SP's Land Forces Issue 6 - 2019

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December 2019-January 2020

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Volume 16 No. 6

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>> EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

In This Issue

Photograph: Indian Army

Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat Page 4 India Gets it’s First Chief of Defence Staff Biggest reform in higher defence management rolled out with mandate to restructure military commands, bring about jointness among Armed Forces within three years.

Vishal Thapar Page 6 Fasten All Your Info About the Nation’s Biggest Defence Carnival Now with an App Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launches DefExpo 2020 app that holds remarkable features to ‘inform, engage and feedback’.

Ayushee Chaudhary Page 8 ‘Make in India’: A Catalyst to Strategic Autonomy Current push of the Government towards indigenous defence production is a welcome step towards self-sustainable technological advancements and economic growth and it needs to be taken forward.

The newly appointed Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Mukund Naravane after taking over as the 28th COAS, at the South Block, New Delhi

Army Chief Calls for Increased Use of Offensive Air Power In an exclusive interview to Jayant Baranwal, Editor-in-Chief, SP’s Land Forces, the newly-appointed Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Mukund Naravane stresses that India has enough military options against Pakistan and its proxies without breaching the nuclear threshold

Lt General Abhay Krishna (Retd) Page 11 Solutions for Night Warfare Capability Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Page 12 Military Embrace of ‘Make in India’ with Make-II Vishal Thapar Plus The Future Soldier Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd)

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News in Brief

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SP’s Land Forces (SP’s): What is the fallout of Pulwama incident and subsequent air strikes on Balakot, on the security environment of the sub-continent?

Chief of the Army Staff (COAS): The major fallout of the Pulwama incident and the Balakot air strikes is that the Proxy War design of Pak has received a severe setback. Both were messages to the adversary. Pakistan has realised that it cannot hold India to a nuclear blackmail and that adequate options are available with us to ensure that we remain steps ahead in the escalation lad-

der without breaching the nuclear overhang. As a result, Pak has ratcheted up violence on the line of control (LC) using ceasefire violations to keep the issue on simmer. These are being retaliated for effect. There have been inputs of reactivation of terror camps and launch pads and renewed infiltration attempts. Pak is unlikely to shed its proxy war agenda and continues with infiltration of terrorists and carrying out atrocities against innocent civilians. We are geared up for these challenges and a robust counter insurgency/ counter terrorism grid is in place.

SP’s: Is there room for an enhanced air element in India’s counter-insurgency posture? What are your views on this?

COAS: The proliferation of terrorism and the designs of non-state actors along with their ability to target the soft underbelly of democratic nations have created an asymmetry. In such a scenario, it is important to review the roles, missions and capabilities of air power to tackle sub-conventional threats from insurgents, terrorists and extremists who threaten national security.

The Balakot operation provided an opportunity for subsequent intelligence driven

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E D I T O R I A L

>> EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW The Indian Armed Forces requirement of a common head like the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), for single point of advice to the government, improved integration amongst the three Services and avoiding overlap of infrastructure and capital acquisitions which leads to a more streamlined system of reporting and decision making, was pending since long.

Over the last few days, two major announcements by the Government of India dominated headlines over all other happenings in the defence industry.

Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on August 15 that India will have a CDS, speculation was rife as to who will be the first CDS? The appointment came on December 30 when the outgoing Chief of the Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat was announced to be India’s first Chief of Defence Staff. The General, who was going to retire as the Army Chief on Decem-

ber 31, 2019, upon completion of his three-year tenure gets an extension as the new rules allow the CDS to serve till 65 years of age. The appointment of General Rawat as the first CDS did not come as a big surprise as he was considered to be the front-runner for the position.

A fortnight ago, on December 16, the Government had cleared the name of Lt General Manoj Mukund Naravane as the next Chief of the Army Staff to take over from General Rawat upon his retirement. In the course of his distinguished career, he had commanded the Eastern Command and the Army Training Command before his last appointment as the Vice Chief of Army Staff.

While covering these appointments in this issue, SP’s Land Forces wishes the new CDS and the new COAS a highly successful tenure.

Soon after taking over, the

newly-appointed Army Chief General Naravane, gave an exclusive interview to SP’s Land Forces, which is our lead story in this issue.

With all signs pointing towards the government pushing indigenous defence production for self-reliance and economic growth, we have included an analysis by Lt General Abhay Krishna (Retd) on how ‘Make in India’ is a catalyst to strategic autonomy. A highly decorated soldier, Lt General Abhay Krishna had commanded the South Western, the Eastern and the Central Commands before retiring from the India Army on September 30, 2019.

Night vision devices (NVD) would be more effective if the image intensifier and the TI is combined to bring out the best design features of both which is termed ‘Sensor Fusion’. An article on the subject is included in this issue. The infantry soldier

is every Army’s ultimate weapon, thus there is an urgent need to upgrade his equipment. Read about the turns and twists in this issue on the F-INSAS programme took when it was separated from Battlefield Management System (BMS) and BMS was foreclosed in July 2018 due to lack of funds. Thus the current focus is on acquisition of personnel weapons and protection.

We wrap up this issue with the usual news digest and wish all you discerning readers a happy new year and Army Day. Happy reading!

Jayant Baranwal Publisher & Editor-in-Chief

Photograph: Indian Army

punitive operations that exploit the reach, flexibility and precision offered by offensive air power. These operations will, however, have to be carefully calibrated and executed with restraint.

cyber, precision weapon system, EW and DEWs. The overall focus is to developing a capable and responsive force empowered to fulfilling the mandate as laid down by the government.

SP’s: What is the current status of the threat level on the border with Pakistan?

COAS: Exact nature of threat level cannot be disclosed. However, it is suffice to say that on our Western front, we dominate our adversary completely across all spectrums of operations.

SP’s: What is the progress with regard to the small arms procurement of the Army?

COAS: To ensure the cutting edge of Infantry, due emphasis has been given to all facets of its capability development. Following are the significant milestones achieved in the recent few years with refer to capability development of Infantry: l Assault Rifles. Contract for 72,400 Assault Rifles (7.62x51mm) has been signed with M/s Sig Sauer in February 19. First lot of 10,000 Assault Rifles has been received. The rifles are being inducted for the frontline troops. l AK-203. The Inter governmental agreement for production of AK Series Small Arms by joint venture (JV) of ROE/ Kalashnikov Concern and OFB was signed in February 19 with Russian Federation. The JV will pave the way for manufacture of world class weapons in Indian Army. l CQB Carbine & LMG. The procurement of 5.56 x 45 mm Carbine and 7.62 x 51mm LMG for the operational essential quantity for frontline troops is also in the final stages & should materialise soon.

SP’s: Does the ISIS terror strike in Sri Lanka have implications for India? How do you perceive Sri Lankan claims that the bombers received training in Kashmir?

COAS: The Indian Army is always ready to respond to any kinds of provocation by terrorist and extremist groups. The ISIS terror strike underlines the fact that pathways to radicalisation and indoctrination do exist, even in the Valley and we are taking all possible steps, kinetic and otherwise, to ensure a conducive environment for a constructive state building process. The Sri Lankan claims may be verified by the National Investigation Agency which is currently investigating the case.

SP’s: How do you view the post-Doklam situation on the China front? What is the progress on measures to enhance Indian preparedness to the required levels?

COAS: Situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) has improved significantly after the Doklam incident. Post Wuhan Summit, both nations have issued Strategic Guidance to their respective Defence Forces.

The aim of such a directive is to maintain peace and tranquillity along the borders, locally resolve differences and not to allow difference to turn into disputes.

The guidance has manifested on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and conduct of troops from both sides has been cordial despite some prevailing differences and some friction in sensitive areas.

SP’s: Are there any changes in the Indian position regarding the Mountain Strike Corps?

COAS: Conceptually all Strike Corps are capable of operating in both plains and mountains with the exception of mechanised elements which have limited avenues of employment in mountains. The Moun-

SP’s Land Forces Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal with Chief of the Army Staff General M.M. Naravane

tain Strike Corps like any other Corps will continue to remain relevant, albeit with a variation in the structure and operational configuration of subordinate formations, which will be based on IBGs rather than standard Divisions.

SP’s: How do you view the process of Chinese acknowledgement on the UN designation of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist?

Are there lessons for India in dealing with terrorist groups enjoying state patronage for the future?

COAS: We view the UN designation of Masood Azhar as a global terrorist as the culmination of years of hard-nosed and consistent diplomatic efforts by our political establishment, complemented by our emissaries abroad. The designation was also made possible due to the understanding between us and China especially after the Doklam incident and Wuhan summit.

SP’s: What are the Indian Army’s biggest procurement priorities at this moment?

COAS: The Indian Army modernisation plans are aligned to cater for the current and emerging threats and towards achieving desired capabilities in the long term. The 13th Army Plan, currently in vogue from 2017-22, is based on our immediate and emerging security needs.

As far as Infantry is concerned, the

Army is looking at enhancing the overall combat capability by replacing the integral weapon of soldiers, improving his night fighting capability and providing high quality body armour. For Mechanised Forces, in addition to fleet upgradation and induction of new equipment, night fighting capability needs are being addressed through Capital Procurement Schemes. For Artillery, focus is on ‘medium’ isation of guns, precision munitions, long range strike and surveillance capability.

In Army Air Defence, steps have been taken to replace the old weapon system and automate the control and reporting system. The Aviation fleet is being enhanced with focus on replacing old ageing fleet and building combat aviation capability.

The Army is laying emphasis on niche and futuristic technology infusion in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI), communication,

“On our western front, we dominate our adversary completely across all spectrums of operations”

SP’s: What is the progress on ‘Strategic Partnership (SP)’ and ‘Make in India’ model for development and manufacture of defence platforms?

COAS: SP Model is a promising long term initiative aimed at building self reliance in combat platforms/system. Towards expanding the indigenous defence and aerospace sector, I would say that it is the most wholesome initiative as it addresses the entire ecosystem from large scale integrators, Tier-I, II and III vendors to life cycle sustenance issues, logistics.

However, I must admit that initiatives of such scale and impact require collective and concerted efforts on part of all stakeholders. Indian Army has one segment i.e FRCV under this model and we are making substantial progress. We are having detailed discussions with some very important players and are hopeful of obtaining Government sanction for the project soon. SP

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>> Jointmanship

India Gets it’s First Chief of Defence Staff Biggest reform in higher defence management rolled out with mandate to restructure military commands, bring about jointness among Armed Forces within three years Photographs: PIB

The meat of his role will be to assign interservice priority to military procurements and, as such, determine the Capital allocations for the three Services in the Defence Budget. For discharging this role, the CDS will be a member of the Defence Acquisition Council and the Defence Planning Committee.

 Vishal Thapar

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www.spslandforces.com

he biggest reform in India’s higher Defence management was rolled out on December 30, with the Government announcing the appointment of General Bipin Rawat as the first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to helm the effort to integrate the functioning of the armed forces.

In a brief late night announcement just hours before his scheduled retirement as Chief of Army Staff, the Government on December 31, General Rawat was named CDS with effect from December 31 on extension of service.

Significantly, the announcement did not specify the length of tenure, cryptically mentioning that General Rawat would serve in this position “until further orders”.

“Government has decided to appoint General Bipin Rawat, as the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) with effect from December 31, 2019 and until further orders and extension in service of General Bipin Rawat with December 31, 2019 and till such period he holds the office of CDS,” the Ministry of Defence stated in a press release.

Earlier, on December 30, the Government announced an Amendment to Army, Navy and Air Force Rules, extending the age of retirement of a four-star officer from 62 to 65 years while serving as CDS. General Rawat will formally take over as CDS on January 1. His appointment was widely welcomed in military circles.

