tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18711841858168370962024-03-27T12:08:30.548+05:30PerspectiveMy take on defense and strategic issues concerning IndiaVRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.comBlogger22125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-86410509473109675052019-07-21T02:50:00.000+05:302019-07-21T05:16:07.420+05:30Restructuring the Indian Army - Taking the War into Tibet?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="743" data-original-width="1280" height="231" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xtGNJsPSqJY/XTNqru5uC9I/AAAAAAAAuPI/yP7Q7Fx9EgUVIehn6WUsWI-2VmjgOQLFwCLcBGAs/s400/Swarajya.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;">source: Swarajya</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">There have been consistent reports over last couple of years
regarding restructuring and reorganization of the Indian Army. These are aimed
at making the army a ‘lean and mean’ machine as well as to improve the ability
to fight and win the next conflict on eastern or western front.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">A report recently carried by bharat-shakti.in website, promoted by
veteran journalist and defence & strategic issues commentator Nitin
Gokhale, has details<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" target="_blank"></a><a href="https://bharatshakti.in/armys-three-rs-plan-gets-going/" title="">[1]</a> of changes carried out by the Indian
Army HQ covering multiple aspects. These span from reducing the strength of
officers in Army HQ by 20% to ensure more officers are with field formations,
implementation of the concept of Integrated Battle Group (IBG) in some
formations to change in in Order of Battle (ORBAT) of 2 Strike Corps and 17
Mountain Strike Corps.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In this article, I analyse the plausible reasons behind change in
ORBAT of 2 and 17 Strike Corps, its implication and how the same is likely to
pan out. In the next part of this series, I’ll do an assessment of IBG, their
likely composition, role and impac</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit , serif; font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 150%;">t.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Growth of the Indian Army</span></b></h3>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">As of 2017, the active strength of the Indian Army was slightly
more 1.23 million. The army is organized into fourteen corps which between them
have 41 divisions comprising of armoured, infantry, and mountain and artillery
divisions. In addition to these divisions, there are numerous independent
armoured, artillery, infantry and mechanized brigades as well.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Indian Army has seen periodic expansion in strength with
maximum expansion happening after the 1962 debacle. The following graph shows
the number of divisions (of various types) that were added to the army since
1947.</span></span> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="519" data-original-width="1311" height="252" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GXnua-VPzaU/XTNrGuuS_JI/AAAAAAAAuPQ/2CMJ_llokvYThfTYAHVCDgOccc0RyFfHwCLcBGAs/s640/Graph1.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;">source: author research</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As can be seen above, three major phases of expansion are:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">(1) Post 1947 – India inherited few divisions from the British
Indian Army post independence. New divisions were immediately raised in light
of Pakistan’s attack on Kashmir in 1947.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(2) Post 1962 – The 1962 debacle highlighted the short-comings in
the strength of the Indian Army and led to the biggest expansion phase in its
history. With the Indo-Tibet border and McMahon Line becoming active, dedicated
troops were required for the northern, central and eastern sectors. Another
factor was the Naga and Mizo insurgency in north-east. While some existing
infantry divisions were converted to mountain divisions and shifted, new
divisions were also raised.</span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(3) 1971-1980: This was the period when new divisions were raised
to fill out gaps or rationalize the area-of-responsibility of existing
formations. This was also the period when the Indian Army went from a single
armoured division to a total three armoured divisions. </span></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><i>Recent Raising </i></b></span></span></h4>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>(1) North-East:</b> </span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Two new mountain divisions were raised in North-East between 2001
and 2010; these are the 56 and 71 Mountain Divisions. These were raised to
fill out the north-east based 3 Corps and 4 Corps and rationalize their
Area-of-Responsibility (AOR).</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">While 4 Corps already had 3 x mountain divisions,
3 Corps had only one mountain division.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">What the Indian Army did was transfer one mountain
division from 4 Corps to 3 Corps and added one new mountain division (56 MD) to
it. This gave 3 Corps its full complement of 3 x mountain divisions. 4
Corps also got one of the new mountain divisions (71 MD) and went back to
having 3 x mountain divisions.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The transfer of a mountain division from 4 Corps
to 3 Corps rationalized the AOR between them. With 4 Corps responsible for
western Arunachal Pradesh/Eastern Bhutan and 3 Corps responsible for eastern
Arunachal Pradesh and Myanmar border. </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><b><span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(2) Mountain Strike Corps: </span></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The concept of a Mountain Strike Corps (MSC) was finally
implemented towards start of this decade when the UPA-2 government gave
permission for raising of 17 Mountain Strike Corps. It is supposed to have 2 x
mountain divisions apart from other assets like aviation. The 17 MSC HQ is
based in Panagarh in West Bengal which is also the location of one of its
mountain divisions, the 59 Mountain Division. The second division (72 MD) is
based in Pathankot and from the available reports, it seems it has not been
fully raised yet.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The plausible reason for placing the divisions so far apart is
that 17 MSC can go either towards North-East in case of a shooting match with
China or West/North in case of tensions with Pakistan. The location of Panagarh
is important because it sits on the electrified trunk route of the Indian
Railways. Using the railway network, 17 MSC and 59 MD can go east or west to
the intended area of operations.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The map below shows the location of Panagarh and other important
locations on the Indian Railway network. As can be seen, important disembarking
locations like Pathankot in west (for further movement towards Kashmir or
Ladakh), Laskar/Roorkee (for Central/Uttarakhand Sector), Siliguri (for
Sikkim/West Bhutan/Chumbi Valley), Rangia & Tejpur for western Arunachal
Pradesh and Tinsukhia for eastern Arunachal Pradesh are accessible from
Panagarh through the main trunk routes.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<h3>
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<b>Managing the Numbers</b></span></span></h3>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">As
the Indian Army has grown over the years, so has the component of budget
related to salaries and pension. There have been calls to downsize the army by
rationalizing its structure. It is this author’s belief that in percentage
terms, there isn’t a large scope in downsizing the army. Mainly because of its
commitments level, geo-strategic environment and the nature of terrain. All
this requires a large standing army in which components are committed to their
geographical AOR.<o:p></o:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">An
opposite of above paradigm is China – compared to the Indian Army, it maintains
a very small body of troops permanently in Tibet and along McMahon Line. In
case of a shooting match with India, most of PLA troops will come from outside
of Tibet. If required, these troops will also be used in other sectors like
against Vietnam. This way, China can maintain a smaller army relative to its
geographical commitments. The PLA Group Armies can ‘swing’ from their peacetime
locations to different sectors across China’s borders depending upon the
exigency.<o:p></o:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">Another
factor which permits this is the presence of an excellent road and rail
infrastructure. This means that China does not need to maintain ‘troops in
being’ - troops will be mobilized from outside Tibet and using the excellent
infrastructure, reach the required areas in lesser amount of time.<o:p></o:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">Compared
to this, Indian Army has much higher number of troops permanently deployed on
the border.<o:p></o:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">Having
said that, there are instances of the Indian Army moving formations from east
towards west. For example, during 2001-2002 Op Parakaram mobilization, two
mountain divisions went west from east along with one Corps HQ. But
geopolitical climate with China does play a part in this shifting.<o:p></o:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;">To
manage its geographical commitments with need to manage absolute number of
troops, what Indian Army needs is the ability to swing formations from east to
west and vice-versa. An arrangement where it can use it reserve formations,
traditionally employed along western sector, towards northern and eastern
sector.<o:p></o:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I
think we’re witnessing the start of this exercise with the new restructuring
announced recently.</span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 9pt;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<b>ORBAT Change</b></span></span></h3>
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</span></span>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The report
carried by the bharat-shakti.in portal has following to say about change in
ORBAT of 2 Strike Corps and 17 Mountain Strike Corps:<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 15pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Meanwhile,
an important change has occurred the way the 17 Mountain Strike Corps,
primarily conceived for deployment along India’s northern border with China, is
now taking shape. Originally planned as a three-division formation—as all Corps
normally are—the Army leadership has now decided to let only two divisions
(approximately 10,000 to 12000 troops) be integral part of the 17 Corps,
headquartered at Panagarh in West Bengal.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 15pt; text-align: start;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Accordingly, only the newly raised 59 Mountain Division,
co-located with the 17 Corps HQ at Panagarh, and the Dehradun-based 14 Division
will be permanent part of the Mountain Strike Corps. Other formations like the
Ranchi-based 23 Division and the yet-to-be-fully-raised 72 Division at
Pathankot, will now have dual tasking —to be part of western command as well as
get assigned to 17 Corps— when needed.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></span></span></div>
<div style="background: white; line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 15pt; text-align: start;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Interestingly, the 14 Division used to be called 14 RAPID or
Re-organised Army Plains Infantry Division was part of the 2 Corps. The RAPIDS
(more than half a dozen of them) were formed in the mid-Eighties-early Nineties
period because they comprised of two infantry and one mechanized or
armoured brigades which gave the division greater mobility.<o:p></o:p></span></span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="background: white; line-height: 150%;">Now,
an armoured brigade located at Roorkee under 14 RAPID has swapped places with
an infantry brigade at Kapurthala. So the erstwhile 14 RAPID Division has been
converted into a pure infantry or mountain division placed under the 17 Corps.
The plan is to deploy the tweaked 14 Division in the Central Sector of the
India-China border in Uttarakhand, which so far had a bare minimum presence of
the Army through a sole independent brigade headquartered at Joshimath.</span></i><i><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></i></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We look at the
each aspect mentioned in the above section in detail</span><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
<h4>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
(1) Change in ORBAT </span></span></h4>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Ambala
headquartered 2 Strike Corps, or Kharga Corps, is generally regarded as the
most powerful Corps of the Indian Army and is tasked with taking the battle
deep into Pakistan and/or destruction and degrading of its fighting potential. Between
its organic elements, it accounts for ~500 main battle tanks and slightly
lesser number of BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFC). Its ORBAT is as
follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- 1 Armoured Division<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- 14 RAPID (Reorganized Plains Infantry Division)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- 22 Infantry Division<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- 40 Artillery Division (which also holds 1 x Brahmos
Missile Regiment)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- Independent Armoured Brigade <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">You can read in detail about Artillery Divisions of the Indian Army here:
<a href="http://vatsrohit.blogspot.com/2012/12/artillery-divisions-in-indian-army.html">http://vatsrohit.blogspot.com/2012/12/artillery-divisions-in-indian-army.html</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Sometime in
1987-88, Indian Army under then Chief of Army Staff, General Sundarji, created
the concept of RAPID. It involves adding an armoured brigade to an infantry
division. So, a typical RAPID consists of following:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- Armoured Brigade
(2 x Armoured Regiments + 2 x Mechanized Infantry Regiments)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- 2 or 3 Infantry
Brigades (typically 3 x infantry battalions)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- Artillery
Brigade<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">- Support Troops<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;">The above
tweaking of structure of an infantry division gave it mobility and made is much
more powerful than a normal infantry division.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">The article says
that 14 RAPID is reverting back to vanilla infantry division. The armoured
brigade of the division, which was based in Roorkee, has shifted to Kapurthala
while the Kapurthala based infantry brigade has come under 14 Infantry
Division. And that 14 Infantry Division has now come under 17 Mountain Strike
Corps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">For reference
sake, the infantry brigade in Kapurthala used to come under Ferozepur based 7
Infantry Division, which in turn is part of Jalandhar based 11 Corps. And if
the swap holds, 7 Infantry Division would now become 7 RAPID.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">Shifting of 14
RAPID from under 2 Strike Corps to 17 Mountain Strike Corps and transfer of its
armoured brigade to some other formation will impact the warfighting capability
of 2 Strike Corps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-weight: normal;">It is my
considered opinion that what most likely has happened is as follows. Do check
the map below to get an idea about various locations mentioned:</span><o:p></o:p></div>
</span></span></h4>
</div>
</div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y-yYRFqh-Ns/XTNtwR3zH5I/AAAAAAAAuPk/P14UC_cpVXYu-h9p5uUrxT3cDh_gas5RwCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="986" data-original-width="1600" height="393" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y-yYRFqh-Ns/XTNtwR3zH5I/AAAAAAAAuPk/P14UC_cpVXYu-h9p5uUrxT3cDh_gas5RwCLcBGAs/s640/Picture2.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<h4>
(1) Armoured Brigade moved from
Roorkee to Kapurthala:</h4>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
- A powerful
armoured brigade has been moved ~ 400 km in north-western direction. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
- This shifting
will cut down the mobilization time of the armoured brigade considerably and
bring it within 100 km from international border as compared to 500+ km
earlier.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
- Quicker
mobilization has been one of the main objectives of various exercises done by
the army post 2001-2002 Op Parakaram mobilization.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
- Placing an
armoured brigade closer to international border allows it to respond quickly
for offensive and defensive tasks along the border.<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h4>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(2) <span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">14 RAPID – ‘Swing’ Division</span></span></span></h4>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- In my opinion,
it is likely that the brigade will continues to be under 14 RAPID with 14 RAPID
itself being made 'swing' division.</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Depending on the
requirement, the division can move towards west in RAPID role under 2 Corps or
move north under 17 Corps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- When it moves
west, it will pick-up the armoured brigade in Kapurthala while when deployed as
part of 17 Corps, it will use the infantry brigade gained from west.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- When moving west
as part of 2 Strike Corps, it would’ve shorter mobilization time because its
armoured brigade is already upfront.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Similarly, the
infantry brigade will also move east or west depending upon the requirement. In
case of trouble with Pakistan, it is likely to revert back to 7 Infantry
Division and in case of trouble with China, go with 14 Infantry Division.</span><br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div>
<h4>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
(3) <span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Kapurthala Location Advantage</span></span></span></h4>
</div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<br />
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Choice of
Kapurthala is also important to base the armoured brigade <o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- It sits at a
junction from where the brigade can move along multiple axis.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- It can go west
towards Amritsar or south-west to Ferozepur sector.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Or, towards Fazilka-Abohar-Sri
Ganganagar corridor, the general area where 2 Strike Corps has been known to be
deployed during mobilization to take battle deep into Pakistan.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Another
important point is that just ~30 km west of Kapurthala, at Beas, sits 55 (I)
Mechanized Brigade. Between these two, you've a very power armoured punch<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="line-height: 115%;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="line-height: 115%; margin-left: 0cm; mso-add-space: auto;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can read a detailed assessment of strategic importance of
South Punjab-Northern Rajasthan sector from Indian side and southern Punjab and
Sindh from Pakistan’s side at the link below. The analysis also covers Indian
Army’s broad deployment pattern during Op Parakaram. It also details how Indian
Army, under General Padmanabhan, drastically changed its deployment pattern
towards mid-2002 and how this bold and audacious plan literally put Pakistan
Army’s pants on fire.</span><o:p></o:p></i></span></span></div>
</div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></span>
<div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://vatsrohit.blogspot.com/2012/08/strategic-importance-south-punjab-and.html">http://vatsrohit.blogspot.com/2012/08/strategic-importance-south-punjab-and.html</a> </span></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<h4>
(4) <span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Central/Uttarakhand Sector</span></h4>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Article says 14 Division will be used in
Central Sector or Uttarakhand which traditionally has had only one independent
mountain brigade based out of Joshimath.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- This actually is not the case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Reason being, we've 6 Mountain Division
based out of Bareilly with its brigades in Uttarakhand and Western UP.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- 6 Mountain Division is AHQ reserve and it
is triple tasked - Ladakh (east/west), north Punjab/Jammu and Central Sector.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- For example, during Kargil War, it was
sitting in Sonamarg area. Had India decided to cross LOC, this formation
would’ve gone into POK.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- Further, research by author shows that
Indian Army has raised one more independent mountain brigade for the Central
Sector.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- This makes for 2 x Independent Mountain
Brigade Groups and one mountain division for Central Sector.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- So, why is 14 RAPID/Infantry Division is
to be committed to Central Sector?</span></div>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(5) </span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-indent: -18pt;">Attack into Tibet?</span></h4>
</div>
</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">If one looks at the map of Indo-Tibet border in the Central
Sector, one realizes that once you’re past the high Himalayan ridge line along
the border, the terrain is still high altitude but flat. Something like what we
have in eastern Ladakh between Ladakh and Tibet.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">There is good road infrastructure on Tibetan side leading towards
the Indian-Tibet border. Ergo, the same road infrastructure also leads deep
into Tibet towards major towns in the area and which are within 100 km from the
border as the crow flies.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Not to mention that the holy Mansarovar Lake complex also lies
within 100 km from the border.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">There are three main passes on the Indo-Tibetan border in the
Uttarakhand or Central Sector. The same are marked on the map below:</span></span></span></div>
</div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5nL8jbqj73A/XTNzlIWuL8I/AAAAAAAAuQA/drTHzPgIiKku8IVRQ2r1wraqi9nIOiP6QCEwYBhgL/s1600/Picture3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1098" data-original-width="986" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5nL8jbqj73A/XTNzlIWuL8I/AAAAAAAAuQA/drTHzPgIiKku8IVRQ2r1wraqi9nIOiP6QCEwYBhgL/s640/Picture3.jpg" width="574" /></a></span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span></div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">
</span>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The traditional Mansarovar yatra enters Tibet from Lipulekh Pass.
Also, it is important to remember that the oldest boundary dispute between
India and China is for a small pasture known as Bara-hoti; it lies to immediate
south of the Tun Jun Pass mentioned on the map.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Other important passes are mentioned on the map. In fact, Mana
Pass has a motorable road right up to the pass and in the past, civilians have
also been allowed to visit the pass.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">India has made considerable effort to develop road infrastructure
in the border areas with roads being extended as far north towards the border
as possible.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Challenge from India side is to reach the border areas. There is
considerable altitude gain as one starts from the plains of western Uttar
Pradesh or even lower reaches of Uttarakhand.</span></span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt; line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">For example, while Dehradun (14 RAPID HQ) is located at an
altitude of 1,467 feet, Mana Pass is located at an altitude in excess of 18,000
feet!</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 107%;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, if the logistics of movement of men and material can be
managed, than there is a possibility of Indian Army targeting to take battle
into Tibet. And threaten to interdict G219 highway.</span></span></span></div>
</div>
<span style="line-height: 107%;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(6) <span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-stretch: normal; font-variant-east-asian: normal; font-variant-numeric: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Interdict G219?</span></span></h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ytSAoNp8tqM/XTN9muw32LI/AAAAAAAAuQc/5_FDzQUKffMG-OMEieHF5Ybj3nnF2f3LwCLcBGAs/s1600/G219%2Bwestern%2Bnational%2Bhighway.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="435" data-original-width="800" height="347" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ytSAoNp8tqM/XTN9muw32LI/AAAAAAAAuQc/5_FDzQUKffMG-OMEieHF5Ybj3nnF2f3LwCLcBGAs/s640/G219%2Bwestern%2Bnational%2Bhighway.PNG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;">source: nationaldefence.in</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">G219 is a major highway which connects the Xinjiang Autonomous
Region with eastern Tibet. This road passes through the Aksai Chin region and
it is the construction of this road between 1951 and 1957 which led to the
conflict between the two countries. </span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">China had illegally constructed this road because at that time, it
was easier to connect Tibet with East Turkestan or Xinjiang Autonomous Region
that mainland China with Tibet. It was the need to construct and keep this
vital communication axis because of which Chinese started claiming Aksai Chin
region.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Coming to present, interdiction of this road, or even threat to
this road can lead to serious issues for the Chinese and PLA.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Going north along this road can threaten the rear of the Chinese
troops opposite Himachal-Tibet border and Line-of-Actual Control (LAC) along
Demchok and Chusul sector.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">It will also put pressure on the east-to-west movement of troops
and materials for the Chinese.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div style="line-height: 150%; margin: 0cm 0cm 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">However, the question that arises is will three division worth of
troops be sufficient for this task considering the geography and the opponent?</span> </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>(7) Will History Repeat?</b></span></h4>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R-H6pU7dsZ8/XTN8qsC27RI/AAAAAAAAuQI/wPitb4CSMLIkzXck45gz7EYN1-X3X6pLgCLcBGAs/s1600/144201025554959-1024x683.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="683" data-original-width="1024" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R-H6pU7dsZ8/XTN8qsC27RI/AAAAAAAAuQI/wPitb4CSMLIkzXck45gz7EYN1-X3X6pLgCLcBGAs/s400/144201025554959-1024x683.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;">source: hinduhistory.info</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The
legendary Dogra General Zorawar Singh, who was responsible for conquering of
Ladakh, and Gilgit-Baltistan, led campaign into Tibet as well. He conquered all
the territory between eastern Ladakh and Lake Mansarovar and in fact, reached
as far as Taklakot (To’Yo).</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"> </span> </span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkyAvBpKhQE/XTN8zgBzZaI/AAAAAAAAuQM/Rf4EbV2-zf4jHPIEpDz0ltuecKGjIoAwwCLcBGAs/s1600/Route.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="439" data-original-width="943" height="296" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nkyAvBpKhQE/XTN8zgBzZaI/AAAAAAAAuQM/Rf4EbV2-zf4jHPIEpDz0ltuecKGjIoAwwCLcBGAs/s640/Route.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></div>
<h4 style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 150%;">From
Taklakot, the boundary of the Hindu Kingdom of Nepal was under 30 km. By
reaching Taklakot and defeating the Tibetans and Chinese there on 6<sup>th</sup> September
1841, General Zorawar Singh had established a contact between two Indian
kingdoms without the presence of British in-between.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></h4>
<h4 style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 150%;">However, on 12 December 1841, General Zorawar
Singh fell in a battle with combined armies of Tibetans and the Chinese troops
and the area conquered by him in western Tibet went back to the Tibetans.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></h4>
<h4 style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 150%;">The samadhi of this great general lies about 25
km from the Lipulekh pass, the main pass which Indian pilgrims use to cross
over into Tibet on their journey towards Kailash Mansarovar.</span> </span></h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yGYvLSZNZno/XTN9B0mjO6I/AAAAAAAAuQU/sBLgN0NlDIMCf67Sll9vfiDyXAeJU03qwCLcBGAs/s1600/DSC07845.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="604" data-original-width="900" height="267" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yGYvLSZNZno/XTN9B0mjO6I/AAAAAAAAuQU/sBLgN0NlDIMCf67Sll9vfiDyXAeJU03qwCLcBGAs/s400/DSC07845.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;">Samadhi of General Zorawar Singh in Taklakot in Tibet (source: bcmtouring)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Could history repeat itself, albeit from a
different direction?</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Conclusion - Managing the Numbers</span></h3>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">The
article by Nitin Gokhale talks about 14 RAPID and Ranchi based 23 Division
becoming available to 17 Corps.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">Other
two components of 17 Corps are Panagarh based 59 Mountain Division and
under-raising 72 Mountain Division in Pathankot.</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">From
what I know, 23 Division comes under 1 Strike Corps (South-Western Command)</span><span style="line-height: 150%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;">I
think we're here witnessing a possibility of a combination of divisions as per the deployment of 17 Mountain Strike Corps. The same are as follows:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 150%;"> - For Northern Sectors (east or west) - </span></span>17 Corps HQ with <span style="font-family: inherit;">59 MD + 72 MD </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- For Central/Uttarakhand Sector - </span>17 Corps HQ with <span style="font-family: inherit;">59 MD + 14 Infantry/Mountain Division</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">- For Eastern Front - </span>17 Corps HQ with <span style="font-family: inherit;">59 MD + 23 Infantry Division</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="line-height: 150%;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In
all, lot of swing capabilities being built-in and rationalization of troops
thereby reducing the need for more new raising.</span></span></div>
</div>
</div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"></span></span></span></div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-66036972053179817762019-07-01T00:46:00.001+05:302019-07-01T00:46:14.976+05:30Demise of HF-24 Marut - Was lack of engines the real cause?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KS_cxEdOu50/XRj-k_YVnXI/AAAAAAAAtwg/6UEruoUSznI2xt5sWsXI67lgo5oqv7QtACLcBGAs/s1600/marut-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="426" data-original-width="618" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KS_cxEdOu50/XRj-k_YVnXI/AAAAAAAAtwg/6UEruoUSznI2xt5sWsXI67lgo5oqv7QtACLcBGAs/s1600/marut-3.jpg" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
HF-24 'Marut' was independent India's first attempt at creating a supersonic fighter aircraft and ushering self reliance in the critical field of fighter aircraft aviation. The country did invest considerable resources into the project and went to the extent of inviting the acclaimed German airplane designer of World War-2 fame, Professor Kurt Tank to design such a fighter aircraft. He had designed iconic fighter like the Fw 190, the back-bone of German Air Force or Luftwaffe for most of World War 2.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In spite of considerable effort, HF-24 Marut could not meet the Air Staff Requirement (ASR) parameters. And the biggest reason for that was lack of suitable engines. Professor Kurt Tank had designed the aircraft around an engine being developed by Bristol Siddeley of UK. However, Bristol Siddeley never managed to develop the engine due to some decisions made in that nation and Bristol Siddeley lost the economic reason to pursue further development. However, Bristol Siddeley did approach Indian government to fund the development. The story goes that they were asking for a very steep price and Indian government refused to fund the same. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In hindsight, that proved to be much more costly decision than whatever money they were asking. Reason being, HF-24 'Marut' never reached its optimal performance and instead, was flown with <span style="text-align: left;">Bristol Siddeley B.Or. 703 engines, the same ones on Folland Gnat. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Still, 140+ Marut were manufactured and all of them served with three operational squadrons of the IAF. Tragedy was that an aircraft meant as high altitude, high speed interceptor, was employed in ground attack role!</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
And in less than two decades, HF-24 'Marut' was phased out of IAF, never having achieved its potential.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Popular perception says that it was lack of interest by IAF which led to the early demise of the fighter. That it did not support the program enough. Reality speaks otherwise.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
However, there is one more angle to the story - and that is the role of Professor Kurt Tank and design team at HAL in scuttling a reheat or after-burning project at GTRE. A project, if it would've reached its logical conclusion, would've made HF-24 much more powerful aircraft. And allowed it to meet a high percentage of its expected requirement.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Further, there is more to HF-24 design and role of Professor Kurt Tank. However, I shall touch upon that later.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
As for now, I produce excerpts from autobiography of Air Vice Marshal SN Roy Chowdhury. These excerpts tell you about the little know efforts made by GTRE to power HF-24 with a reheat engine and how, the obstinacy of Professor Kurt Tank and Indian members of design team at HAL, prevented this venture from reaching its logical conclusion.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Before I proceed, I'm attaching pics of tail pipes of HF-24 MK1 and HF-24 Mk1R (this prototype flew with reheat engines). The excerpts linked below refer to this aspect of design repeatedly and are central to understand the issue which prevented evolution of HF-24 Mk1R into a true-blue after-burning fighter aircraft.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Tail section - HF-24 Mk1</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XtPkTvsmIW4/XRkJYgjbWmI/AAAAAAAAtws/ivjwXggMdeAD7Klv_wOeOs_GRJnmh98ygCLcBGAs/s1600/HF-24%2BMk1_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1143" data-original-width="1600" height="457" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XtPkTvsmIW4/XRkJYgjbWmI/AAAAAAAAtws/ivjwXggMdeAD7Klv_wOeOs_GRJnmh98ygCLcBGAs/s640/HF-24%2BMk1_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Tail section - HF-24 Mk1R</b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PzhUj7-GLzU/XRkJhV63ZQI/AAAAAAAAtww/9ullPMAhPeUEWxbot7yz5p7bH1io2oHCwCLcBGAs/s1600/HF-24%2BMk1R_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="820" data-original-width="1200" height="435" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PzhUj7-GLzU/XRkJhV63ZQI/AAAAAAAAtww/9ullPMAhPeUEWxbot7yz5p7bH1io2oHCwCLcBGAs/s640/HF-24%2BMk1R_1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
The above aircraft, BD-884, is the first prototype to fly with reheat engines and underwent trials from 1966-1970.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Excerpts</h3>
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There is more to this story. I'll add more sections later.</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-61111490480687552012018-04-23T14:16:00.001+05:302018-05-13T21:15:25.889+05:30India, China and Shaksgam Valley<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o-wqQ6rbHz8/WuMi3GNV4oI/AAAAAAAAhi0/qNiKarODM4cnMyq-y0Y2a6QiihGDEOBXQCLcBGAs/s1600/02%2BView%2BOf%2BShaksgam%2BValley%2BTowards%2BGasherbrums.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1207" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-o-wqQ6rbHz8/WuMi3GNV4oI/AAAAAAAAhi0/qNiKarODM4cnMyq-y0Y2a6QiihGDEOBXQCLcBGAs/s400/02%2BView%2BOf%2BShaksgam%2BValley%2BTowards%2BGasherbrums.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View Of Shaksgam Valley Towards Gasherbrums From Terrace Above The Shaksgam River On Trek To Gasherbrum North Base Camp In China <br />
Source: http://www.mountainsoftravelphotos.com</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This article was first published in Swarajya (</span><a href="https://swarajyamag.com/defence/is-chinas-road-in-kashmirs-shaksgam-valley-a-threat-to-india-2?utm_content=buffercac5e&utm_medium=social&utm_source=twitter.com&utm_campaign=buffer" target="_blank">link</a>)<span style="font-family: inherit;">on 5th May, 2018</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Of late, boundary related issues
have again cropped-up in Sino-Indian relations. Earlier, we’d had a stand-off
in Doklam, which by all estimates, is hardly from over. And now comes a report published
in ThePrint.com which mentions that Chinese have constructed a 36 km road in
the Shaksgam Valley. The report also suggests that it could pose military
challenge to India, especially its position on the Siachen Glacier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This article presents an analysis
of threat which this development poses to India, overall geo-strategic
importance of Shaksgam Valley and the nature of threat which can emerge from
any Chinese activity in this valley.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"></span><br />
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<b style="font-family: "times new roman";"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Note on maps & video:</span></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">This analysis covers a vast
geography and hence, all the information cannot be presented on a single map.
Further, since elevation aspect –height of various physical features like
mountain passes and peaks – is a crucial factor impacting military aspect,
normal 2D maps don’t bring out this aspect clearly.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To assist the readers to fully
comprehend the subject, I’ve done three things:</span></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;">Prepare multiple maps which help
to put each sub-section of the analysis in context.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Video based on Google Earth tour which presents a bird's eye view of the Shaksgam Valley from east to west. If you open the video on YouTube, you can read a description of the flow of the video.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">An interactive embedded map:</span></li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">All the peaks, features, glaciers and passes
mentioned in the write-up are marked on the map. </span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Information has
been grouped into following categories on the map: (a) Karakoram Peaks (b)
Glaciers (c) Passes (d) Rivers-Valleys-Lakes-Landmarks</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">You can zoom in or click on the icons to identify them.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">However, these
is one thing missing in the embedded map – the current boundary alignment
between India and China (and Pakistan and China) and the claim line as per
India. For that, please refer to the map above.</li>
</ul>
<li>The best way to understand, and appreciate, the geography is to view the map in 3D. To view the map in 3D, do the following: </li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Click the 'Stat' icon given next to the name on map header (Northern Boundaries) in the map embedded below</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Open Google Map and go to 'Your Places'</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">In 'Your Places', click the 'Map' section.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">You'll see a map by the name of Northern Boundaries(same map as below)</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Open the map and use
the 3D feature to get a bird’s eye view of the elevation profile in the area
and appreciate how it’s an important arbiter.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can also
use the ‘Control + left mouse button’ to rotate the map and view it from
different angles.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Search function within the map will help you to quickly locate each feature mentioned in the write-up.</span></li>
</ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I've taken care to mark the location of various features as exact as possible. Some of these features were already marked on Google Earth. Others I've marked by cross-referencing topographical maps, literature on the subject and Google Earth</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">All maps are courtesy Google Earth</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="text-align: left;"><b>Embedded</b></span><b> Map</b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: "arial" , "tahoma" , "helvetica" , "freesans" , sans-serif; font-size: 15.4px;"><iframe height="480" src="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/embed?mid=1hzhITo338Mfy5QUcm1lQQomiV02q3Ffa" width="640"></iframe></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="text-align: left;"><b>Embedded</b></span><b> Video</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Iz4KT1f_3cw" width="560"></iframe></b></div>
</div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Forbidding Geography
& Complicated History</span></b></h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">It is important to understand geography
of the region, along with a bit of history, to place the overall debate in
proper context. The features, peaks, valleys, rivers and lakes mentioned in the
description below will be again referred to later when military aspect of the
topic at hand is discussed.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3a7UHV0vJw/WuYXCxPGgfI/AAAAAAAAhvw/aqjHE-iGGrsdAqa24st1bHWlUXgAiSMAwCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1091" data-original-width="1600" height="272" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-T3a7UHV0vJw/WuYXCxPGgfI/AAAAAAAAhvw/aqjHE-iGGrsdAqa24st1bHWlUXgAiSMAwCLcBGAs/s400/1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Shaksgam River originates in
east, in an area between Shaksgam Glacier and Shaksgam Pass, and flows in
north-westerly direction till it takes an abrupt turn towards north-east and
after flowing for a short-distance, merges with Raskam River. This place is
called Chog Jangal and the combined river is henceforth known as Yarkand River.
Technically, Raskam River is same as Yarkand River; it’s just that Krygyz
nomads and Kanjutis (people of Hunza in Gilgit-Baltistan in present day Pakistan
Occupied Kashmir) referred to a section of Yarkand River as Raskam River and
the valley along it as Raskam Valley. Historically, this valley has had an
important place in the boundary question between British India (Jammu &
Kashmir) and China (Sinkiang) and later, when Pakistan and China settled their
boundary in 1963. This area was historically under the control of Mir of Hunza
(cultivation was done in the valley). The British in their effort to forge a
northern boundary of Kashmir with China got the Mir to give-up his claims;
later when Pakistan agreed to boundary settlement with China, it formally and
completely gave-up this territory.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In pure geographic terms, Shaksgam
River lies on northern side of the Karakorum watershed. What this means is that
rivers on northern side of Karakorum Range, like Shaksgam River and Yarkand
River, flow in north-westerly direction and empty themselves in the vast
expanses of the Tarim Basin. On the other hand, rivers to south of this range,
like Shyok River which is an important tributary of Indus River, flows in
south-westerly direction and meets the Arabian sea. While north facing glaciers
on the range feed rivers flowing into Tarim basis, the south facing glaciers
feed tributaries of Indus River. For example, Siachen Glacier is the source of
Nubra River and South Rimo Glacier is source of Shyok River. Shaksgam River on
the other hand is fed by multiple glaciers which lie to south of its with
Shaksgam Glacier, Kyagar Glacier, Singhi Glacier, Staghar Glacier and Urdok
Glacier being the main feeders.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The watershed principle is one of
the criteria used to settle boundaries. McMahon Line in the east, which forms
the boundary between India and Tibet, is based on this watershed principle.
With one major exception, the boundary alignment agreed between Pakistan and
China from a point west of Kilik Dawan Pass (on China-Afghanistan-Pakistan
tri-junction) to Karakoram Pass in the east, adheres to watershed principle.
