Thursday, October 17, 2024

GE Engines To Power Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels


GE Aerospace will supply 6 LM2500 engine kits to Cochin Shipyard Ltd

GE Aerospace on Thursday said its LM2500 engine will power the Indian Navy’s weapon-intense Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV) built by defence PSU Cochin Shipyard Limited Ltd (CSL).

The move comes more than a year after the CSL signed a contract for building six NGMV for Indian Navy at a cost of ₹9,805 crore. The ships’ delivery is scheduled to commence from March 2027 as the Indian Navy seeks to secure country’s maritime interests in the highly contested Indo Pacific region, especially from the aggressive Chinese vessels.

Additionally, the GE Aerospace will be supplying its composite base and enclosure, and full complement of gas turbine auxiliary systems.

“Six LM2500 marine gas turbine engine kits will be delivered by GE Aerospace for assembly and test by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Industrial and Marine Gas Turbine Division in Bangalore, India,” the GE said in a statement.

The LM2500 isn’t just powering the Indian Navy; it’s the engine of choice for navies worldwide that demand the best, stated the GE. Over 714 vessels globally rely on GE Aerospace’s marine gas turbines for their reliability and availability, it added.

The NGMVs, which can reach a max speed of 35 knots, would be heavily armed war vessels incorporating stealth, high speed and offensive capability. Keeping in Navy’s future warfare demands, the CSL will equip the vessels with loitering munitions, unmanned vehicles and other guided weapons to add to its firepower.

(With Inputs From Agencies)


Armenia Could Be First Country To Acquire India's Home-Made Pralay Quasi-Ballistic Missile


Azerbaijani news agency News.Az reported that the Indian Ministry of Defence authorized the export of Pralay quasi-ballistic missiles to Armenia, marking an important step in strengthening the defence partnership between India and Armenia. This decision, which has yet to receive official confirmation from the Armenian Ministry of Defence, reflects India's intent to conclude an agreement aimed at bolstering Armenia’s defensive capabilities in a context of regional tensions. According to Alpha Defence, this potential agreement is at an advanced stage, with sources indicating that India is actively negotiating to finalize it in the near future.

The Pralay missile, developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is an advanced short-range surface-to-surface ballistic missile, primarily designed for tactical use in combat conditions. Launched in 2015, the Pralay program represents a strategic advancement for India’s missile arsenal, incorporating sophisticated quasi-ballistic trajectory adjustments that allow the missile to evade interceptors and anti-ballistic missile (ABM) defences. The missile has already successfully completed several tests, with the first two conducted in December 2021 and a third in November 2023, each demonstrating the missile’s accuracy, payload capacity, and terminal manoeuvrability.

The Pralay's unique quasi-ballistic trajectory enables it to shift from a traditional ballistic path to a flatter trajectory after launch, making interception more difficult by reducing its radar profile. This feature, combined with high speed and terminal maneuverability, brings the Pralay closer to the Russian Iskander-M missile, which has proven effective in recent conflicts, notably in Ukraine. The Pralay shares characteristics with the Iskander-M, such as a CEP (Circular Error Probable) of around 10 meters, highlighting its high accuracy and ability to evade air defences.

To comply with international arms control regulations, India has committed to limiting export versions of the Pralay to a maximum range of 300 kilometers and a payload capacity not exceeding 500 kilograms. This adherence to missile technology control guidelines requires technical modifications to the Pralay system, an adaptation that India is actively pursuing.

Powered by a solid-fuel motor and integrating maneuverable re-entry vehicle (MaRV) technology, the missile can carry payloads ranging from high-explosive fragmentation warheads to runway denial submunitions. These capabilities enable it to effectively target and neutralize critical military infrastructure such as radar installations, command centers, and forward airstrips, with enhanced precision and lethality.

Armenia’s interest in acquiring the Pralay missile stems from its need to counterbalance the capabilities acquired by Azerbaijan through its purchase of LORA (Long-Range Artillery) missiles developed by Israel Aerospace Industries. With a range of 400 kilometers and a CEP of 10 meters, the LORA missile represents a significant threat to Armenia’s strategic assets. The Pralay’s compatibility with various warhead types and its advanced guidance system, using both inertial navigation and a DSMAC (Digital Scene-Matching Area Correlation) seeker for increased accuracy, provide Armenia with an adequate response to Azerbaijan’s missile capabilities.