The CDS will head a newly-created Department of Military Affairs with the mandate to facilitate “Integration, Collaboration, Convergence and Rationalisation” among the three armed forces.

The charter of roles and responsibilities requires the CDS to “being about jointness in operations, logistics, transport, training, support services, communications, repairs and maintenance, etc, of the three Services within three years of the first CDS assuming office”.

He will also concurrently wear the hat of permanent chairman, Chiefs of Staff

The charter of roles and responsibilities requires the CDS to “bring about jointness in operations, logistics, transport, training, support services, communications, repairs and maintenance, etc, of the three Services within three years of the first CDS assuming office” 4

SP’s Land Forces 6/2019

AT THE HELM: Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat flanked by the Chief of the Army Staff General M.M. Naravane (extreme left) and Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh (second from left) and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal R.K.S. Bhadauria (on extreme right) after taking over as India’s first Chief of Defence Staff.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat calling on the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on January 1, 2020

Committee, giving him the status of first among equals vis-a-vis the three service chiefs but not exercise command over the Service Chiefs, who shall continue to command and administer their respective Services independently.

The CDS will also be the Secretary, Department of Military Affairs, the fifth department under the Ministry of Defence, the setting up of which will trigger a major re-structuring within the Ministry of Defence. The Armed Forces – which have so far been treated as attached offices of the Ministry of Defence – will now be under the ambit of the Department of Military Affairs.

The tasking for the office of CDS will be to function as the principal military advisor to the Defence Minister and “to bring about jointness between the armed forces of the country in training, procurement, staffing and operations”. The three Service Chiefs shall continue to advise the Defence Minister on matters pertaining to their domain.

While it is explicit that he will not have command over forces or the Service Chiefs, the CDS through the Department of Military Affairs has been mandated to “facilitate restructuring of military commands for optimal utilisation of resources by bringing about jointness in operations, including through establishment of joint/ threatre commands”.

The command caveat extends to tri-service organisations like the Strategic Forces Command and the Andaman and Nicobar Command, which were so far reporting to the chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee.

While the CDS will “administer” tri-service organisations, “their military command will be with the Chief of the duly notified Service, which has a predominant role in effective functioning of that specific triservice organisation”. However, tri-services agencies related to Cyber and Space will be under the command of the CDS. The Department of Military Affairs led by the CDS will have a mix of military and

civilian officers. In his role as permanent chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee, the Integrated Defence Staff will report to General Rawat.

The meat of his role will be to assign inter-service priority to military procurements and, as such, determine the Capital allocations for the three Services in the Defence Budget. For discharging this role, the CDS will be a member of the Defence Acquisition Council and the Defence Planning Committee.

Prime in the charter of roles and responsibilities for the apex military officer is to “implement Five-Year Defence Capital Acquisition Plan (DCAP), and Two-Year roll-on Annual Acquisition Plans (AAP), as a follow-up of Integrated Capability Development Plan (ICDP)”.

Promotion of the use of indigenous equipment and, by extension, the ‘Make in India’ agenda will also be high on priority.

But the CDS will not by himself or through the Department of Military Affairs have financial powers for procurements, which as a function shall remain with the Ministry of Defence and the Service Headquarters.

“Work exclusively pertaining to Military matters will fall within the purview of the Department of Military Affairs, while the Department of Defence will deal with larger issues pertaining to defence of the country,” the concept note for CDS states.

The charter of roles and responsibilities requires the CDS to “being about jointness in operations, logistics, transport, training, support services, communications, repairs and maintenance, etc, of the three Services within three years of the setting up of the office of CDS. The charter also gives the CDS the role of evaluating plans for ‘Out of Area Contingencies’ and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations. His office will also have authority to integrate and rationalise international cooperation plans, including military exercises with foreign militaries. SP

K9 VAJRA-T - 155 mm / 52 Cal. Tracked Self Propelled Gun

>> defexpo 2020

Fasten All Your Info About the Nation’s Biggest Defence Carnival Now with an App During a review meeting for the upcoming exhibition, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched DefExpo 2020 app that holds remarkable features to ‘inform, engage and feedback’ PhotographS: PIB, Rajnath Singh / Twitter

 Ayushee Chaudhary

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www.spslandforces.com

aksha Mantri Rajnath Singh launched a mobile app for the upcoming DefExpo 2020 mobile app on Friday, December 27, 2019, in Delhi. The app was launched in the presence of Dr Ajay Kumar, Defence Secretary and Subhash Chandra, Secretary, Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The 11th edition of the biennial show is scheduled to be held in the capital of Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow, for the first time from February 5-8, 2020.

The DefExpo 2020 app is available on the Android Play Store as well as the Apple App Store. Developed by the Department of Defence Production, MoD, the app aims to engage with the exhibitors as well as visitors. This is a significant step in marking the digital shift that we are experiencing in the present times.

The prominent features of the app are ‘inform, engage and feedback’. Some of its more salient features include Businessto-Business Exhibitor Connect; Exhibitor Chat; Ticket booking; accommodation in Tented City; Push notifications and social media. The feedback mechanism in the

Some of its more salient features include Businessto-Business Exhibitor Connect; Exhibitor Chat; Ticket booking; accommodation in Tented City; Push notifications and social media. The app also provides detailed information about day-today events; participating exhibitors; Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), guest speakers of seminars/webinars; publications i.e., electronic brochures and e-books; maps and directions of the venues as well as the host city’s weather.

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The Union Minister for Defence, Rajnath Singh launching the DefExpo 2020 mobile App, in New Delhi on December 27, 2019. The Defence Secretary, Dr Ajay Kumar and the Secretary (Defence Production), Subhash Chandra are also seen.

app is another essential feature to help further improve operations during the event.

The app also provides detailed information about day-to-day events; participating exhibitors; Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), guest speakers of seminars/ webinars; publications i.e., electronic brochures and e-books; maps and directions of the venues as well as the host city’s weather.

The Defence Minister launched the app during a review meeting of the ongoing preparations of the forthcoming show.

Dr Ajay Kumar, Subhash Chandra and other senior officials also attended the review meeting.

Singh reviewed the preparations and was also informed by the senior officials that a record number of over 880 exhibitors,

including foreign companies, have registered so far, surpassing the numbers of DefExpo 2018. This also makes this edition the largest-ever defence exhibition. The senior officials also informed that the exhibition space booked by the exhibiters has also up to nearly 41,000 square metres which is as much as 52 per cent to more, in comparison with the last edition. Foreign delegations at the level of Defence Minister and Service Chief are confirmed from 18 countries with dozens of MoUs (Memorandum of Understandings) also expected to be inked during the expo.

The previous edition of the biennial mega defence exhibition-pitched India as the ‘Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub’.

The DefExpo 2018 turned out to be one of the biggest hosted defence show as it became

the stage for over 50 bilateral G2G Meetings, the signing of 40 MoUs, and participation from over 700 exhibitors (542 Indian exhibitors and 160 foreign exhibitors).

The upcoming edition that is themed around ‘Digital Transformation’, is assured to witness larger participation of defence manufacturers from both the public as well as the private sectors, OEMs (original equipment manufacturer) and MSMEs (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises). The event holds a promise to provide an ideal platform for business, decision makers and policymakers to interact, to address common concerns and to not only establish India as a defence manufacturing hub but also to bolster the global ecosystem. Covering the complete spectrum of the country’s aerospace, defence and security interests, the show is expected to bring all the leading technologies in the defence sector under one roof and present a host of opportunities for government, private manufacturers, startups and the entire space as the event proceeds. This edition of the show is also being looked to be an invaluable source of ground-level intelligence and insight that cannot be picked up from a distance, especially for those who have long term goals in the Indian defence industry. The expo is envisioned to showcase India as the emerging defence manufacturing hub.

Last month while speaking at the Ambassadors’ Round Table on DefExpo 2020, the Defence Minister had remarked that the event will provide an opportunity for countries to showcase their equipment and platforms, while also letting them explore the strength and capabilities of India’s defence industry for meeting operational goals. This was mentioned in a major outreach attempt to the top defence manufacturing industries of the world.

“The DefExpo will be an opportunity to foster partnerships and be part of shared prosperity. These strong ties can boost investment, expand manufacturing, raise the level of technology and accelerate the economic growth of the respective countries. India’s defence sector has matured and is exploring mutually beneficial partnerships with friendly nations to set up industries in the country and abroad,” Singh said during the Round Table.

The Round Table was also organised to brief the representatives of foreign missions based in New Delhi about the arrangements being made for the DefExpo and derive suggestions from them to further improve the experience, a statement from the Defence Ministry said.

The Defence Minister also added that the event will showcase the government’s intent to achieve a turnover of $26 billion in aerospace and defence goods and services by 2025. SP Detailed information about DefExpo 2020 can be checked at www.defexpo.gov.in.

KALYANI GROUP ADVANCING towards making India self-reliant.

With a comprehensive portfolio of Artillery, Protected vehicles, Armored vehicle upgrades, Ammunition, Missiles and Air defense and Defense electronics, we have developed indigenous components and sub-systems based on the parameters set by the Indian Army. Our inhouse capabilities and R&D facility enables us to be innovative and self-reliant. We are a strong believer of Made in India and have successfully implemented it.

KALYANI GROUP - proud to be a strong arm of the Armed Forces.

>> expert’s views

‘Make in India’: A Catalyst to Strategic Autonomy If India looks to retain strategic autonomy without binding alliance then India has no option but to become a regional dominant power. Current push of the Government towards indigenous defence production is a welcome step towards self-sustainable technological advancements and economic growth and it needs to be taken forward.  Lt General Abhay Krishna (Retd)

www.spslandforces.com

Rising Blocs In the current changing global security dynamics where two blocs are clearly seen emerging, then to maintain a strategic autonomy without getting into any binding alliance is not an easy option for any country which shares a geographical land or water segment with either bloc. The Strait of Malacca is one of the most critical shipping lanes in the world linking the Indian and Pacific Ocean. Similarly, on the western side Strait of Hormuz is the only sea passage to the oil and gas rich Nations of Persian Gulf. These two acts as strategic choke points in the energy transportation.

Indian Ocean Region where all these joins and through which the world trade is carried out by both major and minor economic powers, thus undoubtedly has a great strategic relevance in today’s unfolding global security scenario.

It wasn’t surprising that General M.M. Naravne immediately on taking over the reins of the Indian Army emphasised on focussing towards capability development on Northern Borders. Undoubtedly in the recent years China has always kept Indian Army’s attention drawn and focussed on the Northern Borders by attempting shallow incursions on and off. However, somehow not much has been heard about gradual increasing presence of China in the Indian Ocean. Though we have quite a few run ins but there is no compelling evidence yet to suggest that the Chinese Navy has engaged in overtly aggressive military activities as Beijing feigns innocence and plays down the incidents. However, this does not ensure that there is no intention to do it in the future. Till few years ago China projected itself as a rising economic power but was evasive when queried about their naval power. But now it is certainly not so.

Trade and energy dominance by power blocs is largely dependent on reliable and secure oil and gas supply, the bulk of which goes through the Indian Ocean region. Any blockage, therefore will lead to threatening the global or the regional economy. Thus, overpowering security concerns of Nations related to protecting their major trade route through Indian Ocean region involving transportation of goods and energy commodities like oil, coal and natural gas have served to enhance the military presence of major world powers in the Indian Ocean region.

