Tag: aircraft

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518: INDIAN AIR FORCE FLIGHT PATH @ 92

 

 

 

My Article published in the

News Analytics Journal (Oct 24)

 

The Indian Air Force (IAF) will celebrate its anniversary in Chennai on 08 Oct 24. The festivities will include a parade at Air Force Station Tambaram, followed by a spectacular air show over Marina Beach featuring some of the IAF’s most advanced fighter jets, such as the newly acquired Rafale, versatile SU-30, and indigenous Tejas, along with thrilling performances by the Suryakiran aerobatic team, Sarang helicopter display team and Akash Ganga skydiving team. The event serves as a celebration of the IAF’s history, technological advancements, and significant role in protecting Indian airspace. The IAF was founded on October 8, 1932, and has since grown into the world’s fourth-largest and most advanced air force. It is known not only for its combat capabilities but also for its contributions to nation-building, disaster relief and international peacekeeping missions.

 

 

Past Trail

 

Genesis. The Indian Air Force started its journey on 08 Oct, 1932, during the British Era.  The first operational squadron took flight on April 1, 1933, comprised six RAF-trained officers, 19 Hawaii Sepoys (air soldiers), and a modest fleet of four Westland Wapiti aircraft. Recognising its outstanding professionalism and accomplishments during World War II, the organisation was granted the “Royal” prefix in March 1945, thus adopting the name Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF). In January 1950, the “Royal” prefix was dropped, and the Indian Air Force proudly became the formidable force we know today.

 

Participation in Wars. To date, the Indian Air Force has engaged in four conflicts with Pakistan, including the 1947-1948, 1965, and 1971 Bangladesh War, and the 1999 Kargil War. In 1961, it played a crucial role in supporting the integration of Goa into the Indian Union. During the 1962 conflict, the IAF provided vital air support. In 1984, the IAF was pivotal in capturing the Siachen Glacier and evicting intruders from the Kargil area in 1999.

 

Strategic Transformation. The IAF was initially formed to meet the British Empire’s tactical air power application requirements, and it remained tactical for a considerable time after Independence. It was only in 1971 that the IAF carried out strategic effect-based operations with parallel air campaigns. In the first decade of this century, the IAF inducted airborne early warning and aerial refuelling capability, leading to increased strategic reach and conventional deterrence. The IAF started transforming from a tactical air power to a strategic one to become a multi-spectrum air force.

 

 

Doctrinal Evolution. Over the decades, the IAF’s doctrine has been shaped by its war experiences, technological advancements, and shifts in global military thought. The Indian Air Force has transformed from a support-oriented tactical force to a strategic power capable of several offensive, defensive, and deterrent roles. The evolution of its doctrine has kept pace with changes in global warfare, focusing on precision, network-centric operations, and the use of air and space power as critical enablers of national security. The IAF is preparing for future challenges by enhancing its space, cyber, and electronic warfare capabilities.

 

Flying For and With the Nation

 

A Key Player in Nation-Building. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is not just a defender of the nation’s skies but a multifaceted force that significantly contributes to India’s nation-building. Its roles in national security, economic development, humanitarian efforts, and technological advancements are crucial components of this process.

 

    • Safeguarding National Sovereignty. The IAF’s primary responsibility is to protect India’s airspace and national sovereignty. By ensuring air superiority, conducting surveillance, and being ready for combat, the IAF safeguards India’s territorial integrity against external threats. The IAF, a vital component of India’s defence forces triad, provides strategic deterrence through its advanced combat capabilities, thus maintaining regional stability and security. The IAF also plays an essential role in internal security by conducting air support missions during counterterrorism operations. IAF’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty instils a sense of security and confidence in the citizens.

