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`100 OCTOBER-NOVEMBER 2015, VOL 8 ISSUE 2 www.salute.co.in
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in this issue 04 DEFENCE PREPAREDNESS FINALLY LOOKING UP I Maj Gen Dhruv C Katoch 05 NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL I Lt Gen Sudhir Sharma 06 THE STRATEGICALLY AGILE IAF IN THE NEXT GENERATION I Air Marshal Sumit Mukerji 10 THE TEJAS: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE I Air Marshal Philip Rajkumar 14 PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY AIR FORCE (PLAAF) Vs. INDIAN AIR FORCE (IAF) I Air Marshal V.K. Jimmy Bhatia 19 NEW TECHNOLOGY AND MILITARY I AVM A.K. Tiwari 22 TRAINING A SOLDIER PILOT: 5th GENERATION I AVM Amit Aneja 24 SMART PRISONS – AN ESSENTIAL NEED IN CHANGING TIMES I Parag Agarwal 25 AN APPRAISAL OF CIVIL MILITARY RELATIONS IN THE BACKDROP OF THE ’65 WAR I Gen Ved Malik and Professor 37 Gautam Sen RAISINA HILLS I Lt Col Anil Bhat 29 38 THE BATTLE OF SARAGARHI I Maj Gen Dhruv C Katoch VETERANS ALERT I Hony Capt Baldev Singh 32 39 REGIONAL ENVIRONMENT BOOK REVIEW I Lt Col Anil Bhat 34 40 News THAI RED CURRY I Aditi Pathak 31 41 SOLDIER OF FORTUNE: The Untold Special Forces Story I THE ITALIAN CONNECTION I Col Vijay Gidh Col Subin Balakrishnan 42 34 BOOK REVIEW: THE MONSOON WAR News I Maroof Raza
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[email protected] >> October-November 2015 >> SALUTE TO THE INDIAN SOLDIER 03 04-Edit-2_14_19_ BEING A FLY GIRL.qxd 12/15/2015 5:51 PM Page 1
EDITOR’S NOTE
DEFENCE PREPAREDNESS Publisher Maroof Raza FINALLY LOOKING UP Editor MAJ GEN DHRUV C KATOCH Maj Gen Dhruv C Katoch SM, VSM The festive season is upon us and it is time to es from the USA, and contract being awarded to celebrate. In the defence sector, there is finally Larsen and Toubro (L&T), an Indian conglomer- Associate Editor cause for jubilation. The last few months have ate, to supply up to 100 self propelled howitzers Lt Col Anil Bhat seen a steady improvement in India’s defence (SPHs) worth approximately USD 750 million to VSM (Retd) preparedness, which had hit alarming lows as a the Indian Army. In addition, the Army has given Design result of the lack of momentum over the past Bulk Production Clearance (BPC) to the UNEEDUS decade under the stewardship of the Congress Ordnance Factory Board for the supply of 144 led United Progressive Alliance. There has been Dhanush guns, production of which has started Publicity Manager a marked impetus in clearing essential defence at the Gun Carriage Factory, Jabalpur. The DRDO Hony Capt (Retd) Baldev Singh requirements for the armed forces, witnessed is also developing 155 mm/52 Calibre Advance since Mr Manohar Parrikar took over the Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) that will Board of Advisers defence portfolio. These pertain to many big upgrade the 155 mm/45 Calibre Dhanush in Lt Gen Sudhir Sharma ticket deals which had been languishing for future. PVSM, AVSM, YSM ,VSM( Retd) years, despite the operational necessity of For the Air Force, orders have finally been equipping the Forces to counter potential placed for the Tejas aircraft. In a break from the Printed published by threats. Thankfully, such dilly dallying is now a past, a long term view has been taken and the Flags Media Pvt Ltd A-47 Hauz Khas (LGF) thing of the past. government has decided to induct at least seven New Delhi 110016 Great progress has been made in procuring squadrons of the made-in-India Tejas Mark 1-A essential requirements for the forces, which has Light Combat Aircraft or LCA into the Indian Air Printed at improved defences preparedness considerably. Force, to make up for a shortage of fighters. A JK Offset Graphics (P) Ltd While improvement is reflected across the board, product of the Defence Research and C-21,DDA Shed, three issues serve to highlight the changed envi- Development Organisation (DRDO) and Okhla Phase -1 ronment. The first is the deal signed to make the defence public sector unit Hindustan New Delhi -110020 Tatra vehicle indigenously in India. The contract Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Tejas has been has been awarded to Tata’s at a cost that is Rs 20 more than 30 years in the making, but its induc- RNI Registration lac lower than the next competitor. The savings tion will send a strong signal to the environment DELENG/2008/26923 to the exchequer are substantial, given the fact of the government’s commitment to the ‘make Certified that the views that over a thousand vehicles are being pro- in India’ thrust. For the first time, bulk orders expressed and suggestions cured. The spin off effect on India’s defence have been placed for the aircraft, which gives sta- made in the articles are made industrial base will also no doubt be substantial. bility to the production lines, instead of piece- by authors in their personal The second bit of heartening news is the meal orders, as hitherto fore. The downside to capacity and do not have any progress being made on the acquisition of the orders placed on HAL is that the earlier track official endorsement artillery guns. Ever since the Bofors scam broke record of this DPSU has not been very encourag- out in the eighties, further acquisition of guns ing. This factor needs to be monitored and HAL was put on hold, leading to serious voids in held accountable, both for quality control and defence preparedness. The artillery modernisa- for deliveries on schedule. tion plan of 1999, projected a requirement of 814 In essence, forward movement in the mounted guns, 1580 towed guns, 100 tracked self Ministry of Defence reflects better decision mak- Cover Photograph: propelled guns,180 wheeled self propelled guns ing at the apex level. This perhaps is the most Rafale fighter and 145 ultra light howitzers. While financially it important signal emanating from the govern- is unviable to procure the entire requirement of ment, which should also give a fillip to the estab- the Army in one go, there is great forward move- lishment of a defence industrial base in the ment in making up the voids, with G2G purchas- country. Happy Diwali and Happy Reading.
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GENERAL SPEAK NATIONAL WAR MEMORIAL
Lt Gen Sudhir Sharma below. ‘Oh, that is the custom in Russia. The In the hype and inflamed passions wedding takes place normally on a of OROP, the Government’s Saturday or a Sunday. Irrespective of the announcement of the setting up of a season, after signing the register at the National War Memorial and National marriage office, the married couple War Museum at Princess Park, New must visit the important national Delhi, did not get the jubilation or the monuments near by. Every boy in this attention it so richly deserved. This is a country has to serve in the military for a bit sad, as the issue of a war memorial couple of years at least. Regardless of has been as emotive a long standing his position, he must wear his service demand of the veterans as has been uniform for the wedding. This is a mark OROP. It would have been nice if this of gratitude. Our forefathers have given too had been fought for with as much their lives in various wars Russia has righteous angst as has been the dogged fought. Some of them we won, and struggle for OROP. Notwithstanding some we lost, but their sacrifice was that, the announcement by the union always for the country. The newly cabinet to set right this anomaly is married couple needs to remember indeed welcome. The notification states they are living in a peaceful, that the memorial will honour all independent Russia because of their martyrs after independence in 1947. A ancestors’ sacrifices. They must ask for budgetary allocation of Rs 500 crore their blessings. Love for the country is and a time period of 5 years has been after the first Great War, where the more important than wedding planned for the construction of the horrendously large casualties shook celebrations. We elders insist on memorial. The location finally chosen is many nations to the core. Russia continuing with this tradition whether significant as it is a very prime location possibly lost the largest number of its it be in Moscow, St.Petersburg or any on Rajpath and adjoining the iconic men and women. It therefore has some other part of Russia. On the wedding India Gate. As of last count, nearly of the most artistic, somber and well day they have to visit the nearest war 22,500 brave men had laid down their kept memorials. memorial.’ lives in the service of the nation. It is Here, I would like to dwell on what Ms Murthy concluded her blog with about time we not only honour and pay Ms Sudha Murthy wrote in her blog, the following words: tribute to their sacrifice, but also have a post her visit to the beautiful Peace Park “This set me wondering about what monument where the nation can pay in Russia, in the middle of which stands we teach our children. Do we Indians homage and be inspired by these a large monument with a pillar. In the have the courtesy to remember our selfless warriors who have protected monument are inscribed the details of martyrs on the most important day of our sovereignty and hard won freedom. the various battles fought by Russia. She our lives? We are busy shopping for War memorials originated as observed a newly married couple arrive saris, buying jewellery and preparing symbols of victory, wherein victorious there, the groom in military uniform elaborate menus and partying in discos. kings and warlords erected columns and the beautiful bride in a white satin My eyes filled with tears at the thought and symbols as self-gratification to dress, with two young girls behind her, and I wished we could learn a lesson commemorate their achievements over holding up the ends of her gown. The from the Russians”. the enemy. No thought was given to the bride had a bouquet in her hands which The purpose of setting up a war hapless warriors who were shovelled she placed on the monument. The memorial would not be served unless into graves or cremated without any couple then bowed their heads in we as a nation genuinely and with deep ceremony or gratitude. War memorials silence and slowly walked back. reverence and humility visit the war in brick and mortar form, to give Curious, Ms Murthy asked an old memorial and pay obeisance to those respect to the fallen soldiers, whether in man standing there to explain to her who have made the supreme sacrifice. victory or defeat, started coming across why that young couple visited the war This spirit needs to be inculcated in various continents in the 14th century. memorial on their wedding day. The every Indian if we truly love our country The real trend of war memorials started reply, as written in the blog is placed and its heroes!
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THEME ARTICLE THE STRATEGICALLY AGILE IAF IN THE NEXT GENERATION Air Marshal Sumit Mukerji, PVSM, SC, VSM
Introduction years because of upgradation. As choices never imagined before. The The past decade has seen the IAF in a technology has advanced in leaps and state of the economy, as it grew, bit of a limbo. The euphoria of breaking bounds, the corresponding costs have provided the financial security and through the tactical hymen and sky-rocketed, leaving defence forces confidence to foreign investors and projecting its strategic avatar in its first (especially the tech-intensive offers started tumbling onto the ever transcontinental foray across the AirForces) and countries gasping, to doorstep. seven seas to participate in Exercise make good the numbers. Because of the Technology is not static and the Cope Thunder in Alaska was crushed by phenomenal costs of acquisition, every corollary is that neither are its the UPA’s inaction in alleviating the country, including India, has resorted to derivatives. Weapon systems appear to drawdown of fighter squadrons. upgrading its fleets to prolong its age before your very eyes because rapid Struggling to maintain a suitable service. technological increments are forcing operational posture by the last resort Given a rough thumb rule of life obsolescence on the equipment. Threat action of reduce to produce, the IAF has cycle and the analysis of the wear and perceptions for India have not changed, been loathe to admit that there may be tear over two decades, one would feel they have merely increased. Operating some necessity to cut corners if reasonably confident that the IAF below the nuclear threshold, it has been operational viability was not to be would have managed to sustain the a constant battle to maintain an edge compromised. The situation is squadron strengths and/ or increase over our primary adversary, Pakistan. reminiscent of a bonded labourer, them depending upon the ever- With an extended credit line and China mired deep in debt with the money- changing strategic and threat more than a willing provider of state-of- lender, making two ends meet and keep environment. While many factors are at the-art systems, the Pakistan armed his and his family’s head above water. play simultaneously, two things will forces have not been found wanting. To The money-lender, the government, impede the progress and could actually counter the rising parity and stay and the PSU(HAL)/ DRDO the compromise the operational potential ahead, India, the world’s biggest arms extortionist, have ensured that the of the most dynamic element of importer (because it remains labourer, the IAF, remains in that state. modern warfare - a restricted budget unsupported by an indigenous defence So who will bail out the poor worker? It allocation or an acquisition process industry) has had to maintain a steady should have been the indigenous mired in bureaucracy. procurement plan over the years. A defence industry but if that is virtually complex procurement policy which is a non-existent and has no ability to Strategic Partnerships windfall for bureaucratic delays and support and sustain, the situation is not The Soviet yolk was firmly established fears of breaching probity, have ensured good. Is the IAF destined to continue its on India’s neck in the aftermath of the setbacks in acquisition, leading to a existence on imported platforms and Chinese aggression of 1962. Without situation of operational compromise. systems or will the “Make in India” remorse, one must admit that the Soviet thrust prove its worth and provide the weaponry that was acquired more than Getting Up-to-Date sustenance? adequately met the requirements of the The life cycles of the platforms in the Indian armed forces in the intervening IAF necessitated firstly, replacement of The State of Flux years. The collapse of the Soviet Union the large numbers of legacy MiG-21s The depletion of assets and the and the steady rise in India’s stature in and secondly, supplement and enhance consequent draw-down of fighter the comity of South/ South-East Asian the precision strike and multi-role squadrons has been oft repeated and nations saw the proffered outreach by capability of the Jaguar and Mirage- really does not need elaboration. What the USA, France and surreptitiously, 2000 which will reach the end of their is to be understood is that an average Israel. The strategic partnerships that service life in the foreseeable future. life cycle of a fighter aircraft has been have been created have yielded The direction was clear and the right 25-30 years, depending on the multiple and multifarious dividends to steps taken. The LCA was given the go- generation, and it gets extended by 5-10 the Indian armed forces, throwing up ahead and the SU-30 MKI was
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THEME ARTICLE
developed and delivered by the undermine the hopes and aspirations France. Russians with corresponding transfer of of the people. technology. In both cases HAL was the For seven long years the process The Dilemma nodal agency to produce the fighters for continued, the Dassault Rafale was The shock value of the Govt to Govt deal the IAF, there being no other source in selected but the programme stalled in a in the acquisition of 36 Rafale fighters India. The tragic history of the 30 year quid pro quo because of the escalated off-the-shelf (against the 18 direct and (and on-going) development/ costs (naturally) and the fact that 108 to be made by HAL) cannot be production programme of the LCA has Dassault was expected to stand estimated. But it threw up a slew of been oft repeated and dragged over the guarantee for the quality of Rafale jets interesting possibilities for the thinkers, coals. Suffice to say that the IAF, which were to be produced by HAL strategists, aviation aficionados and anticipating the draw-down of fighter under licence agreement. Had the analysts. What did it really mean? Was squadrons as a direct effect of the delay previous government continued, we 36 going to be the final figure or would in the LCA programme, put up its would have stagnated the deal and one we go the Mirage-2000 way, buy an proposal for the MMRCA (126 aircraft) doesn’t really know where it would have initial number off-the-shelf and follow in 2007. Approved and budgeted, the ended up. The announcement by the up with some more? The depletion of acquisition was touted as the “biggest new government in 2014 that the the fighter force could not be matched arms deal of the century” - the dubious MMRCA deal will be revived came as a with this 25 percent of the initial tag of the largest arms importer in the breath of fresh air to the IAF and to MMRCA proposal, so what do we do for world labeled on India was just being pundits of national security. Frantic to the balance? To avoid compromising endorsed. But only we in this country and fro activity signified the resurgence national security, do we procure an understand how bureaucracy can and climaxed with the PM’s visit to interim platform in lieu of the LCA?
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THEME ARTICLE
Does the LCA remain relevant when it is finally produced in numbers, or is there a move to curb the LCA at the two squadrons of Mark I and four squadrons of Mark II stage and instead look towards the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)? So many questions, so many possibilities.
