Fresh violence after bodies of six missing persons ‘recovered’ in Jiribam

Curfew was clamped on two districts of Manipur on Saturday after protesters went on a rampage in the Meitei-dominated Imphal valley region. The violence broke out following unconfirmed reports of recovery of bodies of six persons of a family who had gone missing earlier this week.

Besides imposing curfew in Imphal West and Imphal East districts, the administration suspended Internet services in Imphal West, Imphal East, Bishnupur, Thoubal, Kakching, Kangpokpi and Churachandpur districts for two days due to the prevailing tension in the state.

The curfew was imposed as protesters attacked houses of political leaders, including that of Chief Minister N Biren Singh and his son-in-law RK Imo. The security forces had to fire tear gas shells to disperse the protesters outside the CM’s personal residence.

Sources confirmed that the bodies of three of the six missing persons were found on Friday near a river in Jiribam district.

The victims had gone missing soon after the November 11 encounter between CRPF personnel and suspected militants in Jiribam.

As many as 10 militants were killed in the incident amid allegations by tribal groups that the deceased were village volunteers.

Large-scale violence was reported in parts of the Imphal valley districts as mobs targeted residences of politicians, including ministers and MLAs. A group of persons attacked MLA Sapam Nishikant Singh’s house and destroyed the gate and bunkers. The protesters, mainly women, demanded immediate action against the alleged Kuki insurgents, who they alleged had abducted the six women and children.

They further alleged that the state government and the security forces failed to rescue the “abducted persons”.

The development came even as the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has been given the charge of probing the November 11 encounter and the killing of a tribal woman by militants on November 7.

In a statement on Saturday, the Centre warned that strict action would be taken against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities amid a fragile security scenario in the state.

“Strict action will be initiated against anyone trying to indulge in violent and disruptive activities. Important cases have been handed over to the NIA for effective investigation,” a statement issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) said.

It said the security scenario in Manipur had remained fragile for the past few days.

“Armed miscreants from both communities in conflict have been indulging in violence leading to unfortunate loss of lives and disruption in public order. The security forces have been directed to take necessary steps to restore peace and order,” the MHA statement added.

Earlier, tribal groups scuffled with police personnel at Assam’s Silchar Medical College, after the bodies of the 10 suspected militants were not handed over to them and instead airlifted to Manipur.

On Saturday evening, the Cabinet decided to recommend to the Centre to withdraw AFSPA in six districts.

Bodies of 10 militants airlifted

The bodies of the 10 suspected militants, who were killed in an encounter with the CRPF on November 11, were airlifted by the police to Manipur from Assam’s Silchar town, where the autopsies were conducted. Tribal groups clashed with police personnel at Silchar Medical College when the bodies were not reportedly handed over to them.

Ensure peace, MHA tells security forces

Security forces have been directed to take necessary steps to restore peace and order. — MHA

The fresh incidents of violent protests take place on Saturday night even as an indefinite curfew is clamped

Security personnel stand guard ahead of a protest in Imphal, Manipur, Saturday, Nov. 16, 2024. (PTI Photo)

Irate mobs set fire to the houses of three more BJP legislators, one of whom is a senior minister, and a Congress MLA in various districts of Imphal Valley even as security forces foiled the attempt of agitators to storm the ancestral house of Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh, officials said.

The fresh incidents of violent protests took place on Saturday night even as an indefinite curfew was clamped after people, agitated by the killing of three women and children each by militants in Jiribam district, attacked the houses of three state ministers and six MLAs earlier on Saturday.

Enraged people torched the houses of PWD Minister Govindas Konthoujam at Ningthoukhong, Hiyanglam’s BJP MLA Y Radheshyam at Langmeidong Bazar, Wangjing Tentha’s BJP MLA Paonam Brojen in Thoubal district and Khundrakpam’s Congress MLA Th Lokeshwar in Imphal East district, the officials said.

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The legislators and their family members were not at home when the angry mob stormed their residential compounds, vandalised properties and set the houses on fire, police said, adding the houses were partially burnt in the incidents.

Fire services rushed to the spots and doused the blaze before the flames engulfed the entire houses.

On Saturday night, protesters also advanced towards Biren Singh’s ancestral house at Luwangshangbam in Imphal East but were stopped short of 100-200 metres by security forces.

Security personnel, including Assam Rifles, BSF and state forces, fired several rounds of tear gas shells, rubber bullets to disperse the protesters and foiled the attempt to damage Singh’s house, officials said.

Later, protesters burnt tyres on the main road leading to Biren Singh’s residence and piled iron rods to prevent vehicular movement.

