On November 22, the Indian Ministry of Defence reported a significant maritime accident involving a Scorpene-class submarine of the Indian Navy, which collided with a civilian fishing vessel named Marthoma in the Arabian Sea, approximately 70 nautical miles off the coast of Goa. The incident led to a search and rescue operation that successfully rescued 11 crew members from the fishing vessel. However, efforts are ongoing to locate two missing individuals, involving six naval ships and multiple aircraft deployed to assist in the search.

The collision raises questions regarding the operational depth of the Scorpene submarine at the time of the incident. Submarines typically navigate underwater at depths ranging from 200 to 300 meters, although this can change based on mission profiles and seabed conditions. When a submarine operates at shallow depths or at “periscope depth”—where only the periscope is above the waterline—it faces increased risks. This mode of operation is mainly employed for visual reconnaissance, charging batteries, or conducting specific tactical maneuvers.

Submarines are guided by established protocols for surfacing and ascending to periscope depth, including measures to monitor nearby vessels to maintain a safe distance. Underwater, submarines rely on sonar technology to detect other vessels, both on the surface and beneath the waves. Sonar, which stands for “sound navigation and ranging,” uses sound waves reflected off objects to measure distance and direction. Modern submarines are equipped with advanced sonar systems, including both active and passive types. Active sonar sends out sound waves and analyzes the return, while passive sonar listens for sounds emitted by other vessels, thus ensuring stealth and preserving operational security.

The Indian Navy’s Scorpene submarines are integrated with a state-of-the-art Low Frequency Analysis and Ranging (LOFAR) sonar system, coupled with the Submarine Tactical Integrated Combat System, facilitating long-range detection and classification of targets. Locally known as the Kalvari Class, these submarines represent a crucial part of India’s naval capabilities, with six currently in service following their design from Franco-Spanish origins. The first of these submarines was commissioned in 2017, and three additional units are on order.

Collisions between submarines and surface ships are not rare occurrences in naval operations, as evidenced by several incidents involving various global maritime forces. Instances of submarines colliding with other vessels or hitting underwater obstacles, such as rocks or sandbanks, have been previously documented. For instance, in February 2009, the British Royal Navy’s HMS Vanguard and the French Navy’s Triomphant collided in the Atlantic. The US Navy has also faced its share of incidents involving collisions, both with submarines and other surface vessels during exercises or maneuvers.

Several factors can contribute to such maritime accidents, including inadequate sonar sweeps, inefficient periscope use, human error, failure to follow established protocols, communication breakdowns, and navigation inaccuracies. Technical issues such as outdated charts, miscalculations, and lapses in maintenance have been cited as contributing factors in various maritime incidents.

The Indian Navy has previously faced challenges with its submarines, including a tragic incident in August 2013, which remains its deadliest submarine-related accident. Following a catastrophic explosion on board the INS Sindhurakshak, a Russian Kilo-class submarine, the vessel sank while docked in Mumbai, claiming the lives of 18 sailors. Although the submarine was later salvaged, it was deemed beyond repair.

The recent collision involving the Scorpene submarine raises concerns about safety protocols and operational readiness within the Indian Navy, emphasizing the need for continuous assessment and improvement to prevent future incidents in maritime operations.

In a significant stride towards modernization, the Indian Army has identified 16 technological clusters, which will be central to its future development and operational capabilities. These clusters encompass a variety of programs that are being executed in collaboration with government enterprises, private sector companies, and academic institutions. Each of these clusters will be under constant oversight, as the Army Chief conducts monthly reviews to track progress and adherence to set timelines.

Lt Gen Rakesh Kapoor, who serves as the Deputy Chief of the Indian Army responsible for information systems and coordination, revealed these advancements during a press briefing in New Delhi. He stressed the importance of accountability in these projects, with designated officers assigned to monitor and ensure the success of various initiatives.

