WION Edit: Rafale Lessons: National Security is greater than Politics

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defence minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier's right-wing Likud party said on Friday.

Naftali Bennett, who heads the New Right party, will take the defence portfolio from the right-wing Netanyahu, who has simultaneously served as premier and defence minister for nearly a year.

"The appointment will be brought to the government for approval at an upcoming government meeting," the Likud spokesman said in a statement.

Israeli politics is deadlocked after two inconclusive elections this year. Former military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party emerged neck and neck with Netanyahu following a September vote, and both leaders have struggled to put together a ruling coalition.

Gantz, who was asked by Israel's president to forge a coalition after Netanyahu failed to do so, has less than two weeks left to form a government.

If he fails, the country could be headed towards an unprecedented third election although a smaller party might be given a chance before that.

Netanyahu has led a caretaker government throughout the political turmoil.

Bennett previously served in Netanyahu's cabinet as education minister. A former settler leader, he advocates tough action against Palestinian militants in Gaza and unusual tactics towards Israel's arch-foe Iran and its proxy Hezbollah.

Netanyahu took over the defence portfolio following the resignation of then-chief Avigdor Lieberman, who in stepping down in November 2018 helped plunge the country towards snap elections in April.

Netanyahu and Bennett also agreed to form a parliamentary alliance, the Likud spokesman said, adding that Bennett agreed another person would be appointed defence chief if a unity government or narrow right-wing coalition is formed.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defence minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier's right-wing Likud party said on Friday.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu appointed the head of a far-right political party as defence minister of his caretaker government, a spokesman for the premier's right-wing Likud party said on Friday. Naftali Bennett, who heads the New Right party, will take the defence portfolio from the right-wing Netanyahu, who has simultaneously served as premier and defence minister for nearly a year. "The appointment will be brought to the government for approval at an upcoming government meeting," the Likud spokesman said in a statement. Israeli politics is deadlocked after two inconclusive elections this year. Former military chief Benny Gantz's centrist Blue and White party emerged neck and neck with Netanyahu following a September vote, and both leaders have struggled to put together a ruling coalition. Gantz, who was asked by Israel's president to forge a coalition after Netanyahu failed to do so, has less than two weeks left to form a government. If he fails, the country could be headed towards an unprecedented third election although a smaller party might be given a chance before that. Netanyahu has led a caretaker government throughout the political turmoil. Bennett previously served in Netanyahu's cabinet as education minister. A former settler leader, he advocates tough action against Palestinian militants in Gaza and unusual tactics towards Israel's arch-foe Iran and its proxy Hezbollah. Netanyahu took over the defence portfolio following the resignation of then-chief Avigdor Lieberman, who in stepping down in November 2018 helped plunge the country towards snap elections in April. Netanyahu and Bennett also agreed to form a parliamentary alliance, the Likud spokesman said, adding that Bennett agreed another person would be appointed defence chief if a unity government or narrow right-wing coalition is formed.

Israel's Netanyahu appoints far-right Bennett as defence minister

Defence experts PK Sehgal and Hemant Mahajan on Monday asserted that Pakistan is being undiplomatic by denying its airspace to Prime Minister Narendra Modi' flight and India has rightly complained about it to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

"Pakistan is a rogue nation. They don't believe in diplomatic courtesy. They don't adhere to any rules and regulation of ICAO. Pakistan ought to be punished," Sehgal told ANI.

"This move by Pakistan to deny airspace to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his movements is quite an undiplomatic act and India has rightly complained to ICAO. Pakistan is jealous of India's positive relationship with Saudi Arabia and therefore commits such undiplomatic acts. Saudi Arabia's biggest oil company Aramco is planning to open a centre on the western coast of India," Mahajan said.

As per media reports, Pakistan on October 27 turned down New Delhi's request for the use of its airspace for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia on October 28. Prime Minister Modi will be visiting Saudi Arabia to participate in an international business conference on October 29.

Pakistan had earlier also denied Prime Minister Modi access to its air space for his visit to the United States to attend the 74th UN General Assembly session on September 20.

Then Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had responded to Islamabad's unilateral actions, saying, "Pakistan should reflect upon its decision to deviate from well established international practice, as well as reconsider its old habit of misrepresenting the reasons for taking unilateral action.

Defence experts PK Sehgal and Hemant Mahajan on Monday asserted that Pakistan is being undiplomatic by denying its airspace to Prime Minister Narendra Modi' flight and India has rightly complained about it to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).

Defence experts PK Sehgal and Hemant Mahajan on Monday asserted that Pakistan is being undiplomatic by denying its airspace to Prime Minister Narendra Modi' flight and India has rightly complained about it to the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). "Pakistan is a rogue nation. They don't believe in diplomatic courtesy. They don't adhere to any rules and regulation of ICAO. Pakistan ought to be punished," Sehgal told ANI. "This move by Pakistan to deny airspace to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his movements is quite an undiplomatic act and India has rightly complained to ICAO. Pakistan is jealous of India's positive relationship with Saudi Arabia and therefore commits such undiplomatic acts. Saudi Arabia's biggest oil company Aramco is planning to open a centre on the western coast of India," Mahajan said. As per media reports, Pakistan on October 27 turned down New Delhi's request for the use of its airspace for Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Saudi Arabia on October 28. Prime Minister Modi will be visiting Saudi Arabia to participate in an international business conference on October 29. Pakistan had earlier also denied Prime Minister Modi access to its air space for his visit to the United States to attend the 74th UN General Assembly session on September 20. Then Indian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar had responded to Islamabad's unilateral actions, saying, "Pakistan should reflect upon its decision to deviate from well established international practice, as well as reconsider its old habit of misrepresenting the reasons for taking unilateral action.

India has rightly complained against Pakistan to ICAO: Defence experts

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Moscow intends to continue to assist African partners in tackling the contemporary challenges and problems, and will continue to support the desire of African states to conduct independent policies. Here are the key takeaways from the summit.&nbsp;

Trade

Putin called for doubling the Russia-Africa trade within the next 4-5 years and also announced plans to expand Russia's presence on the continent.

Investment in Africa

Russia is a "strong partner" who is welcomed to invest in Africa and help cover the continent’s needs totalling $2.1 trillion, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) President Benedict Oramah told Sputnik.

Trade financing

The Russian Export Center, VEB.RF state development corporation, Sberbank and GemCorpCapital LLP investment company have signed a $5 billion worth framework agreement for creating a mechanism of Russian-African trade financing, according to the document seen by Sputnik.

Nuclear energy

Russia and Ethiopia have signed an intergovernmental agreement in Sochi for cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom said.

Defence ties

Russia plans to deliver $4 billion worth of weapons to Africa in 2019, Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev told Sputnik.

Russia and Nigeria have signed a contract for deliveries of 12 Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters, Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation Deputy Director Anatoly Punchuk told Sputnik on Wednesday at the Russia-Africa forum.

"The contract has been signed, [for] 12 helicopters, the contract is being implemented," Punchuk said.

