This update covers key developments, insights, and milestones in India's defence sector.
This edition of the weekly update on India's defence and military activities highlights the key developments, strategic insights, and technological milestones shaping the country’s security and military landscape.
Space Defence and Strategic Exercises
Antariksha Abhyas 2024: A Landmark Space Defence Exercise
From November 11 to 13, 2024, the Defence Space Agency under the Headquarterns Integrated Defence Staff conducted a pioneering exercise, Antariksha Abhyas 2024. This three-day event focused on simulating the evolving threats to space-based assets and services. Described as the "first of its kind," the exercise aimed to bolster India’s ability to secure its strategic objectives in space and enhance the integration of space capabilities into military operations.
In his address, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan emphasised the growing importance of space as a critical enabler for national security. He said, "Space, once considered the final frontier, is now indispensable to India’s defence apparatus." The exercise’s primary goal was to prepare the Indian military for potential space-based threats and ensure the country’s resilience in this critical domain.
Tri-Service Exercise: "Poorvi Prahar"
India’s military is engaged in the Poorvi Prahar tri-service exercise, currently underway in the forward regions of Arunachal Pradesh from November 10 to 18, 2024. The exercise is a significant demonstration of integrated operations across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. It features cutting-edge artillery systems and real-time logistics, offering a glimpse into India’s future military capabilities. The exercise underscores India’s evolving strategy to enhance the coordination between its armed services to effectively address regional security challenges.
Technological Developments in Defence
Hypersonic Missile Test: A Major Milestone
India achieved a significant technological feat on November 17, 2024, with the successful flight trial of a long-range hypersonic missile. The missile was tested from Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the test as a "historic achievement," noting that it positions India among the select nations capable of developing and deploying hypersonic missile technologies. This test is a key step in strengthening India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.
Successful Flight Test of Long-Range Cruise Missile
On November 12, 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the first flight test of the Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM). Launched from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha, the missile was fired from a mobile articulated launcher. The test validated the performance of the missile’s subsystems, and it met the primary mission objectives, marking a significant advancement in India’s indigenous missile capabilities.
Pinaka Weapon System: Advanced Testing
In another important development, the DRDO successfully conducted a series of flight tests for the Guided Pinaka Weapon System, an upgraded version of the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The tests, which took place over three phases at different field ranges, confirmed the "precision" and "effectiveness" of the guided version. This milestone highlights India’s progress in enhancing its artillery systems, with the Pinaka system being a key asset in the country’s artillery strike capabilities.
Modernisation and Collaboration in Defence
Project Akashteer: Automation of Air Defence Systems
In line with its efforts to modernise and automate military operations, the Indian military is progressing with Project Akashteer, which aims to automate the air defence control and reporting process. The project is designed to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of India's air defence systems, ensuring comprehensive surveillance and protection of the nation's airspace. The phased implementation of this project will integrate advanced technology into India’s air defence infrastructure.
India-Japan Defence Cooperation: Development of Unified Antenna System
On November 15, 2024, India and Japan signed a historic military technology transfer agreement for the co-development and co-production of the Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN). The antenna will be deployed on Indian Navy ships to enhance their stealth capabilities. This collaboration marks a major step in India-Japan defence cooperation.
Leadership and Synergy Among Armed Forces
CDS Calls for Synergy Among Armed Forces
On November 13, 2024, General Anil Chauhan chaired the 35th Tri-Service Commanders’ Conference (TSTCC) at the Southern Naval Command in Kochi. During the conference, he emphasised the need for greater synergy and coordination between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force. He underlined that training must evolve to address the "unique security challenges" of modern warfare. General Chauhan reportedly said that a unified approach is essential for the Indian military to operate as a cohesive theatre force, especially in the face of rapidly changing global security dynamics.
This week’s developments highlight India’s continued focus on modernising its military and expanding its technological capabilities. From advancements in space security through Antariksha Abhyas 2024 to the successful testing of indigenous missile systems, India is taking significant strides in enhancing its strategic capabilities. The emphasis on inter-service cooperation, automation in air defence, and international collaborations, such as the India-Japan technology transfer agreement, reflect India’s comprehensive approach to strengthening its defence architecture.
