• The year 2020 began with a momentous decision in Indian Defence history.  The Department of Military Affairs was set up and the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) created. General Bipin Rawat assumed office of CDS on 1^st January 2020. The CDS is made Principal Military Advisor to the Raksha Mantri on all Tri-Services matters.
•   Indian Army has resolutely countered adversaries on the Line of Control (LC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and carried out relentless Counter Insurgency (CI)/ Counter Terrorist (CT) operations. 
•    Defending the territorial integrity of India in Galvan Valley has been the most shining example of the valour of our forces this year in which 20 brave India soldiers made the supreme sacrifice.              
•    India categorically conveyed China that any attempt to unilaterally alter the status quo at the border is unacceptable and that India is determined to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. 
•   To make Indian Army future ready, budgetary constraints for capability development and meeting other requirements have been removed.
• Eight Rafale aircraft inducted and operationalised on 20th September, 2020, sending strong message for those who challenge India’s sovereignty. With its world class capability, Rafale aircraft is a game changer for India’s national security.
•   Air version of supersonic BrahMos Air missile integrated on Su-30 MKI.
• The strength of Indian Navy furthered with the commissioning of i) INS Kavaratti (P31), a fully combat-ready Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) stealth corvette and ii) commissioning of warship IN LCU L57. 
• The year 2020 will go down in the history as a gloomy time for almost the entire world. Covid-19 pandemic halted normal human activities and paralysed economies to the brim. Amidst the rubble of the year the government moved to turn the crisis into opportunity. With this is mind, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave a clarion call for Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaan to put the economy on high growth trajectory.
•  Aligning with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020 unveiled.  It aims to give impetus to the growing domestic industry and achieve enhanced self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
•  Defence Offset Guidelines 2020 promulgated to attract investments and technology through offsets to enhance capabilities in the domestic Defence manufacturing sector and promote the “Make in India” initiative.
•  ‘Atma Nirbharta’ week celebrated from 07 to 14 August 2020 to promote indigenous development of materials & equipment to achieve Self-reliance in Defence manufacturing.  Modernization/ up-gradation of facilities and new infrastructure creation by Defence PSUs and Ordnance Factories Board launched.
•   Out of 43 ships on order for Indian Navy, 41 are being built indigenously and AoN exists for construction of 44 ships and submarines to be built indigenously.
• Corporatisation of Ordnance Factory Board initiated to enhance  their efficiency and accountability.
•   Foreign Direct Investment limit in defence manufacturing under automatic route raised from 49% to 74%.
•  DRDO's pursuit of self-reliance and successful indigenous development and production of strategic systems and platforms such as Agni and Prithvi series of missiles; light combat aircraft, Tejas; multi-barrel rocket launcher, Pinaka; air defence system, Akash; a wide range of radars and electronic warfare systems; etc., have given quantum jump to India's military might. 
•  Women’s participation has been increasing over the years and the Government is further enhancing their role on priority.  Short Service Commissioned (SSC) Women Officers granted permanent commission   in all ten streams of Indian Army. Four women officers have been appointed onboard Indian Navy ships.  Captain Tania Sher Gill, led an all-men contingent in Republic Day Parade 2020.
• ·                     Border   Roads Organisation continued with works of strategic importance like Construction of Major Bridges,  Roads,  Tunnels  and  Snow Clearance for opening of Strategic Mountain Passes braving  Covid-19 threat.
• World’s longest Highway tunnel – Atal Tunnel  built by BRO dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 3^rd October 2020.
•    80-kilometre-longRoad link from Dharchula (Uttarakhand) to Lipulekh (China Border) inaugurated on 20^th May 2020.
•   44 Bridges of strategic importance in sensitive areas close to Western, Northern and North Eastern Borders, across seven States and UTs opened on 12 October.
• The 11^th edition of India's biennial military exhibition, DefExpo was held in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, which showcased the potential of the country as a global defence manufacturing hub. More than 1,000 defence manufacturers and 150 companies from all over the world took part in this Expo.
•   Armed Forces played pivotal role in mitigating the sufferings of the people in the face of  novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). Right from rescuing stranded Indians from COVID-19 affected areas, such as China, Iran, Italy, Malaysia, etc, to providing relief materials to all across the country, Armed Forces have put in place all its medical and manpower resources. Hospitals of the Armed Forces and medical facilities have been dedicated to treat COVID-19 patients and some of its bases were turned into quarantine centres. 
•    Besides the all-out efforts of Armed Forces, its various organisations and arms like Armed Forces Medical Services,  DRDO, Defence Public Sector Undertakings, Ordnance Factory Board, Indian Coast Guard, Cantonment Boards, National Cadet Corps contributed in their own ways to fight this pandemic.  

 

DAPARTMENT OF DEFENCE (DOD) 

Creation of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and Department of Military Affairs (DMA) in MoD:

               Chief of Defence Staff:  

In pursuance to the announcement made by Prime Minister during his address to the nation on 15^th August 2019 on the decision to appoint the CDS to provide greater coordination, jointness, and synergy among the three Services of Defence forces, the Government created the post of CDS and General Bipin Rawat took over as the country’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) on January 01, 2020. 

·                     Department of Military Affairs: 

          In another major reform in the Higher Defence Management of the country, a new Department i.e. Department of Military Affairs (DMA) within the Ministry of Defence has been created w.e.f. 1^st January 2020. CDS has been designated as Secretary, DMA. DMA was made functional immediately after the formation by transferring 2 Joint Secretaries, 13 Directors/Deputy Secretaries, 25 Under Secretaries, 22 Section Officers and 99 supporting staff.  In all 161 civilian employees of DoD were transferred to DMA. 

