur , Drum Major. The Band will will play the tune ‘Air Battle’ especially selected for the occasion in front of the Dias.

I Am Sorry And Sad Over Gen Singh's Age Issue: Antony

2012-01-20T18:03:00.000+05:30

DPR

Indian Navy Gets Ready For Republic Day Parade

2012-01-20T17:55:00.002+05:30

The Naval contingent and tableau for the 63rd Republic Day Parade was presented to the media today by Commodore Atul Kumar, Principal Director Personnel Services of the Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Navy).

The Naval contingent consists of 144 men and women in the traditional Black winter uniforms replete with brass buttons polished to a golden sheen, boots impeccably polished and contrasting strikingly with sparkling white anklets. The contingent commanded by Lt Cdr K Manikandan, will also have three Platoon Commanders of the rank of Lieutenant. The contingent comprises men drawn from ships and establishments across the country. Men who by training are variously gunners, submariners, anti submarine warriors, radar plotters, signalmen, engineers and logisticians have been training for over four
months and have been practicing marching down the Rajpath for over a month.

The marching contingent is supported by the Indian Naval Brass Band comprising 81 musicians led by Ramesh Chand Katoch, Master Chief Petty Officer, Musician First Class. It is particularly noteworthy that MCPO Ramesh Chand is participating in the RD parade for the 25th year in succession and has been leading the band for the last fourteen years.

In keeping with the theme for 2012 'Safe Seas and Secure Coasts for a Strong Nation', the Naval tableau showcases the multidimensional aspect of the Indian Navy engaged in ensuring safe seas in our region
besides securing India's long coast line.

On the trailer are the models of the 'Delhi' Class guided missile Destroyer, IL-38 (Sea Dragon) Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft and a UAV positioned atop a globe showing Indian Ocean Region, indicative of the global reach of the Indian Navy.

On the tractor is a model of the recently inducted Fast Interceptor Craft giving requisite boost to the coastal security and a Sea-king helicopter which acts as a force multiolier both at sea against pirates and securing India's long coastline.

Maintaining a ship continuously on patrol in the Gulf of Aden since October 2008, the Indian Navy has safely escorted over 1900 ships with over 400 indian ships. The Indian Navy also thwarted over 40 piracy attempts. In response to piracy incidents in the Eastern Arabian Sea,
the Indian Navy maintained additional patrolling in SLOCs in Eastern Arabian sea ensuring no piracy incidents in these waters in the for
months.

IN Ships have sailed extensively across the Indian Ocean Region and have in addition operated in the Pacific Ocean and Mediterranian Sea. The Indian Navy has also provided assistance as sought by IOR
littorals such as Seychelles, Mauritius and Maldives in maintaining EEZ patrols in their waters.

DPR-Navy

Indian Coast Guard Ship Rani Abbakka Commissioned

2012-01-20T16:37:00.003+05:30

The Indian Coast Guard Ship Rani Abbakka, the 1st of a series of five Inshore Patrol Vessel (IPV) built at M/s HSL, was commissioned at Visakhapatnam by Minister of State for Defence Dr. MM Pallam Raju today in the presence of Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief (East), Vice Admiral MP Muralidharan, Director General Indian Coast Guard and other senior dignitaries of the Central and State Govt. The ship is named after Abbakka Mahadevi, the legendary queen of Tulunadu, Karnataka who fought the Portuguese in the latter half of the 16th century. She was also one of the earliest Indians to fight the colonial powers and is sometimes regarded as the 'First Woman Freedom Fighter of India'.

The 50 M Inshore Patrol Vessel, ICGS Rani Abbakka, the first of its class has been designed and built indigenously by M/s Hindustan Shipyard Limited, Visakhapatnam. The ship, which is equipped with the most advanced and sophisticated navigational and communication sensors and equipment. The ship is propelled by three MTU 4000 series Diesel engines of 2720 KW capacity at 2100 rpm each coupled with three 71S II Rolls Royce Jets to a maximum speed of 31.5 Knots. At economical speed of 14 Knots, it has an endurance of 1500 nautical miles. The special features of the ship include an Integrated Bridge System (IBS), Machinery Control System (IMCS), and an indigenously built Gun Mount with Fire Control System. The ship is designed to carry one Rigid Inflatable Boat and two Geminis for Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement and Maritime Patrol.

ICGS “Rani Abbakka”, manned by 05 officers and 34 men under the Command of Commandant C Vivekananda, will be based at Chennai and will be under administrative and operational control of the Commander, Coast Guard Region (East).

The ship on joining the Coast Guard Fleet will enhance Coast Guard’s capability in furthering its mandate of Maritime Safety, Maritime Security, Environmental Protection and Coastal Security on the Eastern Sea board.

ICG

Lockheed Martin F-35A Performs First Night Flight

2012-01-20T14:31:00.001+05:30

The first night flight in the history of the Lockheed Martin F-35 Program was completed Wednesday at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. Piloted by Lockheed Martin Test Pilot Mark Ward, AF-6, an F-35A conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) variant, launched at 5:05 p.m. PST and landed after sunset at 6:22 p.m. The mission consisted of a series of straight in approaches in twilight and darkness. The pilot also performed an evaluation of the F-35’s cockpit lighting which Ward called, “the best he’s ever seen.” The testing will clear the way for night refueling and formation testing later this year.

Supreme Court Dismisses PIL On Army Chief's Age!!!

2012-01-20T14:30:00.001+05:30

Not Army Chief, But Vice Chief Of Army Conducts Deputy PM Of Nepal!!

2012-01-18T17:32:00.002+05:30

That is Lt Gen S K Singh, Vice Chief Of Army Staff, smiling, maybe at the indication of things to come. Lets wait till Friday to see if he begins officiating, in the controversial chair!!
DPR

MoD Calls Army Chief Going To SC 'Unfortunate Development', 'Unhealthy Precedent' !!

2012-01-18T15:26:00.003+05:30

More Than 50% Capital Acqusition Budget To Be Surrendered Back By Indian Army!

2012-01-17T14:26:00.002+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Was Just Waiting For Army Day To Get Over, Army Chief Goes To Supreme Court Challenging MoD's Decision On His Age!!

2012-01-16T19:32:00.001+05:30

CNS Visits NCC Camp

2012-01-16T17:12:00.000+05:30

DPR

First Production Model F-35B Delivered To The Marine Corps

2012-01-14T14:36:00.002+05:30

BF-6, the first F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing (STOVL) production jet delivered to the U.S. Marine Corps, arrives at its new assignment with the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing's Marine Fighter/Attack Training Squadron 501 at Eglin AFB, Fla. The 5^th Generation fighter jet, piloted by U.S. Marine Corps pilot Maj. Joseph Bachmann, touched down on Florida’s Emerald Coast at 3:13 p.m. CST after a 90-minute ferry flight. It was followed by BF-8 which landed at 4:39 p.m. CST piloted by U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Matt Taylor. BF-6 and BF-8 are the first F-35s delivered to the base in 2012 and the seventh and eighth F-35 now stationed there. The aircraft will be used for pilot and maintainer training at the base’s new F-35 Integrated Training Center. (photo by Angel DelCueto).

Chief Ducks Age Bullets At Annual Presser, Says Tackled Issue In Organisational Interest, Doesn't Rule out Resigning in Protest!!

2012-01-12T18:29:00.003+05:30

Air Chief Visits South Western Air Command

2012-01-11T22:29:00.001+05:30

DPR

Photos : Republic Day Rehearsal

2012-01-11T15:01:00.003+05:30

DPR

Air Chief Visits Jodhpur, Army Chief Goes To NCC Parade!

2012-01-11T00:02:00.002+05:30

DPR

Army Chief's Age!!

2012-01-10T12:58:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Marshal Of The Indian Air Force Visits NCC Republic Day Camp Meets Cadets

2012-01-07T18:26:00.002+05:30

DPR

Flash : CCS Clears Mica Missile Contract!!

2012-01-04T16:52:00.002+05:30

MHA's Coastal Security Boat Deal Courts Controversy!

2012-01-03T15:30:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

248th AMC Corps Day

2012-01-01T23:44:00.000+05:30

DPR

New Year Message To IAF From Chief Of Air Staff

2012-01-01T12:34:00.003+05:30

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne, has sent a message of support and best wishes to all the Air Warriors, Non-Combatant(Enrolled) personnel, Defence Security Corps personnel, Civilians and their families for the New Year – 2012.

Praising his men and women in uniform for their professional calibre, achievements, commitment and wishing them continued success in all their endeavours, the Air Chief said, “Over the past one year, the IAF has taken confident strides on the path of transforming itself into a multi-spectrum force, fully capable of addressing India’s future security concerns. Our speedy operationalisation of AWACS and C-130J fleet, commitment in supporting our surface forces both during the Anti-Naxal operations and sustained air maintenance operations in the North and East, highlights the professional calibre of our air warriors. The nation has also gratefully acknowledged our promptness in undertaking relief missions during Orissa floods and Sikkim earthquake as well in evacuating our distressed countrymen from Libya. Our ongoing procurement projects have also progressed substantially and we would see many new value additions in our inventory in the coming year. All these achievements are a true reflection of the foresight, tenacity and commitment of our air warriors. We need to continue maintaining this proactive approach in all our future endeavors as well.”

“Operationalisation of the newly inducted systems, speedy development of our operational infrastructure and integration of new capabilities in our overall operational employment matrix would require our undivided attention and commitment. The ever changing complexion of our security and operational environment will also place greater demands on our leadership at all levels. I am extremely confident that our air warriors are fully capable of meeting these new challenges.”

“While inducting new hardware, we need to constantly remind ourselves that the real enablers and drivers of our transformation process – Our People – always remain our highest priority. Therefore, a holistic approach to team building, which includes looking after their training, mentoring, counseling as well as personal needs, will have to be addressed.”

“Our vision – ‘People First, Mission Always’ should therefore guide all our actions. Our daily mission, that is the task assigned to each one of us, must be accomplished with utmost commitment. While doing so, we also need to make a conscious effort of raising our standards a notch higher. Only if all of us do this consciously, we will be able to take the IAF to a higher level of performance.”

“I am fully confident that we will approach the challenges of the year ahead, as a capable, motivated and committed team and use these challenges as opportunities to grow."

DPR-IAF

Army Chief Born In 1950, Says MoD, Issues Release Orders To Chief Prior To Retirement!

2011-12-30T19:49:00.001+05:30

Flash : New Year Not So Good For Army Chief : MoD Rejects Age Stat Complaint!! Def Sec Makes It Ego Issue!

2011-12-30T19:35:00.004+05:30

Finally, Army Chief was born in 1950! Sir, happy new year!

