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Indian Army Conducts Trials of Next-Gen Defence Technologies Across The Nation

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The Indian Army has initiated large-scale trials of next-generation defence technologies at multiple key locations across the country, including Pokhran Field Firing Ranges, Babina, and Joshimath, with specialized air defence trials scheduled at Agra and Gopalpur. The Capacity Development Demonstrations, which began earlier this month, are being conducted under simulated operational conditions, incorporating electronic warfare environments to rigorously evaluate advanced military systems.

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Press Release

On May 27, 2025, Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Babina Field Firing Ranges to oversee the ongoing evaluations. During his visit, he reviewed the performance of various systems and interacted with developers and stakeholders involved in the demonstrations.

These field trials are a significant part of the Indian Army’s roadmap for a “Decade of Transformation,” aimed at accelerating the integration of indigenous technologies into frontline operations. Developed under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the technologies undergoing evaluation reflect India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities and its emphasis on self-reliance.

Among the critical systems being tested are unmanned aerial systems (UAS), UAV-launched precision-guided munitions (ULPGM), runway-independent remotely piloted aerial systems (RPAS), loitering munitions, and specialized vertical launch drones. The trials also feature cutting-edge counter-drone technologies, including integrated drone detection and interdiction systems (IDDIS), and precision multi munition delivery platforms.

In addition, next-generation VSHORADS infrared systems, low-level lightweight radars, and advanced electronic warfare platforms are undergoing thorough assessment for battlefield integration. These technologies are being tested in dynamic and realistic conditions to ensure they meet the Indian Army’s evolving operational requirements.

A wide range of domestic defence industry partners are participating in the trials, underscoring the growing collaboration between the Indian Army and India’s private and public defence sectors. This joint effort not only enhances the Army’s operational readiness but also reinforces the country’s long-term vision of technological superiority and strategic autonomy.

The Indian Army’s commitment to adopting and fielding indigenous, future-ready capabilities is evident in the scope and scale of these demonstrations. As the trials progress, they are expected to lay the foundation for rapid procurement and deployment of new technologies across various combat arms and support services.

CDS General Anil Chauhan Confirms Loss to Unspecified Number of Fighter Jets in Operation Sindoor

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India has officially confirmed that it lost fighter jets during the recent four-day conflict with Pakistan, marking the first public acknowledgment from New Delhi since hostilities erupted in early May. The confirmation came from Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan during an interview at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on Saturday.

General Chauhan, speaking to Bloomberg Television, said the exact number of Indian aircraft lost would not be disclosed but emphasized that the focus should be on the circumstances that led to the losses rather than the figures themselves. “What is important is not the jet being down, but why they were down,” he said, underscoring the need to learn from operational errors.

He firmly dismissed Pakistan’s claim that it had shot down six Indian warplanes during the conflict, calling the assertion “absolutely incorrect.” Instead, he pointed to India’s rapid response and recovery after initial setbacks, noting that Indian fighter jets were successfully deployed again within two days to carry out precision strikes on heavily defended targets in Pakistan.

Chauhan described the episode as a significant learning experience for the Indian Air Force. “The good part is that we are able to understand the tactical mistake which we made, remedy it, rectify it, and then implement it again after two days,” he said, highlighting India’s ability to adapt and continue operations effectively.

The hostilities, which began on May 7, followed a deadly terror attack in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22 that claimed 26 civilian lives. India accused Pakistan of orchestrating the attack, a charge Islamabad denied. The ensuing conflict involved aerial dogfights, missile strikes, drone operations, and cross-border artillery exchanges, making it the most intense confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbors in over 50 years.

Despite the severity of the fighting, General Chauhan clarified that the situation never approached the threshold of nuclear escalation. “We had channels of communication open at all times to ensure control over the situation,” he said, offering reassurance that deterrence mechanisms were firmly in place.

This marks the first time that India has openly addressed the extent of its aerial losses, though the government continues to withhold specific details for strategic reasons. Until now, India had remained tight-lipped in response to Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s early-May statement claiming that Pakistan had shot down six Indian fighter jets.

While analysts had speculated about aircraft losses on both sides, no independent verification has been possible given the sensitivity and restricted access to combat zones. The Indian acknowledgment now provides partial clarity, even as full details remain classified.