Deep into Blue Waters However, under the prevailing circumstances covering the maritime domain from Chabahar, Gwadar, Hambantota, Chittagong to Strait of Malacca, China’s assertiveness in the Indian Ocean Region is not likely to put India’s maritime security in jeopardy in the immediate future but no

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sooner than later India will be compelled to face this challenge, besides tackling presence of other powers too in the region.

India undoubtedly enjoys a geographical advantage because of the peninsular India jutting deep into Indian Ocean which not only acts like an unsinkable aircraft carrier giving much needed reach to own air force but also provides avenues for widely spread large number of naval bases in all three directions thus retaining the capability to concentrate its forces jointly with Air Force and isolate and check the intruders assertiveness or any developing maritime threat.

Defence Superiority India has always been wary of forming any military alliance and prefers to maintain strategic autonomy. For avoiding getting into any binding alliance India has no option but to grow her military capability in terms of technology and become selfreliant in defence production. “It is well said that when nations go to war, the one with best technology is most likely to win.

This was evident even during the times of Anglo-Mysore wars when the innovation in military use of rockets instilled fear in the minds of the British by Mysore rulers of this region” asserted our Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh soon after flying a sortie in Tejas at Bengaluru. He further added, “India needs to focus more on research and development (R&D) and innovation as it will help the country in becoming self-reliant in defence production.”

The Year 2018 was an eventful year when MoD, GoI took policy decision to set up two Defence Production Corridors, one each in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

Undoubtedly these initiatives will go a long way in making India self-reliant in defence production through ‘Make in India’ initiative thereby providing the necessary longawaited cutting edge to our armed forces over the adversaries. The 10th edition of biennial ‘Defence Expo’ was organised in April 18 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu where the tag line of the event was, “India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub.” The next DefExpo is now scheduled at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, in February 2020. There is always a nagging worry that cost of military import bill drills a big hole in the nation’s budget basket and thus procurement plan more often than not gets restricted to meeting ‘minimum essential requirement’ only.

Hence indigenisation is imperative – beg borrow or steal as the saying goes – but “develop indigenously” should be our mantra. Defence Production should not only aim at becoming not only self-reliant but also an arms exporter because only an economically sound India can achieve defence superiority.

Youth Connect It goes without saying that India has the

capability, both manpower and technology wise as also whatever it takes to make a country visible and respectable in the world.

Current push of the Government towards indigenous defence production is a welcome step towards self-sustainable technological advancements and economic growth and it needs to be taken forward. It will provide opportunity and challenges to our youth within the national arena. This will increase job opportunities and curtail the brain drain.

Incentive to Indian industry for defence production will provide umpteen opportunities to our youth to initiate various start-ups and open up avenues for the innovative minds to contribute towards national growth. “The Defence Ministry would fund 250 start-ups, 16 personal initiatives and five defence innovation hubs through the defence innovation organisation in five years,’’ said our Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh while addressing a business seminar ‘India Rising’, organised by the Indian Chamber of Commerce at the Defence & Security Exhibition 2019. He further added that under the draft Defence Production policy 2018, the Indian Government eyes $5 billion defence exports by 2025.

The time is, therefore, ripe for all of us to commence a process to reach out to younger generations, that right eye at the right time starting from senior classes in school to colleges, young entrepreneurs, industries and business houses and provide them the avenues to get requisite exposure to unfolding global security scenario, how it impacts us, capability of our armed forces beyond the borders, defence production, modernisation, technology, defence economy, ‘Make in India’ initiatives and industry opportunities available. This exposure will not only help our youth to develop a deep sense of responsibility towards the nation but also make them understand the

India has always been wary of forming any military alliance and prefers to maintain strategic autonomy. For avoiding getting into any binding alliance India has no option but to grow her military capability in terms of technology and become self-reliant in defence production.

burgeoning job opportunities that is going to be available with the Government’s push towards defence production and move towards self-sustainability in research and development of new technology and weaponry. Understanding the initiatives of our Government like, ‘Make in India,’ ‘Start-up India’ and ‘Atal Innovation Mission,’ will help our young generation to connect with the upcoming 250 start ups and defence manufacturing industries and opening up of enormous opportunities of employment and growth in the field of defence manufacturing. The increase in awareness will motivate the younger generation to work in the field and come up with innovative solutions for the same through R&D, thus contributing towards ‘Make in India’ and establishing a robust military industrial complex.

This in turn will also not only earn revenue but also encourage participation with a sense of ownership.”

One Path – One Motive If the Decisive Government of India looks at retaining strategic autonomy without binding alliance then India has no option but to become a regional dominant power beyond the confines of the Western and Northern land borders and extend into deep blue waters to be able to not only protect own trade and energy interests but also dominate the strategic sea lanes in our own Indian Ocean region. Thus, the newly appointed CDS has to play a vital role in balancing the larger picture through the combined prism of all three services vis-à-vis nation’s longterm strategic goal and available resources.

Defence superiority can only be built over a period of time through building a strong defence economy and self-reliance in defence sector. The process has finally taken off. We need to maintain the momentum connecting the young generation with a long-term strategic vision and detailed road map irrespective of who’s in charge.

Summary If India looks to retain strategic autonomy without binding alliance then India has no option but to become a regional dominant power beyond the confines of the Western and Northern land borders and extend into deep blue waters to be able to not only protect own trade and energy interests but also dominate the strategic sea lanes of the Indian Ocean region. Current push of the Govt towards indigenous defence production is a welcome step towards selfsustainable technological advancements and economic growth and it needs to be taken forward. SP Lt General Abhay Krishna had commanded the South Western, the Eastern and the Central Commands before retiring from the India Army on September 30, 2019.

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Malaysia Brunei Reefs built by China into artificial islands

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CONFLICTS TO WATCH

THE INDIAN ARMY

THE INDIAN ARMY

HQ Sub-Area Static Establishments

Director General Strategic of Defence

Director General Planning of Defence

Private Secretary of the Minister of Defense

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(Excluding temporary or special positions.)

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WEAPONS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES TECHNOLOGY ASIAN WHO’S WHO

INDIAN DEFENCE

BUSINESS

Area : 89,342 sq km Capital : Amman Coastline : 26 km Maritime Claims Territorial sea : 3 nm Population : 1,02,48,069 (Note: increased estimate reflects revised assumptions about the net migration rate due to the increased flow of Syrian refugees (July 2017 est.))

Ethnic Divisions : Arab 98 per cent, Circassian 1 per cent, Armenian 1 per cent Religions : Muslim 97.2 per cent (official; predominantly Sunni), Christian 2.2 per cent (majority Greek Orthodox, but some Greek and Roman Catholics, Syrian Orthodox, Coptic Orthodox, Armenian Orthodox, and Protestant denominations), Buddhist 0.4 per cent, Hindu 0.1 per cent, Jewish <0.1, folk religionist <0.1, unaffiliated <0.1, other <0.1 (2010 est.)

Languages : Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes Literacy : 95.4 per cent Government : Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy Suffrage : 18 years of age; universal Administrative Divisions : 12 governorates

Cooperative Organizations SDF Physical Training School

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Self-Defense Forces (SDF) Supervised Units of Communication Systems

5-1 Honmura-cho, Ichigaya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8801, Japan

Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency

5-1 Honmura-cho, Ichigaya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8801, Japan

Ministry of Defense

SDF Intelligence Security Command

Ministry of Defense

Chief of Staff, Joint Staff

Cooperative Units

Regional Defense Bureaus

Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense

General Koji YAMAZAKI

Units and organisations of the Air Self-Defense Force

Hiroshi YAMADA

The Inspector General’s Office of Legal Compliance Defense Intelligence Headquarters

5-1 Honmura-cho, Ichigaya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8801, Japan

Units and organisations of the Maritime Self-Defense Force

5-1 Honmura-cho, Ichigaya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8801, Japan

Ministry of Defense

Units and organisations of the Ground Self-Defense Force

5-1 Honmura-cho, Ichigaya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8801, Japan

Ministry of Defense

Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense

Air Staff Office Chief of Staff, Air Self-Defense Force

Address

Ministry of Defense

State Minister of Defense

Takako SUZUKI

Joint Staff College

Organisation

Minister of Defense

Kenji HARADA

Maritime Staff Office Chief of Staff, Maritime Self-Defense Force

Desiganation

Takeshi IWAYA

Ground Staff Office Chief of Staff, Ground Self-Defense Force

JAPAN: MoD Contact Details Contact

Joint Staff Chief of Staff, Joint Staff

Centre of Rehabilitation

National Institute for Defense Studies

Centre of Public Communication

National Defense Medical College

Centre of Data and Information

National Defense Academy

Department of Media Defence

Defense Personnel Review Board

Centre of Finance

Department of Education and Exercise

Defense Council

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Department of Research and Development

Central Council on Defense Facilities

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STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVES

STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVES

Vice-Minister of Defense for International Affairs

Director General Strength of Defence

(Internal bureaus)us)

Government of Maldives and while it did not involve much fighting, it demonstrated to the World the speed and efficiency with which the Indian Armed Forces could react. This period (1989 onwards) also saw the start of the terrorism and insurgency in Kashmir and deployment of additional troops in J&K. As indications of Pakistani intrusions came in starting from May 1999, it became clear that India was facing an attempt by the Pakistan to change the LoC using its regular troops. Air and artillery (155mm Howitzers) was employed with devastating effect to repel the intrusions and claim back the lost territories. Thereafter, a massive build-up by Indian Army was ordered in the wake of the December 13, 2001, terrorist attack on Parliament House. This 10-month-long mobilisation along the border with Pakistan generated high levels of tension, led to some positive changes in India’s military doctrine and hastened its military modernisation together with organizational changes.

The influx of terrorism from Pakistan continued unabated. On September 18, 2016, four terrorists from Pakistan struck a brigade headquarters administrative base at Uri and killed 17 unarmed and unsuspecting soldiers in their tents. On the night of September 28-29, Indian Army’s Special Forces struck at seven launch pads of the terrorists across the line of control along a frontage of about 200 km in two different Corps Zones thus achieving complete surprise over the Pakistani military establishment and inflicted considerable casualties on the terrorists and military personnel in the area.

Indian Army continues to face four types of threats and challenges including traditional threats from China and Pakistan; contemporary threats in the form of terrorism; internal challenges; and out of area contingency threats. Indian Army

CONTENTS

CONTENTS WEAPONS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES

Director General Potential of Defence

TECHNOLOGY

HQ Independent Brigade (Armoured/ Infantry/Mountain/Parachute/Artillery/ Air Defence Artillery)

SDF Ethics Review Board

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(up to three people)

Administrative Vice-Minister of Defense

Bureau of Local Cooperation

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Special Advisers to the Minister of Defense State Minister of Defense

Bureau of Personnel and Education

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react was tested in the Rann of Kutch. In the second phase trouble was fomented in Kashmir. In the third phase an attempt was made to bottle up the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir by sealing the supply line in Chhamb-Jaurian sector of Jammu. Pakistan’s adventurism was foiled as Indian Army succeeded in making gains across the international borders and along the Line of Control (notably Hajipir). A cease-fire was agreed upon with effect from September 23, 1965 with UN efforts. The Tashkent Declaration and the subsequent agreement between the two countries led to the disengagement of forces and their withdrawal to positions occupied

HQ Divisions (Armoured/Infantry/Mountain/Artillery)

Minister of Defense Special Advisers to the Minister of Defense Secretariat General

Bureau of Defense Buildup Planning

in the right perspective

Security Environment

 General Information

Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense (two)

HQ Brigades (Armoured/Infantry/Mountain/Artillery)

by them before August 5, 1965. In the 1965 War, Pakistan suffered heavily in men and material with an estimate that Pak Army lost 5988 killed and many more wounded. Pakistan also lost 475 tanks.

