Indian Army News & Discussions

[RClarkTaylor]

On January 6, 2025, a tragic incident occurred in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, where nine individuals, including eight soldiers from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and a civilian driver, were killed in an Improvised Explosive Device (IED)blast orchestrated by Maoists. Here are the key details surrounding the event:

Key Details​

1. Incident Overview:
   • The attack took place when the soldiers were returning from an anti-Naxal operation in the Abujhmad region. The vehicle they were traveling in was blown up by an IED on the Kutru-Bedre road around 2:15 PM.
2. Casualties:
   • The fatalities included eight DRG jawans and one driver. This incident marks one of the deadliest attacks on security personnel in recent years.
3. Context of Operations:
   • The soldiers were reportedly involved in a joint operation across multiple districts, including Dantewada and Narayanpur, targeting Maoist hideouts. Earlier that day, security forces had engaged in combat with Maoists, resulting in the deaths of five rebels.
4. Response from Officials:
   • Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai condemned the attack, describing it as "heinous" and "tragic." He expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and assured that their sacrifices would not be forgotten. The Chief Minister also reiterated the government's commitment to eradicating Naxalism by March 2026.
5. Security Measures and Challenges:
   • Inspector General of Police for Bastar, Sundarraj Pattilingam, indicated that the IED blast targeted the jawans when they were most vulnerable after their operation. He emphasized ongoing efforts to combat Maoist influence in the region.
6. Historical Context:
   • This incident is part of a long-standing conflict between Indian security forces and Maoist insurgents, particularly in regions like Chhattisgarh, which are heavily affected by left-wing extremism.
7. Government Initiatives:
   • The central government has been implementing various strategies to counter Naxalism, including rehabilitation programs for former insurgents and community policing initiatives aimed at fostering trust between law enforcement and local populations.

Conclusion​

The IED blast in Bijapur underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in combating Maoist insurgency in India. As the government vows to intensify efforts against Naxalism, incidents like this highlight the risks involved for personnel engaged in operations within these conflict zones. The loss of life serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by security forces in maintaining peace and order in affected regions.

 

[Akbar26]

On January 15, 2025, the Indian Army celebrated its 77th Army Day in Pune, marking a historic occasion as it was the first time the parade was held outside Delhi. A significant highlight of the event was the showcase of robotic mules, also referred to as Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULEs), which are designed to enhance operational capabilities and reduce risks for soldiers.

Key Highlights​

1. Introduction of Robotic Mules:
   • The parade featured a platoon of eight advanced robotic mules, developed by AeroArc Pvt Ltd, a New Delhi-based company. These Quadrupedal Unmanned Ground Vehicles (Q-UGVs) are part of the Indian Army's modernization efforts and are intended for various roles, including surveillance, bomb disposal, and hazardous material handling.
2. Capabilities:
   • The robotic mules can operate autonomously or be controlled remotely. They are equipped with features that allow them to navigate difficult terrains, carry loads up to 12 kg, and perform tasks such as defusing explosives and gathering intelligence.
3. Significance of Army Day:
   • January 15 commemorates the appointment of General K M Cariappa as the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army in 1949. The day serves as a tribute to soldiers who have sacrificed their lives for the nation and highlights India's military autonomy and self-reliance.
4. Parade Features:
   • The event included various contingents from different regimental centers, showcasing advanced weaponry, combat vehicles, and performances emphasizing military excellence and innovation. This year’s parade also featured a "Know Your Army Mela" to promote public engagement with the military.
5. Future of Military Technology:
   • The introduction of robotic mules reflects a broader trend towards integrating advanced technology into military operations, aiming to improve efficiency and safety for personnel in challenging environments.

Conclusion​

The 2025 Army Day Parade in Pune not only celebrated India's military heritage but also showcased its commitment to embracing modern technology through the deployment of robotic mules. This innovative approach aims to enhance operational effectiveness while ensuring the safety of soldiers in various combat scenarios.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1879348390128910559

 

[HaiderAfan]

On January 22, 2025, the Indian Army conducted its annual firepower demonstration, Exercise TOPCHI, at the Devlali Field Firing Ranges in Nashik, Maharashtra. This event showcased the capabilities and modernization of the Indian Army's artillery regiment, emphasizing its commitment to operational readiness.

