The next step, Stocking anti armour missiles

The next step, Stocking anti armour missiles

IAF found way good moves to provide close air support to the ground troops, by employing precision guided munitions and glide bombs for stand off strike. now they looking for anti armour missile for destroying enemy armored vehicles in the battlefield, IAF already signed a contract with US to supply more than 1000 Hell fire missiles, which going to be employed in the Apache gunships. 

During the Kargil, India found that there is no proper munition to strike the enemy column, They used large amount of dumb bombs, which is not effective, while later they adopted guided muntions which shows good effective. Even they were procured from the west. Since the Indian arsenal comprised by Russian munitions which is not useful in such situation, they were heavy in size however unguided dumb bombs.

IAF found that, guided munition is the future and stop producing more dumb bombs, Instead of that they built guidance kit, like GPS guided or Laser guided heads for bombs. which guide the bomb into the target. Here too those PGM - Precision guided munition can strike stationary targets only. like key building and supply dumps. The LGB- Laser guided munition can strike less mobile systems like artillery's and others. 

For high mobile targets like Tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, one need a guided missile to chase and kill the target. Mostly tanks can travel at the speed of some 40 km as average. It's hard to bomb them with exiting LGB or PGM. So here wee need a anti armour missile to strike such high mobile targets.

Nag is the missile who uses the millimeter wave seeker to attack enemy armored vehicles. Just like all other counterparts like Hell fire and Spear. mmW seeker can guide the missile exactly where the tank is and whats it's position. Missiles employed with mmW seekers are highly reliable, however shorter range, due to it's spectrum characteristics.

Indian Nag program is running in slow but steady. However they can be employed in Indian made helicopters like LCH and armed Dhruv only. The upcoming Apache's comes with Hell fire missiles, However so far there were no good such missile in fixed wing aircraft. Since IAF's fighters are not have such characteristics to launch such missiles.

However one IAF jet can employ anti armour missiles, Recently upgraded Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft is the only IAF fighter can employ such missile. Mirage can carry upto six anti armour missile in two hard points. Those anti armour missiles are less in weight compared to other missiles, they were barely weights some 60 kilo grams. Mirage with multiple ejector rack can hold upto three missile in one port. However IAF didn't have any such missiles for Mirages, Since they plans to use the mirages for launching guided munitions and glide bombs only. 

Rafale is the only other aircraft can carry anti armour missiles, as French already offered the latest Brimstone missile with the Rafale package.  Brimstone comes with dual seeker for high probability of detection it uses laser guidance and mmW for high probability of intercepting fast moving vehicles. Same like how Hell fire missile operates.

IAF need large number of such missiles for Rafale. Since the Rafale can carry more payload and higher sortie rates. for better close air support mission IAF may use the Apache helicopters. However in contested airspace IAF need to use the fixed wing aircraft's for aircraft survivability. Since helicopters can be shot downed very easily inside contested airspace.

The Rafale comes with better weapon packages like guided munitions, anti armour missiles, and better air to air missiles. The IAF uses the Flankers for stand off strikes. As it's soon to get 100km range glide bombs from Israel.

It's better to see, IAF may overcomes from the past issues and now looks formidable force with pretty decent air to ground arsenal too.

Kollam Fire, Quick response from armed forces

Kollam Fire, Quick response from armed forces

Indian tri services along with ICG and NDRF respond in very quick by assisting the injured victims who caught in the alleged fire caused by fire crackers kept to celebrate the temple function. The tri services dispatched service medics and para medic teams quick from the respected southern garrisons, Navy and Air force is the first respondent who assisted the injured peoples.

The Armed forces not only for war fighting, They are the only responsible associate who can handle any worst situations, not only in Kashmir, Uthrakand and Nepal this time military garrisons in south respond very quick by sending medical support to the injured victims.

Indian Navy who responded with car nicober class patrol vessel, and an OPV plus air wings such as naval Dhruv and Do 228. who carried medical equipment, field hospital equipment, along with doctors and para medical personnel. They were also heli dropped close to the ground zero to evacuate victim in the needy.

The fire which was caused by fire crackers burned the entire place more than three hours in the early  hours of Sunday. it even cracked some of the buildings roofs and destroyed nearby structures. which causes more injuries. The death toll increased due to the high degree celsius that the fire crackers usually emit.

So the injured persons need medical assistance from burn specialists and accident specialist doctors, many of the injured victims are the one who runs for cover during the tragedy. Most critically injured peoples taken to nearby Medical college hospital, Doctors who are all on leave also called in for emergency.

Air force also dispatched a team of Doctors who are specialists in burn injuries, who air lifted by An 32 from Arakonam Chennai, another airbase in Sulur also dispatched Mi 17 helicopters along with para medical teams, and medical supplies.

The Prime minister also alerted the NDRF team, along with voluntary doctors from Delhi, they were boarded into an IAF special mission flight Boeing BBJ. They were setuped field hospitals and assisted the state police in the search and rescue works.

within a matter of time, the military command worked so well and dispatched a good team to the ground zero, an impressive help from the Soldiers, which gives lives to many injured peoples. There is a need of Blood also, The ICG sailors and Navy personnel along with local citizens voluntarily provided enough blood  to the needy.

The situation is almost under control now, that no one failed to get proper medical or any other support from the State police or from the Indian armed forces. The ships who sailed from Kochin reached the kollam fishing harbor by early 3 pm with the medical supplies, So far the casualty figures are well controlled, and the injured victims also recovering well. 

It's once again an impressive quick response from the tri services for the national disaster, the Armed forces are all over India, they assist peoples in Southern corner to Northern, from western end to eastern fronts.

Morals, threats and shared interests Indian/Israeli Air force

Morals, threats and shared interests Indian/Israeli Air force

Indian Air Force Commander, Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, visited the IAF this past week as a part of the plan to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries. During his visit, he toured different IAF bases, one of the "Iron Dome" batteries and was exposed to the IAF's abilities and the threats the IAF faces. "This is a very important visit" said IAF Commander Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel. The Indian Air Force is a professional and centered force, and we are deepening our cooperation with them".

