In a landmark move to boost operational synergy among the Indian Armed Forces, the Government of India has fully operationalized the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control & Discipline) Act, 2023. The Ministry of Defence today notified the rules under the Act, granting Commanders-in-Chief and Officers-in-Command of Inter-Services Organisations (ISOs) full disciplinary and administrative authority over personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The Act aims to eliminate redundancies in command structures and foster greater cooperation among the three services while maintaining their distinct service conditions. With this development, ISO commanders now hold powers equivalent to top-ranking officers in individual services, such as a General Officer Commanding in the Army or a Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief in the Navy.
The Rules under the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control & Discipline) Act, 2023 have been notified and come into effect from May 27, 2025. With this, the Act is now fully operational— paving the way for stronger #integration, discipline and administrative efficiency… pic.twitter.com/EuDtNn4kkC
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh described the move as a transformative step toward military integration and readiness. “This Act ensures our forces can operate as a unified entity, enhancing our capability to address modern security challenges while maintaining the proud traditions of each service,” he said.
This reform is a significant milestone in the broader vision of defence modernization championed by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan since taking office in September 2022. His tenure has focused on breaking down inter-service barriers, encouraging cross-postings, and laying the groundwork for more integrated command structures. The operationalization of the ISO Act builds on these efforts and sets the stage for more comprehensive reforms like the long-anticipated joint theatre commands.
Currently, India’s military command structure consists of 19 separate Army, Navy, and Air Force commands. The concept of joint theatre commands—which would integrate these under unified leadership based on geographic or functional criteria—has been under discussion for years but has encountered institutional resistance.
While the ISO Act is a crucial administrative step forward, defence analysts caution that true integration will require parallel reforms in logistics, training, and operational doctrines. They also stress the importance of increasing support for indigenous defence projects, such as the DRDO’s Kaveri engine program, which is vital for self-reliance in fighter jet technology.
As global security dynamics become more complex, the operationalization of the ISO Act marks a pivotal shift in India’s military posture, enabling the Army, Navy, and Air Force to operate with greater cohesion and efficiency in the face of evolving threats.
During Operation Sindoor, as India neutralized 11 Pakistani air bases, it is widely suspected that a deep-penetration airstrike was conducted on the highly fortified Murid Air Base—potentially targeting underground strategic assets. While official confirmation remains elusive, compelling evidence from satellite imagery, open-source intelligence (OSINT), and independent expert analysis suggests a precise, high-impact strike that may have redefined the very architecture of India–Pakistan military engagement and deterrence.
This Facility at PAF #Murid was massively expanded between 2022 & 2024 to serve as a UCAV base . Both the #Pakistan Air Force No. 64 Sqdn Operating the Bayraktar TB2 & No. 65 Squadron operating Bayraktar Akinci were based . The #IndianAirForce strike likely took out C&C for both. https://t.co/O0gN7tz1cRpic.twitter.com/5RZZA1pQC8
Located in Chakwal district, Punjab, Murid Air Base is a key installation of the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) with high strategic value. Operational since 1942, the base has evolved into a center for advanced military operations.
Murid plays a critical role in combat drone and UAV operations, strengthening Pakistan’s aerial surveillance and strike capabilities. It also houses essential command and control infrastructure, enabling real-time coordination within PAF’s defence network.
The base is believed to have underground bunkers, possibly used for storing special weapons or nuclear delivery systems, making it highly sensitive. Its proximity to major military sites like Kamra and Sargodha further enhances its strategic significance.
Major Strikes By India Were Carried Out on These Locations
Murid Airbase #Pakistan is almost certainly now a special weapons delivery station. Fencing evident within an already fenced and heavily secure base include: 1) massive Underground facility with guard towers (with connecting tunnel shown in inset during construction) pic.twitter.com/wBP22gpSNN
Breaking the strike target down for those wondering what this facility at PAF #Murid was all about 1) 250Mt x250mt area Double Fenced compound. 2) 4 Guard towers + Security cabin& gate control inside a PAF base , most PAF airmen would not have had entry 1/n https://t.co/udINaH8s3Jpic.twitter.com/X1etCioTpM
A combination of satellite data, OSINT, and muted official statements paints a compelling picture:
Recent satellite images analyzed by experts such as Damien Symon reveal critical damage at Murid Air Base. The visuals show destruction to a Command and Control (C2) structure, a noticeable crater near a suspected underground entrance, and evidence pointing to the use of deep-penetration munitions.
