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Zorawar Tank completed successfully field test.
Zorawar Tank completed successfully the first field test in the desert area of Rajasthan. Moreover, in the very first test conducted in the desert, the tank succeeded in hitting the intended target with accuracy. The trials were conducted by DRDO. With this, India’s search for a fast-armoured fighting light vehicle has now been completed. As a result, now the force of the Zorawar tank will prevail everywhere. Be it the high-altitude war zones in Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh adjacent to China or the Rann of Kutch adjacent to Pakistan.

The Zorawar Tank is a light tank developed by India’s Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE). It is designed specifically for use in high-altitude terrains like the northern borders, such as Ladakh. It is named after General Zorawar Singh, a military leader known for his campaigns in the Himalayas during the 19th century.

The Zorawar Tank is intended to strengthen India’s capability in managing the challenges posed by high-altitude conflict zones, particularly with an eye on the China border. Its development is part of India’s broader efforts to modernize its military forces.

Currently, heavy tanks deployed at the Chinese border

Currently, heavy tanks weighing 40-50 tonnes are been deployed at LAC. These tanks are Russian-origin Bhisma T90, Ajay T-72 and the main battle tank Arjun. To reach the high-altitude battle areas of Ladakh, army personnel have to pass through many passes. For that reason, it is very difficult with these heavy tanks.

Now soldiers will be able to move faster with the Zorawar Tank. Since the weight of the Zorawar Tank will be less than 25 Tonnes. Therefore these can be transported very easily at a height of 8 to 10 thousand feet. Furthermore, heavy tanks like T-72 and T-90 found it difficult to reach there.

L&T will manufacture the Zorawar Tank

L&T will manufacture 354 Zorawar tanks in collaboration with DRDO. Additionally, it will be prepared on the chassis of K-9 Vajra Self-Propelled Artie 155 mm. Moreover, the K-9 Vajra tank has also been manufactured at L&T’s plant in Hazira, Gujarat. Numerous Indian industries, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), will play a pivotal role in the development of various sub-systems.

It will take two years to test the indigenous Zoravar Tank. Moreover, the upcoming trials will include missile firing. The army will also test the tank’s performance in summer, winter, and high altitude before it can go into production. After that, it will be included in the army fleet by 2027. All these tanks will be light as well as provide better firepower and protection.

Specifications of the Zorawar Tank

The Zorawar Tank is a high-altitude, light tank developed by India, optimized for mountainous regions like Ladakh, where mobility and agility are crucial. While the full set of specifications might evolve as development progresses, based on available data and expectations, here are some key features:

1. Weight & Mobility of Zorawar Tank
- Weight: Around 25 tons or less, making it much lighter than standard battle tanks.
- Mobility: Designed for high-altitude warfare, ensuring it can operate effectively in challenging terrain and elevations. Thus this includes a focus on agility, with a good power-to-weight ratio and all-terrain mobility.
- Engine: Expected to have a high-powered engine (up to 1,000 hp) to ensure it can manoeuvre in rough terrains. Thus providing excellent speed and climbing ability.
2. Armament of Zorawar Tank
- Primary Weapon: Likely to be a 105mm gun or a 30mm cannon, suitable for engaging light and medium armoured vehicles as well as infantry positions.
- Secondary Armament: Co-axial machine guns, possibly a 7.62mm or 12.7mm machine gun for infantry support.
- Anti-tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs): Provision to fire-guided missiles, extending its effective range and armor-penetration capability.
3. Protection
- Armour: Lightweight composite armour to ensure high mobility without compromising on essential protection. Therefore the armour would likely be modular, allowing upgrades.
- Active Protection Systems (APS): Likely equipped with APS to defend against incoming anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and rocket-propelled grenades (RPGs).
- Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA): Potential to add ERA for additional protection against high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds.
4. Electronics & Communication
- Fire Control System (FCS): A modern FCS with laser rangefinders, thermal imagers, and night-vision capabilities for all-weather, day-night operation.
- Situational Awareness: Sensors and cameras provide 360-degree visibility.
- Battle Management Systems (BMS): Integrated with India’s military communication network to coordinate with other units, drones, and command centres.
5. Operational Altitude
- The tank is specially engineered to operate effectively at altitudes of up to 15,000 feet or more. Thus maintaining performance in low-oxygen environments that is critical for high-altitude warfare.
6. Crew
- Expected to have a crew of 3 or 4 (commander, gunner, driver, loader).
7. Variants
- The Zorawar platform is likely to have multiple variants. That include reconnaissance, anti-aircraft, or command post versions, to support a variety of battlefield roles.
8. Range and Endurance
- Fuel capacity allows for extended operational range to support sustained operations in remote areas.
- High endurance in terms of autonomous operation time.
These specifications aim to make the Zorawar Tank a formidable asset for India’s armed forces in challenging high-altitude scenarios, particularly along the northern borders.
September 14, 2024
Tarang Shakti excercise will be observed today.
Tarang Shakti Exercise is happening at Jodhpur Air Force Station and is now in its final phase. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will reach Jodhpur today on Thursday at 11 am to observe the Tarang Shakti exercise. The Defence Minister will also inaugurate the Defence Aviation Expo organized from 12 to 14 September at Jodhpur Air Force Station.

