Sunday, November 10, 2024

India Set To Test Over 1,000 Km Strike Range Anti-Ship Ballistic Missile


India is preparing to test a new long-range anti-ship ballistic missile that boasts a strike range of over 1,000 kilometers. This missile is being developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and is expected to be tested in the coming days.

The missile is designed to target moving naval vessels, including warships and aircraft carriers, from significant distances, enhancing the Indian Navy's offensive capabilities. It can be launched from both naval warships and shore-based platforms, providing flexibility in maritime operations. This development aims to bolster India's maritime defense strategy by enabling it to engage adversarial ships from afar, thereby increasing deterrence in regional waters.

The push for this advanced missile system comes amid rising tensions with China, particularly along the northern borders where China has a substantial inventory of long-range ballistic missiles. The Indian military's focus on expanding its ballistic missile capabilities reflects a broader strategy to equip its forces for sustained conflicts. This includes the recent induction of short- and medium-range missiles across all branches of the armed forces.

The upcoming test is part of a larger initiative to create a robust rocket force within India's defence structure, which has become increasingly relevant given the extensive use of ballistic missiles in recent global conflicts. The successful deployment of this anti-ship missile will enhance India's ability to respond to various security challenges in the region, reinforcing its deterrent posture against potential maritime threats.


Indian Air Force Requires 400 More Fighter Jets To Counter For Future Operational Readiness


The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively pursuing a plan to acquire 400 additional fighter jets by 2030 as part of its strategy to address capability gaps and enhance its operational readiness against potential threats from neighbouring countries, particularly China and Pakistan. This initiative comes in response to a significant reduction in the IAF's fighter jet fleet, which has fallen to 33 squadrons (approximately 640 fighters) against a desired strength of 42 squadrons. Projections indicate that this number could drop to just 19 squadrons (around 380 aircraft) by 2027 if no action is taken.

Current Fleet And Future Plans

The IAF's current fighter fleet includes aging Soviet-era aircraft, and there is an urgent need for modernization. The planned acquisition will include:

120 TEJAS light combat aircraft

120 Twin-Engine Medium-Weight Jets developed in collaboration with a foreign manufacturer

120 Single-Engine fighter planes

Additionally, the IAF is negotiating the purchase of 36 Rafale fighters from France and has already placed orders for 72 Sukhoi-30 fighters.

The push for new aircraft is underscored by the IAF's assessment that its current capabilities are inadequate to effectively counter evolving threats. The new Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, emphasized the necessity of not only meeting the existing target of 42 squadrons but potentially increasing it due to changing security dynamics.

Moreover, the IAF aims to deploy advanced Airborne Warning And Control Systems (AWACS) to enhance situational awareness and operational effectiveness along its borders. Currently, the IAF operates three Israeli Phalcon AWACS and plans to acquire more systems over the next decade.

Despite these plans, the IAF faces challenges in timely procurement and production. The ongoing delays in the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, which aims to procure 114 fighter jets, have raised concerns about meeting operational needs promptly. The IAF Chief noted that the force requires these aircraft "as of yesterday," highlighting the urgency of addressing this capability gap.

Indian Air Force's strategy to acquire 400 additional fighter jets by 2030 reflects a proactive approach to modernizing its fleet and enhancing its deterrence capabilities amidst regional security challenges.

What Role Will Indigenous Aircraft Play In Meeting The IAF's Requirements

The role of indigenous aircraft in meeting the Indian Air Force's (IAF) requirements is pivotal as the IAF aims for a fully indigenous inventory by 2047. This strategy is part of a broader vision to enhance self-reliance in defence capabilities, aligning with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Indigenous aircraft, particularly the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS, are crucial for preventing the IAF's fighter strength from declining below its sanctioned limit of 42 squadrons. The IAF plans to induct 83 TEJAS MK-1A jets, with deliveries expected to commence soon, and additional orders for 90 more TEJAS MK-1A jets are anticipated to ensure continuous production and operational readiness.

The upcoming TEJAS MK-2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programs are expected to significantly bolster the IAF's capabilities. The TEJAS MK-2 is projected to enter service by 2028, while the AMCA aims to be a fifth-generation stealth fighter, enhancing India's technological edge in air combat. These aircraft will not only fill current gaps but also provide advanced capabilities necessary for modern warfare.