248th AMC Anniversary

2011-12-30T18:17:00.001+05:30

DPR

Army Chief--RO At IAF PoP

2011-12-29T18:29:00.001+05:30

A total of 175 Flight Cadets including 30 Women Flight Cadets passed out of the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad, as newly commissioned officers to join the Indian Air Force in respective branches today.

General VK Singh, Chief of the Army Staff was the Reviewing Officer for the Combined Graduation Parade which marked the culmination of basic as well as professional training of the flight cadets, who underwent training at Air Force Academy Dundigal, Hyderabad, Air Force Administrative College, Coimbatore, Air Force Station Hakimpet , Air Force Station Yehlanka and Air Force Station Begumpet.

In his address to the newly commissioned officers, General VK Singh, impressed upon building up of intrinsic qualities of leadership, by placing the highest value to honor, integrity and selflessness. He exhorted the newly commissioned officers to place the interest of the country, the service and subordinates before one’s own, always and every time He also emphasized on transcending all ethnic, religious and regional differences in order to promote a stronger India through an integrated approach.

Flying Officer Varun Agarwal, who commanded the parade, was awarded the President’s Plaque and Chief of Air Staff ‘Sword of Honour ’ for standing first in overall order of merit in Pilot Course. Flying Officer Kamal Kumar Mishra was awarded the President’s Plaque for standing first in overall order of merit in Ground Duties Branch. Flying Officer Prasun Kumar Singh was awarded the President’s Plaque for standing first in overall order of merit in Navigation Branch.

The Parade also saw the participation of Air Warrior Drill Team which thrilled the audience by its smart and synchronized drill movements. There was a traditional fly past by Hawk, AN-32, Dornier and Kiran aircraft. An exhilarating and outstanding low level aerobatic display by SU-30 aircraft, kept the audience spell-bound. A breath taking dare devil display by Akashganga paratroopers was appreciated by one and all. A large number of retired and serving defence officers, civilian dignitaries, service personnel and their families witnessed the grand parade.

General VK Singh had arrived at Air Force Academy on 28 Dec 11 and was received by Air Marshal D Kukreja, Air Officer Commanding- in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal PR Sharma, Commandant, Air Force Academy. He attended a ceremonial Guest Night with passing out Flight Cadets and their parents wherein he awarded the trophies and medals to the cadets who excelled in their respective branches, as has been the custom.

DPR

Lockheed Draws Up 6th Generation Pilot-less Fighter!!!

2011-12-29T11:01:00.002+05:30

2012 Calender
Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

IAF's Paramotor Team Flagged-In!!

2011-12-28T17:52:00.001+05:30

A Flag-in ceremony presided over byAir Marshal JN Burma, Air Officer in-charge Administration was held atDirectorate of Adventure, Air Force Station, Race Course to welcome the teamwhich covered 55 Kms on Paramotor from Mundra to Jamnagar crossing Bay of Kutchon 18 Dec 2011.

This extraordinary feet in Aerosports setsa new service record as the previous one was Army’s 12 Km flight in AgatiIslands, Lakshadweep.

The attempt was undertaken by an avidaero sportsman Wing Commander Ramakant of the Directorate of Air ForceAdventure along with supporting crew of Sergeant Yadav and Corporal RamMehar. Wing Commander Ramakant is aqualified instructor on Powered Hand Glider, Paramotor, Paraglider andParasailing and holds 02 National records in Powered Hang Gliding and has alsobeen awarded the “Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award 2008” for hisoutstanding achievements in the Field of Aero Sports.

DPR IAF

Casualty Evacuation By Navy – 27 Dec 2011

2011-12-28T16:38:00.001+05:30

At about 1830 hrs on 26 Dec 11, the MOC of Navy at Mumbai received a FAX regarding a casuality onboard MT Seeb, an Iranian oil tanker, VLCC, which was enroute to China. One of the crew members (Mr Armmaad Malik, age 30 years) was suffering from acute abdominal pain with traces of blood in urine.

On receipt of the FAX, the vessel was contacted, the status of the patient was telephonically checked by a doctor on duty and the condition was diagnosed as Haemuteria and the status of the patient was found to be stable. .The ship was about 210 nautical miles from Mumbai and was directed to alter course and head towards Mumbai.

A Sea King helicopter from INS Shikra was launched for casuality evacuation with first light on 27 Dec. The patient along with an escort from the ship was air lifted to Shikra and thereafter transferred to the Naval Hospital Asvini for urgent medical attention.

DPR-Navy

Project 971---Nerpa K-152 Ready For India Transfer : Ria Novosti

2011-12-28T16:25:00.001+05:30

Russia’s Nerpa nuclear submarine has finished sea trials and is now ready to be leased to the Indian navy in the next few days, an engineer said on Wednesday.

“The submarine is now fully ready to carry out its tasks,” a senior executive at the Amur Shipyard, where the submarine was built, told RIA Novosti. “It will be handed over before the end of the year.”

When Russia makes the delivery, it will make India only the sixth operator of nuclear submarines in the world. Earlier this month, it launched the first of its own nuclear submarines.

The ten-year lease is worth $920 milion.

The Nerpa, an Akula II-class attack submarine, had originally been scheduled for delivery in 2008 but an accident earlier that year forced the Russian authorities to put it on hold.

Twenty people, mostly civilians, were killed when a fire-suppressant gas was released on the Nerpa during shakedown trials, in one of Russia’s worst naval accidents.

Ria Novosti

India, Oman Extend MoU On Military Cooperation To 2015

2011-12-28T15:55:00.002+05:30

India and Oman have extended the validity of the existing bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Military Cooperation, signed in December 2005, for a further period of five years. The documents were signed by the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony and the visiting Minister Responsible for Defence Affairs of the Sultanate of Oman, His Excellency Badar bin Saud bin Harib al Busaidi here today.

Bilateral defence cooperation between India and Oman has been growing over the years. The Navies of both countries are conducting a joint exercise “Naseem Al Bahr off the coast of Mumbai from December 26-31, 2011. The IAF and the Royal Air Force of Oman held a joint exercise “Eastern Bridge” at Jamnagar, Gujarat in October earlier this year.

During the delegation level talks both sides noted that bilateral defence cooperation activities have been progressing satisfactorily. The 5th meeting of the India-Oman Joint Military Cooperation Committee was held recently in India in September, 2011.

Both the Ministers discussed important issues relating to regional and maritime security. Shri Antony noted that incidents of piracy were taking place close to the Oman coast and have also been spreading close to the Lakshadweep Islands. Both Ministers stressed the need for continued and concerted efforts of the world community to effectively address the problem.

Shri Antony conveyed that the visit of the Oman Defence Minister is an important step in continuing the dialogue on defence and security issues between the two countries.

The Indian delegation included the Defence Secretary Shri Shashikant Sharma and Chief of Integrated Staff to the Chief of Staff Committee (CISC) Vice Admiral Shekhar Sinha.

DPR

After Kochi, Western Naval Command Orders Inquiry Into Officers' Conduct!

2011-12-26T14:20:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Tejinder Handa Goes To Court Against Army Chief!

2011-12-26T14:18:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Photos : Indo-Thai Defence Dialogue

2011-12-23T16:48:00.000+05:30

DPR

Randon Pix : The World's Biggest Airplane -- The Russian Antonov 225.

2011-12-23T14:50:00.004+05:30

7TH DEF-EXPO TO BE HELD IN NEW DELHI FROM MARCH 29-APRIL 1, 2012

2011-12-22T15:50:00.001+05:30

The next DefExpo will be held in New Delhi from March 29-April 1, 2012. The 7th DefExpo-2012, billed to be the largest of its kind in Asia, is expected to be attended by official delegations from 90 countries. The biennial International Defence Exhibition on Land and Naval Systems is organized by the Department of Defence Production on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

The Def Expo is a hugely attractive event for global defence hardware manufacturers and suppliers. An Indoor Shell Scheme in DefExpo is available for foreign exhibitors at a premium of USD 709 per square metre (psm) in comparison to Euro 330 psqm (or $431) for Indoor Raw Space that was available at a similar trade show, the 11th Auto Expo, slated to be held at the same venue, Pragati Maidan, from Jan.7-11, 2012. But the Auto Expo is staged on a much larger canvas, with the last Auto Expo in 2010 spread over more than four times the 30,100 sqm exhibition area that was occupied during the last Def Expo held a month later.

From a foreign vendor’s point of view a per square metre of exhibition space at the DefExpo is still more than double the rate, $350, at which the same space would have been available to him during the India International Trade Fair, IITF-2011. However, the same unit space area at Def Expo, the exclusive Land and Naval Systems’ Defence Industry Exposition instituted in the year 1999, is available to the Indian exhibitors at a slightly lower rate, Rs.13,509.60 psqm, than Rs.14,000.00, that would have cost him at the 31st IITF-2011, an annual fair held since 1980. But the last Def Expo attracted 1.26 lakh visitors in all during the four days - Feb.15-18, 2010, in comparison to the IITF, spread over a fortnight, which records close to one lakh footfalls per day and even more on the weekends/holidays.

In terms of exhibitors while 650 companies including 300 from 35 other countries showcased their products during the 6th Def Expo-2010, the 11th Auto Expo-2012 will see participation of 1,500 exhibitors representing 23 countries, down from 2,105, including 1,298 domestic and 807 exhibitors from 30 other countries, which participated in the 10th Auto Expo-2010. During the last Def Expo 25 products were launched, as against the 72 vehicles launched, including ten global launches, during the Auto Expo held a month earlier.

The Def Expo-2010 was visited by official delegations from 74 countries, while the Auto Expo is an entirely Industry and Trade Exposition. The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) will be the event managers to the DefExpo-2012.

DPR

MoD : Year End Review-2011

2011-12-22T15:47:00.000+05:30

MILESTONES IN INDIGENOUS DEFENCE R&D DURING THE YEAR 2011:

AGNI-IV & SHOURYA MISSILES AND IOC FOR LCA (TEJAS)

CAPACITY BUILDING: C-130J, INS SATPURA, FLEET TANKER DEEPAK AND 3G NETWORK FOR IAF

STEPPING STONES: NEW OTA IN GAYA AND FOUNDATION STONE LAYING FOR COAST GUARD ACADEMY AND NIRDESH SHIP BUILDING INSTITUTE

2011, THE DECISIVE YEAR FOR THE MMRCA

EVENT OF THE YEAR: PRESIDENT’S FLEET REVIEW OF THE INDIAN NAVY

& FINALLY

NON-EVENT OF THE YEAR: IAF CHOPPER STRAYS ACROSS LOC AND RETURNS HOURS LATER

(A) NEW WEAPONS

1. The successful test launch of the 3,500 km range Agni-IV Ballistic Missile on Tuesday, Nov 15, 2011 was the highlight of the year. A press conference was organised the next day, viz Wednesday, Nov 16, 2011 for DRDO chief Dr. VK Saraswat, which was widely covered by the media, on the launch of Agni-IV from Wheeler island off Orissa coast.

