2019 16-28 February Vol 66 No 4 ` 5 SAINIK Samachar

Aero India 2019 Runway to a Billion Opportunities Raksha Mantri SmtNirmalaSitharaman addressing theround tableconference atStationOfficers Raksha MantriSmtNirmalaSitharaman,ChiefMinister ofKarnataka,ShriHD Kumaraswamy and RakshaRajyaMantri,Dr Bhamre Subhash inauguratingthe Aero India2019at Air Force Mess, Yelahanka, Bengaluruafter inaugurating the Aero Showon February20,2019. Station Yelahanka, BengaluruonFebruary20,2019.

pic: DPR Photo Divn pic: DPR Photo Divn In This Issue Since 1909 BIRTH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Runway to a Billion Opportunities 4

(Initially published as FAUJI AKHBAR) Vol. 66 q No 4 27 Magha - 9 Phalguna 1940 (Saka) 16-28 February 2019 The journal of India’s Armed Forces published every fortnight in thirteen languages including Hindi & English on behalf of Ministry of Defence. It is not necessarily an organ for the expression of the Government’s defence policy. The published items represent the views of respective writers and correspondents. Editor-in-Chief Ruby Thinda Sharma Senior Editor Manoj Tuli India Emerging As 8 Maiden Drone 10 Editor Afaque Ahmad Ehsani Export Hub: Raksha… Olympics… Sub Editors Sub Maj Baiju G & Sub Maj KC Sahu Coordination Kunal Kumar Business Manager Dhirendra Kumar Our Correspondents DELHI: Lt Col M Vaishnava (Offg.); Capt DK Sharma VSM; Gp Capt Anupam Banerjee; Divyanshu Kumar; Photo Editor: K Ramesh; BENGALURU: Guru Prasad HL; CHANDIGARH: Anil Gaur; CHENNAI: M Ponnein Selvan; GANDHINAGAR: Lt Col Sombit Ghosh (Offg.); GUWAHATI: Lt Col P Khongsai; IMPHAL: Lt Col M Vaishnava; JALANDHAR : Anil Gaur (Offg.); JAMMU: Lt Col Devender Anand; JAIPUR: Lt Col Sombit Ghosh; KOCHI: Cdr Sridhar E Warrier; KOHIMA: Col Chiranjeet Konwer; Wg Cdr SS Birdi; Dipannita Dhar; Ms KOLKATA: LUCKNOW: 9 Fighters steal the show Gargi Malik Sinha; MUMBAI: Cdr Mehul Karnik, Narendra Kumar Vispute; NAGPUR: Gp Capt BB Pande; PALAM: Wg Cdr AR Giri; PRAYAGRAJ: Wg Cdr Arvind Sinha; 12 Anti-Drone Technology Should… Final Operational PUNE: Mahesh Iyengar; SECUNDERABAD: G Surendra Babu; SHILLONG; Wg Cdr 15 IAF lists out products to be… Clearance of LCA… 13 Ratnakar Singh; SRINAGAR: Col Rajesh Kalia; TEZPUR: Lt Col Harsh Wardhan 16 Sukhois & Tejas to be kitted… Pande; THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Ms Dhanya Sanal K; UDHAMPUR: Col Rajesh Kalia (Offg.); VISAKHAPATNAM: Capt CG Raju. 17 IAF seeks greater participation… Published by: 18 Raksha Mantri Visits Army… 19 Army Chief says, LCH is the… Col Aman Anand, Spokesperson, MoD 20 HAL Hands Over 3 ALHs to… Nampibou Marinmai, Director, PR 21 Russian Helicopters’ conference… Directorate of Public Relations, South Block, 22 Sky is Not the Limit Ministry of Defence, New Delhi-110011 24 DRDO’S Aero India… Editorial Office: L-1 Block, Church Road, New Delhi-110001, 25 DRDO: It’s an ‘Open Arms… Telefax : 23094668 Telephone : 23092768 34 Business Opportunities Galore… Email : [email protected] 36 411 Republic Day Gallantry… E-in-C: ASCON-32078 [email protected] 42 Photocall For subscriptions contact : Business Manager, Sainik Samachar, Telephone : 23092768 Subscription Rates: Inland (Ordinary): One Year Rs 100.00, Overseas COAS Flies in LCA Tejas 14 (Surface Mail): Rs 450.00 Concessional (per year): Rs 20.00 (Applicable for dependants of service personnel & ex-Servicemen.) For all correspondence subscribers must quote their subscription number

On front cover: Inauguration of Aero India 2019 at Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru on February 20, 2019. (pic: DPR Photo Divn)

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aksha Mantri Smt Nirmala RSitharaman inaugurated the 12th biennial edition of International Aerospace and Defence Exhibition and declared the Aero India 2019 open amidst a lot of fanfare at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru. This edition of Aero India, for the first time, combines the defence and civil aviation segments into a holistic event with the co- involvement of the defence and civil aviation ministries in the event. More than 600 Indian Companies and 200 Foreign Companies participated and witnessed the largest Air Show of Asia. Present on the occasion were Implementation Shri Sadananda Secretary DRDO Dr Satheesh Reddy, Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri Gowda, the three Service Chiefs of delegates from several foreign HD Kumaraswamy, Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil the Army, Navy and the Air Force, countries, senior serving officers Aviation Shri Suresh Prabhu, Raksha Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay from the three Services, veterans Rajya Mantri Dr Subhash Bhamre, Mitra, Secretary Defence Production and senior executives from defence Minister of Statistics and Programme Dr Ajay Kumar, Chairman and industries.

4 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 During her inaugural address, intended metaphorically to be a “Make in India” initiative of the Smt Nirmala Sitharaman welcomed a “Runway to a billion opportunities”! Government that had provided the host of Foreign Ministers and Deputy She said that lately, India had impetus for increased self-reliance Ministers along with their delegations established itself as the hub of in Defence and stressed on the who were representing various manufacturing and export of various need for instituting provisions for countries from all around the world. world class avionics equipment creating the ecosystem for utilisation She said that this edition of Aero and added that the country now and consolidation of design and India intended and endeavoured to had the potential for “Nose to manufacturing facilities to create a put India on the Global map and tail production”. She hailed the ‘robust supply chain system’.

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 5 She told that 34 projects relating to Army, Navy and Air Force had already been accorded ‘Approval in Principle’ under the ‘Make-II’ category. The Raksha Mantri mentioned that the FDI policy had been revised and now foreign investments upto 49% were allowed through the automatic route and above 49% under Government route. She also mentioned that in last four years, six companies in Defence and Aerospace sectors had obtained government approval for FDI of `237 Cr while FDI of over `200 Cr had been received through the automatic route. The Raksha Mantri informed the audience about the iDEX scheme which was launched on 12th Talking about Defence Helicopter cabin, Advance Aircraft April 2018, to create a network of procurements, Raksha Mantri added Cockpit, Glass Cockpit for Dornier Defence Innovation hubs throughout that during the last four years, 150 and CH-47 Pylon for Boeing as the country and to resolve Defence contracts worth `1,27,500 Cr had some recent successes displayed at and Aerospace related issues. been signed with Indian vendors for the Indian Pavilion. She also hailed She also informed about the first procurement of defence equipment Indian PSUs for manufacturing more innovation hub that had already for the Armed forces. She also than 4000 aircraft including LCA, started at Coimbatore and setting up mentioned that the Government had LCH, ALH, C295 etc. of the two defence corridors in Uttar accorded AoN to 164 proposals She applauded the 10,000 Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, the latest worth `2,79,950 Cr under ‘Buy and one being in Tiruchirappalli on 20 MSMEs which made 80% of Make” categories only to the Indian January 2019 wherein investments components, aggregates and vendors. She also mentioned that the of more than `3200 Cr were assemblies of complex weapon VoP in respect of OFB and DPSUs had committed by the Defence Industry. systems and aircrafts. She also grown from `43,746 Cr in 2013-14 She also mentioned the ‘Mission to `58,163 Cr in 2017-18, out of informed that more than 424 Raksha Gyan Shakti’, launched by which 40% of the production had companies had obtained the license the Ministry of Defence, to create been outsourced to the Private Sector for Defence production which was greater capacity development and and that the Government had also almost double the number in last encourage greater filing of patents issued RFP for the manufacture of four years. Raksha Mantri mentioned in defence and aerospace sectors. the ‘Defence Investor cell’ which was seven identified types of ammunition Smt Nirmala Sitharaman further in private sector. set up in January 2018, to enhance stated that the government was During her address, Raksha the ‘Ease of doing Business’ and committed to create an enabling Mantri hailed several policy informed that over 350 industries environment for a domestic ecosystem initiatives of the Government under had been facilitated till date. She of defence manufacturing, the the ‘Make in India’ viz. 100% FDI also mentioned that 275 Ordnance results of which were already visible. in Defence Manufacturing, Defence Factory items had been de-notified She said, “With the policy initiatives Offset Policy 2016, Delicensing of and also that testing facilities of and the procedural reforms, I am Defence items, iDEX and the Defence DPSUs and OFs had been opened confident that India will emerge as Investor’s cell. She quoted S 92 up for private industry. a key player in the global defence

6 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 arena. We will create an ecosystem in which there would be enhanced technological collaborations of the public as well as private sectors with the foreign Defence OEMs. Strategic partnerships will be forged with increased integration of skills, systems, technologies and manufacturing capabilities.” Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri HD Kumaraswamy welcomed the ministers and other delegates. Minister for Civil Aviation Shri Suresh Prabhu and Raksha Rajya Mantri Dr Subhash Bhamre also spoke on the occasion. The inaugural address was followed by three Mi-17 V-5 helicopters flying past the dais in manufactured helicopters including came the Sukhoi flanked by LCA ‘Vic’ formation carrying the Indian the LUH, ALH Mk III and IV and LCH Tejas and Jaguar in the Missing tri-colour, the Air Force ensign filled the skies with their jet wash. This man Formation as a homage to and the Aero India flag. The air followed by three ALH Mk IV (Rudra) WgCdr Sahil Gandhi who lost his display commenced with a solitary in a ‘Vic’ formation. Following the fly life in a fatal air collision during a vintage Dakota flying by the stands. past by the indigenous Dornier 228 practice sortie of the Surya Kiran Thereafter a host of indigenously flanked by the Hawk-i and HTT-40, Aerobatic Team. This was followed by the fighters thundering over the grandstand through the skies displaying a host of aerobatic manoeuvres – the Su 30 MKI followed by indigenous Tejas LCA, the American F-16 Falcon and the French Rafale. A host of helicopters including the LUH, LCH, ALH Mk-IV and the Sarang helicopter display team enthralled the spectators with their performance. The finale started with an air display by Airbus 330 Neo followed by a grand flyby by the majestic B-52 Bombers of 1950 vintage. A total of 61 aircraft participated in the event out of which 31 were flying. The total area of the show has grown from 27,678 sq mtr to 28,398 sq mtr this year. - PRO Defence pix: DPR Photo Divn

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 7 India Emerging As Export Hub: Raksha Mantri

aksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman said that Rinterest is being shown from across the world for Indian-made military products and not just from our immediate neighbourhood. The list of items being pursued varies from country to country, she said while addressing a press conference at Bengaluru on the eve of the Aero-India 2019 show. On being asked about the progress of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Minister said, “a lot of good work is being done and a lot of progress is being made,” adding that the HAL has been asked to make all efforts to work speedily. A large part of the success in export is due to a focused defence export policy which include schemes for promotion of Defence Exports, Export Promotion body, Online Portal, Export related facilitation and streamlining of Export permissions. The process of granting ‘No objection Certificate’ for export of defence stores has been simplified. Export permissions for ` 7,138 Cr had been given till December, 2018 as against ` 4,682 Cr for the entire year 2017- been exported including the Dornier Aircraft Do-228 18. Defence Public Sector Undertakings have been exported to Mauritius; ALH Dhruv exported to Nepal, encouraged to increase their export portfolio to 25% Maldives and Mauritius; Cheetal helicopter exported of their turnover by 2022-23. They are also expanding to Afghanistan; Radar Warning Receiver exported to the global footprints to enable them to market to other Russia; Thermal Image Fire Control System exported to countries. Israel; Airvan 8 given to Botswana. The Raksha Mantri listed out the equipment that has - Aero India e-magz

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman addressing the Press Conference ahead of the inauguration of Aero India 2019 in Bengaluru. Also seen in the picture (from left) are Secretary (Defence Production) Dr Ajay Kumar, Raksha Rajya Mantri Dr Subhash Bhamre, Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra and AOC-in-C Training Command Air Marshal RKS Bhadauria.