The push for indigenisation emphasizes developing home-grown technologies that can meet evolving demands. The IAF is focusing on integrating indigenous systems such as the Uttam radar, advanced missile systems like the Astra, and electronic warfare platforms into its fleet. This approach aims to reduce dependency on foreign suppliers and mitigate risks associated with global supply chain disruptions.

Indigenous production also facilitates better long-term maintenance and lifecycle support for aircraft, ensuring that the IAF can sustain its operational capabilities without relying heavily on foreign entities. This is vital for maintaining readiness in a rapidly changing security environment.

To meet production demands, the IAF is advocating for increased collaboration between public sector entities like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and private companies. This diversification of production lines is essential to ramp up output and meet both domestic needs and potential export opportunities. 

The indigenous aircraft will play a central role in fulfilling the IAF's requirements by enhancing fleet strength, introducing advanced technologies, ensuring sustainable maintenance practices, and fostering a self-reliant defence manufacturing ecosystem. The successful execution of these plans is critical for maintaining India's air power in the face of evolving regional threats.


India’s Top-Secret Weapon ‘KALI’: A Game-Changer In Modern Warfare

A 30-GW accelerator (left), KALI-5000 working model, and a AI generated futuristic model

One of India’s most enigmatic and potentially revolutionary defence projects is the KALI (Kilo Ampere Linear Injector) program of DRDO/BARC.

KALI, which stands for Kilo Ampere Linear Injector, is an advanced linear electron accelerator developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC). This weapon system is designed to emit powerful pulses of Relativistic Electron Beams (REBs), which can be converted into electromagnetic radiation, specifically in the form of X-ray or microwave frequencies. KALI's development began in 1989, initially intended for industrial applications, but its potential for military use has since become a focal point of interest due to its capabilities in modern warfare.

Technology And Mechanism

KALI operates by generating high-energy electron beams that can disrupt or destroy electronic systems in enemy missiles, aircraft, and even satellites. Unlike conventional weapons that rely on kinetic energy or explosives, KALI's directed energy technology allows it to perform a soft kill, effectively incapacitating targets by damaging their electronic circuitry without physical destruction. This capability is particularly significant in the context of anti-missile defence and electronic warfare.

The KALI series has evolved through various iterations, including KALI-80, KALI-200, KAL-5000, and the latest KALI-10000, all of which are described as “Single Shot Pulsed Gigawatt Electron Accelerators.”. Each version has seen improvements in power output and operational capabilities. KAL-5000 can produce electron pulses with a peak power of approximately 40 GW, making it capable of emitting intense microwave radiation that can disable enemy systems from a distance.

The high-energy bursts produced by KALI have the potential to disrupt or disable electronic systems, making the technology a formidable tool in electronic warfare. It can theoretically neutralize enemy missiles, aircraft, or drones by incapacitating their onboard electronic components. Additionally, KALI could target communication systems or radar installations, effectively blinding adversaries without causing physical destruction.

One important thing to note is that the missile is not a laser weapon. It works in such a way that if an enemy missile is launched in the direction of India, it will quickly emit powerful pulses of Relativistic Electrons Beams (REB) and destroy the target in no time. According to scientists, the KALI is a much more effective weapon compared to a laser weapon because a laser weapon will bore holes to destroy other missiles, which will take time. The KALI completely destroys missiles and satellites, but without drilling holes, which is much faster. Bursts of microwaves packed with gigawatts of power produced by this machine, when aimed at enemy missiles and aircraft will cripple their electronic system and computer chips and bring them down right away.

The technology behind KALI has been compared to other directed energy systems globally, such as the U.S. Air Force's CHAMP (Counter-electronics High-powered Microwave Advanced Missile Project), which demonstrated similar capabilities against electronic targets.

KALI's unique features lend themselves to various strategic military applications:

KALI can potentially intercept and neutralize incoming ballistic missiles by disrupting their guidance systems.

The weapon can incapacitate enemy communication networks and radar systems, creating confusion on the battlefield.

With advancements, KALI could target and disable enemy satellites, which are crucial for modern military operations.

The technology is also being explored for its ability to protect Indian assets from Electromagnetic Pulses (EMPs) generated by nuclear detonations or other high-energy events.

