Defence Street

Category: Press Release

  • Saab starts construction of new Carl-Gustaf factory in India

    Saab starts construction of new Carl-Gustaf factory in India

    Saab has today marked the start of the construction of its new Carl-Gustaf® manufacturing facility in India with a ground breaking ceremony. The factory will be located in the state of Haryana.

    After receiving approval of 100% foreign direct investment, Saab has established a new company, Saab FFVO India Pvt Ltd, which will fully own the new manufacturing facility and produce the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon.

    “I am proud to start constructing our first facility outside Sweden for Carl-Gustaf, a product that has a long history with the Indian Armed Forces. We look forward to starting production of our excellent product, now engineered and made in India”, says Görgen Johansson, Senior Vice President and Head of Saab’s business area Dynamics.

    “Today is an important milestone for Sweden and India. Saab’s factory will be the first foreign fully-owned defence production facility in India. It is a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between our countries,” says Håkan Jevrell, State Secretary for Foreign Trade, Sweden.

    The facility is being built in the state of Haryana at the MET City at Jhajjar. The state has a strong industrial base of good potential partners and skilled employees.

    Saab will partner with Indian suppliers and will fully meet the requirements of “Make in India” for the systems manufactured in the facility. At the new factory, Saab will deploy complex technologies including the latest sighting technology and advanced carbon fibre winding to manufacture Carl-Gustaf M4 for the Indian armed forces, and components which may be included in other users’ systems.

    The Carl-Gustaf system has been in service with the Indian Army since 1976 and is established as the main shoulder launched weapon in the Indian Armed Forces.

  • MILAN 2024 – City Of Destiny To Host Multi National Naval Exercise

    MILAN 2024 – City Of Destiny To Host Multi National Naval Exercise

    Indian Navy’s multi-national exercise, MILAN 24, is all set to be organised in the City of Destiny, Visakhapatnam from 19-27 Feb 24. Previously, 11th edition of this exercise was held in Feb-Mar 22 in Visakhapatnam under the Eastern Naval Command with the theme ‘Camaraderie–Cohesion–Collaboration’.

    MILAN is a biennial multi-national naval exercise which started in 1995 with participation of four foreign countries (Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand) in consonance with India’s ‘Look East policy’. The exercise flourished under the aegis of Andaman and Nicobar command till its 10th With the growing stature of the exercise and requirement of a larger staging and hosting base, Vishakhapatnam, the city of destiny was chosen as the preferred venue for future MILAN exercises. The city is ideal to host the event owing to various aspects, namely major commercial hub, large port, steep coastal gradient closer to its shores enabling Ships to operate closer to the shore and long coastline offering excellent viewing experience for the public. The scenic view from RK Beach in particular, coupled with excellent infrastructure is conducive to host various events planned during MILAN for the local populace along the shore, such asOperational Demonstration and International City Parade.

    MILAN 24 exercise would comprise two phases – ‘Harbour phase’ and ‘Sea phase’. The harbour phase, aimed to promote cultural sharing amongst the participating nations, would comprise of International Maritime Seminar, International City Parade, Maritime Tech Exhibition, Subject Matter Expert Exchange, Milan of Young Officers and various sporting events. During the Sea phase, ships along with Maritime Patrol aircraft and submarines of Friendly Foreign Countries would participate along with the Indian Navy’s Aircraft Carriers and other units. It will involve large-force manoeuvres, advanced air defence operations, anti-submarine warfare and anti-surface operations.

    TheMILAN exercise is an exemplary demonstration of India’s commitment towards promoting maritime cooperation and security in the Indian Ocean region. In a world where maritime security is of paramount importance, the MILAN exercise stands as a shining example of nations coming together to address common challenges and create a more secure and prosperous maritime environment. India’s growing strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region has further elevated the significance of MILAN exercise. It has become attractive platform for nations to build partnerships, exchange ideas, and enhance maritime security reflecting India’s commitment to being a responsible maritime power.

  • Indian Armed Forces Contingent Reaches Hanoi for Joint Military Exercise “VINBAX-2023”

    Indian Armed Forces Contingent Reaches Hanoi for Joint Military Exercise “VINBAX-2023”

    The Indian Armed Forces contingent comprising 45 personnel reached Hanoi, Vietnam to take part in the fourth edition of Joint Military Exercise VINBAX-2023. The exercise will be conducted at Hanoi, Vietnam from 11th to 21st December 2023. The Indian contingent comprises 39 personnel from an Engineer Regiment of Bengal Engineer Group and six personnel of Army Medical Corps. The Vietnam People’s Army contingent will also be represented by 45 personnel.