Agile War-fighting for the IAF Technology has increased the capabilities of airborne platforms as well as increased its vulnerability to well-designed and well-honed firepower. The cat and mouse game is never ending. In these scenarios, the IAF must define the expected role of its fighters and their respective tasks. Needless to say the airpower maxim of “Flexibility” must be at the core of modern warfare, to cater to the rapidly THE PRIME MINISTER’S THRUST ON “MAKE IN INDIA” changing environment all around. HAS ADDED A FURTHER FILLIP AND FOREIGN OEMS AND Thus, acquisitions must revolve around the fact that fighter aircraft of tomorrow OTHER MANUFACTURERS ARE LOOKING FOR JVS AND cannot be restricted to “mission OFFSET PARTNERS, BUOYED BY THE ECONOMIC specific” but must possess multi-role/ STABILITY PREVAILING AT THE MOMENT. INDIA MUST BE swing-role capability to exploit the READY TO CREATE THE CONFIDENCE, WITHOUT ANY ever-changing complexion of the air war. With this in mind and the fact that SCAMS DISCOLOURING THE WATERS AND BE READY TO manned aircraft will continue into the ABSORB THE HUGE AMOUNTS OF TECHNOLOGY BEING near future, some of the likely roles that OFFERED FOR TRANSFER. fighter aircraft of the IAF will undertake are:- G Air dominance. G Deep strategic strike on centres of in the form of the Saab Gripen. Already after India acquires the jointly gravity. evaluated extensively, this highly developed Indo-Russian FGFA. With G Defensive /offensive counter air. capable agile multi-mission fighter with features similar to the Lockheed Martin G Maritime strike. an excellent growth architecture F-35, its defining properties of super- G Battlefield interdiction & strike. factored in, would be the ideal gap-filler cruise, stealth, high-manoeuvrability, G Surgical strikes on high value targets. and it is waiting in the wings. The etc will make it an extremely potent Across a simultaneous two-front question is -will the IAF want to be platform. The IAF goes into the next threat (the worst case scenario), this is a saddled with another type on its generation with a combination of tall order. So there can be little inventory? The extensive TOT offered by fighter platforms which will provide compromise for numbers, Saab will certainly fuel “Make in India”, strategic reach, flexibility, versatility notwithstanding the multi-role/ swing- making it an attractive proposition for and lethality across the spectrum of role capability of most aircraft at that the government. The SU-30 MkI is here conflict. time. for the long run and its versatility must The Rafale is not really the be exploited to the hilt. Unlike the slow Make in India replacement for the MiG-21. Its sheer progress of the LCA, the AMCA is Is there a reason, one wonders, why capability provides the solution for the expected to move a lot faster, given the India has continued to be the world’s replacement of the Jaguar and Mirage- thrust by the present government and biggest arms importer? Has the 2000. With the operationalising of the its keenness to promote indigenisation indigenous defence industry been kept LCA Mk I and Mk II taking a long time, of the Indian defence industry. The in the background on purpose and not an excellent opportunity presents itself AMCA is likely to debut probably just permitted growth? Was it the lack of
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confidence in a budding private absorb the huge amounts of technology platforms that will provide the sword industry post independence that being offered for transfer. As amateurs arm to warfare conducted by the Indian triggered the decision to make DRDO in the game, we must not bite more armed forces, be it on its own borders or and the PSUs the sole agencies of all than we can chew. Jumping into high otherwise, if so dictated, will have the defence equipment manufacture? With technology which requires agility and lethality of a most potent the burgeoning industrial growth since sophistication and stringent quality force. Indigenisation in the defence the ‘90s, did not the government feel the control may not be suitable at this sector has taken off with the clearance necessity of uplifting the indigenous stage. I should hope that they move in a of private enterprises to participate. If defence industry, which was clearly progressive manner to establish the herd of white elephants like DRDO floundering in most projects, by standards and credibility. The newly and the PSUs do not pull up their socks introducing private players to infuse established Confederation of Indian we may actually see their decline. The fresh ideas and develop a suitable Industries National Committee on changing face of defence production in infrastructure for the future? Well, while Aerospace (CIINCA) under the tutelage India will ensure the reliability and we cannot turn the clock back, the of Chairman HAL is expected to pave efficacy of the armed forces. realisation that indigenous capability is the way for providing the directions for the core to sustainability and collaboration with foreign OEMs, An ace fighter pilot, Qualified Flying effectiveness has come as a welcome taxation issues, import strategy, supply Instructor and Fighter Combat Leader, change. There are many apprehensions chain management, etc. Air MarshalSumit Mukerji is perhaps in the private sector because they will the only officer in the IAF, who has now be dealing with a bureaucratic Conclusion commanded units with Mig21, Mig 23 government machinery (and maybe There is light at the end of the tunnel. U, Mig 25, Mig 27 and Mig 29 aircraft. corruption?) which does not pay on Realisation seems to have dawned with The Air Marshal has also served as time for services ordered and expects all the present pro-active government at theIndian Air Attache in the Indian trials to be at ‘no cost no commitment’. the helm. The Indian Air Force in the Embassy at Washington. He retired Confidence must be infused into the next generation will be proud of its from the IAF after 40 years of service in private industry. inventory. In the coming years the June 2011 as the AOC in C Southern Air Because of the stunted growth of the technologically sophisticated airborne Command. private industry in the defence arena, there is no real infrastructure or the desired quality, save for the big names. But the aviation industry has become such an expensive proposition that most companies, however well established, are resorting to joint ventures and outsourcing, to cut costs. This has proved a haven for those interested in the defence industry and its huge potential. While some medium players had forayed into the game and were producing components for the international aviation industry like Dynamatic Technologies and the Tata Group, the scope has increased manifold and provided opportunities all around. The Prime Minister’s thrust on “Make in India” has added a further fillip and foreign OEMs and other manufacturers are looking for JVs and Offset Partners, buoyed by the economic stability prevailing at the moment. India must be ready to create the confidence, without any scams discolouring the waters and be ready to
[email protected] >> October-November 2015 >> SALUTE TO THE INDIAN SOLDIER 9 10-13-Philip Rajkumar_14_19_ BEING A FLY GIRL.qxd 12/10/2015 9:31 AM Page 1
THEME ARTICLE THE TEJAS: PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE Air Marshal Philip Rajkumar, PVSM, AVSM, VM
Introduction to build an indigenous fighter as a 1960's no indigenous fighter Back in the early 1980’s, the IAF started replacement, rather than import one. development programme was to look around for a replacement for This was a very sensible decision as no attempted in India, mainly due to early marks of the Mig-21 fleet, which country could hope to achieve any sort paucity of funds. Meanwhile, would become due for replacement in of strategic independence in foreign aeronautical technology galloped the next 15 years. After discussions with policy affairs without a strong ahead in advanced countries like the the IAF, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited capability to manufacture weapons USA, the erstwhile Soviet Union and (HAL) and the Defence Research and required for its armed forces within the Europe. Fly by wire technology, in Development Organisation (DRDO), country. which there is no physical link between the Government of India (GOI) decided After the Marut programme in the the control column in the cockpit and
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the control surfaces on the aircraft, (PDP). The PDP was completed by the aspect close combat missile (CCM) has digital avionics in a 'glass cockpit' in end of 1988 but a decision to go ahead been integrated, the aircraft will be a which round dial instruments were with the project was held up for want of lethal opponent in within visual range replaced by multi-function screens and funds. By the end of 1990, India was encounters. A laser target designation the use of composite materials rather almost broke and the LCA programme pod has been integrated and laser than metal in the airframe were the key was put on the back burner. It was only guided bombs have been dropped with technologies which India lacked. In after the Narasimha Rao government very good accuracy. In short, the order to bridge the gap, it was decided assumed office in mid 1991 and set the aircraft can perform an useful to incorporate these technologies in the economy back on the rails that the operational role as of now. proposed fighter. As the new fighter project was revived. A big bang Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile was to replace Mig-21s in operational budgetary sanction of Rs 2,188 crore integration, ironing out some minor squadrons, the IAF wanted the new was obtained in June 1993 and metal glitches in radar performance, integral aircraft to be available for induction cutting started at HAL, Bangalore. gun firing in the air, air to air refuelling into squadrons by the late 1990s. This Consultancy contracts with foreign tests and small expansion of the was a very tight time frame and HAL aerospace majors were inked and good manoeuvre envelope, are the expressed its inability to meet it. The progress was being made when the remaining tasks to be completed to DRDO set up the Aeronautical 1998 Pokhran nuclear tests resulted in achieve final operational clearance. Development Agency (ADA) as a crippling technology sanctions. Integral gun firing tests have been programme management office and Undaunted, Team LCA forged ahead completed on the ground. As of now, said it would harness national and the first technology demonstrator the stand alone testing of the capabilities in the public, private and aircraft piloted by Wg Cdr Rajiv indigenous electronic warfare suite is academic sectors to meet timelines. Kothiyal, took to the air on 04 Jan 2001. in progress on one of the prototypes. HAL was to be the principal partner in In spite of the risks involved in On satisfactory completion of tests, the this endeavour. A provision was also incorporating so many new suite has to be installed in a pod and made to obtain consultancy from technologies in a single aircraft, the further airborne tests carried out. It is a foreign aircraft companies in crucial technology demonstration programme work in progress but the end is in sight. areas like fly by wire technology. The of 200+ flights on two aircraft was The big unknowns as of now are the IAF was sceptical about the ability of completed without incident by 31 Mar maintainability of the aircraft and Indian industry to absorb all these new 2004. product support availability in the field. technologies and produce a ‘ready to go Unfortunately, this data can only be to war’ fighter, within the required time The Present Status obtained after the first squadron is frame. A wise decision was taken to go Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee formed and the aircraft is flown daily for a technology demonstration witnessed a flying demonstration of the for 200-300 hours every month for programme by building three aircraft at HAL, Bangalore on 04 May some time.This is because the low prototypes, two flying and one 2003 and named the aircraft Tejas, intensity of flying during the flight test structural test specimen, and which is the Sanskrit word for radiance. programme at the manufacturer's conducting a limited flight test 2925 test flights have been completed facility where expertise and spares are programme of 200-220 sorties to prove in perfect safety so far. Initial readily available does not give the the new technologies. operational clearance was achieved in correct picture. There is no option but December 2013 and the then Chief of to attack these problems as they The Technology Demonstration the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal NAK emerge in the field. This writer has Programme Browne received the documents from witnessed at first hand the induction of The technology demonstration Chairman, HAL. The aircraft has been several new types of aircraft into service programme was beset with difficulties tested in its full altitude and speed and on every occasion, problems have from the word go. There was a woeful envelope and has exhibited satisfactory occurred. So there is no reason for lack of infrastructure to build a modern handling characteristics. Test pilots are despair. In fact, the IAF should give the fighter in the country. It had to be very pleased with its handling qualities same leeway it gives to foreign created from scratch. Skilled manpower which is the ease with which the aircraft suppliers to Indian agencies. The was scarce. Computational facilities can be flown and the mission natural tendency is to be extra were rudimentary. A main frame performed. The glass cockpit and demanding of our own people. computer had to be imported from the helmet mounted sighting system gives USA. Expertise was also lacking and the pilot excellent situational The Future Dassault of France was chosen to help awareness and visual combat The IAF has ordered 20 aircraft with out with the Project Definition Phase capability. As the R-73 Russian all option for 20 more. The first production
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THEME ARTICLE
version was flown last year and HAL has Prime Minister's initiative. It is hoped complex fly by wire FCS for a modern set up exclusive production facilities for that right decisions will be taken and fighter aircraft. There is, however, no the Tejas. The rate of production has to the Tejas programme's growth gainsaying the fact that foreign be increased to meet IAF squadron re- potential will be fully exploited. India consultancy provided by US and British equipment goals. never did that with the Marut firms played an important role in The IAF has said that the Mark 1 programme and fell behind by three achieving this capability. The credit to version currently flying does not meet decades. the Indian engineers lies in the fact that its operational requirements. An they were able to absorb this improved version with a more powerful Gains of the Project technology in a short time and were engine, the US made General Electric The foremost gain of the project has, able to proceed on their own when post F-414 engine has been asked for. This undoubtedly, been closure of the three Pokhran 1998 technology sanctions engine is a little wider than the GE F- decade long aeronautical technology were imposed. It is worth remembering 404 IN20 engine in use now. To fit the gap in several critical areas. First, the that technology sanctions with zero new engine, the rear fuselage of the ability to design a Control Law (CLAW) availability of foreign consultancy were Tejas has to be redesigned with the for a fly-by-wire flight control system in place for 31 months before first flight introduction of a half metre plug to (FCS) is a major gain. It would have on 04 Jan 2001. lengthen the fuselage and the air been a commendable achievement The mission computer and glass intakes made slightly bigger to cater for even for an aerodynamically stable cockpit software is entirely indigenous. increased mass flow requirements. aircraft but to develop and flight test it It is worth stating that although the Weight increase will take place and the for an unstable compound delta wing Tejas is powered by US engines and the higher thrust engine may not be able to aircraft is truly remarkable. The design back end of the airborne radar is Israeli deliver the improved performance required. One has to wait and watch THE PRIME MINISTER’S THRUST ON “MAKE IN INDIA” this space. An alternative approach could be to HAS ADDED A FURTHER FILLIP AND FOREIGN OEMS AND improve the Tejas Mk1 itself by OTHER MANUFACTURERS ARE LOOKING FOR JVS AND lengthening the fuselage by half a OFFSET PARTNERS, BUOYED BY THE ECONOMIC metre, redistributing the layout of STABILITY PREVAILING AT THE MOMENT. INDIA MUST BE equipment to get rid of the ballast and rebalancing the aircraft. Servicing READY TO CREATE THE CONFIDENCE, WITHOUT ANY requirements, suggested by the IAF SCAMS DISCOLOURING THE WATERS AND BE READY TO project monitoring team, could be ABSORB THE HUGE AMOUNTS OF TECHNOLOGY BEING taken care of and the additional OFFERED FOR TRANSFER. internal volume could be used for an electronic warfare suite and/or more fuel. This is within the capability of and development of a quadruplex and some other sub systems are also ADA/HAL designers to achieve in a digital computer system for the FCS imported, the design of the aircraft is short period of time. The improved was also done indigenously. The Indian overall and at the systems level. fineness ratio (an important intelligence in the computer in the The million lines of code have been aerodynamic parameter related to form of the CLAW and house keeping written in India by Indians and gives supersonic performance) due to the software was developed, tested and the country the ability to do upgrades increased length may well improve integrated on the flight control of the aircraft at a later date. supersonic performance. In this computer at the Aeronautical writer's opinion it is a quicker and far Development Establishment (ADE) at The Naval LCA better option than trying to fit the F-414 Bangalore. The building of an 'Iron The Indian Navy(IN) has strongly engine. Bird' at HAL's design bureau to test the supported the naval LCA programme. It Prime Minister Narendra Modi's FCS on the ground and then is far easier to design an airframe 'Make in India' initiative is a much conducting an exhaustive test stressed for carrier deck operations and needed shot in the arm for the Tejas programme on it to validate FCS then adapt it for land use than the other programme. A flying fourth generation software was an entirely new way around. Unfortunately, we in India fighter made in the country is available experience for the adopted the 'other way' and designed and crying out for further development. ADE/CLAW/ADA/HAL engineers. As a the land version first. In spite of this The dynamic Defence Minister Shri result, the country now has the more difficult approach, the naval Parrikar has strongly supported the capability to design, test and integrate a version first flew in 2013 and completed
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the first ski jump take off from the Shore programme like the IAF, IN, DRDO, HAL Based Test Facility (SBTF) at Dabolim and CSIR have realised that managing a Commissioned in the flying branch airfield in Goa in 2014. Arrested landings complex aeronautical project is not of the Indian Air Force in 1962, Air on the deck require a tail hook and work easily done. It is time consuming and Marshal Philip Rajkumar, PVSM, is in progress to install the hook on the requires a long term commitment of AVSM, VM, is an alumnus of the first two naval prototypes. Though the human and financial Defence Services Staff College, naval version under test is unlikely to resources.Continuity of personnel Wellington and the Royal College of meet IN operational requirements (ORs) working in the programme has to be Defence Studies, UK. A veteran of the learning curve in the naval LCA ensured. Specifications should not be the1965 Indo Pak war, he underwent programme has been very steep and is a changed unless absolutely necessary. the Experimental Test Pilots course at necessary step to achieve full Early intervention is better then late the Ecole du Personnel Navigant indigenous capability to manufacture intervention. The service entry of the d'essais et de Reception (EPNER) in state of the art fixed wing naval fighters. Tejas in the IAF will be a defining France in 1971, and thereafter, spent A twin engined heavier fighter can be moment for the Indian aeronautical the next three decades participating in planned a decade from now to fully industry which is poised to scale great numerous indigenous aeronautical comply with naval ORs. heights in the coming three decades. development programmes both as a The Tejas programme will always be test pilot and programme manager. He Conclusion remembered as the catalyst that made it retired in 2003 as the Director, All major players in the Tejas all possible. Aeronautical Development Agency.