8 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Fighters steal the Show

ven as the teeming visitors at the EAero India 2019 were overawed by the spectacular display of the flying machines, the iron birds on static display attracted large numbers of spectators with the sight of the most modern fighters such as Rafale, Tejas besides MIG-21 and military transport aircraft like the C-17 Globemaster- 3 and C-130 J Super Hercules. A fleeting view of both winged and rotary machines lined up on the tarmac at the Yelahanka Airbase of the Indian Air Force struck deep and strong on the magnitude of the 12th edition of the Aero India which for the first time had included civil aviation too. Though Rafale, the latest acquisition of the IAF had been a crowd puller, the indigenous Tejas also mesmerised the visitors with its thundering roars and combat capabilities. The fly-by-wire Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), whom former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee christened as ‘Tejas’, is the pride of the nation. Also put in the display area class could be used for recce, rescue air to air missiles. The weaponised was the Light Combat Helicopter and relief operations besides troop ‘Advanced Light Helicopter Rudra’ is (LCH) and the Light Utility Helicopter transportation with a capacity of another military helicopter produced (LUH) being developed by the six passengers. The LCH with a 5.8 by HAL which is inducted in the Army Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Aero India tonne capacity and a 270 Aviation Corps of the Indian Army. (HAL) are presently under advanced km cruise speed could play a crucial development stage. The Light Utility role in combat as it is armed with a Also on display were the deadly Helicopters (LUH) of three tonne 20 mm turret gun besides releasing and versatile fighter Mirage 2000 aircraft which are being upgraded for greater lethality. Other fighter aircraft of Indian Air Force displayed in the show include Mig-21 Bison, Mig 27, Mig- 29 upgrade and the deep penetration strike aircraft Jaguar. The Russian acquisition Sukhoi 30 MKI was another fighter aircraft that attracted a large number of crowd. - Aero India e-magz

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 9 Maiden Drone Olympics Competition at Aero India 2019

nmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) Umade a spectacular entry at the Aero-India 2019 with the first ever ‘Drone Olympics' competition for UAV's held at Air Force Station, Yelahanka, Bengaluru. The Aero India exhibition, with the theme - ‘The Runway to a Billion Opportunities’ designed to bolster business in the international aviation sector and provide a platform to showcase India’s aeronautical advancements, garnered a huge number of registrations from both India and abroad. Under its banner, the ‘Drone Olympics’ organized by Ministry of Defence, aimed to encourage the UAV industry to connect with potential buyers and business partners in the country and also provide an opportunity to the Armed Forces to assess the capabilities of competition, both from companies February 18 to 19, 2019. During UAVs , the role of which is ever- and individuals. More than 120 the competition, drones designed by increasing in the defence sectors, applications were received, out teams from different companies and making them the ideal platform of which 57 applicants who were individuals were seen in action during for intelligence, surveillance, found suitable and were invited to various challenges which included reconnaissance, electronic warfare participate. and strike missions. the surveillance competition, supply The preliminary rounds of drop and formation flying challenges An overwhelming response the competition were organized at to assess the military capabilities of was received for participation in the Jakkur Aerodrome, Bengaluru from the drones and their reconnaissance

10 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 The Competition-wise details of Gold, Silver & Bronze medals Winning teams is as under:- Type of Competition Gold Medal Silver Medal Bronze Medal Surveillance: Fixed Sagar Defense Drovengers Quad (Cash Team Asteria (Cash Prize Rs. VTOL (Cash Prize Rs. 3,00,000/-) Prize Rs. 1,50,000/-) 50,000/-) (Multirotor) < 4kg Surveillance: Fixed Drovengers Quad Team Dhaksha Model Aviation VTOL (Cash prize Rs.3,00,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs. 1,50,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs. 50,000/-) (Multirotor) > 4kg Surveillance: Hybrid Team Dhaksha (Cash Prize Lakshya Flying Systems -IISc Team Shaik Imran Design 4-20 Kg Rs. 3,00,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs. 1,50,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs. 50,000/-) Supply Drop Thanos Technologies Sagar Defense IIT Kanpur Challenge (Cash Prize Rs. 5,00,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs. 3,00,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs. 1,50,000/-) Flying Formation UAS Delhi Technical Dhaksha FPV Bangalore Challenge University (Cash Prize (Cash Prize Rs. 3,00,000/-) (Cash Prize Rs.1,50,000/-) Rs.5,00,000/-) and camouflage abilities under with medals and cash prizes. and help them to identify and solve various conditions. The competition During the award ceremony, community issues using drones as a finals were held on February 21, tool. Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL) of Atal 2019 at Air Force Station, Yelahanka Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog The winners of the competition Bengaluru where all the finalists launched ‘ATL Drone Module – Get will be invited to demonstrate the competed under various categories. best of human machine interaction Set Fly!’ created in collaboration The competition saw a number of during Lockheed Martin’s Alpha innovative solutions and use of the with the blooming drone industry Pilot Race in United States later this latest technological advancements in India. The goal of the ATL Drone year. by the participants. The winners of module is to introduce the young - PRO Defence each competition were honoured minds of India about the technology pix: DPR Photo Divn

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 11 Anti-Drone Technology Should Develop Side- By-Side With Drones: Experts

rones are the next big development in flight Dtechnology if the current rate of development of drone technology is observed. However, with the influx of drones, also comes the threat of these drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) being used by anti- national elements or terrorists for various reasons like surveillance or even the delivery of weapons in thickly populated area. According to Lt Gen Sanjeev Madhok (Retd), former General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Army Training Command and current business head for Dynamatic Technologies, the possibility of ‘drone terrorism’ was changing the very nature of terrorism and would continue the altitudes reserved for flights. The Indian government to change it more in the future. has done a terrific job by bringing in regulations for “We as a country have to be careful. While drone controlling drones so fast. But we need to do more.” technology has proliferated, there also comes the need The grounding of 1000 flights at the Gatwick for an anti-drone technology development,” he said, airport in London, during Christmas last year, has led while speaking at a seminar on Anti-drone technology the United Kingdom as well as several other countries to at Aero India 2019 organized by the US India Strategic consider anti-drone technology seriously. Explaining their Partnership Forum. product, Shri Ghosal said, “We have a set of sensors and “India has all possible types of terrain. Regulating a core software that is proprietary and identifies different drones will be a big challenge. We have gone into types of drones allowing you to identify and take action researching drone technology, but not into researching against drones which are not friendly.” anti-drone measures,” Shri Madhok added. Talking According to Shri Sameer Joshi, Director, Newspace about measures that can be taken against rogue drones, Research & Tech Pvt. Ltd, countries like Nigeria, Pakistan Shri Madhok said, “There are many ways of doing it. and others were already using tactical operations and Crash it, land it or bring it home. It all depends on how others like China and Russia were also starting to much money you are ready to invest. Soon government evolve their drone operations. “A Raspberry Pi (basic regulations will be extended to beyond line-of-sight computer) based artificial intelligence, controlling a drones,” he said. drone has managed to defeat one of the best pilots of the US Air Force,” he said. Shri Joshi suggested several He elaborated further on the advantages and said means of fighting drone based threats including the use that anti-drone technology was a potent deterrence of microwaves, or electromagnetic rail guns, kinetic against drone terrorism as well as the most efficient way weapons like machine guns or lasers. “Till 2020, we will to utilize resources. look at a surge in intelligent systems. The future holds Talking about his preferred method to deal with bigger drones that will fly beyond the line of sight. Post dangerous drones, Shri Madhok said, “You must first 2035, the evolution of all ability drones or robots will be look at drone to identify anti-drone measures. According complete,” he said. to me, weakness lies in the communiciation and this Major General Jukka Juusti, Permanent Secretary, must be targeted.” The increasing usage of drones in Ministry of Defence, Finland, also said: “There should civilian work, which will soon come to India and be be co-operation between different authorities like used for food delivery or inspection of areas, will be the police, defence and other authorities in order to ensure challenge to beat in the future as these drones will be proper collaboration in operations.” “With the near susceptible to hacking by anti-national elements. assassination of a VIP in Caracas, people realised that Also speaking at the event was Shri Amitabh Ghosal, it was not possible to ignore drones anymore,” said vice president of India operations for L3 technologies, Colonel. Noam Shults, Head Business Development, a company that develops anti-drone technology, said, Rafael Advanced Defense System. “There is a need today to manage lower space, below - Aero India e-magz

12 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Final Operational Clearance of LCA Tejas MK I for Indian Air Force

ebruary 20, 2019 was a Document (RSD) to the Chief of Air flight envelope expansion. Fsignificant day in the journey of Staff in the presence of Defence The RSD provides the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas MK Secretary and CMD, HAL. capabilities, features and I for Indian Air Force (IAF), when FOC involves addition of key technologies that FOC standard the formal declaration of Final capabilities to the Initial Operational Aircraft will have on Induction into Operational Clearance (FOC) of IAF. The FOC standard Aircraft Clearance (IOC) aircraft which the aircraft was made by Secretary drawings have already been handed in main are Beyond Visual Range Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO over to Hindustan Aeronautics Dr G Satheesh Reddy. The day also Missile capabilities. Air-to-Air Limited (HAL) to start production witnessed the handing over of FOC Refuelling, Air-to-Ground FOC after incorporating key changes over Certificate and Release to Service earmarked weapons and general the IOC standard Aircraft. Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) of the aircraft took place in the year 2013 and IOC standard Aircraft were inducted into IAF No. 45 Squadron, in July 2016. The IAF Squadron has since flown over 1500 sorties successfully on the Aircraft. It is a proud day for all the agencies involved in the design, development and production of the aircraft i.e., Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), the autonomous society of DRDO as the design agency and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) as the manufacturer. Many other DRDO laboratories like ADE, GTRE, LRDE, CEMILAC etc., as well as other Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Chairman, DRDO and Director General, agencies such as BEL, CSIR, DG- Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) Dr G Satheesh Reddy handing over Final AQA, and Private sector agencies Operational Clearance (FOC) for LCA Air Force Mk1 to the Chief of Air Staff Air Chief have contributed in the journey of Marshal BS Dhanoa in Bengaluru on February 20, 2019. Also seen in the picture are Defence Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra and Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan LCA. Aeronautics Limited Shri R Madhavan. (pix: Photo Division) - PRO Defence

