In a significant development for the Indian Army, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) HAL Prachand has successfully performed high-altitude firing exercises, marking what is being described as a “historic milestone.” This achievement underscores India’s enhanced capabilities in executing operations in challenging high-altitude environments, as highlighted by the IV Corps, also known as the Gajraj Corps, in a recent tweet.

The LCH, a product of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is specifically designed as an attack helicopter equipped to engage both air and ground targets. Its operational capabilities extend beyond high-altitude warfare, making it suitable for a range of missions including anti-tank operations, counter-insurgency tasks, and close air support. The helicopter is particularly adept at tracking and engaging slow-moving aerial threats such as enemy helicopters and drones, a function vital in modern combat scenarios.

One of the key features of the LCH is its Low Observable (LO) design, which minimizes the aircraft’s visibility and detectability across various spectrums, including visual, aural, radar, and infrared. This stealth aspect enhances its tactical advantages in engagements. The helicopter is a two-seater, armed with advanced weaponry including 70 mm rockets, a 20 mm turret gun, and helicopter-launched anti-tank guided missiles. Additionally, it is equipped with radar and laser warning receivers, enabling it to effectively operate in both anti-infantry and anti-armour roles.

Significantly contributing to the indigenous defense manufacturing initiative, nearly 45 percent of the LCH’s components are domestically sourced, with plans to increase this figure to 55 percent in future iterations. This move is aligned with the Indian government’s focus on self-reliance in defense production. The helicopter was formally inducted into the Indian Air Force in October 2022, further enhancing India’s aerial strike capabilities.

As the Indian military continues to adapt to the complexities of modern warfare, the successful high-altitude firing of the LCH Prachand stands as a testament to the nation’s commitment to advancing its defense technology and ensuring operational readiness in diverse combat scenarios.

The Indian Army has marked a significant milestone by successfully conducting a patrol at one of the five designated Patrolling Points in Depsang Ara, Eastern Ladakh. This announcement was made by the Leh-based 14 Corps on November 4, 2024. The recent activity signifies the first time patrolling has resumed in the area since the disengagement process that took place the previous week, as well as since the beginning of the prolonged stand-off in May 2020.

The patrolling operation was conducted following a mutual agreement between Indian and Chinese forces for disengagement and reinstatement of patrols in both Depsang and Demchok, as outlined by the 14 Corps in a post shared on X. During this successful patrol, the Indian Army gained access to Patrolling Point 10, a move that is seen as a positive step toward maintaining peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The recent disengagement distinctly completed the last remaining friction points of the 2020 standoff, particularly in the Demchok and Depsang sectors, reverting the situation to a status quo akin to what existed before April 2020. Immediately following the completion of disengagement at these crucial locations, the Indian Army resumed its patrol operations in Demchok just a day later.

With the resumption of patrols at Depsang, Indian forces are now able to conduct patrols up to Patrolling Points 10, 11, 11A, 12, and 13. It is noteworthy that these points had not been accessed since January 2020. While Patrolling Points 11A, 12, and 13 are situated on the Limit of Patrolling (LoP), points 10 and 11 lie significantly before the LoP boundary. The Depsang region is characterized by the greatest distance between the LoP and the LAC, making this area particularly strategic.

With completion of the disengagement process across all friction points, the next phase involves formulating new patrolling norms along the LAC. Plans also include resuming patrol activities at other friction points such as Galwan, Patrolling Points 15 and 17A in the Gogra Hotsprings area, as well as the northern and southern banks of Pangong Tso, where current arrangements include buffer zones.

Following the finalization of the disengagement, both Indian and Chinese military commanders carried out on-ground verification to ensure that the terms were adhered to. Meetings among ground commanders of brigadier rank and lower were convened last Wednesday to finalize the modalities for future patrols in Depsang and Demchok. In an effort to prevent confrontations during these patrols, it has been agreed that the timing and frequency of patrols will be coordinated between the two sides.

However, there is some uncertainty regarding how far the Indian Army will be permitted to patrol in the Demchok area, particularly given the long-standing stand-off in the region since 2017. The recent agreements emphasize restoring the ground situation to pre-April 2020 conditions, leaving ambiguity regarding the extent of patrol permissions moving forward.

In a somber reflection of duty and sacrifice, Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla and Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu conveyed their heartfelt condolences following the martyrdom of Havildar Suresh Kumar from the 18 Dogra Regiment. He lost his life while valiantly serving in the challenging terrains of Leh and Ladakh, a sacrifice that echoes the commitment and bravery of Indian soldiers.