Protests continued till around 11 pm in Mantripukhri area, some 3-4 km from the CM’s ancestral home.

Officials told PTI that many of the protesters had come in vehicles from other constituencies, and not from Heingang assembly seat, which the CM represented.

On Sunday morning, the situation remained calm but tense in all five districts of Imphal Valley, where an indefinite curfew has been imposed and internet services suspended following violent protests after the discovery of the bodies of six persons, three women and children each, allegedly abducted and killed by militants in Jiribam.

Piles of burnt debris remained on the roads of state capital Imphal, a day after the violent protests.

Security forces have intensified patrolling in parts of Imphal and increased deployment at many of the residences of legislators which were attacked on Saturday as well as all major roads leading to the secretariat, state BJP headquarters and Raj Bhavan.

He spared no effort to further the glory of 4th Gorkha Rifles, and become a historical fiction novelist, with bestsellers like ‘Bhowani Junction’ and ‘Bugles and a Tiger’

Lt Gen Baljit Singh Retd

“From the beginning whatever I was supposed to be doing, at least half of me was engaged in watching the slant-eyed men… small and cheerful… had the air of so many gambolling bull-pups, independent, good humoured. I was determined to go to the Gurkhas.” — John Masters

On reading the brief account in The Tribune last month of the regimental reunion at Subathu (Himachal Pradesh) celebrating 127 years’ glorious legacy of service to the nation by 4th Gorkha Rifles, my instant reaction was to WhatsApp a veteran Gorkha, “Gen Sandhu, wasn’t John Masters from 4 GR?” Prompt came the response: “Yes sir, he was from 2/4 GR.”

John Masters was born in Calcutta in 1914 with a century-old indelible genetic imprint to serve in the Gentleman Officers’ brotherhood of the Indian army — in the footsteps of his great grandfather, two uncles and father, that is, 8 King’s Royal Irish Light Dragoons, 34 Sikh Pioneers, 119 Hyderabad Infantry and Commanding Officer of 16 Rajput, respectively! His grandfather had been the Headmaster of La Martiniere School, Calcutta, and his great-uncle had discovered the tea plant growing wild in Assam in 1847!

Leaving nothing to chance, the baby was enrolled for schooling in Wellington from where he entered the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst; “…being then a few months past my 18th birthday, my suitcases and trunks lay at the wide steps. The Sergeant said, ‘What’s your name, Sir?’ I said, ‘Masters, Sir.’ He said, ‘Don’t call me SIR, Sir. Call me Staff, Sir.’ ‘Mr Lord Greenleaf, you look like a bloody monkey on a stick…!’ We looked at one another out of the corners of our eyes and trembled in our huge hobnailed boots.”

Masters toiled hard, standing first in military history, first in map reading, second in military law and overall topping the merit list of cadets for the Indian army, symbolised by the award of an engraved sword; “…my superiors kept showering congratulation upon me… The General stopped his car, leaped out, and pressed me warmly by the hand… the Adjutant momentarily shifted his gaze and said, ‘Good show, Masters’… Lesser officers wobbled off their bicycles to clap me on the back.”

Yet, the 4th Gorkhas would not accept him without sending for and sizing him up! So the Adjutant had to formally escort him before the Commanding Officer, who said graciously that “…he was pleased I had come to the battalion and hoped I would like it and do well”. However, as Masters stepped out to face his platoon, he “was floundering about like a blind puppy… not at all used to being an officer… could not open my mouth to give an order…”

But all that embarrassment was forgotten when he was “ceremonially dinned-in” in the Regimental Officers’ Mess in the evening. Once every one had assembled and Masters being the ‘guest’ in his soldierly life on this special occasion, the Commanding Officer, Lt Colonel David Murray, DSO, MC, said, “Good evening Masters, what would you have?”

“A gimlet, please, Sir.”

“Orderly, yota gimlet, yota gin-mixie-vermouth-cherry.”

“Hazoor Sahib,” said the Orderly, amiably.

Only after that did the rest of the officers ask for their drink.

Masters had been tutored at Sandhurst about the customs and traditions of the Officers’ Mess and remembered that on the conclusion of the dinner service, the ‘guest’ had to make the first move to leave the Mess. So, he went up to the Commanding Officer and “thanked him for the regiment’s hospitality, stiffened to attention, and said, ‘Good night, Sir’.”

But the ribaldry that followed after the Commanding Officer’s departure was the true measure of the acceptance of Masters into their fold; “…hard fingers were rubbing brandy-butter into my hair and stuffing Christmas pudding into my ears. Oh, ecstasy, I was accepted! Not until that moment did I feel that I had truly joined the regiment.”

