4 JUL 2024 · India and France are negotiating a Rs 50,000-crore deal for 26 Rafale Marine (Rafale M) fighter jets. If finalised, these aircraft will be deployed on the Indian Navy's aircraft carriers, INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya. Why the Rafale M? The French Rafale M emerged as the frontrunner against its competitor, the American Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet. Why does the Navy need a new fighter jet? The Indian Navy’s current fleet, primarily composed of ageing Sukhoi jets, is becoming obsolete. This decline in capability is driving the urgent need for new, modern fighters. But how does the Rafale M differ from the IAF’s Rafale? Interestingly, the Rafale M predates the Air Force version. Despite this, France completed the delivery of all 36 Rafale jets to the Indian Air Force in December 2022, following a Rs 59,000-crore deal signed in September 2016. Why didn't the Navy and Air Force consolidate their orders together? A joint deal could have potentially reduced post-purchase costs. And why the repeated trials? If the government had already determined that the Rafale M was the best choice, why did they conduct another contest only to choose the same fighter jet again? We tackle these tough questions and more. Tune in and share your thoughts at pods@indiatoday.com or text us at 8588966996! Produced by Anna Priydarshini Sound mix by Kapil Dev Singh

27 JUN 2024 · India and the United States are progressing in their discussions to collaboratively produce the latest generation of Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). Initially, the project will involve a limited off-the-shelf acquisition of Strykers through the US Foreign Military Sales program. Subsequent phases will include joint production in India, culminating in the co-development of future versions. Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor discuss the American Stryker combat vehicles deal and the ICVs' battlefield applications. They raise the larger question: Does India need this deal? With private players like Mahindra, Tata, or Ashok Leyland, couldn't India build something similar, given that the Stryker ICVs have few exemplary specifications? “I am not saying that India can do better than the Stryker right now, but we sure can get close,” says Shiv. They also explore how a deal for armoured vehicles from the US might threaten the 'Make in India' initiative. Moreover, the Canadian aspect of the deal cannot be ignored amid the flared-up diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. How will this be factored in and pan out? Tune in to know more! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Nitin Rawat

20 JUN 2024 · This week, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited announced a significant development: the Defence Ministry has issued a Request for Proposal for 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs) as part of the government's push to boost defence indigenisation. Of these, 90 will be allocated to the Indian Army and 66 to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Currently, 15 Prachands are in service with the IAF and 5 with the Indian Army. The LCH was formally named Prachand in October 2022. What Makes the Prachand Special? The Prachand, a marvel of modern engineering, is the world's only attack helicopter capable of landing and taking off at 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). This unique feature makes it ideal for high-altitude operations in challenging areas like the Siachen glacier and eastern Ladakh. Equipped with a range of air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles, it can neutralise enemy air defence operations. In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor explore the significance of light combat helicopters, the history of the Prachand's development, and how it compares with the Boeing Apache, of which the IAF operates 22 and the Army 6. The duo explores these key questions: Why do the Air Force and Army have separate combat helicopter divisions? Will the new acquisition reduce India's reliance on Western or foreign equipment? Can India achieve greater self-sufficiency in defence capabilities with these additions? Tune in to find out! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

13 JUN 2024 · In just three days, Jammu & Kashmir has been struck by four terror attacks. A tragic incident in the Reasi district saw a bus carrying pilgrims from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra targeted, resulting in nine deaths and 41 injuries. The Resistance Front (TRF) claimed responsibility. Further terror struck Doda and Kathua, where an attack claimed the life of a CRPF jawan and injured six security personnel. Another operation in Saida Sukhal village, Kathua, led to a civilian injury and the death of a terrorist. Most recently, a policeman was injured in a fresh encounter in Doda. This week’s data is part of a disturbing pattern. In the months leading up to these attacks, deadly ambushes were reported in the volatile districts of Rajouri and Poonch, near the Line of Control. In this episode of "In Our Defence," host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into these incidents, exploring the ground realities and regional complexities. They discuss the terrorists' weaponry, the reasons behind the region's persistent tension, and the larger strategy these attacks may be part of. This analysis is especially pertinent given the recent swearing-in of a new coalition government and the upcoming assembly elections, expected before September. We also discuss the controversy surrounding the Union government's rare move to extend the tenure of Chief of the Army Staff Gen Manoj Pande by one month, debunking speculations of a ‘coup’ and stressing the ‘absurdity’ of such claims. Finally, the duo also quickly examines the complexities surrounding Manipur. Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