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 13 COAS Flies in LCA Tejas

hief of the Army Staff General CBipin Rawat was flown in trainer version of DRDO’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas to demonstrate the operational capabilities of the aircraft during Aero India 2019 at Bengaluru. Air Vice Marshal N Tiwari, Head of National Flight Test Centre (NFTC) at Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Bengaluru piloted this aircraft. On this occasion, Tejas was flown at medium altitude to showcase the Pin-point attack capabilities using a Laser Designation Pod (LDP). The Army Chief was COAS, General Bipin Rawat in the cockpit of two-seater LCA-Tejas during his sortie at Aero demonstrated the manoeuvring and India- 2019 in Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru on February 21, 2019. radar capabilities of the aircraft. After Group Captain S Gunasekaran, Secretary Department of Defence the sortie, the Army chief expressed the test pilot from NFTC. This was R&D, Chairman DRDO & Director immense satisfaction and said that a handling sortie of 30 minutes General ADA to the Chief of Tejas is a wonderful aircraft and if duration during which Prof Vijay Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS it gets added to the IAF inventory, it Raghavan experienced the controls Dhanoa in presence of Defence will be a great asset. of the aircraft and manoeuvred it for Secretary Shri Sanjay Mitra and A familiarization sortie in LCA some time. Chairman & Managing Director of Trainer was also conducted for Final Operational Clearance Hindustan Aeronautics Limited Shri R the Principal Scientific Adviser to (FOC) of LCA Tejas MK-I certificate Madhavan. Government of India, Prof K Vijay was handed over on 20th February - PRO Defence Raghavan, which was flown by 2019 by Dr G Satheesh Reddy, pix: DPR Photo Divn

COAS, General Bipin Rawat after his sortie on LCA-Tejas at Aero India- 2019 in Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru. Also seen in the picture is Secretary, Department of Defence R&D, Chairman, DRDO and DG Aeronautical Development Agency, Dr G Satheesh Reddy.

14 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 IAF lists out products to be indigenised

ooing the Indian companies have registered with has also listed out various future Wmanufacturers, especially in these Nodal Technology Centres indigenisation requirements that the medium and small sector, the which periodically interact with the range from simple nuts and bolts, Indian Air Force (IAF) has listed out private entrepreneurs and have washers and split pins to sophisticated a number of products that need to been successful so far in getting over products including sensors and part be developed indigenously for its 50,000 components and spares tasking during overhaul of aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul indigenised. The main problem and reclamation of aircraft and aero services. according to a senior official was the engine parts. small requirement of such spares. On display at the IAF stall at Some of the capital requirement Aero India 2019 was an array of The Nodal Technology projects that have been listed Centres range from Aerospace components and spares that need included various armaments, to be procured from the private Engineering, Industrial Engineering missiles, jammers and surface to air sector for the force and the counter and reclamation technologies, missiles in which IAF is looking for received a series of visitors inquiring aero engine and material testing, greater engagement by the private about the components that need instrumental and controls, Surface sector. to be developed locally to avoid to Air Guided Weapons systems, imports. specialist vehicles and arrester Some of the success stories in barriers, electronics and electro Some of the parts are either indigenisation efforts taken up by optic systems, Aerospace Structures outdated or not being supplied by the IAF included main and nose and Lifting Review Studies, Electronic the foreign Original Equipment wheel tyres for Sukhoi 30 MKI, Anti- Warfare systems, radar and I manufacturers. The Maintenance Collusion light for An-32 Aircraft, Command of the IAF has 14 Information Technology, DG Canopy Sealing Hose for MIG 29, nodal Technology Centres across sets and Uninterrupted Power 250 Kg pre frag bomb, GPS Antenna its bases in the country and are systems, Aircrew safety and survival and special armament control tester looking for greater engagement systems and air armament systems. for Sukhoi-30. with the industry. Though over 1000 The Maintenance Command - Aero India e-magz

Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, at the Indian Air Force stall in Aero India 2019.

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 15 Sukhois & Tejas to be kitted with BrahMos

he BrahMos Next Generation based on the existing BrahMos and will be able to accommodate 2 T(NG) missile, being developed by will have the same range of 290 missiles. BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture kilometres and Mach 3.5 speed but With its extended range of between the Russian Federation’s will be 5 metres in length and 50 around 300 kilometres, the missile NPO Mashinostroyeniya and India’s centimetres in diametre, weighing could be used against early warning Defence Research and Development around 1.5 tons. This makes the new systems used by the enemy and can Organisation (DRDO), will be variant 50 per cent lighter and three be fired from within the border for integrated with the Sukhoi 30-MKI metres shorter than its predecessor. cross-border targeting. A mockup fighter as well as the Light Combat Additional advantages include a of the BrahMos NG variant was on Aircraft Tejas MKII in the coming lesser radar cross section which display at the BrahMos stall in Aero years. Previously, the SU-30 MKI will make it harder for air defence India and could be seen mounted on has flown with one BrahMos missile, systems to locate and engage. the world’s fastest supersonic cruise two hardpoints of the Tejas fighter This variant can also be used jet, which has half the payload missile in 2018 and the NG version by the Indian Navy and will fit in the capacity of the Sukhoi fighter. of the missile will see first tests in 3-4 torpedo tubes of navy ships, Shri years. Around 5 of these missiles will Pathak said. The BrahMos NG will Meanwhile, the BrahMos fit on a Sukhoi 30MKI, being smaller also have an active electronically missile is set to reach speeds of up to in length and mass, said Praveen scanned array (AESA) radar instead Mach-7 and become a hypersonic Pathak, Chief General Manager, of a mechanically scanned radar. missile in the next decade, according Market Promotion and Export for The missile will also be able to arm to Managing Director and Chief BrahMos Aerospace. the Mikoyan MiG-29K as well as the Executive Dr Sudhir Mishra. The NG variant is a mini version Light Combat Aircraft Tejas which - Aero India e-magz

16 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 IAF seeks greater participation in MRO by private sector

he Indian Air Force sought greater Tparticipation of the private sector in the Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) of its fleet across the country. Participating in a technical session organised by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Air Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Training Command said that MRO requirements of the IAF were stringent. However compared to the past, the flexibility and decision making for such requirements have been decentralised and the private policies and participate in the various types of aircraft including sector could participate in such MRO activities to which it was not some vintage machines, whose ventures without much ado. allowed till two or three years ago. spares were currently not being He said the main problem had In the same breadth he also said manufactured by the Original been locking of investment and risk that except for a few big players, Equipment Manufacturer and there aversion. But under the changed the private sector industries were not was huge amount of obsolescence. scenario there is huge scope for taking active part. He added this posed a huge MRO in military aviation sector. The officer called for greater challenge with IAF needing to participation by the private sector in He added a number of spares resort to upgradation and reverse the development and maintenance and components for acquired fighter engineering besides innovative aircraft have been indigenised and of simulators for the fighter aircraft. initiatives. in some of the aircraft such as MIG He said that in view of the huge 29 the indigenisation was as high as requirement of flying men there He said that compared to 95 per cent. was need for greater number of civilian aircraft, Military Aviation was simulators for various aircraft. He said there were three levels a different ball game as both fighter Currently IAF had simulators for of MRO activities being carried out aircraft and helicopters face severe virtually all types of aircraft. by the IAF. They were at squadron fatigue. level Base Repair Depots spread Continuing on the tone set During the overhaul operations all over the country and by HAL. by Air Marshal Bhadauria, AOC- the parts of the aircraft are removed in-C, Maintenance Command Air In the past even for nuts, bolts and threadbare and reassembled. He other minor spares the IAF had to Marshal RKS Shera, PVSM, AVSM, added that under the major initiative look to the Original Equipment VM, ADC, said the Air Force had of the Maintenance Command Manufacturers. However, the been engaged in MRO activities nearly 700 vendors were currently situation had vastly changed with for over four decades with a very the indigenously developed spares high level of MRO activity taking supplying more than 48,000 spares securing the certification from place. Apart from the aircraft the to various Base Repair Depots. Centre for Military Airworthiness maintenance requirements of radars Another major initiative by the and Certification (CEMILAC). This and communication systems were Maintenance Command had been had resulted in early procurement of too carried out. setting up of Nodal Technology spares and components, he said. He said that IAF carried a Centres at each Base Depots for He wanted the private sector huge level of inventory of spares as periodic interaction. to take advantage of the changed it had to meet the requirement of - Aero India e-magz

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 17 Raksha Mantri Visits Army Aviation Stall

ero India Show 2019 provided Aan opportunity to showcase a fly past of state of the art and potent “Rudra” and LCH in their combat configurations. While the ALH (WSI), commonly known as the Rudra, demonstrated its simulated air strike capability in close support of ground forces, ALH (UH) helicopter “Dhruv” executed Small Team Insertion and Extraction Ops. A fine aero-display was also put up by well-coordinated and rehearsed formation of two Rudra and three Dhruv helicopters. These helicopters have been indigenously developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala a wide range of missions including Sitharaman and COAS, General Combat Reconnaissance, Battle Bipin Rawat visited the Army Aviation Air Sticks, Anti Tank Warfare and Stall and were given an insight into Close Air Support. The immense fire the various activities and future interests of Army Aviation on display power capability can be achieved by in the event. a combination of anti-tank guided missiles, air-to-air missiles and The ALH (WSI) - Rudra, the rockets as per the requirement for first armed helicopter produced aerial support of ground forces in all indigenously in India was showcased terrains. in the static display. True to its Vedic version in the modern era, DG Army Aviation Lt Gen the Rudra, the Weapon System Kanwal Kumar, flies the (Indigenously Integrated (WSI) Mk-IV variant of the Developed) Light Utility Helicopter Dhruv ALH (UH) can be utilised on which is indigenously developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The LUH is under the stage of obtaining operational clearance and will subsequently replace the Fleet of Chetak - Cheetah helicopters which have been the mainstay for the Indian Army for almost five decades, new generation helicopter with a glass cockpit, multifunction display, auto-pilot, helmet mounted display system and has the capability to manoeuvre through narrow valleys, mountains and high altitude areas, providing effective support to ground operations. - PRO Army Aviation

18 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Army Chief says, HAL's LCH is the Machine for Army

he Army Chief, General Bipin LCH is a 5.5-ton class, combat The LCH is fitted with Self Protection TRawat, flew in the Light Combat helicopter designed and developed Suite consisting of Radar/Laser Helicopter (LCH) during the by HAL. It is powered by two Shakti Missile warning systems and Counter Aero India at Air Force Station, engines and inherits many technical measures dispensing system. LCH Yelahanka on February 21, 2019. features of the Advanced Light received Initial Operation Clearance The helicopter was piloted by Wg Helicopter. The features that are Cdr S John, HAL’s Test Pilot. unique to LCH are sleek and narrow (IOC) on August 26, 2017, in the presence of the Raksha Mantri. Terming the sortie in LCH as fuselage, tri-cycle crashworthy an experience of life time, he said landing gear, crashworthy and self- LCH has the distinction of being it is suitable for the Army to take sealing fuel tanks, armour protection the first attack helicopter to land in and low visibility features which on adversaries in any terrain and Forward Bases at Siachen, 4700 makes it agile and survivable. different altitudes. Mr R Madhavan, mts above sea level. RFQ for 15 CMD, HAL, Mr GVS Bhaskar, CEO The helicopter would have day/ Limited Series Production (LSP) was (Helicopter Complex), Wg Cdr, Unni night targeting systems for the crew received on December 22, 2017, Pillai, HAL’s Chief Test Pilot (Rotary including the Helmet pointed sight Wing) and other senior officials from and Electro-optical pod consisting and quotation was submitted on Army had a briefing session before of CCD camera/FLIR/Laser Range March 15, 2018. the sortie. Finder(LRF)/Laser Designator(LD). - PRO Defence