2. Sixth successful test launch of Agni-AI Ballistic Missile from Wheeler Island on Thursday, Dec 1, 2011 by Armed Forces.

3. Successful launch of Dhanush and Prithvi Missiles by the Strategic Forces Command from Interim Test Range, Chandipur, Orissa and a warship off Orissa Coast on March 11, 2011.

4. Successful launch of new Surface to Surface Tactical Missile ‘PRAHAAR’ by DRDO on Thursday, July 21, 2011.

5. Successful flight testing of Surface to Surface Strategic Missile AGNI (A-II) on Friday, September 30, 2011, from Integrated Test Range, Chandipur, Orissa Coast.

6. Successful flight testing of Surface to Surface Strategic Missile PRITHVI (P-II) on Monday, September 26, 2011, from ITR, Chandipur. In collaboration with DRDO, DPR also organised a press briefing on the strategic significance of the event on the same day.

7. Successful flight test of the 700- km range SHOURYA Missile from Launch Complex III of Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur off Orissa Coast on Saturday, Sep 24, 2011.

8. Successful launch of Prithvi (P-II) missile on Thursday, June 09, 2011

9. The DRDO conducted the 5th successful flight of UAV ‘Rustom I’ near Hosur, Karnataka on Friday, Nov 11, 2011.

10. Initial Operational Clearance Ceremony to LCA (Tejas) at Bangalore on January 10, 2011. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony formally handed over the release to service certificate of Tejas Aircraft to the chief of Air Staff, Air chief Marshal PV Naik.

11. Successful Engine Ground Run of LCA Tejas (Navy) at Bangalore on Tuesday, Sep 27, 2011.

12. Kaveri engine being developed by the DRDO for the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft successfully completed the first phase Flying Test Bed trials mounted on a modified IL-76 aircraft in Russia during April.

13. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony inaugurated the DRDO’s state-of-the-art composite propellant processing facility – ACEM (Advanced Centre for Energetic Materials) at Nasik in Maharashtra on Wednesday, Jun 29, 2011.

14. Indian Naval crew began training in Russia in April aboard the new Aircraft Carrier Admiral Gorshkov, being rechristened INS Vikramaditya, to be inducted into the Indian Naval fleet.

(B) EXPORT ORDERS / ACQUISITIONS / CAPACITY BUILDING / OPERATIONS

1. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma commissioned INS Satpura, the second in the Shivalik class of warships, at a function at the Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) in Mumbai on Saturday, Aug 20, 2011.

2. Commissioning of Fleet Tanker “Deepak” at Mumbai by the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in January, 2011.

3. Induction Ceremony of C-130J -30 Super Hercules Tactical Aircraft at Airforce Station, Hindan on Feb, 05, 2011.

4. The down select of two aerospace companies for the MMRCA contract was the highlight of the last week in April. Commercial bids were opened on Friday, Nov 04, 2011 for the contract related to procurement of 126 Medium Multi Role Combat Aircrafts (MMRCA) for the IAF.

5. Smt. Mamatha, wife of Minister of State for Defence Dr MM Pallam Raju, launched the second indigenous ‘Anti Submarine Warfare’ (ASW) corvette ‘Kadmatt’ at a function at the Garden Reach Ship Builders & Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata on Tuesday, Oct 25, 2011.

6. Commissioning of Indian Coast Guard Station at Mundra in Gujarat by Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Dir Gen, Indian Coast Guard on Thursday, May 19, 2011.

7. Foundation stone laying ceremony of Indian Coast Guard Academy at Azhikkal in Kannur district of Kerala by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony on Saturday, May 28, 2011.

8. Foundation stone laying ceremony for the National Institute for Research and Development (NIRDESH) in Defence Shipbuilding at Kozhikode, Kerala by the Defence Minister, Shri A K Antony on 4th January 2011.

9. The new Officers Training Academy (OTA) at Gaya, Bihar was inaugurated by Lt Gen K Surendra Nath, GOC-in-C, Army Training Command on Monday, July 18, 2011 and later by the Army Chief Gen VK Singh on Monday, Nov 14, 2011.

10. Commissioning of a Fast Attack Craft, INS Kabra, at Naval Base Kochi by Vice Admiral KN Sushil on Wednesday, June 08, 2011.

11. Commissioning of Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) C-152 by Dr Vijayalakshmy K Gupta, Secretary (Defence Finance) at Okha, Gujarat on Saturday, June 18, 2011 and later ICGS C-153 at Porbandar, Gujarat by Director General, Indian Coast Guard Vice Admiral Anil Chopra on Saturday, Oct 22, 2011.

12. Commissioning of the two Indian Coast Guard Ships C-150 and C-151 by Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, Director General Coast Guard at an impressive ceremony in Kochi on Monday, March 28, 2011.

13. Commissioning of hi-tech 3G connectivity services in the Air Force in March for enhanced operational efficiency.

14. Re-induction of upgraded AN-32 tactical transport Aircraft into IAF in June, after the aircraft underwent total technical life extension (TTLE), overhaul and re-equipment at Ukraine.

15. Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Scientific Adviser to Raksha Mantri, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and DGR&D, inaugurated an integrated microwave tube development unit in Bangalore on Saturday, April 09, 2011.

16. DRDO dedicated Integrated Thermally Regulated Shelters for use of the Indian Army in Leh, Ladakh on Thursday, June 16, 2011.

17. Indian Army introduced in April better habitat for its personnel at high altitudes.

18. A US-based firm signed a licensing agreement in New Delhi on Monday, April 25, 2011 with the DRDO to acquire the technology of Explosive Detection Kit developed by the High Energy Material Research Lab (HEMRL), Pune.

19. An intensive anti-piracy operation was launched by Indian Navy during the week ending Friday, March 18, 2011.

20. Indian Navy warships apprehended an Iranian boat 400 nautical miles off Lakshadweep, rescuing 12 Iranian and 4 Pakistani crew and detaining 16 pirates in a daring operation on Saturday, March 26, 2011.

21. A Press Release and Photos were released to the media on Friday, May 6, 2011 on the Indian Navy foiling a piracy attempt on a Chinese ship in the Arabian Sea, 100 NM off Karwar.

22. On March 11, 2011 Indian Navy Warships assisted a damaged Egyptian registered Ship take to the sea again that was released by pirates off Somalia

(C) SECURITY ISSUES / POLICY / PROCEDURES

1. Formal unveiling of Defence Production Policy and Defence Procurement Procedure – 2011 by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony on January 13, 2011.

2. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony convened a high level meeting of all stakeholders on Coastal Security in New Delhi on Wednesday, Aug 10, 2011 and another on Monday, Aug 29, 2011. Shri Antony called for concerted efforts to avoid incidents like the grounding of MT Pavit on July 31 and MV Rak a week later off Mumbai coast. He also reviewed operationalising Phase-II of Coastal Security.

3. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony visited the Desert sector (Rajasthan) of Southern Army on Monday, May 2, 2011 to review the operational preparedness of the Indian Army.

4. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony visited the North East on February 18-19, 2011. He reviewed the security situation during his visit to Military installations at Chabua in Assam, Rangapahar in Nagaland, Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh and Leimakhong in Manipur.

5. Defence ministry ordered a reality check on all defence land at the ground level, to be undertaken by the Directorate General of Defence Estates. In this context, a CD containing database on all defence land records was formally released by the Defence Minister at New Delhi on Wednesday, July 13, 2011.

6. Ministry of Defence decided to go for open bidding to select an event manager for the Seventh edition of Land, Naval and Internal Security System Exhibition (Def-Expo India 2012) scheduled to be held in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi from March 29 to April 01, 2012, says press release on Monday, Oct 10, 2011.

7. Improvement of rations supplied to the Junior Commissioned Officers and others in the army, says a press release on Tuesday, July 12, 2011.

(D) VISITS / OFFICIAL TALKS

1. Defence Secretary level talks between India and Pakistan on the Siachen issue concluded in New Delhi on Wednesday, May 31, 2011. A joint statement was issued at the end of the two-day talks.

2. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony went on a two-day official visit to Russia to attend the 11th meeting of India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Co-operation (IRIGC-MTC) on 4-5th Oct, 2011. Defence Minister had stopovers at Dushanbe and Khujand in Tajikistan during onward and return legs respectively.

3. The two-day visit of Defence Minister Shri AK Antony to Kyrgyzstan on July 4-5, 2011. Major developments in bilateral relations included a contingent of Indian Armed Forces would leave for Kyrgyzstan to impart training to Kyrghz forces in UN Peacekeeping and impart English language skills and Shri Antony inaugurating the Kyrghyz-Indian Mountain Biomedical Research Centre (KIMBMRC) in Bishkek.

4. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony visited Japan from 01-03 Nov, 2011. ADG(M&C), who was part of the high level delegation accompanying the Defence Minister, issued a press release and four photographs from Tokyo despite the hectic schedule during the day long stay.

5. Six day visit of Minister of State for Defence Shri MM Pallam Raju to Minsk, Belarus in May, 2011.

6. Defence Secretary Shri Pradeep Kumar and Mr Rudiger Wolf, Secretary of State, Ministry of Defence, Germany led the respective delegations at the 5th India-Germany High Defence Committee (HDC) Meeting in New Delhi on Wednesday, April 06, 2011.

7. Conferring of “US Army War College Hall of Fame” honour on the Chief of Army Staff General VK Singh during his visit to US, the first by an Indian Chief of Army Staff in the last two years to the United States, from Mar 07-12, 2011

8. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma participated in the 20th International Sea Power Symposium at New Port, Rhode Island, USA in October, 2011.

9. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma’s visited Russia in July.

10. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma’s official visit to Indonesia from Jan 10- 13, 2011.

11. Chief of Army Staff General V K Singh went on a three day visit to Mongolia in early September.

12. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma went to Bangladesh in April followed by the Army Chief General VK Singh from 19-23 June, 2011.

13. Gen Abdul Rahim Wardak, Minister of National Defence of Afghanistan, paid a three-day visit to India from Tuesday, May 31, 2011.

14. German Defence Minister Karl zu Guttenberg visited India in February during AeroIndia and later in May as part of German Chancellor’s delegation.

15. Kyrgyz Defence Minister Maj Gen Abibilla Kubaderdiev visited India in early September.

16. Singapore Chief of Defence Force (CDF) Lt Gen Neo Kian Hong visited India from Nov 07-09, 2011.

17. Maj Gen (Res) Ehud Shani, Director General Israeli Ministry of Defence called on Chief of Army Staff Gen VK Singh in New Delhi on Wednesday, March 30, 2011.

18. Commander-in-Chief of the Vietnam People’s Navy visited India in late June, 2011 followed by a delegation led by Lt Gen Nguyen Chi Vinh, Vice Minister of Defence of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, called on the Minister of State for Defence Dr MM Pallam Raju in New Delhi on Wednesday, Oct 12, 2011.