INDIAN ARMY

 

Countering Adversaries on LC and LAC

 

1.​       Indian Army has resolutely countered adversaries on the Line of Control (LC) and the Line of Actual Control (LAC), carried out relentless Counter Insurgency (CI)/ Counter Terrorist (CT) operations and maintained high training standards while being at the forefront combating the COVID-19 pandemic during the year. There has been no let-up in operational readiness along the LC, LAC, hinterland and the security of military establishments. Indian Army has not just ensured force preservation but has also ensured that operational readiness remains unaffected in order to safeguard the borders of the Nation.

 

2.       ​Unilateral and provocative actions by the Chinese to change the status quo by force, in more than one area on the Line of Actual Control (LAC), were responded to in a firm and non-escalatory way, ensuring the sanctity of our claims in Eastern Ladakh. Indian Army has maintained all protocols and Agreements between the two countries while the PLA escalated the situation by utilisation of unorthodox weapons and amassing large number of troops. Indian Army with assistance from IAF, mobilised troops including accretionary forces in a very short duration including heavy equipment like guns, tanks as also ammunition, rations and clothing. Own Engineers constructed roads, accommodation shelters and bridges to assist troop deployment. In a major skirmish in Galwan, 20 brave Indian soldiers lost their lives while preventing PLA troops from ingressing into our territory. The Chinese also suffered significant casualties. Later on 28-29 August 2020, own troops in a precautionary deployment, pre-empted Chinese expansionist designs and occupied heights along southern bank of Pangong Tso. Braving inclement weather, own troops continue to be deployed on these heights.  Advance Winter Stocking (AWS) and winter preparations for the enhanced strength has been completed and troops are well entrenched to counter any misadventure by Chinese forces. While the Indian Army is prepared for any eventuality, talks are also progressing to resolve the issue in an amicable manner.

 

3.​       With the ‘Whole of Government’ approach adopted against the terror ecosystem and the consistent efforts of the security forces, the security situation in Jammu & Kashmir has seen progressive improvement. On one hand, high level of alertness by troops along the Line of Control (LC) blunted Pakistan’s endeavours to infiltrate terrorists into the Valley, at the same time, high tempo of kinetic operations in the hinterland ensured denial of operational space to terrorist organisations. Ceasefire Violations committed by Pakistan Army were given a befitting reply by own troops causing significant casualties to Pakistan Army. Counter infiltration grid was strengthened resulting in neutralisation of a number of terrorists along the LC. A number of attempts to smuggle arms, ammunition and contraband were also foiled along the LC.

 

4.​       Well synergised, intelligence-based operations have resulted in significant successes and have considerably degraded terrorist leadership and their capabilities in Jammu and Kashmir. Residual terrorist strength in the Valley now is below 200 and local recruitment is decreasing giving a serious blow to the nefarious designs of Pakistan to “indigenise” the movement and fuel unrest in the Valley. Attempts to spread violence South of Pir Panjal Range have been comprehensively defeated by proactive operations. All possible steps are being taken to provide a secure environment to the Awaam of Jammu and Kashmir. Significant reduction has been observed in protests over past two years providing an opportunity to the Awaam to lead a peaceful life. Attempts of inimical elements to mislead people by running disinformation campaigns were defeated by proactively monitoring the situation and engaging with the local population. In the challenging times of global pandemic of COVID-19, the Indian Army rendered assistance not only to civil administration but directly to civil populace as well, by carrying out medical evacuations, provision of necessary supplies to needy and educating common people about nitty-gritties of COVID-19. The humane approach of the Army has been appreciated by one and all.

 

 5.​      Internal security situation in North Eastern States has improved considerably with a large number of surrenders of insurgent cadres. Excellent understanding and coordination with Myanmar (OP SUNRISE) have made it difficult for Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs) to set up camps there. The Army and other Security Forces have played a stellar role in reducing the violence levels and forcing insurgents to abjure the path of violence. These positive changes have enabled the Army to reduce its foot print in counter insurgency operations.

 

Assistance to Civil Administration 

 

6.​       Facilitated a successful National response in the fight against COVID-19, by providing unprecedented assistance both in terms of men and material.  A total of 113 hospitals were earmarked Nationwide for treatment of 12,000 patients from within the Army resources.  17 laboratories have been earmarked for carrying out the COVID testing across the Nation, to assist in COVID management.  Additionally, quarantine facilities have been extended to approximately 4000 expats, who returned to the Country during lockdown.

 

7.​       COVID-19​ provided the Indian Army an opportunity to help reach out to Friendly Foreign Countries also, wherein, help was not only extended in terms of specialist manpower and medicines but also COVID management techniques.

8.       ​The Army actively assisted the Civil Administration as part of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations including assistance during Kumbh Mela, employed specialist manpower in dowsing the oil well fire in Assam as also helped provide succor to persons affected by floods in Madhya Pradesh.

 

Defence Cooperation and Joint Exercises 

 

9.​       Indian Army has been at the forefront of Defence Cooperation with foreign countries with concerted efforts in carrying out Joint Exercises, contributing towards UN missions, carrying out joint training as also ensuring International Cooperation by assisting other friendly countries with specific requirements.

 

Atmanirbhar Bharat

 

10.​     ‘Make in India’ and Atmanirbhar Bharat has been given a major impetus during planning and procurement of equipment for Indian Army, wherein, there is an endeavour to support the emerging defence industry in the country.

 

Women in Indian Army

 

11.​     With an aim to provide equal opportunities the Indian Army has extended Permanent Commission to women officers also. Captain Tania Sher Gill, led an all-men contingent in Republic Day Parade 2020.