The 1971 war between India and Pakistan was fought both on the eastern and the western fronts. India adopted aggressive strategy on the eastern front and a defensive strategy on the western front. On the Eastern front the Indian Army ably supported by the Mukti Bahini defeated four divisions and 30,000 para-military forces of the Pakistan Army in the thirteen days’ war. In the west, a large area of Pakistani territory was occupied by Indian troops.

On 16 December, Lt General Niazi of Pakistan Army surrendered to Lt General Aurora of Indian Army with 93,000 regular and paramilitary men. War on the Eastern front ended in a complete victory for India and liberation of Bangladesh.

The period after 1971 War saw the steady modernisation of the Indian Army with equipment for modern war. The Expert Committee under the Chairmanship of Lt General K.V. Krishna Rao submitted its report in 1976. Some of its major recommendations started getting implemented in the eighties. The expansion of mechanized forces was achieved as a result of this report.

On April 13, 1984, 34 soldiers of the Indian Army landed west of Siachen glacier and occupied the Bilafond La pass. This was the opening move in what is referred to as Operation Meghdoot between India & Pakistan which continues till date. During the period July 1987 to March 1990, Indian Army saw action in Operation Pawan where the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) was deployed in Sri Lanka in accordance with the Indo-Sri Lankan accord of July 29, 1987. On November 3, 1988, the Indian Army launched Operation Cactus in Maldives to prevent mercenaries from overthrowing the

Ministry of Defence

Inspectorat General

Bureau of Defense Policy

Source: MHA Annual Report

The result of Sino-India Conflict of 1962 encouraged Pakistan to seek a military solution of the Kashmir problem. A modernised Pakistan Army with an edge over India in armour, artillery and airpower prompted her to plan aggression on Kashmir in 1965. It was a three-phased programme. In the first phase the Indian capacity to

JORDAN

Cabinet Prime Minister

Minister’s Secretariat

Border with Bangladesh: 4096.7 km

Islands: 1197 with 2094 km with additional coastline

n and serious inadequacies in weapons and equipment

WEST ASIA AND NORTH AFRICA: JORDAN

JAPAN: MoD Organisational Structure

STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVES

Reserve Formations

TECHNOLOGY

Border with Myanmar: 3323 km

INDIA

MOD ORGANISATIONS & CONTACTS OF ASIAN COUNTRIES: JAPAN

WEAPONS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES

WEAPONS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES Army Headquarters Reserves

Training Establishments

STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVES

Army Training Command (ARTRAC)

HQ Areas/Sub-Areas Sub-Area HQ/Static Establishments and Designated Sector HQ

n major misreading of the prevailing geopolitical climate n total disconnect between the military and political leadership n inability of some in the military leadership to see the situation

MOD ORGANISATIONS & CONTACTS OF ASIAN COUNTRIES: INDONESIA, JAPAN

Structure Organisation of Defence Ministry of Indonesia

BUSINESS

HQ Corps

Coastline: 7516.6 km

ASIAN WHO’S WHO

INDIAN DEFENCE

Regional Commands (Northern, Western, Southern, South Western, Central and Eastern)

ASIAN WHO’S WHO

Border with Pakistan: 3323 km

China’s tenth Defence Whitepaper, released on July 24, 2019, after a gap of nearly 5 years is analysed by a Military Expert.

National Security Council

Border with Bhutan: 699 km

REGIONAL BALANCE

Border with Nepal: 1751 km

Ballistic Missile Defence Ballistic missile proliferation poses great threat to the region. All about BMD and how the S-400 will defend India.

INDONESIA: MoD Organisational Structure

Army Headquarters (Integrated Headquarters of the Ministry of Defence-Army)

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Chain of Command

Border with China: 3488 km

BMD development involves high risk and brings a burden on the national exchequer. International collaboration with friendly nations which are willing to enter in mutually beneficial agreements and to develop ballistic missile shields for the future. India must identify its envisaged threats, evaluate its own technological constraints to face them and collaborate with international players to build a missile defence architecture to enhance its air defence & nuclear deterrence capability and ensure nuclear stability in the subcontinent. Ballistic missile proliferation poses the greatest threat to regional security and needs an unfailing & perfect missiles shield against burgeoning nuclear weapons & missiles threats.

The US is offering to sell systems to India. As India is pursuing its own BMD, it welcomes any assistance from US and Arrow II system is the most sought after technology. India wanted to buy the Israeli Arrow-II System from Israel. MRSAM/Barak-8 is a long-range anti-air and anti-missile defence system being developed jointly by Israel Aerospace Industries and DRDO of India. The Spada 2000 kill probability is high, even against highly agile crossing targets & can engage upto four targets simultaneously with Aspide Missile.

As offensive missile capabilities continue to proliferate, missile defense cooperation with allies and partners has gained increasing importance to advance missile defence architectures for our protection, deterrence and assurance deepening interoperability in missile defence systems.

China’s Defence Whitepaper

Diagrammatic Layout of the Army’s Chain of Command

India’s Land Border Map Border with Afghanistan: 106 km

Missile defence is an essential component of national security and defence strategies. It contributes to the deterrence of adversary aggression and assurance to allies. Apropos, bigger nations with expeditionary forces would require these two kinds of BMD systems where as smaller nation can do it with an Integrated Air Defence system capable of neutralising multiple kind of targets in TBA. Drawing a corollary, it is evident that India would require two distinct kind of systems, one to protect the population/command and control/economic centers and second to protect its forces in TBA. System akin to Ground based Mid Course Missile (GMD) can be deployed in hinterland and Integrated Air Defence system akin to S-400 is required for the Air Defence for field formations.

ASIAN WHO’S WHO

INDIAN DEFENCE

CONTENTS

The ten most important global conflicts to watch particularly from the point of view of India and this region.

BMD for India

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tracking of ballistic missiles. Interceptors to engage incoming missiles earlier in flight than would be possible with other missile detection system.

REGIONAL BALANCE

Philippines

promising technology. n Space based tracking & Surveillance System for detection &

CONTENTS

INDONESIA

Vietnam

that could reach 500 kilowatts. Scaling it up in power while maintaining the beam quality would be the challenge. n Feasibility of particle beams for missile defence is yet another

Defence Total Armed Forces

Paramilitary Forces

: Active: 1,00,500 (Army: 74,000; Navy: 500; Air: 12,000; Special Operations 14,000) Reserves: 65,000 (Army: 60,000; Joint: 5,000) : Gendarmerie: 15,000 est, Civil Militia ‘People’s Army’: 35,000 est

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King Abdullah II of Jordan has had every reason to be pleased with himself lately. Following the January 2017 inauguration of President Donald Trump, he was the first Arab Leader invited to Washington to meet with the new administration. The visit was hailed a success by all involved— not only in terms of US-Jordan relations, but also as an opportunity for the King to caution Trump against moving the US embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem.

The visit, however, was only a temporary distraction from the ongoing security and political crisis that has been unfolding in Jordan for the last year. Jordan has witnessed a rising number of homegrown terrorist attacks and security incidents. Additionally, the king’s apparent inability or unwillingness to institute substantive socio-economic reform, end corruption, and increase citizens’ rights has led to spiraling protests.

The growing threat of ISIS spillover from the conflicts in Syria and Iraq—as well as evidence of rising militancy at home—has increased concerns that Jordan faces new security risks. While Jordan has long faced the threat of terrorism, recent incidents have renewed and heightened fears.

Some in the Hashemite royal circle fear that Washington may not fully appreciate the challenges they face. In 2017, US approved $ 450 million in military assistance, paling in comparison to $3.8 billion in military assistance to Jordan’s neighbor Israel. King Abdullah repeatedly clashed with the Obama administration’s narrow focus on ISIS in Syria (and drew Jordan into that part of the strategic plan). However, the King never appeared to persuade the president to his view for a broader push. This is the challenge that Abdullah faces again with the Trump administration, and it may be that the rise in Jordan’s own domestic security challenges—coupled with the pressures that ISIS is putting on the border with Syria and Jordan—proves effective. Indeed, the US-led campaign against ISIS cannot succeed if Jordan’s role as the pivotal Arab state on the front lines of the crisis in Syria is imperiled.

ARMY Strength Force by Role Manoeuvre Armoured Armd Div

: 74,000

: 1 (strategic reserve) (3 armd bde, 1 arty bde, 1 AD Bde) Armd Bde : 1 Mechanised Mech Bdes : 5 Light Lt Inf Bdes : 3 Combat Support Arty Bdes : 3 AD Bdes : 3 MRL Bn : 1 Equipment by Type Armoured Fighting Vehicles MBTs : 572: 390 FV4034 Challenger 1 (Al Hussein); 182 M60 Phoenix; (274 FV4030/2 Khalid in store) Lt Tks : (19 FV101 Scorpion; in store) ASLT : 141 B1 Centauro Recce : 153: 103 FV107 Scimitar; 50 FV701 Ferret IFVs : 678: 13 AIFV-B-C25; 31 BMP-2; 321 Ratel-20; 311 YPR-765 PRI APC : 800+ APC (T) : 650+: 370: M113A1/A2 Mk1J; 200 M577A2 (CP); some Temsah; 77 YPR-765 PRCO (CP); 3 AIFV-B

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WEAPONS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES

MALAYSIA

Territorial Claims China

n LASER program based on a gas-dynamic carbon dioxide LASER

EXPERT COMMENT Some distinct inferences can be drawn from the 2019 Whitepaper: 1. China is keen to position itself as the pivot for “world peace,” but with clear red lines defined on its core “sovereignty, security, and development interests.” There is an endeavour to balance peaceful intentions and great power aspirations 2. China believes that “configuration of strategic power is becoming more balanced”. There is new found confidence in China’s military power, consequent to technological advancements, modernisation, structural changes in command and control and extensive training of the PLA. 3. At the same time the paper also highlights China’s perceived risks from technological surprise and growing technological generation gap. It acknowledges PLA’s lagging mechanisation and it has to develop capabilities moving ahead from ‘informationization’ to ‘intelligent warfare’. China’s rapid progress in developing unmanned systems, AI and robotics manifests in its outlook for future wars.

4. The paper emphasizes on “intensification of global military competition” and blames US for “undermining global strategic stability”.

5. Modernisation and restructuring of the armed forces is in line with Xi Jinping’s thinking of China’s future. In addition to evolving threats, priority is on loyalty to the Chinese Communist party, with emphasis on core military functions, discipline and curbing corruption.

STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVES

BRUNEI

MALAYSIA

The civil war in Syria started in 2011 as protests against President Assad’s regime. It quickly escalated into a full-scale war between the Syrian government—backed by Russia and Iran — and antigovernment rebel groups—backed by the United States, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and others in the region. Currently, there are three campaigns driving the conflict; coalition efforts to defeat the Islamic State, violence between the Syrian government and opposition forces, and military operations against Syrian Kurds by Turkish forces.

The Islamic State began seizing control of territory in Syria in 2013. After a series of terrorist attacks coordinated by the Islamic State across Europe in 2015, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France—with the support of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and other Arab partners—expanded their air campaign in Iraq to include Syria.

Together, these nations have conducted over eleven thousand air strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria, while the US-led coalition has continued its support for ground operations by the SDF. Turkish troops have been involved in ground operations against the Islamic State since 2016, and have launched attacks against armed Kurdish groups in Syria. Meanwhile, at the request of the Syrian government in September 2015, Russia began launching air strikes against what it claimed were Islamic State targets, while Syrian government forces achieved several notable victories over the Islamic State, including the reclamation of Palmyra. According to the US-led coalition against the Islamic State, 98 per cent of the territory formerly held by the group in Iraq and Syria, including Raqqa and Deir al-Zour, has been reclaimed by Iraqi security forces and the SDF.

