Brute Gorilla

Western Naval Command Celebrates Navy Day With Music, Operations And Colourful Pageantry

2011-12-04T19:46:00.001+05:30

The Western Naval Command celebrated 'NAVY DAY 2011' with a colourful pageantry which was an unique amalgam of several elements that exemplify the Indian Navy's ongoing effort to showcase India's rich military- maritime traditions and to seamlessly integrate the outgoing generation with the incoming one manifesting this year's theme of 'The Indian Navy – Safe Seas and secure coasts for a strong Nation'.
The ceremonies, held at the Gateway of India today 04 Dec 2011, was centred upon the globally – renowned Indian Navy Marching Band comprising of musicians drawn from across India. The Marine Commandos displayed their skills with their induction from a Seaking helicopter, undertaking an anti terrorist operation and extracting swiftly from the target area. No sooner had the Seaking helicopter extracted the commandos and cleared the area, the Marching contingent comprising of the Navy Band, Cadets of the Sea Cadet Corps (SCC) and Flag bearers carrying the Tri Colour, Naval Ensign, Flag of SCC, the Flag of the City of Mumbai (BMC) and the Flag of the Western Naval Command smartly entered the histrionic precincts of the Gateway of India and positioned themselves for a splendid performance that was to follow immediately after the arrival of the Chief Guest.

The Chief Guest, Shri. K Sankaranarayanan, HE the Governor of Maharashtra, was received by Vice Admiral DK Joshi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command. From then onwards for about an hour, it was a spectacular display of drills by the Navy Band, the cadets of SCC, helicopters of the Indian Navy, an armed Guard, and finally fireworks and illumination of Naval warships anchored off the Gateway.

The manoeuvres by the Navy Band became more sombre with Sunset when the Naval Ensign, fluttering atop the Gateway of India, was lowered with the Band playing 'Retreat', a modern innovation of a tradition to recall troops from the battlefield to their billeting - area. In quick succession, Naval Chetak and Seaking helicopters flew past the Gateway in Arrowhead formation with the lead helicopters displaying the Tricolour and Naval Ensign.

From the nearly forgotten annals of Maritime History, about 55 girl Cadets along with young Drummers and Flag Bearers of the SCC, brought forth one of the most traditional of Maritime Dances 'The Sailors' Hornpipe'. Emphasizing the Military underlay of the evening was the unique display of Silent Drill called 'Continuity Drill' by the Standing Guard of the Western Naval Command. The highlight of this drill was that it was performed without any orders. Another aspect that drew the attention of the spectators was the marching of the Guard Commander between the two columns of sailors were either passing their rifles or rotating them with fire at the bayonet end of the rifle.

This was followed by the 'Tattoo' - beating of drums within the billeting-area for ordering troops to their quarters. A similar display 'Light Tattoo: Drummers Call' was performed by a group of Drummers of the Navy Band - both with the spotlights on and also in the dark when lights were switched off, only to provide a blue taint to their performance. Bringing to an end the celebrations of Navy Day 2011 was the simultaneous illumination of warships anchored off the Gateway of India highlighting their silhouettes. Deviating from the past and the Navy's concern for preserving the environment, the traditional Fireworks display at the end of the Navy Day was done away with this year.

Navy Day in Kochi

2011-12-04T11:47:00.001+05:30

The Nation and Indian Navy celebrate Navy Day on fourth December which commemorates the audacious attack on Karachi harbor by Indian missile boats. Southern Naval Command will begin celebrations at day break when eminent citizens of Kochi led by Worshipful Mayor will join Vice Admiral KN Sushil, Flag Officer Commanding in Chief, Southern Naval Command in paying homage at the War Memorial at Naval Base. Other luminaries who are expected to join the solemn ceremony include Shri Dominic Presentation, MLA, Shri Hibi Eden, MLA, Shri Paul Antony, Chairman Cochin Port Trust, Shri Sheik Pareeth, District Collector, Ernakulam and Vice Admiral (Retd) Raman Prem Suthan, former Vice Chief of Naval Staff. Brigadier SK Khanna, Chief Engineer Navy, TK Sathish Chandran, DIG, Commander Coast Guard District No 4, representatives of Veteran Sailors Forum, and Ex Servicemen Associations are also expected to participate. On completion, a new memorial "On Eternal Watch" depicting the vigilant watch on the bridge of a warship is also being commissioned by Kunnath S Raju, the senior most Sailor of Southern Naval Command. The memorial will invoke with pride and resolve, the contributions of all past mariners in the growth of Indian Navy.

Ownership Status of BrahMos Aerospace LTD.

2011-11-26T11:03:00.001+05:30

Brahmos Aerospace Thiruvananthapuram Limited (BATL) is a subsidiary Company of BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL), New Delhi, which is a Joint Venture between India and Russia formed through Inter-Governmental Agreement with a majority shareholding of 50.5% by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), Government of India. This Company has exclusive task of design, development, production and sale of BrahMosSupersonic Cruise Missiles for our Armed Forces. BATL is managed by an Independent Board with members from BAPL, DRDO, ISRO, State Government and also with independent expert member.

BATL is presently manufacturing systems, components for DRDO, ISRO, BrahMos, HAL, BARC related with missiles including BrahMos systems, PSLV, GSLV, satellites and robotic arms. BA TL is manufacturing these components and systems as per orders received from the above Organizations.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Dr TN Seema in Rajya Sabha on 23 Nov.

kaveri Aero Engine Developed by DRDO

2011-11-26T11:02:00.001+05:30

Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is negotiating with M/s SNECMA, France for co-development and co-production of Kaveri Aero Engine for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk-II.

Indian Air Force (lAF) has been consulted at every stage and is part of negotiation for the co-development of Kaveri engine. The draft engine technical specification has been examined and cleared by IAF and has further suggested that the engine design should have minimal impact on the LCA, Tejas airframe for future retro-fitment.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Shri Nand Kumar Saiin Rajya Sabha on 23 Nov.

Procurement of 187 Light Utility Helicopter by India

2011-11-26T11:01:00.001+05:30

There is a proposal for procurement of 187 Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) under design and development project undertaken by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

The project was sanctioned by Government of India in February 2009.

The project is proceeding as per approved time lines.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Shri Moinul Hassanin Rajya Sabha on 23 Nov.

Decrease in Fragging Incidents in Indian Defence Forces

2011-11-26T10:59:00.001+05:30

The details of fragging (fratricide) cases in the Armed Forces for the last five years including the current year is as under:-

Year	Fragging (fratricide) case
2007	8
2008	4
2009	1
2010	2
2011 (up to November 15)	2

The possible causative factors for soldiers committing fragging (fratricide) are (i) stress/depression; (ii) domestic/personal problems; (iii) financial problems and (iv) marital discord.

The Government has taken several steps to prevent such incidents which include counseling, improvement in the quality of food and clothing, married accommodation, leave concessions, facilities for movement of troops from border areas, establishing a grievance redressal mechanism in States etc.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Shri PiyushGoyal in Rajya Sabha on 23 November.

Anti Piracy Ops by INS Sukanya

2011-11-11T20:57:00.001+05:30

Indian Naval Ship Sukanya, presently deployed on anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden under the operational control of the Western Naval Command, found herself once again in the thick of things, thwarting a multiple-boat piracy attack on 10 Nov 11.