Masters, on his part, spared no effort to further the glory of 4 GR as he emerged from WW-II a battle-hardened and proud recipient of the DSO, OBE and three Mentioned-in-Dispatches! And on the flip side, he had also shot a tiger that had strayed into regimental lines at Bakloh, the preserved skin of which is on display in the Garrison Officers’ Mess at Subathu to this day! The attached silver plaque reads: “Shot Bakloh 28th February, 1938. Presented to The Officers Mess, 4th PWO Gurkha Rifles, By Lieutenant J. Masters”.

I had become familiar with John Masters as a historical fiction novelist about a month before I had entered the portals of the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, when a friend of my father, who was a voracious reader of fiction, loaned me Masters’ first book, ‘Bhowani Junction’, from the 1954 bestsellers’ list. Two years later, on another brief stopover at home, after graduating from the Academy, when I called on the same family friend, he put aside the book he was reading to felicitate me on entering the brotherhood of Gentleman Officers. And pointing at ‘Bugles and a Tiger’, a John Masters’ 1956 release, he said affectionately, “You won’t regret buying this from your first pay cheque!”

Following that affectionate urging from the kindred Sardar Sahib, I had acquired not only John Masters’ latest book (first autobiographical novel), but also one more 1956 publication, the ‘Tree Tops’, being the last of Jim Corbett’s offerings! And both books from the princely Rs 450 monthly salary of an Army subaltern!

Hum Hain Na : A Call for Welfare of Short Service Commissioned Officers (SSCOs)

Overview
Ham Hain Na: specifically addresses the welfare concerns of Short Service Commissioned Officers (SSCOs) in the armed forces. It highlights the challenges they face and questions the policies implemented by decision-makers regarding their well-being.

Key Focus

• Welfare Concerns : We highlight the issues SSCOs encounter, including job security, benefits and support after service.
• Demand for Recognition : Calls for greater recognition of the contributions made by SSCOs to national security and defense.
• Questioning Policy Effectiveness : We challenge the efficacy of current welfare policies that govern SSCOs, urging a reassessment of their needs.

Specific Questions Raised
-Are current welfare policies addressing the needs of SSCOs?
-What support systems are in place for SSCOs transitioning to civilian life?
-How can policymakers ensure that SSCOs receive fair treatment and benefits comparable to their peers?

The Impact

• Awareness : It brings attention to the often-overlooked issues faced by SSCOs, educating the public and decision-makers about their plight.
• Advocacy for Change : It serves as a rallying cry for SSCOs and their supporters to advocate for better policies and support systems.
• Unity Among SS Officers : It fosters a sense of unity among SSCOs, encouraging them to stand together in demanding their rights.

Conclusion
Ham Hain Na is more than just a movement; it is a powerful body that questions the commitment of policymakers to the welfare of Short Service Commissioned Officers. By raising essential questions and highlighting their struggles, we serve as a catalyst for change and a call to action for improved support and recognition for SSCOs.

‘Bravehearts Ride’ motorcycle rally, spreading the message of courage, sacrifice and patriotism organised

Tributes were paid to martyrs here on Sunday as a precursor to the eighth edition of the Military Literature Festival, with Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria laying a wreath at the Chandigarh War Memorial.

Former Army chief General (Retd) VP Malik, former Indian Air Force chief BS Dhanoa and Military Literature Festival association chairman Lieutenant General (Retd) TS Shergill were also present on the occasion.

A ‘Bravehearts Ride’ motorcycle rally, spreading the message of courage, sacrifice and patriotism was also organised as part of the events connected with the Military Literature Festival (MLF).

The eighth edition of the MLF will be held here on November 30 and December 1.

“We paid our tributes to the martyrs, who made supreme sacrifices for the motherland,” Kataria told reporters here after laying a wreath at the memorial.

He said the valour of the bravehearts continues to inspire generations and exhorted the youth to embrace the noble path of serving the nation with the same courage and dedication shown by these heroes.

Replying to a question, Kataria said even today the youth have a great fascination for the armed forces.

“Youth are the future of the country. The future of the country is going to be shaped by them… If one works with dedication, honesty, the country progresses with cooperation from all…and we can achieve the aim of a developed nation by 2047,” he said.

Speaking on the sidelines, General Malik said the main purpose of this MLF was to inspire the youth.

With the 25th anniversary of the Kargil War triumph being the theme of this year’s MLF, General Malik, who was the Army chief at that time, said there would be discussions about the war.

When asked about the country emphasising self-reliance in defence, General Malik said ‘Atmanirbharta’ was a good thing.