The comments by General Chauhan add new dimension to the evolving narrative of the May conflict and reflect a shift toward transparency, albeit carefully calibrated. They also signal India’s intent to analyze its setbacks internally while maintaining strategic ambiguity about operational details.

With tensions now reduced but not fully resolved, both nations face renewed calls for de-escalation, diplomatic engagement, and stronger crisis-management frameworks to prevent future flare-ups from spiraling into larger conflicts.

Meet Southern Naval Command’s Chief Vice Admiral V Srinivas: The Review Officer of INA’s POP on May 31, 2025

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The Indian Naval Academy’s Passing Out Parade (POP) on May 31, 2025, unfolded against the backdrop of a persistent downpour, turning the commissioning of 186 new officers into a stirring tribute to naval discipline and endurance. Presiding over the event was Vice Admiral V Srinivas, the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of the Southern Naval Command. As the reviewing officer, his presence brought profound significance to the occasion, epitomizing the ideals of courage, service, and leadership that the newly commissioned officers are expected to uphold.

Also Read: Indian Naval Academy Hosts Spectacular Passing Out Parade, Commissions 186 New Officers

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Vice Admiral V Srinivas at INA’s POP.

Early Career and Education

Vice Admiral V Srinivas began his naval journey on July 1, 1987, when he was commissioned into the Indian Navy after graduating from the prestigious National Defence Academy. He chose to specialize in anti-submarine warfare and subsequently joined the elite submarine arm of the Navy. Over the years, his academic pursuits included distinguished stints at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, and the Naval War College, Goa—where he was awarded the Commander-in-Chief’s Silver Medal. He also completed the Senior Defence Management Course at the College of Defence Management in Secunderabad, equipping him with the strategic acumen necessary for higher leadership roles.

Also Read: Indian Naval Academy Hosts Spring Term 2025 Convocation Ceremony

Operational Experience

Vice Admiral Srinivas has amassed substantial operational experience through his participation in key military operations including Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka, Operation Vijay during the Kargil conflict, and Operation Parakram. He commanded several important platforms such as INS Shalki, INS Shishumar, and INS Shankul—submarines that remain vital to India’s undersea capabilities. Notably, he also helmed the destroyer INS Ranvir and the nuclear-powered submarine INS Chakra. His distinction as one of only two officers to have commanded both a conventional warship and a nuclear submarine speaks volumes about his versatility and tactical command.

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Vice Admiral V Srinivas at Annual Command Meeting of Southern Naval Command in 2024.

Leadership Roles

Vice Admiral Srinivas’s career has been marked by a series of influential leadership positions. He has served as the Commanding Officer of INS Shankul (on two occasions), INS Ranvir, and INS Chakra. He held the post of Commander Submarines (West) at Mumbai and Chief Staff Officer to the Flag Officer Submarines. As Principal Director of Ship Systems and Development at Naval Headquarters, he contributed to the technological advancement of naval assets. Additionally, his tenure at INS Satavahana, the Navy’s premier submarine training establishment, emphasized his role as a mentor and institution builder.

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Symbolic Image of Vice Admiral V Srinivas Along With INS Sunayna.

Awards and Recognitions

Over the course of his distinguished career, Vice Admiral V Srinivas has been the recipient of several prestigious military honors, underscoring his outstanding leadership and service to the Indian Navy. He was awarded the Nao Sena Medal (NM) in 2009 for his exceptional devotion to duty and operational excellence. In 2021, he was conferred the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM), one of the highest peacetime military awards, in recognition of his exemplary service and significant contributions to enhancing the Navy’s strategic and operational capabilities. These accolades are a testament to his enduring dedication, professional acumen, and pivotal role in strengthening India’s maritime defence.

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Former President Ram Nath Kovind Presenting Ati Vishisht Seva Medal to Then Rear Admiral V Srinivas.

Flag Rank Appointments

Promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral and then Vice Admiral, he held several strategic flag appointments. He served as Flag Officer Submarines (FOSM) from 2016 to 2020, overseeing all submarine operations and safety protocols. Later, he took over as Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area and served as the Inspector General Nuclear Safety, ensuring the stringent oversight of nuclear-powered naval platforms. His role in steering the Advanced Technology Vessel (ATV) project further underscores his involvement in India’s nuclear submarine program and maritime deterrence posture.

