Germany Removes Restrictions, India Can Now Buy Small Arms From Its Firms

New Delhi: Under the new Social Democratic Party government led by Olaf Scholz, Germany has lifted restrictions on the sale of small arms, thereby allowing the Indian military and its state police forces to buy them off the shelf.

Earlier this month, the German government green-lit a request by the National Security Guard (NSG) to buy spare parts and accessories for its MP5 submachine guns that were procured earlier, sources in the know said.

This, they added, was a turnaround because the German government had strict regulations in place regarding the sale of small arms to non-NATO countries.

It is also learnt that the NSG did procure several MP5s since the restrictions came in 2008, but state police forces were not able to purchase them.

This is because the earlier Christian Democratic Union German government, headed by former chancellor Angela Merkel from 2005 to 2021, had prevented the sale of small arms to police forces operating in states which they perceived had a “bad human rights record”.

Therefore, police forces fighting armed militancy, insurgency or left-wing extremism in regions such as Jammu and Kashmir, the Northeast, Andhra Pradesh and others could not procure the guns.

German firm Heckler & Koch, whose MP5 submachine guns are used by the NSG and Indian Navy Commandos MARCOS, had steered clear of the large Indian market because the German government feared the rifles supplied to the Indian Army or central armed police forces would be used in Kashmir, sources said.

Asked about this, a diplomatic source said, “It was not completely about Kashmir or human rights issues. The previous government had put restrictions on the sale of small arms to non-NATO countries.”

The source added, “But now India has got an exemption. On 1 April, Heckler & Koch got permission to sell to India. This shows the strategic value Germany puts to its relations with India.”

It was explained that Germany had made its export licensing rules softer and easier. A second source said that on certain items, the German company involved can first export them and then seek a licence from its government. “In the last month and a half, several Indian requests have been sanctioned,” the source said.

The source added 95 percent requests earlier were cleared but took time, prompting Germany to make the process easier. India’s small arms requests were among the 5 percent that were rejected by Germany.

In 2011, Narendra Modi as then chief minister of Gujarat raised the issue of Germany’s boycott and that of another European country. He was unhappy with a then home ministry circular advising certain states, including Gujarat which wanted the MP5s, to import weapons from the US, Italy or Russia.

There was a frenzy among police forces to procure the MP5s since the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks since both the NSG and MARCOS had used them during the three-day carnage.

(With Agency Inputs)

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Rafale To Exercise Garuda, A Look At Indo-French Defence Ties As Chief of Defence Staff Visits France

New Delhi: Furthering multilevel defence ties, from government to industry, is at the heart of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan’s ongoing official visit to France.

The general’s tour follows reciprocatory visits by the countries’ premiers, who were invited to each other’s key events in the last one year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was guest of honour at the French National Day on 14 July 2023, followed by President Emmanuel Macron returning the favour at this year’s Republic Day.

During the trip, General Chauhan interacted with the senior civil and military leadership of France. He also met with his French counterpart, CDS General Thierry Burkhard, the chief of the National Institute for Higher Defence Studies and Director General, Armament.

The Indian CDS also went to see the French Space Command — a formation of the French Air and Space Force, dealing with space issues.

General Chauhan will further interact with a few defence industries in France, including the Safran Group, Naval Group, and Dassault Aviation. Indian defence forces already use equipment and weapon systems developed by these companies.

India Largest Importer of French Equipment

India’s cooperation with the French industry has grown manifold in recent times. According to a report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) in March, India was the largest single recipient of French arms exports, which accounted for nearly 30 percent.

While India’s Air Force already operates the Rafale fighter jets, the Navy is buying the Rafale Marines from Dassault Aviation to enhance its aircraft carrier capabilities. The naval forces also operate six Scorpene-class submarines built by the Mazagon Docks Ltd (MDL) and the Naval Group of France. In a follow-on deal, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the proposal for three additional Scorpene-class submarines. Once the contract is signed, the construction will start at MDL in Mumbai.

Safran and HAL last October signed an MoU for the development of industrial cooperation. Under the terms of the MoU, HAL will produce LEAP engine parts for Safran Aircraft Engines in its facilities in Bangalore, according to a statement.

In July, 2023, Safran Helicopter Engines and HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) decided to set up their new joint venture in Bengaluru. In a statement, Safran said the company would be dedicated to the design, development, production, sales and support of helicopter engines.

India and France are also collaborating on the fighter jet engine Shakti which seeks to power the Dhruv helicopters.