“During the Kargil War, we had to import 75 per cent of the arms and ammunition… For the security of a nation, self-reliance, especially when it comes to defence equipment and weapons, is necessary,” he told PTI.

Asked about lessons our country can learn from the Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas conflicts, General Malik said the (Indian) armed forces were watching and observing them very carefully.

“All the new issues which are coming up, new concepts which are coming up, they are all watching and we are drawing those lessons and incorporating them,” said General Malik.

“I keep hearing the discussions which are taking place. So, it is not that we are just looking at it only, but we are also absorbing those lessons and making them as part of our doctrines,” he added.

When asked that warfare had transcended into new domains, cyber etc, General Malik said, “The nature of conflict has expanded quite a lot. A lot of things have come, cyber war etc. These are new aspects of the nature of conflict which are being observed and these lessons are being absorbed by the armed forces.”

“The whole nature of warfare has changed, one of the main reasons is because of the technological changes that have come about. Warfare today is a very dynamic issue because the technology is moving so fast. Because of that you find a new weapon system, new capabilities are coming. Armed forces are also trying and improving these capabilities in our own doctrines,” he added.

On the military recruitment scheme Agnipath, General Malik said it was a good scheme aimed at ensuring the youthful profile of the armed forces.

Meanwhile, Lieutenant General Shergill said warfare had changed in scope and size.

Referring to increased domains of warfare, he said there would be a discussion on this during the MLF.

Former Indian Air Force (IAF) chief Dhanoa, touching upon motivating the youth to join the armed forces, said military veterans could play an important role in doing this. “The veterans must tell their stories. Aim is what, if there is a child, you must put stars in the eyes of the child. My grandfather did it for me when I was a child. He used to tell me stories. I decided to join the military at a very early age. It is our job as veterans that we speak to the young people, young children, organise things like this (MLF), and put stars in the eyes of the children,” he said.The former IAF chief said the youth must join the military for two reasons — “one is of course service to the nation and second is that this is the job they want to do and nothing else. If that is your motivation, you will do very well”.

Referring to the IAF’s Heritage Centre in Chandigarh, he said, “We must have more places like this so that we can motivate children. When they go around and see things like this, it will motivate them.”    “On the 50th anniversary of the 1971 (Indo-Pak) war, the Air Force Association published a book in which the veterans from all branches of the IAF, who were in that war, wrote their story. When people read it, they get motivated…Likewise, the MLF does a tremendous job in motivating people to come and join the military,” he added.

INDIA’S ‘FUTURE READY COMBAT VEHICLE’: SEEKING ENHANCED MOBILITY, FIREPOWER AND SURVIVABILITY

Brig Arvind Dhananjayan (Retd)

n the present paradigm of operational environments saturated with aerial/ground combat machines, inter-platform lethality/survivability have emerged as essential prerequisites for a combat platform, now and into the foreseeable future. While it may be pertinent to challenge the efficacy and/or survivability of mechanized platforms against the backdrop of global conflicts where drone predominance continues to be underscored, India’s vast Northern and Western Plains, coupled with extensive trans/cis border desert/semi-desert environments, reinforce the imperativeness of a robust tracked combat vehicle profile platform. A modern and lethal armoured fighting vehicle (AFV) profile with our mechanized formations is therefore necessary to serve as a deterrent and sustain combat advantage.

The Indian Armed Forces’ Technology Perspective and Capability Roadmap (TPCR)-2018, a vision document for capability building until the end of the present decade, lays down the broad qualitative requirements (QR) for future AFV systems, standards that the FRCV Program will be expected to meet and possibly surpass.

Source-defencedirecteducation.com

The Path of the FRCV Program

A Request for Information (RFI) for the FRCV was initially floated by the Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army) in November 2017, which specified the requirement to procure 2000 units under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, aimed at replacing the aging T-72 Main Battle Tank (MBT). This RFI was issued under the ‘Make’ category, conforming to the contents of Chapter VII of the Defence Procurement Procedure-2016, for procurement through the ‘Strategic Partnership’ (SP) model route, wherein an Indian firm was required to partner with a foreign OEM to manufacture the FRCV in India. While countries including the US, UK, France, Germany, South Korea, Russia and Ukraine had responded, the 2017 RFI was superseded by the RFI floated in May 2021, primarily due to significant changes that needed to be incorporated to make the platform ‘future ready’.

The latest RFI of May 2021 seeks the induction of approximately 1770 units of the FRCV MBT, with induction commencing by 2030, along with necessary logistics support, Transfer of Technology (ToT), Engineering Support Package and miscellaneous maintenance/training requirements.