Nigerian Ambassador to Russia Steve Davies Ugbah earlier said in an interview with Sputnik that Russia had already delivered six Mi-35M attack helicopters to Nigeria under the contract, while the ways of securing the delivery of the remaining six were being discussed.

Tackling challenges

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Russia intends to continue to assist African partners in tackling the contemporary challenges and problems, and will continue to support the desire of African states to conduct independent policies.

"We intend to continue to fully assist the efforts of our African partners aimed at resolving local crises, countering terrorism and extremism, cross-border crime and drug trafficking, as well as other challenges and security threats," Putin said at a reception in honour of the participants of the Russia-Africa summit.

The Russia-Africa summit and business forum, co-chaired by the presidents of Russia and Egypt, kicked off on Wednesday in Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi. Over 40 African nations are represented by heads of state or government at the summit, while 11 others sent their vice presidents, foreign ministers or ambassadors. 
&nbsp;

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Moscow intends to continue to assist African partners in tackling the contemporary challenges and problems, and will continue to support the desire of African states to conduct independent policies.

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Moscow intends to continue to assist African partners in tackling the contemporary challenges and problems, and will continue to support the desire of African states to conduct independent policies. Here are the key takeaways from the summit. Trade Putin called for doubling the Russia-Africa trade within the next 4-5 years and also announced plans to expand Russia's presence on the continent. Investment in Africa Russia is a "strong partner" who is welcomed to invest in Africa and help cover the continent’s needs totalling $2.1 trillion, African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) President Benedict Oramah told Sputnik. Trade financing The Russian Export Center, VEB.RF state development corporation, Sberbank and GemCorpCapital LLP investment company have signed a $5 billion worth framework agreement for creating a mechanism of Russian-African trade financing, according to the document seen by Sputnik. Nuclear energy Russia and Ethiopia have signed an intergovernmental agreement in Sochi for cooperation on the peaceful use of nuclear energy, Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom said. Defence ties Russia plans to deliver $4 billion worth of weapons to Africa in 2019, Rosoboronexport Director General Alexander Mikheev told Sputnik. Russia and Nigeria have signed a contract for deliveries of 12 Russian Mi-35 attack helicopters, Russian Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation Deputy Director Anatoly Punchuk told Sputnik on Wednesday at the Russia-Africa forum. "The contract has been signed, [for] 12 helicopters, the contract is being implemented," Punchuk said. Nigerian Ambassador to Russia Steve Davies Ugbah earlier said in an interview with Sputnik that Russia had already delivered six Mi-35M attack helicopters to Nigeria under the contract, while the ways of securing the delivery of the remaining six were being discussed. Tackling challenges Russian President Vladimir Putin said Wednesday that Russia intends to continue to assist African partners in tackling the contemporary challenges and problems, and will continue to support the desire of African states to conduct independent policies. "We intend to continue to fully assist the efforts of our African partners aimed at resolving local crises, countering terrorism and extremism, cross-border crime and drug trafficking, as well as other challenges and security threats," Putin said at a reception in honour of the participants of the Russia-Africa summit. The Russia-Africa summit and business forum, co-chaired by the presidents of Russia and Egypt, kicked off on Wednesday in Russia's Black Sea resort of Sochi. Over 40 African nations are represented by heads of state or government at the summit, while 11 others sent their vice presidents, foreign ministers or ambassadors.

From trade, defence to nuclear energy: Key takeaways from Russia-Africa Forum

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-south-korea-must-present-new-solutions-for-conflict-north-korea-257194">Seoul would increase military spending</a> and urged the North to return to dialogue in a budget speech Tuesday that could infuriate Pyongyang with nuclear talks gridlocked.

Contact between North and South Korea stalled after the collapse of a February summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump in Hanoi.

Since then Pyongyang has excoriated its neighbour over joint military drills with the US, and the acquisition of American fighter jets.

It is a far cry from the cross-border warmth of last year when Moon seized on the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics to broker the North-South discussion process and held three summits himself with Kim.

South Korea will increase defence spending by seven per cent to more than $42 billion&nbsp;next year, Moon told parliament, emphasising that "strong defence" was crucial for "self-determination".

"We will strengthen the core defence system by boosting assets such as next-generation submarines and surveillance satellites."

The announcement came after North Korea this month tested what it said was a submarine-launched ballistic missile that marked a "new phase" in its capabilities -- the most provocative in a series of weapons tests it resumed after an 18-month hiatus.

North Korea is under multiple sets of UN sanctions over its nuclear and missile programmes.

Pyongyang and Washington restarted working-level talks in Sweden this month only for them to quickly break down, with the North blaming the US for not giving up its "old attitude" and setting the end of this year as the deadline for Washington to change its stance.

It has also said it has nothing more to talk about with Seoul and condemned joint South Korea-US drills and the deployment of F-35A fighter jets in the South as&nbsp;rehearsals for invasion and violations of Seoul-Pyongyang agreements.

But Moon,&nbsp;who has long championed engagement with Pyongyang, held out hope for a breakthrough despite the setbacks, claiming that the deadlocked talks were the "last hurdle" before denuclearisation.

A "bright future" for the North would only be possible on the basis of a "peace economy" driven by inter-Korean economic projects, he said. "I urge the North to respond."

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said Seoul would increase military spending and urged the North to return to dialogue in a budget speech Tuesday that could infuriate Pyongyang with nuclear talks gridlocked.

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in said Seoul would increase military spending and urged the North to return to dialogue in a budget speech Tuesday that could infuriate Pyongyang with nuclear talks gridlocked. Contact between North and South Korea stalled after the collapse of a February summit between North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and US President Donald Trump in Hanoi. Since then Pyongyang has excoriated its neighbour over joint military drills with the US, and the acquisition of American fighter jets. It is a far cry from the cross-border warmth of last year when Moon seized on the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics to broker the North-South discussion process and held three summits himself with Kim. South Korea will increase defence spending by seven per cent to more than $42 billion next year, Moon told parliament, emphasising that "strong defence" was crucial for "self-determination". "We will strengthen the core defence system by boosting assets such as next-generation submarines and surveillance satellites." The announcement came after North Korea this month tested what it said was a submarine-launched ballistic missile that marked a "new phase" in its capabilities -- the most provocative in a series of weapons tests it resumed after an 18-month hiatus. North Korea is under multiple sets of UN sanctions over its nuclear and missile programmes. Pyongyang and Washington restarted working-level talks in Sweden this month only for them to quickly break down, with the North blaming the US for not giving up its "old attitude" and setting the end of this year as the deadline for Washington to change its stance. It has also said it has nothing more to talk about with Seoul and condemned joint South Korea-US drills and the deployment of F-35A fighter jets in the South as rehearsals for invasion and violations of Seoul-Pyongyang agreements. But Moon, who has long championed engagement with Pyongyang, held out hope for a breakthrough despite the setbacks, claiming that the deadlocked talks were the "last hurdle" before denuclearisation. A "bright future" for the North would only be possible on the basis of a "peace economy" driven by inter-Korean economic projects, he said. "I urge the North to respond."

