Year End Review: Achievements of Ministry of Defence
New Delhi. Speedy modernisation of the Armed Forces to meet present and emerging challenges, development of requisite capacities and infrastructure for making up critical deficiency of weapons and equipment and creating a robust defence set up in the country through the ‘Make in India’ initiative, were the salient achievements of the Ministry of Defence during 2016.
The year also saw progress for the welfare of Ex-Servicemen as the much awaited One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme funds reaching the accounts of Ex-Servicemen and families. During the year as part of Defence Diplomacy, India engaged with its neighbours and Far Eastern countries,as well as also developed countries through bilateral talks, ship visits and bilateral as well as trilateral military exercises. To expedite capacity building, as well as offensive capabilities of the Armed Forces, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the apex body of the Ministry of Defence in matters of acquisitions, cleared different critical and high end defence procurement proposals to the tune of more than 1 lakh crore.
The new Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) 2016 was promulgated for capital procurements and came into effect from 1stApril. DPP-2016 has a focus on achieving the ‘Make in India’ vision by according priority to ‘Buy Indian – IDDM (Indian Designed, Developed and Manufactured) and ‘Buy (Indian)’ categories. It also focuses on enhancement and rationalization of indigenous content.
The Ministry of Defence also issued guidelines for penalties in business dealings with entities, which have come into effect from 21 November. The guidelines lay down policy for levy of financial penalties and / or suspension / banning of business dealings with entities, seeking to enter into contract with / having entered into a contract for the procurement of goods and services by the Ministry of Defence.‘Entities’ will include companies, trusts, societies, as well as individuals and their associations with whom the Ministry of Defence has entered into, or intends to enter into, or could enter into contracts or agreements. The guidelines are available at http://mod.nic.in/writereaddata/guideentities.pdf.
INDIAN ARMY
Current Situation in J&K:Thesecurity situation in J&K is at an important crossroads. Cease Fire Violations (CFVs) which saw a significant rise in the preceding months, wherein several incidents of calibre escalation to Artillery/ 120 mm Mortar were attempted by Pakistan. This has seen a drastic reduction in CFVs post the DGsMO level talks which took place on 23 Nov. Relentless operations by the Army both, along the Line of Control (LC) and in the hinterland in concert with other security forces have thwarted the designs of the nexus to give a fillip to the proxy war being waged against India. Army along with CAPF and JKP continues to put in relentless efforts to bring back normalcy to the Kashmir Valley.
Situation Along LAC:There is no commonly delineated Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the border areas between India and China. From time to time, on account of differing perception of the LAC, situations have arisen on the ground that could have been avoided if we had a common perception of the LAC. Army regularly takes up any such situation along the LAC with the Chinese side through established mechanism including border personnel meeting, flag meetings, meeting of Working Mechanism for Consultation & Coordination on India-China Border Affairs and diplomatic channels.
Surgical Strikes along Line of Control: Based on specific and credible inputs about some terrorist teams having positioned themselves at launch pads along Line of Control to carry out infiltration and conduct terrorist strikes in Jammu and Kashmir and in various metros in other States, the Indian Army conducted surgical strikes on 29 Sep at several of these launch pads to pre-empt infiltration by terrorists.
The operations were focussed on ensuring that these terrorists did not succeed in their design to cause destruction and endanger the lives of our citizens. During these counter terrorist operations significant casualties were caused to terrorists and those providing support to them.
TRAINING EVENTS & MILITARY EXERCISES
India-France Joint Military ‘Exercise Shakti – 2016’was conducted from 6-16 Jan. ‘Exercise Shakti-2016’ is the seventh edition in the series of bilateral exercises. The exercise was conducted in two phases. Both armies shared valuable combat experience on countering terrorist operations in an international environment.
India-Nepal Combined Military Training ‘Exercise Surya Kiran IX’ was conducted at Pithoragarh from 8-21 Feb under the aegis of Panchshul Brigade/ Central Command. An Infantry Battalion of the Indian Army and Shree RudraDhoj Battalion of the Nepalese Army participated.
India–IndonesiaJoint Training ‘Exercise Garuda Shakti IV’ The fourth edition of the joint exercise was conducted for 13 days from 10-23 Mar at Magelang, Indonesia. A platoon of an Infantry Battalion from Southern Command theatre carried out joint training with a platoon from 503 Airborne Battalion of the Indonesian Army.
‘Exercise Force -18’, the largest ground forces multinational field training exercise on ‘Humanitarian Mine Action and Peacekeeping Operations’ culminated at Pune on 8 Mar. Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) Gen Dalbir Singh presided over the closing ceremony. The week long exercise saw participation of over 300 foreign participants and observers from ASEAN Plus countries. Lt Col Sofia Qureshi was selected to lead the Indian army training contingent of 40 personnel during this exercise. She was the first woman to lead the Indian Army in an 18-nation military exercise.
‘Exercise Shatrujeet’: COAS General Dalbir Singh witnessed ‘Exercise Shatrujeet’ in Rajasthan on 22 Apr. The COAS was briefed on operational plans and conduct of the exercise by GOC, Strike Corps Lt Gen ShokinChauhan. The exercise is part of regular training where the Strike Corps practices and hones war fighting skills.
‘Exercise Chakravyuh-II’: In a follow up to ‘Exercise Shatrujeet’ by the Strike Corps (Strike One) in April, the pivot formations held the fortnight-long military training exercise,‘Exercise Chakravyuh-II’ in Rajasthan. The exercise conceptualized by the Pivot Corps involved rapid mobilization and execution of plans in sync with the Air Force in desert terrain. It was a success. The exercise validated the battle readiness and operational effectiveness of the RAPID Division along with all its affiliated components.
‘Exercise Jalrahat’:As a step towards achieving the goals of National Disaster Management Plan 2016 released by the Prime Minister on 1 June and with the outlines of identifying high risk disaster areas and coordination between the Armed Forces, NDRF and State Disaster Management Agencies along with other State Emergency services, a mock exercise and demonstration under ‘Exercise Jalrahat’ was conducted on 29 June in Shantipur area of Guwahati on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.