TECHNOLOGY

Spartly Oslands

BUSINESS

Itu Abu Island

INDIA

INDIAN DEFENCE

VIETNAM

Karachi

Arabian Sea

ASIAN WHO’S WHO

PHILIPPINES Scarborough Shoal

CAMBODIA

oday, with their has entered a new era.

THE STATE COUNCIL INFORMATION OFFICE interests and securiThe Chinese government OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA JULY 2019, ty intertwined, peois issuing China’s National ple across the world Defense in the New Era to FIRST EDITION 2019 are becoming memexpound on China’s defensive bers of community national defence policy and witha shared future. China is at a critical stage of completing the explain the practice, purposes and significance of China’s efforts to building of a moderately prosperous society in all respects and build a fortified national defence and a strong military, with a view embarking on a journey of building a modernised socialist coun- to helping the international community better understand China’s try in an all-round way. Socialism and Chinese characteristics national defence.

Haryana

REGIONAL BALANCE

South China Sea

PARACEL ISLANDS THAILAND

T

TECHNOLOGY

WEAPONS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES

Civil War in Syria

CONTENTS

WWW.SPSMILITARYYEARBOOK.COM

UN Convention’s 200 nautical mile limit

REGIONAL BALANCE

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TAIWAN

CHINA

LAOS

Role: Long-range anti-access/area denial Equipment: Each S-400 battalion has eight launchers, a command centre, two radars, mast and up to 72 missiles Range: 120 to 400 km, depending on missiles deployed Targets: Hostile aircraft, missiles, stealth jets, drones Missile speed: 17,000 kmph. Faster than any aircraft Reaction time: Vehicle stopping to missile firing is 5 minutes Numbers ordered: 5 systems

Himachal Pradesh

Lahore Punjab Quetta

S-400 Specifications:

PAKISTAN

BUSINESS

Rich in natural resources like natural gas, oil, coal, copper, sulphur, fluoride and gold, this is the least developed province in Pakistan.

Sunni Islam is the predominant religion.

The conflict in Balochistan is one of “nationalist/self-determination”. The Balochistan Liberation Army, designated as a terrorist organisation by Pakistan and Britain, is the most widely known Baloch separatist group. Other separatist groups include Lashkar-eBalochistan and the Baloch Liberation United Front (BLUF).

Pakistan repeatedly alleges involvement of India and Afghanistan in supporting the Balochi movement. The former American Af-Pak envoy Richard Holbrooke said in 2011 that Pakistan had failed to provide any evidence to the United States that India was involved in separatist movements in Balochistan.

He did not consider Pakistan’s accusations against India credible.

Holbrooke also strongly rejected the allegation that India was using its consulates in Afghanistan to facilitate Baloch rebel activity, saying he had “no reason to believe Islamabad’s charges”, and that “Pakistan would do well to examine its own internal problems”.

India too has categorically denied the allegations.

The stakes in Balochistan have gone several notches higher due to the development of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Gwadar Port. Resource-rich Balochistan is at the heart of the Beijing’s ambitious CPEC, which connects Gwadar Port in Balochistan with China’s Xinjiang province. The BLA is opposed to the CPEC, alleging that the project was aimed at exploiting the resources of the province. On November 23, 2018, three heavilyarmed suicide bombers stormed the Chinese consulate in Karachi.

The attack was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) which said it would not tolerate “any Chinese military expansionist endeavours on Baloch soil”. On May 12, 2019, Baloch militants carried out an assault in the heart of CPEC, the luxury Pearl Continental hotel in Gwadar. The attackers were killed, but only after killing five people inside the hotel and a soldier.

Pakistan has raised a special security force of around 15,000 troops to protect CPEC and Chinese projects. As this force proves to be inadequate, Chinese companies are expected to rely heavily on private security contractors, especially Chinese contractors that employ former PLA personnel. Use of security contractors also

The tenth Defence Whitepaper was released by China on July 24, 2019. From 1998 to 2010 China has issued a defence white paper every two years. The previous Whitepaper was published in 2015.

Lt General Subrata Saha (Retd), Military Expert and Consulting Editor, SP’s Military Yearbook analyses the White Paper put out by China.

Sargodha

INDIAN DEFENCE

South China Sea China claims sovereignty over the South China Sea, estimated to have 11 billion barrels of untapped oil, 190 trillion cubic feet of natural gas and fishing areas. Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam have competing claims. Since the 1970s, countries began to claim islands and various zones in the South China Sea, such as the Spratly Islands.

China maintains that under international law, foreign militaries are not allowed to conduct intelligence-gathering activities, such as reconnaissance flights, in its exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

CHINA’S NATIONAL DEFENCE IN THE NEW ERA

ASIAN WHO’S WHO

Sindh

Arabian Sea

Areas dominated by different major ethnic groups

CHINA

Jammu & Kashmir

Islamabad

REGIONAL BALANCE

INDIA

BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE: AFFORDABLE OPTIONS AND TECHNOLOGIES

How the S-400 will defend India

eng.chinamil.com.cn /Hu Jing & Sun Zhenqi

Delhi

STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVES

PAKISTAN Balochistan

17

TECHNOLOGY

Punjab

According to the United States, claimant countries, under UN Convention of the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), should have freedom of navigation through EEZs in the sea and are not required to notify claimants of military activities. In July 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague issued its ruling on a claim brought against China by the Philippines under UNCLOS, ruling in favour of the Philippines on almost every count. While China is a signatory to the treaty, which established the tribunal, it refuses to accept the court’s authority.

In recent years, satellite imagery has shown China’s increased efforts to reclaim land in the South China Sea by physically increasing the size of islands or creating new islands altogether. In addition to piling sand onto existing reefs, China has constructed ports, military installations, and airstrips—particularly in the Paracel and Spratly Islands, where it has twenty and seven outposts respectively. China has militarized Woody Island by deploying fighter jets, cruise missiles, and a radar system. China’s claims threaten SLOCs, which are important maritime passages that facilitate trade and the movement of naval forces.

The United States has challenged China’s assertive territorial claims and land reclamation efforts by conducting FONOPs and bolstering support for Southeast Asian partners. Japan has sold military ships and equipment to the Philippines and Vietnam in order to improve their maritime security capacity. The US defense treaty with Manila could draw them into a potential China-Philippines conflict over the substantial natural gas deposits or lucrative fishing grounds in disputed territory.4 India supports freedom of navigation and over flight, unimpeded commerce, based on the principles of international law. India believes that States should resolve the disputes through peaceful means without threat or use of force and exercise self-restraint in the conduct of activities that could complicate or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability.

BUSINESS

Islamabad

carries risks, as unregulated and relatively inexperienced contractors may exacerbate security problems. There are indications that China’s Marine Corps could become its principal ready response force in the region. A Marine company is already deployed to the Chinese base at Djibouti (which has facilities to accommodate up to 10,000 personnel). There are reports of Chinese security presence in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to protect transport infrastructure and construction units, and there has been speculation about future deployments to Gwadar. Several Chinese military exercises in the Indian Ocean region are openly focused on using Chinese forces to protect BRI projects. But in protecting people and assets, China may also increasingly find itself drawn into the local security affairs. As China’s Global Times recently argued, “China has always adhered to the principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries, but that doesn’t mean Beijing can turn a deaf ear to the demands of Chinese enterprises in protecting their overseas investments.”3

INDIAN DEFENCE

Kabul

IRAN

CONFLICTS TO WATCH

 Abbreviations at the end of the yearbook

Balochistan Conflict Historically Balochistan covers the southern part of Sistan and Baluchestan Province in Iran, the Pakistani province of Balochistan, and Afghanistan’s Helmand Province. The Gulf of Oman forms its southern border. Mountains and desert make up much of the region’s terrain. Balochistan is the largest province of Pakistan (comprising 44 per cent of the country’s total area), but it is the least inhabited, with only 5per cent of total population of Pakistan.

CHINA

ASIAN WHO’S WHO

CONFLICTS TO WATCH

AFGHANISTAN

REGIONAL BALANCE

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STRATEGY & PERSPECTIVE the face of Pakistan’s military incursions. In December 2007, the existence of the TTP was officially announced, under the leadership of Baitullah Mehsud. In 2014, former Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif’s attempts to negotiate a peace agreement with the TTP failed as they attacked the international airport in Karachi. In Jun 2014 the Pakistan government launched an offensive against TTP strongholds in North Waziristan. The TTP responded with several attacks, including the December 2014 attack on the Army Public School in Peshawar that killed nearly 150 people, mostly school children, in the deadliest terrorist attack in Pakistan’s history.

Following the Peshawar school attack, Pakistani political parties agreed on a comprehensive National Action Plan to combat terrorism and extremist ideology across the country, and Sharif lifted the death penalty moratorium to allow the execution of convicted terrorists. After nearly two years, in June 2016 the Pakistani military declared that the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) had been cleared of militants. Pakistan Army claimed that roughly 3,500 militants were killed and 500 Pakistani soldiers had died in the clearing operations.

Despite Pakistan Govt’s declaration of success; on the one hand TTP and other militants continue to carry out major attacks e.g. March 27, 2016, Lahore Gulshan-e-Iqbal Park Easter suicide attack and the 8th August 2016 suicide bombing in the Quetta Govt hospital; on the other hand Pakistan Army and ISI provide support to the Haqqani network, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and other militant proxy groups that carry out attacks in Afghanistan and India. Attacks claimed by the Islamic State in Pakistan are also a cause of concern as many fighting under the Islamic State’s banner in Afghanistan are believed to be former TTP militants who fled across the border, a phenomenon that has raised fears of an Islamic State-inspired campaign of violence inside Pakistan.

In 2018 the US administration suspended security assistance to Pakistan over their continuing unwillingness to target militants who receive sanctuary in Pakistani territory and carry out attacks in Afghanistan. More than $800 million in security assistance was suspended or redirected in 2018, and the US has cut off access for Pakistani military officers to US military training and education programmes, in an effort to pressure the Pakistani government to change policy. In June 2018 the Financial Action Task Force placed Pakistan on the so-called “grey list” of countries not doing enough to stop money laundering and terrorist financing.

The withdrawal of US forces from Afghanistan could increase regional instability by allowing militants from Pakistan to establish safe havens in Afghanistan. Additionally, acute instability in Pakistan has security implications for neighboring Afghanistan and India. The TTP is closely allied with the Afghan Taliban in its battle against Afghan troops, and India fears that anti-state and state-sponsored Pakistani terrorists could be diverted against India.

Moreover, the vulnerability of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal to attack or theft by nonstate actors remains a major concern for US and Indian policymakers.2

CONTENTS

A SNEAK PEEK...

Indian Defence

Asian Who’s Who

Regional Balance

Everything there is to know about Indian Armed Forces, Ministry of Defence, Defence Industry, Defence R&D and Central Armed Police Forces including Who’s who, organisation structures, profiles and contact details.

Who’s who in 44 countries in Asia and Pacific along with the MoD organisation structures and contacts of 13 largest buyers of defence equipment in the region.

GDP, military expenditure, security environment and listing of current military hardware of 45 countries in Asia and Pacific.

AND MORE...

