VIF News Digest : National Security- Defence Studies & Terrorism, (16-30 June 2024)
Anurag Bisen, Senior Fellow, VIF

Defence

  1. IAF Participation in USA hosted Exercise Red Flag 2024.
  2. CDS releases Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations.
  3. SAMEER, MeitY AND MCTE, Indian Army forge strategic partnership for technological advancement.
  4. Landmark 350th iDEX Contract inked for design & development of miniaturised satellite.
  5. DRDO hands over Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket to Indian Navy.
  6. High Speed Expendable Aerial Target ‘ABHYAS’ successfully completes developmental trials.
  7. Chief of the Naval Staff Visits Bangladesh.
  8. General Upendra Dwivedi takes over as 30th Chief of the Army Staff.
  9. Defence Services Staff College, Wellington & Defence Services Command and Staff College, Dhaka collaborate in Strategic and Operational Studies.
  10. INS Sunayna Visits Seychelles.

International Terrorism

Africa
Somalia
  1. SNA eliminated the al-Shabaab leader and six other terrorists in a CT operation in the Galguduud region.

Domestic Terrorism

Jammu and Kashmir
  1. Terrorism breathing its last in Jammu and Kashmir”: J&K’s Lt Gov Sinha.
  2. NIA conducted searches in connection with the ‘Reasi terror attack’ in J&K.
  3. Security forces eliminated three JeM terrorists in a CT operation in the Doda district.

Left-Wing Extremism

  1. NIA searched multiple locations in Naxal-affected areas in Chhattisgarh.
  2. Two CoBRA jawans attained Veergati in an IED attack in Chhattisgarh.
  3. Four Maoists surrendered in Andhra Pradesh.

Islamic Extremism

  1. NIA arrested two operatives in the ‘Hizb ut-Tahrir terror module’ case in Tamil Nadu.
  2. NIA Special Court-Mizoram sentenced two Ansal al-Islam terrorists in ‘anti-Bharat terror conspiracy’ case.

Organised Crime

  1. NIA conducted multi-state searches in the ‘Laos Human Trafficking and Cyber Fraud’ case.

Defence

IAF Participation in USA hosted Exercise Red Flag 2024.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) contingent joined Exercise Red Flag 2024 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, conducted by the US Air Force from June 4 to June 14. This biannual advanced aerial combat training involved several international air forces such as the Republic of Singapore Air Force, Royal Air Force (UK), Royal Netherlands Air Force, German Luftwaffe, and the USAF.

The IAF contingent, featuring Rafale aircraft and personnel including aircrew, technicians, engineers, controllers, and experts, arrived at Eielson on May 29, 2024, utilizing IL-78 Air to Air Refuellers for aircraft transport and C-17 Globemasters for personnel and equipment. Red Flag simulates realistic combat scenarios, with Red and Blue Forces representing Air Defence and Offensive Composite elements, respectively. The USAF Aggressor Squadron, flying F-16 and F-15 aircraft, played the role of Red Force.

This marked the IAF Rafale's debut at Red Flag, engaging in Beyond Visual Range combat exercises and Large Force Engagements alongside RSAF, USAF F-16s, F-15s, and A-10s. Despite challenging conditions, IAF maintenance ensured aircraft readiness for over 100 sorties. The exercise enhanced interoperability and operational understanding among participants. Click here to read…

CDS releases Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Anil Chauhan recently released the Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations during the Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) meeting in New Delhi. The Joint Doctrine is a keystone publication that will guide Commanders in conducting Cyberspace Operations in today’s complex military operating environment.

Development of Joint Doctrines is an important aspect of Jointness and Integration, a step which is being actively pursued by the Indian Armed Forces. The Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations is a significant step to give impetus to the ongoing process. This doctrine lays emphasis on understanding military aspects of cyberspace operations and provides conceptual guidance to commanders, staff and practitioners in the planning, and conduct of operations in cyberspace, as also to raise awareness in our war fighters at all levels. Click here to read…

SAMEER, MeitY AND MCTE, Indian Army forge strategic partnership for technological advancement.