‘Exercise Maitree’: A joint exercise of the Indian Army and Royal Thailand Army was held from 15-30 July in Thailand. The aim was to train contingents of both armies on conduct of counter-terrorist operations in an urban environment. The exercise was designed to enhance mutual cooperation and interoperability between the two armies.
‘Exercise YudhAbhyas’: As part of the continuing Indo – US defence cooperation, the 12thedition of the joint military training ‘Exercise YudhAbhyas2016’ was conducted at Chaubattia in Uttarakhand from 14-27 Sep. The exercise was in a series of one of the longest running joint military training exercises covering counter-terrorist operations under the flagship of UN for countering international terrorism. It included a series of training events such as cordon and search operation, cliff chop assaults and other training events covering operational activities carried out under the flag of UN Mission.
Indian Army Medical Team Participated in the Joint Exerciseof ASEAN PLUS countries in Thailand in September. Exercise was based on humanitarian action during natural calamity.
India -Kazakhstan Joint Exercise:As a part of India’s continued efforts to strengthen Indo-Kazakh relations, Armies of the two countries had undergone a 14-day joint exercise ‘PrabalDostyk’ in September. The exercise was conducted in Karaganda region of Kazakhstan.
‘Exercise Indra – 2016’:As part of continued efforts to further strengthen Indo-Russian friendship, troops of two sides, participated in the eight edition of Joint ‘Exercise Indra – 2016’ from 22 Sep to 2 Oct. The 11-day exercise focused on Counter Terrorism and Counter Insurgency operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain under the UN mandate. The exercise was held at the 249thCombined Arms Range, Sergiveskey.
‘Sino – Indian Joint Exercise’:As part of the ongoing initiative to enhance interaction and cooperation between India and China, under the provisions of the Border Defence Cooperation Agreement, 2013, the Indian and Chinese armies held their Second Joint Exercise ‘Sino India Cooperation 2016’ on 19 Oct. This was a sequel to the first Joint Exercise held on 6 Feb in the Chusul Garrison of Eastern Ladakh.
‘India – China Joint Training Exercise’:The sixth India – China Joint Training Exercise “Hand – in – Hand 2016” was held at Pune from 16 – 27 Nov. The aim of the exercise was to enhance confidence and trust between the two armies which may be called upon to grapple with anti-terrorism operations under the UN mandate. The conduct of Joint Military Exercises is also an important step to uphold the values of Peace, Prosperity and Stability in the region.
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES
Army Everest Massif Expedition to Mt Everest and Mt Lhotse:The Indian Army Everest Massif Expeditionto scale Mount Everest and Mount Lhotse, was flagged off by Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lt Gen MMS Rai, on 29 Mar in New Delhi. The 30-member team of 5 Officers, 4 Junior Commissioned Officers and 21 Other Ranks was led by Lt Col RS Jamwal, a reputed climber.
Chinar Corps Centenary Expedition to Mt Harmukh: A 45-member team of Indian Army mountaineers led by Col SS Shekhawat, who had scaled Mt Everest thrice earlier, scaled the formidable peak of Harmukhon 21 May as part of the Chinar Corps’ centenary celebrations. Harmukhat 5148m lies in the North Western Himalayan range.
Joint India-Kyrgyzstan Army Mountaineering Expedition to Mt Jogin III: A 23-member team conducted the expedition from 30 Aug to 25 Sep in Harsil sector of Garhwal Himalaya (Uttarakhand). The team included nine members from the Kyrgyz Army. It successfully completed the expedition.
HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF (HADR)
Vivekananda Flyover Collapse. Kolkata witnessed the collapse of the Vivekananda Flyover on 31 Mar. The civil authorities immediately called the Army to carry out rescue operations. On arrival rescue work was coordinated with civil administration and the NDRF.
SPORTS
International Day of Yoga – 2016: This year approximately 4 lakh Jawans and Officers participated in the International Day of Yoga – 2016 across the entire length and breadth of the nation.
Three World Records Established By Indian Army Dare Devils:DareDevil team of Corps of Signals set new world recordson 9 Sep at 1 Signal Training Centre, Jabalpur. The world record for ‘longest continuous ride standing on the seat of a motor cycle’ was broken by CaptManpreet Singh (Team Captain “Dare Devils”) covering a distance of 75.2km in 2 hrs 24 min and 12 secs. The world record for ‘Handle Bar Riding on a Motorcycle’ under fresh category was broken by Lance HavildarSandeep Kumar, covering a distance of 46.9km in 01 hr 27 min and 31 secs. The world record for ‘Fastest 100m running with a football balanced on the head’ was broken by Subedar Azad Singh with a time of 17.7 secs.
MISCELLANEOUS EVENTS
The Directorate Of Indian Army Veterans launched: COAS General Dalbir Singh inaugurated the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV) on 14 Jan at Delhi Cantt. The Directorate will provide a wide range of veteran care and support services and will act as a single point of contact for redressal of complaints of veterans, widows and their wards. The inauguration of the new Directorate coincided with the first ever celebration of Veterans Day.
Release of Beta Version of Integrated Quartermaster Package (IQMP) For The Indian Army:The beta version was released by Vice Chief of the Army Staff Lt Gen MMS Rai, on 29 Jan as a pre-cursor to the final release of IQMP. As part of ongoing efforts, DGIS with the help of M/s Tata Consultancy Services Ltd. has developed IQMP for automating all logistics functions at the unit level. It will also cater for exchange of info and data with Logistics Management Support applications through CMA (Central Management Application) hosted at Army Headquarters Computer Centre. This avoids replication and achieves the aim of automation.
Colour Presentation to Signals Corps: COAS Gen Dalbir Singh presented the President’s Colours to the Corps of Signals of Indian Army at Gauri Shankar Parade Ground of 1 Signal Training Centre, Jabalpur on 15 Feb.
A Multispecialty Dental Wing For Veterans: On the occasion of Platinum Jubilee Celebration of the Army Dental Corps, a Multispecialty Dental Wing for veterans was inaugurated by the COASGen Dalbir Singh on 10 Feb at Army Dental Clinic (Research & Referral), Delhi.