"The military cooperation with India is at the heart of our military interests", shared Lt. Col. Sigal Benglass, head of International Affairs Branch in the IAF. "India is a very significant country, its air force is large and it operates a variety of western and eastern platforms. This was a unique visit in Air Force terms in which we were able to present the regional and strategic situation, the different threats, and our assortment of simulators and training concepts with the Commander of the Indian Air Force". 

The Indian Military is one of the largest militaries in the world, with its air force being the fourth largest in size in the world. Its strategic status is also strengthening due to its amount of servicemen and women its technological development. "India is an important country in the East that the entire world looks to", explained Lt. Col. Tzviki, Deputy Military attaché in the IDF and Ministry of Defense Mission to India. "It has a large and developed air force, which operates many Israeli made cutting edge weapon systems also operated by the Israeli Air Force, a fact that creates a basis for cooperation".

Due to the tangent lines between the militaries, the importance of the cooperation between the Israeli and Indian Air Forces enhance, with the goal of promoting issues in multiple fields such as power building, operation concepts and a future work plan. "The options with India are tremendous and significant and we have to work step-by-step", stated Lt. Col. Benglass. "The Indian Air Force is different from us in how it flies, trains and qualifies its personnel, differences that are an advantage to us. Until now, we have discussed common platforms and we are interested in expanding said discussion.

 Additionally, there is a significant cooperation between the Ministries of Defense as well as major processes at the political level. The greatest milestone we are expecting this year is the exchange of combat aircrews between the two countries, an exercise that will take place for the first time in history and will constitute of a significant milestone and a sign of things to come".

Although it seems as if the two countries are basically different, and are positioned in different strategic areas, one could find many similarities between the two. India, just like Israel, faces a variety of security challenges such as fighting terror, dealing with threats alongside their borders and dealing with radical Islamism. "Our relations with India are may be young, but they're very deep", stated Lt. Col. Tzviki. "The two countries are democratic countries in complex areas. On the basis of common moral ground, interests and threats, a deep friendship began".

India also has a central role in the Middle East - Commander of United Nations Disengagement Observer Force that is located on the northern border of Israel, is Indian. "India has a central role in everything that takes place in the northern arena, a fact which has an influence and strategic importance for us", stated Lt. Col. Tzviki.

This was Air Chief Marshall Raha's first visit in Israel, who is also temporarily serving as Chief of General Staff. The visit is being held as a part of a process to strengthen and preserve the relationship between the official. The visit is a reciprocal visit as IAF commander, Maj. Gen. Amir Eshel, visited India last December. "Cooperation begins with people. It is built between commanders that delineate the path so that the intimate relationship that they build is used as a significant milestone in advancing towards a slow, true and consistent cooperation", added Lt. Col. Benglass.

The Indian Air Force Commander's visit is part of a series of visits the IAF is holding with officials from countries around the world. The mutual visits create personal connections and cooperation in fields such as power building, development processes and knowledge sharing. 

In addition, they give the IAF extended control in the aerial space close to Israel that is currently characterized with heavy movement of foreign aircraft, and gives legitimization to activity during and after war. "On the strategic level, the IAF is a part of significant cooperation and there has been great progress that can be attributed to many reasons such as the strategic situation and the spirit of the IAF Commander", concluded Lt. Col. Benglass.

From Sibat IAF

Alternate options, $9 billion for Rafale

Alternate options, $9 billion for Rafale

It's better to invest such huge amount in other armed forces like army and existing air force projects to speed up and enhance the quality and reliability, rather than going for an expensive Rafale fighter deal, The Rafale is not a magic plane that can sneak and destroy Pakistani and Chinese positions, other IAF jets like Su 30 MKI and Jaguar too do the same.

Currently many of the air force fighter program is running slow due to lack of funds, since Ministry and IAF stocking money to seal the Rafale deal. on the other side IAF backbone fighter  MKI waiting to get spare parts and ordinances. The Jaguar DARIN program delayed due to lack of funds, and the engine selections process too couldn't be resolved since ages.

The numbers won't make changes rather than technologically evolved fighters, There is no assessment that, authorized 45 squadron fighters can save India from coordinated attack by both China and Pakistan. although maintaining those 45 squadron of fighters also drain IAF's budget. So it's better to enhance the older fighters to keep them with upgrades.

There is no chance of using those older MiG 21 and MiG 27 in modern battles since they are not capable to survive in modern theater despite upgrades, It's better decommission those jets as soon as possible rather than scheduled decommission, this will consume more IAF's budget and also threats IAF pilots too who handles those vintage soviet fighters.

Air force recently started upgrading the Mirage 2000 with new avionics and sensor suites with modern weapons. It's reported that, HAL can roll out six modernized Mirage 2000 every year. the upgrade works scheduled to be completed before 2020. the new mirages are better in all terms, also shares few modern technologies with Rafale.  

The new mirages comes with new sensor suites, modern air to air missiles and engines, which makes it one of the better and modern fighter in IAF, IAF always maintained the service availability of Mirage 2000 is by more than 75%. IAF operates three squad of Mirage 2000.

Jaguar is the other one who waiting for good upgrade with modern engines and missiles, The Jaguars are one of the better platform used to carryout precision ground attack and SEAD missions. Jaguars with his unique features like terrain hugging fly path and lack of radar, provide better survivability in modern battlefields too.

The maritime Jaguars are already upgraded with new avionics and missiles, US made new generation Harpoon missile added in place of older generation Sea Eagle missiles. Even though IAF plans to replace the older Agave radar with modern Israeli AESA radar. also IAF plans to integrate the US made AGM 88 HARM missile to replace older martel missile to conduct anti radar missions.

The IS version of Jaguars also carries cluster munitions like US made CBU 105 and modern precision guided munitions, All the IAF jaguars can carry a pair of ASRAAM IR guided missiles for self defense. IAF operates six squadron of Jaguars. upgrading them with all the above said system keeps Jaguar better till 2035.

Sukhoi Su 30 MKI is one of the primary air superiority platform, however the fighter shows many problems, which include engine issues and lack of spare parts. which makes half of the fleet on the ground. The Su 30 MKI can conduct all kind of missions include anti shipping, air to ground and air to air missions.