A distinctive feature of the Pralay is its fused silica radar dome (RADOME), which enhances its evasion capabilities and survivability in hostile airspace. The jet vane thrust vector control system allows the Pralay to perform evasive manoeuvres in the terminal phase, effectively countering enemy defence systems. Additionally, the Pralay includes two sets of small fins that help reduce its radar signature, further complicating interception efforts.

The Indian Pralay missile and the Israeli LORA (Long-Range Artillery) missile are two quasi-ballistic systems with short to medium range, but their performances and capabilities differ in several aspects. The Pralay has a theoretical range between 150 and 500 km, with a payload capacity ranging from 350 kg to 700 kg, allowing it to target strategic installations such as radars, command centers, and airstrips. However, to comply with international arms control regulations, India has limited export versions of the Pralay to a maximum range of 300 km and a payload not exceeding 500 kg. This technical adaptation, necessary to adhere to missile technology control guidelines, ensures that exported versions meet international standards.

The LORA, on the other hand, has a maximum range of 400 km and a payload capacity of approximately 570 kg. This missile was operationally used by Azerbaijani forces during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in 2020, demonstrating high accuracy with a CEP of 10 meters, particularly on targets such as bridges and critical infrastructure. Its guidance system, using GPS and TV imaging in the terminal phase, ensures high precision, although it remains potentially vulnerable to electronic countermeasures. Thus, the Pralay prioritizes better terminal maneuverability to evade interceptions, while the LORA stands out for its extreme precision in targeted strikes, with each featuring specific adaptations according to their usage contexts and regulatory requirements.

The Indian armed forces have shown strategic interest in the Pralay missile, with substantial orders from both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. In 2022, the Indian Ministry of Defence approved the purchase of 120 missiles for the Air Force, followed in 2023 by the acquisition of a regiment of 250 missiles for the Army, intended to strengthen tactical capabilities along sensitive borders with China and Pakistan. If the agreement with Armenia is finalized, this country would become the first international buyer of the Pralay missile, marking a historic milestone in Indian defence exports.

Defence relations between India and Armenia have considerably strengthened in recent years, illustrated by the transfer of sophisticated weaponry to meet Armenia's growing security needs in a tense regional context.

In 2020, India sold Armenia four Swathi radars, capable of detecting and locating enemy artillery fire, as well as M982 Excalibur precision artillery shells, enhancing Armenia’s defensive and retaliatory capabilities. Armenia is also interested in ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System) howitzers developed by DRDO, which offer extended range and increased accuracy, with the capability to fire projectiles up to 48 km.

The addition of ATAGS would strengthen Armenia's offensive capabilities, complementing its current arsenal. Additionally, the Pinaka multiple launch rocket system, also developed by DRDO, has attracted significant interest from Armenia. Capable of launching a salvo of twelve rockets in less than 45 seconds and reaching a range of 40 to 75 km depending on the variant, the Pinaka would provide mobile and versatile firepower, ideal for saturation strikes and ground support missions. Integrating the Pinaka would further strengthen Armenia's tactical options, while consolidating India as a key partner in defence.

Agency Inputs


MQ-9B Combat UAVs To Be Delivered By 2030


The MQ-9B Sea Guardian has a maximum flying altitude of 40,000 feet

New Delhi: The Indian armed forces will receive the MQ-9B armed High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), manufactured by General Atomics, between 2029 and 2030, according to defence officials in the know.

“The first MQ-9B is to be delivered in 51 months and the last by 72 months, from the date of signing of contract and first payment. Delivery is spaced out by 21 months,” a source said. This means that the 31 MQ-9Bs will be delivered to India between January 2029 and September 2030.

RPAS are large unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that are operated through remote control by a person or a group of persons on the ground.

India signed a nearly $3.5 billion contract for 31 MQ-9B — including 15 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy and 16 Sky Guardians comprising eight each for the Army and Air Force — under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme of the U.S. government. This also includes two years of contracted logistics support. One contract was signed with the U.S. government for the 31 RPAS and another contract was signed with General Atomics Global India Pvt. Ltd. for Performance Based Logistics for Depot Level Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) in India.

The PBL is up to eight years or 1,50,000 flight hours, whichever is earlier, and will be through Depot Level MRO in India that will be done by General Atomics through a tie-up with a local company, an official with knowledge of the matter said.

As per contractual terms, the delivery will be within 51 to 72 months from the date of contract and initial payment which means deliveries will be undertaken from January 2029 till September 2030.

