The tri-services committee that was probing the fatal helicopter crash which killed India’s top military chief General Bipin Rawat and his wife, apart from 11 other military personnel, has ruled out sabotage or technical failure as the cause of the accident.

The probe committee, which was led by&nbsp;Air Marshal Manvendra Singh,&nbsp;said that the crash was caused “due to unexpected change in weather that led to the disorientation of the pilot”.

“Tri-Services Court of Inquiry into the Mi-17 V5 accident on 08 Dec 21 (which killed CDS Rawat and others) in its preliminary findings analysed Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder; has ruled out mechanical failure, sabotage or negligence as a cause of the accident,” the IAF said in a statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bipin-rawat-his-wife-among-13-killed-in-helicopter-crash-435156">Bipin Rawat, his wife among 13 killed in helicopter crash</a>

“Accident was a result of entry into clouds due to unexpected change in weather... This led to spatial disorientation of the pilot resulting in controlled flight into terrain (CFIT),” it added.

Based on its findings, the Court of Inquiry has made certain recommendations which are being reviewed, the IAF said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/gen-bipin-rawat-biography-indias-first-chief-of-defence-staff-led-a-life-dedicated-to-the-nation-435166">Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation</a>

CFIT occurs when an airworthy aircraft under the complete control of the pilot is inadvertently flown into terrain, water, or any other obstacle.

The pilots are generally unaware of the danger until it is too late.

On December 8 around noon, a Russian-built Mi-17V5 copter carrying Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Rawat, his wife Madhulika and his military attache, Brig LS Lidder among others crashed near Wellington area in Conoor hill station, Tamil Nadu state.

The tri-services committee that was probing the fatal helicopter crash which killed India’s top military chief General Bipin Rawat and his wife, apart from 11 other military personnel, has ruled out sabotage or technical failure as the cause of the accident.

The tri-services committee that was probing the fatal helicopter crash which killed India’s top military chief General Bipin Rawat and his wife, apart from 11 other military personnel, has ruled out sabotage or technical failure as the cause of the accident. The probe committee, which was led by Air Marshal Manvendra Singh, said that the crash was caused “due to unexpected change in weather that led to the disorientation of the pilot”. “Tri-Services Court of Inquiry into the Mi-17 V5 accident on 08 Dec 21 (which killed CDS Rawat and others) in its preliminary findings analysed Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder; has ruled out mechanical failure, sabotage or negligence as a cause of the accident,” the IAF said in a statement. Also read | Bipin Rawat, his wife among 13 killed in helicopter crash “Accident was a result of entry into clouds due to unexpected change in weather... This led to spatial disorientation of the pilot resulting in controlled flight into terrain (CFIT),” it added. Based on its findings, the Court of Inquiry has made certain recommendations which are being reviewed, the IAF said. Also read | Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation CFIT occurs when an airworthy aircraft under the complete control of the pilot is inadvertently flown into terrain, water, or any other obstacle. The pilots are generally unaware of the danger until it is too late. On December 8 around noon, a Russian-built Mi-17V5 copter carrying Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Rawat, his wife Madhulika and his military attache, Brig LS Lidder among others crashed near Wellington area in Conoor hill station, Tamil Nadu state.

Gen Rawat copter crash: Probe committee rules out foul play, says weather change disoriented pilot

Vijay Diwas: How IAF's 'Sabre slayers' shot down PAF jets in dogfight during battle of Boyra

Daniel Carmon, the former Israeli ambassador to India spoke exclusively to WION, recalling his interactions with India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, who lost his life in a helicopter crash on Wednesday (December 8).

Daniel Carmon, the former Israeli ambassador to India spoke exclusively to WION, recalling his interactions with India's Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, who lost his life in a helicopter crash on Wednesday (December 8). Remembering his interaction with Gen Rawat, Carmon paid his condolences and expressed grief over the tragic accident. While in conversation with WION correspondent Jodie Cohen, Carmon said, "Yesterday [December 8] was a very sad day for India. I must say, for all the people in Israel who knew him personally and acknowledged the very important defence relationships between India and Israel. It was very sad to lose a friend, a partner and someone who had been following and promoting the very important defence relations between both countries." Obituary | Gen Bipin Rawat biography: India's first Chief of Defence Staff led a life dedicated to the nation During his conversation, Carmon said, "I had the honour while serving in Delhi to meet Gen Rawat more than once, even once at his home and had the opportunity to have a lengthy discussion with him on so many issues not only related to defence." "I met a very strong leader, someone who is very dedicated to his country, to his nation, to his people. It really makes me sad to hear about this tragic accident when he and his wife and other officials were killed. Watch the conversation here: × Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to the defence chief his wife and other 11 Armed Forces personnel, saying that India will "never forget" their rich contribution. Tributes poured in from all across the world as Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, Yair Lapid tweeted, ''On behalf of the people of Israel, I extend my deepest condolences to the people and government of India on the loss of Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, his wife, and the 11 other military personnel lost in today's tragic accident.'' IN PICS | Gen Bipin Rawat, India's first Chief of Defence Staff: A life in pictures Top Pentagon officials including Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin III, Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen Mark Milley and Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby condoled the demise of India's first CDS, General Bipin Rawat. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken tweeted, ''My deep condolences on the deaths of Indian Chief of Defense Staff General Rawat, his wife, and colleagues who perished in today’s tragic accident. We'll remember Gen. Rawat as an exceptional leader who served his country and contributed to the U.S.-India defense relationship.''

Former Israeli ambassador to India Daniel Carmon pays tribute to CDS Gen Bipin Rawat, recalls old interaction

Despite Rafale, why is India still boosting its Mirage 2000 squadron?

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari will pay a five-day visit to Egypt beginning Sunday which is expected to bolster ties between the two countries.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) said he is visiting the country to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium and Egyptian Defence Exposition (EDEX) which will take place in Cairo from November 28 to December 2.

"The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) would be attending the air power symposium at the invitation of the Egyptian Air Force commander and deliver a key note address on 'strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non-organised threats' on November 28," the IAF said in a statement.

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Air Chief Mshl VR Chaudhari <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CAS?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CAS</a> will be embarking on a 5 day visit to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium &amp; Defence Exposition <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EDEX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EDEX</a> scheduled from 28 Nov to 02 Dec. He will deliver a keynote address on "Strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non organised threats". <a href="https://t.co/zwajvTAm3P">pic.twitter.com/zwajvTAm3P</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1464467078342008838?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 27, 2021</a></blockquote>
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It said the EDEX is fully supported by the Egyptian armed forces and exposes the attending dignitaries to the latest technology, equipment and systems across land, sea and air through live demos and static displays.

"The visit of CAS is expected to bolster the ties with the Egyptian armed forces. On the sidelines of the visit, the CAS would also be interacting with senior commanders of other armed forces of the world during the exposition," the IAF said.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari will pay a five-day visit to Egypt beginning Sunday which is expected to bolster ties between the two countries.

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari will pay a five-day visit to Egypt beginning Sunday which is expected to bolster ties between the two countries. The Indian Air Force (IAF) said he is visiting the country to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium and Egyptian Defence Exposition (EDEX) which will take place in Cairo from November 28 to December 2. "The Chief of Air Staff (CAS) would be attending the air power symposium at the invitation of the Egyptian Air Force commander and deliver a key note address on 'strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non-organised threats' on November 28," the IAF said in a statement. Air Chief Mshl VR Chaudhari #CAS will be embarking on a 5 day visit to attend the Egypt Air Power Symposium & Defence Exposition #EDEX scheduled from 28 Nov to 02 Dec. He will deliver a keynote address on "Strategic air intelligence in confronting new and non organised threats". pic.twitter.com/zwajvTAm3P — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) November 27, 2021 × It said the EDEX is fully supported by the Egyptian armed forces and exposes the attending dignitaries to the latest technology, equipment and systems across land, sea and air through live demos and static displays. "The visit of CAS is expected to bolster the ties with the Egyptian armed forces. On the sidelines of the visit, the CAS would also be interacting with senior commanders of other armed forces of the world during the exposition," the IAF said.