Open-source intelligence (OSINT) reports highlight scorched earth patterns, burn marks, and penetrator craters around the site. These signs strongly suggest that bunker-buster munitions were employed, likely targeting underground facilities or special weapons storage areas.
On Left, Pre-strike image from April 16 Shows the Undamaged Structure. On Right, Post-strike image from May 10 shows Structural Damage at Facility Believed to Serve as a Command and Control Centre Near a UAV complex.
What a beautiful crater!!!
Pakistan's 🇵🇰 MURID base— 3D view of the satellite pic of point of impact. 👇👇👇
Created with the satellite pic released by Vishnu Som today.
“The Strike is visible at the most guarded complex within Murid Airbase. The approximately three-meter-wide munition impact crater is just 30 meters north of one of the two entrances to a likely underground facility,” says Damien Symon, a geospatial intelligence researcher associated with the Intel Lab, known for his work analysing satellite imagery to monitor military and infrastructure developments.
“This complex is heavily protected with double fencing, its own watchtowers and access control indicating its high-value nature as a target. The earth-protected entrances suggest this site might serve as storage for special equipment or as a hardened operational shelter for personnel, capable of withstanding heavy bombardment,” he added.
The DG ISPR vaguely acknowledged “material damage at one of our northern sector airbases,” but avoided naming Murid.
Why Would India Target Murid Air Base?
The targeting of Murid Air Base—located deep within Pakistani territory and heavily fortified—delivers a strong strategic message. It demonstrates India’s precision strike capability and signals that no military asset, even underground, is beyond its operational reach.
The timing of the strike, following the Pahalgam terror attack linked to Pakistan-based actors, suggests a calibrated retaliatory move. It serves to deter future cross-border terrorism while avoiding escalation into a wider conflict under Operation Sindoor.
Strategic Implications of the Murid Strike
The suspected strike on Murid Air Base could have serious military and operational repercussions for Pakistan. It may have disrupted UAV operations and compromised key air defense protocols, revealing vulnerabilities in infrastructure previously considered secure, including underground bunkers. This could force Pakistan to relocate or rethink the positioning of its critical military assets, particularly those tied to strategic deterrence.
Diplomatically, Pakistan’s muted response suggests a deliberate attempt to avoid international scrutiny or embarrassment, especially if the strike exposed critical defense weaknesses. On the other hand, India’s strategic ambiguity surrounding the operation allows it to retain geopolitical leverage, signaling strength without making direct provocations that could escalate tensions.
At a broader level, the operation also sends a regional signal—particularly to China. Demonstrating the ability to carry out deep-precision strikes against fortified targets, India underscores its capability and readiness in any high-stakes confrontation. This messaging is especially significant in the context of the ongoing India-China military standoff.
Conclusion
“The precision and depth of this strike suggest a paradigm shift in India’s counterforce capabilities.”
The alleged Indian strike on Murid Air Base—targeting suspected underground nuclear or drone infrastructure—marks a pivotal moment in regional military dynamics. Whether or not the bunker was fully neutralized, the psychological and strategic message has been delivered loud and clear: India is prepared to strike deep, fast, and precisely.
As satellite imagery replaces public announcements, and as strategic ambiguity becomes policy, one truth remains—South Asia’s security paradigm has changed. And Murid may well be its defining flashpoint.
High-resolution satellite imagery has confirmed the precision of India’s airstrike on Pakistan’s Murid Airbase, conducted on May 10, 2025, during Operation Sindoor. The mission was launched in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 civilian lives and was traced by Indian authorities to Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI).
Imagery from Maxar Technologies provided by NDTV, analyzed by geo-intelligence expert Damien Symon of The Intel Lab, shows a major munition crater just 30 meters from the entrance of a suspected underground facility at Murid. This level of precision suggests a deliberate strategy by India to signal capability without crossing the threshold into full-scale war. Analysts interpret the strike as a calibrated message targeting strategic assets while avoiding direct hits on highly sensitive military infrastructure.