IAF looking to upgrade the Su 30 MKI into super sukhoi with new generation avionics and engines, However as per current scenario the Super Sukhoi upgrade may be pushed to 2030 or so. What IAF need is to improve the service availability of Su 30 MKI upto some 75%, By opening new over haul centers allowing to stock more spares.

Recent contract with Israel to equip the Su 30 with new gen litening pod with Spice glide bombs makes the Su 30 MKI gives better stand off capability, the same what Rafale do since years by impressing nations with pin point ground strike even bypassing dense air defense systems with the help of spectra, The Su 30 MKI can configurable such system.  Su 30 MKI currently flies with Israeli EW system, which can be replaced with modern Israeli systems. adding those can even by pass Rafale's qualities too.

What the Rafale also have is long range stand off cruise missile, the SCLAP EG is better for air to ground strike with the range of more than some 200 kilometers. IAF also mulls for Brahmos in Su 30 MKI, however the Brahmos costs is too much, It's better DRDL can develop such air launched missiles similar like Pakistani Ra'ad and SCLAP EG for better stand off missile strike. IAF operates upto some 12 squad of Su 30 MKI. the numbers may increased by 15 in coming years.

MiG 29 is another platform that IAF currently doing upgrades, with new upgrades the MiG 29 is also act as a good company with Mirage and LCA. HAL can complete the upgrades before 2020. The new upgrades include modification in air frame to carry more fuel and carry heavy ordinances. IAF operates nearly three squad of MiG 29 UPG jets. 

The above mentioned fighter jets alone comes nearly 27 squadrons, adding more number of Tejas can roughly give 30 squad fighters with service availability of more than 75%, That's what we call a real and better air power, rather than 45 squads with 50% service availability. Even it's a known concern that IAF lack of fighter pilots too.

By spending those $9 billion into above said fighters makes more than what 100+ Rafale's do in IAF. this money can speed up the upgradation works and gives more fund to buy spares and ammunition's. quarter of the amount can also been spend for modernizing the air fields and protection systems like base defense VSHORAD's and Radar jammer systems.

The late and costly Rafale fighter won't suit Indian economical needs, It will bankrupt the IAF. It's clear no other US, European and Sweden Jets won't makes sense, they too abolish the IAF. 

Expanding the goal of IAF

Expanding the goal of IAF

   Indian air force slowly expanding his wings from primary air defense into major offensive force, with the induction of new generation fighter jets along with better missile systems. The Air force not only conduct air defense missions, also supports the ground troops by neutralizing ground targets, New procurement plans which include Rafale also known as best in terms of ground strike and primary air defense missions.

    IAF's first ground attack jet is the MiG 23, It's the bomb carrier, still won't hit targets in high precision, mostly it was used for making craters in the fields, the wide application is anti runway missions, taking out enemy runway means they wouldn't able to launch their fighter aircraft's. Nowadays such carpet bombings are not effective due to the raise of low level quick reaction missiles deployed in the air force bases.

    Jaguar is the first aircraft who comes with guided bombing capability. The Jagaur performed very well in NATO missions in Afghan and Iraq, So did in Indo Pakistani war's too. Specially in the Kargil war. Jaguar is the only certified fighter jet in IAF who can carry nuke bombs. Jaguar won't carry Radar's. however it uses the infrared and laser guidance kit mounted in it's nose. Jagaur also designed to fly very low aided by terrain following guidance system.

     Some of IAF Jaguar's modernized with Agave radar which will be replaced by Israeli radar. Those are used for maritime attack missions. One squadron of IAF's Jaguar IM armed with Harpoon anti shipping missile. IAF also plans to use the Jaguar till 2035 or the arrival AMCA. With new upgrades of Honeywell Engines and Israeli AESA radar's and newer air to air missiles and Guided bombs which include CBU 105 Cluster Bombs.

    IAF's key project is arming the Su 30 MKI with Brahmos cruise missile, The Sukhoi is not capable of conducting precision bombing, However Indian MKI can launch Russian made laser guided missiles like Kh 29 and other TV guided missiles with the guidance of Sukhoi's onboard  IRST. Adding the long range Brahmos cruise missile makes the Su 30 MKI can strike any targets inside Pakistan from safe distance, the term called Stand off missile strike.

    Modernized Indian Mirage's are another one who can capable to conduct precision bombing missions. The newer Mirages can capable to strike ground targets with high precision or pin point accuracy. Addition of AASM and PGM in Mirage 2000TI makes one of the best CAS platform in IAF. IAF can use the Mirage fighter for bombing close to friendly positions with it's highly reliable bombing capability.

    Tejas on the other hand also developed in the mind of multi role. ADA make the Tejas to perform all missions in Indian conditions. Who already performed laser guided ammo drop in firing range. LGB from Tejas can be guided by Israeli made Litening pods. which illuminates laser beam to the target and the bomb.

    Rafale is the key player who soon to be a part of IAF, also known as best in ground attack, Rafale is one of the best multi role attack aircraft along with F 15 Strike eagle. Rafale already performing missions in Afghan, Iraq Syria and Mali. Rafale's air power can be calculated in Baltic air policing missions and combat exercise with US fighter jets.

    All the said above fighter jets are better in terms of Aerial war fighting too, Nowadays due to the technology overlap, the one who identify the enemy and launch his missile first always wins the combat, Modern missiles are jam proof more agile and high speed than the fighter jets.

    IAF is known as one of the best air to air missile arsenal, It have missiles from Europe, Israel and Russia, IAF fighter jets already employed modern air to air missiles like ASRAAM, MICA, Derby, Python, and all kind of Russian missiles.

    A combination of Two variety of any above fighter jets networked with Phalcon AEWCS can kill any large modern column of enemy fighter jets. 

     The above points are clearly showing IAF changing it's primary air defense missions into multi role combat capable fleet. who is already in operational. 