Crystal Gazing the Global Security Environment  West Asia – Ticking Time Bomb  ASEAN Centrality – In Trap of China  China’s footprint from Indo-Pacific to Africa  Challenges Before India’s Maritime Diplomacy  Pakistan Factor in India and Afghanistan  Indian Navy and Indo-Pacific – Realism vs Posturing  Turnaround in India-Russia Relations

MODERNISATION

TECHNOLOGY

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IAF Full Replacement by 2035 Indian Army Right Sizing  Indian Army Modernisation  India’s Maritime Interests in the Indo-Pacific  India’s Defence Budget  India’s Business Environment  Strategic Partnership in Defence Production

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Cyber Warfare Nuclear Calculus Satellites – The Force Multiplier Hypersonic Weapons Future Super Soldier Future Submarines Artificial Intelligence

>> NiGHT VISION

Solutions for Night Warfare Capability Night vision devices would be more effective if the image intensifier and the TI is combined to bring out the best design features of both.

Photograph: Trijicon

 Lt GenERAL Naresh Chand (Retd)

a 3X night scope, significantly increasing the range of the AN/PVS-14 for weapon firing.

N

ight fighting capability is enabled by twin technologies of image intensification and thermal imaging. These technologies are being used separately or in combination and have evolved over succeeding generations to enable effective night fighting.

Image intensification. Image intensification is a complex conversion of energy particles that occurs within a vacuum tube.

An image-intensifier system works by collecting photons through an objective lens, converting them to electrons via a photocathode, increasing the electrical energy with a microchannel plate (MCP), converting the electrical energy back to light using a phosphor screen and presenting the image for viewing through an eyepiece lens. The aim is to increase the intensity of existing light for an optical system to enable to operate in low-light conditions.

Thermal Imaging (TI). TI technology detects objects based on heat emitted by them. The warmer the object, the more infrared long-wave light it radiates and the more detectable it is. A special lens focuses the infrared light emitted by all of the objects in view which is scanned by infrared-detector which in turn forms a detailed temperature pattern called a thermogram in about onethirtieth of a second. The thermogram is then converted into electric impulses which are then displayed as an image in varying colours. There are two common types of TI devices - Un-cooled and Cryogenically cooled.

Un-cooled is the most common TI device which can operate at room temperature, is completely quiet and activates immediately.

Cryogenically cooled is more expensive but has an incredible resolution and sensitivity and can discern a difference as small as 0.1 C from more than 300 m away.

Combination of Image Intensifiers and Tls Night vision devices (NVD) would be more effective if the image intensifier and the TI is combined to bring out the best design features of both. The current family of uncooled TIs are much lighter, as compared to the earlier generation, thus it is possible to use them in user mounted applications.

Coupling them with image intensifiers has resulted in ‘Sensor Fusion’, which produces a much better image due to the combination of the best design features of image intensifiers and TIs. Such a combination enables the user to view a much greater part of the light spectrum, from visible to near- infrared to long-wave infrared. This type of sensor fusion has led to the development of new night-vision technologies and devices like the enhanced night-vision goggle (ENVG) that combines a thermal imager with an image intensifier. The image intensifier works like a standard NVG in this system but image from the thermal sensor is through a video display. Both the inputs are then optically overlaid to provide a fused image. Developments are on to combine the video output of a thermal imager directly with the video output of an image intensifier. These new devices would then display

L3 Technologies L3/Insight LA-5B/PEQ. The L3/Insight

LA-5B/PEQ is the high power variant of the standard issue AN/PEQ-15 (ATPIAL) Advanced Target/Pointer Illuminator Aiming Laser. It is a compact, self-contained laser aiming system that features three functions: Visible Aiming Laser, Infrared Aiming Laser, Infrared Illuminator. The battle-proven LA-5B/PEQ is a weaponmounted system that easily attaches to any M1913 Picatinny Rail with a standard rail grabber mount. The co-aligned infrared and visible aiming lasers are easily adjustable; making for a simple zero procedure (zero one, and the other moves with it).

AN/PVS-31 Binocular Night Vision Device (BNVD). The AN/PVS-31 BNVD is The Multi-Purpose, High-Performance Thermal Imaging Trijicon IR-PATROL

a complete digitally fused image through HMD (head-mounted/helmet display) in a device known as the digitally enhanced night-vision goggle (ENVG-D).

US Army’s ENVG and FWS-I. The system enables the soldier to observe and manoeuvre in all weather conditions, during limited visibility and under all lighting conditions due to the data fusion of image intensifiers and TIs. The system features a fused TI for better target recognition in degraded visual environments (dust, smoke, zero illumination, subterranean, etc.); inclusion of augmented reality aspects from the Nett Warrior display and wireless interconnectivity with the Family of Weapon Sight-Individual (FWS-I). The FWS-I when mounted on a soldier’s weapon, will transmit its sight picture through radio to the ENVG III, which is mounted on a soldier’s helmet. The FWS-I is designed for the M4 and M16 rifles and is mounted on these rifles in front of day sights that have already been bore-sighted. A variety of modes will allow soldiers to see in their goggles only the image from the ENVG

III itself, only the image from the FWS-I, or a combination of the two. Using a ‘picturein-picture’ mode, the image from the FWS-I is displayed at the bottom right of the image that is coming from the goggle. The ENVG-B can see a man size target with 80 per cent probability at 150 m (threshold) and 300 m (objective) and with 50 per cent probability at 300 m (threshold) and 550 m (objective).

The ENVG family represents helmet-mounted nightvision goggles that blend image intensification and long wave infrared sensors for combat at night, in bad weather, and in smoke and dust. Harris (now with L3 Technologies) and L3 Insight are building ENVG II,while BAE Systems and Leonardo DRS are building ENVG III.

Elbit Systems -USA

Future Developments US Army has also given $391.8 million three-year contract to L3 Insight during May, 2018 for the ENVG-B. The ENVG family represents helmet-mounted night-vision goggles that blend image intensification and long wave infrared sensors for combat at night, in bad weather, and in smoke and dust. Harris (now with L3 Technologies) and L3 Insight are building ENVG II, while BAE Systems and Leonardo DRS are building ENVG III. ENVG III weapon sights also has an improved resolution and a wider field of view which enables rapid target acquisition.

Night Vision Devices-Some examples AN/PVS-14 Night Vision Monocular (F6015). Manufactured by Elbit Systems

of America – Night Vision (previously Harris Night Vision), the Mil Spec AN/PVS-14 Monocular Night Vision Device (F6015) is designed for the individual soldier for a variety of ground-based night operations. It features the superior performance of the Gen 3 Mil Spec F9815 YG image intensifier tube with a variable gain control to achieve an optimum balance in the images seen by both eyes. The dark adapted unaided eye provides situational awareness and vision of closerange objects, while the night vision aided eye provides long-range vision of potential threats and targets. The AN/PVS-14 can be weapon mounted on a MIL-STD-1913 weapon rail mount behind a standard collimated dot sight, such as the EoTech. This sight provides a central aim point while retaining the AN/PVS-14’s 40° field of view.

When fitted with the 3X magnifier, the unit fits similarly behind the collimated dot sight.

This configuration provides the soldier with

compact, lightweight, dual tube Gen3 goggle which is to replace the legacy AN/PVS15. Weighing just under one pound (about half a kg), this system is almost as light as a monocular but packs in the same features.

It is specially designed for special forces.

The AN/PVS-31 has the latest Gen3 image intensifier tubes, providing unmatched clarity in resolution. It can run on a single onboard AA battery or a remote battery pack mounted behind the helmet for extended use. The AN/PVS-31 has independent pivoting tube housings that allow the operator to run the goggle in a binocular or monocular configuration. The ability to pivot the tube housings against the helmet surface creates an overall lower profile, increasing operator safety and equipment life.

FLIR Monocular NVD (MNVD) Armasight is a multi-purpose night vision monocular. It can be hand held,

head mounted, helmet mounted, or weapon mounted. With a 51° field of view (also available with 40°), it provides a large visual field without the requirement of moving the monocular. The MNVD uses advanced multi-coated optics and is built to last with a compact composite housing. Operating from a single AA alkaline battery or CR123A battery, the MNVD can run up to 40 hours. The MNVD-51 uses a unique 51° FOV lens and is available in the multiple tube options.

BAE Systems ENVG III/ FWS-I Night Vision Mobility and Targeting System. ENVG III and Family of

Weapon Sight-Individual (ENVG III/FWS-I) provides dismounted soldiers with a solution that allows them to navigate and rapidly acquire and engage targets in all light levels and conditions. With both units integrated, weapon sight imagery and aiming point can instantly transmit into the goggle – for a tactical edge during close combat missions.

With a 12-micron thermal technology produces sharp thermal images by day or night.

The Rapid Target Acquisition (RTA) technology aids the shooter by providing the ability to simultaneously display the weapon sight imagery and aiming point in the goggle, allowing the user to aim the weapon at targets without shouldering it. This system is similar to the system US Army is developing. SP

6/2019 SP’s Land Forces

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>> indigenisation Photograph: PIB

ICV BMP II (Sarath) System passes through the Rajpath during the 65th Republic Day Parade 2014, in New Delhi on January 26, 2014

Military Embrace of ‘Make in India’ with Make-II SP’s Land Forces profiles the Indian Army’s pursuit of disruptive capability through home grown innovation in new projects launched with Industry in 2019  Vishal Thapar

www.spslandforces.com

A

t a recent Army Technology Seminar in New Delhi, Army Chief General Bipin Rawat reiterated that India will win future wars with Indian equipment, and gave an open call for an embrace of the ‘Make in India’ agenda.

“The military can no longer operate in a closed system. Our doors are open to see how soldiers on the ground can use technology to get an advantage over the adversary,” he said, indicating an unprecedented glasnost in partnering Industry to equip the Army.

Among the slew of measures to give momentum to ‘Make in India’, Make-II stands out as an innovative procedure to foster indigenous design, development and manufacture. It involves the Indian private sector Industry, including MSMEs and Start-ups, developing equipment prototypes with home grown solutions at their own cost, with intimate hand-holding by the Army Design Bureau to see the design and development activity through.

A total of 32 Make projects for the Army are in process. SP’s Land Forces profiles the new projects for 2019, which range from beefing up mountain warfare capability to developing precision artillery firepower and secure communications equipment.

ARTILLERY Multi-Role Precision Kill System (MRPKS) The MRPKS is proposed to be a vertically launched medium-range rocket system for mountain warfare. Vertical launch will give the system a 360 degree employment capa-

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SP’s Land Forces 6/2019

bility to overcome the crest clearance problem in the hills while targeting an enemy on the other side of the slope.

The void in rocket capability in the mountains with near pinpoint accuracy at medium ranges is intended to be addressed with the development of the MRPKS. The ammunition planned for this weapon system is a high-precision, medium-range fire-and-forget rocket with an on-board guidance system and a passive IR terminal guidance.

Planned to be mounted on a 4x4 inservice, 2.5-tonne vehicle which can be effectively deployed in the mountains, each launcher would carry up to 12 missiles in a cassette. The launcher should be able to operate in both standalone and Battery configuration backed by long-range communications. It is envisaged as a major force multiplier for tactical operations with fast deployment, high mobility, increased employability, low weight of the launch vehicle, precision accuracy and shoot and scoot capabilities.

Terminally Guided Munitions Smart, terminally-guided munitions for precision strike capability and greater lethality.

This is intended to be the appropriate artillery ammunition of the future which will meet firepower requirements in terms of accuracy, improved kill probability, faster speed of engagement and correspondingly reduced logistics. With precision capability, guided munitions also needed to optimise the Artillery ammunition.