 

Veterans’ and Children Welfare

 

12.​     Veterans outreach was pursued with great vigour during 2020, with aim to alleviate problems of veterans during COVID-19 pandemic.Outreach entailed ensuring that ECHS facilities were easily accessible as also mobile phone application was launched for widespread access of relevant information.  The ‘Year of Next of Kin’ was extended to 2020, with an aim to inform the veterans of entitled financial benefits and welfare schemes as also help resolve pension related problems.  Outreach was well received and able to achieve desired aim of touching maximum target audience the assuaging grievances.

 

13.​     During COVID-19 pandemic, the Army Welfare Education Society has effectively transitioned to imparting online education to over 3 lakh children across the country.  Necessary impetus and incentive was extended to ensure that all children were able to benefit from the virtual classroom.

 

Miscellaneous

 

14.​     Contingent of the Indian Army along with the other Services participated in the V-Day parade at Moscow’s Red Square on 24 Jun 2020, to commemorate the 75th Diamond Jubilee of the capitulation of Nazi Germany in the Second World War.  Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh witnessed the parade as a special invitee.

 

15.​ Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh carried out Bhumi Pujan of Thal Sena Bhawan at Delhi Cantonment, on 21 Feb 2020.  This ‘State of the Art’ building will be spread over 40 acres and is planned at a  cost of 1335 Cr.  The Bhawan will house the all five branches of the Army including 36 Directorates.

 

INDIAN NAVY 

 

OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS

 

1.           Operation Sankalp.   Amidst the increasing US – Iran tensions in the Gulf region, since June 2019, IN has been undertaking Maritime Security Operation code-named Op SANKALP in the Gulf Region to ensure safe passage of Indian Flag Merchant Vessels (IFMVs) transiting through the Strait of Hormuz. Since execution, IN has deployed 16 warships and escorted approximately 161 Lakh Tonnes of cargo onboard 156 IFMVs, thereby provided a sense of reassurance to our seafarers, and protecting Indian owned hulls and the trade embarked on them.

 

2.           UN World Food Programme (UN WFP) Escort Mission.  IN has been contributing to UN WFP efforts by providing security to vessels carrying food to East African nations. INS Airavat escorted UN WFP chartered ship MV Juist carrying relief food cargo from Berbera to Mogadishu in Somalia from 05-14 June 2020, under challenging sea/ weather conditions. This was the third WFP escort mission undertaken by the IN in last three years. 

 

3.           Operation Samudra Setu. IN ships Jalashwa, Shardul, Airavat and Magar were deployed from May – July 2020 for Operation Samudra Setu to undertake repatriation of stranded Indian Nationals in the wake of COVID-19, from Iran, Maldives and Sri Lanka. IN ships deployed for Op Samudra Setu evacuated 3992 Indian Nationals including 3551 males, 387 females and 54 children.

 

4.           Mission SAGAR and SAGAR-II.  INS Kesari was deployed to the Southern IOR Island nations as part of ‘Mission SAGAR’ for rendering COVID-19 related assistance from May-June2020.During deployment, the ship provided medicine stores &medical kits to Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles. IN Medical Teams embarked onboard the ships also provided medical assistance to Mauritius and Comoros. As part of the follow up humanitarian outreach mission by India, Mission SAGAR II, INS Airavat was deployed to deliver 270 MT of humanitarian aid stores to Djibouti, Massawa (Eritrea), Port Sudan and Mombasa, Kenya (for South Sudan) from October-November 2020.

 

EXERCISES WITH FOREIGN NAVIES

 

5.           Naseem-Al-Bahr 2020.   IN and Royal Navy of Oman (RNO) bilateral exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr was conducted at/ off Goa from January 07-10 October 2020. RNO ships Al Rasikh and Al Khassab along with IN ships Beas and Subhadra participated in the exercise.

 

6.           INDRA NAVY 2020.   IN and Russian Federation Navy (RuFN) bilateral exercise Indra Navy was conducted in Bay of Bengal from 04-05 September 2020. RuFN ships Admiral Tributs, Admiral Vinogrodov, Boris Butoma and IN ships Ranvijay, Kiltan, Shakti participated in the exercise.

 

7.           JIMEX 2020.   IN and JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self Defence Force) bilateral   exercise JIMEX 2020 was conducted in the Arabian Sea from  26-28 September 2020. JMSDF ships Kaga and Ikazuchi; IN ships Chennai, Tarkash and Deepak, IN aircraft P8I, MIG 29K and integral helicopters of both navies participated in the biennial exercise.

 

8.           BONGO SAGAR 2020.  IN and Bangladesh Navy (BN) bilateral exercise Bongosagar 2020 was conducted in North Bay of Bengal from 03-04 October 2020. BN ships Prottoy and Abu Bakr along with Maritime Patrol Aircraft and IN ships Khukri and Kiltan along with Dornier aircaft and integral helicopter participated in the exercise.

 

9.           SLINEX 2020.   IN and Sri Lanka Navy (SLN) bilateral exercise SLINEX 2020 was conducted in the Bay of Bengal from 19-21 October 2020. SLN ships Sayura and Gajabahu and IN ships Kiltan and Kamorta along with Dornier aircraft and integral helicopters participated in the exercise. Maiden landing of Advanced Landing Helicopter (ALH) was undertaken onboard SLN Ship Gajabahu during the exercise, to showcase IN’s indigenous capability.

 

10.       MALABAR 2020.   Multi-lateral exercise between IN and US Navy (USN), Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) ships and Royal Australian Navy (RAN) was conducted in the IOR from 03-06 and 17 November 2020.

 

11.       SITMEX 2020.   Multi-lateral exercise between IN, Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Royal Thailand Navy (RTN) was conducted the Eastern IOR from 21-22 November 2020.

 

12.       SIMBEX 2020.  IN and Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) bilateral exercise SIMBEX 2020 was conducted in Eastern IOR from 23-25 Nov 2020.