19. A five member Sri Lankan delegation visited India for the inaugural Indo-Sri Lankan Army to Army Staff Talks held in New Delhi on Wednesday, Jun 29, 2011.

20. Lt Gen Hla Htay Win, Joint Chief of Defence Services of Myanmar called on Chief of Army Staff Gen VK Singh in New Delhi on Friday, Oct 14, 2011.

21. Mr Noh Dae-Lae, Commissioner of Defence Acquisition Programme Administration (DAPA) of the Republic of Korea, called on the Minister of State for Defence Shri MM Pallam Raju in New Delhi on Monday, Sep 19, 2011.

22. A delegation from Oman headed by Defence Secretary HE Mohammed Nasser Mohamed Al Rasbi visited India from Monday, Sep 26, 2011.

23. Visit of Mozambique Defence Minister Mr Filipe Jacinto Nyussi to India from Jun 27 to July 1, 2011.

24. Gen of Army Americo Salvadar de Oliveira, Commander of Ground Operation of Brazil, called on the Army Chief Gen VK Singh in New Delhi on Monday, Sep 26, 2011.

25. Visit of Defence Minister of Maldives Mr Tholhath Ibrahim to India from Sep 11- Sep 15, 2011.

26. Vice Admiral Nguyen Van Hein, Deputy Minister of Defence and Commander-in-Chief of the Vietnam People’s Navy, called on the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Nirmal Verma and Chief of Army Staff Gen VK Singh on Tuesday, Jun 28, 2011.

27. Visit of Gen Sir Peter Wall, Chief of General Staff, UK to New Delhi on Thursday, May 19, 2011.

28. Visit of General Elric lrastorza, Chief of Army Staff of France, during February.

(E) EXERCISES / INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION

1. The Army conducted a major exercise with the Indian Air Force in Thar desert in Nov-December. The army’s Southern Command and IAF’s South Western Air Command are participating in the month long exercise ‘Sudarshan Shakti’, during which Network Centric Warfare and other assets such as satellites, UAVs and HUMINT (Human Intelligence) were integrated and validated. President, Shrimati Pratibha Devising Patil will witness the exercise on December 05, 2011.

2. Joint Army-Air Force Exercise ‘Vijayee Bhava’ in North Rajasthan in May.

3. The 8 day long Joint Indo- US Salvage Exercises (SALVEX) of Naval divers off Port Blair coast began on 05 January.

4. Joint Indo-French naval exercise ‘VARUNA -10’, commenced on January 07, 2011 in Arabian Sea off Goa, with participation of aircraft carriers, destroyers/frigates, tankers and submarines from both sides.

5. The Indo-French Army joint Exercise ‘Shakti’ at Chaubatia, Ranikhet in Uttarakhand conducted between Oct. 10-21, 2011.

6. Turkish Naval warship visited Mumbai for joint exercises with the Indian Navy in the middle of July, 2011.

7. The Indo-Oman Air Exercise ‘Eastern Bridge-II’ concluded at Jamnagar, Gujarat on Saturday, Oct 22, 2011.

8. SIMBIX 2011, the annual India-Singapore bilateral Naval exercise, conducted in March.

9. Indo-Singapore Armed Forces conducted joint training in March.

10. Vajra Corps conducted its annual exercise Pine Prahar in May, in which over 200 tanks, ICVs and 12,000 men participated.

11. Flagging-in ceremony of the joint Indo-Nepal Army Women Officers Eco-Himalayan Trek in Nepal was held in Delhi on Friday, Oct 28, 2011.

(F) RESCUE & RELIEF

1. Rescue and relief operations carried out after an earthquake hit areas of Sikkim and North-East on Sunday, Sep. 18, 2011. Within hours of the devastating tremors, the Armed Forces swung into action to reach out to the people in the affected areas. DPR airlifted 45 journalists from New Delhi to Bagdogra (for the first time by a C-130J Super Hercules aircraft, recently inducted into IAF) on Sunday, Sep 25, 2011 to have a first-hand experience of the difficulties being faced by the Armed Forces due to freaky weather in carrying out rescue and relief operations in quake-hit areas of Sikkim and North-East. ted areas.

2. Rescue and relief operations carried out by IAF in the flood affected areas of Orissa in response to the call of the State government. Atleast 26 people were killed and 1,200 villages and 14 lakh people affected as waters in Mahanadi river rose in spate. Specialised UH3H Helicopters airdropped 30 tons of relief materials.

3. IAF evacuated 181 Indian nationals from Libya on board IL-76 aircraft on March 10, 2011.

(G) SEMINARS, EXHIBITIONS, INITIATIVES, WELFARE MEASURES etc

1. India’s prestigious Aero India-2011, the biggest of its kind in Asia, held from Feb.9-13, 2011, was the showpiece media event of the year.

2. The 5th South Asia Conference on Cooperative Security inaugurated by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony on Tuesday, Nov 15, 2011.

3. Inauguration of the 13th Asian Security Conference by the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony on Feb. 16, 2011.

4. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony inaugurated the two-day ‘HydroIndia-2011’ an International Hydrographic Seminar-cum-exhibition, in New Delhi on Thursday, March 03, 2011.

5. Minister of State for Defence Dr. MM Pallam Raju inaugurated the two-day ‘Defcom India-2011’ in New Delhi on Wednesday, Nov 02, 2011.

6. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony inaugurated a joint venture project between Indian Army and Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) ‘Gyandeep Centre of Excellence’ on Wednesday, Sep 14, 2011.

7. Navy Chief Admiral Nirmal Verma and Vice Chancellor of IGNOU signed an MOU on Friday, Jun 24, 2011 on IGNOU-Navy Community College Scheme ‘Sagardeep’.

8. The Minister of State for Defence Dr M M Pallam Raju launched a composite herbal formulation named ‘Perfomax’, developed by DRDO, at Leh, Ladakh on Friday, Sep 23, 2011 to improve physical and mental performance of personnel deployed in High Altitude and Hypoxic Conditions.

9. Controller General of Defence Accounts (CGDA) launched a software project ‘SANGAM’ for Defence Pensioners on Wednesday, July 20, 2011.

10. Formal handing over of license to issue Digital Signatures Certificates by the Controller of Certifying Authorities (CCA) Dr. N Vijay Aditya to Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshall NAK Browne on Monday, Aug 29, 2011. The IAF thus became the first defence organisation and second government body to receive the coveted license.

11. Defence Minister commissioned two phases of the infrastructure modernisation project for Defence PSU Goa Shipyard Ltd in Goa and later inaugurated a housing project at the Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka on Saturday, May 21, 2011.

12. NAC Chairperson Smt Sonia Gandhi laid the Foundation Stone for the Basohli Bridge, near Jammu, on Monday, 23 May 2011 in the presence of Defence Minister Shri AK Antony, State Chief Minister Shri Omar Abdullah and a galaxy of dignitaries.

13. Launch of a toll-free helpline for Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) members in April.

14. Shri Arvind Kaushal, Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Research & Development) handed over to Dr. Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Scientific Advisor to Hon’ble Raksha Mantri, Secreatary, Deptt. Of Defence R&D & Director General, DRDO, his GPF Statement for the Financial Year 2010-11, at a function in New Delhi on Thursday, March 31, 2011. This formally marked the delivery of G.P.F. Accounts Statements to almost 20,000 subscribers of the DRDO located at such far-flung places as Leh in North and Tezpur in East, marking a significant improvement over the position in past years when these Accounts were given to the subscribers in July and August 2010.

15. In the middle of July the Hon’ble Supreme Court of India, in a historic judgement, recalled its directions given to MoD in which it had directed MoD to set up a Commission to look into the grievances of serving and former soldiers of the Armed Forces.

16. MoD’s decision setting at rest the controversy of the age of Chief of Army Staff General VK Singh was prominently carried by the media in July.

(H) CEREMONIALS, APPOINTMENTS & OTHER SIGNIFICANT EVENTS

1. Golden Jubilee celebrations of the Liberation of Goa was celebrated through a series of functions from Dec 16, 2011 onwards at Panjim and other places. Chairperson of National Advisory Council Smt. Sonia Gandhi in the presence of Defence Minister Shri AK Antony and other high dignitaries visited Goa on Dec 17, 2011 and laid the foundation stone for the ‘Vijay Smarak’ being built in the honour of valiant freedom fighters and soldiers who laid down their lives during the operation Vijay. Later Smt Sonia Gandhi and Defence Minister attended a thanksgiving ceremony to record the gratitude of the nation to our armed forces who freed Goa from Portuguese rule by successful launching of ‘Operation Vijay’. In this solemn function 15 officers and personnel of Indian armed forces who took active part in the Goa liberation were felicitated.

2. The prestigious Presidential Fleet Review (PFR), a celebrated event held once in the tenure of the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, was held off Mumbai coast on Dec 20, 2011 where the Indian Navy displayed its naval might before the President and the Supreme Commander of Armed Forces Shrimati Pratibha Devisingh Patil. Altogether 54 war-ships of Indian Navy participated in the review. President Shrimati Patil was given a ceremonial Guard of Honour on board INS Subhadra. On this occasion a number of programmes including Navy Band display, maritime exhibition, release of commemorative stamp and release of a Coffee Table Book were also organised. Hon’ble President formally released the commemorative stamp and the coffee table book in ceremonial functions. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony and many top dignitaries of state and central government also graced the occasion.

3. Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne took over as the Chief of Air Staff from Air Chief Marshall PV Naik at a ceremony at the Air HQrs, Vayu Bhawan on Sunday, July 31, 2011.

4. Shri Shekhar Agarwal, a 1977 batch IAS officer, assumed charge of Secretary, Department of Defence Production on Thursday, July 7, 2011.

5. Smt. Vijayalakshmy K Gupta took over as the Secretary (Defence Finance) on Friday, April 01, 2011.

6. President and Supreme Commander of Armed Forces Smt. Pratibha Devi Singh Patil awarded Presidential Standards to 31 Squadron and 9 Base Repair Depot of Indian Air Force for their outstanding service to the nation at a ceremonial function at Pune in January, 2011.

7. Army Chief Gen VK Singh presented Standards to 85 Armoured Regiment at a ceremony in Roorkee on Friday, Sep 30, 2011.

8. Centenary Celebrations of the Corps of Signals on 17th Feb., addressed by the Defence Minister, Minister of State for Defence Shri MM Pallam Raju and Chief of Army Staff General VK Singh.

9. 10th Raising Day of Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), the first tri-Services Command, celebrated on 10th October, 2011.

(I) SPORTS, ADVENTURE, CELEBRITIES etc

1. Indian Navy’s Sanjiv Rajput achieved distinction at the World Shooting Championship in April.

2. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony Flagged in the ‘First Skii Expedition to South Pole’ at a function in South Block, New Delhi on Tuesday, March 01, 2011.