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THEME ARTICLE PEOPLE’S LIBERATION ARMY AIR FORCE (PLAAF) VS. INDIAN AIR FORCE (IAF) CAPABILITY ANALYSIS OVER THE TIBETAN PLATEAU
Air Marshal V.K. Jimmy Bhatia
Introduction Indian relations, they also have to and their relative capabilities in the The Sino-Indian border issue is one of consider, asmilitary planners do, the Tibetan region. the biggest hindrances to normalisation possibility of China initiating a fresh of ties between the two Asian giants. military conflictin the near or mid-term The Lessons of 1962 Sino-Indian While many wonder whether Asia is in support of its territorial claims. This Conflict largeenough for them,and their growing brief analysis The 1962 India-China war has ambitions, India’s strategic looks at the role of air power in a understandably left a lasting bitterness communityfocuses on more immediate potential conflict between India and on the bilateral relations between the and pressing questions. Without losing Chinawith a comparative qualitative two countries. On the Indian side, one of sight of theoverall trajectory of Sino- and quantitative study of both air forces the enduring controversies of this war
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has been the non-use of the combat arm what are their respective capabilities version of Su-30) and the Su-30 MK2 air of theIAF, which is commonly believed and constraints in case of another dominance fighters. The Israelis, on the to be a major cause for the debacle. In conflict erupting in the Himalayas? other hand, passed on the technology the 1962 war, China was hardly in a connected with their stalled ‘Lavi’ position to use its air power to influence PLAAF: Modernised and programme for China to successfully the ground battle. It is well known that Transformed develop and produce its 4th generation in 1962, China’s offensive air capabilities A well-planned, long-term and time- and 4th generation+ J-10 and J-10B jet in the Tibetan region were practically bound approach to military fighters, respectively. But it is not only non-existent because of the modernisation – conceived as part of the Soviet/Russian designs or the Israeli design/operational limitations of its Deng Xiaoping’s ‘Four Modernisations’ – aerospace technologies which provided fighter fleets, which consisted mainly of was instrumental to start the process of the leap forward; the Chinese aerospace MiG-15s, MiG-17s and a few MiG-19s transforming the PLAAF from an scientists themselves have been carving and because China possessed hardly antiquated, derelict, poorly trained and out big successes in indigenous design any worthwhile high-altitude airstrips over-sized force of the 1960/70s to a and development. On January 11, 2011, in Tibet for these aircraft to operate modern ‘lean and mean’ aerospace China stunned the global aviation from. Similarly, China’s capability to power with increasing proficiency to community by test-flying the Chengdu strike Indian cities with its bomber undertake its stated mission in the 21st J-20 – its first 5th generation stealth jet aircraft such as the IL-28s was also century. It was not an easy task to start fighter. Not to be undone, Shenyang, limited owing to constraints of range the process of the PLAAF’s China’s second manufacturer of jet when operating from its mainland modernisation, which was so heavily fighters made it a double on October 31, airfields. The Chinese bombers would shackled to the archaic system of the 2012 by launching the J-31, another 5th have also been highly vulnerable to People’s Liberation Army (PLA). It is generation jet fighter on its maiden interception by the IAF air defence sometimes said that one of the reasons flight. Both these prototype designs are fighters once over Indian Territory. China went to war with Vietnam was reportedly under different stages of The IAF, on the other hand, could Chairman Deng Xiaoping’s desire for his development and are likely to become operate its combat aircraft with ease army brass to understand the operational around 2020. from its many airfields located in the importance of air power even at the Having discarded the so-called ‘dead- plains in both the western and eastern expense of Chinese forces getting a wood’ from its inventory, the PLAAF theatres without compromising on their bloodied nose in Vietnam. However, the currently has around 1,700 combat jet payload capabilities and these could be real eye-opener for the Chinese fighter aircraft comprising of a judicious employed in traditional interdiction and leadership was the US ‘shock and awe’ mix of 4th/4th+ and 3rd generation close air support roles. Properly used, aerial assault against Iraq during the aircraft Indian jet fighters would have caused 1991 Gulf war, which established In addition, the PLAAF has a large havoc to the (deprived of air cover) beyond doubt the predominant role inventory of transport aircraft: IL-76 Chinese ground forces. In the end played by air power in the conduct of strategic airlifters (20-30), multi- however, neither China (because it modern warfare. American mastery over purpose Y-8 transporters derived from could not) nor India (because it would the air and its technological superiority the Russian four-engined An-12 design not, largely due to unfounded fears of spurred transformation efforts in the (100-120), Y-7 based on An-26 twin the Chinese Air Force) used their PLAAF. turbo-props and 300+ Y-5 single- combat aircraft, resulting in the Indian Adopting the philosophy of engined light utility aircraft. The PLAAF army succumbing to the much superior ‘buy/steal and make/reverse-engineer,’ also boasts of a sizeable number of VIP Chinese ground forces. But that was China’s military modernisation transport aircraft which include Tu- more than half a century ago. In the (especially of the PLAAF) has been 154M and the smaller Bombardier present scenario, it can be said without progressing purposefully over the last Challenger 600, etc. In addition, it fields any ambiguity that in the event of China two and a half decades. China made full 500+ helicopters comprising of attack initiating another round of conflict in use of Russia’s post-cold war economic and utility versions of indigenous and the form of a limited war to militarily hardships by buying its military Soviet designs. It has also acquired settle the border dispute with India, it equipment and aerospace technologies about two dozen Sikorsky S-70 Black can and would make full use of its air on favourable terms. It bought the Su-27 Hawk utility helicopters from the US. power in a bid to force the outcome in aircraft from Russia and copied it to The PLAAF’s ‘force-multiplier’ fleet of its favour once again. produce its indigenous version, J-11, in Airborne Warning and Control System The question that looms large then is large quantities. It also equipped the (AWACS), Airborne Early Warning and - in the current scenario, how does PLAAF through outright purchase from Control (AEW&C) and Flight Refuelling PLAAF match up against the IAF? And Russia, the Su-30 MKK (an advanced Aircraft (FRA), though small, is likely to
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grow with time. However, where China Prime Minister Narendra Modi deciding would be more capable than the really scores is on its holdings of a very to go in for outright purchase of 36 indigenous LCA by shifting the foreign large variety and numbers of Rafale jet fighters from France in an vendor’s entire assembly line to India. It Unmanned Aerial Vehicle unprecedented Government-to- is now known that Saab from Sweden (UAV)/Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle Government (G2G) deal. While this has offered to make its Gripen NG (UCAV) and target drones which could move may hasten induction of the advanced fighters in India which would be used for multifarious missions. Also, aircraft into service, the drastic not only equip the IAF but could also be China possesses large quantities of reduction in numbers, unless remedied, exported to friendly countries by India. short/medium range ballistic and cruise is bound to create an adverse impact on Eventually, India would need about missiles which could be used to strike all the operational preparedness of the IAF. 1,000 jet fighters to be able to effectively types of targets inside enemy territory It may also be remembered that purely meet the future challenges to its with conventional warheads. in numerical terms, the IAF has slid security. down to just about 700 aircraft, from its IAF (Indian Air Force): Still in earlier holdings of more than 900 jet PLAAF vs. IAF: Commonalties the Pits – Present and Future fighters. and Differences Ironically, in the 1990s, when China hit In the coming years, the biggest Both the PLAAF and the IAF have the ‘fast forward’ for the PLAAF’s worry for the IAF would be to somehow undergone substantial changes in their modernisation, the IAF was confronted hold on to its present strength by doctrinal concepts in the last couple of with a void due to India’s then matching phased retirement of the decades. The defining moment for the precarious financial position and older MiG-21/MiG-27 variants with new Chinese armed forces (including breakup of the Soviet Union - till then, inductions arising out of the ongoing PLAAF) came with the articulation in the major provider of defence programmes. These would include 70 2004 by President Hu Jintao of equipment to India. This had a ripple more Su-30 MKIs by 2017-18, license- “historical missions of the armed forces effect on the IAF, which began to produced by HAL at the rate of 20 per for the new stage in the new century,” experience crippling draw down in annum. which was codified in the Chinese terms of the strength of its combat jet The first couple of indigenous LCA Communist Party Constitution in 2007. fighter squadrons and other combat (Tejas) aircraft have been delivered to The new guidelines require the Chinese equipment. The IAF, which had the IAF for operational evaluation with armed forces to secure China’s strategic laboriously built up its combat force the FOC (Full Operational Clearance) interests even outside its national levels to 39 ½ fighter squadrons by late slated for end 2015. It is hoped that HAL territorial boundaries. ‘Active defence’ is 1980s, lost almost a quarter of its will set up full-scale production of the the operational concept of China’s strength and was teetering at a record Tejas MK I and later MK II version and national strategic guidelines for the new low of around 29 squadrons by the start delivering these aircraft to the IAF period. The PLAAF would have a leading middle of the last decade. This in real earnest. In addition, it is hoped role in China’s active defence strategy. happened despite the induction of Su- that the Rafale (winner of the MMRCA China’s operational strategy is based on 30 (later Su-30 MKI) into the IAF which competition) contract for outright long-range strike and anti-access and had commenced around the turn of the purchase of 36 aircraft will be inked area denial (A2AD) capabilities which is last century. The extraordinary delay in soon and additional Rafales acquired at not specific to its maritime domain and the indigenous LCA (Tejas) programme a later date to equip at least three Rafale could be brought to bear over its land did little to help matters. In an squadrons to ensure operational borders as well, with obvious endeavour to stem the downslide, the viability. However, it is obvious that implications for India. IAF ordered more Su-30 MKIs—with the these measures alone would not be The IAF has also gone through order swelling up to 272 aircraft - and sufficient to keep the IAF on track to get metamorphic changes in its doctrinal vigorously pursued the 126-aircraft to a figure of 42 jet fighter squadrons, by concepts in conformity with the Medium Multi-Role Combat the end of India’s 13th Plan Period i.e. by increasing requirements of a resurgent Aircraft(MMRCA) programme. However, 2022, as envisaged by Mr AK Antony, – India. It is not coincidental that both the while IAF has successfully inducted defence minister during the previous PLAAF and the IAF are converging on close to 200 Su-30 MKIs into service its UPA government. The new defence their respective goals of transforming MMRCA programme ran into all kinds minister, Mr Manohar Parrikar of NDA themselves into modern strategic air of troubles after Dassault won the government has hinted on more than forces with continental reach and all- competition with its Rafale offer on one occasion for some out-of-the-box weather precision strike capabilities and January 31, 2013. The impasse was thinking for acquiring the necessary the ability to conduct air operations in finally broken by some out-of-the-box numbers such as making in India highly information-intensive and thinking on the part of the PMO with another single-engine fighter which network-centric scenarios.
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efforts made by China to create unprecedented infrastructural capabilities in the Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). An almost trillion dollar- endeavour has not only resulted in the building of more than 58,000 km of world-class roads and highways, but also in creating the world’s highest rail link connecting Tibet’s Capital Lhasa to Golmud and through it, to the rest of China. In the aviation sector too, China appears to have made great strides by developing a number of airfields through the length and breadth of Tibet, the latest at Nyingchi, merely 30 km away from the Arunachal Pradesh border. China can boast of a full-fledged international airport at Lhasa, complete with what may be termed as the highest aerobridge in the world. Xigatse, in the southern portion of Central Tibet is Figure 1: IAF/PLAAF Airfields in the Indo-Tibetan Region another well-developed airfield. However, a Google-eye scrutiny of the While the doctrinal concepts of the 300 PMU series and indigenous HQ- airfields in the TAR would reveal that two air forces may be on converging 9/HQ-12 with engagement ranges while adequate runway lengths have trajectories, where the PLAAF scores varying from 50-150 km clearly been provided to compensate for the over the IAF is in terms of quantitative overshadow the IAF’s present ‘altitude factor’, most airfields have only superiority. As brought out earlier, the capabilities even while the latter is rudimentary support infrastructure PLAAF already has modern fighter fleets trying to catch up with its newly which would make it difficult for the with close to 1,700 such aircraft on its inducted indigenous Akash and the PLAAF to carry out large-scale air strength. They are already twice as Israeli Spyder SAMs and joint operations in a sustained manner in much as what the IAF hopes to achieve development with Israel of a 70kmrange Tibet. The PLAAF aircraft would also be in the next 10 years. In addition, China is MR-SAM system. handicapped in terms of payload developing J-20 and J-31, two The third area of PLAAF’s superiority capabilities while operating from high- distinctively designed 5th generation over the IAF lies in the realm of altitude airfields in Tibet. Also, PLAAF aircraft. Fortunately, India has joined up ‘unmanned’ UAV/UCAV and drone does not have adequate flight-refuelling with Russia to co-develop the PAK-FA systems. China has been innovative in capabilities, allowing only limited 5th generation fighter aircraft which converting more than 200 of its J-6 number of aircraft to get airborne with may become available to the IAF at a (MiG-19) aircraft into unmanned drone full payload but partial fuel and then time, coinciding with the indigenous systems with a variety of roles ranging refuel in the air to reach distant assigned Chinese 5th generation fighter from ISR to bombing of enemy ground targets. inductions into the PLAAF. However, targets. In addition, China also has a On the other hand, the IAF would due to great disparity between the large arsenal of short/medium-range have access to a greater number of ‘defence budgets’ of the two countries ballistic and cruise missiles which could airfields, with much better support (in 2012: China’s $106 billion - which be used against enemy targets in varying facilities which it could use for air could exceed $200 billion with hidden depths in enemy territory. operations with full payloads against defence expenditure – vs. India’s $40 Despite these advantages the larger targets in the TAR. In other words, even billion), quantitative differences would questions are: In case of a Sino-Indian though the PLAAF may be more than continue to remain in China’s favour. conflict, how would the IAF fare against double the size of the IAF in terms of its The second aspect of the PLAAF’s the PLAAF? And will China be able to overall combat aircraft strength, in a superiority over the IAF lies in its attain air superiority over the Tibetan border war with India, it may find itself ground-based air defence systems. plateau? at a disadvantage vis-à-vis the numbers China’s sizeable holdings of SAM PLAAF in Tibet: Limited Capabilities (and reduced payloads), it can field systems such as the Russian-supplied S- No one can deny the tremendous against the IAF. Also, without adequate
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number of ‘blast pens’ (protective its superior tactical ballistic/cruise either side would be tantamount to a aircraft shelters) the PLAAF aircraft missiles and unmanned drones with strategic victory for India. would be vulnerable to counter-air conventional warheads in these strikes by the IAF. missions to offset the shortcomings of In his IAF career spanning more its air force. However, missiles are than 40 years, Air Marshal VK ‘Jimmy’ IAF has the Edge handicapped because of their having Bhatia had the rare distinction of being If China does decide to teach India only a single-shot capability. Therefore, the AOC-in-C of three operational another ‘lesson’ in Tibet, it would bank if the IAF improves on its already commands, i.e. Central, South-Western heavily on its tremendous infrastructure existing facilities to ensure proper and Western Air Command in to mobilise massive ground forces active/passive AD and rehabilitation succession. He was awarded Vir Chakra (between 30 to 40 divisions) and capabilities at its airfields and radar gallantry awards in both Indo-Pak wars support elements to overwhelm Indian sites, it could well weather the Chinese of 1965 and 1971. He is also the defences. Due to inadequate ground onslaught. On the other hand, it could recipient of the PVSM and AVSM infrastructure on its side, the Indian use this very shortcoming of the PLAAF Presidential awards. Apart from army would also have to bank heavily on to its advantage to achieve air pursuing professional interests in the the ‘air’ for maintenance and logistic superiority/favourable air situation in field of non-conventional energy support. Both the PLAAF and the IAF, the battle zone. Once this is achieved, sources since his superannuation, he is having already achieved a certain level the IAF could not only remove the also engaged actively as a writer and of modernisation (although in differing danger of PLAAF interfering with analyst on matters connected with degrees) would try to achieve air ground operations, but also provide military and civil aviation and dominance/air superiority by much needed close air support to the international relations. He has been a conducting DEAD/SEAD (Destruction/ Indian army to help it ward off member of the Executive Council of the Suppression of Enemy Air Defences) numerically much stronger Chinese USI for six years and presently is the and counter-air operations against each ground forces. In this scenario, even a Managing Editor of the India Strategic other. The PLA could resort to the use of stalemate without loss of territory on Group.