Cardio Thoracic Vascular Clinic Inaugurated: COAS Gen Dalbir Singh inaugurated the Cardio Thoracic Vascular Clinic on 16 Apr. The clinic is a part of the newly constructed 200 bedded Cardio Thoracic Vascular Science Centre in the premises of Army Hospital (Research & Referral), Delhi.
Defence Communication Network: The Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar, dedicated the Defence Communication Network (DCN) to the Nation on 30 June in New Delhi. He complimented the three Services on putting in place a communication system to facilitate jointmanship. He further stressed on the need for keeping the network secure.
Army Skill Training Centre: The pilot project of the Army Skill Training Centre(ASTC) was inaugurated by President AWWA Mrs Namita Suhagon 22 Aug in Delhi. The Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri Rajiv Pratap Rudy, COAS Gen Dalbir Singh and other senior officials were present. With the inauguration of the ASTC, the Indian Army now embarks on a new mission by bringing Army spouses and wards into the folds of the skilling landscape. Army personnel and their spouses/wards who attend training at ASTC will receive skill certificate from NSDC and will become eligible for employment/entrepreneurship under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna scheme.
‘Make In India’ Portal On Army Website Launched: COAS Gen Dalbir Singh formally announced establishment of the Army Design Bureau (ADB) on 31 Aug during an Army Seminar on ‘Make Projects’ held in New Delhi. The COAS also launched the ‘Make in India’ Portal on the Army Website.
Inauguration of Military Station: Berhampore Military station in West Bengal was inaugurated by the President Shri Pranab Mukherjee on 8 Oct. The military station located 25 Km from Murshidabad has been developed as a model military station to include state-of-the-art training and administrative facilities for the Army.
EX-SERVICEMEN WELFARE
OROP
Detailed instructions along with tables for the implementation of OROP were issued on 3 Feb. The status on implementation of OROP benefits as on 30 Nov this year (2016)are as follows:-
• Cases paid (1st installment and lump sum payments) to 19,64,350 personnel and the amount therefore disbursed was Rs. 3,985.65 crore
• Cases paid in the 2nd installment were 15,46,857 personnel and the amount disbursed was Rs. 2,281.63 crore.
ECHS
The government is taking special measures to provide quality and affordable medicare to ex-servicemen and their dependents. As part of health care reforms, the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) has been completely digitized. A total of approximately 50 lakh beneficiaries have been covered under the scheme. As of now the scheme is being run through 28 regional centres and 426 polyclinics. A total of 1445 civil hospitals have been empanelled to provide cashless treatment to ECHS beneficiaries.
MAP
Looking at the hardships and long separation of Jawans from their families while serving in forward and high altitude areas, the Ministry is taking steps to expedite the Married Accommodation Project (MAP) for Armed Forces personnel on priority basis. This will provide nearly 2 lakh dwelling units for the married personnel near their places of posting. The third and final phase of MAP is soon expected to be implemented providing 71,000 more dwelling units. The second phase foundation laying ceremony was held at the hands of MoS Defence Dr. Subhash Bhamre at Merut Military station on 21 Dec.
INDIAN NAVY
To enhance its Blue Water capability, the Indian Navy opted to strengthen its submarine arm for which Request For Proposal (RFP) to acquire six more conventional submarines under Project 75(I) was cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC). The project will cost around Rs. 80,000 crore.
Maiden Sea trials of Kalvari – First Scorpene Class Submarine:Under the Project 75 Scorpene programme six conventional submarines are being built in India with foreign collaboration. ‘Kalvari’, the first of the Scorpene class submarines, being built at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd Mumbai (MDL), went to sea on 1 May under her own propulsion for the first sea trial, off the Mumbai coast. During the sortie, a number of preliminary tests on the propulsion system, Auxiliary Equipment and Systems, Navigation Aids, Communication Equipment and Steering gear were conducted. Various Standard Operating Procedures were also validated for this new class of submarine. The submarine is presently under going advanced/ deep dive trials and is likely to be commissioned in early 2017.
OPERATIONS AND EXERCISES
HUMANITARIAN AID & DISASTER RELIEF (HADR)
Assistance in Fire Fighting at Duvvada SEZ, Visakhapatnam: A huge fire broke out from 12 Bio-diesel tanks of Biomax Company on 27 Apr. On request of State Administration, HQENC launched two aircraft for aerial reconnaissance and assessment of extent of fire. Navy’s Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) and an ambulance with medical teams were rushed to the site along with the fire tenders. 12 fire tenders were deployed.
Assistance to Sri-Lanka:In response to the request for assistance made by the Government of Sri Lanka, thePrime Minister Shri NarendraModi, announced that India would provide aid on emergency basis to help those affected by the floods and landslides in various parts of Sri Lanka. Accordingly, two Indian Navy warships, INS Sutlej and INS Sunayna, were deployed to Sri-Lanka on 20 Mayto provide assistance due to the calamity caused by the cyclone “Roanu”. The ships sailed from Kochi with 30-40 tons of relief material which included inflatable rafts, fresh water, medical supplies, clothing and other provisions necessary for disaster reliefoperations andreached Colombo harbour on 21 May. A Chetak helicopter was also deployed.
BILATERAL/ MULTILATERAL EXERCISES AND OVERSEAS DEPLOYMENT
To enhance India’s presence in the maritime arena/ across our area of responsibility/ interest, the Indian Navywas deployed extensively across the globe and conducted exercises with friendly foreign navies. Some of these are:-
Naseem-Al-Bahr: The Indian Navy and the Royal Navy of Oman conducted the 10th bilateral maritime exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr from 22-27 Jan. Initiated in 1993, the exercise has matured over the years with increasing scope, complexity of operations and level of participation in the Arabian Sea.The IN ships INS Trikand and INS Trishul and RNOV Al-Shamikh, a corvette and RNOVAl-Seeb,a Fast Attack Craft of the Omani Navy participated.