South Korea's Moon ups defence spending, urges North to talk

The Defence Ministry on Monday cleared acquisitions worth over Rs 3,300 crore for the Indian Army including Made in India anti-tank guided missiles for taking out enemy tanks.

The defence acquisition council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved three projects to design, develop and manufacture defence equipment by private companies in India in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi government`s flagship initiative -- `Make in India`.

The projects include manufacturing of the third generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM), Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for T-72 and T-90 Tanks. The third project pertains to discrete Electronic Warfare (EW) systems for the mountain and high altitude terrain.

The EW system would be designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by a design-cum-production partner from the Indian industry, the government said.

While the third-generation ATGM would provide "fire and forget" and "top attack" capabilities to the troops in an armoured battle, the APUs would enable the incorporation of various upgrades to Fire Control System and Night Fighting capabilities of the Tanks.

"Both the projects will be progressed under the `Make-II` Category and will provide a boost to indigenous research and development in the private sector," according to an official release.

The Ministry of Defence, the release said, has offered complex military equipment to be designed, developed and manufactured by the Indian private industry for the first time.

Last month, the council approved proposals for capital procurement of approximately Rs 2,000 crore including indigenous production of special ammunition for T-72/T-90 tanks to increase the capacity of the Army to penetrate enemy armour.&nbsp;

The Defence Ministry on Monday cleared acquisitions worth over Rs 3,300 crore for the Indian Army including Made in India anti-tank guided missiles for taking out enemy tanks.

The Defence Ministry on Monday cleared acquisitions worth over Rs 3,300 crore for the Indian Army including Made in India anti-tank guided missiles for taking out enemy tanks. The defence acquisition council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, approved three projects to design, develop and manufacture defence equipment by private companies in India in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi government`s flagship initiative -- `Make in India`. The projects include manufacturing of the third generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM), Auxiliary Power Units (APUs) for T-72 and T-90 Tanks. The third project pertains to discrete Electronic Warfare (EW) systems for the mountain and high altitude terrain. The EW system would be designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by a design-cum-production partner from the Indian industry, the government said. While the third-generation ATGM would provide "fire and forget" and "top attack" capabilities to the troops in an armoured battle, the APUs would enable the incorporation of various upgrades to Fire Control System and Night Fighting capabilities of the Tanks. "Both the projects will be progressed under the `Make-II` Category and will provide a boost to indigenous research and development in the private sector," according to an official release. The Ministry of Defence, the release said, has offered complex military equipment to be designed, developed and manufactured by the Indian private industry for the first time. Last month, the council approved proposals for capital procurement of approximately Rs 2,000 crore including indigenous production of special ammunition for T-72/T-90 tanks to increase the capacity of the Army to penetrate enemy armour.

Defence Ministry clears Rs 3,300 crore acquisitions including anti-tank missiles

After fresh intelligence inputs suggested that a group of terrorists from Pakistan has infiltrated into India, defence bases in Punjab and Jammu area have been placed on high alert.

"The defence bases in and around Punjab and Jammu are on high alert. The Indian Air Force has put its airbases in Punjab including Pathankot and Jammu on orange alert," government sources said.

"The inputs were received by forces today morning after which they are taking all precautions to protect the defence bases," they said.

A few days ago, the bases were on high alert but the alert levels were brought down a couple of days later, they said.

There have been reports of a possible terror attack on major defence facilities since August 5 when the Centre moved to abrogate Article 370 that granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Late last month, intelligence agencies had issued a warning against a module of eight to ten Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists. The input suggests that the terror group may possibly try to carry out a suicide attack against air force bases in and around Jammu and Kashmir.

After fresh intelligence inputs suggested that a group of terrorists from Pakistan has infiltrated into India, defence bases in Punjab and Jammu area have been placed on high alert.

After fresh intelligence inputs suggested that a group of terrorists from Pakistan has infiltrated into India, defence bases in Punjab and Jammu area have been placed on high alert. "The defence bases in and around Punjab and Jammu are on high alert. The Indian Air Force has put its airbases in Punjab including Pathankot and Jammu on orange alert," government sources said. "The inputs were received by forces today morning after which they are taking all precautions to protect the defence bases," they said. A few days ago, the bases were on high alert but the alert levels were brought down a couple of days later, they said. There have been reports of a possible terror attack on major defence facilities since August 5 when the Centre moved to abrogate Article 370 that granted a special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Late last month, intelligence agencies had issued a warning against a module of eight to ten Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists. The input suggests that the terror group may possibly try to carry out a suicide attack against air force bases in and around Jammu and Kashmir.

Defence bases in Punjab, Jammu on orange alert after fresh intelligence input of terror attack

At a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is batting for indigenisation, the Force is planning to acquire the new 21 MiG-29 fighters from Russia and equip them with indigenous weapon systems such as the Astra air. 
 
"The proposal for the acquisition of 21 MiG-29s would be placed before the Defence Acquisition Council soon. The IAF wants the MiG-29s to be of the upgraded MiG-29s that are already in service," defence sources told ANI. 
 
"The IAF also wants that the aircraft should be equipped with the Indian weapon systems including the Astra missiles," they said. 
 
The sources said there are other indigenous equipment and weapons which would be integrated with the aircraft once the deal comes through. 
 
The MiG-29s now have a new airframe and had been lying unused in Russia. 
 
The push for promoting indigenous weapons has come at a time when IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria has made it clear that the force will fully back indigenisation efforts such as the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and the fifth Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. 
 
The IAF had carried out a study to check if the airframes of the MiG-29s on offer were good enough for it to operate for a long time. 
 
MiG-29s are flown by the IAF and the pilots are familiar with it but the ones offered by the Russians are different from the ones in the Indian inventory. 
 
The Indian Navy also operates the MiG-29 'K' and is the only operator of this version of the plane. It is having a rough experience with the planes which are difficult to maintain and their settings change immediately after they land on the aircraft carrier. 
 
The IAF has three squadrons of the MiG-29s which have been undergoing upgrades for extended life and are considered to be very good planes in the air defence roles.

At a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is batting for indigenisation, the Force is planning to acquire the new 21 MiG-29 fighters from Russia and equip them with indigenous weapon systems such as the Astra air.