    Exercise VINBAX was instituted in 2018 and the first edition was conducted at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. It is an annual training event conducted alternatively in India and Vietnam. Last edition was conducted at Chandimandir Military Station in August 2022.

    Aim of the exercise is to foster collaborative partnership, promote inter- operability and share best practices between the two sides under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter on Peace Keeping Operations. The exercise will be conducted as a Command Post Exercise cum Field Training Exercise with focus on deployment and employment of an Engineer Company and a Medical Team.

    The joint exercise will encourage exchange of ideas and both contingents will jointly rehearse tactics, technique and procedures. Ideas will be exchanged on modern methods to construct roads, culverts, helipads, ammunition shelter and observation posts in operational areas. In addition, rehearsals will be carried out for drills related to combat engineering and combat medical tasks.

    The Exercise will culminate with a Validation Exercise, wherein standards attained by both contingents will be showcased. Both sides will conduct technical military operations in accordance with scenarios akin to worldwide deployment of United Nations’ contingents.

    The joint exercise will help in promoting understanding and interoperability between the two contingents and further strengthen the defence cooperation between the friendly armies.

  • EDEX 2023: Nexter showcases its weapon systems for the Egyptian army

    EDEX 2023: Nexter showcases its weapon systems for the Egyptian army

    • From 4 to 7 December 2023, Nexter presents its solutions at the EDEX 2023 exhibition in Cairo, Egypt.
    • Nexter, company of KNDS, is developing its partnership with Egypt regarding the modernisation of the armoured units of the Egyptian armed forces.

    Enhancing the armoured capacities of the Egyptian army

    Nexter, company of KNDS, presents its wide range of armoured vehicles to the Armoured Brigades of the Egyptian Army:

    • The Enhanced Main Battle Tank (EMBT), first 4th generation MBT combining, in a new enhanced design, features such as a 22 rounds 120mm autoloader, a 7 roadwheels chassis, and a 1500 hp powerpack. This new system demonstrator is armed with the 120mm gun and autoloader of the Leclerc MBT plus the latest technologies such as a new digital architecture, an ARX 30, a 4th crew as “deputy commander”, a hard-kill active protection system (APS)…
    • Our latest combat vehicles such as the new VBCI MkII T40, the JAGUAR combat and recce vehicle and the land version of the RAPIDFire turret mounted on a 6×6 chassis.
    • The ARX 30 remote-controlled turret armed with the 30mm gun of the Tiger helicopter. It is made for the close protection of a platform, a convoy or a company level unit. An airburst ammunition is under development to fight against drones and loitering ammunitions.
    • The ARX 25 remote-controlled turret equipped with the 25mm gun of the French army’s VBCI. It is perfectly fitted for ground combat thanks to its range exceeding 2500m and its firepower close to 30x173mm weapons.  

    Nexter’s wide range of products presented at EDEX 2023

    Nexter, company of KNDS, is also exhibiting its wide range of products, including:

    • The Leclerc MBT as a symbol of our expertise in designing revolutionary combat vehicles. This tank is the first model of the 3rd generation MBT that integrates still distinguishing capacities such as the autoloader and the capacity to fire as well on the move as stationary.
    • Our booth also showcases Nexter’s medium calibre weapons in service in the Egyptian forces such as the 30mm gun of the Rafale – the fastest single-barrel gun in the world – and the NARWHAL 20mm naval turret.
    • Nexter’s whole range of ammunition for main battle tanks, naval and land artillery systems. This includes KATANA, the next-generation high-precision guided 155mm ammunition.
    • The whole Nexter artillery family: the CAESAR 6×6 and 8×8 and the 105LG.
    • The NERVA range of land robots equipped with various mission kits including reconnaissance and counter-IED kits.
  • Raksha Mantri & US Secretary of Defence discuss wide range of defence & strategic issues during bilateral talks in New Delhi

    Raksha Mantri & US Secretary of Defence discuss wide range of defence & strategic issues during bilateral talks in New Delhi

    • Focus on enhancing defence industrial cooperation between India & US
    • Shri Rajnath Singh hands over parts of parachute, uniform & airplane of US forces from World War II recovered in Assam

    Delhi: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of Defence Mr Lloyd Austin in New Delhi on November 10, 2023. The two Ministers comprehensively discussed a wide range of defence and strategic issues. There was particular focus on enhancing defence industrial cooperation and getting the defence industries from both sides together to cooperatively co-develop and co-produce defence systems.