IFR 2016-Passage Exercise: The International Fleet Review 2016, conducted at Visakhapatnam from 4-8 Feb, culminated with Indian and foreign Naval ships undertaking a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) in the Bay of Bengal on 9 Feb. 54 ships that participated in IFR-16 sailed out from Visakhapatnam in the first ever Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with combined participation of foreign and Indian warships. The unprecedented scale and scope of the PASSEX are indicative of India’s growing stature in the maritime domain and the bridges that have been painstakingly built by the Indian Navy towards achieving the motto of the International Fleet Review in letter and spirit – ‘United through Oceans’.
Exercise MALABAR 2016: In consonance with India’s ‘Act East Policy’ and growing relations among India, US and Japan, IN ships Satpura, Sahyadri, Shakti and Kirch participated in the 20th edition of Ex MALABAR-16 with the USNavy and Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF). Harbour phase of 20th edition of the exercise was conducted from 10-13 June at Sasebo and the sea phase in the Pacific Ocean from 14-17 June.
Exercise RIMPAC :INS Satpura participated in the 25th edition of Exercise RIMPAC off Hawaii from 30 June- 4 Aug. The exercise was attended by 27 countries.Exercise RIMPAC is the largest multilateral naval exercise in the world and is held biennially in the Western Pacific Ocean. Indian Navy’s association with Ex RIMPAC commenced with participation as an ‘Observer’ in 2006, 2010 and 2012. In 2014, Indian Naval participation was enhanced with deployment of INS Sahyadriin the 24th edition of the exercise. Participation in Ex RIMPAC-16 is a platform for multilateral operational interactions to increase interoperability and development of common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations. The professional exchanges in harbour and diverse range of activities at sea, including complex surface, sub-surface and air operations will enable sharing of best practices and honing of operational skills.
Indo-Thai Co-ordinated Patrol (CORPAT): INS Karmuk, an indigenously built Missile Corvette based at the Andaman and Nicobar Command, along with a Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, participated in the 22nd Indo-Thai Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) from 19-27 Apr in the Andaman Sea.
ADMM Plus Exercise on Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism :ADMM Plus (ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus) Exercise on Maritime Security and Counter Terrorism is a multinational exercise under the aegis of ADMM Plus consortium. INS Airavat participated in the latest edition conducted in Brunei and Singapore from 1-9 May, with various drills and exercises in the South China Sea. During the exercise, the Indian Navy engaged with participating navies from Brunei, Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Myanmar, China, Japan, Russia, Australia, Republic of Korea and US, through professional interactions in harbour and complex operations at sea.
Co-ordinated Patrol and India-Indonesia Bilateral Maritime Exercise:In a demonstration of India’s commitment to its ties with Indonesia and to the maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, INS Karmuk, an indigenously built Missile Corvette, based under the Andaman and Nicobar Command, alongwith a Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, participated in the 28th India-Indonesia Coordinated Patrol and Second Bilateral Maritime Exercise, from 10-27 Oct in the Andaman Sea.
EXERCISE KONKAN 16: KONKAN 16, the annual bilateral maritime exercise between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy was conducted from 5-16 Dec at Mumbai and Goa. Exercise KONKANwas institutionalised in 2004. The exercise hosted in rotation by both Navies, has grown in complexity, scale and intensity.
INDRA NAVY – 2016: The 9th edition of exercise INDRA NAVY, an annual bilateral maritime exercise between Indian Navy and Russian Navy was conducted in the Bay of Bengal from 14-21 Dec. The primary aim of the exercise was to increase inter-operability amongst the two navies and develop common understanding and procedures for maritime security operations. The scope of the exercise included wide-ranging professional interactions in harbour phase and a diverse canvas of operational activities across a spectrum of maritime operations at sea. INDRA NAVY is a bilateral maritime exercise and epitomizes the strategic relationship. Initiated in 2003, the exercise over the years has increased in scope and complexity of operations.
INDO-MYANMAR Co-ordinated Patrol (IMCOR):The Fourth Edition of India-Myanmar Coordinated Patrol (IMCOR) was undertaken from 13-16 Feb along the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) in the Andaman Sea. INS Saryu and INS Bitra along with Union of Myanmar Ships Aung Zeya and FAC 563 participated.
Deployment ofP-8 I to Seychelles for EEZSurveillance :The Indian Navy deployed a P-8 I Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft to Seychelles from 20-23 Mar for surveillance in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Seychelles. The Indian Navy has, in the past, undertaken surveillance missions in the Seychellois EEZ twice a year, by deploying IN ships. The last deployment was undertaken by ships of the 1st Training Squadron in Oct 2015. This is the first time that the P-8I aircraft was deployed to Seychelles.
INS Beas visits Doha, Qatar for International Maritime Defence Exhibition (DIMDEX):INS Beas visited Doha, Qatar from 28 Mar to 2 Apr to participate in the fifth edition of biennial Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition (DIMDEX).
Deployment to Male, Maldives: Western Fleet ships INS Vikramaditya, INS Mysore and INS Deepak undertook deployment to Male for a routine visit from 15 – 18 Feb.
Deployment to Mauritius: INS Tabar, a stealth frigate visited Port Louis, Mauritius from 10-13 Mar. The primary aim of the visit was to participate in the Mauritius National Day celebrations and strengthen the existing bonds of friendship.
Ships of First Training Squadron (1 Ts) visit Thailand and Sri Lanka:INS Tir, INS Sujata, Sail Training Ship (STS) Sudarshini alongwith ICGS Varuna, comprising the 1st Training Squadron (with under trainee officers/cadets) visited Phuket, Thailand and Colombo, Sri Lanka from 4-8 Apr and 15-19 Apr respectively as part of Overseas Deployment during Spring Term 16.
ALH detachment to Male:One Indian Naval Advanced Light Helicopter MK III has been deployed at Maldives. The helicopter is based at Kadhdhoo Island in LaamuAtol. The helicopter is assisting MNDF for undertaking Search & Rescue, Casualty Evacuation, Coastal Surveillance, Maritime Reconnaissance, Communication and Logistic Duties.