This report spotlights damage at Pakistan’s Murid Airbase – the Indian Air Force strike has caused structural damage to a Command & Control building, a section of the roof has collapsed as well, likely causing internal damage @TheIntelLab#Skyfipic.twitter.com/k7O4FO0tKS
This image shared by @VishnuNDTV shows a munition crater at Murid Airbase part of India's airstrike, just 30-meters from the entrance to likely special-use underground Pakistan Airforce facility https://t.co/lABJqMrXYYpic.twitter.com/vKkcyRrs11
Murid Airbase serves as a critical hub for Pakistan’s combat drone operations and was among eight airbases hit by Indian forces during Operation Sindoor. This followed India’s earlier May 7 airstrikes on terror launchpads across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). These operations marked a sharp escalation in response to cross-border terrorism, prompting Pakistan to suspend the Simla Agreement, close its airspace, and restrict trade with India.
Symon’s work in open-source intelligence (OSINT) has played a pivotal role in cutting through disinformation about the conflict. His findings, widely cited by Indian media have countered Pakistani claims of minimal damage. His annotations of the satellite imagery suggest the targeted site at Murid may be linked to missile guidance or command systems, possibly part of a larger weapons infrastructure with final assembly at Nur Khan Airbase.
Though India has officially maintained strategic silence regarding the full scope of the damage, the release of satellite imagery affirms the effectiveness of its precision airstrike capabilities. By not publicizing detailed assessments, India is believed to be preserving its diplomatic options while demonstrating military readiness.
The airstrike on Murid Airbase underscores the growing relevance of satellite-based verification and OSINT in modern warfare. As regional tensions persist, global attention remains fixed on South Asia, with increasing international calls for restraint and dialogue between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Turkish construction company Gulermak, part of a joint venture with Indian firm Sam India on the Kanpur Metro project, has reportedly fled the city, leaving ₹80 crore in unpaid dues to 53 subcontractors. The company was responsible for executing the underground segment of the metro’s Corridor One and is now accused of abandoning its financial obligations after allegedly completing its portion of the work.
According to a report by India Today, several subcontractors claimed they have not received payments for over ten months. Many said that Gulermak delayed and staggered payments despite completing the contracted work. The payment freeze reportedly began following nationwide protests against Turkey’s support for Pakistan during the recent India–Pakistan conflict.
Nine of the affected contractors approached the District Magistrate’s office on Monday, submitting a formal memorandum. Among those awaiting dues are Metro Marble (₹3.70 crore), Radiant Services (₹1.20 crore), Shreyans Infratech (₹1.70 crore), S Interior (₹74.80 lakh), MD Ehasan Painter (₹39.80 lakh), Vinod Gupta Enterprises (₹8.54 lakh), Nandan Prefab (₹29.50 lakh), and Shri Balaji Enterprises (₹21.50 lakh).
Radiant Services’ contractor Gajendra Singh said, “Till now only 50 per cent payment has been made to the companies.” Contractors allege that senior Gulermak officials have left Kanpur and are now unresponsive, with phone calls met with evasive replies.
Panchanan Mishra, Joint General Manager (Public Relations) at the Uttar Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (UPMRC), confirmed that Gulermak had completed work on four stations and was paid in full. He clarified that the unpaid contractors were subcontracted by Gulermak, not directly by UPMRC. However, he acknowledged that the metro authority holds 5 per cent of the contract value in reserve, to be released a year post-completion. “If the company doesn’t pay the contractors, the metro has to release this payment,” he added.
Attempts to contact Gulermak for a response went unanswered. The incident has raised concerns over regulatory oversight and subcontractor protections in major infrastructure projects involving foreign firms.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) inaugurated the Quantum Technology Research Centre (QTRC) today at Metcalfe House, Delhi, marking a key advancement in India’s strategic technology landscape. The center was unveiled by Dr. Samir V Kamat, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO, in the presence of senior officials including Smt. Suma Varughese, Director General (Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems & Cyber Systems).
QTRC is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s indigenous quantum technology initiatives, with specialized infrastructure for high-end research in laser characterization, single-photon source testing, quantum key distribution (QKD), and atomic clock development. These technologies are vital for developing ultra-secure communications, advanced sensors, and resilient cryptographic systems as the threat landscape evolves in the digital age.
One of the central features of the QTRC is its work on quantum key distribution, led by DRDO’s Scientific Analysis Group (SAG). This technique, which uses the principles of quantum mechanics to prevent interception, is seen as a crucial safeguard in the post-quantum era, where conventional encryption may be rendered obsolete by quantum computing. The center will also focus on building atomic clocks for precision timekeeping and developing micro-fabricated alkali vapor cells for quantum-enhanced radar and navigation.