Unlike the previous RFI, RFI-2021 stipulates procurement of the FRCV platform under the Make-I Category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure-2020, aimed at participation of Indian firms as Development Agencies (DA) under the ‘Make in India’ paradigm. For such projects, an Indigenous Content (IC) of 50% is stipulated, which infers that the aid sought by DAs from foreign OEMs for provision/manufacture of assemblies/sub-assemblies, will not exceed 50% of the content, by cost. The Government of India can provide financial aid for prototype development which would be released in a phased manner to the nominated DA(s), if approved. Selection/shortlisting of DA(s) would consider the approximate cost estimate provided by the DA(s) and capability of DA(s) to undertake design/development of the system/subsequent upgrades. The Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) has thus been sought for the combined estimated cost of the prototype phase and the cost of subsequent procurement under the Buy Indian- (Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured [IDDM]) Category.

Accordance of AoN on 03 September 2024 by the Defence Acquisition Council, has kickstarted the process. The Project Facilitation Team (PFT), constituted by Army HQ, will order the preparation of a Project Definition Document (PDD) and provide to the nominated DA(s) the Preliminary Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQRs) for the FRCV, along with timelines/milestones, the methodology and criteria for the evaluation process. Presently, the PSQRs are in the draft stage as this article is written. The phased induction of the FRCV would allow the PFT to periodically assess the project for time/cost overruns and relevance vis-à-vis current technology. The Expression of Interest (EoI) would be issued to the DA(s) and Detailed Project Report (DPR) sought. This would be followed by issue of Request for Proposal (RFP), final shortlisting of DA(s), prototype design/development (envisaged within four years), conversion of PSQRs into Service Qualitative Requirements, Field Evaluation Trials, cost negotiation and award of contract to one or more DA(s).

Going by previously demonstrated technical capabilities for development/ manufacture/system integration in the Defence manufacturing sector, it is appreciated that private firms like Tata Power SED, Tata Motors, Reliance Defence and Engineering Limited, Mahindra Group, Bharat Forge etc. could bid for the contract and figure in the list of DAs, amongst others. In addition to private DAs, the FRCV contract is also likely to see the involvement of the Defence PSU, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd.

To provide impetus to indigenisation, modalities of ToT and IC will be specified in the EoI issued to the DAs. The ‘Make in India’ initiative has been purposely planned, in order to put in place a viable and self-contained industrial and manufacturing ecosystem for India’s future plans for a 100% indigenously designed, developed and manufactured MBT platform, as has also been envisaged for the Indian Army’s Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) Program (read more about the FICV @ https://chanakyaforum.com/indias-futuristic-infantry-combat-vehicle/).

Salient Contours of RFI-2021 for the FRCV

RFI-2021 envisages a new ‘state-of-the art, technology-enabled tank to operate in varied terrain profile (High Altitude Areas, Plains/Riverine, Deserts/Semi-Deserts) across the current/future spectrum of conflict, which will remain in service for the next 40-50 years as the MBT of the Indian Army’. The RFI seeks a modular, upgradable design, wherein the FRCV design would be able to seamlessly incorporate future technologies capable of being integrated into the basic design of the FRCV platform. The FRCV platform is envisaged to serve the Indian Army into/beyond the 2050s.

While the initial numbers of FRCV would be made up wholly by the FRCV MBT, the new FRCV platform would subsequently serve as a platform for as many as 11 different vehicles, including light tracked/wheeled combat/fighting vehicles, bridge layer/trawl tanks, Artillery self-propelled howitzers & Observation Post platforms, Air Defence guns, Engineering Reconnaissance Vehicles and armoured ambulances.

The FRCV is required to have state-of-the-art firepower, lethality, mobility and survivability in a contested, network-centric and Electronic Warfare (EW) environment. Salient operational features are tabulated below.

Note.
# Likely a 3rd /4th /5th Generation indigenous top-attack ATGM (NAG [Prospina] /SAMHO/Fifth Generation ATGM respectively) with kill probability > 90% (read more @ https://chanakyaforum.com/indias-atgms-lethal-anti-armour-capability/).
@ Likely to be 120mm/125mm Main Gun.

Global Trends in MBTs

Since the bulk of the FRCV order would be for FRCV MBTs, a brief global scan of MBTs, which might serve as reference for the Project, with respect to various features, is elucidated below, in no particular order of preference.