There are plans to add maintenance, repairs and overhaul (MRO) for Rafale engines, and a comprehensive helicopter partnership with a joint venture for Indian multi-role helicopter engine between HAL and Safran.

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) intend to cooperate and conclude an arrangement MoU for other projects, as per the India-France joint statement.

Another addition to the military cooperation between India and France has been the Strategic Space Dialogue. In March, the second edition of this was held in New Delhi. The inaugural India-France Strategic Space Dialogue was in Paris in June 2023. Last month, India also participated as an observer to France’s flagship military space exercise, AsterX.

During President Macron’s January visit, the two countries agreed to “intensify their cooperation in the Southwest Indian Ocean, building on the joint surveillance missions carried out from the French island territory of La Reunion in 2020 and 2022”, the joint statement said. The leaders also agreed on extending these interactions to India’s maritime neighbourhood. These interchanges may contribute to securing strategic sea lanes of communication.

Camaraderie of Defence Forces

India and France have seen cooperation among defence forces in recent times. In February, the Indian Navy conducted exercise MILAN-24, where 50 countries including France, took part with its maritime patrol aircraft. The French Navy ships are set to conduct training at sea with the Indian Navy as part of the forthcoming Indo-Pacific deployment.

Next month, the Indian and French armies are set to hold a bilateral exercise in Meghalaya, which will focus on counter-terror operations. The French contingent participating in the exercise will include more than 90 troops.

Further, in August, French air and space forces will also take part in India’s multi-nation exercise, Tarang Shakti. French Rafales will fly to India for the exercise.

Exercise Varuna, a bilateral drill held between the Indian and French navies, will be conducted later this year. During this exercise, there will likely be a “distinct tri-services” drill in order to enhance levels of interoperability.

Apart from these, the Indian and French air forces biennially conduct Exercise Garuda.

(With Agency Inputs)

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Hi-Tech Innovation: The Lightest Bulletproof Jacket Sets A New Standard in Protection; Providing Level-6 Protection

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a remarkable milestone with the development of the lightest bulletproof jacket in the country. Designed to offer unparalleled protection against the highest threat levels, this jacket stands as a testament to India’s innovation and commitment to safeguarding its defenders.

Innovation In Design

Innovation in design lies at the heart of the newly developed bulletproof jacket by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Through pioneering design approaches and the integration of cutting-edge materials and processes, this jacket represents a paradigm shift in protective gear technology.

At its core, the jacket boasts a front Hard Armour Panel (HAP) that stands as a formidable barrier against the most potent threats, including the deadly 7.62 x 54 R API ammunition, known for its formidable penetration capabilities, particularly in sniper rounds. What sets this jacket apart is its ability to not just withstand but efficiently neutralize multiple hits of such high-caliber ammunition, ensuring the utmost safety for the wearer.

Central to the effectiveness and comfort of the jacket is its ergonomically designed HAP. Crafted from a monolithic ceramic plate with a polymer backing, this innovative construction strikes the perfect balance between protection and wearability. The monolithic ceramic plate provides exceptional ballistic resistance, while the polymer backing enhances flexibility and comfort, allowing for ease of movement during operations. This ergonomic design ensures that personnel can carry out their duties with agility and precision, without compromising on safety or comfort.

Unmatched Protection

The bulletproof jacket developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) offers unparalleled protection that has been rigorously tested and certified to meet the highest standards set by BIS 17051-2018. Its ability to withstand Level 6 threats, including the formidable 7.62 x 54 R API ammunition, positions it as a formidable shield against even the most potent adversaries.

Tested under stringent conditions at TBRL, Chandigarh, this jacket has demonstrated its capability to provide robust protection in the face of high-calibre ammunition, making it an indispensable asset for personnel operating in high-risk environments. Its compliance with the rigorous standards set by BIS underscores its reliability and effectiveness in real-world scenarios.

Lightweight Construction

Beyond its exceptional protective capabilities, what truly sets this jacket apart is its lightweight construction. With an impressively low areal density, the ICW Hard Armour Panel (HAP) weighs less than 40 kg/m2, while the standalone HAP weighs less than 43 kg/m2. This remarkable feat of engineering ensures that wearers can move swiftly and comfortably, unhindered by the weight of traditional protective gear.

The lightweight construction of the jacket not only enhances wearer comfort but also facilitates greater agility and maneuverability, critical factors in dynamic and unpredictable operational environments. By prioritizing both protection and mobility, DRDO has succeeded in creating a solution that empowers personnel to perform their duties with confidence and efficiency.

