Tuesday, March 04, 2025 by Indian Defence News

India has recently taken a strong stance against Pakistan’s attempts to raise the issue of Jammu and Kashmir at international forums.

At the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC), India exercised its Right of Reply to counter Pakistan’s claims, labelling them as “baseless and malicious” and criticizing Pakistan for spreading falsehoods propagated by its military-terrorist complex.

India described Pakistan as a “failed state” that thrives on instability and survives on international handouts, accusing it of hypocrisy, human rights abuses, and minority persecution.

India reaffirmed that Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India, highlighting the region’s significant political, social, and economic progress despite decades of Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

In contrast, recent comments by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah highlighted the progress made during the tenure of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh. Abdullah noted that India and Pakistan came closer to resolving the Kashmir issue during Singh’s regime, building on initiatives started by Atal Bihari Vajpayee and General Pervez Musharraf.

However, Abdullah expressed scepticism about returning to that stage in his lifetime.

Despite these historical efforts, current diplomatic tensions remain high, with India firmly rejecting Pakistan’s attempts to internationalize the Kashmir issue.

Meanwhile, there are ongoing calls from diplomats and peace activists for the restoration of ties between India and Pakistan, emphasizing the need for sustained dialogue to improve relations.

Rising Kashmir News

Experts emphasise the need for technology infusion into the Army’s existing mechanised platforms

Solutions for a number of technological requirements projected by the Western Command were found during close interactions between Army officers and representatives from the industry and academia during Mech Tech, a seminar aimed at providing a comprehensive platform for sharing thoughts and latest technological advancement on the ‘Future Landscape of Mechanised Warfare and Infusion of Niche Technology,’ held at Chandimandir on Tuesday.

Out of 49 technology infusion challenges shortlisted and presented to the industry, 21 probable solutions were found which will be taken forward. Besides these, 18 solutions related to the equipment of mechanised forces were also found which will be followed through different channels.

A key component of the seminar was business-to-consumer (B2C) meetings, where industry representatives engaged with relevant Army teams formed with specific agenda for explaining the technical requirements of the Western Command.

During the two-day seminar that concluded today, experts emphasised the need for technology infusion into the Army’s existing mechanised platforms to enhance their combat effectiveness, situational awareness and survivability in the modern battlefield.

Experts deliberated on the need for technological innovations, indigenous defence capabilities and enhanced operational effectiveness to prepare mechanised forces for contemporary conflicts.

The integration of autonomous and unmanned systems into mechanised warfare was another pivotal topic where military analysts discussed the role of unmanned ground vehicles and aerial drones in reconnaissance, logistics support and offensive operations. The use of swarm drone technology, tethered drones and robotic support vehicles is expected to revolutionise the battlefield by reducing reliance on manned platforms while increasing force projection.

A de-novo look was given to amplify the understanding of the critical niche technologies that can significantly enhance mobility, lethality, survivability, situational awareness and communication in the existing mechanised platforms. The importance of indigenisation of spare parts, maintenance practices and retrofitting strategies to sustain the fleet of mechanised platforms was also addressed.

Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, emphasised the importance of making this newly initiated process of interaction a continuous one, to ensure innovation leading to creation of a responsive eco-system.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to bolster its mid-air refuelling capabilities with the potential acquisition of Russian mid-air refuelers, specifically the Il-78M-90A (Il-476).

This enhancement is significant given India’s long-standing familiarity with Russian defence equipment, which includes a substantial fleet of Russian-origin fighter jets like the Su-30MKI.

The IAF currently operates six IL-78MKI tankers, which have been reliable but are ageing and require modernisation or replacement to maintain operational effectiveness.

The need for expanded mid-air refuelling capabilities is driven by the IAF’s requirement to conduct long-range missions, particularly in strategic regions such as the Arabian Sea, the Malacca Strait, and the Red Sea.

The IAF aims to increase its fleet of mid-air refuelers to at least a dozen, with plans to potentially double this number to 18, as part of its broader strategy to enhance the operational range and flexibility of its fighter jets.