 France’s Leclerc XLR. The Leclerc XLR MBT boasts of networked architecture, a NBC protection system, the SCORPION Information and Command System (SICS) and a multi-spectral passive countermeasures system linked to a Laser Warning System (LWS). The upgraded Leclerc comes with a counter-IED jammer that prevents IEDs from being detonated by remote control, new man-machine interfaces for commander/gunner, redesigned main system computers, and a battle health monitoring system. The MBT mounts a Giat 120 mm, 52-caliber smoothbore gun with a coaxial 12.7mm machine gun (MG), a turret-mounted Remote-Controlled Weapon-Station (RCWS) and an automatic loading system (ALS). It can fire in-service ATGMs. Nexter has also developed a new 120mm High-Explosive (HE) round that can be set for impact/delay/airburst functions. The FCS mounts a modular thermal imaging camera, Thales laser rangefinder (LRF) and stabilized sights for the commander/gunner. The MBT has modular/active armour on the hull and turret with wire-cage armour over the engine/rear. It has a combat weight of 57 tons, a powerpack delivering 1500 HP and a fully automatic transmission system (FATS). The MBT has a road/offroad speed of 72 kmph/50 kmph respectively, thrust-to-weight ratio (TWR) of 24 HP/ ton, with a cruising range of 615 Km. It requires a crew of three personnel.

Leclerc MBT:Source-armyrecognition.com

 Russia’s T-14 Armata. The Russian T-14 Armata MBT is based on the Armata Universal Combat Platform. It has a crew of three personnel. Its main armament is a 125 mm (upgradable to 152 mm) smoothbore cannon, with secondary armament of one 12.7mm and 7.62mm MG, each controlled from a RCWS. It could also mount a 30mm Anti-Aircraft Gun. The MBT can fire in-service ammunition and ATGMs, including the new HE controlled-detonation Teknik HE-Fragmentation shell. The MBT uses an integrated, computerized control/health monitoring system. In battle, the software can analyse threats and then either suggest or automatically take actions to eliminate them and can also detect/rectify crew errors. The commander and gunner have multispectral image sights, with thermography channels and LRFs. The MBT features the Afganit Active Protection System (APS), with an AESA Radar, offering soft/kinetic kill options. The main protective steel armour is 15% lighter, has extremely high durability and is able to withstand extreme temperature environments. The composite armour has a new ceramic layer and utilises New Generation (NG) Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) within its base design, as a continuous layer and not as layered bricks.
Applique armour is mounted on the sides in the forward 2/3rd. Slat (cage) armour is in the rear 1/3rd, on the sides and the back. The crew is protected by an internal armoured capsule. The MBT weighs 55 tons. The diesel, double-turbocharged engine can produce 1500 HP, with a TWR of 27.3 HP/ton, FATS, top speed of 75-82 kmph and a minimum combat range of 500 Km.

T-14 Armata MBT:Source-hotcars.com

 USA’s M1A2SEPv3 (Abrams). The M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 retains the layout of the M1A2 MBT and has a crew of four personnel. Many of the tank’s assemblies/sub-assemblies are modular, allowing for easy maintenance/replacement in the field. The tank integrates a joint tactical radio system, ensuring interoperation with future brigade combat teams. The main gun is a 120mm smoothbore cannon, which can fire M829A4 advanced kinetic energy and advanced multi-purpose (AMP) rounds, programmed via an ammunition data link, against armoured vehicles, personnel and low-flying aircraft. The MBT mounts a RCWS installed with an upgraded day camera offering a 340% larger field-of-view and a 12.7mm MG. A 7.62mm MG is mounted coaxially with the main gun. The MBT mounts an improved forward-looking infrared (IFLIR) that employs long/mid-wave IR technology to enhance target acquisition, identification, and engagement. The hull and turret integrate a new armour package for superior protection against IED threats. The tank can be hinged with ERA/slat armour. The CREW Duke V3 counter remote-controlled IED EW system protects the crew from roadside bombs/IED attacks. In 2022, the Trophy APS was installed on the MBT. The MBT is powered by a gas turbine engine, which generates 1500HP. The auxiliary power unit enables the tank to operate onboard systems with enhanced stealth. The MBT, however, weighs 66.8 tons, offering a PWR of 23.8 HP/ton. It offers a maximum on-road/off-road speed of 72 kmph/40 kmph respectively, with a combat range of 429 Km.

