Category: Defense

On Friday, the Pakistan Army claimed that India violated the Line of Control (LoC) 25 times last year. During a year-end press conference, Army spokesman Lt Gen Ahmad Sharif Chaudhry said India has been aggressive and warned that Pakistan would respond quickly if India attacks. However, he did not provide specific details to back up his claims.

Chaudhry reported that in 2024, Pakistani security forces killed around 925 terrorists but lost 383 of their own soldiers in almost 60,000 operations. Most of these operations are taking place in the regions of Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where the military is fighting against insurgents.

The spokesman alleged that India also conducts “false flag operations,” which means they perform fake military actions to blame the other side. He said these operations are often promoted on social media by accounts linked to RAW, India’s intelligence agency. Chaudhry added that the Pakistani military is capable of responding strongly to any Indian attack.

He also accused India of using harsh methods to control independence movements, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. On the other side, India has accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism in its territory.

Chaudhry further claimed that the Indian government is targeting minorities, including Sikhs, both in India and abroad. He stated that this year saw the highest number of terrorists killed in the last five years and that security forces are conducting about 170 operations daily to prevent terrorist activities.

Additionally, 73 important terrorists were killed, including 27 from Afghanistan, while another 14 surrendered. He also criticized the Afghan Taliban for supporting terrorist groups like Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and urged Afghan leaders to stop these terrorists from using their country as a base.

Since September 2023, Pakistan has expelled 815,000 illegal Afghan migrants and is working on a plan to control border crossings better. Chaudhry mentioned that discussions with Afghanistan are happening both directly and with the help of other countries.

In his remarks, he indirectly blamed former Prime Minister Imran Khan for the recent rise in militancy, saying the country is suffering because of past discussions with rebels and the resettlem

2024 has been a crucial year for India’s defence industry, showcasing the country’s dedication to becoming self-reliant and modernising its military. There have been major achievements in military technology and important deals that strengthen India’s defence capabilities.

Key Achievements:

– Predator Drone Deal with the USA: India agreed to buy 31 MQ-9B Predator drones from the US for ₹32,000 crores. These powerful drones can fly high and long, helping India keep an eye on its borders. The Navy will get 15 drones, while the Army and Air Force will each receive eight. The deal also includes setting up a facility in India to maintain these drones.

– Tata-Airbus C-295 Factory: In October, India opened its first private factory for military aircraft in Vadodara. Prime Minister Modi and Spain’s Prime Minister launched the Tata-Airbus project, which plans to make 40 C-295 aircraft locally. These planes will serve multiple purposes like medical evacuations and disaster relief.

– Defence Projects Approved: In December, India approved new defence projects worth ₹21,772 crores to enhance security. This includes new fast attack crafts for the Navy and advanced equipment for fighter jets.

– New Technology Group for the Army: The Indian Army formed a new group called STEAG to explore modern technologies like AI and 5G for military purposes.

– Indigenous Gun: Asmi Machine Pistol: The Indian Army received 550 domestically made Asmi machine pistols for close combat, designed to be used easily with one hand.

– Major Deal with Russia: India is close to a $4 billion deal with Russia for advanced Voronezh radar systems, which will greatly improve India’s air defence.

– Future Plans: India plans to buy 26 Rafale-M jets and construct two nuclear submarines to boost its naval power.

– Rising Defence Exports: India’s defence exports reached ₹6,915 crores in the first three months of the financial year. Collaborations with international companies are enhancing India’s role in the global defence industry.

Overall, these efforts highlight India’s commitment to building a strong and self-reliant defence system for the future.

At least 10 people have died, including five journalists, and many more were hurt in Israeli airstrikes on Gaza early Thursday morning, according to health officials in Gaza.

In one attack, five people were killed, and around 20 were injured when an Israeli airstrike hit a house in the Zeitoun neighborhood of Gaza City. Health workers are worried that the death toll could increase because some people are still stuck under the rubble.

In a different incident, five journalists died when their vehicle was hit near the Al-Awda hospital in Nuseirat, central Gaza. The journalists worked for the Al-Quds Al-Youm television channel. Local media said the vehicle clearly identified as a media van was being used to cover events around the hospital and nearby camp.

The Israeli army mentioned that their air force targeted the vehicle because they believed members of the Islamic Jihad militant group were inside it.