3. Cricketer MS Dhoni, Shooter Abhinav Bindra and Dr Deepak Rao were granted Honorary Commission in the Territorial Army. Pipping ceremony was held on Tuesday, Nov 01, 2011.

4. Defence Minister Shri AK Antony flagged in a 20-member IAF mountaineering team that successfully scaled the Mount Everest, at a ceremony in New Delhi on Friday, June 10, 2011.

5. Summiting of Mount Kamet by Corps of EME Team led by Major Vishal Ahlawat in June.

6. Three women officers of the Indian Air Force summiting Mt Everest, press release on May 25.

7. Photographs and Press Release were issued on Monday, 09 May 2011 on an Indian Army Mountaineering Team summitting Mount Manaslu, the eighth highest peak of the world.

(J) MISHAPS etc

1. An Indian chopper accidentally landed in PoK on Sunday, Oct 23, 2011. The matter was amicably resolved the same afternoon and the chopper returned to Kargil.

2. In October the IAF undertook extensive search and rescue efforts in the higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh for a missing Mig-29 aircraft that crashed during a night sortie on Tuesday, October 18, 2011. The wreckage was sighted in a remote snow covered area of Lahaul district.

3. An Indian Air Force Mig-21 Bison aircraft crashed near Ambala Air Field on Sep 6, 2011.

4. An IAF Mig-21 Fighter Jet crashed at Nal Airbase in Rajasthan on Tuesday, Aug 02, 2011.

5. An IAF Jaguar Fighter Jet crashed near Gorakhpur in Uttar Pradesh on Thursday, Aug 04, 2011.

6. IAF pressed Sukhoi-30 MKI & helicopters to trace the missing chopper of Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister in May.

DPR

Nerpa Tactical, Arihant Strategic--Different Subs, Different Roles!!

2011-12-22T15:45:00.001+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Pix : Air Chief In Su-30MKI

2011-12-21T18:42:00.001+05:30

DPR

Technical Snag Postpones Prithvi Test Scheduled For Dec 21, 2011

2011-12-21T13:44:00.003+05:30

Post 3rd Crash, Grounded Sukhois Take-Off, After Air Chief's Endorsement!

2011-12-21T13:25:00.001+05:30

Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne, Chief of the Air Staff flew a one hour sortie in a SU-30 MKI at Pune airbase today.

Addressing the station, he said, “I wanted to be here to not only fly the SU-30 MKI but also to meet all of you and assure you that our SU-30 fleet is in good and capable hands. Our boys have been doing an excellent job and the momentum of building up the new SU-30 Squadrons needs to be maintained. Our people should remain our highest priority because it is then, that a cohesive team translates itself in to a success story.”

The Air Chief was on a working visit to this base, which he had previously commanded as the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), from 2001 to 2003. During his visit he interacted with the Squadron pilots, engineers and all the station personnel and met the key appointments of the station.

DPR

PFR

2011-12-20T18:34:00.001+05:30

DPR

PFR Mumbai-2011

2011-12-20T13:56:00.005+05:30

Photos : Suman Sharma

Chindits Remembers Last PFR--Feb 12, 2006, Vizag, Onboard Presidential Yacht-Xclusive Pix...Off To Mumbai For President's Fleet Review-2011

2011-12-18T20:23:00.008+05:30

DRDO At IEC-2011

2011-12-18T20:06:00.001+05:30

DRDO

CGDA Conference

2011-12-16T18:04:00.001+05:30

Defence Minister Shri AK Antony advised the financial advisers to recall the face of the Jawan guarding our borders at great personal risk and sacrifices. Defence Minister was addressing at the valedictory function of the Conference of Principal Integrated Financial Advisers (IFAs) and IFAs of the Ministry of Defence.

Congratulating the Financial Advisers, Shri Antony said, such meetings should be conducted regularly, and it should result in benefitting both financial and the executive side. He exhorted them to achieve the target of achieving 100% and stressed that not even a single allegation of corruption will be tolerated. When you dispense your duties and responsibilities, you would do well to remember at all times that you are spending the tax payers’ money, said Shri Antony. He also said, “You must approach your work with a positive mindset and aim to bring about an improvement in existing systems and procedures”.

The two day conference of the Financial Advisers was organised by the Controller General Defence Accounts (CGDA), to bring the financial advisers from all wings of the Ministry of Defence and to discuss about the major issues faced by them.

Dr MM Pallam Raju, Raksha Rajya Mantri, Dr Vijayalakshmi Gupta, Secretary Defence Finance, Shri Nand Kishore, CGDA and Senior Officials of the Ministry of Defence, DRDO also participated.

DPR

Last C-130J For IAF Departs From US

2011-12-16T17:17:00.001+05:30

Number six of the six C-130J Super Hercules ordered by India, under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program, departed Marietta on December 15. This aircraft, like its five predecessors, was delivered ahead of schedule and under budget.

Vijay Diwas Celebrated

2011-12-16T14:33:00.001+05:30

DPR

Air Chief Inspects Air Force Stations Chabua, Tezpur

2011-12-14T16:29:00.002+05:30

During his three day tour to the North East Region from 12-14 Dec 2011 with first visit to the Eastern Air Command Head Quarters at Shillong, the subsequent two days, saw Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne visit the airbases Chabua and Tezpur to oversee the development of SU-30 infrastructure at the two bases.

He visited the local units and important installations of the two bases and interacted with Squadron pilots and engineers besides all the station personnel and key appointments. At Tezpur Lieutenant General Shakti Gurung, General Officer Commanding 4 Corps also met the Air Chief.

Addressing the officers, the Air Chief said, “The reason for my visit is that I wanted to see firsthand how things are at the bases. Your station is undergoing fair amount of transformation in terms of new inductions, keep operations upfront in your focus, but along with these changes that we talk about, it is our people, our air warriors who must receive our highest attention, in terms of their quality of life, training, mentoring and grooming. We should be able to ensure that right down to the last man in our system understands what we are doing. We should be able to channel our energies to a common task and our endeavour should be to uplift the quality of everything we do, a notch higher.”

The visit to Tezpur, where the Air Chief was received by Air Commodore Sandeep Singh, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station,Tezpur and Mrs Kamini Singh, President Air Force Wives Welfare Association, brings back old memories for the Chief who was posted to 4 squadron at the base, flying MiG-21s way back in 1974.
DPR

Boeing Delivers 2nd Peace Eye AEW&C Aircraft To Republic Of Korea Air Force Peace :Eye No. 2 is 1st To Be Modified By Korea Aerospace Industries

2011-12-13T17:44:00.002+05:30

The Boeing Company today delivered the second Peace Eye 737 Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft to the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF).

The aircraft was delivered ahead of schedule to ROKAF Base Gimhae, the main operating base for the Peace Eye fleet. Peace Eye No. 2 is the first aircraft in the fleet to be modified into an AEW&C configuration by Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) at its facility in Sacheon.

Third Sukhoi-30MKI Goes Down!!

2011-12-13T14:04:00.003+05:30

This is the third Su-30MKI which has crashed, both pilots safe. Happened near Pune today afternoon. IAF statement still awaited.

Navy Denies Wife-Swapping Report!

2011-12-13T10:51:00.002+05:30

Indian Navy's statement : 1.It was disconcerting for the Southern Naval Command to note a malicious and baseless report in the Sunday Guardian, regarding alleged immoral activities at INS Dronacharya at Kochi. Such irresponsible reportage should normally not be dignified with a response; however, the facts need to be placed on record.

2.The report is factually incorrect, baseless and malicious. There has been no Officer by the name of Mukesh Sharma doing Long Gunnery Course at INS Dronacharya in the last year. Further, it is emphatically clarified that no Board of Inquiry has also been set up on such an issue at Southern Naval Command.

3. This is for your kind information

Parliament Questions

2011-12-12T17:02:00.003+05:30

JOINT NAVAL EXERCISE

Indo-Russia combined exercises named ‘INDRA' are conducted once every two years since 2003. The Indian and Russian Navies work out proposals for conduct of the ‘INDRA exercise based on mutually convenient dates. Indian Navy (IN) had proposed and Russian Navy conveyed their readiness to conduct INDRA 11 off Vladivostok (East Coast of Russia) in February 2011. However due to the situation arising from Tsunami and nuclear radiation disaster in Japan, the exercise was postponed. Since the Indian ships were on their routine overseas deployment, no losses were incurred. Future action will depend on mutual convenience of the two sides.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri SS Ramasubbu in Lok Sabha today.

DEVELOPMENT OF CRITICAL TECHNOLOGIES

As per provisions in Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP), Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is fully concentrating on development of strategic, complex and security sensitive systems. DRDO has adequately developed critical technologies of strategic importance to achieve self-reliance in the areas of missiles, aeronautics, armaments & explosives, naval systems, radars & sensors, electronic warfare systems, advanced materials, combat vehicles, etc.

DRDO has no financial constraints for imparting training to the scientists. The scientists of all Grades are nominated for trainings as per the requirements of the Organization. Nearly 100 scientists are also sponsored for higher studies at various reputed institutions like, National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institute of Science (IISc) etc.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Ravneet Singh in Lok Sabha today.

FIELD FIRING RANGES

The number of Field Firing Ranges (FFRs) has declined in the last decades from 104 to 66 (12 acquired and 44 notified ranges). 38 ranges have been deleted from the list of FFRs in 2009 due to their not being available (due to de-notification) on account of being declared as wild life sanctuaries or to their not being re-notified by the State Governments.

Notified FFRs are required to be re-notified from time to time by respective State Governments after clearance from the Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has been received. Due to Increase in population, spread of habitation & development, encroachments, areas being declared as wild life sanctuary/reserve forests, and environmental pressures, the State Governments are often disinclined to renotify ranges in their jurisdiction.

Concerted efforts are being made at all levels to ensure timely re- notification of the de-notified ranges. One time Compensatory Afforestation (CA) charges as required by the respective State Governments have been paid in case of many ranges to ensure their long term re-notification and continued availability, in addition, efforts are on by the Army to impress upon the respective State Governments and MoEF the need for re-notification/acquisition of field firing ranges

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Kuldeep Bishnoi in Lok Sabha today.

PREPAREDNESS TO FACE NUCLEAR EFFECTS

Quick Reaction Medical Teams to respond to Nuclear Biological & Chemical (NBC) incidents are co-located with Quick Reaction Teams at strategic locations as per policy. Capability also exists at the Corps level for medical teams to respond to NBC attacks. Besides, all medical personnel in the lower formations are imparted NBC training to augment capability for appropriately responding to NBC strikes. Establishment of Causality Decontamination Centres in the identified hospitals are also included in authorized works of hospitals projects.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to DR. Mahendrasinh P. Chauhan in Lok Sabha today.