Contribution To Defence

The development of the lightest bulletproof jacket by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) represents a significant milestone in advancing the country’s defence capabilities to new heights. This groundbreaking innovation addresses a critical need for lightweight yet highly protective gear, catering to the requirements of armed forces personnel, law enforcement agencies, and security personnel operating in challenging and high-risk environments.

By equipping frontline defenders with state-of-the-art equipment, India reaffirms its unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of those who serve the nation. The provision of cutting-edge protective gear not only enhances the effectiveness of operations but also underscores India’s dedication to safeguarding its borders, maintaining law and order, and combating emerging security threats.

Recognition And Appreciation

The recognition extended by the Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO to the Defence Materials and Stores Research and Development Establishment (DMSRDE), Kanpur, is a testament to the exemplary achievement and dedication of Indian scientists and engineers. Their tireless efforts and expertise have pushed the boundaries of technological innovation, resulting in the development of a world-class protective solution that sets a new standard in defence equipment.

This recognition not only honours the contributions of the DMSRDE team but also highlights India’s prowess in research and development within the defence sector. It serves as a source of pride for the nation and reinforces India’s position as a global leader in technological innovation and national security.

In conclusion, India’s success in developing the lightest bulletproof jacket is not just a testament to its scientific prowess but also a symbol of its unwavering commitment to protecting those who serve the nation. By pushing the limits of innovation, India continues to set new standards in defence technology, reinforcing its position as a global leader in security and resilience.

(With Agency Inputs)

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South Korea, India Hold Consultations On Disarmament, Non-Proliferation In Seoul

Seoul: Consultations on disarmament and Non-Proliferation between India and South Korea were held on Friday in Seoul, the Ministry of External Affairs said.

The two sides discussed developments in the fields of disarmament and non-proliferation rating to nuclear, chemical and biological domains.

Moreover, regional non-proliferation issues, outer space security- related matters, conventional weapons including AI in the military domain and multilateral export control regimes, were also discussed, the MEA release said.

The Indian side was led by Muanpuii Saiawi, Joint Secretary (Disarmament and International Security Affairs) in the MEA while the Korean delegation was led by Youn Jong Kwon, Director General for Non-Proliferation and Nuclear Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

India and South Korea discussed regional and global challenges to disarmament and non-proliferation, including North Korea's nuclear and missile programs and the implementation of UN Security Council sanctions, according to the Yonhap news agency.

The two sides also exchanged views on the challenges and opportunities posed by the rise of emerging security issues, such as artificial intelligence and space security, according to South Korea's foreign ministry.

Third India-Republic of Korea Consultations on Disarmament and Non-Proliferation was held on , March 31, 2022.

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Indian Navy Participates In Maritime Partnership Exercise With UK's Littoral Response Group

New Delhi: Indian Navy's indigenous stealth frigate, INS Sahyadri participated in the Maritime Partnership Exercise with Royal Navy's RFA Argus and RFA Lyme Bay, part of the UK Littoral Response Group South, the Indian Navy said.

The exercise, which took place on Thursday aimed to enhance interoperability and strengthen maritime cooperation between the two nations,

Exercise Highlights include Tactical manoeuvres, Boarding operations, Surface engagement against simulated asymmetric threats, Cross-deck visits, and Cross-deck helicopter operations.

"Tactical manoeuvres, boarding ops, surface engagement against simulated asymmetric threats, cross deck visits & cross deck helo ops conducted. The exercises provided an opportunity for both navies to exchange best practices & benefit from each other's experience & expertise," the Indian Navy wrote in a post on X.

The exercise provided an opportunity for both navies to: Exchange best practices, Benefit from each other's experience and expertise, and enhance their capabilities in maritime operations

This exercise demonstrates the Indian Navy's commitment to strengthening maritime partnerships and promoting regional stability.

It also highlights the growing bilateral defence cooperation between India and the UK.

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Significance of Second Test Flight of Crew Module For Gaganyaan Mission

As ISRO gets ready for the second test flight for its ambitious Gaganyaan mission it will be the first integrated air-drop test of the Gaganyaan Crew Module. Currently ISRO has not officially yet confirmed whether this test has been completed or not. This air-drop test is vital for validating the functionality of the parachute system and the structural integrity of the capsule, both of which are essential for ensuring the astronauts' safe re-entry and landing from space.

“The test involves attaching the crew capsule, constructed from robust materials like aluminium and steel, beneath a Chinook helicopter. It is then released over the ocean from an altitude of about 3.5 to 4 kilometers. This test is designed to confirm several crucial safety aspects,” explained space expert Girish Linganna.