Hailing from Baggi Tungal village in Mandi district, Havildar Suresh Kumar’s dedication to his duty has been acknowledged by both leaders, who emphasized that his valor will be etched in the nation’s memory for generations to come. In expressing their sorrow, Governor Shukla noted that the sacrifice of soldiers like Kumar serves as a powerful inspiration for others to uphold the values of courage and devotion.

The Chief Minister further reinforced this sentiment, stating that the state stands firmly in solidarity with the bereaved family during this distressing time. He highlighted that the selfless service rendered by Havildar Kumar is a source of pride and gratitude for the entire nation. Both Governor and Chief Minister offered prayers for the soul of the departed soldier and for the strength of his family to endure this profound loss.

The community continues to mourn the passing of a brave son, whose life and legacy will resonate deeply within the hearts of those who honor the sacrifices made for the nation’s security.

The Flight Safety Seminar (FSS) and Annual Naval Flight Safety Meeting (NFSM) for 2024 have successfully concluded at INS Dega in Visakhapatnam, organized by Headquarters Eastern Naval Command. This year’s gathering revolved around the theme “Emerging Threats and Challenges – Naval Air Operations and Compliance with Flight Safety,” reflecting the growing complexity and dynamic nature of Naval Aviation safety today.

The seminar brought to the forefront critical issues that significantly impact contemporary naval operations. Experts delved into advancements in counter-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and unmanned aircraft system (UAS) technologies and tactics, highlighting the need for the naval forces to stay ahead of potential threats. The discussions also extended to cyber security risks that jeopardize aviation operations, with an emphasis on countermeasures designed to protect aircraft systems from these vulnerabilities.

A pivotal session focused on managing emerging operational risks. This segment underscored the necessity of shared vigilance among India’s defence services to safeguard aerial assets effectively. Participants engaged in meaningful exchanges about the importance of adopting proactive and adaptable safety protocols that cater to the unique challenges faced by Naval Aviation in the modern operational landscape.

The seminar also witnessed the participation of representatives from the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, and defense organizations, including Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Their presence highlighted a collaborative approach toward enhancing flight safety standards across the armed forces, exemplifying the commitment to a unified strategy in confronting the multifaceted threats posed to naval aviation.

Overall, the successful conclusion of the FSS and NFSM signifies a crucial step towards reinforcing flight safety measures and preparing the naval forces for future challenges in the realm of air operations. The insights gained during this event are expected to influence ongoing safety protocols and operational strategies within the Indian Navy and allied defense services.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the flight tests of the Guided Pinaka Weapon System, marking a significant milestone in the Provisional Staff Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) Validation Trials. These trials were meticulously conducted in three phases at various field firing ranges and focused on assessing the weapon system’s key performance metrics, including range, accuracy, consistency, and rate of fire.

The Pinaka system is a state-of-the-art multi-barrel rocket launcher developed by the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) of DRDO. It has the capability to launch a barrage of 12 rockets within just 44 seconds, effectively covering a target area of 700 by 500 meters. Initially introduced with a range of 37.5 kilometers, the system has seen multiple enhancements, resulting in several upgraded versions:

1. Pinaka Mk-I: The basic version, which boasts a range of 38 km and various warhead types.
2. Pinaka Mk-II: An upgraded variant that extends its reach up to 60 km.
3. Extended Range Pinaka: The latest iteration, capable of striking targets located up to 75 km away.

The development of the Pinaka system has undergone a phased approach characterized by comprehensive testing to meet the dynamic requirements of the Indian Army. In 2020, the Enhanced Pinaka variant was tested at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, where the system successfully achieved its targets in terms of range and performance. The following year, further evaluations were conducted with the Extended Range Pinaka rockets, achieving successful launches of 25 rockets at various distances up to 45 km. The trials continued in 2022 at Pokhran, focusing on other variants, such as the Pinaka Mk-I (Enhanced) Rocket System (EPRS) and the Pinaka Area Denial Munition (ADM).

The development and production strategy of the Pinaka system involves collaboration with Indian industries. Partnerships with companies like Munitions India Limited and Economic Explosives Limited for ammunition, along with Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Larsen & Toubro for launcher and command post production, aim to bolster domestic manufacturing and decrease dependence on foreign military supplies.