Sarang Joined Tarang Shakti

On the other hand, Indian Air Force’s helicopter aerobatic team Sarang reached Jodhpur directly from Egypt on Wednesday. Sarang’s 5 helicopters have arrived. Sarang team had gone to Egypt to participate in the International Air Show from 3 to 5 September. Because of this, Sarang could not attend the open day of the exercise in Jodhpur on 7th September.

Moreover, Sarang will be performed with the Suryakiran team on Thursday. Suryakiran, Sarang, indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft and Sukhoi-30 will perform in front of the Defence Minister, the three Chiefs of Army Staff of India and the Chiefs of Foreign Air Forces.

People of Jodhpur will also be able to watch the big aerobatic Tarang Shakti exercise from the rooftops of their homes at 11 am.

The foreign Air Force Chiefs will also reach Jodhpur.

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari will arrive in Jodhpur on Thursday morning. Moreover, the air force chiefs of the seven major countries participating in the exercise are likely to visit Jodhpur. Air Force teams from America, Japan, Australia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, UAE and Greece are participating in Tarang Shakti.

The US Air Force Chief will fly India’s indigenous fighter aircraft Tejas. Furthermore, Chiefs of other countries will also fly with Tejas. Moreover,16 countries are participating in the exercise as observers. Air Force Chiefs of some of these 16 countries may also attend on Thursday.

DRDO’s power in Defense Expo

A glimpse of self-reliant India will be seen at the Defense Aviation Expo. It will showcase technology developed by Defense Laboratories (DRDO), the country’s MSME sector and start-ups. Key startups will showcase technologies like RF guns, high-altitude pseudo satellites, loitering ammunition, air-launched flexible assets, AR and VR for training, and smart glasses to counter unmanned aerial threats.

What is the Tarang Shakti exercise?

Tarang Shakti is a large-scale multinational air exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force. The exercise involves various aerial combat scenarios, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground strikes, and search and rescue operations. Moreover, Tarang Shakti exercise is designed to enhance interoperability, cooperation, and understanding among participating nations.

Key features of Tarang Shakti:

Multinational participation: Air forces from several countries participate in the Tarang Shakti exercise. Thus it is for showcasing their capabilities and fostering international collaboration.

Advanced aircraft and weaponry: The exercise features a wide range of modern fighter jets, bombers, transport aircraft, and aerial refuelling tankers.

Complex scenarios: Participants engage in realistic combat simulations to test their skills and tactics in challenging environments.

Knowledge exchange: The exercise provides an opportunity for air forces to learn from each other, share best practices, and improve their capabilities.

Tarang Shakti is a significant event in the Indian Air Force’s calendar, demonstrating India’s commitment to regional and global security.

What is the purpose of the Tarang Shakti exercise?

The Tarang Shakti exercise serves several key purposes:
1. Enhance Interoperability: It aims to improve coordination and cooperation among participating air forces, ensuring that they can work effectively together in multinational operations.
2. Foster Regional Security: The exercise helps to strengthen regional security by demonstrating the capabilities and commitment of participating nations to maintaining peace and stability.
3. Showcase Military Prowess: It provides a platform for participating air forces to showcase their advanced aircraft, weaponry, and combat skills.
4. Promote International Relations: The exercise fosters diplomatic ties and strengthens relationships between participating countries.
5. Train for Real-World Scenarios: By simulating complex combat scenarios, the exercise prepares air forces for potential real-world threats and challenges.
Overall, Tarang Shakti is a valuable tool for enhancing military capabilities, promoting regional cooperation, and maintaining peace and security.
September 12, 2024
Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi the new Army Chief

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi is appointed by the central government as the new Army Chief. He will take charge on the 30th of June 2024. Current Army Chief General Manoj C Pandey is retiring on June 30.