 

13.       PASSEX.   The Indian Navy undertakes Passage Exercise (PASSEX) with friendly foreign navy units on opportune occasions to enhance inter-operability and imbibe best practices. Following PASSEXs were undertaken in 2020:- 

(a)          PASSEX with French Navy.   PASSEX was conducted between French Naval Ships Mistral and Geupratte and IN Ships Talwar and Trikand from 23–24 May 2020 in Gulf of Aden.

 

(b)          PASSEX with Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF).  PASSEX was conducted between JMSDF training ships Kashima and Shimayuki and IN ships Rana, Kulish on 27 June 2020 in Eastern IOR.

 

(c)          PASSEX with United States Navy (USN).   PASSEX was conducted between USN ships Nimitz, Princeton, Ralph Johnson, Sterett and IN Ships Rana, Sahyadri, Shivalik, Kamorta from 20-21 July 2020 in the Bay of Bengal.

 

(d)          PASSEX with Australian Navy.   PASSEX was conducted between Australian ship HMAS Toowoomba and IN Ship Kochi  on January 24, 2020. Another PASSEX was conducted between Australian ship HMAS Hobart and IN ships Sahyadri and Karmuk from 24-25 September 2020 in Eastern IOR.

 

14.       Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) with Indian Ocean Region Littoral Navies.  As part of maritime security cooperation with maritime neighbours, Coordinated Patrols along the IMBL are being conducted with Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Myanmar, as per established MoUs and Standard Operating Procedures.

 

15.       Anti-Piracy Patrol. To address the wide range and large spread of unconventional security challenges in the maritime domain such as piracy, smuggling, human trafficking, gun-running etc, IN has been deploying a ship in the Gulf of Aden since 2008. A total of 84 ships have been deployed to-date.

 

16.       Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) Surveillance. IN is committed to assisting friendly IOR littoral nations in maritime surveillance. Accordingly, based on request of the host government, IN regularly undertakes surveillance of the Exclusive Economic Zone of Maldives once a month, and of Seychelles and Mauritius twice a year by deploying IN ships and aircraft.

 

17.       IN Dornier Deployment.

 

(a)          Sri Lanka.   IN Dornier was deployed to Sri Lanka from 17 to 20 February 2020 for undertaking training and surveillance missions.

(b)          IN Dornier Deployment at Maldives.   IN Dornier Det was deployed to Hanimaadhoo, Maldives for joint EEZ surveillance, Medvac and SAR on two occasions from 27 July to 10 August 2020 and 08 - 15 September 2020.

 

ASSISTANCE TO FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS

 

18.       Assistance to Government  of Madagascar.   In January 2020, IN Ship Airavat, which was mission deployed in the South Western IOR, was diverted to Antsiranana, Madagascar for ‘Operation Vanilla’ to provide HADR to the affected populace post devastation caused by Cyclone Diane. The relief material comprising disaster relief stores, clothing, food and medicines were handed over to Government of Madagascar in presence of the  Prime Minster of Republic of Madagascar, His Excellency Christian Lois Ntsay, on 01 Feb 20. Further, IN Ship Shardul deployed to South Western IOR in March 2020 delivered of 600 tons of rice to Antsiranana, Madagascar as relief, in the backdrop of floods in the country.

 

19.       Assistance to Government of Mauritius.   IN Ship Nireekshak was deployed from August 13 – September 18, 2020 to provide assistance to the Government of Mauritius in the backdrop of the environmental hazard caused due to grounding of MV Wakashio. The ship provided seaward security, search and rescue cover for the salvers and also assistance for diving operations. The ship additionally undertook night diving operations in rough weather conditions to locate Tug Gaetan, which had sunk off Mauritius and placed heavy cement blocks around the sunken tug in support of oil spill contingency plan of Govt of Mauritius.

 

20.       Assistance to Philippine Naval Ship.   Philippine Navy (PN) Ships BRP Ramon Alcaraz and BRP Davao Del entered Kochi harbour on May 06, 2020 for embarkation of Philippine nationals and collection of COVID-19 face masks. The ships departed on May 07, 2020. Post leaving harbour, there was an incident of fire onboard Ramon Alcaraz on 07 May 20, the ship returned to Kochi on May 08, 2020. Two PN sailors who had suffered burns and were evacuated to INHS Sanjivani. One sailor was found to be in a more serious condition and post initial treatment was transferred to Command Hospital Bangalore on May 12, 2020 by Military Air Ambulance. In addition, technical assistance was also rendered by NSRY (Kochi) for repair of fire damage in the Engine Room.

 

21.       Assistance to Maldives.   One ALH Mk III aircraft along with IN crew has been deployed at Kadhdhoo, Maldives since 24 April 2016. Further, one IN DO in MNDF colours along with crew was deployed at a short notice in spite of travel restrictions imposed by COVID 19 at Hanimadhoo, Maldives from 29 September 2020. Consequent to a request from the Government of Maldives, refit of MNDF Huravee was successfully undertaken by Naval Dockyard, Visakhapatnam from 10 March  to 07 November 2020.

 

22.       Hydrographic FC Initiatives of IN.   The IN ships were deployed to Mauritius, Seychelles and Sri Lanka. The successful completion of surveys has once again proved Indian Navy’s reach, capability and has contributed immensely towards strengthening the bilateral relations with respective countries. The details of foreign cooperation surveys undertaken are enumerated in succeeding paragraphs:-

(a)          Survey of Seychelles.   INS Darshak was deployed for 28 days with effect from 26 December 2019 to Seychelles for the conduct of hydrographic surveys based on requests received from Government of Seychelles.

(b)          Survey of Sri Lanka.     INS Jamuna was deployed for 61 days from 04 February 2020 to Sri Lanka for the conduct of joint hydrographic surveys. During the deployment, survey of Kosgoda to Weligama was undertaken.