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 19 HAL Hands Over 3 ALHs to Indian Army ahead of Schedule

AL handed over first three ALHs Has part of the 22 ALH MK III contract to the Indian Army during the Aero India 2019 on February 22, 2019. HAL had entered into a contract with the Indian Army for 40 ALH (22 ALH Mk III and 18 Mk IV Rudra) in August 2017. Of the 22 helicopters, 19 helicopters have already been produced and will be progressively delivered. The documents were handed over to Lt Gen Kanwal Kumar, The Advanced Light Helicopter suited for a high-speed cruise for Director General Army Aviation by (Dhruv) is a multi-role, new rapid deployment and to maximize Mr GVS Bhaskar Chief Executive generation helicopter in the 5.5- the area of operations. The basic Officer, Helicopter Division in the ton weight class, indigenously helicopter is produced in skid presence of Mr R Madhavan, CMD, designed and developed by HAL. version and wheeled version. In the HAL. Officials from the Army, HAL, Powered by two Shakti engines, it wheeled version, options for fixed DGAQA and RCMA were present provides superlative performance and retractable undercarriages are on the occasion. throughout its flight envelope. It is available. HAL Signs MoU with CPWD for Stage-2 Works of New Helicopter Factory in Tumakuru AL signed an MoU with CPWD Rajesh Jain, Chief Project Manager manner. Hfor the execution of the stage 2 (CPM), HAL project zone, CPWD in Mr V Natarajan, ED Helicopter works of Infrastructure development the presence of Mr R Madhavan, Division, Mr Ambuvelan, GM, works at its Green Field Helicopter CMD, HAL. Helicopter Division, Mr RK Soni, factory in Tumakuru at the Aero The stage 2 works include ADG, CPWD, Mr SN Rai, CE, India on February 22, 2019. development of infrastructure for CPWD were present on the The MoU was signed by Mr structural assembly and equipping GVS Bhaskar, Chief Executive of helicopters at Tumakuru. The occasion. Officer, Helicopter Complex and Mr project will be executed in a phased The new Helicopter factory coming up in a 615 acres green field campus would be fully self- sufficient for manufacturing full range of helicopters from 3 ton to 12 tons category and shall comprise of state of the art manufacturing, structural assembly, final assembly-line facilities, heli- runway, aerodrome, residential township for the staff, recreational facilities, a well-equipped training and development centre, etc.

- PRO Defence

20 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Russian Helicopters’ Conference with Indian suppliers

ussian Helicopters Holding RCompany (a part of Rostec State Corporation) held a conference of potential suppliers of components for Ka-226T helicopter made in India. The event took place within the scope of Aero India Show 2019 with more than 30 Indian industrial enterprises as participants. Identifying the chain of local suppliers is a part of the project of setting up the production of Ka-226T helicopter in India. Earlier, Russian Helicopters signed the Memorandums of Understanding with Elcom, Valdel Advanced Technologies, Dynamatic Technologies, Integrated Helicopter Services and Bharat Forge. They were willing to supply blades, sufficient number of technological features coaxial main rotor system, radiostations, landing gear and the competences and work experience in maximum take-off weight of 3.6 elements of fuselage. the aviation sphere. The objective of tons and is capable of transporting “We are facing an ambitious current interaction between Russian up to 1 ton of payload. The main task because the world has so far and Indian industrial enterprises is to distinctive feature of the helicopter not seen such projects of transferring present the background information is its modular design. Ka-226T leading-edge rotorcraft production. on the project, a joint discussion of can be easily fitted with a transport To set up the production of Ka- technical issues and finding further cabin enabling the transportation 226T helicopter, its assemblies ways of cooperation”, stated Andrey of up to 6 people, or with modules and components, is not possible Boginskiy, Director General of JSC carrying special equipment. Flight without the reliable Indian partners "Russian Helicopters”. performance of Ka-226T helicopter, and future suppliers having a Light Utility Helicopter Ka-226T its environmental friendliness, cost effectiveness, state-of-the-art avionics suite and additional flight safety solutions make this helicopter one of the best in its class. In 2015, Russia and India signed an agreement on cooperation in the sphere of helicopter manufacturing. According to the agreement the Indian Armed Forces will take delivery of 200 Ka-226T; at least 140 out of that number are to be produced in India under the program “Make in India”. In May 2017, Russian Helicopters, Rosoboronexport and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited founded a joint venture that deals with localization issues. - PRO Defence

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 21 AERO INDIA 2019 :

22 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Sky is Not the Limit

pix: DPR Photo Divn

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 23 DRDO’S Aero India International Seminar - 2019

he 12th edition of the Aero India International TSeminar (AIS 2019) was inaugurated at Bengaluru by Member NITI Aayog Dr VK Saraswat. The inaugural function was attended by Secretary (Defence Production) Dr Ajay Kumar, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) & Secretary Department of Space Dr K Sivan, Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development, Chairman, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Director General, Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) Dr G Satheesh Reddy and President, Aeronautical Society Secretary (Defence Production) Dr Ajay Kumar lighting the lamp of India (AeSI) Dr RK Tyagi. The two-day seminar was at the inauguration of the 12th edition of Aero India International organized by DRDO in association with the Aeronautical Seminar (AIS 2019) in Bengaluru February 18, 2019. Society of India (AeSI) on February 18 and 19, 2019. Theme of the seminar was ‘Emerging Frontiers in Aerospace Technologies’. The seminar had extensive interaction and deliberations in domain of Aerospace Materials, Stealth, Hypersonics, Artificial Intelligence and Deep Learning in Aerospace, Sensors, Avionics, Propulsion and UAV/UCAV technologies. Dr Saraswat in his inaugural address applauded Secretary, Department of Defence Research & Development, the work done by DRDO for bridging the technological Chairman, DRDO and Director General, Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) Dr G Satheesh Reddy presenting a memento to gaps. He said that the time has come to develop different Member NITI Aayog Dr VK Saraswat at the inauguration of the 12th kinds of weapons particularly in the areas of low intensity edition of AIS 2019. conflicts and highlighted the need to bring down the cycle time from research & development to production for better assimilation and absorption of technology in a time bound manner. Dr Ajay Kumar, in his address said that the seminar of DRDO is the harbinger to the forthcoming Aero India events. He appreciated the contributions of ISRO and Member NITI Aayog Dr VK Saraswat releasing a special issue of the DRDO to the nation. He said DRDO has been playing journal of AeSI as souvenir at the inauguration of the 12th edition a great role working with start-ups. DRDO and start- of Aero India International Seminar (AIS 2019). ups should work together to remain frontier in the aerospace industries. Advanced Materials, Hypersonics, technology areas. Dr K Sivan in his address highlighted Avionics, Autonomous vehicles and Engines are few the importance of DRDO’s role in Gaganyaan mission of our major thrust areas. It is essential to harness the and expected to have more such collaborations in future scientific capabilities in universities and industries and programmes. we have to take the lead to develop first of its kind Dr G Satheesh Reddy in his address said, "there technologies in the country." is a tremendous transformation in the aerospace A souvenir of the event was released on the sector. Advancements in technologies like propulsion, occasion. Special issue of the journal of AeSI and a electronics, structures, and payloads have brought in Monograph named ‘The Incredible Journey of Indian significant reduction in the size, cost, and weight of AWACS’ was also unveiled. More than 1000 delegates Aerospace systems. Smart miniaturized aerospace sensor from Services, R&D, Academia including student and technologies will be the backbone for futuristic Defence industry delegates participated in the seminar. About and Aerospace Systems. We need to focus on Artificial 38 speakers from both India and Abroad delivered talks Intelligence (AI) in a big way. AI will impact efficiency, and presented papers during the seminar. productivity, speed and innovation in the emerging - PRO Defence

24 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 DRDO: It’s an ‘Open Arms Gallery’ at Aero India 2019

ndia’s top scientists, technologists, test-pilots working Iwith the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) made their presence felt at Aero India 2019 where the usually unseen faces of the top scientific agency were seen interacting with general public and taking questions from the aviation enthusiasts, businesses delegates. “There is a sea of people at the Hall-D (DRDO pavilion) with so many questions and queries. Our officials are making their best effort to meet and greet every visitors at the enclave, and encourage them to ask more by replying to even the most simplest query on our technology and equipment so that no doubts twin engine stealth aircraft namely AMCA (Advanced remains unattended”, the Public Relationship Officer of Medium Combat Aircraft) whose scaled models was also Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) said. displayed. In addition, the DRDO had also setup a kiosk At the 12th edition of Aero India, the DRDO that gave audience a 360 degree immersive experience showcased over 250 of its technologically advanced of its expertise in the field of fighter aircraft simulators aerospace and aeronautics systems, prototypes and design and development. innovations for civil and military application. The The DRDO enclosure also housed Rustom-2 DRDO’s display were from 24 different laboratories (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). This Medium-Altitude Long- across the nation dealing with Aeronautical Systems, Endurance UAV recently had a successful test flight at Missiles, Armaments & Combat Engineering, Electronics Chalakere in Chitradurga district of Karnataka. Besides, & Communication Systems, Micro Electronics Devices & soon to be inducted into the Indian Air Force, ‘Astra’, Computational Systems, Naval Systems & Material and and DRDO’s indigenously developed Beyond Visual Life sciences. At its indoor pavilion, the DRDO’s ‘scaled Range Air to Air missile (BVRAAM) was also showcased model’ of Tejas Mk2, now rechristened as Medium alongside missile models of Quick Reaction Surface- Weight Fighter (MWF) was the ‘eye-candy’, drawing to-Air Missile (QRSAM), Medium-Range Surface-to- maximum footfall and inquiries from both business Air Missile (MRSAM) and BrahMos that will educate delegates and visitors. The DRDO had also displayed the visitors on the advances made in missile systems. variants of LCA-Tejas; Tejas Mk1 along with LCA-Naval Additionally, the DRDO was offering visitors a real-time and Trainers. experience of Virtual Design, Assembly and servicing of Further using Audio Visual (AV) display, the DRDO LCA Tejas aircraft through Virtual Reality (VR) technology. provided the visitors a simulated experience of its - Aero India e-magz

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 25 Inauguration of BEL Atmospheric Water Generator

avratna Defence PSU Bharat main source of drinking water, is The Atmospheric Water NElectronics Ltd (BEL) unveiled its being depleted at alarming and Generator can be used to provide new product, the Atmospheric Water unsustainable rates even as the drinking water in community centres Generator (AWG), an innovative search for alternate water sources and public places like health care solution to meet the ever-increasing continues. centres, schools, colleges, offices, need for drinking water worldwide, BEL's Atmospheric Water at Aero India 2019. railway stations, bus stands, airports, Generator employs a novel sea ports, off-shore oil rigs, military General Bipin Rawat, Chief technology to extract water from the establishments, remote field areas of Army Staff, inaugurated the humidity present in the atmosphere and remote establishments and Atmospheric Water Generator in and purify it. It uses heat exchange the presence of Mr Gowtama MV, for condensing the atmospheric residential complexes. CMD, Directors and other senior moisture to produce pure, safe and The Atmospheric Water officers of BEL. clean potable water. The AWG Generator is being manufactured by BEL's Atmospheric Water comes with a Mineralisation Unit, BEL in collaboration with CSIR-IICT Generator can be used to generate which is used to add minerals which and MAITHRI, a start-up company water straight from the humidity are required to make the water based in Hyderabad. BEL has, as present in the atmosphere. potable. The AWG is configurable part of the Government of India's The day is not far when in static and mobile (vehicular) drinking water becomes the versions and is available in 30 litres/ Start-up India Initiative, extending its most precious commodity on the day, 100 litres/day, 500 litres/day support to start-up Companies. planet. Groundwater, currently the and 1,000 litres/day capacities. - PRO Defence

General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Army Staff, inaugurating the BEL Atmospheric Water Generator in the presence of Mr Gowtama MV, CMD, Directors and other senior officers of BEL, at Aero India.