PLACEMENT OF IAF PERSONNEL

A Placement Fair was conducted at Air Force Auditorium, Subroto Park, New Delhi on 15th & 16th October, 2011 by the Indian Air Force Placement Cell. A total of 2788 air warriors including 2671 airmen (2035 retired and 636 serving) and 117 officers (87 retired and 30 serving) participated in the event. A total of 38 companies participated in the fair.

666 air warriors were shortlisted for placement during the fair. So far 93 confirmed placements have been reported to Indian Air Force Placement Cell.

Such fairs are conducted as per the requirements of the Indian Air Force from time to time.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri A. Ganeshamurthi in Lok Sabha today.

CSD DEPOTS IN HIMACHAL PRADESH

Government of Himachal Pradesh has requested this Ministry for setting up of a CSD Depot in the State in view of the number of Servicemen, Ex-servicemen and their families residing there.

Land measuring approximately 188 kanals had been offered by Himachal Pradesh Government in this regard. However, the same was not found to be suitable, since some of it Included khud/nallah which is prone to flooding during rainy season.

It is not possible at this stage to anticipate the time likely to be taken for setting up the Depot at Una in view of the fact that the Government of Himachal Pradesh is yet to identify another piece of suitable land. Once a suitable alternate land is offered by the State Government the proposal will be considered depending upon availability of budget and manpower.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Virender Kashyap in Lok Sabha today.

WITHDRAWAL OF AFSPA

The issue of partial revocation of AFSPA from some districts of J&K was discussed in the United Headquarters (UHQ) meeting held at Jammu on 09.11.2011.

Decisions on matters affecting security are taken after evaluation of the situation on the ground and after detailed consultations among the Central Government, State Governments concerned and the Security Forces.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Gopinath Munde and others in Lok Sabha today.

RECRUITMENT IN GREF

Consequent to the approval of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) in 2006, the sanctioned posts of Group A personnel in General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) were increased from 654 to 980.

As per Government of India Policy, In Border Roads Organisation too reservation in the Group 'A' posts for General Reserve Engineer Force (GREF) Officers is made at the entry level.

Category wise break-up in different posts of Group 'A' SC/ST/OBC officers of GREF at the entry level lying vacant as on date is as under:-

The recruitment Is an ongoing process and Group 'A' posts are filled up by UPSC through Combined Engineering Service Examination and interview conducted by them. On basis of candidates made available by the UPSC against Asstt. Executive Engineers (AEEs) vacancies, offers of appointment were issued to 56 SC/ST/OBC candidates in 2010-2011. A requisition for filling up 90 vacant posts of AEE (Civ) including SC/ST/OBC posts for the year 2011 has already been sent to UPSC. The recruitment process for other posts filled up through Direct Recruitment as well as promotions is underway. A specific time frame cannot be fixed by the Ministry.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri (Capt.) Jai Narain Prasad Nishad in Lok Sabha today.

THREAT TO COASTAL SECURITY

Government attaches utmost importance to nation's coastal security. Vigilance and surveillance including on the western coast has to be constantly maintained. Towards this end, both Navy and Coast Guard have been strengthened in terms of assets, equipments, manpower and infrastructure in coastal states and island territories. Various measures to strengthen Coastal Security include improving surveillance mechanism and enhanced patrolling following an integrated approach. Joint operational exercises are conducted on regular basis with Navy, Coast Guard, Coastal Police, Customs and other stakeholders to check the effectiveness of new approach adopted for security of coastal areas Including Island territories. The intelligence mechanism has also been streamlined with the creation of Join Operation Centers and multi-agency coordination mechanism. Other measures include setting up of a chain of Coastal Radar Stations covering the country's entire coastline and Islands.

Coastal Security Schemes Phase-ll of the Ministry of Home Affairs proposes to procure 180 patrol boats inter-alia other assets for all the nine coastal States and four Union Territories over the next five years with an outlay of approximately Rs.1,579.91 crores.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Baijayant Jay Panda and others in Lok Sabha today.

PURCHASE OF TRANSPORT AIRCRAFT

Letters of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) have been signed with the Government of the United States (USG) for the procurement often C-17 Globemaster aircraft as well as six C-130J aircraft along with associated equipment for the Indian Air Force (IAF) The estimated cost of the procurement of the C-17 aircraft is US $ 4.116 billion while the cost of the procurement of the C-130-J 30 aircraft is US $ 962.4 million.

The cost of an aircraft depends on its specifications, configurations and equipment on-board. The cost at which the aircraft is being supplied to India is commensurate with the cost at which C-17 aircraft is supplied to the United States Air Force and its allies.

All ten C-17 aircraft and their associated equipment are expected to be delivered to the IAF between June 2013 and June 2015.

The induction of the C-130 J30 aircraft commenced in February 2011 and five aircraft have been inducted into the IAF so far. The sixth aircraft is planned for induction by end of December 2011.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Baliram Jadhav and others in Lok Sabha today.

CONTRACT FOR SURVEILLANCE RADARS

A contract for procurement of 22 Surveillance Radar Elements (SREs) radars was signed with M/s Bharat Electronics Limited on 27th September 2007 at a cost of Rs.870.44 crore. The contract included creation of necessary Infrastructure to operationalise these radars.

The procurement was under the "Make" category of the Defence Procurement Procedure.

All the 22 Radars have been delivered and four radars have been commissioned after completion of work services. The work services for the remaining sites are at various stages of completion.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Bal Kumar Patel in Lok Sabha today.

ULTRA LIGHT HOWITZER GUNS FOR ARMY

Ultra Light Howitzer is amongst the equipment that is included in the Artillery Profile 2027 prepared by the Artillery Directorate of Army, The procurement on Single Vendor basis from M/s ST Kinetics, Singapore is sub-judice. The option of procuring the equipment through US Government (FMS route) is also being pursued.

The field evaluation of Ultra Light Howitzer comprises three parts viz. user trials, DGQA trials and Maintainability trials. Out of these, only user trials of the gun proposed to be procured through US Government have been completed. The performance of the gun can be ascertained only after evaluation of all three trial reports.

The field evaluation trial report of the guns was a confidential document. Four pages of draft field trial report were received in an anonymous envelope by the Army Hqrs. An enquiry in the matter is underway. Detailed instructions exist about security of classified documents. Aberrations, if any, are dealt with as per the relevant rules

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Om Prakash Yadav and others in Lok Sabha today.

CAPABILITIES OF AIR FORCE

The Defence Acquisitions Council had accorded Acceptance of Necessity for the procurement of 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) at an estimated cost of Rs.42,000/- crore on 29th June 2007. The proposal is now at the contract negotiations stage and the final cost procurement would be known only after completion of the negotiations and finalization of the contract.

The offset proposals have been evaluated in accordance with Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2006 and they relate to direct purchase of defence products or services or direct investments with Indian offset partners as per the offset guidelines stipulated in the DPP.

The operational capabilities of the Indian Air Force (IAF) are periodically reviewed to ensure that they are adequate to meet the security challenges. It would not be in the interest of national security to divulge the details.

The Light Combat Air craft (LCA) is expected to achieve Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) for induction into the IAF in 2012.

The major part of the helicopter fleet have useful residual life which is being gainfully utilized. Steps have been taken to both upgrade the existing fleet as well as to induct new helicopters for various tasks. Contracts have been signed for procurement of Medium Lift Helicopters from M/s Rosobornexport, Russia and Advanced Light Helicopter from M/s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.

The IAF is in the process of modernization of its transport and helicopter fleet. This includes induction of C-130J-30 Transport Aircraft, C-17 Heavy Transport Aircraft, Medium Transport Aircraft as welt as helicopters for various transport, recce and surveillance and operational tasks

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in a written reply to Shri Manish Tewari and others in Lok Sabha today.

ONE RANK-ONE PENSION

The gap between past pensioners and their youger equivalents retiring from the armed forces does not necessarily keeps widening with every successive pay commission. Over the years several improvements have been made in pension of past pensioners. The pension of past pensioners have revised in accordance with recommendation of each successive Pay Commission, as accepted by the Government. The Sixth Pay Commission had recommended fitment formula and modified parity for past pensioners, in order to reduce the gaps, which were accepted by the Government.

Pension Improvement is an ongoing process and considerable improvements have been made in the pensions of armed forces personnel. The Group of Ministers (GoM) had in 2005 improved the pensionary benefits of PBORs. On the recommendations of PMO, a Committee was set up under the Chairmanship of Cabinet Secretary in June, 2009 to look into the issue of 'One Rank One Pension and other related matters. After considering all aspects of the matter, the Committee keeping in mind the spirit of the demand, suggested several measures to substantially improve pensionary benefits of Personnel Below Officer Rank (PBOR) and Commissioned Officers, which have been accepted by the Government and orders for implementation of all the recommendations have been issued. These are available at www.pcdapension.nic.in.

This information was given by Minister of State for Defence Shri MM Pallam Raju in a written reply to Dr. Rajan Sushant and others in Lok Sabha today.

DPR

Naval Seaking Reports Fire

2011-12-12T17:00:00.001+05:30

A Seaking helicopter of the Indian Navy reported a fire as the aircraft was at Mangalore airport. The fire was extinguished using resources at Mangalore airport. The aircraft was on a routine mission en route to Mumbai and had landed at Mangalore. All 13 Navy personnel on board including 3 crew members are unhurt. An investigation will be conducted into the incident.

DPR

Air Chief Visits Eastern Command

2011-12-12T16:31:00.002+05:30

Air Chief Marshal NAK Browne, Chief of the Air Staff arrived at Head Quarters, Eastern Air Command (EAC), Shillong today. He was received by Air Marshal S Varthaman, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command and Mrs Shobha Varthaman, President AFWWA(Regional).

The Air Chief was presented with a ‘Guard of Honour’ on his arrival at the Head Quarters. He later addressed the Command personnel and complimented them on their sustained air maintenance efforts in carrying out Disaster Relief Operations during Sikkim earthquake and Orissa floods .He also interacted with the Commanders of all the formations under Eastern Air Command as well as the key appointments and Principal Staff Officers of the Command.

In his address to the Commanders, he stressed upon the importance of Operations,Infrastructure development in the North East Region with an aim towards increasing accessibility to the North East, induction of new equipment alongside maintenance of and use of old equipment, Aviation and Maintenance Safety and most importantly the welfare of the Air Warriors. In line with the vision statement of the IAF of – People First Misison Always ,he said, “Our entire focus must be on the operations as we are doing a capability enhancement across the board in terms of new inductions.I can assure you, you have all my support in achieving your longterm objectives.”

Exhorting all the Commanders to focus on supporting, supervising, counseling, mentoring and guiding those under their charge during training as well as in the units He said, “Invest your time and energies in people, our most important asset.”