 

    • Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). The IAF’s critical role in disaster management, closely coordinating with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF), instils security and protection. The IAF is instrumental in responding to disasters due to floods, earthquakes, forest fires, cyclones, tsunamis, etc. It conducts rescue and relief operations, airlifting food, medical supplies, and personnel to affected areas. Its C-17 Globe Master III and C-130J Super Hercules transport aircraft and a fleet of helicopters are indispensable in airlifting relief materials and evacuating people from disaster-stricken regions. During the Uttarakhand floods in 2013, the IAF executed one of its most extensive disaster relief operations, rescuing thousands of stranded people in challenging terrain and providing crucial medical aid and supplies.

 

    • Medical Evacuations: The IAF has been a beacon of hope in medical evacuation operations, especially during emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s swift and efficient transportation of essential medical supplies, vaccines, and oxygen cylinders across the country and internationally reassures the public of their care and safety. The IAF also significantly evacuated Indian citizens from foreign countries during the pandemic, demonstrating its commitment to public service and national welfare.

 

    • Military-Civil Cooperation. The IAF’s airports and infrastructure are shared with civil aviation, improving connectivity, especially in remote or strategically important areas like Leh and Port Blair, etc. The IAF also provides air connectivity to remote and rugged regions when needed.

 

    • Capacity Building and Skill Development. The IAF employs thousands of personnel, including pilots, engineers, technicians, and support staff. Its training institutes are among the premier military institutions in India, producing highly skilled professionals. These valuable skills can be applied in both military and civilian sectors. Many IAF personnel contribute to various industries after their military service, transferring skills such as aviation expertise, leadership, and technical knowledge to civil aviation, engineering, and other industries.

 

    • Fostering National Integration and Patriotism. The IAF’s professionalism, discipline, and achievements in both war and peace serve as a symbol of national pride and unity. Its displays and public air shows inspire patriotism and unity among citizens. The IAF recruits personnel from all regions and communities of India, promoting national integration. The force’s inclusive nature helps foster a sense of belonging and unity among diverse sections of Indian society.

 

    • Strategic Military Diplomacy and Global Partnerships. The IAF participates in international military exercises, enhancing India’s defence ties and fostering strategic partnerships. These collaborations enhance the IAF’s operational readiness and contribute globally to India’s diplomatic relations. The IAF has extended its disaster relief operations to neighbouring and friendly nations, contributing to India’s image as a responsible global player. During the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami, the IAF significantly provided relief to countries like Sri Lanka, Indonesia, and the Maldives. The IAF has supported United Nations peacekeeping missions, transporting troops, equipment, and supplies to conflict zones, contributing to international peace and stability.

 

 

 

Indian Air Force Trajectory

 

The Indian Air Force’s future trajectory is shaped by its need to address evolving regional threats, adapt to technological advancements, and align with India’s broader strategic goals. As the IAF prepares for future warfare, its unwavering commitment to enhancing its capabilities in terms of air power instils a strong sense of reassurance in India’s military strength. This, coupled with its emphasis on force projection and joint operations with other military branches, positions the IAF as a formidable force. The IAF, a technology-intensive service, is dedicated to continuous technology induction and modernisation. Its modernisation efforts are centred on replacing or upgrading ageing systems, incorporating next-generation technology and acquiring new platforms, weapons and systems.

 

The IAF has recently inducted Rafale jets equipped with advanced avionics, radar systems, and weapons capabilities. These multirole fighters significantly enhance the IAF’s air combat capabilities. The Indigenous Tejas Mk1 and upcoming Tejas Mk2 aircraft are integral to the IAF’s modernisation plans. The Mk2 variant, with enhanced combat range and payload, is expected to replace older aircraft like the MiG-29 and Mirage 2000. India is also developing an indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a fifth-generation stealth fighter with advanced avionics, stealth capabilities, and the ability to perform air superiority and strike roles. The IAF is also expanding its strategic airlift, mid-air refuelling, and combat support operations capabilities with aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster III, C-130, IL-76/78, AWACS and AEW&C aircraft to support rapid deployment and extended operations. Its air combat capability has been boosted with the induction of Apache and heavy-lift Chinook helicopters. The IAF also includes Indigenous rotary-wing platforms like the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) and Light Utility Helicopter (LUH).