26 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 BEL Signs Agreements With Hughes India and ELT

avratna Defence PSU, Bharat Electronics Limited BEL signs MoU with Elettronica SpA (ELT) N(BEL) and Hughes India have entered into a Teaming Agreement for design, development, supply, t Aero India 2019, Bengaluru, Navratna installation, integration and commissioning of Satellite ADefence PSU, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) Communication solutions for helicopters under the and Elettronica SpA (ELT), Italy have entered into Ministry of Defence, Government of India at Aero India an MoU for Joint Development, Commercialisation 2019, Bengaluru. and Production of New Generation EW Surveillance Director (Marketing), BEL, Ms Anandi Ramalingam Systems. and President, Hughes India Shri Partho Banerjee signed Mrs Anandi Ramalingam, Director (Marketing), the MoU in the presence of Director (Other Units), BEL, BEL, Mr Domitilla Benigni, Chief Operating Officer, Shri Nataraj Krishnappa, on February 20, 2019. ELT, and MrIrmin Menscher, Vice President, Elisra, The Teaming Agreement will enable MoD’s Israel, signed the MoU documents in the presence strategic users to get enabled with helicopter-based of Mr Gowtama MV, CMD, BEL, and other senior Satellite Communication links for real-time and assured officers of BEL. communications using ISRO's Ku band satellites. Through The MoU will enable BEL and ELT to jointly this agreement, BEL and Hughes India are collaborating develop new generation EW Surveillance Systems to using their respective state-of-the-art technologies meet the Global requirements. and capabilities in developing these integrated and - Aero India e-magz sophisticated helicopter solutions.

Mrs Anandi Ramalingam, Director (Marketing), BEL, Mr Domitilla Benigni, Chief Operating Officer, ELT and Mr Irmin Menscher, Vice President, Elisra, Israel, pose for a photo with Mr Gowtama MV, CMD and other senior officers of BEL after the signing of the MoU between BEL and ELT.

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 27 Indian Companies Showcase Products

harat Dynamics Limited (BDL) which was established by Bthe Government of India in 1970 as a manufacturing base for guided missiles and allied defence equipment is now a ‘Miniratna’ Public Sector Enterprise. BDL produced the anti-tank guided missile- the French SS11B1. BDL has three manufacturing units, located at Kanchanbagh, Hyderabad, Telangana, Bhanur, Medak district, Telangana and Vishakapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Two new units are planned at Ibrahimpatnam, Ranga Reddy district, Telangana and Amravati, Maharastra. BDL has been showing steady progress in its hoping to network with other companies and possible operations over the years and is poised to enter into clients. new avenues of manufacturing covering a wide range Drones to anti-drones, India’s MSME’s have it all of weapon systems such as - surface to air missiles, air defence systems, heavy weight torpedoes, air-to-air Sree Sai Aerotech Innovations Pvt Limited, missiles, making it a defence equipment manufacturer. manufactures embedded electronics used in unmanned BDL has also entered into the arena of refurbishment aerial vehicles has unveiled a completely ‘Made in India’ of old missiles. BDL manufactures the Agni, Akash, Unmanned Traffic Monitoring System (UTM). “There are Advanced Light Weight Torpedo, Counter Measures multitudes of possible ways that unregulated drones Dispensing Systems, French MILAN 2T, Russian may cause security threat and disruptions in India if we Konkurs-M, Invar and others. don’t come up with indigenous, affordable drone and counter- drone technologies and develop manufacturing UAV’s to MRO, India’s MSME sector wants a slice capabilities with policy and regulatory support.” said Mr. The sheer number of Micro, Small and Medium Sai Pattabiram, CEO and Founder of Shree Sai Aerotech Enterprises (MSME’s) participating in this years Aero Innovations. India showed that the entry of private sector into defence Another company, Jahagirdar Aero Products has production need not be limited to the big companies been a regular at Aero India since its first edition in alone. 1996. The Ahmednagar (Maharastra) based company Two of the exhibition halls including the India are designers and system integrators for aerial targets, pavilion had several stalls occupied by small companies, unmanned aerial vehicles, remotely piloted vehicles, most of which are part of the supply chain for larger unmanned airships and also manufacture aerial vehicles industrial players as well as the Indian armed forces. for missile targeting and anti aircraft guns. Yet many more attended the air show for the first time, - Aero India e-magz

28 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Robotics, Artificial Intelligence Catch Imagination and Attention

he latest buzzword of Robotics and TArtificial Intelligence has caught the imagination of the scientists at the Research and Development Centre of the DRDO located at Pune. They have at the Aero India 2019 displayed for the first time a fully indigenously developed Mobile Autonomous Surveillance System (MASS) that is undergoing internal trials and would be ready for field trials shortly. With an autonomous navigation, MASS is fixed with a configurable payload platform which could be used for both civilian and military operations. These machines have reactive autonomy for static and dynamic obstacle avoidance with a payload capacity of 50 kg. With a range of 40 km and a speed of ten km per hour these machines have a 4 hour endurance. According to the scientists of the centre, the technologies implemented in MASS included global and local path planned, closed loop control system for all axes, path planning algorithms for obstacle avoidance and movement tracker. Also on display were low cost Swarm Robots and Confined Space Remotely Operated Vehicles that could be used for operations in aircraft and railways for lifting payloads up to four kg. Both are technology demonstrators that could be used for intelligence gathering too. Swarm Robots, which in a cluster formation, could interact with each other and could be used in hostile environments to avoid human causalities and have self-destruction capabilities too. Even if they are killed during operations the loss would be minimal, the scientists said. - Aero India e-magz

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 29 Increasing Number of Women in India’s Aerospace Sector

n the past decade, the country has seen a rise in the Inumber of women who are part of the aerospace sector, with women working in positions of power in both military and civil organizations. The Indian Women Pilots Association, a forum for women in aviation, has been working towards increasing the participation of women in the sector and also helps those looking for guidance and financial help to become achievers in aviation and aerospace. Started in 1967 by Ms Chanda Budhabhatti (Chairperson and Founder President), Ms Rabia Futehally, Ms Mohini Shroff, Dr Sunila Bhajekar, Ms Mangala Joshi and Ms Kumudini Rawal formed of women in aviation. The Aero India also had a town the association, a not-for profit organization with its hall event with the theme ‘Women in Aerospace’ and on headquarters in Mumbai. The IWPA currently gives two awards annually to young budding girl aviators at February 23, ‘Women’s day’ was also celebrated. ‘Aviation Day’, organized by the Aeronautical Society of The town hall event, themed ‘Women in Aviation’ had India, Mumbai branch. An annual award to a professional Panelists which included Group Captain Shakti Sharma woman achiever in aviation is also presented in the and Squadron Leader Khusboo Gupta representing the name of Dr Kalpana Chawla every year. Indian Air Force, Captain Aprajeeta Sharma of the Indian Ms Harpreet A De Singh, current President of the Army, Lieutenant Commander Prerana Deosthalee of the association, said that there were several hindrances that women faced while trying to enter the world of aviation. Indian Navy, Deputy Commandant Nidhi Jaiswal of the “There is a general lack of awareness and mind-block Indian Coast Guard as well as Captain Harpreet A De that only men can enter this field. As soon as a girl Singh, Executive Director, Air India, Captain Kshamta makes up her mind, there are financial issues,” she Bajpai as well as Smt TK Anuradha of the Indian Space said. As part of its efforts, the association visits schools Research Organization and Dr Tessy Thomas of the and speaks to young budding students. “We reach out Defence Research and Development Organization, Ms to them and mentor them. We have today engineers, astronauts, pilots and women in many other fields of S Thenmozh of HAL, Dr M Sujata and Ms P Anuradha aerospace. There is no job that a woman cannot do,” Reddy of CSIR-NAL and Ms Sreeja Nag, Senior Research Ms Singh said. Scientist at BAER Institute. The IWPA stall at Aero India had on display the story - Aero India e-magz

Intake of women pilots by India is twice the global average

special event highlighting the achievements of showed that percentage of women ‘Captains’ among A women in Indian aerospace industry was held global airliners remained only 1.55percent, in India the as part of Aero India. Several women working in the number reaches as far as 10.4percent. aviation, science and research sectors were felicitated In its 12th edition, the biennial air-show showcased during the event for their contribution to the aerospace women achievers in the aerospace sector, highlighting sector. their contribution and achievements. Leading with Study by International Society of Women Airline the theme ‘Saluting the Queens of the Skies’, Chief Pilots (ISWAP) showed that while global airliners Postmaster-General (Karnataka Circle) Charles Lobo reflected gender disparity in the employment of women released a commemorative stamp. Speaking on the in aviation, India on contrast showed a brighter picture. occasion, Mr Lobo said that women serving in the As against 5.4percent women pilots employed by the field represented courage, valour and sacrifice. “Most global airliners, Indian aviation employed 12.4percent importantly they serve as an inspiration to a large of women pilots in its aviation sector. The study also generation of young girls and students,” he said.

30 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 Raksha Mantri Visits the Site of Fire Incident

Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala Sitharaman being briefed by Indian Air Force officials, DG Fire Services and the head of Disaster Management Team on the fire incident. aksha Mantri Smt Nirmala more than thirteen fire tenders, for Quick replenishment of the Fire RSitharaman today visited the site seven water bowsers and 33 Agni Tenders by regulating traffic on NH7 of fire incident of Aero India 2019, Varuna vehicles to douse the fire. with the help of Traffic police. This on February 24, 2019 at Yelahanka Additionally, six Crash Fire Tenders Air Force Base. Officials from Indian (CFT) of IAF, which are used in ensured unhindered access of these Air Force, State Fire Services and case of Aircraft Crash, were used to Fire Tenders to Static Water Tanks State police were present at the spot. control the rapid spread of fire and for replenishing of the tenders. She was briefed about the incident by the entire fire was doused within 45 Alternate parking area was identified the officials and was given account Minutes and more than 3000 litres of immediately for the people who were of first hand witnesses. RM enquired foam was used. These timely actions about the steps being taken to ensured that the damage was limited visiting the Aero India. Due to the facilitate the insurance claims by the to a small area and larger damage swift action and smooth coordination owners of the vehicles. RM directed was avoided. IAF also launched one among various agencies involved, helicopter immediately for aerial officials to ensure that RTO helpdesk afternoon show was conducted as to have representatives from assessment which aided in giving per schedule without any hindrance. Insurance companies to facilitate the effective directions to fight the fire. insurance claims by people. At the time of the incident more The incident resulted in no loss of life than 3000 vehicles were parked in or injuries to anyone. Raksha Mantri Smt Sitharaman the parking area. Vehicles in the was briefed about the quick action line of fire were removed from the A RTO helpdesk was taken by the Operational Control area by breaking the glass windows immediately setup at the site of the Centre (OCC) of Aero India at and releasing the parking brakes as incident and people could file FIR on Air Force Station, Yelahanka in drivers were not present and these site. Food and water arrangement controlling the rapid spread of fire at cars were pushed to safety. This P4 parking area. The rapid spread action also created a gap between was made by the IAF for the people of fire was aided by strong winds the parked vehicles and stopped at the site of the incident. Later, the reaching in excess of 30 Kmph and further spread of the fire. In total authorities facilitated their movement the fact many vehicles were parked 278 cars were fully damaged, 73 back to their homes by arranging in direction of wind. The OCC cars partially damaged (16 due to Commander along with State Fire fire and 57 due to breaking of glass). transportation. Department put into action together The OCC effectively coordinated - PRO Defence