This is the first visit of the Air Chief to the North East Region, after assuming the charge as the IAF Chief on 31 July 2011. The three day visit to the region will include visits to bases such as Guwahati, Tezpur, Chabua besides Shillong to oversee the planned infrastructure development by the IAF in the region.

DPR

Southern Naval Command Orders Inquiry Into Wife Swapping!!

2011-12-12T16:27:00.002+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

Inauguration of ‘NAVIGATION & EMBEDDED COMPUTERS COMPLEX’ at RCI, DRDO by Dr. APJ. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India

2011-12-09T20:29:00.001+05:30

The state-of-art technology center for design & development of world class Advance Navigation systems & Real-time Embedded computing products was inaugurated by Dr. APJ. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India on 9th December 2011 (Friday), at RESEARCH CENTER IMARAT (RCI), the brain child of Dr. Kalam and the premier defence Avionic systems laboratory situated in the DRDO’ s Missile complex in Hyderabad. The ‘NAVIGATION & EMBEDDED COMPUTERS COMPLEX’ which has been built over 14.5 acres within the premises of RCI, houses the most advanced design, fabrication & performance evaluation facilities required for the development of all classes of Navigation sensors & systems and real-time embedded systems. The Inertial Navigation group of RCI, which will be relocating to this complex, has been involved in the design & development of highly critical inertial sensors like Ring Laser Gyroscopes (RLGs), Fiber Optic Gyroscopes (FOGs), Quartz Accelerometers, Hemispherical Resonating gyros (HRGs), etc which go into the Navigation systems of missiles, combat aircrafts, torpedoes, ships & submarines. The Real-time Embedded computing Group of RCI has been developing the real-time computer systems for all DRDO products and is an expert group in state-of-art VLSI & System-on-Chip (SoC) technologies. The DRDO scientists confirm that this new advanced Navigation complex is on par with the best in the world and possesses all relevant infrastructures required for the system development and performance evaluation of the present & future Navigation requirements. Dr. Kalam, the founder of RCI, also inaugurated the museum within the complex, which showcases the birth and evolution of the navigation & computing technologies of the world & DRDO, from ancient times to the present day. Dr. Kalam, during his address, expressed that his dream of RCI heading towards the Number 1 position in the field of Inertial sensors, Navigation systems & algorithms, etc is becoming a reality and emphasized the need to develop the Single chip Navigation, Guidance & control solution based on the System-on-chip technology. The Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri & the Chief of DRDO Dr. V.K. Saraswat, congratulated the scientists on establishing the world class facility and wished RCI to emerge as the world leader in avionics. The Chief Controller R&D (Missiles & Stategic Systems) Shri. Avinash Chander, Director of RCI Shri. SK. Ray and many other Chief Controllers & top scientists of DRDO were present during the occasion.

DPR

India China Talk Defence For The Fourth Time!!

2011-12-09T18:08:00.002+05:30

The 4th India-China Annual Defence Dialogue (ADD) was conducted on Nov 09, 2011 in the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi. The Indian side was led by the Defence Secretary, Mr. Shashi Kant Sharma. Gen. Ma Xiaotian, Deputy Chief of General Staff, PLA led the Chinese side.

The Annual Defence Dialogue (ADD) was established under the provisions of the MOU for 'Exchanges and Cooperation in the field of Defence', signed between both the countries in May 2006. The 1st Annual Defence Dialogue was held in Beijing in November 2007, followed by the 2nd ADD held in India in December 2008. The 3rd Annual Defence Dialogue was held in Beijing in January 2010.

The 4th ADD was conducted in an atmosphere of cordiality and both sides were frank and constructive in their approach during the deliberations. The Indian and Chinese sides shared regional and global security perceptions. Both sides agreed that enhancement of defence exchanges between the Armed Forces of India and China would contribute to better understanding and mutual trust and confidence building. Both sides also discussed the programme of defence exchanges during 2012 and agreed that the range and scope of exchanges at various levels would be gradually enhanced.

It was noted that existing confidence building measures on the LAC between both countries were successful in maintaining peace and tranquility on the borders. It was decided that such measures would continue to be implemented. Both sides agreed that the process of dialogue and communication should be strengthened at various levels to ensure stability in the border areas. Both sides agreed that the provisions of the 2005 Protocol for implementation of CBMs on the LAC should be strictly adhered to by both sides so that peace and tranquility is maintained in the border areas. It was also noted that the strengthening of the institutional mechanism for border discussions, which is expected to be operationalised soon through the establishment of a working level mechanism, would improve communications on important border related issues.

The Chinese delegation also called on the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony. Shri Antony expressed his satisfaction at the positive and constructive discussions during the ADD and stated that both sides should work towards increasing mutual trust and confidence, as this was for the benefit of both countries. He expressed the hope that high level exchanges between the defence establishments of both sides would further nurture the process of dialogue. He conveyed an invitation to the Chinese Defence Minister to visit India at a mutually convenient time.

The Chinese delegation also called on Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee and Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Nirmal Verma at South Block .

Brazil Gets Its First Scorpene!

2011-12-09T17:17:00.000+05:30

Yesterday at its Cherbourg centre DCNS started the last joining of sections of the first Scorpene submarine for Brazil. The welding of sections 3 and 4, a key step for assembling the forward part of the submarine, is a strong symbol in terms of technology transfer.

Call On RRM!!

2011-12-09T17:15:00.002+05:30

Mr RA Golovchenko, First Deputy Secretary Chairman of State Military Industrial Committee, Belarus called on the Minister of State for Defence Dr MM Pallam Raju in New Delhi on Friday, Dec. 09, 2011.
DPR

Chinese General Meets Military Brass

2011-12-09T16:52:00.000+05:30

DPR

Chinese Deputy Chief Of General Staff Meets Indian Defence Minister

2011-12-09T16:35:00.001+05:30

DPR

4th Annual Defence Dialogue With China

2011-12-09T14:09:00.001+05:30

DPR

POP--Indian Naval Officer Cadets

2011-12-09T12:20:00.001+05:30

In a memorable Passing Out Parade, 138 Officer cadets of the 82nd Integrated Cadets Course, passed out of the First Training Squadron, comprising of Indian Naval Ships Tir, Krishna, Indian Coast Guard Ship Veera, and the Sail Training Ship INS Tarangini. Vice Admiral KN Sushil, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command reviewed the impressive Parade which was witnessed by the proud parents of the Passing Out course as well as Naval Officers and their families.

Vice Admiral KN Sushil in his address to the cadets reminded them about the importance of understanding and learning the Men they command. The Admiral said that humane leadership is as important as technical prowess on board warships. The cadets were given extensive instructions and sea experience on General Navigation, Astro Navigation, Communications, Gunnery and Seamanship on board the ships of First Training Squadron. The trainees visited various ports on East and West Coast of India as well as foreign ports of Phuket (Thailand), Port Klang (Malaysia), Singapore, and Jakarta (Indonesia). INS Tarangini provided them the important exposure to traditional sail training. The 24 weeks on the ships of the First training squadron provided them with the understanding of the rigors of the sea, helped them establish their ‘sea legs’ and develop a Seamen eye in addition to instilling a spirit of adventure.

The coveted Chief of the Naval Staff trophy and Telescope for the Best All Round Cadet was awarded to Cadet Kundan Kumar. Cadet NJ Prabhune received the Binocular for standing first in overall Order of Merit and Cadet Manjeet Singh Rawat was awarded the FOC-IN-C East rolling trophy for maximum progress in intellectual and professional fields during his term onboard. Cadet Pankaj Mishra received the Director General Indian Coast Guard trophy for the best Coast Guard cadet while Cadet Ishaan Deosthalee was adjudged the best sportsman. The cadets will now join frontline warships of Western and Eastern Fleet for further six months training as Midshipmen, prior to being commissioned as Officers. First Training Squadron is commanded by Captain Ajay Sirohi.

Navy Fest Begins

2011-12-08T18:34:00.000+05:30

Navy Fest, the annual fair associated with Navy Day celebrations began at the Naval Base Kochi today, with the formal inauguration by Vice Admiral KN Sushil, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief Southern Naval Command. The fair which would conclude on 11th December, would be open for visitors from 10 AM to 10 PM every day. Visitors would also be provided opportunity to visit warships from 11 AM to 4:30 PM on all days except on the last day when the warships will be open only till 1 PM. Visitors will also be able to see navy aircraft at close quarters at the Naval Air Station. The main exhibition hall which is fully air-conditioned has 90 stalls. In addition, there are 17 food stalls and 13 Naval stalls. The Military Photo Exhibition under the auspices of Ernakulam Press Club is expected to be a major crowd puller. Entertainment programmes have been scheduled everyday of the fair to enliven the spirits of the visitors. Entry fee for Adults would be Rs 20 and children Rs 10. The Navy Fest is being organized by INS Venduruthy.

DPR

DCNS Launches Programme To Build Two BPCs For Russia

2011-12-08T15:49:00.001+05:30

The design for the BPC-type force projection and command vessels ordered by the Russian Federation is now underway. DCNS, prime contractor for the programme, has begun studies to tailor the vessel design to the specific requirements of the Russian Navy. Signed in June 2011 with Russian defence export agency Rosoboronexport, the BPC contract with Russia is DCNS’s first international success with the BPC platform.

DCN

India, Australia Agree To Step Up Defence Cooperation

2011-12-07T18:16:00.002+05:30

India and Australia held fruitful discussion on Defence Cooperation today with the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony stressing that New Delhi looks forward to developing its exchanges with Australia both at the bilateral and multilateral fora such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM Plus) etc.

Describing the visit of the Australian Defence Minister Mr. Stephen Smith as an important milestone in the evolution of the Indo-Australia Strategic Partnership, Shri Antony said the two countries are important members of the Commonwealth and the Asia-Pacific Region. India and Australia are currently Chair and Vice-Chair of IOR-ARC (Indian Ocean Region Association for Regional Cooperation).

Mr. Smith is on a three-day visit to India. On his arrival at the South Block, he was warmly received by Shri Antony, the Defence Secretary Shri Shashikant Sharma and other senior officials of the Ministry of Defence. A tri-Services Guard of Honour was presented to Mr. Smith.

During the talks, both sides noted that the bilateral Defence Cooperation activities are gradually strengthening. They noted that the inaugural session of the Defence Policy Talks held in New Delhi in December last year and the ongoing Service-to-Service Staff Talks are important mechanisms for developing constructive and mutually beneficial interactions between the Defence Establishments of both the countries. The two sides also noted that the practice of the respective Navies conducting Passage Exercises (PASSEX) during Naval Ship Visits to each other’s ports have proved to be beneficial and that these should continue. Both Ministers also agreed to examine the possibility of undertaking a full-fledged bilateral Naval Exercise in the future.