Under FMS, the U.S. government and a foreign government enter into a government-to-government agreement called a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA).

The deal for their high-end systems had seen many twists and turns before its eventual conclusion on Tuesday (October 15, 2024). The initial proposal many years back was for 10 Sea Guardians for the Indian Navy, which has a pressing requirement for persistent long-range intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR).

However, that proposal metamorphosed into a tri-service proposal for 30 systems with 10 for each service but that got stuck for several years over differences on their need and priority among the services, with the Navy pressing for them while the Air Force had reservations. As that moved forward a couple of years back, the deal faced reducing the numbers over the high cost but then eventually went to 31 systems for which the contract was signed.

(With Inputs From Agencies)


'Kashmir Is Ours And Will Remain Ours': Ministry of External Affairs


New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday asserted that Kashmir will always be a part of India and the stand will never change regardless of any statement issued by anyone.

This came in response to the joint statement issued by the Prime Minister of Pakistan, Shehbaz Sharif, and Chinese Premier Li Qiang, where they called for a resolution on the ongoing Kashmir issue under the UN Charter.

"On Kashmir's issue, you know our stand. Kashmir is ours and will remain ours. This is our statement and this is our stand. If someone says something, it doesn't change anything," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said during a press briefing today.

Meanwhile, the MEA said that External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar did not hold any bilateral meetings with Pakistan and further mentioned that the EAM's recent visit to Islamabad was just for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's Council of Heads of Government meeting.

Jaiswal further added that apart from the SCO CHG meeting, the only bilateral talk Jaishankar held was with Mongolia.

" When EAM was about to travel to Islamabad, we had issued a statement that this particular visit is for the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting. Beyond that in Islamabad, the only bilateral EAM had was with Mongolia," the MEA Spokesperson said.

On Wednesday, during his address at SCO, Jaishankar termed cross-border terrorism, extremism, and separatism as the "three evils" that hinder trade and people-to-people relations between countries.

He took a veiled jibe at Pakistan to state that if activities across borders are characterised by terrorism, extremism, and separatism, they are "hardly likely to encourage trade, energy flows, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges in parallel."

EAM Jaishankar later departed from Islamabad to Delhi after the summit.

Jaishankar thanked Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar for their hospitality in an X post.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


We Are Satisfied With Cooperation: U.S. After Meeting With India's Inquiry Committee Over 'Assassination' Plot of Pannun


Washington: The United States on Thursday said that the meeting with the Indian Inquiry Committee regarding the alleged foiled assassination plot of the US-based Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun was "productive" and America was "satisfied" with the cooperation.

US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed satisfaction with India's cooperation in the investigation.

Regarding the alleged involvement of an Indian government official in the assassination plan of Pannun, Miller informed that the person "is no longer an employee of the Indian government."

"It was a productive meeting. They did inform us that the individual who was named in the Justice Department indictment is no longer an employee of the Indian government. We are satisfied with the cooperation. It continues to be an ongoing process. We continue to work with them on that, but we do appreciate the cooperation and we appreciate them updating us on their investigation as we update them on ours," Milller said.

The US had alleged that the accused Nikhil Gupta, is an associate of an employee of the Indian government and that together they and others helped plot the assassination of Pannun in New York City.

Earlier in June, he was extradited from the Czech Republic to the US to stand trial, where he pleaded 'not guilty.'

Indian enquiry committee has visited United States to investigate the involvement of an Indian government official in a foiled plot to assassinate a US national, the US Department of State said.

Pannun is an India-designated terrorist who holds American and Canadian citizenship. Earlier in November, the US Justice Department unsealed an indictment against an Indian national for his alleged involvement in a foiled plot to assassinate a US-based leader of the Sikh Separatist Movement and a citizen in New York.

India in November last year formed a high-level inquiry committee to address the security concerns highlighted by the US government. The Ministry of External Affairs said that India takes such inputs seriously since they impinge on national security interests as well, and relevant departments were already examining the issue.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


ISRO's PSLV-XL To Launch European Space Agency's PROBA-3 Mission


PROBA-3 mission will create artificial solar eclipse

PROBA-3, a mission led by the European Space Agency (ESA), is all set to be launched in November 2024 on a ground-breaking operation. The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and several European nations are participating in this. The final testing of both satellites (Occulter and Coronagraph) for the mission is complete, and they will be shipped to India on October 21 where it will be launched by ISRO's PSLV-XL rocket from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh on November 29.