Despite its promising capabilities, much about KALI remains shrouded in secrecy. There have been unconfirmed reports suggesting that India may have conducted tests of KALI's capabilities, including allegations surrounding an avalanche in Siachen in 2012 that reportedly resulted from a test of the weapon. Additionally, there are claims that KALI could be integrated into airborne platforms like the IL-76 or C-17 Globemaster aircraft of the IAF for enhanced operational flexibility.

The Indian government has not officially confirmed these tests or provided detailed information about the project due to its sensitive nature concerning national security.

KALI represents a significant leap forward in India's defence technology landscape. As nations increasingly focus on advanced weapon systems capable of operating in complex environments, KALI stands out as a potential game-changer in modern warfare, enhancing India's strategic deterrence capabilities against adversaries like Pakistan and China.


ISRO Planning To Build A Lunar Space Station Around The Moon As Part of Lunar Roadmap


India's Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is advancing its lunar exploration plans with a comprehensive roadmap that includes establishing a lunar space station. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance India's capabilities in space exploration and technology.

ISRO is partnering with Japan's JAXA for the Lunar Polar Exploration Mission, which aims to deploy an uncrewed lander and rover to explore the Moon's south pole by 2028. This mission will focus on investigating permanently shadowed regions and assessing water resources on the Moon.

The mission will utilize advanced surface exploration technologies and will test new landing systems that are crucial for future crewed missions.

Following the successful Chandrayaan-3 mission, which landed on August 23, 2023, ISRO is preparing for Chandrayaan-4. This mission will aim to return lunar samples to Earth and is part of the long-term vision for human exploration of the Moon by 2040.

The mission will also establish facilities for processing lunar samples, indicating a commitment to developing sustainable lunar operations.


ISRO plans to create permanent communication networks on the Moon, akin to GPS systems on Earth. This infrastructure is essential for navigation and operational support for future missions.

The roadmap includes plans for a national space station, which will serve as a hub for various space missions, including those related to lunar exploration. This station is expected to enhance India's capabilities in conducting multiple missions annually.

As part of its lunar strategy, ISRO aims to dock with NASA's Lunar Gateway, a planned space station in lunar orbit that will facilitate international cooperation in lunar exploration.

The roadmap outlines a series of missions leading up to 2040, focusing on human landings and establishing a sustained presence on the Moon. This includes enhancing payload capacities and developing technologies necessary for safe landings and operations on the lunar surface.

ISRO's ambitious plans signify India's commitment to becoming a key player in global space exploration, leveraging both indigenous capabilities and international partnerships to achieve its goals.


PCB Confirms That India Will Not Travel To Pakistan For 2025 ICC Champions Trophy:


India has officially communicated to the International Cricket Council (ICC) that it will not travel to Pakistan for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy, citing security concerns as the primary reason. This decision was made after consultations with the Indian government, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has requested that all of India's matches be relocated to Dubai instead.

The tournament is scheduled to take place from February 19 to March 9, 2025, at three venues in Pakistan: Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi. However, the BCCI's refusal to travel means that the ICC and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) must now consider contingency plans, potentially involving a hybrid model where some matches could be played in a neutral location. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed his opposition to this hybrid model, emphasising that Pakistan is prepared to host all matches domestically and has not received any formal communication from India regarding their travel concerns.

Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif has suggested that if India does not participate, Pakistan might consider boycotting the tournament altogether. He argued that participation in ICC events is essential and cannot be dismissed lightly. Meanwhile, there are ongoing discussions regarding how to proceed with the tournament amid these developments, and it remains uncertain whether a final decision will involve legal actions or further diplomatic negotiations between the two cricket boards.


Russia To Unveil Enhanced AL-31FN Series 5 Engine At Zhuhai Air Show 2024


Russia's United Engine Corporation (UEC) is set to unveil the enhanced AL-31FN Series 5 engine at the upcoming Zhuhai Air Show 2024 in China, marking its first international appearance. This engine is part of a broader showcase that includes various advancements in propulsion technology, including a fifth-generation engine for combat aircraft, reported TASS.

"A full-size mock-up of the latest engine for operational/tactical aircraft will be the main premiere. It noticeably outshines its predecessors in terms of its endurance, fuel efficiency and thrust and is actually the fifth-generation engine. The improved AL-31FN series 5 engine will be shown to foreign partners for the first time. The use of the next-generation powerplant will considerably boost the aircraft’s altitude and flight range capabilities," the press office said in a statement.