M1A2SEPv3 MBT:Source-warriormaven.com

 Israel’s Merkava Mark-4 Barak. Merkava Mark-4M Barak is the latest version of Israel’s Merkava MBT. It is armed with a 120 mm smoothbore gun which can fire almost all versions of Western 120 mm smoothbore ammunition, as well as the LAHAT ATGM, with a land-fired operational range of 8000m. The MBT has two roof-mounted 7.62 mm MGs for use by the commander/loader and another mounted co-axially with the main gun. A 60 mm mortar is fitted for firing smoke rounds for suppressing dug-in Infantry anti-tank teams. It is also mounted with a remote-controlled .50 calibre heavy MG. Removable modular composite armour is used on all sides, including the top and a V-shaped belly armour pack for the underside, allowing quick repair/replacement. The MBT turret is electrically driven. Low observable features like shaping/exterior non-reflective paints/shielding for engine heat plumes make the tank harder to target by heat sensors/radar. The MBT has a caterpillar track system, designed to reduce track-shedding over hard/rocky terrain. The MBT mounts the Elbit Battle Management System, Knight Mark 4 FCS, an Amcoram LWS-2 laser warning receiver and electromagnetic warning against radar illumination. The Mark-4 Windbreaker is mounted with the Trophy APS and 360-degree day/night camera coverage for enhanced situational awareness (SA). The MBT weighs 65 tons. The turbocharged diesel engine produces 1512 HP, with a TWR of 23 HP/ton. It has a combat range of 500 Km and a maximum road speed of 64 kmph.

Merkava Mark-4 Barak:Source-pinterest.com

 Italy’s Ariete C2. The Ariete C2 is the successor of the Ariete C1 MBT.
It is characterized by high mobility, advanced armour protection and substantial firepower. The hull and turret are made of welded steel with composite armour. The MBT incorporates a FATS. The upgraded heavy-duty final drives and the widened track system provide increased mobility in all operative conditions. The dual-stabilised 120mm smoothbore gun can fire all standard NATO ammunition. It mounts a 7.62mm MG coaxially and on the turret roof together with a 12.7mm MG for local/air defence. The new FCS includes day/night commander’s panoramic sight and gunner’s sight, both with third-generation thermal imagers and eye-safe LRF. C4I includes Leonardo’s Software Defined Radio, digital intercom, C2 and navigation system, making the MBT NCW ready. It has a crew of three personnel. The MBT weighs 62.5 tons. The upgraded turbocharged diesel powerpack delivers 1500 HP, with a TWR of 24 HP/ton. It has a maximum speed of 60 Kmph and a maximum road range of 550 Km.

Ariete C2 MBT:Source-iveco-otomelara.com

 Serbia’s M-84 AS1. The M-84AS1 2020 version has a turret and hull almost completely covered with 2nd Generation ERA and with titanium-aluminium-tungsten alloy armour. The MBT incorporates a ‘soft-kill’ APS. Day/night thermal cameras and commander scope with 6 low-light cameras and other sensors increase SA of the three-member tank crew. Early warning sensors against radar detection, laser designation and incoming rockets are coupled with automatic delivery of smoke grenades towards the threat to achieve protection. Automatic fire extinguisher capable of reacting in milliseconds, with modern UV sensors for fire detection have been added to mitigate explosions in the tank compartment. The MBT mounts a 125mm smoothbore gun with a RCWS controlled 12.7mm MG. The MBT weighs 45 tons. The diesel power pack generates 1200 HP, generating a TWR of 26.7 HP/ton. The combat range is 700 Km with a top speed of 80 kmph, making it one of the fastest MBTs.

M-84 AS1 MBT:Source-Wikipedia

Other MBTs that might warrant study are Germany’s Leopard-2A7, UK’s Challenger-3, Turkey’s Altay-T2 and Ukraine’s T-84 Oplot-M, among others. Detailed descriptions of these MBTs have not been included for the sake of brevity.
It is appreciated that salient features of the indigenous Arjun Mark 1/1A/2, including the FCS, composite ‘Kanchan’ armour, armament and Advanced Laser Warning Countermeasure System could be considered mutatis mutandis, with necessary upgrades for the FRCV (read more about the Arjun MBT @ https://chanakyaforum.com/indias-arjun-mark-1a-vs-pakistans-vt-4-rival-chariots-of-fire/ ). This would economise on time, effort and production costs of the FRVC Programme.

Conclusion
The FRCV Project promises to be a far-reaching program with relevance well past the midpoint of the 21st century, as a provider for the Indian Army’s future-ready MBT and associated support platforms. Apropos, substantial diligence and foresight would be required to create a FRCV platform that would accrue combat advantage all along India’s multi-terrain borders and against two diverse adversaries.

Brig Arvind Dhananjayan (Retd)

Author

Brig Arvind Dhananjayan (Retd) has commanded an operational Brigade and has been Brigadier- in- charge Administration in a premier training facility. He has had exposure abroad on deputation to Botswana, Southern Africa as member of an Indian Army Training Team and has had extensive exposure in mentoring of Defence Forces overseas. He possesses vast instructional experience, imparting instructions in both technical aspects and tactical application of weapon systems.