The ship was escorting a group of five merchant vessels through the IRTC (Internationally Recognised Transit Corridor) when, at about 9:25 in the morning of 10^th Nov, she detected a group of five suspicious boats, speedily approaching the merchant vessels of her group. The warship immediately altered towards the suspicious vessels and challenged them. On seeing the resolve evident in the warship's action and probably mindful of the reputation for resolute action that the Indian Navy justly enjoys in such deployments, the pirate skiffs reversed course and tried to flee the area. While two of them managed to get away, the Sukanya successfully intercepted the remaining three and carried out well practiced and professionally executed boarding-and-search action.

The three boats had a total of 26 Somali crew onboard. During the operation, six AK 47 rifles, 12 Magazines and about 300 rounds of ammunition were found and confiscated. In addition, the boarding party also found a host of other equipment such as grapnels, ladders and rope-handling gloves all of which confirmed their piratical intent. The timely operation by Sukanya resulted, once again, in foiling the pirates' intention of attacking merchant vessels transiting this busy sea lane through which over a hundred Billion Dollars of India's external trade passes each year. This is the fifth successful anti-piracy operation conducted by Sukanya, in the course of her ongoing patrol mission in the Gulf of Aden, which commenced in September. The ship has, thus far, confiscated a total of 14 AK 47 Rifles, 31 Magazines and 923 rounds of ammunition, thereby ensuring that the Indian Navy retains its standing as a force not to be trifled with, and remains at the forefront of anti-piracy operations, as a critical component of the international effort to curb piracy and ensure the safety and freedom of seaborne trade, even in this highly risk-prone area.

5th SUCCESSFUL FLIGHT OF RUSTOM – 1

2011-11-11T20:56:00.001+05:30

Indigenously designed and developed RUSTOM-1 made 5th successful Flight this morning while flying at an altitude of 2300 ft AGL (above ground level) & at a speed 100 Knots during 25 minute of cruise near Hosur. It may be noted that this Medium Altitude Long Endurance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (MALE - UAV) is developed by DRDO with Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) Bangalore as the nodal laboratory. It had its maiden flight in 2010. Mr. PS Krishnan, Director, ADE said that the flight was successful as all the modifications done worked well and all the parameters were achieved by the UAV which was weighing 661Kg and the total performance was good. In specific the objective of testing modified lift off scheme, modified altitude and speed hold logics worked excellently well.

Indian Army has shown keen interest in this programme. This UAV has the potential military missions like Reconnaissance & Surveillance, Target Acquisition, Target Designation, Communications Relay, Battle Damage Assessment and Signal Intelligence.

This UAV can attain a maximum speed of 150 Knots, 22,000 ft of altitude and endurance of 12-15 Hours with an operating range of 250 Kms when fully developed.

Parliamentary panel asks MHA to deploy copters along Indo-Pak border

2011-11-06T16:10:00.000+05:30

UNI: A parliamentary panel has asked the Home Ministry to relocate helicopters stationed at Safdarjung airport in the Capital to ''strategic positions'' along the Indo-Pak border to meet exigencies.

Keeping in mind various facilities being provided to the forces, the Standing Committee on the Home Ministry, headed by senior BJP leader Venkaiah Naidu, has suggested that modern, fast moving and more efficient vehicles should be provided to troops for border guarding duties instead of the "slow" tractors which are mainly used for agricultural purposes.

The panel, which submitted its report to Vice-President Hamid Ansari on Thursday, also observed that no tangible progress was made on construction of Forward Command Posts despite the recommendation made in 2008.

Border Security Force (BSF), which is increasingly being deployed in the hinterland for counter-insurgency and anti-Naxal operations, may soon get more teeth for search, seizure and arrest as the panel gave the nod to a proposed legislation to this effect, opening the way for the government to get it passed in Parliament during the winter session.

If the teeth are added then the BSF - which is deployed along Indo-Pakistan and Indo-Bangladesh borders -- will be the third border guarding force with such a mandate.

At present, powers of search, seizure and arrest lie with Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), deployed along India-China border, and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) that is deployed along Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders.

Considering the increasing role of BSF in Naxal-infested areas, the government had in August introduced the Border Security Force (Amendment) Bill, 2011 that sought to widen the scope for deployment of the force in the hinterland for counter-insurgency and anti-Naxal operations, during election period or even in maintaining law and order situation "with additional power to search, seizure and arrest" which is otherwise not available to it.

At present, nearly 5,000 BSF personnel are deployed in anti-Naxal operations and they require state police personnel who have power of "search, seizure and arrest" to accompany them. The proposed legislation will provide them more flexibility and mobility in terms of operations.

"The proposed amendment, therefore, is in a way, an enabling provision for BSF which is already available to SSB and ITBP," the Rajya Sabha secretariat said after getting the report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Home Affairs over the bill. SSB and ITBP personnel are also deployed in Naxal-affected areas.

Mr Naidu said the panel adopted the bill without any changes and recommended for it being passed. The bill was sent to it after its introduction in Lok Sabha on August 19.

The committee, in a different report also presented to Dr Ansari on Thursday, recommended special allowances for BSF personnel deployed in "harsh" climatic conditions along the Indo-Pakistan border in Rajasthan and Gujarat.

The paramilitary force personnel presently get 'desert/remote area' allowance in various areas of Jammu and Kashmir and north-eastern states, but not in Gujarat and Rajasthan.

Indian Navy's Medical Mission at Lakshadweep Concludes

2011-11-04T12:58:00.000+05:30

The annual medical camp conducted by the Indian Navy at Lakshadweep Islands concluded today at Kadmat Island. A 27 member multi specialty medical team led by Surgeon Commodore Girish Gupta, Commanding Officer Indian Naval Hospital Ship (INHS) Sanjivani commenced the mission on 1^st November. Medical camps were conducted at the islands of Minicoy, Androth, and Amini in addition to Kadmat. INS Krishna and a Dornier aircraft from Southern Naval Command provided logistical support for the endeavor which is traditionally the opening event in the series of activities leading to the Navy Day on 4^th December.

Over 2000 islanders benefited from the camp which had specialists in pediatrics, radiology, ophthalmology, gynecology, psychiatry, dermatology, neonatology, dentistry, and medicine from INHS Sanjivani, the Naval hospital at Kochi. Surgeon Commodore Girish Gupta, Commanding Officer INHS Sanjivani while detailing the massive logistical evolution for the mission, said that the camp is a demonstration of the Navy's commitment for Lakshadweep Islands. He also expressed satisfaction at the enthusiastic response from the people. Naval doctors detected high levels of anemia among the population. The medical team also carried out midwifery training for the islanders in view of the relatively modest delivery care there and distance from mainland. A specific case of molar pregnancy was also managed by Naval doctors. Lectures on parenting, counseling, and basic hygiene were provided in addition to basic life support training using dummies. The Lakshadweep administration provided excellent support for the Navy team from mainland.

Picture Captions

Pix1 Surgeon Commodore Girish Gupta, Commanding Officer INHS Sanjivani presenting Basic Life Support training certificate to a volunteer

Pix2 A military nursing officer conducting basic life support training on a dummy.

Pix3- Pix5 Medical camp in progress.

India and Japan to step up Bilateral Military Exercises

2011-11-03T20:22:00.001+05:30

Maritime security, anti-piracy measures, freedom of navigation and maintaining the security of Sea Lanes of Communication to facilitate unhindered trade by the sea routes-are some of the issues that dominated the India-Japan Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo last night. The delegation level talks, led by the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony and his Japanese counterpart Mr Yasuo Ichikawa, recognized the importance of sea lanes and decided to ‘actively pursue consultations and cooperation in the field of maritime security both bilaterally and in association with all other countries in the region’.