 

23.       Logistics Agreements.   In order to enhance capability and ensure sustenance, India has concluded Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) with Australia on 04 June 2020 and Reciprocal Provisions for Support and Services (RPSS) with Japan on 09 September 2020. 

 

HUMANITARIAN ASSISTANCE AND DISASTER RELIEF (HADR)

 

24.       Casualty Evacuation from MV Vishwa Prerna.   On 05 August 2020, Sea King helicopter from Naval Air Station Garuda, Kochi airlifted injured Master of MV Vishwa Prerna from anchorage area off Kochi and transferred him to a civil hospital for medical assistance.

 

25.       Rescue of Fishermen.   Four fishermen were rescued from a sinking boat near Manali Tivu Island in Tamil Nadu (13 Nautical miles South East of Tuticorin) on 26 July 2020 by IN Chetak helicopter operating from Naval Air Station Parundu.

 

26.       Assistance to MV New Diamond.   On 03 September 2020, IN ship Sahyadri was diverted to provide assistance to Panama flagged Crude Oil Tanker New Diamond off the East coast of Sri Lanka. On request of Sri Lankan Navy, the ship assumed duties of On-Scene-Commander to coordinate firefighting and salvage efforts. As On-Scene-Commander, Sahyadri was instrumental in coordinating firefighting, salvage and towing operations.

 

27.       Assistance to Distressed Dhow Al Hamid off Somalia. On 05 January 2020, IN Ship Sumedha deployed in the Gulf of Aden for anti-piracy patrol was diverted to render assistance to Sri Lankan registered dhow Al Hamid with 13 Indians onboard, which was adrift off Somalia. The ship arrived in the area and provided first aid to the casualties. On request from the Master, dhow was thereafter towed seawards to prevent drifting ashore and, IN Ship Sumedha maintained in vicinity to thwart any piracy attempts till arrival of towing vessel.

 

COMMISSIONING AND LAUNCHING/ START PRODUCTION

 

28.       Commissioning of INS Kavaratti.  INS Kavaratti, the fourth and last ship of Project 28, was commissioned on 22 October 2020 at Visakhapatnam.

 

29.       Commissioning of IN LCU L57 (Yard 2098). IN LCU L57 was commissioned at Port Blair on 15 May 20.  The ship is seventh of eight LCU MK IV ships being constructed by M/s GRSE, Kolkata.

 

30.       Keel Laying of Yard 3023. Keel laying ceremony of Yard 3023 (Second ship of Project 17A at M/s GRSE) was held on 24 Jan 2020 at GRSE, Kolkata.

 

31.       Keel Laying of Yard 12653.  Keel laying ceremony of Yard 12653 (3^rdship of Project 17A at M/s MDL) was held on 10 Sep 2020 at MDL, Mumbai.

 

32.       Start of Production of Yard 12654. Production of Yard 12654 (4^thship of Project 17A at M/s MDL) was commenced on 22 Jan 2020 at MDL, Mumbai.

 

33.       Start of Production of Yard 3024. Production of Yard 3024 (3^rdship of Project 17A at M/s GRSE) was commenced on 22 Aug 2020 at GRSE, Kolkata.

 

INNOVATION AND INDIGENISATION

 

34.       Introduction of Higher Specs Fuel for IN Ships (LSHFHSD – IN 512).  Indian Navy  in collaboration with M/s IOCL carried out an extensive, thorough study along with a comparative evaluation of existing international regulations (ISO, MARPOL, NATO etc) and as an outcome, new fuel specs meeting international and NATO standards, were launched in January 2020. Supply of the new fuel through IOCL commenced in March 2020. This initiative would go a long way in enhancing equipment reliability, performance, reduced carbon footprint, emissions and more importantly would be key enabler in the Navy’s ‘Mission Based Deployment’ on a global scale.

 

35.       New Generation Fire Fighting System.  In order to meet global protocols (Montreal and Kyoto protocol in respect of  Ozone depletion potential (ODP) and Global Warming potential (GWP) respectively), IN has migrated from Halon based FF system and CO₂ based FF system to environmentally benign New Generation Fire Fighting system for onboard application, adhering to the Global Classification Society and other statutory norms.

 

36.       Indigenisation Efforts.  IN continues to be in the forefront of indigenisation, in-line with the Government’s vision for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. Out of 43 ships on order, 41 are being built indigenously and AoN exists for construction of 44 ships and submarines to be built indigenously. With the concerted efforts by all stakeholders, IN has developed 23 major equipment/systems and over 4500 sub-assemblies/components indigenously for IN Ships and Submarines till date. The first ‘Commercial Supply’ of indigenously designed and developed Sonar Dome for IN ships was supplied by M/s Kineco, Goa in September 20. This is a part of Indian Navy’s sustained impetus on indigenisation.

 

IN  EFFORTS DURING COVID-19

 

37.       Various innovative solutions have been worked out by IN Yards which includes Multi-Feed Oxygen Manifold, portable Non-Contact Thermometer, UV sterilization chamber for sanitization of tools and uniforms, development of foot pedal operated cleansing stations, etc.

 

38.       Development of Innovative PPE.  An innovative PPE was developed by the Innovation Cell at the Institute of Naval Medicine in collaboration with the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai. This PPE uses a fabric that is splash resistant, protects the user from infectious particles yet provides breathability, thereby permitting the user to be on duty for longer periods of time without fatigue. The PPE is easy to manufacture, using an indigenous, easy-to-source fabric and very basic tailoring skills, thus providing jobs to local tailoring units as well as promoting the ‘Make in India’ programme. The cost of the PPE is less than Rs 550/- compared to Rs 1,800 – Rs 2,000 for a conventional imported PPE. National Research and Development Corporation has licensed six firms for mass production. Number of Armed Forces, Govt and Private hospitals are using the PPE &have expressed tremendous user satisfaction. SVBP COVID Hospital in New Delhi also placed orders for 25,000 PPEs worth Rs 1.1 Crores.