In a landmark event, the Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE), Indian Army and Society for Applied Microwave Electronics Engineering & Research (SAMEER), R&D laboratory under the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance collaboration in ‘Next Generation Wireless Technologies for Indian Army’.

This initiative marks a significant milestone in strengthening the Indian Army's technological capabilities which is aligned towards declared vision for 2024 as ‘Year of Technological Absorption for Indian Army’ by Chief of Army Staff. The MoU signing is expected to reinvigorate this collaboration, with plans to establish an ‘Advanced Military Research and Incubation Centre’ at MCTE. This center aims to focus on Advanced Wireless Technologies for the Indian Army.

The partnership is beyond an agreement and represents a shared commitment in exploring new technological frontiers, addressing modern battlefield challenges. Merging SAMEER’s expertise in wireless technologies and MCTE’s application skills in communications, electronic warfare, and cyber operations, the collaboration promises substantial advancements in defence and strategic sectors. Click here to read…

Landmark 350th iDEX Contract inked for design & development of miniaturised satellite capable of carrying multiple payloads up to 150 kgs for Indian Air Force.

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), the flagship initiative of the Ministry of Defence, recently signed the landmark 350th contract, inked with SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd for the design and development of a ‘Miniaturised satellite capable of carrying Electro-Optical, Infrared, Synthetic Aperture Radar, and Hyperspectral payloads up to 150 kgs’. This 350th iDEX contract enables innovation in space electronics, wherein many payloads earlier deployed on dedicated large satellites are now being miniaturised. The modular small satellite will integrate multiple miniaturised payloads as per requirement, providing advantages like faster and economical deployment, ease of manufacturing, scalability, adaptability, and less environmental impact.

In his address, the Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane, in whose presence the contract was exchanged, appreciated the unwavering commitment of new defence innovators for pushing the boundaries of technology indigenisation and safeguarding the nation. Emphasising the importance of combining indigenisation with innovation, he stated that domestic capabilities provide a foundation for fostering innovation by offering a platform for experimentation and development. Click here to read…

DRDO hands over Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket to Indian Navy.

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently handed over the Medium Range-Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rocket (MR-MOCR) to the Indian Navy at a ceremony held in New Delhi. Microwave Obscurant Chaff (MOC), a niche technology developed by DRDO obscures radar signals and creates a microwave shield around platforms and assets, thus reducing radar detection. With special type of fibres, and unique microwave obscuration properties, the rocket, when fired, forms microwave obscurant cloud in space, with adequate persistence time, thus creating an effective shield against hostile threats. The MR-MOCR, meeting all the qualification requirements represents another step towards achieving Aatmanirbharta in defence. Click here to read…

High Speed Expendable Aerial Target ‘ABHYAS’ successfully completes developmental trials.

The DRDO has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of six consecutive developmental trials of the High-Speed Expendable Aerial Target (HEAT) 'ABHYAS', featuring an improved booster configuration. These trials, conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, mark a total of 10 successful developmental tests, underscoring the system's reliability.

Enhancements including improved Radar Cross Section, Visual, and Infrared augmentation systems were validated during these trials. Key mission objectives such as safe booster release, launcher clearance, and endurance were successfully met. Notably, two launches were executed consecutively within just 30 minutes, demonstrating operational efficiency with minimal logistical support. Representatives from the Services observed these flight trials.

ABHYAS, designed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru and developed in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Larsen & Toubro, provides a realistic threat simulation for weapon systems training. This indigenous system features autonomous flight capabilities via autopilot and a laptop-based Ground Control System for integration, pre-flight checks, and data recording for post-flight analysis. The booster was developed by Advanced Systems Laboratory and the navigation system by Research Centre Imarat, with identified production agencies now ready to commence production. Click here to read…

Chief of the Naval Staff Visits Bangladesh.

Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), Indian Navy, arrived in Bangladesh for a four-day official visit from 01 – 04 Jul 24 to bolster bilateral defence relations and explore new avenues for naval cooperation. He will meet Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, Chief of the Naval Staff, Bangladesh Navy, in Dhaka for bilateral discussions and review the Passing Out Parade at Bangladesh Naval Academy (BNA) in Chittagong on 04 July.