Russia will also demonstrate a mock-up of the SM-100 engine for advanced unmanned aerial vehicles and combat trainer aircraft at Air Show China in Zhuhai. Visitors to the Air Show will also be able to view innovations for the PD-35 high-thrust engine demonstrator with its fan exceeding three meters in dimeter: its blades will be shown in full size, it said.

"We offer our strategic partners the best solutions that both boost combat efficiency and cut the life cycle cost of engine operation. For the first time, ROSTEC will demonstrate at the Zhuhai international Air Show a renewed family of AL-31F/Al-31FN engines, including engines of the 5th series, a new SM-100 engine and a completely new fifth-generation engine for the most advanced operational/tactical aircraft," the press office quoted ROSTEC First Deputy CEO Vladimir Artyakov as saying.

Air Show China is the country’s largest international aviation and aerospace exhibition held once every two years in Zhuhai. Russian defence enterprises constantly feature their products at Air Show China. The exhibition focuses on military and civil aircraft, space, navigation and radar equipment, airborne armament, rocket engines, fire control and air defence systems.

Overview of AL-31FN Series 5 Engine

The AL-31FN Series 5 engine is an evolution of the original AL-31FN variant, which was developed specifically for the Chengdu J-10 fighter jet. 

The Series 5 engine is expected to offer significantly improved thrust capabilities, enhancing the J-10's performance in terms of altitude and flight range. While earlier variants provided thrusts of around 12.7 tons-force, later iterations have reached up to 13.7 tons-force.

The new engine incorporates a redesigned gearbox and improved aerodynamics, which contribute to better fuel efficiency and operational endurance compared to its predecessors.

The Series 5 engine is being touted as a fifth-generation powerplant, which suggests it employs cutting-edge technologies aimed at boosting combat effectiveness while reducing lifecycle costs.

The unveiling of this engine at Zhuhai comes at a time when China is actively upgrading its military aviation capabilities. The enhanced AL-31FN Series 5 is expected to provide the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) with significant advantages over older models, particularly in terms of operational flexibility and combat readiness.

Comparison With Other AL-31 Family of Engines

The AL-31FN Series 5 will be showcased alongside other notable engines, such as:

Engine ModelThrust (tons-force)Notable Features
AL-31FN12.7Designed for J-10
AL-31FP12.5Thrust vectoring for Su-30MKI
AL-41F115Powers Su-57 stealth fighter

This comparison highlights the competitive landscape of military aviation engines, where advancements in thrust and technology are critical for maintaining air superiority.

The introduction of the enhanced AL-31FN Series 5 engine at the Zhuhai Air Show signifies a substantial step forward for Russian aerospace technology and its collaboration with China. As military aviation continues to evolve, such advancements are crucial for ensuring that fighter jets like the Chengdu J-10 remain capable and effective in modern combat scenarios. The Air Show, scheduled from November 12 to 17, will provide an opportunity for international audiences to witness these advancements first hand.


Jawan Killed, Three Other Commandos Injured In Encounter In J&K's Kishtwar


Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar of the Army's 2 Para (SF) unit was killed, and three other commandoes were injured in an encounter in Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district on Sunday.

A tragic encounter occurred in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, on November 10, 2024, resulting in the death of a soldier and injuries to three others during a confrontation with terrorists. The deceased was identified as Naib Subedar Rakesh Kumar, a member of the Army's 2 Para (Special Forces) unit. He was part of a joint counter-insurgency operation aimed at apprehending terrorists believed to be responsible for the recent killings of two Village Defence Guards in the area.

The encounter began in the Bhart Ridge area when security forces, acting on intelligence reports, intercepted a group of terrorists in the Keshwan forest. This operation was particularly significant as it followed the discovery of the bodies of Nazir Ahmad and Kuldeep Kumar, two local villagers who had been abducted and murdered by the same terrorist group earlier in the week.

During the firefight, Naib Subedar Kumar sustained injuries and later succumbed while receiving medical treatment. The three other commandos injured in the clash were airlifted for medical care. The Army's White Knight Corps expressed condolences and honored Kumar's sacrifice, emphasizing their commitment to his family during this difficult time.


Odisha Start-Up Bon-V Aero Unveils Logistics Drone Air Orca


Odisha-based start-up Bon V Aero has recently unveiled its logistics drone named Air Orca, marking a significant advancement in drone technology within India. This event took place in Bhubaneswar and highlights the start-up's commitment to revolutionizing logistics through autonomous drone solutions.

