Defence

Feature/ IAF/MoD Meghdoot was launched on 13 April 1984, when the Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF) advanced to the Siachen glacier to secure the heights dominating the Northern Ladakh region. The operation involved the airlifting of Indian Army soldiers by the IAF and dropping them on the glacial peaks. Although the operation began in 1984, IAF helicopters were already operating in the Siachen Glacier since 1978, flying the Chetak helicopters which was the first IAF helicopter to land in the Glacier in October 1978.By 1984, Pakistan’s cartographic aggression in the uncharted territory of Ladakh, allowing foreign mountaineering expeditions in Siachen, was becoming a cause of concern. Having received intelligence inputs about an impending Pakistani military action in the area, India decided to thwart Pakistan’s efforts to legitimize its claim on Siachen. The Indian Army launched Operation Meghdoot, to secure strategic heights on Siachen with the deployment of troops. Playing an irreplaceable role in this effort, IAF’s tactical and strategic airlifters, An-12s, An-32s and IL-76s transported stores and troops and air-dropped supplies to high altitude airfields, from where Mi-17, Mi-8, Chetak and Cheetah helicopters ferried men and material to dizzying heights on the glacier, far above the limits set by the helicopter manufacturers. Soon, about 300-odd troops were positioned on the strategically important peaks and passes of the glacier. By the time the Pakistan army reacted by advancing its own troops, the Indian Army was occupying strategically crucial mountain peaks and passes, thereby gaining a tactical advantage. In extending valuable support to the Army’s fight for maintaining military dominance on this desolate glacier since April 1984, the IAF’s incredible performance at the extremes of temperature and altitude remains a continuing saga of fortitude and skill. While the initial operations involved only the use of transport and helicopter aircraft transporting men and material, the IAF gradually expanded its role and presence in the region with the deployment of fighter aircraft as well. The IAF’s Hunter aircraft kick-started fighter operations from the high altitude airfield at Leh, when a detachment of Hunters from No 27 Squadron commenced operations in September 1984. In the next couple of years, the Hunters flew an impressive total of more than 700 sorties from Leh. As an increasingly large number of fighter sweeps and simulated strikes began to be carried out over the glacier itself, it served as the ultimate morale booster for Indian troops deployed on the glacier, and sent a stern message to the adversary to avoid any misadventures in the area. Later, live armament sorties were carried out at the high altitude firing range at Kar Tso, south of Leh. With the ground infrastructure becoming more conducive for fighter flying, MiG-23s and MiG-29s also started operating from Leh and Thoise. The IAF also inducted the Cheetal helicopters for operating in the glacier in 2009. The Cheetal is a Cheetah helicopter which is re-engineered with a TM 333 2M2 engine having better reliability and load carrying capability at high altitude. More recently, on 20 August 2013, in a significant show of capability, the IAF landed one of its latest acquisitions, the Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules four-engine transport aircraft at Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO), the world’s highest airstrip, near the line of actual control in Ladakh. Today, nearly all the aircraft of the IAF including Rafale, Su-30MKI, Chinook, Apache, Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Mk III & Mk IV, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, MiG-29, Mirage-2000, C-17 , C-130 J, IL-76 and An-32 operate in support of Op Meghdoot. In the highest battlefield in the world, known for its extreme climatic conditions, IAF helicopters form the lifeline and the sole link of Indian troops with the outside world, playing a critical role in continuing the four decade old military operation; responding to emergencies, supplying essential logistics and evacuating the sick and wounded from the 78 km long glacier. Flying in such ruthless terrain, records of human endurance, flying and technical proficiency are being set by the IAF nearly every day.

