In Our Defence

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Inside India's biggest multi-nation air exercise Tarang Shakti | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 34 Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

The skies over Sulur came alive with the launch of Exercise Tarang Shakti, India’s first multinational air exercise, on August 6 in Tamil Nadu. This significant event, the largest of its kind in India, is taking place in two phases: the first in Sulur from August 6 to 14 and the second in Jodhpur from August 29 to September 14.
Ten countries, including Australia, France, Germany, and the USA, are participating with their aircraft, while 18 others are observing.
But what exactly is an air exercise? Why is a multinational air exercise important? And why Sulur?
Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor discuss how these exercises, designed to enhance coordination, teamwork, and operational readiness, are crucial in strengthening international relations and collective security. The participation of India’s Indigenous LCA Tejas, Mirage 2000, and Rafale jets highlights India’s defence capabilities, though delays have prevented the Tejas Mark 1A from being showcased.
The duo also answers how profound the impact of such exercises is on India’s global standing and diplomatic influence.
Listen in for an in-depth analysis!
Please tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996!
Revisit our episodes on:
Tejas:https://podcasts.indiatoday.in/politics-&-history/in-our-defence/america-to-blame-for-tejas-delay-in-our-defence-s02-ep-31-1052148-2024-07-18
HAL: https://podcasts.indiatoday.in/politics-&-history/in-our-defence/prachand-is-here-decoding-indias-light-combat-helicopter-mission-in-our-defence-s02-ep-27-1032522-2024-06-20
Produced by Anna Priydarshini
Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Kargil War 25 years later: Recalling the hits & misses | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 33 Aug 01, 2024

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It’s been 25 years since the Kargil war. We delve into the factors behind India's victory and the major intelligence failures that caused the conflict. The critical lapse was the intelligence oversight that allowed Pakistani forces to occupy high positions unchallenged, particularly due to inadequate surveillance during winter months.
We address pertinent questions: What major intelligence failures led to the Kargil War? How did young officers contribute to India's victory? What were the key recommendations of the Kargil Review Committee, and why were they not fully implemented? How can India improve its defence readiness based on lessons from the Kargil War?
Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor analyse these points through personal experiences, factual recounting, and evaluations of military strategies and institutional reforms. They also discuss the Indian Air Force's operations during Operation Safed Sagar, highlighting the challenges of high altitude and the adaptation of Mirage aircraft with imported munitions.
Listen in for an in-depth analysis!
Please tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996!
Produced by Anna Priydarshini
Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

INS Brahmaputra accident puts spotlight on Indian Navy's safety standards | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 32 Jul 25, 2024

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The Indian Navy’s INS Brahmaputra warship, docked at the Mumbai Dockyard for refitting, was overturned earlier this week under mysterious circumstances. What started with a fire on Sunday has led to significant damage and the disappearance of a sailor. With a Rear Admiral now probing the incident, what are the implications for the ship's future usability and the broader safety and maintenance of Indian naval vessels?
Salvaging the Brahmaputra is a challenging and costly endeavour. But such incidents aren't entirely new to the Indian Navy. Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor outline a history of significant accidents in the past two decades, especially between 2013 and 2014, when a series of mishaps led to the resignation of then-Navy Chief Admiral DK Joshi.
What challenges does the Navy face in maintaining assets in congested dockyard environments like Mumbai?
The duo also discuss other naval mishaps involving the INS Chakra and INS Arihant, highlighting the difficulties of maintaining and operating complex naval machinery, especially nuclear submarines.
Tune in as we review the Navy's safety record and the warship's future!
Please tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996!
Produced by Anna Priydarshini
Sound mix by Nitin Rawat

America to blame for Tejas delay? | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 31 Jul 18, 2024

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83 Tejas Mk-1A aircraft are awaiting American F404 engines, causing a 9-month delay and uncertainty over the indigenous fighter aircraft program. With rising concerns over delays, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) aims to deliver the first aircraft by August 15.
Tejas Mark 1A program is a pivotal project for the IAF.
But why the delay? Who is to blame?
Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor explain how these delays stem from production bottlenecks, certification issues, and a U.S. angle affecting the delivery of GE F404 engines—essential components for these jets. The hosts discuss the impact on the IAF, which urgently needs these jets due to its depleting squadron strength and the imminent phasing out of MiG 21 squadrons.
The duo also ponders whether "jugaad"—India's frugal innovation—suits defence, sharing when it's beneficial and when it falls short.
This and more in the 31st episode of In Our Defence.
Please tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996!
Produced by Anna Priydarshini
Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