This mission will create an on-demand solar eclipse a celestial event when the moon comes between the sun and the earth. Through this mission, ESA aims to artificially recreate this astronomical event.

It will mark the beginning of a new age in space exploration where multiple satellites must coordinate through "precision formation flying." Working together as a single, massive structure, the two satellites will form a 144-meter long solar coronagraphy and maintain a predefined alignment and distance in space. This coronagraph will study the solar corona near the rim of the sun by blocking out the bright rays emanating from the surface of the Sun, thus creating an artificial eclipse.

Without needing to wait for an actual eclipse, scientists will be able to study various activities, such as solar flares and coronal mass ejections — phenomena that, often, affect space weather and even influence Earth’s environment.

The success of the mission will depend on the precise positioning and coordination of both satellites. Advanced equipment like cold gas thrusters and vision-based detection systems will help with this. PROBO-3 mission will help check out related technologies for formation flying and carry out different experiments related to the meeting, or docking, of two or more spacecraft.

Agency Inputs


Individual Named In U.S. Indictment In Terrorist Pannun Case 'No Longer Employee of Indian Government,' Confirms MEA


New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday confirmed that the individual named in the US Justice Department's indictment case in foiled assassination plot against Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun, was no longer an employee of the government of India.

"The US State Department informed us that the individual in the Justice Department indictment is no longer employed by India. I confirm that he is no longer an employee of the Government of India," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press conference today.

Notably, the US Justice Department has claimed that an Indian government employee (named CC-1), who was not identified in the indictment filed in a federal court in Manhattan, recruited an Indian national named Nikhil Gupta to hire a hitman to carry out the assassination of Pannun, which was foiled by US authorities, according to prosecutors.

According to the allegations levelled earlier, the accused Nikhil Gupta, is an associate of an employee of the Indian government and that together they and others helped plot the assassination of Pannun in New York City.

Gurpatwant Singh Pannun is an India-designated terrorist who holds American and Canadian citizenship.

Indian national Nikhil Gupta is accused of being involved in the alleged failed murder plot of India-designated pro-Khalistani terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

Earlier in June, Gupta (52) was extradited from the Czech Republic to the US to stand trial, where he pleaded 'not guilty.'

India in November last year formed a high-level inquiry committee to address the security concerns highlighted by the US government. The Ministry of External Affairs said that India takes such inputs seriously since they impinge on national security interests as well, and relevant departments were already examining the issue.

Meanwhile, the United States earlier said that the meeting with the Indian Inquiry Committee regarding the Pannun case was "productive" and Washington was "satisfied" with the cooperation.

US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed satisfaction with India's cooperation in the investigation.

Regarding the alleged involvement of an Indian government official in the assassination plan of Pannun, Miller informed that the person "is no longer an employee of the Indian government."

"It was a productive meeting. They did inform us that the individual who was named in the Justice Department indictment is no longer an employee of the Indian government. We are satisfied with the cooperation. It continues to be an ongoing process. We continue to work with them on that, but we do appreciate the cooperation and we appreciate them updating us on their investigation as we update them on ours," Milller said.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


26 Extradition Requests Pending Over Last Decade: MEA Calls Out Canada For 'No Action'


New Delhi: The Ministry of External Affairs called out Canada for not taking any action against criminals and anti-India elements, despite multiple requests for extradition and provisional arrest being sent by India over the last decade.

MEA spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal said that there are total of 26 pending extradition requests pending with the Canadian side.

"So as far as my information is concerned, there are 26 extradition requests pending with the Canadian side. These are over the last decade or more. Along with it, there are several provisional arrest requests, which are also pending with the Canadian side of several criminals," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press conference on Thursday.

He further mentioned certain names that are among those individuals sought for extradition; Gurjeet Singh, Gurjinder Singh, Gurpreet Singh, Lakbir Singh Landa, and Arshdeep Singh Gill, who are wanted on terror charges and related crimes.

"We have shared security-related information with the Canadian government regarding gang members, including those of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, and requested them to arrest them and or to take due action as per law. So far, while we have exchanged and given these information, so far no action has been taken by the Canadian side on our request. This is very serious," Jaiswal emphasised.