This test flight will exhibit multiple aspects such as the Parachute Deployment wherein it will evaluate whether the parachutes deploys correctly and at the right moment after the capsule is released from a significant height. It will also test material durability as it will test the structural integrity of the crew capsule, made of aluminium and steel, to ensure it can endure the forces encountered during the drop and upon water impact.

Linganna explains that it will also exhibit descent control. “It will assess how effectively the parachutes manage and stabilize the descent of the capsule, ensuring it does not spin or tumble, which could pose risks. Besides that it will also display splashdown handling wherein it will verify the capsule’s ability to handle the impact with the water, ensuring it remains intact and safe for any crew inside. This test will also test tension handling and check the parachutes and their attachments for their capacity to manage the tension and stress during deployment and the slowing down of the capsule,” added Linganna.

Successful completion of this test is critical for moving forward with the Gaganyaan mission. Achieving success in the Gaganyaan mission will position India among a select group of nations with active human spaceflight programs, such as the US, Russia, and China. The development of several critical technologies is involved, including a human-rated launch vehicle, a life support system to provide an Earth-like environment in space, crew emergency escape provisions, and comprehensive strategies for the training, recovery, and rehabilitation of the crew.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has already announced the selection of four astronauts for the mission, all test pilots from the Indian Air Force: Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan, Group Captain Ajith Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla.

Interestingly when compared to NASA and ESA, ISRO's Gaganyaan mission stands out for its focus on indigenous technology. While NASA's Artemis program aims to return humans to the Moon and ESA contributes to international collaborations like the International Space Station, Gaganyaan is primarily a demonstration of India's self-reliant capabilities in human spaceflight.

When compared to NASA and ESA, ISRO's Gaganyaan mission stands out for its focus on indigenous technology. While NASA's Artemis program aims to return humans to the Moon and ESA contributes to international collaborations like the International Space Station, Gaganyaan is primarily a demonstration of India's self-reliant capabilities in human spaceflight.

“NASA's missions often involve sophisticated technology and international partnerships, leveraging decades of experience in human space exploration. ESA, on the other hand, has been a key player in developing and operating some of the most advanced space technologies and exploratory missions. Gaganyaan's second test flight showcases India's progress in critical technologies such as the human-rated LVM-3 launch vehicle and the crew escape system, which are essential for the safety and success of future manned missions. These developments are crucial steps for ISRO as it seeks to establish itself as a leader in space exploration,” remarked Srimathy Kesan, founder and CEO of Space Kidz India, which is into design, fabrication and launch of small satellites, spacecraft and ground systems.

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Indian Coast Guard Delegation Participates In World Border Security Congress In Istanbul

Istanbul: A two-member Indian Coast Guard delegation led by Additional Director General S Paramesh participated in the World Border Security Congress 2024 being conducted in Istanbul, Turkiye.

The event was conducted from April 24-26 in Istanbul.

The Indian Coast Guard presented a maritime perspective to the Congress on "Maritime Border Challenges" and discussed potential solutions.

The event further highlighted the meeting of Coast Guards and Border agencies across the globe, aimed at fostering cooperation and addressing Maritime contemporary issues.

The Indian Coast Guard shared a post on X, stating, "Two member @IndiaCoastGuard

delegation led by Additional Director General S Paramesh, PTM, TM participated in World Border Security Congress -2024 being conducted from 24-26 Apr 24 at #Istanbul #Turkiye. #ADGICG presented a maritime perspective to the Congress on "Maritime Border Challenges" and discussed potential solutions. The event highlights the meeting of Coast Guards and Border Agencies across the globe aimed at fostering cooperation and addressing Maritime contemporary issues."

Moreover, India and Turkey share historical connections. Diplomatic relations were established and ambassadors were exchanged in 1948.

High-level visits were exchanged regularly, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

Bilateral relations have been strengthened by the exchange of visits of leaders of both countries in recent times.

Moreover, there have been exchanges of parliamentary delegations between the two countries.

The Members of Parliament have also been interacting with each other at multilateral parliamentary conferences.

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Amid Warnings By US, Pak Defence Minister Hopeful of Iran-Pakistan Gas Pipeline Completion

Islamabad: Pointing to constant intervention by the European and Western nations, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has said that he is hopeful that the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline project will be completed and that no obstacle would hamper the process, according to Geo News.

Speaking with Geo News, the minister insisted that in order to safeguard their interests amid the turmoil and unrest that the region's countries are experiencing as well as the growing interference of major powers like the European Union and the United States through proxies--especially with regard to Israel--regional stakeholders needed to unite on a common platform.