The Indian delegation included the Defence Secretary Shri Shashi Kant Sharma, the Indian Ambassador to Japan, Shri Aloke Prasad, the Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral RK Dhowan and GoC-in-C, Central Command, Lt Gen VK Ahluwalia.

Speaking at the meeting, Shri Antony said, Maritime Security challenges are becoming increasingly complex and varied. Shri Antony said India has substantially increased its anti-piracy deployment in the East Arabian Sea since November 2010. He, however, felt that concerted efforts of the world community, under a UN mandate, are necessary to effectively address the problem.

Shri Antony said anti piracy efforts need to be supplemented by adoption of better security measures by the world maritime community. ‘There is a need to not only have a legal framework for prosecuting the pirates, but concerted efforts are also necessary to track the money-trail and to stop it from being channelized for funding terrorist activities, worldwide’, he said.

Shri Antony expressed happiness at the fact that both navies are exchanging escort schedules of their naval vessels deployed in the region to coordinate the anti-piracy efforts. He expressed the hope that the respective organizations from both sides viz MLIT and DG Shipping would be able to establish a mechanism to share the escort schedules with the merchant ships flagged with them.

Shri Antony said the other serious issue in maritime security concerns the freedom of navigation and maintaining the security of the Sea Lanes of Communication (SLOC) to facilitate unhindered trade by the sea routes. This is of vital importance to all countries which depend on maritime trade. ‘India supports freedom of Navigation in international waters and the rights of passage in accordance with accepted principles of international law, including the United Nations Convention of the Law of the Sea [UNCLOS]. These principles should be respected by all’, Shri Antony said.

The two sides exchanged views on regional and international security and decided to step up defence cooperation and exchanges between the two countries. Shri Antony said India-Japan defence cooperation is ‘geared towards peace and prosperity of the region and is transparent’.

Discussing specifics of exchanges and defence cooperation, the two sides expressed satisfaction at the planned activities based on agreed annual calendars. The Japanese Defence Minister will visit India early next year. Both sides will implement the Japan-India Defence Policy Dialogue in Tokyo, also early next year. Both sides will implement Staff Talks between the Japan Ground Self Defence Force (GSDF) and Indian Army in 2012. Staff Exchanges between Japan Air Defence Force (ASDF) and Indian Air Force will be held in 2012 and be developed to Staff Talks at the earliest date.

Both sides will carry out mutual visits of vessels and aircraft as appropriate and conduct bilateral exercise between the Japan Maritime Self- Defence Force (MSDF) and Indian Navy. In 2012, vessels of both sides will make mutual visits and MSDF aircraft will visit India. Bilateral exercise will be carried out on these occasions. The two sides will implement exchanges on peacekeeping operations including exchanges between International Peace Cooperation Training and Exercise Unit of the Central Readiness Force of GSDF and Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK), India. There will be cadet exchanges between the National Defense Academy of Japan (NDA) and the National Defense Academy of India (NDA). The two sides will also implement exchange of ideas aimed at concrete collaboration, such as joint training for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The two countries resolved to continue to make active contributions to the peace, stability and prosperity of Asia as a whole.

Buoyed by the outcome of the talks, Shri Antony expressed confidence that in the coming years the India-Japan defence cooperation will scale new heights. He was speaking at a banquet hosted by Mr Ichikawa later in the evening.

Earlier, on arrival at the Ministry of Defence Headquarters in Tokyo, Shri Antony laid a wreath at the Memorial Zone. He was also presented a guard of honour prior to the talks.

U.S. Military Seeks Stronger Ties with India

2011-11-03T19:43:00.001+05:30

By Jim Garamone
American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 3, 2011 - The bottom-line message of a report the Defense Department submitted to Congress this week is that the U.S.-India security relationship is strong and getting stronger, the deputy assistant secretary of defense for South and Southeast Asia said here yesterday.

Robert Scher briefed reporters on the U.S.-India Security Cooperation Report, submitted to Congress on Nov. 1.

President Barack Obama called the relationship between the United States and India one of the defining partnerships of the 21st century. "The U.S.-India relationship is a priority for the U.S. government and for the Department of Defense, because we believe that a strong bilateral partnership is in the United States' interests and benefits both of our countries," Scher said.

It is only in the past decade that the relationship has grown. During the Cold War, India led the nonaligned movement, but tilted toward Moscow. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Indian leaders rethought their strategy and moved toward the United States, Scher said.

Since 2004, "what was once a nascent relationship between unfamiliar nations has evolved into a real partnership between two of the pre-eminent powers in Asia," he added. "Today, U.S.-India defense ties are strong and growing. Our military-to-military engagement has increased steadily over the past 10 years, and now includes a robust slate of dialogues, military exercises, defense trade, personnel exchanges and armaments cooperation."

The deputy assistant secretary quickly pointed out that the security ties are just one facet of the overall relationship between the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy. "We believe that our engagements today will help as India takes on a greater leadership role in South Asia, the Indian Ocean region and globally, on a range of issues," he said.

Scher called the relationship between the two nations unique, and he stressed that the United States wants, "a partnership of equals, where India is enmeshed in the world as a key actor, and in regional security architectures, where we can and we do work together on shared interests."

The nine-page report highlights the positive trajectory of U.S.-India security cooperation, Scher said, emphasizing that the report focuses strictly on security cooperation.

"This by no means captures the entirety of the U.S.-India relationship," he told reporters. "For instance, although we don't mention it in the report, the U.S. Department of Defense does and will continue to support cooperation led by our interagency partners on issues such as countering weapons of mass destruction, to include nuclear security and nonproliferation, as well as cooperation on peacekeeping, space and counterterrorism."

The report details the breadth and depth of the U.S.-India exercise program and the extent of military-to-military contacts between the two nations. It also addresses operational cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and counterpiracy and other maritime security. "These are two of the areas where we see the most potential to advance our cooperation with India," Scher said.

The report highlights some military sales, including the recent sales of C-130J and C-17 aircraft to India.

"The report also discusses the importance of personnel exchanges, which is really one of our highest-priority issues," Scher said. "Our goal is to look for opportunities to enable further training and exchanges between our two defense establishments in order to increase exposure and familiarization of our service personnel to each other's countries. History has shown time and again the importance of these personal relationships."

The report touches on the way forward for the relationship, detailing a five-year plan to enhance bilateral security. The United States would like to improve and expand the relationship in four areas, Scher said: combined military exercises, defense trade and support for India's military modernization, cooperation in areas such as humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief and cooperation with other Asian partners.

"The goal across these areas of cooperation is not necessarily to do more, but rather to find ways to make our cooperation mutually beneficial and to broaden the already strong foundation of the defense relationship," he said.

Deputy Assistant Secretary Scher from the Pentagon provides insight into the Report to Congress on U.S.-India Security Cooperation

2011-11-03T09:17:00.000+05:30

PENTAGON PRESS SECRETARY GEORGE LITTLE:Good afternoon.

I'd like to welcome back to the Pentagon Briefing Room Deputy Assistant Secretary for South and Southeast Asia Bob Scher.He joins us today to provide insight into the Report to Congress on U.S.-India Security Cooperation, which was delivered to Congress yesterday.He'll make some opening comments and then take your questions.

With that, Bob, I'll turn it over to you.

BOB SCHER:Hi, and thank you all for coming out.

Yesterday DOD submitted a Report to Congress on the U.S.-India Security Cooperation in response to a request in the Senate report that accompanied the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2012.

So I'm going to give you an overview of the U.S.-India defense relations, and then I'm going to tell you about our approach to this report and from there discuss some of the details that you'll find in the report.