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Then Real Admiral V Srinivas Taking Over as the Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area in 2020.

Command of the Southern Naval Command

On December 31, 2023, Vice Admiral Srinivas assumed command of the Southern Naval Command, the Indian Navy’s premier training establishment. In this role, he is responsible for shaping the next generation of naval leaders. His tenure has seen a thrust toward modernizing training methodologies, introducing new technologies, and ensuring interoperability with other branches of the armed forces. His strategic emphasis is on preparing officers who are not just tactically proficient but also technologically adept and globally oriented.

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Vice Admiral V Srinivas Along With Naval Chief Admiral DK Tripathi While Taking Over as Southern Naval Command Chief.

Vision and Philosophy

A firm believer in the confluence of tradition and innovation, Vice Admiral Srinivas champions a philosophy that blends timeless naval values with cutting-edge operational readiness. His speeches often emphasize the importance of adaptability, resilience, and ethical leadership. At the May 2025 POP, his message to the young officers highlighted the imperatives of integrity, perseverance, and service to the nation in an increasingly complex maritime environment.

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Vice Admiral V Srinivas at INA’s POP.

Defining Traits and Leadership Style

Those who have worked under Vice Admiral Srinivas describe him as a calm, analytical, and mission-focused leader. He is known for his meticulous planning, humility, and the ability to instill confidence in both peers and subordinates. His leadership style combines strategic depth with operational clarity, making him a respected figure across the naval hierarchy.

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Vice Admiral V Srinivas Eyes for Hydrogen Fuel in Sustainable Naval Operations.

Conclusion

The Indian Naval Academy’s POP on May 31, 2025, was not only a celebration of new beginnings but also a reaffirmation of the Navy’s enduring values. With Vice Admiral V Srinivas as the reviewing officer, the event reflected the Navy’s commitment to excellence, professionalism, and future-readiness. His illustrious journey continues to serve as a beacon for every young officer stepping into the challenging and honorable world of naval service. Through leadership, vision, and valor, Vice Admiral Srinivas exemplifies the highest traditions of the Indian Navy.

Indian Naval Academy Passing Out Parade 31 May 2025

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In a moving and rain-drenched spectacle, the Indian Naval Academy (INA) at Ezhimala conducted its Passing Out Parade for the Spring Term 2025, commissioning 186 Midshipmen and Cadets into the Indian Navy. Defying heavy rainfall, the cadets marched with discipline and pride, symbolizing their readiness to face any challenge in the line of duty.

The parade was reviewed by Vice Admiral V Srinivas, PVSM, AVSM, NM, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, who commended the cadets on their journey from trainees to commissioned officers. The graduating cohort included international cadets from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Seychelles, reinforcing the academy’s role in advancing global maritime cooperation.

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A highlight of the ceremony was the “Antim Pag” or Final Step, a traditional ritual marking the cadets’ transition into commissioned officers. The stripe-shipping ceremony followed, as parents and mentors proudly adorned the new officers with their epaulettes, signifying years of commitment and growth.

Award Winners

  • 🥇 President’s Gold Medal: Midshipman Nakul Saxena, for standing first in the INA B.Tech Course.
  • 🏆 Rajya Raksha Mantri Trophy: Midshipman Kiondo Michael Florence (Tanzania), for the Most Promising Cadet — a notable moment that highlighted the global outreach of India’s naval training.
  • 🏅 FOC-in-C (South) Trophy: Midshipman Nithin S Nair, for topping among ex-NDA trainees.
  • 🥇 CNS Gold Medal:
    • For NOC (Extended): Cadet Pawar Rohit Prakash
    • For NOC (Regular): Cadet Rajnish Singh
  • 🏆 Director General Coast Guard Trophy: Cadet Kommu David

Despite the persistent downpour, the atmosphere remained electric. The cadets performed an array of visually striking displays, including illuminated drum drills, torchlight sequences, and acrobatic stunts through a flaming ring—each act showcasing their precision, training, and spirit.

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Vice Admiral Srinivas, a seasoned leader with operational experience in missions such as Operations Pawan and Vijay, addressed the newly commissioned officers with a message of integrity, valor, and service. His presence added ceremonial gravitas and inspiration to the parade.

