The Indian Air Force (IAF) is showcasing its might and capability to carry out high-octane operations in 'Gagan Shakti-2024'exercise at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer district, Rajasthan in a realistic environment from April 1-10. The exercise involves all air force bases and assets scattered across the country.
'Gagan Shakti' was last held in 2018, when the IAF clocked more than 11,000 sorties during the two-phase air manoeuvres. The previous edition saw the concentration of the force's deployed assets move from the western sector to the eastern front in less than 48 hours. It sought to test the IAF's readiness for a two-front war with China and Pakistan. The IAF practiced every manoeuvre, including deep strikes, air dominance, maritime operations, and air defence, to prepare for a short and intense war.
Lt Gen JS Sidana is New Director General of EME
Lieutenant General J. S. Sidana took over as the 33rd Director General of the Department of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (DGEME) and Senior Colonel Commandant of the EME Corps.
During his 38-year career, Lt Gen Sidana has held many important regimental, command, instructional, and staff appointments. Before his current role, he served as the Commandant of the Military College of EME for two years. Lt Gen Sidana has been the Master General of EME at Headquarters Central Command. He has also commanded an Army Base Workshop and the EME Centre.
An alumnus of the National Defense Academy and Indian Military Academy, Lt Gen Sidana was commissioned into the EME Corps in 1985. He holds a Master of Management Studies from Osmania University, an M.Tech from IIT Kanpur, and an M.Phil from Panjab University.
Apr 02, 2024
HAL Delivers Two Dornier 228 Planes to Guyana Defence Force
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) delivered two Dornier 228 planes to the Guyana Defence Force, the country's President Mohamed Irfaan Ali said.
The development comes more than a year after the Guyanese President and his delegation had visited an HAL facility in India.
Mar 30, 2024
Indian Army Kicks Off Annual Army Commanders' Conference in Hybrid Format
The Indian Army is organizing the first Army Commanders' Conference for the year 2024 in a hybrid mode. The virtual segment of the conference was held on March 28, 2024, followed by the physical mode in New Delhi on April 1 and 2, 2024. The conference is being chaired by the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Manoj Pande, and attended by senior military leadership, including Army Commanders participating virtually from their respective Command Headquarters.
During the physical mode on April 1, 2024, the Army's top leadership will engage in intensive brainstorming sessions focused on:
Operational Effectiveness
Fostering a Culture of Innovation and Adaptability
Investing in Training and Development for Future Readiness
Welfare of Service Personnel and Quality of Life
Mar 29, 2024
New Chiefs of NDRF and BPR&D
The Indian government made crucial appointments in key security agencies, including National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D).
Piyush Anand, a 1991-batch IPS officer from the Uttar Pradesh cadre, was entrusted with the responsibility of heading the NDRF.
Anand's appointment came amidst growing challenges in disaster management and response.
He has been given the charge for a period of two years or until further orders, and replaced NDRF chief Atul Karwal.
Rajeev Kumar, an accomplished IPS officer from the Rajasthan cadre, was appointed as the Director General of the BPR&D.
His appointment reflects the government's emphasis on enhancing research and development initiatives within the law enforcement sector.
Kumar will serve in this role until his superannuation on June 30, 2026, or until further orders, and replaced BPR&D chief Balaji Srivastava.
Israel Aerospace Industries Opens Indian Subsidiary
Aerospace and defence company, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), opened its Indian subsidiary in New Delhi.
The opening of AeroSpace Services India (ASI) is in sync with the Indian government's vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' and 'Make in India'.
This also shows the commitment to a strong partnership between IAI and DRDO in developing and supporting advanced systems for the Indian armed forces.
AeroSpace Services India is the "sole authorised OEM's Technical Representative for the entire Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) system.
Mar 28, 2024
Gujarat Get First Hovercraft Maintenance for ICG
Gujarat got its first Hovercraft Maintenance Unit (HMU) as the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) inaugurated its Hovercraft Maintenance Unit (HMU) and laid the foundation stone for a new jetty at Okha, followed by the opening of the Operational Team Mess (OTM) and Married Accommodations in Veraval in Gujarat.
The Defence Secretary officiated as the Chief Guest at both events, significantly enhancing the Coast Guard's operational infrastructure.
The Indian Coast Guard's north-west region patrols the coast of Gujarat and besides ships, it also has a few hovercrafts.