As President Obama has said, the relationship between the United States and India is one of the defining partnerships of the 21st Century.The U.S.-India relationship is a priority for the U.S. Government and for the Department of Defense because we believe that a strong bilateral partnership is in the United States' interests and benefits both of our countries.

In the past decade, there has been a rapid transformation in the U.S.-India defense relationship.What was once a nascent relationship between unfamiliar nations has evolved into a real partnership between two of the pre-eminent powers in Asia.Today, U.S.-India defense ties are strong and growing.Our military-to-military engagement has increased steadily over the past 10 years and now includes a robust slate of dialogues, military exercises, defense trade, personnel exchanges and armaments cooperation.

But defense is only one aspect of our overall strategic partnership.We believe that our engagements today will help as India takes on a greater leadership role in South Asia, the Indian Ocean region and globally, on a range of issues.But I'll say that efforts to put this relationship within a specific category inevitably fall short.This is a unique relationship.We seek a partnership of equals, where India is enmeshed in the world as a key actor, and in regional security architectures, where we can and we do work together on shared interests.

We will continue to focus on relationship building and establishing the foundation for this long-term partnership.We view India and the development of our strategic and security relationship as instrumental to our long-term vision for the region.

Now, I'd like to move on to some of the actual substance of the document and how we approached writing the report.

This report gives us a chance to showcase a relationship that we believe, as I've said, is very important to U.S. interests and a relationship that we're very proud of.We took this report as an opportunity to reflect on the positive trajectory of defense relations, which has led us to the strong state of U.S.-India security cooperation today.It is meant to be a straightforward, factual report about what we are currently doing and where we continue to cooperate together.

Over the past year, we've been working closely with our partners in the legislative branch to raise awareness about the importance of the U.S.-India defense relations.The legislative branch has played an important role, and it continues to have an important role to play in advancing U.S.-India relations.

And I've really been heartened by the bipartisan support for U.S.-India relations.This long-term partnership with India is an issue that clearly transcends party lines and administrations.And as we think about future U.S. security interests and posture in Asia, there is broad consensus that this is a key relationship.

I also want to emphasize that our report focuses strictly on security cooperation.It reflects DOD-led engagements and initiatives. ï¿½This by no means captures the entirety of the U.S.-India relationship. In fact, it just scratches the surface.

For instance, although we don't mention it in the report, the U.S. Department of Defense does and will continue to support cooperation led by our interagency partners on issues such as countering weapons of mass destruction to include nuclear security and nonproliferation, as well as cooperation on peacekeeping, space and counterterrorism.

We also deliberately excluded reference to direct commercial sales of military equipment, which is not under DOD's direct purview. And there are many positive examples of this kind of defense trade.

So now I will provide you with some highlights of the report. And of course, I encourage you to read the full text that was provided to Congress and is also available on our website.

So the report opens with an overview and assessment of the state of relations today, discussing the overarching arrangements and frameworks such as the 2005 New Framework and the Defense Policy Group, which governs the defense relationship. From there, the report outlines what I view as the strength of the defense relationship, the relations between our two militaries and the service-to-service cooperation.The report then goes on to detail our exercise program between each of the respective services and also addresses operational cooperation on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations and maritime security. These are two of the areas where we see the most potential to advance our cooperation with India.

We have also included some recent foreign military sales highlights, most notably the sale of the C-130J and C-17 aircraft. These types of sales demonstrate the United States is and, I believe, is seen as, a reliable defense supplier and partner of choice for the Indian Armed Services.

The report also discusses the importance of personnel exchanges, which is really one of our highest-priority issues.Our goal is to look for opportunities to enable further training and exchanges between our two defense establishments in order to increase exposure and familiarization of our service personnel to each other's countries.History has shown time and again the importance of these personal relationships.

But additionally, the report goes on to include a five-year plan for enhancing bilateral security cooperation and recommends that we further improve and expand the relationship in four areas:combined military exercises, defense trade and support for India's military modernization, cooperation in areas such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and cooperation with other Asian partners.

The goal across these areas of cooperation is not necessarily to do more but rather the find ways to make our cooperation mutually beneficial and to broaden the already strong foundation of the defense relationship.

So to sum up, I want to go back to what I said at the beginning of my remarks.The U.S.-India defense relationship is strong, and it continues to grow in meaningful ways that support the security interests of both countries.The United States is committed to this defense relationship with India, and I look forward to our continued cooperation with Congress to continue to further this relationship.

Thank you for your time, and I'm happy to take any questions or --

Q:Thank you.This is Lalit Jha from Press Trust of India. This is just a nine-page report.So is there any classified version of the report which you haven't got?

MR. SCHER:There is not.

Q:OK.And can you give us sense -- where do you place U.S.- India military relationship in the context of Asia, Asian- Pacific region, where China is emerging and -- (off mic) -- of China are threatened -- being threatened by their rise?

MR. SCHER:What I think is critical about this relationship is that we are forming a strong relationship with a key regional power in Asia and frankly a regional player globally.I think if you see all the interactions that we have with India writ large, this is -- India is clearly a country that we share a great set of common interests -- with which we share a great common set of interests and where we can take effective action together when we so choose.

So I think we really need to look at it in that context, as -- India as a regional and global leader and ensuring that we work together to address our common concerns.

Q:Yeah.I'm Yashwant Raj from Hindustan Times.And I go straight to the last point of your report, which if the F-35.Do you know if India has evinced interest?Because they're already working with the Russians on a fifth-generation aircraft.ï¿½

And are they still interested in F-35?And this would probably be the first firm offer from the U.S. of the F-35.

MR. SCHER:Well, I think what's clear is that the F-35 is something that we would be more than willing to talk to the government of India about should they request to find out more information about purchasing.We have made no assertions or promises, and we have not received any request for this.But certainly it's an example of the high regard that we hold India's military modernization, what we think they can usefully potentially use and, looking at technology exchange, that we could be able to proceed on.But in fact -- you know, and we're certainly open to that.ï¿½

Q:Where do you see -- if India does show interest in this, where do you see this fitting in?Because they're already working on a fifth-generation aircraft with the Russians.

MR. SCHER:It's not my job to figure out how it fits into their -- to the Government of India's approach.What we're simply saying is that if it does fit into their approach, we would welcome the opportunity to discuss this with them.

Q:What are you looking at, direct sale or participation as it is?

MR. SCHER:It's hard to -- you know, without a direct request, it's really hard to get into any of the details of this.And obviously, this is a process through the Foreign Military Sales program or direct commercial sale that is -- which, of course, direct -- it would be most likely through the Foreign Military Sales program, that's led by the State Department.But that's all conjecture at this point.It depends on if there's a request.

Q:Thank you.

MR. LITTLE: Next question.

Q:Thank you.Raghubir Goyal, India Globe and Asia Today.My question is two points. One, is there anything in the works between India and U.S. as far as defense treaty, any kind of -- to sign any kind of defense treaty, like India has had with the Soviet Union and with Russia?

Second, as far as defense ties are concerned, if this building has any concern about Chinese military buildup in the area?Because now there's a tension between India and China.

And you must have seen the report in Indian media, in India, by the think tanks that China is preparing to attack India just like -- (inaudible) -- Pakistan did in 1999.And now 50th anniversary of Chinese invasion of India is coming next month, 1962 to 2011.

MR. SCHER:On the first, we have no plans on creating a special defense treaty or any signed agreement.Most importantly, I don't think we need it.I think we've seen that there is a tremendous amount of cooperation that we can and continue to build on, that we can do with India minus any kind of formal agreement.