Visit of Indian Warships to Muscat, Oman:INS Delhi, INS Tarkash and INS Deepak visited Muscat from 21-24 May. The visit coincided with the visit of Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar from 20- 22 May. Our Navy ships also participated in passage exercise (PASSEX) with the Royal Navy of Oman on completion of the visit.
INSV Mhadei sails to Mauritius/ Cape Town with an All Women Crew:Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Mhadei (INSV Mhadei) with an all-women crew undertook two voyages to Port Louis, Mauritius in May-Jun and to Cape Town, South Africa in Nov-Dec. The boat was skippered by Lt Cdr Vartika Joshi (a Naval Constructor). These were the first two open-ocean voyages of the Navy’s all-women crew of Mhadei, who are currently training to undertake a circumnavigation of the globe in 2017. The sail boat is to participate in Cape to Rio race commencing on 1 Jan 2017.
Visit of Indian Warships to Cam Ranh Bay, Vietnam:In a demonstration of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Indian Navy’s increasing footprint and operational reach, INS Satpura and INS Kirch visited CamRanh Bay, Vietnam on a four day visit from 30 May to 3 Jun, as part of deployment of the Eastern Fleet to the South China Sea and the Western Pacific.
Visit of Indian Warships to Subic Bay, Philippines:In a demonstration of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and Indian Navy’s increasing footprint and operational reach, INS Sahyadri and INS Shakti visited Subic Bay on a three day visit from 30 May-2 Jun.
Indian Warships visited Port Kelang, Malaysia:INSSahyadri, INS Shakti and INS Kirch visited Port Kelang on 15 Jul on a four day visit.
Deployment of INS Satpura:In a demonstration of India’s commitment to peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region and Indian Navy’s increasing footprint and operational reach, INS Satpura visited Port Majuro on a two day visit from 13 – 15 Aug, for an operational turn around as part of its deployment to the Western Pacific Ocean followed by visit to Pohnpei, Micronesia from 18-20 Aug and to Singapore on a four day visit from 31 Aug – 04 Sep.
Indian Warships to Port Victoria:In a demonstration of India’s commitment to its ties with Seychelles and maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, INS Kolkata, INS Trikand and INS Aditya visited Port Victoria on a two day visit from 26-28 Aug. The ships are part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet based at Mumbai under the Western Naval Command.
Indian Warship Trikand visited Antsiranana, Madagascar:In a demonstration of India’s efforts to enhance co-operation with maritime neighbours in the Indian Ocean, INS Trikand visited Antsiranana on a three day visit from 31 Aug-3 Sep, as part of deployment of the Western Fleet to the countries on the East Coast of Africa and Island nations in the Western Indian Ocean.The ship is part of the Indian Navy’s Western Fleet based at Mumbai under the Western Naval Command.
Indian Warships visit Port Louis, Mauritius and Mombasa, Kenya:In a demonstration of India’s commitment to its ties with Mauritius and Kenya to promote maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, INS Kolkata and INS Aditya visited Port Louis on a three day visit from 1-4 Sep and Mombasa, Kenya from 10- 13 Sep.
Indian Warship Trikand visits Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania and Maputo, Mozambique:In a demonstration of India’s commitment to its ties with Tanzania and Mozambique, INSTrikand visited Dar-Es-Salaam from 6-9 Sep and Maputo, Mozambique, from 17-20 Sep as part of its deployment to the East Coast of Africa and Island nations.
Western Fleet Ships visit South Africa:In a demonstration of India’s commitment to its ties with South Africa and to the maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region, INS Kolkata, INS Trikand and INS Aditya visited Durban on 20 Sep on a three day visit.
INS Sumitra visits Surabaya, Indonesia and Suva, Fiji:In pursuit of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and outreach to friendly countries, the Indian Navy’s Offshore Patrol Vessel Sumitra, called on at Surabaya, Indonesia on a two day visit from 10-12 Oct and Suva, Fiji from 26-29 Oct.
First Training Squadron Visited Phuket, Thailand, Yangon, Myanmar and Chittagong, Bangladesh:INS Tir, INS Sujata, Sail Training Ship (STS) Sudarshini alongwith ICGS Varuna, comprising the 1st Training Squadron, visited Phuket, Thailand from 27–31 Oct as part of their Overseas Deployment during Autumn Term 16. The Training Squadronalso visited Yangon, Myanmar from 02–06 Nov and Chittagong, Bangladesh from 11–15 Nov.
INS Sumitravisited Sydney Port, Australia:In pursuit of India’s ‘Act East’ policy and outreach to friendly countries, the Indian Navy’s Offshore Patrol Vessel Sumitra, visited Sydney, Australia on a three day visit from 4-7 Nov.
INS Shardul visited Port Louis, Mauritius and Port Victoria, Seychelles: INS Shardul visited Port Louis from 23 Nov on a three day visit followed by a visit to Port Victoria, Seychelles. INS Shardul, an amphibious ship of the Indian Navy, was deployed in the Southern Indian Ocean in keeping with the vision of SAGAR – Security and Growth for All in the Region.
IFR at Auckland, New Zealand:Indian Navy’s Offshore Patrol Vessel Sumitra, visited Auckland, New Zealand on a six day visit from 16-22 Nov. The ship represented the Indian Navy at the Royal New Zealand Navy International Naval Review 2016.
COMMISSIONING/ LAUNCHING/ TRIALS OF SHIPS, SUBMARINES AND AIRCRAFT
INS Kadmatt: INS Kadmatt, second ship of Project 28 (P-28) class Anti-Submarine Warfare Corvettes, indigenously designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house organisation, Directorate of Naval Design and constructed by M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited, Kolkata, was commissioned at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on 7 Jan.
Launch of Yard 2097/2098/2099:The sixth, seventh and eighth ships of LCU MK IV project, were launched in Mar, Nov and Dec at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd, Kolkata.
De-Induction of Sea Harrier and Induction of MiG-29K Fighter Aircraft in INAS 300:The Sea Harriers of Indian Naval Air Squadron (INAS 300) were given a farewell at INS Hansa, Goa on 11 May. The rich legacy of Sea harriers would continue as the baton was passed on to the crew of MiG-29K squadron who have been successful in seamlessly integrating the fighters with INS Vikramaditya in the shortest possible time.