The Spring Term also saw a convocation ceremony on May 30, during which 83 Midshipmen, including five international trainees, were conferred graduate degrees in engineering. These academic achievements, coupled with their military training, rounded off a transformative journey.

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As the rain fell steadily over the parade ground, it became a fitting symbol of the endurance and dedication expected of India’s naval warriors. The event once again underscored the Indian Naval Academy’s commitment to shaping future leaders who are combat-ready, globally connected, and steadfast in safeguarding India’s maritime frontiers.

Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh Smashes Asian Record at 26th Asian Athletics Championships

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India celebrated a landmark moment in athletics as Naib Subedar Gulveer Singh of the Indian Army delivered a record-breaking performance at the 26th Asian Athletics Championships. Held at Gumi Stadium from May 27 to 31, the championship featured athletes from 43 countries, making it the largest edition to date.

Gulveer Singh struck gold in both the 10,000m and 5,000m events. He clocked 28:38.64 in the 10,000m before setting a new Asian record in the 5,000m with a stunning time of 13:24.78, surpassing the previous mark of 13:29.53 set by Bahrain’s Albert Rop in 2015. His latest feat adds to a remarkable 2025 season, which began with a historic run in the United States where he became the first Asian to break the 13-minute barrier in a short-track 5,000m, recording 12:59.77.

Trained under the Indian Army’s Mission Olympics Wing, Gulveer’s preparation included high-altitude training in Ooty and advanced coaching sessions in Colorado Springs. His success reflects the Army’s sustained investment in grooming elite athletes.

The championships also saw impressive performances from other Indian Army athletes including Subedar Avinash Sable and Recruit Naib Subedar Rupal Chaudhary, contributing to India’s strong medal tally. The Mission Olympics Wing currently supports over 450 athletes across 11 disciplines, reinforcing India’s aspirations on the global sports stage.

Gulveer Singh’s dual triumph not only cements his place in Asian athletics history but also signals a new era for Indian distance running, driven by discipline, scientific training, and institutional support.

Countering Fake Narratives Consumed 15% of Operation Sindoor, Says CDS

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Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan has revealed that countering fake narratives during Operation Sindoor accounted for 15 percent of the mission’s duration, underscoring the growing importance of information warfare in modern conflicts. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, General Chauhan described Operation Sindoor as a non-contact, multi-domain campaign involving distributed force application, cyber and disinformation efforts, intelligence operations, and network-centric warfare.

The operation, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam attack, began with airstrikes on terror targets in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir on May 7. General Chauhan highlighted that India leveraged indigenous defence systems such as the Akash missile system and integrated both domestic and foreign radar networks to create a cohesive and modernised defence architecture. While Pakistan reportedly relied on Chinese commercial satellite imagery, there was no evidence that it received real-time targeting support.

Real-time integration across air, land, and sea domains, the CDS said, is only as effective as the underlying networks they connect to. He also raised questions about where cutting-edge technologies should be embedded—in the weapon, the platform, or the network—pointing to ongoing challenges in military modernisation.

General Chauhan stressed the shifting nature of warfare, now characterized by flexible and deceptive strategies. The significant time dedicated to combating misinformation during Operation Sindoor demonstrated the necessity for a dedicated information warfare vertical. India’s approach relied on fact-based communication despite slower response times. While military systems remained secure due to air-gapping, public information platforms experienced minor disruptions.

Addressing the future of conflict, General Chauhan discussed the limitations and potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in warfare. He warned of the risks automation and robotics bring to decision-making, noting that fewer lives at stake could lead to more aggressive actions. Currently, military AI’s utility is restricted because it depends heavily on open-source data. To enhance its effectiveness, AI must be deeply integrated into operational planning, wargaming, and intelligence analysis.

On bilateral ties with Pakistan, the CDS described India’s approach as strategic and long-term. He noted that at the time of partition, Pakistan was socially and economically ahead of India, but India’s progress today is the outcome of sustained strategy. Cautioning that diplomatic efforts require reciprocity, he said disengagement could be a viable response if hostility persists.

General Chauhan also highlighted India’s maritime domain as its strategic outlet, given geographical constraints posed by conflict with China and instability in Myanmar. He underscored that nuclear escalation in undeclared conflicts is illogical and warned that no war is without significant cost.

