In a major step to thwart Pakistan's attempts to increase terrorist activities in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army is launching Operation Sarvashakti, targeting terrorists on both sides of Pir Panjal. Pakistani proxy groups have tried to revive terrorism South of Pir Panjal, where around 20 troops have been killed recently. "Operation Sarvashakti would be to carry out combined counter-terrorist operations from both sides of Pir Panjal where formations of Chinar and White Knight Corps would carry out simultaneous operations," ANI reported quoting sources. The security forces aim to target terrorists operating on both sides of the mountain range in the Union Territory. [Photo: Representative Image]

Visiting Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and UK counterpart Grant Shapps hailed deepening military cooperation between their nations as "natural partners" during talks in London on Wednesday. Shapps stated the two are traversing in a "brand new direction" that will encompass greater exchange of military hardware, software and more. He cited shared interests whether in Europe or worldwide. The defense chiefs agreed to unprecedented India-UK defense collaboration spanning joint exercises, knowledge sharing and instructor exchanges. This builds on the 2021 strategic roadmap. The UK also announced plans to deploy naval forces to train with India this year and in 2025, underscoring strengthened defense ties in the first Indian defense minister's visit in over 20 years.

Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar flagged off Adani Defence's indigenously manufactured Drishti 10 'Starliner' Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), marking a milestone in India's quest for self-reliance in ISR technology. The advanced UAV boasts 36-hour endurance, 450 kg payload capacity, STANAG 4671 certification, and all-weather capabilities. Admiral Kumar praised the Adani Group's commitment to unmanned systems, emphasizing the significance of Drishti 10's integration for maritime surveillance and reconnaissance. The ceremony at Adani Aerospace Park in Hyderabad underscores the group's efforts in achieving self-reliance in defence and security.

The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) introduced the 'Ugram' rifle, developed within 100 days by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) in collaboration with Dvipa Armour India Private Limited. The 7.62mm calibre rifle, named 'Ugram' meaning ferocious, surpasses its counterparts in firepower. Weighing four kg, it boasts an effective range of 500 meters, catering to military, paramilitary, and police forces. The General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR) standards guided its development, aiming to replace the INSAS rifle. Trials will assess its operational capabilities under various conditions, marking a significant achievement in rapid weapon development.

In a strategic move, the Indian Army is set to deploy six Apache attack helicopters near the Pakistan border in Jodhpur, enhancing combat capabilities in the western desert. The choppers, arriving from the US in February-March, follow the training of over 50 pilots and technicians. With 22 Apaches already in service with the Indian Air Force, this deployment raises the joint inventory to 28. Boeing, in collaboration with Tata Boeing Aerospace Limited, commenced production last August. The AH-64E helicopters, known for advanced technology and battle-tested performance, aim to elevate the Indian Army's operational effectiveness and defensive capabilities in the region.

The inaugural 'Desert Cyclone 2024' military exercise, involving India and the UAE, is set for January 2-15 in Rajasthan. Focused on enhancing interoperability, the joint manoeuvres aim to exchange knowledge and best practices, particularly in urban operations. The collaboration signifies the enduring friendship between India and the UAE, encompassing cultural, religious, and economic ties. Defence cooperation areas include equipment production, joint exercises, and strategic information sharing. Recent years have seen significant advancements in defence collaboration, emphasizing training, inventory supply, and regular exchange programs, reflecting the robust partnership between the two nations.

Responding to increased attacks on merchant ships, the Indian Navy reinforces maritime security with four destroyers, one frigate, and a P-8I patrol aircraft in the Arabian Sea and Gulf of Aden. A Predator Drone aids surveillance, while Dornier aircraft and helicopters enhance maritime monitoring. Recent incidents, including attacks on MV Ruen and MV Chem Pluto, prompt heightened vigilance. Task groups, including destroyers and frigates, conduct maritime security operations, supporting merchant vessels. INS Mormugao joins INS Kochi and INS Kolkata in the deployment, emphasizing a deterrent presence. Close coordination with the Coast Guard ensures effective surveillance of the Indian Exclusive Economic Zone.

The Indian Navy has unveiled a new design for the epaulettes worn by senior officers, drawing inspiration from the royal seal of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Unveiled initially for the top three ranks of Admiral, Vice Admiral and Rear Admiral, the move replaces the previous colonial-era design featuring "Nelson's Ring." Announced by PM Modi during Navy Day celebrations, the new epaulettes integrate the naval ensign and reflect India's maritime heritage, shedding vestiges of the mentality of slavery. This follows previous Indianization efforts banning batons, allowing traditional wears, and reviewing ranks for over 65,000 sailors. While sailors will get new India-centric designations, officers' ranks will remain unchanged for now.

Today marks a historic moment as the Indian Navy is set to commission the INS Imphal, a groundbreaking stealth-guided missile destroyer, at Mumbai's naval dockyard. The warship, the first named after a Northeastern city, signifies a leap in indigenous naval capabilities. Constructed by Mazagon Dock Limited, INS Imphal boasts advanced features, including BrahMos missiles and a modern surveillance radar. With a displacement of 7,400 tonnes, it's a potent force in maritime defense. Notably, the ship successfully test-fired the extended-range supersonic BrahMos last month, a remarkable achievement for any indigenous warship. The ceremony, to be attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, underlines India's commitment to bolstering its naval strength and maritime security.

While India grapples with delays in the procurement of Predator drones from the US, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieves a significant milestone with the successful test of SWiFT, a prototype for the upcoming Ghatak stealth combat drone. The test, conducted in Chitradurga, Karnataka, positions India as a contender in the development of indigenous high-speed and stealthy unmanned combat aerial vehicles. The SWiFT, featuring tailless configuration and advanced stealth technology, showcases India's commitment to self-reliance in defense capabilities, providing a strategic alternative amidst diplomatic challenges affecting international procurement agreements.