The minister's remarks come at a time when Iran's President Ebrahim Raisi visited Pakistan recently.

Regarding this, Asif described Iranian President Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi's "successful visit" as a "great development".

The visit by the Iranian president was historic, particularly in light of the pipeline project, which has been put on hold due to geopolitical tensions and international sanctions.

Asif further bemoaned the 'lack of values' and the 'hypocritical attitude' of Western countries towards Israel. The US, however, advised against business deals with Iran, asking to remain aware of the potential risk of sanctions.

The Pakistani defence minister, however, maintained that Islamabad and Tehran have a long history of friendly ties and while the Iranian president wanted to conduct a large meeting during his visit, the government could not make arrangements due to security concerns, as per Geo News.

The United States on Thursday imposed sanctions on over a dozen entities, eight individuals and vessels that have facilitated illicit trade and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) transfer on behalf of the Iranian military.

"The United States is today imposing sanctions on 16 entities and eight individuals, as well as identifying as blocked property five vessels and one aircraft, that have facilitated illicit trade and the sale of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in support of Iran's Ministry of Defence and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL) and the regime's UAV development and procurement," the US State Department said in a release.

Moreover, the UK and Canada are imposing sanctions targeting several entities and individuals involved in Iran's UAV procurement and other military-related activities, respectively.

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US Secretary Antony Blinken Meets With China's President Xi Jinping

Washington: The United States secretary of state, Antony Blinken met with China's President Xi Jinping on Friday, a development which the New York Times said hopes to shore up the fractious relationship between the two countries despite disputes over the economy, national security, and geopolitical frictions.

The meeting followed Blinken's over five-hour-long meeting with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing. The top US diplomat also met with China's Minister of Security Wang Xiaohong, who serves as the country's police chief.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson in a post on X, said, "President Xi noted that he proposed mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation to be the three overarching principles. They are both lessons learned from the past and a guide for the future.

"It is the shared desire of both the two peoples and the international community to see China and the US strengthen dialogue, manage differences and advance cooperation. The planet is big enough to accommodate the common development and respective prosperity of China and the US. China is happy to see a confident, open, prosperous, and thriving US. We hope the US can also look at China's development in a positive light".

He further said, "Over the past 45 years, the China-US relationship has gone through winds and rains, and it has a number of important inspirations to offer: China and the US should be partners rather than rivals; help each other succeed rather than hurt each other; seek common ground and reserve differences, rather than engage in vicious competition; and honour words with actions, rather than say one thing but do the opposite."

Blinken took to his social media handle X to post about the "in-depth and substantive meeting" today with Wang Yi. "As part of our effort to responsibly manage competition, we discussed areas of difference, in addition to areas of shared interest -- like counter narcotics -- where we can build on progress to deliver benefits for both our peoples, "Blinken said.

Wang struck a somewhat more conciliatory tone than in the past, telling the top US diplomat that "the China-U.S. relationship is beginning to stabilize" and also warned that negative factors in the relationship were still "increasing and building," as per the NYT report.

"I hope that we can make some progress on the issues that our presidents agreed we should cooperation on, but also clarify our differences, our intent, and make very clear to each other where we stand," Blinken responded according to the US publication.

Both China and the United States have said they were hoping for progress on a few smaller, pragmatic fronts, including improving communications between their militaries and easing travel between the two countries, the NYT reported.

A US official was cited as saying that in the meeting with Blinken and his Chinese counterpart, the US Secretary aired concerns over China's alleged support for Russia's defence industry base amid its invasion of Ukraine and stressed the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, ahead of the inauguration of Taiwan's next leader Lai Ching-te on May 20, according to a report in Kyodo.

"China's legitimate development rights have been unreasonably suppressed and our core interests are facing challenges," China's top diplomat said at the outset of the talks, Kyodo reported.

Wang urged the United States "not to interfere in China's internal affairs, not to hold China's development back, and not to step on China's red lines" concerning what he said was his country's sovereignty, security and development interests.

"Should China and the United States keep to the right direction of moving forward with stability or return to a downward spiral? This is a major question before our two countries, and tests our sincerity and ability," Wang told Blinken during their meeting after saying US-China ties were "beginning to stabilize," according to CNN.

Earlier on April 24, Blinken, who is on his second visit to China this year said that he was in China "to make progress on issues that matter most to the American people, including curbing fentanyl trafficking."