At the event, Dr. Kamat highlighted the strategic importance of the center, stating, “The QTRC is a major leap forward in our journey toward self-reliance in defense technologies. It demonstrates DRDO’s resolve to develop sovereign quantum capabilities in line with the National Quantum Mission.” Smt. Varughese added that the QTRC will be critical in preparing India for emerging national security challenges posed by quantum-enabled threats.
The inauguration of QTRC follows DRDO’s successful quantum communication demonstration across 100 kilometers between its labs, in partnership with IIT Delhi. That achievement underlines India’s growing technical depth and reinforces the country’s efforts to lead in quantum-enabled defense systems.
The launch of this advanced facility is a significant move to reduce dependence on foreign quantum technologies and position India at the forefront of the global quantum race. As the strategic value of quantum innovation continues to rise, QTRC will play a vital role in shaping the future of national defense and secure communications.
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made a critical leap in its indigenous aerospace capabilities, with the Kaveri jet engine currently undergoing advanced testing in Russia. Designed to power the Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), the engine is now in its final phase of trials, with about 25 hours of testing remaining.
The testing, conducted under Russian supervision with assigned trial slots, represents a major milestone in repurposing the Kaveri engine for unmanned platforms. Originally developed to power the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, the engine was delinked from the program in 2008 due to technical shortfalls. However, recent modifications have enabled its revival in a new role suited for unmanned and stealth applications.
The version undergoing trials is a dry variant, generating 52 kilonewtons of thrust—ideal for powering the Ghatak UCAV, a stealthy, long-range platform aimed at bolstering India’s aerial strike capabilities. Defence officials have also hinted at plans to integrate the Kaveri into an LCA Tejas airframe for demonstration purposes, which could renew its prospects for future manned aircraft.
The Ghatak project forms part of India’s larger Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aimed at enhancing indigenous defense production. It is being developed with support from both public and private sectors. The Indian Navy has reportedly shown interest in deploying the UCAV on its upcoming aircraft carriers and Landing Platform Docks (LPDs), underlining its operational importance. Complementing this effort, DRDO has already tested a scaled-down prototype, the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT), in autonomous flight trials.
The Kaveri engine has faced a long developmental journey marked by early technical setbacks, including turbine blade issues in the 2000s. These challenges led to technical collaboration with French aerospace firm Snecma, helping DRDO address critical design flaws. Today, the program is viewed as a cornerstone of India’s aerospace self-reliance strategy.
With increasing support from defense analysts and policymakers, there is growing demand for additional funding and prioritization of the Kaveri program. As India looks to reduce its dependency on imported propulsion systems like the GE-404 engines currently used in the Tejas, the successful deployment of the Kaveri engine could signal a turning point in the nation’s defense manufacturing landscape.
Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Central Command, conducted a comprehensive review of the operational preparedness of the Saidpur Brigade under the Golden Key Division. The visit formed part of a broader inspection initiative aimed at ensuring high standards of training, efficiency, and technological integration across formations.
During his review, Lt Gen Sengupta praised the brigade’s professionalism and readiness, reaffirming the importance of maintaining operational excellence amid evolving security challenges. A key highlight of the visit was his tour of the RHINO and RUDRA Drone Labs, which are driving innovation in unmanned systems and are critical to the Army’s transition into a more technologically advanced force.
These drone labs are central to the Indian Army’s ongoing “Year of Reforms” 2025 initiative, which was launched to promote agility, indigenous development, and integrated operations. In his interaction with troops, the General underscored the changing character of warfare and the need for continual adaptation through advanced technologies such as drones for surveillance, logistics, and precision strikes.
The visit also reinforced the objectives of the “Decade of Transformation” (2023–2032), a long-term vision that prioritizes modern warfare capabilities through collaboration with Indian startups, academic institutions, and defense manufacturers. The Saidpur Brigade’s active role in this transformation reflects its importance in the Army’s broader modernization roadmap.
By recognizing innovation and operational excellence at the grassroots level, Central Command continues to lead in aligning field formations with future-ready defense strategies and national self-reliance goal.
The Make-a-Wish Foundation, a leading NGO dedicated to fulfilling the wishes of terminally ill children, commemorated its 30th anniversary today with a heartfelt celebration at Army Hospital (Research & Referral). The event marked nine years of a compassionate partnership between the foundation and the hospital, during which over 1,000 children have had their dreams come true.