 

39.       Uploading of COVID-19 Information on IONS Website.   Towards sharing the information related to COVID-19 with IOR littorals, INis sharing the information and innovations undertaken to combat COVID-19 with IONS nations. Towards this, information page has been hosted on IONS website, containing various documents and videos. The list of uploaded items are enumerated below:-

 

(a)           Document on Navigating COVID-19 Pandemic.

(b)          Indian Navy innovations for use by IONS nations.

(c)           Battle Field Nursing Assistant (BFNA) training video.

 

WELFARE AND EMPOWERMENT

 

40.   Commemoration of Fourth Armed Forces Veterans’ Day. The fourth edition of Armed Forces Veterans’ Day was commemorated on 14 January 2020 at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi with an aim to provide requisite thrust to welfare of veterans, widows and their dependents. About 2600 veterans from all three Services attended the function.

 

41.  Women Empowerment. Following actions have been undertaken by IN  to provide enhanced opportunities for women officers:- 

(a)      Four women officers have been appointed onboard ships.

(b)      Two women Observer officers have been streamed into Seaking stream in September 2020, for first time.

(c)      A woman officer has been streamed into RPA streamfor first time.

(d)      A woman observer officer has been deputed overseas at Maldives as part of Dornier aircrew for a period of one year.

(e)      The first woman officer has been inducted into Provost Specialisation and deputed for At-Arms course in Jul 20.

(f)       A woman officer has been appointed as ADA, Moscowfor first time.

 

IMPORTANT ACTIVITIES

 

42.NIIO.   In keeping with the vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat, the Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation (NIIO) was inaugurated by  Raksha Mantri on 13 August 2020. Indian Navy had signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with Uttar Pradesh Expressway Industrial Development Authority (UPEIDA), Raksha Shakti University (RSU) at Gujarat, Maker Village at Kochi and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) to interact with academia and industry towards fostering innovation and indigenisation for self-reliance in defence. In addition, IN’s Indigenisation Plan titled ‘SWAVLAMBAN’ was also released by Hon’ble RakshaMantri, as part of launch of ‘Naval Innovation and Indigenisation Organisation’. The document has since been uploaded on websites of Indian Navy and SIDM to ensure wider dissemination, for the industrial ecosystem and other stakeholders. 

 

43.DEFEXPO 2020.  DEFEXPO 2020, a flagship biennial Defence Exhibition hosted by MoD, was held in Lucknow from February 05 – 09, 2020. This was the eleventh edition of DEFEXPO with a theme of ‘India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub’. 172 foreign defence manufactures participated in the event. Indigenisation Pavilion was set up during DEFEXPO 2020 held from 05-09 Feb 20 at Lucknow. The Navy Pavilion on Indigenisation comprised of 10 stalls for displaying IN’s indigenisation efforts. The pavilion had housed indigenously developed Machinery Control Systems, Sensors, Armament spares, NCN equipment, Aviation components and machinery spares. The pavilion had witnessed footfall of more than 200 industry reps and dignitaries.

 

44.India – Africa Defence Minister’s Conclave.   Maiden India-Africa Defence Minister’s Conclave was held on February 06, 2020 at Lucknow in conjunction with DEFEXPO-20. Hon’ble RM inaugurated the event, which was attended by the senior leadership from MoD and Indian Armed Forces. A joint declaration – ‘Lucknow Declaration’ was signed as part of the Conclave. Over 154 delegates from Africa including Defence Ministers from 14 African countries, Members of Parliament, 19 Defence and Service Chiefs and eight Permanent Secretaries from 38 African countries participated in the Conclave.

 

45.Award of President’s Colour

 

          On the occasion of Platinum Jubilee, INS Shivaji was awarded the presidents colour in February 2020, in recognition of meritorious service rendered towards training of personnel.

 

46.39^th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica.  

 

    Hydrographic survey team consisting of one Long Hydrography course qualified officer and one Hydro sailor participated in the 39^th Indian Scientific Expedition to Antarctica from December 2019 to May 2020. They carried out hydrographic survey off Larseman Hill and Princess Astrid Coast.

 

47.  LCA (NAVY).  LCA (N) programme is being jointly developed by ADA &IN. The project achieved a major milestone on 11 Jan 2020 when the aircraft undertook the first ever arrested landing on the aircraft carrier.

 

48.  Victory Day Parade.   Victory Day Parade to commemorate 75^th anniversary celebrations of World War II was held at Moscow, Russia on 24 Jun 2020. A 75 member tri-services contingent, including 19 members (02 Officers and 17 sailors) from IN participated in the parade.

 

SPORTS

 

49. International Level. Two naval Sportsmen Naveen and Paramjeet represented India in the 1^st Ranking Series International Wrestling Tournament held from 15-18 Jan 20 in Italy.  Sanjay Kumar was   awarded Mac-Gregor Memorial Medal 2020 by USI for outstanding performance in high endurance ultra-marathons under extreme conditions and at high altitudes. Lt Cdr Abhinav Jha of INS Karna qualified to represent India in 100 km running world championship which was scheduled to be conducted at Netherlands inSeptember 2020 (event postponed in view of COVID-19). 

 

50.National Level.Naval sportspersons/teams participated in i) 63^rd National Shooting Championship; ii) 68^th Senior National Volleyball Championship; iii) Khelo India Youth Games 2020; iv) Senior Men National Hockey Championship 2020 v) 30^th Senior National Kayaking & Canoeing Championship; vi) 30^th Senior National Fencing Championship and vii) 48^th Senior National Handball Championship and won laurels.