The MEA spokesperson also highlighted a contradiction in Canada's stance, where individuals India requested to be deported are now being blamed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for committing crimes in Canada, implying India's culpability.

"Also, I would like to say that we find it really strange that now the people who we asked to be deported, on whom we ask that action be taken, we are being told that they are the ones, or we are, RCMP is blaming. Indian side that these people are committing crimes in Canada for which you are to be blamed. So this is a contradiction in terms which we are to blame," Jaiswal stated.

The government's statement came a day after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau named gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, who was earlier mentioned by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for being involved in the murder of Nijjar in September last year.

Trudeau alleged that Indian diplomats were collecting information on Canadians and passing it to the Lawrence Bishnoi gang.

The Canadian PM, who testified before the country's foreign interference inquiry, claimed that the Canadian agencies tried to work behind the scenes with India before he went public with the allegations in the Nijjar killing.

However, Trudeau admitted that his government only provided "intelligence and no proof" to India over the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.

The diplomatic row between India and Canada underwent a fresh escalation when Canada labelled India's High Commissioner and other diplomats as "persons of interest" in the investigation of Nijjar's death.

Following this, India decided to call back its High Commissioner and five other diplomats from Canada.

Speaking on the fallout, Randhir Jaiswal said, "We had summoned the acting High Commissioner of Canada and thereafter conveyed that we had no faith that the Canadian govt will look after the safety of our diplomats and therefore we had taken a decision to withdraw our High Commissioner and along with him 5 other diplomats, after that, there was a communication from Canadian side asking them to leave but we had withdrawn our diplomats before their decision."

Nijjar, who was designated a terrorist by India's National Investigation Agency in 2020, was shot and killed outside a Gurdwara in Surrey in June last year.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


'We Take Safety of Peacekeepers Very Seriously': India Reiterates Stand Amid Attacks On UNIFIL Premises In Lebanon


New Delhi: India reiterated its call for the safety of United Nations peacekeepers, amid escalating conflict in southern Lebanon with multiple attacks being reported on UNIFIL premises in Lebanon.

The Ministry of External Affairs referred to India's statement on the development in southern Lebanon and said that New Delhi takes the safety of the UN peacekeepers "very seriously."

It also confirmed that there are no Indian troops stationed at the Blue Line, but stressed the imortance of safety of the troops deployed.

"We had issued a statement on this development in southern Lebanon and we have said that we take the safety of peacekeepers very seriously. We have called for all action to be taken to maintain the safety of the UNIFIL premises," MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said in a press conference on Thursday.

"There were some reports of the peacekeepers getting skin rashes; they have issues with a statement on this. We didn't have any of our Indian troops there but continued to call for the safety of the troops," he added.

Last week, India expressed concern at the deteriorating security situation along the Blue Line, which has separated Lebanon and Israel since the 1970s, and said the inviolability of UN premises must be respected by all.

This came after two Indonesian peacekeepers were injured on October 11 when Israeli tank fire hit a UNIFIL observation tower in Naqoura, Lebanon.The Israeli Defense Forces acknowledged operating in the area, noting Hezbollah's presence near UN positions.

The Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement that appropriate measures must be taken to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the sanctity of their mandate.

"We are concerned at the deteriorating security situation along the Blue Line. We continue to monitor the situation closely," MEA said, commenting on the recent developments in southern Lebanon.

"Inviolability of UN premises must be respected by all, and appropriate measures taken to ensure the safety of UN peacekeepers and the sanctity of their mandate," the statement added.

Earlier, Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu alleged that the refusal to evacuate UNIFIL soldiers has effectively turned them into hostages of Hezbollah, the Iran-backed terrorist group operating in Lebanon.

Netanyahu also urged United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to withdraw UN peacekeeping forces from southern Lebanon, citing the danger posed to both 'UNIFIL soldiers and Israeli troops'.

Earlier on Wednesday, UNIFIL said that its peacekeepers in position near Kafer Kela observed an IDF Merkava tank firing at their watchtower which destroyed two cameras and damaged the tower.

"Yet again we see direct and apparently deliberate fire on a UNIFIL position," the mission said in a statement.

"We remind the IDF and all actors of their obligations to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel and property and to respect the inviolability of UN premises at all times," it added.

UNIFIL was created by the Security Council in March 1978 following Israel's "invasion" of Lebanon.