AFB Pathankot Attack, 10 Indian Armed Forces Martyred

AFB Pathankot Attack, 10 Indian Armed Forces Martyred 

    Even after the intelligence information about the possible attack on the Pathankot Air force base. The security personnel's failed to decrease the casualty numbers. The alarm raised when a District Police SP's car kidnapped in gun point, Which was later used for the attack. Even after twenty four hours, The Forces yet to identify the possible fifth attacker. this shows the Terrorists have full idea about the base's security and other operation methods. 

   So far Indian Armed forces lost ten soldiers in the attack, Where three terrorist killed by the Armed forces, fourth one is a suicide bomber, and the fifth one yet to be identified, Reports from the hot zone said the gun firing still going on. 

    The base guarded by DSC- Defense Security Corps. The DSC Provides security to Defense ministry sites, Such as Air force bases, Radar sites and key military installations. DSC is also a branch from Indian Army. 

    In this attack six of the DSC personnel lost their lives, Most of them in duty of the front gate. The terrorists also killed two IAF personnel who were on duty of base security. The Terrorists successfully penetrate the front gate and move towards the main building prior to enter the Airbase and Hangers. 

     The IAF also lost two of it's elite counter terrorism units known as IAF Garuds. they were later called in for additional deployment to secure the airbase. The Soldiers successfully stopped the terrorists before entering the Runway and Hangers

   Analysts confirms this is a failed operation, Since the intelligence warned about possible attacks, with the inputs, IAF also beefed up security in the air force base. Even though the casualty from our side is too high. The government yet to provide clear information about the casualty figures.  

    Earlier the intelligence arrested a Ex service man who allegedly made connections with ISI and transferred key information about the air force bases close to Pakistan. This attack also looks like more ISI operatives may present in the armed forces. Who need to be kicked very quickly to safe guard our Installations. 

IAF Garud commando's looks to buy new Armored Vehicles

IAF Garud commando's looks to buy new Armored Vehicles

BAE Systems JLTV

   Indian Air force issued a request for proposal to buy some fifty to sixty armored all terrain capable, Air transportable armored assault vehicles to the elite garud commando's. The RFI endorse to the global vendors, since Indian manufactures are failed to provide good vehicle which can be para dropped from any IAF air lifter. The Garud's currently using modified Maruti gypsy which is not a good platform to use in close combat situations. Since it's don't have armor and para drop capabilities.

    The Garud's wants a armored vehicle just like the NSG gets the Renault Sherpa for their assault needs. Such vehicles are comes with light armored protection. which provide cover from small arms fire and RPG rounds, also capable to withstand against small IED's and mines too. Air force asks the 4x4 wheel must carry minimum six fully armed infantry soldiers and his support systems.

    The Vehicles suites for tactical missions like scout, patrol, VIP Escort duties and command liaison duties. NSG also using the Renault Sherpa to perform all the above missionss. However Air forces also wants the Vehicles must be carried into IAF's Tactical and Strategic air lifters. Air force operates variety of air lifters ranging from small An 32 to larger C 17.

     However Sherpa is not a para drop capable platform, since IAF quest for such capabilities. However 4x4 wheels like Turkey's Otokar Cobra, French VBL, and Swiss Eagle's are good platform who meets the IAF's requirements. Those system also can be retrofitted with small arms and grenade launchers. and much needed Towing capabilities. 

     The Air force wants, the armored Vehicle can capable to carry small arms in all available sides, such as rear, front and top. Also able to carry more ammunition's or auxiliary fuel tanks inside the vehicle. Additional wheel for emergency replacement, more tool kits for repairing the vehicle in the field also requested. The actual power system and battery capacity for lighting systems if needed for rescue or search operations.

     The US recently announced the winner of their light combat all terrain vehicle, which is same what Garud's looking. The Vehcile can met all  parameters of what Garud's asking. The Oshkosh have top gun mount which can be modified into anti tank missile launchers or 40mm grenade launcher. The JLTV also have side mounted weapon stations.

The Renault Sherpa

           The Garud's wants those 4x4 wheels can also being carried under the Mi 17 and the upcoming 

CH 47 F. However armored Vehicles like VBL and Cobra don't have enough room to carry six infantry soldiers, However they can be para dropped and have amphibious capabilities and improved V shaped Hull desgin . Meanwhile Eagle and Sherpa can carry required number of soldiers and can't be air dropped. While the American JLTV is the only platform can meet both parameters.

     However there is no make in India or transfer of technology available due to low numbers of orders. The tender also quotes the availability of spare parts and mechanical repairs and engineering support. The vendors need to be responded within eighteen months and the procurement policy under the DPP 2013.

The First Air Battle - 3rd Sep 1965

The First Air Battle - 3rd September 1965

    Gp Capt Mohan "Manna" Murdeshwar is one of the few', who flew with the elite Gnat Units during the 1965 war. He had the privilege of participating in all of the air combats that No.23 Squadron was involved in, including the historic air battle on 3rd September 1965 when Squadron Leader Trevor Keelor scored the first aerial victory for the Indian Air Force. This is his side of the story.

   When dawn unfolded on the morning of 1st Sept, 1965, on the Green Fields of Ambala airport, we of No. 23 Sqn. AF did not realize what was in store for us. The “buchi woochies” ( hairy caterpillars) of Green Fields had crept onto our flying overalls and ‘g’ suits and we were busy brushing these off when word was transmitted to detach 4 Gnats to Halwara for ORP duties. ORP duties were routine in those days, so not many eyebrows were raised. Sikand, Pat, Gill and Kitcha were accordingly instructed “to get there!”

   On 2nd Sept, 65 at about 1000 hrs, instructions received from WAC named Johnny Greene, Manna Murdeshwar, AJS Sandhu and Trevor Keelor to fly four armed Gnats to Pathankot. Johnny and Sandhu, thus became attached to No. 23 Sqn. We took off in the afternoon of the same day in a low level abreast formation .

   We landed at Pathankot, at sunset and while taxiing to the dispersal I was greeted by dejected and sad looking faces of course mates & others standing alongside the taxiway. It was only when we all walked out to the Technical Area, that we learnt of the four Vampires that had been shot down on their attempt to neutralise the large scale Pak Army’s thrust towards Akhnoor.