The clusters identified for technological enhancement feature a wide range of contemporary and cutting-edge fields. Among them are Cybersecurity, Space Operations, Quantum Computing, and next-generation telecommunications like 5G and 6G. Additionally, significant focus will be directed toward the Internet of Things, Directed Energy Weapons, and areas involving digitization, augmented and virtual reality technologies. The list further includes advanced concepts such as Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning, alongside developments in Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Drones, Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Unmanned Autonomous Systems, and Blockchain Technology.

The Army aims to enhance its capabilities in Loitering Munitions, 3D Printing, and Robotics, marking a proactive approach toward modern warfare technology. Lt Gen Kapoor emphasized that 2024 is earmarked as a year for technology absorption, with aspirations that this focus will extend throughout the next decade.

To facilitate this modernization initiative, the Army has begun the recruitment of domain specialists in critical fields such as information technology, cyber warfare, and linguistics. The Education Corps of the Army has been realigned to better support this specialized focus. Since the initiative’s inception, specialists have already begun to be integrated into the Army through the Territorial Army’s recruitment pathway, a strategy set to continue. Furthermore, there are plans to also recruit these experts through regular recruitment processes, with advertisements for these positions anticipated to be released soon.

This comprehensive strategy reflects the Indian Army’s commitment to advancing its technological prowess, ensuring that it remains prepared to address contemporary security challenges in a rapidly evolving global landscape.

A significant maritime incident unfolded off the coast of Goa when a fishing vessel, Marthoma, collided with an Indian Navy submarine on the evening of November 21. The collision occurred approximately 70 nautical miles northwest of Goa, leading to a large-scale rescue operation aimed at locating two missing crew members from the fishing boat.

According to a spokesperson from the Indian Navy, the fishing vessel was carrying a total of 13 crew members at the time of the incident. Fortunately, 11 crew members were successfully rescued in the immediate aftermath, but search efforts continue for the other two individuals who remain unaccounted for. The Navy has coordinated these search operations with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) based in Mumbai.

In response to the incident, the Navy has initiated a high-level investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the collision. Additional resources have been mobilized to support the ongoing rescue efforts, which include the deployment of six Indian Navy ships and multiple surveillance aircraft. The Coast Guard has also been involved, providing further assistance in the operation.

The submarine involved in the incident is a Scorpene-class vessel, part of India’s naval fleet and known for its advanced capabilities. These submarines play a vital role in various naval operations, including anti-surface and anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, and area surveillance. With their stealthy design and low noise levels, they pose a significant threat in maritime conflicts.

Details regarding the specific conditions of the missing crew members and the overall status of the fishing vessel have not been shared by the Navy. This incident highlights the complexities and significant risks associated with naval operations and fishing activities in busy maritime areas.

Previously, similar maritime incidents have occurred in the region; for instance, in August, a fishing boat collided with a Sri Lankan naval vessel off the coast of Tamil Nadu, resulting in the death of one fisherman. As the search for the missing crew members continues, the Navy is expected to provide updates as more information becomes available.

In a dramatic series of events, over 20,000 candidates gathered in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, for a Territorial Army recruitment drive, leading to a chaotic stampede and multiple injuries. The recruitment initiative, which began on November 20, aims to fill a mere 133 positions, raising questions about the feasibility of accommodating such a vast number of aspirants in the small hill town.

Candidates traveled from various states, including Uttar Pradesh, to participate but faced numerous challenges, including a lack of accommodation. Many were forced to spend the night on roads and footpaths, while transportation issues added to their struggles. Reports indicated that some candidates paid exorbitant fares of up to ₹10,000 for taxi rides to reach Pithoragarh. “The taxi operators were demanding Rs 10,000 for 10 passengers,” recounted Tushar Saini, an Army aspirant, emphasizing the desperate conditions faced by many.

Tensions escalated when a large crowd attempted to rush the recruitment venue, which resulted in a stampede. In an attempt to regain control, police had to resort to lathi-charges, causing injuries among the candidates. Two individuals, including a 17-year-old boy, sustained severe injuries and were subsequently hospitalized, although they were later discharged after receiving treatment.