The UN peacekeeping mission UNIFIL has been operating along the "Blue Line" which separates Lebanon and Israel since the 1970s, and its mandate was renewed in August for another year by the UN Security Council.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


First ASEAN-India Track-1 Cyber Policy Dialogue Held In Singapore


Singapore: The first ASEAN-India Track-1 Cyber Policy Dialogue was held in Singapore on Wednesday.

According to a release issued by Ministry of External Affairs, the dialogue was co-chaired by Amit A Shukla, Joint Secretary of the Cyber Diplomacy Division at the Ministry of External Affairs and Jeffrey Ian Dy, Undersecretary for Infrastructure Management, Cyber Security, and Upskilling, Department of Information and Communications Technology of the Philippines.

The Philippines is India's country coordinator for ASEAN-India dialogue relations.

During the dialogue, both sides exchanged views on the cyber threat landscape, national cyber policies, threat assessment, and the recent developments in the ICT domain at the United Nations. The dialogue explored cooperation in capacity building and training to identify specific areas of activities, the release mentioned.

The dialogue also contributed to strengthening the ASEAN-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership through the implementation of the ASEAN-India Joint Statement on Advancing Digital Transformation issued during the ASEAN-India Summit, it added.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


Hamas Leader Yahya Sinwar Reportedly Killed In Surprise Encounter With Israeli Forces


Tel Aviv: The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) confirmed on Thursday that three terrorists have been eliminated during its operations in Gaza, one of whom can be Hamas chief and one of the masterminds behind the horrific October 7 attacks last year.

The IDF and Israel Security Agency (ISA) are investigating the possibility of Sinwar's death. But, the identities of the terrorists have not been officially confirmed at this stage.

IDF shared a post on X and wrote, "During IDF operations in Gaza, 3 terrorists were eliminated. The IDF and ISA are checking the possibility that one of the terrorists was Yahya Sinwar."

"At this stage, the identity of the terrorists cannot be confirmed. In the building where the terrorists were eliminated, there were no signs of the presence of hostages in the area. The forces that are operating in the area are continuing to operate with the required caution. SAID IDF," the post added.

This developments comes weeks after Israel eliminated another high-profile leader, Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah through airstrikes in Lebanon.

Earlier, another senior Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, died in Iran. Though, Tehran and Hamas have accused Israel behind the attack, Israel has neither accepted nor denied the charge.

Recently, the IDF eliminated several high-ranking Hamas officials, including Rawhi Mushtaha, Head of the Hamas government in Gaza, and Sameh al-Siraj, who held the security portfolio in Hamas' political bureau.

On Tuesday, the IDF said some 20 Hamas operatives were killed in airstrikes and close-quarters combat in Jabaliya over the past day, Times of Israel reported.

Troops also located and destroyed a weapons depot and other weapons amid the fighting, according to the military.

"The operation will continue as long as necessary, while systematically striking and thoroughly destroying the terror infrastructure in the area," the military said.

On Monday, the IDF called on Palestinians in northern Gaza's Beit Hanoun, Jabaliya, and Beit Lahiya to evacuate to the Israeli-designated humanitarian zone in the Strip's south, as per Times of Israel.

A day earlier, the IDF said that it was preparing to evacuate civilians from all of north Gaza, and would increase the size of the humanitarian zone.

The zone, where the vast majority of the Gazan population currently resides, is where most humanitarian aid is being delivered. There are also field hospitals there.

The military also said it was opening up two evacuation routes for Palestinians -- along the Salah a-Din road and the coastal road. Aid groups have warned against repeated displacement of already malnourished Palestinians.

In the central Gaza Strip, the IDF said Tuesday the 14th Reserve Armored Brigade launched a new raid in the Bureij area, where it said troops were demolishing Hamas infrastructure and killing gunmen.

Also in the past day, the IDF said 70 Hamas sites were struck across the Gaza Strip by fighter jets and other aircraft.

Meanwhile, on Tuesday, the IDF and Shin Bet security agency said that three Hamas terrorists who participated in the October 7 onslaught were killed in airstrikes in recent days.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


President Droupadi Murmu Lands In Malawi, Receives Ceremonial Welcome


Lilongwe: President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Malawi on Thursday, marking the second leg of her historic three-nation visit to Africa. She was warmly received by the Vice President with a ceremonial welcome.

Sharing a post on X, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said, "President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Lilongwe, Malawi today. President was warmly received by Vice President Dr. Michael Usi of Malawi and accorded a ceremonial welcome."