China’s Navy Carries Out Combat Drills Near Contested South China Sea Shoal

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China’s navy has carried out “combat readiness patrols” near the disputed Scarborough Shoal in the South China Sea, a move that comes amid rising tensions with both the Philippines and South Korea over territorial waters. The patrols were conducted by the Southern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in what China calls the “territorial waters and airspace of Huangyan Island,” referring to the Scarborough Shoal.

According to Chinese state media outlet Xinhua, the PLA has been conducting drills in the area throughout May. The exercises aim to “strengthen control of relevant sea and air areas” and “defend national sovereignty and security,” despite a 2016 international tribunal ruling that declared China’s sweeping claims over the South China Sea invalid under international law.

The Scarborough Shoal, located about 220km west of the Philippine island of Luzon, has been a flashpoint in China-Philippines tensions since Beijing seized control of the area in 2012. Traditionally a fishing ground for Filipinos, the shoal has seen repeated confrontations. In April, the Philippines accused Chinese forces of “dangerous manoeuvres” that led to the damage of a Philippine coastguard ship by water cannon fire near the shoal.

Meanwhile, in the Yellow Sea, South Korean authorities reported the installation of three additional Chinese buoys in disputed maritime areas. The latest discoveries bring the total number of Chinese buoys in the contested zone to 13. South Korea’s Ministry of Defence said it is closely monitoring China’s activities within the Provisional Maritime Zone (PMZ), an area of overlapping exclusive economic zone (EEZ) claims between the two countries.

The buoys were discovered near or within the PMZ, which was established to allow joint resource management and restrict non-navigational activities. The ministry emphasized the need for inter-agency cooperation to protect South Korea’s maritime sovereignty.

Tensions in the Yellow Sea have escalated in recent years, with China installing a series of observation buoys and even a fixed steel structure in 2022. In a move believed to signal military training exercises, China last week declared three no-sail zones within the PMZ, raising fresh concerns in Seoul about potential military escalations.

China bases its maritime boundary claims in the Yellow Sea on a 1962 agreement with North Korea, which encroaches on waters that South Korea considers part of its EEZ. The latest developments in both seas point to an intensifying maritime power struggle involving China and its neighbors, with growing calls for international engagement and regional dialogue to prevent further escalation.

Death Squads Backed by Pakistan Army Unleash Terror in Balochistan

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The Human Rights Council of Balochistan (HRCB) has issued a grim alert, revealing that as many as 50 people were killed in Balochistan during April by what it described as Pakistan Army-backed “death squads.” The toll, according to the council, is likely to rise significantly by the end of May.

In its latest report, the HRCB said that 43 people were killed in April by Pakistani forces and paramilitary-backed groups across the troubled province. In just the last 10 days, an additional seven civilians—including a journalist—were murdered in Awaran district alone.

A particularly disturbing episode occurred on the night of May 26–27 in Malar Machhi, Awaran, when Pakistani security personnel raided the village, allegedly conducting forced entries and firing indiscriminately after residents resisted illegal abductions. Two civilians—Naeem Baloch and his aunt Hoori—were shot dead, while Naeem’s mother, Dadi Baloch, sustained critical injuries. Despite her condition, she was denied immediate medical attention and was only shifted to a hospital the following morning.

The Baloch family had previously suffered years of persecution. In 2015, an aerial bombardment claimed the lives of seven relatives. Naeem himself was forcibly disappeared in 2023, and Dadi had been detained previously in 2015. A day after the recent raid, a Pakistan-backed death squad reportedly returned and attempted to abduct Dadi’s seven-year-old son.

In another chilling incident, a polio-affected student named Mahjabeen Baloch was abducted from the Civil Hospital Hostel in Quetta by Pakistani police and plainclothes officers during the early hours of May 31. Her brother, Younus, was also abducted five days earlier from their home in Besima, Washuk district.

The HRCB condemned these actions and demanded the immediate release of all abducted individuals. “If there are charges, the accused must be produced in a court of law,” it said in a statement.