At a time when the Indian Air Force (IAF) is batting for indigenisation, the Force is planning to acquire the new 21 MiG-29 fighters from Russia and equip them with indigenous weapon systems such as the Astra air. "The proposal for the acquisition of 21 MiG-29s would be placed before the Defence Acquisition Council soon. The IAF wants the MiG-29s to be of the upgraded MiG-29s that are already in service," defence sources told ANI. "The IAF also wants that the aircraft should be equipped with the Indian weapon systems including the Astra missiles," they said. The sources said there are other indigenous equipment and weapons which would be integrated with the aircraft once the deal comes through. The MiG-29s now have a new airframe and had been lying unused in Russia. The push for promoting indigenous weapons has come at a time when IAF Chief RKS Bhadauria has made it clear that the force will fully back indigenisation efforts such as the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas and the fifth Generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft programme. The IAF had carried out a study to check if the airframes of the MiG-29s on offer were good enough for it to operate for a long time. MiG-29s are flown by the IAF and the pilots are familiar with it but the ones offered by the Russians are different from the ones in the Indian inventory. The Indian Navy also operates the MiG-29 'K' and is the only operator of this version of the plane. It is having a rough experience with the planes which are difficult to maintain and their settings change immediately after they land on the aircraft carrier. The IAF has three squadrons of the MiG-29s which have been undergoing upgrades for extended life and are considered to be very good planes in the air defence roles.

IAF wants new MiG-29s to be equipped with indigenous weapons

Air Force Day 2019: Indian Air Force celebrates 87th anniversary

The Royal Australian Navy commenced its largest deployment of 2019, with the new Air Warfare Destroyer HMAS Hobart leading a nine-ship task group out of Sydney on Thursday (September 26).

Australia's newest navy destroyer 'Hobart' departs for Asia deployment

Saudi Arabia Deploys American-Made Patriot Defence System. But Has The System Failed To Prevent The Attacks On Oil Facilities?

Gravitas: Saudi Arabia spends billions on Defence, But why can't it protect its assets?

India and South Korea on Friday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart with an aim to intensify defence cooperation between the two countries.

"The ministers exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest. Two MoUs to further defence educational exchanges and extend logistical support to each other's navies were signed. These agreements will help enhance defence cooperation between India-Republic of Korea," the Office of Raksha Mantri (Ministry of Defence) tweeted.

Earlier in the day, the Defence Minister held bilateral talks with his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-Doo where they reviewed defence cooperation between both countries.

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Republic of Korea: Defence Min Rajnath Singh had official talks with Jeong Kyeong-Doo, Min of National Defence of Republic of Korea. Also, two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, to further defence educational exchanges&amp;extend logistical support to each other’s navies <a href="https://t.co/nMzGZ3k7VS">pic.twitter.com/nMzGZ3k7VS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1169818118656380931?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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During the meeting, both sides agreed that there was great potential to further boost defence ties.

"The Ministers noted that defence cooperation lies at the heart of the special strategic partnership between India and the ROK. They discussed the ongoing cooperation at Service to Service level and prospects for enhanced cooperation between India and Korea defence industries," the Ministry added.Singh is currently on a three-day visit to South Korea since Wednesday with an aim to intensify bilateral defence and security relations.

India is developing strong military hardware cooperation with South Korea as the Indian Army has already inducted the K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers (which has roots in South Korea's K-9 Thunder) built in partnership with the Indian firm Larsen and Toubro.&nbsp;

 
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India and South Korea on Friday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart with an aim to intensify defence cooperation between the two countries.

India and South Korea on Friday signed two Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his counterpart with an aim to intensify defence cooperation between the two countries. "The ministers exchanged views on regional and international developments of mutual interest. Two MoUs to further defence educational exchanges and extend logistical support to each other's navies were signed. These agreements will help enhance defence cooperation between India-Republic of Korea," the Office of Raksha Mantri (Ministry of Defence) tweeted. Earlier in the day, the Defence Minister held bilateral talks with his South Korean counterpart Jeong Kyeong-Doo where they reviewed defence cooperation between both countries. Republic of Korea: Defence Min Rajnath Singh had official talks with Jeong Kyeong-Doo, Min of National Defence of Republic of Korea. Also, two Memorandum of Understanding (MoUs) were signed, to further defence educational exchanges&extend logistical support to each other’s navies pic.twitter.com/nMzGZ3k7VS — ANI (@ANI) September 6, 2019 × During the meeting, both sides agreed that there was great potential to further boost defence ties. "The Ministers noted that defence cooperation lies at the heart of the special strategic partnership between India and the ROK. They discussed the ongoing cooperation at Service to Service level and prospects for enhanced cooperation between India and Korea defence industries," the Ministry added.Singh is currently on a three-day visit to South Korea since Wednesday with an aim to intensify bilateral defence and security relations. India is developing strong military hardware cooperation with South Korea as the Indian Army has already inducted the K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers (which has roots in South Korea's K-9 Thunder) built in partnership with the Indian firm Larsen and Toubro.

India, South Korea ink 2 MoUs to boost defence cooperation

A joint military exercise, Yudh Abhyas, between India and the US has commenced at Joint Base Lewis McChord near Washington DC.

Yudh Abhyas 2019, which started on Thursday, will continue till September 18.

"The exercise is one of the biggest joint military exercise and defence corporation endeavours between India and the USA," an Army spokesperson said.

This is the 15th edition of `Yudh Abhyas`, which is hosted alternately between the two countries.The 14th edition of the exercise, Yudh Abhyas 2018, was hosted by India in Uttarakhand.&nbsp;

A joint military exercise, Yudh Abhyas, between India and the US has commenced at Joint Base Lewis McChord near Washington DC. Yudh Abhyas 2019, which started on Thursday, will continue till September 18.

A joint military exercise, Yudh Abhyas, between India and the US has commenced at Joint Base Lewis McChord near Washington DC. Yudh Abhyas 2019, which started on Thursday, will continue till September 18. "The exercise is one of the biggest joint military exercise and defence corporation endeavours between India and the USA," an Army spokesperson said. This is the 15th edition of `Yudh Abhyas`, which is hosted alternately between the two countries.The 14th edition of the exercise, Yudh Abhyas 2018, was hosted by India in Uttarakhand.

Yudh Abhyas 2019: India-USA begin joint military exercise

The Army has inked a multi-year, $347 million deal to develop a new class of long-range precision strike missiles as part of a broader US effort to develop hypersonic weapons, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/f-21-will-give-india-significant-edge-with-greater-standoff-capability-lockheed-martin-211145">Lockheed Martin</a> announced in a press release on Friday.

"As the prime contractor for the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) systems integration project, the Lockheed Martin-team will develop and integrate a land-based hypersonic strike prototype in partnership with the Army Hypersonic Project Office," the release said.

The release disclosed a separate $352 Army contract for Dynetics Technical Solutions (DTS) to produce the first commercially manufactured set of Common-Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB) systems.

DTS is one of a handful of US defense contractors that will work with Lockheed Martin on the project, the release said.

Both Russia and China are believed to be well ahead of the US in developing a new class of weapons that can fly up to 20 times the speed of sound, according to US officials.

In February, Russian President Vladimir Putin compared the development of the Russia’s Avangard hypersonic missile system to the launch of the first satellite in an address to Parliament.

Putin also said that jets carrying Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missiles had successfully demonstrated their unique characteristics during field testing.

The speed of hypersonic weapons makes them almost impossible to detect and destroy with existing missile defense technology.