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THEME ARTICLE NEW TECHNOLOGY AND MILITARY AVM A.K. Tiwari, VSM
“Printing was invented in China in the prepare us to mould the military ways lands of South Korea, Japan and Europe. eighth century AD and movable type in and become far more effective rather Israel’s defence lies primarily in its the eleventh century, but this than face the disruption and wither offensive capability. On the eve of World technology only reached Europe in the away in times of crisis. The adjustment War II, France’s doctrine was defensive fifteenth century. Paper was intro- with the emerging technologies will at the Franco–German border. Our duced into China in the second century need the militaries to align their doctrine too, will need to suit our AD, came to Japan in the seventh doctrine, training and HR issues apart requirements at different fronts, century, and was diffused westward to from some other organisational comprising totally different terrain and Central Asia in the eighth century, changes. Thereafter, put the changed geography. The different spectrum of North Africa in the tenth and Spain in ideas to vigorous trials and training, war faced by our military from anti- the twelfth and northern Europe in the because seldom, if ever, one will get the terrorism on one extreme to possible thirteenth. Another Chinese invention, changes right the first time. It is because nuclear war at another extreme gunpowder, made in the ninth century, of this that companies like Facebook, demands this. Geographical realities of disseminated to the Arabs a few Yahoo, Microsoft launch the beta the huge Himalayan range pose an hundred years later and reached version of new software in New Zealand uphill adversity. Better prepared and Europe in the fourteenth century.”— first. Only after needed refinements the numerically superior adversary at this Samuel P. Huntington products are launched world-wide. border will have to be factored. The Rather, now we need to look at evolution selection and adoption of new “The 21st Century will be the century of in most practices in similar way as technology will not be an easy straight change. More things will change in various soft-wares evolve and bestow forward task but a phenomenally more places in the next 10 years than in continued improvements. Microsoft’s complex process if we want the the previous 100. Most countries aren’t Windows multiple versions similar to maximum bang for the buck at various ready for this dizzying ride – certainly mobile phones newer versions bear fronts and spectrum of war. not the United States of America”. testimony to this fact. Updating of Having decided doctrinal and —Fareed Zakaria Microsoft Windows every second technological issues, we will have to Tuesday every month again reinforces tackle other important issues which for “Our duty is to put ideas into their the same. Failure to update is bound to want of a better term I call “cultural heads, they will do the rest. This is what lead to failures. As our history shows issues”. It is well understood that is to be done in India”. that in each and every battle fought modern warfare is an extremely —Swami Vivekananda between the British and Indian states complex undertaking. It involves system during 18th and 19th century, it was the of systems, all intricately linked. But Everyone is aware of the Indian side which had more and better linking properly each system itself, and unprecedented rate of new technologies weapons and larger armies, but old thereafter with other systems is the most bursting on the scene at global scale thinking and poor training. The success challenging part for traditionally driven nearly every day. In fact most are behind British victories were superior armies, air forces and navies, not to bewildered and are clueless about this. generalship combined with rock like mention other agencies involved in ISR. Yet this explosion of new technology will discipline of the British infantry, based This is where the cultural mind set continue unabated and will continue to on new doctrine, training and comes in. Moreover, the result of transform the world. That is the media, combination of subterfuge to cause modern technologies has already made the social reach, the business practices, divisions of Indian forces. the world flat, as Thomas Friedman the service industry, the economy, the Therefore, trying to induct and propounded. The organisational organisational structures etc. It will be assimilate new technologies will only be structures in most economic enterprises extremely disruptive for the unprepared the first step. We will need to align our have become more horizontal who refuse to align with emerging doctrine to technology. If the doctrine is compared to earlier vertical form. The trends. It will be equally true for the paramount, then we will have to be free market is an excellent barometer of military. We, therefore, need to take an careful in selecting technologies that the changes. This is because technology urgent review of the new technologies support the doctrine. For example, has enabled mass communication and and its impact. Hopefully this shall American defence starts in the faraway participation. It implies more
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delegation, faster decision making and dissemination, far more receptive organisation at multiple hierarchies simultaneously. Another important factor is that it is the younger lot who are much more at ease with new technologies. They can innovate and adapt it for organisational needs far more quickly than the seniors. Today, it is imperative that their voices be heard much more than in the past. The basis for integrated warfare is a flexible mind set, willing to first look at the overall big-ger picture before its own limited picture defined by its role and part in a war/ battle. That this is against natural human inclination is proved by Goldwater Nichols Act of 1986 in USA which mandated the Services to follow a certain path for integration. Creation of more joint unified commands, culminating in Joint Forces Command in USA bears testimony. How then can one bring about the cultural change in the stereotype mind set? The easy answer is to use all possible means. First, it needs to be mandated at the highest level. The various reorganisations in the US military are more the result of law makers than the Services themselves. Reorganisation in Russian military post information at each level. The very occupy our major attention in coming the Cold War and in the Chinese military, senior levels which normally deal at decades. If this be so, then we need to post economic reforms, was again strategic level now have access to too expand upon the current limited mostly State directed. The next step is many details. It can be an ongoing thoughts on restricted military proper professional education of the action at a platoon level or a UAV application for counter insurgency. With officers starting as early as possible. locking on to a suspected terrorist. This phenomenal technological advances, Sitting together and studying is less profusion of information creates a immense new possibilities have opened effective for jointness, then studying decision dilemma for senior leadership up for utilising air power in counter purposely for joint operation even in the media sensitive world. What if the insurgency role. We need to try out these though not co-located. This is where suspected terrorist is an innocent new possibilities in realistic test like service prejudices seem to cloud the civilian – a woman or child in disguise? situations. Testing and trials will lead to issue on what to study and for how long. How to further confirm the identity? Or the best practices and procedures. One way to approach the issue is to put to let the juniors go on with the mission, Doctrinally we must shift towards joint exercises as the primary means of hopefully with pre-decided rules of increasing role of air power in CI. learning rather than year long course at engagement? Well, war is always about Let us look at anti-terrorist various stages. Let practical be the blood and gore; death and destruction. operations in some detail to understand teacher. What works in the field – that’s While collateral damage has been good use of technology. Use of what we need to study. What fails, needs reduced well out of proportion technology in countering terrorists by to be discarded or minimised. Needless compared to few decades past, it cannot Israel is an example worth examination. to say, the exercises need to be as be eliminated totally. The temptation to Of the entire lot of terrorists killed in realistic as possible. over control will have to be controlled. 2002, air strikes accounted for only 15 Another cultural change required is Therefore, we need to relook at percent. By 2005, Israeli air power was in decision making. The well connected following issues. Our prognosis reveals responsible for 50 percent terrorists networked system throws up too much that war on terror and insurgency will killed. Regarding collateral damage, in
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from his superiors without solving it in the need to bring in distinct changes in the first place,because the solution was our HR policies. These fields require not in his grasp. Or an observant senior younger personnel, who are allowed could detect the problem during his more freedom and are unconstrained by visits/inspections. This was an typical conservative military discipline. extremely slow and tedious process with Cyber is a field needing combination of more opportunities to hide rather than highly educated computer experts along solve the problem. But smart phone with less educated but gifted individuals technology has brought in a sea change. who have a fascination for gadgetry. To Now everyone is connected and can understand and accept that it is the communicate with anyone/everyone young persons who are creating all the instantly. The loop of detection, innovations in digital world one needs informing, seeking solution has shrunk to only look at the commercial world. phenomenally. The fact that everyone There, all new start-ups are by the can be involved also provides so many young. These start-ups are changing the more solution providers. We need to face of business. Same will also apply to capitalise on this. The new requirements military and the faster we realise and emerge only when one exercises all implement this, the better. UAV available systems and discovers the operations are another new domain. It need for something new or different. demands a fresh approach rather than Then bright minds, dealing with the modifications to the earlier way of work. problem create solutions with In USA, there is now a raging debate innovation. Air Power has to be used about UAV operators role and status vis first to seek improvements – especially a vis the combat role of pilots. We in unusual roles. If one does not use air cannot ignore this. So one standard fit power, one can never improve. For the all policy in HR will not work. The need innovative culture to develop, the for flexible and evolving HR policy is organisation must have openness, inevitable. In conclusion, to maximise participatory approach and design its the benefits of new technologies, mere rules for the majority’s benefit. Jim induction of technology will not do. The 2002 one civilian was killed for each Collins describing how companies issues dealing with doctrine, training, militant. By 2005 one civilian was killed reach greatness from the pedestal of HR policies and even organisational for 12 militants killed. The above being good stated, “Most companies changes will also have to be tackled in a success resulted from a cumulative build their bureaucratic rules to manage wholesome manner. Failure to do so is effort of Intelligences agencies both civil the small percentage of wrong people bound to lead to experience of Indian and military; special command and on the bus, which increases the need for rulers in 18th and 19th century, wherein control cell for decision making; new more bureaucracy to compensate for despite new and better and more technology in precision weapons and incompetence and lack of discipline, numerous technology and forces, they fusing policy and lastly the complete which then further drives the right lost each and every battle. networked system supported by people away, and so forth.” We need to extensive automation in data mining learn from this traditional approach. A Commissioned in the Indian Air tools, data structuring tools, cyber primary task is to create a culture Force as a fighter pilot, Air Vice Marshal space, intelligence processing leading to wherein people have tremendous AK Tiwary, VSM, served as a ground integrated use of airborne sensors. opportunity to be heard and, ultimately, based Forward Air Controller during Innovations do not happen by for the truth to be heard. This requires the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict. He has over themselves. They result from efforts to four basic practices: 4100 flying hours experience, mostly on fulfil various requirements after creative • Lead with questions, not answers. Russian fighters. He commanded a thinking and resort to the untried. Let us • Engage in dialogue and debate, not MiG-29 Squadron in late 80s and see how this took place in the past. coercion. superannuated as Senior Directing Staff When a problem was detected, its • Conduct autopsies, without blame. (Air) at National De-fence College, New occurrence was reported to the next • Build red flag mechanisms that turn Delhi. Very active in the strategic senior. He in turn would inform his information in to information that circles, he has published many articles superior if he could not find a solution. cannot be ignored. in professional military journals in Often, he would also hide the problem Cyber war and digitisation dictates India and has also authored five books.
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THEME ARTICLE TRAINING A SOLDIER PILOT: 5th GENERATION AVM Amit Aneja, AVSM, VM, VSM
Looking across the span of generations of and secure data exchange. Harnessing all but finally each air warrior will need to aircraft developed, the twentieth century, this together into a fused picture gives understand his or her unique position in particularly the latter fifty years has seen the pilot, as well as the decision makers the team and fuse their capability for the a jump across four generations. The turn on the ground, a new leverage for much final combat objective. Technology of the century saw aircraft types that have improved situational awareness (SA). All would have taught us a lesson then. been best described as Gen 4 to 4.5 with this then brought forth the three key the former of the likes of F-16, F-15 and elements of Advanced Stealth with Training Challenges Mirage-2000 while the latter fighter performance, Integrated Sensor The Air Force aims to train across the encompassing aircraft like the SU-30, F- Fusion and Net Enabled Operations for envisaged spectrum of capabilities up to 117 and the F-22. F-35 is perhaps the only the fifth generation platforms. Along with the limits inclusive of surprise elements one presently to be called a fifth all this is the ever competing desire of that may be faced by the engaged forces. generation fighter. Concurrently, with qualitatively good and fast decision-to- Such readiness and training in the form of this development, targeting mind-set execution process or in other words joint exercises will add to the critical moved from mass production and reduction in the sensor to shooter time leverage and agility. These joint exercises destruction, to niche warfare with a focus giving value to the four elements of will also underscore the importance of on precision targeting. To keep pace with Speed, Access, Reach and Accuracy. optimising available resources and fill in changed mind-set, the sensors and for capability gap of each service. Often, weapons, both airborne and ground Air Warriors of the future realism in this training suffers due to based also benefited from advancement Appreciating the operational various reasons like operational in technology making the battle space environment of the future, where the discretion, logistics of scale and very lethal. platforms out-perform the operators, the constraints of flexibility. In addition there During this period, the cyber, space soldier pilots would certainly need are limitations in creating a dynamically and electronic warfare dimensions have special skills. One thing for sure, they responsive enemy and means of deriving added value, transparency and lethality would have to be team-men who are tangible analysis for debrief. Here again, to both friend and foe. Further, the mentally agile, flexible and above all modern technology can assist in elements of Counter Insurgency (CI) committed and decisive. Fence-sitting providing teeth to training with systems operations have created a dilemma would have to be forgotten as a virtue of like the ACMI (Air Combat Manoeuvring where there are precision guided the past if the force is to be kept viable. It Instrumentation).Similarly, solutions like munitions (PGMs) that can literally may be desirable to find technological the EVA (Embedded Virtual Avionics) for thread a needle day and night. However, tools not only to assess their motor skills advanced trainer aircraft helps to the target or the enemy too, has become before induction, but also their aptitude effectively download operational training invisible. To add to all this is the new and for excelling in the increasingly to less expensive trainer aircraft and expanding role of the media, both social demanding operational environment. delivering a more capable pilot at the end and the conventional in the national While the fifth generation of pilot training pipeline. It is perhaps security construct. This then, is the fifth environment has benefitted immensely ideally suited for today’s advanced generation operational scenario for by integrated sensor fusion for better training aircraft like the M-346 and the which we need to train our soldier pilots. situational awareness and effect; in spirit, Hawk-132. In fact, EVA may find its place Enabled by phenomenal processing we have unfortunately not fully in the TX programme of the USAF. The power of the computers and nano- appreciated the potential of similar ultimate training solution that can help technology, the new capability in the integration across the various disciplines combat elements to train for a wide hands of the operational and the that constitute our joint combat power. spectrum of operational missions is the scientific community is the ability to Similarly, we cannot afford to isolate and ground-based multi-dome mission harness the improved capability of the insulate the pilot any more. There is training centre (MTC) like Elbit System’s modern sensors and the ability of rapid certainly a case for lean and mean force; SkyBreaker. It is a complete squadron
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mission training solution which provides Stealth in fighters, Integrated Sensor survival in the unforgivingly lethal battle full flexibility of variation in the friendly Fusion and Net Enabled Operations. space. What will tilt the scales in a and enemy computer generated forces These have been embedded into the fifth symmetric engagement are the quality of (CGF), ensuring a seamless real-time generation of fighters. Anyone having the training and the ability of the interface between men-in–the-loop and ability of deploying such assets would leadershipto harness a well-integrated the CGF. These virtual entities are capable have unthinkable advantage. They would team. General Curtis Lemay said “man is of both simulation as well as stimulation be able to shape the so called combat yet to make a computer that is dedicated of virtual sensors like weapons and cloud as a key element of the battle space to God or country”. Technology is electronic warfare (EW) that operate in a within which the various deployed important, but it’s the man behind the dynamically interactive scenario. While aircraft interact to craft air dominance in machine that will finally matter. He has doing so, they are enveloped in a fully pursuit of Joint force objectives. to be trained well. immersed and integrated near realistic It is widely believed that you cannot computer generated imagery (CGI) of do today’s job with yesterday’s methods An alumnus of the NDA, The HC choice. Most importantly, at the end, it and be in business tomorrow. With the Course, and The NDC, New Delhi, AVM provides mission repeatability and shrinking budgets and increasing cost of Amit Aneja, AVSM, VM, VSM was tangible results for debrief at a fraction of modern platforms, innovative ways will commissioned in the Indian Air Force as the cost of live exercises that are so hard to need to be considered to keep the a fighter pilot in December 1976. A execute. As an added thought, in the operational teeth sharp within the graduate of Air Command and Staff modern day, it is rarity to witness a “man- constraints of available assets. Live, College in USA and National Institute of to-man” conflict. The focus has shifted to virtual and constructive simulation tools Defence Studies in Japan, he also “many-to-many” emphasising the like ACMI, EVA and MTC mentioned attended the Air Battle Management importance of teamwork, ideally with earlier will ensure that realistic and Planning Course at CASPOA in leverage from numerous available operational capability is never diluted in France. A Qualified Flying Instructor, he systems and support platforms. the emerging battle spaces of tomorrow. has over 3000 hours of flying experience Ever improving technology will always in various frontline fighter squadrons to Conclusion have its push factor to improve the include Kiran, Hunter, Gnat, MIG 21 and A better part of the twentieth century has aircraft, weapons and sensors Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft. He was the been spent in identifying and developing technology, data integration and fusion Commandant of the Air Force Academy the lead technologies of Advanced and consequently the tactics that ensure at Dundigal, before retiring from the IAF.