In a significant development, India and Japan have inked an agreement for co-development of a specialised stealth radio communication equipment used by naval warships. This would be the first case of co-development or co-production of defence equipment between the two…

Tribune News Service

In a significant development, India and Japan have inked an agreement for co-development of a specialised stealth radio communication equipment used by naval warships.

This would be the first case of co-development or co-production of defence equipment between the two countries.

The equipment, called as ‘unified complex radio antenna’ or ‘Unicorn’, is a mast-shaped system that integrates all communication systems. Technically known as ‘NORA-50 antenna’, it is currently being used by Japanese warships.

“This system will help improve the stealth characteristics of Indian naval platforms,” a statement of the Ministry of Defence said.

The Indian Navy is planning to induct these advanced systems, which will be co-developed by Bharat Electronics Limited in India in collaboration with Japan.

A memorandum of implementation (MoI) was signed at the Embassy of India, Tokyo, on Friday, the Indian Embassy in Tokyo said in post on social media platform X.

The MoI was exchanged between Sibi George, India’s Ambassador to Japan, and Ishikawa Takeshi, Commissioner of Acquisition Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA), under Japan’s Ministry of Defence, during a ceremony in Tokyo.

In August, Japanese Defence Minister Minuro Kihara had offered the ‘Unicorn’ to India during the 2+2 dialogue between India and Japan’s foreign and defence ministers in New Delhi.

Sources said Japanese hold one of the best technologies in making ships, engines and submarines.

India has successfully conducted the flight trial of long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off-the-coast of Odisha. The test was done on Saturday night. The missile can hit moving targets at long ranges. The Ministry of Defence…

Tribune News Service

ndia has successfully conducted the flight trial of long-range hypersonic missile from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off-the-coast of Odisha.

The test was done on Saturday night. The missile can hit moving targets at long ranges.The Ministry of Defence on Sunday said the missile is designed to carry various payloads for ranges greater than 1,500 km.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on X, “This is a historic moment and this significant achievement has put our country in the group of select nations having capabilities of such critical and advanced military technologies.”

The minister congratulated the DRDO, armed forces and the industry for the achievement.

The 555th Parkash Purb (birth anniversary) of Guru Nanak Dev was celebrated with fervour on both sides of the India-Pakistan border today. A day earlier, a ‘palki’ (palanquin) made of special steel and ‘saroops’ of Sri Guru Granth Sahib were…

GS Paul Tribune News Service

The 555th Parkash Purb (birth anniversary) of Guru Nanak Dev was celebrated with fervour on both sides of the India-Pakistan border today.

A day earlier, a ‘palki’ (palanquin) made of special steel and ‘saroops’ of Sri Guru Granth Sahib were sent to Pakistan through the Attari-Wagah border. These were sent by Muktsar-based Nirol Sewa Society.

Many pilgrims from across the globe have reached Sri Nankana Sahib, the birth place of Guru Nanak, which was decked up with flowers and lights. Today, a grand Nagar Kirtan was taken out. The procession started at Gurdwara Sri Nankana Sahib and covered a stretch of around one and a half km.

In Amritsar, a sea of devotees thronged the Golden Temple to be part of the special programmes organised by the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) at Gurdwara Sri Manji Sahib Diwan Hall in the shrine complex, where the bhog of Akhand Path was performed.

The special centre of attraction was the “jalau ritual” during which the rarest of the rare articles of ornamental beauty studded with precious stones and pearls, bejewelled canopy were displayed for public view at the sanctum sanctorum of the Golden Temple, Akal Takht and Gurdwara Baba Atal Rai Sahib.

Sparing a thought for the environment, the SGPC had arranged eco-friendly ‘green’ fireworks on the occasion. The span of fireworks too was restricted to just five-seven minutes. Since 2017, the ‘deepmala’ (traditional lighting of bulb strings) too has been replaced with a high-tech computerised lighting system that illuminates the Golden Temple complex.

Golden Temple manager Bhagwant Singh Dhankhar said taking into account the deteriorating air quality level, it was decided to have the firework display symbolically only. “We arranged special low decibel crackers. These emitted negligible smoke,” he said.

Akal Takht Jathedar Giani Raghbir Singh and SGPC president Harjinder Singh Dhami extended their greetings and asked the devotees to follow the teachings of the Guru and maintain universal brotherhood and harmony.

Malerkotla: The Parkash Utsav was celebrated with fervour at various localities. Besides organising “Akhand Path”, “prabhat pheris” and Nagar Kirtans were also taken out to mark the occasion. Community kitchens were organised at several places.