    The Ministers explored ways and means to advance their defence technology cooperation with joint research in critical areas. They reviewed the progress of the India-US Defence Industrial Ecosystem, INDUS-X, which was launched in June this year and aims to expand the strategic technology partnership and defence industrial cooperation between the governments, businesses and academic institutions of India and US.

    Secretary Austin welcomed India’s decision to elevate to full membership of the Combined Maritime Forces, a multilateral construct headquartered in Bahrain.

    The Raksha Mantri symbolically handed over to Secretary Austin some items recovered in Assam as part of the US Defence POW MIA Accounting Agency Mission. The items include parts of parachute, uniform and airplane of the US forces from the World War II-era. The Ministers, before concluding, drew up an agenda for future joint work for their teams.

  • IAF Contingent Inducted For The Dubai Air Show 2023

    IAF Contingent Inducted For The Dubai Air Show 2023

    A contingent from the Indian Air Force (IAF) has arrived at the Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai to take part in the biennial Dubai Airshow, scheduled to run from November 13 to November 17, 2023. The IAF contingent includes two domestically manufactured aircraft: the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv. The Tejas will be featured in both static displays and aerial performances at the Airshow, while the Sarang Helicopter Display Team will showcase their formation aerobatics skills. This marks the second consecutive appearance for the Tejas and the Sarang display teams at the Dubai Airshow, as they also participated in the 2021 edition, promising to captivate the audience once again.

    The Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent has been transported to the venue by its C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft. These teams are scheduled to make their debut performance at the opening ceremony on November 13, 2023, and subsequently, they will join other prominent international aerial display teams in the airspace. This occasion provides a valuable opportunity to highlight the significant progress achieved by the Indian Aviation Industry, emphasizing the participation of domestically developed platforms such as the Tejas and Dhruv.

  • Indian Navy’s Latest Warship “Surat” Unveiled In Naval Ceremony

    Indian Navy’s Latest Warship “Surat” Unveiled In Naval Ceremony

    The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Shri Bhupendra Patel, unveiled the crest of the Indian Navy’s latest guided missile destroyer, ‘Surat,’ which is currently under construction. The ceremony took place in the city of Surat and was attended by Admiral R. Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Naval Staff, along with senior dignitaries and officials from the State Government and the Indian Navy.

    The crest of the ‘Surat’ features an image of the famous lighthouse at Hazira (Surat), situated at the southern entrance of the Gulf of Khambhat. This lighthouse, built in 1836, was one of the earliest lighthouses in India. The crest also includes an Asiatic lion, which is the state animal of Gujarat, symbolizing the ship’s majesty and strength. Equipped with the latest advancements in naval warfare technology and combat capabilities, the warship ‘Surat’ represents the Navy’s commitment to maritime security and national defense, as evident from the depiction of the wavy sea on the crest. As ‘Surat’ prepares to join the Indian Navy’s fleet, it will serve as a formidable guardian, protecting the nation’s maritime frontiers and safeguarding its strategic interests in the region.

    Named after the vibrant city of Surat, known for its rich maritime history and shipbuilding legacy, the warship ‘Surat’ also reflects the enterprising and self-reliant spirit of its namesake.

    ‘Surat’ is the fourth ship of the indigenously designed and constructed Project 15B (Vishakhapatnam Class) destroyers, representing a significant advancement in naval technology and capabilities. The ship’s construction employed an innovative block construction methodology, where the ship’s hull was meticulously assembled at various geographical locations before integration at the Mazagaon Dock Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. This approach underscores India’s growing refinement in shipbuilding expertise and precision engineering.

    Project 15B follows the success of Project 15A (Kolkata Class) and demonstrates India’s steadily increasing naval capabilities. The construction of ‘Surat’ exemplifies the nation’s dedication to indigenous cutting-edge maritime technology and its commitment to strategic military advancements.

    Scheduled to enter active service next year, ‘Surat’ and its capable crew will serve the nation with pride in the years to come. The ceremony to unveil the ship’s crest was attended by the Chief Minister, the Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief Western Naval Command, Rear Admiral Anil Jaggi, Flag Officer Commanding Gujarat Naval Area, senior officers of the Indian Navy, and distinguished individuals from the political and commercial sectors of Surat city.