Consequently, the boundary agreed literally moves from one Karakorum Peak to
another in south-easterly direction. For example, it runs right through the
crest of Mount K2 or Mount Godwin-Austen (second highest peak in the world)
placing the northern face of the mountain in China while southern face is in
Pakistan. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-73L8kEUiPdQ/WuYXP1VQMgI/AAAAAAAAhv0/YZYM9XZxeqQ-2AkpJ36mEpUuR4u4SRZPACLcBGAs/s1600/1.1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="996" data-original-width="1600" height="248" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-73L8kEUiPdQ/WuYXP1VQMgI/AAAAAAAAhv0/YZYM9XZxeqQ-2AkpJ36mEpUuR4u4SRZPACLcBGAs/s400/1.1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The one exception is the area
north of Shimshal Pass along the Braldu River, till its confluence with
Shaksgam River. People from Shimshal (to west of Shimshal pass) used the
grazing areas along the river (mentioned as Braldu grazing grounds on the map) during
summer and if the area went to China (as it should as per watershed principle
as Braldu river flowed north and boundary should’ve passed through Shimshal
Pass), the local people would lose valuable grazing area for their cattle and face
hardships. Pakistan requested the Chinese to adjust the alignment and they
agreed. Pakistan consequently gained about 750 sq.km of areas in this sector.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The reason India accuses Pakistan
of gifting Shaksgam Valley to China is because alignment agreed basis the
watershed principle between Pakistan and China puts the Shaksgam River within
China. If we compare what India considers as the northern boundary between
J&K and Xinjiang and that agreed between Pakistan and China, we find that
during initial stretches starting from Afghanistan-Pakistan-China tri-junction (west
of Kilik Dawan Pass) to Kunjerab Pass and another 60 odd kilometres to east, both
are same. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The deviation in two claim lines
starts from the confluence of Oprang River with Shaksgam River. From this point
onwards, while the Sino-Pakistan boundary takes a sharp dip in southern
direction and then follows the Karakoram watershed, the Indian claim line
continues along the Aghil Mountain ranges. While Karakorum mountain range forms
the southern face of Shaksgam Valley, Aghil Mountains form the northern face.
By agreeing to an alignment along the Karakorum mountain range, the Shaksgam
Valley and southern face of Aghil Range have been ceded to China by Pakistan.
The two alignments again meet in the east at the point south of Shaksgam
Glacier (mentioned as Peak 93 on the map; this is not an official name but
given by the author) and from here till Karakorum pass, the two alignments are
again the same.</span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">India, China and
Shaksgam Valley</span></b></h3>
</div>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Only a part of border alignment
as per Sino-Pakistan agreement of 1963 along the Karakorum watershed is between
Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir and China; balance part is between India (Ladakh) and
China. In case of India and China, the boundary alignment runs from Sia Kangri
Peak (at head of Siachen Glacier – currently the northernmost point under
control of India) towards east till Karakorum Pass. The alignment passes
through the crest of all major peaks on the watershed which literally form a
wall between north and south. The Shaksgam River and its eponymous valley lie
to north of this great wall and any north-south movement is possible only
through few high passes in this wall of mountains. The difference in elevation
of the valley and this mountain wall is stark – while the Shaksgam Valley floor
itself is at an elevation of 4,500 meters (14,764 feet), the boundary runs
along a ridge line which is in excess of 6,500 meters (21,325 feet)!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The map below gives a glimpse of
this border. The three passes at the top (marked as P) from left to right are
Indira Col (West), Indira Col (E) and Turkestan La. Glaciers from left to right
area Shaksgam, Kyagar, Singhi, Staghar and Urdok. You can see Kyagar Tso Lake
mentioned at the bottom of Kyagar Glacier. You can also make out Kyagar and
Singhi Glacier blocking the Shaksgam River channel.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Shaksgam Valley &
Military implication</span></b></h3>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, given the geography, how can
China pose security challenge to Indian interests in the region? To understand
this, we assess the following two questions:</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Can China threaten Siachen
Glacier or other areas in this region via Shaksgam Valley?</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Is China trying to create a
lateral link between east and west via Shaksgam Valley? </span></li>
</ul>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">(A) Threat to Siachen
Glacier</span></b></h4>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">From Chinese point-of-view, if
they can come down from north into Siachen Glacier (in required strength) and then proceed south
towards Shyok Valley, they will achieve a military masterstroke. They will land
right in the middle of rear of Indian defences to east. Technically, the
Chinese can then move east along the Shyok River and attack Indian positions in
Daulat-Beg-Oldie (DBO)-Karakoram Pass complex from east. Indian positions would
be caught in a pincer from front (Chinese assault from Aksai Chin towards DBO)
and from rear. Simultaneously, they can go west along the Shyok River and meet the Pakistanis at Turtok. Defence of Leh would’ve to be mounted on Ladakh Range.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But alas! If all this was as
simple has writing the above scenario.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Nevertheless, we look at possible
Chinese threat to Siachen glacier, how feasible they are and role of Shaksgam
Valley in helping the Chinese to achieve their objectives.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The threat to Siachen glacier can
manifest in two ways. One, China uses long range artillery to target Indian
positions on the glacier. Second, it actually makes an attempt to occupy the
glacier.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">(A.1) Fire Assault on
Glacier<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Depending on the kind artillery
it uses and what areas on the Siachen Glacier it wants to target, People’s
Liberation Army-Ground Forces (PLAGF) will have to reach within 30 – 100 km
from the glacier. The closer it comes and longer the range of artillery it
uses, the farther it can target Indian positions on Saltoro Ridge and areas to
south of glacier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">PLAGF has long range
multiple-rocket launch systems (MRLS) (range 100+ km and 200+ km range) which
can target Indian positions from locations within the Shaksgam Valley. However,
given the fact that any projectile fired towards Indian positions from Shaksgam
Valley will have to clear very high ridge-lines of Karakorum Range, the firing
will have to be done at very high angles. This perforce means reduced range and
hence, firing units will have to be placed much closer to the glacier. This is
despite the fact that artillery rounds in the rarefied air of high altitude tends
to have a longer-than-expected range due to reduced air resistance. Given the
range aspect, tube artillery will be of limited use if it is placed north of
Urdok Glacier because from this location it can target positions only in
northern end of the glacier. On the other hand, if tube artillery is placed in
east segment of the Shaksgam Valley, it can target north and central Glacier.
As will be explained later, building any infrastructure in the eastern part of
the valley is a much more difficult proposition.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So, how do you reach a suitable
place in the Shaksgam Valley to target Siachen Glacier?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A recent report in
<ThePrint.com> claimed that Chinese have built a 36 km road further into
the Shaksgam Valley from their position at the junction of Oprang River and
Shaksgam River, which is the border point between Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir
(POK) and China (as per 1963 Sino-Pakistan border treaty). If China continues
to further develop this road, they could technically reach the base of Urdok
Glacier, which lies on other side of Siachen Glacier, across the Siachen Muztag
section of Karakorum Range.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, if the intention is to
hit Indian positions on Siachen (including areas as far south as start of
glacier or even further south in Shyok Valley) with long range rockets, China
has multiple options which do not require it to build a road in Shaksgam
Valley.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For example, the entire glacier
from north to south, including areas right up to Diskit (confluence of Nubra
and Shyok River) are within the range of long range MRLS from areas which are
under Chinese control. This includes area to north of Karakoram pass which is
undisputed Chinese territory and which does not require the Chinese to develop
any specific infrastructure. Or, it can launch rockets from Aksai Chin area,
which is Indian territory under Chinese control.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To give an idea about the
distance involved, the map below shows a 40 and a 100 km radius circle centered
on northern edge of Siachen Glacier. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuCECsCiUF0/WuYXx3UNHUI/AAAAAAAAhwE/pizc1D-8ukAuVQAlZDOAXHN9MOrf0SBgQCLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="871" data-original-width="1600" height="217" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuCECsCiUF0/WuYXx3UNHUI/AAAAAAAAhwE/pizc1D-8ukAuVQAlZDOAXHN9MOrf0SBgQCLcBGAs/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">(A.2) Physical Assault on
Siachen Glacier</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Let’s now come to second aspect
of Chinese threat to Siachen i.e. threaten physical occupation of the glacier.
To do this, the Chinese will have to find some way to physically assault Indian
positions on the glacier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There is only one route by which
the Chinese can hope to reach the glacier. This is to come-up the Urdok Glacier
which lies on other side of the Siachen Glacier, the two divided from each
other by vertical wall of Siachen Muztag Mountains (sub-range of Karakorum
Range).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The map below shows the main
features on this ridge separating the northern end of Siachen Glacier from
Urdok Glacier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9Ngb8NCWpw/WuMVqPG_u7I/AAAAAAAAhhg/CFeO-vuE044DPAZy_rAPoU9_FWAmblNzQCLcBGAs/s1600/indiracol.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="677" data-original-width="920" height="293" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a9Ngb8NCWpw/WuMVqPG_u7I/AAAAAAAAhhg/CFeO-vuE044DPAZy_rAPoU9_FWAmblNzQCLcBGAs/s400/indiracol.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Source: http://www.indmount.org/theindiraridge.html</i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The satellite images below give
an idea of the geography corresponding to the above map in the area and the
important features on the ridge dividing the Siachen Glacier from Urdok
Glacier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Numbered features on all the maps below are (17) Tiger Saddle (Indian Army position) (3) Conway Saddle (Pakistan
Army position) (9) Indira Col (West) (8) Indira Col (East) (10) Turkestan La
(Younghusband) (11) Turkestan La (East). Unnamed peak immediately north of
Mount Hardinge is Sia Kangri. The wide valley towards north is Shaksgam River valley.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hH0gu-Q5ILM/WuYYBNHJo5I/AAAAAAAAhww/CmCajfDPO806nMhNPrcKeaPeR3S7URdEQCEwYBhgL/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hH0gu-Q5ILM/WuYYBNHJo5I/AAAAAAAAhww/CmCajfDPO806nMhNPrcKeaPeR3S7URdEQCEwYBhgL/s400/4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
A more closer satellite image of the Indira Ridge area</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WjFiPSyz7UY/WuYYFgDmtBI/AAAAAAAAhw0/pzU5J0hBWoQFYBKUgCaJTYSwlQnxv1JhACEwYBhgL/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="681" data-original-width="1600" height="170" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WjFiPSyz7UY/WuYYFgDmtBI/AAAAAAAAhw0/pzU5J0hBWoQFYBKUgCaJTYSwlQnxv1JhACEwYBhgL/s400/5.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To get an idea about what kind of
geography a person coming up from Shaksgam River towards Urdok Glacier and then Indira Ridge would face,
we look at the geography from the other or Chinese side.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pCLAvehOOk/WuYYHD9iW2I/AAAAAAAAhw4/4L5AzTpnubgLmMcO6xlIbSjDTBFXPt_GQCEwYBhgL/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="983" data-original-width="1482" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5pCLAvehOOk/WuYYHD9iW2I/AAAAAAAAhw4/4L5AzTpnubgLmMcO6xlIbSjDTBFXPt_GQCEwYBhgL/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">View of Indira Ridge from upper
reaches of Urdok Glacier. Features 1 to 4 are Indira Col (West), Indira Saddle,
Indira Col (East) and Turkestan La (Younghusband). Turkestan La (East) is not
visible and accessible from this direction.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QPJSHUDdxUk/WuYYHnP8dlI/AAAAAAAAhw8/0L3OTlGEHy4LW3b-q0dSic1QQzgrEprHQCEwYBhgL/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="828" data-original-width="1600" height="206" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QPJSHUDdxUk/WuYYHnP8dlI/AAAAAAAAhw8/0L3OTlGEHy4LW3b-q0dSic1QQzgrEprHQCEwYBhgL/s400/7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">View from east to west when
looking from Staghar Glacier towards Turkestan La (East).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwnIbPzMPPk/WuYYJ7l5b4I/AAAAAAAAhxA/3DefnFBgen8SzVskQeY5OG5h9dxeGS4pACEwYBhgL/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="812" data-original-width="1600" height="202" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwnIbPzMPPk/WuYYJ7l5b4I/AAAAAAAAhxA/3DefnFBgen8SzVskQeY5OG5h9dxeGS4pACEwYBhgL/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The geography in this area, when
looking from Siachen towards Urdok Glacier, is best described in the words of distinguished
Himalayan Mountaineer, Harish Kapadia, who led an expedition to head of Siachen
Glacier in 1998. I quote:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The main Indira Col (west) is
located at the foot of the eastern ridge descending from Sia Kangri. It is
here, exactly, the heads of the Siachen and Urdok glaciers meet. This col was
recorded to have been reached by Col. N. Kumar’s team in 1981 and again by the
Americans in 1986. The northern sections from this Col are overhanging and it
is not possible to descend in the north from here or from India Saddle.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On the same ridge a point of 6000
m is erroneously marked on the present map as Indira Col. It is a steep saddle
and by no imagination can be called a col (Col is the lowest point on a ridge).
It is not known how and when this point came to be associated as Indira col and
who reached it first. But at present all the teams from the army and others
reach this Saddle. We propose to call this point as India Saddle. It is the
northernmost point of India at present (being few "seconds" further
north of the true Indira Col (West).</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">On the ridge further east lies
the Indira Col (East) which was reached by Bullock-Workman expedition in 1912.
This col is located on the head of a minor valley rising from the Siachen
glacier. It is possible to descend to the north from this col into a side
valley of the Urdok glacier.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The easternmost pass on this
ridge is Turkestan La (North). It is an easy pass on both the sides and this
was reached in 1889 by Col. Younghusband.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The ridge turns south from here.
Little to the south Turkestan La (East) is located.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">On reaching the Indira Col, he
states thus:</span><br />
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I decided to reach this Col with
Sherpa Pemba Tsering. After a walk of about 2 hours we were at the pass. At the
pass we made a safe anchor and walked on the northern cornices to safely look
down the Urdok glacier.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This beautiful flat glacier led
northwards to join the Shaksgam River which was visible. Several peaks were
visible but unfortunately Gasherbrum I was in clouds. On the north was Chinese
Turkestan where trekkers in recent years had roamed freely.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apart from the political divide
we were standing on a major geographic divide too. The waters from this col
drained in the south to the Siachen glacier, Nubra, Shyok and Indus rivers to
merge with the warm waters of Arabian Sea. Waters to the north drained into the
Urdok glacier, Shaksgam River, Yarkand River, Tarim and Qyurug rivers to merge
with the Lop Nor Lake.</span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mmiuvAVbMPk/WuMXX-ODNfI/AAAAAAAAhiY/KxSJK5Baw2w3zglSoxcYS_ZN4hB3csYFACLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1270" height="243" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mmiuvAVbMPk/WuMXX-ODNfI/AAAAAAAAhiY/KxSJK5Baw2w3zglSoxcYS_ZN4hB3csYFACLcBGAs/s400/Picture1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harish Kapadia standing on India Col. You can make out the Urdok Glacier in the back beyond the ice</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><i>Source: http://www.harishkapadia.com/siachen-peace-park/</i></i></div>
<i>
</i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Therefore, if Siachen has to be
threatened, the best access is through Turkestan La.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">So, does it make sense for the
Chinese to make a road in Shaksgam Valley (starting from their border with
Pakistan-Occupied-Kashmir in east) till base of Urdok Glacier to bring troops
and support equipment for this task?</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Well, it so happens that the Chinese
have a much shorter option available to them, in case they would like to embark
on such an adventure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The alternate option runs through
the Aghil Pass. As the crow flies, Aghil Pass lies ~60 km north of Turkestan
La. This pass connects the Shaksgam Valley with Raskam Village (also called
Yilike) and upper reaches of Raskam Valley. Between Aghil Pass and Raskam
Village/Yilike lies the Surukwat Valley. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A metalled road connects Raskam
Village/Yilike with Mazha, which is a node on the Chinese C219 highway (which
connects Xinjiang with Tibet and runs through Aksai-Chin). Mountaineers and
hikers who intend to explore the Shaksgam Valley or summit the K2 peak from
northern/Chinese side or other peaks in the area, take this route to reach the
Shaksgam Valley. They travel by 4x4 vehicles till Raskam/Yilike Village and
from thereon, engage camels and porters for hike till their respective
base-camps. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If fact, Raskam/Yilike is a nodal
point for other Chinese border outposts in the region. An access road from it
goes west along the Raskam Valley till its confluence with Shaksgam River. From
here, the road travels south to the Chinese border outpost (on POK and Chinese
border) through which a 36 km road has been extended into Shaksgam Valley
proper.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lfIcjQ7QupY/WuYYLreMSKI/AAAAAAAAhxE/N2F1_ACfIb0moi5-c9Lwfd9buY-usw5-wCEwYBhgL/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="954" data-original-width="1600" height="237" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lfIcjQ7QupY/WuYYLreMSKI/AAAAAAAAhxE/N2F1_ACfIb0moi5-c9Lwfd9buY-usw5-wCEwYBhgL/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The last point till which the
road has been extended (as visible on Google Earth) is more than 100 km as the
crow flies from northern head of Siachen glacier. In comparison, Aghil Pass is
less than 50% of the distance. It also has additional advantage of being closer
to the main highway which, when push comes to shove, will eventually be the
main feeder of troops and supplies. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">(B) Lateral Link<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Shaksgam Valley starts off as
a narrow valley which gradually opens-up and increases in width as the river
flows from east to west. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As explained earlier, starting
from its origin in general area between Shaksgam Glacier and Shaksgam Pass, the
river is fed by five major glacier (from east to west) i.e. Shaksgam Glacier,
Kyagar Glacier, Singhi Glacier, Staghar Glacier and Urdok Glacier. Of these,
the Kyagar Glacier and Singhi Glacier extend right into the river bed and block
it at many places. This makes the river run through a narrow channel and
consequently, lakes tend to develop behind these blockades. During summer
season, the river witnesses flooding as the glaciers recede and the stored
water flows out. Kyagar Tso is one such permanent lake which exists before the
junction of Kyagar Glacier with Shaksgam River. The length of the lake varies
depending on the season.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The satellite image below shows the eastern part of Shaksgam River and Valley. In the satellite image, you can identify the Kyagar Tso lake at the base of Kyagar Glacier. Further east, you can make out Singhi Glacier also blocking the Shaksgam Valley.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Therefore, while it is <i>relatively</i> easy to make a road starting
from west and moving east till base of Urdok glacier, doing further east will
be a very difficult proposition. And while Chinese have shown exceptional
engineering in capability in surmounting physical barriers while developing
infrastructure, what remains to be seen is whether cost-benefit exercise
supports such development activity. Because we must remember that between
Shaksgam Pass and Urdok Glacier, there runs a 6,500 meter high Karakorum wall
which simply doesn’t allow any north-south movement to threaten Indian
positions further south. To gain entry into Siachen Glacier, Chinese will have
to come up the Urdok Glacier. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Interestingly, the news report in
<ThePrint> had quoted this conversation with General Bipin Rawat on the
question of road construction in Shaksgam Valley (before they broke the story
about the road activity):<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Army, in fact, believed that it was impossible to build a road
through the valley due to the tough terrain in the region. “Through the
Shaksgam Valley, it is practically near impossible to make a road or a
highway,” Gen. Rawat said in response to a direct question by ThePrint.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">“They may make a mule track or jeep-able track but through the valley, you
cannot make a highway. So there is no threat,” he said.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">While the COAS is better placed
to answer in what context he gave the above reply, it is quite possible that he
was referring to the eastern extremity of the Shaksgam Valley from Shaksgam
Pass to east of Urdok Glacier. As explained above, not only is it difficult to
build a road in that area, satellite images don’t show any construction
activity. So far.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, why the road?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There can be multiple reasons as
to why the Chinese have decided to construct this road. And whether it will be
extended further.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Infrastructure for better
patrolling and movement of troops, if required:</span></li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Chinese are
actually trying to create a circular road network connecting Raskam/Yilike
Village-Chog Jangal – Chinese border outpost on POK-China border (confluence of
Oprang-Shaksgam River) – Suget Jangal – Kulim Jilga – Aghil Pass – Surukwat
Valley and Raskam/Yilike Village.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Even if the
above is not meant to threaten Indian positions, it can be used in future as
per requirement.</span></li>
</ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Provocation – Opening another
‘boundary dispute’ to build pressure on India:</span></li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">A central
piece of Chinese strategy with India, when it comes to border discussion, is to
maximize its position. And negotiate from this position.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take Chinese
claims on Arunachal Pradesh for example. This is a land over which the Chinese,
directly or indirectly through Tibet, have never had any physical possession.
Yet, it calls it a disputed territory. One border settlement option propounded
by many strategists (and which I think was the case in early 1950s as well), is
for China to accept McMahon Line in east while India gives up claim over Aksai
Chin in the west.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">So, China
first makes a claim, irrespective of the fact how illogical it is, and then in
negotiations, gives up this illogical ‘claim’, while getting something more
tangible in return.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Shaksgam
Valley has been under Chinese control since 1963. And while India has raised
objection to the treaty and ceding of Shaksgam Valley to China by Pakistan, it
has never made any effort to physically occupy the valley.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">By building a
road, Chinese could be creating another bargain point. In lieu of stopping the
construction of this road, it could ask India to adjust its concern somewhere
else. Like Doklam.</span></li>
</ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Connect G219 with Karakoram
Highway</span></li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Chinese
could look to connect G219 (which connects Xinjiang with Tibet) in east with
Karakorum Highway in west.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">To achieve
this, the road will have to come from POK-China border at confluence of Oprang
River-Shaksgam River, up the Valley of Bradlu River, through Shimshal Pass,
Shimshal Village, through the steep and narrow gorge of Shimshal River and join
Karakoram Highway at Passu in POK.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But to achieve
this objective would require massive engineering effort and time, simply because
of the forbidding and treacherous terrain involved. Especially, multiple, very
steep and narrow river gorges which will require a road to be creating by
blasting a passage in side walls of the gorges.</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Conclusion</span></b></h3>
<div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Chinese road at this point does not pose any threat to
Indian positions on Siachen or anywhere else on the Line of Actual Control
(LAC). Will it pose a military threat in future? That depends on the Chinese
objectives. Technically, they can mount a physical assault on Siachen Glacier
from north but it will require substantial investment in infrastructure and
manpower. And will take quite some time to build-up any credible capability.
India would have sufficient time to respond to any such development.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The lateral link from Shaksgam Pass in east to POK-China
border in Shaksgam Valley east also looks tenuous. At present. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As Harish Kapadia says in his book, ‘Siachen Glacier: The
Battle of Roses’ and I quote: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The situation in Shaksgam Valley today is similar to that on the
Siachen in 1970s. China has allowed several mountaineering expeditions to climb
in this valley. Many teams have attempted the north face of K2 from here and
groups have trekked freely in the valley without liaison officer. The recent
years the explorer Kurt Diemberger has spent much time in the area and crossed
the Kyagar Tso Lake in an inflatable boat, raising the possibility of such a
crossing by an army, should it be required. A French team led by Bernard Odier
reached almost all the way to the foot of Indira Col. With a little more time
and effort they could have traversed Turkestan La and looked onto the Siachen
Glacier. <snip><o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The fact that this could happen should make authorities give the
Shaksgam Valley the importance it deserves.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In short, we should remain vigilant.
But at the same time, analyse developments for what they are and not indulge in
sensationalism. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-89569271871123047132018-02-22T21:26:00.000+05:302018-02-25T19:43:22.268+05:30Pakistan Army and Anti-Tank Guided Missiles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8_SlCQUCPs4/Wo_T6NKZaZI/AAAAAAAAdbU/FNvzXQbPXUEsO354E-vjhrKdZdJLS6cIACLcBGAs/s1600/Picture2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="673" data-original-width="1277" height="336" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8_SlCQUCPs4/Wo_T6NKZaZI/AAAAAAAAdbU/FNvzXQbPXUEsO354E-vjhrKdZdJLS6cIACLcBGAs/s640/Picture2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><i>Source: Internet</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Doctrine of Offensive-Defense</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Pakistan Army (PA) strategy against India calls for 'offensive-defense', also known as the Strategy of Riposte. This strategy calls for the armor heavy Strike Corps of Pakistan Army to seize initiative and attack across a narrow front. This is aimed at both </span>unhinging Indian offensive plans in other sectors as well as<span style="font-family: inherit;"> seizing territory for later bargaining at the negotiating table. The holding Corps of the Pakistan Army are expected to absorb and delay the Indian offensive. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">And while the armor divisions are concentrated in the Strike Corps, holding corps have also evolved Corps Reserves centered around independent armor brigades and mechanized brigades for countering Indian offensive as well as for counter-penetration.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">While it can be correctly argued that Pakistan Army has broadly followed 'offensive-defense' strategy as witnessed in 1965 war, General Mirza Aslam is credited with </span>crystallizing<span style="font-family: inherit;"> this strategy. The strategy was demonstrated during 1989 army exercise 'Zarb-e-Momin', which was the biggest exercise of the Pakistan Army at the time. And followed the massive Indian Army exercise of late 196-early 1987 'Brasstacks'.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Pakistan Army is faced with a dilemma - creating strong armor/mechanized strike elements against a much larger adversary while also maintaining enough resources for absorbing/countering Indian offensive. And this needs to be done with less than 1/10th resources of its main adversary. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">This dilemma becomes still more acute when a comparison is done between mechanized resources of the two armies. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As against Pakistan Army's 2 x Strike Corps, Indian Army has 3 x Strike Corps. Further, while Holding/Pivot Corps in both armies have independent armored brigades, not only are Indian armored formations bigger in terms of armored regiments and no of tanks, IA also has a unique formation known as RAPID - Re-organized Army Plains Infantry Division.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Each RAPID has an armored brigade apart from 2/3 infantry brigades. The armored brigade has 2 x armored regiments + 2 x mechanized regiments. This structure greatly increases the fire-power of a division in question. There is an offensive and defensive RAPID. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Take IA's 10 Corps for example - It has 1 x independent armored brigade (3 x armored regiments + 1 x mechanized infantry regiment) and 2 x RAPIDs ( 4 x armored regiments + 4 x mechanized infantry regiments). In all, this single 'Pivot' Corps has almost the same number of armored regiments as a Strike Corps of Pakistan Army!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Though, over past decade, PA has raised new armor regiments and armor brigades and mechanized more infantry battalions, armor and mechanized elements in IA have also seen expansion.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">To offset IA's superiority in the armor/mechanized assets, t</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">he Pakistan Army undertakes the following measures:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Smaller size of formations:</b> The size of armor formations (brigades/division) in PA is relatively smaller as compared to India. For example, armor division of Pakistan and India consist of 5 and 6 armored regiments, respectively. Indian independent armored brigades have 3+1 structure - 3 x armored regiments + 1 x mechanized infantry battalion. Pakistan Army has 2+1 structure. There is also likely slight variation (2-3 tanks) in number of tanks held per armored regiment with IA having a higher number.</li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Anti-Tank battalion: </b>Pakistan Army has dedicated anti-tank battalions which are classified as Light Anti-Tank (LAT) battalion and Heavy Anti-Tank (HAT) battalions. These AT battalions are in addition to the anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM) held at an individual infantry battalion level.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h3>
<b>(A) Anti Tank Battalions</b></h3>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Anti-tank battalions are a relatively cheap and cost-effective option to counter a superior mechanized force. It relieves the armor from undertaking defensive tasks and allows the higher formation to preserve it's own armor for offensive and counter-penetration tasks. And wherever required, it helps to strengthen the existing anti-tank capabilities. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h4>
<b>(A.1) Light Anti-Tank Battalions (LAT)</b></h4>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
During the 1965 war, some infantry battalions, at the scale of one battalion per division, were converted into Reconnaissance & Support Battalions (R&S). These battalions had about 60% manpower as compared to standard infantry battalion but were equipped with much higher firepower. Apart from their standard role of reconnaissance, these units were also used to hold the ground through fire-power and act as screening forces.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Sometime in early 90s, the R&S battalions with Infantry divisions were converted into anti-tank battalions. Pakistan Army today has dedicated LAT battalions. LAT battalions are held at Division HQ level and are most likely allocated to infantry brigades under the division at the scale of 1 x LAT Company/Brigade.</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
The LAT battalions are equipped with Bakhtar-Shikan anti-tank guided missiles; these missiles are mounted on a 4 x 4 vehicle. However, during 2017 Pakistan Day Parade, an APC mounted contingent of Baktar-Shikan missiles from 27 Baloch Regiment was mentioned as LAT battalion. It is likely that some LAT battalions, especially which are part of partially Mechanized Divisions of PA are mounted on M-113 APCs or locally produced Pakistani versions of the same.<br />
<br />
Example of some of the LAT battalions are as under:<br />
<ul>
<li>21 Punjab (LAT) battalion</li>
<li>23 Punjab (LAT) battalion</li>
<li>26 Punjab (LAT) battalion</li>
<li>19 Baloch (LAT) battalion - this is also the parent battalion of Special Service Group (SSG)</li>
</ul>
<div>
<h4>
<b>(A.2) Heavy</b><b> Anti-Tank Battalions (HAT)</b></h4>
</div>
<div>
Pakistan Army also has the concept of Heavy Anti-tank (HAT) Battalions which are are held at Corps HQ level. This includes the two Strike Corps - Army Reserve North (ARN, I Corps, Mangla) and Army Reserve South (ARS, II Corps, Multan). Apart from HAT battalions, there exist Independent HAT Companies as well.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
While I don't have the details of exact number of such battalions (I do have names of some battalions), it highly likely that most Corps facing eastern border have a HAT battalion. And some divisions ( mechanized ones in Strike Corps or those in sensitive sectors where large Indian armored offensive is expected) also have HAT Companies.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The HAT battalions and companies are equipped with TOW ATGM missiles and the same are mounted on M-113 APCs or Pakistan's versions/derivatives of this venerable armored personnel carrier. Considering the relatively limited number of TOW missiles imported by Pakistan, some HAT battalions are also equipped with Baktar-Shikan missiles.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Example of some of the HAT battalions are as under:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>39 Azad Kashmir (Heavy Anti Tank) battalion or 39 AK (HAT) battalion</li>
<li>40 AK (HAT) battalion</li>
<li>226 AK (HAT) Company</li>
<li>227 AK (HAT) Company</li>
</ul>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kVnbq-VgGT8/WohrxX74raI/AAAAAAAAc5c/guJGYvjD3VsqC04TyvdA3zxiOFAJWBtuQCLcBGAs/s1600/Defence-PK_1%2BCorps_39%2BHAT%2BAK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1201" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kVnbq-VgGT8/WohrxX74raI/AAAAAAAAc5c/guJGYvjD3VsqC04TyvdA3zxiOFAJWBtuQCLcBGAs/s400/Defence-PK_1%2BCorps_39%2BHAT%2BAK.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">M-113 APCs of 39 AK (HAT) battalion. The formation sign on the APCs is that of 1 Corps or Army Reserve North (ARN). The number 87 next to the 'Up Arrow' sign means this vehicle entered PA in 1987!(source: defense.pk)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l8gKO-aePuw/WohxKzEsdFI/AAAAAAAAc5w/7ENDHu37Wqo4UTSlCmUJ7hhQWmy70YVagCLcBGAs/s1600/228%2BAK%2B%2528HAT%2529%2BCoy_2015%2BParade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="370" data-original-width="556" height="212" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-l8gKO-aePuw/WohxKzEsdFI/AAAAAAAAc5w/7ENDHu37Wqo4UTSlCmUJ7hhQWmy70YVagCLcBGAs/s320/228%2BAK%2B%2528HAT%2529%2BCoy_2015%2BParade.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Contingent of 228 AK (HAT) Independent Company with M-113 APC and TOW-2 ATGMs from 2015 Pakistan Day Parade. Formation sign on the APCs looks like that of Jhelum based 23 Division under Rawalpindi based X Corps. (source: internet)</td></tr>
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<div>
<h4>
<b>(A.2.1) M-901 Improved Tow Vehicle</b></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">In the early 80s, Pakistan Army also imported 24 M-901 Improved Tow Vehicles from USA. These are dedicated TOW missile platforms based on M-113 APCs. Each vehicle has 2 x 'ready to fire' missiles along with 10 reloads. The reloading is done under the armor.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br />All them are concentrated under Multan based 2 Corps or Army Reserve South (ARS). ARS is Pakistan Army's premier armor and mechanized heavy strike formation. Given the number of units, these are most likely held by a single HAT battalion.</span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKynnKS26Gs/WpGX6BivwKI/AAAAAAAAdh8/LU_HA_UHSvEf-GU0YUERQYkoGY7Q5q8EwCLcBGAs/s1600/M901_PA_2%2BCorps.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JKynnKS26Gs/WpGX6BivwKI/AAAAAAAAdh8/LU_HA_UHSvEf-GU0YUERQYkoGY7Q5q8EwCLcBGAs/s400/M901_PA_2%2BCorps.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pakistan Army officer standing in front of M-901 ITV. The formation sign on the vehicle is that of Multan based 2 Corps or Army Reserve South. (<i>Source: defence.pk)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
<b>(A.3) Organization Structure</b></h4>
</div>
<div>
While I do not have the details of the organizational structure of such anti-tank battalions (LAT or HAT), one can draw a fairly good approximation considering two main points as mentioned below: </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
(a) Most formations below a brigade have company, platoon and section structure. And number of companies, platoons and sections varies as per the role & nature of the unit.</div>
<div>
<br />
(b) A missile launcher along with ready-to-fire missiles and first set of reloads will constitute a basic fire unit. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Keeping the above two points in mind, the following deductive reasoning can be applied:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>In case of LAT battalion, it is a division level asset. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Each infantry division in PA generally has 3 x infantry brigades (some divisions are larger)</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Therefore, an assumption can be made that each LAT battalion will most likely provide 1 x LAT Company per brigade with 1 x HQ Company.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Therefore, a LAT battalion most likely has five (05) companies - 1 x HQ Company, 3 x LAT Companies and 1 x Support Company (for technical support to LAT companies). If each LAT Company has organic technical support elements, than the technical support company can be ruled out. Then each LAT battalion has four (04) companies</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Each LAT company further likely has between 2 or 3 missile platoons</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Missile platoons will be further broken down in missile sections. Each platoon likely has 2 or 3 missile sections. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Each missile section is equipped with 1 x missile launcher and with 1 ready-to-fire missiles and 3 reloads + 4 x reserves for total of 08 missiles per section/launcher.</li>
</ul>
The above argument about number of launchers and missiles can be summarized as such:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>CASE 1</li>
<ul>
<li>3 x Missile Companies with 3 x Missile Platoons/Company and 3 x Missile Sections/Platoon</li>
<ul>
<li>3 x 3 x 3 - 27 launchers</li>
<li>@ 8 missiles/launcher - 216 missiles</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<li>CASE 2</li>
<ul>
<li>3 x Missile Companies with 3 x Missile Platoons/Company and 2 x Missile Sections/Platoon</li>
<ul></ul>
<li>3 x 3 x 2 - 18 launchers</li>
<li>@ 8 missiles/launcher - 144 missiles</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div>
A similar structure likely exists in case of HAT battalions. The only difference being, the companies will be allotted to divisions under the Corps. </div>
</div>
<h3>
<b>(B) Anti Tank Missiles</b></h3>
Pakistan Army employs three main types of ATGMs. These are as under:<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>(1) Baktar-Shikan: </b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>This is the licensed produced copy of Chinese HJ-8/Red Arrow-8 ATGM. Employed by infantry and anti-tank battalions.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A version of the missile has also been adapted for use by AH-1 'Cobra' helicopter gunships.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The
Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) Arms Transfer database
shows that a total of 23,350 HJ-8 missiles were contracted in 1989. And these
were license manufactured between 1990 and 2016</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>However, other credible sources
say that PA tested first home produced Baktar-Shikan in 1997. It is quite
likely that production began in 1997.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>A 19 year period (1997-2016) to
produce these number of missiles means a per annum production rate of ~1,229
missiles. This is unlikely to be the case. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Two things could’ve happened. One,
an initial batch was procured off-the-shelf from China and Pakistan devoted its
interest to produce the missile locally; and that initial production was at low
rate. Secondly, local production and subsequent induction picked steam after
2001 when the US funds started flowing. This is because till September 2001
event happened, Pakistan defense overall was in a bad shape due to lack of
funds.</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<h4>
<b>(2) BGM-71 Tow-2: </b></h4>
<ul>
<li>Used by Heavy Anti-Tank Battalions/Companies and AH-1 'Cobra' helicopter gunships</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The SIPRI database documents three instances of TOW missiles being ordered by Pakistan; these were in 1981, 2004 and 2007.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Considering the missiles ordered from USA in 2004 and 2007, the number of TOW-2 missiles ordered (and supposedly held) by the PA is 5,205. I've not considered the 1,005 missiles ordered in 1981 and received between 1983-96 because these are beyond their shelf life; these were most probably exhausted in training.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>TOW-2A missiles are a precious resource and this explains why HAT battalions are held at Corps HQ level or in Independent HAT Companies allotted to few important Divisions.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The use of Baktar-Shikan on AH-1 'Cobra' gunships most likely stems from the lack of enough quantity of TOW missiles and their price. The topsy-turvy nature of US-Pakistan relationship would be another factor; post 1998 nuclear test, Pakistan did not have access to most US systems including TOW-2 missiles. Baktar-Shikan was a good alternative.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
<b>(B.1) Baktar-Shikan</b></h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7-U2oaaD2Y/Wo7DvEXi2NI/AAAAAAAAdQM/AKN6arwT_lw6cBGE0n_zL7yW8dfLgv2MACEwYBhgL/s1600/Baktar_Shikan_ATGM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="656" data-original-width="623" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y7-U2oaaD2Y/Wo7DvEXi2NI/AAAAAAAAdQM/AKN6arwT_lw6cBGE0n_zL7yW8dfLgv2MACEwYBhgL/s320/Baktar_Shikan_ATGM.jpg" width="302" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baktar-Shikan missile with complete firing post. Notice the BGM-71 TOW inspired tripod</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>Baktar-Shikan missile is
Pakistan’s licensed copy of the Chinese HJ-8 or Red Arrow-8 anti-tank guided
missile.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>It is second generation,
wire-guided, semi-automatic command-to-line-of-sight (SACLOS) anti-tank
missile.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The missile consists of four components. These are (data in parenthesis is weight in Kg):</li>
</ul>
<ul><ul>
<li>Missile inside missile case - 25 kg (missile only is 11.2 kg)</li>
<li>Tripod - 23 Kg</li>
<li>Guidance unit - 24 Kg</li>
<li>IR Goniometer - 12.5 Kg.</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>IR Goniometer - As per army-guide.com,<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i> "t<span style="background-color: white;">he IR goniometer is mounted on the left side of the launcher and, as well as serving as a day sight, also receives and modulates IR signals from the missile and feeds resulting deviation signals to the guidance unit. A night device can also be fitted."</span></i></span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Apart from use by the infantry on man-pack basis,
the missile is mounted on 4x4 vehicles and Armored Personnel Carriers (APC). APC consist of imported M113 APCs as well as locally manufactured
modification of M113 APC by Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT). The base modification of M113A2 APCs
is called ‘Talha’ while a Baktar-Shikan mounted version of ‘Talha’ APC is
called ‘Maaz’.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Each Maaz APC has a single
missile firing post with further 8 reloads. It is said that the missile firing
post is retrieved inside the turret for reload. It has crew of four people.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ykyu3I7_3rQ/Wo6-XkQ8hsI/AAAAAAAAdPg/F6mSTdbbm9sdAV_4knN1fKaTKoCmhdG-QCLcBGAs/s1600/Maaz%2B%2528Baktar%2BShikan%2BHJ-8%2BATGM%2Bmounted%2Bon%2BTalha%2BAPC%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="637" data-original-width="960" height="265" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ykyu3I7_3rQ/Wo6-XkQ8hsI/AAAAAAAAdPg/F6mSTdbbm9sdAV_4knN1fKaTKoCmhdG-QCLcBGAs/s400/Maaz%2B%2528Baktar%2BShikan%2BHJ-8%2BATGM%2Bmounted%2Bon%2BTalha%2BAPC%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maaz APC with Baktar-Shikan anti-tank missile firing post.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1h1Q79Qd0pw/Wo7BRiprk_I/AAAAAAAAdP8/uDBoUBsIpNIkU7XH6ddHvY6Eu234TWeVQCLcBGAs/s1600/PA_BS%2BMissile_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="640" height="293" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1h1Q79Qd0pw/Wo7BRiprk_I/AAAAAAAAdP8/uDBoUBsIpNIkU7XH6ddHvY6Eu234TWeVQCLcBGAs/s400/PA_BS%2BMissile_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Configuration of the 4x4 vehicle mounted Baktar-Shikan missile firing post (<i>Source:armyrecognition.com)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RD4azTBluU4/Wo68yM46G_I/AAAAAAAAdPU/VKcWvXtTYD0p30cRAyyefGrlzRdlhfCjgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Picture2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="669" data-original-width="1275" height="208" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RD4azTBluU4/Wo68yM46G_I/AAAAAAAAdPU/VKcWvXtTYD0p30cRAyyefGrlzRdlhfCjgCEwYBhgL/s400/Picture2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baktar-Shikan being fired from a 4x4 vehicle. The rounded shape of the front section means this is licensed copy of HJ-8A missile. And does not have tandem warhead.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>As is evident from the weight of each sub-component, Baktar-Shikan is not exactly a
man-portable missile. The total weight of the system (missile + firing post) is
close to 85 Kg. It can be carried on man-pack basis and would be man-portable
only for very short distances. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The data available about the
missile weight and weight of encased tube (with the missile inside) is 11.2 Kg
and 25 Kg, respectively. I’ve not come across reason for such high weight of
the empty missile tube (~14 Kg). Generally, the empty missile tube weighs about 1-2 Kg.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Only in case of AT-5B 'Spandrel' or 'Konkur-M' (used by Indian Army) does the
missile tube weigh ~10 Kg because the tube has a gas generator. This gas
generator ejects the missile from the tube before the main motor kicks-in. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>But in case of HJ-8/Baktar-Shikan, the missile tube is ejected backward and there is considerable back-blast. This rules out any device to eject the missile.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MnDGKYNYtQ0/Wo7i-CRioqI/AAAAAAAAdQs/pYtS1Q6IzZAvteQ94aKWKlTGoHJzQMMGwCLcBGAs/s1600/2336.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="534" data-original-width="800" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MnDGKYNYtQ0/Wo7i-CRioqI/AAAAAAAAdQs/pYtS1Q6IzZAvteQ94aKWKlTGoHJzQMMGwCLcBGAs/s400/2336.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The picture shows the empty missile tube traveling backwards; considering the back-blast and distance covered by the missile case, the are rear to the missile firing post has to be clear. (<i>Source:</i> <i>tribune.com.pk)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
This becomes more clear in the excellent video below of PA troops firing the missile from a 4x4 vehicle. Source of video (<a href="https://youtu.be/4GPShUqOZpk">https://youtu.be/4GPShUqOZpk</a>)<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/4GPShUqOZpk/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4GPShUqOZpk?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<ul>
<li>Further, as the picture below shows, given the dimensions of the firing post, the soldier has to be in kneeling position to fire the missile. This is because of the position of the aiming device. While the elevated missile firing post gives better line of sight, it is also a bigger target and exposes the missile pilot during the entire phase of missile flight.</li>
</ul>
</div>
<ul>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vvQnfCkt4hI/Wo6_MANclFI/AAAAAAAAdPs/XUW6-zGoDrcFVqn8g0PmMWHrbMdMSquMACLcBGAs/s1600/bshikan_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="1255" height="226" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vvQnfCkt4hI/Wo6_MANclFI/AAAAAAAAdPs/XUW6-zGoDrcFVqn8g0PmMWHrbMdMSquMACLcBGAs/s400/bshikan_01.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PA soldier firing the Baktar-Shikan missile. Notice the size and dimensions of the missile firing post and location of aiming device. The missile is also HJ-8A version without tandem warhead. (<i>Source: defence.pk)</i><br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EF-dDepN2kw/Wo7l340ffZI/AAAAAAAAdRY/wqPN3ddXa1EsjI6siaAntSnFXdhbAScVwCLcBGAs/s1600/PA_BS%2BMissile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EF-dDepN2kw/Wo7l340ffZI/AAAAAAAAdRY/wqPN3ddXa1EsjI6siaAntSnFXdhbAScVwCLcBGAs/s400/PA_BS%2BMissile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another image of Pakistan Army's missile team firing the missile with missile pilot in kneeling position. This one is also the HJ-8A version (<i>Source: tribune.com.pk)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>The missile has also been adapted for use on AH-1 'Cobra' helicopter gunships. The video below of Pakistan Army exercise dates from 2006. As the commentary says, it involves adaptation of Baktar-Shikan missile and demonstration of night-firing by AH-1 helicopter gunships.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<div>
<br /></div>
<ul>
<li>The weight aspect of HJ-8 flows from the
design philosophy where HJ-8 was meant to mirror heavy western ATGMs like BGM-71 ‘TOW’ and Euromissile
HOT. The most visible impact is the heavy tripod of HJ-8 or Baktar-Shikan
missile which copies from the American TOW missile. It given the missile 360
degree swivel capability.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Another aspect of HJ-8 missile
borrowed from French MILAN anti-tank missile is that fact that the missile tube
(in which the missile is encased) is pushed backwards when the missile is
fired. Though, the rearward travel of HJ-8/Baktar-Shikan missile tube seems to
be much higher as compared to Milan missile. </li>
</ul>
<h4>
<b>(B.1.1) Missile Variants</b></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18.0pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<ul>
<li>The basic HJ-8 missile has
evolved over the years. The picture below shows this evolution with various
models of HJ-8 leading to HJ-9. PA at this stage does not operate HJ-9. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The
basic HJ-8A missile was followed by HJ-8C missile in early 90s; HJ-8C missile
featured a probe in-front with a precursor charge followed by main HEAT
warhead. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>This was meant to neutralize the Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) which
had started proliferating on Soviet origin tanks. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The HJ-8E missile is a
further improvement on HJ-8C with range increased from 3,500 meter to 4,000
meter. This missile was ready by late 90s and is supposed to have improved
guidance system, thereby increasing the kill probability.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dFWlehHLiYk/Wo-z1KWUnhI/AAAAAAAAdZ4/uT1sk40zUGA_rkjvcXW2GP_6Fmk1y1I2QCLcBGAs/s1600/chinese-norinco-atgm-missile-tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dFWlehHLiYk/Wo-z1KWUnhI/AAAAAAAAdZ4/uT1sk40zUGA_rkjvcXW2GP_6Fmk1y1I2QCLcBGAs/s400/chinese-norinco-atgm-missile-tree.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Evolution of HJ-8 series of anti-tank missile</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>Considering that Baktar-Shikan is
licensed copy of HJ-8 missile, it is but natural that Pakistan Army will also
induct the progressive versions of the same missile. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Pakistan started displaying a tandem warhead version
of Baktar-Shikan missile from 2002 onward. This tandem warhead version is most likely to be a licensed copy of HJ-8E missile with tandem warhead and enhanced range.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The new missile launcher also has option of attaching a thermal imager to allow for acquisition and targeting of enemy mechanized assets at night. As per army-guide.com, <i>"system can be fitted with a PTI- 32 thermal imager which can detect tank sized targets at a range of 4,000 m and identify tank size targets at a range of 2,000 m"</i></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>While it is likely the tandem warhead version will start replacing/supplanting the pure HEAT warhead versions in the PA service, the exact numbers and status of such a program are not known (at least to this author).</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Du1ung0wU1U/Wo-3qURZBqI/AAAAAAAAdaE/OOqvzDJ2inwSU5pbTdKz28WP8tNWI-uoACLcBGAs/s1600/82141791.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Du1ung0wU1U/Wo-3qURZBqI/AAAAAAAAdaE/OOqvzDJ2inwSU5pbTdKz28WP8tNWI-uoACLcBGAs/s400/82141791.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tandem warhead version of Baktar-Shikan missile displayed during IDEAS 2014. Most likely to be a version of HJ-8E missile. (<i>Source: armyrecognition..com)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li> Malaysia had placed an order for Baktar-Shikan missiles in 2001 which as per SIPRI database was completed in 2002-2003 period. As the picture of the missile below with a probe in front shows, Malaysia operates the tandem warhead version of the missile.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NSRlADYe-5o/Wo_BUisn-uI/AAAAAAAAdaU/P2mtos-xCqUVGeybxd-J7mHeeb86pdMlwCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_5066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="907" data-original-width="1600" height="226" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NSRlADYe-5o/Wo_BUisn-uI/AAAAAAAAdaU/P2mtos-xCqUVGeybxd-J7mHeeb86pdMlwCLcBGAs/s400/IMG_5066.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Malaysian Army APC mounted Baktar-Shikan missile in action. Notice the probe in front of the missile; this makes it most probably the HJ-8E version. The picture also captures the massive back-blast. (<i>Source:malaysiandefence.com)</i><i style="font-size: 12.8px;"> </i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Interestingly, in the 2014 International Defense Exhibition and Seminar </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #545454; font-size: x-small; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span>(</span>IDEAS) exhibition, Pakistan had also displayed the 'Light' version of the Baktar-Shikan missile. This is based on on the NORINCO HJ-8L version. HJ-8L version is an attempt to develop a genuine man-portable ATGM which consists of a much smaller & lighter firing post (smaller tripod and guidance cum aiming device). It retains the same missile. The total weight of this system is said to be under 25 Kg. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>However, apart from redesigned and new guidance units and imaging tools, it is highly likely that Chinese have also developed a new missile case. This is because with older missile+missile tube itself weighing 25 Kg, the overall weight of the missile+firing post cannot be under 25 Kg.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bD620yQcQCA/WpG0CMcKJ1I/AAAAAAAAdi8/dPHFC01ZwZcJp7fm0WmH2XxXn1n4RbCAACLcBGAs/s1600/Picture4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="183" data-original-width="275" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bD620yQcQCA/WpG0CMcKJ1I/AAAAAAAAdi8/dPHFC01ZwZcJp7fm0WmH2XxXn1n4RbCAACLcBGAs/s400/Picture4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baktar-Shikan 'Light' with a relatively smaller and lighter tripod. The imaging scope is missing.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kuuKU_bHjeY/Wo_CQDb1YtI/AAAAAAAAdac/QzX4QJb80ac8IPGxotWW_Ydps7iz5e8IACEwYBhgL/s1600/Red%2BArrow%2B8L%2BAnti-Tank%2BGuided%2BMissile%2BLauncher%2Bchina%2Bexport%2Bmissile%2Biran%2Bpakistan%2B%2B%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="950" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kuuKU_bHjeY/Wo_CQDb1YtI/AAAAAAAAdac/QzX4QJb80ac8IPGxotWW_Ydps7iz5e8IACEwYBhgL/s400/Red%2BArrow%2B8L%2BAnti-Tank%2BGuided%2BMissile%2BLauncher%2Bchina%2Bexport%2Bmissile%2Biran%2Bpakistan%2B%2B%25281%2529.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chinese HJ-8L with targeting sight. (<i>Source: Internet)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="550" data-original-width="800" height="275" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0pG-fHkQps/Wo_CQGdc_HI/AAAAAAAAdag/AocMwR5EXekd1ydF4DvG7Exh2nYuDPWgQCEwYBhgL/s400/hj8l.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HJ-8L - missile pilot aims, fires and guides the missile from a prone position. <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">(</span><i style="font-size: 12.8px;">Source: Internet)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0pG-fHkQps/Wo_CQGdc_HI/AAAAAAAAdag/AocMwR5EXekd1ydF4DvG7Exh2nYuDPWgQCEwYBhgL/s1600/hj8l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br /></div>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y0pG-fHkQps/Wo_CQGdc_HI/AAAAAAAAdag/AocMwR5EXekd1ydF4DvG7Exh2nYuDPWgQCEwYBhgL/s1600/hj8l.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
The above layout is quite similar to the Russian heavy KORNET-E anti-tank missile.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JzW9wDUQcMM/Wo_Ddd0lF0I/AAAAAAAAdaw/zdgOFo-6A1oqEVnQ5tHkkmNSMM2TTDKTwCLcBGAs/s1600/kornet7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="542" data-original-width="450" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JzW9wDUQcMM/Wo_Ddd0lF0I/AAAAAAAAdaw/zdgOFo-6A1oqEVnQ5tHkkmNSMM2TTDKTwCLcBGAs/s320/kornet7.jpg" width="265" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">(<i style="font-size: 12.8px;">Source: Internet)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>HJ-8 missile variants have seen considerable use in Syria by various forces. These missiles have been credited with taking out many modern MBTs in the civil war.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The video below, from 2013, is a compilation of use of HJ-8 missile in Syrian Civil War.</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/5C87ZxKNV2o/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5C87ZxKNV2o?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>(B.2) BGM-71 TOW-2A</b></div>
<b><br /></b>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V2FTI7OdBWA/Wo_7H805shI/AAAAAAAAdbk/AVbIcf0MrTIj2wa9ZaC50L2OaD3lu4adwCLcBGAs/s1600/PA%2BTOW%2BMissile.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="425" data-original-width="640" height="265" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-V2FTI7OdBWA/Wo_7H805shI/AAAAAAAAdbk/AVbIcf0MrTIj2wa9ZaC50L2OaD3lu4adwCLcBGAs/s400/PA%2BTOW%2BMissile.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TOW-2A equipped M-113 APC of the Pakistan Army</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
</div>
<br />
<ul>
<li>Tube Launched, Optically Tracked,
Wire Guided or ‘TOW’ is the most famous of US anti-tank missiles and one which
has been produced the most.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>It is a heavy anti-tank missile
with the heaviest warhead amongst land based anti-tank missiles. The missile weighs about 22 kgs with the whole firing post including the missile weighing close to 90 kg.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Guidance is Semi-Automatic
Command to Line of Sight (SACLOS) meaning the missile pilot has to keep
tracking the target till impact. The
guidance signals are transmitted through wires (wire-guided) or one-way secured
radio-frequency link (RF). The RF based guidance does not make the missile ‘fire
& forget’. It simply replaces the wire as a medium of delivery guidance.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>From its first version in early
1970s, the missile and attached paraphernalia have undergone continuous upgrade.
At present, there are two main avatars of the missile, along with variants of
these two dominant types. The details of the same are as follows:</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aK9tXqX8V-E/WpGDwjzsv5I/AAAAAAAAdgw/pVBGF_55yZspjZpe1TEV2dA2A1HU2yvgwCLcBGAs/s1600/TOW%2BVariants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="803" data-original-width="1600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aK9tXqX8V-E/WpGDwjzsv5I/AAAAAAAAdgw/pVBGF_55yZspjZpe1TEV2dA2A1HU2yvgwCLcBGAs/s640/TOW%2BVariants.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
Different versions of TOW missiles (TOW-2B 'Aero' is not shown):</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ts0B6FtqRHA/WpGEE19IZ1I/AAAAAAAAdg0/hUe-gEhYCA0xuUGK5LR-mvwTorJ_VwBHwCLcBGAs/s1600/TOW%2Bmissile%2Bvariants.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="855" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ts0B6FtqRHA/WpGEE19IZ1I/AAAAAAAAdg0/hUe-gEhYCA0xuUGK5LR-mvwTorJ_VwBHwCLcBGAs/s400/TOW%2Bmissile%2Bvariants.jpg" width="373" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Source: army-technology.com</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
TOW-2B 'Aero' - compare the front section with standard TOW-2B shown above.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cbf28fI6ny0/WpGRab-CgnI/AAAAAAAAdhY/-wlJrhY17CIhUuuzCzsmtzu-6qAUzPrVQCLcBGAs/s1600/TOW-2B%2BAero_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="239" data-original-width="600" height="252" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cbf28fI6ny0/WpGRab-CgnI/AAAAAAAAdhY/-wlJrhY17CIhUuuzCzsmtzu-6qAUzPrVQCLcBGAs/s640/TOW-2B%2BAero_2.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Source: internet</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
Internal diagrams of TOW-2A and TOW-2B. TOW-2B 'Aero' differs from TOW-2B only in terms of shape of front section. In case RF versions, the rear section of the missile has RF receiver instead of wire-dispenser </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7UESGVhm6fQ/WpGSo3MUykI/AAAAAAAAdho/qC4ru_oL8c8cXUlMbg1FTxfzxggr_sv2QCLcBGAs/s1600/TOW-2A.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="331" data-original-width="550" height="192" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7UESGVhm6fQ/WpGSo3MUykI/AAAAAAAAdho/qC4ru_oL8c8cXUlMbg1FTxfzxggr_sv2QCLcBGAs/s320/TOW-2A.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SDUB0zgTrkU/WpGSol3JrvI/AAAAAAAAdhg/Pu0Gq5E135ofAa4dbfmTcboC5fYirggRACLcBGAs/s1600/TOW-2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="341" data-original-width="550" height="122" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SDUB0zgTrkU/WpGSol3JrvI/AAAAAAAAdhg/Pu0Gq5E135ofAa4dbfmTcboC5fYirggRACLcBGAs/s200/TOW-2B.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUEhIlxqLzI/WpGSo71uYQI/AAAAAAAAdhk/tgN6Bpiuw6cLwWVawrsHDQJ8qDk8Y7IFwCLcBGAs/s1600/TOW-2B%2BAero.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="813" height="127" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cUEhIlxqLzI/WpGSo71uYQI/AAAAAAAAdhk/tgN6Bpiuw6cLwWVawrsHDQJ8qDk8Y7IFwCLcBGAs/s200/TOW-2B%2BAero.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt; text-align: right;">
<i>(picture source TOW-2A & 2B: army-technology.com. TOW-2B Aero-internet)</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="text-align: justify;"><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b style="text-align: justify;">(B.2.1) Nos & Type in Pakistan Army</b></div>
<ul>
<li>As discussed earlier, Pakistan
Army acquired various versions of BGM-71/TOW missiles in three tranches. These details
of the order are as follows (Year of Order/Quantity/Usage):</li>
</ul>
<ul><ul>
<li>1981 – 1,005 – To be used on AH-1
‘Cobra’ helicopters and M-901 ITV</li>
<li>2004 – 2,007 - TOW-2A variant; to be used on AH-1 ‘Cobra’
helicopters</li>
<li>2007 – 3,198 – TOW-2A-RF variants</li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The Defence Security Cooperation
Agency (DSCA) notification about the 2007 sale of TOW-2A missiles gives the
following break-up of the order:</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 18pt;">
<i>The Government of Pakistan has
requested a possible sale of <b>2,769 Radio Frequency (RF) TOW 2A Missiles</b>, 7 RF
TOW 2A Fly-to-buy Missiles, <b>415 RF Bunker Buster Missiles</b>, 7 RF Fly-to-buy
Bunker Buster Missiles, <b>upgrade of 121 TOW Basic/TOW-I launchers to fire TOW II
configuration for wire-guided and wireless missiles</b>, TOW Data Acquisition
Systems, gunner aiming sight, testers, cameras, spare and repair parts,
technical support, support equipment, personnel training and training
equipment, technical data and publications, U.S. Government and contractor
engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of
logistics support. <b>The estimated cost is $185 million.</b> </i><b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
<ul>
<li>Given the quantity of missiles ordered and likely to be held (5,205), TOW-2A is a precious resource for Pakistan Army.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>The stock is most probably divided between the Pakistan Army's Army Aviation Corps (AAC) which operates the AH-1 Cobra helicopter gunships and the Heavy Anti-Tank (HAT) battalions. </li>
</ul>
<h3>
<b>(3.0) Lessons for India</b></h3>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Arab-Israel war of October 1973, known as the Yom-Kippur
war (or the Ramadan War as per the Arabs) offers insight into the tank
versus anti-tank missile scenario. It has lessons for India because the adversary (Pakistan) intends to use ATGMs to blunt India's superior armor capabilities.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The 1973 war is a landmark event because it became the
proving ground of two new weapon systems in modern warfare – anti-tank guided missile
(ATGM) and anti-aircraft missile. Success of these two systems forced a major
rethink in tank warfare and air combat in terms of tactics, design of weapon
system and development of measures & counter-measures.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Egyptian Army employed thousands of Soviet Union supplied
9M14 ‘Malyutka’ (NATO reporting name: AT-3 ‘Swagger’) ATGM. While the Israeli intelligence and its
general staff were aware of this weapon system with Egyptians, they did not
consider it as an effective counter-measure to their armour. This faulty
assessment caused the Israeli heavily – Israel Defence Forces (IDF) lost about
800 tanks in this war with Egyptian ATGM teams accounting for 20%-25% of the
total losses. But the real impact of ATGM was felt in the initial days of the
war when the Israelis were completely taken by surprise by the ATGM and the
efficacy of Egyptian anti-tank defences. During first two days of the war,
Israelis lost about 260 tanks – bulk of these loses were on account of ATGMs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But the anti-tank teams were highly effective because the
Egyptians employed innovative anti-tank tactics. In the words of one Israeli
tank commander<a href="file:///C:/Users/Rohit.Vats/Pictures/Blog/PA-ATGM%20Scenario/PA_ATGM.docx#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;">[1]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></a>
who led the initial counter-attack against the Egyptian Army:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"We were advancing and in
the distance I saw specks dotted on the sand dunes. I couldn't make out what
they were. As we got closer, I thought they looked like tree stumps. They were
motionless and scattered across the terrain ahead of us. I got on the intercom
and asked the tanks ahead what they made of it. One of my tank commanders
radioed back: 'My God, they're not tree stumps. They're men!' For a moment I
couldn't understand. What were men doing standing out there—quite still-when we
were advancing in our tanks towards them? Suddenly all hell broke loose. A
barrage of missiles was being fired at us. Many of our tanks were hit. We had
never come up against anything like this before....”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Another example of how much
thought Egyptians had given to anti-tank warfare based on ATGM is given below<a href="file:///C:/Users/Rohit.Vats/Pictures/Blog/PA-ATGM%20Scenario/PA_ATGM.docx#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;">[2]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></a>:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>“According to one report, the
Egyptians, with an abundance of SAGGERs, established a defence that lured the
Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) into a Kill Zone which optimized the potential of
both SAGGERs and RPG-7s. The IDF tankers saw Egyptian tanks in the far distance
and closed to do battle; however, they were unaware of great numbers of
camouflaged RPG-7s and SAGGERs forward of the Egyptian tanks”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is shown in the image below (taken from the same
document):<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ultLK3jT7hs/WpGtZEsmwSI/AAAAAAAAdiM/kQwcqLuApYIOOGAJbM1LHjla7CXM5HxvQCLcBGAs/s1600/1973%2BYom%2BKippur%2BWar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="487" data-original-width="784" height="395" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ultLK3jT7hs/WpGtZEsmwSI/AAAAAAAAdiM/kQwcqLuApYIOOGAJbM1LHjla7CXM5HxvQCLcBGAs/s640/1973%2BYom%2BKippur%2BWar.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Israeli Armoured Corps did
evolve tactics to counter the Egyptian anti-tank teams; these tactics meant the
armour advancing under the cover of artillery and with supporting infantry
(mounted on APC/IFV and dismounted). ATGM placed a restriction on the free
reign which the armour had against the infantry.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But the wide-spread use of
anti-tank missiles did not make the Main Battle Tank (MBT) obsolete. In words
of a CIA Report<a href="file:///C:/Users/Rohit.Vats/Pictures/Blog/PA-ATGM%20Scenario/PA_ATGM.docx#_ftn3" name="_ftnref3" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%;">[3]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></a> on
analysis of 1973 Arab-Israel War done in 1975:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>“Antitank weapons like the Sagger and RPG-7 took a heavy
toll of Israeli armour. But they did not render the tank obsolete. The initial
impression created by the Egyptian use of antitank missiles was artificially
reinforced by the inappropriate tactics used by the Israelis in the first few
days of the war<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>“Antitank weapons like the Sagger and RPG-7 took a heavy
toll of Israeli armour. But they did not render the tank obsolete. The initial
impression created by the Egyptian use of antitank missiles was artificially
reinforced by the inappropriate tactics used by the Israelis in the first few
days of the war. It is probably safe to say that no large, modern army will
again make the mistake of using unsupported tanks against massed infantry.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>The Israelis rediscovered some ancient principles in seeking
a response to the antitank weapon threat posed at the beginning of the October
war. Foremost, the Israelis found that no single weapon can long dominate the
battlefield. Victory requires the use of a balanced force with many
complementary offensive and defensive elements. The battlefield, in short, is a
complicated environment and no one weapon or arm of service can function
effectively on it without the active aid and cooperation of others. This is
reassuring for the Israelis, since the effective and flexible use of mobile
forces under difficult circumstances is precisely the area in which they hold
the greatest comparative advantage over the Arabs”.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The same report also adds the following about Israeli
adaptation to this new threat in course of the war:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>“Despite all the problems, however, the Israelis once again
proved the importance of flexibility in maintaining their superiority. The most
striking example of this is provided by the Israeli response to the
Arab--particularly Egyptian--antitank weapons. By 8 October the Israelis had
recognized the flaws in their armour tactics and adopted a defensive procedure
under which they waited for the Arab armour to attack and then took the Arabs
under fire from extreme range. This made it difficult for the Arabs to bring
their antitank weapons forward. This change of tactics by the Israelis took
maximum advantage of the longer range of most of their tank guns and the
superiority of their long-range tank gunnery.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>The Israeli attack on 8 October appears to have been the
last attempt to use tanks in the unsupported 1967 style and even then the
Israelis may have been drawn in by their initial success. Within four or five
days after the beginning of the war, the Israelis were adopting tactics which
reduced the threat from Arab antitank weapons to manageable proportions. This
adjustment in the midst of combat provides a fair measure of the flexibility of
Israeli leadership and the thoroughness of low-level training.”<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div>
<!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>(4.0) Conclusion</b><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Pakistan Army possess strong anti-tank capability which will be a challenge to Indian mechanized formations in any future conflict.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The main objective of these anti-tank formations is to prevent a break-out by Indian armored formations. Using speed, mobility, terrain familiarity and stand-off range of their missiles, they intend to blunt Indian mechanized offensive.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">With ability to engage targets at night, they can spring surprise on any advancing armor column. Working in conjunction with some armor and/or AH-1 'Cobra' gunship helicopters will make for formidable force.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">They will play an important role in next Indo-Pak war. And like the Israelis in 1973 war, Indian Army will have to evolve tactics to counter them. And while Israelis were taken by surprise, Indian Army knows the existence of this capability. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Apart from counter-tactics, Indian Army also needs to invest in technological solution like Active Protection Systems (APS) for its main battle tanks.</span><span style="font-family: "times new roman";"> </span></li>
</ul>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br />
Please share your comments, review(s), views. And do point out factual errors.<br />
<br /></div>
<hr size="1" style="text-align: left;" width="33%" />
<br />
<!--[endif]-->
<br />
<div id="ftn1">
<div class="MsoFootnoteText">
<a href="file:///C:/Users/Rohit.Vats/Pictures/Blog/PA-ATGM%20Scenario/PA_ATGM.docx#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">[1]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></a>
The Yom Kippur War 1973 (2): The Sinai by Simon Dunstan<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div id="ftn2">
<div class="MsoFootnoteText">
<a href="file:///C:/Users/Rohit.Vats/Pictures/Blog/PA-ATGM%20Scenario/PA_ATGM.docx#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">[2]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></a> US
Army Training and Doctrine Command: TRADOC Bulletin February 1975<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
<div id="ftn3">
<div class="MsoFootnoteText">
<a href="file:///C:/Users/Rohit.Vats/Pictures/Blog/PA-ATGM%20Scenario/PA_ATGM.docx#_ftnref3" name="_ftn3" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><!--[if !supportFootnotes]--><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%;">[3]</span></span><!--[endif]--></span></a>
Intelligence Report- The 1973 Arab-Israeli War. Overview and Analysis of the Conflict
(released 2012)</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-29477140116112651142017-10-09T03:49:00.001+05:302017-10-26T18:32:58.090+05:30Dolam Stand-Off: Where do we stand?<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qcdrlpBJVo4/WdoJzyVW1bI/AAAAAAAAVAk/dc6FIxDMYXw5_5ks2KFCjEXJ86455HlWwCLcBGAs/s1600/587758-india-china-flag700.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="700" height="227" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qcdrlpBJVo4/WdoJzyVW1bI/AAAAAAAAVAk/dc6FIxDMYXw5_5ks2KFCjEXJ86455HlWwCLcBGAs/s400/587758-india-china-flag700.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Link to my previous detailed analysis on Doklam stand-off: </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://vatsrohit.blogspot.in/2017/07/doklam-plateau-india-bhutan-and-china.html">http://vatsrohit.blogspot.in/2017/07/doklam-plateau-india-bhutan-and-china.html</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">A simple comparison between
number of troops actively deployed or dedicated to the Sino-Indian border by
India and China will show that India has disproportionate advantage. Sure,
China or People Liberation Army (PLA) can and will bring in troops based outside
of Tibet but the same will take time, the fantastic infrastructure built by the
Chinese not-withstanding. And then, there is this small inconvenient issue of acclimatization
of troops to fight in such high altitude areas. The average elevation of Tibetan
Plateau is 4,500 meters (14,800 feet) and it rises further along the
Sino-Indian boundary or McMahon Line where the Himalayan watershed divided
India from Tibetan plateau. In comparison, major PLA formations tasked against
India – and which will comes from outside Tibet – are based in cities at less
than half or even 1/7<sup>th</sup> of this elevation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, if you read articles
about China, its military capability and what it can do vis-à-vis India, you see an
awe of China. Barring a few exceptions, most analysts and foreign policy wonks
suffer from what I call as ‘7 feet Chinaman Syndrome’. And this has reflected
in our foreign policy as well. A perfect example of this outlook is captured in
this article (<a href="https://thewire.in/184678/india-china-relations-adversary-enemy/">https://thewire.in/184678/india-china-relations-adversary-enemy/</a>)
by <a href="https://thewire.in/author/nirupama-rao/" target="_blank" title="Nirupama Rao"><span style="color: windowtext; text-decoration-line: none;">Nirupama Rao</span></a>,<i> </i>former foreign secretary and ambassador to China and the
US. A major takeaway from the article is that adjustment is passed off as
pragmatism and this pragmatism has been displayed only by one party, India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As similar series of articles came out thick and fast when India and
China squared-off in Dolam Plateau few months back. By the way, the name of the
plateau where the stand-off took-place is Dolam Plateau. Doklam Plateau
represents a wider area of dispute between China and Bhutan and encompasses the
Dolam Plateau.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, what became obvious is that these articles were only part
driven by ‘7 feet Chinaman Syndrome’. The other driving force was to somehow
show the Narendra Modi government in poor light in terms of its handling of the
situation from foreign policy and defence perspective. In fact, there was a
subtle attempt to use the arguments basis the ‘7 feet Chinaman Syndrome’ to
push the narrative that this might not end-well for India.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally, when the stand-off was resolved on the expected lines –
expected by those who knew that China had pushed itself into the corner – there
was another insidious attempt to parse the statements by Indian and China to
show that India had somehow capitulated. And that India had agreed to a
compromise much short of what it had set out to achieve.</span></div>
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<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(A) Status Quo versus Status Quo
Ante</span></h3>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Over last few days, there have been couple of reports which again
intend to portray that things have not settled on the ground. And that
situation is contrary to as explained by the Indian Foreign Ministry. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is my opinion that information is being used selectively with aim to sensationalize and
without putting the geographical parameters in context.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Before we look at these reports, here is recap of the geography of the area and what transpired, and why, leading to stand-off.</span></div>
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<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(1) The Chumbi Valley</span></h4>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The word Chumbi Valley has figured almost in the same frequency as Doklam Plateau ever since the stand-off between China and India started.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">But what and where is Chumbi Valley? </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">To quote Charles Allen from his famous book 'Duel in the Snows - The True Story of Younghusband Mission to Lhasa' - 'Only at one place is this mountain rampart vulnerable (<i>mountain rampart is the Great Himalayan Range which separates Tibetan </i></span><i>Plateau</i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><i> from India</i>): immediately to the west of Mount Chumolhari (<i>also known as Mount Jomolhari</i>), where the line of Tibetan frontier dips to the south in sharp V. Here the border follows the crest of two ridges radiating south-east and south-west from the Central Himalayan Range to form a triangle of land, wedge known to the Tibetans as Dromo and to Indians as the Chumbi Valley. It can be entered from neighboring Sikkim and Bhutan by way of a number of passes, one of which is the 14,300 foot crossing point known as the Jelep La, the Lovely Level Pass'. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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The Chumbi Village is north-east of Yadong or Yatung. Both Yadong<span style="font-family: inherit;"> and the Chumbi Village can be seen on the attached map. Historically, Yatung was a trading mart which saw trade between Indian, Bhutanese and Tibetan traders. Present day Yadong is the capital of the Yadong County and center of large development activity. China intends to connect it with Lhasa through a railway line.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Three small rivers from east to west, namely </span><i style="font-family: inherit;">Dromo Chu, Khangbuma Chu and Tungkarpu Chu (word Chu means flowing water, a river) </i><span style="font-family: inherit;">confluence at Yadong and continue onward as Amo Chu. Each river runs through a steep and narrow valley. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The eastern most valley along Dromo Chu (<i>marked in blue in the map</i>) is the actual Chumbi Valley. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Yadong sits at the mouth (end) of the Chumbi Valley. However, the entire Tibetan area between Sikkim and Bhutan is generally referred to as the Chumbi Valley. It has become a reference name for this entire wedge shaped strategic territory.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">When the British marched onto Lhasa across the Himalayas in December 1903, they went from Jelep La, across Chumbi Valley to Phari Dzong and then onto Lhasa. </span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1w2-OVTr1fU/WdoouyWprZI/AAAAAAAAVBA/xgp7CewOn3EJWDL4XTnj3MQgUK0oKSBRACLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="746" data-original-width="1600" height="298" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1w2-OVTr1fU/WdoouyWprZI/AAAAAAAAVBA/xgp7CewOn3EJWDL4XTnj3MQgUK0oKSBRACLcBGAs/s640/Picture1.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h4>
