In a swift and precise counter-terror operation, the Indian Army on Tuesday eliminated three terrorists during Operation Keller in the Shoekal Keller area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district. The operation, launched in the early hours by the Rashtriya Rifles, followed credible intelligence inputs about the presence of armed militants entrenched in the region.
As security forces cordoned off the area and launched a search-and-destroy mission, the terrorists opened fire, triggering an intense exchange. The firefight resulted in the death of all three terrorists, who were described by security officials as high-priority threats involved in multiple acts of violence and radicalization. The operation was ongoing at the time of reporting, with the area being sanitized to rule out the presence of any additional threats or hidden weapon caches.
OPERATION KELLER
On 13 May 2025, based on specific intelligence of a #RashtriyasRifles Unit, about presence of terrorists in general area Shoekal Keller, #Shopian, #IndianArmy launched a search and destroy Operation. During the operation, terrorists opened heavy fire and fierce… pic.twitter.com/KZwIkEGiLF
This tactical success comes at a time of heightened security concerns following Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory airstrike conducted by India on May 7, targeting terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). That operation, hailed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah as a “befitting reply” to cross-border terrorism, was followed by retaliatory shelling from Pakistan, resulting in 12 civilian and one soldier’s death in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district.
The Keller region of Shopian has remained a persistent militant hotspot, with a history of insurgency and frequent encounters. A similar gunfight in the Yarwan forest in 2019 also resulted in the killing of three militants, illustrating the long-standing challenge that security forces continue to face in South Kashmir despite ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
Officials emphasized the importance of sustained operations to prevent militant regrouping and to maintain peace in the Valley. “The elimination of these terrorists is a step toward dismantling the network that threatens regional stability,” said a senior army officer involved in the operation.
Public response has been largely supportive, with citizens and local leaders expressing relief over the Army’s decisive action. However, many remain wary of further escalations, especially given the broader India-Pakistan tensions and the historically fragile situation in Kashmir. The long-standing territorial dispute, marked by wars in 1947-48, 1965, and the 1999 Kargil conflict, continues to fuel the complex security landscape in the region.
Authorities have urged residents to remain alert as follow-up operations continue in Keller and surrounding areas. More details are expected as investigations proceed and identities of the neutralized militants are confirmed.
With Operation Keller, the Indian Army reaffirms its resolve to eliminate terrorism from the Valley, even as geopolitical tensions threaten to further destabilize the region.
In a major counter-terrorism operation, three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists were killed by Indian security forces in Shukroo forest area of Keller in Shopian, South Kashmir, on Tuesday morning. The operation, carried out jointly by the Indian Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police, marks another successful step in India’s ongoing efforts to combat militancy in the region.
The encounter began in the early hours of the morning, following credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of LeT operatives in the area. Security forces quickly engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, ultimately neutralizing all three militants.
The first terrorist was Shahid Kuttay, classified under Category-A, has been implicated in several high-profile incidents. He was behind the attack on German tourists in April 2024, which resulted in significant media attention. In May 2024, he was also involved in the killing of a BJP Sarpanch, further escalating tensions in the region. Additionally, Kuttay is suspected of being linked to the murder of a TA jawan in February 2025, making him a key figure of interest for security forces.
The second terrorist was Adnan Shafi Dar, listed under Category-C, is known for his involvement in the murder of a non-local labourer in October 2024. His role in this attack has placed him under scrutiny, although he is considered to be a lower-priority target compared to Category-A individuals like Kuttay.
There is also a third terrorist, whose identity is currently being verified. The security agencies are working to confirm details about this individual and their involvement in recent activities.
Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based militant group, has been a persistent threat in Jammu & Kashmir for years, with the aim of integrating the region with Pakistan. The group is notorious for its involvement in several deadly attacks in India, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and is banned by multiple countries, including India, the United States, and the United Nations.
Shopian has long been a hotspot for militant activities, with frequent clashes between security forces and insurgents. In the past, the Indian Army has conducted large-scale operations, such as Operation Sarp Vinash in 2003, to dismantle terrorist networks in the region. This latest encounter is another important success in ongoing operations to reduce militant influence in South Kashmir.