As soon as Prime Minister Narendra Modi formed the government for the third time, the work of giving a green signal to the pending appointments started. The central government has appointed Upendra Dwivedi as the next Army Chief from the afternoon of June 30.

Additional Directorate General of Public Information of the Indian Army posted on X about the appointment of the Army Chief.

After the sixth phase of elections on May 25, the Central Government extended the service of Army Chief General Manoj Pandey by one month. For this reason, he will remain in office till June 30. Earlier he was scheduled to retire on May 31. The extension was done on the 26th of May 2024 under Rule 16A (4) of the Army Rules, 1954. Moreover, due to the ongoing election, the extension was done.

Biography of Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi

Early Life

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi was born on 1 July 1964. Gen Dwivedi is an alumnus of Sainik School, Rewa. He then joined the National Defence Academy in Khadakwasla and later the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun. An alumnus of the US Army War College, Lt Dwivedi has also undergone courses at DSSC Wellington and Army War College (Mhow).

Also awarded ‘Distinguished Fellow’ in the prestigious NDC equivalent course at USAWC, Carlisle, USA. Lieutenant General Dwivedi has done an M.Phil in Defense and Management Studies. Moreover, he has two master’s degrees in Strategic Studies and Military Science.

Commissioned in the Indian Army

He was commissioned in the Infantry (Jammu and Kashmir Rifles) of the Indian Army on the 15th of December 1984. During nearly 40 years of military service, he has served in various command, staff, instructional and overseas appointments. It comprises the commands of Regiment (18 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles), Brigade (26 Sector Assam Rifles), DIG, Assam Rifles (East) and 9 Corps. Before he was appointed Deputy Chief of Army Staff, he held important appointments including Director General Infantry and General Officer Commanding in Chief (HQ Northern Command) from 2022-2024.

Personal life of Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi

Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi is married to Mrs Sunita Dwivedi, who is a science graduate and a homemaker. Mrs. Sunita Dwivedi has been associated with Aarushi, an institute for specially-abled children, in Bhopal. The couple is blessed with two daughters.

June 12, 2024
Agniveers are not just soldiers

Agniveers are soldiers, leaders, innovators and defenders of national sovereignty. Chief of Defense Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan said this while interacting with Agniveers. On May 20, 2024, he interacted with Agniveers soldiers undergoing training at the Maratha Regimental Center and Pilot Training School (ATS) in Belagavi.

CDS in the Maratha Regiment Center

The CDS of the Maratha Regiment Center highlighted the noble purpose of military service and its crucial role in the military framework and commended Agniveers for choosing the Armed Forces. Moreover, he explained that this demonstrated their extraordinary responsibility to the country.

General Anil Chauhan acknowledged the personal challenges faced by soldiers and their families. Moreover, he highlighted the hardships they had to endure while fighting in challenging environments. Furthermore, he assured that despite the challenges faced, the Agniveers found their journey very rewarding, The steps each person takes to achieve their personal goals lead to growth and a deep sense of pride in serving our country.

CDS explains the evolving nature of warfare and highlights the complexity and unpredictability of future conflicts. It may include cyberwarfare, artificial intelligence and asymmetric threats. Furthermore, he said these are now an integral part of the battlefield.

CDS visited the ATS in Belagavi

During the visit to the ATS in Belagavi, the CDS visited the training facility. Moreover, he gained an in-depth understanding of the Agniveervayu training of the IAF. He interacted with the third batch of Agniveers Vayu cadets undergoing training as per the revised induction model to be launched by the Ministry of Defense in 2022. Furthermore, he urged them to focus on training them to become skilled soldiers, ready to face the challenges of future wars.

CDS also emphasizes to cadets that learning is a lifelong process, especially in the evolving and dynamic field of warfare, which is technology-intensive and requires a deep sense of responsibility for the continuous improvement of capabilities. Moreover, he also talked about technology integration and continuous learning. Furthermore, he clarified the importance of staying updated and being innovative in the fight.

He advised the trainees to always cultivate the values of integrity, fitness, discipline and team spirit in the pursuit of professional excellence.

Highlighting the importance of training, the CDS commended the efforts of the ATS and Maratha Regiment Center training personnel and urged them to continue striving for excellence to enhance the nation’s operational strength.

Who are Agniveers

Agniveers are recruited by the government of India in all three divisions ie Army, Navy and Airforce of the defence sector under the Agneepath Scheme. Any Indian citizen between the ages of 17.5 to 21 years can join as Agniveers. Girls can also join as Agniveers.

The Agneepath scheme was approved by the Union Cabinet in June 2022 and implemented in September 2022. Additionally, it is a new military rank.