  • Complexities & untapped potential of Indo-Pacific region demand concerted efforts for a prosperous, secure & inclusive future – Indian Defence Minister

    Complexities & untapped potential of Indo-Pacific region demand concerted efforts for a prosperous, secure & inclusive future – Indian Defence Minister

    • India stands for a free, open, inclusive & rules-based Indo-Pacific
    • Our efforts to build robust military partnerships with friendly countries underscore our commitment to safeguard national interests & address global challenges

    Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, in his inaugural address at the 13th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs’ Conference (IPACC) held in New Delhi on September 26, 2023, emphasized the need for collective wisdom and concerted efforts to address the complexities of the Indo-Pacific Region. He stressed the importance of realizing the full potential of the region to ensure a future characterized by prosperity, security, and inclusivity. He framed this vision in alignment with the ancient Indian ethos of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (The World is One Family) and the G-20 motto ‘One Earth, One Family, One Future’. Notably, Chief of Defence Staff, Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande, and Chiefs of Armies, along with delegates from 35 countries, were present at the conference.

    Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that the Indo-Pacific has evolved from being merely a maritime concept to a comprehensive geo-strategic construct. He acknowledged that the region faces a complex web of security challenges, including boundary disputes and piracy. To illustrate his perspective, he drew upon a theoretical model by American author and speaker Mr. Stephen R. Covey, which revolves around two circles: the ‘Circle of Concern’ and the ‘Circle of Influence’.

    The ‘Circle of Concern’ encompasses everything that nations care about, including elements within their control and those outside their control. It encompasses a wide array of external factors and issues, such as global events, economic conditions, opinions of other nations, weather, and various aspects of life. On the other hand, the ‘Circle of Influence’ comprises elements over which nations have direct control or can exert some degree of influence. This may involve their attitudes, behaviors, decisions, relationships, and actions.

    Applying this model to international relations, the Raksha Mantri explained, “There may be instances when the ‘circles of concern’ of different nations overlap with each other. For example, international maritime trade routes passing through high seas, beyond the Exclusive Economic Zones of any country, are relevant examples. This can either result in conflict between nations or they can decide to coexist by mutually deciding the rules of engagement. The concept of these circles underscores the importance of strategic thinking and prioritization.”

    Shri Rajnath Singh stressed that states must recognize that global issues involve multiple stakeholders, and no single country can address these challenges in isolation. He emphasized the need to engage with the broader international community and collaborate through diplomacy, international organizations, and treaties to tackle common concerns within the overlapping ‘Circles of Concern’. He cited the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), 1982, as a successful example of an international agreement that establishes the legal framework for maritime activities and addresses issues arising from overlapping ‘circles of concern’ among different nations.

    The Raksha Mantri emphasized that states should also identify and expand their ‘Circle of Influence’ to promote their national interests on the global stage. This may involve building partnerships, participating in regional organizations, and strategically employing diplomatic, economic, or military tools. He stated, “This conference is an exercise where we all are trying to expand our ‘Circles of Influence’ while harmonizing the overlaps of our ‘circles of concern’.”

    Shri Rajnath Singh described the IPACC, Indo-Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS), and Senior Enlisted Leaders Forum (SELF) as one of the largest brainstorming events for land forces in the region. He highlighted that these events provide a unique opportunity to establish common perspectives, work towards a shared vision, and build and strengthen partnerships in the spirit of collaborative security.

    The Raksha Mantri reiterated India’s commitment to a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific Region, in line with Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision based on the five ‘S’s: Sammaan (Respect), Samvad (Dialogue), Sahyog (Cooperation), Shanti (Peace), and Samridhi (Prosperity). He emphasized that India’s approach to the region is defined by its ‘Act East Policy’.

    Shri Rajnath Singh also highlighted India’s efforts to build robust military partnerships with friendly nations to safeguard national interests and address global challenges, particularly in the context of climate change. He noted that the Indian Armed Forces play a crucial role as first responders in disaster situations and contribute to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts.

    The Raksha Mantri suggested that during the three-day event, discussions should focus on enhancing interoperability during HADR operations. He emphasized the importance of addressing climate change-related concerns, especially for small island nations in the Indo-Pacific, which bear the brunt of climate change as an existential crisis. He stressed the need for climate-resilient and eco-friendly infrastructure and called for sharing expertise and resources among partner nations.

    Shri Rajnath Singh acknowledged that arriving at a consensus plan of action within a large group can be challenging but not impossible with determination and empathy. He cited the recent G-20 summit as an example of countries adopting the New Delhi Leaders’ Declaration with consensus on developmental and geopolitical issues, making it a historic and path-breaking event.