 

The Indian Air Force is preparing itself to meet the challenges of 21st-century warfare through comprehensive all-round capability development.

 

    • Protecting the Air Space. The IAF has significantly invested in advanced air defence systems to counter emerging threats. The induction of the S-400 air defence system from Russia has substantially enhanced the IAF’s ability to defend against aerial threats. This robust defence system provides a layered, multi-target air defence capability, ensuring the audience of India’s secure airspace. The IAF’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) further reinforces this security by providing a networked environment that integrates air defence sensors, weapons and command and control systems, enabling faster decision-making and real-time coordination.

 

    • Space and Cyber Capabilities. The IAF’s doctrine has expanded from air power to aerospace power, incorporating space and cyber warfare as components of future warfare. The IAF is focused on enhancing its role in space, particularly in leveraging space-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Recognising the importance of cyber warfare in modern conflicts, the IAF is strengthening its cyber defence capabilities. Establishing the Defence Space Agency (DSA) and Defence Cyber Agency (DCA) reflects this shift toward multi-domain operations, where cyber and electronic warfare will be crucial in achieving air dominance.

 

    • Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Drones and Autonomous Platforms. The IAF is expanding its Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) capabilities to include various roles. The IAF is acquiring armed drones, including the MQ-9B SeaGuardian from the U.S., and supporting the development of indigenous armed drones. These will be used for surveillance, strike missions, and networked operations. The IAF is investing in swarm drone technology for future warfare. These drones, which can operate in large numbers to overwhelm enemy defences, will be a critical asset in high-tech conflicts. The IAF is also exploring autonomous systems that can operate in contested environments, reducing the risk to human pilots and increasing operational flexibility.

 

    • Network-Centric Warfare (NCW). The IAF focuses on network-centric capabilities, where multiple platforms (aircraft, UAVs, ground systems) are interconnected through secure communication networks. This allows the IAF to share real-time information and make quick, data-driven decisions during operations.

 

    • Reach & Precision Capabilities. The IAF is expanding its long-range strike capabilities, including advanced long-range weapons and platforms that will allow it to engage targets deep inside enemy territory precisely.

 

Indigenous Development and Self-Reliance.  The IAF has been a critical driver in India’s push toward defence indigenisation and self-reliance. The IAF’s initiative and support for indigenisation has reduced dependence on foreign suppliers, enhanced defence capabilities, and boosted the domestic industry. It has played an essential role in creating an aerospace ecosystem in India and has been operating indigenously built and licenced production aircraft and systems. It has been instrumental in developing Indigenous aircraft, radars, and missile systems in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Platforms like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), and air defence systems are a testament to this. The success of these projects has contributed immensely to the Make in India policy. The IAF’s support for research and development of critical aerospace technologies further promotes innovation and technological growth. India’s “Make in India” initiative significantly influences the IAF’s future trajectory.

 

From its humble beginnings as a small auxiliary force in 1932, the Indian Air Force has grown into a highly professional, modern force. The IAF’s journey from the beginning to its current position as a symbol of national pride is a testament to its remarkable achievements. From defending the nation during conflicts to providing vital support, the IAF remains integral to India’s security and strength. It has played decisive roles in India’s wars and peacekeeping missions. The IAF, through its evolution, has remained a cornerstone of India’s defence strategy, continually adapting to meet modern challenges. IAF’s chosen trajectory aims to secure air dominance, increase self-reliance, and emerge as a key player in regional and global defence scenarios, ensuring that it remains a formidable force in conventional and unconventional warfare.

 

Your valuable comments are most welcome.

 

 

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Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.

 

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510: APACHE HELICOPTER DELIVERY DELAYED

 

 

It is always a pleasure to interact with Shiv Aroor on contemporary defence and security issues.