23 MAY 2024 · Recent months have seen Boeing, the world’s largest aerospace firm, embroiled in multiple safety concerns, accidents, and reputational crises. Why is Boeing under intense scrutiny? What critical issues is it facing? In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into these pressing issues on their show, questioning the apparent decline of this once-revered company. What has led to Boeing's reputation plummeting to such lows? A series of incidents have spotlighted Boeing's troubles. Recently, an Alaska Airline Boeing 737 MAX 9 made an emergency landing in Portland, Oregon, after a piece of the fuselage detached mid-flight. Similarly, an ANA Boeing 737-800 was forced to return to Japan when a cockpit window developed a crack midair. These incidents come on the heels of two devastating crashes involving Boeing 737 MAX jets five years ago, which killed 346 people and resulted in the grounding of all 737 MAX aircraft for nearly two years. The troubles don’t end with technical failures. This year, two Boeing whistleblowers, Joshua Dean and John Barnett, died under mysterious circumstances, leading to suspicions of foul play. Their deaths have raised fears among other whistleblowers, with concerns that they might be intimidated or meet similar fates. Who's to blame for these incidents? What actions are officials taking? Besides, Boeing is a key supplier to India’s defence, providing crucial equipment like the Boeing C-17 Globemaster III. India operates the largest fleet of C-17s outside the United States, essential for military airlift and humanitarian missions. What makes the C-17 Globemaster III impressive? Tune in! Meanwhile, binge on our favourite episodes so far, and send in your feedback to pods@indiatoday.com or WhatsApp us at +918588966996: Deep Dive On India's Nuclear Submarines How India Hit It Out Of The Park With Legendary Brahmos Cruise Missile Israel-Hamas War: A Conflict With No Endgame? Lakshadweep: From Tourism to Military Significance & Indian Navy 'Deep Water' Ambitions China Threat Literally At Our Doorstep. Why India Should be Concerned Is Iran Emerging Trouble-Maker-In-Chief And Are We In A 'World War'?  Balakot Strike & Abhinandan's Return: The Tense Two Days Recalled The LCA Tejas Saga: A Flight From Frustration To Fulfillment Watch: Downfall: The Case Against Boeing Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

16 MAY 2024 · The election season in India is heating up, and the rhetoric around Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is becoming increasingly prominent among politicians. No surprises there! Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently addressed opposition allegations of constitutional changes by emphasising the government's focus on integrating PoK into India. Echoing this sentiment, Union Home Minister Amit Shah affirmed that PoK is "part of India", highlighting that people across the border in PoK are calling for freedom. Since May 10, PoK has been experiencing significant unrest, with traders protesting against high electricity and food prices. Similar protests occurred in August 2023 over high electricity bills. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar commented on the ongoing unrest, contrasting the situation in PoK with the relative stability in Jammu and Kashmir. In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into the history and politics surrounding PoK. They discuss whether the topic of Pakistan still resonates with Indian voters and examine the feasibility of politicians' claims about reclaiming PoK. Are these assertions even possible? The duo explores the practicality of India potentially reclaiming PoK and managing the aftermath. How realistic is it? What hypothetical actions or operations might India undertake, and what strategic or other purposes would these serve? Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

9 MAY 2024 · Where is the conflict in Gaza heading? After seven months of the Israel-Hamas war, are we witnessing the beginning of the end, or is it a war with no foreseeable conclusion? Why does Netanyahu persist in his stance despite mounting international pressure? Is his stubbornness a response to the intelligence lapse exposed by the October 7 Hamas attack, or is it part of a calculated strategy aimed at achieving Israel's "objectives"? What comes after Israel fulfils its current objectives? Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into the complexities of the conflict, recognising it as a narrative battle, particularly when Gaza is simplistically equated with Hamas. They examine the United States' role, acknowledging its vested interests despite criticisms of President Joe Biden's handling of domestic student protests at Ivy League universities and support for Israel. What has the United Nations contributed beyond condemnation? And where does India stand? What more can India do, especially as it aspires to global influence? Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

2 MAY 2024 · In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor delve into India's nuclear submarine program, discussing its limited fleet despite a vast coastline of 6700 km. Why does a country with such a significant maritime border suffer from "sea blindness"? The Indian Navy, the smallest among the three armed forces, seems disproportionally under-equipped given the strategic importance of its maritime domain. So, what factors contributed to this stagnation? India currently boasts only two nuclear submarines, INS Arihant and INS Arighat. But what sets nuclear submarines apart from their conventional and diesel-electric counterparts? Consider this a masterclass on the SSBNs (nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines) and SSNs (nuclear-powered attack submarines).In February 2015, the Indian government approved the indigenous construction of six SSNs at the Ship Building Center (SBC) in Visakhapatnam. But we have yet to hear much about these projects since then. The absence of a nuclear-powered attack submarine in India's fleet has significant strategic implications. Why hasn't India yet commissioned one despite the urgency? Tune in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

25 APR 2024 · In this episode, host Dev Goswami and defence enthusiast Shiv Aroor delve into the cutting-edge advancements in India's missile programs and the coveted missile technology programs at large. They examine two significant tests: the successful launch of the indigenous Nirbhay cruise missile and a new variant of the Medium-Range Ballistic Missile, both of which showcase India's technological prowess. Why is the Nirbhay test off Odisha's coast a monumental achievement for India? Why is exporting homemade BrahMos, India's iconic missile, to the Philippines a significant development? BrahMos is gaining traction and making a resounding impact in international markets, including Southeast Asia and Africa. Some countries in West Asia have also expressed keen interest. Listen in to know more about India's growing prowess in missile technology. Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

18 APR 2024 · The Indian Air Force is preparing for a significant upgrade with the upcoming test of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)'s Astra Mark 2 air-to-air missile. This missile, capable of hitting targets up to 130 km away, is a game-changer for India's air combat capabilities. The DRDO has been developing these missiles since 2001 to engage distant targets effectively. In this episode, Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor discuss the importance of long-range missiles like Astra Mark 2 for modern air battles and why India needs them. They also reflect on the post-Balakot skirmish, which took place on 27 February 2019. India faced challenges in maintaining its position despite the Pakistan Air Force's (PAF) anticipated retaliation after the Balakot airstrike. The podcast analyses the dynamics of the skirmish and identifies the reasons that pinned India down. This and more in In Our Defence! Listen in! Produced by Anna Priyadarshini Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi