1. NATO plans German-led air force exercise, "Air Defender 23"
Tags: Defence International News
NATO is set to commence its largest air force deployment exercise in Europe, known as "Air Defender 23," according to German and US officials.
An overview of the news
The exercise will span approximately 10 days, starting from 12th June, and will involve the participation of around 220 military aircraft from 25 NATO and partner countries.
The exercise will be conducted across Germany, with some of the training taking place at Ramstein Air Base, one of NATO's largest air bases.
Air Defender 23
The exercise is purely defensive in nature.
Its primary objective is to enhance the defense capabilities of participating nations and ensure preparedness to respond to potential security challenges.
The exercise also intends to send a message to other countries including Russia.
The demonstration of NATO's unity and collective defense posture serves as a reminder of the Alliance's commitment to address potential threats and maintain regional stability.
By conducting this exercise, NATO seeks to improve interoperability and strengthen the effectiveness of its air defense capabilities.
By conducting this exercise, NATO seeks to improve interoperability and strengthen the effectiveness of its air defense capabilities.
About NATO
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), is a military alliance between North American and European countries formed in 1949 and headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
It was created during the Cold War as a defence pact to prevent Soviet expansion and protect member states from possible aggression.
The founding members of NATO were the United States, Canada, and ten European countries, including Belgium, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom.
NATO Secretary General- Jens Stoltenberg
2. ‘Agni Prime’ ballistic missile successfully flight-tested by DRDO
Tags: Defence Science and Technology
New Generation Ballistic Missile ‘Agni Prime’ was successfully flight-tested by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on June 7, 2023.
An overview of the news
DRDO's successful test flight of 'Agni Prime' missile marks a significant achievement.
This was the first pre-induction night launch by the users after three successful developmental trials of the missile, validating the accuracy and reliability of the system.
Range instrumentation such as radar, telemetry and electro optical tracking systems were deployed at various locations including two down-range vessels at the terminal point to capture flight data covering the entire trajectory of the vehicle.
About 'Agni Prime' Missile
The missile is a two-stage canisterised missile.
It is the latest and sixth variant of the Agni series missiles, developed under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP).
The missile is equipped with multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles, enabling it to deliver warheads to separate locations. It has a range of 1,000 - 2,000 km.
The missile has a diameter of 1.2 m and a height of 10.5 m.
It has a payload capacity of up to 1.5 tonnes for carrying warheads.
The missile is capable of performing high maneuvers while homing in on its targets.
After a series of user-associated launches, these missiles will be officially inducted into the armed forces.
3. Indian Navy undertakes first combat firing of Varunastra torpedo
Tags: Defence Science and Technology National News
The Indian Navy and the country's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) undertook the first ‘combat' test-firing of the Varunastra heavyweight torpedo on 5 June.
An overview of the news
It will enhance the anti-submarine warfare capabilities of the indigenous Navy and give it a formidable force.
The torpedo was fired from a submarine and successfully hit the target at a distance of 40 km.
The test was conducted in the Arabian Sea in the presence of senior officials from the Indian Navy and the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO).
About Varunastra torpedo
It has been designed and developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory at Visakhapatnam under the Defense Research and Development Organisation.
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is responsible for the production of the Varunastra missile system.
This would become the mainstay of anti-submarine torpedoes for all Navy warships.
It will replace the old torpedoes on all naval ships that can fire heavy-weight torpedoes.
Features of the Varunastra
It is seven to eight meters long, weighs 1,500 kg and has a diameter of 533 mm.
When fired it can travel at 40 knots, or 74 kmph.
The operational range is 40 km and it can carry a warhead weighing 250 kg.
Varunastra was inducted by Indian Navy in 2016
It can be fired from all Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) ships capable of firing heavy-weight torpedoes in an intense countermeasures environment.
Benefits of the Varunastra Torpedo
It is a powerful and sophisticated weapon that will significantly enhance the Navy’s ability to detect, track, and engage enemy submarines.
It is the first indigenously developed heavyweight torpedo that is capable of meeting the Navy’s operational requirements.
This will reduce the Navy’s dependence on foreign weapons systems.
It is a cost-effective weapon that will save the Navy money in the long run.
4. Sarbananda Sonowal flags off maiden International Cruise Vessel, MV Empress in Chennai
Tags: International Relations Defence
Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal flagged off India's first international cruise vessel - MV Empress, from Chennai to Sri Lanka on June 5.