IAF chief VR Chaudhari to embark on 5-day visit to Egypt

Indian forces conducted multi-agency exercise named “Sagar Shakti”.

The exercise was conducted in parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan involving the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Border Security Force(BSF) including Gujarat's security forces and fisheries department.

The drill was conducted between 19-22 November.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-army-targets-ai-powered-battle-tanks-with-eye-on-china-389288#:~:text=The%20Indian%20Army%20is%20eyeing,intends%20to%20induct%20by%202030.">Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;Indian Army targets AI-powered battle tanks with eye on China</a>

The defence ministry said the exercise involved the "insertion of troops and manoeuvres by forces in all three dimensions simultaneously in an integrated manner."

During the exercise the forces coordinated with each other to include response mechanisms in a "multi-domain environment" involving real-time communication as they shared operational data to overcome emerging multi-dimensional threats.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/22-years-of-kargil-vijay-diwas-how-indian-army-dragged-pakistani-infiltrators-out-400494">Read in Pics:&nbsp;&nbsp;How Indian Army dragged Pakistani infiltrators out</a>

The forces said it is the "first time that an effective punch of a field training exercise has been packed in the response mechanism which functions under a robust Central Operation Room (COR) comprising troops of multiple forces."

(With inputs from Agencies) 
&nbsp;

Indian forces conducted multi-agency exercise named “Sagar Shakti”. The exercise was conducted in parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan involving the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Border Security Force(BSF) including Gujarat's security forces and fisheries department.

Indian forces conducted multi-agency exercise named “Sagar Shakti”. The exercise was conducted in parts of Gujarat and Rajasthan involving the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Border Security Force(BSF) including Gujarat's security forces and fisheries department. The drill was conducted between 19-22 November. Read in Pics: Indian Army targets AI-powered battle tanks with eye on China The defence ministry said the exercise involved the "insertion of troops and manoeuvres by forces in all three dimensions simultaneously in an integrated manner." During the exercise the forces coordinated with each other to include response mechanisms in a "multi-domain environment" involving real-time communication as they shared operational data to overcome emerging multi-dimensional threats. Read in Pics: How Indian Army dragged Pakistani infiltrators out The forces said it is the "first time that an effective punch of a field training exercise has been packed in the response mechanism which functions under a robust Central Operation Room (COR) comprising troops of multiple forces." (With inputs from Agencies)

Indian forces conduct multi-agency exercise in Rajasthan, Gujarat

#FriendsAcrossContinents: IAF, French Air Force conduct large force engagement

Let us go across to the Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradesh, India, where celebrations are underway to mark the 89th anniversary of the Indian air force.

Indian Air Force celebrates 89th anniversary at Hindon airbase in Uttar Pradesh

The Indian Air force (IAF) will be participating in exercises with Israel and Egypt later this month. This comes as increased engagement has been seen between Indian defence forces and West Asian counterparts.

The new Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari at the annual presser said, " Air Force is scheduled to participate in Ex Blue Flag in Israel and Hop Ex in Egypt later this month." &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/plans-afoot-for-connectivity-from-mediterranean-to-india-via-gulf-418438" hreflang="en">Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf</a>

When it comes to exercise in Israel, it is not for first time India is participating. The biennial Ex Blue Flag saw India's participation, first in November 2017 when the exercise took place at the Uvda Air Force base in Israel. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian Air Force participated with C-130J special operations aircraft along with Garud commandos. The Egyptian exercises will see participation of fighter jets. &nbsp;

In August, the then Air Chief RKS Bhadauria visited Israel, and held talks with his counterpart Major General Amikam Norkin, Commander, Israeli Air Force. He also took part in a sortie in an F15. &nbsp;&nbsp;

During the visit, he paid homage at the Cemetery for Indian soldiers in Talpioth, Jerusalem. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-air-force-day-iaf-displays-rafales-scalp-stealth-cruise-missile-418304" hreflang="en">Ahead of Air Force Day, IAF displays Rafale's Scalp stealth cruise missile</a>

Indian Air Force has participated in numerous international exercises in last one year. In January this year, IAF hosted the French Air Force during Exercise Desert Knight and has carried out op engagements with US Carrier Strike Groups in March and June. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The air force participated for the first time in Exercise Desert Flag-6 in UAE in March 2021. The exercise saw participation of air forces of US, France, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Bahrain and UAE (as host).&nbsp;

The Indian Air force (IAF) will be participating in exercises with Israel and Egypt later this month. This comes as increased engagement has been seen between Indian defence forces and West Asian counterparts.

The Indian Air force (IAF) will be participating in exercises with Israel and Egypt later this month. This comes as increased engagement has been seen between Indian defence forces and West Asian counterparts. The new Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari at the annual presser said, " Air Force is scheduled to participate in Ex Blue Flag in Israel and Hop Ex in Egypt later this month." Also Read: Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf When it comes to exercise in Israel, it is not for first time India is participating. The biennial Ex Blue Flag saw India's participation, first in November 2017 when the exercise took place at the Uvda Air Force base in Israel. Indian Air Force participated with C-130J special operations aircraft along with Garud commandos. The Egyptian exercises will see participation of fighter jets. In August, the then Air Chief RKS Bhadauria visited Israel, and held talks with his counterpart Major General Amikam Norkin, Commander, Israeli Air Force. He also took part in a sortie in an F15. During the visit, he paid homage at the Cemetery for Indian soldiers in Talpioth, Jerusalem. Also Read: Ahead of Air Force Day, IAF displays Rafale's Scalp stealth cruise missile Indian Air Force has participated in numerous international exercises in last one year. In January this year, IAF hosted the French Air Force during Exercise Desert Knight and has carried out op engagements with US Carrier Strike Groups in March and June. The air force participated for the first time in Exercise Desert Flag-6 in UAE in March 2021. The exercise saw participation of air forces of US, France, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Bahrain and UAE (as host).

Indian Air Force to take part in exercises in Israel, Egypt

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a roughly Rs 110 billion&nbsp;project by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to create six new Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&amp;C) aircraft for the Indian Air Force on Wednesday.

This is in addition to the Committee's approval of a roughly $3 billion contract for the IAF to purchase 56 C-295MW transport planes to replace its ageing fleet of Avro 748 transport planes, which first flew in 1961.&nbsp;

The AEW&amp;C project, which received an initial "approval of necessity" from the defence ministry in December of last year, is particularly important because Pakistan and China are far ahead of India in this area.&nbsp;

What does AEW&amp;C stand for?

The AEW&amp;C, or "eyes in the sky," can detect and track any flying object in the sky faster than ground-based radars, including incoming fighters, cruise missiles, and drones.

They can also serve as an airborne control room for missions, as well as a monitoring station for ships at sea.

The six will join the IAF's existing fleet, which includes three Israeli Phalcon AWACS on Ilyushin-76 transport planes and two indigenous "Netra" AEW&amp;C planes on Embraer planes.&nbsp;

During the India-Pakistan aerial combat along the Line of Control and International Border on February 27, 2019, airborne warning planes came into clear focus.