The operation comes amidst increased security measures in Jammu & Kashmir, where Indian forces are actively targeting groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. The coordinated efforts of the Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police aim to bring peace and stability to the region, though challenges remain with ongoing militant activity and occasional local unrest.
Further details regarding the operation are awaited as security forces continue their search for potential additional threats in the area. The neutralization of the three terrorists is seen as a significant blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba’s operations in the region, with officials reaffirming their commitment to eradicating terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today visited the Indian Air Force’s Adampur Air Base in Punjab, delivering a strong message of support and encouragement to the nation’s armed forces amid heightened tensions with Pakistan. The visit comes just three days after the Pakistan Air Force launched an airstrike on the base on May 10, 2025—part of a series of attacks that have raised the stakes in the ongoing military standoff.
During his visit, PM Modi was briefed by senior Indian Air Force (IAF) officers on the current state of operational readiness and the challenges posed by recent hostilities. He interacted with air warriors, praising their courage and professionalism, and expressed confidence in the IAF’s ability to safeguard the nation’s skies.
Earlier this morning, I went to AFS Adampur and met our brave air warriors and soldiers. It was a very special experience to be with those who epitomise courage, determination and fearlessness. India is eternally grateful to our armed forces for everything they do for our nation. pic.twitter.com/RYwfBfTrV2
Images from the visit showed the Prime Minister standing alongside IAF personnel in front of a MiG-21 model and a signboard that read, “Why Enemy Pilots Don’t Sleep Well”—a symbolic reference to the combat legacy of the Adampur base. Historically, Adampur has played a pivotal role in conflicts with Pakistan, notably during the 1965 war, and continues to be a key strategic location for India’s northern air defences.
The visit is widely seen as a morale-boosting move following the May 10 attack, in which Pakistani forces used unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) and fighter jets to target Indian bases in Adampur, Udhampur, Pathankot, and Bhuj. Indian air defences responded swiftly, neutralizing most incoming threats. While some damage was reported, military officials emphasized that operational capability remained intact.
Tensions have been rising since the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, carried out by Pakistan-backed militants, which killed 26 civilians. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, striking terrorist infrastructure across Pakistan-administered Kashmir and parts of Punjab. The situation further escalated with Pakistani military activity and hardline rhetoric from Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Syed Asim Munir.
In his address at the base, PM Modi highlighted the importance of indigenous defence capability, referencing the IAF’s growing reliance on Indian-made aircraft like the Tejas fighter jet. He also acknowledged the legacy of the MiG-21s, which have served India for decades and were famously involved in the 2019 aerial engagement that saw Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman shoot down a Pakistani F-16.
A symbolic image showing S-400 behind PM Modi
The Prime Minister’s presence at Adampur sends a clear signal: India stands firmly behind its armed forces and is prepared to respond decisively to any threat, while maintaining its commitment to non-escalation if Pakistan chooses the path of peace. Military and strategic analysts view the visit as both a reassurance to the domestic audience and a message to Pakistan and the international community about India’s resolve.
As tensions persist, India remains vigilant, with its armed forces on high alert and diplomatic channels closely monitoring developments in the region.
Security forces are currently engaged in a fierce gunbattle with four terrorists in the Awneera area of Shopian district, including two confirmed foreign nationals. The operation began early Monday morning following credible intelligence inputs, and remains active as forces work to neutralize the threat.
The encounter comes at a time of heightened security operations across Jammu and Kashmir, especially following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. However, officials have clarified that, as of now, there is no confirmed connection between the Shopian terrorists and the group responsible for the Pahalgam killings.
According to sources, a cordon-and-search operation was launched in the early hours based on specific intelligence. Upon locating the suspects, an exchange of fire ensued. Authorities have refrained from releasing further operational details, citing the need to protect the lives of personnel involved and to maintain tactical advantage during the ongoing mission.