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 31 Aero India 2019 Concludes

urtains came down on the CAero India – 2019 at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru on February 24, 2019. Having evolved over the years, the 12th edition of the event drew large crowd that bear testimony to the premier Air Show of Asia having come of age. The highlights of this year’s show have been:- • More than 600 Indian Companies and 200 Foreign Companies participated and witnessed the largest Air show of Asia. • The total area of the show has grown from 27,678 sq m to 28,398 air show saw a lot of activity from show. Start-ups, technology and sq m this year. business point of view and witnessed women were featured on each of the several round table meets. business days of Aero India – 2019. • A total of 61 aircraft The Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala participated in the event. The show was a shot in the arm Sitharaman presided over a CEO for the ‘Make in India’ campaign of • Several seminars were conclave attended by 13 CEOs the Government of India by virtue of conducted by a host of agencies from overseas companies and 11 its sheer magnitude and presence of including Ministry of Civil Aviation, from Indian firms and exchanged stake holders from across the globe. Skill Development Ministry, State views about the development of Governments and Industrial The current edition of Aero the sector. As many as 500 B2B Associations in addition to Ministry India had many firsts to its credit and meetings were held and many 50 of Defence. was the right platform to showcase MoUs were signed indicating the tag The first three days at the growth of aerospace in sector. Also line of the show ‘The Runway to a show, earmarked exclusively for for the first time a ‘Drone Olympics’ Billion Opportunities’. business visitors saw a foot fall was held with 58 entries. There was A special event highlighting the of approximately two lakhs. The a specific theme for each day of the achievements of women in Indian Aerospace Industry was held as part of Aero India on Saturday. Several women working in the aviation, science and research sectors were felicitated during the event for their contribution to the Aerospace sector. Showcasing women achievers in the aerospace sector, and leading with the theme ‘Saluting the Queens of the Skies’, Chief Post Master General (Karnataka circle) Charles Lobo released a commemorative stamp. The awe-inspiring manoeuvres by various types of aircraft and

32 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 formations enthralled the audience – young and old alike, every single day. The flying displays was appreciated by one and all with immaculate precision painting a colourful aerial symphony in the clear Bengaluru skies twice every day. Earlier, Valedictory Function was conducted wherein the Governor of Karnataka Shri Vajubhai Vala addressed the gathering. In his address the Governor said that while the people of India have exhibited exemplary valour and all the people involved in the project. The Visvesvaraya Institute have the necessary intelligence, the organisation of the show. He handed of Technology, Bangalore got the need of the hour is getting them the over the awards to the winners in first prize in Drone Olympics for right opportunities. On behalf of categories of photography contest, GANNET: The Amphibious Drone. the Govt. of Karnataka he thanked Instagram contest and best Students There was a fire incident at the parking area of Aero India on 23rd February which resulted in burning of over 270 vehicles however this couldn’t dampen the spirit of the public as the last two days at the event saw a very high foot fall of local public swarming in to the venue to catch a glimpse of these wonderful men and women in their magnificent flying machines. The Ministry of Defence, through their social media handles and regular press releases ensured timely updates and wide outreach to enthusiasts around the globe. A user friendly mobile application had specially been prepared for the ease of the public. An e-magazine was also published in Aero India website on a daily basis to keep the people abreast with the happenings at the Aero India 2019. Finally, the curtains were drawn with a final display by the Sarang Helicopter Display Team biding adieu to Aero India – 2019 and with a wish for meeting again in the next edition. - PRO Defence pix: DPR Photo Divn

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 33 Business Opportunities Galore at Aero India 2019

rue to the theme ‘The runway to a Tbillion opportunities’, the five day 12th edition of the Aero India that concluded on February 24, 2019, showcased the massive potential that exists in India for the private sector in both civil and military aviation. As most players in the aviation and aerospace sector, touched down at Yelahanka Air Force station, Aero India had something to offer for every visitor. among others stealing the show. The that were in the collision. This drew massive crowd that thronged the thunderous applause from the The event for the first time in its Yelahanka air base of the Indian Air spectators. Apart from India’s own history, held events like the Drone force were spellbound and even the Sarang and Surya Kiran teams, the Olympics, an Instagram picture aircraft parked in the static display Yakovlev Aerobatic Team from the competition and also had a focus on area drew a large audience. Primary United Kingdom gave mesmerising civil aviation as well as Maintenance, among those that witnessed milling performances. Repairs and Overhaul (MRO). In all, 403 companies participated in crowds were the display areas with As a boost to the domestic the event with 165 of them from the HAL’s latest attack helicopters, manufacturing sector, Aero India 54 different countries. The flying the black Light Combat Helicopter also had exhibitions by several machines that were present at the as well as the Light Utility Helicopter. medium, small and micro enterprises show were 72 in number. There The pall of gloom that had who also benefited from the air show were 64 foreign delegates and 500 descended on the eve of the show, as they signed several agreements business meetings were held. 50 following the mid-air collision or bagged contracts. “It is a great business deals were signed at the between two Surya Kiran Hawks, experience and we always get to meet a lot of people and network at venue. was slightly lifted on February 23 as Aero India,” said Yash Jahagirdar the Kirans were back in the air and As usual the flying machines of Jahagirdar Aero Products, an paid tribute to their team mate Wing stole the thunder with their exhibitor. spectacular display during the flying Commander Sahil Gandhi, who lost hours both in the mornings and the his life in the air collision, by flying in Setting the tone for the biennial afternoons with the Rafale, the Sukhoi a diamond formation with two spots event, Raksha Mantri Shrimati 30-MKI and India’s own, the ‘Tejas’ missing for the two missing aircraft Nirmala Sitharaman said that India has established itself as a hub with proven capabilities of manufacturing and export of world class aerospace components, structure, avionics, design and skills. ‘’Now it has the potential and competence of end- to-end or as they say ‘nose to tail’ production’’. A specific India Pavilion had been set up to showcase the capabilities the country had built over the years. Reeling out statistics to endorse her views about the potential India offered, the Raksha Mantri said that during the last four years as many as 150 contracts valued at `127,500

34 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 scheduled month of August. HAL is expected to complete the delivery of the 22 contracted choppers by the end of the current fiscal. HAL also received the certification of a indigenously developed 3D printed fuel system elbow part for Sukhoi-30MKI certified by Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification. As part of the Phase-IV Su-30 MKI manufacturing under Transfer of Technology from Russia there is a shortage of some castings for manufacturing of components. Owing to this HAL has chosen the fuel system elbow crore had been signed with Indian war scenario where the drones could as a pilot component for fabrication vendors for procurement of defence penetrate into hostile territories and through additive manufacturing equipment. deliver deadly payloads and help in process. The Raksha Mantri also had saving precious lives. The last two days of the air show a brainstorming session with the Significant strides the country saw huge crowds descend on the top leaders of the aviation sector had made in the last two years, post Yelahanka Air Force station for the during a CEO Conclave eliciting the 2017 show, were all there to see magnificent flying display. “We have their views about the way India at the event. Companies both in the been coming here for the past three should move forward in the sector private and public sector, besides air shows and it is always worth it. with participation of the private those from other countries exhibited We make it a point to come in early sector. Several new ideas emerged their wares with some of them being and find a good spot to watch the from the conclave. The Minister also force multipliers. In conjunction air show. Our favourite performance addressed a seminar in which she with the theme, the Aero Show, for both last time and this time has been said that she had suggested three the first time also witnessed a series the Surya Kirans and we were very ideating forums. The first one was on of seminars organised by various excited to know that they were back how India should move in setting up trade and industry bodies on various on Saturday and Sunday,” said centres for MRO as well as training topics. Nachiket BS, who visited the Aero pilots with the country expected The event also proved to be India. to add 1600 aircraft over the next significant for Hindustan Aeronautics With the adoration of thousands decade. Limited (HAL), the defence aviation of visitors, the Surya Kirans and The country should be prepared major in public sector, which is the the Sarang team as well as the to create an ecosystem for such a one of the key organisers of Aero Light Combat Aircraft Tejas were growth she said. Another area was India. During the five day air show, the show stealers in this edition of regarding the use of offsets through HAL secured the Final Operational Aero India. As the sun set on the various means including setting up Clearance for Tejas aircraft, moving Yelahanka Air Force station on research and development centers, ahead for the induction of the multi February 24, 2019 evening, most defence corridor and creating role light combat aircraft to join the of the aircraft prepared to return to infrastructure for testing systems IAF fleet which has its initial base their designated air bases as the city and products. The third area in Sulur near Coimbatore in Tamil slowly got back to life without the according to her that needed greater Nadu. The organisation also handed usual sound of thunder in the skies concentration was the emergence of over three ALH- Mk III to Indian Army in the last few days. ‘Drones’’. She visualised a future during the show well ahead of the - Aero India e-magz

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 35 411 Republic Day Gallantry and Other Defence Decorations Announced