(2) The Dolam Plateau</h4>
</div>
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As for Dolam Plateau, it lies in Bhutan, at the end of wedge shaped Tibetan land which separates Sikkim in west from Bhutan in east. It is also the location of tri-junction of Indian (Sikkim), Tibetan and Bhutan boundary in the area. </div>
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<br /></div>
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By the way, all the news reports till recently have spoken of the area as Doklam Plateau (even I used this name in my earlier post detailing the area). However, it transpires that the name of the area is Dolam Plateau.<br />
<br />
Doklam is a larger area and from Chin-Bhutan boundary perspective, refers to the entire stretch of land in west under dispute. As I've explained in my earlier posts, Chinese have a much larger claim in the area. Refer to the post here: <a href="http://vatsrohit.blogspot.in/2017/07/doklam-plateau-india-bhutan-and-china.html">http://vatsrohit.blogspot.in/2017/07/doklam-plateau-india-bhutan-and-china.html</a><br />
<br />
Here is where Doklam is as per Google Earth and its location in relation to actual stand-off:<br />
<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U0vr8ePZQmg/WdqmWXHAHpI/AAAAAAAAVDU/G_nfcjcNQ5EZ-qiQqCyqK3nEemk0zkPUQCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1033" data-original-width="1443" height="229" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U0vr8ePZQmg/WdqmWXHAHpI/AAAAAAAAVDU/G_nfcjcNQ5EZ-qiQqCyqK3nEemk0zkPUQCLcBGAs/s320/Picture1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
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The map below shows the location of the plateau in context to Yadong and Chumbi Village and highlights important landmarks on the plateau. What becomes obvious from the map below is that Dolam Plateau is at a much higher elevation as compared the Chumbi Valley. You can see road snaking their way up from the Chumbi Village towards the Sino-Indian boundary. But there is no flat area along the border. Dolam Plateau affords the Chinese a relatively large flat area on the boundary.</div>
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</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kR9ViFiU6U0/WdpQ9xBRuiI/AAAAAAAAVBs/n0dvPX8tzVcHtixQGlnr9p8jyjv5QA_ZgCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="741" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kR9ViFiU6U0/WdpQ9xBRuiI/AAAAAAAAVBs/n0dvPX8tzVcHtixQGlnr9p8jyjv5QA_ZgCLcBGAs/s640/Picture2.png" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Batang La - As per India and Bhutan, tri-junction of India, Bhutan and China. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Gymochen - Tri-juction as per China</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Doka La - Pass on India and Bhutan boundary on the plateau. Indian troops are to west of this pass. They maintain observation over Chinese activity on the plateau from this area.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Senche La and Merug La - Passes on eastern ridge-line of the plateau. As per the Bhutanese, Chinese territory or Chumbi Valley is to east of the line Merug La-Sinche La. Basically, Chinese have no business being on the plateau.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Torsa Nala - runs through the middle of the plateau and drains into the Amo Chu river below.</li>
</ul>
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<h4>
(3) Why do the Chinese want Dolam Plateau?</h4>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Simple. In mountain warfare, he who controls the heights, controls the outcome. Chinese are geographically disadvantaged when it comes to Chumbi Valley. This disadvantage manifests itself in two ways:<br />
<br />
(a) The valley is very narrow. It is a V-shaped valley and flat area available in the valley floor is very less.<br />
(b) The surrounding mountain ridges are very steep. Men and material have to be pushed along very steep angle and this creates serious issues. Also, there is no real estate available along the slopes to position large body of men or material.<br />
<br />
Dolam plateau is unique because it is an elevated piece of land which is large enough to hold both men and material in large quantity. Further, its position is such that it allows the Chinese to threaten Indian Army defenses along Sikkim boundary and bring Silliguri Corridor (<i>also called as Chicken's Neck) </i>under observation. For comparison, the valley floor from where the road moves up the mountain side to Sinche La pass is at ~2,600 meters. While the Sinche La pass itself is at ~4,200 meters.<br />
<br />
Series of Google Earth satellite images pasted below show the profile of the Chumbi Valley and Dolam Plateau<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f9E3SZ-_kmM/Wdqbbxl4AkI/AAAAAAAAVCo/Eoff4kMDE2wthfPgo9NvfGWw1o0TxOZOgCLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f9E3SZ-_kmM/Wdqbbxl4AkI/AAAAAAAAVCo/Eoff4kMDE2wthfPgo9NvfGWw1o0TxOZOgCLcBGAs/s320/2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Yadong towards south. The narrowness of the valley with steep mountainsides can be made out</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3bbz37C85BM/Wdqbc-4HfwI/AAAAAAAAVCs/D3D-nApZr7sWMpJa0XSUIqk48P_kTOvLwCEwYBhgL/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3bbz37C85BM/Wdqbc-4HfwI/AAAAAAAAVCs/D3D-nApZr7sWMpJa0XSUIqk48P_kTOvLwCEwYBhgL/s320/3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loops in the road along the mountain side going towards Sinche La. The pass can be seen along the ridge-line</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uWhPhYIbeyw/WdqbdoNaj3I/AAAAAAAAVCw/2SdMWwlPPKEPOKf66amgixnKkLjrGnOvACEwYBhgL/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uWhPhYIbeyw/WdqbdoNaj3I/AAAAAAAAVCw/2SdMWwlPPKEPOKf66amgixnKkLjrGnOvACEwYBhgL/s320/4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The road as it ascends towards the Sinche La pass. Shows the difficulty for the Chinese to reach the plateau and sustain troops on it. If the Chinese have to sustain troops on the plateau in the winter, they've to ensure this road remains open to traffic.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kJPoDSqCNlY/WdqbfVqVBbI/AAAAAAAAVC0/hfYplU0m8sAPvHfGFfLRo9NXsSBWukzKwCEwYBhgL/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kJPoDSqCNlY/WdqbfVqVBbI/AAAAAAAAVC0/hfYplU0m8sAPvHfGFfLRo9NXsSBWukzKwCEwYBhgL/s320/5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the plateau from Sinche La pass. One can make out the relatively large flat area available.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crX_bOH1WMo/WdqbiIu6eHI/AAAAAAAAVC4/IX4EFaycVUQxab1roIy2hi4gFUxrPwpkwCEwYBhgL/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-crX_bOH1WMo/WdqbiIu6eHI/AAAAAAAAVC4/IX4EFaycVUQxab1roIy2hi4gFUxrPwpkwCEwYBhgL/s320/6.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road leading from Sinche La towards Merug La - Ridge-1 and Ridge-2 on the plateau can be seen. Technically, the Merug La-Sinche La ridge-line is the boundary between Bhutan and China. And Chinese territory is to east of this line. This shows that basically, Chinese have literally no space available on the plateau to position large body of troops.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TSKwGhV8v_4/Wdqbjfe3nyI/AAAAAAAAVC8/8UePONZmmHkUi8jNMyxPBAm4VZVGXwpAwCEwYBhgL/s1600/7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TSKwGhV8v_4/Wdqbjfe3nyI/AAAAAAAAVC8/8UePONZmmHkUi8jNMyxPBAm4VZVGXwpAwCEwYBhgL/s320/7.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Road from Merug La leading back towards Chumbi Valley and along Sino-Indian border. Batang La is visible towards north-west</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hyHfrdQM7X8/WdqblNcG-2I/AAAAAAAAVDE/tpJywg2_Mpsyj2eGNVtfwrqEzBx5GqB8wCEwYBhgL/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hyHfrdQM7X8/WdqblNcG-2I/AAAAAAAAVDE/tpJywg2_Mpsyj2eGNVtfwrqEzBx5GqB8wCEwYBhgL/s320/9.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entire Dolam Plateau with important features. The V-shaped depression in the middle is the Torsa Nala. If Gymochen is accepted as tri-junction, then entire area: Sinche La-Merug La-Batang La-Doka La-Gymochen and Jhampheri Ridge comes under Chinese control.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jNuROV_V3mc/WdqbUHaPiyI/AAAAAAAAVCQ/wComEGwtTuUs13JWBzR9b6jnUie7kRoqgCEwYBhgL/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jNuROV_V3mc/WdqbUHaPiyI/AAAAAAAAVCQ/wComEGwtTuUs13JWBzR9b6jnUie7kRoqgCEwYBhgL/s320/11.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A track going from Ridge-2 to Doka La is visible. The stand-off happened in area between these two points as the Chinese tried to extend the track going towards Doka La to Jhampheri Ridge.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yONg1Ghdle4/WdqbYHtQ4SI/AAAAAAAAVCc/MLZffl18tEcaq87qjllmpirxdpgLj0kNwCEwYBhgL/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yONg1Ghdle4/WdqbYHtQ4SI/AAAAAAAAVCc/MLZffl18tEcaq87qjllmpirxdpgLj0kNwCEwYBhgL/s320/13.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Indian side. Ridge-2, Doka La and Jhampheri Ridge are visible. Road was to come from Ridge-2 towards Jhampheri Ridge. Gymochen, the claimed tri-junction point is also visible. If tri-junction moves to Gymochen, the whole area opposite Doka La will be under Chinese control.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9QS0zQKh4Q/WdqbYrUm4eI/AAAAAAAAVDM/GAo3i8S6chMLmeyKnVrebU4NvHsgPRjTwCEwYBhgL/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="1366" height="148" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-U9QS0zQKh4Q/WdqbYrUm4eI/AAAAAAAAVDM/GAo3i8S6chMLmeyKnVrebU4NvHsgPRjTwCEwYBhgL/s320/14.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View from Jhampheri Ridge - the plain area visible is India in states of West Bengal and Sikkim.</td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Few points:</div>
<ul>
<li>Yadong - One can make out the narrow nature of the valley. And the area being surrounded by steep mountain ridges. </li>
<li>Sinche La - Road leading up to Sinche La from the valley; large number of loops required to gain height and reach the pass shows the steepness of the area. </li>
<li>Track leads from Sinche La to Merug La. From Merug La, the roads connects with other Chinese positions opposite Sikkim-Tibet border. The Sinche La-Merug La road is under 800 meters from the Merug La - Sinche La ridge line</li>
<li>From Sinche La, a track passes through/along Ridge-1 and Ridge-2 towards Doka La on Bhutan-India boundary. Indian troops from this area had intervened to stop the road construction activity.</li>
<li>Chinese were building a road from vicinity of the Doka La towards Jhampheri ridge.</li>
<li>View from Jhampheri ridge - Indian states of West Bengal and Sikkim are visible. The Bhutan Army camp below Ridge 2 is also visible. Gymochen - the claimed boundary tri-junction point by the Chinese is also visible. As its location shows, if the tri-junction is at Gymochen, then the Dolam Plateau comes under the control of the Chinese.</li>
</ul>
<i style="text-align: right;"> (the nomenclature, Ridge-1 and Ridge-2, has been taken from a recent India Today report)</i><br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<div>
The map below summarizes the positions and features on the plateau:</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CIKb06Js7RY/WdpjIo_uZGI/AAAAAAAAVB8/FcKP4vxpQEgRSarIGOhypXaKINTxSndBQCLcBGAs/s1600/Doklam%2BPlateau-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="935" data-original-width="1500" height="396" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CIKb06Js7RY/WdpjIo_uZGI/AAAAAAAAVB8/FcKP4vxpQEgRSarIGOhypXaKINTxSndBQCLcBGAs/s640/Doklam%2BPlateau-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
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<h3>
(B) Why did India do, what it did?</h3>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">India simply cannot afford to have Chinese control the Doklam plateau. And has to prevent any further occupation creep beyond what has already happened. If the Chinese were to occupy the Doklam Plateau and place the boundary on ridge-line going east from Gymochen towards Amo-Chu river, they control a dominating ridge-line which overlooks Indian territory across Bhutan.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Further, India also does not have depth behind its position on Doka La. There is a valley behind this feature. Indian positions on Doka La are part of the larger interlinked defensive complex in the area which extends to Jelep La, Nathu La and beyond.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The satellite image below shows the valley behind Doka La and its relative position vis-a-vis Sino-Indian boundary on Batang La-Jelp La-Nathu La ridge-line. If the Chinese control the plateau, they can outflank Indian defenses on the the Sino-Indian border. Not only will the Chinese than attack coming up from the Chumbi Valley but also attack north/north-west from the plateau on the flank of Indian positions along the boundary and towards their rear areas.</span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wYOxP57PJ8A/WdtLQDALJPI/AAAAAAAAVEQ/80_D-56oM-sKjd53-kKmK5L5_-c3WKjxACLcBGAs/s1600/Chinese%2Bthrust%2Baxis.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1600" height="296" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wYOxP57PJ8A/WdtLQDALJPI/AAAAAAAAVEQ/80_D-56oM-sKjd53-kKmK5L5_-c3WKjxACLcBGAs/s640/Chinese%2Bthrust%2Baxis.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 15px;">The map below gives distance from this ridge-line towards location in Sikkim (a major communication axis) and a location in West Bengal. Long range artillery guns placed on the plateau can target both - Indian troops movement in the plains or rear areas of Sikkim and Indian defenses along the Sino-Indian boundary along the Chumbi Valley.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nXYr3xwJeP0/WdplVnVgC8I/AAAAAAAAVCA/HVPTlvQZBa4sSeEbXOdRhjq_LdwhcrWFQCLcBGAs/s1600/Doklam%2BPlateau-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="948" data-original-width="1600" height="378" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nXYr3xwJeP0/WdplVnVgC8I/AAAAAAAAVCA/HVPTlvQZBa4sSeEbXOdRhjq_LdwhcrWFQCLcBGAs/s640/Doklam%2BPlateau-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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As explained earlier, the large size of the area will allow the Chinese to create permanent structures to house men and material. And main 24 x 7 vigil on the Indian defenses towards west and south.</div>
<h3>
(C) All is not well?</h3>
<div>
When the news about the diplomatic settlement of the stand-off emerged, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs issues the following statement:</div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16.5px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">“We had, earlier in the day, announced that following diplomatic communications, expeditious disengagement of border personnel of India and China at the face-off site at Doklam was ongoing. This process has since been almost completed under verification”</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 16.5px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div>
The above statement needs to be seen in context of the nature of the dispute. We can summarize the same as such:</div>
<div>
<ul>
<li>India had objected to construction of a road from the existing track towards the Jhampheri Ridge as it has serious security implications for India.</li>
<li>To prevent this activity, Indian Army took the unprecedented step of crossing over into Bhutanese territory and interjected on behalf of the Royal Bhutan Army.</li>
<li>The settlement called for Chinese to stop road construction activity and withdrawal of construction equipment and associated manpower.</li>
</ul>
<div>
By all accounts, the above was achieved and hence, the disengagement happened.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However, there remains a grey area - That is, has India asked for complete withdrawal of additional troops on the plateau (which China would've brought during the stand-off) to the same level as before the build-up?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
In my opinion, India - and Bhutan - will object to larger presence of Chinese troops on the plateau if China makes any attempt to permanently base them on the plateau. This is because at present, Chinese do not have the infrastructure to support a large body of troops on the plateau. It is one thing to maintain increased number of troops during the surge in temporary shelters. And quite another to sustain them in the harsh winters when the area is covered in thick blanket of snow and temperature drops to below zero degree Celsius.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Maintaining them during the winter months will require permanent structures which can provide protection from the elements. Another important aspect is the logistic support; the main access road which comes from the Chumbi Valley towards the Senche La pass will be covered in snow. As per media reports, the Merug La - Senche La ridge line is already covered in snow. Chinese will have to either keep the road open during the entire winter period - which is a tall order, or undertake advanced winter stocking. Something which the Indian Army does for its forward posts which are cut-off in the in the winter. The Chinese garrison on the plateau will have to be provided with infrastructure and everything else they need to spend 4-5 months of harsh winter in the area.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Let us also remember that the very presence of Chinese troops in large numbers on the plateau will violate the status quo agreement between China and Bhutan with respect to this piece of territory. As of now, both the parties patrol the plateau. Bhutan also maintains few troops on the plateau for the purpose but which it seems withdraw during the winter months.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Bhutan would not have objected to the heightened number of troops during the stand-off but the same cannot be the new normal after the resolution. Because if this be the case then for all practical purposes, Bhutan would've lost control of the plateau.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Again, something which neither Bhutan nor India would agree to.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Chinese have only a sliver of land on the plateau along the Meru La-Senche La ridge-line. And this land cannot hold beyond a company worth of troops.</div>
<h3>
(D) So, where do we stand?</h3>
<div>
<ul>
<li>It is my considered opinion that the road construction activity which had triggered the stand-off has ceased and hence, the resolution came about.</li>
<li>Chinese will be smarting from this loss of face - they did a horrendous miscalculation - and will try to test the tripwire as far as India and Bhutan are concerned.</li>
<li>For example, can they get away with larger body of troops based on the plateau? This would be a departure from the past where they only patrolled the plateau with lesser number of troops. It will represent more physical assertion of control. And to achieve this, Chinese will have to build permanent and more enhanced infrastructure. The very act of not objecting to Chinese infrastructure work will be considered a tactic acceptance of their objective of maintaining larger number of troops. </li>
<li>Can they work on improving existing track on the plateau? Remember, tracks coming from Senche La towards Doka La have existed from at least 2005 (as seen on historic Google Earth satellite imagery). Will work towards improvement of this older track evoke response from Bhutan or India?</li>
</ul>
<div>
As explained earlier, India and Bhutan cannot allow larger Chinese presence on the plateau and associated infrastructure development. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Whether this point becomes another flash-point will depend on what the Chinese do during the winter month. If the Chinese withdraw, then all is good. If they stay, and for that they'll have to improve infrastructure, then we're in store for more fireworks. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
However, what is most likely to happen is that Chinese will withdraw after lingering in the area a bit longer. But will come back during the next summer season. When they do this time, they would've worked out the contingencies in advance. This time, they were caught off-guard because they'd not gamed Indian response. Next time, they will factor in the same and prepare themselves for putting pressure at some other point(s) on the Sino-Indian border.</div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Long story short, this is not the last we've heard of Dolam Plateau.</div>
<div>
<h3>
(E) What is the media saying?</h3>
</div>
<div>
Lets look at some of the reports which have come out over past few days and check them for amount of truth in them.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>(1) India Today article </b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
[<a href="http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/doklam-standoff-china-india-bhutan-troop-withdrawal/1/1057579.html">http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/doklam-standoff-china-india-bhutan-troop-withdrawal/1/1057579.html</a>] </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This is fairly balanced piece which factually describes the situation and gives an impression of the overall military scenario in the Chumbi Valley sector. Describes the motive(s) behind heightened troops presence on the plateau, even after the disengagement.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
It says that about 300 troops are still in the area, living in the temporary shelters they'd built during the stand-off. It says that it remains to be seen if the Chinese troops stay on the plateau and that Indian Army is keeping a close watch on the ground situation.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Another important data-point from the report is that India has conveyed to the Chinese that the expected Status Quo Ante is the situation as it existed before the stand-off - <b>No presence of large number of troops on the plateau. And that the Chinese troops have to be located behind the Merug La - Sinche La ridge-line.</b></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<b>(2) NDTV</b> - Well, the NDTV report mixes up many things. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
[<a href="https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/just-10-km-from-last-doklam-stand-off-china-works-on-a-road-again-1759103">https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/just-10-km-from-last-doklam-stand-off-china-works-on-a-road-again-1759103</a>]</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
For example, it carries the following two statements:<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Barely a month after the winding down of an aggressive stand-off with India at the Sikkim border, the Chinese army is back to building a road on the Doklam Plateau, just 10 km from the location of the last conflict. The Doklam Plateau is claimed by both Beijing and Bhutan as their territory. India backs Bhutan's claim</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 16px;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now, barely 10 kilometres from the location of the stand-off, China is expanding an existing track, reinforcing its claim to the disputed and remote Doklam Plateau. India backs Bhutan's claim to the region and has made it clear that it will not tolerate any infrastructure that would allow China access to the Chicken's Neck, located just south of Doklam.</span></i></span></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Now, the whole of the plateau, from Sinche La towards east to Doka La towards west, is about 5 kms in width. The stand-off happened at a place close to Ridge-2. Road building activity 10 kms from the the stand-off site means a locality which is situated WITHIN the Chumbi Valley or more precisely, Chinese territory. And far away from the Dolam Plateau. Chinese are sure free to do what they want to within their territory.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, the satellite imagery used in the said report shows the stand-off site on the Dolam Plateau.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The same report also makes this statement:</span></div>
<div>
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Thwarted in its last attempt, China has now shifted its unused road construction material North and East of the face-off site. Road construction workers brought into the area are accompanied by up to 500 soldiers though there are no indicators that these soldiers will be permanently based in the area</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If the above part is correct i.e. the Chinese are indeed working on expanding existing road on the plateau itself that the earlier part of the report cannot be correct. Also, we don't know how much north is north and how much east is east? As it is, track widening of track towards east means work is happening, if the report is correct, on the existing track from Senche La towards Ridge-2. North of the stand-off site can mean widening of track going from Senche La towards the tri-junction at Batang La.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">While both of the above will be a point of concern to the Indian Army - any infrastructure enhancement will be of concern to the army - it is unlikely to become a flash-point immediately.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What the report does say is that there seem to be no work happening to permanently base the 500 odd Chinese troops and construction parties on the plateau itself.<i> </i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><i><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></i></span></div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">(3) Indian Express - Indian Express carried a report titled "About-1000 Chinese troops still near Doklam-standoff-area"</span></b></div>
<i><b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></i>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The main thrust of the report is as under:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><i><span style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">More than five weeks after India and China stepped back from a standoff at Doklam on the Sikkim border, Indian soldiers remain on high alert with around 1,000 Chinese troops still present on the plateau, a few hundred metres from the faceoff site, government sources told The Indian Express.</span></span></i></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The presence of the People’s Liberation Army has thinned in the area after the process of “disengagement” began on August 28, but one PLA battalion remains on the plateau, said sources. The battalion is located approximately 800m from the faceoff site, sources said.</span></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is on the same line as the NDTV Report (same source?) but the number of troops in the Indian Express report are double the number (500) mentioned in the NDTV report.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then it makes the following claim:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;"><i>The presence of Chinese soldiers in Chumbi Valley, where the plateau is located, was also acknowledged by Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa during his annual press conference on Thursday.</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;">First, to say that Dolam Plateau is situated in the Chumbi Valley is factually incorrect. It is located outside of the Valley. Second, while the Chief did mention about troop presence in Chumbi Valley, he did not refer to presence of troops on the plateau. Chumbi Valley is pretty long and additional Chinese troops could be anywhere in the valley.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e; text-align: start;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e;">What the Air Chief said can be gleaned from a different NDTV Report (</span><span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><a href="https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/chinese-troops-still-in-chumbi-valley-near-doklam-air-force-chief-1759037">https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/chinese-troops-still-in-chumbi-valley-near-doklam-air-force-chief-1759037</a>) :</span></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: start;">
<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="color: #3e3e3e; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">"The two sides are not in a physical face off as we speak, in face to face contact. However, their (Chinese) forces in Chumbi valley are still deployed," Air Chief Marshal Dhanoa said. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">"I expect the forces to withdraw in the future as their exercises in that area get over," he said.</span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In fact, the India Today report linked above mentions presence of Chinese troops including armor in an area north of North Sikkim for an extended period after having completed their maneuvers (which I think means exercise).</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Or as the this very Indian Express report says: </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Indian Express had reported on September 25 that a Chinese division of more than 12,000 soldiers, 150 tanks and artillery guns was moved opposite Sikkim at Phari Dzong in Chumbi Valley during the standoff. Sources confirmed the continued presence of PLA in the area but expect the deployment to be reduced by two-thirds to brigade-level in the coming weeks.</span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">What is obvious is that ACM Dhanoa wasn't talking about troops on the plateau itself.</span></span></div>
<h3>
(F) Conclusion</h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Indian Express report tries to play-up the presence of Chinese troops on the plateau as some sort of evidence against the 'disengagement' statement made by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). And that "all is not well". </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But this argument is clutching at the straws. Simply because the main and first objective was to get the Chinese to stop making a new road towards the Jhamperi Ridge and the same was achieved. Both sides stepped back from the stand-off site and that is what 'disengagement' meant.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Now comes the question of presence of additional troops (300?500?1,000?) on the plateau. As the India Today story reports, Indian Army has already conveyed to the Chinese that additional troops present on the plateau need to go behind the Senche La-Merug La line. Because as explained earlier, the mere presence of these troops on permanent basis on the plateau constitutes acceptance of Chinese control of the plateau. Something which India can simply not allow to happen.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">But this heightened number of troops on the plateau is an evolving situation. India can conveyed that it is a red-line and what remains to be seen is how the Chinese behave, especially with the winter setting-in on the plateau and in the region.</span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Any development that happens on the plateau - widening of existing tracks, larger number of troops on the plateau west of Sinche La-Merug La line, permanent structure for troops and stores etc. - represents a new challenge in this volatile area. And is likely to be tackled as it evolves. </span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #3e3e3e; font-family: inherit;">Please share your feedback and comments. And do point out mistakes.</span></div>
</div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-14113023175814610712017-08-14T02:11:00.000+05:302017-08-15T10:48:56.104+05:30Indian Army and Anti-Tank Guided Missiles<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KtmxTXoWZb0/V6wmTI6btAI/AAAAAAAAAVA/BDfr0irtkWk1QVX-GNSO17L7OC_UfDfVwCK4B/s1600/Nag_2697369f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWzrRFKaHNA/WZFOqcPulQI/AAAAAAAATcY/fXzI6ll32EcTgefcCTgAs1qdkvSz1FwvwCLcBGAs/s1600/Untitled%2Bdesign.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="312" data-original-width="512" height="243" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kWzrRFKaHNA/WZFOqcPulQI/AAAAAAAATcY/fXzI6ll32EcTgefcCTgAs1qdkvSz1FwvwCLcBGAs/s400/Untitled%2Bdesign.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NAMICA firing 3rd gen F&F NAG missile</td></tr>
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<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">India has selected the Israeli made 3rd generation, Fire and Forget (F&F) Spike-MR anti-tank guided missile for equipping its infantry. The missile has been developed by Rafael Advanced Defense System. Rafale has tied with Kalyani Group to co-produce the missile at their joint facility at Hyderabad.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The $1 billion deal covers purchase of 321 missile launchers, 8,456 missiles and 15 training simulators. There is further option of acquiring 1,500 additional launchers, 30,000 missiles with Transfer-of-Technology (TOT). Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), which is the main manufacturer of anti-tank missiles, will build these missiles. In fact, if news reports are to be believed, final integration of missile produced by Kalyani Rafael Advanced Systems (KRAL) will be done by Bharat Dynamics Limited.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">But the above purchase decision reflects filling only one component of India's anti-tank missile requirement. A 2010 report in Times of India gives the following details of overall ATGM requirement of the army:</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: start;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: , "roboto" , "arial" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 18px;">The Army, after all, has a shortfall of around 44,000 ATGMs of different types. "Though Army has an authorized holding of 81,206 ATGMs, not even half that number is present in its inventory,'' said a source</span></span></span></blockquote>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In this report, we take a look at India's anti-tank missile usage across multiple platforms. And how these are likely to be met in near future.</span><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">What is SACLOS? </span></h2>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">With a few exceptions, bulk of
anti-tank missiles are based on Semi-Automatic Command to Line of Sight
(SACLOS) guidance system. SACLOS guidance has following features:<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span>
<ul style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<li>In SACLOS, the operator has to
continually point a sighting device at the target while the missile is in
flight. Electronics in the sighting device and/or the missile then guide it to
the target. SACLOS devices commonly work using one of these methods:
wire-guided, radio-guided, or beam-riding.</li>
</span></ul>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
<ul style="font-family: inherit;">
<li>A wire-guided missile is a
missile that is guided by signals sent to it via thin wires connected between
the missile and its guidance mechanism, which is located somewhere near the
launch site. As the missile flies, the wires are reeled out behind it command
guidance.</li>
</ul>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cG1IR0cvZ8E/WZB2nX2WhNI/AAAAAAAATWk/VaRzR4afpl8u7bOaCFivIQuvc_r-kUWgQCLcBGAs/s1600/TOW-Missile-Launch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="720" height="225" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cG1IR0cvZ8E/WZB2nX2WhNI/AAAAAAAATWk/VaRzR4afpl8u7bOaCFivIQuvc_r-kUWgQCLcBGAs/s400/TOW-Missile-Launch.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TOW missile showing wire link between missile and launch post<br />
<i style="font-size: medium; text-align: right;"> Source: </i><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"><i>internet</i></span></td></tr>
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<ul style="font-family: inherit;">
<li>In case of Radio-Frequency (RF)
guided missiles, the guidance is sent from the missile-post to the missile
though RF mode. This is a wire-less version.</li>
</ul>
<div>
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoCKuQrDKyQ/WZB3COeC5qI/AAAAAAAATWo/c2aEdQSTJqoWJ9mS2_8Ix3gpP94S1_O_gCLcBGAs/s1600/2bedb372eed5ccb65efadf074c086b20561a888f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="576" data-original-width="720" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OoCKuQrDKyQ/WZB3COeC5qI/AAAAAAAATWo/c2aEdQSTJqoWJ9mS2_8Ix3gpP94S1_O_gCLcBGAs/s400/2bedb372eed5ccb65efadf074c086b20561a888f.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TOW-2A missile with RF guidance instead of wires</td></tr>
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<i style="text-align: right;"> Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet</i></span><br /><ul style="font-family: inherit;">
<li>With beam-riding SACLOS, the
sighting device emits a directional signal directed toward the target. A
detector in the tail of the missile looks for the signal. Electronics in the
missile then keep it centred in the beam. It differs from SARH (semi-active
radar homing) and SALH (semi-active laser homing) in which the target is
illuminated by a powerful emitter and a sensor in the head of missile detects
the reflected emissions and directs it to the target.</li>
</ul>
<div style="font-family: inherit;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: inherit;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</span></div>
<h2>
<span style="text-align: left;">Multiple Platforms, Multiple Missiles</span></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Indian Army employs anti-tank missiles across four major platforms. These are:</span></span></div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Infantry</b> - Infantry is equipped with man-portable anti-tank guided missiles. Each infantry battalion has organic anti-tank missile platoon. The number of missile launchers/unit is higher for plains as compared to mountains.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Mechanized Infantry</b> - Mechanized infantry of Indian Army consists of mechanized infantry battalions under Mechanized Infantry Regiment (MIR) and The Brigade of Guards Regiment. Both of these regiments are equipped with BMP-2 Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFV). Apart from 30mm main canon, BMP-2 also carries ATGM which is fired by the gunner of the IFV.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Armored Corps - </b>The T-90 tanks of the Armored Corps have the capability to fire ATGM from the main 125mm smooth-bore cannon.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Army Aviation Corps</b> - Till the advent of Weapon Systems Integrated (WSI) - Dhruv or Rudra attack helicopter in the army, only IAF Mi-25/35 attack helicopters carried air-to-surface anti-tank missiles. Once Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) is inducted, it will also require air-launched ATGM.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">
<i>Note 1: Anti-Tank Guided Missile Battalions</i></h3>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Indian Army till a decade back had dedicated ATGM Battalions. From what I know, there were four such ATGM battalions, all with The Brigade of Guards. 17 Guards was one such ATGM battalion.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">A 2012 report in Indian Express by noted defense analysts Mandeep Singh Bajwa, gives the following details about this battalion:</span></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The 17 Guards, popularly known as the Tankbusters, was raised as an ATGM (anti-tank guided missile) battalion and leaders in the induction of new technology and weaponry, something which the top brass was at that time loath to initiate with regard to the Poor Bloody Infantry (PBI). </span></i></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">They were the first unit to be equipped with the French MILAN (Missile d´Infanterie Léger ANtichar) second-generation missile. The battalion deployed nine missile detachments during the Kargil war along with assaulting infantry battalions. These were effectively used for bunker-bursting, providing much-needed fire support capacity to the battalions they were embedded with.</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">The battalion now has a different role and equipment, but the same pride and professionalism which have carried it through the decades</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This new role refers to conversion of the unit into Reconnaissance & Support (R&S) role. The same conversion seems to have happened to other battalions as well. More on these vital Recce & Support battalions later.</span><br />
<h2>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Employment Details</span></h2>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Missiles operated by each of the above platforms is as under:</span></span><br />
<h3>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(A) <u>Infantry: Milan-2/Milan-2T and Konkur-M missiles</u></span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><br /></b>