He said that the two sides will discuss work underway to fulfil commitments made by US President Joe Biden Xi Jinping in November 2023, as well as the areas where we have significant disagreements."

The US State Department prior to Blinken's departure for China said that during his April 24-26 visit, Blinken will meet with senior Chinese officials in Shanghai and Beijing to discuss a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues, including the crisis in the Middle East, Russia's war against Ukraine, cross-Strait issues, and the South China Sea.

"Blinken will also discuss ongoing work to fulfil the commitments made by Presidents Biden and Xi at the Woodside Summit in November on resuming counter narcotics cooperation, military-to-military communication, artificial intelligence, and strengthening people-to-people ties, and will reiterate the importance of the United States and the PRC responsibly managing competition, even in areas where our two countries disagree," it said.

Blinken's visit follows a visit to China by US Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen earlier this month.

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Desperation Is Pushing Pakistan And Iran To Mend Ties—That's Why They Are Also Raising Kashmir Issue

Now as the ties between Pakistan and Iran are getting warmer, India must certainly take notice

by Monica Verma

Kautilya, father of Indian strategy and statecraft, had given a useful advice: If you have two enemies, then become friends with the lesser one temporarily so that you can fully focus on tackling the challenge from the mightier one. It seems Iran and Pakistan have taken a leaf out of his book and that’s why after a very rough patch in their relations, they are finally burying the hatchet. Their relations had become sour after a tit-for-tat cross-border strikes early this year over Pakistan’s failure to rein in anti-Iranian terror groups in its territory. But after that rocky road, Iran and Pakistan are mending their bilateral ties these days.

Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi is currently on a visit to Pakistan. The last Iranian President to do so was President Hassan Rouhani who visited Pakistan in 2016 which was eight long years ago. Raisi’s visit is coming closely on the heels of rising tensions in the West Asian region with his country, Iran, caught in a conflict with Israel provoked by the latter’s attack on its consulate in Damascus, Syria.

Israel’s airstrikes had taken out a top commander in Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guards Mohammed Reza Zahedi, leading Iran to retaliate with a reciprocal attack. The overwhelming attack included use of hundreds of drones, cruise and ballistic missiles by Iran which were successfully intercepted by Israel’s own air-defence mechanism along with some help from the United States, UK and Jordan. All this has happened in the background of the Israeli offensive against Hamas in Gaza after last year’s brutal terrorist attack on Israeli civilians. Although Israel’s war in Gaza is still going strong, it seems the current round of Iran-Israel escalation is over with Israel choosing to scale back its operation against Iran to avoid a war.

Nevertheless, the region is currently fraught with tensions and Iranian President’s visit to Pakistan may be seen in the light of the heat that Iran is facing in its neighbourhood. Although Pakistan is traditionally an ally of the Arabs with Saudi Arabia and not Iran its partner of preference in the region, the two still have a commonality and that’s their shared love for a pan-Islamic identity. Iran, despite being a Shia-dominated country, shares a close connection with Sunni-dominated Pakistan over matters that concern the Islamic world. In fact, both countries consider religion as central to their national identities and hence have a worldview which is tainted by the spirit of ummah (Islamic global solidarity).

Iran was one of the first countries to officially recognise Pakistan after India’s Partition in 1947 and likewise Pakistan had also quickly termed the Islamic revolution in Iran led by Imam Khomeini as legitimate. At a time when Iran is alienated in a troubled neighbourhood, Raisi’s visit to a fellow Islamic country is great for optics as well as psychological relief. None of the other Islamic countries have come to Iran’s support and that leaves it desperate for some validation for its actions.

Meanwhile, Pakistan too has a similar logic in accepting Iran’s olive branch. While Pakistan is already surrounded by multiple troubles including a fledgling economic situation, waning popularity of the military leadership, tensions with India as well as the threat from an emboldened Tehrik-e-Taliban, its best bet is to decimate at least one challenge on its border and that includes a back-to-normal relationship with Iran.

However, there is another logic to Iran-Pakistan’s mutual outreach. This one has to do with economy. American sanctions have crippled Iran’s economy with it even facing a back-to-back recession in recent years. The current economic situation is also precarious with a limited appetite in the country for some actual war-waging. Iran does have the largest source of natural gas after Russia, but the American sanctions mean that none of it can be actually leveraged to grow wealth—petroleum revenue for Iran has come down sharply in the recent years.