This is not an allied relationship.This is a relationship of equals, and that we're looking together to see how we can work together.And we don't really have any need or see any purpose in having, necessarily, a document that codifies this.We really are still emerging in this defense relationship.To some extent it has only started in 2005.And we're building slowly, gradually, but I think in clearly a positive direction to build closer ties and do more together.And that's really the measure of the relationship.

In terms of China's military buildup, you know, China's handled by someone else, but clearly, as we have stated many times in the past, we understand that China, as well as all countries within the region, are looking to modernize their militaries.What we are concerned more about is the transparency of these buildups.And it's something that we talk to the Chinese about and is obviously in our report.

Q: Bob, the $6 billion figure that you -- that you reference on page five of the report, the total case value over somewhat less than 10 years, that still doesn't seem like very much considering the size of India, the investment that India is making in its military modernization, and that the potential that is there.Are you -- is the U.S. a little disappointed in how the U.S. has fared so far in some of the competitions?

There's reference here to the setback of the latest round of bids in April, the results of that.

And the other thing is, how satisfied are you with the role that India is playing currently as a regional and global leader, and in cooperation with the U.S.?

MR. SCHER:Sure.I think the -- you have to really look at the $6 billion figure from where it started, which was zero.So over the course of a fairly short amount of time, I think we have a significant amount of purchases.And some of the largest purchases that we've seen -- the C-130J, the C-17 -- really do speak to the fact that, as I said, India sees the U.S. as a reliable defense supplier, and we have been able to provide some top of the line equipment.

Is there the potential for more?Certainly, there is.That's obviously for the Government of India to decide, and we look forward to continuing to be able to offer up some of our best technology, some of our best equipment, to fulfill their needs.Certainly, we believe that the two entries for the MMRCA competition were the best airplanes available, the most proven technology to deal with India's express needs.And we certainly would have liked for them to have continued to be in the competition.That was not the decision, and we certainly respect that.

We will continue to provide examples of our best technology and our best equipment to fulfill the needs that the Government of India and the military identify for themselves.And I think there's a great potential to do much more.

In terms of the role of India in the world, we're very pleased.

We really see India taking a larger role upon the world stage and understanding that they have a role as an emerging power and as a realized power and that they have a responsibility to be a part of the global community.And I think you see it in the U.N.You see it in the G-20.And this is a lot of the strategic partnership that President Obama and Prime Minister Singh have talked about is working together to address regional and global issues.

And certainly out of the field of defense, but if you look at cooperation in Africa, if you look at how -- where we are cooperating to deal with some development issues, if you look at peacekeeping operations and the tremendous commitment that India has made to international peacekeeping operations, you can't but be impressed and see that this is a constructive role that they're playing.And I think the potential for this is also quite great.And this is where we look forward to doing some of our best work together, is solving problems that confront the region and the globe.

Q: Do you anticipate more shared facilities, more access for U.S. forces in India?And then also, to what degree are U.S. export laws, controls, restrictions holding back the defense relationship?I know the former secretary of defense used to talk about that a lot.

MR. SCHER: Right now, to be very honest, I don't see that we are -- we are not looking for enhancing our access within India outside of the opportunities for exercises and training that we already do.I think we need to do more along these lines and work more closely with our Government of India counterparts in the services before we're looking at anything more than where we are in terms of gaining more access.

Certainly -- the key part of our posture in the Indian Ocean, in the Western Pacific is not just about access, but it's about how we work with countries, what we do and how we cooperate with them to serve our common interests.

And I think this is where we're really focusing with India right now.

Export control, certainly Secretary Gates was very forceful about his view, and I think Secretary Panetta shares those views, about the fact that the export control regime that was built up during the Cold War rarely serves our interests and cooperation with any country.And I think India is a good example of that.And certainly we are looking at continuing a broad reform of the export control regime.But independently, we are looking at what we can do within our systems to reflect the change in our approach, the change in our relationship with India to make sure that they can get access to some of our top technology and our best systems.ï¿½

And again, I think looking at the MMRCA competition -- which again, unfortunately, we didn't win -- but it showed an example of what we can do within our system to make sure that the best technology available is able to be transferred to India -- ensuring, of course, the important pieces of export control reform, which are protecting that technology for only its intended uses.And that's also something that we work together with India on, regardless of what technology we give them.

Q: Please, sir, Charlie Keyes, a clarification, on the $6 billion figure.Does that refer exclusively to sales under foreign military sales, or are there direct sales in addition to that?And what's the total?

MR. SCHER: It is absolutely just FMS, the Foreign Military Sales program.There are other sales that go through DCS.

Q: (Off mic.)

MR. SCHER: I'm not being cagey.

Since that is the State Department's purview, exclusively, then they -- you really have to go to the State Department for those figures. And I think -- and they should be able to get them for you.

Q: OK.(Inaudible.)

MR. SCHER: I don't know them.

Q: OK.That's too bad.And --

MR. SCHER: (Laughs.)

Q: And then --

MR. SCHER: We say that a lot.

Q: And then, in addition, considering the mistrust that exists between the government of the United States and Pakistan recently, and between Pakistan and India, how do you want Pakistan leaders to interpret what you've said out here and what you've said today about the increasing importance of the U.S.-India relationship?

MR. SCHER: I think there are a couple pieces.First of all, it's important that none of us think about relationships in this region as a zero-sum game.And it is -- we have valuable relationships with Pakistan and valuable relationship with India.And these things coexist and can coexist, and it is, as I said, not meant to be and shouldn't be seen as a zero-sum game.

The other piece of this is, I will say that there's nothing in this report that is -- that -- let me -- this report is valuable in terms of putting many things all in one place, but there is nothing new here.There is nothing that is not available or something that should be surprising to people who watch this.What is valuable about this report, I believe, is consolidating into one place and making it clear what we're doing and the context in which we're doing it.

MR. LITTLE: (Off mic.)

Q: Regarding the fighter jet selection, when India does select Eurofighter or Rafale, how would that affect the interoperability of the U.S. and Indian air forces?

MR. SCHER: Well, we certainly see that we have greater interoperability with other countries and better chances to shareexperiences and subject matter expertise when we are talking about the same equipment.

And so obviously, that's one of the reasons why we think -- and we believe that it's valuable to have, you know, similar equipment.

Having said that, we work with countries in Europe that possess these aircraft, and it is absolutely doable, something we are used to. And I think it is something that, should we choose to take actions together, will not impede our ability to operate together.

Q: On page four of this report, it mentions that there used to be a biannual Cope India exercise.And it sort of dropped off the face of the earth on October 2009.I was wondering, when is the -- when is the next one, and is there one planned?

MR. SCHER: We don't -- we can go -- I -- OK, we can get back to you.We -- obviously, I don't know.And -- but what I think is -- there are many exercises that we're looking at.And one of the key things is we are able to adapt exercises to what the needs are of the time.So while certainly we -- Cope India was a -- is a great exercise, and we look forward to figuring when we can do that again, I think we need to look at the breadth of exercises as well and understand that we are doing a lot with each of the services.But in terms of specifics, apparently we can get back -- OK, we will check with the Air Force.

Q: And if you don't mind, just wondering, a caveat on that is, wondering why did it stop in 2009?

MR. SCHER: I think -- again, we look at all -- the government of India and the U.S. Government look at all of these each time when we re-evaluate.And there are groups, actually, service-led groups that talk about engagement.And at any one time it may be for any number of reasons that this is not the -- you know, this year is not the best year to do this exercise again.And it really is a -- more of a functional issue, if you will, rather than a broad strategic issue.