The two Defence Ministers agreed to institute Track 1.5 Dialogues (semi-government level) on Defence Matters between suitable institutions of both sides. Mr. Smith invited Shri Antony to visit Australia next year, which has been accepted by the latter.

Regional Security issues also came up for discussion at the 40-minute meeting. Both sides agreed that the challenges in the area of Maritime Security like piracy and freedom of navigation are important issues which required concerted efforts of the global community.

DPR

MAIDEN FLIGHT OF FIRST INDIGENOUS INDIAN AIRBORNE WARNING AND CONTROL SYSTEM

2011-12-07T15:45:00.001+05:30

The first fully modified Aircraft for indigenously developed Indian Airborne Warning and Control System (AEW&C) took to skies yesterday, as part of its first maiden flight in Embraer facilities at Sao Jose dos Campos in Brazil with about 1000 Mission System Components provided by CABS, DRDO. These include the critical item – AESA (Active Electronic Scanning Antenna) Radar Antenna developed by DRDO and certified from ANAC, International FAR Certification Agency.

“The flight is a major milestone towards realizing the dream of indigenous Airborne Early Warning and Control System, which will put India into a select club of countries” said Dr. VK Saraswat, Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri congratulating DRDO Scientists and M/s Embraer Engineers on this achievement.

While this Aircraft will now undergo full certification process over next two years, India will receive two aircrafts by middle of next year. Here, the Mission Systems developed by various DRDO labs will be integrated with these aircrafts. Currently, these systems are undergoing ground integration and evaluation at the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS), Bangalore.

Two of these systems will be delivered to IAF after detailed Test and Evaluation by 2013.

With the advent of this, India is looking forward to join the league of countries capable of developing and delivering such complex Airborne System of Systems to its user.

Photos : Ex Sudarshan Shakti

2011-12-07T15:41:00.001+05:30

Supreme Commander Reviews Preparedness At Sudarshan Shakti!

2011-12-06T21:07:00.000+05:30

Mrs Antony Sells Paintings For Charity!!

2011-12-05T18:07:00.002+05:30

The Sunday Guardian

NCS Celebrates Navy Day!

2011-12-04T13:41:00.001+05:30

Navy Day Celebrated--Dec 4, 1971

2011-12-04T13:09:00.000+05:30

The Nation and Indian Navy celebrate Navy Day on fourth December which commemorates the audacious attack on Karachi harbor by Indian missile boats. Southern Naval Command will begin celebrations at day break when eminent citizens of Kochi led by Worshipful Mayor will join Vice Admiral KN Sushil, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief, Southern Naval Command in paying homage at the War Memorial at Naval Base. Other luminaries who are expected to join the solemn ceremony include Shri Dominic Presentation, MLA, Shri Hibi Eden, MLA, Shri Paul Antony, Chairman Cochin Port Trust, Shri Sheik Pareeth, District Collector, Ernakulam and Vice Admiral (Retd) Raman Prem Suthan, former Vice Chief of Naval Staff. Brigadier SK Khanna, Chief Engineer Navy, TK Sathish Chandran, DIG, Commander Coast Guard District No 4, representatives of Veteran Sailors Forum, and Ex Servicemen Associations are also expected to participate. On completion, a new memorial “On Eternal Watch” depicting the vigilant watch on the bridge of a warship is also being commissioned by Kunnath S Raju, the senior most Sailor of Southern Naval Command. The memorial will invoke with pride and resolve, the contributions of all past mariners in the growth of Indian Navy.

I Dont Want To Land Up In A Single Vendor Situation : Naval Chief

2011-12-02T17:47:00.002+05:30

Bangladesh Army Chief

2011-12-01T17:04:00.002+05:30

DPR

DCNS Successfully Completes Latest Series Of Sea Trials With FREMM Frigate Aquitaine

2011-12-01T15:57:00.002+05:30

DCNS

Agni-1 Ballistic Missile Tested Successfully

2011-12-01T13:33:00.004+05:30

The AGNI A1-06 was successfully flight tested from Wheeler Island today at 0930 hrs by the Indian Army. The missile was launched from a Road Mobile Launcher System and reached the target point in the Bay of Bengal. The missile was tracked by radar and telemetry stations located along the coastline. Two Naval Ships located near the target point tracked the missile in the terminal phase of the flight. The missile, indigenously developed by DRDO, is already in the arsenal of Indian Armed Forces.

DPR

India, China Annual Defence Dialogue Next Week

2011-11-30T17:17:00.001+05:30

The 4^th Annual Defence Dialogue (ADD) with China will be held in New Delhi on 09^th December, 2011. The dialogue will be chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Shashikant Sharma on the Indian side and the Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Chinese PLA, Gen Ma Xiaotian from the Chinese side.

The conduct of the 4^th ADD will take place in the backdrop of exchanges of military delegations on both sides in recent months. From the Indian side, a multi-command delegation visited China during 19-23 June, 2011. Similarly, a delegation from the Chinese PLA visited India for interactions with their Indian Army counterparts from 4-9 November, 2011. Both sides will undertake a further round of delegation exchanges before end December, 2011.

During the Annual Defence Dialogue, both sides will exchange perspectives on regional and global security issues. Both sides will also review the ongoing Confidence Building Measures (CBMs) on the borders and are expected to finalize plans for further defence exchanges during 2012.

MoD Waives High-Alti HOGE Clause In RFP To Avoid One More Cancellation In 197 Chopper Deal : Eurocopter, Kamov Race In Fight-To-Finish!!

2011-11-29T13:44:00.004+05:30

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Chindits

Annual Refit Conference – 2012 (ARC-12)

Indo-Japan Coast Guard Meeting & Combined Exercises Conclude

Coast Guard Chopper Bids Delayed

Best Marching Contingent R Day Parade-2012 Awards----IAF & BSF

INS Sudarshini Sail Training Ship Commissioned Today

Engine Failure Halts Naval Tableau Vehicle Mid-way Rajpath At RD Parade!!

Italian Air Force Eurofighter In Air-To-Air Refuelling Mission

Pix : Republic Day

Nation Celebrates 63rd Republic Day

10th Flight Of Lakshya-II PTA

130 Helicopter Unit Launches Fresh Rescue Operation In Snow Bound Remotest Part Of J&K

Video : F-35 Performs First Night Flight

Photos : Western Army Command Banner

Gallantry Award Winners-2012

Photos : Beating Retreat Rehearsals

Austrian Eurofighter On Duty During World Economic Forum In Davos

DRDO – DU MOU For Enhanced Academic Interaction And R&D Collaboration

Pix : DRDO RD Parade Contingent

Wants Harmonisation, Re-conciliation Of Records, Not Correction Of DoB!!

DRDO Contingent In RD Parade To Showcase Agni-4!!

IAF Carries Out Its Biggest Peacetime Rescue & Relief Ops In Snow-capped J&K!

IAF Participation In Republic Day 2012

I Am Sorry And Sad Over Gen Singh's Age Issue: Antony

Indian Navy Gets Ready For Republic Day Parade

Indian Coast Guard Ship Rani Abbakka Commissioned

Lockheed Martin F-35A Performs First Night Flight

Supreme Court Dismisses PIL On Army Chief's Age!!!

Not Army Chief, But Vice Chief Of Army Conducts Deputy PM Of Nepal!!

MoD Calls Army Chief Going To SC 'Unfortunate Development', 'Unhealthy Precedent' !!

More Than 50% Capital Acqusition Budget To Be Surrendered Back By Indian Army!

Was Just Waiting For Army Day To Get Over, Army Chief Goes To Supreme Court Challenging MoD's Decision On His Age!!

CNS Visits NCC Camp

First Production Model F-35B Delivered To The Marine Corps

Chief Ducks Age Bullets At Annual Presser, Says Tackled Issue In Organisational Interest, Doesn't Rule out Resigning in Protest!!

Air Chief Visits South Western Air Command

Photos : Republic Day Rehearsal

Air Chief Visits Jodhpur, Army Chief Goes To NCC Parade!

Army Chief's Age!!

Marshal Of The Indian Air Force Visits NCC Republic Day Camp Meets Cadets

*Flash* : CCS Clears Mica Missile Contract!!

MHA's Coastal Security Boat Deal Courts Controversy!

248th AMC Corps Day

New Year Message To IAF From Chief Of Air Staff

Army Chief Born In 1950, Says MoD, Issues Release Orders To Chief Prior To Retirement!

*Flash* : New Year Not So Good For Army Chief : MoD Rejects Age Stat Complaint!! Def Sec Makes It Ego Issue!

248th AMC Anniversary

Army Chief--RO At IAF PoP

Lockheed Draws Up 6th Generation Pilot-less Fighter!!!

IAF's Paramotor Team Flagged-In!!

Casualty Evacuation By Navy – 27 Dec 2011

Project 971---Nerpa K-152 Ready For India Transfer : Ria Novosti

India, Oman Extend MoU On Military Cooperation To 2015

After Kochi, Western Naval Command Orders Inquiry Into Officers' Conduct!

Tejinder Handa Goes To Court Against Army Chief!

Photos : Indo-Thai Defence Dialogue

Randon Pix : The World's Biggest Airplane -- The Russian Antonov 225.

7TH DEF-EXPO TO BE HELD IN NEW DELHI FROM MARCH 29-APRIL 1, 2012

MoD : Year End Review-2011

Nerpa Tactical, Arihant Strategic--Different Subs, Different Roles!!

Pix : Air Chief In Su-30MKI

Technical Snag Postpones Prithvi Test Scheduled For Dec 21, 2011

Post 3rd Crash, Grounded Sukhois Take-Off, After Air Chief's Endorsement!

PFR

PFR Mumbai-2011

Chindits Remembers Last PFR--Feb 12, 2006, Vizag, Onboard Presidential Yacht-Xclusive Pix...Off To Mumbai For President's Fleet Review-2011

DRDO At IEC-2011

CGDA Conference

Last C-130J For IAF Departs From US

Vijay Diwas Celebrated

Air Chief Inspects Air Force Stations Chabua, Tezpur

Boeing Delivers 2nd Peace Eye AEW&C Aircraft To Republic Of Korea Air Force Peace :Eye No. 2 is 1st To Be Modified By Korea Aerospace Industries

Third Sukhoi-30MKI Goes Down!!

Navy Denies Wife-Swapping Report!

Parliament Questions

Naval Seaking Reports Fire

Air Chief Visits Eastern Command

Southern Naval Command Orders Inquiry Into Wife Swapping!!

Inauguration of ‘NAVIGATION & EMBEDDED COMPUTERS COMPLEX’ at RCI, DRDO by Dr. APJ. Abdul Kalam, Former President of India

India China Talk Defence For The Fourth Time!!

Flash : CCS Clears Mica Missile Contract!!

Flash : New Year Not So Good For Army Chief : MoD Rejects Age Stat Complaint!! Def Sec Makes It Ego Issue!