ARMED FORCES MODERNISATION
Three Theatre Command bases identified, Military Affairs Dept working to integrate forces for future wars
Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirmed progress on creating Theatre Commands as the Defence Ministry selected Lucknow, Jaipur, and Thiruvananthapuram as headquarters locations. The Department of Military Affairs, led by Chief of Defence Staff Genral Anil Chauhan, is working on over 150 integration points among the services for future multi-domain warfare. The plans include setting up Western Theatre in Jaipur, Northern Theatre in Lucknow, and Maritime Theatre in Thiruvananthapuram to address threats and enhance joint culture and work ethic.
Reforms in armed forces should be continuous to maintain supremacy during wars: President Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the government's efforts to boost domestic defence production. She claimed that nearly 70 per cent of defence procurement was sourced from Indian manufacturers in the last year, and reforms resulting in India manufacturing over Rs one lakh crore of defence equipment. She emphasised upon modernisation of the armed forces, the importance of continuous reforms for military supremacy, and India's increasing defence exports, including the BrahMos missile deal with the Philippines.
To navigate through 'turbulent times', India must invest in modernisation of armed forces: IAF chief
His remarks come amid the backdrop of evolving geopolitics with conflicts being seen in some of the regions of the world. This "multi-faceted landscape" requires such military personnel who are not only adept at combat but also possess a deep understanding of the broader implications of their actions, the air chief marshal said.
Chief of Air Staff urges prioritisation of modernisation for India's armed forces
Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari emphasized the critical need for India to invest in modernizing its armed forces amid evolving security challenges during the Capstone Seminar organized by the Indian Air Force, the College of Air Warfare, and the Centre for Air Power Studies. He highlighted India's strategic culture, the importance of strategic partnerships, boosting indigenous defense production, and adopting a comprehensive approach to security in facing multifaceted challenges.
US and China hold first informal nuclear talks in 5 years, eyeing Taiwan
The Chinese representatives offered reassurances after their U.S. interlocutors raised concerns that China might use, or threaten to use, nuclear weapons if it faced defeat in a conflict over Taiwan. Beijing views the democratically governed island as its territory, a claim rejected by the government in Taipei.
9 nuclear-armed nations including India continued to modernise N-arsenals in 2023: SIPRI
The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that nine nuclear-armed nations, including the US, Russia, France, China, India, and Pakistan, continued to modernize their nuclear arsenals in 2023. China notably increased its nuclear arsenal from 410 to 500 warheads and is expected to continue growing. The report highlighted that around 2,100 deployed warheads were on high operational alert, primarily held by Russia and the US, with China joining for the first time.
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Watchdog: Nuclear-armed nations are deepening reliance on nuclear weapons
In 2023, the world's nine nuclear-armed states continued modernizing their arsenals, deepening reliance on nuclear deterrence, per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). Amid rising geopolitical tensions, nuclear spending surged by $10.7 billion, totaling $91.4 billion. The US and Russia, holding nearly 90% of global warheads, remain central to these developments.
Defence minister Rajnath Singh Sets ₹50k-cr military export target
Rajnath Singh, the Defence Minister, aims to boost military exports to Rs 50,000 crore annually under the 'Make in India' initiative. He plans to fast-track defence production schemes and enhance indigenous research and development. The ministry is set to establish a new defence export promotion agency to facilitate arms sales to countries like the Philippines, Vietnam, and Armenia. Singh emphasizes equipping the armed forces with advanced weapons for national security and self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Armed forces ready to face every challenge: Rajnath Singh after taking charge of defence ministry for second term
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlined the new government's focus on bolstering national security by modernizing the armed forces and enhancing domestic defence production. He aims to increase defence exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2028-29. Singh praised the armed forces for their readiness and commitment amid challenges, including the border row with China. The government will also focus on boosting India's defence production and welfare of soldiers. Singh conducted a meeting on the ministry's first 100 days' Action Plan, emphasizing self-reliance in defence and welfare of veterans.
Modi slams INDIA bloc, accuses it of making Army as ' weapon of politics'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi accused the INDIA bloc of politicizing the Army during his last poll rally. He criticized the opposition, particularly the Congress and INDI alliance, for weakening the armed forces.
CDS Gen Anil Chauhan concludes France visit, reaffirms strategic partnership
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan visited France and reaffirmed the long-standing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Paris and further reinforced the bilateral defence cooperation between the two nations, according to an official release.
Military strength, capabilities necessary to prevent wars, says Army chief
Army Chief Gen Manoj Pande emphasized the importance of military strength and capabilities in preventing wars and protecting national interests in the face of recent geopolitical changes. He highlighted the need for self-reliance in defense, citing the impact of supply chain disruptions and external dependencies. The Army's transformation efforts focus on modernization, technology infusion, and capability development to create a future-ready force. The Army is pursuing new technologies and building a robust defense-industry ecosystem to achieve self-reliance and enhance its operational capabilities across all domains of warfare.
India has taken steps to modernise its military, reduce dependence on Russian arms: US
India's military modernization in 2023 aimed at countering China and reducing Russian equipment reliance. Tensions with China persist post-Galwan clash. Pakistan focuses on nuclear modernization despite economic challenges and increased terrorist violence.
Former Indian Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria joins BJP
Former Indian Air Force chief RKS Bhadauria has joined the BJP, praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership and modernizing the armed forces. He praised the Modi government's measures for national security and self-reliance, describing his last eight to 10 years as a "golden period." Varaprasad Rao, a former MP and YSR Congress leader, praised Modi's foresight and development initiatives.