In order to intercept oncoming Pakistan Air Force strike formations, IAF pilots depended significantly on backup from the IAF's Netra and A-50 jets, which observed PAF fighters' movements and vectored IAF defenders to attempt an intercept.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a roughly Rs 110 billion project by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to create six new Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft for the Indian Air Force on Wednesday.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a roughly Rs 110 billion project by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) to create six new Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft for the Indian Air Force on Wednesday. This is in addition to the Committee's approval of a roughly $3 billion contract for the IAF to purchase 56 C-295MW transport planes to replace its ageing fleet of Avro 748 transport planes, which first flew in 1961. The AEW&C project, which received an initial "approval of necessity" from the defence ministry in December of last year, is particularly important because Pakistan and China are far ahead of India in this area. What does AEW&C stand for? The AEW&C, or "eyes in the sky," can detect and track any flying object in the sky faster than ground-based radars, including incoming fighters, cruise missiles, and drones. They can also serve as an airborne control room for missions, as well as a monitoring station for ships at sea. The six will join the IAF's existing fleet, which includes three Israeli Phalcon AWACS on Ilyushin-76 transport planes and two indigenous "Netra" AEW&C planes on Embraer planes. During the India-Pakistan aerial combat along the Line of Control and International Border on February 27, 2019, airborne warning planes came into clear focus. In order to intercept oncoming Pakistan Air Force strike formations, IAF pilots depended significantly on backup from the IAF's Netra and A-50 jets, which observed PAF fighters' movements and vectored IAF defenders to attempt an intercept. (With inputs from agencies)

'Eyes in sky': Govt okays 6 more 'early-warning' aircraft for Indian Air Force

Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari inaugurated an emergency landing strip at Satta-Gandhav stretch on National Highway 925 on Thursday for Indian Air Force (IAF) planes.

A Hercules C-130J plane of the IAF, carrying the two ministers and Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, conducted a mock emergency landing on the national highway on Thursday.

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An Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) for the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Satta-Gandhav stretch on NH-925A near Barmer, Rajasthan was inaugurated today. This is for the first time that a National Highway has been used for emergency landing of aircraft of Indian Air Force. <a href="https://t.co/KNzHQQmTlB">pic.twitter.com/KNzHQQmTlB</a>
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1435883052933136388?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 9, 2021</a></blockquote>
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NH-925 is India's first national highway to be used for emergency landing of IAF aircraft.

The two ministers also witnessed multiple aircraft operations on the emergency landing facility (ELF) of NH-295 on Thursday.

Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet conducted a mock emergency landing at the ELF.

IAF chief R K Bhadauria was also present on the occasion.&nbsp;An-32 military transport aircraft and Mi-17v5 helicopter of the IAF also landed at the ELF, showing its complete operational readiness to act as an auxiliary military airbase.

In his speech, the defence minister said that a total of 20 emergency landing strips, similar to the one in Barmer, are being developed across the country right now.

"Many helipads are also being created with the help of the Union Roads Ministry. This is an important step to strengthen our security infrastructure," he added.

There was this thinking that if much is spent on defence, then development in the country would be affected, he said.

"But today, seeing an emergency landing strip on a national highway, I can safely say that defence and development can go hand in hand," Singh added.

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed the 3-km section of Satta-Gandhav stretch of NH-925 as an ELF for the IAF.

India's defence minister said, "By creating a strip so near the international border, we have given a message that we will stand up for unity, diversity and sovereignty of our country at whatever the cost."

In October 2017, fighter jets and transport planes of the IAF had conducted mock landings on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway to show that such highways can be used by the IAF planes for landing in case of an emergency.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari inaugurated an emergency landing strip at Satta-Gandhav stretch on National Highway 925 on Thursday for Indian Air Force (IAF) planes.

Union ministers Rajnath Singh and Nitin Gadkari inaugurated an emergency landing strip at Satta-Gandhav stretch on National Highway 925 on Thursday for Indian Air Force (IAF) planes. A Hercules C-130J plane of the IAF, carrying the two ministers and Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat, conducted a mock emergency landing on the national highway on Thursday. An Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) for the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Satta-Gandhav stretch on NH-925A near Barmer, Rajasthan was inaugurated today. This is for the first time that a National Highway has been used for emergency landing of aircraft of Indian Air Force. pic.twitter.com/KNzHQQmTlB — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) September 9, 2021 × NH-925 is India's first national highway to be used for emergency landing of IAF aircraft. The two ministers also witnessed multiple aircraft operations on the emergency landing facility (ELF) of NH-295 on Thursday. Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet conducted a mock emergency landing at the ELF. IAF chief R K Bhadauria was also present on the occasion. An-32 military transport aircraft and Mi-17v5 helicopter of the IAF also landed at the ELF, showing its complete operational readiness to act as an auxiliary military airbase. In his speech, the defence minister said that a total of 20 emergency landing strips, similar to the one in Barmer, are being developed across the country right now. "Many helipads are also being created with the help of the Union Roads Ministry. This is an important step to strengthen our security infrastructure," he added. There was this thinking that if much is spent on defence, then development in the country would be affected, he said. "But today, seeing an emergency landing strip on a national highway, I can safely say that defence and development can go hand in hand," Singh added. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has developed the 3-km section of Satta-Gandhav stretch of NH-925 as an ELF for the IAF. India's defence minister said, "By creating a strip so near the international border, we have given a message that we will stand up for unity, diversity and sovereignty of our country at whatever the cost." In October 2017, fighter jets and transport planes of the IAF had conducted mock landings on the Lucknow-Agra Expressway to show that such highways can be used by the IAF planes for landing in case of an emergency.

Government unveils landing strip for IAF planes on national highway in Rajasthan

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the purchase of 56 C-295 MW cargo planes for the Indian Air Force on Wednesday.

Within 48 months of signing the contract, 16 aircraft will be delivered in flyaway condition from Spain, and TATA Consortium will produce 40 aircraft in India within ten years.

This is the first initiative of its sort in which a commercial company will produce a military aircraft in India.

In a statement, the government stated, "All 56 aircraft will be equipped with an indigenous electronic warfare suite."&nbsp;

This is the first initiative of its sort in which a commercial company will produce a military aircraft in India.

According to the government, the project will enhance India's aerospace ecosystem by involving various MSMEs from throughout the country in the production of aeroplane parts.

According to the ministry, the project will improve India's aerospace industry by including various small and medium-sized businesses in the production of aeroplane parts.&nbsp;

According to the statement, the programme is intended to create 600 high-skilled jobs directly, over 3,000 indirect jobs, and an additional 3000 medium-skilled job prospects.

The government thinks that the project will help reduce defence import dependency while simultaneously increasing exports.

The C-295MW aircraft, which has a payload of 5-10 tonnes and is equipped with modern equipment, would replace the IAF's old Avro aircraft, according to the military ministry.

The aircraft includes a rear ramp door for quick response and cargo and troop paradropping.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the purchase of 56 C-295 MW cargo planes for the Indian Air Force on Wednesday. Within 48 months of signing the contract, 16 aircraft will be delivered in flyaway condition from Spain, and TATA Consortium will produce 40 aircraft in India within ten years.