The Army has inked a multi-year, $347 million deal to develop a new class of long-range precision strike missiles as part of a broader US effort to develop hypersonic weapons, Lockheed Martin announced in a press release on Friday.

The Army has inked a multi-year, $347 million deal to develop a new class of long-range precision strike missiles as part of a broader US effort to develop hypersonic weapons, Lockheed Martin announced in a press release on Friday. "As the prime contractor for the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) systems integration project, the Lockheed Martin-team will develop and integrate a land-based hypersonic strike prototype in partnership with the Army Hypersonic Project Office," the release said. The release disclosed a separate $352 Army contract for Dynetics Technical Solutions (DTS) to produce the first commercially manufactured set of Common-Hypersonic Glide Body (C-HGB) systems. DTS is one of a handful of US defense contractors that will work with Lockheed Martin on the project, the release said. Both Russia and China are believed to be well ahead of the US in developing a new class of weapons that can fly up to 20 times the speed of sound, according to US officials. In February, Russian President Vladimir Putin compared the development of the Russia’s Avangard hypersonic missile system to the launch of the first satellite in an address to Parliament. Putin also said that jets carrying Kinzhal (Dagger) hypersonic missiles had successfully demonstrated their unique characteristics during field testing. The speed of hypersonic weapons makes them almost impossible to detect and destroy with existing missile defense technology.

Lockheed Martin wins $347 million US army deal for hypersonic strike missile development

Here's A Report That Charts The Evolution Of Defence Ties Between China & Pakistan

Gravitas: Defence Ties between China & Pakistan: A Brief History

In the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2019, the first of this two-part series focused on the initiation of the Kargil conflict.

In this concluding part, I intend to bring to the public some aspects of conflict progression, the constraints on the Indian Army to clear the intrusion and, briefly, where we stand today with reference to a potential repeat of Kargil.

The relatively slow response in May 1999 towards the expulsion of the intrusion was due to the lack of intelligence on the actual spread and magnitude of the intrusion. &nbsp;

In the mountains at higher altitudes, small infantry forces merge well with scraggy peaks and unless probing actions actually get into contact with intruding elements, it is difficult to ascertain the extent of ingress. &nbsp;&nbsp;

There were gaps in the defences and with vacated winter posts yet unoccupied by the Indian Army, the exercise to ascertain the frontage and exact locations was a challenge. &nbsp;

The IAF activated and flew a number of missions, but found determination of pinpoint targets difficult due to heights it had to fly at to avoid Pakistani shoulder-fired missiles. &nbsp;

Shortly thereafter came the restriction preventing both the army and the IAF from crossing the LoC. The implication was that the IAF had to fly parallel to the LoC while the Army’s operations could not plan to adopt rear, and sometimes even flanking approaches, to reach the occupied heights, which stood at 16,000 to 18,000 feet. &nbsp;

Troops had to be redeployed from the Kashmir Valley; in fact the entire 8 Mountain Division had to disengage from the counter-terror grid, acclimatise the troops and be prepared for high-altitude assault. &nbsp;

This is one of the most hazardous operations infantrymen ever undertake, having to climb 6,000 to 7,000 feet from the Dras-Mashkoh valley floor to reach their objectives. &nbsp;

Each assault by a company of 80-100 men took the better part of a week or more to attain even a modicum of success with the threat of a counterattack always present. &nbsp;

En route they suffered severe privations, very limited logistical support and heavy casualties. Higher attrition occurred due to the decision not to cross the LoC and it remains a point of debate whether anything was achieved by this. &nbsp;

At higher diplomatic levels, it helped in securing international recognition of India’s sense of responsibility and perhaps put Pakistan on the mat. &nbsp;

That helped in the US decision to force Pakistan to vacate the territory not yet cleared by the Indian Army. Some may argue that it saved many more casualties that Indian Army may have suffered, if it had to recapture every single occupied post.

What needs to be remembered is that this was not a war fought by individual arms or services of the army. Logistics played a major role and the decisions to deploy 100 artillery guns for each battalion assault, along with direct firing by Bofors guns, were all game changers. It was the collective contribution of the Army and IAF, which ensured victory for the Indian forces. &nbsp;

At another level, the failure of the Pakistan Army to collect their dead, feigning that they were freedom fighters, left the Indian Army on a higher moral plane. Honourable burial of the enemy’s dead followed with full honours due to them.

The state of preparedness of the Indian Army to fight such a war was actually abysmal. Kargil was a relatively low priority sector with assessment of potential employment of just a brigade by Pakistan in the eventuality of a full-scale war. &nbsp;

That would have had different implications. A standalone operation is something else. Military wherewithal had to be collected from different locations and flown to Kargil, reserve formations had to move and acclimatise the troops. &nbsp;

All the while, the footprint of Pakistan-sponsored terror in Kashmir Valley and Jammu was increasing, taking full advantage of the attention focused on Kargil.

One of the earliest decisions after the conflict was to curtail the Srinagar-based 15 Corps’ responsibility to the area between Zojila and Jawahar Tunnel and hand over operational responsibility of Ladakh, including Kargil, to the newly raised Headquarters 14 Corps. &nbsp;

The Kargil Review Committee was set up as a consequence of the admission that all was not well with national security. The Committee did yeoman service with its recommendations and a Group of Ministers (GoM) was set up to examine the recommendations. &nbsp;&nbsp;

It’s unfortunate that even with as big a trigger as Kargil 1999, the implementation of identified recommendations of the GoM were never implemented in letter and spirit. Half-baked measures such as creation of HQ Integrated Defence Staff as against an integrated Ministry of Defence were made. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Eighteen years down the line it has not happened. The fast-track acquisitions processed by the government in 1999-2001 have never been replicated and Indian troops yet fight with the same rifles they fought with in 1999. &nbsp;

India is definitely better equipped to handle crises of the Kargil type but no adversary repeats his strategy. It will be another plan and another place. National security capability demands a holistic ability to assess what, where and how an adversary may target India’s security. It also demands rapid response and appropriate capability to give our forces a more than equal chance to prevent the adversary achieving his aim. &nbsp;

All this can at no time be at levels of hundred per cent readiness, but optimisation is always possible and that is what we should be focused upon, without turfs and without personalities. &nbsp;

It has to be an institutional approach, the start point of which is surely a National Security Strategy paper from the government followed by a serious debate in Parliament.

 
(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-kargil-99-conflict-termination-2775761">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

In the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2019, the first of this two-part series focused on the initiation of the Kargil conflict.