…continued from last issue 111. GROUP CAPTAIN RAMAN KEWAL BHATLA (23686), AERONAUTICAL ENGINEER (ELECTRONICS) AIR FORCE 112. GROUP CAPTAIN YESHPAL SINGH NEGI, VM, (23735) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 113. GROUP CAPTAIN BARADA PRASAD SABUT (23888), AERONAUTICAL ENGINEERING AIR FORCE (ELECTRONICS) 114. GROUP CAPTAIN BANGALORE SATYAJI VIJAY RAO (23889) AERONAUTICAL / AIR FORCE ENGINEERING (ELECTRONICS) 115. GROUP CAPTAIN GAURAV MANI TRIPATHI (23976) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 116. GROUP CAPTAIN RISHABH MITTAL (25077) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 117. WING COMMANDER S AKHETO JAKHALU (26309-L) ADMINISTRATION AIR FORCE 118. 662625 MASTER WARRANT OFFICER K SURANDRAN FLIGHT ENGINEER AIR FORCE 119. GO-1890X, ADGBR SUBODH KUMAR TRIPATHI, HQ DGBR BRO 120. GO-1968X, CE (CIV) K P PURUSHOTHAMAN, HQ CE (P) VARTAK BRO BAR TO SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. IC-55461K COLONEL DHANANJAY M BHOSALE, SENA MEDAL, VISHISTH SEVA MEDAL, ARMY ARMY AVIATION CORPS / 203 ARMY AVIATION SQUADRON (UTILITY HELICOPTER) 2. IC-63403P LIEUTENANT COLONEL BHEEMAIAH PS, SM, 10TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 3. IC-68016K MAJOR JITENDRA SINGH MEHTA, SENA MEDAL / THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY/ ARMY 13TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 4. IC-73258W MAJOR MALAY BAIDYA, SENA MEDAL, THE KUMAON REGIMENT / 13TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 5. IC-76546N MAJOR DAVINDER PAL SINGH, SENA MEDAL, THE MAHAR REGIMENT / 1ST ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 6. IC-77058X MAJOR GIRISH SHARMA, SENA MEDAL, CORPS OF ELECTRONICS & ARMY MECHANICAL ENGINEERING, 9TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. IC-60900N LIEUTENANT COLONEL RAVINDRA KUMAR, ARMY AVIATION CORPS / 203 ARMY ARMY AVIATION SQUADRON (UTILITY HELICOPTER) 2. IC-63941H LIEUTENANT COLONEL SANJEEV KUMAR SINGH, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / ARMY 44TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 3. IC-64585A LIEUTENANT COLONEL AJAY SINGH KUSHWAH, 3 RASHTRIYA RIFLES ARMY BATTALION (JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES) 4. IC-66239H LIEUTENANT COLONEL BHARTENDU RAWAT, 20TH BATTALION THE JAT ARMY REGIMENT 5. IC-66258N LIEUTENANT COLONEL JAIPAL SINGH, THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES / 9TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 6. IC-69119P MAJOR ABHISHEK PHOGAT, CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 12 SECTOR RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 7. IC-71589Y MAJOR GAJENDER DAGAR, 10th BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 8. IC-71608Y MAJOR HARPRIT SINGH, THE PUNJAB REGIMENT / 22 RASHTRIYA RIFLES (PUNJAB) ARMY 9. IC-72390K MAJOR PRAVIN KUMAR, THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 10. IC-72542A MAJOR AMIT SAH, THE GARHWAL RIFLES / 14TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 11. IC-72587A MAJOR PARITOSH SINGH KANWAL, 37 ASSAM RIFLES ARMY 12. IC-72672H MAJOR JADHAV DHIRAJ BHARAT, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 44TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 13. IC-72817H MAJOR SANDEEP KURUP, 4TH BATTALION THE MADRAS REGIMENT ARMY 14. IC-74824X MAJOR KRISHNA DUTT TIWARI, 28 RASHTRIYA RIFLES BATTALION (JAMMU AND ARMY KASHMIR RIFLES)

36 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 15. IC-75030Y MAJOR RANANJAY SINGH CHAUHAN OF 9 RASHTRIYA RIFLES BATTALION ARMY (RAJPUTANA RIFLES) 16. IC-75558W MAJOR RITESH SANGWAN, 14 RASHTRIYA RIFLES (GARHWAL RIFLES) ARMY 17. IC-76020F MAJOR ROHIT SHUKLA, SHAURYA CHAKRA, 44 RASHTRIYA RIFLES (RAJPUT) ARMY 18. IC-76114Y MAJOR SAMEER SINGH, THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY / 41ST BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 19. IC-761810F MAJOR NITISH TYAGI, THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 20. IC-70559P MAJOR NIRAJ KUMAR, 4TH BATTALION THE GORKHA RIFLES / 15TH BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 21. IC-76292F MAJOR VIKAS SEHRAWAT, THE ARMOURED CORPS / 14TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 22. IC-76379H MAJOR SHAKTI SINGH, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY / 42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 23. IC-76615Y MAJOR SANJEEV RANTA, 21 RASHTRIYA RIFLES (GUARDS) ARMY 24. IC-76633F MAJOR VIKAS KUMAR, THE PUNJAB REGIMENT / 22ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 25. IC-76672A MAJOR GAURAV SINGH RAWAT, THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT / 31ST ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 26. IC-76799H MAJOR VARUN GAUR, THE ARMOURED CORPS / 22ND DBATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 27. IC-77054F MAJOR DILIP UNNI, ELECTRONICS AND MECHANICAL ENGINEERS CORPS, ARMY FIRST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 28. IC-77179Y MAJOR SHER SINGH RANAWAT, 17TH BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR ARMY LIGHT INFANTRY 29. IC-77594A MAJOR HARMEEK SINGH BAINS, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 55TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 30. IC-77782F MAJOR SHAKTI NANDAN TRIPATHY, 2ND BATTALION THE NAGA REGIMENT ARMY 31. SS-44769X MAJOR VINISH NAIR, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY / 42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 32. SS-45438H MAJOR MANISH KUMAR SINGH, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 53RD ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 33. SS-46336Y MAJOR RAVI KUMAR, THE BIHAR REGIMENT / 47TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 34. IC-77509M CAPTAIN AMAN KUMAR, THE CORPS OF SIGNALS / 42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 35. IC-78483P CAPTAIN ANIL KUMAR, THE CORPS OF SIGNALS / 34TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 36. IC-78870K CAPTAIN MD SAHWAJ ALAM, 42 RASHTRIYA RIFLES BATTALION (ASSAM) ARMY 37. IC-82127M CAPTAIN AKHIL RADHAKRISHNAN, 6TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLES ARMY 38. SS-45276H CAPTAIN PARVINDER DAGAR, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY / 42ND BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 39. SS-48558M CAPTAIN DIGVIJAY SINGH, 5TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLES ARMY 40. IC-81713H LIEUTENANT RAMESH CHANDER PANDEY, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 41. JC-310104N SUBEDAR BIKRANT TETE, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 44TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 42. JC-480832A SUBEDAR RAVINDER KUMAR, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / 44TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 43. JC-480975A SUBEDAR RAM NIWAS GURJAR, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / 44TH BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 44. JC-594270N SUBEDAR MOHD YAQOOB KHAN, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT ARMY INFANTRY / 41ST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 37 45. JC-612928N SUBEDAR SUNIL KUMAR, 4TH BATTALION THE 4TH GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 46. JC-414144F NAIB SUBEDAR RAJENDRA PRASAD, FIRST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 47. JC-414383W NAIB SUBEDAR RAJPAL DHAYAL, 10TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 48. JC-414394H NAIB SUBEDAR GIRISH CHANDRA, 12TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 49. JC-441392F NAIB SUBEDAR HAREESH KUMAR PK, 4TH BATTALION THE MADRAS REGIMENT ARMY 50. JC-571619N NAIB SUBEDAR SUNDER PAL SINGH, THE MAHAR REGIMENT / 30TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 51. 5348418N COMPANY HAVILDAR MAJOR ANIL THAPA, 4TH BATTALION THE 4TH GORKHA ARMY RIFLES 52. 4081530L HAVILDAR NAGENDRA SINGH RAWAT, 6TH BATTALION THE GARHWAL RIFLES ARMY 53. 9104223X HAVILDAR RIYAZ AHMAD BHAT, SHAURYA CHAKRA, 162 INFANTRY BATTALION ARMY (TERRITORIAL ARMY) JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT INFANTRY / 42ND BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 54. 13622956N HAVILDAR SHAMSHER SINGH, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 55. 13623439H HAVILDAR PUSHPENDRA SINGH, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 56. 13625453N HAVILDAR MANISH KUMAR, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY (SPECIAL FORCES) 57. 13756894A HAVILDAR JORABAR SINGH, 160 INFANTRY BATTALION (TERRITORIAL ARMY) ARMY (HOME & HEARTH) / JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) 58. 2807995L NAIK THORAT KIRAN POPATRAO, 4TH BATTALION THE MARATHA LIGHT ARMY INFANTRY (POSTHUMOUS) 59. 3001182N NAIK SURESH SINGH, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / 44TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 60. 3004619F NAIK PARI MAL SINGH, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / 44TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 61. 300590F NAIK SUNIL KUMAR, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / 44TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 62. 4083169K NAIK DEVENDRA PRASAD, THE GARHWAL RIFLES / 14TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 63. NUMBER 4200208L NAIK NARESH CHANDRA BHATT, 9TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 64. 4280232M NAIK RANJIT KHALKHO, 5TH BATTALION THE BIHAR REGIMENT (POSTHUMOUS) ARMY 65. 4573316W NAIK RAJESH KUMAR, THE MAHAR REGIMENT / FIRST BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 66. 4576607F NAIK DEV DATT PAITOLA, 1 RASHTRIYA RIFLES BATTALION (MAHAR) ARMY 67. 5049952Y NAIK DEEPAK THAPA 14TH GORKHA RIFLES / 15TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA ARMY RIFLES 68. 5350960H NAIK YAM BAHADUR BUDHA, 4TH BATTALION THE 4TH GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 69. 9107622M NAIK DALJEET SINGH, 10TH BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT ARMY INFANTRY 70. 12954742N NAIK MOHD ASHRAF RATHER, 160 INFANTRY BATTALION (TERRITORIAL ARMY) ARMY (HOME & HEARTH) JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES / 41ST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) 71. 13624265A NAIK DINESH KUMAR HRANGKHAWL, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) 72. 13626834F NAIK INDERVESH, FIRST BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) ARMY 73. 13768609H NAIK RAMESH KUMAR, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES / 3RD BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES

38 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 74. 15334818M NAIK M SADIK, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / FIRST BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 75. 16020152L NAIK SHIKHER CHAUDHARY, THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES/ 9TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 76. 3005851Y LANCE NAIK RAJINDER KUMAR, THE RAJPUT REGIMENT / 44TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 77. 16014609L LANCE NAIK DHARMENDRA SINGH BHADORIYA, THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES / 9TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 78. 16016834Y LANCE NAIK SATENDRA SINGH, THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES / 9TH BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 79. 2815324W SEPOY WAKCHAURE MAYUR BHAGWAN, THE MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY / ARMY 41ST BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 80. 3008898P SEPOY SUNIT KUMAR, 3RD BATTALION THE RAJPUT REGIMENT ARMY 81. 3206908Y SEPOY SUNIL KUMAR, 20TH BATTALION THE JAT REGIMENT ARMY 82. 3210590K SEPOY SANDEEP KUMAR, 20TH BATTALION THE JAT REGIMENT ARMY 83. 4374793A SEPOY GHUKA K ZHIMO, THE ASSAM REGIMENT / 42ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 84. 4485875X SEPOY MANDEEP SINGH, 9TH BATTALION THE SIKH LIGHT INFANTRY ARMY (POSTHUMOUS) 85. 15190010K SEPOY THIRUMALAI K, THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY / 19THBATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 86. 20004133H SEPOY RAMAN KUMAR, THE DOGRA REGIMENT / 62ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES (POSTHUMOUS) 87. 5050918L RIFLEMAN DEV BAHADUR ROKAYA, 14TH BATTALION THE GORKHA RIFLES / ARMY 15TH BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 88. 9109177X RIFLEMAN NARESH KUMAR, 17TH BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT ARMY INFANTRY 89. 9116150H RIFLEMAN SALEEM MOHD, 17TH BATTALION THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR LIGHT ARMY INFANTRY 90. 13768969Y RIFLEMAN RAVI SINGH, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES / 3RD BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 91. 13777325A RIFLEMAN RAHUL KUMAR, THE JAMMU AND KASHMIR RIFLES/ 28TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 92. G/5002910F WAHENGBAM KULLA MEITEI, 16TH BATTALION THE ASSAM RIFLES ARMY 93. G/5004180A T WONGTOKIU, 16TH BATTALION THE ASSAM RIFLES ARMY 94. 15625017H GUARDSMAN NERSWN BASUMATARY, BRIGADE OF THE GUARDS / 21ST ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 95. 15625271M GUARDSMAN NITUL DAS, BRIGADE OF THE GUARDS / 21ST BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES 96. 15197040K GUNNER KISHOR KUMAR MUNNA, THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY / 278TH ARMY FIELD REGIMENT (POSTHUMOUS) 97. 15218926X GUNNER MANDIP SINGH, THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY / 30TH BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 98. 4091174K PARATROOPER ASHUTOSH SINGH, THE GARHWAL RIFLES / 4 VIKAS (SPECIAL GROUP) ARMY 99. 13629227N PARATROOPER GURWINDER SINGH, THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT / 31ST ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 100. 13629786X PARATROOPER MUKUT BIHARI MEENA, 3RD BATTALION THE PARACHUTE ARMY REGIMENT (SPECIAL FORCES) (POSTHUMOUS) 101. 16121135M SAPPER PRASHANT BAGEWADI, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 44TH ARMY BATTALION THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES 102. 18010719P SAPPER ATINDER PAL SINGH, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS / 3RD BATTALION ARMY THE RASHTRIYA RIFLES