Recently, interest has emerged from the French Army regarding the Pinaka system, with Brigadier General Stephane Richou highlighting India’s growing indigenous military production capabilities, which have positioned the country as a formidable player in the global defence landscape.

As part of India’s robust defence export initiative, the country has been supplying military hardware to over 100 nations, with key markets including the United States, France, and Armenia. The Pinaka weapon system is anticipated to enhance India’s position in the global defence market and further its export ambitions.

In light of the successful completion of the PSQR Validation Trials, both Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat have expressed their commendations for the performance of the Pinaka system. The completion of these trials solidifies the Pinaka’s role as an advanced artillery asset, ready for induction into the Indian Armed Forces, which will benefit from its precision strike capabilities at extended ranges.

In a heartwarming gesture of respect and care, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited the esteemed Param Vir Chakra awardee Honorary Captain Bana Singh at the Army Hospital (Research and Referral) in New Delhi. Singh, a celebrated figure in Indian military history, was admitted to the prestigious facility a few days prior, prompting the Army chief to make a personal visit to inquire about his health and wellbeing.

Bana Singh, now 75 years old, is renowned for his extraordinary bravery during the 1987 operations in Siachen Glacier, where he led a daring mission to capture Quaid Post. This strategic location, situated at a staggering altitude of 21,153 feet, posed significant challenges due to its treacherous terrain and hostile weather conditions. Singh’s citation highlights the daunting nature of the operation, describing how the steep ice-wall of Quaid Post allowed for a dominant defensive position, enabling defenders to target any adversaries attempting to ascend.

In June 1987, Singh, then serving as a Naib Subedar, volunteered for a special task force aimed at seizing this critical position. Alongside four fellow soldiers, he embarked on a perilous ascent up the steep ice, while other battalion members drew the attention of Pakistani forces. Despite facing intense cold that rendered their weapons ineffective, Singh and his team persevered, ultimately leading to the successful capture of Quaid Post. For his valor and exceptional leadership during this operation, Singh was bestowed with India’s highest military honor, the Param Vir Chakra.

Born to Amar Singh and Bholi Devi in Kadyal village, Jammu, Bana Singh joined the Indian Army in 1969 and became a distinguished member of the 8 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry. His legacy remains celebrated across the nation, with ongoing recognition of his contributions to Indian military history.

In another mark of respect, during Parakram Diwas on January 23 of the previous year, 21 unnamed islands in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands were named in honor of Param Vir Chakra recipients, including a significant island named after Naib Subedar Bana Singh. This recognition serves to remind future generations of the valor and sacrifices made by these brave soldiers.

The Army Chief’s visit reflects the deep respect and camaraderie within the military community, acknowledging the profound impact of veterans like Bana Singh on the fabric of the nation’s defense history.

The Department of Defence and Strategic Sciences at Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU) is set to host the esteemed ‘General BC Joshi Memorial Lecture’ on November 27 at 5 PM, featuring a keynote address by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi (PVSM AVSM ADC). The lecture will focus on the significant role and contributions of the Indian Army towards the development of India.

General BC Joshi, a revered figure in the Indian Armed Forces, was noted for his sensitivity to crucial issues surrounding national integration, fundamental values, and the civility inherent in Indian culture. He was also an advocate for environmental protection and thoughtful approaches to national security decision-making. Following his untimely passing in 1994, SPPU, in collaboration with the headquarters of the Southern Command, established this annual lecture series in 1995 to commemorate his vision and contributions.

Prof. Parag Kalkar, the pro-vice-chancellor of SPPU, elaborated on the importance of the memorial lecture series, emphasizing General Joshi’s lasting legacy and the relevance of his values in today’s context. Notably, previous speakers in this series have included high-ranking officials such as Admiral Karambir Singh, General Bipin Rawat, Admiral Arun Prakash, and General KV Krishna Rao, who have all contributed valuable insights into the security landscape of the nation.

For the upcoming lecture, the vice-chancellor of SPPU, Prof. Suresh Gosavi, along with Prof. Parag Kalkar as the guest of honour, will be present. The chief convener of the event will be Vijay Khare, the head of the Department of Defence and Strategic Sciences.

This event is poised to attract attention from students, faculty, and military officials, marking another significant occasion in the university’s commitment to fostering discourse on defense and strategic studies, as well as honoring the legacy of General BC Joshi.