"This is the first ever State visit from India to Malawi," the post added.

Notably, President Murmu arrived in Malawi at the invitation of the President of Malawi. She will also hold a tete-a-tete with him. Following this, President Murmu will address a business event and will also meet with the Indian diaspora there.

Three MoUs on youth affairs, sports and cultural exchange will also be signed between the two countries.

President Murmu will depart for India from Malawi on October 19.

Earlier in the day, President Murmu in Mauritania met and held discussion with President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani of Mauritania at the Presidential Palace.

In her interactions, the two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the relationship.

As a part of this endeavour, four Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) were signed in the areas of diplomats training, cultural exchange, visa exemption and Foreign Office consultations.

In a post on the social media platform, X, it was shared by the Ministry of External Affairs, that the two countries discussed about the "ongoing cooperation in areas of health, education, trade and investment, capacity building, culture and people-to-people ties."

In her address to the Indian diaspora in Mauritania, she said, "in her address to the Indian diaspora she said, "India is moving towards the goal of 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047 and to ensure that, our diaspora family plays a very important role in this process."

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


Prada And Axiom Space Design Next-Gen Spacesuit For NASA's Artemis-III Mission


Washington: Italian luxury fashion brand Prada in collaboration with US start-up company Axiom Space has unveiled the design of a spacesuit that will be used for NASA's Artemis Moon exploration program.

The collaboration aims to produce new spacesuits for the Artemis-III lunar mission, the first crewed Moon landing since December 1972, when the Apollo 17 mission concluded, the fashion house said in a joint statement on Wednesday. NASA's Artemis III mission to the moon, has been planned for 2026.

The new spacesuit, officially known as the Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) was unveiled during the International Astronautical Congress in Milan.

Starting on October 18, the spacesuit will be presented to the public with an installation at the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II as an extension of the IAC event in the Milan.

Prada said using its expertise in raw materials, manufacturing techniques, and innovative design, its engineers worked side by side with the Axiom Space team to create a suit capable of protecting astronauts from the harsh environment of space, and enabling, for the first time, human exploration of the lunar south pole.

Photographs released by the fashion house shows the white coloured suit with red and grey stripes. The unisex suits that can be adapted for different sizes reflecting similar characteristics to other Prada creations, including Italy's Luna Rossa America's Cup boat.

"Our elite teams have redefined spacesuit development, establishing new pathways to innovative solutions and applying a state-of-the-art design approach for the AxEMU," said Matt Ondler, Axiom Space President.

"We have broken the mould. The Axiom Space-Prada partnership has set a new foundational model for cross-industry collaboration, further expanding what's possible in commercial space," he added.

During development, Axiom Space used a dark cover layer for display purposes only to conceal the suit's proprietary technology. However, the spacesuit worn on the lunar surface will be made from a white material that reflects heat and protects astronauts from extreme high temperatures and lunar dust.

Astronauts will be able to perform spacewalks for at least eight hours.

Advancing NASA's Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit (xEMU) spacesuit design, the AxEMU provides increased flexibility, performance, and safety, as well as specialized tools to aid in exploring the lunar south pole, the company said.

Lorenzo Bertelli, Prada Group Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Corporate Social Responsibility said, "Going beyond our limits is one of the company's values that perfectly reflects the spirit of the Prada brand and my parents' vision. I'm very proud of the result we're showing today, which is just the first step in a long-term collaboration with Axiom Space.

"We've shared our expertise on high-performance materials, features, and sewing techniques, and we learned a lot. I'm sure we'll continue to explore new challenges, broaden our horizons, and build new scenarios together," the Prada official said.

Axiom Space said it has iteratively improved this next-gen spacesuit over the past two years to support the Artemis III mission.

The AxEMU has undergone extensive testing and simulations with a wide range of astronauts and engineers at state-of-the-art Axiom Space, SpaceX and NASA facilities.

Testing was conducted underwater to simulate the lunar environment with an unoccupied spacesuit at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) and reduced gravity simulations at NASA's Johnson Space Centre.

Through Artemis, NASA and its partners are set to land on the surface of the Moon and Prada's collaboration aims to outfit the first woman and the first person of colour to land on the moon during the upcoming Artemis III mission in September 2026.

Incidentally, Axiom Space is the architect of the world's first commercial space station.

The Artemis III astronauts will travel to lunar orbit, where two crew members will descend to the surface and spend approximately a week near the South Pole of the Moon conducting new science before returning to lunar orbit to join their crew for the journey back to Earth.