Agniveers salary and benefits

– Recruited Agniveer will start with a monthly package of Rs 30000. Additionally, they will get allowances and benefits provided to the regular defence forces.

– The tenure of Agniveers is for four years only.

– Agniveers will get a fixed yearly increment of 10%

– Agniveers will get 30 days’ leave in a year. Sick leave will be granted on medical advice. Grant of leave is subject to conditions and emergencies.

– Agniveers will get all the medical facilities at military hospitals.

– Agniveers are covered by the life insurance schemes.

– An Agniveer Corpus Fund will be created and managed by the Ministry of Defence. In this fund, an Agniveer has to contribute 30% of the monthly package. Additionally, the same amount will be contributed by the Government to secure the future of an Agniveer after his services. Furthermore, this corpus fund is Income tax exempted.

Benefits for Agniveers

1 Proud service

Every citizen of India has the ambition to join the armed forces and serve the nation with the enthusiasm of doing or dying for the nation.

We are proud of our armed forces and salute our brave soldiers.

Youth have the opportunities to make their parents, relatives, friends and acquaints feel pride and gain self-pride.

2 Emoluments and facilities

Compensations for serving the nation at a very young age are fairly good enough.

You can save a good amount of money after four years of service which is a dream for many young boys who are struggling to find a job at the age of 25-30 years after completing their studies.

3 Opportunities Ahead for Agniveers

After serving for four years you have multiple opportunities.

a) Get direct recruitment in the Indian Armed Forces (25% of Agniveers will be directly selected.)

b) Central and a few states have declared priority for Agniveer in recruiting in other forces.

c) A lot of private organisations have shown their concern in selecting their employees from the Agniveers.

d) You can start your business with your savings and bank loans. Banks have agreed to give loans to the Agniveers.

4 Skill Development

You are bound to develop your skills during the training and services at no extra cost.

Many youths pay for skill development courses to progress in life. These skills will help you make your future in a particular field.

5 Personality Development

Disciplined life in the armed forces and many other activities help you to develop your personality.

You will come out as a new person in you who is not afraid of any challenges of life.

Drawbacks of Becoming Agniveers

I don’t think any disadvantages still a few worries may come to your mind.

1 Daring Job of Agniveers

It’s a hard job. You have to always be ready to sacrifice your life for the nation.

If you are not daring, not fulfilled with patriotic feelings this job is not for you.

2 Short Tenure

If you are looking for a permanent government job then you should wait and prepare yourself for such jobs which may or may not be announced in the coming years.

By that time you may cross the age limit. Although many states may offer age-limit relaxation for Agniveers.

The short tenure of the Agniveers is a problematic issue for those who are looking for a permanent government job.

3 Rehabilitate

After four years of your services, you have reestablished yourself and your career.

You have to mentally prepare yourself for life lifelong career.

Probably you have to join some courses or recontinue your higher studies to make your career.

SUM UP

If you are young, patriotic, energetic, physically and mentally fit, daring and believe in yourself then the Agneepath scheme is for you.

If you are a little bit confused and still not clear your doubts it is advisable not to apply at least in the Agneepath scheme.

May 21, 2024
India is the fourth largest country in the world to spend on defence.

India spent 83.6 billion dollars in the year 2023 and thus became the fourth-largest country in the world in terms of military expenditure. This was 4.2 % more than in 2022. The five highest spending countries in 2022 remain in the same position in 2023. Russia is at number three in this. A total of 10 countries have spent lavishly on military weapons. America is on top of this.

Sweden’s Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has revealed this in a report released on Monday. According to the report, global military spending reached $2443 billion in 2023. As compared to the year 2022 it is an increase of 6.8%. It was $22.4 trillion in 2022. According to the report, the amount of money that various countries in the world are currently spending on arms, ammunition and other military equipment has never happened before. According to the report, this is the biggest increase in a year since 2009 and the ninth consecutive year when spending has increased.

America is on top and China is on second

America still tops the list of countries with the highest military spending. In 2023, America spent $916 billion on defence, which is more than 37% of the total worldwide expenditure. In second place is China, whose expenditure is about one-third of America. It spent $296 billion, which is 12% of its total expenditure. This is 6% more than in 2022. China’s military expenditure has increased year-on-year for 29 consecutive years. These two countries contributed half of the total expenditure on weapons.

India is in the fourth position

The fourth largest country in terms of military expenditure is India which spent 83.6 billion dollars. This was 4.2% more than in 2022. After Russia India is in the fourth position. Russia’s expenditure in 2023 increased by 24% compared to 2022 to reach $109 billion. This is a 57 percent increase since Russia separated Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. Russia is spending 5.9% of its GDP on military.