New Delhi, March 15, 2024: In a bid to make India atmanirbhar in the critical areas of defence and security, Jindal Defence Systems have begun production in its state-of-the-art firearms manufacturing plant in Hisar as part of a joint venture with Brazil-based Taurus Armas S.A. Under the brand name J D Taurus, JDSPL is poised to transform the landscape of firearms manufacturing in India and reduce India’s reliance on imports. The scion of the reputed O P Jindal family,Abhyuday Jindal, has invested in the company. The facility, spanning over two acres, represents a fusion of world-class expertise and cutting-edge technology. The manufacturing plant has an annual production capacity of up to 2,50,000 weapons, strategically positioning JD Taurus to address the growing demand in the country. In the next Financial Year, the company aims to manufacture between 25,000 to 30,000 weapons. Engineered for rapid scalability and product diversification, JDSPL has obtained all necessary regulatory approvals and clearances, including from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The trials and tests have been carried out with stringent quality control measures that have been mirrored from Taurus Armas. The entire process, from design to integration, testing and firing checks, is being supervised meticulously. On the occasion, Chief Business Officer, JD Taurus, Col Amit Baveja (Retd), said: “By prioritising indigenous manufacturing and aligning with the ‘Make in India’ initiative, JD Taurus is committed to contributing significantly to bolstering our nation’s defence capabilities, while also nurturing local talent and contributing to the socio-economic development of the region. Our focus remains equipping the Government sector, particularly the military, para-military forces as well as various state police, with superior weapons to meet their evolving demands.” The company has secured certification for a range of products, with a notable 50-100% value addition in India for different products, such as rifles, carbines, submachine guns, machine pistols and revolvers. Global CEO of Taurus Armas, Salesio Nuhs said, “We are proud to be part of this momentous occasion as we commence production at our joint venture facility in Hisar. By leveraging our combined strengths and the latest technological advancements, we are confident in our ability to meet the evolving needs of the defence sector.” The facility includes a dedicated shooting range for rigorous testing, ensuring the reliability of each firearm and adherence to stringent quality control measures, quality labs for metallographic and meteorological testing, and an assembling area managed by an Access Control System. Guided by ISO 9001 and 27001 standards, JD Taurus emphasises quality throughout every stage of production to ensure consistent and reliable firearm manufacture. Strict safety protocols are in place to ensure the well-being of employees. Highly skilled personnel maintain precision and quality standards in manufacturing. The company is committed to being recognised as a world-class weapon manufacturer, delivering superior quality products capable of operating across diverse terrains and extreme temperatures.

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia,4th February 2024: Under the esteemed patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and on behalf of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the Minister of Defense and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of GAMI, Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz inaugurated the World Defense Show 2024 in Riyadh today. This second edition of the event, organized by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) from February 4 to 8, 2024, showcases the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global hub for the defense industry. His Royal Highness toured the exhibition, which features participation from over 773 exhibitors representing more than 75 countries, alongside numerous government entities and leading local and international companies in the defense and security sector. He also viewed the aerial displays, static aircraft exhibitions, and ground equipment in the display area. This royal endorsement of the exhibition underscores the Kingdom’s leadership’s dedication to hosting a world-class event that ranks among the top defense and security exhibitions globally. It also affirms Saudi Arabia’s ambition to be a global center for organizing exhibitions across all fields. On this occasion, His Excellency Ahmad Al-Ohali, Governor of the General Authority for Military Industries, expressed his profound gratitude to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and to His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Military Industries, for their unlimited support. This support enhances the Kingdom’s strategic independence and backs directly serves the ambitious goals of Vision 2030 which aims localize 50% of defense expenditure. He noted that the Kingdom has begun to reap the benefits of this support, with localization rates increasing from 4% to 13.6% at the end of 2022. The number of foundational permits and licenses reached 477 permits for 265 companies operating in the defense industries sector, alongside the launch of over 74 investment opportunities for supply chain localization. The sector’s contribution to the GDP is expected to reach approximately SAR 93.75 billion by 2030, with an estimated total of 40,000 direct job opportunities and 60,000 indirect job opportunities. He also highlighted the exhibition’s significance as a global platform for defense and security industry experts, manufacturers, and decision-makers. This second edition of the event builds on the successes and achievements of the inaugural edition in 2022, positioning the exhibition as a strategic tool to support our beloved nation’s localization efforts. It provides an ideal environment for fostering international partnerships in the defense and security industry, aligning with our cherished Kingdom’s vision through technology transfer and skill development.