    We were unaware of this major Pak operation and the consequence of Indian Army’s SOS to the IAF  for air support that resulted in the rather misguided deployment of the ineffective Vampires from Pune. This , if I may call it, was a foolish endeavour, as it resulted in the loss of four Vampires and three pilots (one bailed out). The apparent intention of the Pak Army was to make a rapid thrust from the Chamb-Jauhria sector to the Akhnoor bridge, thereby cutting off J & K State from India. The unfortunate decision of deploying Vampires against well- armed Pak forces was a reflection of the poor analysis and decision making abilities of our then, rather naive leadership.

   When we assembled at the temporary makeshift office given to us, we were pleasantly surprised to find Sikand and his team also present. On their landing at Halwara, they were redirected to Pathankot. Thus, there were eight of us comprising the No. 23 Sqn. Dett. Sikand, though senior most, realised he was not an experienced combat pilot and therefore graciously asked Johnny to become the leader of the Dettachment..

    The so called brief given to us on 02 Sept late evening, was only to develop any suitable tactics that would result in at least one Sabre casualty. Two Mystere Squadrons based at Pathankot could also be included to evolve any tactics that would yield the desired results. Johnny with the concurrence of the Mysteres’ Commanders drew out a plan that would draw the Sabres onto the Mysteres flying at about 20,000 ft. whence they would paint on the Pak radar. The Gnats at tree top heights, would then climb up to engage the Sabres. That would be the indication for the Mysteres to swoop low and return to base.

   On completion of the plans, we trudged along to the Officers’ Mess where we learnt that no rooms were available for us. It was already about 2130 hrs so we had our dinner, pulled a few charpoys outside a room and slept in our flying overalls. At about 3 am we were woken up, and clutching our flying gear, sleepily trudged along to the dispersal with no vehicle, bearer, or tea in sight! “Wheels up” was scheduled at 0600 hrs. After the Met briefing, all eight of us taxied out and waited for the Mysteres to get air borne. We then took off in formations, fully armed with guns and drop tanks to cater for the low level flight and air combat, that was likely to ensue.

   It must be appreciated that the Pak radar was far superior to ours. While the Sabres were always within sight of Pak radars, our 230 SU at Amritsar and the 501 SU at Barnala, were not as efficient to control and guide or warn us of any threat that could develop.

   As we arrived at the Chamb sector, the Mysteres at height, were picked up by Pak radar and as foreseen the Sabres arrived to meet them. At 501 SU’s warning, the Mysteres, dropped height and both our Gnat formations moved up to engage the Sabres.

   We were in a finger four aircraft formation, led by Johnny and self, as No.2, Sikand No.3 & Pat No.4. The rear formation were spread out abreast, as normally done, led by Trevor, with No,2 Gill, No.3 Sandhu, & No.4 Kitcha.

   In the combat that followed, a lone Sabre was spotted behind me prompting Trevor to call a starboard ‘break’. Siki, unable to maintain position, fell off, and disappeared from sight. Pat, who also ‘got out of phase’, spotted a F104 & turned into him hoping for a possible engagement, but without success. Both Johnny's & my ‘ break’ made the Sabre fall out, placing it in front of Trevor who successfully fired at the Sabre. Sandhu who followed, also fired a few more shots, for luck!

   Johnny & I landed together, with Pat & the rest following at intervals. Siki unfortunately was not with us and we learnt later that he had landed in Pakistan. That brought to a close the first day's air battle.

   The shooting down of a Sabre brought much joy to WAC. Trevor was recommended for a Vir Chakra (VrC) which was promptly announced in the evening’s News Bulletin over All India Radio. ( But much after the hostilities were over, we learnt that the ‘shot down Sabre’ had purportedly, landed at its base full of bullet holes). Nevertheless, it was a memorable air battle and the kudos were rightly earned, since it raised the morale of the Service and the country!

Article First Published in Bharath Rakshak written by Written by Gp Capt Mohan Murdeshwar

The backbone of IAF transport fleet : Mi-17

 The Medium Multi role Mi-17 Helicopter

    Regarded one of the best transport helicopters, the Mi 17 is surely the most versatile and strategic asset. Designed in 1977 as a troop transport helicopter for the Soviet forces, the Mi17 soon evolved to a versatile heptor capable of handling multi-role missions and being extremely nimble on the battlefield. More than 12000 air-frame today serve across the world and have seen extensive action. The Mi-17 is undoubtedly the backbone for all copter oriented transport missions of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The Mi-17 was first procured by the IAF in the late 70’s, when India was offered the Mi-8 transport helicopter.   

      The Mi-17 was develop around the Mi-8 medium transport copter and received major boost to its lift capabilities. The Mi-17’s were provided with more powerful engines and reinforced air-frame which could support heavier payload and operate at higher altitudes. The copter was also designed to carry external wet pylons which could carry missiles. The main rotors were re-designed and larger rotors were introduced to support heavier payloads, the tail rotor was also re-designed and re-positioned towards the port side.

    Powered by twin Kilmov engines the helicopter can carry up to thirty war ready soldiers or four tonne of cargo. The twin Kilmov engines churn out 1600 kW and can power the copter to a maximum speed of 250 km/hour. The Mi-17 can traverse more than 500 kilometer at standard set up mode and enjoys a laudable 200 kilometer combat radius when operating at maximum operational load.

      The Mi-17 V5 not only serve as transport helicopters but can also be used as an attack copter, thanks to the offensive punch it packs with the guided rockets and guns. The attack capability will be a major morale booster for the soldiers deployed on the battlefield. Mi 17 is fitted with 30mm gun pod and 60mm unguided rockets which can spell havoc over enemy targets. The Mi 17 fleet under IAF, employees a meticulously combined system compromising of the cannon and rockets. Mi-17 is also provided with conformal fuel tank which is a boost in increasing the operational range of the copters.

      Owing to their huge size, the Mi-17’s are sitting ducks waiting to be fired upon by enemy SAM batteries and shoulder fired missiles. But this has been meticulously worked out by equipping the copter with advanced countermeasure suites which can evade and out manoeuvre missiles. Information regarding the exact counter measure remains to be extremely skeptical, Russian Mi 17 has been spotted gearing the Ukrainian made ADROS counter measure systems which are part of the Indian Mi-35 attack helicopter fleet. The Indian version of the Mi 17 is rumored to be fitted with the Israeli made C-MUSIC directional counter measure systems, this DIRCM is capable of engaging infrared guided missiles.