Top PLA general calls for crackdown on 'fake combat capabilities' in Chinese military
In a surprising turn of events, General He Weidong, the second-ranked vice-chairman of China's powerful Central Military Commission (CMC), has raised doubts about the effectiveness of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) combat exercises, calling them "fake combat capabilities." This comes at a time when Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need for the PLA to prepare for "maritime military struggles" to secure victory in wars.
China increases defence budget by 7.2% to accelerate military modernisation; Here's how India's preparedness holds up
China has announced a significant 7.2% increase in its defence budget, surpassing $230 billion, which is more than three times India's military expenditure. This increase comes despite China's economic slowdown and refusal to de-escalate tensions with India along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). China aims to modernize its two-million-strong armed forces to deter US interference, especially regarding Taiwan. This includes strengthening conventional military and nuclear forces and strategic moves in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), such as a military assistance pact with the Maldives.
Will scrap 'Agnipath', revert to old recruitment scheme if voted to power: Congress
The Congress party has criticized the Indian government's "Agnipath" military recruitment scheme, claiming that it has caused "gross injustice" to young individuals seeking regular employment in the armed forces. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge has written to the President, urging her to address the issue. The party believes that the old recruitment system should be reinstated if they come into power.
Vladimir Putin says 95% of Russia's nuclear forces have been modernised
President Putin announced that Russia has modernized 95% of its strategic nuclear forces, including receiving four new supersonic nuclear-capable bombers. Speaking on Defender of the Fatherland Day, Putin praised soldiers in the Ukraine conflict as heroes and highlighted the modernization of Russia's military-industrial complex. He emphasized the ongoing modernization efforts, stating that the strategic nuclear forces and naval component of the 'nuclear triad' are almost entirely modernized, ensuring they are up to date and in good order.
Indian industry delegation visits Philippines to boost defence modernisation tie-up
An Indian delegation is currently in the Philippines to showcase homegrown military technologies and equipment and explore defense industry tie-ups to bolster Manila’s defense modernization efforts. At a defense industry seminar organized by the Indian Embassy in Makati City, 18 Indian companies presented defense items ranging from aircraft, drones, helicopters to artificial intelligence-based technologies.
Defence Acquisition Council approves projects worth Rs 84,560 cr
The Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved projects worth approximately Rs 84,560 crore, including air defence radar, torpedoes, maritime reconnaissance aircraft, flight refuelers, and software-defined radios. The council also sanctioned the purchase of anti-tank mines with remote deactivation features. The Defence Ministry's press release highlighted the commitment to Aatmanirbharta
Central forces, border, intel, census focus of MHA Budget
The interim budget allocated ₹2.03 lakh crore to the Union home ministry, with a focus on central armed police forces, intelligence gathering, and the delayed Census. Additional funds were set aside for infrastructure along the international border, women's safety, police modernisation, and the vibrant village programme. The newly created UTs of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh received ₹43,235 crore. The Central Reserve Police Force, Border Security Force, and Central Industrial Security Force also received increased allocations for their respective duties.
Building Future's Aerial Defenders: IIT Guwahati's course for Armed Forces on Drone Technology
IIT Guwahati has launched a three-month drone technology training program for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) and Other Ranks Officers (OR) to modernize armed forces operations and provide skills for drone operations. The initiative aims to facilitate a smooth transition for armed forces personnel considering post-retirement careers in the growing drone technology sector.
Change in geo-politics on, only army can't win war: Lt Gen R P Kalita
"Russia-Ukraine war is going on, Israel-Hamas conflict is also on. There is also a lot of instability in our neighbourhood. So, the whole geo-politics is changing. There is a change which is taking place. And it impacts not only our country but our armed forces as well," Kalita said.
Expect the unexpected and prepare accordingly: Rajnath to Army commanders
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commended the Army for its high operational readiness and emphasized the need for continuous war preparedness. He expressed confidence in the force's ability to confront any contingency in eastern Ladakh and acknowledged the ongoing talks for a peaceful resolution with China. Singh praised the Border Roads Organisation for improving road networks under challenging conditions. He also highlighted the importance of unconventional warfare, modernization of weapons, and self-reliance. The Army Commanders' conference is addressing combat capabilities and national security challenges, including the border with China. Singh praised the Army's response to cross-border terrorism and called for continued synergy among security forces.
India and Pakistan's nuclear arsenal expansion and modernization plans unveiled in new report
India and Pakistan are increasing their nuclear arsenals and developing new nuclear delivery systems, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (Sipri). India's focus is shifting towards longer-range weapons, including those capable of targeting areas in China. India currently has 164 nuclear warheads, while Pakistan has 170. The report reveals that the number of operational nuclear weapons is rising globally, with Russia and the US collectively possessing nearly 90% of all nuclear weapons.
India gained new strategic strength in recent years: PM Modi
The prime minister also emphasised that the people of the country feel safe today as there has been a drastic decline in the number of terrorist attacks. When the country is peaceful and secure, new goals of development are achieved, he said.
Military reforms undertaken to modernise armed forces: PM Modi
India has gained new strategic strength in recent years and its borders are now more secure than ever, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Tuesday even as he highlighted efforts to modernise the military and make it "young and battle ready" to confront future challenges. In his Independence Day address from the ramparts of Red Fort, Modi also reiterated his government's unwavering resolve to ensure national security amid the current global security scenario.
British CDS holds talks with top Indian military brass; says India, UK 'natural partners'
The British CDS began his visit to India by paying homage to the fallen soldiers at the National War Memorial this morning ahead of his first meeting with his Indian counterpart Gen Anil Chauhan.
PM Modi reviews operational readiness of armed forces at Combined Commanders' Conference
The defence ministry said Modi called upon the three services to stay ready to deal with the new and emerging threats, emphasising that all steps are being taken to equip the armed forces with necessary weapons and technologies.
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