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="347" data-original-width="431" height="321" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CG7asgVRRRw/WYXvlsPRGCI/AAAAAAAATC0/evtRj_-eKVYrGoIsbixSg-ZE5m_YbrtAwCLcBGAs/s400/5630880.jpg" width="400" /></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CG7asgVRRRw/WYXvlsPRGCI/AAAAAAAATC0/evtRj_-eKVYrGoIsbixSg-ZE5m_YbrtAwCLcBGAs/s1600/5630880.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">BDL made Milan-2 missile</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>http://356007295890291112.weebly.com/)</i></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--NPbFoRTPtU/WYVihcQRw-I/AAAAAAAATAk/O6BX19GCP1o1LVwXu-v5QjXb80CEh974gCLcBGAs/s1600/XDaSXzK.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="560" data-original-width="980" height="227" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/--NPbFoRTPtU/WYVihcQRw-I/AAAAAAAATAk/O6BX19GCP1o1LVwXu-v5QjXb80CEh974gCLcBGAs/s400/XDaSXzK.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jeep mounted Milan-2 missile</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Milan-2 is a French 2nd-generation (SACLOS - Semi-automatic command-to-line-of-sight) man-portable ATGM which is produced in India by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). Milan-2T is advanced version of the same missile with tandem warhead (two warheads-one behind the other).</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Initially, Milan-1 was the mainstay ATGM of the infantry. Milan-2 started entering service in the IA by mid-80s and Milan-1 was phased out. Subsequently, with the proliferation of Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) on tanks, missiles with tandem warhead became necessary. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">General Staff Qualitative Requirement (GSQR) for Milan-2T was issued in 2003 and after some drama symptomatic of working of Defense Public Sector Undertakings (DPSU), order was placed for 4,100 missiles in 2008. This was to be completed in 36 months period. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">However, it must be added that Milan-2T does not have a tandem warhead in true sense. Instead of two shaped charged warheads back-to-back, it has a small sharped charge at end of the probe (in addition to main sharped charge warhead) to improve armor penetration.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KkOam2mpxzw/WYVphfVudzI/AAAAAAAATA0/zjP-d8DQdFoO4_Xvw19oGibf7U3j4m9mwCLcBGAs/s1600/milan2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="606" height="241" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KkOam2mpxzw/WYVphfVudzI/AAAAAAAATA0/zjP-d8DQdFoO4_Xvw19oGibf7U3j4m9mwCLcBGAs/s400/milan2.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Evolution of Milan ATGM</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet)</i></span></span></div>
<h4 style="text-align: justify;">
(A.1) Milan/Milan-2T Usage</h4>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Milan-2/2T missiles can be mounted on a platform or operated on man-pack basis by a 2 member team consisting of a gunner and loader. The Milan-2T missile weighs 7.1 kg while the French made tripod with guidance unit weighs about 14 Kg. Total weight comes out to be 22-23 Kg. However, Indian Army uses a common missile launcher across Milan and Konkur missiles known as FLAME, which is on heavier side. More on it later.</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There is no public data available on number of launchers/missiles per infantry battalion. Though, some news report spoke of each infantry battalion in the plains equipped with 4 x long range ATGM and 4 x short-range ATGM launchers. The report also speak of 1 x long range and 1 x short range ATGM launchers for battalions in mountain warfare role. This gives 8 missile launchers per battalion for plains/deserts and 2 for mountains. Number of missiles per launcher is 6 in both the cases. So, an infantry battalion in plains has 8 x 6 = 48 missiles in its inventory. The same number for mountainous region is 12 missile per battalion.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Considering 2 x missile launchers per company for a 4 x rifle company structure of Indian Army infantry battalions, 8 missiles launchers per battalion should be correct. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Konkur-M missiles are discussed in subsequent section.</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y44XOjPOKo/WYXsySMvwZI/AAAAAAAATCo/UwUxK2a188cIDfkWY6d4folwjBEmFj5VgCLcBGAs/s1600/787bd8d8eeac5858db0a9f598bcdfbda.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="629" height="239" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1Y44XOjPOKo/WYXsySMvwZI/AAAAAAAATCo/UwUxK2a188cIDfkWY6d4folwjBEmFj5VgCLcBGAs/s320/787bd8d8eeac5858db0a9f598bcdfbda.png" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Foreign army soldier with Milan missile and launcher</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>http://www.defence24.com)</i></span></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Indian Army ATGM team with Milan missile mounted on a Jonga</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>bharat-rakshak.com)</i></span></span></div>
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<i style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Indian Army ATGM team with Milan missile mounted on a Jonga</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>bharat-rakshak.com)</i></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOzK6xQ2qjQ/WYV0NH0Uf8I/AAAAAAAATBc/r8W3GCrO3FQ1VTTwwf2-3kehfUMtY3PVgCEwYBhgL/s1600/0030.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="615" data-original-width="550" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YOzK6xQ2qjQ/WYV0NH0Uf8I/AAAAAAAATBc/r8W3GCrO3FQ1VTTwwf2-3kehfUMtY3PVgCEwYBhgL/s400/0030.jpg" width="357" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <i style="text-align: right;"> Indian Army 2-man ATGM team with Milan missile and FLAME launcher</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>bharat-rakshak.com)</i></span></span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--u8BtbxOk1c/WYV0ODbsgiI/AAAAAAAATBc/7zjRYiVkyVM0Mp5mLct7qZZSUwOsM9cmwCEwYBhgL/s1600/22451c368339d2ffc555aa360e0c7b0c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="342" data-original-width="480" height="285" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/--u8BtbxOk1c/WYV0ODbsgiI/AAAAAAAATBc/7zjRYiVkyVM0Mp5mLct7qZZSUwOsM9cmwCEwYBhgL/s400/22451c368339d2ffc555aa360e0c7b0c.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;"> Indian Army mounted Milan missile and FLAME launcher</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>bharat-rakshak.com)</i></span></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(A.2) FLAME launcher</span></h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">If you compare the first two images above (French soldier with Milan missile and Jonga mounted Indian ATGM team) with fourth and fifth image above, you can make out the difference between the aiming and guidance kit.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The first two pics show the tripod cum aiming+guidance kit as obtained from France. Fourth and fight picture show Milan missile mounted on FLAME launcher. Where FLAME stands for - <b>Fagot Launcher Adapted to Milan Equipment.</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Fagot here refers 9K111 Fagot ATGM (NATO reporting name - AT-4 Spigot) which India operated with BMP-1 vehicles. Konkur-M (NATO reporting name - AT-5b Spandrel) which is the current ATGM on BMP-2 is further development of AT-4 and utilizes a similar tripod launcher.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The FLAME launcher which has been adapted from AT-4 missile is 9P135M; this is a Soviet Union/Russian launcher which could fire both AT-4/AT-4C and AT-5 missiles.</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Further, there are two versions of FLAME launcher - (a) FLAME-G: Ground version to be used only for Milan-2 missile. (b) FLAME-V: Mounted version which can fire both Milan-2 and Konkur-M/AT-5B missile and which can also be used in dismounted role. This build flexibility and mechanized troops can use Milan-2/2T if required (but not other way around) </span></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B8ldHj9qP_Q/WYV0OgClXFI/AAAAAAAATBc/-Plw88-2zOsB6mfBeSEYEBcGYkqv8z1PgCEwYBhgL/s1600/IMG_0104.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1068" data-original-width="1600" height="266" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-B8ldHj9qP_Q/WYV0OgClXFI/AAAAAAAATBc/-Plw88-2zOsB6mfBeSEYEBcGYkqv8z1PgCEwYBhgL/s400/IMG_0104.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">BDL FLAME launcher for Milan missile</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: www.</i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>jjamwal.in)</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As per BDL website, the launcher weighs 26 Kg - this is the combined weight of tripod, </span><span style="background-color: white;">9S451 guidance controller box (rectangular structure below the missile) and a9Sh119 optical sight unit. While BDL site does not mention this but the mounted version of FLAME launcher is said to be heavier at 35 kg. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For comparison purpose, check the AT-4 and AT-5 missiles with their launchers:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1000" height="194" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rqa8bnMakyU/WYXShMu1LgI/AAAAAAAATBw/jRFrSLEtu9k0xYbHQJW5WJwm4pk2U7YJwCLcBGAs/s200/AT-4-Spigot-103.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="200" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AT-4 missile <i>(source: internet)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rqa8bnMakyU/WYXShMu1LgI/AAAAAAAATBw/jRFrSLEtu9k0xYbHQJW5WJwm4pk2U7YJwCLcBGAs/s1600/AT-4-Spigot-103.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8mUXKbPffU/WYXSgbnodiI/AAAAAAAATBs/s5dPnahOasQ_1XFYLx72rwE4dYkMfvY5wCLcBGAs/s1600/konkurs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8mUXKbPffU/WYXSgbnodiI/AAAAAAAATBs/s5dPnahOasQ_1XFYLx72rwE4dYkMfvY5wCLcBGAs/s1600/konkurs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="212" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G8mUXKbPffU/WYXSgbnodiI/AAAAAAAATBs/s5dPnahOasQ_1XFYLx72rwE4dYkMfvY5wCLcBGAs/s320/konkurs.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AT-5 Konkur missile<i> (source: internet)</i></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">T</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">he blast protection sheet which gives protection to the gunner from the missile tube seems to have been carried forward from original French launcher for Milan missile.</span></div>
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<h4 style="text-align: left;">
(A.3) <i>Note 2: The Kornet-E Mystery</i></h4>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Du0VrLJUX0/WZB8G8GjOlI/AAAAAAAATW4/wHtbE8Pdu5wif0KRKhU8USqUefENyGjRACLcBGAs/s1600/kornet_l7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="641" data-original-width="1024" height="250" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2Du0VrLJUX0/WZB8G8GjOlI/AAAAAAAATW4/wHtbE8Pdu5wif0KRKhU8USqUefENyGjRACLcBGAs/s400/kornet_l7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The Stockholm International Peace
Research Institute (SIPRI) in it arms trade register documents a 2003 deal for
supply of 250 launchers and 3,000 Kornet-E missiles. This has been affirmed by
writing of Brigadier Gurmeet Kanwal (retd) where he mentioned induction of
these missiles. It is generally believed that these missiles were imported after lesson learnt in employment of ATGMs in Kargil war. A missile like Kornet with heavy cum specialized warhead (thermobaric) will be able to take out the kind of fortified structures encountered during Kargil War. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Considering the relatively small number of launchers and missiles ordered, it is very likely that these were for specialized units like dedicated ATGM battalions (which existed earlier). B</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ut as explained in next section, ATGM units themselves have converted to tracked and wheeled Recce & Support (R&S) role.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It is not clear at present which arm - infantry or mechanized infantry - employs this potent missile.</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>(A.3.1) Missile details</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">9M113 Kornet (NATO reporting
name: AT-14 ‘Spriggan’) is a heavy laser-beam riding ATGM which is meant to
destroy the most well armoured tanks. It was developed as a successor to
AT-4/AT-5 family of missiles with the objective of taking on the heavy western
main battle tanks. But given the prize of the missile and state of Russian
economy post 1991, one-on-one replacement was ruled out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The missile has
achieved fame, or notoriety, depending on who you speak to, for knocking out leading
main battle tanks like US Abrams and Israeli Merkava. One of the main reasons
ascribed to Hezbollah knocking out 40+ Israeli tanks during 2006 Lebanon invasion
was use of Kornet-E missile. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The missile system consists of
9P163-1 portable launcher with 1P45-1 Sight Tracker, mechanical drives to steer
the missile and 1PN79-1 Thermal Imager. The Kornet Missile comes in two
configurations – 9M133-1 (anti-tank-HEAT-tandem warhead) and 9M133F-1
(thermobaric warhead for bunkers/fortified positions). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The missile weighs 29 kg with
tube and the whole launcher with missile weights in excess of 50 Kg. The
1PN79-1 Thermal Imager itself weights more than 11 kg. Kornet-E is not exactly
a man-portable system – it can be carried short-distance by a 2-man crew but
needs a vehicle for longer range movement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aHMOqp1rb1U/WZB8qWGuXLI/AAAAAAAATW8/sdTf7dnY7Fs51Uu9-LILSElJDLqodthmQCLcBGAs/s1600/1200px-9M133_Kornet.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aHMOqp1rb1U/WZB8qWGuXLI/AAAAAAAATW8/sdTf7dnY7Fs51Uu9-LILSElJDLqodthmQCLcBGAs/s400/1200px-9M133_Kornet.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kornet missile with launcher. Thermal sight 1PN79-1 can be clearly seen. <i>(source: internet)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">It represents a very potent
missile against any </span>armor<span style="font-family: inherit;"> on India’s eastern or western border. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u><br /></u></span></b></div>
<h3>
(B) <b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>Mechanized Infantry: Konkur-M missiles</u></span></b></h3>
</div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Mechanized infantry, both from Mechanized Infantry Regiment (MIR) and The Brigade of Guards (or simply The Guards) have anti-tank role across two main categories:</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Mechanized Infantry Battalions: Equipped with BMP-2</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reconnaissance & Support Battalion (Recce & Support-R&S) - R&S battalions are further of two types:</span></li>
</ul>
<ul><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Tracked - Equipped with BMP-2</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ul><ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Wheeled - Jeep mounted ATGM and BRDM-2</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
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<h4>
(B.1) <b><span style="font-family: inherit;">BMP-2</span></b></h4>
</div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lz-8W88zOcs/WYXkq_-V51I/AAAAAAAATCI/tPf3ZYFP4m4mhYllxwxgh-qnrcwYIxxaQCLcBGAs/s1600/BMP-2_Sarath_AIFV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="505" data-original-width="640" height="315" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Lz-8W88zOcs/WYXkq_-V51I/AAAAAAAATCI/tPf3ZYFP4m4mhYllxwxgh-qnrcwYIxxaQCLcBGAs/s400/BMP-2_Sarath_AIFV.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">BMP-2 of Indian Army during R-Day Parade</span></i></div>
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<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: www.defenceupdate</i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>.in)</i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_thUVutm9Nc/WYXpTw43QOI/AAAAAAAATCc/BhfLQsrTVBgfBKjcD5NM8LothvdW-gMRgCLcBGAs/s1600/bmp2-dune.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1200" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_thUVutm9Nc/WYXpTw43QOI/AAAAAAAATCc/BhfLQsrTVBgfBKjcD5NM8LothvdW-gMRgCLcBGAs/s400/bmp2-dune.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Heavily camouflaged BMP-2 during exercise</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>bharat-rakshak.com)</i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">BMP-2 has a single ATGM launcher mounted on the roof between the commander and gunners hatch. 9M113M 'Konkur-M' (NATO reporting name: AT-5B Spandrel B) is the standard ATGM missile. Each BMP-2 carries 4 anti-tank missiles.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The missile launcher/firing post is capable of 360 degree rotation and -5 to +15 degree elevation. Missile is fired by the gunner from within the turret without having to expose himself. This is achieved with integration of missile's optical fire-control system with the gunner's main fire-control system. Though, missile reload requires gunner/commander to expose himself. Further, each BMP-2 also carries an additional FLAME launcher to fire the missile in dismounted mode from ground and away from the vehicle.</span></span><br />
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</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7Ynt4P0MQw/WYYE94YGB2I/AAAAAAAATDI/t2FViEY-4T4hg4zHKiwhVcHbRkVINr5ZwCLcBGAs/s1600/d8u45yf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="1200" height="213" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7Ynt4P0MQw/WYYE94YGB2I/AAAAAAAATDI/t2FViEY-4T4hg4zHKiwhVcHbRkVINr5ZwCLcBGAs/s320/d8u45yf.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <i style="text-align: right;">BMP-2 firing older version of Konkur Missile (not Indian Army)</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet)</i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7xAniSO_dPg/WYYE9c2ixRI/AAAAAAAATDE/rf62QB9mGW89yF3Zz3zSFCKHQqgoc05_gCLcBGAs/s1600/f0205060_54040f99848e3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="213" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7xAniSO_dPg/WYYE9c2ixRI/AAAAAAAATDE/rf62QB9mGW89yF3Zz3zSFCKHQqgoc05_gCLcBGAs/s320/f0205060_54040f99848e3.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <i>BMP-2 firing older version of Konkur Missile (not Indian Army)</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet)</i></span></span></div>
<h4>
(B.2) <b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">9M113M 'Konkur-M 'Missiles</span></b></h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UEtGylVrK78/WYYP81zOkeI/AAAAAAAATDY/F0_wo0xwGgkRPF2-E2IPJJhWY48bAEp7QCLcBGAs/s1600/3c5b9ef37094e051c20162eeb21c760f.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="285" data-original-width="500" height="182" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UEtGylVrK78/WYYP81zOkeI/AAAAAAAATDY/F0_wo0xwGgkRPF2-E2IPJJhWY48bAEp7QCLcBGAs/s320/3c5b9ef37094e051c20162eeb21c760f.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Konkur-M Missile with extended probe in front</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet)</i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">9M113M Konkur-M missile is an evolution of 9M113 Konkur missile. Latter is referred to as AT-5 Spandrel while former is called AT-5B Spandrel. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The main difference between the two missiles is presence a probe in front of the missile and tandem High Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) warheads. The probe is extended from the missile on launch. The presence of probe and tandem warhead helps to defeat the Explosive Reactive Armor (ERA) on modern tank and improve armor penetration. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This video from Syria shows a Konkur-M missile being fired. As the missile is fired, the front part of the missile clears the canister and missile stop for a split second. The probe is extended and missile is ejected. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/zopwVY9L6mA/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zopwVY9L6mA?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Considering that both infantry and mechanized infantry use Konkur/Konkur-M missile, it has to be the most widely held ATGM in the Indian Army. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In 2012, India entered into agreement with Russia for purchase of 10,000 Konkur-M missiles for USD 225 million. As per a report by </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Stockholm International Peace Research Institute`s (SIPRI) arms transfer database, Russia had supplied 7,000 missiles by 2015. Prior to this, some 28,000 Konkur and Konkur-M missiles (Konkur-M from 2003 </span>onward<span style="font-family: inherit;">) have already been manufactured/imported by BDL.</span></span><br />
<h4>
(B.3) <b style="font-family: inherit;">Reconnaissance & Support Battalions (Recce & Support)</b></h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In Mid-80s, some vanilla infantry divisions were modified and termed as RAPID - Reorganized Army Plains Infantry Division. Each RAPID had 1 x Armored Brigade + 2 x Infantry Brigades. Armor Brigade consisted of 2 x Mechanized Infantry Battalions + 2 x Armored Regiments. In addition, each RAPID also had 1 x Recce & Support Battalion (some accounts say one of the two mechanized infantry battalions in armored bde was R&S battalion and there is not separate R&S battalion).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">There were initially four RAPID (14, 18, 24 and 36 RAPID) but the same number now stands at 6 with 4 and 12 infantry divisions having converted to RAPID. The number of Recce & Support battalions has also proliferated accordingly. And it is likely that R&S battalions have been allotted beyond RAPIDs to plain infantry divisions as well.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">R&S battalions come in two variants which I think is driven by terrain and operational requirements.</span></span><br />
<h4>
(B.3.1) <b style="font-family: inherit;">Reconnaissance & Support (Tracked)</b></h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">These R&S battalions are equipped with BMP-2 IFV and also have Battlefield Surveillance Radar-Medium Range (BFSR-MR).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: start;">In this video from "Jai Hind with Rocky & Mayur" they spend time with 17th Battalion, Brigade of Guards nicknamed as 'Tank-busters'. This is the same battalion which converted from pure ATGM role to R&S role. You can see the TATRA mounted BFSR-MR being deployed in the video.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/Hxx_JSgNyT4/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hxx_JSgNyT4?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>Source: NDTV Good Times</i></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;"></span>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAdMA-ki3Ng/WYayQzh3UsI/AAAAAAAATF8/6w5i0sg-CeE4RJrqwc362dhlcXw87ahagCEwYBhgL/s1600/BEL-Built%2BStentor%2BBFSR-MR%2Bon%2BRaisable%2BMast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1387" data-original-width="1600" height="277" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZAdMA-ki3Ng/WYayQzh3UsI/AAAAAAAATF8/6w5i0sg-CeE4RJrqwc362dhlcXw87ahagCEwYBhgL/s320/BEL-Built%2BStentor%2BBFSR-MR%2Bon%2BRaisable%2BMast.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">
<i style="text-align: right;"> BFSR-MR with hydraulic mast. (s</i></span><i style="text-align: right;">ource: </i><i>trishul-trident.blogspot.in)</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<h4>
(B.3.2) <b style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Reconnaissance & Support (Wheeled)</span></b></h4>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Wheeled R&S battalions are equipped with Jeep mounted ATGM and BRDM-2 (ATGM version - 9P148). Each BRDM-2 carries 5 x Konkur-M ready-to-fire missiles along with 10 reloads. Most likely these are also equipped with BFSR-MR.</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KZtx8qW-Ug/WYarmeJ8-nI/AAAAAAAATFo/n8taDZ8Ng-gTzsvyF9yQznCARW7dzDIzwCLcBGAs/s1600/l200601267170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="263" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_KZtx8qW-Ug/WYarmeJ8-nI/AAAAAAAATFo/n8taDZ8Ng-gTzsvyF9yQznCARW7dzDIzwCLcBGAs/s400/l200601267170.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="text-align: right;"> </span><i style="text-align: right;">BRDM-2 from a R&S (Wheeled) battalion which is part of 7 Infantry Division</i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet)</i></span></span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fz5Xjfc3jtQ/WYarxgl2bkI/AAAAAAAATFs/qTlJ-3upmngoeDKEQJiWbIA0Zv6kp5T0ACLcBGAs/s1600/Romanian_9P148_Konkurs_cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="972" data-original-width="1442" height="268" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fz5Xjfc3jtQ/WYarxgl2bkI/AAAAAAAATFs/qTlJ-3upmngoeDKEQJiWbIA0Zv6kp5T0ACLcBGAs/s400/Romanian_9P148_Konkurs_cropped.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i><span style="font-family: inherit;">Polish Army 9P148 BRDM-2 firing older Konkur missile</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>(Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>internet)</i></span></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This short video shows a 9P148 BRDM-2 of Polish Army and mechanism of raising the missiles from within vehicle and swiveling them to acquire target.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ELDie1b6C90/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ELDie1b6C90?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">You can check out this longer video of BRDM-2 of Hungarian army in action. It shows missile firing from BRDM-2 as well - </span><a href="https://youtu.be/G4otByrUW_s">https://youtu.be/G4otByrUW_s</a></span><br />
<h3>
(C) <b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Armored Corps: T-90 Main Battle Tank</span></b></h3>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVnFEAJGGkA/WYhsCv4ideI/AAAAAAAATK0/D0kriM4FbTwcXMTjeLYppPDjTM-Mt18hwCLcBGAs/s1600/refleks-m.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="247" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rVnFEAJGGkA/WYhsCv4ideI/AAAAAAAATK0/D0kriM4FbTwcXMTjeLYppPDjTM-Mt18hwCLcBGAs/s320/refleks-m.jpg" width="263" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Invar ATGM (9M-119M)</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="text-align: right;"> (Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>fofanov.armor.kiev.ua)</i></span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The T-90 'Bhishma' tank of the Indian Army has the capability to fire an anti-tank missile through its main gun. This missile is called as Invar (NATO reporting name: AT-11B 'Sniper'. This is a laser beam riding, semi-automatic command-to-line of sight (SACLOS) missile. It is guided by the tank gunner through a laser guidance complex integrated with the gunner's main sight.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Details about the missile from <i>fofanov.armor.kiev.ua</i>:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"The 9K119M Refleks-M (AT-11 SNIPER-B) is a guided weapons system launched from the 2A46M main gun of <a href="http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/MBT/t-80.html">T-80</a> and <a href="http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/Tanks/MBT/t-90.html">T-90</a> MBTs. The 9K119M system uses beam-riding laser guidance. The tank directs a coded beam from a special gunner's sight, which creates a laser "funnel" with the missile riding in the center. The 9K119M uses the 9M119M missile." </i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The ammunition round is 3UBK20 and consists of the 9M119M missile and the 9Kh949 reduced charge propellant casing with a spacer plug which seats the missile properly into the main gun. </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The 3UBK20 ammunition fits into the normal autoloader on the tank, and the normal load is 6 missiles. Due to high cost of the system, usually only elite regiments shall have the missiles in a loadout.</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The 9M119M missile uses a tandem configuration with the precursor charge for overcoming ERA"</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Apart from seating the missile properly<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-size: 14px;"> </span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">" the piston plus also </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;">protects the laser beam receiver at the base of the missile from propellant gasses. Since the laser beam receiver is located at the rear of the missile, it is imperative to minimize the shock of firing the missile, which is why the piston has a buffer spring" <i>(Source:</i></span></span><span style="color: #333333;"><i>thesovietarmourblog.blogspot.in)</i></span></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">The image below shows the arrangement of missile (No-2) and charge-9Kh949 (No-5):</span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hix3RJQnbQA/WYhyF8-THnI/AAAAAAAATLM/8q7FRy7tgx8Jy9YwQCRpvDqVRxRavqU5wCLcBGAs/s1600/Invar-gun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" data-original-height="405" data-original-width="664" height="242" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hix3RJQnbQA/WYhyF8-THnI/AAAAAAAATLM/8q7FRy7tgx8Jy9YwQCRpvDqVRxRavqU5wCLcBGAs/s400/Invar-gun.jpg" width="400" /></span></a></div>
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<i style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i style="text-align: right;"> (Source: </i><span style="text-align: justify;"><i>thaimilitaryandasianregion.wordpress.com)</i></span></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">Video of T-80 firing a Refleks missile (3UBK-14 round, 9M119 missile) of which Invar or Refleks-M is an evolution:</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/MC8e5KT8IDg/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MC8e5KT8IDg?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">India signed a contract with Russia for 25,000 Invar missiles in 2011. Of these, 10,000 missiles were to come from Russia while BDL is to manufacture balance 15,000 missiles.</span><br />
<h3>
(D) <b style="font-family: inherit;">Army Aviation Corps: Rudra & Light Combat Helicopter</b></h3>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: justify;">
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Till the advent of Rudra or
WSI-Dhruv, the Army Aviation Corps (AAC) did not operate any combat helicopter.
In 2013, AAC accepted two Rudra helicopters and raised the 251 (Armed)
Squadron. Another squadron is likely to be raised soon under Eastern Command
followed by third under Northern Command. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">As per media reports, IA intends
to raise 06 squadrons with 10 Rudra helicopters each. Then, we have the Light
Combat Helicopter (LCH) under development. It should enter service in few years
and IA seems to be looking for 114 machines.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Both helicopters have capability
of carrying air-launched ATGM. It was planned that HELINA (air-launched version
of NAG missile) will be used for these helicopters. However, the final
development phase of HELINA seems to be taking longer than expected. And IA has
requested for interim purchase of foreign air-launched ATGM to fill the gap. German
PARS-3 LR is a candidate for foreign acquisition. But there seems to be no movement
on this purchase request at the moment.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">In addition to Rudra and LCH, IA
has also requested for 39 Apache attack helicopters from USA. A May 17, 2017
report in The Hindu said that IA is likely to get 11 Apaches gunships. If this
induction happens, it will bring with it another type of air-launched ATGM, the
famous Hellfire missile.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "symbol"; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"><br /></span></span></div>
<h3>
(E)<span style="font-family: "symbol"; text-indent: -18pt;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman"; font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;"> </span></span><span style="text-indent: -18pt;">Indigenous development</span></h3>
<h4>
<span style="text-indent: -18pt;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: inherit;">(E.1) NAG:</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mm1cHhUU3-Q/WZCoMEq3cyI/AAAAAAAATZE/THACucd7v4M8_fzSA46tmEo502l6zrJmwCLcBGAs/s1600/nag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="600" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mm1cHhUU3-Q/WZCoMEq3cyI/AAAAAAAATZE/THACucd7v4M8_fzSA46tmEo502l6zrJmwCLcBGAs/s400/nag.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NAG missile</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-78z6hBnQURM/WZCph9JH8wI/AAAAAAAATZQ/bAYr4FiU3x0q2Hb_gXgJE1cs7_ZLlz9NwCLcBGAs/s1600/NAMICA%2527s%2BLatest%2BVersion-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="925" data-original-width="1600" height="231" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-78z6hBnQURM/WZCph9JH8wI/AAAAAAAATZQ/bAYr4FiU3x0q2Hb_gXgJE1cs7_ZLlz9NwCLcBGAs/s400/NAMICA%2527s%2BLatest%2BVersion-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Latest iteration of NAMICA vehicle (source: <i style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: right;">trishul-trident.blogspot.in/)</i></td></tr>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/z9VN4sXJbTo/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/z9VN4sXJbTo?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<i>A 2010 video of NAG missile tests. It very clearly shows the lofted profile of the missile and it hitting the top part of the tank target</i></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The most
well-known anti-tank missile under development by DRDO. It is a 3<sup>rd</sup>
Generation, Fire-and-Forget missile, top-attack missile which uses Imaging
Infrared (IIR) seeker. The missile works in Lock-On-Before-Launch (LOBL) mode.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">NAG is a
heavy missile weighing in excess of 40 kg and fired from a dedicated platform
known as NAMICA based on BMP-2.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It has no
prior equivalence in the Indian Army and when inducted, it will represent
addition of new anti-tank capability. In fact, there are only few missiles in
the this class.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The F&F
guidance system means the launch vehicle can move out after firing the missile
which leads to better survivability. Further, the missile is ‘top-attack’ –
which means it attacks the top section of a tank’s turret, a place with weakest
armour ensuring effective kill.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">As per the
latest news report, the missile has successfully undergone development trials
in second week of June with improved target seeker; the missile demonstrated
ability to hit target at 4 km range under highest daytime temperature (11am to
3pm). It is likely that missile will now enter User-Trials.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Recce
& Support (R&S) battalions of the army are likely to be the first
candidate for these missiles.</span></li>
</ul>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"> (E.2) HELINA (Helicopter Launcher
NAG):</span></h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LPBNZVQlZ7A/WZCWDphvhcI/AAAAAAAATX4/6GZDJwvrqTYcwNs_z8k0RBVkIYq3MBqSACLcBGAs/s1600/13lead3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="221" data-original-width="670" height="131" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LPBNZVQlZ7A/WZCWDphvhcI/AAAAAAAATX4/6GZDJwvrqTYcwNs_z8k0RBVkIYq3MBqSACLcBGAs/s400/13lead3.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HELINA being fired from WSI-Dhruv/Rudra helicopter <i>(source: internet)</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ubT5S6o-KLY/WZCopehP15I/AAAAAAAATZI/sIhZeTlqnowZ8c077AH1quZl2RcgdwfMwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1050072.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="768" data-original-width="1024" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ubT5S6o-KLY/WZCopehP15I/AAAAAAAATZI/sIhZeTlqnowZ8c077AH1quZl2RcgdwfMwCLcBGAs/s320/P1050072.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">HELINA missile in its launcher tube</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vY79BHnc_d4/WZCWGiLasaI/AAAAAAAATX8/hplj3wBxe3gYeJh_7PuAnGRJTj9RvdIrACLcBGAs/s1600/Q0LGb4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="481" data-original-width="1024" height="187" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vY79BHnc_d4/WZCWGiLasaI/AAAAAAAATX8/hplj3wBxe3gYeJh_7PuAnGRJTj9RvdIrACLcBGAs/s400/Q0LGb4b.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Close-up of HELINA missile leaving WSI-Dhruv/Rudra. The exhausts from mid-body mounted booster rocket of the missile are visible <i>(image source: internet)</i><i><br /></i><br />
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<tr><td><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V7DnmMOaGfc/WZCgFljxoxI/AAAAAAAATYo/QRaaVjxILrc7shZ5YQ_U7VroJYUkZ9jUgCLcBGAs/s1600/HELINA%2BWarhead.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1211" data-original-width="1600" height="302" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V7DnmMOaGfc/WZCgFljxoxI/AAAAAAAATYo/QRaaVjxILrc7shZ5YQ_U7VroJYUkZ9jUgCLcBGAs/s400/HELINA%2BWarhead.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i style="font-size: 12.8px; text-align: right;"> Source: http://trishul-trident.blogspot.in/</i></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">HELINA is the helicopter
launched version of NAG missile.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">It is being developed for use
abroad the WSI-Dhruv/Rudra and Light Combat Helicopter.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">HELINA is an advanced, third
generation missile which has 7km range, Lock-on-After-Launch (LOAL) capability
and 2-way RF command-and-video data link.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The LOAL capability allows the
helicopter to fire the missile in general area of the target and then use
missile’s seeker to lock-on when the target becomes clear. As the missile gets
closer to the target area, the missile seeker pics up the target(s). The 2-way
RF command-and-video data link transfers the seeker video to gunner’s cockpit.
The gunner can then place the target tracker on a specific target. Post this,
the gunner can either guide the missile himself to the target or missile does
so autonomously.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The 2-way RF video-and-command
link was achieved in 2011. The missile achieved 7 km range from ground-launch
platform in 2013.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">In June 2014, the missile was
fired from Rudra helicopter and achieved 7 km range from airborne platform.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Again in mid-2015, ‘hot fire’
trial of HELINA was done for 7 km range. Of three missiles fired, 2 managed to
hit the target.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The missile was to be tested
in September 2016 with a new Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker with more sensitive
Focal Plane Array (FPA); earlier version had 128x128 FPA while September 2016
test will have missile with 640X512 FPA. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Considering that army is keen to acquire an interim ATGM for already inducted Rudra helicopters and for those to be shortly inducted, it seems there is some development work pending on the missile</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>There is unverified report that HELINA is under-going redesign to ensure the exhaust from mid-body mounted booster don't radiate outwards. Instead, the exhaust will now pass through the body of the missile and exit from the rear.</li>
</ul>
<h4>
(E.3) Canon-Launched Guided Missile
(CLGM)</h4>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jbtw9M12FZE/WZCYFIpb9mI/AAAAAAAATYI/UlOzWY5n2egoI2B0rOtQV95LSFwa9p1YQCLcBGAs/s1600/14183931_1250533365010111_8446266712484526301_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="960" height="300" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jbtw9M12FZE/WZCYFIpb9mI/AAAAAAAATYI/UlOzWY5n2egoI2B0rOtQV95LSFwa9p1YQCLcBGAs/s400/14183931_1250533365010111_8446266712484526301_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Canon-Launched Guided Missile. Also seen is the FLAME launcher <i>(souce: https://www.facebook.com/TejasMrca)</i><br />
<br /></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yEY_rpt2ieU/WZCZAsEfWTI/AAAAAAAATYU/2OaFMcEr1cMRCxG5UYqyJmObQkompzjCgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Cannon-Launched-Guided-Missile-CLGM-India_thumb%255B3%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="393" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yEY_rpt2ieU/WZCZAsEfWTI/AAAAAAAATYU/2OaFMcEr1cMRCxG5UYqyJmObQkompzjCgCEwYBhgL/s320/Cannon-Launched-Guided-Missile-CLGM-India_thumb%255B3%255D.jpg" width="208" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Layout of CLGM <i>(source: internet)</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gd0eVzp6p5w/WZCgmWtCUOI/AAAAAAAATYs/ey6bWy1qQGkGyKedReXk5m93aTIZ2cdXwCLcBGAs/s1600/CLGM-2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1532" data-original-width="1600" height="382" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gd0eVzp6p5w/WZCgmWtCUOI/AAAAAAAATYs/ey6bWy1qQGkGyKedReXk5m93aTIZ2cdXwCLcBGAs/s400/CLGM-2.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Source: trishul-trident.blogspot.in/<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Xj3ABzJu1I/WZCydT8d8EI/AAAAAAAATaE/R_MOG_sP5VkF6C0crBw1fHzl6wTTh-b3QCEwYBhgL/s1600/SAHMO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="font-size: medium; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1063" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Xj3ABzJu1I/WZCydT8d8EI/AAAAAAAATaE/R_MOG_sP5VkF6C0crBw1fHzl6wTTh-b3QCEwYBhgL/s320/SAHMO.jpg" width="270" /></a><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
<span style="font-size: 12.8px;"><i> Old brochure of CLGM from 2010 when it was known as SAMHO. Notice the missile tube and missile</i></span></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>MOD Annual Report 2014-15: Canon Launched Guided Missile
(CLGM): CLGM is the semi active laser homing antitank missile which is able to
engage the enemy tanks up to 5 km. The kill mechanism with CLGM is tandem high
explosive anti-tank warhead. Instrumented flight trials from tripod have been
successfully completed and midcourse guidance has been demonstrated.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The missile is indigenous
version of anti-tank guided missile launched from main gun of a tank. Missile
caliber is 120mm and guidance is laser-beam riding SACLOS.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">In April 2017, DRDO conducted
successful launch of CLGM from main gun Arjun Mk-2</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Man-Portable ATGM (MP-ATGM) being developed by DRDO is derived from CLGM. As the above picture shows, the same is expected to fired from the FLAME launcher.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">While a lighter 14.5 kg man-portable version is being worked out, at 18.5 Kg, CLGM is only 2 kg heavier than Konkur-M (16.5 kg). May be, it can/will replace the Konkur-M as long-range ATM in use with infantry battalions.</span></li>
</ul>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p>(E.4) </o:p>Amogha-1</span></h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">In early 2016, BDL tested a
new missile with 2.8 km range and Radio-Frequency (RF) based guidance. There is
no further news about the missile. </span></li>
</ul>
<h4>
(E.5) RF Guidance ATGM:</h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<ul>
<li>Times of India, 2<sup style="font-family: inherit;">nd</sup><span style="font-family: inherit;"> April 2016:
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has indigenously developed and test fired an
advanced Wireless Anti-Tank Missile with RF Guidance at Babina ranges. RF
System with EW protection was used to send the guidance command to the missile.
