India Defence News

Relief work continued at a brisk pace in the flood-affected areas of Punjab on Thursday, where the rain fury has left normal life paralysed in worst-hit parts. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed two Medium Lift Helicopters (MLH) for flood relief operations at Ambala.

The Defence Acquisition Council, which is the highest decision-making body of the Defence Ministry, has approved the purchase of 26 Rafale-M fighter aircraft, including four trainers, and three Scorpene submarines from France.

The collaboration extends beyond immediate procurement deals, with the involvement of French companies in India's indigenous nuclear attack submarine program and the TEDBF program for a carrier-based fighter aircraft. These partnerships aim to enhance defence capabilities, foster technological cooperation, and establish a long-term strategic relationship. Girish Linganna reports

A year after the inter-governmental agreement between India and France for the procurement of 36 Rafale multi-role aircraft was completed, the focus now shifts to the potential acquisition of 26 more fighter jets, specifically the naval variant, Rafale-M. Girish Linganna explores the distinctive features and modifications of the Rafale-M for carrier-based operations. 

The announcement may be made on the 77th Independence Day. The initial step involves designating the South Western Command, located in Jaipur, as the inaugural theatre command. It will serve as the experimental Integrated Theatre Command, responsible for identifying and resolving deficiencies, tackling challenges, and implementing necessary adjustments.

The Indian Air Force has shared a video of its marching contingent showcasing precise drill movements on the Avenues des Champs Elysées towards the BastilleDay parade. Squadron Leader Sindhu Reddy, an Mi-17 pilot who has also flown light choppers, is the IAF contingent commander.

With an estimated value exceeding Euro 4.8 billion (equivalent to Rs 43,569 crore), the P75(I) program is India's most substantial defence acquisition to date. It also marks the inaugural undertaking under the Defence Ministry's ambitious Strategic Partnership (SP) model of acquisition.

Just prior to PM Narendra Modi's upcoming trip to France for the Bastille Day Parade on July 14, the Defence Procurement Board (DPB) has presented a proposal for the acquisition of Rafale-Marine (M) combat fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy. This procurement aims to enhance Navy's capabilities in maritime air combat.

International human rights organizations strongly condemn the use of cluster munitions primarily because a substantial portion, reaching up to 40 per cent, of the individual bomblets fail to detonate upon impact. These unexploded bomblets persist on the ground, akin to landmines, and pose a lasting danger to civilians, potentially lasting for years or even decades. Defence Analyst Girish Linganna explains

Sources tell Asianet Newsable that among the proposals under deliberation is the need to incorporate 50 per cent of Agniveers into our organization on a permanent basis, aiming to address the decreasing manpower levels within the armed forces. Besides, there is also the proposal to increase the maximum age bar to 23 years.