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TECHNOLOGY SMART PRISONS – AN ESSENTIAL NEED IN CHANGING TIMES
Parag Agarwal making while away from their desk as record keeping with a streamlined, highly well as safety for community corrections automated system that manages data in The Department of Prison (DOP) staff.Some of the key features that can be all of the following areas: Administration and Reforms is tasked to built into the system are given below: • Security threat group membership and maintain the security of the prisoners, Offender Funds Administration. roles. provide education/training for Automated transactions reduce time and • Managing and protecting confidential rehabilitation, secure their human rights, enforce consistent accounting processes. informants. and generally improve infrastructure and Many non-productive tasks such as • Incidents reporting and tracking. facilities within jails. Technology can help printing and filing daily transaction • Prevention of prison rape &use of force facilitate efficient daily operations and at journals are eliminated. documentation. the same time expedite strategic Kitchen Operations. The system • Evidence items and subpoenas for management decisions of the DOP reduces personnel time needed for these items. through establishment of data bases that purchasing, inventory management and • Mechanism to collect general are integrated with the judicial system. sales processes. intelligence. This could be done through Inmate Enablement. This system • Cases (investigative and non- independently operated systems at every provides inmates with tools that will investigative). prison facility. Each such system is prove vital to their transition back into • Referrals of cases and incidents to designed to work seamlessly with the society. They not only expose inmates to other agencies. others, providing the administration with living and work skills utilised in today’s • Breathalyser and urinalysis additional efficiencies. Having a world, but also facilitate self- management. common central database supporting management skills that will prove These elements facilitate better institutions, community based important as they reintegrate into information sharing across the entire corrections and field offices, allows the society. agency and all authorised staff. executive management to make more Electronic Health Records. To assist Intelligence System. Detecting and informed decisions on how to improve the medical staff to make more informed preventing unlawful inmate activity is offender re-entry initiatives, reduce assessments and diagnoses. one of the most important functions of recidivism and improve operational Case Management. A central any prison administration. Crimes efficiencies. Furthermore, the system can information system designed to support committed within jail premises have be designed to support sharing of such analytics enables the DOP to make often proved to be the bane of our jails information between agencies such as more informed decisions and be more thus rendering all their efforts ineffective. Public Safety and Court Information responsive to the legislature and other While the possibilities are infinite as Systems. agencies. Case Management enables are the benefits, it is important to build All systems would be ideally delivered agencies to have a centralised system the right perspective and take concrete from a cloud with the client workstation that provides a comprehensive view of steps in that direction, even if they are using a standard browser to access the offenders and dramatically improves baby steps one at a time. The first step system. The correctional operations and employee effectiveness to increase however would be central level decision systems’ infrastructure can be built or personnel safety and reduce offender making for uniformity and consistency in commonly shared thus leveraging DOP’s recidivism. implementation across all facilities at the existing infrastructure, or utilising a Investigation System. Security and same time. secure cloud or a combination of both. efficiency at correctional institutions There are standard monitoring and data require advanced methods of organising An entrepreneur with rich global auditing guidelines such as SSAE-16 SOC and communicating all types of exposure and distinct understanding of I Type II that can be applied. information. It is important to provide cutting edge technologies, Mr Parag Data can be accessed through correctional agencies with the means to Agarwal is a leading expert on ‘smart handheld devices (PDAs and store, analyse and disseminate the cities, urban planning, emergency smartphones) allowing officers to access massive amounts of data collected in response and disaster management’. He latest information directly from the institutions every day. An Investigation is an acknowledged thought leader, cloud. This improves officer’s decision system replaces outdated methods of speaker and author.
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POINT - COUNTERPOINT An appraisal of Civil Military Relations in the backdrop of the ’65 War In an editorial in the Tribune, dated 23 September, 2015, former COAS, Gen. Ved Malik wrote a very perceptive article on the 1965 Indo-Pak War (reproduced below). His articledrew an interesting response from a renowned scholar, Prof Gautam Sen. This form of intellectual debate needs to be encouraged amongst both the serving community as well as the veterans in the armed forces, for the quality of the discourse and the depth of analysis. The views of the readers, too will find space on such discourses. —Editor Who won the ‘65 war?
to the extent that this war was initiated by term strategic partnership with China. Its Pakistan, not India. Also, it glosses over only problem was of a false sense of Pakistan’s failure to annex J&K, and its optimism and strategic superiority; a most successful operation of the war, common factor in all wars between India wherein Pakistan army almost reached and Pakistan. Akhnoor to sever India’s Jammu- India was yet to recover from the Akhnoor-Naushehra-Rajauri-Poonch ignominy of its horrible military defeat in road. the China-India war of 1962 and in the India, too, is commemorating the 50th midst of making up strength of the anniversary of this war: a war that many armed forces which had been mindlessly Indians thought had been forgotten and reduced in the years before. The assessed as a stalemate by many. The fact emphasis in the military facelift was on that the Indian Government has woken mountain warfare.The war plan to ‘finish up this year to celebrate the victory, for the unfinished agenda of J&K’ was which 2,862 soldiers laid down their lives, approved by Pakistan military dictator is a reflection of its lack of strategic Field Marshal Ayub Khan on May 13, culture, apathy towards the profession of 1965. Pakistan launched Operation soldiering and the partisan politics that Gibraltar by infiltration of nearly 10,000 dominates our country. armed soldiers and mujahideen into J&K Geopolitically, 1965 was the most on the night of 5/6 August to cause a appropriate time (and the last revolt against India. When this failed and (From the Tribune dated 23 opportunity) for Pakistanto annex J&K by India succeeded in capturing strategic September 2015) force. Politically, India was shaken after heights in Kargil and Hajipir Pass, the demise of its first Prime Minister Pakistan launched Operation Grand By Gen Ved Malik Nehru in May 1964. In comparison, Slam on September 1 to capture Akhnoor Pakistan was politically stable with a with its strategic bridge over the Chenab. It is rare to see two adversaries higher percentage of economic growth. It This led to India’s counteroffensives in celebrating the same war as their was a strategic ally of the US and had the Sialkot and Lahore sectors and the respective victory! On September 6, 2015, been receiving the latest weapons and decimation of Pakistan’s armoured Pakistan celebrated the 50th anniversary equipment, like Patton tanks, F-86 Sabre offensive in Khem Karan and Asal Uttar. of Youm-e-Difa, or Pakistan Defence Day, and F-104 Starfighter combat aircraft and Pakistan celebrates defence of Lahore with a 21-gun salute and a victory parade the sidewinder air-to-air missile — the which was never a military objective of to commemorate its successful defence only usable air-to-air missile in that the Indian forces. It was not a short 22- of Lahore against the Indian Army. The conflict. By ceding Shaksgam Valley to day war, as mentioned by some Youm-e-Difa,however, distorts its history China in 1963, it had established a long- historians, but one which began with
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Pakistani infiltration on August 5 and ended on September 22, when both sides agreed to a ceasefire.
So, who won that war? In the classic military treatise ‘On War’, Carl von Clausewitz states that the “political objective is the goal, war is the means of reaching it, and means can never be considered in isolation from their purposes”. Pakistan, who initiated the war, failed in its political objective. It lost more territory (lost 1800 sq. km of territory and captured 540 sq. km), suffered more casualties, lost more tanks and guns and more importantly, faced domestic and international humiliation.In a recent lecture in Lahore, Pakistan's historian and political economist Akbar Zaidi dispelled the Pakistani victory myth, saying that “there can be no bigger lie as Pakistan had lost terribly”. With major advances in warfare technologies and their huge impact on operational art and tactics, our interest in the 1965 war should now be more to draw strategic lessons from than operational art and tactics. The first thing that strikes me is the near similarity with which Pakistan took the war initiative, directions contained in the inter- finishing the J&K issue in 1971, giving up under cover of its non-state actors. They ministerial War Book? And what about Hajipir Pass was a strategic error in the were led by Pakistani regular army the ‘rules of engagement’ which are 1965 war. Unfortunately, despite the officers in 1947-48 and in the 1965 war. In different for the usual terrorists and those important national security roles Kargil war, they were replaced by some who cross over to wage a 1965 or 1999- envisaged and expected of them, the regular army personnel wearing type war? Shouldn’t that discretion be left armed forces are not adequately involved mujahideen clothing. The mujahideen to the Chiefs of Staff Committee? in strategic policy making and planning façade continued, although none had India’s defence and security report level. participated in that war. In all these wars, card has, by and large, been more No two wars are fought in an identical there was distorted and disjointed positive than negative. Despite reactive strategic environment. To quote Sun Tzu version of Pakistani capabilities and strategic policies, ad hoc defence again: “Just as water retains no constant intentions by our intelligence which planning and decision-making, shape, so in warfare, there are no enabled Pakistan to achieve strategic intelligence failures and surprises, the constant conditions.” At the strategic surprise. We reacted to adverse armed forces have maintained the level, one requires a long memory but a circumstances — always a bigger country’s security and territorial integrity longer vision. The next war, if there is challenge — and yet kept the war scope better than any other democratic, one, will be different. The nuclear limited. There was no political objective developing nation. And yet, many a time, threshold, cyber capabilities and real- except to force Pakistan to vacate our we have failed to convert sacrifices and time information, assessments and territory. Such a strategy violates Sun hard-won operational achievements into actions will dictate political and military Tzu’s dictum: “Security against defeat long-term strategic successes. That is strategy, operational art and tactics. The implies defensive tactics; ability to defeat because there is inadequate politico- uncertainty of peace with Pakistan the enemy means taking the offensive.” military dialogue or political guidance in requires continued vigilance and being What’s the relevance of a formal peacetime. Like, approaching the UN ready for the next generation armed declaration of war which activates when we were doing well in 1947-48 or conflict.
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Response by Professor Gautam Sen, (Retd. Army), Emeritus Professor, Visiting Professor & Adjunct Faculty at MILE, Gorakhpur University & NIAS Respectively
dominates our country. The emphasis in the military facelift Geopolitically, 1965 was the most was on mountain warfare.The war plan appropriate time (and the last to ‘finish the unfinished agenda of J&K’ opportunity) for Pakistanto annex J&K was approved by Pakistan military by force. Politically, India was shaken dictator Field Marshal Ayub Khan on after the demise of its first Prime May 13, 1965. Pakistan launched Minister Nehru in May 1964. In Operation Gibraltar by infiltration of comparison, Pakistan was politically nearly 10,000 armed soldiers and stable with a higher percentage of mujahideen into J&K on the night economic growth. It was a strategic ally of 5/6 August to cause a revolt against of the US and had been receiving the India. When this failed and India latest weapons and equipment, like succeeded in capturing strategic Patton tanks, F-86 Sabre and F-104 heights in Kargil and Hajipir Pass, Starfighter combat aircraft and the Pakistan launched Operation Grand sidewinder air-to-air missile — the only Slam on September 1 to capture usable air-to-air missile in that conflict. Akhnoor with its strategic bridge over By ceding Shaksgam Valley to China in the Chenab. This led to India’s 1963, it had established a long-term counteroffensives in the Sialkot and strategic partnership with China. Its Lahore sectors and the decimation of only problem was of a false sense of Pakistan’s armoured offensive in Khem optimism and strategic superiority; a Karan and Asal Uttar. Pakistan common factor in all wars between celebrates defence of Lahore which was It is rare to see two adversaries India and Pakistan. never a military objective of the Indian celebrating the same war as their India was yet to recover from the forces. It was not a short 22-day war, as respective victory! On September 6, ignominy of its horrible military defeat mentioned by some historians, but one 2015, Pakistan celebrated the 50th in the China-India war of 1962 and in which began with Pakistani infiltration anniversary of Youm-e-Difa, or Pakistan the midst of making up strength of the on August 5 and ended on September Defence Day, with a 21-gun salute and a armed forces which had been 22, when both sides agreed to a victory parade to commemorate its mindlessly reduced in the years before. ceasefire. successful defence of Lahore against the Indian Army. The Youm-e- Difa,however, distorts its history to the extent that this war was initiated by Pakistan, not India. Also, it glosses over Pakistan’s failure to annex J&K, and its most successful operation of the war, wherein Pakistan army almost reached Akhnoor to sever India’s Jammu- Akhnoor-Naushehra-Rajauri-Poonch road. India, too, is commemorating the 50th anniversary of this war: a war that many Indians thought had been forgotten and assessed as a stalemate by many. The fact that the Indian Government has woken up this year to celebrate the victory, for which 2,862 soldiers laid down their lives, is a reflection of its lack of strategic culture, apathy towards the profession of soldiering and the partisan politics that
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So, who won that war? The mujahideen façade continued, integrity better than any other In the classic military treatise ‘On War’, although none had participated in that democratic, developing nation. And yet, Carl von Clausewitz states that the war. In all these wars, there was distorted many a time, we have failed to convert “political objective is the goal, war is the and disjointed version of Pakistani sacrifices and hard-won operational means of reaching it, and means can capabilities and intentions by our achievements into long-term strategic never be considered in isolation from intelligence which enabled Pakistan to successes. That is because there is their purposes”. Pakistan, who initiated achieve strategic surprise. We reacted to inadequate politico-military dialogue or the war, failed in its political objective. It adverse circumstances — always a political guidance in peacetime. Like, lost more territory (lost 1800 sq. km of bigger challenge — and yet kept the war approaching the UN when we were territory and captured 540 sq. km), scope limited. There was no political doing well in 1947-48 or finishing the suffered more casualties, lost more tanks objective except to force Pakistan to J&K issue in 1971, giving up Hajipir Pass and guns and more importantly, faced vacate our territory. Such a strategy was a strategic error in the 1965 war. domestic and international violates Sun Tzu’s dictum: “Security Unfortunately, despite the important humiliation.In a recent lecture in against defeat implies defensive tactics; national security roles envisaged and Lahore, Pakistan's historian and political ability to defeat the enemy means taking expected of them, the armed forces are economist Akbar Zaidi dispelled the the offensive.” not adequately involved in strategic Pakistani victory myth, saying that “there What’s the relevance of a formal policy making and planning level. can be no bigger lie as Pakistan had lost declaration of war which activates No two wars are fought in an identical terribly”. directions contained in the inter- strategic environment. To quote Sun Tzu With major advances in warfare ministerial War Book? And what about again: “Just as water retains no constant technologies and their huge impact on the ‘rules of engagement’ which are shape, so in warfare, there are no operational art and tactics, our interest different for the usual terrorists and constant conditions.” At the strategic in the 1965 war should now be more to those who cross over to wage a 1965 or level, one requires a long memory but a draw strategic lessons from than 1999-type war? Shouldn’t that discretion longer vision. The next war, if there is operational art and tactics. The first be left to the Chiefs of Staff Committee? one, will be different. The nuclear thing that strikes me is the near India’s defence and security report threshold, cyber capabilities and real- similarity with which Pakistan took the card has, by and large, been more time information, assessments and war initiative, under cover of its non- positive than negative. Despite reactive actions will dictate political and military state actors. They were led by Pakistani strategic policies, ad hoc defence strategy, operational art and tactics. The regular army officers in 1947-48 and in planning and decision-making, uncertainty of peace with Pakistan the 1965 war. In Kargil war, they were intelligence failures and surprises, the requires continued vigilance and being replaced by some regular army armed forces have maintained the ready for the next generation armed personnel wearing mujahideen clothing. country’s security and territorial conflict.