The Army recently imported a limited quantity of Excalibur Terminally Guided Munitions for its 155mm guns. The fast track procurement of this Raytheon muni-

tion was done through the Foreign Military Sales route with the US. In the past, the Army has also used the Russian Krasnopol ammunition, which was acquired as an emergency procurement in the context of the Kargil War in 1999. Industry has been called upon to play a lead role in developing this ammunition for import substitution. Approval in Principle (AIP) has been accorded to this as a Make-II project , and efforts are on to seek more broad-based vendor response.

120mm Extended Range (ER) Guided Mortar Ammunition With a high angle fire capability, mortars are a highly effective weapon system in the mountains. In-service mortar ammunition has a range limitation. Therefore, there’s a pressing need for an Extended Range Guided Mortar Ammunition.

Through the Make-II route, the Indian Army is seeking such Extended Range Guide Mortar Ammunition which is fully compat-

Among the slew of measures to give momentum to ‘Make in India’, Make-II stands out as an innovative procedure to foster indigenous design, development and manufacture

ible with the existing 120mm Artillery mortars. The Army is seeking wider industrial response to this Make-II project.

Truck Mounted Crane for ULH regiments All future medium guns of the Indian Army will be in the 155mm/39/45/52 calibre catgery, paving the way for the requirement of common 155mm ammunition systems.

Unlike other calibre ammunition which comes in single round packages, 155mm ammunition is palletised. The weight of each shell pallet of 12 rounds is approximately 620 kg ands that of each Bi-Modular Charge System (BCMS) pallet with 125 modules is about 540 kg. This makes it necessary to have mechanical means to load and unload each pallet.

It is in fulfillment of this requirement that the development of a Truck-Mounted Ammunition Crane on Ammunition carrying Vehicles of medium regiments has been proposed as a Make-II project.

ARMY AIR DEFENCE Mountain Fire Control Radar The modernising Army Air Defence has specified the requirement of a Mountain Fire Control Radar System to replace vintage inventory which is facing obsolescence.

A key requirement is for the this new Mountain Fire Control System to be light weight and highly mobile with a tow vehicle.

Pre-Fragmented Programmable Proximity Fuze Ammunition, Integrated Air Defence Combat Simulator (IADCS) and Air Defence Unit Level System are the other programmes being pursued by Army Air Defence.

>> indigenisation Photograph: SP Guide Pubns

MECHANISED FORCES

bility in the Indian private sector to develop and deliver such equipment.

AFV Protection and Counter-Measure System for T-90 TK The Indian Army is seeking enhanced survivability for its T-90 Main Battle Tanks, which are the mainstay of the Armoured Corps. At the moment, the T-90 fleet is vulnerable because it lacks an Active Protection System against an enemy rocket or missile attack. It is equipped only with ERA panels, which provide limited survivability in the current battlefield scenario.

The projected need is for an Active Protection System capable of detecting and defeating an enemy attack. The enhanced protection and survivability is sought through soft kill and hard kill capabilities of the envisaged AFV Protection and Counter Measure System.

Armament Upgrade of BMP Night enablement is at the heart of the planned upgrade of BMP-II Infantry Combat Vehicle fleet. Armament Upgrade sought includes new Fire Control System with Auto Target Tracker, Gunner Main sight and Commander Panoramic Sight.

Acquiring night fighting capability has been termed an operational imperative for the Indian Army’s Mechanised Forces.

A part of the BMP-II fleet is planned to be upgraded with available niche technology.

Industry has already indicated capabilities for the upgradation of the Fire Control System with the Auto Target Tracker feature.

CORPS OF ENGINEERS

T-90 and BrahMos

Portable Helipad The Corps of Engineers is seeking light weight, modular material to put together portable helipads of sizes ranging from 25m x 25m to 100m x 100m.

Present portable helipads suffer from several drawbacks, principally heavy weight and consequent implications for handling and transport to location, limitations in camouflage and manpower intensive installation.

Through private sector Industry, the Corps of Engineers is seeking to leverage the advancements in metallurgy and development of flexible and resilient alternatives to come up with better solutions for portable helipad material. The focus is on modularity and light weight. SP

LAND AND AIRLAND DEFENCE AND SECURITY EXHIBITION

SIGNALS HF Software Defined Radio (SDR) Presently, the Indian Army is equipped with separate radio sets for HF, VHF and UHF frequencies. These legacy radio sets have little or no data capability, thereby hindering enablement of network centric operations.

The Make-II programme for HF SDR will address these operational and technological voids. The HF SDR is intended to have a provision of interoperability with legacy systems, and the ability to add, remove or modify the output of systems through reconfigurable and re-deployable waveform leading to multi-mode, multi-frequency and multi-platform operations in a single hardware configuration. This is envisaged to provide flexibility for secure communications to troops during operations.

08-12 JUNE 2020 / PARIS THE UNMISSABLE

WORLDWIDE

EXHIBITION 1,802

exhibitors

Man-pack V/UHF Software Defined Radio (SDR) The proposed communication system for boots on the ground, this is envisaged as a backward compatible SDR which is interoperable with future systems. With a range of 15 km or greater, the system will be able to transmit voice, data, message and video in both Clear and Secure mode in Fixed Frequency and Frequency Hopping mode for transmission of Voice, Ground to Air Voice, Narrow Band Data, Wide Band Data, Narrow Band Mobile Adhoc Network (MANET) having 16 nodes and Wide Band MANET having 32 nodes. It will be usable on multiple platforms in a single hardware configuration.

A separate Mobile Integrated Network Terminal (MINT) programme is also progressing.

65 startups at Eurosatory LAB

98,721

Total attendance (exhibitors, visitors, press, organisers)

227 Official delegations from 94 countries and 4 organisations (representing 760 delegates)

696

journalists

from 44 countries

RASHTRIYA RIFLES Robotic Surveillance System With a view to reducing troop casualty and collateral damage during counter-terrorist operations in built-up areas, the Indian Army’s counter-insurgency force Rashtriya Rifles will be managing a programme for developing a Robotic Surveillance Platform which will enable troops to be forewarned about the position and strength of adversaries inside buildings and provide better situation awareness of locations where terrorists are holed up.

A Feasibility Study has established capa-

+14,7%

from 63 countries 65,9% of international

75 Conferences 2,102 Business meetings made 2018 key figures

6/2019 SP’s Land Forces

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>> modernisation

The Future Soldier The Indian Army split the F-INSAS programme in favour of two separate projects; one arming the modern infantry soldier with the best available assault rifle, carbine and LMG, and personal equipment; and the second component is the Battlefield Management Systems (BMS) which included the computer and communications.

Photograph: Safran Group

 Lt GenEral Naresh Chand (Retd)

PHOTONIS, France, and about 40,000 tubes were supplied. The plant is presently being upgraded to XR-5 grade. Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) has entered into a partnership with Exelis Inc., in Gen 3 Image Intensification based NVDs.

T

he future infantry soldier will have to fight in an all-weather environment, by day and night, varying terrain conditions and in conventional as well as asymmetrical warfare; under the shadow of nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) threat. With the proliferation of digitisation in all walks of life and electronic gadgets being part of daily usage; the soldier cannot be left behind.

Moreover the increased use of electronic systems in the army, it is required to keep the soldier in the loop. The lethality and accuracy of current and future small arms and other weapons need active and passive measures. The soldier in the lead will have reliable tactical intelligence and needs to be shared. The individual soldier has the potential to function as a shooter, sensor, and communicator. The infantry soldier is every Army’s ultimate weapon, thus it necessitates the requirement of a soldier modernisation programme to match with the future operational environment. Some Global programmes are given below.

www.spslandforces.com

US Land Warrior Programme The US has identified five categories of modernisation-lethality, mobility, command and control, survivability, and sustainment. This initiated the Land Warrior System which is an integrated fighting system for individual infantry soldiers which provides the soldier enhanced tactical awareness, lethality and survivability. The systems integrated into Land Warrior are the weapon system, helmet, computer, digital and voice communications, positional and navigation system, protective clothing and individual equipment. The Land Warrior system will be deployed by infantry, and combat support soldiers, including rangers, airborne, air assault, light and mechanised infantry soldiers. The US Army began operational assessment of the Land Warrior and Mounted Warrior systems in May 2006 with the Stryker Brigade Combat Team (SBCT).

Inspite of announcing its cancellation, the 4th SBCT equipped with Land Warrior and Mounted Warrior systems was deployed effectively in Iraq. The system is modular and tailored for the soldier’s task and mission thus the unit commander decides the components of Land Warrior that will be deployed for a mission. The two main Land Warrior configurations are for the soldier and the squad leader. All the sub systems provide different roles like the ‘Fighting load vest’ is worn by the soldier for carrying and interfacing with the sensors and the computer. The electronic systems are connected and integrated via the ten-port hub installed on the body. Similarly Land Warrior helmet provides ballistic protection and carries the main components of the soldier’s communications systems. The soldier is armed with M4 Carbine, .223 calibre, with a 30-round magazine which can fire by day and night.

In June 2005, General Dynamics C4 Systems was awarded a contract to provide up to 500 Land Warrior (mounted warrior) Stryker integration kits which provides the mounted soldier voice, data and communication. The Indian Army had based their Future Infantry Soldier as a System (F-INSAS) on the Land Warrior concept.

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SP’s Land Forces 6/2019

Separation of F-INSAS in two projects.

French Army’s FELIN Soldier System includes an integrated equipment suite developed by Sagem as part of an overall soldier modernisation programme

UK’s Future Integrated Soldier Technology’ (FIST)

Protection

In March 2003, the Britain Army awarded the contract for the FIST to Thales. FIST was an adjunct to the abovementioned ‘Future Soldier’ project launched by the US with similar aim. Between 2015 and 2020, the British Army is expected to field 35,000 sets of FIST system.

Proof Jackets to provide protection to vital parts of the body. It will have add-on inserts to protect front, sides, back, throat and groin.

The ballistics resistance of body armour is evaluated by the NIJ (American) and STANAG (NATO) standards. The problem is a trade off between weight, protection and cost.

Ballistic Helmet. The Ballistic Helmet will be lightweight and comfortable, made of advanced materials to provide ballistics protection to neck and ears as also facilitate the use of headset for communications radio.

The Helmet envisages two versions – the commander’s version which would have a provision for head phones and the soldier’s version would be without head phones.

France’s FELIN FELIN Soldier System entered service in the French Army in February 2011. It includes an integrated equipment suite developed

by Sagem as part of an overall soldier modernization programme. At the heart of the system is the “tactical vest”, an advanced combat webbing integrated with cabling harnesses, power packs and electronic units mounting an individual radio with integrated GPS, its processing unit, batteries and man-machine interface, and a miniature terminal that displays data. The addition of optronics equipment has considerably increased the effective firing range of Famas rifles, even at night. It is reported that 22,600 French soldiers have been equipped with FELIN systems.

Bullet Proof Jackets (BPJ). Modular Bullet

The Modular Individual Load Carrying Equipment (MILE). This would include

a Harness, Rucksacks and Hydration Pack.

Survival Kit. The survival kit comprises of the soldier’s Personal Kit, Elbow and Knee Pads, Multipurpose Tool and First Aid Kit. Target Acquisition Sub-System. This includes Night Vision Devices, Weapon Sights for day and night and Hand-Held Target Acquisition Device.

Future Infantry Soldier As A System (F-INSAS)

Computer and Communication Sub-System

F-INSAS was conceptualised in April 2005 to integrate future military technologies, with the personnel equipment, of the future infantry soldier so that he has an edge over other competing armies. The area of focus of F-INSAS was ‘Lethality; Situational Awareness; Sustainability and Protection’. The future soldier was to be provided with effective sensor-shooter interface; and integrated with his section, platoon and company.