In the run-up to the 20th anniversary of Kargil Vijay Diwas on July 26, 2019, the first of this two-part series focused on the initiation of the Kargil conflict. In this concluding part, I intend to bring to the public some aspects of conflict progression, the constraints on the Indian Army to clear the intrusion and, briefly, where we stand today with reference to a potential repeat of Kargil. The relatively slow response in May 1999 towards the expulsion of the intrusion was due to the lack of intelligence on the actual spread and magnitude of the intrusion. In the mountains at higher altitudes, small infantry forces merge well with scraggy peaks and unless probing actions actually get into contact with intruding elements, it is difficult to ascertain the extent of ingress. There were gaps in the defences and with vacated winter posts yet unoccupied by the Indian Army, the exercise to ascertain the frontage and exact locations was a challenge. The IAF activated and flew a number of missions, but found determination of pinpoint targets difficult due to heights it had to fly at to avoid Pakistani shoulder-fired missiles. Shortly thereafter came the restriction preventing both the army and the IAF from crossing the LoC. The implication was that the IAF had to fly parallel to the LoC while the Army’s operations could not plan to adopt rear, and sometimes even flanking approaches, to reach the occupied heights, which stood at 16,000 to 18,000 feet. Troops had to be redeployed from the Kashmir Valley; in fact the entire 8 Mountain Division had to disengage from the counter-terror grid, acclimatise the troops and be prepared for high-altitude assault. This is one of the most hazardous operations infantrymen ever undertake, having to climb 6,000 to 7,000 feet from the Dras-Mashkoh valley floor to reach their objectives. Each assault by a company of 80-100 men took the better part of a week or more to attain even a modicum of success with the threat of a counterattack always present. En route they suffered severe privations, very limited logistical support and heavy casualties. Higher attrition occurred due to the decision not to cross the LoC and it remains a point of debate whether anything was achieved by this. At higher diplomatic levels, it helped in securing international recognition of India’s sense of responsibility and perhaps put Pakistan on the mat. That helped in the US decision to force Pakistan to vacate the territory not yet cleared by the Indian Army. Some may argue that it saved many more casualties that Indian Army may have suffered, if it had to recapture every single occupied post. What needs to be remembered is that this was not a war fought by individual arms or services of the army. Logistics played a major role and the decisions to deploy 100 artillery guns for each battalion assault, along with direct firing by Bofors guns, were all game changers. It was the collective contribution of the Army and IAF, which ensured victory for the Indian forces. At another level, the failure of the Pakistan Army to collect their dead, feigning that they were freedom fighters, left the Indian Army on a higher moral plane. Honourable burial of the enemy’s dead followed with full honours due to them. The state of preparedness of the Indian Army to fight such a war was actually abysmal. Kargil was a relatively low priority sector with assessment of potential employment of just a brigade by Pakistan in the eventuality of a full-scale war. That would have had different implications. A standalone operation is something else. Military wherewithal had to be collected from different locations and flown to Kargil, reserve formations had to move and acclimatise the troops. All the while, the footprint of Pakistan-sponsored terror in Kashmir Valley and Jammu was increasing, taking full advantage of the attention focused on Kargil. One of the earliest decisions after the conflict was to curtail the Srinagar-based 15 Corps’ responsibility to the area between Zojila and Jawahar Tunnel and hand over operational responsibility of Ladakh, including Kargil, to the newly raised Headquarters 14 Corps. The Kargil Review Committee was set up as a consequence of the admission that all was not well with national security. The Committee did yeoman service with its recommendations and a Group of Ministers (GoM) was set up to examine the recommendations. It’s unfortunate that even with as big a trigger as Kargil 1999, the implementation of identified recommendations of the GoM were never implemented in letter and spirit. Half-baked measures such as creation of HQ Integrated Defence Staff as against an integrated Ministry of Defence were made. Eighteen years down the line it has not happened. The fast-track acquisitions processed by the government in 1999-2001 have never been replicated and Indian troops yet fight with the same rifles they fought with in 1999. India is definitely better equipped to handle crises of the Kargil type but no adversary repeats his strategy. It will be another plan and another place. National security capability demands a holistic ability to assess what, where and how an adversary may target India’s security. It also demands rapid response and appropriate capability to give our forces a more than equal chance to prevent the adversary achieving his aim. All this can at no time be at levels of hundred per cent readiness, but optimisation is always possible and that is what we should be focused upon, without turfs and without personalities. It has to be an institutional approach, the start point of which is surely a National Security Strategy paper from the government followed by a serious debate in Parliament. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Kargil Vijay Diwas: Institutional approach is needed in defence preparedness

Trump has issued orders to build a space force. U.S space command will oversee defence in space. China quickly catching up in space missions. China has tested space weaponry multiple times. Watch this video to know more.

China flexes its muscles in space

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman enhanced the defence budget marginally but exempted defence imports from custom duties which will help the services save around Rs 25,000 crore annually.

"In a significant development, import of Defence Equipment not manufactured in India has been exempted from Basic Customs Duty. This will have an impact of augmenting the Defence Budget by approximately Rs 25,000 crore on account of savings in expenditure on Customs Duty over the next five years," the Defence Ministry said.

Rs 3,18,931.22 crore has been earmarked for Defence excluding Defence Pensions. For Defence Pension, an amount of Rs 1,12,079.57 crore has been provided in Budget Estimate 2019-20.

Taking into account both the budget and pensions, the allocation for defence comes to Rs 4,31,010.79 crore.

The allocation for Defence accounts for 15.47 per cent of the total Central Government expenditure for the Financial Year 2019-20.

"The allocation of Rs 3,18,931.22 crore represents a growth of 7.93 per cent over Budget Estimates (2,95,511.41 crore) and 6.87 per cent over Revised Estimates (Rs 2,98,418.72 crore), respectively for the Financial Year 2018-19," the ministry said.

Out of Rs 3,18,931.22 crore allocated for the Financial Year 2019-20, Rs 2,10,682.42 crore is for Revenue (expenditure meaning for paying salaries and maintaining g existing inventory while Rs 1,08,248.80 crore have been given for Capital expenditure for the Defence Services and the Organisations/Departments under Ministry of Defence.

The amount of Rs 1,08,248.80 crore allocated for Capital expenditure, includes modernisation related expenditure.

The Capital Allocation of Ministry of Defence under BE 2019-20 is 31.97 per cent of the total Central Government Capital Expenditure, which is Rs 3,38,569 crore.&nbsp;

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman enhanced the defence budget marginally but exempted defence imports from custom duties which will help the services save around Rs 25,000 crore annually.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman enhanced the defence budget marginally but exempted defence imports from custom duties which will help the services save around Rs 25,000 crore annually. "In a significant development, import of Defence Equipment not manufactured in India has been exempted from Basic Customs Duty. This will have an impact of augmenting the Defence Budget by approximately Rs 25,000 crore on account of savings in expenditure on Customs Duty over the next five years," the Defence Ministry said. Rs 3,18,931.22 crore has been earmarked for Defence excluding Defence Pensions. For Defence Pension, an amount of Rs 1,12,079.57 crore has been provided in Budget Estimate 2019-20. Taking into account both the budget and pensions, the allocation for defence comes to Rs 4,31,010.79 crore. The allocation for Defence accounts for 15.47 per cent of the total Central Government expenditure for the Financial Year 2019-20. "The allocation of Rs 3,18,931.22 crore represents a growth of 7.93 per cent over Budget Estimates (2,95,511.41 crore) and 6.87 per cent over Revised Estimates (Rs 2,98,418.72 crore), respectively for the Financial Year 2018-19," the ministry said. Out of Rs 3,18,931.22 crore allocated for the Financial Year 2019-20, Rs 2,10,682.42 crore is for Revenue (expenditure meaning for paying salaries and maintaining g existing inventory while Rs 1,08,248.80 crore have been given for Capital expenditure for the Defence Services and the Organisations/Departments under Ministry of Defence. The amount of Rs 1,08,248.80 crore allocated for Capital expenditure, includes modernisation related expenditure. The Capital Allocation of Ministry of Defence under BE 2019-20 is 31.97 per cent of the total Central Government Capital Expenditure, which is Rs 3,38,569 crore.