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MOTIVATION THE BATTLE OF SARAGARHI Maj Gen Dhruv C Katoch, SM, VSM
Beneath Saragarhi's ruined walls, ever vigilant against constant raids and Despite repeated attempts, the They found a fitting grave; skirmishes by the local tribesman. The tribesman could not breach either Fort For Saragarhi bears the fame, arrangement put up by the British Lockhart or Fort Gulistan. So, on They gave their lives to save. remained reasonably successful for the September 12, 1897, they changed their 16 years it was in operation. However, in strategy and attacked Saragarhi instead, What does ‘Honour, Courage and 1897, the tribes rose in revolt against aiming to cut off the vital Sacrifice’ mean to a soldier. Perhaps the British. To suppress the revolt, The communication link between the two there is no better way of explaining British Indian Government launched forts. The Pathan attack plan was these words than in the telling of the the Tirah expedition under the simple. The tribesman would block the epic battle of Saragarhi, which was command of General Sir William entry of reinforcements, which could fought on 12 September, 1897 during Lockhart in the latter part of 1897. Five come to the aid of Saragarhi and the Tirah campaign of 1897-1898. companies of 36 Sikh, which had been thereafter attack the post with full Tirah is a mountainous tract of raised on 20 April 1894 under the strength. By the morning of 12 country, inhabited mainly by the Afridi command of Col J. Cook, were sent in September, the tribesman were in and Orakzai tribesman. A harsh place, it August 1897, under Lt Col John position, and were simply raring to go. is embroiled even today in bloody Haughton, to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. At this time, Saragarhi was being conflict, though now it forms part of These troops were stationed at Samana guarded by a detachment of Sikhs. It Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Hills, Kurag, Sangar, Sahtop Dhar and was providential that the post had been Pakistan. At that time, this region was a Saragarhi. reinforced just a day earlier, and now part of British India and was home to a In the tribal uprising, the tribals comprised of Havildar Ishar Singh, and multitude of battle-hardened tribes for captured all the posts in the Khyber 20 other ranks. centuries. This was the period when the held by their own countrymen, and On the morning of 12 September, Russians were trying to make inroads attacked the forts on the Samana Range when Havildar Ishar Singh peered into the continent via Afghanistan and near the city of Peshawar. During the through the binocular from the watch the British, in response, made several first week of September, the Afridi and tower of his post, he was rudely incursions into Afghanistan to stop this Orakzai tribesmen also launched awakened by the sight that met his eyes. adventurism by the tribes allied to anumber of attacks on Fort Gulistan Far in the distance, columns upon Russia. The rivalry between Russia and and Fort Lockhart, which too had columns and row upon rows of Pathans Britain, played out over Afghanistan earlier been constructed by Maharaja were advancing to his post, waving their was popularly called the ‘Great Game’. Ranjit Singh. Elements of 36 Sikh, under swords and guns menacingly. The dust To contain and keep the tribes in check the command of Lieutenant Colonel cloud kicked up by the thousands of the British manned a series of posts John Haughton, which had been moved horses was of such intensity that it along the Hindu Kush ranges. These to the area, had been successfully partially blocked the rays of the sun. posts had in earlier times been repelling these attacks from the tough, With a grim determination, Havildar constructed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh hardy Pashtuns.Fort Lockhart was Ishar Singh, readied his men for the during the hey days of the Sikh empire located on the Samana Range of the battle - a battle that was to resound in and after its decline, these were taken Hindu Kush mountains. Situated a few the annals of military history as a feat of over by the British for the same miles away from Fort Lockhart, was Fort collective heroism, unparalleled in the purpose. Gulistan, on the Sulaiman Range. Due history of the fighting arms. To enable the smooth flow of trade to the forts not being visible to each Sepoy Gurmukh Singh, the via the Khyber Pass and prevent tribal other, Saragarhi was created midway, as detachment signaller, then went up an raids, the British Indian Government a heliographic communication elevated mound to set up his paid a subsidy to the Afridi tribesman. post.Saragarhi Postwas thus nothing heliograph and sent the first of many In addition, they also maintained a more than a small signalling station signals to Fort Lockhart. regiment, composed entirely of Afridis, situated on a barren, wind-blown hill- “Enemy Approaching the Main Gate. at the Khyber pass. That slope between Fort Lockhart and Fort Need Reinforcements.” notwithstanding, the troopshad to be Gulistan. But there were no reinforcements
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MOTIVATION
forthcoming, for as Lt Col Haughton lots of the enemy continued to advance The enemy now reformed and soon found out, the enemy had towards the post. resumed his attack on the hapless effectively blocked all routes from “Reload and Fire at Will”, ordered Sikhs, watched all along by their where aid could come. Ishar Singh and a hail of bullets soon commanding officer from Fort “Unable to break through. Hold followed the command. The ding dong Lockhart. All the while, Sepoy Gurmukh Position” was the terse message that battle continued till the first wave of Singh continued flashing messages to was flashed from Fort Lockhart to the attacks was beaten back and the enemy the Fort, apprising them of the latest beleaguered troops at Saragarhi. forced to regroup. However, the manual situation. Wave after wave came upon “Understood”, was the response breech loading rifle had to be cocked the defenders, who however, stoutly flashed back by Gurmukh Singh. The every time to shoot, which was time refused to either budge or flinch. The fate of the post at Saragarhi was thus consuming. The first wave of the enemy death toll on the enemy kept mounting, sealed. Haughton could do nothing but had fallen, but there were countless but their supply of manpower was watch from Fort Lockhart, the events waves behind them. It would be but a endless. The defenders, however could unfolding before his eyes. He counted matter of time before the hordes were at not replace their losses and by noon at least 10 enemy standards (each the gate. were down to just ten men. After many representing 1,000 tribesmen) facing The Pathans now changed their unsuccessful attempts, the tribesman the 21 soldiers from 36 Sikh. strategy, and approached the post from finally managed to breach one of the In the Saragarhi post the bugle was two directions., one towards the main walls. By this time the battle, observed sounded and in a flash the troops gate and the other towards the gap at from the fort, had raged for the better formed up two line abreast, one row in the fort. To counter the charging enemy, part of the sunlit hours. With the enemy a squatting firing position and the other Havildar Ishar Singh gave his next set of now in the inner perimeter, a standing as per the bugle’s tone.The commands. determined Ishar Singh ordered his troops were equipped with the Martini “Squatting Soldiers to the Left, troops to fall back into the inner layer of Henry breech loading rifle, which at Standing Soldiers to the Saragarhi, while he distracted and held that time was the standard British Right…QUICKLY…QUICKLY. the attackers at bay — another classic infantry rifle. They had first entered The highly disciplined soldiers delaying tactic. After fierce and brutal service with the British Army in 1871 followed the orders like clock work and hand-to-hand combat, Ishar Singh was and quickly became their mainstay. The once again the enemy attack was killed, and the enemy now came into Sikhs had only recently received these repulsed. This level of resistance was the inner perimeter, where the last rifles, after all the British units were not expected by the tribesman and so phase of fighting took place. Each man equipped, replacing the venerable they tried a different tack. With stood up to be counted, and fought on Enfield. Capable of firing ten .303 casualties on their side mounting, they till there was no breath left in him to calibre rounds a minute, it proved to be offered the defenders favourable terms fight. Finally, only one man, Sepoy more than a match to the antiquated to surrender. This off course was Gurmukh Singh remained. At 1530 muzzle loading rifles possessed by the rejected with contempt by the Sikhs. hours, Gurmukh passed his last tribesmen. Bur mere superiority of the They were well aware of the atrocities message to Fort Lockhart. rifle was no match for the hordes that committed against captured soldiers by “Closing down the wireless.” Request confronted Ishar Singh. the Pashtun or Afghani tribesmen. Permission to fix bayonet and fight the The defenders now stood ready to Castration, mutilation and skinning enemy. Permission was accorded and face the advancing enemy. Ten captured soldiers alive was one of the Gurmukh packed his equipment into a thousand soldiers of the enemy against many ways tribal leaders instilled fear leather bag, fixed his bayonet and just 21 of the defenders. Though the and control. The Pasthun were fierce prepared to take on the enemy from the rifle had an effective range of 600 yards, warriors just like the Indian soldiers of strong room. One soldier, alone against Havildar Ishar Singh held his fire, the British Indian Army but lacked the thousands. With the Sikh battle cry, “Jo allowing the enemy to come closer, the chivalry aspect of the warrior ethos. In a Bole So Nihal, Sat Sri Akal (Victory better to deal with them. poem titled “The Young British Soldier”, belongs to those who recite the name of “Fire”, he yelled, when the enemy Rudyard Kipling had written these God with a true heart)” on his lips, he was just 250 yards from the post. The immortal lines: took on the enemy, and reportedly massed fire effect was deadly and the “When you're wounded and left killed about 20 Pashtuns, before he was leading lot of the enemy crumpled to on Afghanistan's plains, killed, the Pashtuns having to set fire to the dust. And the women come out the post to eliminate him. And then a “Reload”, ordered Ishar and then the to cut up what remains, deep quiet descended on the post, even next volley was fired. But the enemy Jest roll to your rifle the gods acknowledging the feat of was not to be halted and the following and blow out your brains.” heroism, rarely witnessed in the annals
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of military history. between a Greek alliance and the Having destroyed Saragarhi, the Persian Empire in 480 BCE. ROLL OF HONOUR Afghans turned their attention to Fort When informed of this feat, Britain’s 1. Havildar Ishar Singh (165) Gulistan, but they had been delayed too Parliament interrupted proceedings 2. Naik Lal Singh (332) long, and reinforcements arrived there and rose to give a standing ovation to 3. Lance Naik Chanda Singh (546) in the night of 13-14 September, before these 21 valorous soldiers — all of them 4. Sepoy Sundar Singh (1321) the fort could be conquered. Thus Indians, all of them Sikhs — for what 5. Sepoy Ram Singh (287) ended this epic saga - a feat of was undoubtedly a tremendous act of 6. Sepoy Uttar Singh (492) resistance, unparalleled in history. collective bravery, and one of the 7. Sepoy Sahib Singh (182) When the relief party finally arrived at greatest ‘last-stands’ in military history. 8. Sepoy Hira Singh (359) Saragarhi, there were over 600 dead The collective courage of the 21 Sikh 9. Sepoy Daya Singh (687) Afghans and 21 soldiers of the 36th soldiers moved Queen Victoria so much 10. Sepoy Jivan Singh (760) Sikhs. Of the six hundred enemy dead, that her majesty decreed that due to 11. Sepoy Bhola Singh (791) some would have been the result of conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity 12. Sepoy Narayan Singh (834) artillery fire in the retaking of the post. beyond and above the call of duty 13. Sepoy Gurmukh Singh (814) The Afghans themselves stated that displayed by the 21 soldiers, all of them 14. Sepoy Jivan Singh (871) they had lost about 180 killed and many shall be awarded the Indian Order Merit 15. Sepoy Gurmukh Singh (1733) more wounded during the engagement (IOM) posthumously. IOM is the 16. Sepoy Ram Singh (163) against the 21 Sikh soldiers. But for just highest award for bravery given to 17. Sepoy Bhagwan Singh (1257) 21 men, to have held off thousands of colonial troops and it was equivalent to 18. Sepoy Bhagwan Singh (1265) the enemy tribesman for over seven the British Victoria Cross. This was the 19. Sepoy Buta Singh (1556) hours, was in itself a remarkable feat of only time in history of warfare where 20. Sepoy Jivan Singh (1651) gallantry, achieved earlier only in the each soldier who took part in the same 21. Sepoy Nand Singh (1221) classic battle of Thermopylae, fought battle was given the highest award.