The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approved the purchase of 56 C-295 MW cargo planes for the Indian Air Force on Wednesday. Within 48 months of signing the contract, 16 aircraft will be delivered in flyaway condition from Spain, and TATA Consortium will produce 40 aircraft in India within ten years. This is the first initiative of its sort in which a commercial company will produce a military aircraft in India. In a statement, the government stated, "All 56 aircraft will be equipped with an indigenous electronic warfare suite." This is the first initiative of its sort in which a commercial company will produce a military aircraft in India. According to the government, the project will enhance India's aerospace ecosystem by involving various MSMEs from throughout the country in the production of aeroplane parts. According to the ministry, the project will improve India's aerospace industry by including various small and medium-sized businesses in the production of aeroplane parts. According to the statement, the programme is intended to create 600 high-skilled jobs directly, over 3,000 indirect jobs, and an additional 3000 medium-skilled job prospects. The government thinks that the project will help reduce defence import dependency while simultaneously increasing exports. The C-295MW aircraft, which has a payload of 5-10 tonnes and is equipped with modern equipment, would replace the IAF's old Avro aircraft, according to the military ministry. The aircraft includes a rear ramp door for quick response and cargo and troop paradropping. (With inputs from agencies)

Private firm TATA to make 40 out of 56 transport aircraft for Indian Air Force

The Indian Air Force is looking at procuring around 350 aircraft in the next two decades, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Wednesday.

In an address at a conference on the Indian aerospace sector, the Chief of Air Staff also talked about the need for developing asymmetric capabilities to bolster the IAF's overall strength in view of challenges from China.

"Looking at the northern neighbour, we have to have niche technologies which must be built in-house by our own industry for reasons of security," the IAF chief said.

Emphasising that India becoming self-reliant in the defence sector is crucial for dealing with various challenge, Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria said the IAF is looking at procuring around 350 aircraft from within the country in the next two decades.

At the same time, he noted that it is a rough projection.

The IAF chief also said the Tejas light combat aircraft project has instilled confidence in the aerospace industry in India and that it has huge potential to grow further.

The Indian Air Force is looking at procuring around 350 aircraft in the next two decades, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Wednesday. In an address at a conference on the Indian aerospace sector, the Chief of Air Staff also talked about the need for developing asymmetric capabilities to bolster the IAF's overall strength in view of challenges from China.

The Indian Air Force is looking at procuring around 350 aircraft in the next two decades, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria said on Wednesday. In an address at a conference on the Indian aerospace sector, the Chief of Air Staff also talked about the need for developing asymmetric capabilities to bolster the IAF's overall strength in view of challenges from China. "Looking at the northern neighbour, we have to have niche technologies which must be built in-house by our own industry for reasons of security," the IAF chief said. Emphasising that India becoming self-reliant in the defence sector is crucial for dealing with various challenge, Air Chief Marshal Bhadauria said the IAF is looking at procuring around 350 aircraft from within the country in the next two decades. At the same time, he noted that it is a rough projection. The IAF chief also said the Tejas light combat aircraft project has instilled confidence in the aerospace industry in India and that it has huge potential to grow further.

IAF looking at procuring around 350 aircraft: Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria

Why Israel's Rafael defense system wants IAF to acquire the Spice 250 missiles

Through various destinations and flights, numerous Indians have returned to home country&nbsp;on Sunday morning after being evacuated from Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

On Sunday, India evacuated around 168 people including 107 Indians from Kabul in a IAF aircraft.&nbsp;In a tweet earlier, Arindam Bagchi,&nbsp;spokesperson, India's Ministry of External Affairs, said,&nbsp;“Evacuation continues!&nbsp;IAF special repatriation flight with 168 passengers onboard, including 107 Indian nationals, is on its way to Delhi from Kabul.”&nbsp;India also&nbsp;brought back an infant 'Baby Divi' in the flight from Kabul.

As per&nbsp;people familiar with the development,&nbsp;an Air India flight carrying 87 Indians&nbsp;arrived in New Delhi on Sunday morning. It had&nbsp;departed from Tajikistan.&nbsp;"Bringing Indians home from Afghanistan! AI 1956 carrying 87 Indians departs from Tajikistan for New Delhi. Two Nepalese nationals also evacuated. Assisted and supported by our Embassy in Dushanbe. More evacuation flights to follow,"&nbsp;Bagchi had shared. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;the first batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha&nbsp;in last&nbsp;few days,&nbsp;have&nbsp;also returned to India.&nbsp;The Indian Embassy in Qatar&nbsp;on Sunday had&nbsp;tweeted,&nbsp;"1st batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha over past days, being repatriated tonight to India. Embassy officials provided consular and logistics assistance to ensure their safe return. We thank Qatar authorities and all concerned for making this possible."

Indians evacuated to Doha from Kabul seem to be employees of a number of foreign companies, who were operating in Afghanistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Indian Air Force&nbsp;and Air India&nbsp;have&nbsp;been strenuously evacuating Indian nationals along with others from the war-ravaged&nbsp;Afghanistan since Taliban took over the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The regime change has forced several Afghans and nationals of other countries to flee the country, fearing Taliban’s oppressive rule. It has&nbsp;triggered a significant&nbsp;humanitarian crisis.&nbsp;

(With&nbsp;inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Through various destinations and flights, numerous Indians have returned to home country on Sunday morning after being evacuated from Afghanistan. On Sunday, India evacuated around 168 people including 107 Indians from Kabul in a IAF aircraft.

Through various destinations and flights, numerous Indians have returned to home country on Sunday morning after being evacuated from Afghanistan. On Sunday, India evacuated around 168 people including 107 Indians from Kabul in a IAF aircraft. In a tweet earlier, Arindam Bagchi, spokesperson, India's Ministry of External Affairs, said, “Evacuation continues! IAF special repatriation flight with 168 passengers onboard, including 107 Indian nationals, is on its way to Delhi from Kabul.” India also brought back an infant 'Baby Divi' in the flight from Kabul. As per people familiar with the development, an Air India flight carrying 87 Indians arrived in New Delhi on Sunday morning. It had departed from Tajikistan. "Bringing Indians home from Afghanistan! AI 1956 carrying 87 Indians departs from Tajikistan for New Delhi. Two Nepalese nationals also evacuated. Assisted and supported by our Embassy in Dushanbe. More evacuation flights to follow," Bagchi had shared. Meanwhile, the first batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha in last few days, have also returned to India. The Indian Embassy in Qatar on Sunday had tweeted, "1st batch of 135 Indians, who were evacuated from Kabul to Doha over past days, being repatriated tonight to India. Embassy officials provided consular and logistics assistance to ensure their safe return. We thank Qatar authorities and all concerned for making this possible." Indians evacuated to Doha from Kabul seem to be employees of a number of foreign companies, who were operating in Afghanistan. Indian Air Force and Air India have been strenuously evacuating Indian nationals along with others from the war-ravaged Afghanistan since Taliban took over the country. The regime change has forced several Afghans and nationals of other countries to flee the country, fearing Taliban’s oppressive rule. It has triggered a significant humanitarian crisis. (With inputs from agencies)

Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations

Indian Air Force special repatriation flight from Kabul with 168 evacuees has landed at the Hindan air base. The flight included 107 Indian Nationals and over 20 Afghan Sikhs. The evacuation from Kabul took place through Indian Air Force C-17 plane.

Indian flight from Kabul lands at Hindan Airbase

At a time when China is expeditiously building its capability to operate fighters near eastern Ladakh, India is also considering expanding its capability to operate fixed-wing aircraft from facilities near the border with China.

India to upgrade air operations capability in eastern Ladakh

In a major restructuring like reorganising Indian Military into Theatre Commands, there will be variation of views between stakeholders and many rounds of discussions on merits and demerits of the existing force structure vis-a-vis the proposed one; hence it may not be appropriate to call it a ‘turf war’ as has been referred in some media reports.

Is the Timing Right?