For example, India’s air surveillance aircraft Netra, besides fighter jets like Su-30MKI, Mirage, Rafale, and MiG-29, require air-to-air refuelling when deployed at distances beyond 1000 kilometres. That’s why mid-air refuelling is essential to IAF’s dominance of the air space over the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

Russia’s offer to provide the Il-78M-90A, along with potential technology transfer and local production, aligns with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” vision, which emphasises self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

This could transform India into a manufacturing hub for air-to-air refuelers, similar to its experience with the Su-30MKI, potentially opening up export opportunities.

In addition to Russian options, the IAF is also considering other international contenders, including Airbus’s A330 MRTT, Boeing’s KC-46 Pegasus, and a partnership between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert Boeing 737 aircraft into refuelers.

The choice will depend on factors such as cost-effectiveness, capability, and the potential for technology transfer.

Sputnik India

Advanced systems & technologies must be leveraged not only for security operations but also for disaster management & humanitarian relief: Defence Minister

“It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead. Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis”

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) – Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Collaboration Conference-Cum-Exhibition on ‘Advanced Technologies for Internal Security and Disaster Relief Operations’ at DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi on March 04, 2025. Organised by the Directorate of Low Intensity Conflict (DLIC) under DRDO, the two-day conference aims to equip Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) officers with the latest advancements in technology to address challenges in their operations. The event provided a platform for the exchange of ideas and collaboration to strengthen India’s internal security and disaster response framework.

Addressing the gathering, Rajnath Singh highlighted the growing complexities in global security and the increasing overlap between internal and external threats. “Security challenges in the modern world are evolving rapidly, and the overlap between internal and external security is increasing. It is imperative that our institutions break silos and work collaboratively to ensure a strong, secure, and self-reliant India,” he stated. He stressed that India’s national security must be viewed holistically, integrating efforts across different security agencies and leveraging the latest technological advancements.

Rajnath Singh underscored that India’s security apparatus must remain adaptive to emerging threats such as cyber warfare, hybrid warfare, space-based challenges, and transnational organised crime. He noted that India’s internal security is not just about managing conventional threats like terrorism, separatist movements, and left-wing extremism but also about preparing for unconventional threats that can destabilise the nation’s economic and strategic interests. “The adversaries of today do not always come with traditional weapons; cyber-attacks, misinformation campaigns, and space-based espionage are emerging as new-age threats that require advanced solutions,” he stated.

“DRDO has played a pivotal role in enhancing India’s defence capabilities, and its contributions to internal security are equally commendable. From small arms and bulletproof jackets to surveillance and communication systems, DRDO’s innovations are empowering our security forces,” Defence Minister underlined. He urged DRDO and MHA to work together to create a common list of scalable products that can be jointly developed and deployed in a time-bound manner. “Our security forces require the best tools and technologies to remain ahead of the curve. It is encouraging to see DRDO’s focus on modernisation, with products like small arms, surveillance equipment and drone systems either inducted or undergoing evaluation for deployment in internal security agencies,” he highlighted.

Rajnath Singh recalled his tenure as Home Minister, highlighting how the collaboration between security agencies and scientific institutions led to significant technological advancements. He cited examples of DRDO-developed technologies such as the corner shot weapon system, INSAS rifles, IED jammer vehicles and riot control vehicles, which were effectively integrated into the operations of CAPFs.

Rajnath Singh also spoke about the importance of leveraging technology not just for security but also for disaster management and humanitarian relief. “The role of technology is not just in defence but also in ensuring peace and social welfare. Advanced systems like bulletproof jackets, drones, surveillance equipment and anti-drone technologies must be leveraged not only for security operations but also for disaster management and humanitarian relief,” he said. He cited the increasing frequency of natural calamities like cyclones, avalanches, earthquakes & cloud bursts and underscored the critical need for advanced rescue tools. He mentioned that the use of technologies such as thermal imaging cameras, drone-based detection systems, and victim locating devices can significantly reduce casualties and damage.

Referring to the recent avalanche in Mana, Uttarakhand, Defence Minister lauded the use of advanced rescue equipment in saving lives and reducing the impact of the disaster. He threw light on the fact that although disasters are tragic in themselves, their impact can be minimised with the use of advanced technology and how, in the recent avalanche, technologies like rotary rescue saws, thermal imaging, victim locating cameras, avalanche rods, and drone-based detection systems played a crucial role in saving lives.