 

THE INDIAN AIR FORCE

 

Acquisition

 

1.           Modernisation of Airfield Infrastructure (MAFI).        On 08 May 20, MAFI Phase-II contract for 37 airfields was signed by the MoD with M/s Tata Power SED (TPSED) at a cost of Rs 1189.44 Cr. The up-gradation of navigational aids and infrastructure under this project enhances the operational capability by facilitating air operations of military and civil aircraft even in poor visibility and adverse weather while enhancing Aerospace Safety.The MAFI Phase-I project was completed on 15 Dec 19 which involved modernisation of 30 airfields of Indian Air Force. The 37 airfields of MAFI Phase-II include 24 of Indian Air Force (IAF), nine of Indian Navy (IN), and four of other services.

 

2.           MAFI project is a turnkey project that includes installation and commissioning of modern airfield equipment like Cat-II Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Cat-II Air Field Lighting System (AFLS) etc. The modern equipment around the airfield is directly connected to Air Traffic Control (ATC), thereby providing excellent control of the airfield systems to the Air Traffic Controllers. The up-gradation of navigational aids and infrastructure under this project enhances the operational capability by facilitating air operations of military and civil aircraft even in poor visibility and adverse weather while enhancing Aerospace Safety.

 

3.           Rafale.        Eight Rafale aircraft have been ferried to India from France and are fully operationalised. First Sqn of Rafale was successfully inducted in Sep 20 with necessary assets and infrastructure.

 

4.           Successful Integration of BrahMos Air Launched Missile on Su-30 MKI Aircraft.    The IAF successfully integrated BrahMos air version missile, on Su-30 MKI aircraft. The BrahMos missile provides Indian Air Force a much desired capability to strike from large stand-off ranges on any target at sea or on land with pinpoint accuracy by day or night and in all weather conditions.

 

5.           Other Procurement Cases

(a)          Govt Approval of Fresh Acquisitions.      Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) was accorded by Defence Council for procurement of potential indigenous platforms such as ASTRA BVR missile, Smart Anti Field Weapon (SAAW), Long Rang Land Attack Cruise Missile (LR-LACM), HTT-40 etc. Procurement of the aforesaid defence equipment is under progress as per the procedure.

 

(b)          Case for procurement of advanced 83 LCA Mk 1A from HAL is at final approval by the CCS and contract is likely to be signed soon.

 

(c)           Case of procurement of 56 C-295 from M/s Airbus with participation of an Indian Production Agency for manufacture of 40 aircraft (out of total 56) in India is also at CFA approval stage and contract is likely to be signed in the near future. The case is first of its kind which envisages participation of private companies and would prove to be a boost for our defence industry.

 

(d)          Case for procurement of LCH from HAL, IEWR and D-29 from BEL, Harop (P-IV) (Option Clause), upgrade of UAV systems are also at advance stage. Contracts are likely to be signed in the first quarter of 2021.

 

Make Projects

 

6.           Atmanirbhar Bharat.    IAF actively supports the national vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. It has been an endeavour of IAF to avail various schemes launched by GoI and provide impetus to the process of self-reliance in Defence Manufacturing. Following is an update on the various schemes under Make in India initiative.

 

(a)          Make-II Scheme. IAF has issued Project Sanction Order (PSO) for prototype development to undertake Design & Development of Chaff & Flares, IRST for Su-30, Foldable Fibreglass Mats, 125 Kg Bombs and Fuze for Aerial bombs has been awarded to Indian Industry.

 

(b)          Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme. Government of India had set up a ‘Technology Development Fund (TDF)’ which is managed by DRDO. 18 IAF projects under the scheme are at various stages of the TDF procedure. Contract for the Design and Development of Video processing/ switching board for Su-30 MKI and Burner rings for Mirage-2000 engine have been awarded to Indian vendors.

 

(c)           iDEX (Innovation for Defence Excellence).       Under the iDEX framework of DIO, MoD for engaging industries (including MSMEs, Start-ups, Individual Innovators), IAF has participated in four Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC) challenges.

 

(d)          AEW&C Mk-2.     AoN for procurement of Six AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning & Control) Mk-2 aircraft with associated equipment has been granted by DAC on 17 December 2020 under ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category. The platform for the system is likely to be pre-owned Airbus A-319/321 aircraft from Air India. The mission system Design and Development as well as maintenance of the system will be carried out indigenously thus providing a fillip of Indian defence industries. The project, therefore, is likely to give a major boost to ‘Atamnirbhar Bharat’.

 

(e)          LCA Induction.    LCA is a product of indigenous effort towards building a potent fighter aircraft with contemporary capabilities. “Tejas” is the first advance Fly By Wire fighter aircraft designed, developed and manufactured in India. The first LCA Squadron was formed on 01 July 2016. Till date, 16 Aircraft have been delivered to IAF in IOC configuration. Delivery of FOC aircraft has also commenced. IAF also plans to procure 83 LCA Mk 1A. HAL, ADA and the IAF have worked together to overcome teething problems which are present in any new induction. The FOC configuration has begun to roll out with improved weapons capability, enhanced fight envelope, inflight refuelling capability and advance features for low speed handling.

 

(f)            Pechora Digitisation.    IAF is in the process of upgrading its legacy Pechora system of post 1987 vintage. Contract for digitisation of Firing Units of Pechora Missile System was signed on Sep 20. Post digitisation performance of the system would be enhanced considerably. Presently, the Firing Unit digitisation is under progress.

 

OP Mobilisation in Leh Sector

 

7.           Rapid Op Mobilisation (Northern Sector) During Mid-2020.         The heavy airlift assets of the Tpt Fleet of IAF proved their mettle by mobilising huge quantum of war waging machinery along with battle ready troops in the Northern Sector in quick time frames, thereby altering the dynamics of the force posturing.