This latest encounter underscores the ongoing threat posed by foreign terrorists operating in Jammu and Kashmir, despite sustained counter-insurgency efforts since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019. The Indian Army and local police forces have conducted extensive operations in recent years, declaring several regions—including Doda and Tral—militancy-free by 2020. However, districts like Shopian remain volatile, often witnessing encounters with militants linked to groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
The timing of this encounter, amid the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, has drawn attention. That attack was carried out by The Resistance Front (TRF), a known proxy of LeT, and reportedly involved Pakistani nationals. Investigations revealed logistical support from safe houses in Muzaffarabad and Karachi, and authorities had placed a ₹20 lakh bounty on the identified attackers.
Historically, the insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir has been marked by significant foreign involvement. Between 1989 and 2002, security forces seized over 40,000 weapons and 150,000 explosive devices, much of it originating from cross-border networks. The current presence of foreign terrorists in Shopian again points to Pakistan’s continued role in aiding and abetting terror activities within Indian territory—a key factor in the strained India-Pakistan relationship.
Security forces continue to maintain high alert across the Valley, with reinforcements deployed and civilian movement in the area restricted. The public has been advised to stay away from the operation zone and rely on official communication for updates.
The Shopian encounter serves as a sharp reminder of the persistent insurgency challenge, and of the critical importance of vigilance, coordination, and strategic response in ensuring peace and stability in the region.
India is set to formally brief foreign defence attachés today on the recently concluded Operation Sindoor, a major military operation that involved deep strikes on terror infrastructure inside Pakistani territory. The move is seen as part of India’s effort to consolidate international support and demonstrate the effectiveness of its defence capabilities following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives, including one Nepali national.
The Indian military had launched Operation Sindoor in the early hours of May 7, targeting multiple sites linked to terror groups across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation focused on key facilities: Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) stronghold; Markaz Taiba in Muridke, known as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT); as well as targets in Sialkot, Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and Bimber.
Indian authorities have identified The Resistance Front (TRF), a LeT proxy, as the group behind the Pahalgam massacre. The strikes during Operation Sindoor were presented as a calibrated response to this act of terrorism, designed to dismantle the infrastructure supporting such outfits.
In today’s closed-door briefing, India is expected to present evidence of the strike outcomes and showcase the performance of indigenous defence systems. Among the highlights will be the Akash Air Defence Missile System, a medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), which played a key role in intercepting incoming drones and missiles from Pakistan.
The operation also featured precision strikes using the BrahMos missile, co-developed by India and Russia. Military officials confirmed these missiles were used to target high-value assets and were effective in degrading Pakistan’s military and terror-linked infrastructure.
Addressing the nation on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the success of indigenous technology in modern warfare. “Operation Sindoor has added a new dimension. We have proven our capabilities in deserts, mountains, and modern warfare domains. Our Made in India weapons have demonstrated their credibility to the world,” he said.
The Indian military also confirmed that Turkish-origin drones and Chinese-made PL-15 missiles, used by Pakistan during its retaliatory attempts, were largely neutralized. The Akash system was instrumental in shooting down the Turkish drones, while the PL-15s were intercepted or failed to hit their intended targets.
The upcoming briefing is expected to draw keen attention from international observers, especially regarding the effectiveness of Indian defence assets versus Turkish and Chinese-origin systems used by Pakistan. The defence attachés are anticipated to seek technical clarifications and strategic assessments during the session.
By showcasing its operational capabilities and the success of indigenously developed systems, India aims to reinforce its strategic narrative and assert its preparedness in the face of cross-border threats.
In a rare and notable admission, the Pakistani military has confirmed that 11 of its personnel were killed and 78 others injured in retaliatory strikes carried out by India. The casualties include six soldiers from the Pakistani Army and five from the Air Force. This is the first official acknowledgment by Pakistan of military losses in the current flare-up with India, which intensified following a militant attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir in April 2025.