Air Orca is touted as India's first fully autonomous logistics drone, capable of operating independently without human intervention.

The drone is designed to handle logistics tasks efficiently, showcasing Bon V Aero's innovative approach to aerial delivery systems.

 The drone has demonstrated the ability to function at altitudes exceeding 10,000 feet, making it suitable for diverse and challenging environments.

Founded in 2021, Bon V Aero began with a small team and has since expanded to 40 members. The startup gained international recognition after winning a reality TV competition in the U.S., which helped secure ₹14 crore in funding. This financial boost is intended to enhance their research and development capabilities in the deep-tech drone sector.

The launch of Air Orca not only showcases the potential of Bon V Aero but also serves as an inspiration for other start-ups in Odisha and across India.

Start-up founder Satyabrata Satapathy said the drone has been inducted in Indian Army in July this year and set to go into commercial production with suitable changes in specification soon. 

Satyabrata emphasised that this achievement reflects the dedication and innovation present in the region's start-up ecosystem.


Khalistani Terrorist Arsh Dalla, Close Aide of Nijjar, Arrested In Canada


Arsh Dalla, a prominent Khalistani terrorist and a close associate of the slain Hardeep Singh Nijjar, has been arrested in Canada following a shootout incident. His arrest was confirmed by Indian intelligence sources and is linked to a shooting that occurred on October 27 or 28 in Milton, Ontario. The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) initiated an investigation into this armed confrontation, which resulted in the hospitalization of one individual for a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Dalla, also known as Arshdeep Singh Gill, is considered one of India's most-wanted criminals and has been living in Canada with his wife. He has been implicated in various criminal activities in India, including orchestrating targeted killings and involvement in terror financing. Dalla was the acting chief of the Khalistani Tiger Force (KTF) and had previously claimed responsibility for the murder of Congress leader Baljinder Singh Balli in September 2024, stating that he sought revenge due to personal grievances against Balli.

His arrest is part of a broader context where tensions between India and Canada have escalated, particularly following allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding India's involvement in Nijjar's killing. This incident has led to heightened scrutiny and cooperation between Indian and Canadian law enforcement agencies concerning Khalistani terrorism.


France Unveils New Aircraft Carrier Design With Three Catapults Unveiled By Naval Group At EuroNaval 2024


At the Euronaval 2024 exhibition held in Paris, Naval Group unveiled a ground breaking design for France's future aircraft carrier, known as the Porte Avions de Nouvelle Génération (PA-Ng). This new design features three electromagnetic catapults, a significant enhancement from the previously planned two, marking a pivotal shift in naval aviation technology.

The integration of three electromagnetic catapults represents a major advancement over traditional steam catapults. These systems utilize electric motors to generate magnetic fields that launch aircraft, allowing for smoother acceleration and reduced mechanical stress on the aircraft. This technology supports a wider variety of aircraft, including heavier fighter jets and lighter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) .

With three catapults, the carrier can execute rapid launches and recoveries of multiple aircraft, which is crucial for high-tempo combat scenarios. This capability enhances the French Navy's operational flexibility and readiness .

The PA-Ng is designed to be a nuclear-powered vessel with a displacement of approximately 75,000 tons. The project aims for delivery in the late 2030s and is part of a broader strategy to modernize French naval capabilities. The design has undergone several iterations since its inception, with significant updates made as recently as 2022 .

The carrier is intended to operate advanced aircraft such as the Next Generation Fighter (NGF), which is being developed under the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. This ensures that the carrier will remain relevant in an evolving military landscape.

France's investment in this advanced carrier design underscores its commitment to maintaining a robust naval presence within NATO and the European defence framework. By adopting cutting-edge technologies like electromagnetic catapults, France positions itself among a select group of nations capable of operating such sophisticated naval platforms . The decision reflects a strategic vision aimed at enhancing operational capabilities and ensuring adaptability in diverse mission profiles.

Advantages of Electromagnetic Catapults

The integration of three electromagnetic catapults on France's new aircraft carrier significantly enhances its operational capabilities in several key ways:

 With three catapults, the carrier can launch and recover multiple aircraft in quick succession. This capability is crucial for maintaining high-tempo operations during combat scenarios, allowing the carrier to effectively respond to evolving threats and conduct complex joint operations more efficiently.