During his visit, CNS will also engage with General Waker-Uz-Zaman (Chief of the Army Staff, Bangladesh Army), Air Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan (Chief of the Air Staff, Bangladesh Air Force), Lt Gen Mizanur Rahman Shameem (Principal Staff Officer, Armed Forces Division), and senior Bangladesh Government officials. He will address participants at the National Defence College, Dhaka, and visit key defence facilities, reinforcing the robust naval cooperation through operational interactions, exercises, capacity building, and training initiatives between India and Bangladesh. Click here to read…

General Upendra Dwivedi takes over as 30th Chief of the Army Staff.

General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM, recently took over as the 30th Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) from General Manoj Pande, PVSM, AVSM, VSM, ADC, who superannuated after more than four decades of service. General Upendra Dwivedi is an accomplished military leader, with 40 years of service in the Armed Forces. The General officer has a unique distinction of balanced command as well as staff exposure across Northern, Eastern and Western theatres, in varied operational environment.

He takes over as the COAS, at a time when the global geo-strategic environment remains dynamic, with the challenges in the security domain becoming more pronounced due to technological advancements and ever-changing character of modern warfare. Operational preparedness to counter security threats to a rising nation, therefore would figure prominently, as a key focus area for the COAS. Concurrently, a focused response strategy, to myriad non-traditional security challenges, too shall be a priority, towards augmenting the nation’s defence.

General Dwivedi brings with him, a wealth of experience and has tenanted critical appointments and played a pivotal role in combating grey zone manifestations in the national security canvas. Click here to read…

Defence Services Staff College, Wellington & Defence Services Command and Staff College, Dhaka collaborate in Strategic and Operational Studies.

Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington and Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC), Mirpur, Dhaka have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation concerning Military Education in the field of Strategic and Operational Studies.

Both the colleges impart training to officers of tri-services, preparing them for higher staff and command responsibilities. They share common ethos, training curriculum and methodology and face similar challenges. Accordingly, they have decided to sign MoU, for further enhancing bilateral engagements. The MoU, signed during the official state visit of PM Sheikh Hasina, of Bangladesh to India, will assist in enhancing professional acumen, provide deep insight into strategic affairs, assist in sharing best practices and expertise as well as augment the academic capabilities of student officers and faculty members. Click here to read…

INS Sunayna Visits Seychelles.

INS Sunayna recently entered Port Victoria, Seychelles as part of her long-range deployment in the South West Indian Ocean Region. The ship's visit coincided with the celebration of 48th National Day of Seychelles on 29 Jun 24. The deployment of an Indian Naval ship marks sustained participation of an Indian military contingent since 1976 reaffirming bonhomie between the two nations. Deployment of INS Sunayna is in consonance with the vision of SAGAR promoting collaborative efforts to ensure maritime security in the IOR. Click here to read…

International Terrorism

Africa
Somalia
SNA eliminated the al-Shabaab leader and six other terrorists in a CT operation in the Galguduud region.

In a counter-terrorism (CT) operation jointly carried out by the local forces and Somali National Army (SNA) on 26 June, at least seven al-Shabaab terrorists, including a leader, were eliminated in Ali-Adhole within El-Dher district in Galguduud region in Somalia. During the CT operation, the security forces also destroyed the terrorist’s base in the area and recovered arms and ammunition. Click here to read…

Domestic Terrorism

Jammu and Kashmir
Terrorism breathing its last in Jammu and Kashmir”: J&K’s Lt Gov Sinha.

On 23 June, the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (UT of J&K)’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha addressed the J&K’s 16th Basic Recruit Training Course batch in the Talwara area of Reasi district and said that “Terrorism is breathing its last in J&K and recent terror attacks are signs of the enemy’s desperation. We must hunt down the terrorists and their aides harbouring them.” Click here to read…

NIA conducted searches in connection with the ‘Reasi terror attack’ in J&K.