Pithoragarh Superintendent of Police Rekha Yadav reported that many of the candidates tried to force their way into the venue, resulting in “slight injuries” for some. The police and administrative teams acted swiftly to manage the overwhelming situation. Yadav also advised the public to be cautious and not to react to rumors or provocations regarding the event.

The widespread turnout was partly attributed to the postponement of a similar recruitment event in Danapur, Bihar, which prompted many hopefuls from Uttar Pradesh to seek opportunities in Uttarakhand instead. In response to the ensuing crisis, District Magistrate Vinod Giri Goswami assured the public that accommodations had been arranged in 30 schools and food distribution was set up at 18 locations. To address transportation concerns, over 100 Uttarakhand Roadway buses and 250 taxis were mobilized.

Despite these measures, the recruitment drive descended into chaos, with authorities anticipating an additional 10,000 to 12,000 candidates arriving in the following days for the ongoing recruitment process. The significance of the Territorial Army, which has its roots in British colonial history, highlights its role as a reserve force comprised of civilians trained for military duties. The situation in Pithoragarh reflects broader issues regarding recruitment logistics and the authority’s ability to manage overwhelming public interest in military service.

In a momentous gathering, approximately 5,000 veterans participated in a significant event in Poonch to mark the 77th anniversary of the historic military link-up between the border district and the rest of India. This day, known as Poonch Link-Up Day, commemorates a pivotal military operation in 1948, during which the Indian Army successfully relieved the besieged region of Poonch after enduring a 15-month isolation amid the first Indo-Pak war.

Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, the General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the 16 Corps, led the event and spoke on the remarkable shared legacy between the people of Poonch and the Indian Army over the past 77 years. He emphasized that the siege of Poonch represents a unique chapter in military history, notable for its resilience and the fact that no territory was exchanged, highlighting the unwavering resolve of both the Indian Army and the local population.

The significance of November 22, 1948, was underscored as it marked the successful conclusion of a grueling military campaign led by Brigadier Pritam Singh. Despite facing adversities like hunger and disease, and continuous threats from the Pakistani Army, the indomitable spirit of Poonch’s residents and the armed forces ultimately prevailed.

For the people of Poonch, this day transcends mere commemoration; it is a celebration of a living bond, as expressed by a Defence spokesperson. In the lead-up to the event, the district had come alive with various activities that reflected the community’s vibrant spirit.

Festivities included a series of sporting events such as football, cricket, hockey, and volleyball, where local teams fiercely competed, showcasing their talent and resilience. Clubs like City FC, Shahpur Cricket Club, Shyam Lal Hockey Club, and Shaheed Manjeet Singh Club emerged victorious in their respective competitions. Additionally, there was a noteworthy performance in taekwondo that garnered national attention. The celebrations included a bike rally, which was flagged off to mark the occasion.

Lieutenant General Sachdeva personally interacted with the winners, commending their sportsmanship and determination. Cultural events further enriched the celebration by highlighting the district’s heritage through traditional folk songs, dances, and poetry, fostering a sense of unity and shared history among attendees.

Included in the festivities was a Talent Hunt, which provided a platform for aspiring performers. Notably, Nazir, a visually impaired poet from Mendhar, shared his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to perform before a large audience, describing it as a dream fulfilled.

The ex-servicemen’s rally represented a significant highlight of the celebrations, showcasing the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to its veterans. Local army units had worked diligently over the past six months, resolving pension disparities and distributing nearly Rs 26 lakh in arrears to veterans. Furthermore, new Canteen Stores Department (CSD) and Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) cards, along with scholarships, marriage grants, and mobility equipment for disabled veterans, were distributed, demonstrating the collaborative efforts with organizations like the War Wounded Foundation.