New Delhi, 2nd Feb 2024: The capital and technological know-how from the US can help India to achieve its goal of becoming a developed country by 2047, while investments here can give the American companies high returns and an avenue of de-risking. This was stated by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh while addressing a conference on ‘Strengthening Indo-US Relationship in Amrit Kaal – Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ organised by Indo-American Chamber of Commerce (IACC) in New Delhi on January 30, 2024. The Raksha Mantri asserted that the Government has laid the groundwork for a strong and self-reliant ‘New India’, and the American investments can play a vital role in realising Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’. Terming it as a win-win situation for both the countries, he stated that India’s fast-growing economy, its demographic dividend, skilled workforce, and huge domestic market guarantee high returns to US companies. He added that to deal with the challenges faced by the rules-based international order & maintain strategic autonomy, it will be necessary for American businesses to de-risk by investing in India. Rajnath Singh described India and the US as natural partners who must move forward together in both business and strategic sectors amidst the current global geopolitical scenario. “India and the US support a free, open and rules-based international order. Due to this, there is a lot of alignment in our strategic interests. Besides, our economic relationship is a win-win proposition for both the countries. The current relationship is driven by twin congruence of shared values and aligned interests, which is a guarantee for long sustainability and robustness of ties,” he said. The Raksha Mantri appreciated that, sensing the need of the present times, India and the US are working together in different fields, including defence technology and space. He made special mention of the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative through which both nations are working towards further strengthening the defence technology partnership. He added that the joint initiative of ISRO and NASA ‘NISAR’ will ensure cooperation in many areas such as earth science, disaster management and climate change. “India is the largest democracy in the world, and US is another big democracy. When two big democracies cooperate with each other, it will definitely make the democratic world order stronger. This will act as a force multiplier for rules-based order across the globe. Our work together will be beneficial not only to us, but for the entire world,” said Rajnath Singh. Elaborating on the Government’s vision behind ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’, the Raksha Mantri said that the nation is moving forward at the right pace with which it won’t stumble in the times to come. He enumerated the decisions taken by the Ministry of Defence to promote self-reliance, such as earmarking 75% of the defence capital procurement budget for domestic industry in Financial Year, which has helped the country find a place among the top 25 countries which export defence equipment. “The Russia-Ukraine & Israel-Hamas conflicts have not much impacted the defence sector. India has become a strong country, which is capable of securing national interests and giving a befitting reply to anyone who casts an evil eye,” he added. Rajnath Singh, however, clarified that the aim of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ is not autarky; not to cut off from the global system; not to work in isolation. It is rather the commitment to collaborate with friendly countries. The ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign promotes companionship based on ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World is One Family), he stressed. Rajnath Singh listed out the sweeping changes made in every sector in India to keep pace with friendly countries. “We have made reforms in FDI and labor laws to attract foreign investment and take advantage of our skilled workforce. We are also working on next-generation infrastructure projects. Infra sectors like roads, railways, waterways, electricity have made unprecedented progress. India is developing a world class infrastructure,” he said. The Raksha Mantri emphasised that business & commerce is correlated to the security & defence of the country, terming the connection as deep. He asserted that the Government gives equal emphasis to defence & security and business & commerce, as one cannot move ahead, in today’s era, by keeping business & strategic interests separate. The conference, attended by Ambassador to India Mr Eric Garcetti and representatives of IACC, was organised to bolster the economic and diplomatic ties between India and the US. It was aimed at exploring ways to enhance bilateral trade, investment and collaboration in the context of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, which emphasises on promoting domestic manufacturing and reducing import dependency. It provided a platform for experts and business leaders from both countries to discuss opportunities for partnership and growth in various sectors, contributing to mutual economic development and prosperity.