On 30 June, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) carried out searches at multiple locations in Rajouri district of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (UT of J&K) in connection with the ‘Reasi terror attack’. On 09 June, terrorists attacked a bus carrying Yatris from Shiv Khori to Katra in the Pouni area of Reasi district, causing the bus to fall into a nearby gorge. At least nine people were killed, including a child, in this attack. The arrested operative— Hakam Khan, provided the information about search locations. Click here to read…

Security forces eliminated three JeM terrorists in a CT operation in the Doda district.

On 26 June, security forces killed three Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists in a CT operation in forest area of Doda district in J&K. The exchange of fire had begun in Bajaad village in the Gandoh area in morning amid an intensified Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) by the police along with the Army and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) following twin terrorist attacks in the hilly district on 11-12 June. Click here to read…

Left-Wing Extremism

NIA searched multiple locations in Naxal-affected areas in Chhattisgarh.

On 28 June, the NIA carried out searches at multiple locations in Chhattisgarh in connection with the ‘CPI (Maoist) arrest and arms recovery case. The six premises subjected to searches were located in the remote villages of Mujalgondi, Kalmuchche, Amabeda and Jiwalamari in Kanker district of Chhattisgarh. Click here to read…

Two CoBRA jawans attained Veergati in an IED attack in Chhattisgarh.

On 23 June, two CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action)— Vishnu R. and Shailendra, attained Veergati after Maoists set off an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) targeting their truck near Timapuram village in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. Click here to read…

Four Maoists surrendered in Andhra Pradesh.

On 27 June, four Maoists of Galikonda Dalam of CPI (Maoist) surrendered before Superintendent of Police (SP)— Tuhin Sinha at Paderu in Alluri Sitharaman Raju (ASR) district of Andhra Pradesh. Click here to read…

Islamic Extremism

NIA arrested two HuT operatives in the ‘Hizb ut-Tahrir terror module’ case in Tamil Nadu.

On 30 June 2024, the NIA carried out searches at 10 locations in five districts of Tamil Nadu and arrested two Hizb ut-Tahrir (HuT) operatives— i) Abdul Rehman and ii) Mujibur Rehman (both natives of Thanjavur district, in ‘HuT terror module’ case. HuT is an international pan-Islamist, fundamentalist organisation which is working to re-establish the Islamic caliphate and enforce the constitution written by Hizb-ut-Tahrir’s founder Taqi al-Din al-Nabhani.

NIA investigations revealed that they were involved in conducting ‘secret’ classes to radicalise youth in extremist ideologies against democracy and the Constitution of Bharat, law and judiciary. The terror trainees were taught that Bharat was now Darul Kufr (Land of Non-believers), and it was their duty to transform it into Darul Islam by establishing an Islamic state in Bharat by waging violent jihad. Click here to read…

NIA Special Court-Mizoram sentenced two Ansal al-Islam terrorists in ‘anti-Bharat terror conspiracy’ case.

On 26 June, the NIA Special Court in Mizoram convicted and sentenced two Ansal al-Islam terrorists— i) Mahmud Hassan and ii) Mohamad Sayad Hussain, over a conspiracy to carry out terrorist attacks in Bharat. Both terror operatives are Bangladesh nationals. The NIA Special Court-Mizoram has sentenced both to Imprisonment of five years each, along with a fine of ₹ 10,000 or one month in default, after finding them guilty under various provisions of Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023 (earlier known as the Indian Penal Code 1860), Foreigners Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act [UA(P)A]. Click here to read…

Organised Crime

NIA conducted multi-state searches in the ‘Laos Human Trafficking and Cyber Fraud’ case.

The NIA, on 28 June, carried out searches at multiple locations in Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan to identify the nexus of various operatives/members in the Laos human trafficking and cyber fraud case. Five locations in the three states were subjected to thorough searches by NIA teams as part of the agency’s crackdown on individuals/travel agents involved in the trafficking of vulnerable youth from Bharat to the Golden Triangle SEZ in Laos. The searches led to the seizure of incriminating materials, including digital devices and documents. The targeted locations were premises associated with aides and offices of the key accused, Balwant alias Bobby Kataria. NIA investigations have revealed that the suspects were allegedly handling the victims in trafficking and also managing their logistics and recruitment to a cyber fraud company in Laos. Click here to read…

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