INS Tarmugli: The Indian Navy commissioned the highly manoeuvrable Fast Attack Craft INS Tarmugli at a ceremony at Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam on 23 May. Based at Visakhapatnam under the Naval Officer-in-Charge (Andhra Pradesh), the craft would be deployed for coastal patrol and surveillance operations along the East Coast.
Launch of GRSE YARD 2112 (FO-WJFAC):The fourth in the series of Follow-on Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (FO-WJFAC) for the Indian Navy was launched on 30 Jun at a ceremony at Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE), Kolkata.
Mormugao – Second ship of Project 15B launched:Another significant milestone in the indigenous warship design and construction programme of India was achieved with the launch of the Guided Missile Destroyer, Mormugao,the second ship of Project 15B,on 17 Sep, at Mazagaon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), Mumbai. With a launch weight of 2844 tonnes, the vessel made its first contact with water during the launching ceremony.
INS Chennai:INS Chennai, a P 15A Guided Missile Destroyer, was commissioned into the Navy by the Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai on 21 Nov. The event marked the formal induction into the Navy of the third and the last of the three ‘Kolkata’ class destroyers, indigenously designed by the Indian Navy’s in-house organisation, Directorate of Naval Design and constructed by Mazagon Dock Limited, Mumbai.
INDIAN AIR FORCE
ACQUISITIONS
Rafale Acquisition deal: The much awaited Rafale deal with France was signed on 23 September in New Delhi under which France will provide 36 Rafale fighter jets to India. The twin-engine, multi-role aircraft will be capable of carrying out various combat missions like Air Defence, Ground Attack, Reconnaissance, Anti-ship strikes etc.
‘Tejas’ Induction:The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) ‘Tejas’ was inducted into No. 45 Squadron of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on 1 July. The Squadron will operate from Bangalore for nearly two years, before it moves to its designated location at Sulur near Coimbatore. It is the first fighter Squadron to be a part of the Southern Air Command of IAF headquartered at Thiruvananthapuram.
OPERATIONS
Upgradation of ALGs: The IAF had embarked on an ambitious reconstruction plan to upgrade eight ALGs including infrastructure development at an overall outlay of nearly Rs. 1,000 crore following a MoU between the Government of Arunachal Pradesh and the Ministry of Defence in June 2009. Five ALGs at Ziro, Along, Mechuka, Pasighat and Tuting were upgraded and made operational, this year (2016).
Fighter Operations on Lucknow-Agra Expressway:Mirage-2000s and Su-30s successfully carried out ‘touch and go’ operations on a portion of the newly constructed Lucknow-Agra Expressway on 21 Nov.
EXERCISES
Exercise Iron Fist 2016:A day-night exercise demonstrating the combat and fire power of the IAF was conducted on 18 Marat Rajasthan’s Pokhran firing range in the presence of the President Shri Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Shri NarendraModi. The event comprised of six packages depicting six themes in which more than 180 aircraft, including fighters, transport and helicopters participated.
HADR OPERATIONS
‘Op SankatMochan’:Stranded Indian nationals were evacuated from Juba, the capital of war-torn South Sudan on 14 July. The Minister of State for External Affairs, General VK Singh, flew to Juba in one of the two C-17 Globemaster aircraft in the operation which was named ‘Operation SankatMochan’.
DEFENCE COOPERATION WITH FOREIGN COUNTRIES
Exercise Red Flag with USAF:As part of International Defence Cooperation, Red Flag Alaska 16-1, an advanced aerial combat training exercise was hosted at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, USAfrom 28 April. There was a mix of combat and support elements participating from IAF, USAF and the US Navy. The exercise was played under multiple simulated scenarios designed to provide realistic settings.
Desert Eagle II:This was the second in the series of bilateral exercises between the IAF and the United Arab Emirates Air Force (UAE AF). This was a ten-day air combat exercise in which the IAF and the UAE AF undertook air exercises from Al-Dhafra Air Base, Abu Dhabi starting from 22 May.
MISCELLANEOUS
India gets Women Fighter Pilots: History was created as the first three women fighter pilots of the IAF were commissioned at the Combined Graduation Parade at Air Force Academy, Dundigal on 18 Jun. With this, India joined a select few nations in the world that have women fighter pilots. These women fighter pilots are Flying Officers AvaniChaturvedi, BhawanaKanth and Mohana Singh. Subsequently, on 12 Aug Marshal of the Indian Air Force Arjan Singh DFC felicitated the three women fighter pilots in New Delhi.
HONOURS AND AWARDS
‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar’ For Subroto Mukerjee Sports Education Society: Recognising its efforts in developing football at the grassroots level, the ‘SubrotoMukerjee Sports Education Society’ (SMSES) was given the National Sports Award ‘Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar’, for ‘Sports for Development’ by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports on 23 Aug. The SMSES organises the famous Subroto Cup Football Tournament.
Award of President’s Standards:The President Shri Pranab Mukherjee awarded the prestigious Presidential Standard to 28 Equipment Depot and 119 Helicopter Unit at a ceremonial parade, held at Air Force Station Jamnagar on 4 Mar. The President also awarded the Presidential Standard to 501 Signal Unit and 30 Squadron on 10 Nov at Air Force Station Ambala.
DEFENCE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT ORGANISATION (DRDO)
Agni – V Successfully Test-Fired:Agni-V, the Long Range Surface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile was successfully flight tested by DRDO on 26 December from Dr. Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. The full range test-flight of the missile further boosted the indigenous missile capabilities and deterrence level of the country. All the Radars, tracking systems and Range Stations tracked and monitored the flight performance and all the Mission objectives were successfully met. This was the 4th test of Agni-V missile and the second one from a Canister on a Road Mobile Launcher.
Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) ‘Tejas’: Indigenously developed LCA is an advanced technology, single seat, single engine, supersonic, light weight, all-weather, multi-role, air superiority fighter designed for air-to-air, air-to-ground and air-to-sea combat roles. During the year, ‘Tejas’ made its international debut in January 2016 with participation in the Bahrain International Air Show. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over the first two Tejas aircraft to IAF at a ceremony at ASTE Bengaluru on 1 July 2016 which will make up the ‘Flying Daggers’ 45, the name of the first squadron of LCA.
Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) System: The AEW&C system consists of sensors mounted on an aircraft, for locating and providing early warning of airborne and sea surface targets and hostile emissions. All the mission systems have been integrated on the first two aircraft and the developmental trials are in advanced stage of progression. The system integration on the third aircraft is under progress. The installation of the ground systems namely Mission Planning and Analysis Station (MIPAS), Operator Training Station (OTS) and Automatic Test equipment have been completed. Ground Exploitation System (GES) is being integrated with Integrated Air Command and Control Station (IACCS).
Medium Altitude Long Endurance UAV ‘Rustom-II’: Rustom-II, a multi-mission Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is being developed to carry out the intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) roles for the three Armed Forces with an endurance of 24 hours. During the year, taxi trials commenced from 8 August. DRDO also successfully carried out the maiden flight of Rustom-II from Aeronautical Test Range (ATR), Chitradurga in November.
Heavy Drop System (HDS): Heavy Drop System (HDS) with capability to drop loads like 3 ton from AN-32 aircraft and 7 ton and 16 ton from IL-76 aircraft have already been developed. Army has already placed intent on OFB for 159 sets for 3 ton HDS. P-7 HDS has been accepted by the Army for induction. A total of six UATTs have been completed for the P-16 HDS and the system has met all the requirements of guidance.
Controlled Aerial Delivery System (CADS):Airdrop technology is a vital capability for rapid deployment of payloads to specific rendezvous points. CADS with its Air Borne Unit (ABU) steers its flight path towards a predetermined target by operating the control lanyards of Ram Air Parachutes (RAP). CADS for 500 kg All Up Weight (AUW) has been successfully developed by DRDO.
Surface-to-Air Missile ‘Akash’ :The medium range surface-to-air missile ‘Akash’ has been developed and inducted into IAF and Indian Army. During the year, Akash Army version,user exercise was carried out. The total production orders placed by Services for eight squadrons of IAF and two regiments of Indian Army for Anti-Missile System amounts to approximately Rs. 23,900 crore. Indigenous development of the system has given impetus to the Defence industrial base in the country. DRDO has also undertaken two new projects of Akash this year.
Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM): LRSAM is a joint development programme of DRDO, Indian Navy and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Israel. The missiles are intended to equip three guided missile destroyers of the Indian Navy. LRSAM Home-on-Tests were conducted at ITR during September to prove three intercept scenarios with Banshee Jet 80 as target.
Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM): MRSAM is being developed for the IAF for protecting our territory and ground forces from air attacks by intercepting aerial targets like fighter aircraft and guided weapons. The system is jointly developed by DRDO, IAF and IAI, Israel. During the year, three flight trials were successfully carried out in June and July to evaluate target detection and tracking by Long Range Detection and Tracking Radar (LBMFSTAR), missile launch and homing on target and radar tracking and ASP generation.
Anti-Tank Missile ‘PROSPINA’: ‘Nag’ is a third generation anti-tank missile (ATM) with ‘Fire & Forget’ and ‘Top Attack’ capabilities, which can be used in day and night. It is deployed on a specially modified Infantry Combat Vehicle (ICV) BMP-2 vehicle ‘NAMICA’. During the year, guided flight tests of ‘Nag’ were carried out with the objective of demonstrating range capabilities of IIR Seeker during worst time of the day in summer environment.
New Generation Anti-Radiation Missile (NGARM): DRDO is involved in the design and development of NGARM. AKU-58 launcher after suitable modification will be used for missile integration on Su-30 MKI aircraft. During the year, captive flight trials (CFT-1) sorties were carried out at AF Station, Pune with Su-30 MKI aircraft.
Smart Anti Air Field Weapon (SAAW): SAAW is a long-range, stand-off, precision air-to-surface weapon capable of engaging ground targets for launch from Jaguar and Su-30 MKI aircraft. During the year, mechanical, electrical and avionics integration of SAAW to Jaguar CLP were successfully completed and communication between SAAWOBC and Jaguar MC was established. On 24th December, DRDO successfully tested this indigenously designed and developed 120 Kg class smart weapon from an IAF aircraft. It is capable of engaging ground targets with high precision up to a range of 100 kms.
Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS): DRDO has taken up the task of design and development of 155mm X 52 calibre ATAGS having higher calibre, range, accuracy and consistency for the Artillery of Indian Army. The gun system will be compatible to ACCCS-Shakti command and control network being operational with the Indian Army.
New Family of Munitions: Six types of munitions are being designed and developed by DRDO viz. Soft Target Blast Munition ‘Nipun’, Anti-Tank Point Attack Munition ‘Vibhav’, Anti-Tank Bar Munition ‘Vishal’, Directional Fragmentation Munition ‘Parth’, Anti-Tank Munition ‘Prachand’ and Jumping Fragmentation Munition ‘Ulka’ to improve the existing munitions and enhance its performance. During the year, Phase-I & Phase-II user trials of ‘Nipun’ were completed.
Penetration-cum-Blast (PCB) and Thermo-baric (TB) Ammunition for 120 mm Arjun Tank: PCB ammunition has been designed to defeat LOC bunkers, light concrete structures, administrative buildings, field fortifications and machine gun posts. The TB ammunition is being designed to defeat light vehicles, infantry formations, etc. Test firing of 120mm PCB & TB tank ammunition specifically designed for ‘Arjun’ tank was carried out in January at PXE, Chandipur in association with active involvement of the Army.
Advance Light Towed Array Sonar (ALTAS): ALTAS is an efficient sensing system for detection, localization and classification of submarines operating especially in below layer ocean conditions. It is useful in anti-submarine warfare operations and is the apt sensor for warships to locate silent submarines capable of launching high speed torpedoes. During the year, technical trials were conducted wherein detection of dived submarine in active and passive modes was established. High speed towing at 16 knots was also demonstrated successfully.