Riyadh, 3rd February 2024: In the upcoming World Defense Show, set to take place from February 4-8, 2024, in Riyadh, HAVELSAN is showcasing its ground-breaking defense technologies under the theme “Coding The Trusted Future.” Industry professionals, defense enthusiasts, and media representatives are cordially invited to booth HALL 1 WEST, #A4, to witness the unveiling of a new era in defense technology. At World Defense Show,the products being showcased include the ADVENT naval combat management system, the DOOB C4I system, the TICCS air force command and control system, the MATRA maritime security solution, the BAHA Sub-Cloud UAV System, and the SANCAR Armed Unmanned Surface Vehicle. Each product is a testament to HAVELSAN’s commitment to driving forward the future of defense technology with intelligence, precision, and efficiency. ADVENT, developed in cooperation with the Turkish Naval Forces and Armerkom, is a naval combat management system designed for modern warfare. Its unmatched adaptability, sensor data fusion, and operational picture clarity make it indispensable in modern naval strategy, ensuring swift, informed decision-making and robust platform interoperability. The DOOB Joint C4I Product Family facilitates a continuous information flow, supporting decision-making in military operations. It integrates data from various sources, providing a unified operational picture across land, sea, and air environments. The TICCS system, developed for the Turkish Air Force, manages the command control cycle and integrates resource management, from planning to mission execution. It has been operational since 2007, enhancing the efficiency of air force operations. The TICCS system epitomizes excellence in air force command and control. Facilitating everything from strategic planning to mission execution, it stands as a cornerstone in enhancing the Turkish Air Force’s capabilities, blending technology and strategy for superior military functionality. MATRA offers solutions for Digital Maritime challenges, including the Coastal Surveillance System (CSS) and the Search and Rescue (SAR) system. These systems improve situational awareness and response capabilities in maritime environments. MATRA emerges as a force multiplier in maritime security. From the Coastal Surveillance System (CSS) enhancing situational awareness to the Search and Rescue (SAR) system revolutionizing rescue operations, MATRA is a beacon of innovation in safeguarding maritime interests and environments. BAHA redefines aerial ISR missions with its high-altitude capabilities, vertical take-off and landing, and autonomous operation. Its hybrid propulsion system and innovative design make it a game-changer in unmanned aerial technology, offering unparalleled mission versatility. SANCAR, born from the collaboration between HAVELSAN and Yonca Shipyard, is a testament to the future of naval autonomy. Equipped with advanced ISR capabilities and modular design, it stands ready to tackle modern naval challenges with its remote-controlled weapon and missile systems, defining a new era in naval warfare. HAVELSAN has a longstanding history in the defense technology sector. The company focuses on developing advanced technology solutions to meet the evolving needs of global defense. Participation in the World Defense Show is part of HAVELSAN’s commitment to contributing to the defense industry through technological advancements. We warmly invite you to visit our booth at HALL 1 WEST, #A4, at the World Defense Show to experience these technological marvels firsthand. Join us in exploring how HAVELSAN is “Coding The Trusted Future” and shaping the next chapter in defense technology.

New Delhi, 13th Jan 2024: Indian Navy Ships Cheetah, Guldar and Kumbhir were decommissioned on 12 Jan 2024 after rendering four decades of glorious service to the nation. The decommissioning event was conducted at Port Blair in a traditional ceremony wherein the National Flag, the Naval Ensign and Decommissioning Pennants of the three ships were lowered for the last time, at sunset. Cheetah, Guldar and Kumbhir were built at Gdynia Shipyard, Poland as Polnocny class Landing Ships and were commissioned into the Indian Navy in 1984, 1985 and 1986 respectively, in presence of Shri S K Arora (Cheetah and Guldar) and Shri A K Das (Kumbhir) then Ambassadors of India to Poland. The Commanding Officers of the three ships were Cdr V B Mishra, Lt Cdr SK Singh and Lt Cdr J Banerjee respectively. During her initial years, Cheetah was based at Kochi and Chennai for brief periods, and Kumbhir and Guldar were based at Visakhapatnam. The ships were subsequently re-based at Andaman and Nicobar Command, where they served till their decommissioning. These ships were in active Naval service for nearly 40 years, and collectively traversed about 17 lakh nautical miles whilst being at sea for over 12,300 days. As the amphibian platforms of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, these ships have conducted over 1300 beaching operations for landing of army troops ashore. During their illustrious journeys, these ships participated in numerous maritime security missions and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. Notable amongst them are their role during Operation Aman as part of IPKF operations and Operation Tasha a joint operation carried out between Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard in May 1990 to control smuggling of arms and ammunition and illegal immigration across Indian and Srilankan border and made stellar contributions in relief operations post 1997 cyclone off Sri Lanka and the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami. Indian Naval Ships Cheetah, Guldar and Kumbhir have left an indelible mark on the maritime landscape and their decommissioning marks the end of a significant chapter of the Indian Navy’s history. Air Marshal Saju Balakrishnan, AVSM, VM, Commander-in-Chief Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, AVSM, VSM, Deputy Chief of Naval Staff, Flag Officers, former Commanding Officers and commissioning crew of the three ships attended the ceremonies at Port Blair. The event was also unique since three warships of the same class were decommissioned simultaneously on a single day.