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 39 103. 15506643H SOWAR KASHETTY SAGAR, THE ARMOURED CORPS / 22ND BATTALION THE ARMY RASHTRIYA RIFLES NAO SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. CDR T ANUP KUMAR (04356-Z) NAVY 2. CDR HARI GOVIND R (04387-W) NAVY 3. CDR VIJAY VARMA (04799-F) NAVY 4. LT CDR MANU MISHRA (06671-K) NAVY 5. AMIT, NAI (FD), NO. 233675-F NAVY 6. PRAMENDRA KUMAR, CPO (CD), 122271-R NAVY 7. LT CDR SHIRISH SHIVNATH PAVALE, (06242-K) NAVY VAYU SENA MEDAL (GALLANTRY) 1. WING COMMANDER BHUVANENDRAN NAIR PRASANTH (28068), ADMINISTRATION AIR FORCE 2. 779374 SERGEANT AMIT KUMAR JHA FLIGHT GUNNER AIR FORCE BAR TO SENA MEDAL (DEVOTION TO DUTY) 1. IC-41228L MAJOR GENERAL ATANU KUMAR PATTANAIK, SENA MEDAL, THE REGIMENT OF ARMY ARTILLERY 2. IC-41668Y MAJOR GENERAL ASHIM KOHLI, SENA MEDAL, THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY ARMY 3. IC-42542L MAJOR GENERAL MANOJ KUMAR MAGO, YSM, SM, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY ARMY 4. IC-50313P BRIGADIER MOHIT TRIVEDI, SM, THE GRENADIERS REGIMENT ARMY 5. IC-60971P COL MANISH MEHROTRA, SM, 20TH BATTALION THE PUNJAB REGIMENT ARMY SENA MEDAL (DEVOTION TO DUTY) 1. V-000391W LIEUTENANT GENERAL PAILOOR RAMACHANDRAN VENKATESH, THE ARMY REMOUNT VETERINARY 2. DR-10359P LIEUTENANT GENERAL SANJAY MONOHAR LONDHE, THE ARMY DENTAL CORPS ARMY 3. IC-39299N MAJOR GENERAL JOYDEEP BHATTI, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY ARMY 4. IC-39435Y MAJOR GENERAL SANJIV BAJAJ, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS ARMY 5. IC-39546W MAJOR GENERAL HARVIJAY SINGH, THE CORPS OF SIGNAL ARMY 6. IC-40699M MAJOR GENERAL KEMPARAJ SITARAM, VSM, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS ARMY 7. IC-41068W MAJOR GENERAL ANIL CHAUDHARY, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY ARMY 8. IC-41489Y MAJOR GENERAL RAJESH CHABA, THE MECHANISED INFANTRY ARMY 9. IC-42300H MAJOR GENERAL PN ANANTHANARAYANAN, 8TH GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 10. IC-42390P MAJOR GENERAL MADHAVAN UNNIKRISHNAN NAIR, THE CORPS OF SIGNALS ARMY 11. IC-50226F BRIGADIER AJAY KUMAR SINGH, THE SIKH REGIMENT / HEADQUARTER 70 ARMY INFANTRY BRIGADE 12. IC-43333A MAJOR GENERAL K NARAYANAN, THE MARATHA LIGHT INFANTRY ARMY 13. IC-43746K BRIGADIER ADOSH KUMAR, THE REGIMENT ARTILLERY ARMY 14. IC-44106M BRIGADIER NITIN RAM INDURKAR, THE MAHAR REGIMENT ARMY 15. IC-46148X BRIGADIER MANOJ KUMAR, VSM, THE REGIMENT OF ARTILLERY ARMY 16. IC-46701P BRIGADIER VAKAMULLA HARIHARAN, THE GARHWAL RIFLES ARMY 17. IC-47032N BRIGADIER PRATIK SHARMA, THE MADRAS REGIMENT ARMY 18. IC-47261Y BRIGADIER AMARDEEP SINGH AUJLA, VSM, THE RAJPUTANA RIFLES ARMY 19. IC-48703Y BRIGADIER SUNIL MISHRA, THE DOGRA RIFLES ARMY 20. IC-48978M BRIGADIER OM PRAKASH VAISHNAV, VSM, THE ARMY AIR DEFENCE ARMY 21. IC-49636L BRIGADIER CHARANJEEV MANJU, VSM, THE DOGRA REGIMENT ARMY 22. MR-05688F BRIGADIER NARENDRA KOTWAL, VSM, THE ARMY MEDICAL CORPS ARMY 23. IC-52159A COLONEL BD CHENGAPPA, THE ARMOURED CORPS ARMY 24. IC-52475Y COLONEL MANEESH JOSHI, THE SIKH LIGHT INFANTRY ARMY 25. IC-55861W COLONEL SURJEET KUMAR SINGH, THE INTELLIGENCE CORP ARMY 26. IC-57459L COLONEL MANEESH KUMAR DUBEY, THE ARMY AVIATION CORPS ARMY 27. IC-61374M COLONEL MOHIT SAH, 3RD BATTALION THE 8TH GORKHA RIFLES ARMY 28. MR-06075N COLONEL AMIT SHARMA, THE ARMY MEDICAL CORPS ARMY

40 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 29. IC-52619W LIEUTENANT COLONEL YOGENDRA SINGH CHAUHAN, THE CORPS OF ARMY ENGINEERS 30. IC-59517H LIEUTENANT COLONEL SHASHIKANT WAGHMODE, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS ARMY 31. IC-60622L LIEUTENANT COLONEL SAURABH AGRAWAL, THE CORPS OF SIGNALS ARMY 32. IC-72823W MAJOR SHIVSHANKAR DEEP S, 7TH BATTALION THE PARACHUTE REGIMENT ARMY 33. IC-60622L LIEUTENANT COLONEL MOHD MAJID KAMAL, THE CORPS ELECTRONICS AND ARMY MECHANICAL / ENGINEERS 34. JC-352438K SUBEDAR BHOSALE PANDURANG VITTHAL, THE CORPS OF ENGINEERS ARMY 35. 15588066L SAPPER/OPERATOR EXCAVATING MACHINERY AMANDEEP SINGH, THE CORPS ARMY OF ENGINEERS NAO SENA MEDAL (DEVOTION TO DUTY) 1. REAR ADMIRAL SURESH KUMAR GREWAL, VSM (02756-N) NAVY 2. COMMODORE SUBIR MUKHERJEE, (41401-T) NAVY 3. COMMODORE SUNIL KAUSHIK (41398-K) NAVY 4. COMMODORE P A ABDUL RAHIMAN SADIQ (51229-B) NAVY 5. COMMODORE MANDAPATI MURALI MOHAN RAJU (03614-N) NAVY 6. COMMODORE JASWINDER SINGH (03504-N) NAVY 7. CAPTAIN ASHWIN ARVIND (04266-W) NAVY 8. CAPTAIN DHARMENDRASINH J REVAR (03808-B) NAVY 9. CDR ABHILASH TOMY, KC (04988-K) NAVY VAYU SENA MEDAL (DEVOTION TO DUTY) 1. GROUP CAPTAIN ANJAN BHADRA (20731) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 2. GROUP CAPTAIN VIRENDRA SINGH MAHIDA (20981) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 3. GROUP CAPTAIN UDAYAN KUMAR (25640) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 4. GROUP CAPTAIN MADHAV RANGACHARI (24477) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 5. GROUP CAPTAIN SHANMUGAM RAMESH (25062) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 6. GROUP CAPTAIN DEBANJAN MANDAL (25066) FLYING PILOT AIR FORCE 7. GROUP CAPTAIN SAMEER PRADHAN (24236) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 8. GROUP CAPTAIN ARUN MAHADEVAN (25636) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 9. GROUP CAPTAIN ANUBHAV TRIPATHI (25637) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 10. GROUP CAPTAIN HARPREET SINGH LUTHRA (25821) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 11. GROUP CAPTAIN PREM ANAND (25842) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 12. WING COMMANDER JINNEHALLY PUTTUSWAMY RAJU (24031), FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 13. WING COMMANDER NITIN KUMAR MAL (25596) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE 14. SQUADRON LEADER HIMADRI BISWAS (29930) FLYING (PILOT) AIR FORCE Besides these, seven personnel from Army and others have also been awarded ‘Mention-in-Despatches’ by the Government, which include five for ‘Operation Rakshak’, and two Awards Approved in CH&AC Meeting. The President of India has also awarded President’s Tatrakshak Medal (PTM) and Tatrakshak Medal (TM) to the following Indian Coast Guard personnel for their act of conspicuous gallantry/ meritorious /distinguished service on the occasion of Republic Day 2019. President’s Tatrakshak Medal (Distinguished Service) 1 IG Paramesh Sivamani, TM (0244-D) Tatrakshak Medal (Gallantry) 1 Comdt (JG) MVN Abhishek Rao (0647-S) 2 Pinku Rana, Adh (R), 04783-W 3 Ankit Kumar, P/Nvk(QA), 06173-L Tatrakshak Medal (Meritorious Service) 1 DIG Homesh Kumar Sharma (5017-C) 2 Comdt Bhim Singh Kothari (0331-C) 3 Comdt Chaturvedula Vivekananda (0388-E) - PRO Defence

February 16-28, 2019 Sainik Samachar 41 PHOTOCALL

In a first for the IAF, the “OTTERS” squadron of Western Air Command undertook Parallel Taxi Track (PTT) Operations with a full women crew in the Dornier 228 aircraft. The pilots, Sqn Ldr Kamaljeet Kaur and her co-pilot Sqn Ldr Rakhi Bhandari carried out successful parallel taxi track landing and take-off operations at Sirsa. This achievement highlights the theme of Aero India 2019 to highlight the Achievements of Women in Aviation Sector.

Lt Cdrs Seema Rani Sharma & Ambica Hooda, the first women aircrew of Indian Navy were felicitated at Aero India show as women achievers in aviation. These women combatants are P 8i Mission Controllers and have distinction of being among the 1st combatants of Indian Armed Forces.

PV Sindhu, India's International Badminton Star became the first woman to fly in the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas at the 12th Aero India in Bengaluru.

42 Sainik Samachar February 16-28, 2019 True to the indomitable spirit of IAF, the Suryakirans dazzled again. The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team flies in ‘The Incomplete Diamond’ formation at Aero India 2019 as a tribute to Late Wg Cdr Sahil Gandhi who lost his life in an air-crash on February 19 while making a practice sortie for the Aero Show. R.N.I. Regd.No.800/57English SAINIK SAMACHAR16-28February2019 Published on16Posted19-20February2019 Postal Regd.No.DL(ND)11-6075/2018-20 Licenced topostwithoutpre-payment Licence No.U(C)-50/2018-20

pic: DPR Photo Divn