       India currently operates more than 150 Mi 8 and nearly 70 Mi-17 V5 copters. The Mi-8 airframes are rapidly aging and a replacement is the need of the hour for the transport wing of IAF.  IAF has now come with an ambitious plan of replacing the Mi-8’s with advanced Mi-17’s which can be rapidly inducted into the air force. By 2008 India had concluded a contract with Russia to supply 80 Mi 17 helicopters under a deal estimated at $1.4 billion. The first set of five Mi 17 V5 helicopters was delivered to India in early 2012, impressed with the performance of these beasts India opted for a follow on order for 71 more Mi-17 helicopters at a whooping $1.3 billion deal. IAF is contemplating of procuring 48 more helicopters at an estimated $1 billion dollar deal.

     The Mi-17’s are highly regarded in the IAF for their capabilities and ruggedness. The Mi-17 was used initially in the ‘Kargil operation’ to ferry troops to front-line but was later pulled off taking into account the higher position of the enemies. The Mi-17 has been efficiently used in humanitarian missions supported by the IAF. These Mi-17s have served as the backbone for all rescue missions operated by the IAF.  Mi-17 was also part of the ‘Cross-border special operation’ carried out by the 21st Para contingent.  The Mi-17 V5 copters are also used to ferry the Indian President and the Prime Minister proving the level of confidence put into the aircraft by India. Thus the addition of Mi-17 to the force is a major boost to the operational capability of IAF.

Editor Karthik Kakoor 

Should India need the Su 34 for long range strike

Should India need the Su 34 for long range strike

      

       As talking emerges in the media and defense Analysts, Most of them prefer to buy one or two squadron of Su 34 Light Bomber Jet from the Russians, while India's Nuclear strategy based on the Ballistic missiles, but precesion striking is the most important term in today's and future warfare, If China never uses the Nuclear missiles during the war India also forced to not use the Ballistic missile, even Ballistic missiles can be armed with conventional warheads, But anyone easily thinks it's a Nuclear if they identified a Ballistic missile launched from Enemy territory. that's is based on the deterrence, mainly India uses the Ballistic missiles for Nuclear deterrence, the same goes for almost all other  countries.

     The Rafale game almost shifted the Indian Strike policy and rewritten, IAF has enough number of Deep strike attack aircrafts to strike deep in Pakistan, even their strategic places deep behind the Border, even locations like Quetta and Gwadar is easily target able using Conventional missiles like Brahmos and Airborne PGM's and Stand off missiles like Popeye and crystal mazes, even those situated more than 500 km outside the Indian Borders, so in future warfare the IAF can take complete control of Pakistan in an minutes, but the same is not regarding to China, 

     The Chinese has the capability to strike anywhere in India with their vintage era H6 Bomber, even they can be easily targeted by IAF fighter jets, if H6 comes with the Escort fighters like Su 27 clones, it's hard to intercept the cargo, even the H6 comes with Cruise missiles, so Chinese don't hesitate to carryout a suicidal missions. also China in big plans to build a new generation bomber to break heavily defended Indian Air space.

       Most of the Chinese Strategic buildings deep inside China, which is far more than 1000 kilometers from the Indian Borders, so the IAF has only one option using the Nirbhay Cruise missiles, even those Nirbhay's needs to be transported near to the Borders in order to launch the Strike, but during the war time the Borders become more sensitive, intense fighting will happen only in the borders, both of the Amry will fight each other face to face. so it's not a good option to move the Nirbhay Batteries near to the Borders,

     So India lacks of light bombers to strike deep in the Chinese hearts, no Su 30 or the Rafale can go deep inside the Chinese Strategic locations situated far from the Borders. The Russians have similar flights the Tu 22 and the Su 34 is the best choice for attacking long range targets, while Tu 22 almost outdated in modern technology, the New generation Su 34/32 Full back is the good Light bomber for such attacks.

    The Russians designed the Su 34 to penetrate the European missile shield and attacks the targets deep inside Europe, with cruise missiles and Precession guided munitions, for that The Russians added several kind of state of art electronic attack suites  and counter measures, not only with the wingtip Khibiney even with podded EW suites to defeat the European Target acquisition Radars, so it's clear it can also penetrate the Chinese air defense systems too,  also the Su 34 comes with incredible long range combat radius, the actual combat radius is not officially released, but the Su 34 can fly more than 1000 km and strike the target and return to the Home base. even in very low flying mode means lo lo lo mode, which means the Su 34 fly very low in all it's flight time with the Help of Terrain hugging and Mapping Radar, so it's hard to detect low flying aircrafts from the radars.

     The Su 34 comes with good payload, the official figures states nearly 12 tons of payload, the main weapon pylons can capable to hold 4 tons of Weapons, usually to carry heavy ordinance like FAB 1000, 2000 general purpose bombs,  those or not guided but can devastate the targeted buildings, they can be dropped like free falls, using visual guidance, A good option to Destroy strategic concrete buildings deep inside enemy targets, but the same option will be costlier and in effective if we compared to the missiles, a 300 kg warhead in the Brahmos is can be outperformed by the 1000 g free fall bombs, even one Su 34 can drop five such bombs. makes that good option for Startegic bombings.

       Even also the Su 34 can guide any missiles at the distance of 250 kilometers, the Su 34 comes with a Big Radar that can be switched into Air to Air, Air to ground and Air to Sea modes, ranging more than 200 kilometers.  so even if the Su 34 armed with three or five cruise missiles the Su 34 can guide them to strike the target. the Su 34 comes with plenty of Defensive options to evade from enemy interception, the Su 34 has a Radar in it's tail, which can guide R 73 heat Seeking IR guided Missiles, allows the Su 34 can fire the missiles with out taking a U turn, also with the EW systems and low flying characteristics, it's easy to escape from enemy without getting any damages.