Today, India is facing a ‘Two Front Threat’ in real terms, in a manner that it is already in standoff with the largest military in the world, and the other adversary is also devising new ways to disturb peace through drones/terror attacks. Irrespective of merits and demerits of theaterisation, strategically, it is not the right time to go through such a major apex level restructuring, when the largest military force is knocking at Line of Actual Control. Such major restructuring takes at least few years of teething problems; hence it will bring turbulence in time tested command structure during the intervening period, a risk which the country must avoid. In an overdrive to minimise cost of defence, or meet certain personality oriented deadlines, the restructuring should not compromise operational effectiveness of Indian Military. &nbsp;

What needs to be restructured?&nbsp;

Regarding implementation of Indian model of Theatre Commands, I endorse Air Defence Command, Defence Space Agency (DSA), Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD), integration in logistics and recommend up-gradation of Defence Cyber Agency (DCA) to “Information Warfare Command” as explained in my detailed analysis. &nbsp; 
The critical shortage of air and other assets is a concern, too serious to be overlooked. The Maritime Command accruing advantage of unity of command, will have to be weighed against manageability of increased span of control, as Indian definition of Indo-Pacific and area of maritime interest has grown from eastern coasts of Africa to northern Pacific, up to Japan. With tri-service structure, reporting to single Service Chief has its own &nbsp;problems. Reporting to CDS may be difficult for him to manage them in operations, (unmanageable span of control), and he not being tasked and organised for it. The first priority of India should be to do capability development over restructuring of apex level restructuring.

The Air Power Debate!

The Indian Air Force is an offensive component of Indian Military. It has national role besides synergising with other services to contribute to national combat power. For comprehensive air battle, with inadequate air resources, switching assets between operational commands of same service is much more effective than trying to do so between integrated theatre commands with dedicated resources, through CDS/ COSC Committee System.&nbsp;

It also needs to be noted that with the current speed of fighter aircrafts and high intensity of lethal air defence systems, globally, the close air support role is being performed better by attack helicopters and variety of artillery assets due to safety concerns. New generation aircrafts are mostly multi-role, increasingly employed for long and short-range interdiction, creating favourable air situation, degradation, offensive air missions and strategic national missions.&nbsp;

Indianised Model&nbsp;

US and China have laid down expeditionary role for their military away from mainland; hence their theatre commands like Indo-Pacific Command can’t be supported from air assets from mainland, which justifies separate allocation of air assets.&nbsp;

Both these countries have done so after reaching self-reliance in defence production. In case of India, expeditionary role doesn’t hold good for considerable period, when it finds raising of much needed mountain strike corps to threaten immediate adversary too costly. India must first bring up its asset availability up to a point that they can be distributed as first priority, with indigenous technology and hardware by self-reliance, which is a work in progress.&nbsp;

Everyone needs focus on capacity building at this time under discernible ‘Two Front Threat’, rather than igniting debates on apex level Restructuring, which doesn’t improve combat capability very much at cutting edge, where we need more military assets like aircrafts and drones.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

In a major restructuring like reorganising Indian Military into Theatre Commands, there will be variation of views between stakeholders and many rounds of discussions on merits and demerits of the existing force structure vis-a-vis the proposed one; hence it may not be appropriate to call it a ‘turf war’ as has been referred in some media reports.

In a major restructuring like reorganising Indian Military into Theatre Commands, there will be variation of views between stakeholders and many rounds of discussions on merits and demerits of the existing force structure vis-a-vis the proposed one; hence it may not be appropriate to call it a ‘turf war’ as has been referred in some media reports. Is the Timing Right? Today, India is facing a ‘Two Front Threat’ in real terms, in a manner that it is already in standoff with the largest military in the world, and the other adversary is also devising new ways to disturb peace through drones/terror attacks. Irrespective of merits and demerits of theaterisation, strategically, it is not the right time to go through such a major apex level restructuring, when the largest military force is knocking at Line of Actual Control. Such major restructuring takes at least few years of teething problems; hence it will bring turbulence in time tested command structure during the intervening period, a risk which the country must avoid. In an overdrive to minimise cost of defence, or meet certain personality oriented deadlines, the restructuring should not compromise operational effectiveness of Indian Military. What needs to be restructured? Regarding implementation of Indian model of Theatre Commands, I endorse Air Defence Command, Defence Space Agency (DSA), Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD), integration in logistics and recommend up-gradation of Defence Cyber Agency (DCA) to “Information Warfare Command” as explained in my detailed analysis. The critical shortage of air and other assets is a concern, too serious to be overlooked. The Maritime Command accruing advantage of unity of command, will have to be weighed against manageability of increased span of control, as Indian definition of Indo-Pacific and area of maritime interest has grown from eastern coasts of Africa to northern Pacific, up to Japan. With tri-service structure, reporting to single Service Chief has its own problems. Reporting to CDS may be difficult for him to manage them in operations, (unmanageable span of control), and he not being tasked and organised for it. The first priority of India should be to do capability development over restructuring of apex level restructuring. The Air Power Debate! The Indian Air Force is an offensive component of Indian Military. It has national role besides synergising with other services to contribute to national combat power. For comprehensive air battle, with inadequate air resources, switching assets between operational commands of same service is much more effective than trying to do so between integrated theatre commands with dedicated resources, through CDS/ COSC Committee System. It also needs to be noted that with the current speed of fighter aircrafts and high intensity of lethal air defence systems, globally, the close air support role is being performed better by attack helicopters and variety of artillery assets due to safety concerns. New generation aircrafts are mostly multi-role, increasingly employed for long and short-range interdiction, creating favourable air situation, degradation, offensive air missions and strategic national missions. Indianised Model US and China have laid down expeditionary role for their military away from mainland; hence their theatre commands like Indo-Pacific Command can’t be supported from air assets from mainland, which justifies separate allocation of air assets. Both these countries have done so after reaching self-reliance in defence production. In case of India, expeditionary role doesn’t hold good for considerable period, when it finds raising of much needed mountain strike corps to threaten immediate adversary too costly. India must first bring up its asset availability up to a point that they can be distributed as first priority, with indigenous technology and hardware by self-reliance, which is a work in progress. Everyone needs focus on capacity building at this time under discernible ‘Two Front Threat’, rather than igniting debates on apex level Restructuring, which doesn’t improve combat capability very much at cutting edge, where we need more military assets like aircrafts and drones. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Theatre Commands: Is India on right path, at right time? 

Why IAF's Jaguars, Su-30 fighters will exercise with Carrier Strike Group USS Ronald Reagan

Gone are the days when battles dragged on for years. Now battles are instant. It's all about striking swiftly and stealthily. And to do this, you need instant decision making and state-of-the-art weaponry.

How does the chain of command work in India? Is there scope for improvement? And what about our weapons? Can they keep up with the rest of the world?

India's defence is split into three services: the Air Force, the Navy and the Army. They have their own headquarters, bases and leadership. It's been this way for decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-indias-plan-for-joint-commands-386620">Watch |</a>

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But this system has drawbacks. There is a lot of duplication of work and unnecessary bureaucracy.

For example, Indian airspace is defended by all three services. They are tracking threats on separate frequencies with their own radars.

But every army headquarters is located next to an airbase. So two agencies are doing the same work sitting right next to each other. Talk about the wastage of resources and manpower.

If Army, during a combing operation, wants some air support, the in-charge calls up the Air Force.

The Air Force will then churn this request through its ranks. The problem here is clear. The person in charge of the operation does not have complete control over the assets.

This was the story every time India went to war. The Air Force had its own plan. And the Army was doing its own thing.

But modern war machines cannot function like this. And India is realising it. The defence establishment is moving towards what is called "theaterisation". This is how the US and China organise their forces.

In India, there's a talk of five commands - the northern command to deal with China, the western command on the Pakistan side,&nbsp;&nbsp;peninsula command in southern India, a&nbsp;maritime command to patrol the seas and an air defence command to protect the airspace.