Lt Gen Shankar Narayan, Commandant of Army Hospital (R&R), joined the occasion, interacting with children and foundation members while distributing gifts to pediatric patients. The celebration reflected the emotional and psychological benefits of the wish-fulfillment program, which has been shown to positively impact children’s health outcomes and strengthen family morale during critical times.
#Make-a-wish foundation, an NGO associated with #ArmyHospital (R&R) celebrated 30 years today of spreading joy in the lives of terminally ill children. The NGO has fulfilled the wishes of 1000 plus sick children since past 9 years. Lt Gen Shankar Narayan, Commandant interacted… pic.twitter.com/OTz0ikhNa7
One of the key moments of the event was the felicitation of Mrs. Madhu Rawat, a long-serving coordinator for the NGO at the hospital. Her unwavering commitment was recognized as instrumental in bridging the efforts of medical caregivers and the Make-a-Wish Foundation in supporting children through their most difficult journeys.
The ceremony emphasized the Indian Armed Forces’ broader commitment to community welfare, showcasing how medical institutions like Army Hospital (R&R) contribute beyond clinical care by nurturing joy, hope, and resilience among society’s most vulnerable. Through such collaborations, the hospital continues to serve not only as a center of healing but also as a symbol of humanity and compassion.
VEM Technologies, a key player in India’s private defense manufacturing sector, is set to deliver its first Centre Fuselage (CF) assembly for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-1A to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on May 30. The delivery marks a significant achievement in India’s drive toward self-reliance in defense production, aligned with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The Centre Fuselage is a vital structural component of the Tejas Mk-1A, composed of 1,595 mechanical and composite parts. It has been certified by HAL’s Quality Control division and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), attesting to its adherence to stringent aerospace standards.
To achieve this, VEM Technologies has utilized its advanced production capabilities, including hi-precision machinery, metallurgical processing, pneumo-hydraulic systems, and electro-optics integration. The company established a dedicated production line for the Centre Fuselage in 2021 to support current and future requirements from the Indian Air Force.
The LCA Tejas Mk-1A is an upgraded version of India’s indigenous fighter jet, featuring advanced technologies such as an AESA radar, modern avionics, self-protection jammers, and enhanced electronic warfare systems. The Mk-1A currently includes 62% indigenous content by value, a figure expected to exceed 70% in the upcoming Tejas Mk-2 variant.
This handover highlights the increasing involvement of private firms like VEM Technologies in building India’s defense capabilities. The collaboration with HAL illustrates a growing and resilient domestic aerospace ecosystem, essential for meeting the modernization needs of the Indian Air Force and reducing dependency on foreign suppliers amid global supply chain constraints.
The official delivery event on May 30 will be a moment of national pride, reflecting India’s progress in aerospace manufacturing and its strategic focus on technological self-sufficiency.
In a progressive step toward veteran welfare and digital transformation, the Assam Rifles has launched the ‘Sampark Setu’ app, an innovative platform aimed at strengthening ties with its ex-servicemen community. The initiative was spearheaded by Director General Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera and reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who have served.
Available on the Google Play Store, the ‘Sampark Setu’ app is designed to provide veterans with real-time access to essential services and information. Key features include up-to-date pension details, a grievance redressal mechanism, and news updates from the Assam Rifles. The app also enables veterans to apply for identity cards and various grants through the Assam Rifles Ex-Servicemen Association (ARESA), streamlining previously cumbersome administrative processes.
DG ASSAM RIFLES LAUNCHES OF 'SAMPARK SETU' APP Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General #AssamRifles, launched the 'Sampark Setu' app to strengthen connectivity with veterans. This innovative platform will provide veterans seamless access to pension updates, grievance… pic.twitter.com/nkL52WzxQJ
In addition to these services, the platform includes an interactive component that allows veterans to stay connected with each other and with the organization. This fosters a sense of community and ensures that retired personnel remain informed and engaged with ongoing developments.
Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera emphasized that the launch of ‘Sampark Setu’ is a significant milestone in Assam Rifles’ continued efforts to honor and support its veterans. The app symbolizes a broader shift toward the use of technology in veteran welfare programs and sets a precedent for other armed forces organizations to follow.
By combining digital innovation with a strong sense of tradition and duty, Assam Rifles aims to ensure that its veterans are not only remembered but also well-supported in their post-service lives.