      The Su 34 is a dream for the Air force, while many of them suggest the IAF to buy some pieces, earlier the E/A 18 Growler also discussed for special mission, now It's the Su 34, 

Using Air power to destroy Terrorist Camps in POK

Using Air power to destroy Terrorist Camps in POK

    The new Government taken power in mid 2014, with full hope of controlling border infiltrations and free hand of Indian Soldiers along the Indian Border to retaliate against enemy fire or infiltration, the New Government completes the first year, but no concrete steps against the Pakistani infiltrations, But despite condition the situations are not changed the Pakistanis doing the same again and Again,

    So far from early 2014 to 2015 nearly 50 Indians include some 10 plus Soldiers, the Terrorists almost  targeted Army bases and assaulted, later Army Busted and decapitated them, But the question remains same, How to control the Border infiltrations, The Air power is the only Options.

   The Air force and RAW intelligence almost have up to date informations about the Pakistani sponsored terrorist locations  inside Pakistani Occupied Kashmir. as earlier some Think Tanks stated that India may go for a Short Sharp war against the Pakistanis to stop the Border infiltrations, 

   The day almost soon, recent days too many reports of border infiltrations which causes Civilian and soldiers death, By comparing with Israeli's they almost Kill each and every terrorists who tries to infiltrate Israeli mainland, the Land shape is easy to spot them and Kill them, But here it's difficult, Snow's un explored area's, and worst weather conditions,

    If IAF gets the order to Destroy enemy terrorists camps inside Pakistani occupied Kashmir, It's sure Pakistan won't retaliate, lets see the exact scenario, IAF right Now has some good number of Fighters, Nearly some hundred plus Su 30 MKI is war ready which means they are in Quick reaction mode, all 100 will be launched within the moments of Some five minutes, by Moving some two to three squad of Su 30 MKI near Sri Nagar, gives complete Air superiority over PoK, with the help of IAF's Phalcon, one is assigned for Air operation and one more for  Target acquisition over PoK

    The A 50 can cover some 300+ kilometers where the original Range is classified, with the support of AEWCS some 6+6+6= 18 Su 30 MKI as Combat Air patrol, searching the Air for for enemy air activity, with the Huge combat radius and Fire power Sukhoi can keep all the enemy fighters in the Ground, if IAF dealt with Pakistan, it's clear the mission should need a IL 78 MKI Aerial refueler for continuous air operations,

       Meantime another AEWCS with RAW's elint platform will search and assign another set of fighters to perform attack mission, here all the Fighters will armed with highly accurate PGM/LGB missiles to strike the Target with pin point accuracy and score 100% target destruction capability, here we can use combination of Mirage 2000 and Jaguar Aircrafts.

  

   IAF has some twenty five plus numbers of Mirage 2000 aircrafts on Quick reaction mode, IAF has nearly 50+ Mirages where most of them in MLU, maybe 12 in MLU another twelve in test flights, along with Jaguar Bombers, here the Jaguars numbers may be upto fifty, while  some other fifty plus Jaguars is in upgrades, known as DARIN III upgrade.

    with the seventy two Ground attack aircrafts we can split them as six by six we get twelve strike packages, for round a clock mission, makes the Pakistani occupied Kashmir under Indian Air force control for some hours to clean up the land from terrorists, if each of the Strike packages comes with twenty four 500 Kg Bombs each armed with four PGM/LGB sized 250 or 500 kg warheads,

    In first wave of attack the Bombers will destroy some wide targets with 24 heavy ordinance, within a minutes another set of strike packages comes with same payload, this repeats for Six times, makes wide damages of enemy asserts, we can pause the actions for another thirty minutes to check the ground damage reports and mission debriefings to perform more in next waves,

       Meanwhile the Pakistanis will sit in the ducks, they know their Fighters won't match against the IAF's fire power, with the A 50 AEWCS weighting for Air borne targets and Su 30 MKI fighter are ready for Pakistani fighters, It's clear Pakistan won't send it's fighters to attack the Indian Missions in PoK. even if any Pakistani ultra patriot gears up his fighters for Air borne mission, Phalcon notices it quickly and direct two or more Su 30 to intercept the bogey,  with the Full speed and in Supersonic mode Su 30 easily penetrate Pakistani territory and engages the Pakistani fighters within their territory and come backs to friendly air space,

     The enemy don't knows whats doing the IAF pilots, all of them moves their hands to the Ejection seat switches instead of pushing the throttle, So it's clear that the  Pakistani air force won't take the suicidal missions,

       also the entire bombing mission only takes some 48 to 72 Hours, which results completes annihilation of terrorists inside Pakistani Occupied Kashmir which gives a temporary peace in Kashmir for next some fifty plus years,

        And It's clear Pakistan knows about Indian Amry, I sure they never forget Indian style during 1948, 1971 and 1999. if they tries the History repeats itself, and Says Indian Army smashed Pakistanis' 

Operation Maitri - Restoring and Rebuilding Nepal

 Operation Maitri – Rebuilding Nepal

   At around 12’0 on 25th the April, the earth shook in Nepal and across northern and eastern India. Nepal was struck by a 7.8 magnitude earth quake which reduced the nation to rubble's, Eastern India bear the brunt with the several buildings across Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. The earth quake triggered avalanches across the Himalayan range. Landslides were witnesses and major roads were taken out.

       Aftershocks continued for several days, the highest measuring almost up to 7.1 on the Richter scale. The earth quake had left a trail of destruction and several villages across Nepal were left inaccessible. Going by the magnitude of the earthquake it was sure that the casualties suffered in the calamity was very high and the rescue missions were the need of the hour.

      Nepal was overwhelmed by the scale of destruction and with a limited military and para-military force was forced to look out for a multi-nation rescue operation. Being Nepal’s immediate neighbor India responded with in minutes to the request. PM Modi promised a full scale rescue mission would be mounted within the shortest possible span.

        It was decided that the immediate response team would consist of rescue and medical teams which were formed by the NDRF and Ghurkha regiment officers. The first C-130J carrying NDRF officials and 3 tonnes of medical and emergency supplies took off by 4:00 PM. Air force, Army and NDRF assets were immediately put on standby for any eventuality. GOI planned further missions once the airport in Nepal was declared safe for operations.