So how is this different from the current set-up? The commands are unified establishments. This means the army the navy and the air force will function together under one command. No more shuttling between agencies for orders. All three services will answer to a single commander. In military circles they call this jointness and integration.

India cannot underestimate the&nbsp;mindset problem. The three services are used to autonomy. Both the air force and navy fear the army will dominate joint commands. This could lead to a turf war, a territorial battle for assets, funds and for influence.

The other big challenge is logistics. If you appoint a commander what happens to the chiefs of staff? Do the soldiers still report to them? Or will commanders take over operational control?

Same is the thing with assets. The air force only has 31 squadrons. Can they spread their assets wide enough to support every command? These are some of the big challenges to joint theatres.

The US has a tried and tested system.

But India cannot copy it. India's tri-service chief has ruled this out. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat says India will develop its own system of joint theatres.

The military is tight-lipped about the plans. But reports say they should be operational by next year. Hopefully, this will solve the bottlenecks in decision making.

An army is only as good as the weapons it has. This is where India has struggled in the past with outdated weapons aircraft and ships. The only way to overhaul this is through defence spending. Now on paper, India is the third largest spender in the world behind the US and China.

A break-up of India's defence budget shows that&nbsp;50 per cent of the funds go to salaries and pensions. So at the start of every month, half the money is already gone. Where does that leave India's modernisation plans? These are figures from this year's budget. The total allocation was 4.78 trillion rupees.

After pensions, salaries and other expenses, 1.35 trillion rupees were left. Just 28 per cent of the total budget.

For a country with two belligerent neighbours, this is simply inadequate.

What are India's options?

One is to keep expanding the defence bill. But as this pandemic has shown, India needs to put more money in public health and infrastructure. So a big defence bill could be highly unpopular.

What about reforming pensions? Maybe extend the retirement age of officers? Every time someone suggests this, there is backlash from veterans. And the situation isn't getting any better. We need active deployments in the east and west. Which means more soldiers more salaries and more pensions. Where will the money come from?

A viable option is to trim the loose ends. Streamline acquisitions, cut down on duplication of work.

Right now, every service has its own wishlist. There is no synergy between them on acquisitions. The goal is to get them all together so that India's defence establishment has one wishlist not three.

All of this is easier said than done. The bureaucrats are sure to oppose a unified command. They hate being sidelined. Also, we need to be ready for squabbles between generals, admirals and air marshals.

But these worries shouldn't concern India much because unification of command is like a rebirth for the military. Every big power has gone through it and and they are better off with the new system.

Gone are the days when battles dragged on for years. Now battles are instant. It's all about striking swiftly and stealthily. And to do this, you need instant decision making and state-of-the-art weaponry.

Gone are the days when battles dragged on for years. Now battles are instant. It's all about striking swiftly and stealthily. And to do this, you need instant decision making and state-of-the-art weaponry. How does the chain of command work in India? Is there scope for improvement? And what about our weapons? Can they keep up with the rest of the world? India's defence is split into three services: the Air Force, the Navy and the Army. They have their own headquarters, bases and leadership. It's been this way for decades. Watch | But this system has drawbacks. There is a lot of duplication of work and unnecessary bureaucracy. For example, Indian airspace is defended by all three services. They are tracking threats on separate frequencies with their own radars. But every army headquarters is located next to an airbase. So two agencies are doing the same work sitting right next to each other. Talk about the wastage of resources and manpower. If Army, during a combing operation, wants some air support, the in-charge calls up the Air Force. The Air Force will then churn this request through its ranks. The problem here is clear. The person in charge of the operation does not have complete control over the assets. This was the story every time India went to war. The Air Force had its own plan. And the Army was doing its own thing. But modern war machines cannot function like this. And India is realising it. The defence establishment is moving towards what is called "theaterisation". This is how the US and China organise their forces. In India, there's a talk of five commands - the northern command to deal with China, the western command on the Pakistan side, peninsula command in southern India, a maritime command to patrol the seas and an air defence command to protect the airspace. So how is this different from the current set-up? The commands are unified establishments. This means the army the navy and the air force will function together under one command. No more shuttling between agencies for orders. All three services will answer to a single commander. In military circles they call this jointness and integration. India cannot underestimate the mindset problem. The three services are used to autonomy. Both the air force and navy fear the army will dominate joint commands. This could lead to a turf war, a territorial battle for assets, funds and for influence. The other big challenge is logistics. If you appoint a commander what happens to the chiefs of staff? Do the soldiers still report to them? Or will commanders take over operational control? Same is the thing with assets. The air force only has 31 squadrons. Can they spread their assets wide enough to support every command? These are some of the big challenges to joint theatres. The US has a tried and tested system. But India cannot copy it. India's tri-service chief has ruled this out. Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat says India will develop its own system of joint theatres. The military is tight-lipped about the plans. But reports say they should be operational by next year. Hopefully, this will solve the bottlenecks in decision making. An army is only as good as the weapons it has. This is where India has struggled in the past with outdated weapons aircraft and ships. The only way to overhaul this is through defence spending. Now on paper, India is the third largest spender in the world behind the US and China. A break-up of India's defence budget shows that 50 per cent of the funds go to salaries and pensions. So at the start of every month, half the money is already gone. Where does that leave India's modernisation plans? These are figures from this year's budget. The total allocation was 4.78 trillion rupees. After pensions, salaries and other expenses, 1.35 trillion rupees were left. Just 28 per cent of the total budget. For a country with two belligerent neighbours, this is simply inadequate. What are India's options? One is to keep expanding the defence bill. But as this pandemic has shown, India needs to put more money in public health and infrastructure. So a big defence bill could be highly unpopular. What about reforming pensions? Maybe extend the retirement age of officers? Every time someone suggests this, there is backlash from veterans. And the situation isn't getting any better. We need active deployments in the east and west. Which means more soldiers more salaries and more pensions. Where will the money come from? A viable option is to trim the loose ends. Streamline acquisitions, cut down on duplication of work. Right now, every service has its own wishlist. There is no synergy between them on acquisitions. The goal is to get them all together so that India's defence establishment has one wishlist not three. All of this is easier said than done. The bureaucrats are sure to oppose a unified command. They hate being sidelined. Also, we need to be ready for squabbles between generals, admirals and air marshals. But these worries shouldn't concern India much because unification of command is like a rebirth for the military. Every big power has gone through it and and they are better off with the new system.

India's defence forces aim at 'theaterisation' of command

Amid the devastating COVID-19 crisis in the country, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has transported as many as 180 empty cryogenic oxygen containers and other relief material like oxygen cylinders, oxygen plant equipment, essential medicines and hospital equipment.&nbsp;

The Airlift of the IAF's RAMT (Rapid Action Medical Team) and medical officers and personnel of the Indian Navy has also been undertaken.&nbsp;

A total of eight C-17, four IL-76, ten C-130, and 20 An-32 aircraft, as well as Mi-17V5 and Chinook helicopters, have been employed by the IAF and have together clocked over 360 hours of flying.

The country is currently witnessing a catastrophic COVID-19 wave. Over the last few weeks, hospitals have repeatedly flagged shortages in medical supplies including medical oxygen. As many as 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases, 3,20,289 discharges and 3,449 deaths were reported in the country on Tuesday, the Union Health Ministry informed.

The total cases stand at 2,02,82,833, while 1,66,13,292 recoveries have been reported so far. The death toll stands at 2,22,408. There are currently 34,47,133 active cases in the country.

Amid the devastating COVID-19 crisis in the country, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has transported as many as 180 empty cryogenic oxygen containers and other relief material like oxygen cylinders, oxygen plant equipment, essential medicines and hospital equipment.