An overview of the news
This is the launch of the International Cruise Tourism Terminal at Chennai built at a cost of Rs 17.21 crore, ushering in a new era of cruise tourism and maritime trade in the country.
On the occasion of Environment Day, Sonowal along with the port officials also planted 2,500 saplings at the port.
The launch of the first cruise service between Chennai and Sri Lanka has opened a new chapter in the cruise tourism sector in the country.
This is the result of an MoU signed during the Incredible India International Cruise Summit in 2022 between Chennai Port and M/s Waterways Leisure Tourism Pvt Ltd to start domestic and international cruise services.
International Cruise Vessel, MV Empress
It is a renowned and luxurious cruise ship that operates globally.
It offers passengers a unique and unforgettable experience on the open seas, combining comfort, entertainment, and leisure.
The vessel is equipped with state-of-the-art navigation systems and safety features, ensuring a secure and smooth journey for all on board.
Its elegant design and modern amenities make it a preferred choice for travelers seeking a premium cruising experience.
5. NATO Launches Arctic exercise
Tags: Defence International News
NATO countries have started military exercises in the Arctic region.
An Overview of the News
The exercise involves approximately 1,000 allied forces from Norway, the United Kingdom and the United States, along with NATO applicant Sweden.
Finland, NATO's newest member, is hosting its first joint training in the Arctic region since joining the Western alliance in April.
The exercise took place at Rovajärvi in northern Finland, near the Russian border, at one of Europe's largest artillery training grounds.
Oath to defend Finland:
NATO has pledged to protect its newest member, Finland.
The decision to join NATO was influenced by Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which raised tensions between Moscow and the West.
Participation and Scope of Practice:
About 6,500 Finnish soldiers and 1,000 vehicles are participating in the exercise.
The Arctic Challenge 2023 exercise also includes 150 aircraft from 14 NATO members and partner countries.
The objective of the exercise is to enhance military cooperation and preparedness in the Arctic region.
Joint training reinforces NATO's commitment to collective defence and regional security.
North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO):
It is a military alliance between North American and European countries formed in 1949 and headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
It was created during the Cold War as a defense pact to prevent Soviet expansion and protect member states from possible aggression.
The founding members of NATO were the United States, Canada, and ten European countries, including Belgium, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, and the United Kingdom.
NATO Secretary General- Jens Stoltenberg
About Finland
Finland is the 31st member of NATO.
Prime Minister- Sana Marin
Capital- Helsinki
Currency- Euro
6. Saudi naval cadet trains with Indian Navy for the first time
Tags: Defence International News
55 cadets of the Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) underwent training with the Indian Navy for the first time.
An Overview of the News
The cadets have been attached to the Indian Navy's First Training Squadron ships, INS Tir and INS Sujata, for afloat training.
The cadets were given simulator training before commencing sea training.
During sea flights, cadets received training in navigation, seamanship, anchoring, coastal navigation, replenishment at sea, sea boats, fire fighting and emergency drills.
The Chief of the Naval Staff was apprised of the ongoing training activities and progress of the trainees.
Navy Chief Admiral -R Hari Kumar
Indian Navy:
It is the maritime branch of the Indian Armed Forces, responsible for protecting India's interests at sea.
The President of India holds the position of Supreme Commander of the Indian Navy, which vests ultimate authority and responsibility over naval operations.
The Navy is commanded by the Chief of Naval Staff, who is a four star Admiral.
Establishment - 26 January 1950
Headquarters -New Delhi
7. Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar Anand VSM takes over as Air Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA)
Tags: Defence Person in news
Air Marshal Rajesh Kumar Anand, Vishisht Seva Medal took over as the Air Officer-in-Charge Administration (AOA) on 1 June 2023.
An overview of the news
An alumnus of the National Defense Academy, the Air Marshal was commissioned as Air Marshal in the administrative branch of the Indian Air Force.
In a career spanning over 36 years, the Air Marshal has held various field and staff appointments.
Prior to his present appointment, he was the Director General (Administration) at Air Headquarters, New Delhi.
For his distinguished service, he was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal by the President of India in January 2022.
Role of Air Officer-in-Charge Administration
Air Force Officer-in-Charge Administration is responsible for overseeing the administrative functions of the Indian Air Force.
It includes the management of human resources, logistics, infrastructure, welfare and other administrative aspects of the organization.