The system has the capability of being remotely launched and piloted from a
safe distance </span>equaling<span style="font-family: inherit;"> the advantages of expensive third generation ATGMs.</span> </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>MOD Annual Report
2010-11: BDL is working on developing
Radio Frequency Controlled ATGM.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>There is no further news about the missile. </li>
</ul>
<h4>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">(E.6) Man-Portable Anti-Tank Guided
Missile (MPATGM)</span></h4>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nJnKI1UPgM0/WZCYzWOb42I/AAAAAAAATYQ/56PWmz54y54yP7ug80sP0E84QwM7VXcawCLcBGAs/s1600/MPATGM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1299" data-original-width="1600" height="323" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nJnKI1UPgM0/WZCYzWOb42I/AAAAAAAATYQ/56PWmz54y54yP7ug80sP0E84QwM7VXcawCLcBGAs/s400/MPATGM.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: right;"><i>Source: http://trishul-trident.blogspot.in/</i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<ul>
<li>Ministry of Defense Annual Report 20115-16: The project was sanctioned in
January 2015 towards design and development of MPATGM system comprising of 3rd
generation anti-tank guided missile with launch tube, and launcher with command
launch unit. During the year, design configuration has been finalized and
reviewed. Eight static tests of rocket motor were conducted to achieve
consistent ballistic performance. Control flight tests are scheduled in first
half of 2016.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>On 29<sup style="font-family: inherit;">th</sup><span style="font-family: inherit;">
August 2015, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Defence Research and Development
Organization (DRDO) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Joint
Development of 3rd Generation Man-Portable Anti – Tank Guided Missiles (MPATGM)
leading to its subsequent production for the Indian Army.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">There seems to one significant difference between MP-ATGM and other laser beam riding missile like Kornet-E. Kornet-E does not rely on reflected laser for guidance. The laser it receives is gathered at the rear part of the missile. On the other hand, like smart weapons, MP-ATGM captures laser at the front section of the missile and actually rides the reflected laser beam to the target. It should also be able to hit target basis a laser designation from other source rather than the missile launcher. This gives good shoot-and-scoot opportunity to the missile fire unit.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Development
status of the missile remains unknown.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
(F) Summary of Missile & Technical Data</h3>
<div>
The table below summarizes the range, weight, guidance and other dimensions of the missiles already operational, to be inducted or under R&D phase.</div>
<div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5RYuIWIz1O4/WZCt1-hpoMI/AAAAAAAATZw/foY6P17vTssYzbr3enkhCJNgjhHR9AUowCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="852" data-original-width="1600" height="340" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5RYuIWIz1O4/WZCt1-hpoMI/AAAAAAAATZw/foY6P17vTssYzbr3enkhCJNgjhHR9AUowCLcBGAs/s640/Picture1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<div>
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<div>
<h3>
Conclusion</h3>
</div>
<div>
As the write-up shows, Indian Army has a varied types of anti-tank guided missiles depending upon usage and platform. In pure number terms, the total requirement is in excess of 85,000 missiles of different types. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The recent order for Spike-MR fills only one, albeit large, part of the overall requirement. If the infantry battalions indeed use a mix of short and long range ATGM, then Spike-MR represents replacement of only the short range version i.e. Milan/Milan-2T. The field is wide open for replacement of Konkur-M in long range ATGM for the infantry. CLGM mentioned above has the attributes to be this replacement. It remains to be seen whether CLGM/CLGM derived missile is the answer or we import another missile. Spike family has the Spike-LR version and Israelis will sure push it. Considering that Konkur-M are going strong, I think domestic R&D establishment still has some time on their hand to offer a credible solution for this requirement.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But induction of Spike-MR does mean that doors for US made Javelin ATGM are more or less closed. It does not make sense for an army to operate two man-portable ATGMs. It might so happen that IA may import some units for specialized formations like special forces. But even this seems absurd.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
BMP-2 are slated for upgrade. One proposal from the Russians talks of re-arming the BMP-2 with four AT-14 Kornet missiles; these are placed on either side of the turret in a ready-to-fire pack of two. With DRDO making progress with CLGM, it remains to be seen if it can be adapted for BMP-2 upgrade. Between infantry's long range ATGM requirement and BMP-2 upgrade, CLGM/CLGM derived missile has the potential to tap the biggest segment of ATGM in the army.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Recently, Indian Army has expressed interest for next generation tank fired ATGM for its T-90 fleet. And it seems the T-72 main gun (2A46M) is also likely to be updated with T-90 main gun (2A46-M5). This will permit upgraded T-72 to fire ATGM from the main gun. CLGM was developed for 120mm rifled main gun of Arjun tank while T-72/T-90 have 125mm main guns. It remains to be see whether DRDO bites the bullet and delivers a new missile for T-90/T-72 fleet or India goes for missile from abroad.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Finally, NAG seems to that much closer to clearing the final hurdle. This one missile represents a phenomenal jump in anti-tank capability of the army. The missile is capable of defeating any present or future tank which is likely to see service on western or eastern borders. It induction in the army will give formidable anti-tank capability to its infantry/mechanized formations.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Same goes for HELINA. The Army Aviation Corp (AAC) is slated for massive expansion, especially in the attack helicopter domain. IA plans to induct 60 Rudra and 114 Light Combat Helicopters. It is but common sense that a domestic missile serves this massive requirement.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
As things stand today, India can fulfill about 80%-85% of ATGM requirement across multiple platforms. All it requires is for the R&D establishment to work out realistic and achievable goals. And for the Indian Army to ensure good does not become the enemy of the best and that it works closely with the R&D establishment to work on this road-map.</div>
</div>
<div>
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<div>
Please share you comments, feedback and do point out mistakes.</div>
</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-54637891521719248452017-07-02T16:21:00.000+05:302017-08-13T21:11:51.303+05:30Doklam Plateau - India, Bhutan and China Stand-Off<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FmqRzMwbQw8/WW-YZ8aKO5I/AAAAAAAASfo/Dy5Lp5AIT5wklkQBsKyazrLK5dxDxRrTACLcBGAs/s1600/china-border-tensions-cloud-asia-trade-pact-talks-in-india.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="504" data-original-width="672" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FmqRzMwbQw8/WW-YZ8aKO5I/AAAAAAAASfo/Dy5Lp5AIT5wklkQBsKyazrLK5dxDxRrTACLcBGAs/s320/china-border-tensions-cloud-asia-trade-pact-talks-in-india.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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As I write this, India finds itself in a border stand-off with China. But unlike other times when India and China squared off due to difference in ‘perception’ of Line of Actual Control (LAC) along their vast border from eastern Ladakh to Arunachal Pradesh, the present stand-off is because of Chinese incursion in a region which is disputed territory between China and Bhutan. India has got involved because development in this area has serious security ramifications for India.</div>
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However, none of the reports barring one (Eyeball-to-eyeball in the Himalayas – Indian Express – Manor Joshi-June 30, 2017) gives correct information about the geographical region where this stand-off has taken place and likely reason for this new conflict. Even the report by Manoj Joshi only gives a broad outline of the area.</div>
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The objective of this report is to understand the boundary issue, claims of either party (China and Bhutan), geography in the area and Indian sensitivities. The thrust of this write-up is to clear the ambiguity about the exact area where present stand-off is taking place. And why India is reacting much more strongly – to the extent of helping to keep PLA out of Bhutanese territory.</div>
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A friend (Twitter @bennedose. He has a YouTube channel called <b>cybersurg</b> with great military videos) made a video on the Doklam Plateau stand-off. It is basis the research and maps in this article. Gives a good overview of the area. In case you don't want to read the whole article, this is a good short commentary. Otherwise as well, 3D visualization will assist in better understanding of the article.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="344" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6IXlLdtKIxQ" width="459"></iframe><br /></div>
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<b>Story so far – Confusion!</b></h3>
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When the news story broke, it spoke about Chinese removing IA bunkers in Tri-Junction Area after IA prevented the Chinese from undertaking road construction activity. These reports mentioned certain key areas like Tri-junction, Dhoka La and Doklam Plateau. </div>
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This caused confusion because if you look at map on the Google Earth, these areas are not contiguous. Have a look at the map below. I’ve marked position of Dhoka La, India (Sikkim)-Bhutan-China (Chumbi Valley) boundary tri-junction and Doklam Plateau (as shown on Google Earth). Doklam Plateau from Tri-junction is about 30 km as the crow flies while Dhoka La is about 5 km south of boundary tri-junction.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7N5UwMk89qg/WVoO41k5CyI/AAAAAAAARzU/7ZyQm-z9akU2ZzPvqeE0ASdoYfMwJPECwCLcBGAs/s1600/Picture1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7N5UwMk89qg/WVoO41k5CyI/AAAAAAAARzU/7ZyQm-z9akU2ZzPvqeE0ASdoYfMwJPECwCLcBGAs/s400/Picture1.jpg" /></a></div>
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Source: Google Earth</div>
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So, a question arises – If the Chinese were building a road in the Doklam Plateau on China-Bhutan border, how did the Indian Army stop their work? And how does the boundary tri-junction area and Dhoka La come into picture?</div>
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<b>Bhutan-China border dispute</b></h3>
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As per Royal Government of Bhutan (RGOB), there are four areas of boundary alignment dispute between China and Bhutan. However, as per the Chinese, there are 7 such areas of boundary dispute. It is this mismatch in number and extent of disputed areas which has led to the present stand-off. </div>
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I’m not getting into the entire Bhutan-China boundary issue but will restrict myself to the current area of conflict. </div>
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As per the statement of King of Bhutan in National Assembly, there are four[1] areas under dispute:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Up to 89 sq km in Doklam are under dispute (along Gamochen at the border, to the river divide at Batangla and Sinchela, and down to the Amo Chhu River) </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Approximately 180 sq km in Sinchulumpa and Gieu are under dispute. The border line stretches from Langmarpo Zam along the river up to Docherimchang, through the river divide to Gomla, along the river divide to Pangkala, and finally down to the Dramana River. </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Starting from Dramana, along the border line up to Zingula, and along the line of river divide down to Gieu Chhu River, and finally to Lungkala </li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Starting from the middle of Pasamlum, along the border line and the river divide to Dompala and Neula, going from Neula along the border line and the river divide to Kurichhu Tshozam, along the river divide to Genla then to Mela, and go all the way to the east. </li>
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Point (1) above is centred along and east of the India-Bhutan-China boundary tri-junction area. Point (2) refers to area marked as Doklam Plateau on Google Earth and shows as disputed with broken line. As per the RGOB, there is no contiguity between areas covered under Point (1) and Point (2) while Chinese claim an intermediate area as well. This makes the Chinese claims much larger than Bhutanese interpretation and root cause of present conflict.</div>
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I’ve not been able to access any corresponding maps from the Royal Government of Bhutan (RGOB) which show the alignment of the above area. As Manoj Joshi writes in his Indian Express article, “However, none of these features are visible on publicly available maps and it requires an effort to locate them.” I’ve created some indicative maps after searching through multiple sources and will come to that shortly.</div>
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And while I could not find any RGOB Map showing disputed areas, I did come across a Chinese map which shows the 7 disputed areas as per them. Please see the map below:</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jVdumna8Jx0/WVjK_jMBXXI/AAAAAAAARu0/WQwcPTilWagNM--PqCNR-OPSG4MHYcDjgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Bhutan%2BMap%2BAs%2BPer%2BPRC.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jVdumna8Jx0/WVjK_jMBXXI/AAAAAAAARu0/WQwcPTilWagNM--PqCNR-OPSG4MHYcDjgCEwYBhgL/s400/Bhutan%2BMap%2BAs%2BPer%2BPRC.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.bhutannewsservice.org/bhutan-china-border-mismatch/">http://www.bhutannewsservice.org/bhutan-china-border-mismatch/</a></i></div>
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Areas with red and blue line indicated disputed areas as per the Chinese. Blue line indicated border alignment as per RGOB while red-line indicated the alignment of Bhutanese boundary as per the Chinese.</div>
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The disputed area in west is the center of present conflict. And as per the Chinese, there are three major boundary alignment issues within this sector. Compared to this, RGOB claims only two non-contiguous areas of dispute. As the Chinese map shows, Chinese claim is much larger than what the RGOB considers. The details of the three disputed areas in this region are as follows:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Mountain ridge from Batang La to
Merukla/Merugla upto Sinchela</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The mountain ridge from Sinchela
to River Amo; along River Amo from River Amo to its confluence with River
Langmarpo;</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Region along the River Langmarpo
from the confluence of River Lang-marpo and River Amo up to the confluence of
Docherimchang; along River Rong from River Docherimchang confluence to Gomla;
Gomla ridge from Gomla to Pankala, and Pankala ridge from Pankala to Dramana
ridge; Dramana ridge from Dramana to River Tromo and River Zhiu confluence, River
Zhiu from River Tromo- River Zhiu confluence to Lungkala;</li>
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<i>Source: <a href="http://www.bhutannewsservice.org/bhutan-china-border-mismatch/">http://www.bhutannewsservice.org/bhutan-china-border-mismatch/</a></i></div>
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If you look at the RGOB and Chinese interpretation of boundary dispute, you realize that Point (1) in both the interpretation of boundary alignment is same. But in case of the Chinese, point (2) and (3) taken together, create a contiguous disputed area and vastly expand the area which they claim as part of Tibet. From Bhutanese perspective, point (3) in Chinese claim is same as per their understanding but is not contiguous to area under Point (1).</div>
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The blow-out map below shows how the Chinese claims are with respect to present alignment:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uli1Erqf3UU/WVoO5RbzM5I/AAAAAAAARzY/20-6LuBCpBgm8ccSiwDwjvprH4UPg77VwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Picture2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uli1Erqf3UU/WVoO5RbzM5I/AAAAAAAARzY/20-6LuBCpBgm8ccSiwDwjvprH4UPg77VwCEwYBhgL/s640/Picture2.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BagWDxZM1iY/WVjLGK4QOgI/AAAAAAAARvQ/4xEQQbz018AptLuiXSSzZRlLEAuj8m_rgCEwYBhgL/s1600/Picture2.jpg"></a><br /></div>
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I’ve tried to create the Chinese claim line on a Google Earth map by using features I could identify. These features correspond to those mentioned in Chinese claims as mentioned earlier.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JbHWGGwHq2Q/WVoO58HOtyI/AAAAAAAARzc/dfdDIO79xZAE7Klbbnq8ImhW8Ua2AgpjQCEwYBhgL/s1600/Picture3.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JbHWGGwHq2Q/WVoO58HOtyI/AAAAAAAARzc/dfdDIO79xZAE7Klbbnq8ImhW8Ua2AgpjQCEwYBhgL/s640/Picture3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Source: Google Earth</i></div>
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The Chinese are using their usual tactics – of claiming a ridge-line/water-shed (and corresponding mountain passes) which gives them depth and allows them to control west-east or vice versa movement. In case of Sino-Indian boundary in eastern Ladakh, Chinese claim line lie along ridge to west of Indian claim line. And controls all the important mountain passes which can facilitate east-west or vice-versa movement. In this case, the boundary envelope has been pushed east with the following objectives:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Give depth to Chinese positions
in the Chumbi Valley. As has been widely reported, Chumbi Valley is extremely
narrow with steep mountain sides on either side. This gives very less rea
estate to PLA to station troops and provisions. Further, this puts them at
disadvantage vis-à-vis India position on ridges to the west along Sikkim-Tibet
border.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The present main access route
into Chumbi Valley and Yadong is S-204. Given the depth of Chumbi Valley and
its alignment, is susceptible to India interdiction. Chinese can consider
developing a loop in S-204 which is further east and passes through the claimed
area. This will give it relatively better protection against Indian fire
assault.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Most important gain is towards south part –
opens up the restricted funnel of Chumbi Valley and brings it that much closer
to Indian Siliguri Corridor. Indian area in Siliguri corridor comes under long
range artillery fire from within Chumbi Valley</li>
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<b>Doklam Plateau</b></h3>
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The present stand-off is in the Doklam Plateau area, region marked in blue circle in the previous map. If we revisit the Chinese boundary alignment claim in this region, it mentions the following:</div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Mountain ridge from Batang La to
Merukla/Merugla upto Sinchela</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The mountain ridge from Sinchela
to River Amo; along River Amo from River Amo to its confluence with River
Langmarpo</li>
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The map below highlights these areas and alignment:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TR9tEGrVkCs/WVoO4UtbjxI/AAAAAAAARzM/xVbS4M9OZusvL-fNOKtWuh4tE3AEW40dwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Doklam%2BPlateau.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TR9tEGrVkCs/WVoO4UtbjxI/AAAAAAAARzM/xVbS4M9OZusvL-fNOKtWuh4tE3AEW40dwCEwYBhgL/s640/Doklam%2BPlateau.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Source: Google Earth</i></div>
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In case Chinese assertions are expected, then India-China-Bhutan boundary will be at Gymochen. And Dokal La, which is presently on border between India (Sikkim) and Bhutan, will become a pass on Sino-Indian border.</div>
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A closer look at the satellite imagery shows that a road leads up from the Chumbi Valley to Senche La, crosses over to Bhutanese side, runs parallel to the Merug La-Senche La ridge line and then crosses back into Chumbi Valley at Merug La. A part of this road/track from Senche La also comes towards Doka La. It seems that Chinese have extended tracks from the Merug La-Sinche La ridge line onto the Doklam Plateau. And over the years, have slowly creeped forward claiming and controlling larger part of the plateau.</div>
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The map below shows various roads/tracks in the region:</div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UgupDARqCPs/WVoO3mPSfMI/AAAAAAAARzE/0dOWdrav7NEtUhaznRb2RFNs06GTiKahwCEwYBhgL/s1600/Doklam%2BPlateau-3.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UgupDARqCPs/WVoO3mPSfMI/AAAAAAAARzE/0dOWdrav7NEtUhaznRb2RFNs06GTiKahwCEwYBhgL/s640/Doklam%2BPlateau-3.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>Source: Wikimapia</i></div>
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<b>Present Issue</b></h3>
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What seems to be happening is that Chinese are trying to further expand their hold on the plateau. From the available news, it seems that Chinese were trying to create concrete roads in the region. The maps already show tracks which came about as Chinese saw no objection from RGOB. And in typical Chinese fashion, they’ll now claim existence of these tracks as proof of ownership – apart from historical claims. </div>
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Any further advance in this area poses security threat to India. Working in tandem with RBA, Indian Army seems to have stopped this construction activity within Doklam Plateau. This partly explains the apoplectic response from the Chinese – Indian Army is operating on Bhutanese territory and working in tandem with RBA to prevent further Chinese construction activity. Hence, the repeated references to this area having nothing to do with Sikkim-Tibet border and tri-junction. </div>
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India simply cannot afford to have Chinese control the Doklam plateau. And has to prevent any further occupation creep beyond what has already happened. If the Chinese were to occupy the Doklam Plateau and place the boundary on ridge-line going east from Gymochen towards Amo-Chu river, they control a dominating ridge-line which overlooks Indian territory across Bhutan.</div>
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The map below gives distance from this ridge-line towards location in Sikkim (a major communication axis) and a location in West Bengal.</div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEBSGxH-y2k/WVoO4NaeukI/AAAAAAAARzI/0TBFtcMGfS46dNwDzV62Ho5hczNDehYggCEwYBhgL/s1600/Doklam%2BPlateau-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEBSGxH-y2k/WVoO4NaeukI/AAAAAAAARzI/0TBFtcMGfS46dNwDzV62Ho5hczNDehYggCEwYBhgL/s640/Doklam%2BPlateau-2.jpg" /></a></div>
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I will update the analysis as and when more news becomes available. </div>
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Please point out mistakes, if any, and share any relevant information which can improve the analysis.</div>
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[1] Source: http://www.mtac.gov.tw/mtacbooke/upload/09403/0102/21.pdf</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-62763166403370564992016-12-21T20:16:00.002+05:302017-07-17T15:24:43.349+05:30On Army Chief Selection, Seniority and Merit<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The elevation of Lt. General
Bipin Rawat to the post of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) after superseding two
other Army Commanders’ senior to him has created the quite expected
controversy. There are as many arguments out there against this act of the
government as there are in its favor.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The political establishment has
hitherto stuck to the seniority principle more out of indifference than any love
for the armed forces. Simply put, our political class does not understand the
armed forces (with due exceptions) and has never made any effort to do so. Our
political and bureaucratic set-up simply lacks appreciation, appetite and
mechanism for any long term strategic thinking. This explains lack of strategic
foresight and our inability to undertake complex geo-political manoeuvres. Ergo,
we’ve never seriously explored use of military power as a means of extending and
safeguarding national interests. And this manifests itself in us lacking in
higher defense management. Everything else which ails our security set-up from
investment in R&D to weapon production stems from this lack of understanding
about the armed forces. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We continue to carry forward the
dubious legacy of Nehru days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Indian armed forces are so far
removed from the country’s critical decision making set-up that I doubt it
matters to the political class who becomes the army chief. Except of course, if
the potential candidate has in some manner rubbed the powers-that-be in wrong
manner. So, Indira Gandhi ensured that Lt. General Bhagat never became the
Chief through a sleigh of hand. While in case of Lt. General S.K. Sinha, she
was more forthright and appointed his junior as the army chief.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">This is where the present
government seems to have broken the existing protocol of simply appointing the
senior most Lt. General as the Army Chief. It has gone for deep selection and has </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">proactively chosen a candidate. </span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Not that I agree with it, but this is where we are.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The government has a certain view
about the evolving scenario on our western border and how it is likely to play
out in immediate future. As per media reports, the government in its wisdom has
chosen to go with a candidate with proven track record in the Kashmir theatre from
lowest to pretty high level. Lt General Rawat has commanded troops in counter-insurgency
operations (5 Rashtriya Rifles Sector commander) as well as in conventional
posture - he commanded an infantry battalion along LOC as and later as Major
General, the crucial 19 Infantry Division which overlooks the most sensitive
part of LOC. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Government has gone with a
candidate who literally knows the ‘lay of the land’ than with others whose
understanding stems from staff appointments and that too, at higher level. As
per media reports, Lt. General Praveen Bakshi has had two staff appointments in
‘Valley’ – one as Colonel in Doda and others Chief of Staff (COS) in Northern
Command. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Some respected ex-army officers
have rightly countered this line of argument. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">I quote Lt General H.S. Panag
from an article in Indian Express dates 18<sup>th</sup> December 2016:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">“It is the government’s prerogative to select the new Army Chief. It
has only happened once earlier that the senior-most officer was overlooked, in
the case of Lt Gen S K Sinha in 1983. But the criterion for deep selection by
the government is not clear as it knows little about the job of an Army
Commander. There is nothing spectacular about serving in J&K. If there is a
war tomorrow, it could be fought in plains and deserts. What happens then?”
said Lt Gen H S Panag (retd), a former Northern Army Commander, who has taught
the three contenders at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun, and at the
Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><i>Source: </i><a href="http://indianexpress.com/article/india/bipin-rawat-indian-army-chief-birender-singh-dhanoa-air-force-4432972/">http://indianexpress.com/article/india/bipin-rawat-indian-army-chief-birender-singh-dhanoa-air-force-4432972/<o:p></o:p></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Ajai Shukla (himself an ex-Armoured
Corps Officer) made this very important comment in his article dated 19<sup>th</sup>
December 2016 and posted on this blog:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Separately, the defence ministry spokesperson has told journalists over
the phone that Bakshi, a tank man who has spent many years in the deserts of
Rajasthan and in Punjab, was ill-equipped to handle the internal security
challenges of Jammu & Kashmir and the northeast. Bakshi’s tenures as chief
of staff at the northern command and at the eastern army command apparently
count for nothing.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Nor apparently does the fact that war with Pakistan would centre on
swift tank offensives under the ‘Cold Start’ doctrine. “The army believes
peacetime operations are more important than preparing for a real war,” says a
senior serving general.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Source: <a href="http://ajaishukla.blogspot.in/2016/12/controversy-clouds-out-of-turn.html">http://ajaishukla.blogspot.in/2016/12/controversy-clouds-out-of-turn.html</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Long story short, the above two
observations intend to convey the point that an Army Chief is guided by his
army commanders who actually command India’s field armies and undertake battle
in their respective ‘Area-of-Responsibility’ (AOR). So, even if Lt. General
Bakshi did not have operational experience of the kind that Lt General Bipin
Rawat had in Kashmir theatre, he would have been relying on Lt. General Devraj
Anbu, the present Northern Army Commander for advice and to handle that sector.
Lt. General Anbu is an Infantry officer who’s served earlier in the ‘Valley’,
Siachen and last commanded Tejpur based 4 Corps. 4 Corps looks after both
internal security and the crucial western Arunachal Pradesh-Tibet border. Lt.
General Bakshi would’ve had the advice and counsel of a seasoned infantry
officer and old ‘Valley’ hand in the Northern Army commander.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">At the same time, as Lt. General
Panag (retd.) and Ajai Shukla mentions above, if yellow matter hits the fan
with Pakistan, the real action will be in the plains. Ever since 2001
mobilization post Parliament attack, Indian Army has been perfecting the art of
quick mobilization and rapid, mechanized warfare under the Cold Start doctrine.
The act of bringing Pakistan Army to its knees will most probably be played out
in the plains of south Punjab and Rajasthan. Where bulk of Indian Army’s
offensive potential will be deployed. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Lt. General Praveen Bakshi is an
outstanding Armoured Corps officer and he would be the best man to be at the
helm of affairs in such an eventuality. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">However, the biggest example of
an Army Chief’s abilities being not linked to his parent fighting arm or
earlier operational experience lies in our near past. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">General Sundararajan Padmanabhan
or Paddy as he was more affectionately known as, was the Army Chief when
mobilization under Operation Parakram happened. It is acknowledged that during initial
mobilization immediately after the Parliament attack, army lost dash to the
border and hence, the initiative, because one of the Strike Corps, situated
deep in the hinterland, took a long time to mobilize.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">But it is also a fact that the
bold repositioning of Indian Army’s three formidable armoured divisions during
mid-2002 in the desert and aimed at the center of Pakistan, had led to serious
issues within the Pakistan Army. This is something which had never been done
before and led to some serious problems for Pakistan Army. In that one move,
General Padmanabhan has turned the traditional way in which Indian Army fought its
war on its head.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">And General Padmanabhan was an
Artillery Officer! He had an outstanding stint as Corps Commander, XV Corps in Srinagar
and then as Northern Army Commander.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">However, the argument made in
support of Lt. General Bakshi and against Lt. General Rawat (lack of exposure
to mechanized warfare) can be turned around in equal measure. Lt. General Rawat
will be advised by the Army Commander of Western, South-Western and Southern
Commands which hold bulk of army’s mechanized assets and will lead the charge
into Pakistan.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Present Western Army Commander is
from Brigade of Guards – one of Indian’s two mechanized infantry regiments.
Southern Army Commander (Lt. General Hariz) is also from mechanized infantry –
though he is expected to resign now that his junior has been made the Army
Chief. South-Western Army Commander is
another infantry officer.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">All the above points to one
important fact – beyond a certain point, officers from different combat arms
are considered equally competent to lead Corps and Field Armies in battle. Yes,
it is preferable that an officer from Armoured Corps or Mechanized Infantry command
the Strike Corps but even that does not happen often. At Army Commanders’
level, question about competence cease to exist because an Army Commander leads
a heterogeneous mix of formations and capabilities. And his job is to ensure
that he maximises their utilization to achieve the best possible result. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Again, I quote Lt. General Panag
(retd.) – <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">“Though it is good to have a meritocracy, there must be clear criteria
for determining merit. Otherwise, generals will start approaching politicians
who can promote them to the top, and that will end the apolitical character of
the army,” warns Lt Gen H.S. Panag, a former army commander.<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Looking at the precedence and the
way army functions, the above question has not been satisfactorily answered.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Having said that, there is one very
famous example<i> </i>from army’s past which
comes to mind and which validates the probable reasoning behind selection of
Lt. General Bipin Rawat. During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, Indian Army had its
finest hour in the Battle of Asal Uttar when it halted the advance of Pakistan Army’s
much vaunted and formidable 1<sup>st</sup> Armoured Division and its running mate,
the 11<sup>th</sup> Infantry Division. One of the reasons which allowed Indian
troops to organize and mount such a staunch defence was the knowledge about the
lay of land of the Western Army Commander – the redoubtable Lt. General
Harbaksh Singh. The act of breaching the nallas to flood the area to restrict
movement of Pakistani armour and channel them in particular direction(s)
happened because the Army Commander understood the lay of the land.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Whether something like this is relevant
in present scenario or will be relevant as the new Chief discharges his duties,
remains to be seen.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Will this decision politicise the
army and henceforth, the selection of the Chief? As supporter of Narendra Modi
and this government, I think the government has taken the decision with best
intention in mind. Even if I don’t agree with it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The reason I don’t agree with it
is because it creates a window of opportunity to play favourites. No institution
has been spared from the ill-effects of this disease of favouritism save the
selection of Service Chiefs (with some exceptions, of course). Some senior ex-servicemen
have opined that selection of COAS only on the basis of seniority has meant
that less than worthy candidates have been elevated to the position and deep
selection can ensure that this does not happen. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Well, if someone was/is not
worthy of becoming COAS after having reached the level of an Army Commander,
then it speaks about flaws in the process which allows undesirable officers to
reach this level in first place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Secondly, for every one ‘bad’
Army/Service Chief, if the system throws up 4-5 good Service Chiefs, I’ll take
it with all its warts and pimples.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Third – how do we know the next
government will not pick up a more pliant or accommodative junior candidate
over a forthright and honest senior-most candidate? </span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">While I support the present
government and the Prime Minister, I do not consider the overall political
establishment to be mature enough to take a call on deciding the merit for deep
selection and discarding the seniority principle.</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: trebuchet ms, sans-serif;">picture s</span><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; text-align: right;">ource: Google</span></span></i><br />
<div>
<i style="font-family: "trebuchet ms", sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: right;"><br /></i></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-31321601161680766262016-01-03T12:34:00.005+05:302017-07-17T15:25:07.044+05:30Attack on Pathankot AFS: Quick Assessment<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3rVGXMK2j0/WWuQ2PiIPjI/AAAAAAAASb0/xrTFiyG5S9URTHH2-zXHxiRV7kp4yF-XwCLcBGAs/s1600/pathankot-7593.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="422" data-original-width="759" height="177" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f3rVGXMK2j0/WWuQ2PiIPjI/AAAAAAAASb0/xrTFiyG5S9URTHH2-zXHxiRV7kp4yF-XwCLcBGAs/s320/pathankot-7593.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: right;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
A quick summary and assessment of events
basis whatever I’ve come across in the media. I’ve also added my comments along
with it.<br />
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b><span style="color: red;">The terrorists entered India on
the intervening night of December 31 and 1<sup>st</sup> January. Some news reports have claimed
that the Innova was ARRAINGED to pick-up the terrorists from across the border.