On Wednesday, both Hamas and Israel blamed each other for not reaching a ceasefire agreement, even though there had been signs of progress in recent days. Since October 7, 2023, more than 45,361 Palestinians have been reported killed in Israel’s military operations in Gaza, according to the Gaza health ministry.

On Wednesday, Hamas and Israel blamed each other for not reaching a ceasefire deal, even though they had made some progress in talks. Hamas claimed Israel added new demands about withdrawing troops, a ceasefire, prisoners, and the return of displaced people, which slowed down the agreement. Hamas also mentioned they were being flexible and that mediators from Qatar and Egypt were working seriously on the negotiations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Hamas was lying and going back on earlier agreements. He promised to keep working hard to bring back all hostages.

After a week of significant talks, Israeli negotiators returned from Qatar for discussions about a hostage deal. Meanwhile, Israel continued its military actions in the Gaza Strip, with reports of at least 24 people killed in airstrikes on Wednesday. One strike hit a school where families were taking shelter, according to medics.

The Israeli military, however, stated they were targeting Hamas fighters throughout the area. Health officials in Hamas-controlled Gaza reported that Israeli forces surrounded the only three hospitals in the northern region, making it difficult for them to operate. For two days, Israeli troops were near the Kamal Adwan Hospital, a busy place due to ongoing fighting.

Palestinians accuse Israel of trying to clear out the northern part of Gaza to create a safe area, which Israel denies. This fighting began after a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, that resulted in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages taken to Gaza. In response, more than 45,200 Palestinians have died due to Israel’s actions in Gaza, where most buildings are damaged and many people are now homeless.

The Ministry of Defence has created a new website and mobile app called ‘Rashtraparv’ to share information about national festivals with everyone. During the launch, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said this platform will help people easily find details about various national events and celebrations.

This user-friendly site and app will give citizens quick access to information about festivals organized by the Ministry of Defence. The goal is to keep everyone updated and informed, making it easy for them to join in or learn more about these important events.

With ‘Rashtraparv,’ people can connect with activities planned by the ministry, helping to boost their pride in the nation.

In addition, the Defence Ministry has set up a special committee headed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. This committee will look into how the Indian Air Force can improve its fighter aircraft capabilities, especially with the rising air power of China and Pakistan. The committee was formed after the Indian Air Force presented its needs during a conference last month.

The committee includes important officials like the Secretary of Defence Production, Sanjeev Kumar; the chief of the Defence Research and Development Organisation, Dr. Samir V. Kamat; and Deputy Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal T. Singh, who will help lead the discussion.

On the night of December 24, a series of airstrikes from Pakistan hit the Barmal district in Paktika province, Afghanistan. At least 15 people, including women and children, have died, and the number could go up as rescue efforts continue. The attacks struck seven villages, with Laman village seeing five family members lose their lives, according to reports from Khaama Press.

Local sources say that Pakistani jets were responsible for the bombings, which caused a lot of damage in the Murg Bazaar village and worsened the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the area. The Taliban government in Afghanistan has said they will respond to these attacks because they believe it is their right to protect their land.

The Taliban’s Ministry of Defence condemned the strikes, claiming many of the victims were Waziristani refugees, citizens displaced by military actions in Pakistan. While Pakistani officials have not officially confirmed the airstrikes, some military sources hinted they were targeting Taliban hideouts close to the border.

Tensions have been rising between Pakistan and Afghanistan, particularly due to the presence of the Pakistani Taliban (TTP) in Afghanistan. The TTP has been stepping up attacks on Pakistan’s military, and Pakistan accuses the Afghan Taliban of sheltering these militants. Enayatullah Khwarazmi, a spokesperson for the Taliban Ministry of Defence, denied these claims on X (formerly Twitter), stating that many civilians, especially refugees, were killed in the airstrike. Search and rescue operations are ongoing, as local sources report that more bodies may be found.

Pakistan is planning to buy 40 advanced Chinese fighter jets called the J-35. This deal, if it happens, would be the first time China sells its latest jets to another country. It could change the power balance in the region, especially because of tensions with India. Reports from Pakistani media say the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) has approved this purchase to replace its old F-16s and Mirage fighters, even though Pakistan is facing tough economic challenges.

China has not confirmed this deal officially, but there’s a lot of talk about it, especially since the J-35 was shown at an important air show last month. The version of the J-35 meant for land operations is known as the J-31. China is the only country in the region that has made stealth jets.