 

On the latest episode of Battle Cry (India Today), the focus is on the delay in the delivery of Apache attack helicopters from the United States to the Indian Army. This delay has impacted the Indian Army’s preparedness, as these helicopters were intended for close air support to tanks and troops. This is the second major US defence supply contract to be affected by supply chain related slippages, the first being the delay in the supply of engines for the Indian Air Force’s Tejas fighter jets.

 

 

 

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506: EXERCISE TARANG SHAKTI: INTRICACIES OF MULTI-NATIONAL MILITARY EXERCISES

 

 

My Article published on the Chanakya Forum

 

India’s largest international air exercise, Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024, is in progress. Phase I at Sulur Airbase has been completed, and phase II is now underway. Military exercises are an important part of military cooperation and defence diplomacy. Worldwide, about 100-plus military exercises are conducted every year. These are bilateral or multilateral and vary in objectives, complexity, participation and duration. Indian participation in military exercises has increased in the last two decades. The IAF engages 25-odd countries bilaterally or multilaterally. Tarang Shakti, the largest international air exercise hosted by India, is a testament to the IAF’s role in international military diplomacy. The international air exercise involving air forces from multiple countries would enhance strategic relations, improve interoperability, and showcase India’s indigenous defence technologies.

 

The IAF, as a host of multinational exercises, plays a crucial role in fostering international military cooperation and diplomacy. This role demonstrates India’s growing influence in the global military arena and showcases its capabilities in organising and executing such complex exercises. The IAF has conducted and participated in several in-house exercises (without foreign participation). These include the air force level exercise Gaganshakti, the Airpower demonstration-wide exercise Vayushakti, the Tri-service exercise Bharat Shakti, the Multi-Agency Disaster response exercise Pralay Sahayam, and DANX (Defence of Andaman & Nicobar Exercise). International participation has picked up pace in the last two decades. The IAF has participated in over 90 international air exercises in the 21st century with almost all the leading Air Forces in the world (a list of these exercises is appended). These exercises advanced gradually from bilateral single-service exercises to multi-national multi-service exercises. In recent years, there has been a marked upturn in the complexity of these exercises. The experience gained by the IAF has paid enormous dividends of knowledge and experience.

 

Exercise Tarang Shakti

 

 

Exercise Tarang Shakti, a significant event in the global military arena, is the largest multilateral air exercise ever conducted and hosted by India. It is being held in two phases, with the first phase taking place at Sulur airbase in Tamil Nadu from August 6 to 14 and the second phase, currently underway at Rajasthan’s Jodhpur from 29 August to 14 September. A defence exposition has also been planned as part of this historic exercise.

 

The Tarang Shakti exercise has attracted the attention of air forces from fifty-one friendly foreign countries, with nearly 30 of them actively involved with their assets or as observers. The diversity of participating countries is a testament to the global significance of this exercise, with ten nations, including France, Germany, Spain, the United Kingdom, Australia, Bangladesh, Greece, Singapore, UAE, and the USA, committing their assets. The remaining countries are attending as observers to gain insights into the operations and strategies. Notably, Greece is participating in an Indian military exercise for the first time, while Russia and Israel are unable to participate due to their ongoing wars. The air chiefs of seven participating countries are expected to arrive on 11 Sep.

 

The Exercise features a wide array of advanced military aircraft and assets. Advanced aircraft such as Eurofighters, Typhoons, Rafales, F-18s, A-18s, C-130s, F-16s, A-10s, KC-130s, and KC-135s from countries like the USA, UAE, Singapore, France, and Germany are flying over the Indian skies during the exercise. The Indian Air Force’s LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000, Su-30, Jaguars, Mig-29, Rafale, IL-78, AWACS, LCH Prachand, Dhruv, and Rudra helicopters are participating in the exercise.