Customs duty exemption to help defence forces save Rs 25,000 crore annually: Defence Ministry

The armies of India and Myanmar carried out a three-week-long coordinated operation from May 16 in their respective border areas, targeting several militant groups operating in Manipur, Nagaland and Assam, defence sources said on Sunday.

India, Myanmar armies target militants of north-eastern states in coordinated operation

The 53rd edition of the Paris Air Show is set to open its doors on Monday (June 17) amid safety concerns, trade wars and growing security tensions in the Gulf dampening spirits at the world's largest planemakers as they arrive for this week's gathering with little to celebrate despite bulging order books.

Boeing crisis, trade tensions to cast pall over Paris Air Show

PM Modi will address Maldives Parliament and he will also meet top leaders.PM Modi will also attend surveillance radar system. Watch this video to know more.

Maldives: Big Push For Neighbourhood First Policy

Maldives: Packed Saturday Evening For PM Modi

Maldives: Bilateral With Maldivian President Soon

Red Carpet Welcome For PM Modi in Maldives

PM Modi's first foreign trip in second term to Maldives

Defence, Cricket & Export will be PM Modi's top agenda as he embarks on first Bilateral Visit to Maldives. Watch full video to know more.

Defence, Cricket & Export on PM Modi's agenda as he embarks on first Bilateral Visit to Maldives

The United States is "playing with fire" with its support for self-ruled Taiwan, China said on Thursday, in angry comments ahead of a meeting between Defence Minister Wei Fenghe and acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

The two countries, locked in an escalating trade war, are also at odds over a series of strategic issues, from the disputed South China Sea to democratic Taiwan, claimed by China as its sacred territory, to be taken by force if needed.

Wei and Shanahan - who on his first day as acting defence secretary in January said the US military would focus on "China, China, China" - are both attending the annual Shangri-La defence forum in Singapore which begins on Friday, where they are expected to meet.

China has been particularly incensed by recent U.S. Navy patrols in the Taiwan Strait, US&nbsp;legislation in support of Taiwan and a meeting between Taiwan`s national security chief David Lee and White House national security adviser John Bolton.

Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian described military ties between Beijing and Washington as generally good.&nbsp;

But he took a much darker tone when asked about US support for Taiwan, an issue China has long described as the most sensitive in relations between the two countries.

"Recently, the US sides has been continually playing the `Taiwan card`, trying in futile to `use Taiwan to control China`. This is deluded," Wu said.

"The series of actions the US side has taken is playing with fire, seriously harms the development of military relations between China and the United States, and seriously harms peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait area."

Taiwan`s air, sea and land forces conducted an exercise to repel an invading force on Thursday, as its defence minister pledged to defend the island against what it sees as China`s rising military threat.

Washington has no formal ties with Taipei, but is its most important international supporter and main supplier of arms.

A senior US&nbsp;defence official said the fact that Shanahan was going to the Shangri-la dialogue during a period of tension with Iran was a sign that the United States was committed to the region and its allies.&nbsp;

During a meeting with Wei, Shanahan is expected to bring up better communication between the two militaries to avoid the risk of miscalculation, the US official said.

While Wei will likely tackle the Sino-US trade dispute and the hardening Trump administration approaches to Taiwan and the South China Sea, Asian states will be looking for calming messages, according to security experts and regional diplomats.&nbsp;

"Regional countries will be expecting reassurances that China`s intentions are in fact peaceful given its growing military might," said Singapore-based regional security analyst Ian Storey. Storey, of Singapore`s ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute, said Wei must also speak to his domestic constituents, given the fact his address and a rare question-and-answer session are expected to be shown prominently in China.

"In the current environment maybe they won`t want him to be too accommodating. He can be expected to blame the US&nbsp;for growing tensions in the South China Sea and there is no way he is going to admit that China is part of the problem."

The United States is "playing with fire" with its support for self-ruled Taiwan, China said on Thursday, in angry comments ahead of a meeting between Defence Minister Wei Fenghe and acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan.

The United States is "playing with fire" with its support for self-ruled Taiwan, China said on Thursday, in angry comments ahead of a meeting between Defence Minister Wei Fenghe and acting US Defense Secretary Patrick Shanahan. The two countries, locked in an escalating trade war, are also at odds over a series of strategic issues, from the disputed South China Sea to democratic Taiwan, claimed by China as its sacred territory, to be taken by force if needed. Wei and Shanahan - who on his first day as acting defence secretary in January said the US military would focus on "China, China, China" - are both attending the annual Shangri-La defence forum in Singapore which begins on Friday, where they are expected to meet. China has been particularly incensed by recent U.S. Navy patrols in the Taiwan Strait, US legislation in support of Taiwan and a meeting between Taiwan`s national security chief David Lee and White House national security adviser John Bolton. Speaking at a regular monthly news briefing, Chinese Defence Ministry spokesman Wu Qian described military ties between Beijing and Washington as generally good. But he took a much darker tone when asked about US support for Taiwan, an issue China has long described as the most sensitive in relations between the two countries. "Recently, the US sides has been continually playing the `Taiwan card`, trying in futile to `use Taiwan to control China`. This is deluded," Wu said. "The series of actions the US side has taken is playing with fire, seriously harms the development of military relations between China and the United States, and seriously harms peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait area." Taiwan`s air, sea and land forces conducted an exercise to repel an invading force on Thursday, as its defence minister pledged to defend the island against what it sees as China`s rising military threat. Washington has no formal ties with Taipei, but is its most important international supporter and main supplier of arms. A senior US defence official said the fact that Shanahan was going to the Shangri-la dialogue during a period of tension with Iran was a sign that the United States was committed to the region and its allies. During a meeting with Wei, Shanahan is expected to bring up better communication between the two militaries to avoid the risk of miscalculation, the US official said. While Wei will likely tackle the Sino-US trade dispute and the hardening Trump administration approaches to Taiwan and the South China Sea, Asian states will be looking for calming messages, according to security experts and regional diplomats. "Regional countries will be expecting reassurances that China`s intentions are in fact peaceful given its growing military might," said Singapore-based regional security analyst Ian Storey. Storey, of Singapore`s ISEAS Yusof Ishak Institute, said Wei must also speak to his domestic constituents, given the fact his address and a rare question-and-answer session are expected to be shown prominently in China. "In the current environment maybe they won`t want him to be too accommodating. He can be expected to blame the US for growing tensions in the South China Sea and there is no way he is going to admit that China is part of the problem."