The actual reason -- so again, the actual reason for this one, I can't tell you.But I would -- I would urge you to look at the broad range of things that we do do and continue to do with the -- with the Air Force.

Q: A quick follow-up on your comment about export controls and technology transfer.You said that within the current export control regime, you're looking at ways you can increase the level of technology transfer that you're doing with India.Can you give us some examples of what you're looking at?

MR. SCHER: I think where we've been able to make some very good progress, a great example of this is removing many of the entities, Indian entities from the entities list.So we now have a much greater opportunity and ability to do joint research and development with Defense Research -- DRDO, the Defense Research and -- (pause) --

STAFF: Development.

MR. SCHER:-- Development Organization.Thank you.I get good at acronyms and then forget.So, I mean, there are multiple labs under DRDO in India.

And this is just, I think, one example of where we were able to eliminate a previous barrier, because of core commitments that the government of India made in terms of protecting technology and signing up to certain regimesAnd we were able to really have now much more activity.And we even have, again, under the DPG context, working groups that focus on identifying areas where we can do more cooperation, technological cooperation.

Q: And is there something else coming up that's in the works? This is --

MR. SCHER:We are always looking.We're always looking at where we can appropriately and responsibly reduce barriers to greater cooperation with India.

Q: Nothing that's -- (inaudible)?

MR. SCHER: Nothing that bubbles up right now.

MR. LITTLE: We probably have time for one or two more questions.

Q: After the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack, there has been increased counterterrorism cooperation between India and the U.S.On the military front, do you see -- do you visualize any joint counterterrorism operations in the future if there is need?

MR. SCHER: I think we'll have to see how this cooperation emerges, recognizing, of course, that this cooperation is led in India with the Ministry of Home Affairs and on our side in the U.S. Government with the Department of State.

We in the Department of Defense have specific capabilities that we can certainly bring to bear and are happy to work with entities within the Government of India under the broad context of cooperation established by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Department of State.

Where this will go, I think it depends on our mutual interests, but certainly, it's an area -- terrorism is something that has affected both of our countries quite directly and something that -- where we clearly share an interest in ensuring that we can protect our citizens from terrorist operations.

MR. LITTLE:Last question.

Q: Sir, do you see any high-level visits, defense visits, from India?And second, are you giving any license to India to manufacture all these U.S. weapons, whatever you're supplying to India?I mean, India will have any license --

Q: (Inaudible) -- I have a related question (inaudible) he can answer -- one of the problems about defense combined production in India is I think the offsets clause of India insists on that part of the equipment should be sourced locally, and that has been a problem.How do you see that?How do you see -- how do you see U.S. tackling that problem?

MR. SCHER: In terms of high-level visits, we have -- I think if you were to look back, see that there's a regular slate of high-level visits, both military and ministry folks.Obviously, the key high- level visits are the -- are the ones between the president and prime minister.We have visits at that level.They will be meeting -- should be meeting later on -- hopefully, soon --

Q: (Off mic) -- the defense minister.

MR. SCHER: The defense minister -- you know, Secretary Gates went out to India January of 2011 -- '10 --

STAFF: Ten.

MR. SCHER:-- '10 -- has met with his counterpart at many different times, including at the ADMM-Plus meeting.

So -- and we are looking to try to get Secretary Panetta out to India in the not too distant future. I know -- I was traveling with Secretary Panetta recently, and I know how much -- how much importance he places on the U.S.-India relationship.And we are trying to find the right time for that to happen.

In terms of combined production and offsets issues, these are clearly very complex issues that we do have to address all the time. In terms of any sort of co-production agreements, those are clearly in the realm of the State Department, and they are looked at individually depending on the system that's -- you know, that's being talked about. But certainly, those are things that we are willing to explore with the Government of India.

The offsets requirements in India are quite substantial.And yet I think we've seen -- we've had very substantial sales, and the industry has managed to figure out a way to make these offsets work. And certainly, we understand the value that the Government of India places on offsets, on building up its indigenous defense industry. And that's something that we continue to work with India on to make sure that we can balance the offsets and ensure that we've fulfilled the requirements while simultaneously providing the best technology and the best equipment that we can.

MR. LITTLE: That's all the time for questions.Any final thoughts, Mr. Scher?

MR. SCHER: Well, I'm just -- I'm heartened to see how many people have read the report, and I look forward to continuing to work with many of you in talking about this really important relationship and the trajectory that we're on, the very positive trajectory that we're on.So thank you very much.

Q: Thank you.

Forge Strong Partnership, Antony’s Message to Armed Forces, Academia and Industry

2011-11-02T16:08:00.002+05:30

The Defence Minister AK Antony has called upon the Armed Forces to forge strong partnerships with the industry and the academia to secure the goals of national security. In a message read out in absentia at the inauguration of the two-day Defcom India-2011 Seminar on “Enabling ICT Infrastructure for Information Age Warfare” here today. Shri Antony said this partnership is vital to increase the technology threshold of our Defence Forces.

Inaugurating the seminar the Minister of State for Defence Dr. MM Pallam Raju stressed upon the various stakeholders to work in close concert with the armed forces to make our country strong and self-reliant. “National security is not the prerogative of the armed forces alone, it is essential that the best minds in the country contribute to this worthy cause. Indian industry, academia and Research and Development organizations can offer definite contribution towards this effort,” he said.

Pointing out that Information Superiority in today’s scenario directly translates into Combat Superiority, Dr Pallam Raju called for creating an extremely responsive and agile ICT infrastructure. He said that the greatest challenge for our armed forces is to transform to meet both current and future challenges in this uncertain world of the 21st century. “Having long relied upon military prowess and diplomatic skills to protect its interests on the seas, on land and in aerospace, our nation is now in conflict with stateless entities seeking hearts and minds, not merely land or treasure,” Dr Pallam Raju said.

In his address the Chief of Army Staff Gen VK Singh that the academia and the industry can help the armed forces leverage state-of-the-art technologies in executing dedicated ICT networks. “With the focus of the battlefield shifting to a Network Centric environment, it is imperative to augment our capabilities in the digital domain to maintain information superiority over our adversaries. Our information grid will be a potent force multiplier and will enable us to optimally use our weapon systems,” he said.

Pentagon willing to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation with India

2011-11-02T12:14:00.003+05:30

Pentagon has expressed willingness to enhance its co-operation with India in the fields of maritime security and counter-terrorism.

In a report submitted to the US Congress, Pentagon has identified maritime security and counter-terrorism co-operation as an important pillar of military to military co-operation between the two countries. It said,on the counter-terrorism front, the United States continues to focus on Al-Qaeda and other terrorist threats that emanate from South Asia.

The report said, for some of these groups, particularly Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), India remains the primary target. LeT’s activities continue to threaten US interests and South Asian regional stability also.

Therefore, US will continue to follow the guidance of its National Strategy for Counter-terrorism which calls for joining with key partners, like India, to share the burdens of common security goals.

The Pentagon said that the US Navy would like to work with the Indian Navy to improve capabilities to perform higher-end, operational missions in the Indian Ocean region as the strategic context dictates.

Big Scope for India-Italy Defence Industry Cooperation: Pallam Raju

2011-11-02T10:16:00.000+05:30

The Minister of State for Defence Dr. MM Pallam Raju has said that there is tremendous potential for defence cooperation with Italy. Addressing a roundtable on ‘Indo-Italian Defence Cooperation: Opportunities for Partnership and Co-Development’ here today, he said that with the reforms introduced in our Defence Offset Policy, the opportunities have grown manifold.

“Many Indian defence industries both in the public and private sector are having business interaction and cooperation with various Italian defence companies under FINMECCANICA and FINCANTIERI Groups. There is tremendous potential for enhancing the defence industry cooperation between the two sides, particularly in the context of defence offset policy, the scope of which has recently been increased to include “Civil Aviation” and “Internal Security” and “Training” within the ambit of defence products and services. This will give foreign OEMs wider range of opportunities for meeting their offset obligations,” he said.

Dr Pallam Raju said that there were huge opportunities available for defence industrial collaboration with India. He invited both domestic and foreign companies to forge new alliances and partnerships in the form of joint ventures for co-development and co-production in the defence sector.

“Our Defence Procurement Procedure is also being subjected to periodic review by the Government. The recent introduction of “Buy and Make (Indian)” category in the defence acquisition process has been designed to enhance participation by the Indian Industry for meeting our requirements for State-of-the-Art defence systems and platforms by getting into tie-ups with technology providers through mechanism of technology transfer and joint ventures,” said Dr Pallam Raju.

“Since the introduction of the offset clause in our Defence Procurement Procedures, offset contracts worth nearly Rs.15,000 crores (nearly 3.3 billion US dollars) have been concluded so far and, I am told, that the total value of the offset contracts which are in the pipeline is estimated to be over Rs.41,000 crores (nearly $10 bn)”, he added.

The minister said that the government had also laid stress on building on a strong indigenous industry base. “Recently, we have announced a Defence Production Policy which lays greater emphasis on self-reliance in defence. The Policy seeks to build up a strong indigenous industry base by proactively encouraging larger involvement of the Indian private sector. The policy also seeks to create an eco-system conducive for a private industry, particularly the Small and Medium Enterprises to play an active role in this expansion,” he said.

The Italian Minister for Economic Development Mr Paolo Romani and the Italian Ambassador to India Mr Giacomo Sanfelice di Monteforte also addressed the roundtable.

The two countries have signed an MOU on defence cooperation in November 1994, which was renewed in 2003. The eighth meeting of the India-Italy Joint Defence Committee was held in New Delhi in January last year.

MS Dhoni, Abhinav Bindra and Dr Deepak Rao Granted Honorary Rank in Territorial Army

2011-11-02T10:12:00.001+05:30

MS Dhoni, Abhinav Bindra and Dr Deepak Rao were pipped in by the Army Chief Gen VK Singh today, here. MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra have been commissioned as Honorary Lt Colonel and Dr Deepak Rao commissioned as a Honorary Major in the Territorial Army.

MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra have been bestowed the honour for their outstanding contribution in the field of sports and their commitment to the Army on various occasions. MS Dhoni has set an example by his unstinted hard work, discipline and supreme dedication. His leading the team from the front, remaining ultra cool in adversities, maintaining excellent physical standards, and giving all credit to his teammates, is very synonymous to the Army way of leadership.

Abhinav Bindra is youth icon and his qualities as a valiant fighter, dedication, hardwork, supreme concentration and perseverance are synonymous to an Army leader.

Deepak Rao is the first Indian to specialise in modern Close Quarter Battle Training (CQB) and has imparted his expertise for 17 years to train soldiers from various Indian forces. He has also been Instructor in Reflex Shooting and Deep Sea Diving. Despite his outstanding achievements he remains committed, selfless and has dedicated his life for Army as an organisation. For his yeomen service to the nation and specifically providing assistance to training of the Armed Forces in Close Quarter Battle, Advanced Commando Combat System and Combating Terrorism, Dr Rao has been bestowed with the honour.

All the three young honorary officers have always followed the ethos and culture of the Indian Army. By donning the Olive Greens, they will be an inspiration to many youngsters of our Nation. As Brand Ambassadors of the Indian Army, they will strengthen the citizen-soldier bonds. Col (Honorary) Anil Habbu, Lt Col (Honorary) Kapil Dev and Lt Col (Honorary) Mohanlal are the other Honorary officers of the Territorial Army.

Maritime History Seminar organised by Indian navy

2011-11-01T19:05:00.001+05:30

A two-day Maritime History Seminar is underway at the INHS Asvini Auditorium on 01 and 02 Nov. This is the 32^nd annual seminar being organized by the Maritime History Society (MHS) since its inception in 1978. This seminar focuses on the theme 'Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) – Past Aberrations, Present Predicaments, Future Implications'. Vice Admiral DK Joshi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command and Chairman, MHS delivered the inaugural address. Former Chief of Naval Staff Admiral (Retd) Arun Prakash delivered the keynote Address. In his Keynote address, Adm Arun Prakash highlighted various issues pertaining to the Freedom of the Seas.
A book on 'Maritime Heritage of Lakshadweep and Minicoy', by Prof B Arunachalam was released by Vice Admiral DK Joshi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command. This is the 14^th book in the series. Prof Arunachalam is a reputed academician who retired as Professor and Head of Department of Geography at the University of Mumbai in 1993.

Eight papers are being presented during the seminar on issues related to the EEZ namely UNCLOS and Associated Regulations, Maritime Boundaries/ Areas of Confrontation in the IOR with Special Reference to India, Security Considerations of Offshore Oil Assets on Western and Eastern Seaboard of India, Recent Trends in piracy in the EEZ / International Waters, Mapping, Survey and Hydrodynamics of our EEZ, Marine pollution, Living Marine Resources and Seabed Mapping / Mining. Prominent Historians and Academicians besides naval officers participated in the seminar, Prof B Arunachalam, Admiral (Retd) JG Nadkani, Admiral (Retd) Vishnu Bhagawat, Vice Admiral (Retd) MP Awati Chaired and moderated some of the sessions. Commander (Retd) Mohan Narayan, Curator MHS, welcomed the gathering.

PHOTO CAPTIONS

1. Admiral Arun Prakash (Retd), Former Chief of Naval Staff delivering the Keynote address at Maritime History Seminar held at INHS Asvini Auditorium, Mumbai today.

2. Vice Admiral DK Joshi, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Naval Command and Chairman, Maritime History Society releasing a book on 'Maritime Heritage of Lakshadweep and Minicoy' at Maritime History Seminar at the INHS Asvini Auditorium, Mumbai today.

Parade and Pulling out Ceremony : Coast Guard

2011-10-29T15:41:00.000+05:30

Two photographs regarding Ceremonial Parade and Pulling Out Ceremony in respect of relinquishment of the Command of the Indian Coast Guard by Vice Admiral Anil Chopra, AVSM a

DRDO Hosts International Symposium on “Recent Trends in Neurosciences”

2011-10-29T13:23:00.000+05:30

Over 400 neuro scientists from India and abroad will deliberate on latest advances in the field of neurosciences in an International Symposium on “Recent Trends in Neurosciences”. The event will be inaugurated by eminent DRDO scientist Dr. W. Selvamurthy, Distinguished Scientist & Chief Controller Research & Development (Life Sciences & International Cooperation) at 1800 hrs on Sunday , the 30th October, 2011 at Bhagavantham Auditorium, Metcalfe House, Delhi – 110054. The three-day conference will continue on 31st October & 01st November, 2011 at Paintal Memorial Hall, Vallabhbhai Patel, Chest Research Institute, Delhi University, Delhi-07. Topics such as neurodegeration and neuroprotection; herbal and antioxidant therapies for neuroprotection; neurobiology of aging and memory; natural solutions to brain dysfunctions and many others will be discussed (please see copy of program) during the conference. The topics address key issues on improvement of “health care” and “human performance”.