    The 13th IPACC, 47th IPAMS, and 9th SELF are being co-hosted by the Indian Army and the United States Army in New Delhi from September 25th to 27th, 2023. The central theme of the forum is ‘Together for Peace: Sustaining Peace and Stability in the Indo-Pacific Region.’ This conference provides a platform for Army Chiefs and senior-level leaders from land forces in the Indo-Pacific region to exchange ideas and views on security and contemporary issues. The primary goal of the forum is to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region through mutual understanding, dialogue, and friendship among the littoral partners.

  • Indian Navy Flags Off ‘Khamree mo Sikkim’ Car Rally

    Indian Navy Flags Off ‘Khamree mo Sikkim’ Car Rally

    In line with the national leadership’s vision of fostering development in remote areas, the Indian Navy has initiated a comprehensive outreach program aimed at strengthening connections with the North Eastern states of India. One significant component of this effort is the “Khamree Mo Sikkim!” (Hello Sikkim) Motor Car Expedition, which commenced on September 24, 2023, and will run until October 15, 2023. This expedition, starting from INS Shivaji in Lonavala, Maharashtra, and covering a distance of 6500 km, involves a diverse team of Naval personnel, including women officers, and members of the Navy Wives Welfare Association (NWWA), highlighting the ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s power).

    The primary objectives of this event are to encourage the participation of youth from Sikkim in the defense services, raise awareness about maritime matters in the region, and contribute to the nation-building process.

    The car rally was officially inaugurated in Lonavala on September 24, 2023, by Commodore Mohit Goel, NM, Commanding Officer of INS Shivaji. The rally is divided into three distinct legs. The first leg includes stopovers at Mhow, Jhansi, Lucknow, Varanasi, and Bagdogra. The second leg will venture into Sikkim, commencing from Gangtok. The final leg will encompass visits to Kolkata, Bhubaneswar, Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, and Pune. Throughout the car rally, participants will engage with students at various schools, interact with veterans, and conduct outreach programs and awareness campaigns. This 22-day expedition has received support from Maruti Suzuki India Limited and the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd, serving as the fuel partner.

  • Defence ministry clears procurement of military hardware worth Rs 45,000 crore

    Defence ministry clears procurement of military hardware worth Rs 45,000 crore

    • Procurement of Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicles, Integrated Surveillance & Targeting System and Next Generation Survey Vessels gets a nod
    • Proposals for avionic upgradation of Dornier Aircraft; procurement of Dhruvastra Short Range Air-to-Surface Missile & 12 Su-30 MKI Aircraft also cleared
    • Time to upgrade indigenisation ambitions; We should aim for a minimum 60-65% indigenous content: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh

    The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh on September 15, 2023, has granted approval for nine capital acquisition proposals totaling approximately Rs 45,000 crore. These procurements will exclusively involve Indian vendors, falling under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured (IDDM)) or Buy (Indian) category. This move is expected to significantly bolster the Indian defense industry, aligning with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiative.

    In a bid to enhance the Mechanised Forces’ protection, mobility, attack capabilities, and survivability, the DAC has granted approval for the acquisition of Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicles (LAMV) and the Integrated Surveillance and Targeting System (ISAT-S). Additionally, the DAC has given the green light for procuring High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) Gun Towing Vehicles, which will enable swift mobilization and deployment of artillery guns and radars.

    Furthermore, the DAC has approved the procurement of Next Generation Survey Vessels to augment the Indian Navy’s capabilities in conducting Hydrographic Operations.

    The DAC has also granted approval for Indian Air Force proposals, including the avionic upgrade of Dornier Aircraft to enhance accuracy and reliability during operations. The procurement of the Dhruvastra Short Range Air-to-Surface Missile, as a potent Indigenous Precision Guided Weapon for indigenously built ALH Mk-IV Helicopters, has been given the green signal. Additionally, the DAC has approved the acquisition of 12 Su-30 MKI Aircraft along with associated equipment from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

    During the meeting, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the need to elevate ambitions concerning indigenization. He suggested that rather than adhering to a 50% indigenous content threshold for IDDM projects, efforts should be directed towards achieving a minimum of 60-65% indigenous content. The Raksha Mantri has instructed the Chief of Defence Staff, Service Chiefs, Defence Secretary, and DG (Acquisition) to collaborate with the Indian Industry to work on increasing the minimum indigenous content threshold in consultation with relevant stakeholders.