Meanwhile, French fashion house Pierre Cardin had in September this year unveiled an astronaut training suit for the European Space Agency's centre in Cologne.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


Mahrang Baloch Criticises Pakistan's Judiciary's 'Alignment' With Military At Karachi Event


Karachi: Prominent Baloch activist Mahrang Baloch accused the Pakistan judiciary of neglecting its duty to provide justice, and said it has become a mouthpiece for the country's military.

She argued that no amount of government investment in Balochistan can mask the violence suffered by the local population.

Mahrang along with Baloch Missing Persons (VBMP) General Secretary, Sammi Deen Baloch, addressed an event hosted by the Karachi Bar Association, where they criticised the Pakistani judiciary for siding with the military.

The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leader also highlighted the plight of Baloch mothers, many of whom have discovered the mutilated remains of their missing children.

"These mothers no longer seek justice. They simply want to know if they can recognise their child's body," she said.

The event faced a brief interruption due to a power outage, but the audience responded with supportive chants, urging the activists to continue their remarks, as reported by The Balochistan Post.

She also pointed out that Baloch women are leading a growing movement in the area, which she believes will continue to strengthen.

Mahrang noted that for over 15 years, mothers from the Baloch, Sindhi, and Pashtun communities have approached the courts, asking for the return of their missing sons. Despite their efforts, she criticised the judiciary for its lack of action, emphasising the increasing number of cases of enforced disappearances, according to The Balochistan Post.

The Baloch people have long accused the Pakistani government of neglecting their region, which is rich in resources but suffers from poverty and violence.

Activists report numerous cases of enforced disappearances, with many families seeking justice for their missing loved ones. The judiciary's perceived alignment with the military has led to frustration among Baloch activists, who feel that their pleas for justice are often ignored.

In Sindh, issues such as land grabs, political representation, and cultural identity are at the forefront. Sindhi activists have raised concerns over the Pakistani government's policies, which they argue undermine their rights and autonomy.

There have been instances of political repression, particularly against those advocating for regional rights.

Furthermore, the Pashtun community has also faced significant challenges, especially in the context of the war on terror. Many Pashtuns have been affected by military operations, leading to casualties and displacement, as the state has used their land for proxy wars.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed


International Crimes Tribunal Issues Arrest Warrants For Sheikh Hasina, 45 Awami League Leaders


Dhaka: The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Thursday issued arrest warrants against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and 45 other top Awami League leaders, including former ministers and officials, according to a report by The Daily Star.

The arrest warrant has been issued in connection with alleged crimes against humanity committed during the July-August uprising.

ICT, led by its chairman Justice Md Golam Mortuza Majumdar, passed the orders. This decision comes after the prosecution filed two petitions with the tribunal, seeking arrest warrants against them, Chief Prosecutor Muhammad Tajul Islam told The Daily Star.

The tribunal has also ordered the concerned authorities to produce Hasina and 45 others before it after arresting them by November 18. Notably, former ministers Obaidul Quader, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Hasan Mahmud and Anisul Huq are among the 46, as per the tribunal sources.

Over 60 complaints of crimes against humanity and genocide have been filed against former PM Sheikh Hasina and many of her party memeber with the ICT investigation agency. The investigation agency and the prosecution team have already launched probes into the complaints, the Daily Star reported. The government has also prepared a draft to amend the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act-1973.

According to the Dhaka Tribune, Advocate Tajul Islam, the chief prosecutor of the tribunal, informed the media that also said that Interpol's assistance would be sought to bring back fugitives, including Hasina, who are currently abroad.

Earlier on August 31, Bangladesh interim government's foreign affairs advisor Mohammed Touhid Hossain, had said that as cases mount against Sheikh Hasina, his country could consider seeking the extradition of the former premier but that would create an "embarrassing situation for the Indian government."

In an exclusive interview to Reuters TV in Dhaka, Hossain said that "since there are so many cases" against Hasina in Bangladesh, the country's home and law ministries could make the request to extradite her.

Sheikh Hasina had resigned from her post of Prime Minister on August 5 and fled to India in a military aircraft, following mounting protests against the contentious government job quota system that had sparked widespread anti-government demonstrations.

Following Hasina's resignation, a caretaker government was formed in Bangladesh, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus.

This report is auto-generated from a syndicated feed