The council also mourned the assassination of veteran journalist Abdul Latif Baloch, who was shot dead in his sleep on May 24 at his residence in Mashkay, Awaran. Latif, who served as the bureau chief of Daily Intekhab for over 30 years, was known for his fearless reporting and had previously been abducted twice by Pakistani security forces. The HRCB blamed the military establishment for orchestrating his murder and targeting his family.

“This pattern of violence reflects the state’s systematic campaign to silence journalists and political activists in Balochistan,” the council said, urging the international community to act immediately and ensure justice for the victims.

The HRCB had previously reported a sharp rise in the repression of political campaigners, journalists, human rights defenders, and families of missing persons. This crackdown has included violent raids on the homes of Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) members, arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, detentions under the Maintenance of Public Order Ordinance, and fabricated legal charges.

As Balochistan continues to reel under state-sponsored violence, human rights groups are demanding urgent global attention and accountability for the victims of what they describe as a brutal and expanding campaign of terror.

General Upendra Dwivedi Reviews Operational Preparedness in Paragwal Sector of J&K

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Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Paragwal Sector in Jammu and Kashmir to conduct a detailed review of operational readiness, where he praised the exemplary efforts of troops involved in Operation Sindoor. The visit to the Tiger Division highlighted the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to counter-terrorism and maintaining robust security across the region.

General Dwivedi commended the high level of preparedness and morale among the forces, underlining the importance of agility and constant vigilance amid the region’s dynamic security environment. He noted the smooth coordination between the Indian Army and the Border Security Force (BSF), particularly acknowledging the BSF’s decisive role during Operation Sindoor.

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Among those recognized for outstanding service was Assistant Commandant Neha Bhandari, who led her team in defending forward posts in the Akhnoor Sector. Her leadership in active combat marked a historic first for a woman BSF officer. In recognition of her bravery and operational command, she was awarded the Army Chief’s Commendation Disc.

General Dwivedi also paid tribute to the vital support provided by ex-servicemen during the operation, emphasizing the unity and commitment displayed by the extended defense community. Operation Sindoor, which drew national attention through its widely shared logo created by Indian Army personnel, has come to symbolize not just strategic success but also the collective spirit of national sacrifice and resilience.

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The Army Chief’s visit aligns with the Indian Army’s broader objectives of enhancing operational capability through technological innovation and transformation. These goals are central to strengthening national defense and meeting emerging security challenges. The review and commendations serve as a reaffirmation of the Indian military’s preparedness and the evolving role of integrated force structures in safeguarding the nation.

India’s Kaveri Engine Reportedly Cleared for Inflight Testing

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced the clearance of India’s indigenous Kaveri engine for inflight testing, marking a pivotal advancement in the country’s aero-engine development efforts. The milestone represents a major step toward self-reliance in defence technology, with the Kaveri engine set to power India’s stealth Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), Ghatak.

Originally developed to equip the HAL Tejas Light Combat Aircraft, the Kaveri engine programme faced significant technical and financial setbacks, leading to its decoupling from the Tejas project in 2008. However, sustained innovation by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has led to the creation of a refined dry variant of the engine, now ready for airborne validation.

The inflight testing will be conducted using a modified Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft, which will serve as a flying testbed. One of the aircraft’s four engines will be replaced with the Kaveri engine to evaluate its performance under various flight conditions, including altitude adaptability, fuel efficiency, and integration with aircraft systems. This controlled environment allows for real-time assessments of the engine’s capabilities during extended operations.

The Kaveri programme has long been a symbol of India’s resolve to master critical defence technologies despite considerable obstacles, including post-1998 international sanctions and a lack of prior engine-building experience. The engine’s first full run occurred in 1996, with its initial inflight test taking place in 2010 at Russia’s Gromov Flight Research Institute, showcasing Indo-Russian collaboration in defence innovation.

With inflight testing now cleared, the Kaveri engine is poised to power not only the Ghatak UCAV but also serve as a foundational technology for future indigenous fighter aircraft. The global cost of developing such an engine is estimated at approximately $2 billion, highlighting the scale and significance of this achievement for India’s defence ecosystem.

The clearance marks a turning point in India’s aerospace ambitions and demonstrates DRDO’s persistence in overcoming technological barriers. As the country continues to strengthen its defence capabilities, the Kaveri engine stands as a testament to indigenous innovation and a critical element in ensuring strategic autonomy.