The Russia-Ukraine war is also a major cause

SIPRI researcher Lorenzo Scarazzato said, one of the main factors for the increase in military spending is the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. Ukraine is the eighth-largest country in terms of military expenditure. Its expenditure increased by 51% to reach $64.8 billion, which is 37% of its total GDP. The largest increase in military spending was seen in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where war continues between the government and rebels. Its expenditure has increased by 105%.

Military spending increased in all five regions defined by SIPRI, particularly in Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East.

April 23, 2024
Indian Army successfully tests indigenous ‘Man-Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile’

Indian army successfully tested indigenously ‘Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile’ (MPATGM) weapon system in the Pokhran Field Firing Range of Rajasthan. It can be easily carried anywhere. Also, it is capable of targeting enemy tanks from anywhere.

MPATGM weapon system has been developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). The system consisted of the MPATGM, Launcher, Target Acquisition System, and Fire Control Unit. Several flight configurations were field-evaluated to prove the superior technology multiple times. Furthermore, it is suitable for both day and night operations. The addition of dual-mode seeker functionality to the missile capability for tank warfare is a significant improvement.

Technology development and successful demonstration of this system have been completed, and it is now ready for final user evaluation trials. These trials will lead to the system’s induction into the Indian Army.

Read more achievements of the Indian Arm y

What is a Man-portable Anti Tank Guided Missile

A Man-Portable Anti Tank Guided Missile is a type of missile system designed to be carried and operated by an individual soldier or small team. Furthermore, these missiles are used primarily to engage and destroy armoured vehicles, including tanks, armoured personnel carriers, and other fortified targets.

Man-portable ATGMs are typically shoulder-fired or launched from a portable tripod or vehicle mount. Additionally, they are guided by various means, including wire guidance, laser guidance, or infrared homing systems. Some advanced MPATGMs also incorporate fire-and-forget capabilities, allowing the operator to fire the missile and then manoeuvre or take cover while the missile autonomously tracks and engages the target.

These weapons provide infantry units with the capability to effectively engage armoured threats from a safe distance, giving them a significant advantage on the battlefield. Moreover, they are an essential component of modern anti-armour tactics and are widely used by military forces around the world.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Indian Army and DRDO

A Defense Ministry official said on Sunday that the trial of its tandem warhead system has been completed. Furthermore, it was found to be capable of defeating modern armour-protected tanks. Even before this, the system was tested in various areas.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO and the Indian Army for successfully testing the system. Moreover, he described it as an important step towards achieving self-reliance in developing modern technology-based defence systems. DRDO Chairman Sameer V. Kamat also congratulated the teams associated with the test.

April 15, 2024
Akash-NG Missile kills the enemies in the blink of an eye
Akash-NG missile is being developed by DRDO that can kill enemies in the blink of an eye. Akash-NG missile flies one kilometre per second. Its speed is 3087 kilometres per hour and does not even give the enemies a chance to blink.

The Indian Defense Research Organization on Friday successfully test-fired the Akash-NG missile from the Chandipur range in Odisha. Next Generation Akash-NG Missile shot down the enemy missile flying at a very low altitude with great accuracy. Although, older versions of Akash missiles are already serving in the Indian Army. DRDO has also released its video.

India had deployed an Akash-NG missile on LAC after the clash with China. Apart from this, the Air Force has also deployed Akash missiles at Gwalior, Jalpaiguri, Tezpur, Jorhat and Pune bases.

Specification of Akash-NG Missile

The AKASH-NG Missile is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed to protect vulnerable areas and points from air attacks. The system can engage multiple targets simultaneously in either group or autonomous mode. It also comes equipped with Electronic Counter to Counter Measures (ECCM) features to enhance its effectiveness. The entire weapon system is configured on mobile platforms for ease of deployment. Currently, the AKASH is operational and in use by both the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Indian Army (IA).
- It is a surface-to-air missile.
- It has a dual-pulse solid rocket motor.
- The range of this missile is 40 to 80 kilometres.
- This missile is equipped with multi-scan radar
- It can attack multiple enemies at once
- It can be launched from any mobile platform
- Its total weight is 720 kg
- The length of this missile is 19 feet and the diameter is 1.16 feet.
- It is capable of carrying 60 kg of weapons
- Akash-NG missiles can destroy enemy aircraft up to 20 kilometres altitude.
- It can also be fired from T-72 tanks or BMP chassis
- It can also be fired from Tratra Truck or Tata’s launch system.
January 12, 2024

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