      The NDRF was charged with carrying out the rescue and relief mission and the army was charged with setting up facilities for relief operations. By the evening ten teams from the NDRF consisting of almost 500 personnel and sniffer dogs were ordered to be flown to Nepal with the assistance of IAF. With the KTM airport being declared safe for operations, IAF rolled out the gigantic C-17 Globe master III.

     The C-17 on the first day was dispatched to KTM with NDRF teams, Rapid Action Medical Teams (RAMT) and Medical teams. The aircraft also carried essential supplies which consisted of blankets, food packets, water, medical supplies, tents and transportable operation theaters for the RAMT. The IL-76 heavy lifters were also pressed into action. By the first day Indian Air Force had carried out more than 20 sorties and had evacuated thousands of survivors which included citizens from US, UK and many other nations.

      IAF had operated sorties throughout the night flying to and fro from KTM. By the second day the operation was officially code named “Operation Maitri “, IAF by then had pressed more than 10 aircraft into action which included the C-17 Globemaster III, IL-76, C-130J and An-32’s. Sunday morning flights were dedicated to transporting urgent medical supplies and medical teams. Engineering teams were also dispatched which were instrumental in setting up forward field hospitals and tents to accommodate the survivors.

           The second half of the day saw IAF making sorties with additional NDRF teams and engineering teams. Almost 50 tons of water and 22 tons of food supplies were stacked up in KTM airport. India also started mounting a huge scale evacuation operation and operated 35 buses from Nepal. Bad weather and repeated aftershocks forced IAF to hold back pressing the helicopters into service.




          On the ground the NDRF and the Army jawans had started searching for survivors. NDRF teams were pulling out survivors from debris. The injured were being treated in first aid centers setup across the nation. To treat the critically wounded were being taken care of in forward field hospitals which included OT’s and ICU’s.

         The engineering teams primarily started constructing as many field hospitals possible and then concentrated on pitching up tents for the survivors. The engineering team was also put in charge of clearing debris and clearing roads, which could then help gain access to remote villages. With the tents setup the army started with the process of distributing food and water to the affected and the process of rehabilitation to the centers started.

         With roads being rendered inactive many villages remained inaccessible, to access these villages IAF pitched in their helicopters. IAF initially deployed 8 Mi-17 and 2 Dhruv’s to assist in the operations. The Mi-17 and Dhruv dropped relief supplies to the worst affected valleys where landing was not possible. Several wounded and stranded people were evacuated in the helicopters from the remotest areas. Dhruv under the Army Aviation corps was also pitched into service.

      The rotary crafts served the remotest areas of Nepal and helped save thousands of injured and survivors. The Mi-17 were based at Pokhara and Kathmandu. These Mi-17’s were part of the large scale relief and rescue operations in inaccessible areas like Barpak, Gorkha, Aroghat and Lukla.

       The combined Indian forces worked in Nepal for well over 40 days. The Air force and army together flew more than 2223 sorties in a span of just 38 days. About 11200 people were transported to safer places and about 1700 tonne of relief material was dropped for people in distress. The Rapid Action Medical Teams (RAMT) cared for almost 4762 injured people and conducted more than 300 successful operations.

  
  The NDRF worked tirelessly to restore human life in Kathmandu. NDRF saved thousands of life’s even as the earth shook when they deep inside buildings. The Engineering Task Force (ETF) cleared many routes which were rendered inactive because of the quake and landslides. The ETF were instrumental in help re-connect villages which helped in relief operations. The ETF also restored several hundred buildings and bridges across the nation.

      The earth quake was the worst calamity to have struck Nepal after the 1934 earth quake. More than 9000 people lost their life and the quake left 22000 people injured. The earth quake left a trail of destruction rendering thousands of Nepali’s homeless, homes and buildings were razed to the ground. After shocks has continued to rock Nepal keeping its people in constant fear. More than 450000 people have been displaced and have lost their livelihood.

        Widespread avalanches and landslides were reported across the nation further endangering human life. The economic loss Nepal has suffered cannot be calculated at the movement but with its limited resources it is extremely hard for Nepal alone to fund reconstruction programs. US, India and the World Bank have stepped forward to assist Nepal with the rehabilitation programs. With the help of India and the world fraternity, Nepal has promised to be back on its feet. I sincerely wish Nepal regains its status and thrives as India’s most reliable neighbor.

Article - Karthik Kakoor

Nepal Hit by 7.9 Earthquake

Nepal Hit by 7.9 Earthquake

  It's in the Morning that a Heavy Earthquake hit Nepal's Capital Kathmandu and makes severe damage to the Peoples and Properties, it was measured by 7.9 in USGS Richter scale, within 30 minutes another 7.5 hit same place 80km near Kathmandu 

   The shock wave even shakes entire North India, and peoples feel scared when high pound of shakes. 

       The Indian Ministry acted quickly and setup ed hot lines and emergency team to assist the peoples, India first taken care of Indian states who borders near by Nepal who also struck by the Earth quake, 

     Within moments India also contacted Nepal govt and offered it's assistant and makes standby both Armed Forces and National Disaster Response Forces.

      within moments IAF get orders from both govt to drop NDRF team to Kathmandu for Rescue mission, IAF pushes the Operation by launching a C 130 J Hercules loaded with NDRF team and assisted equipment’s, who just landed in Earth quake affected area, and start the rescue and support mission.

      Also C 130 J performs aerial recon missions to provide the NDRF team about way points and guiding them to reach stranded peoples.

      Also another C 17 loaded with Rapid reaction Aero Medical Team, along with Medical teams and Doctors, who can provide Medical assistance to them. Which act as a Mini hospital also have Hgh end Operation Theater too.

     Not over so , MOD also reports another NDRF Team loaded into a IL 78 Air lifter and will be reach Kathmandu within minutes. 

Another C 17, C 130 Ready with aids will reach Kathmandu if orders were issued, And just now PM orders immediate dispatch of relief and medical teams to Nepal, directs evacuation of Indian tourists.   

 As of now the causalities  reported more than 400 in Nepal.