PAF Chief Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu mentioned earlier this year that they are laying plans to acquire these stealth jets. Pakistan and China have a strong military friendship. China has been helping Pakistan upgrade its military and develop aircraft together, like the J-17 Thunder, which is a key part of the PAF.

Recently, China sent four new naval frigates to Pakistan to help strengthen its navy. This news about Pakistan wanting to get new fighter jets comes after a visit from General Zhang Youxia of the Chinese military last month, who spoke with Pakistan’s Army Chief, General Asim Munir. They talked about regional security and ways to work together.

During General Zhang’s visit, 300 Chinese soldiers also arrived in Pakistan to join in anti-terrorism exercises. Reports say China wants Pakistan to let its security companies protect around 20,000 Chinese workers involved in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects because these workers have faced attacks. Pakistan has sent over 30,000 of its own security personnel to keep the Chinese workers safe but is hesitant about allowing Chinese troops in due to concerns about national sovereignty

Retired military dogs, who bravely served our country, are now bringing love and happiness to schools and caring families. These special dogs, trained to help in tough situations, are being adopted by schools for children with special needs and kind people all over the nation.

On the 246th Remount Veterinary Corps Day, the Indian Army presented twelve retired military dogs to Asha Schools and some wonderful citizens. This heartwarming act shows the Army’s dedication to honoring both the human and canine heroes who have served our nation.

These amazing dogs have worked in many challenging environments, helping in critical tasks like detecting explosives, rescuing people in avalanches, tracking suspects, and guarding important places. The Indian Army is now using local breeds like the Rampur Hound, Mudhol Hound, Combai, Chippiparai, and Rajapalayam along with well-known breeds for these essential jobs.

The dogs provide lots of happiness and support, especially for children who need extra care. By adopting these retired canines, families can welcome a loyal friend into their homes—someone who has dedicated their life to serving our country.

The Director General of Remount Veterinary Services (DGRVS) reminded everyone how important the Remount Veterinary Corps is in training and looking after these dogs. After their service, the dogs enjoy a comfortable retirement at the Canine Geriatric Centre in Meerut Cantt.

The Indian Army also cares for retired horses and dogs at special centers, ensuring they get the love and care they deserve. These centers highlight the Army’s commitment to all its silent heroes.

This inspiring initiative from the Indian Army shows how we can respect and care for those who have served the nation, reminding us of the beautiful bond between humans and animals and giving these dogs a happy, fulfilling retirement.

In the Gaza Strip, overnight air strikes by Israel tragically killed at least 22 people, including five children, according to medical officials in Palestine. On the same day, Israeli authorities allowed a Catholic leader, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, to enter Gaza and hold a special Christmas Mass for the small Christian community there.

One of the air strikes hit a school in Gaza City that was sheltering displaced families, resulting in the deaths of at least eight people, including three children. The Israeli military claimed it was targeting Hamas fighters who were hiding there. Another strike in the city of Deir al-Balah tragically killed at least eight people, including three women and two children. Hospitals reported that six more people lost their lives in separate attacks on Sunday.

The fighting between Israel and Hamas has continued for over 14 months. Israel says it only targets militants but often innocent women and children are killed. Peace talks about a possible ceasefire have stalled, with many issues that still need to be resolved, including the release of hostages.

On the other hand, a Christmas Mass was held in Gaza City with many worshippers attending despite the ongoing violence. Cardinal Pizzaballa talked about celebrating light during Christmas, even as the sound of Israeli drones buzzed overhead. Pope Francis had criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling them cruel and stating that children were suffering. He has urged an investigation into whether Israel’s actions could be seen as genocide, a claim Israel strongly rejects.

Since the war began on October 7, 2023, after a surprise attack by Hamas that killed around 1,200 people in Israel, Israel’s actions have resulted in the deaths of over 45,000 people in Gaza, including many women and children. Most of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have been displaced, many living in terrible conditions in tent camps as winter arrives.

In the West Bank, violence also erupted when militants shot and killed a member of the Palestinian security forces in the town of Jenin, highlighting the ongoing conflicts in the region. The Palestinian Authority has limited control in the West Bank but is unpopular among many Palestinians.

In northwest Pakistan, a terrible attack by Islamist militants has claimed the lives of sixteen security personnel. Hidayat Ullah, who is the deputy police chief in South Waziristan, shared this sad news with reporters. He reported that, “16 security personnel were martyred,” and “8 others were injured in this attack.” Right now, a search operation is happening in the area to find those responsible for the attack. The community is shocked and mourning this big loss.