The electromagnetic catapults allow for smoother and more controlled launches, reducing mechanical stress on aircraft. This means the carrier can accommodate a wider variety of aircraft, including heavier fighter jets and lighter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Such versatility is essential for adapting to diverse mission profiles, from air superiority to reconnaissance.

The new catapults are designed to support next-generation aircraft like the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) fighter and carrier-borne drones. This enhances the carrier's ability to integrate advanced technologies into its air wing, ensuring that it remains relevant in modern warfare environments.

By utilizing electromagnetic technology instead of traditional steam catapults, the carrier can eliminate complex steam systems. This results in weight savings and lowers operational costs, streamlining maintenance and logistics. 

The combination of nuclear power with electromagnetic catapults provides virtually unlimited operational range and endurance. This strategic advantage allows the French Navy to project power globally without the constraints of conventional fuel supplies, enhancing its deterrent capabilities.



8 Terrorists Killed In 6 Encounters In 9 Days: IGP Kashmir


In a significant escalation of counter-terrorism operations, the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for Kashmir reported that eight terrorists were killed in six encounters over the past nine days. This surge in operations follows a series of violent incidents in the region, prompting intensified actions by security forces.

Baramulla, Nov 9: A foreign terrorist was killed during an encounter with security forces in the Rajpora area on the outskirts of Sopore in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district on Saturday.

An official said that an encounter broke out when joint teams of 22 RR of the Army, 179 Bn of CRPF, and J&K Police carried out a search operation in the area.

He said that the area was cordoned off after receiving input about the movement of terrorists in the area.

“As the joint search parties of security reached the suspected spot, the terrorist fired indiscriminately at them. The security forces retaliated, leading to an encounter,” the official said.

The Kashmir Zone Police in a statement said that a joint anti-terrorist operation was launched by Police and security forces while acting on a specific input regarding the presence of terrorists in Rampora, Sopore area of Baramulla.

“During the search operation, an exchange of fire took place,” the Kashmir Zone Police posted on its official X handle.

The Army’s Srinagar-based 15 Corps in a separate post on its official X handle said that a joint operation was launched by the Army and J&K Police in Rajpora, Sopore area of Baramulla on the basis of specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists.

“Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate fire. Troops retaliated effectively. Operation is in progress,” Chinar Corps posted on X.

Meanwhile, during the exchange of fire, a terrorist was killed while the search operation was going on in the area.

“The terrorist has been killed and the firing has stopped. However, the searches are still going on,” a top Police official said.

This is the second gunfight in Sopore Police jurisdiction in the last 24 hours.

Two foreign terrorists were killed by security forces during an encounter in the Sagipora area of Sopore.

This was the fourth encounter in north Kashmir in the last four days which resulted in the killing of five terrorists.

Talking to Greater Kashmir, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi said there was some information about the presence of two terrorists in Rajpora.

“However, later we got confirmation that only one terrorist was trapped who was killed,” the IGP Kashmir told Greater Kashmir.

He said that eight terrorists were killed during six operations in November.

Besides the killing of a terrorist in Rajpora, Sopore on Saturday, two terrorists were killed in a Sagipora Sopore encounter on Friday while two local terrorists were killed in Shangus, Anantnag and a foreign LeT commander was killed in Srinagar’s Khanyar area.

A foreign terrorist was killed in Bandipora forests earlier this week while another foreign terrorist was killed during an encounter in Lolab forest.

Meanwhile, the joint teams of 14 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) of the Army, 3 Battalion of CRPF, and J&K Police launched a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the Aragam area of Bandipora on Saturday evening.

An official said that the CASO was launched by the joint teams of security forces on the basis of some intelligence inputs.

“The CASO has been launched in the same area where a foreign terrorist was killed in June this year,” a top official said.

“These operations are carried out as the security forces keep track of the information they receive regarding the movement of terrorists. Once the information is received, we launch the operation and kill the terrorists. Security agencies do not ignore any information received about the terrorist movement,” the IGP Kashmir said.


Pakistan-Based Terror Outfits Ramp Up Social Media Activity, Aiming To Recruit In J&K


Recent intelligence reports indicate a significant increase in social media activity by Pakistan-based terrorist organizations, specifically targeting youth in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). This surge, described as a "social media overdrive," aims to glamorize terrorism and promote secessionist sentiments, posing a renewed threat to local stability.