Amid the devastating COVID-19 crisis in the country, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has transported as many as 180 empty cryogenic oxygen containers and other relief material like oxygen cylinders, oxygen plant equipment, essential medicines and hospital equipment. The Airlift of the IAF's RAMT (Rapid Action Medical Team) and medical officers and personnel of the Indian Navy has also been undertaken. A total of eight C-17, four IL-76, ten C-130, and 20 An-32 aircraft, as well as Mi-17V5 and Chinook helicopters, have been employed by the IAF and have together clocked over 360 hours of flying. The country is currently witnessing a catastrophic COVID-19 wave. Over the last few weeks, hospitals have repeatedly flagged shortages in medical supplies including medical oxygen. As many as 3,57,229 new COVID-19 cases, 3,20,289 discharges and 3,449 deaths were reported in the country on Tuesday, the Union Health Ministry informed. The total cases stand at 2,02,82,833, while 1,66,13,292 recoveries have been reported so far. The death toll stands at 2,22,408. There are currently 34,47,133 active cases in the country.

COVID-19 crisis: Over 180 cryogenic oxygen containers transported by Indian Air Force

An Indian Air Force C17 Globemaster transport aircraft carrying 35 tonnes of aid including 450 oxygen cylinders, each with a capacity of 46.6 litres, landed in Chennai&nbsp;airport on Tuesday morning.

The cylinders were donated by the British Oxygen Company (BOC) and were consigned to the Indian Red Cross Society in Chennai.&nbsp;

After the cargo was unloaded, the first C-17 took off by around 7:45 am. Chennai Airport authorities said that they had facilitated the smooth movement of the IAF aircraft.&nbsp; 
 
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The IAF aircraft&nbsp;had gone from Jamnagar Airbase on Sunday to Brize Norton in the UK to lift critical life support equipment. The aircraft flew non-stop for 11.5 hours to reach the UK.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 
 
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The massive four-engine, T-tailed aircraft landed at the city’s International airport at 5:15 am, following which Chennai Customs facilitated a speedy cargo clearance within half an hour. Another load of 450 cylinders is expected to arrive in the city via another IAF C-17 transport aircraft in the afternoon.&nbsp; 
 
“Showcasing the potential of Indo-British partnership to fight the pandemic. An IAF aircraft carrying 450 oxygen cylinders arrives in Chennai (India). Grateful to the UK for the support,” tweeted Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson of India’s External Affairs Ministry.&nbsp;

The 5,000 cylinder aid provided by the British Oxygen Company comes at a time when India is ramping up efforts in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic second wave that is raging across the country.

Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s capital city witnessed an all-time high of 6,150 covid cases on Monday, whereas Tamil Nadu saw 20,952 cases. Active cases in the state are at 123,000.

Global help and support have been pouring in over the last few weeks in the form of PPE kits, raw material for vaccine production and ventilators, among others.&nbsp;

An Indian Air Force C17 Globemaster transport aircraft carrying 35 tonnes of aid including 450 oxygen cylinders, each with a capacity of 46.6 litres, landed in Chennai airport on Tuesday morning.

An Indian Air Force C17 Globemaster transport aircraft carrying 35 tonnes of aid including 450 oxygen cylinders, each with a capacity of 46.6 litres, landed in Chennai airport on Tuesday morning. The cylinders were donated by the British Oxygen Company (BOC) and were consigned to the Indian Red Cross Society in Chennai. After the cargo was unloaded, the first C-17 took off by around 7:45 am. Chennai Airport authorities said that they had facilitated the smooth movement of the IAF aircraft. The IAF aircraft had gone from Jamnagar Airbase on Sunday to Brize Norton in the UK to lift critical life support equipment. The aircraft flew non-stop for 11.5 hours to reach the UK. The massive four-engine, T-tailed aircraft landed at the city’s International airport at 5:15 am, following which Chennai Customs facilitated a speedy cargo clearance within half an hour. Another load of 450 cylinders is expected to arrive in the city via another IAF C-17 transport aircraft in the afternoon. “Showcasing the potential of Indo-British partnership to fight the pandemic. An IAF aircraft carrying 450 oxygen cylinders arrives in Chennai (India). Grateful to the UK for the support,” tweeted Arindam Bagchi, Official Spokesperson of India’s External Affairs Ministry. The 5,000 cylinder aid provided by the British Oxygen Company comes at a time when India is ramping up efforts in its fight against the COVID-19 pandemic second wave that is raging across the country. Chennai, Tamil Nadu’s capital city witnessed an all-time high of 6,150 covid cases on Monday, whereas Tamil Nadu saw 20,952 cases. Active cases in the state are at 123,000. Global help and support have been pouring in over the last few weeks in the form of PPE kits, raw material for vaccine production and ventilators, among others.

Indian Air Force flies 450 oxygen cylinders from UK to Chennai, 450 more to arrive 

Singapore on Saturday became the first country from which India procured essentials four oxygen tanks. India has been witnessing a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases, leading to shortage of oxygen supply across various states.

Indian Air Force flies in 4 oxygen tanks from Singapore

Indian Air Force (IAF) has administered first dose of Covid vaccine to all of its personnel. In addition to this, 90 per cent of them have received second dose as well. The IAF has reported 8,159 coronavirus cases and 36 deaths.

Indian armed forces have always been at the forefront to help countrymen. The IAF has pitched in to supply oxygen containers to several parts of the country amid rising Covid cases. IAF's &nbsp;C-17 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted cryogenic oxygen containers from Air Force Station Hindon to Panagarh in West Bengal for refilling. Earlier, DRDO's oxygen containers were airlifted by IAF from Bengaluru for Covid centres in New Delhi.

Moreover, IAF has also brought doctors and nursing staff from Kochi, Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru to Delhi to set up DRDO Covid hospital. Even last year, during the first wave of the pandemic, the IAF had pitched in to supply essentials across the country.

In addition to IAF, Indian Navy has administered first dose of the vaccine to its personnel. In case of the Indian Army, the number is at 95 per cent currently.

Indian Air Force (IAF) has administered first dose of Covid vaccine to all of its personnel. In addition to this, 90 per cent of them have received second dose as well.

Indian Air Force (IAF) has administered first dose of Covid vaccine to all of its personnel. In addition to this, 90 per cent of them have received second dose as well. The IAF has reported 8,159 coronavirus cases and 36 deaths. Indian armed forces have always been at the forefront to help countrymen. The IAF has pitched in to supply oxygen containers to several parts of the country amid rising Covid cases. IAF's C-17 and IL-76 aircraft airlifted cryogenic oxygen containers from Air Force Station Hindon to Panagarh in West Bengal for refilling. Earlier, DRDO's oxygen containers were airlifted by IAF from Bengaluru for Covid centres in New Delhi. Moreover, IAF has also brought doctors and nursing staff from Kochi, Mumbai, Visakhapatnam, Bengaluru to Delhi to set up DRDO Covid hospital. Even last year, during the first wave of the pandemic, the IAF had pitched in to supply essentials across the country. In addition to IAF, Indian Navy has administered first dose of the vaccine to its personnel. In case of the Indian Army, the number is at 95 per cent currently.

Indian Air Force administers first dose of Covid vaccine to all personnel 

After Rafale, how Boeing's F-15EX fighter jet can change IAF's strike capability

India's Republic Day: Rafale's gravity defying feat, IAF jets and Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launcher on display

The PM Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday cleared indigenous defence deal worth Rs 48,000 crores to strengthen Indian Air Force's fleet of LCA-Tejas fighter jets, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday.

