SOURCE: AFI

Unearthed archival footage sheds light on a pivotal moment for both the Indian Army and the Russian T-90 tank program. In 1999, the Uralvagonzavod factory in Russia faced a period of significant difficulty. However, a crucial contract with India for the T-90S tank would become a lifeline for the program.

In 1997, India expressed interest in acquiring the T-90S tank. However, their requirements were specific. They sought a tank equipped with a powerful 1,000-horsepower engine and a thermal imaging sight for enhanced battlefield awareness during night operations. Unfortunately, the base T-90S model offered by Russia at the time lacked these features.

SOURCE: AFI

China’s recent infrastructure developments in Tibet have raised eyebrows in India, particularly the expansion of air bases near disputed border regions. These developments, coupled with comments from a Chinese test pilot, suggest China might be testing new technologies for operating advanced aircraft at high altitudes.

State media in China quoted Li Gang, a J-20 fighter jet test pilot, highlighting ongoing improvements to the J-20’s capabilities. This coincides with reports of China’s focus on air bases near the borders with India, including Shigatse, Lhunze, and Burang. Notably, the Shigatse base is strategically located close to the Doklam plateau, a recent flashpoint between Indian and Chinese troops.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent statement, Squadron Leader (Retired) Sadrul Ahmed Khan, who serves as a member of the Finance and Planning Affairs Sub-Committee of the Bangladesh Awami League, highlighted the ongoing efforts by the United States to acquire Saint-Martin Island for establishing a naval base. He emphasized that this is not a new development, as Awami League leader Sheikh Hasina has repeatedly brought up this issue in various forums and gatherings, reinforcing the party’s strong opposition to such plans.

The US has long maintained legitimate military ties with Bangladesh, characterized by regular visits and joint exercises between the forces of both nations. These collaborations have primarily focused on peacekeeping operations, humanitarian aid, logistical exercises, and assistance to civil power, all of which are well within the acceptable framework of bilateral cooperation. However, the proposal to establish a naval base on Saint-Martin Island represents a significant deviation from these peaceful and cooperative activities.

SOURCE: AFI

Canada is intensifying its efforts to combat foreign interference, with a recent report highlighting China and India as the most active countries involved in such activities. The report underscores the growing concerns about the influence of foreign powers on Canada’s domestic affairs and the steps being taken to safeguard national sovereignty.

The report, which has garnered significant attention, indicates that both China and India have been particularly active in attempts to interfere in Canadian politics, society, and economy. These activities range from cyber espionage and economic coercion to political influence operations and information manipulation. The findings have prompted a renewed focus on strengthening Canada’s defenses against such interference.

SOURCE: AFI

Veda Aeronautics, a rising star in India’s defense startup scene, is making strides in the crucial area of counter-drone technology. The company is currently developing an interceptor missile designed to be launched from Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) and High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).

This interceptor missile system aims to address the growing security concern posed by unauthorized drones, also known as UAVs. These drones can be used for malicious purposes like surveillance, espionage, or even attacks.

SOURCE: AFI

Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has released a new image showcasing the significant progress made on its colossal new dry dock. This state-of-the-art facility is rapidly approaching completion, poised to become a game-changer for India’s shipbuilding and ship repair capabilities.

A key aspect of the project’s progress involves the installation and commissioning of a massive 600-ton gantry crane. This powerful crane will be instrumental in handling the large vessels the dry dock is designed to accommodate.

SOURCE: AFI

As Rajnath Singh, the current Defence Minister of India, turns 73 this year, the conversation around his effectiveness and the future direction of the ministry gains renewed focus. Singh’s tenure has been a mixed bag, with several achievements and notable criticisms. In particular, comparisons with his predecessor, Manohar Parrikar, highlight areas where some believe Singh’s leadership has fallen short.

Manohar Parrikar, who served as Defence Minister from 2014 to 2017, is often credited with initiating significant reforms and promoting the Indianization of the defence sector. Parrikar’s approach endeared him to both public and private defence companies in India, as well as to defence analysts and researchers. His tenure was marked by a push for self-reliance and modernization, setting ambitious targets for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and upgrading government defence Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs).

SOURCE: AFI

As global space security threats escalate, India is proactively bolstering its military space capabilities. The strategic move comes in response to the increasing militarization of space by various nations, necessitating a robust and comprehensive approach to safeguard national interests in this critical domain.

Space has become an arena of strategic competition, with countries like the United States, China, and Russia significantly enhancing their military space programs. These advancements pose potential threats, ranging from the disruption of satellite communications to more direct anti-satellite (ASAT) attacks. Recognizing these challenges, India has embarked on a path to develop its own military space capabilities to ensure security and operational readiness.

SOURCE: AFI

A fresh perspective emerges in a new book examining the complex relationship between India and Pakistan. The book delves into the “neuroses and psychoses” of these two nations, exploring both their historical grievances and potential pathways to peace.

The unique aspect of this book lies in its use of a psychotherapist, Neil Aggarwal, to mediate conversations between former security officials – AS Dulat from India and Asad Durrani from Pakistan. Aggarwal’s expertise aims to “defuse tension” through acknowledging negative emotions and fostering collaborative problem-solving. While the effectiveness of this approach on such a long-standing conflict remains to be seen, it offers a novel lens for understanding the situation.