It was after the vehicle broke down/had a flat that terrorists hijacked the SP’s
vehicle and made way away with it.</span></b></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
[<b>Comment:</b> Now, this is the FIRST
most curious part of the whole event. And IMO, points towards the use of drug
smuggling network to facilitate the strike. It is quite possible that the
Innova was arranged for picking up the terrorists by facilitators on Indian
side. When the Innova broke down, the terrorists made a call to their handlers
and appraised them of the problem. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
It was because of this call that SP
was activated. I’ve convinced that the SP is a key player in the drug smuggling
network. He was most probably asked to facilitate movement of some ‘smugglers’ –
the fact that he decided to use his own car shows that instructions came right
from the top on Indian side. One of the news report talks about a local
political leader involved in harbouring the terrorists. I would not be
surprised that the same person activated the SP and got him to personally
facilitate the movement.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
And that is why, while the
terrorists killed the driver of the Innova car, they did not kill the SP, which
should’ve been the normal course of action. That is because they were confident
that he would not give away their plan. But it seems when the SP realized that
the people he had picked up were not your garden variety smugglers but
terrorists, he fabricated the story of ‘army personnel’ having kidnapped him
and all that…I think he tried to send across the message as clearly as possible
w/o compromising himself. And this is where we lost the crucial time.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
This act of arranging the second
transport after first broke-down and that too by activating a very high value
asset like SP again points to the fact that Pathankot AFS was always the
target. Unlike earlier Gurdaspur or Sambha attack, focus was maintained and
every effort made to reach + attack the target. Here I would like to go with
the theory that since Mi-25 to be gifted to Afghanistan are from Pathankot
based squadron, Pakistan Deep State wanted to really drive home the point<b>]</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="color: red;"><i>The SP was ‘kidnapped’ at around
3:30am on January 1<sup>st</sup> and the base was attacked 24hrs later at about
3:30am – 4:00am on 2<sup>nd</sup> January. </i><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><br /></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>[Comment:</b> While no news report
talks about where exactly the SP was ‘kidnapped’, the road distance could not
have been more than 50km by any stretch. In fact, it should’ve been lesser. The
million dollar question is where did the terrorists hide in the intervening 24
hours? </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Again, I refer to news report about some local politician giving support
to these men. It is highly likely that terrorists moved as close to the target
as possible before the alarm had gone off. And the SP vehicle was off the road
pretty soon after the ‘kidnapping’ drama. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
As I said earlier, the road distance
is low, the roads are very good and the vehicle would’ve been at the hiding
destination in under an hour. It is quite likely that SP himself drove them to
a pre-designated point where someone else took over. And terrorists hid for
next 18-24 hours.<b>]</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b><span style="color: red;">The base was attacked from the
southern end where a river/canal exists the base.</span></b></i><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>[Comment:</b> I request people to
have a look at Google Earth map of the base. This place is 6+ km (as the crow
flies) from the National Highway 15 which links Gurdaspur to Pathankot. And to
reach this point, you need to navigate village roads (if coming by vehicle) or
navigate open fields/ground between villages in the area. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I would wager that
someone dropped them as close as possible to this point – this is because the
assault point seems to have been chosen with lot of planning and powers-that-be
would not have wanted the terrorists to lose their way and end up assaulting
from some other position. GE shows there is a gate and entry point to base from
this side and road leading up to.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
I think these fellows were dropped not more
than 1 km away from this point. Again, points to deep local help and the sheer
desperation from Deep State to launch this strike. Another important point –
the first set of targets to come up when you enter from this point is the
magazine area, the hardened aircraft shelter (HAS) lie further ahead. Quite
possible that these terrorists had planned to take hold of one of these and
make large fire-work<b>]</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="color: red;"><b>Security being beefed up at the
Base and presence of Army SF and NSG.</b></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: red;"><b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>[Comment:</b> After the alert was
sounded at around 4:00pm – 4:30pm on 2<sup>nd</sup> January, it seems NSA had
moved the Army SF and NSG components to Pathankot AFS. But my assertion is that
this was done not from the purpose of securing the base but for AFS to act as
node for reacting to situation anywhere else in the region. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The actual act of
securing the base consisted of inducting 2 x infantry platoons to secure the
technical area. The big question remains – why was not a whole infantry
battalion inducted to secure the entire premises? I know we used TA battalions
during 1999 and Op Parakaram to secure bases<b>]</b> <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><b><span style="color: red;">High casualties on our side.<o:p></o:p></span></b></i></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>[Comment:</b> I think the terrorists
used the same tactic as used in the attack on army base in Uri. They might have
attacked in two teams. While the QRT reacted to the first set of attackers, the
second set could’ve ambushed the QRT or follow-on forces which rushed to the
spot. I would not be surprised if DSC and Garuds were caught in a cross-fire. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Loss from NSG could be because of throwing men at the problem to quickly take
out the terrorists. Again, it is plausible that terrorists took hold of one of
the magazines and had to be neutralized quickly. No news about involvement of
Army SF – quite possible that NSG was asked to lead the operation with Army SF
on standby as back-up or for handling other contingency, if required. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
And the
C-130J in the air could’ve been the same aircraft which ferried NSG from Delhi
to Pathankot – So, the brave chaps got it airborne even as fire-fight was
happening on the base!<b>]</b><o:p></o:p><br />
<b><br /></b>
<i style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Picture source: http://images.indianexpress.com/2016/01/pathankot-7593.jpg</span></i></div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-33707627425063153432015-01-03T21:17:00.000+05:302017-07-16T21:46:31.576+05:30IAF Re-Equipment Imperatives: An Analysis<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: verdana, lucida grande, trebuchet ms, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; line-height: 18.2px;"><i>Source: Indian Express</i></span></span></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">The issue with respect to declining number of squadrons in Indian Air Force has gained prominence over last couple of years. Recently, we have had news about IAF having presented a scenario to GOI about squadron strength declining to a dangerously low number in mid-20s before the end of this decade. While the part about squadron strength reaching about 25 Squadrons by 2024 seems to be a wrong conclusion drawn from right information set, we do have an issue about IAF undergoing massive change, or requiring to undergo massive change, over 2015-2024 period.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">I’ve tried to assess the situation basis whatever information is available in public domain and see where we stand. If anyone has contrary/additional information, please feel free to add. I will modify the analysis accordingly.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">1. Current IAF strength: </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">We first take a look at current strength of IAF across various a/c type; this will serve as a basis for understanding the transition requirement. I’ve mentioned each squadron operating a particular a/c type along with total squadrons operating the type given in parenthesis.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">a. Mig-29: 28, 47 and 223. (3)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">b. Mirage-2000: 1, 7 and 9. (3)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">c. Jaguar IS/IB: 5, 14, 16, 27 and 223. (5)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">d. Jaguar IM: 6 (1)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">e. Mig-27 UPG: 10 and 29 (2)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">f. Mig-27ML: 18, 22 and 222 (3)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">g. Mig-21 Bison: 3, 4 , 21, 23, 32 and 51 (6) - [ 23 Squadron is a tentative entry; confirmation either way would be helpful]</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">h. Mig-21bis: 26 (1)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">i. Mig-21M/MF: 17, 37, 101 and 108 (4)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">j. Su-30 MKI: 2, 8, 20, 24, 30, 31, 102 and 220 (8)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Total operational Squadrons: 36</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">2. Others: </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">This refers to Squadrons which are either partially operational, number plated or about which I don’t have full information. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">a. 15 Squadron: Formerly, a Mig-21bis Squadron. Either the a/c have gone to other squadrons for upgrade to Mig-21 Bison standard or it is under conversion to Su-30MKI</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">b. 35 Squadron: The Squadron which had taken over the last set of Mig-25R after 102 ‘Trisonics’ Squadron was number-plated. It operates only 1 x flight of Mig-21 M/MF. Interestingly, it was the first EW Mig-21 Squadron. Formerly, operated the Canberra.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">c. 45 Squadron: Earmarked as first Tejas Squadron. Formerly operated Mig-21 FL.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">d. 221 Squadron: Last Mig-23BN squadron which was number plated in 2009.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">e. 106 Squadron: Formerly operated Canberra in photo-reconnaissance role. An a/c from this squadron famously landed back with a sidewinder stuck in its wing in 1999. Supposed to operating HS 748 Avro now. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">f. 52 Squadron – The ‘Suryakiran’ squadron. Which I think was earlier a fighter conversion unit cum combat squadron.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">If we take only the first four entries above, IAF has on its ORBAT 40 fighter squadrons. And apart from active squadron, IAF needs to find a/c for these squadrons as well. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">3. Replacement requirement: </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Basis the information shared above about active squadrons in IAF service, we try and understand the replacement requirement. It is my understanding that the replacement can be broken down in two phases. Phase 1 (2015-2020) deals with a/c which have not received any upgrade and will need to be phased out as they’re reaching end of their life. Phase 2 (2020-2025) will cover those legacy a/c which have received upgrades and can soldier on till 2025 period.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">a. Phase 1 (2015-2022)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">i. Mig-21bis: 1</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">ii. Mig-21M/MF: 4</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">iii. Mig-27ML: 3</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Total: 8 squadrons.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">b. Phase 2 (2022-2027)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">i. Mig-21 Bison: 6</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">ii. Mig-27UPG: 2</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Total: 8 squadrons.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">• Apart from above, IAF needs a/c to resurrect four number-plated/partially equipped squadrons. Therefore, in all, IAF will require replacement for a total of 20 squadrons in next 10-12 years.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">• However, in the immediate future, IAF will require replacement for at least 8 squadron worth of a/c. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">4. Induction schedule: </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Let’s look at the potential induction schedule which can help to arrest this decline and assist in conversion. This section also helps to understand the place which Tejas Mk-1 and Tejas Mk-2 along with MMRCA have in the entire scheme of things.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">a. Phase 1 (2015-2022)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">i. Su-30MKI: Till date 8 of the planned 14 squadrons have been converted to Su-30MKI. That leaves us with balance 6 squadrons which are to be inducted over 2015-2022 schedule. While the original induction schedule for 272 contracted Su-30MKI was till 2018, this is running behind schedule. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">As per the latest CAG Report on HAL, as against 112 a/c (from contract of 140 a/c) which were to be delivered till 2013, only 81 have been delivered. So, there is a short-fall of 31 a/c in this contract itself. After accounting for these 31 a/c, HAL has to deliver 95 more Su-30MKI over next 3 years. Which is unlikely to happen unless some of local produced a/c are replaced with direct imports. So, this schedule is slated to go into 2020-2021 territory.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">ii. Tejas Mk-1 : 2 x Squadrons</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">iii. MMRCA: 1 x Squadron</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Total: 6+2+1 = 9 Squadrons.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">The above should take care of Phase-1 of retirement in coming 2015-2022 period. However, what needs to be understood is that retirement and induction will not be in syn. While the Squadrons will be number-plated in groups (2 -3 squadrons per annum), the induction will not happen in the same manner. For example, HAL has a peak production rate for Su-30MKI at 16a/c per annum. Neither is MMRCA delivery timeline clear. And Tejas Mk-1 production is yet to get established.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Consequently, IAF will see a serious dip in Squadron strength over next 5-7 years. Especially in the 2017-2020 period when bulk of Mig-21 M/MF and Mig-27ML will be retired. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">b. Phase 2 (2022-2027)</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">This is where the MMRCA and Tejas Mk-2 become absolutely important. </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">i. MMRCA: 5 x Squadrons </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">ii. Tejas Mk-2: 4 x Squadrons</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">Total: 5+4= 9 Squadrons.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">5. Conclusion: </span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">a. Even if above mentioned induction schedule happens with clock-work precision, IAF would have managed to reach a Squadron strength of only 38 Squadrons by 2027.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">b. I think we now know how the 2+4 structure for Tejas Mk-1 and Tejas Mk-2 comes into play in the IAF scheme of things.</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">c. I expect to Tejas Mk-2 number to rise by a minimum of 2 more squadrons and more than likely to reach a total of 08 squadrons (from present four).</span><br style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , "lucida grande" , "trebuchet ms" , "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;">d. 2017-2022 is a very crucial period; don’t be surprised if we order more Su-30MKI off the shelf from Russia to make up for production short-fall. HAL has done that in the past for the 81 a/c which it has delivered.</span></span></div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-67873725450621422412013-11-23T02:41:00.000+05:302013-11-23T16:40:39.368+05:30Indian Tank Ammunition Scenario -KE Penetrators<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxtjeByC8vg/Uo_PBk4Yu6I/AAAAAAAABkc/I1GQgkZBDoc/s1600/arjun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vxtjeByC8vg/Uo_PBk4Yu6I/AAAAAAAABkc/I1GQgkZBDoc/s400/arjun.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Tanks employ two main types of
ammunition to defeat armor of opposing tanks. One type is called HEAT
(Hi-Explosive Anti-Tank) while the other is called APFSDS (Armor Piercing Fin
Stabilized Discarding Sabot). Russian have introduced anti-tank missiles being
fired from the main gun of T-90 tanks and the same concept is also being
introduced in Mk-2 version of Arjun MBT. However, this capability is yet to see
widespread usage; one school of thought says this capability has been
introduced to cover for relatively lower performance level of Russian anti-tank
rounds. But we digress.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While HEAT rounds rely on molten
jet traveling at very high speed to defeat armor, APFSDS ammunition uses only
Kinetic Energy to defeat armor. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Wikimapia provides a pretty
detailed overview of these types of rounds. Please see the link here:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinetic_energy_penetrator">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kinetic_energy_penetrator</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">India recently placed an order
for 66,000 of these rounds from Russia and if news report(s) are to be
believed, we’re being charged 3x-4x times the original price of these rounds.
This acute short-fall in the ammunition of this type was brought to fore in the
letter written by previous Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General V. K. Singh.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Such rounds are basic requirement
of armor warfare and if a country which maintains one of the largest tank
fleets in the world still imports such ammunition, then it points towards
something really wrong somewhere.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">With the aim to understand the
scenario with respect to APFSDS ammunition in India, I did some research on the
topic. The findings of this research form the content of this post. All the
information has been takes from internet; main source of information are
reports by Comptroller and Audit General from 1994 onward. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Primer on APFSDS<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It
is not the objective of this post to undertake review of technical literature
on the subject of KE Penetrator. However, to get some overview of the subject
we use the help of pictures and graphics available on the </span></span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">internet.</span></div>
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<b><span style="line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Components of APFSDS</span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; line-height: 115%;">This
excellent picture below shows the complete APFSDS Round and its components.
From left to right:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sabot with Penetrator encased within. You can make
out the grooves through which Sabot is connected with Penetrator.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Penetrator with fins at bottom. The black colored
front section is the ballistic cap of the penetrator.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Cross section showing placement of Sabot Shot
within the APFSDS Round.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Complete Round.</span></li>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Sabot<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The
picture below is that of a Sabot Shot – one can see the Sabot surrounding the
Penetrator. The cut-away in lower picture clearly shows the grooves trough which it is connected with the penetrator. This Sabot shot is encased in the Combustible Cartridge Case (CCC). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bugmzHIBUvU/UpB4eHu2hVI/AAAAAAAABlg/JYnjzVMj9Po/s1600/Obus_501556_fh000022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bugmzHIBUvU/UpB4eHu2hVI/AAAAAAAABlg/JYnjzVMj9Po/s320/Obus_501556_fh000022.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsCUfxfENTM/UpB4eNFt7KI/AAAAAAAABlc/M4iLTQxxqQY/s1600/Sabot+cutaway.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jsCUfxfENTM/UpB4eNFt7KI/AAAAAAAABlc/M4iLTQxxqQY/s320/Sabot+cutaway.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Penetrator</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">This is the actual projectile which travels and hits the enemy tanks. Two pictures of
penetrator for reference. The first picture shows the complete penetrator round
with tailfins and ballistic cap in the front. The lowermost rod in second
picture shows the main penetrator without tailfin and ballistic cap.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zYGX2sqEyGg/UpB5QMWiGvI/AAAAAAAABls/oywcQtZUwmE/s1600/j5egIHD.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zYGX2sqEyGg/UpB5QMWiGvI/AAAAAAAABls/oywcQtZUwmE/s320/j5egIHD.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFDtbG7B-xE/UpB5TFgxEOI/AAAAAAAABl0/cwSNpZuS69w/s1600/TAT_TungstenAlloyPenetrators.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vFDtbG7B-xE/UpB5TFgxEOI/AAAAAAAABl0/cwSNpZuS69w/s320/TAT_TungstenAlloyPenetrators.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Wikipedia on the
subject:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The sub-projectile consists of a
high density core with a penetrating cap, enclosed within a high strength
sheath (steel) with a lightweight alloy (aluminum-magnesium alloy) ballistic
cap. For modern small/medium calibre APDS projectiles, the core is not sheathed
and the ballistic and penetrating caps are combined. A tracer element may be
added to the APDS sub-projectile, for large calibre weapons this is part of the
outer sheath, for small/medium calibre weapons it is contained within a hollow
cavity in, or attached to, the base of the core. Most modern APDS projectiles
used high strength shock resistant tungsten alloys. The main constituent is
tungsten, alloyed or sintered with/to cobalt, copper, iron or nickel. Very few
APDS use depleted uranium (DU) titanium alloy for the penetrator material,
though the retired 20 mm MK149-2 Phalanx round did use DU</span></i><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">.<o:p></o:p></span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">However,
most western designs of APFSDS use mono-block of high density material for the
penetrator and the same is not sheathed in a steel jacket. Such jacketed rounds
are seen from Russian stable.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Sabot Separation<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Schematic
diagram of movement of Projectile Assembly within the tank gun barrel and
separation of Sabots on exit from the gun.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pxVCDYJ8OLU/UpB5pwthihI/AAAAAAAABl8/RQcbSPjLCG8/s1600/TRESPI-5_APFSDS.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="137" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pxVCDYJ8OLU/UpB5pwthihI/AAAAAAAABl8/RQcbSPjLCG8/s320/TRESPI-5_APFSDS.PNG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Danger zone in front of the tank from the sabot petals when APFSDS round is fired. The diagram is for Abram tank.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ADszzrslZik/UpB5whujWaI/AAAAAAAABmE/WRpUYQ_2K_g/s1600/images+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ADszzrslZik/UpB5whujWaI/AAAAAAAABmE/WRpUYQ_2K_g/s1600/images+(2).jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">A
beautiful video which shows the sabot separation in flight from a projectile.
However, when fired from tank guns, the base metal cap does not travel with the
Sabot – it does in this case because it has been fired from test rig without extraction
mechanism.</span></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/0giK-zqrAKI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Picture
below shows the Sabot separating from the Penetrator on leaving the gun barrel.
This happens within 500 meters from the main gun. The Penetrator continues
forward towards the target</span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iv08fwPVLpE/UpB6XPugs5I/AAAAAAAABmM/jFL13aRNIVI/s1600/Sabotseperating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iv08fwPVLpE/UpB6XPugs5I/AAAAAAAABmM/jFL13aRNIVI/s320/Sabotseperating.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Western and Russian APFSDS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">There
are two major difference between Western and Russian Kinetic Energy (KE)
Penetrator rounds:<br />
<br />
(a) While the former is unitary or single piece, the latter is two-piece round.
This is primarily because of the auto-loader employed by the Russian tanks as
compared to western tanks which opt for manual loading of the tank rounds (except
for French Leclerc’ MBT) – the dimension of the auto-loader is such that the
rounds cannot exceed a particular length. To overcome this problem, Russians
employ two-piece rounds which consist of primary and secondary charges. This
limitation on length of ammunition (due to auto-loader requirement) places
drawback on ammunition design. Therefore, while the autoloader and the loading mechanism
allowed for a compact and 3-man crew, it also placed penalty terms of
ammunition design and performance. This is explained later.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Picture
showing the autoloader assembly and arrangement of ammunition cassette in a
T-72 tank. One can clearly see the two piece ammunition stored in concentric
layered manner in the tank.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-93JKXq5o0IY/UpB-Gi073HI/AAAAAAAABmY/Jqutckxxzzk/s1600/Autoloader.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-93JKXq5o0IY/UpB-Gi073HI/AAAAAAAABmY/Jqutckxxzzk/s320/Autoloader.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">An
excellent video of 3D model of the same autoloader depicted in the picture
above which shows the loading and fire mechanism. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://img.youtube.com/vi/5NIaoOabF_0/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/5NIaoOabF_0&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://youtube.googleapis.com/v/5NIaoOabF_0&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 13.5pt;">The red
colored object ejected by the gun in the beginning of the video is the metal base
case (called stub in the picture above) which receives the firing pin. Rest of
cartridge (both primary and secondary) is made from cellulose (called as
Combustible Cartridge Case) and burns completely inside the gun barrel.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Here is
another video of actual autoloader in T-72 in action.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/mTzobtVjqPs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 13.5pt;">Unitary
or one-piece western APFSDS round being loaded in a tank. The scale can be
judged from the men loading the ammunition.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WfsPIy8rTLo/UpB-8xrCF-I/AAAAAAAABmg/nGiMDRbIx8I/s1600/00817569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WfsPIy8rTLo/UpB-8xrCF-I/AAAAAAAABmg/nGiMDRbIx8I/s320/00817569.jpg" width="303" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Two-piece
Russian APFSDS (BM-42 Mango)<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffEB_aN8qt0/UpB_Qk39tEI/AAAAAAAABmw/yDCN94C7Ogk/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ffEB_aN8qt0/UpB_Qk39tEI/AAAAAAAABmw/yDCN94C7Ogk/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">For
sake of comparison with western Unitary round, please see the picture below of
propellant part of the two-piece ammunition being loaded in a T-72 by tank
crew.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYxxwB-zbN8/UpB-8690ZnI/AAAAAAAABmk/zlqCmRpl9f4/s1600/t72-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uYxxwB-zbN8/UpB-8690ZnI/AAAAAAAABmk/zlqCmRpl9f4/s320/t72-12.jpg" width="260" /></a></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">(b)
Russian rounds use ring shaped Sabot while Western rounds use spindle shaped
sabots. Ring shaped sabots have bore-riding fins and while in case of spindle
shaped sabots, the sabot touches the barrel at two points.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><b>Western
Sabot:</b> The round is in contact with gun barrel where white band is located (called
the riding band) and the front conical section called the bourrelet. <span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bugmzHIBUvU/UpB4eHu2hVI/AAAAAAAABlo/Y2Y_qG_yXSs/s1600/Obus_501556_fh000022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bugmzHIBUvU/UpB4eHu2hVI/AAAAAAAABlo/Y2Y_qG_yXSs/s320/Obus_501556_fh000022.jpg" width="319" /></a></div>
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 13.5pt;">Russian
Sabot:</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 13.5pt;"> This is the 3BM-42 Mango APFSDS projectile encased in a Sabot. The single
ring shaped sabot is visible with white colored driving band which is contact with
the gun barrel. If one observes the tail fins, shearing marks can be seen at
the apex of fins. These positions have small ball bearings which come in
contact with gun barrel and help to center the sabot.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #000100; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHvAdwJr8mQ/UpB_sBhw05I/AAAAAAAABnA/4BlYVsJoWRI/s1600/r1hl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IHvAdwJr8mQ/UpB_sBhw05I/AAAAAAAABnA/4BlYVsJoWRI/s320/r1hl.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Components of Western APFSDS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The
picture below is that of American M892A3 APFSDS-T. The internal layout with
placement of Penetrator and Sabot within the cartridge case can also be seen.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3GaHUqUHlE8/UpCA4doe2II/AAAAAAAABnQ/2swxDSWZjoE/s1600/AS_M829A3_r_feat_080-1024x375.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="117" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3GaHUqUHlE8/UpCA4doe2II/AAAAAAAABnQ/2swxDSWZjoE/s320/AS_M829A3_r_feat_080-1024x375.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1-OX33ptoPY/UpCA4WnUd1I/AAAAAAAABnM/T5pd6NM3Syo/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="152" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1-OX33ptoPY/UpCA4WnUd1I/AAAAAAAABnM/T5pd6NM3Syo/s320/images.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Cross
section of M829A2 APFSDS-T round. As can be seen, main penetrator is a
mono-block made from Depleted Uranium. Ballistic Cap mounted upfront is for
aerodynamic performance rather than terminal ballistics.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NourgAjZZjs/UpCBDa4mU2I/AAAAAAAABnc/JME61J-63hU/s1600/600px-M829A2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NourgAjZZjs/UpCBDa4mU2I/AAAAAAAABnc/JME61J-63hU/s320/600px-M829A2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">American Main KE Round<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Cross
section of different generations of American KE Rounds – One can see the length
of the main Penetrator increasing over the generations. Use of Depleted Uranium (DU) allowed
Americans develop penetrators with high Length: Diameter Ratio (L/D Ratio).<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NyfM5jP4uhk/UpCBNT3r_tI/AAAAAAAABnk/eJ2a59ojAXQ/s1600/120mmm829x.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NyfM5jP4uhk/UpCBNT3r_tI/AAAAAAAABnk/eJ2a59ojAXQ/s320/120mmm829x.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Components of Russian Two-Piece
APFSDS<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">The
picture below is that of Russian 3VBM-17 APFSDS. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Picture
on Left: On left is projectile assembly (3BM-44) which houses the actual
penetrator – this is also the secondary charge. The component on the right side
is the main charge used to propel the round.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Picture
on Right: The projectile inside the 3BM-44 projectile assembly. It is called
3BM-42 ‘Mango’.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">As
compared to American KE Rounds where the length of penetrator has been
increased within Combustible Cartridge Case (CCC), the length of 3BM-44
projectile cannot be increased due to dimensions of the auto-loader. This
places limit on length on Penetrator and on L/D Ratios which can be achieved by
Russian ammunition. As compared to T-90 tanks, Indian Arjun tank does not
suffers from any such limitation.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLnq6oO9zFk/UpCBfTezH6I/AAAAAAAABnw/OtGB-CyeX1E/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WLnq6oO9zFk/UpCBfTezH6I/AAAAAAAABnw/OtGB-CyeX1E/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NBFFq2tu2aE/UpCBfALwQUI/AAAAAAAABns/RRUyKreav30/s1600/3bm42001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NBFFq2tu2aE/UpCBfALwQUI/AAAAAAAABns/RRUyKreav30/s320/3bm42001.jpg" width="89" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Cross Section of 3BM-42 ‘Mango’
Round. The explanation of the components of the round is taken from </span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/">http://fofanov.armor.kiev.ua/</a>.<span style="font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-twHPjl612z0/UpCEANp679I/AAAAAAAABoA/GXmHL3bIjNw/s1600/3bm42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-twHPjl612z0/UpCEANp679I/AAAAAAAABoA/GXmHL3bIjNw/s320/3bm42.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">Research
topic "Mango" initiated 1983. An advanced round designed to defeat
modern laminate armor arrays. Had a very complicated design, including the
solid frontal ballistic/penetrating cap, shock absorber/secondary penetrating
cap, and then two WHA penetrators of very high elongation. The penetrators
interfaced with the projectile body by means of a sheath manufactured of a
low-melting-point alloy; during the penetration the sheath would melt allowing
the penetrators to slide freely forward without losing energy and integrity on
separation from the projectile body. Used a further evolution of the sabot
introduced on 3BM-29, manufactured out of improved V-96Ts1 alloy. This round is
common in current Russian inventory, and has also been exported in the recent
years for use with more modern Russian and Ukrainian export tanks (T-80U,
T-80UD and T-90).</span></blockquote>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><u><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Indian APFSDS ammunition scenario</span></u></b></div>
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<b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-weight: normal;">(</span>A) </b><b style="text-indent: -0.25in;">The Beginning: 105mm APFSDS</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The Indian
quest for APFSDS (Armor-Piercing Fin Stabilized Discarding Sabot) began in 1976
when DRDO initiated work on development of 105mm APFSDS ammunition for
Vijayanta Tanks in Indian inventory. It is interesting to note that this
development of 105mm APFSDS ammunition itself was a spin-off of the work which
started on Arjun MBT program in 1974.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The design of
this ammunition was finalized and accepted in mid-1982 and it was accepted for
use by Indian Army without conducting any trials citing urgent operational
matters. Trials were subsequently conducted in late-1982 and no issue was
reported at this stage.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As a parallel
exercise the development of 120mm APFSDS for Arjun MBT was also in advanced
stages in 1983.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Development
work on 105mm ammunition was completed by 1983 and it was decided to establish
a new factory to manufacture this ammunition. This new factory would was
sanctioned in 1984 and would subsequently become the Heavy Alloy Penetrator
Project (HAPP) under the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), Trichy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the interim
period before HAPP came into being, it was decided that 2 x DRDO laboratories
involved in the development of 105mm APFSDS round would work with OFB to
produce the new round. These laboratories are most probably ARDE, Pune and
HEMRL, Pune. The targeted production number was 6,000 AFPSDS rounds.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, this
first attempt to manufacture the APFSDS was not successful as the manufactured
end-product started failing – apart from various other defects in manufacturing
process, the failure was also attributed to lack of CNC machines with OFB.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The biggest
drawback was inability to develop right quality penetrators for the ammunition.
While the failure rate was brought down from an average of 10% to 1%, there was
gross under-utilization of facilities and as against the target of 6,000 rounds
per annum, only about ~800 rounds per annum were produced.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This phase of
first attempt at production of 105mm APSDS before HAPP came into being lasted
from 1983 to 1989. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However,
production of 105mm APFSDS at HAPP Trichy also faced issues and the rejection
rate was very high.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>(B)</b> <b>Development Cycle – Phase 2:120mm &
125mm APFSDS</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Heavy Allow
Penetrator Project (HAPP) Factory, Trichy was conceived in 1984 for production
of high quality kinetic energy rounds for the tanks in service of the Indian
Army. While initial requirement was for manufacturing 105mm APFSDS, the factory
was also expected to undertake production of APFSDS round for Arjun MBT under
development and T-72 tanks from Russia which had made appearance in the Indian
Armored Corps inventory.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, the
army was in the process of phasing out Vijayanta tanks from service by the time
HAPP came online in 1990 and the amount of 105mm APFSDS produced was much less than
the installed capacity. As per 1995 CAG Audit Report of HAPP, the average per
annum production was not even 10,000 rounds. And this was expected to go down
as more Vijayanta tanks were phased out.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">It is important
to note here that when HAPP was established, it had production capacity of
65,000 105mm APFSDS rounds. This capacity was subsequently utilized for
production of other caliber APFSDS rounds with 125mm APFSDS round being the
prime candidate.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">125mm APFSDS</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DRDO Name: 125mm Mk1</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Indian Army Designation: AMK-340</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0_nvv8RQzrY/Uo_PRLcncKI/AAAAAAAABkk/OnsL-DJA2kg/s1600/ofbfsapdsmarki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0_nvv8RQzrY/Uo_PRLcncKI/AAAAAAAABkk/OnsL-DJA2kg/s1600/ofbfsapdsmarki.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In the mid-80s,
Indian Army had projected the requirement for indigenous 125mm APFSDS for T-72
and same was under development by DRDO when HAPP came into existence.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The initial
development of 125 mm FSAPDS ammunition was with steel core material and was
sanctioned in 1984. The expected date of completion was 1987 which was extended
to 1993. This steel core 125mm APFSDS ammunition was trialed by DRDO in 1993.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Parallel to
development of 125mm APFSDS round with steel core, the development of
indigenous 125 mm FSAPDS ammunition with soft core material was also taken up
by DRDO in 1984 and this ammunition was also developed by 1993. The first
series of users’ trial were done in the same year and the results were
considered satisfactory.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The APFSDS
round with Soft Core is what finally made into production and this round is
referred to as AMK-340 in IA as well as DRDO Mk-1.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, as
there was a delay in development of indigenous 125mm APFSDS rounds (planned
1987 but users’ trial in 1993), Indian Army signed three contracts to import
125mm APFSDS for T-72 tanks. I have not been able to figure out as which rounds
were imported during this period.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The production
of this round was initiated in August 1997 with initial production of 31,000
per annum which was scaled to 40,000 rounds per annum by 1998.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Technical details of DRDO 125mm Mk-1 round from OFB website: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://ofbindia.gov.in/products/data/ammunition/lc/26.htm" style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">http://ofbindia.gov.in/products/data/ammunition/lc/26.htm</span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">120mm APFSDS:</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DRDO: T-1</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Army Designation – None known</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9cuFaq4GeI/Uo_Pg7w2UaI/AAAAAAAABks/ZUwQED0js1I/s1600/23--CL120FSApds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q9cuFaq4GeI/Uo_Pg7w2UaI/AAAAAAAABks/ZUwQED0js1I/s1600/23--CL120FSApds.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The initial
attempt to produce 120mm APFSDS round was made by adapting the penetrator from
105mm APFSDS. However, the same was not successful and various combination and
permutation of sabots, penetrator and other elements was tried.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The product
development took place between 1983 and 1993 and round was put for user trials
in 1993.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Again, I’ve not
come across mention of as to when this round was put into production but it
seems the period is likely to be 1996-97.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Technical details of DRDO 120mm Mk-1 round from OFB website: </span></div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://ofbindia.gov.in/products/data/ammunition/lc/23.htm">http://ofbindia.gov.in/products/data/ammunition/lc/23.htm</a></span></o:p><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z81JqLCpeUs/Uo-_ICzSveI/AAAAAAAABkM/4Q3_N2mUxcs/s1600/120mm+APFSDS+Round-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-z81JqLCpeUs/Uo-_ICzSveI/AAAAAAAABkM/4Q3_N2mUxcs/s320/120mm+APFSDS+Round-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">source: <a href="http://trishul-trident.blogspot.in/">http://trishul-trident.blogspot.in/</a></i></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(C) Production & Disaster - 1997-2005</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The 125mm
APFSDS for T-72M1 tanks was most probably put into production in 1997-98 with
production capacity of 40,000 per annum. However, there is circumstantial
evidence that this production capacity was enhanced to 65,000 APFSDS rounds per
annum – the entire production capacity of HAPP, Trichy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, soon
after production was established, disaster of epic proportion struck at OFB. To
quote CAG Report of 2003<b>:</b></span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“In October 2000, an accident occurred to a
tank using this ammunition at Babina following its failure, in which the driver
of the tank was killed and the tank commander and gunner survived after being
critically injured. Following trials conducted on the ammunition, it was found
to be of poor quality and unsatisfactory in performance on account of (i) poor
quality of the projectile and charger; (ii) the projectile getting detached
from its casing on many occasions; (iii) the tendency of the outer casing to
leave a burning residue in the gun tube/charger posing a fire hazard. Besides,
the performance of the ammunition was also found to be inconsistent and unsatisfactory
during zeroing check and in respect of its accuracy, penetration and stowage. A
ban was therefore imposed on issue of the ammunition to the units in the five
Commands and the Factory was also instructed to suspend its production.</span></i></blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i>Subsequent investigation by the Directorate
General of Quality Assurance revealed that certain </i><i>lots of the ammunition were
of a hybrid version and the remaining lots were of an indigenous version. In
January 2002, the Army Headquarters decided all ammunition of the hybrid
version would be declared unserviceable and back loaded to the Ordnance Factory
Board, while the rejected lots of its indigenous version would be replaced free
of cost.</i></span><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Based on this decision, the Master General
of Ordnance branch of the Army Headquarters informed the Army Commands in June
2002 that the ammunition would be rectified/replaced by the Ordnance Factory
Board in a phased manner. The latter was also requested to carry out the
rectification on fast track basis.</span></i></blockquote>
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Pending back-loading of the ammunition to
the Ordnance Factory in a phased manner, the five Army Commands were holding
1,34,986 shells valued at Rs 607.43 crore under segregated conditions. In
respect of 1,23,794 of these shells valued at Rs 557.06 crore, 40 per cent of
the shelf life of 10 years had expired while the shelf life of another 11,192
shells valued at Rs 50.36 crore had already been halved.”</span></i></blockquote>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The defective
rounds were primarily Hybrid Round which was manufactured by OFB by mating
foreign penetrator (Russian) with domestic casing using the DRDO design for
APFSDS ammunition. This was not the same round developed by DRDO i.e. 120mm T-1
round.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">As per
statement of George Fernandez in PIB Release of December 2003 88,000 Hybrid
125mm APFSDS rounds were found to be un-serviceable. However, the indigenous DRDO
125mm Mk-1 round continued to be in production and 130,000 rounds @ 65,000
round per annum were produced between mid-2001 and December 2003.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">The same PIB
release also gives an indication of the holding inventory of APFSDS rounds in
the IA – To quote the same press release:</span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">After accounting for the receipt from OFB
& ex-Israel, the deficiency for this ammunition, on March 31, 2003 was
3,47,193 rounds.</span></i></blockquote>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Israeli import
stood at 20,000 rounds while OFB had produced 130,000 rounds. So, the total
holding of APFSDS by Indian Army in 2003 stood at ~500,000 rounds.</span></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DuYaj5Mwtl8/Uo-2UVHFImI/AAAAAAAABjo/V03c7HGdVo8/s1600/37-MM-FSAPDS-MARK-I.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span></a><b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(D) Enter The Yahudis – 1999 and 2003-2010</span></b></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Israeli
Designation – CL 3254M</span></i></b></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Indian
Army Designation – AMK 340A</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAx3jpEghoA/Uo_P6nOQ2rI/AAAAAAAABk0/bYVh4H8ZHoI/s1600/37-MM-FSAPDS-MARK-I+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAx3jpEghoA/Uo_P6nOQ2rI/AAAAAAAABk0/bYVh4H8ZHoI/s1600/37-MM-FSAPDS-MARK-I+(1).jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">It is generally
believed that Israeli got the foot in the door as far 125mm APFSDS ammunition
is concerned during the Kargil War in 1999. This is only one part of the story.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">As per the CAG
Report which reviewed the emergency purchases authorized during Kargil War the
Indian Army had trialed the ammunition from Israeli Military Industries (IMI)
in August 1996 and initiated process for acquisition in 1997.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">IA issued RFP for
125mm APFSDS ammunition in 1997 but this initial process for acquisition did
not fructify due to various reasons mentioned below:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Production of
AMK-30 round had started in 1997 and the production was to be stabilized at
40,000 rounds from 1998.</i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">DRDO made
representation that performance Mk-1 matched stated performance level of
Israeli round and they were working on Mk-2 version of indigenous 125mm APFSDS
round. This round would have been superior to Israeli round.</i> </li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">There was
option clause with RVZ Russia for purchase of 26,500 rounds for the tank.</i> </li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">IA got
responses from three manufacturers for the ammunition. One bid was rejected on
technical grounds while Russian bid was rejected due to procedural lapses. This
left on the Israelis in the fray. By 1998, IA had recommended ToT for Israeli
ammunition technology.</i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">After initial
issues with above single vendor situation, the negotiation was started with IMI
in 1999 (for offer received in 1997) but the same broke down because IMI did not
want to undertake TOT.</i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">No purchase
happened in 1999-2000 due to lack of funds.</i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Using the
emergency purchase clause due to 1999 Kargil War, MOD placed orders with IMI
for 26,000 125mm APFSDS rounds. The round were delivered in tranches but after
the Kargil War was over. This was the first phase of entry of Israeli 125mm
APFSDS rounds in the IA service.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">The fiasco of
Hybrid 125mm ammunition by OFB and segregation of close to 140,000 such
defective rounds in 2001-2002 coincided with Operation Parakram phase from
December 2001 to Q3 2002. This created lacunae in the holding of such
ammunition and IA placed a case for import for 20,000 more IMI CL 3254M rounds.