A desperate Raisi has reached Pakistan with a hope to revive trade relations. He has signed around eight agreements with Pakistan during the visit that also includes a proposal to set up a Special Economic Zone jointly. Iran is also convincing Pakistan to restart the pipeline project that the two countries planned in 2010. Iran has constructed its section of the gas pipeline, but Pakistan is yet to construct its part. It had sought a 10-year extension in 2014 from Iran to fulfil the obligations failing which it will have to pay billions of dollars for breaching the contract.

However, unlike Rouhani whose visit in 2016 was marked by the end of sanctions on Iran, Raisi’s luck is running out. Any business deal with Iran will attract sanctions from the US. Hence despite being desperate for Iranian gas, an energy-starved Pakistan won’t risk American sanctions. This makes the two countries’ promise to each other to increase bilateral trade from $2 billion to $10 billion an empty one.

Anyway as Iran has initiated a rapprochement towards Pakistan, it brings the most important question into the picture that what this development means for India’s interests. Well both Iran and Pakistan despite their Shia-Sunni divide have a history of coordinating positions when it comes to issues of the Islamic world.

During Raisi’s visit, the issue of Israel’s offensive in Gaza was also discussed where both countries condemned Israel for its actions. Just like Palestine, Kashmir also happens to be a sticking point with pan-Islamists. Here Pakistan’s obsession with Kashmir is one thing, but even Iran has tried to concretise its claims of leading the Islamic world by raising Kashmir on many occasions. This time also this was not different. While Pakistan’s prime minister Shehbaz Sharif linked Palestine issue with Kashmir during a joint press conference despite his country on the verge of bankruptcy, a much rational Raisi didn’t reciprocate this gesture while delivering his speech. Interestingly, a video grab of the press conference even shows him momentarily shocked when Sharif is raising the Kashmir issue. However, the joint statement issued by the two countries did mention Kashmir.

This marks a significant turn in India’s relations with Iran. Iran in the past may have played to the Islamist gallery by raising the Kashmir issue but India chose to ignore it and focused on Iran’s centrality to India’s strategic interests in Central Asia and beyond. However, Iran and Pakistan jointly raising the Kashmir issue from a common platform will not go down well with New Delhi. Iran’s use of the term “international law” with reference to Kashmir would also remind India of the UN resolution which it doesn’t agree with.

Early this month, even Saudi Arabia had mentioned the Kashmir issue in the joint statement. Many had defended it by saying that it didn’t at least mention UN resolution but referred to a bilateral solution, a position which is closer to New Delhi’s stand. In the case of Iran even that defence isn’t available. Clearly, India will have to recalibrate its approach towards Iran. It is true that Iran is key to India’s strategic interests in West as well as Central Asia through the Chabahar port investment. However, territorial integrity and sovereignty is also important and any mention of Kashmir that too from Pakistani soil will irk New Delhi for sure.

Now as the ties between Pakistan and Iran are getting warmer, India must certainly take notice. Despite an exchange of missile attacks early this year, they have found a common plank to target India over Kashmir. Besides the Kashmir card and Islamic solidarity over it, India’s ties with Iran are far more meaningful than Pakistan’s outreach to Iran. However, a desperate hunt for validation by two troubled Islamic countries cannot make India a scapegoat.

The author is a New Delhi-based commentator on geopolitics and foreign policy. She holds a PhD from the Department of International Relations, South Asian University.

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France, Germany Push On With 2040 Joint Tank Project

France and Germany agreed on Friday to move to the next phase of a project to jointly develop a battle tank by 2040, their defence ministers said, as they seek fresh impetus despite reservations and differences on each side.

Berlin and Paris in 2017 agreed to work on a joint fighter jet under French lead, estimated to cost some 100 billion euros in total, and also a Franco-German tank to succeed the German Leopard 2 and the French Leclerc.

Both projects have been plagued by disagreements and delays, further straining Franco-German ties burdened by differences over energy topics and over how far Europe should become independent from the U.S. in its security policy.

Why Is It Important?

The political decision to move to the next phase is important because French and German companies have their own interests, while Paris and Berlin do not see eye to eye on the concept.

The support of French Defence Minister Sebastien Lecornu and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius to drive things forward maintains some momentum.

Development of a next-generation tank is also seen as vital in highlighting how Europe can create its own defence autonomy, compete with new players like India and China, but also take the lead over Russia and the United States, who have yet to unveil plans for tanks to replace their existing models.

What Has Been Agreed?

The two sides have agreed on a way ahead for the distribution of work between manufacturers and hope to sign their first contracts by the end of year.

Which Companies Are Involved?