The AOA plays a critical role in driving modernization efforts and improving administrative efficiency within the Indian Air Force.
8. P Upadhyay INAS takes over as Director General of Naval Armament
Tags: Defence Person in news
P Upadhyay, INAS has taken over as Director General of Naval Armament (DGONA) from KSC Iyer, who superannuated on 31 May 23.
An overview of the news
P Upadhyay is an officer of the 1987 batch of Indian Naval Armament Service.
He joined the Naval Armament Organization of the Indian Navy on 12 July 1989.
An Electrical Engineering Graduate from SGSITS Indore, he earned his Post Graduate degrees from Devi Ahilya University in Electrical Engineering with specialization in 'Digital Techniques and Instrumentation' in 1988.
He is postgraduate in Mechanical Engineering from University of Pune with specialisation in 'Guided Missiles', in 1995.
In a span of 34 years, he has held various important assignments at NAD (Visakhapatnam), NAD (Karanja), NAD (Trombay), NAD (Alwaye).
He is an alumnus of Naval Defence College of NDC-53.
He is also adept at missile and torpedo maintenance apart from having expertise on ammunition disposal.
Naval Armament
The Naval Armament Directorate is responsible for the development, procurement, and maintenance of armament systems for the Indian Navy.
It plays a vital role in equipping the naval forces with advanced weaponry and supporting their operational readiness.
It plays a crucial role in promoting indigenous development and self-reliance in armament systems.
P. Upadhyay will contribute to the Indian Navy's "Make in India" initiative by supporting indigenous research, development, and production capabilities.
9. 'Sudarshan Shakti Exercise 2023'
Tags: Defence
The Sapta Shakti Command of the Indian Army conducted exercise 'Sudarshan Shakti 2023' along the western borders in Rajasthan and Punjab.
An Overview of the News:
- Aim:The exercise aimed at transforming the forces into a modern, lean and agile combat combination capable of taking advantage of new age technologies.
- Objective: It focused on validating operational plans in a network-centric environment, involving combat power, combat support and logistics support.
- Synergized Application: The exercise involved coordinated application of combat power, combat support and logistic support under all enemy threat zones including grey zone warfare.
- Force Multipliers and Niche Technologies: The exercise integrates force multipliers such as special forces and niche technologies, including drones, tethered drones, stray ammunition and electronic warfare.
- Objectives of the meeting: To facilitate the exercise to meet the stated objectives of the five pillars of transformation enunciated by COAS Gen Manoj Pandey in January 2023.
- Commitment to Preparedness: "Sudarshan Shakti 2023" highlighted the commitment of the South Western Command and its attached units to maintain a high level of operational preparedness and capability to fight technology-intensive future conflicts.
10. Successful completion of naval exercise ‘Al Mohed Al Hindi 23’
Tags: Defence
The sea phase of the second edition of the bilateral exercise 'Al Mohed Al Hindi- 2023' between the Indian Navy and the Royal Saudi Naval Force (RSNF) was conducted at Al Jubail, Saudi Arabia from 23-25 May 2023.
An Overview of the News:
- INS Tarkash, INS Subhadra and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) participated from the Indian side in the exercise.
- Whereas, the Royal Saudi Naval Force was represented by HMS Badr and Abdul Aziz, MH60R Helo and UAVs.
- The three-day exercise, conducted in the waters of the Arabian Sea, witnessed a wide range of maritime operations.
- The successful conduct of 'Al Mohed Al Hindi - 2023' showcased the high level of professionalism, interoperability and exchange of best practices between the two navies.
- The bilateral exercise has been successful in meeting all its set objectives.
INS Tarkash:
- It is a state-of-the-art stealth frigate belonging to the INS Talwar class commissioned on 9 November 2012.
- The ship is named from the Sanskrit word 'Tarkash', meaning "arrow quiver," symbolizing its versatility.
- INS Tarkash is equipped with advanced weapon-sensor technologies and has the capability to deal with all types of threats.
- The design of INS Tarkash incorporates stealth technologies and a special hull for low radar cross-section.
- In April 2023, INS Tarkash was used as part of ‘Operation Kaveri’ to evacuate Indian nationals from Sudan due to internal unrest.
INS Subhadra:
- It is a patrol vessel of the INS Sukanya class.
- The vessel has served as a test bed for the Dhanush ship-launched ballistic missile.