Lieutenant General Sachdeva remarked on the importance of serving the veterans who dedicated their lives to the army, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to ensuring their welfare. The rally took place at the historic Pritam Stadium, symbolizing the enduring bond between the Indian Army and the veterans of Poonch.

The landscape of modern warfare is undergoing a significant transformation, driven largely by advancements in technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. In response to these developments, the Indian Army is taking proactive steps to adapt and evolve, beginning with the recruitment of specialists through the Territorial Army.

Recognizing the need for a diverse skill set, the Army is expanding its search for individuals proficient in a range of technological areas. Key focus areas include information technology, hypersonic technology, space, cyber capabilities, and robotics. Additionally, the Army aims to harness emerging fields such as 5G and 6G communications, directed energy weapons (including lasers), digitization, deep learning, drone operations, anti-drone technologies, blockchain, loitering munitions, and 3D printing. The integration of these technologies is poised to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Indian forces.

Speaking to reporters, Lieutenant General Rakesh Kapoor emphasized the imperative for the Army to absorb technological advancements as part of its “decade of transformation.” He noted that the ongoing study of the Ukraine-Russia conflict has provided valuable insights into the modern battlefield’s technological applications, particularly the effectiveness of various drone technologies. To ensure continual progress and adaptation, the Army has instituted high-level review meetings, scheduled every three, six, and twenty-four months.

Moreover, the Indian Army is collaborating with prestigious institutions such as the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and government initiatives like the National Quantum Mission. This partnership is aimed at fostering innovation and developing cutting-edge military technologies.

Lieutenant General Kapoor also highlighted the role of Indian troops stationed in Lebanon as part of a United Nations mission, indicating that these forces operate under a UN mandate, with specific directives from the Indian government. He noted that, in addition to their military duties, these personnel are also engaged in activities such as practicing yoga, with women officers assuming a vital role in the mission.

As the Indian Army embarks on this comprehensive modernization plan, it is clear that the integration of advanced technologies and specialized skills is becoming increasingly crucial for maintaining a strategic advantage in the evolving warfare landscape.

India’s Tejas fighter jet has reportedly caused a stir within the Pakistan Air Force (PAF), prompting Islamabad to accelerate the development of a new warplane designed to surpass its existing fighter capabilities. This forthcoming aircraft, codenamed PFX, is being collaboratively developed alongside Chinese partners and is expected to serve as an upgraded variant of the current JF-17 fighter jet. The PFX is projected to fit into a similar category as India’s advanced Tejas Mk2 fighter.

According to PAF officials, the PFX will be classified as a 4.5 generation fighter aircraft, featuring state-of-the-art stealth capabilities to evade radar detection effectively. One of its standout features will be a passive radar system, allowing the aircraft to identify enemy units without revealing its own position. A spokesperson for the PAF emphasized that the PFX is being engineered to compete directly with India’s Tejas jet, with operational readiness anticipated within the next four to five years.

While the claims from Islamabad regarding the capabilities of the PFX are ambitious, military analysts have raised skepticism about the effectiveness of the JF-17 series, referring to the current model as a “failure.” The JF-17 PFX is seen as an effort to overcome past shortcomings, intended to be larger, heavier, and equipped with cutting-edge technologies. The upgraded platform is expected to come with enhanced avionics, more powerful radar systems, and increased payload capacities, according to industry experts.

The announcement of the PFX program was made during a multi-nation defense exhibition taking place in Karachi, which also features participation from Turkey, Iran, and Italy. Pakistan’s aspirations for the JF-17 PFX extend beyond national defense; the country is also targeting potential exports of the aircraft, mirroring the success it had with the JF-17.

In conjunction with the reveal of the PFX, Pakistan also showcased other military assets at the expo, including its latest battle tank termed ‘Haider’ and the medium-altitude drone, Shahpar 3. Additionally, models of other armored vehicles such as the Al Khalid and Al Zarrar tanks were presented, underlining Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities on multiple fronts.