Funded equally and carried out under German management, it is led by KNDS, a holding company created between France's Nexter and Germany's Krauss-Maffei-Wegmann (KMW), maker of the Leopard tank. Rheinmetall and Thales are also involved.

"There has been very important work which ... enables us to say that in the 2040s, it will be time for two friendly neighbouring countries, members of the European Union and members of NATO, to have a completely functional and operational armoured cavalry," Lecornu said.

"There is still a long way to go before our Franco-German land combat system of the future, MGCS, is realised. And yet today's signing of the MOU is another important milestone," Pistorius said.

(With Inputs From International Agencies)

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2 Terrorists Dead As Gun Battle Resumes In J-K's Baramulla

Two terrorists were killed while as many Army personnel got injured on Friday as a gun battle between the militants and security forces continued for the second day in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district, officials said.

The encounter began on Thursday at Check Mohalla Nowpora in the Sopore area of north Kashmir. After the night's lull, a fresh exchange of firing took place on Friday morning, they said.

Two terrorists have been killed so far, according to the officials.

Two army personnel injured in the gunfight have been shifted to a hospital for treatment, they said.

A civilian was also injured near the site of the encounter on Thursday.

The operation to flush out the terrorists from the area is underway , they added.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed

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BSF Recovers China-Made Drone In Punjab's Tarn Taran

The Border Security Force (BSF) along with the Punjab Police recovered a drone in the border area of Tarn Taran district, officials said on Friday.

According to an official BSF release, "Based on information on April 25, 2024, BSF intelligence set up about the presence of a drone in the border area of Tarn Taran district, a joint search operation by BSF troops with Punjab Police was conducted in the suspected area."

The recovered drone has been identified as a China-made DJI Matrice 300 RTK.

"During the search operation, at about 10.15 pm, troops successfully recovered one drone in broken condition from a farming field adjacent to village Khemkaran in Tarn Taran District," said the release.

The statement further stated that reliable information and coordinated efforts of BSF and Punjab police successfully recovered yet another illicit drone from across the border.

Earlier on Wednesday, the BSF along with the Punjab Police recovered a drone from a farming field adjacent to village Khemkaran in the border area of Punjab's Tarn Taran district.

The recovered drone was identified as a China-made DJI Mavic 3 Classic.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed

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India Stresses Peace And Cooperation At SCO Defence Ministers' Meeting In Kazakhstan

Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane joined his counterparts from Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) member states in Kazakhstan capital, Astana for a pivotal Defence Ministers' meeting on Friday, the Ministry of Defence said in an official press statement.

During the gathering, a significant protocol was signed, underscoring the collective commitment of all SCO members towards fostering peace and cooperation in the region. The meeting culminated in a Joint Communique, highlighting key agreements and initiatives, notably the embrace of the ethos of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future', drawing inspiration from the timeless Indian philosophy of 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam'.

At the meeting, Giridhar Aramane reaffirmed India's unwavering dedication to preserving peace, stability, and security within the SCO region.

In his address, he stressed the imperative of adopting a zero-tolerance stance against terrorism in all its manifestations, recognizing it as a pivotal prerequisite for the prosperity and development of SCO member states.

Furthermore, Secretary Aramane reiterated India's longstanding proposal for a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations, underscoring the nation's commitment to combating the global menace of terrorism.

In a nod to India's broader strategic vision, Defence Secretary spotlighted the concept of 'Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)', originally proposed by India for the Indo-Pacific. This holistic approach aims to foster a climate of security and prosperity, not just within the SCO framework but extending across the wider geopolitical landscape.

"At the meeting, the Defence Secretary reiterated India's steadfast commitment towards maintaining peace, stability and security in the SCO region. He emphasised the need to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism in all its forms for prosperity and development of the SCO Member States," the release said.

"Giridhar Aramane mentioned about India's long-standing proposal of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the United Nations. He also highlighted the concept of 'Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)', proposed by India for the Indo-Pacific," it added.

The Annual Meeting of the Defence Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) was held in Astana, Kazakhstan from April 25-26.

(With Inputs From International Agencies)

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Russia's Shoigu Meets Iranian Counterpart, Says Ready To Expand Military Co-Operation, Says RIA

Russia is ready to expand military and technical cooperation with Iran, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu told his Iranian counterpart Gharaei Ashtiani at a meeting on Friday, the RIA state news agency reported.

Contacts between the countries' military departments have increased signficantly recently, Shoigu was cited as saying.

The two ministers were attending a meeting in Kazakhstan of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a security grouping that includes Russia, India, China, Iran, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan.

(With Agency Inputs)

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