 

The first part at Sulur airbase, from 06 Aug to 14 Aug 24, saw Germany, France, Spain, and the UK with their assets. Phase two at Jodhpur involves the participation of Australia, Greece, Singapore, the UAE, and the US with their assets. At the last minute, Bangladesh opted not to deploy its C-130 aircraft. However, Sri Lanka stepped in to participate with its C-130 aircraft. Air Chiefs of seven countries will witness the exercise on 11 Sep. A defence expo is planned for 12-14 Sep. 17 observer countries, including Argentina, Botswana, Egypt, Italy, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia, will also be part of the exercise.

 

Exercise Tarang Shakti aims to achieve several key objectives. It seeks to strengthen strategic relationships with friendly foreign countries and enhance coordination and understanding among the air forces, which is crucial for joint operations and missions. The exercise also aims to boost Interoperability, allowing participants to learn best practices, operational strategies, and techniques from each other. It facilitates professional exchange and knowledge sharing on modern aerial combat techniques, tactics, and strategy. Moreover, the exercise serves as a platform to showcase India’s Indigenous capabilities, including the participation of indigenous platforms and systems and the contributions of Indian defence companies during the defence expo.  The expo aims to attract international attention and foster collaborations in defence production by defence personnel from participating countries visiting and interacting with Indian defence companies. The over-arching aim is to build mutual trust, explore avenues for interoperability and learn new things from each other.

 

These multi-national military exercises are not just about strengthening foreign policy and diplomatic initiatives, enhancing strategic relations, and building stronger defence partnerships. They are also a powerful tool for strategic signalling, with their stated objectives, participants, scale, location, and time further determining their significance. They foster military ties among the participating nations and significantly promote mutual understanding and cooperation in defence strategies and operations. Multilateral air exercises expose participants to various operational training scenarios, combat roles, and missions. They further offer possibilities for cooperation in humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, evacuation, and logistic support, among other things. The participants gain immensely from their diverse exposure to technology, administrative, maintenance, HR and logistics practices, besides tactics, strategy and doctrines.

 

Intricacies of International Military Exercises

 

 

International military exercises are complex and multifaceted operations that involve multiple nations working together to improve their military capabilities, foster cooperation, and ensure collective security. These exercises range from large-scale, multinational manoeuvres to smaller, bilateral training operations. The complex intricacies of international military exercises require a careful balance of strategic, operational, and diplomatic considerations to achieve their objectives effectively.

 

    • Diplomatic Coordination. The success of these military exercises hinges on extensive diplomatic coordination. This strategic task aligns objectives, rules of engagement, and communication protocols. Some exercises are conducted to send strategic messages to adversaries or to reassure allies. The choice of location, timing, and participating nations can be politically sensitive and might influence international relations.

 

    • Legal Framework. The legal framework is a critical component of these exercises. Agreements and MOUs are required to define the legal status of foreign military personnel operating within a host country’s borders. These would cover issues like jurisdiction, taxation, weapons carrying, etc.

 

    • Logistics and Supply Chain. Moving military personnel, equipment, and supplies across international borders requires intricate logistical planning. This includes transportation, fuel, food, medical supplies, and spare parts.

 

    • Operational Planning and Execution. The primary objective is for different countries’ forces to work together effectively. This involves meticulous planning and execution, standardising communication systems, command structures, and procedures. Exercises often simulate various scenarios, including assaults, air defence, cyber warfare, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief. Each scenario requires detailed planning and execution.

 

    • Intelligence Sharing. Participating nations often share sensitive information to support the exercise’s objectives. This requires a high level of trust and secure communication channels.
    • Cyber Security. Protecting the exercise from cyber threats is crucial, as adversaries might attempt to disrupt operations or gather sensitive information. Cyber defence drills are sometimes integrated into the exercise.

 

    • Safety Protocols. Ensuring the safety of all participants is paramount, particularly in exercises involving live firing or complex manoeuvres. This requires rigorous safety protocols and real-time monitoring.

 

    • Language Differences. Effective communication is critical, and language differences can pose significant challenges. Many exercises use English as the standard operational language, but translation and interpretation services are often required.