Military Equipment To Conflicts: How India-Russia Friendship Has Endured Ups & Downs | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 30 Jul 11, 2024

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PM Modi was in Moscow this week, marking his first visit to Russia since the country invaded Ukraine in 2022. The hug between Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin caused a global stir, drawing particular ire from Western nations and Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into the relationship between India and Russia, analysing how it has evolved over various Indian administrations.
Looking at it more militarily, the defence duo answers why India heavily relies on Russian military equipment, detailing India's extensive inventory of Russian hardware, from Sukhoi jets and MiG series aircraft to T-90 and T-72 tanks. Russia’s cost-effective and reliable supplies have historically catered to India's defence needs.
What do Russia and India gain from this alliance? Is Russian military equipment the best choice for India? What are the challenges India faces in reducing its reliance on Russian arms? Has the Ukraine war exposed vulnerabilities in Russian equipment, prompting India to seek alternatives? ‘India realised this a long time ago,’ says Shiv. So, what does the future hold for the India-Russia defence relationship?
This and more in the 30th episode of In Our Defence.
Please tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996!
Produced by Anna Priydarshini
Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh
 

Indian Navy Rafale jet deal in sight | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 29 Jul 04, 2024

Show notes

India and France are negotiating a Rs 50,000-crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale M) fighter jets. If finalised, these aircraft will be deployed on the Indian Navy's aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya.
Why the Rafale M? The French Rafale M emerged as the frontrunner against its competitor, the American Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Why does the Navy need a new fighter jet? The Indian Navy’s current fleet, primarily composed of ageing Sukhoi jets, is becoming obsolete. This decline in capability is driving the urgent need for new, modern fighters.
But how does the Rafale M differ from the IAF’s Rafale? Interestingly, the Rafale M predates the Air Force version. Despite this, France completed the delivery of all 36 Rafale jets to the Indian Air Force in December 2022, following a Rs 59,000-crore deal signed in September 2016. Why didn't the Navy and Air Force consolidate their orders together? A joint deal could have potentially reduced post-purchase costs.
And why the repeated trials? If the government had already determined that the Rafale M was the best choice, why did they conduct another contest only to choose the same fighter jet again?
We tackle these tough questions and more. Tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996!
Produced by Anna Priydarshini
Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

How a deal for armoured vehicles from US threatens Make in India | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 28 Jun 27, 2024

Show notes

India and the United States are progressing in their discussions to collaboratively produce the latest generation of Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles (ICVs).
Initially, the project will involve a limited off-the-shelf acquisition of Strykers through the US Foreign Military Sales program. Subsequent phases will include joint production in India, culminating in the co-development of future versions.
Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor discuss the American Stryker combat vehicles deal and the ICVs' battlefield applications. They raise the larger question: Does India need this deal? With private players like Mahindra, Tata, or Ashok Leyland, couldn't India build something similar, given that the Stryker ICVs have few exemplary specifications? “I am not saying that India can do better than the Stryker right now, but we sure can get close,” says Shiv. They also explore how a deal for armoured vehicles from the US might threaten the 'Make in India' initiative.
Moreover, the Canadian aspect of the deal cannot be ignored amid the flared-up diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. How will this be factored in and pan out?
Tune in to know more!
Produced by Anna Priyadarshini
Sound mix by Nitin Rawat

'Prachand' is here: Decoding India's Light Combat Helicopter Mission | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 27 Jun 20, 2024

Show notes

This week, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited announced a significant development: the Defence Ministry has issued a Request for Proposal for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs) as part of the government's push to boost defence indigenisation. Of these, 90 will be allocated to the Indian Army and 66 to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Currently, 15 Prachands are in service with the IAF and 5 with the Indian Army. The LCH was formally named Prachand in October 2022.
What Makes the Prachand Special?
The Prachand, a marvel of modern engineering, is the world's only attack helicopter capable of landing and taking off at 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). This unique feature makes it ideal for high-altitude operations in challenging areas like the Siachen glacier and eastern Ladakh. Equipped with a range of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, it can neutralise enemy air defence operations.
In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor explore the significance of light combat helicopters, the history of the Prachand's development, and how it compares with the Boeing Apache, of which the IAF operates 22 and the Army 6.
The duo explores these key questions: Why do the Air Force and Army have separate combat helicopter divisions? Will the new acquisition reduce India's reliance on Western or foreign equipment? Can India achieve greater self-sufficiency in defence capabilities with these additions?
Tune in to find out!
Produced by Anna Priyadarshini
Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