India’s military response, dubbed Operation Sindoor, began on May 7, targeting alleged terrorist camps in Pakistan-administered Kashmir and in areas of Punjab province, including Bahawalpur, Muridke, Shakar Garh, and a village near Sialkot. Indian officials said the strikes were aimed at infrastructure linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba, which are accused of orchestrating cross-border terrorism and recruiting militants on Pakistani soil.
Pakistan, while denying any involvement in the Kashmir attack, claims that India’s operations caused extensive civilian harm. Earlier statements from Pakistani authorities reported at least 31 civilian deaths and 46 injuries due to Indian strikes, condemning the actions as reckless and inflammatory.
India maintains that its strikes were precision-based and intended solely to eliminate terrorist threats, not to harm civilians. In response, Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif emphasized that any counter-response would target only Indian military assets.
The conflict has added fresh strain to the already fraught diplomatic relations between the two nations. In a dramatic move, Pakistan has threatened to suspend participation in the Simla Agreement—a foundational peace accord established after the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. That war concluded with heavy Pakistani losses, including the surrender of 93,000 troops, and Pakistan’s current admission of military casualties is seen as a departure from its historically cautious public disclosures in times of conflict.
With both sides exchanging sharp rhetoric and accusations, the international community remains on alert, urging de-escalation as fears of further conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbors loom large.
Amidst a week marked by high military tension and a suspension of hostilities with Pakistan, former Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane delivered a powerful message on the realities of war and the necessity of diplomacy, stating, “War is not your Bollywood movie.”
Speaking at an event organized by the Institute of Cost Accountants of India in Pune on Sunday, General Naravane addressed growing public sentiment questioning the cessation of military action between India and Pakistan. He reminded the audience that while the Armed Forces are always ready to fight if required, diplomacy must remain the first choice.
“War or violence should be the last thing we resort to. Although war may be forced upon us by unwise actors, we should not cheer for it,” Naravane emphasized. “As a military man, I will go to war if ordered, but that will not be my first choice.”
The former Army Chief was referring to the events of the past week, which began with Operation Sindoor—a series of Indian strikes targeting terrorist camps and infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK). These were followed by four days of intense cross-border engagements before a suspension of hostilities was announced.
Clarifying the nature of the pause in military activity, General Naravane noted, “It is only a cessation of military operations, not a ceasefire as such. Watch how things unfold in the coming days and weeks.”
He explained that the decision to halt hostilities came after India’s successful demonstration of its military capabilities, which included strikes on terrorist targets and airfields deep inside Pakistani territory. “We showed Pakistan that continuing their path would carry a high cost, which ultimately led their DGMO to reach out to ours to discuss a ceasefire,” he said.
Beyond the strategic rationale, General Naravane highlighted the social costs of war—from civilian casualties in border areas to long-term psychological trauma such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). “No one accounts for the lives lost, the children who grow up without parents, or the generational trauma inflicted on affected communities,” he added.
He also addressed the long-standing debate on military spending, describing defence allocation as a national insurance premium. “A well-prepared military deters aggression. If you are well-equipped, others will think twice before attacking you,” he stated. India’s defence ministry currently accounts for approximately 15% of the national budget.
General Naravane concluded with a broader appeal for national unity and peaceful resolution of conflicts. “We are all equal stakeholders in national security. Differences—whether between countries, states, communities, or even families—must be resolved through dialogue, not violence.”
His remarks serve as a timely reminder of the grave responsibilities carried by military decisions, and the need for a balanced approach that values peace, preparedness, and prudence over impulsive escalation.
In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defence technology ambitions, the Indian Army has validated a micro-category tactical drone, Ajeet Mini, developed by Chennai-based Zuppa Geo Navigation Technologies. The compact unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) successfully met key performance parameters during rigorous field trials conducted earlier this week by a Mountain Brigade in high-altitude terrain.
While the Army’s validation does not constitute an immediate procurement contract, it marks a crucial milestone, positioning Ajeet Mini for future defence trials and potential induction into strategic procurement pipelines.