 

HADR

 

8.           HADR Missions (International). The international air effort towards Covid task comprises the following:

 

(a)      Goodwill Flight to Wuhan, China.C-17 employed to airlift 15 Tons of medical supplies to China and to evacuate 112 Indian and foreign nationals to India on 26 and 27 Feb 20.

 

(b)      Immediate Evacuation of Indians from Iran. C-17 employed to evacuate 58 Indians from Tehran on 10 Mar 20.

 

(c)           Airlift of Medical Equipment /Supplies to Male.   6.2 Tons of Load airlifted to Male on 02 Apr 20.

 

(d)          Evacuation of COVID-19 +VE DRDO Personnel from Kyrgyzstan.         49 DRDO personnel (including 25 COVID-19 Positive Personnel) were airlifted from Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan to Vishakhapatanam, India on 04 Nov 2020.

 

(e)      Medical Support to Kuwait.  15 Medical personnel along with 1.8 Tons of load comprising COVID Testing Machines and associated Computers was airlifted to Kuwait on 11 Apr 20.

 

(f)       C-17 Trip to Congo / South Sudan.  One  C-17 was employed to airlift 18.6 Tons of COVID-19 stores and Indian Army load from Hindan to Goma (Congo) and Juba (South Sudan) on 18 July 20 and to get passengers back to India. The Aircraft operated non-stop to cover a total distance of 7,100 Km. 62 passengers including 18 Indian nationals & 02 Mortal Remains were bought back from Goma and Juba respectively.

 

(g)      Mission to Beirut, Lebanon.  One C-17 airlifted 57 Tons of relief material including medicines, food grains, blankets, PPEs, gloves and masks to Beirut on 14 Aug 20.

 

(h)     Mission to Mauritius.   On 16 Aug 20, one C-17 airlifted 35 Tons of humanitarian aid & pollution response material from Sulur to Mauritius along with 10 personnel of Indian Coast Guard.

 

9.           HADR Missions (Domestic).   Air effort towards various natural calamities during the year are given as under:-

 

(a)      Vizag Gas Leak.   After the gas leak from a chemical plant in Vizag,
8.3 Tons of chemical load was airlifted from Mundra to Vizag on
09 and 10 May 20 to provide relief. Inaddition, 04 NDRF and 05 National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI) Scientists were airlifted. 23 sorties and 40 hrs were flown.

 

(b)      Cyclone ‘AMPHAN’.      2 x C-130 were employed to airlift two NDRF teams each from Pune to Kolkata and from Arakonam to Kolkata respectively, towards Cyclone Relief Ops. Total 91 personnel and 8.6 T of load was airlifted on 21 May 20.

 

(c)      Cyclone ‘NISARGA’.   OneIL-76was tasked on 02 Jun 20 from Bhatinda to Suratgarh to airlift 10.8 Tons load and 122 Pax of 07 NDRF. One IL-76was tasked on 02 Jun 20 from Vijaywada to Mumbai to airlift 6.9Tons load and
108 Pax of 10 NDRF.

 

(d)      Flood Relief Ops.          Heptrs were extensively deployed for flood relief ops during 2020 in the states of Bihar, Telengana, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, J&K and Maharashtra. 144 sorties were flown and 338 Pax and
76.95Tons of load were airlifted.

 

(e)      Evacuation of Stranded Trekkers from Chadar Trek.A request was received from UT of Ladakh for evacuation of 80-100 trekkers (including
02 French and 07 Chinese nationals) stranded in Zanskar valley. IAF launched two ALH Helicopters for the rescue mission and 107 trekkers were evacuated safely to Leh. 28 sorties were flown from 14 to 16 Jan 20 for the rescue mission.

10.        Locust Spray by IAF Helicopters.    Ministry of Agriculture had requested for helicopters to be employed for spraying purposes to control spread of locusts. IAF carried out modification of two Helicopters in quick time for the task, which were then used aerial spraying in Rajasthan and Gujarat states.

 

11.        Efficient Use of Indian Airspace.     Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) have jointly formed a mechanism for efficient use of Indian Airspace.  To achieve this, the National Airspace Management Cell (NAMC) was made operational from 30 Jul 20 and the Regional Airspace Management Cell (RAMC), Chennai from
02 Dec 20. It is jointly manned by officers from IAF and AAI.

 

12.        Joint Use of Defence Airfield under RCS Udan Scheme.      IAF has been actively interacting with MoCA/ AAI for sharing its airports and airspace for supporting the increased demands of civil aviation. Accordingly, seven more defence airfields have been opened for joint useto accommodate civil scheduled flights as part of RCS UDAN Scheme in last one year. Scheduled flight operations have commenced from Darbhanga airfield from 08 Nov 20. 39 IAF bases & 7 ALGs have been made available for joint user operations.

 

13.        Disposal of NOC Cases for Wind Turbine Generators. In order to ease and expedite the process of installation of Wind Turbine  Generators (WTGs) towards achieving the renewable energy generation target of Govt of India, IAF has identified and demarcated areas in Gujarat and Rajasthan sector where WTGs can be installed without having to apply for NOC. 1654 WTG locations have been recommended around the country during the period of 01 Jan 20 to 15 Dec 20, despite Covid-19 restrictions.

 

14.        Implementation of e-Goverance (e-Office) in IAF   IAF e-Governance (e-Office) System has been launched in Dec 20 for all Officers in the IAF. The implementation of the initiative, undertaken as part of digital and e-governance policies, of the Government of India will see over 800 Indian Air Force units across the country transit to ‘paperless office working’ in the coming year. Launch of e-Governance (e-Office) in IAF marks a paradigm shift from current method of manual handling of files and documents to a digital one.  The system aims to achieve enhanced transparency, improved efficiency, increased accountability, assured data integrity & security along with a drastic reduction in the use of paper and will result in optimization of time & human resources.