Understanding the biochemical and biophysical properties of nerve cells have led to fundamental insights into an important aspect of cognition and memory. However, with every new discovery on the brain we realize how little we know about this pulsating mass of neurons, thus leaving an unending scope for future research. In this context, conference will surely provide a unique platform for the neuroscientists in India and abroad to deliberate, discuss and collaborate in areas of mutual research interests.

Neurophysiological changes under stressful environmental conditions have been one of the thrust areas of DIPAS, as the troops in India are exposed to variety of extreme environmental situations. The lab has been working to elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in modulation of neurotransmitters under stressful environment with special reference to behavior and sleep deprivation. As countermeasures, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions are being explored to improve the cognitive functioning of soldiers deputed at high altitudes and pilots on long haul flights. Improving sleep quality at high altitudes is another challenging area. Thus, the conference will also highlight the achievements and initiatives taken by DRDO in this area.

The conference will be attended by many eminent personalities in the field such as Dr. Devika Nag, Emeritus Professor Neurology, CSMMU, Lucknow; Dr. Subrata Sinha, Director, NBRC; Dr. Manas Mandal, Director, DIPR; Prof. Raj Mehra, AIIMS, Delhi; Dr. T.R. Raju, NIMHANS, Bangalore and over 25 foreign delegates from countries like Australia, Japan, The Netherlands, Singapore and USA. A unique feature of this conference will be a special interactive session for school students. In this session, students of 10+2 level from Delhi schools will come face to face with eminent neuroscientists and will get an exposure to the mysteries of brain and its functioning. The session is aimed to ignite the young minds creating interest in the field and encourage them to pursue career in neurobiology. Dr. (Mrs.) Shashi Bala Singh, Sc ‘G’ & Director, Defence Institute of Physiology & Allied Sciences (DIPAS) is the Organizing Secretary of the event.

Antony to Visit Japan Next Week

2011-10-29T13:20:00.001+05:30

Regional and global security scenario, maritime security, piracy in the gulf of Aden and co-operation in the filed of humanitarian assistance and terrorism are some of the issues which will figure prominently during the talks that the Defence Minister Shri AK Antony will hold with his Japanese counterpart Mr Yasho Jchikawa during his one day visit to Japan on Wednesday, Nov 02, 2011.

Both sides will also discuss co-operation between the Armed Forces of both countries in the fields of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, training and co-operation in UN Peacekeeping operations and other bilateral exchanges. Co-operation through regional/multilateral for a like the Asean Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM+) will also be discussed.

A high level delegation including the Defence Secretary Shri Shashikant Sharma, the Vice Chief of Naval Staff Vice Admiral RK Dhowan and GoC-in-C, Central Command, Lt Gen VK Ahluwalia will accompany Shri Antony. This visit of Shri Antony is in reciprocation to the Japanese Defence Minister’s visit to India in April 2010.

Japanese Navy Ships call at Kochi

2011-10-29T13:20:00.000+05:30

JDS Takanami and JDS Ohnami two destroyers of Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF), called at Kochi for a brief stopover on their way for anti piracy deployment in the Gulf of Aden. Captain Takaki Mizuma Commander Escort Division Six is the Senior Officer embarked. INS Nireekshak from Southern Naval Command welcomed the visiting ships at the entrance to Kochi harbor. Officials from Southern Naval Command along with the Southern Naval Command band attended the reception arranged for the ships at their berth in Kochi harbor.

Colonel Nobutaka Mikasa the Defence Attache of Japan to India and the consulate officials from Chennai has also arrived to welcome the ship. The Commander Escort Division Six and other senior members of the delegation called on Rear Admiral Sudarshan Shrikhande, Chief of Staff Southern Naval Command. Mutual visits between the two Navies and professional exchanges on topics of mutual interest were conducted during the day. The ships will depart tomorrow.

Picture Captions

Pix1 JDS Takanami coming alongside at Kochi

Pix2 Rear Admiral Sudarshan Shrikhande and Captain Takaki Mizuma Commander Escort Division Six exchanging mementos.

Pranay Sahay Appointed DG, SSB

2011-10-29T12:30:00.003+05:30

The competent authority has approved the appointment of Shri Pranay Sahay, IPS (MT:75), presently Secretary (Security) Cabinet Secretariat, as Director General Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in the scale of pay of Rs 80,000/- (fixed). The appointment will take effect from the date of assumption of charge of the post vice Shri Y.S. Dadwal, IPS (AGMU:74) who retires on superannuation on 31.10.2011) and till his superannuation on 31.07.2013 or until further orders. Whichever event takes place earlier.

Replica of INS Kadmatt

2011-10-26T13:17:00.000+05:30

The vessel is 109 metres long, 12.8 metres wide and can achieve a speed of 25 knots. Named after an island in Lakshadweep, the ship can accommodate 17 officers, 106 sailors and will also carry a helicopter onboard.

DCNS: Gowind OPV L’Adroit made available to French Navy

2011-10-24T16:54:00.000+05:30

Less than two years after construction began, the Gowind offshore patrol vessel L'Adroit, an innovative maritime safety & security platform, has been made available to the French Navy. Built by DCNS under a self-funded programme, the ship incorporates a number of major technological innovations and will now have a chance to demonstrate its operational value on French Navy missions all over the world.

The Gowind OPV L'Adroit was officially made available to the French Navy on 21 October at a ceremony attended by Bernard Huet, Executive Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of DCNS, and Vice Admiral Xavier Magne, commander of France's naval action force (FAN). The ship will be under the command of Captain Loïc Guyot and remains the property of DCNS.

"The Gowind OPV L'Adroit is emblematic of DCNS's ambitious growth strategy on the international market for small- and medium-displacement naval vessels," said Bernard Huet, Executive Vice President and Deputy Managing Director of DCNS. "DCNS is intent on developing an effective response to the world's maritime safety & security needs as the threat environment grows more complex. Our partnership with a world-class naval force is an opportunity to demonstrate the many strengths of this ship. The endorsement of the French Navy will also help to promote Gowind in international markets as a needs-responsive range of naval vessels with real operational value."

With two French Navy crews rotating every four months, L'Adroit will offer a high level of at-sea availability, spending 220 days a year on operational missions.

Over the next three years, the French Navy will be thoroughly testing the new ship and its advanced equipment and systems: UAV, commando boat launch ramps, panoramic bridge and single enclosed mast for 360° visibility, teleconferencing facilities, long-range acoustic devices, etc. With these high-tech systems, the ship is ideally equipped for current and emerging maritime safety & security missions, including fisheries surveillance, counter-piracy, drug interdiction, environmental protection, humanitarian aid, and search & rescue.

The operation is a further demonstration of DCNS's ability to design and build a particularly innovative ship on a tight schedule – less than two years – and strictly on budget.

The innovative Gowind OPV L'Adroit

With a length of 87 metres, OPV L'Adroit offers three weeks' blue-water endurance, a range of 8,000 nautical miles, a top speed of 21 knots and a helicopter/UAV flight deck. The design also features full provision for reduced crewing by a complement of 30 and space for 30 passengers.

Innovations and capabilities of special interest to ship-based naval, commando and coast guard forces include a panoramic bridge offering 360° visibility, a single enclosed mast offering 360° sensor visibility, covert deployment of fast commando boats in less than five minutes, and full provision for unmanned aerial and surface vehicles (UAVs and USVs). The Gowind family also benefits from DCNS's extensive experience in IT and command information systems. These vessels can be readily tailored for extended area surveillance and, when working in conjunction with shore-based control centres and other networked ships, for the automatic detection of suspicious behaviour by ships and other craft.