How Jammu attacks are part of larger conspiracy to destablise region | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 26 Jun 13, 2024

Show notes

In just three days, Jammu & Kashmir has been struck by four terror attacks. A tragic incident in the Reasi district saw a bus carrying pilgrims from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra targeted, resulting in nine deaths and 41 injuries. The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility.
Further terror struck Doda and Kathua, where an attack claimed the life of a CRPF jawan and injured six security personnel. Another operation in Saida Sukhal village, Kathua, led to a civilian injury and the death of a terrorist. Most recently, a policeman was injured in a fresh encounter in Doda.
This week’s data is part of a disturbing pattern. In the months leading up to these attacks, deadly ambushes were reported in the volatile districts of Rajouri and Poonch, near the Line of Control.
In this episode of "In Our Defence," host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into these incidents, exploring the ground realities and regional complexities. They discuss the terrorists' weaponry, the reasons behind the region's persistent tension, and the larger strategy these attacks may be part of. This analysis is especially pertinent given the recent swearing-in of a new coalition government and the upcoming assembly elections, expected before September.
We also discuss the controversy surrounding the Union government's rare move to extend the tenure of Chief of the Army Staff Gen Manoj Pande by one month, debunking speculations of a ‘coup’ and stressing the ‘absurdity’ of such claims.
Finally, the duo also quickly examines the complexities surrounding Manipur.
Tune in!
Produced by Anna Priyadarshini
Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

Boeing in Turbulence: A Crash Course into the Aviation Giant's Crisis | In Our Defence, S02, Ep 25 May 23, 2024

Show notes

Recent months have seen Boeing, the world’s largest aerospace firm, embroiled in multiple safety concerns, accidents, and reputational crises. Why is Boeing under intense scrutiny? What critical issues is it facing?
In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into these pressing issues on their show, questioning the apparent decline of this once-revered company. What has led to Boeing's reputation plummeting to such lows?
A series of incidents have spotlighted Boeing's troubles. Recently, an Alaska Airline Boeing 737 MAX 9 made an emergency landing in Portland, Oregon, after a piece of the fuselage detached mid-flight. Similarly, an ANA Boeing 737-800 was forced to return to Japan when a cockpit window developed a crack midair. These incidents come on the heels of two devastating crashes involving Boeing 737 MAX jets five years ago, which killed 346 people and resulted in the grounding of all 737 MAX aircraft for nearly two years.
The troubles don’t end with technical failures. This year, two Boeing whistleblowers, Joshua Dean and John Barnett, died under mysterious circumstances, leading to suspicions of foul play. Their deaths have raised fears among other whistleblowers, with concerns that they might be intimidated or meet similar fates.
Who's to blame for these incidents? What actions are officials taking?
Besides, Boeing is a key supplier to India’s defence, providing crucial equipment like the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. India operates the largest fleet of C-17s outside the United States, essential for military airlift and humanitarian missions. What makes the C-17 Globemaster III impressive?
Tune in!
Meanwhile, binge on our favourite episodes so far, and send in your feedback to pods@indiatoday.com or WhatsApp us at +918588966996:
Deep Dive On India's Nuclear Submarines
How India Hit It Out Of The Park With Legendary Brahmos Cruise Missile
Israel-Hamas War: A Conflict With No Endgame?
Lakshadweep: From Tourism to Military Significance & Indian Navy 'Deep Water' Ambitions
China Threat Literally At Our Doorstep. Why India Should be Concerned
Is Iran Emerging Trouble-Maker-In-Chief And Are We In A 'World War'? 
Balakot Strike & Abhinandan's Return: The Tense Two Days Recalled
The LCA Tejas Saga: A Flight From Frustration To Fulfillment
Watch: Downfall: The Case Against Boeing
Produced by Anna Priyadarshini
Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

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