In Our Defence India Today Podcasts

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

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

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

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:

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Watch: Downfall: The Case Against Boeing

Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound mix by Sachin Dwivedi

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

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