Hull Mounted Sonar Advanced (HUMSA) Upgrade system was installed onboard INS Talwar in August 2014 and three technical trials were conducted. UETs were conducted in Apr 2015 and more than 80% of NSQR parameters were demonstrated. Since INS Talwar was slated for midlife upgrade, the sonar system was re-installed in INS Trishul. During April, user evaluation trials were held onboard INS Trishul followed by handing over of the SONAR system by the Defence Minister to the Indian Navy in November.
Portable Diver Detection Sonar (PDDS): DRDO has taken up a new TD project in 2016 to design and develop a PDDS system that is capable of detecting small targets such as divers and diver delivery vehicles in and around harbours. The system will be deployable and retrievable as and when required. During the year, lab prototype was fabricated and trials conducted at VARI, Kulamavn in January. Installation and testing of developed system on board INS Sagardhwani was completed in March. CDR was completed in July.
EW Systems ‘Samudrika’ for Capital Ships, Aircraft and Helicopters for Indian Navy: DRDO has taken up the development of a family of seven EW systems. The ship-borne systems include EW Suite ‘Shakti’, COMINT ‘Nayan’ and ESM ‘Tushar’. The air-borne systems include COMINT ‘Sarvadhari’, ESM ‘Sarang’ and ‘Sarakshi’ and ESM and COMINT ‘Nikash’. Design of each of the above mentioned products has been completed and hardware is under realization. M/s BEL will be the prime production agency for the production of EW systems.
Internal EW System for MiG-29 Upgrade Aircraft (D-29 System):D-29 is an integrated EW system for warning and jamming that encompasses RWR, ECM, and ESM functions and utilizes state-of-the-art active phased arrays for selectively jamming multiple threat radars. The system detects and gives information about position of the RF sources illuminating the aircraft and applies the appropriate jamming technique. During the year, 26 sorties were completed for multi emitter trials. New software of Elisra was tested on the rig and loaded on the aircraft.
Digital Radar Warning Receiver (DR-118): DR118 is a new generation Radar Warning Receiver (RWR) designed and developed for installation on any fighter, transport aircraft or helicopter. It intercepts and identifies airborne, ship-borne and ground based acquisition, target tracking and missile guidance radars up to the J Band frequencies. The identified emitters (radars) are indicated to the aircrew by displaying corresponding set of symbols on the corresponding MFD page in the cockpits. A synthesized audio warning is provided to the aircrew at the birth of each emitter. During the year, first milestone of hardware and software integration was achieved. This was followed by partial acceptance test procedure which was carried out jointly with IAF and high temperature antenna trials at Bareilly.
Dual Colour Missile Approach Warning System (DCMAWS) for fighter aircraft (Su-30 MKI): DCMAWS provides warning to the pilot on detecting a missile threat on the aircraft. Upon the declaration of the threat, the system provides audio visual display to the pilot and activates the counter measure dispensing system through onboard MC. The DCMAWS is a passive missile approach warning system that utilizes two spectral bands in the mid band IR. The system is being jointly developed with M/s Elisra, Israel and MoD, Israel. System development is completed.
S-Band Hub and Ground SATCOM Terminals: DRDO has realized three types of Terminal hardware namely,Manpack Satcom Terminal (MST), Satcom Messaging Terminal (SMT) and Handheld Satcom Terminal (HST). The fourth type,Satcom On The Move (SOTM) Terminal has been developed by DRDO with BEL as production partner.
Border Surveillance System (BOSS): DRDO is involved in design and development of a border surveillance system comprising EO payload consisting of thermal and day camera, LRF, GPS and DMC and BFSR (XR) for day/night monitoring of border area to ease man patrolling by automatically detecting an intrusion. During the year, two units of BOSS have been realized and installed in Lehand the Ladakh region. Performance has been demonstrated to GOC and Corps Commander HQ.
Indigenisation of Microwave Chaff for Defence Application: Chaff is one of the most widely used and effective expendable electronic countermeasure devices. The project aims at indigenous development of chaff cartridges to bridge the technology gap in the field of chaff cartridges development. An indigenous process of preparing very fine aluminium fibres has been developed and a small capacity pilot plant has been established. During the year, Limited Qualification Tests (LQT) for indigenously developed chaff cartridges were carried out in presence of representatives from RCMA (AA), Pune.
Bullet Proof Jacket: DRDO is involved in the development of the prototype bullet proof jacket (BPJ), as per GSQR using different state- of-the-art ballistic materials providing protection against AK47 (MSC and HSC), 7.62 SLR and 9 mm SMC ammunitions. A total of 150 BPJs will be provided for user trials.
BORDER ROADS ORGANISATION
During the financial year 2016-17, BRO took up the construction of ten critical bridges and roads of strategic importance on a war-footing by mobilizing its resources and manpower in a vigorous way. The projects are:-
• Construction of a 470ft Himank Setu over Shyok River on the Indo-China border.
• Tsultak Setu connecting Pangong Tso for improving traffic-ability of both tourists and military personnel.
• The 529m span cable-stayed Atal Setu connecting Dunera-Basoli-Bhaderwah in J&K at 14.74km.
• 1020m span Ujh bridge in Kathua district of J&K connecting Parole-Korepannu-Rajpura Road as an alternative axis to NH44.
• 453m span Jodh bridge located at 13.40km on Akhnoor-Pallanwala Road in J&K, completed.
• 55m span Dobniyar bridge located at 0.29km on Berripattan-Minka Road in J&K completed.
• Under Project Hirak a 100ft span equipment bridge connecting Ghatiabagrah-Lipulekh road at 57.04km over Dogong Nallahwas completed.
• Under project Arunank, a 200ft DDR Bailey Bridge at Gelensiniak across the Subansiri River approximately 20km ahead of Limekingon at the confluence of the River and Tsari Chu has been launched.
• A 100ft Bailey bridge over Kaochao River in Mizoram connecting Kaochao-Phura-Tokalo Road was opened to the public.
