French Carrier Strike Group Makes Stopovers in Goa, Kochi as Part of Mission CLEMENCEAU 25
The French carrier strike group (CSG), led by the aircraft carrier FNS Charles de Gaulle, made port calls at Goa and Kochi, as part of Mission CLEMENCEAU 25.
Currently deployed in the Indian Ocean, the CSG is conducting joint training with regional allies, including India, ahead of its participation in multinational exercises such as La Perouse in the Indonesian zone and Pacific Steller in the Pacific Ocean.
During Mission CLEMENCEAU 25, the Charles de Gaulle CSG and Indian navy ships will take part in the 42nd annual Varuna bilateral exercise. The aim of this aero-naval training is to develop interoperability between our two navies, and to prepare crews to deal with a multi-milieu threat (air, surface, submarine) as part of a coalition.
Jan 04, 2025
Garuda Aerospace and REIL to Set up Remote Pilot Training Organisation in Jaipur
Drone manufacturer Garuda Aerospace signed an agreement with Rajasthan Electronics and Instruments Ltd (REIL) to establish a Remote Pilot Training Organisation in Jaipur. The training facility aims to meet the growing demand for skilled drone operators across sectors by offering comprehensive, Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)-compliant training programmes.
By combining Garuda Aerospace's capabilities with REIL's established infrastructure and presence, the Regional Pilot Training Organisation will provide a strong platform for effective training delivery.
Government Considers Honorary Senior Ranks for Retiring Paramilitary Personnel
The Indian government is contemplating the introduction of honorary senior ranks for retiring Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel who have not been promoted due to organizational constraints. This initiative aims to enhance morale among retiring personnel and acknowledge their service.
Former Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Anish Dayal Singh, proposed that personnel eligible for promotion but awaiting vacancies could be granted the insignia of their next higher rank during their final month of service. For instance, a Constable eligible for promotion to Head Constable would be permitted to wear the Head Constable's insignia. This honorary rank would be reflected in their service records, and they would receive the corresponding pay. Home Minister Amit Shah has approved this proposal, which is expected to be implemented soon across all CAPFs.
Jan 02, 2025
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra Assumes Command of IAF's Western Air Command
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra assumed the prestigious role of commanding the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Western Air Command, a vital position that oversees the defence of India's western borders.
With a career spanning over three decades, Air Marshal Mishra was commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a fighter pilot in December 1986 and has accumulated more than 3000 flying hours throughout his career.
Known for his exceptional skills, Air Marshal Mishra is a Fighter Combat Leader and an experimental Test Pilot.
In his service career spanning over 38 years, the Air Marshal has tenanted important command and staff appointments.
India-Nepal "Surya Kiran" Military Exercise
The 18th edition of the India-Nepal joint military exercise "Surya Kiran" is being held at Saljhandi, Nepal. It will conclude on January 13, 2025. This annual exercise aims to enhance interoperability in jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief under the United Nations Charter.
Participating Forces: Indian Army's Kumaon Regiment and Nepalese Army's Tara Dal Battalion. Focus Areas: Jungle warfare, counter-terrorism operations in mountainous terrains, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Dec 31, 2024
Vitul Kumar Assigned Officiating Charge as CRPF Director General
The Ministry of Home Affairs assigned senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Vitul Kumar the officiating charge for the post of Director General of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) following the retirement of the incumbent force chief, Anish Dayal Singh.
Kumar, a 1993-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, is currently serving as the special director general of the CRPF.
According to an office memorandum issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs, he will hold the position until a regular appointment is made or until further orders, whichever comes earlier.
Dec 26, 2024
Airbus and Germany Collaborate to Offer Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 5 for India's MRFA Tender
Airbus, in collaboration with the Federal Republic of Germany, is preparing to field the advanced Eurofighter Typhoon Tranche 5 for the Indian Air Force's Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. This tender, anticipated to be issued by mid-2025, aims to procure 110 modern fighter jets to bolster India's air combat capabilities.
The Eurofighter Typhoon proposal is a joint effort involving the Eurofighter consortium nations, with key industrial partners Leonardo and BAE Systems playing significant roles. During India's Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) competition in 2012, the Typhoon cleared all technical evaluation rounds but was ultimately outpriced by the Dassault Rafale, which emerged as the lowest bidder (L1) and secured the deal.