 

    • Cultural Sensitivity. Understanding and respecting partner nations’ cultural practices and norms is vital for maintaining cohesion and preventing misunderstandings.

 

    • Media Coverage. International exercises often attract media attention, and how they are portrayed can influence public perception. Managing information release and media coverage is a crucial aspect of these exercises.

 

    • Propaganda and Misinformation. Adversaries may use propaganda or misinformation to undermine the exercise’s objectives. Countering this requires a proactive public affairs strategy.

 

    • Environmental Impact. Large-scale exercises can have significant ecological impacts, including disruption of local ecosystems. Mitigating these effects is a critical planning consideration.

 

    • Post-Exercise Review. This is crucial because it assesses performance, identifies strengths and weaknesses, and develops recommendations for future exercises. The lessons learnt are used to refine tactics, techniques, and procedures and to improve interoperability in future operations.

 

Significant global participation in exercise Tarang Shakti underscores India’s growing power on the global stage and unwavering commitment to bolstering regional and international security. The exercise, a testament to India’s military prowess, is a powerful signal of its reliability as a partner in the global security system.  A long-term plan should be charted out for participation and hosting of the military exercises. A balance must be maintained regarding scope, objectives and participants, considering the advanced countries, countries of interest and neighbours. While the bilateral single-service exercises have advantages, multi-national, multi-service and multi-domain exercises bring out valuable lessons about realistic and comprehensive ways of dealing with contemporary situations.

 

 

List of IAF Participation in International Exercises.

  1. Red Flag Alaska (USA, multinational).
  2. Cope India / Cope Thunder (India, USA).
  3. Avia India / Indira (Russia, India).
  4. Exercise Pitch Black (Australia, Multinational).
  5. Exercise Garuda (France).
  6. CobraWarrior (UK, multinational).
  7. Indradhanush (India, UK).
  8. Exercise Blue Flag (Israel, Multinational)
  9. Iniochos (Greece, multinational).
  10. SINDEX (India, Singapore).
  11. Exercise Desert Eagle (India, UAE).
  12. Exercise Eastern Bridge/Desert Bridge (India, Oman).
  13. Siam Bharat (India, Thailand).
  14. Shinyuu Maitri (India, Japan).
  15. Exercise DesertKnight (India, France, UAE).
  16. ExerciseDesert Warrior (India, Egypt).

 

Suggestions and value additions are most welcome.

 

Link to the article on Chanakya Forum:-

EXERCISE TARANG SHAKTI: INTRICACIES OF MULTI-NATIONAL MILITARY EXERCISES

 

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References and credits

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References

  1. Anchit Gupta and Angad Singh, “Diffidence to Strength: Multinational Air Exercises in Indian skies”, Indian History, 03 Aug 2024.
  1. Air Marshal (Dr) Diptendu Choudhury (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, VM, VSM, “The Rising Wave of Air Power -Exercise Tarang Shakti”, 25 Aug 2024.
  1. Air Marshal Anil Chopra, “Mother Of All IAF Exercises! After 61 Years of Post China War, India Begins Its 2nd Ever Multilateral Drills ‘Tarang Shakti’”, The EurAsian Times, 06 Aug 2024.
  1. Nigam Sharma, “Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024: Everything You Need to Know”, 05 Aug 2024.
  1. Anurag Roushan, “’Tarang Shakti’: India set to host its largest multinational air exercise, 51 countries invited”, India TV News 01 Aug 2024.
  1. “‘Tarang Shakti’, largest multilateral air exercise in India”, PTI, 31 Jul 2024.
  1. Shivani Sharma, “Bangladesh opts out of multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti, Sri Lanka steps in”, India Today, 30 Aug 24.

Disclaimer:

Information and data included in the blog are for educational & non-commercial purposes only and have been carefully adapted, excerpted, or edited from reliable and accurate sources. All copyrighted material belongs to respective owners and is provided only for wider dissemination.