Key Highlights of Exercise TOPCHI​

1. Demonstration of Advanced Artillery Systems:
   • The exercise featured a live demonstration of various advanced artillery systems, including:
     • K-9 Vajra: A self-propelled gun system known for its speed and precision.
     • 155mm M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer: Notable for its high mobility and suitability for high-altitude operations.
     • 155mm Dhanush: An indigenous upgrade of the Bofors gun.
     • FH 77B02 (Bofors): A critical component of India's artillery arsenal.
2. Incorporation of Modern Technology:
   • The event showcased live demonstrations of advanced rocket systems like the Pinaka and Smerch, as well as cutting-edge unmanned aerial technologies, including swarm drones and loitering munitions. This highlights the Army's growing proficiency in integrating unmanned systems into modern warfare.
3. Focus on Self-Reliance:
   • Exercise TOPCHI underscored India's push towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), with an emphasis on using domestically developed systems. The inclusion of indigenous artillery like the Dhanush and Pinaka demonstrated a commitment to reducing dependence on foreign imports.
4. Operational Readiness:
   • The exercise served as a testament to the Indian Army's preparedness to meet contemporary security challenges. The successful integration of advanced technologies and indigenous defense systems reflects India's determination to strengthen its armed forces.
5. Historical Significance:
   • The Regiment of Artillery, which organized this exercise, is a crucial component of the Indian Army, providing massive firepower during ground operations. It has a rich history dating back to its origins in the British Indian Army.

Conclusion​

Exercise TOPCHI not only showcased the strength and adaptability of the Indian Army's artillery but also highlighted its commitment to modernization and self-reliance in defense production. As India continues to enhance its military capabilities, such exercises play a vital role in demonstrating operational readiness and technological advancement in the face of evolving security challenges.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1882097904955093060

 

[bloo]

https://twitter.com/x/status/1851146300244250680

Around Rs 2500 cr order for Ashwini LLTR and 2000 cr order for Atulya FCR will be placed in the next 3-4 months. Qrsam contract valued at Rs 25-30000 cr will be signed next year.Follow on orders for Mrsam will be placed by Indian Army.

 

[bloo]

Vehicle Mounted Infantry Mortar System being used in an Indian Army Exercise in Sikkim​

 

[bloo]

Aatmanirbhar Bharat: MoD inks Rs 6,900 crore contracts for 155mm/52 Calibre Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems & High Mobility Vehicle 6x6 Gun Towing Vehicles to enhance Indian Army’s operational readiness​

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2115365

 

[bloo]

Aatmanirbhar Bharat: MoD inks Rs 2,500 crore contracts for NAMIS Tracked version of anti-tank weapon platform & 5,000 Light Vehicles​

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2115804

 

[bloo]

Indigenous ATHM solutions.

https://twitter.com/x/status/1906370236225327192

 

[bloo]

India Orders 100 Additional ‘Thunder’ K9 Vajra To Modernize Its Artillery; Hanwha Signs $253M Deal With L&T​

By
Sumit Ahlawat
April 3, 2025

Hanwha Aerospace has signed a new USD 253 million contract with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) to supply components for 100 additional K9 Vajra-T self-propelled howitzers to the Indian Army.
The contract signing ceremony took place at the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in New Delhi, marking a significant milestone in the defense partnership between South Korea and India.
This second contract builds on the successful delivery of the initial 100 units ordered in 2017, which demonstrated exceptional performance across India’s diverse operational environments.
The new contract marks a significant advancement in the established production framework. While the first K9 Vajra-T program achieved over 50% local production, the new contract aims to increase this to 60% through expanded industrial cooperation.
“This follow-up order reflects the deepening defense partnership between Korea and India,” said Jae-il Son, CEO and President of Hanwha Aerospace. “We will continue to be a trusted, reliable partner for India’s defense capabilities in the years ahead, supporting India’s vision for defense manufacturing self-reliance.”
Earlier in December last year, the Indian Ministry of Defense (MoD) signed a contract with Larsen & Toubro Limited to procure 155 mm/52 caliber K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns for the Indian Army under the Buy (Indian) category at a total cost of Rs 7,628.70 crore.
“The procurement of K9 VAJRA-T will catalyze the artillery modernization and enhance the overall operational readiness of the Indian Army. This versatile artillery gun, with its cross-country mobility, will play a pivotal role in enhancing the firepower of the Indian Army, enabling deeper strike with precision,” the Indian MoD has said in a statement.
This project will generate employment of more than nine lakh man-days over a period of four years and encourage active participation of various Indian industries, including MSMEs.