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rules of Maldives and hoped that the search for militants of Al-Qaeda, Islamic outcome would be seen by everybody as State and other groups who have found a being fair and just. haven in Afghanistan. The Presidents decision comes after AFGHANISTAN months of briefings by military US TROOP WITHDRAWAL commanders who stated that Afghans HALTED needed additional assistance and The United States has halted its military support from the U.S. to beat back a withdrawal from Afghanistan. Making resurgent Taliban and keep the Islamic the announcement from the White State from using the country as a haven. House on October 15, 2015, President This has paid put to the President’s aim of Obama said that while he does not ending the wars he inherited, while MALDIVES support ‘the idea of an endless war’, he assuming the Presidency. This had INDIA’S FOREIGN MINISTER was dropping plans to withdraw nearly already been tarnished by the return of VISITS MALDIVES all U.S. forces from Afghanistan by the U.S. forces to Iraq in 2014, 2½ years after During the recent visit of India’s Foreign end of 2016 and that 5,500 troops will they left, to fight the Islamic State. Minister, Smt Sushma Swaraj to the remain on the ground to help protect Analysts believe that Obama’s decision to Maldives on 10 and 11 October, 2015, the gains made during 14 years of war. As a withdraw from Iraq created the vacuum two countries decided to ramp up result, the winner of the 2016 presidential that allowed the Islamic State to thrive. cooperation in various fields including election will become the third American Tp prevent a similar situation occurring defence, security, energy and health as commander in chief to oversee the in Afghanistan probably prompted the the two nations restarted the Joint Afghan war. The president had originally President to take this step. Commission talks after a hiatus of 15 planned to withdraw all but a small years. For the first time, defence and embassy-based force from Afghanistan IRAQ security matters were also included in late 2016, shortly before leaving office. 70 PRISONERS FREED IN within the ambit of the India-Maldives Under the new $15 billion-a-year plan, JOINT U.S.-KURDISH RAID Joint Commission. Smt Swaraj also the U.S. will maintain its current force of U.S. Special Operations Forces and Iraqi assured the Maldives that India will 9,800 through most of 2016, then begin Kurdish Peshmerga conducted a joint always be the net security provider to the drawing down to 5,500 late in the year or raid on an Islamic State prison in Hawija, Indian Ocean archipelago, stating … in early 2017.Some of the troops will Iraq, on Thursday. Defense officials say "India has always been there for continue to train and advise Afghan valuable intelligence on Islamic State Maldives. I would like to assure you that forces, while others will carry on the operations was recovered and nearly 70 India will always be the net security provider for Maldives. This is a very privileged relationship," and adding that such a relationship requires to be ‘handled carefully’ on both sides. She also stressed the importance of insulating both countries from trends towards radicalisation and terrorism and noted that a framework agreement of cooperation signed in November 2011, has empowered the joint commission further and also mandated them to discuss defence and security issues of mutual concern. While the visit is seen by some as a precursor to a visit by the Indian premier, the issue of the jailing of Maldives former president Mohammad Nasheed who is now Maldives' main opposition leader, remains contentious. Smt Swaraj stated that India expected the situation to be handled in accordance with laws and
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prisoners were recovered, though not the Minister, Suhail Anwar Siyal, the banned disturbances, Riyadh increased social individuals U.S. and Kurdish forces sectarian outfit Lashkar-i-Jhangvi (LeJ) spending by $37 billion–or $6,000 for expected to find. One U.S. soldier was has claimed responsibility for the attack. every poor person in the kingdom–in killed in the attack, the first U.S. combat Despite the attack, Shah stated that the order to preempt the spread of death in Iraq since 2011. Three Kurdish overall security situation of the province discontent to its own territory. The fighters were wounded. has improved as only two terrorist dynasty however, might not survive the attacks occurred in the province during sort of austerity measures that the IMF the year. The earlier attack had taken insists are necessary to keep the place inside a central imambargah Kingdom from running out of reserves (mosque affiliated with Shia Muslims) in by 2020, though it has managed to do so Shikarpur on 30 January 2015, in which till date, despite the many predictions over sixty people were killed and an equal of its doom. It has a strong 100,000 man number were injured. The present National Guard, staffed by tribal Jacobabad attack has been referred by personnel loyal to the royal family and the Sindh government to military courts. spends USD 45 billion on defence, this A day earlier, in another suicide attack amount being set to increase to USD 63 outside an Imambargah in Bolan district billion by 2020 to match Iranian of Balochistan, at least ten people were capability. killed and over a dozen injured. Pakistan A stabilising factor for the Kingdom U.S. involvement in the operation was has a history of attacks on religious is its clerical establishment. Salafist authorised by U.S. Secretary of Defense processions in the Islamic holy month of Wahhabi ideology requires obedience Ashton Carter and the White House was Muharram, especially on 9th and 10th of to the confirmed ruler, which in Saudi informed of the plan. The Baghdad the month, claimed by banned militant Arabia's case, is the king, but only so government was not notified in advance outfits targeting people belonging to Shia long as he enforces Islam.In order to of the operation. The Peshmerga “were sect of Islam. keep the favour of the Wahhabi clerical going with or without us,” a U.S. defense establishment, the monarchy has official told the New York Times. “We allowed wealthy Saudis to provide free- wanted to stand behind an important lance financing for Islamist causes that ally.” U.S. Special Operations Forces have Riyadh officially rejects. It has also conducted operations against the Islamic styled itself as the Sunni champion State in Syria, as when they captured against Iran. To keep the clerical senior Islamic State figure Abu Sayyaf in establishment onside, the Saudi rulers May, but this is the first reported incident have allowed the clergy to use highly of U.S. forces participating in combat in charged sectarian language targeting Iraq. Pentagon Press Secretary Peter Iran and the Shia, but the rulers are Cook stressed that the raid does not facing a challenge from the Islamists prefigure a greater combat role for the and ISIS. However, it is the economic United States. “This was a unique problems which present the gravest circumstance in which very close threats to Saudi Arabia. partners of the United States made a SAUDI ARABIA specific request for our assistance,” he CHEAP OIL PUTS THE said. “So I would not suggest that this is HOUSE OF SAUD AT RISK something that’s going to now happen on An International Monetary Fund report a regular basis.” suggests that without massive spending cuts, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will PAKISTAN exhaust its monetary reserves in five SUICIDE ATTACK IN years at current oil prices. While Saudi JACOBABAD Arabia is a rich country, a Saudi In a suicide attack on 23 October 2015, a newspaper using social service data, powerful blast ripped through a estimated that 6 million of Saudi Muharram procession in Jacobabad city Arabia’s 20 million population is poor. of Sindh, killing 24 people, mostly The House of Saud has bought a lot of children, and injuring more than 40 legitimacy by subsidising its others. According to the Sindh Interior subjects.After the 2011 "Arab Spring"
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NEWS NCC GIRLS SCALE MOUNT TRISHUL
Lt Gen. A Chakravarty, VSM, DGNCC flagged-in the NCC Girls summit the peak.This expedition, led by Col G. Karki, which Expedition to Mt Trishul on 05 October, 2015 at New Delhi. He scaled Mount Trishul at an altitude above 7120m, gave the NCC congratulated the girl cadets and the support staff for their cadets an excellent exposure to high altitude and extreme splendid effort and demonstration of courage to overcome the weather conditions that will assist them for their forthcoming challenges of rugged terrain and hostile conditions in their bid to Mount Everest Expedition in May 2016. IACCCS APPROVED FOR THE IAF Speaking in a press conference in New Delhion 3 October 2015, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief MarshalArup Raha, stated that the government has approved the IACCCS (Integrated Air Command, Control and Communications System). The system envisages the interlinking of all ground bases, radars, planes and sensors, through a satellite- based information gathering system, aided by “network centric” operations to enable pan- India real-time transmission of imagery and enemy targets. When fully operational, it would represent a significant technological leap for the IAF. As of now, the IACCS (Integrated Air Command and Control System)is functioning on thewestern front. The CAS stated that the IAF would soon cover the air space over the entire country and island territories by integrating all resources, adding that enough satellites for communication, navigation, targeting and imagery are available and that of the seven IRNSS (Indian surveillance platforms that integrated the ability to use data and Regional Navigation Satellite System) satellites, four have been images in real-time across many battlefields. This is an IAF- launched. The IRNSS is an independent regional navigation owned, operated, fully secure, reliable network that will use the satellite system run by the Indian Space Research Organisation AF-Net - an optic-fibre based network created in collaboration (ISRO) and will provide encrypted service.The space-based with US-based Cisco Systems, HCL Infosystems Ltd and Bharat system will be implemented in phases and all are running Sanchar Nigam Ltd.The IACCS, by using the AFNet, will receive concurrently. The CAS further added that, “In 2-3 years time, we at a central place, direct real-time feeds from existing space- will be fully networked”. The system is a combination of based overhead reconnaissance satellites.
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NEWS
BOOST FOR ARTILLERY The contract to supply up to 100 self¬propelled howitzers (SPHs) worth approximately USD750 million to the Indian Army, has been awarded to Larsen & Toubro (L&T), an Indian conglomerate, which is headquartered in Mumbai. As per media reports, the company will indigenously manufacture and deliver the tracked 155/52¬calibre mm K9 Vajra¬T SPH system, which is based on the South Korean K9 Thunder SPH system produced by Samsung Techwin for the Republic of Korea Army (RoKA). The K9 Thunder has also been exported to Turkey as the Firtina self¬propelled gun.The K9 Vajra¬T SPH was chosen over its competitor, an upgraded version of the Russian 152 mm/39¬calibre MSTA¬S gun modified to 155 mm/52¬calibre standard and mounted on a T¬72 main battle tank chassis. The artillery modernisation plan of 1999, envisages import and the subsequent indigenous production of 155 mm artillery maximum speed of 67 km/h and range of 360 km, with internal weapons, of various calibre's and platform types (wheeled and storage capacity for up to 48 155 mm projectiles. The main gun is tracked). The projected requirement is of 814 mounted guns, 1580 capable of sustained fire of up to 3 rds/min as well as rapid fire towed guns, 100 tracked self propelled guns,180 wheeled self capability of up to 8 rds/min. The locally produced K9 Vajra¬T propelled guns and 145 ultra light howitzers, estimated to cost system is expected to incorporate at least 50 percent indigenous about Rs one lakh crore. The 155 mm/52¬calibre SPH programme content, including communications, fire control, and life support is part of the above rationalisation plan, which seeks to import and systems, the auxiliary power unit (APU), as well as parts of the hull subsequently indigenously produce the above weapons. and turret structure.L&T is likely to build the K9 Vajra¬T SPHs at its The K9 has a crew of five that includes the commander, driver, Talegaon facility in Maharashtra, where it will also set up a new gunner, assistant gunner, and ammunition loader. The SPH has a integration and test facility specifically for the SPH. AUSINDEX-2015
In mid-September 2015, Australia and India held their first-ever bilateral naval exercise, AUSINDEX-2015. The week-long exercise was held in the Bay of Bengal, and involved five warships, an Australian submarine and two long-range anti-submarine aircraft (Australian P3C and Indian P8I). A “pronounced emphasis” of the exercise was on anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Beyond merely being ‘just another combined exercise’, it bears a far-reaching import, and highlights Australia’s national- strategic reorientation in recent years. The exercise commenced with a harbour phase involving briefings and practical demonstrations ashore, before progressing to sea. Sea-phase serials included a coordinated anti-submarine exercise, surface firing exercises, air defence exercises, seamanship evolutions (including replenishment at sea serials) and aviation operations with embarked helicopter flights.
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NEWS EXERCISE MALABAR 2015 Exercise Malabar, which initially began as a bilateral naval exercise between the United States and India back in 1992, has at times been expanded to include other partners as well. Now, in a major shift, New Delhi has indicated that this hitherto bilateral event will be permanently designated a trilateral US- Japan-India exercise. The trilateral naval exercises held over six days from 14 October to 19 October 2015, featured advanced naval war fighting submarines, guided missile cruisers, destroyers and frigates. The exercises conducted were all encompassing, to include the full spectrum of operations. These included scenarios for destroying hostile submarines, surface warships and aircraft, and also included anti-piracy operations, board, search and seize and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The United States deployed its aircraft carrier, USS Theodore Roosevelt, and a nuclear-powered submarine. The Indian navy deployed a submarine along with surface ships and maritime surveillance aircraft, but neither of its two aircraft carriers took part. Japan participated with a lone destroyer.The exercises followed the first-ever U.S.-Japan-India ministerial level trilateral, in New York in September 2015, between India’s Foreign Minister, Smt Sushma Swaraj, Japans Foreign Minister, Mr Kishida and US Secretary of In 2007, Beijing had objected to a five-nation Exercise State, Mr John Kerry. The first trilateral meeting was held at the Malabar, with Japan, Australia and Singapore as invitees. New the level of joint secretary in 2011 an since then, officials of the Delhi thereafter soothed Chinese feelings by reverting to a three countries have been meeting twice a year. Australia has bilateral format. This years exercise is now another overt step also expressed its readiness to participate in quadrilateral that India has taken towards the western Pacific. It is also defence dialogue and naval drills with the three other countries, noteworthy that Malabar is held on alternate years in the western raising the possibility that the event may now become a quad. Pacific.
INDIA CHINA JOINT EXERCISE ‘HAND IN HAND’- 2015
The fifth joint exercise between India and China, named ‘Hand-in- Ambassador to China emphasised the need to tackle terrorism Hand 2015’, took place at Kunming Military Academy, Yunnan jointly and stressed on expanding defence cooperation at all Province, China from 12 to 21 October. The twelve day exercise levels.Lt Gen. Surinder Singh, head of the Indian Observer laid emphasis on joint handling of counter terrorism and Delegation expressed confidence that the exercise will become a ‘Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief’. landmark in the history of bilateral relations of both countries and The opening ceremony commenced with an impressive stated that both countries shared common perspective regarding parade by both contingents, which was commanded by Lt Col countering terrorism in all its manifestations. He then declared Ruchir Pant of Indian Army. A ‘Weapon and Equipment Display’ the Exercise Hand in Hand open. Last year, the exercise was was organised to familiarise with each others weapon systems at held in Aundh in November. sub unit level. This was followed by a demonstration of skills by the Indian contingent, which enthralled the audience with a spectacular display of Yoga training, energetic tribal dances of Nagaland and unarmed combat skills. The Chinese contingent displayed combat shooting and obstacle negotiation skills within the Military Academy premises. Lt Gen. Zhou Xiaozhou, head of the Chinese Observer Delegation stated that the joint exercise will play an important role in deepening mutual cooperation and forging a closer development partnership. Shri Ashok Kantha, the Indian
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RAISINA HILLS
NATIONAL SECURITY RELATED procured on lease for which a deal may be signed during Mr. Modi's visit. Before Mr. Parrikar’s visit, the Defence RESPONSES AND REQUIREMENTS Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared two projects for the upgradation of engines and avionics of IL-76 and IL-78 aircraft from Russia for Rs 4,300 crore. Also clearing projects worth Rs 12,000 crore, the DAC passed a proposal worth Rs 1,400 crore to procure multi-purpose vessels required to carry out multiple tasks such as recovery and placement of targets. These will replace the existing tugboats. In a significant development, DAC also cleared deep- Lt Col Anil Bhat expressed that the India- sea submarine rescue Russia relationship vessels which are should be enhanced. "I required for the recovery "Pakistan does not like to stay quiet even have always seen Russia of submarines or on New Year’s day… They started cross- as an all-weather friend personnel on board a border firing at 12.30 in the night and for India - the two submarine in case of an don't seem to learn any lessons. There countries have always had accident. So far, India are ceasefire violations… Whenever they a great relationship. I does not have a want infiltration to be done, many times believe that this submarine rescue vessel they do the firings at night…I don't think relationship should be and has been depending that we have allowed that to happen… enhanced. My visit to on the US for help. Our response is more than double the Moscow will be an In Moscow, the capacity." While what Mr. Parrikar stated attempt to help the Defence Minister is quite true about India’s responses on relationship blossom discussed several the IB/LoC and is one of the main further… There are many military projects with his reasons for Pakistan’s desperation, it is issues that can always be in such Russian counterpart Sergei Shoigu, high time the BJP government forms a relationships, and I think the best way is ranging from the acquisition of S-400 clear and constant policy on dealing to have them resolved. I see a certain Triumf air defence missile systems to the with Pakistan’s duplicity, lies and its enthusiasm to resolve them from both leasing of a second nuclear-powered army’s/ISI’s intentions/plans for the sides as well as possibilities to involve submarine. Russia is still to address future. Russia in the Make in India programme," India's technical and price concerns The deportment of Mumbai he reportedly said. Interacting with over the fifth-generation fighter project, underworld honcho Chota Rajan, media, Mr. Parrikar said there will be which envisages IAF inducting the reportedly giving Pakistan enough jitters discussions to prepare ground for inking Sukhoi T-50 (PAK-FA) jets. Under the to highly tighten Dawood Ibrahim’s some deals when Prime Minister original plan, 127 of these fighters were security, is a definite indication that Narendra Modi visits Russia in to be built in India for over $25 billion. Rajan may know a lot about Dawood’s December 2015 for joint production of But India is now also examining the anti-Indian activities. While on the Kamov Ka-226 helicopters and the possibility of directly buying 60-65 diplomatic front there has been some purchase of S-400 missile systems, Sukhoi T-50s since the co-production assertiveness in the recent past, which he expects will be coordinated by plan is much delayed. Mr. Parrikar is also considering how well armed Pakistan November. believed to have conveyed India's has become in conventional and nuclear The minister added that there are also concern on the growing Russia-Pakistan weapons, major aspects of the firm proposals for small private-sector military relations, particularly the recent policy should be expediting arms companies interested in tying up with sale of four Russian Mi-35 attack replacements/acquisitions, which Mr. Russian companies to manufacture helicopters to Pakistan and reports of Parrikar is pursuing. spares for Su-30 jets. Purchase of48 more Pakistan negotiating to acquire Su-35 Prior to his departure for Russia and Mi-17V-5 helicopters is to be negotiated fighters, considered more capable than Malaysia, the Defence Minister, in an and finalised Reportedly, another India's Su-30 MKI, although Moscow has interview to Russian news agency TASS, nuclear powered submarine is to be reportedly denied that.