Highlighting the importance of public awareness in disaster management, Rajnath Singh called for greater involvement of civil society in disaster preparedness. “Today, India is a prospering nation, and disaster management must become an integral part of our preparedness. It is not enough for security agencies and technology developers to take the lead; we must also educate the general public. Every citizen should know how to respond in times of crisis,” he urged.

Defence Minister also stressed the need for focused conferences on specific security challenges faced by different regions of the country. “Security threats in India are not uniform. The issues faced in the Northeast due to insurgencies are different from those in Naxal-affected areas or border regions. Similarly, urban security concerns are different from those in rural areas. We need to organise dedicated conferences that focus on region-specific challenges and solutions,” he said.

As part of the event, the Transfer of Technology (ToT) of the ASMI 9x19mm Machine Pistol was handed over by DRDO to Lokesh Machinery Tool, marking a step forward in the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Rajnath Singh also inaugurated an exhibition showcasing DRDO-designed technologies developed in collaboration with the Indian defence industry, highlighting achievements in indigenisation. Three significant documents were also released to strengthen cooperation and technological advancements in internal security and disaster management. These include:

1. Compendium of DRDO Products for Internal Security

2. Compendium of DRDO Products for Police Operations

3. Compendium of DRDO Products for Disaster Relief Operations

The conference includes seven technical sessions focusing on key areas such as Left-Wing Extremism, border management, advanced weapon technologies, drone & counter-drone solutions, disaster management, policing & crowd control, and futuristic communication technologies.

PIB

March 04, 2025 by Indian Defence News

Reports have emerged that Bangladesh has deployed Turkish-made Bayraktar-TB2 drones near its border with India, specifically in the region adjacent to West Bengal. This development has prompted India to intensify its surveillance and vigilance along the shared border. The Bayraktar-TB2 drones, operated by Bangladesh’s 67th Army, are used for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.

Bangladesh claims the deployment is for defensive purposes, but India views it as strategically significant, especially given the recent increase in terrorist activities along the border following the ouster of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s government.

The deployment of these drones comes at a time when India-Bangladesh relations are strained, with a rise in anti-India sentiments in Bangladesh. India has responded by positioning its own unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in West Bengal to counter potential threats and enhance border security. This includes the possible deployment of advanced drones like the Heron-TP.

The situation remains tense, with both countries closely monitoring developments along their shared border. India is prepared to take necessary countermeasures to ensure national security, while Bangladesh’s actions are seen as part of its broader efforts to enhance its military capabilities.

The Bayraktar-TB2 drones are known for their effectiveness in surveillance and light-strike operations, raising concerns for India due to their potential to be used in hostile terrain. Bangladesh has operationalized six out of twelve drones acquired from Turkey, marking a significant upgrade in its aerial capabilities.

The deployment also highlights Bangladesh’s growing military ties with countries like Turkey, which could further complicate regional dynamics involving India, Pakistan, and China.

IT News

Solar Industries India Limited, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited, has secured a significant contract worth ₹239 crore from the Ministry of Defence, Government of India.

This contract involves the supply of multi-mode hand grenades, which are to be delivered over a period of one year. The deal reinforces Solar Industries’ strong position in the defence manufacturing sector, contributing to India’s self-reliance in defence production and enhancing national security capabilities.

Key Points

Contract Value: ₹239 crore

Product: Multi-Mode Hand Grenades

Delivery Period: One Year

Entity Awarding the Contract: Ministry of Defence, Government of India

Executing Company: Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited, a subsidiary of Solar Industries India Limited

This order highlights Solar Defence capabilities in delivering high-quality defence products and strengthens its partnership with the Ministry of Defence. The company’s role in India’s defence sector is further solidified by this contract, which is part of its broader strategy to support domestic defence manufacturing.

UNI

VEM Technologies, a Hyderabad-based aerospace and defence company, has unveiled the VIDHWAMS Guided Rocket. This innovative system is designed to enhance the Indian Army’s precision strike capabilities with a remarkable range of 250 km.