Over the past month, there has been a 22-fold increase in concerning posts from identified terror-linked accounts on platforms such as Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), and Telegram. Intelligence agencies recorded more than 2,000 objectionable posts, compared to just 89 during the same period last year. These include over 130 posts specifically glorifying terrorism and more than 310 threats aimed at public infrastructure and schools.

Despite the uptick in online propaganda, actual local recruitment into terrorist groups has sharply declined. Only four locals have joined terrorist outfits in J&K this year, down from 22 in 2023 and 113 in 2022. Currently, there are about 30 local terrorists active in the region compared to 75-80 foreign militants.

The current strategy appears focused on exploiting the vulnerabilities of J&K's youth, reminiscent of earlier tactics that elevated figures like Burhan Wani to terror icons. The Indian security establishment views this renewed social media campaign as an effort to counteract the decline in local recruitment and to prepare for potential escalations in violence during the summer of 2025.

The rise in social media activity coincides with recent political developments in J&K, including the establishment of an elected government. This shift may have emboldened Pakistan-based terrorists to intensify their efforts to incite unrest. Intelligence sources have warned of plans by Pakistan's ISI to target local political leaders associated with the Jamaat-e-Islami as part of a broader strategy to destabilize the region.

The evolving tactics of these terrorist groups include utilizing sophisticated social media campaigns and hybrid terrorism strategies, where individuals with no prior affiliations carry out attacks and then return to civilian life. This complicates identification and apprehension efforts by security forces.

The situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains precarious as Pakistan-backed terror outfits ramp up their online influence while facing challenges in local recruitment. The Indian security apparatus is closely monitoring these developments, recognizing the potential for increased violence linked to both social media campaigns and changing political dynamics within the region.


Russia Open To Hearing Trump's Proposals For Ending The War, An Official Says


Russia has expressed openness to considering proposals from President-elect Donald Trump regarding the resolution of the ongoing war in Ukraine. This development was highlighted by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, who stated that Moscow is willing to engage with Trump's ideas, provided they focus on settlement rather than increasing military support for Ukraine. He emphasised that any proposals should aim to move forward in peace negotiations, rather than continuing to supply the Ukrainian government with military aid.

This announcement comes amidst a backdrop of escalating military activity, including a recent drone attack in Odesa, Ukraine, which resulted in one death and injuries to 13 others. The attack coincided with a visit from Josep Borrell, the European Union's foreign policy chief, who reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.

Ryabkov noted that communication between Russia and the U.S. is occurring through "closed channels," although he did not clarify whether this involves current U.S. officials or members of Trump's incoming administration. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha also indicated Ukraine's readiness to collaborate with the Trump administration, recalling past positive interactions between President Zelenskyy and Trump.

Russia is open to dialogue with Trump regarding peace proposals, it remains cautious about any continued military support for Ukraine from the U.S. and its allies.


Another Terrorist Killed In Encounter During Anti-Terrorist Operation In J&K's Baramulla


A terrorist was killed during an anti-terrorist operation in the Rampora area of Sopore, located in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district, on November 9, 2024. This operation was conducted by a joint team of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces following specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the area. The operation led to an exchange of fire, resulting in the death of one unidentified terrorist.

The police reported that the identity and group affiliation of the slain terrorist are currently being investigated. This incident marks a continuation of heightened security operations in the region, as just a day prior, two other terrorists were also eliminated in a separate encounter in Sopore.

In light of recent escalations in terrorist activities across Jammu and Kashmir, including multiple encounters and attacks on security personnel, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi reviewed the security situation in the region. The ongoing operations reflect a significant effort by security forces to combat terrorism in this volatile area.


Search Operation Underway In J-K's Baramulla After Sopore Encounter


A search operation is currently ongoing in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir following a recent encounter in the Sopore area. This operation was initiated after security forces neutralized a terrorist during a joint anti-terror operation on November 9, 2024.

The encounter occurred when security forces received intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the Rampora area of Sopore. One terrorist was killed, and two others are believed to be trapped in the vicinity.

The search operation is now in its second day, with police and security forces actively engaged in combing the area for any remaining threats. In addition to the neutralized terrorist, arms and ammunition were recovered during the encounter.

This operation follows another incident on November 7, where two terrorists were killed in a similar joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in Sopore.

The situation remains tense as security forces continue their efforts to ensure safety and stability in the region.