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VETERANS ALERT
SIMPLIFICATION OF PENSION PROCEDURES
Hony Capt Baldev Singh
Simplification of Pension Procedure Commissioned Officer Pensioners/ for Permanently Disabled Children/ Family Pensioners Siblings and Dependent Parents After issue of GOI, Ministry of Personnel, Pension disbursing agencies will make PG & Pensioners, Department of Pension payment of ordinary family pension as & Pension Welfare letter No. 38/37/08-P procedure laid down in GOI, MOD letter & PW (A) dated 30.07.2015, it has been No.1 (7)/2013-D(Pension/Policy) dated decided that the pension/family pension 15.05.2015. In case the name(s) of of all pre-2006 pensioners/family dependents of the deceased including pensioners may be revised in accordance dependent disabled children have been with Para 2 of GOI, MOD letter dt- endorsed in the pension payment orders 17.01.2013 with effect from 01.01.2006 (PPOs), in such cases pension disbursing instead of 24.09.2012. Pension disbursing agencies should start payment to the authorities are hereby authorised to step dependents directly without referring it up the pension/family pension of the to pension sanctioning authorities. In affected Pre-2006 pensioners with effect those cases where the names of from 01.01.2006 instead of 24.09.2012 dependents have not been found and arrear of pension/ family pension endorsed in the pension payment order, shall be paid, if any. This provision shall the claim for endorsement of name for take effect from 01.01.2006 and arrears, if notification of ordinary family pension any, shall be allowed from 01.01.2006 to through corrigendum PPO will be 23.09.2012 and thereafter apply circular processed and forwarded to pension 500 dated 17.01.2013. sanctioning authorities through Army PCDA, Pension Allahabad Circular No. Headquarter/ Record Office concerned 548 dated 11.09.2015 refers. in the case of commissioned officer and JCOs/OR respectively. Revision of Pension in r/o pre-2006 PCDA, Pension Allahabad Circular No. JCOs/ORs Pensioners/ Family 550 dated 09.10.2015 refers. reemployment/re-employment after Pensioners retirement may be obtained by the Under the provision of Govt of India, Min Simplification of Pension Payment Services HQ/Record Offices from the of Defence letter No. 1(04)/2015/(1)- Procedure: Submission of Certificates retiring Armed Forces officer and D(Pen/Pol) dated 3rd September, 2015 by Retiring Armed Forces Personnel personnel along with other documents and PCDA Pen Allahabad circular No 547 along with Pension Papers before his retirement. Aadhaar card dated 11.09.2015, revised tables As per Government of India, Ministry of number based biometric verification indicating minimum guaranteed Defence letter No. 3(01)/2015- system for pensioners as an additional pension/ ordinary family pension has D(Pen/Pol) dated 25 August 2015, it has option for submission of life certificate been annexed as Annexure-A for Army been found that the first payment of by the pensioners has been introduced pensioners, Annexure-B for Air Force pension after retirement gets delayed by the Government since November pensioners and Annexure-C for Navy mainly due to two reasons i.e. (i) due to 2014. All the pension disbursing agencies pensioners from 01.01.2006 and arrears, delay in receipt of intimation by the will accept e-life certificate of the if any, shall be allowed from 01.01.2006 pensioner that pension papers have pensioners as annual life certificate up to the date where revised reached the PDAs and (ii) due to delay on which pensioner can submit online to his pension/family pension in terms of GOI, the part of the pensioner in approaching pension disbursing agency by registering MOD letter No. PC 10(1)/2009-D the bank for submission of themselves on www.jeevanpraman. (Pen/Pol) dated 08.03.2010 and No. undertaking/non-re-employment/re- gov.in 1(13)/2012/D (Pen/Policy) dated employment certificate. In order to PCDA, Pension Allahabad circular No. 17.01.2013 is lower. Pension disbursing simplify the pension payment 546 dated 10.09.2015 refers. authorities are authorised to step up the procedure, it has been decided that pension/family pension of the affected required undertaking/status of non- Revision of Pension of pre-2006 Pre-2006 pensioners.
38 SALUTE TO THE INDIAN SOLDIER << October-November 2015 << [email protected] 39-Book_14_19_ BEING A FLY GIRL.qxd 12/10/2015 9:37 AM Page 1
BOOK REVIEW A SAGA OF HEROISM AND INCOMPETENCE
Lt Col. Anil Bhat
50 years after the 1962 Sino-Indian war, in 2012, when much was written and commented in Indian media and some Chinese declassified records became available, United Services Institution of India (USI) took on the task of researching this war, juxtaposing the Chinese and Indian records. A team of officers with a flair for military history headed by Lt Gen. Vinay Shankar (Retd) attempted to, as he states, “clinically and objectively chronicle the battles and encounters of the 1962 war, based on an official version of the Chinese government and the synthesis of all that has been reported and written in India and abroad and also the leaked portions of the report of a study by Lt Gen. T.B. Henderson Brooks and Brig. (later Lt Gen.) P.S. Bhagat, VC. Set in eight chapters, the book covers the entire gamut of the war, starting with the politico-diplomatic prelude (1947-62), the military campaign, the Chinese air threat, and public opinion in the build-up to the war. The last four chapters deal with Indian military thought and other issues. Of the many battles fought between Indian Army and China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), during the Sino-Indian war of 1962, two battles-of Walong and Rezang La, both fought by battalions of the Kumaon Regiment-merit mention here as in both the Kumaonis fought to the last man, last bullet. While such great valour must be 1962 ‘A View from the highlighted in motivational lectures, they also highlight the need for being better Other Side of the Hill’ prepared to go to war. This aspect needs to be taken care of by both the political and military leadership of the country. For a country hopelessly unprepared to go war, it A USI Study, seems surprising that Mr Nehru,the then Prime Minister, could have made an off the cuff statement, on 12 October 1962, at Palam airport before departing on a visit to Edited by Colombo, that he had ordered the Indian Army “to throw the Chinese out”. This underlined the air of unrealism prevailing at that time in India’s highest decision Maj. Gen. P.J.S. Sandhu making structures. (Retd) The Henderson Brooks-Bhagat report, submitted to the government after the war is Vij Books India Pvt Ltd yet to be declassified. When portions of the report were leaked out in 2014 by Australian journalist Neville Maxwell, Mr Arun Jaitley, then the leader of the opposition in the Hard cover, 201 pages Rajya Sabha made a strong pitch for the declassification of the entire report, making Price: Rs. 1250/- special note of the fact that as per the media, pages 112 to 167 of the report were missing in the leaked report, leading to speculation that those pages contained material that could be embarrassing to those in power in 1962. The report remains classified, despite a change in government at the centre, which is a matter of concern. The unpreparedness of the Armed Forces is writ large in the contents of the report that have been leaked and serve as a lesson for us to be constantly vigilant and prepared. The book has interesting recollections by survivors of some of the 1962 battles, which simply make it an unputdownable book. It is imperative however, that we learn the right lessons from this war, so that we are better prepared for any future conflict that may be thrust upon us. The end of this war saw Nehru, who had for long deceived the Parliament and the nation, a “broken man”. Too little, too late, he had to sack Krishna Menon. Time magazine, reporting on that war wrote: “The Indian Army needs almost everything except courage.” Chetan Anand was so moved that he madeHaqeeqat(1964), a most authentic and first Indian war film. JP Dutta, who produced Border and LOC Kargil, is presently preparing to make a film on the same war. This book is an important trail-brazing reference base for further research by China watchers and a must read for all government leaders and officials dealing with national security.
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LEISURE & LIFESTYLE THAI RED CURRY
Aditi Pathak
As winter approaches, so does the yearning for warm comfort food! As a palette change, I often try out Thai curries, but it is Thai Red Curry that gives me the most delight. This fragrant warm dish is sure to bring festive cheer into your house. First, let us make the red curry paste. The ingredients needed are: • A handful of dry red chillies (de-seeded, soaked in water for few hours. • Lemon grass finely chopped (soften the lemongrass by beating it lightly with your rolling pin. Remove outer layer and chop off the ends. Finely chop what you are left with) • Galangal chopped into small pieces. • Shallots about 8 - 10 also chopped. • Garlic (I used one full pod but you can use more or less as you prefer) • Kaffir lime leaves (5 - 6) finely chopped. • Peppercorns 5 - 6 • Coarse sea salt - to taste Do make the paste manually as you get the rustic atmosphere and a better feel of the paste. I used my relatively tiny mortar and pestle, but there is no harm in using a grinder. Drain the red chillies and pound them along with the sea salt. Add the peppercorns. I used 5-6 red chillies but you could use more to spice up the dish - the colour will be a more vibrant red too! Add the ingredients in order of their toughness. Next goes the galangal followed by lemongrass and kaffir lime leaves. Then add shallots and finally garlic. the curry, heat oil in a wok. Throw in the Check if the vegetables are tender. If One final round of pounding and your onion and sauté for a bit. Next add the so, your dish is ready to serve! red curry paste is ready. Keep aside. beans followed by broccoli. And finally The lemongrass aroma and the the peppers. Do not overcook as the creaminess of the coconut milk make Vegetables vegetables will cook further when you this dish such a delight. I have served this I'm using broccoli; green, red and yellow add the coconut milk. Next add two with white and red rice. Enjoy this dish capsicum, beans and onion. Chop or heaped tablespoons of the Thai Red with the rice of your choice! slice your vegeta-bles, whichever you Curry Paste you prepared earlier and mix. Ms Aditi Pathak Is based in prefer. You could add some garlic too. You Finally add coconut milk. Stir well and let Singapore. Widely travelled and from a will need coconut milk. Try to get fresh, cook for a few minutes. Check for Services background, cooking is one of though tinned will do just fine. To make seasoning and add more salt if required. her many passions.
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LEISURE & LIFESTYLE THE ITALIAN CONNECTION Col Vijay Gidh Cemetery, the largest WW II cemetery in impregnable Monte Cassino feature. On Italy. During the early months of 1944, our way up, we met a group of Polish Cassino had witnessed some of the tourists singing ‘carols’ and lighting During our first trip to Europe in May fiercest fighting of the Italian Campaign, lamps, while offering prayers for the 2013, our family commenced the visit the town itself and the dominating departed souls in the Polish cemetery. from the Italian battlefields where my two Monastery Hill proving the most On our way back, we walked through centuries old unit, 14 Punjab (Nabha stubborn obstacle encountered in the the historic Cassino town that had borne Akal), the erstwhile Nabha Akal Infantry Allied advance towards Rome. There are the brunt of the fighting during the war. before independence, had fought with 4,271 Commonwealth servicemen The Mayor received us warmly in his distinction in the Italian campaign during buried or commemorated here, out of office in spite of his busy schedule. We World War II. After a day’s stay in Rome, which 431 are Indian soldiers. The talked about the Indian Army’s we travelled by train to Cassino, located Cassino Memorial, which stands within contribution during the war and the 139 km away, enjoying the scenic beauty the cemetery, commemorates over 4000 places along the eastern coast of Italy of the countryside over the one hour 40 men who died while fighting, of which where our unit had fought bravely, some minutes train journey. On our request, 1438 were Indians. We paid homage to of which we intended visiting later. We the defence attache in the Embassy of our two unit martyrs and other Indian thanked him for his very gracious India, Rome had tied up our hospitality, and presented meeting with the Mayor of him with some Indian Cassino, Mr Guiseppe Golini sweets, and a small Petrarcone for that afternoon, Madhubani painting of 2 May. This was the day the Lord Krishna made by my German forces in Italy had wife. Ms Ida later surrendered to the Allies in mentioned that they were 1944. expecting us to arrive by car We arrived at Cassino from Rome that morning. railway station at 10.30 a.m., Since we had come all the and contacted the secretary way from India to visit to the Mayor, but as she did Cassino and were new to not speak English, their the place, the Mayor translator Ms Ida Mignanelli decided to send his own car. spoke to us. She was Later, we visited Forli, a surprised to learn that we had village along the eastern arrived by train, were coast, to pay homage to fifty strangers to the place and martyrs of 14 Punjab, had no knowledge of the The author with his wife at the Cassino War Cemetery. commemorated in the location of places in Cassino Indian Army War Cemetery. we intended to visit. She asked us to ring soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice We were surprised to find nine more again after 15 minutes, which we did. We and signed the visitor’s book. It was a graves of Nabha Akal Infantry, whose had planned to hire a taxi for the day, but touching experience, walking through names did not appear in the list she told us that a vehicle would pick us the cemetery. Some of the Indian martyrs maintained by our unit! This was the first up in 20 minutes to take us around. Sure were less than 20 years of age! It was nice time that anyone from the unit had enough, a black polished car, to talk to some of the visitors from come here. On return to India, I chauffeured by a smart policeman different countries who had come to promptly sent a letter to the Mayor of arrived soon after. He did not speak remember their dear ones. We later drove Cassino expressing our gratitude for his English either, but we managed to up to the 1700 feet Monastery Hill which exceptional kindness and courtesy, communicate through some commonly overlooks Cassino, with the beautiful St along with a few photographs I had used words and sentences in Italian Benedict monastery on top. Indian taken in his office. Indeed, it was a which I had noted earlier! As we were to troops had fought valiantly during the memorable visit for me and my family. meet the Mayor at 3 p.m., we had a few Battles of Monte Cassino with other hours to travel around. Allied soldiers in attempts to capture the Col Vijay Gidh is a veteran from 14 We drove straight to the Cassino War formidable German defences on the Punjab and is settled in Pune.
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MAROOF’S MUSINGS
t is believed that most nations come together either for improving the life of their people with economic growth or to counter an external enemy or an aggressor. IPakistan’s establishment has always diverted precious resources towards increasing its military capabilities, citing the possibility of an Indian invasion and ignoring the real challenges within the country. And, the most recent example of this ‘Indian obsession’ was the confirmation by a recent report of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, which says that Pakistan will have the fifth largest nuclear weapon stockpile by 2025—with 250 warheads, more than double its current stock. The report came just a day after Pakistan’s foreign secretary acknowledged that it had “low-yield, tactical nuclear weapons” to “deter” a possible attack from India. But, it was not accidentalthat the statement coincided with Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's visit to the US. It was obviously meant to leverage Pakistan’s bid for nuclear parity with India, since the restrictions on nuclear trade for India were waived by the Nuclear Suppliers Group with American support. But, unlike India, Pakistan is still seen by the world as an irresponsible nation. And a major concern for the western countries is the periodic nuclear sabre-rattling by Pakistani ministers. Pakistan’s policy of employing tactical nuclear weapons (for use in battlefields) Maroof Raza came into being after the Indian armed forces adopted a new war-fighting doctrine dubbed 'Cold Start', after the many weeks it took for India to place its forces on the Indo-Pak border, following the attack on Parliament in December 2001. It was by then PAKISTAN’S too late to punish Pakistan for the attack on Parliament, as the US moved quickly to prevent matters from escalating. India thus devised a new strategy to inflict punishment on Pakistan, called 'Cold Start' in the event of a major terror attack, with NUCLEAR a series of cross-border lightning strikes within 24 hours. Currently, India and Pakistan have comparable nuclear weapon stockpiles of about 100 to 120 bombs each. Pakistan’s desperation to increase its stock is based on two THREATS premises. First, to be seen militarily superior to India (although more nuclear weapons do not guarantee a military victory since these weapons are for deterrence). Second, to have a larger stock to distribute to its units along the Indo-Pak border. But this could be more dangerous, as a hot-headed battlefield commander could trigger a nuclear exchange that could quickly escalate beyond control. India has made it clear that if nuclear weapons were ever used against India, it will “engage in nuclear retaliation which is massive and designed to inflict unacceptable damage on its adversary.” For that, India has enough strategic delivery systems, with long-range bombers and massive second strike capability (the key to an effective response) of ballistic and cruise missiles to be fired from hard-to-detect nuclear submarines and subsurface vessels. For this, Pakistan has no counter. And, even though Pakistan has adopted a war-fighting doctrine that does not preclude nuking its own territory in the event of an Indian incursion—a dubious first in the annals of deterrence theory—it is an assumption that is contestable. As an Indian attack on Pakistan would only be in retaliation against another major terrorist attack, and not as an act of aggression, Pakistan's stated goal is to protect its heartland, Punjab, which could be the target of a major Indian attack. It is the land from where the bulk of the Pakistan Army and its generals hail. However, if Pakistan uses nuclear weapons in the densely populated Punjab, it could leave millions of civilians dead. But those who know Pakistan’s pampered generals say that while the brass hats love to posture with bluff and bluster, they aren’t foolish enough to be suicidal.
Kind courtesy THE WEEK where this essay appeared in its issue dated 22 November 2015 by Maroof Raza.
Maroof Raza is a strategic affairs commentaror. Visit: www.maroofraza.com
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