US 'playing with fire' on Taiwan, China says ahead of defence meeting

India and Sri Lanka Monday agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in the defence sector, including training Sri Lankan military personnel, as foreign secretary Sanjay Mitra called on President Maithripala Sirisena.

Mitra arrived on a two-day visit to Sri Lanka on Sunday during which he will participate in several high-level defence cooperation meetings.

He will also meet his counterpart Hemasiri Fernando and chief of defence staff Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, besides visiting the central town of Kandy and the north-central town of Anuradhapura.

India and Sri Lanka have agreed for enhanced cooperation in the areas of security and defence including regional security, said a statement from the president Sirisena's office.

The statement came after Sirisena's meeting with Mitra here this morning, it said.

India has agreed to train Sri Lankan defence personnel, it added.

Training of Sri Lankan defence personnel in India became an explosive issue during former Tamil Nadu chief minister Jayalalitha's time.

She had demanded the expulsion of two Sri Lankan officers from the Defence Staff Services College in Wellington in the State.

India and Sri Lanka Monday agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in the defence sector, including training Sri Lankan military personnel, as foreign secretary Sanjay Mitra called on President Maithripala Sirisena.

India and Sri Lanka Monday agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in the defence sector, including training Sri Lankan military personnel, as foreign secretary Sanjay Mitra called on President Maithripala Sirisena. Mitra arrived on a two-day visit to Sri Lanka on Sunday during which he will participate in several high-level defence cooperation meetings. He will also meet his counterpart Hemasiri Fernando and chief of defence staff Admiral Ravindra Wijegunaratne, besides visiting the central town of Kandy and the north-central town of Anuradhapura. India and Sri Lanka have agreed for enhanced cooperation in the areas of security and defence including regional security, said a statement from the president Sirisena's office. The statement came after Sirisena's meeting with Mitra here this morning, it said. India has agreed to train Sri Lankan defence personnel, it added. Training of Sri Lankan defence personnel in India became an explosive issue during former Tamil Nadu chief minister Jayalalitha's time. She had demanded the expulsion of two Sri Lankan officers from the Defence Staff Services College in Wellington in the State.

India, Sri Lanka agree for greater defence cooperation

ISRO's PSLV-C45, which lifted off from Sriharikota on Monday&nbsp;carrying India's EMISAT satellite, is capable of placing satellites in three different orbits.&nbsp;

Describing the launch a very important milestone, former ISRO chairman&nbsp;G Madhavan Nair said ''It's not only going to launch our own satellite but also those from other nations''.

''The uniqueness of this mission is, it's going to place satellites in three&nbsp;different orbits. I hope it'll be 100% success as usual," Nair said.

Around 17 minutes after the launch, the EMISAT was placed in an orbit in 753.6 km from the altitude.

Aimed at electromagnetic measurement, the&nbsp;indigenously&nbsp;built satellite weighs around 436 kg and is designed to help the military to find ''hostile radars''.

The PSLV-C45 rocket carrying the indigenously built satellite was lifted off from the radar at around 9:27 from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.

Along with EMISAT, the rocket also carried 28 other foreign satellites and three scientific instruments.

ISRO's PSLV-C45, which lifted off from Sriharikota on Monday carrying India's EMISAT satellite, is capable of placing satellites in three different orbits. Describing the launch a very important milestone, former ISRO chairman G Madhavan Nair said ''It's not only going to launch our own satellite but also those from other nations''.

ISRO's PSLV-C45, which lifted off from Sriharikota on Monday carrying India's EMISAT satellite, is capable of placing satellites in three different orbits. Describing the launch a very important milestone, former ISRO chairman G Madhavan Nair said ''It's not only going to launch our own satellite but also those from other nations''. ''The uniqueness of this mission is, it's going to place satellites in three different orbits. I hope it'll be 100% success as usual," Nair said. Around 17 minutes after the launch, the EMISAT was placed in an orbit in 753.6 km from the altitude. Aimed at electromagnetic measurement, the indigenously built satellite weighs around 436 kg and is designed to help the military to find ''hostile radars''. The PSLV-C45 rocket carrying the indigenously built satellite was lifted off from the radar at around 9:27 from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. Along with EMISAT, the rocket also carried 28 other foreign satellites and three scientific instruments.

Defence satellite EMISAT to help military to find 'hostile radars'

Missile defence milestone for pentagon

Rear Admiral Didier Malterre,&nbsp;Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, visited India last week and discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence engagement with top officials.

The French Joint Forces Commander, during his maiden official trip to New Delhi after assuming command, first visited the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) and the Information Fusion Centre (IFC).

His trip to the two centres came after Admiral Christophe Prazuck, Chief of the French Naval Staff, made a trip there two months ago, a french Embassy statement said.

Jointly run by the Indian Navy and the Coast Guards, IMAC focuses on the analysis of maritime information across the world.

It draws on numerous sources of information for building its database on the global maritime situation, particularly by relying on its agreements with partner countries.

At the end of 2018, India also established IFC to monitor the region. It plays a central role in coordinating information in the Indian Ocean.

During the visit from February 26-28, the Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean held meetings with top officials of the Indian Navy such as Vice Admiral M S Pawar, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command, and Vice-Admiral Ashok Kumar, Vice Chief of the Indian Navy, as well as at the Integrated Defence Staff level, represented by Lieutenant-General Amarjeet Singh Bedi.&nbsp;

Rear Admiral Didier Malterre, Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, visited India last week and discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence engagement with top officials.

Rear Admiral Didier Malterre, Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean, visited India last week and discussed ways to enhance bilateral defence engagement with top officials. The French Joint Forces Commander, during his maiden official trip to New Delhi after assuming command, first visited the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) and the Information Fusion Centre (IFC). His trip to the two centres came after Admiral Christophe Prazuck, Chief of the French Naval Staff, made a trip there two months ago, a french Embassy statement said. Jointly run by the Indian Navy and the Coast Guards, IMAC focuses on the analysis of maritime information across the world. It draws on numerous sources of information for building its database on the global maritime situation, particularly by relying on its agreements with partner countries. At the end of 2018, India also established IFC to monitor the region. It plays a central role in coordinating information in the Indian Ocean. During the visit from February 26-28, the Commander of the French Joint Forces deployed in the Indian Ocean held meetings with top officials of the Indian Navy such as Vice Admiral M S Pawar, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command, and Vice-Admiral Ashok Kumar, Vice Chief of the Indian Navy, as well as at the Integrated Defence Staff level, represented by Lieutenant-General Amarjeet Singh Bedi.

French Joint Forces Commander in Indian Ocean visits India, holds talks with top defence officials

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