This will be the biggest deal ever in the indigenous military aviation sector.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the development on Twitter, saying "the CCS chaired by the PM today approved the largest indigenous defence procurement deal worth about Rs 48,000 crore to strengthen IAF's fleet of homegrown fighter jet 'LCA-Tejas'. This deal will be a game-changer for self-reliance in Indian defence manufacturing."

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The CCS chaired by PM Sh. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> today approved the largest indigenous defence procurement deal worth about 48000 Crores to strengthen IAF’s fleet of homegrown fighter jet ‘LCA-Tejas’. This deal will be a game changer for self reliance in the Indian defence manufacturing.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh/status/1349317675671949314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 13, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The defence minister said Tejas is going to be the backbone of the fighter fleet of the Indian Air Force in years to come.

Around three years back, the IAF had issued an initial tender for procurement of 83 Tejas aircraft, a four-and-half generation combat jet.

"LCA-Tejas incorporates a large number of new technologies many of which were never attempted in India. The indigenous content of LCA-Tejas is 50 percent in Mk1A variant which will be enhanced to 60 percent,' Singh said.

The defence minister said that aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has already set up second-line manufacturing facilities at its Nasik and Bengaluru divisions.

"Equipped with the augmented infrastructure the HAL will steer LCA-Mk1A production for timely deliveries to the IAF," he said.

Singh said the Tejas programme would act as a catalyst for transforming the Indian aerospace manufacturing ecosystem into a vibrant, self-sustaining one.

"I thank the Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi for this historic decision taken by the CCS today, " the defence minister said.

(With inputs from agencies)

The PM Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday cleared indigenous defence deal worth Rs 48,000 crores to strengthen Indian Air Force's fleet of LCA-Tejas fighter jets, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday.

The PM Narendra Modi-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on Wednesday cleared indigenous defence deal worth Rs 48,000 crores to strengthen Indian Air Force's fleet of LCA-Tejas fighter jets, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said on Wednesday. This will be the biggest deal ever in the indigenous military aviation sector. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh confirmed the development on Twitter, saying "the CCS chaired by the PM today approved the largest indigenous defence procurement deal worth about Rs 48,000 crore to strengthen IAF's fleet of homegrown fighter jet 'LCA-Tejas'. This deal will be a game-changer for self-reliance in Indian defence manufacturing." The CCS chaired by PM Sh. @narendramodi today approved the largest indigenous defence procurement deal worth about 48000 Crores to strengthen IAF’s fleet of homegrown fighter jet ‘LCA-Tejas’. This deal will be a game changer for self reliance in the Indian defence manufacturing. — Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) January 13, 2021 × The defence minister said Tejas is going to be the backbone of the fighter fleet of the Indian Air Force in years to come. Around three years back, the IAF had issued an initial tender for procurement of 83 Tejas aircraft, a four-and-half generation combat jet. "LCA-Tejas incorporates a large number of new technologies many of which were never attempted in India. The indigenous content of LCA-Tejas is 50 percent in Mk1A variant which will be enhanced to 60 percent,' Singh said. The defence minister said that aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has already set up second-line manufacturing facilities at its Nasik and Bengaluru divisions. "Equipped with the augmented infrastructure the HAL will steer LCA-Mk1A production for timely deliveries to the IAF," he said. Singh said the Tejas programme would act as a catalyst for transforming the Indian aerospace manufacturing ecosystem into a vibrant, self-sustaining one. "I thank the Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi for this historic decision taken by the CCS today, " the defence minister said. (With inputs from agencies)

India approves Tejas fighter jets deal worth Rs 48,000 crore

Balakot terror camps in Pakistan are active again and the same is clearly visible in a recent video that shows Jaish-e-Mohammed linked terrorists training in the area.

Anti-India slogans raised at Balakot terror camps in Pakistan; video surfaces

The Balakot terror camp in Pakistan, which was targeted by the Indian Air Force in February last year, has once again reopen to train terrorists and launch attacks, according to sources the camp operations this time will predominantly focus on anti-India activities.

Balakot terror camps in Pakistan have reopened

India-China standoff: How Indian Air Force's 5th generation fighter jet will change air equation in South Asia

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria flew the home-grown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) over this aerospace city, an official said on Friday.

"Bhadauria flew the twin-seater LCH for the first time, taking off at 11:45am from our airport in the city`s eastern suburb, with our deputy chief test pilot Wing Commander (Retd) S.P. John," a Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) official told IANS here.

The Air Chief was airborne for an hour during his maiden flight sortie as a co-pilot, dressed in an olive green suit.

"It was a very good sortie. I was able to look at the important flying characteristics and status of sensors installed," said Bhadauria in a statement later.

Noting that the LCH was a potent platform due to excellent design and development efforts and well-supported flight test team, the Air Chief said the IAF was looking forward to its induction soon.

"I am sure HAL will give required focus on its production at a fast pace," Bhadauria said.

HAL Chairman R. Madhavan thanked the Air Chief and said the aerospace major would gear up to roll out the LCH for meeting the IAF needs.

Designed and developed by the city-based state-run defence behemoth (HAL), LCH is the world`s multi-role lightest attack helicopter, with a highest flight ceiling.

"The LCH has been certified by the relevant agency for induction into the IAF and the Indian Army soon," said the official.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved the proposal for the initial batch of 15 LCHs.

The IAF issued the Request for Proposal (RFP) for 15 limited series production of the helicopter, including 5 for the Army in 2017.

Drawing from the company`s multi-role Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and its weaponised version Rudra, LCH`s first prototype was test flown in March 2010.

Bhadauria, who took over as the Indian Air Force (IAF) in September 2019, also flew the HAL-made Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas on May 27, 2020 when it was inducted into the IAF`s 18 Squadron (Flying Bullets) at the Sulur air base near Coimbatore in the neigbhouring Tamil Nadu state.

The Air Chief was in the city to unveil the 59th annual conference of the Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine near the HAL airport.

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria flew the home-grown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) over this aerospace city, an official said on Friday.

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria flew the home-grown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) over this aerospace city, an official said on Friday. "Bhadauria flew the twin-seater LCH for the first time, taking off at 11:45am from our airport in the city`s eastern suburb, with our deputy chief test pilot Wing Commander (Retd) S.P. John," a Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) official told IANS here. The Air Chief was airborne for an hour during his maiden flight sortie as a co-pilot, dressed in an olive green suit. "It was a very good sortie. I was able to look at the important flying characteristics and status of sensors installed," said Bhadauria in a statement later. Noting that the LCH was a potent platform due to excellent design and development efforts and well-supported flight test team, the Air Chief said the IAF was looking forward to its induction soon. "I am sure HAL will give required focus on its production at a fast pace," Bhadauria said. HAL Chairman R. Madhavan thanked the Air Chief and said the aerospace major would gear up to roll out the LCH for meeting the IAF needs. Designed and developed by the city-based state-run defence behemoth (HAL), LCH is the world`s multi-role lightest attack helicopter, with a highest flight ceiling. "The LCH has been certified by the relevant agency for induction into the IAF and the Indian Army soon," said the official. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved the proposal for the initial batch of 15 LCHs. The IAF issued the Request for Proposal (RFP) for 15 limited series production of the helicopter, including 5 for the Army in 2017. Drawing from the company`s multi-role Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and its weaponised version Rudra, LCH`s first prototype was test flown in March 2010. Bhadauria, who took over as the Indian Air Force (IAF) in September 2019, also flew the HAL-made Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas on May 27, 2020 when it was inducted into the IAF`s 18 Squadron (Flying Bullets) at the Sulur air base near Coimbatore in the neigbhouring Tamil Nadu state. The Air Chief was in the city to unveil the 59th annual conference of the Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine near the HAL airport.

IAF chief Bhadauria flies Light Combat Helicopter over Bengaluru

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