Built entirely on Zuppa’s proprietary, patented autopilot system, the Ajeet Mini features a domestically engineered cyber-physical stack. The drone integrates in-house developed firmware, command protocols, ground control software, structural components, and control systems—underscoring India’s push for self-reliant defence platforms.
“We’ve developed the entire stack ourselves—hardware, software, structural components, and the control systems,” said Sai Pattabiram, founder of Zuppa Geo Navigation Technologies.
Specifications of Ajeet Mini
The endorsement comes at a critical time, just a day after Indian forces intercepted a suspected drone swarm launched from across the Line of Control near Jammu, highlighting the urgent need for agile and home-grown surveillance solutions.
Pattabiram also emphasized the company’s capabilities in drone swarm technology, stating that Zuppa’s SWARM platform enables “deep penetration” missions across hostile terrain with minimized risk compared to manned operations.
Industry analysts believe the validation signals the beginning of a broader transformation in India’s drone sector. “Domestic demand across defence, agriculture, and logistics will shape innovation clusters, provided procurement pipelines and policy frameworks remain supportive,” Pattabiram added.
As India continues to pivot toward sovereign defence technology and reduced reliance on foreign systems, the Ajeet Mini represents a promising step in fostering a robust indigenous UAV ecosystem.
The Territorial Army Officer Notification 2025 has been released, presenting a remarkable opportunity for both men and women to secure officer positions in the Territorial Army. With a total of 19 vacancies available, this recruitment drive aims to attract motivated individuals who are eager to contribute to the nation’s defense forces. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through all the essential details regarding the Territorial Army Officer Notification 2025, including eligibility criteria, selection process, exam pattern, and more. So, let’s dive in and explore the path to serving the nation.
To be eligible for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment 2025, candidates must fulfill certain criteria, including nationality, age limits, educational qualifications, physical standards, and employment status. Let’s take a closer look at each of these criteria:
Only citizens of India, both male and female, are eligible to apply for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment.
Age Limits
Candidates must be between 18 to 42 years of age as of the last day of filing the application, i.e., 10th June 2025. The minimum age requirement is 18 years, and the maximum age limit is 42 years.
Educational Qualifications
Candidates must hold a graduate degree from a recognized university to be eligible for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment.
Physical Standards
Candidates must meet the specified physical and medical fitness standards set by the Territorial Army. These standards include aspects such as height, weight, vision, and overall fitness.
Employment Status
Candidates must be gainfully employed or self-employed. This includes individuals with stable, full-time employment or those running their own businesses. However, serving members of the Regular Army/Navy/Air Force/Police/GREF/Para Military and similar forces are not eligible for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment.
The selection process for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment 2025 consists of multiple stages designed to assess candidates’ suitability for officer positions. Here is an overview of the selection process:
Stage 1: Computer Based Test (CBT)
Candidates who meet the eligibility criteria and successfully submit their applications will go through the CBT process. The written test evaluates candidates’ knowledge in various subjects.
Stage 2: Service Selection Board (SSB)
Candidates who qualify in the CBT will proceed to the Service Selection Board (SSB) for further evaluation. The SSB process assesses candidates’ intelligence, aptitude, leadership qualities, and other essential attributes through a series of tests, including psychological tests, group discussions, and personal interviews.
Stage 3: Medical Test
Candidates who successfully clear the SSB stage will undergo a thorough medical examination to ensure they meet the required physical and medical standards set by the Territorial Army.
Stage 4: Merit List
The final selection of candidates will be based on their performance in all the stages of the selection process, and vacancies will be filled in the order of merit. Merit is based on the CBT Marks and SSB Marks.
Exam Pattern
The Territorial Army Officer Recruitment 2025 exam consists of a computer-based test (CBT) that evaluates candidates’ knowledge and aptitude. The exam pattern is designed to assess candidates’ reasoning abilities, mathematical proficiency, general knowledge, and English language skills. Here is the complete exam pattern for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment 2025:
Paper Duration: One session of 2 hours.
Type of Exam:Computer based test (CBT).