Bengaluru, 30th Dec 2023: Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane inaugurated a new design and test facility at Aero Engine Research and Development Centre (AERDC) of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The AERDC is currently involved in the design and development of several new engines including two strategic engines – Hindustan Turbo Fan Engine (HTFE) of 25 kN thrust for powering trainers, UAV’s, twin engine small fighter aircraft or regional jets and Hindustan Turbo Shaft Engine (HTSE) of 1200 kN thrust for powering light and medium weight helicopters (3.5 to 6.5 tonnes in single/ twin engine configuration). The new state-of-the-art facility, spanning over 10,000 sq. meters, houses special machines, advanced setups leveraging on computational tools, in-house fabrication facility and two test beds for testing HTFE-25 and one testbed each for testing HTSE-1200 and upcoming JV engine for IMRH to be co-developed by Safran, France and HAL. In addition, the newly developed facility has set-ups for testing Air producer of Jaguar, Gas Turbine Starter Unit (GTSU) – 110 M2 and 127E of Light Combat Aircraft, Auxiliary Power Units of Indian Multi-Role Helicopter and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, Gas Turbine Electrical Generator (GTEG)-60 for An-32 aircraft. Set-ups to carry out various critical tests for engine components and Line Replacement Units (LRUs) have also been established within the new facility. Hailing the work being done by HAL, the Defence Secretary stated that the government trusts the capability of the Defence PSU to deliver and make the country self-reliant. “Manufacturing sector is the future of the country and in the coming decades, the HAL should focus on mastering technologies for all types of aircraft. Think ahead as the entire paradigm of warfare is changing,” he said. Highlighting the role of unmanned aircraft in future warfare, the Defence Secretary encouraged the HAL to collaborate with other private companies to develop new platforms. He inspected the manufacturing range of various engines and test beds and also paid a visit to HAL’s Aerospace Division. Chairman & Managing Director (Addl. Charge) of HAL Shri CB Ananthakrishnan said: “The development of this facility marks a key milestone in HAL’s growth trajectory. It is a testimony of our commitment towards achieving ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in aero-engine design and development.” The Centre, established in the 1960s, holds the unique distinction of being the only design house that has developed test beds for engines of both Western and Russian origin. The Centre has successfully developed & certified PTAE-7 engine, the first indigenous turbojet engine of India powering Lakshya (Unmanned Aircraft), Gas Turbine Electrical Generator GTEG-60 for starting An-32 aircraft, Air starter ATS 37 & Air producer for starting Adour-Mk 804E/811 on Jaguar Aircraft and Shakti engine for powering ALH to support Ad804/811 engine of Jaguar aircraft.

Rotterdam, Netherlands, November 30, 2023: Embraer and the Netherlands Industries for Defence & Security (NIDV) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) during the 34th NIDV Exhibition for Defense and Security (NEDS 2023). The signing of the MoU represents a key element in the strategic relationship developed between Embraer and the Netherlands, covering ongoing initiatives associated with the C-390 Millennium and A-29 Super Tucano. The MoU between Embraer and NIDV adds to Embraer’s existing partnerships and strategic relationships in the Netherlands while structuring a joint framework aimed at exploring additional opportunities aligned with the priorities of the Netherlands’ Defense Industry Strategy. These may include services and the development of new capabilities within Embraer’s existing projects, further contributing to the development and application of military knowledge, technologies, and industrial capabilities in the country. Contributions from the Dutch ecosystem to the supply chain of the Embraer C-390 program for export markets will remain a central goal. “The collaboration with Embraer is important for the NIDV and its members. Embraer is a forward-leaning OEM with a strong focus on innovation and new ideas to contribute to the operational readiness of their platforms. I am convinced that Embraer has added value for the Netherlands Defense Technical and Industrial Base” says Hans Huigen, Director of the NIDV. “We are pleased to deepen our partnership with NIDV. We are confident that the collaboration strategies under this MoU will bring further value to the Dutch defense and security ecosystem, including knowledge institutes, and the business community across different fields,” says Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO, Embraer Defense & Security. NIDV’S contributions have deepened Embraer’s collaboration with the Netherlands defense, technical and industrial base, which are aligned with the policies of the Netherlands Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy. The partnership focuses on developing innovative solutions in defense and at supporting the C-390 Millennium multi-mission platform. This agreement follows in line with several other MoUs in place, involving technological and industrial partners like Fokker Services Group and MultiSIM, and research institutes such as the Royal Netherlands Aerospace Centre (Royal NLR) and the Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO).