Updated Dec 27, 2020 | 09:03 IST
The arrival of more Rafale fighter aircraft will further boost the IAF’s capability to rapidly deploy the advanced jets amid the military standoff with China in Ladakh. Rafale fighter aircraft | Photo Credit: PTI
Key Highlights
At least three more Rafale fighter jets to arrive in January 2021; will boost IAF s capability
The planes will be flown to Jamnagar from France without a stopover on the way, says an official
New Delhi: In a big boost for the Indian Air Force, at least three more French Rafale multi-combat fighter jets are expected to arrive in India next month.
The debate around a third aircraft essentially arises from the monumental cost outlay required to build one. India s INS Vikramaditya aircraft carrier. | Photo Credit: PTI
Key Highlights
The third aircraft carrier, INS Vishal, still to be approved, may cost up to $8 billion and is likely to take 14 years to build
Some, including officers from the Navy itself, have contended that the naval defence budget may be better spent in modernising India s submarine fleet
In recent years, the Indian Navy has also been the victim of falling budgets
A third aircraft carrier is an “operational necessity” said Navy Chief Admiral Karmabir Singh reviving the discussion within India s defence establishment over whether the in-operation INS Vikramaditya and the INS Vikrant (currently undergoing sea trials) needs a partner to expand the Navy s force projection in the Indian Ocean. The Navy chief s words are a reiteration of a similar call he made earlier this month
Daily Briefing: Farmers’ protest, Muzaffarnagar riots, DDC polls and more
From two Covid-positive passengers from the UK going missing at Delhi airport, to the new Kisan Mall at Tikri border catering to the basic needs of agitating farmers, Here are today s top stories. December 24, 2020 8:46:09 am
Express Cartoon by EP Unny.
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Big story
Even as no immediate solution is in sight to break the deadlock over the farm laws, what is clear is that the farmers and the Government are open to talks. However, each side has a caveat of their own for coming to the negotiating table. The farmer unions are looking for a
‘Operational necessity’: Navy makes strong pitch as debate over third aircraft carrier revives
Addressing reporters on December 3, Admiral Karambir Singh said the force “does not want to be a Navy tethered to the shore” and “air power at sea is absolutely required”. Updated: December 24, 2020 7:53:28 am
India currently has one operational aircraft carrier,
INS Vikramaditya (above), while a second carrier is being constructed at Cochin Shipyard. (File)
A third aircraft carrier is an “operational necessity” for the Navy, a top officer from the force told The Indian Express, days after Navy Chief Admiral Karambir Singh stressed on the importance of aircraft carriers at the Navy Day press conference. The Navy Chief’s views revived the discussion among the forces on whether India needs a third aircraft carrier – apart from INS Vikramaditya and the under-construction Indigenous Aircraft Carrier 1 (IAC 1).
Updated Dec 23, 2020 | 14:58 IST
India and China have been engaged in a longstanding impasse along the LAC in eastern Ladakh since May. Indian Army Chief MM Naravane in Leh (@adgpi) | Photo Credit: Twitter
Ladakh: Amid continued tensions at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) between India and China, Indian Army Chief MM Naravane on Wednesday visited the forward areas including Rechin La and interacted with the soldiers of Fire and Fury Corps. His visit was aimed at reviewing India s overall military preparedness as the tense border standoff with China’s People’s Liberation Army.
It may be noted that Lieutenant General PGK Menon in October took over as the new commander of the Leh-based 14 Corps. The Chief of Army Staff was received by LT Gen Menon and other Army officers at an airbase in Leh.