Penalty for Wrong Answers: For each question for which a wrong answer has been given by the candidate,onethird (0.33%) marks assigned to that question will be deducted as penalty. Question marked for review will be treated as unanswered.
Part
Subject
Number of Questions
Marks Allotted
Part 1
Reasoning
25
25
Part 2
Elementary Mathematics
25
25
Part 3
General Knowledge
25
25
Part 4
English
25
25
Total
100
100
The exam is conducted in a computer-based format, and candidates are provided with a specific time limit to complete each section. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and syllabus to prepare effectively for the Territorial Army Officer Recruitment exam.
Training & Service
The service includes a mandatory Pre-Commission Training period of 6 months, followed by Annual Training of 2 months every year.
It is a part-time role, with no guaranteed pension, and is subject to embodiment.
The individual is commissioned at the rank of Lieutenant, with promotions available through a time scale basis up to Lieutenant Colonel, and through selection for the ranks of Colonel and Brigadier.
Salary And Benefits
As an officer in the Territorial Army, you will receive a handsome salary along with various benefits. The salary structure for Territorial Army officers is as follows:
Rank
Level
Pay Matrix
Military Service Pay
Lieutenant
Level 10
56,100 – 1,77,500
15,500/-
Captain
Level 10A
61,300 – 1,93,900
15,500/-
Major
Level 11
69,400 – 2,07,200
15,500/-
Lt Colonel
Level 12A
1,21,200 – 2,12,400
15,500/-
Colonel
Level 13
1,30,600 – 2,15,900
15,500/-
Brigadier
Level 13A
1,39,600 – 2,17,600
15,500/-
In addition to the salary, Territorial Army officers are entitled to various allowances, including Dearness Allowance, House Rent Allowance, Transport Allowance, and more. They also receive benefits like medical facilities, pension, and opportunities for professional growth and promotions.
Helpdesk
Objection Management is available on website www.jointerritorialarmy.gov.in. for 3 days after the exam through the registered email.
In case of any guidance/ Information/ clarification regarding their applications, candidature etc, candidates can contact to the Directorate General of Territorial Army General Staff Branch, IHQ of MoD (Army), A Block 4th Floor, Defence Office Complex KG Marg New Delhi-110001 Call on Queries Related to:- Territorial Army Officer: 011-21411121, 011-23094365.
For any assistance, the Helpdesk contact information is provided on the official website during the application window.
Conclusion
The Territorial Army Officer Recruitment 2025 presents a remarkable opportunity for individuals to serve the nation as officers while pursuing their primary professions. With a systematic and focused approach to preparation, you can excel in the recruitment process and embark on a fulfilling journey of serving the nation. Remember, the path to becoming a Territorial Army officer requires dedication, perseverance, and a strong desire to contribute to the defense forces. So, gear up, prepare diligently, and make a significant impact by joining the ranks of the Territorial Army.
India’s ability to safeguard its airspace and defend strategic installations during Operation Sindoor showcased the strength of its integrated air defence ecosystem. When Pakistan launched a coordinated attack involving swarms of drones, missiles, and rockets, India’s multi-tiered air defence systems swiftly detected, tracked, and eliminated the aerial threats.
At the heart of this robust shield lies the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) — an automated, net-centric warfighting network that synchronizes real-time data across all three services. This strategic nerve centre coordinates radars, fighter aircraft, unmanned systems, and missile batteries, giving commanders a comprehensive picture of the battlespace and enabling rapid, precise responses.
The journey toward a network-enabled air defence began in 2010 with the launch of the Air Force Network (AFNET). Prior to this, communication relied on outdated troposcatter systems from the 1950s. AFNET replaced these with a secure, modern infrastructure that enabled seamless connectivity and faster decision-making in combat scenarios.
Former Defence Minister AK Antony, during the AFNET inauguration, outlined its dual purpose: enhancing national telecom capacity while modernising military communication systems to support network-centric operations. The real-time interception of simulated enemy targets during the launch event by MiG-29s from Punjab highlighted its operational potential.