The VIDHWAMS is specifically engineered to target land-based infrastructure such as bunkers, radar installations, air hangars, and runways, making it a crucial asset for both offensive and defensive operations. It features advanced specifications, including a weight of less than 600 kg, a length of less than 6 meters, and a solid rocket motor for propulsion.

The rocket utilises GPS-assisted Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) navigation, ensuring a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of better than 10 meters, which is essential for minimizing collateral damage in modern warfare scenarios.

The system employs electro-mechanical actuation and aerodynamic control surfaces for precise control and is launched via a canister-based launch system.

Specification Summary

Further development of the VIDHWAMS system is contingent upon obtaining clearance from the Indian Army, which VEM Technologies is optimistic about securing to advance the project.

The VIDHWAMS Guided Rocket represents a significant leap in precision-guided munitions, offering the Indian Army a strategic advantage by enabling deep strikes into enemy territory while reducing risks to friendly forces.

Its long-range capability and high precision make it an effective tool for disrupting enemy logistics and air operations. VEM Technologies’ development of VIDHWAMS aligns with India’s broader strategy of enhancing indigenous defence capabilities, contributing to the “Make-In-India” initiative.

The company’s expertise in aerospace and defence, demonstrated through its involvement in various missile programs and components for systems like the BrahMos, underscores its potential to play a pivotal role in India’s defence modernization efforts.

VEM Technologies’ commitment to innovation and self-reliance in defence manufacturing is evident in its diverse portfolio, which includes anti-tank guided missiles, anti-drone systems, and surveillance technologies.

The company’s infrastructure and R&D capabilities are recognized by the Defence Ministry, allowing it to design and produce classified products. As VEM continues to expand its capabilities, it is poised to contribute significantly to India’s defence sector, both domestically and internationally.

IDN

Rashtriya Military School (RMS), Chail, continues to uphold its legacy with exceptional results from its cadets in the recent SSB interviews for the 154th NDA Course. Demonstrating remarkable strength, perseverance and dedication, the cadets have once again proven their mettle…

Rashtriya Military School (RMS), Chail, continues to uphold its legacy with exceptional results from its cadets in the recent SSB interviews for the 154th NDA Course. Demonstrating remarkable strength, perseverance and dedication, the cadets have once again proven their mettle by successfully clearing the rigorous selection process.

A total of eight cadets — Kishan Verma, Harshit Pandey, Abhinav, Prashant Thenua, Veer Pratap Singh, Rahul, Shivam Rajand and Ayush Kumar — from the school have been recommended for NDA’s regular course, marking yet another achievement for RMS Chail. Out of the eight cadets, five were recommended from Service Selection Board (SSB) Bhopal, two from from SSB Jalandhar and one cadet from AFSB Air Force Selection Board,Varanasi.

The NDA SSB interviews, known for testing both physical endurance and mental resilience, posed a significant challenge, but the selected cadets showcased their high standards of discipline and training instilled at the institution.

The school administration, faculty and fellow cadets have extended their heartfelt congratulations to the successful students and wished them the best for their future endeavours in the Indian Armed Forces. This success further strengthens RMS Chail’s legacy of producing outstanding officers for the Indian Armed Forces.

Zelenskyy’s remarks come hours after the White House announces a pause on military aid to Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said on Tuesday the Oval Office blowup with US President Donald Trump was “regrettable,” and that “it is time to make things right”.

Zelenskyy’s remarks came hours after the White House announced a pause on military aid to Ukraine.

“Our meeting in Washington, at the White House on Friday, did not go the way it was supposed to be,” Zelenskyy said in a post on X. “It is regrettable that it happened this way. It is time to make things right. We would like future cooperation and communication to be constructive.”He said Ukraine is ready to sign a deal on its rare-earth minerals that was sought by the Trump administration.“Regarding the agreement on minerals and security, Ukraine is ready to sign it in any time and in any convenient format,” Zelenskyy said. “We see this agreement as a step towards greater security and solid security guarantees, and I truly hope it will work effectively.”

Ongoing military interference has prevented civilian leaders from adequately addressing critical internal challenges

Saad Hafiz

Pakistan stands at a decisive juncture in its history. Once recognised as a regional power with immense potential, the nation now grapples with a troubling decline in strategic flexibility.