K9 Vajra In The Indian Army​

The Indian Army is already operating 100 K9 VAJRA-T. The contract for the initial 100 K9 VAJRA-T was signed in 2017.
L&T had won the contract for the first batch of 100 K9 Vajra-T platforms through global competitive bidding and after a successful field evaluation. The Company delivered the Vajra Platforms ahead of schedule, with the delivery of the 100th K9 Vajra-T platform taking place in 2021.

File Image: K-9 Thunder used in India as K-9 Vajra
“Like the first batch, the second batch of the K9 Vajra-T too will be manufactured at our Armoured Systems Complex at Hazira in Gujarat,” said Mr Arun Ramchandani, Senior VP & Head – L&T Precision Engineering & Systems.
Notably, the new artillery systems will feature upgrades for high-altitude deployment, ensuring India’s readiness to counter challenges in regions like Ladakh.


These artillery guns were initially deployed in Rajasthan at the India-Pakistan border. However, following the India-China stand-off in the Ladakh sector in 2020, these guns were repurposed for operations in the Ladakh sector as well.
The K9 Vajra-T has proven its exceptional capabilities across India’s challenging terrains with its advanced 155mm/52-caliber gun system. The artillery system delivers precision fire at long range while maintaining a high rate of fire in burst mode and sustained operations.
These guns can fire up to six rounds per minute in burst mode and sustain a rate of fire of 2-3 rounds per minute over prolonged periods.
These artillery guns, a localized variant of Hanwha Aerospace’s globally celebrated K9 Thunder Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH), have a range of over 40 km and can launch projectiles at a speed of around 65 kilometers per hour.

Indian Army’s Artillery Modernization Drive​

The K9 Vajra-T artillery guns are an important part of the Indian Army’s artillery modernization drive. Under this drive, the Indian Army is integrating several 155 mm gun systems, including K-9 Vajra, Dhanush, and Sharang.
In addition, the Indian Army is in the process of inducting other 155 mm gun systems, such as the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Mounted Gun System (MGS), and Towed Gun System (TGS).
The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), a 155mm/52-caliber howitzer, is an Indigenous Indian artillery system developed by DRDO, with Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Forge as key development partners.

The Army has also ordered 114 Dhanush artillery guns, India’s first indigenously built artillery gun. These guns were manufactured by Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL), which was previously part of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB).
The first gun was inducted in April 2019, and the Army is expecting to receive all the guns by 2026.

The Dhanush towed howitzer at the Indian Army Aviation Corps and Air Defence Arty Joint Display Exercise. (file photo/Wikimedia Commons)
Additionally, India is investing in the Pinaka Multi-Rocket Launch Systems (MRLS). In February this year, India signed contracts worth Rs 10,147 crore for various ammunition for the Army’s Pinaka MRLS.
Pinaka Multiple Rocket Launch System (MRLS) has a range of 40 km for Mark-I and 60 to 75 kilometers for the Mark-II and Enhanced versions. The Guided Pinaka can strike targets beyond 75 km. Pinaka ER (Extended Range) has a range of 90 km. Work is on to enhance the range to 120 km and further to 300 km.

South Korea’s K9 Howitzer ​

The K9 has firmly established itself as one of the most sought-after pieces of military equipment on the international arms market.
The K9 Thunder is a 155mm/52 caliber self-propelled howitzer designed and produced by South Korea’s Hanwha Aerospace. It can carry up to 48 projectiles and is capable of launching six rounds per minute.
Since its debut in 1999, the K9 has evolved into a cornerstone of South Korea’s defense exports, making up more than half of global self-propelled howitzer orders. As of last year, over 1,400 units of the K9 have been delivered or are slated for export to various countries.

South Korea itself operates a large fleet of K9 howitzers, which are deployed along the heavily fortified demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating it from North Korea.
The K9’s ability to operate in the challenging mountainous terrain of the DMZ is a key feature, as it is equipped with an advanced hydropneumatic suspension that helps it navigate rough landscapes with ease.
The K9’s five-man crew operates in a fully enclosed environment, protected from nuclear, biological, and chemical threats, with 19mm steel armor providing defense against heavy machine-gun rounds and shrapnel.
Additionally, a .50 caliber machine gun mounted on the turret offers close defense and limited air defense capabilities.
The K9 Thunder is widely adopted around the world, with deliveries either completed or in progress to countries including Australia, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, India, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Turkey.

https://www.eurasiantimes.com/india...-its-ambitious-artillery-modernization-drive/