Shall comprise a soldier wearable computer, which is lightweight and battle rugged with a display and the Software Defined /IP based Radios for communication. It will also facilitate power management and integration of all sub-systems of F-INSAS.

Weapons The weapons included assault rifle, close quarter battle (CQB) carbine and light machine gun (LMG). The weapons were to be multi-calibre individual weapon systems with the fourth calibre attached to a UBGL (Under Barrel Grenade Launcher) capable of firing air bursting grenades. The weapons were to have night firing capability and a laser range finder to provide range and direction. When linked with the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS) (similar to GPS) would allow the soldier to call for indirect fire accurately.

Reflex/Holographic Sights and Red Dot LASER Pointer The Reflex/Holographic Sights and the Red Dot LASER Designator/ Pointer would be procured along with the CQB Carbine and the Assault Rifle.

Image Intensifier-based Passive Night Sights As per the road map of the ‘Indian Army Night Vision Philosophy’, night operations capability was to be ready by 2015. Bharat Electronics Limited Optronic Devices Ltd (BELOP) has started manufacturing Gen2 Image Intensifiers in collaboration with and as a Joint Venture with BV DELFT Netherlands in 1994.

In 2012, the plant was upgraded to produce XD-4 II Tubes with technical know-how from

In January 2015, the Indian Army split the F-INSAS programme in favour of two separate projects; one arming the modern infantry soldier with the best available assault rifle, carbine and LMG, and personal equipment such as the helmet and BPV; and the second component is the Battlefield Management Systems (BMS) which included the computer and communications. However due to high cost of BMS which impinged on the acquisition of state of art small arms, the Indian Army foreclosed BMS in July 2018. Thus after 13 years of money invested in development, the focus now is to the get the best personnel weapon and equipment like BPJ and ballistic helmet.

Progress on truncated INSAS Personal Weapons Assault rifles. India had signed a `700 crore deal to buy 72,000 of these rifles from the US under fast track procedures. The first lot of 10,000 SiG716 assault rifles arrived in India on December 1, 2019 and another batch of 10,000 rifles will arrive soon. The SIG716 uses the more powerful 7.62x51mm cartridge. There are plans for a joint venture between India and Russia to produce seven lakh AK-203 assault rifles in India which will be modified for carbine role.

LMG. The Indian Army has started its search for a new LMG with the calibre of 7.62x51mm by sending a delegation during April/May 2019 to Bulgaria (Arsenal Company); Israel (Israel Weapon Industries) and South Korea (S&T Motiv Co.). Currently the Army is looking for 16,400 LMGs under Fast Track Procedure.

Bullet Proof Vests (BPV). The shortage of bullet-proof jackets for armed forces is being met through procurement of 1.86 lakh such jackets by April 2020 for nearly `639 crore. So far, the DGQA quality checks have been completed and 10,000 bullet proof jackets have already been procured and a total of 37,000 BPJ are planned to be procured by end 2019. SMPP Pvt Ltd, which has developed these indigenous BPV claim that their BPJ can withstand hardcore steel ammunition fired from an AK-47 rifle.

Bullet Proof Helmet. During early 2018, a Kanpur-based company, MKU limited, which supplies military equipment to the UN and NATO, was awarded a contract worth `180 crore to supply nearly 1.6 lakh helmets. The company has delivered the first tranche on July 15, 2018. The helmet has a main protective layer of Kevlar and is designed to withstand the impact of 9mm ammunition fired from a short range. The helmet is also designed for soldier comfort which can be integrated with communication and night-vision devices.

The Boot Anti Mine (Infantry) (BAMI).

Northern Command had procured 6250 BAMI at a cost of `16.77 crore in 2018 under the Army Commanders Special Financial Power Fund from Gee Kay Engineering Industries(Punjab) but it was reported during November 2019 that the payment has been withheld due to supply of faulty boots. SP

>> News in Brief General Naravane Takes Over as 28th Chief of the Indian Army

G

eneral Manoj Mukund Naravane on December 31 took over from General Bipin Rawat as the 28th Chief of the Army Staff.

He is the third officer from the Sikh Light Infantry Regiment to become the Chief of the Indian Army after Generals V.P. Malik and Bikram Singh.

In the course of his distinguished career, he commanded the Eastern Command and the Army Training Command before his last appointment as the ViceChief of Army Staff.

He’s had a host of challenging ­postings, serving in the Indian Peace Keeping Force in Sri Lanka during ‘Operation Pawan’ and later commanded the 2nd Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles in Jamu and Kashmir and 106 Infantry Brigade.

Later, he was, Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) at Kohima, Nagaland and Commander 2 Corps.

His staff assignments include tenures as a Brigade Major of an Infantry Brigade, Assistant Adjutant & Quartermaster General (AA&QMG) of Headquarters Establishment No 22, Defence Attache at Yangon, Myanmar, an instructional appointment in the Army War College as Directing Staff in the Higher Command Wing, besides two tenures at the Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army), New Delhi.

He also served as General Officer Commanding (GOC) Delhi Area, and also commanded the during which tenure he also commanded the Republic Day Parade in 2017.

General Naravane did his schooling at Dnayana Prabodhinee Prashala, Pune.

An alumnus of the National Defence Academy and the Indian Military Academy, the General Officer was commissioned into the 7th Battalion, The Sikh Light Infantry Regiment in June 1980.

He is an alumnus of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington and Higher Command Course, Mhow. SP —By Vishal Thapar

Successful Launch of BrahMos Missiles

Offset Contracts from Defence Sector

Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Indian Air Force (IAF) and BrahMos jointly successfully conducted two BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles tests today, one each from land and air platforms.

The first missile launch was from a land based mobile launcher, where most of the components were indigenous, including the missile airframe, fuel management system and DRDO designed seeker.

Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO Dr G. Satheesh Reddy congratulated the DRDO, BrahMos and Air Force teams for the successful tests. Director General BrahMos Dr Sudhir Mishra, Defence Research & Development Laboratory Director Dr Dashrath Ram, and Director Integrated Test Range Dr Binoy Kumar Das were present during the trials.

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shripad Naik in a written reply in the Lok Sabha said on November 20, 2019 that 21 defence offset contracts with cumulative value of $5.67 billion approximately have been signed by Ministry of Defence (MoD) in last three years.

A study on impact of offsets on Defence Industrial Base has been conducted by Department of Defence Production through Institute for Defence Studies and Analysis (IDSA). According to the study conducted, till March 2019, MoD has signed 52 Offset contracts valued at $11.79 billion to be discharged through Indian Offset Partners.

Since the opening of private sector participation in defence production in 2001, 452 Industrial Licenses (ILs) have been issued till October 2019 for manufacture of a wide range of defence items. Further, so far FDI amounting to `1,812 crores has been reported by the companies in the Defence and Aerospace Sector since April 2014.

Russian Defence Industry to jointly manufacture defence equipment with India Rajnath Singh jointly inaugurated the ‘India-Russia Defence Industry Cooperation Conference’ with Russian Minister of Industry and Trade Denis Manturov in Moscow. While addressing the CEOs of Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) from Russian Defence Industry after the inauguration of the conference Rajnath Singh called upon the Russian Defence Industry to jointly manufacture defence platforms and equipment with India that will give a massive boost to the nations’ exports to third countries. Government of India is encouraging OEMs to partner with Indian entities making use of the ‘Make in India’ initiative. He urged the Industry leaders to make use of the significant economic reforms undertaken by the Government to improve ease of doing business and opening up the defence manufacturing sector for foreign participation. He added that “We have set up defence corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu and offer attractive terms for investment. India is ready to explore opportunities and co-production of high-end defence equipment with Russia”.

DAC clears procurement worth `22,800 crore The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, met today and accorded approval for Capital Procurement for the Services amounting to over `22,800 crore (about $3.2 billion). Out of this Army’s share is funds for the indigenous design, development and manufacturing of ‘Thermal Imaging Night Sights’ for Assault Rifles to boost the ‘Make in India’ initiative. These sights will be manufactured by the Indian private industry and used by troops deployed on the frontline.

Pakistan successfully conducts training launch of Shaheen−1 Pakistan has successfully conducted training launch of surface to surface ballistic missile Shaheen−1 on November 18, 2019.

The launch was conducted as part of a training exercise, which was aimed at testing the operational readiness of Army Strategic Forces Command. Shaheen−1 missile is capable of delivering all types of warheads up to a range of 650 km.

APPOINtMENT Vice Admiral R. Hari Kumar, appointed Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to The Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee Vice Admiral R. Hari Kumar was commissioned into the Indian Navy on January 1, 1983 and specialised as a Gunnery Officer in 1989. He has commanded Coast Guard Ship, Missile Boat, Corvette, Destroyer and Aircraft Carrier. His other sea-going appointments include Fleet Operations Officer and Fleet Gunnery Officer of Western Fleet, Executive Officer of Missile Boat, Gunnery Officer of Destroyer, commissioning Gunnery Officer of Corvette and commissioning GO VIII of Destroyer. His ashore appointments include Command Gunnery Officer at HQ Western Naval Command, Naval Advisor to Government of Seychelles, Training Commander INS Dronacharya. His Flag appointments include Commandant of Naval War College at Goa, Flag Officer Sea Training, Flag Officer Commanding Western Fleet, Chief of Staff at Western Naval Command, Controller Personnel Services and Chief of Personnel at NHQ. He served in the CivilMilitary Operations Centre of UN Mission in Somalia. He attended the US Naval Staff Course at Naval War College, Army Higher Command Course at AWC, Mhow and the Royal College of Defence Studies, London.

UAE’s defence giant signs contract for $1 billion to deliver Desert Sting-16 precision guided weapons

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief Jayant Baranwal Deputy Managing Editor Neetu Dhulia Senior Editorial Contributor Lt General P.C. Katoch (Retd) Senior Technical Group Editor Lt General Naresh Chand (Retd) Air Marshal B.K. Pandey (Retd) Group Executive Editor Vishal Thapar Contributors India General V.P. Malik (Retd), Lt General Vijay Oberoi (Retd), Lt General R.S. Nagra (Retd), Lt General S.R.R. Aiyengar (Retd), Major General Ashok Mehta (Retd), Major General G.K. Nischol (Retd), Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal (Retd), Brigadier S. Mishra (Retd), Rohit Sharma Chairman & Managing Director Jayant Baranwal Executive Vice President (Planning & Business Development) Rohit Goel Manager – HR & Admin Bharti Sharma Assistant Manager – HR & Admin Pooja Tehlani Deputy Manager – Circulation Rimpy Nischal Group Research Associate Survi Massey Creative Director Anoop Kamath Design Vimlesh Kumar Yadav, Sonu Singh Bisht Group Director – Sales & Marketing Neetu Dhulia Deputy Director – Sales Rajeev Chugh SP’s Website Sr. Web Developer: Shailendra P. Ashish Web Developer: Ugrashen Vishwakarma Published bimonthly by Jayant Baranwal on behalf of SP Guide Publications Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, photocopying, recording, electronic, or otherwise without the prior written permission of the publishers.

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Halcon, a unit of the UAE’s new defence giant EDGE, has signed a $1 billion contract to deliver its Desert Sting-16 range of precision guided weapons to the UAE Armed Forces. The Desert Sting is a family of light weight, precision-guided glide weapons (GGW). Its two variants – the DS-8 and DS-16 – weigh between 15 and 23 kilograms, and primarily utilise inertial guidance technology, which is further augmented by their global navigation satellite system (GNSS). The Desert Sting’s semiactive laser (SAL) seeker configuration further enhances accurate performance against real-time targets.Halcon is part of the Missiles & Weapons cluster within EDGE, an advanced technology group for defence and beyond that was inaugurated in November. SP

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