This is largely attributed to short-sighted policies that have prioritised military strength over other national priorities. The consequences of these decisions are increasingly apparent, jeopardising Pakistan’s political cohesion and economic development.

A unified, resilient political landscape is essential for enhancing Pakistan’s strategic flexibility. However, the military’s outsized influence over civilian governance has fragmented the political system, hindering the establishment of robust democratic institutions.

Political parties struggle to formulate stable, long-term strategies amidst this environment.

In recent years, Pakistan has faced numerous political crises, many escalating into violent confrontations, widespread protests and growing distrust between the state and its citizens.

While some political tension is inevitable in any democracy, Pakistan’s habitual reliance on coercive measures to resolve disputes has perpetuated a damaging cycle.

Historically, the state has employed force — through military interventions, police actions and other coercive means — to manage political crises.

Such actions frequently exacerbate the very issues they aim to resolve, leading to heightened polarisation, public unrest and enduring instability.

Although force may provide temporary suppression of dissent or a veneer of order, it fails to address the root causes of political conflict and often widens the divide between the government and the people.

Pakistan finds itself trapped in a damaging cycle, political repression stifles progress and fuels instability, undermining economic recovery.

The military’s overwhelming influence over civilian leadership has created an environment that frequently suppresses dissent, restricting the free exchange of ideas and stifling democratic growth.

This political repression, ostensibly aimed at preserving control, has ultimately resulted in greater harm by cultivating instability that obstructs Pakistan’s development across multiple fronts.

This predicament generates a paradox — while Pakistan projects military strength globally, its internal cohesion remains fragile. Ongoing military interference has prevented civilian leaders from adequately addressing critical internal challenges like poverty, corruption and unemployment, all of which are essential for national stability.

Consequently, these unresolved issues undermine Pakistan’s ability to formulate flexible, pragmatic policies that can adapt to evolving global dynamics.

The consequences of political repression extend far beyond the economic sphere, profoundly impacting the daily lives of average Pakistanis in ways often overlooked by those in power.

Economic hardships like rising unemployment and inflation disproportionately burden the poor and marginalised, who must endure a political system that fails to prioritise their welfare.

The lack of political cohesion and accountability contributes to the neglect or underfunding of vital public services like healthcare, education and infrastructure.

This perpetuates a cycle of inequality where the struggling class becomes increasingly disenfranchised, depriving future generations of opportunities for upward mobility.

The prospects of the Pakistani populace are, in many ways, compromised by a ruling elite that prioritises control over genuine progress.

To break free from Pakistan’s detrimental political cycle, the country must undertake comprehensive reforms that prioritise democratic values, political inclusivity and expanded freedoms.

The political landscape requires decentralisation, allowing for the inclusion of a wider array of voices and ideologies. Such an approach would not only enhance political cohesion but also promote national unity.

This transformative process should begin by empowering civilian institutions and ensuring the military’s role remains strictly within constitutional boundaries, enabling elected leaders to guide the nation’s future.

Political reform would further contribute to increased transparency and accountability — critical components for restoring public trust in the system. Without a strong political framework that holds leaders accountable, Pakistan’s future trajectory will remain uncertain.

For citizens to actively engage in the political system’s development, they must have faith in its integrity.

The time has come for Pakistan to move away from relying on coercive measures as the primary response to challenges. By cultivating a culture of dialogue and negotiation, the country can lay the groundwork for a more inclusive, peaceful and stable future.

This does not imply abandoning the state’s obligation to maintain law and order, but rather a reconsideration of conflict resolution strategies, favouring peaceful solutions over violent or coercive actions.

Both the state and citizens have essential roles to play in supporting this new social contract emphasising dialogue and peaceful conflict resolution.

Pakistan possesses the capability to reclaim its strategic flexibility and influence, but it must first recognise that genuine security and sustainable growth stem from comprehensive solutions, not solely military strength.

By re-evaluating its policies and developing a more integrated national strategy, Pakistan can forge a path toward a future characterised by resilience, cooperation and innovation in addressing both internal and external challenges.

The urgency for action is paramount.

Courtesy: The Friday Times, Pakistan