This shift laid the foundation for the IACCS, allowing the Indian Air Force (IAF) to join the ranks of technologically advanced, NCW-capable forces globally.
Inaugration of AFNET
IACCS: The Digital Brain of India’s Air Defence
The Directorate of IACCS was established in 2003, driven by the need to overhaul India’s battlespace coordination after the 1999 Kargil conflict. The first proposal for five IACCS units was initiated soon after, with Group Captain Ramamoorthy Venkatasubramanian serving as the first commanding officer.
Built upon AFNET, IACCS acts as a centralised control system that unifies inputs from ground-based and airborne sensors, including AWACS, radars, UAVs, and fighters. These inputs help generate a Recognized Air Situation Picture (RASP), providing commanders with a real-time view of the aerial domain. This situational awareness reduces the ‘sensor-to-shooter’ loop, enabling quicker, more effective responses.
In 2022, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited an IAF radar facility to review IACCS capabilities and operational readiness.
India’s Layered Air Defence Architecture
India’s air defence is structured in concentric rings designed to intercept threats at varying ranges:
Inner Ring: Counter-UAS (C-UAS), legacy guns like the L70 and ZSU-23 Shilka, and MANPADS handle low-altitude, short-range threats such as drones.
Second Layer: Point defence systems like Spyder, Pechora, and OSA-AK cover specific installations.
Middle Tier: Medium-range SAMs like the indigenous Akash and the MRSAM, a joint Indo-Israeli development.
Outer Ring: Long-range interceptors like the S-400 Triumf and combat aircraft provide area-wide air defence.
This entire ecosystem was activated during the events of May 8–10, when Pakistani drones and PL-15 missiles were effectively intercepted and destroyed.
The multi-tiered air defence architecture was actively engaged during the aerial confrontations that began on May 8.
Akashteer: Integrating Army’s Firepower
Akashteer is a cutting-edge initiative designed to automate air defense control and reporting processes by digitizing them. By integrating radar and communication systems at all levels into a unified network, Akashteer delivers an unprecedented level of situational awareness and control. The system’s control centers, designed to be vehicle-based and mobile, maintain operational capabilities even in challenging communication environments. This system facilitates the complete automation of air defense operations and significantly enhances India’s air defense posture.
A major recent milestone is the integration of the Indian Army’s Akashteer air defence system — developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) — into the IACCS network. Operated by the Army Air Defence Corps, Akashteer enhances the coordination of ground-based assets, allowing a unified response alongside the IAF’s assets.
Integration of Akashteer and IACCS during Operation Sindoor
Lt. General Rajiv Ghai, Director General of Military Operations, used a cricket analogy to describe the synergy of India’s defence grid, likening it to the iconic 1970s Ashes series: “If Lillee doesn’t get you, Thommo must.” Similarly, India’s layered AD structure leaves no escape for intruding threats.
Around 400 command-and-control centres have been ordered for Akashteer, with over 100 already delivered. Full integration with IACCS is expected by the end of the year, according to Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi.
Inaugration of Akashteer in 2024
Toward a Unified Air Defence Command?
While former Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat had proposed a unified Air Defence Command (ADC) integrating the assets of all three services, progress has been slow due to logistical challenges and command structure complexities. However, the synergy demonstrated during Operation Sindoor proves the growing cohesion across forces.
The Indian Air Force’s doctrine emphasises the need for fast kill chains, seamless C2 integration, and short sensor-to-shooter loops. These goals are increasingly being realised through digital technologies like Operational Data Links (ODL), SATCOM, and Software Defined Radios (SDR).
Conclusion
Operation Sindoor marked a decisive moment in India’s evolution into a technologically superior air power. The integration of IACCS, AFNET, Akashteer, and multi-layered defence assets represents a significant stride in India’s preparedness against modern aerial threats.
India’s skies are now guarded not just by missiles and jets, but by a digital fortress powered by real-time data, intelligent networks, and joint-force synergy — a true Guardian of the Sky.