Contract for this import was signed in 2003.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Combined with
26,000 imports in 1999, the import in 2003 took the total number of rounds
imported from IMI to 46,000 rounds.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">IA had already
pitched for TOT for IMI round in 1998 and OFB entered into MOU with IMI in
October 2003.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">As part of this
agreement, OFB entered into co-production agreement with IMI to produce the CL
3254M 125mm APFSDS for T-72 tanks.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">To understand
how India gets shafted in such TOT agreements and issues faced with production
of Israeli round by OFB, I’m producing the excerpt from CAG Report No 15 of
2010‐2011 (Point 3.3 - Co-production arrangements for FSAPDS12 with IMI):</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the phase I, the work share of OFB was
to provide Primer and Igniter (US$ 17), Stub Case (US$ 41), Assembly of
complete round, Test (US$ 56), Packaging, Transportation and Proof Cost (US$
40). Compared to this, IMI was required to supply complete penetrator assembly
(US$ 508) and Combustible Cartridge Case and Propellant (US$ 227).</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In Phase II, IMI was required to supply
blank penetrator (US$ 278). Machining & complete penetrator assembly (US$
215) was required to be done by the OFB. Thus in effect, in phase I, OFB was
essentially required to assemble the final product.</span></i> </li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A contract agreement was signed between OFB
and IMI Israel in September 2004 for supply of 15,000 units MK-I FSAPDS 125mm
anti-tank ammunition in two phases. The first batch assembled in India was
subjected to proof test in May 2005. Controller of Quality Assurance (Ammunition)
did not accord Bulk Production Clearance as it failed in the proof test.
Meanwhile, in the Target Fixation meeting for 2005-06 held in January 2005, it
was decided that OFB would supply further 30,000 of the ammunition during
2005-06 (cumulative 45,000). Though the consignment of 15,000 units was
awaiting Bulk Production Clearance from inspectorate authority, OFB imported
further 30,000 units in September 2005 valuing Rs 99.34 crore (US$22 million)
at the Phase-I rate. 45,000 units valuing Rs 141 crore were still lying idle as
of May 2010.</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Without stabilizing the co-production of
FSAPDS from the first consignment of imported components, OFB’s procurement of
30,000 additional units worth Rs 99.34 crore and MOD’s sanction thereof was a
case of wrong judgment.</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Though it was repeatedly mentioned by OFB
and MOD at the time of processing of case that the agreement was meant for
‘co-production and co-development’ of 125mm FSAPDS, the details of work-share
worked out by OFB indicated that it was neither a co-development nor
co-production in the initial phases. The share of IMI to OFB was 83 per cent to
17 per cent. Further, the 17 per cent contribution of OFB was insignificant.</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Between 2001 and 2003, Army had directly
procured 46000 rounds of 125 mm FSAPDS from IMI Israel without any problem
relating to quality. DGQA was the Inspection authority also for imported
ammunition. The ammunition was acceptable both DGQA and Army. However, when the
ammunition against the agreement dated September 2004 was received by OFB, both
DGQA and Army could not clear the ammunition. Ministry remained the silent
spectator during the whole process and failed to resolve the issue which
resulted in 45000 units of FSAPDS worth Rs 141 crore lying idle. The ammunition
procured by OFB and Army were proven products and were supplied by the same
supplier. Ministry replied that bulk production clearance was accorded in June
2009 and in view of the selective permission for business dealings with IMI,
the preparatory action was being taken</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">There were three big fall-outs of this TOT
deal with IMI for 125mm APFSDS ammunition –</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">HAPP stopped the production of indigenous
125mm Mk-1 APFSDS ammunition. This happened in 2005.</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Due to issues with QC of the finished
product, the production of APFSDS ammunition could never stabilize in OFB. As
the CAG article states, bulk production was given clearance only in 2009.</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">While in Phase II of the contract, OFB was
to undertake 44% of the work involved by value, India still continued to import
the penetrator blanks from IMI.</span></i></li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
</div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph">
<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(E) Current Phase (2010 to present)– Tragedy
and Opportunity</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Russian
125mm APFSDS Designation – BM-42 ‘Mango’</span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Indian
Army Designation – AMK 339</span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-k0GHP3DvXZc/Uo-xBVWhgNI/AAAAAAAABiQ/c-dT3l0GxCM/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hnouXtStMBo/Uo_QSRn2gTI/AAAAAAAABk8/UOd7X9-KPy8/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hnouXtStMBo/Uo_QSRn2gTI/AAAAAAAABk8/UOd7X9-KPy8/s1600/3vbm17.jpg" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In 2010, IMI
was blacklisted by MOD for dubious dealing with OFB Chairman and this put a
spanner in the works as far as the production of AMK-340A round was concerned.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It has already
been mentioned that the production of this round at OFB had not stabilized and
after the QC fiasco, bulk production was given clearance only in 2009. When
this information is coupled with the fact that production of AMK-340 round had
been stopped in 2005, one has a situation where no substantial production of
125mm APFSDS rounds had taken place in 2005-2010 period.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Consequently,
army was in a tight spot as far as holding of 125mm APFSDS ammunition is
concerned. And then we did what we do the best – panic purchase.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">In 2010, IA issued
RFP for purchase of 125mm ammunition on urgent basis – it sought ammunition
meeting the performance of AMK-339/BM-42 and AMK-340A/ CL 3254M. Initial
requirement was projected for 75,000 – 100,000 rounds to be supplied over 12-18
months.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">India signed
contract with Russia in 2012 for import of 66,000 125mm BM-42 Mango rounds and
25,000 3UBK-Invar missiles. Of these 10,000 missiles were to be imported from
Russia while 15,000 missiles were to be bought from BDL Limited.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">It is said that
Russians charged 3x-4x the price for the 125mm ammunition purchased under this
contract.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Link to RFP floated by Indian Army for 125mm APFSDS tank ammunition:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://indianarmy.nic.in/writereaddata/RFI/172/RFI%20125%20mm%20FSAPDS.pdf">http://indianarmy.nic.in/writereaddata/RFI/172/RFI%20125%20mm%20FSAPDS.pdf</a></span><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b>
<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DRDO 125mm Mk-2</span></i></b><br />
<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Indian Army Designation - Not Known</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NpwX97QAbyQ/Uo_QZnes8cI/AAAAAAAABlE/LdYMdbbXXtM/s1600/jryXg+(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NpwX97QAbyQ/Uo_QZnes8cI/AAAAAAAABlE/LdYMdbbXXtM/s320/jryXg+(1).jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When the DRDO Mk-1 125mm round went into
production in 1997, it was already working on Mk-2 version of the round. This
it was doing without any GSQR for such a product. With TOT for 125mm round
leading to suspension of production of DRDO Mk-1/AMK-340, IA was not interested
in DRDO Mk-2 round.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">However, DRDO
persisted with the development and when ground was literally pulled from below
the feet of Army due to IMI blacklisting; this became the only recourse
available.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The CAG Report
No.24 of 2011-12 (Defense Services) explains the development of DRDO Mk-2
round:</span></div>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">“Ministry of Defence, Department of Defence
Research and Development (DDRD) in May 1996 sanctioned the above project at a
cost of INR 2.30 crore to be completed by May 1998. It was sanctioned by DRDO
without GSQR from Army HQ. The project after four revisions of probable date of
completion (PDC) and three cost revisions, was closed in December 2004 after an
expenditure INR 7.27 crore. The ammunition developed by the Laboratory did not
meet the Users’ requirement as Users expressed an apprehension as to whether
the trials conducted for MK-II ammunition in the absence of GSQR for this
ammunition would qualify as user trials.</span></i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">To resolve the issue, the ammunition was
subjected to Accelerated User Cum Reliability Trials (AUCRT) in August 2007
which again proved to be unsatisfactory. Ministry of Defence in its reply in
February 2011 stated that trials with 30 rounds of improved ammunition, have
been successfully completed in May 2010 and Army HQ has given go ahead for
accelerated user trials with 500 rounds of the improved ammunition. Ministry’s
reply should be viewed in the background of the fact that even after a lapse of
15 years the ammunition is yet to be inducted. Such ammunition is still being
imported by Army.”</span></i></blockquote>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">This ammunition
is expected to go into production in 2015.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAaAwqoCZvw/Uo--EkzYlsI/AAAAAAAABkE/jsJ41z9jPi0/s1600/125mm+APFSDS+Round.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span></a><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAaAwqoCZvw/Uo--EkzYlsI/AAAAAAAABkE/jsJ41z9jPi0/s1600/125mm+APFSDS+Round.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="260" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OAaAwqoCZvw/Uo--EkzYlsI/AAAAAAAABkE/jsJ41z9jPi0/s320/125mm+APFSDS+Round.jpg" width="320" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><i style="font-size: small; text-align: left;">Source: <a href="http://trishul-trident.blogspot.in/">http://trishul-trident.blogspot.in/</a></i></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">One measure of technological progress made by
DRDO in development of 125mm APFSDS is the comparison of L:D Ratio of DRDO MK-1
and MK-2 round – this parameter was 14:1 for earlier round while the L:D Ratio
of Mk-2 is 20:1.</span><span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">The picture above shows the comparative parameters for the Mk-1 and Mk-2 125mm rounds.</span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DRDO 120mm Mk-T-2</span></b></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">DRDO has also developed the Mk-2 version of
its earlier 120mm round for Arjun tank.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(Source: The information in this write-up
has been sourced from CAG Reports, Parliamentary Standing Committee Reports,
DRDO Technology Focus, OFB and earlier discussions on BRF)</span><o:p></o:p></i></div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-78937300632020341182012-12-22T21:14:00.000+05:302012-12-29T17:26:51.837+05:30Artillery Divisions in Indian Army - An Analysis-Part 2<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><br /></b>
<b>Introduction</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In last post on the topic of
artillery divisions in the Indian Army, I tried to spell out my understanding
on the philosophy behind having artillery division and the likely equipment
profile in current scenario.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Another aspect of the artillery
divisions in the Indian Army which has not yet been answered satisfactorily is their
composition – or, Order of Battle (ORBAT) of these artillery divisions. There
are various assumptive ORBATs on the internet in this regard. In my opinion,
they don’t provide the correct picture – especially, considering the
conclusions which I have reached on the equipment profile of these artillery
divisions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Therefore, in this post I have
tried to assess the actual composition for an artillery division – to the best
extent possible. This analysis is based on piecing together tidbits of
information from open sources about brigades which actually form part of these
formations. I will quote information source along with the analysis. This, I
think, should provide a proper framework for analysis of artillery division(s),
their composition and equipment profile.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>41 ‘Agnibaaz’ Artillery Division<o:p></o:p></b><br />
<b><br /></b>
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<br /></div>
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While researching on the topic of
artillery divisions, I came across information which gives some insight into
the composition of 41 Artillery Division. I will be using the same as template
for illustrating the current topic. I am assuming that other artillery
divisions would also broadly follow the same pattern – save for modifications
to cater for specific tasks. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In the last post on artillery
division, I had surmised that the division consists of mix of Tube Artillery,
Rocket Artillery and Missile Regiments – with Tube Artillery being the largest
component. Therefore, it is expected
that the division will have separate brigade(s) which will hold Tube Artillery,
Rocket Regiment and Missile Regiment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b></b><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Origin – <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Artillery Regiments in the Indian
Army are grouped into artillery brigade(s) and each Infantry/Armored Division
has an organic artillery brigade. Each Corps also has an artillery brigade
directly under its command and this is referred to as Corps Artillery Brigade.
Independent Armored and Infantry Brigades have 1 x Artillery Regiment organic
to their ORBAT.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Apart from these artillery
brigades, Indian Army also had (has?) some Independent Artillery Brigades.
These (I) Arty Bdes were directly under each Command HQ and were moved within
the Command as per the requirement. Based on what I’ve read, I’m of the opinion
that some of these (I) Arty Bdes were used as nucleus for the Arty Divisions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Also, the Corps Arty Bde of the
Strike Corps (under which each of the Arty Division falls) was also used for
beefing up these formations. While I had assumed this to be the case, it was
recently confirmed by Lt. General Panag (retd.) in one of his tweets related to
a discussion on Arty Divisions. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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In case of 41 Arty Division, 97 (I)
Arty Bde formed the nucleus of the Division when it was raised in 2002. Please
see the excerpt below from Sainik Samachar:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Ninety-seven Artillery Brigade, popularly known as Sure Swift Strikers,
celebrated its raising day. The Brigade was raised as an Independent Artillery
Brigade at Kamptee in 1982 by Brig DS Chinni. The formation headquarters moved
to Nasirabad on June 22, 1983 and on May 13, 1995, it moved to its present
location. The formation was re-designated as 97 Artillery Brigade on June 1,
2002 where it was re-orbated with the prestigious Agnibaaz Division.</i></blockquote>
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Source: <a href="http://sainiksamachar.nic.in/englisharchives/2008/jun15-08/h15.html">http://sainiksamachar.nic.in/englisharchives/2008/jun15-08/h15.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>So, based on above evidence, we can conclude that 97 Artillery Brigade
is one of the gun brigades of the 41 Artillery Division.<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Other Brigades<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<b><i><br /></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>97 Artillery Brigade<o:p></o:p></i></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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Apart from 97 Arty Bde, the other
gun brigade of the division is the 98 Artillery Brigade. Here is the circumstantial evidence towards 98
Brigade being part of 41 Artillery Division: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Here is the link about 98 Arty
Bde being part of 41 Arty Division: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i>The expedition was flagged off on Thursday by Maj Gen. O.P. Soni,
General Commanding Officer, 41 Artillery Division (Agnibaaz). The squad
consists of an officer, two commissioned officers and 17 Jawans from the
Agnibaaz division.</i></div>
<i></i><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><i><SNIP></i></i></div>
<i>
</i><i></i>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><i>Brig H.M. Chande, Commander, 98, Artillery Brigade, and Colonel P. Venugopal,
Commanding Officer, 216, Medium Regiment, were present during the flagging off
ceremony.</i></i></div>
<i>
</i></blockquote>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Source: <a href="http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-01-04/pune/27748898_1_expedition-forts-contributory-health-scheme">http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2008-01-04/pune/27748898_1_expedition-forts-contributory-health-scheme</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>374 Composite Brigade<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
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While 97 and 98 Artillery
Brigades are the gun brigades of the division (and hold the tube artillery),
the Rocket Regiments (with Pinaka, Smerch and BM-21) are held by 374 Composite
Artillery Brigade.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
As for the source of this
information – well, it was received with some luck. I came across pictures of 374
Composite Brigade Commander sporting the formation sign of 41 Artillery
Division on his shoulder – and in the army, the formation sign on your shoulder
is that of your higher HQ.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Here is the pic of the Brigade Commander
of 374 Composite Brigade – have a look at the formation sign on his upper arm.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnCpsyBgy9s/UNXRsthSdVI/AAAAAAAABEY/TvpPKkvIgKc/s1600/374-KV+Naseerabad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lnCpsyBgy9s/UNXRsthSdVI/AAAAAAAABEY/TvpPKkvIgKc/s1600/374-KV+Naseerabad.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
The Rocket Regiments of the division comprising of Pinaka,
Smerch and BM-21 GRAD systems are most likely being held by this brigade.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>SATA Regiment<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
While trying to assess the equipment
profile of an artillery division, I had surmised that for a formation of its
size and role envisaged it makes sense for it to have a full-fledged SATA
Regiment (Surveillance and Target Acquisition). Well, it seems that this is the
case. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Please see this excerpt from
Sainik Samachar: <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i><br /></i></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="text-align: justify;">
<i>Thirty Three Medium Regiment lifted prestigious Agnibaaz Division Athletics
Championship Trophy <b>whereas 125 SATA Regiment
</b>and 196 Medium Regiment won second and third positions respectively. The
championship trophy and prizes were given away to the winners by Brig OP Yadav
Commander, 97 Artillery Brigade</i></blockquote>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Source: <a href="http://sainiksamachar.nic.in/englisharchives/2008/oct15-08/h19.html">http://sainiksamachar.nic.in/englisharchives/2008/oct15-08/h19.html</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In terms of equipment profile, the SATA Regiment is most likely to be equipped with a flight of Searcher UAV and ANTPQ-37 Weapon Locating Radars. The UAV will allow the Division to undertake surveillance and recce capability in depth - something required to do justice to the awesome amount and quality of firepower it carries.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>ORBAT Summary<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Based on the above assessment,
the ORBAT of an artillery division can be summarized as below:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>2 x Gun Brigades</b> <b>(97 and 98
Artillery Brigade) </b>– These are likely to hold between 3-4 medium regiments
per brigade giving 6-8 medium regiments in total. At 18 guns per regiment, we’re
looking at ability to field between 108 – 144 medium guns.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Presently bulk of the guns are likely
to be 130mm M-46 with sprinkling of 155/39 Cal FH7B02 Bofors. However, in due
course of time, once the FRAP sees light of the day, the caliber will be
standardized at 155/52 Cal with induction of new guns. Another important aspect
is the mobility – at present, all these guns are of the towed variety. If the
division has to keep pace with its parent Strike Corps, it will need mounted or
Self-Propelled guns (tracked or wheeled) in its inventory. However, given the
limited number of SP (Tracked) guns being ordered (180, I think), the divisions
are likely to be equipped with a mix of towed and mounted guns.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>1 x Rocket Brigade (374 Composite Artillery Brigade)</b> – The divisions
have one Rocket Brigade in their inventory.
This brigade at present is likely
to be holding 1 x Smerch Rocket Regiment, 1 x Pinaka Rocket Regiment and 1 x
BM-21 Rocket Regiment. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
However, these are early days for
the Rocket Regiments in the Indian Army. In my opinion, when more Pinaka
Regiments are available along with its long range version (120kms), the Brigade
is likely to have the following composition:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
2 x Long Range Rocket Regiments –
Smerch/Pinaka-LR<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
3 x Medium Range Rocket Regiments
- Pinaka<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>1 x Missile Brigade – </b>In my last post, I had surmised that it is
likely that each division is holding 1 x Brahmos Missile Regiment. However, I
have not come across any reference to separate Missile Brigade with 41
Artillery Division – or any other artillery division for that matter.
Therefore, the Brahmos Missile Regiment is either under one of gun/rocket
brigades or reports directly to the Artillery Division HQ.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
But in my opinion, the artillery
division will require a separate Missile Brigade to hold the Brahmos Regiment
as well as Prahaar Missile equipped regiments (when they enter service).
Brahmos is an expensive missile and Army needs a Tactical Battlefield Missile (TBM)
to fill the gap between Rocket Artillery and high-end but expensive Brahmos. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
In future, the Missile Brigade is
likely to have following composition – <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
1 x Brahmos Missile Regiment<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
2 x Prahaar/TBM Regiments<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b>Conclusion<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
To quickly summarize the above,
the ORBAT of an artillery division looks something like below:<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
2 x Gun Brigades<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
1 x Rocket Brigade<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
1 x Missile Brigade<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
1 x SATA Regiment<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
Other components of the divisions are going to be support units such as ASC,
EME, Ordnance, Field Ambulance etc.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
With this post, I concludes the series on Artillery Divisions in the Indian Army.</div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-21396872298692442462012-12-09T01:28:00.003+05:302012-12-29T17:25:28.734+05:30Artillery Divisions in Indian Army - An Analysis-Part 1<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3DaUAza4jiM/UMOg17u0sQI/AAAAAAAABCA/z9pVw3tZFJU/s1600/Indian+Artillery.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-3DaUAza4jiM/UMOg17u0sQI/AAAAAAAABCA/z9pVw3tZFJU/s1600/Indian+Artillery.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Introduction</span></b><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Indian Army saw advent of its
first Artillery Division in the form of 40<sup>th</sup> Artillery Division,
which, if I remember correctly, was raised in late 90s. Since then, Indian Army
has raised two more such formations with fourth artillery division having been
cleared by Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) to be raised under Eastern
Command.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not much literature is available
(at least I have not come across any) in public domain on the philosophy behind
raising dedicated artillery divisions or their composition. Information in form
of article(s) may well be buried in issues of magazines dealing with
professional military matters in libraries of various think tanks and army
training colleges – but out of reach of mango people like me.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As is generally the case with
military matters in India’s case, one needs to read material available for
other countries and see how much of it makes sense in India’s case. This
extrapolation without doubt has errors but then, one works with what one has.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In this blog post, I've tried to
answer (to myself and other with enough time to waste on these matters) two
questions:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">1. Philosophy
behind raising dedicated artillery divisions.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">2. Indicative
equipment profile of artillery divisions</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I will try and assess the
composition of an artillery division in separate post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While (a) is based on reading
material available for other armies, (b) is based on open source analysis of
information (which I will quote). If anyone reading this post has additional
information which can be shared on public forum, please do. If there are
mistakes, please feel free to point them out.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Artillery Division –
Why?<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The central question surrounding
the formation of an artillery division is – Is it simply an amalgamation of
artillery brigades under a higher command HQ or is it a maneuver formation in
its own right? Which further leads one to ask is whether the constituent
brigades be parceled out as per the requirement or will the formation be used a
single cohesive entity to work in tandem with mechanized formations?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">[Please see a lively discussion on the topic dated 2002 in
Bharat-Rakshak Forum (BRF) archives -
<a href="http://forums.bharat-rakshak.com/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=322">http://forums.bharat-rakshak.com/viewtopic.php?f=13&t=322</a>]<o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, each Corps HQ in Indian Army
has an Independent Artillery Brigade under its command. Cannot one or two more
such (I) Arty Bdes be simply added under the command of senior most artillery
officer in the Corps HQ? What is the requirement behind raising a dedicated
formation? <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"></span></b></span><br />
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span></b>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Concept and Need of an Artillery Division</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well, based on my search on
internet and referencing some books on the topic, I am summarizing below what I
have been able to understand.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">(a)<span style="font-weight: normal;"> </span><span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Maneuver
by fire</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> –</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Russians have been the
biggest proponent of artillery divisions. The phrase ‘God of War’ used to
describe the role of artillery as a battle winning arm in modern battlefield
originated in former Soviet Union (‘Bog Voyny’ in Russian). By the end of WWII,
Soviet Army had placed 65% of its artillery in artillery divisions which
numbered around 90 divisions. This concentration only increased as the Cold War
increased in intensity over the years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Soviet Artillery doctrine
considered use of artillery as a ‘fighting arm’ rather than as a ‘support arm’.
They spoke in terms of Artillery Offensive or Fire Strike, where a large
concentration of artillery firepower in terms of weight, volume and rate of
fire is used to hit at not only the forward areas but those in depth as well -
leading to considerable destruction.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Now, the objective of having a maneuver
force of mechanized troops (or Cavalry in earlier times) is to place a ‘Force’
in an advantageous position – Force here refers to mobile and protected
firepower inherent in this maneuver group. The ability to concentrate humungous
amount of firepower leads to a situation where the ‘Force’ is concentrated
without committing troops/maneuver formations on the ground. This concentration
of firepower to place a ‘force’ in an advantageous position itself represents a
“Maneuver by fire”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This maneuver by fire adds
another dimension to the war fighting of current times – the maneuver
formations do not necessarily advance under cover of artillery support, they
advance to ‘Support’ the Artillery Offensive. The Artillery Offensive or Fire
Strike creates the space for the maneuver of mechanized columns. There is
interchangeability in mode of expression of ‘Force’ – from combat
troops/mechanized columns to long range guns and back to combat troops.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The above is the central premise
in favor of having artillery division. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In our context, each of the
Strike Corps has one artillery division. When coupled with armored division and
Integrated Battle Groups, the artillery division can apply tremendous amount of
firepower over the required front. This firepower can be employed for both,
degrading (and destroying) the war-fighting capability of the enemy and for
creating openings through which the mechanized columns can pour through.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">(b)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Command
and Control </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">–</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the Soviet Army of WWII, the
control (if not Command) of ‘ALL’ the artillery assets of a given theater of
action rested with the senior most artillery commander. Local artillery
commanders were known to control even the organic mortar elements of the infantry
battalions and machine gun detachments. This allowed the artillery commander to
plan and coordinate each element of his fire plan and concentrate the maximum
amount of fire-power at the required location.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The above signifies one of the
basic tenets of artillery employment – maximum feasible centralized control. An
artillery division achieves this admirably where the division commander
commands and controls all the assets – he has a dedicated staff which looks
into all the aspects of artillery usage – from logistics to communication to
fire plans to actual deployment details to coordinating with senior HQ etc. All
this would not have been possible by simply adding one or two extra brigades
under Corps HQ. The artillery commander in Corps HQ would have lacked the
resources to effectively manage so many assets under his control.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There is another aspect to this
point – the artillery division commander being the senior most artillery
commander, can (if required) effectively control ‘ALL’ the assets in the area
of operations. The resources at the disposal of an arty div HQ can be used to
plan and coordinate fire assaults of all the guns in the theater. He becomes
the single point of input to the Corps Commander on all matters pertaining to
employment of artillery assets – from tube artillery to rocket regiment and
missile regiments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As it is, with projects like
Shakti (ACCCS – Artillery Combat Command and Control), IA is talking in terms
of utilizing all the available guns in a given area rather using only those
which are either organic to a formation or seconded to it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b>(c)</b> </span><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Logistics</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">
–</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">An artillery division of today is
likely to consist of tube and rocket artillery along with tactical battlefield
missiles. This myriad set of complex equipment brings with it the challenge of
upkeep and maintenance – both in peace and war. Apart from this, there is going
to be challenge of replenishing stock of ammunition as well as POL and spare
parts during combat. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This calls for dedicated support
elements under a single umbrella where such activities can be coordinated at a
central level.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">(d)<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-weight: normal;"> </span></b><b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Administration</b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">
–</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A typical artillery division is
likely to consist of 10,000 – 15,000 troops spread across artillery regiments
and support battalions and workshops. A senior HQ is required to control and
manage this human resource comprising of both offers and soldiers. A division
HQ with support elements like Field Ambulance, Dental Section, Military Police
and other elements can look after the welfare of soldiers under its command. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><br clear="all" style="mso-special-character: line-break; page-break-before: always;" />
</span>
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">This concludes my understanding of the reasons behind having an artillery division.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Mystery Formation
Sign</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Almost a year back, during a
discussion on BRF, one of the forumites pointed to a Republic Day contingent of
Pinaka MBRL with a previously unseen (at least on BRF) formation sign. This led
to frantic internet research and after many hours of hard labor with Google, I
finally managed to pin the formation sign to that of 42 Artillery Division.
Till then, the general perception was that IA had 2 x Artillery Divisions with
third being sanctioned by CCS for Eastern Command.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I’ve used the same formation sign reasoning to
reach some conclusions about the composition of Artillery Divisions. Therefore,
a short primer on formation sign is in order. Here goes:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The easiest way to recognize the
parent headquarter of any military unit is to examine the ‘formation sign’ on
vehicles. Each formation – Infantry/Artillery/Armor Division and (I)
Armored/Mechanized Bde has unique formation sign. Not only that, the formation sign of each of
the above formations also has a distinct design. So, while formations signs of Armored
Divisions and (I) Armored Bdes have a yellow background, those of infantry have
black and those of artillery have blue background. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Please see the link below for excellent collection of Division and Command Badges of the Indian Army:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Heraldry/Patches/26-Div-Badges.html">http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Heraldry/Patches/26-Div-Badges.html</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Here are some of the examples:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>1st Armored division - </b>this is the badge worn on the arm of a soldier.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LiQauNq6PoY/UMODExZ0rVI/AAAAAAAAA-I/TIWy-QAhNqQ/s1600/1D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LiQauNq6PoY/UMODExZ0rVI/AAAAAAAAA-I/TIWy-QAhNqQ/s1600/1D.jpg" width="308" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(I) Armored Bde - </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">the 'flower' you see on left side skirt is the formation sign of famous 2(I) Armored Bde. It is called 'Fleur-de-lis'. It was the first formation to receive these tanks in early 90s when first batch was inducted into 43 Armored Regiment.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P3sds4yQTjo/UMODkkdMmpI/AAAAAAAAA_I/ILGcxoWxCqg/s1600/arjun.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-P3sds4yQTjo/UMODkkdMmpI/AAAAAAAAA_I/ILGcxoWxCqg/s1600/arjun.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><b>Infantry Division - </b>TATRA vehicle from 54 Infantry Division (Bison Division)</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OlutFcT_UMo/UMOGxTg6S3I/AAAAAAAAA_k/8PREfMDwoiY/s1600/54+ID.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OlutFcT_UMo/UMOGxTg6S3I/AAAAAAAAA_k/8PREfMDwoiY/s1600/54+ID.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Artillery Divisions – </b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Below are listed the formation signs for each of
the three Artillery Divisions<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>(1) 40 Artillery Division - </b>Smerch contingent in R-Day Parade from 551 Rocket Regiment. The formation sign has a blue background with traditional Canon and a perpendicular Missile in foreground.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yAUDJGJVdEk/UN7YhXPEcaI/AAAAAAAABS8/jXsxT7ijJ0k/s1600/UN1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yAUDJGJVdEk/UN7YhXPEcaI/AAAAAAAABS8/jXsxT7ijJ0k/s1600/UN1.jpg" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source: Bharar-rakshak.com</i></span></b></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(2) 41 Artillery Division - </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Pinaka contingent in R-Day Parade from 1880 Rocket Regiment. It consists of head of an eagle on top with radio waves emanating from red-colored round object at base. Appropriately called as 'Agnibaaz' Division. 1880 Rocket Regiment is one of the two Pinaka Regiments to be inducted first into the army</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dmDiDT6vowU/UN7Ym0taV7I/AAAAAAAABTE/dKi_qsmu1lc/s1600/UN4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dmDiDT6vowU/UN7Ym0taV7I/AAAAAAAABTE/dKi_qsmu1lc/s320/UN4.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source: Bharar-rakshak.com</i></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SQl4ylnTa3g/UMODR1IsMcI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/R29BUcAFKwY/s1600/P-41.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SQl4ylnTa3g/UMODR1IsMcI/AAAAAAAAA-Y/R29BUcAFKwY/s1600/P-41.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">(3) 42 Artillery Division - </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Smerch contingent from 1872 Rocket Regiment during Army Day Parade. The formation sign consists of a vertical maroon colored missile/rocket with a bolt of lighting in diagonal manner.</span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Source of names of rocket regiments - </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">R-Day Parade recordings available here: </span><a href="http://republicday.nic.in/" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">http://republicday.nic.in/</a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Artillery Divisions in Indian Army</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Therefore, as against the general
perception, Indian Army has three instead of two artillery division. And each
of them it seems has been assigned to army’s three Strike Corps. A synopsis of
the same is as follows:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b> <i>- 40 Artillery Division</i></b> – This was the first
artillery division to be raised; was raised towards end of 90s decade. The
division is part of 2 Corps and I think has its headquarters in Ambala.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b> <i>- 41 Artillery Division</i></b> – It was raised in
2002 in Pune. This comes under the aegis of Southern Command and is supposed to
be under the control of 21 Corps.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b><i> - 42 Artillery Division</i></b> – Raised somewhere
towards end of last decade. The division is currently based out of Alwar (in
Rajasthan) and falls under the aegis of Jaipur headquartered South-Western
Command. It is supposed to be under the control of 1 Corps. However, as per
media reports the division is moving to a location close to Jaipur.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Excerpt –</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In a major strategic decision the Indian
Army has decided to shift its 42 Artillery Division of the Jaipur-based South
Western (SW) Command to Bassi, 25 km from the Rajasthan capital. The new
location is much closer to Jaipur as compared to its present location in Alwar,
about 160 km from the Pink City.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> (</span><i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Source:</i><a href="http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/army-south-west-command-to-move-closer-to-jaipur/1/184194.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/army-south-west-command-to-move-closer-to-jaipur/1/184194.html</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">)</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Equipment Profile<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The fiasco around the Field
Artillery Rationalization Plan (FARP) is too well known to warrant any repeat
here. Therefore, the first question that comes to mind about these artillery
divisions is the equipment they are holding – given the state of affair with
Indian artillery procurement saga, what is the effectiveness of these divisions
and can they fulfill their mandate.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Tube Artillery -</b> My take on the situation is that a gun is a gun is
a gun – yes, there are modern guns out there with heavier caliber and computer
assisted operations to increase efficiency and accuracy but, that does not mean
that 130 mm M-46 cannot do its task(s). Shell fired from M-46 guns will travel
lesser and weigh less but it will visit destruction on the enemy nonetheless.
And concentration of medium guns has increased in the army.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Earlier, an Infantry Division had
1 x Medium regiment + 3 x Field Regiments + 1 x Light Regiment – where Field Regiments
fielded the 105 mm IFG and Medium Regiment had the 130 mm M-46 or 155 mm Bofors.
The Light Regiments were (are) equipped with 120 mm Mortars. The above would
mean that Field Regiments to Medium Regiments ratio in IA is ~3:1 and at one
point in time, that might well have been the case. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But from what I’ve read,
India had imported anywhere between 400-1,000 M-46 in early 90s on break-up of
USSR – and at throwaway prices <i>(again,
there was once a lively discussion on BRF on this)</i>. This allowed IA to
phase out older M-46 as well as convert Field Regiments to Medium Regiments.
So, in my opinion, today the ratio between Field and Medium Regiments is
something like 1.5:1. This in itself represents a quantum leap in offensive
firepower. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Also, we need to appreciate the
fact that with advent of Artillery Combat Command and Control System (ACCCS) –
Project Shakti – IA is in a far better position to extract maximum bang for the
buck. Kargil showed what concentrated firepower can do to the adversary – and that
is what exactly ACCCS will allow IA to do – concentrate the firepower of all available
guns in a given sector on an objective.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, as far as the Tube Artillery
is considered, these divisions are likely to be equipped with Medium Regiments
with M-46 and some Bofors Regiments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rocket Artillery - <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is one aspect of artillery
where the army had not shown too much enthusiasm – till the advent of Smerch
System, IA had grand total of 5 x Rocket Regiments equipped with BM-21 GRAD
MBRL system. One school of thought says that IA was not exactly pleased with
the ‘spray and pray’ kind of accuracy offered by BM-21 type of systems. Other
thought says that we did not have the finances to procure and sustain the stock
for massive volume of usage (of rockets) associated with these systems.
Howsoever the case may be, IA did not see induction of this system beyond the
initial 5 x Regiments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>BM-21 firing during Exercise Divya Astra (2004).</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x9tBT-F32PM/UMObJ2HdBoI/AAAAAAAABBM/8f_G6kl6JVQ/s1600/BM-21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-x9tBT-F32PM/UMObJ2HdBoI/AAAAAAAABBM/8f_G6kl6JVQ/s1600/BM-21.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>(Interestingly, IA seems to have tested the BM-21 system on TATA truck chassis - is the army looking for relatively cheap mass-produced MBRL for line infantry divisions on Indian platform? No answers. See the pic below of BM-21 mounted on TATA truck and an awesome video of firing from the same truck)</i></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QHdLxLZldKo/UMOagAFyfUI/AAAAAAAABBE/aQLItA9GSlU/s1600/TATA-BM21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QHdLxLZldKo/UMOagAFyfUI/AAAAAAAABBE/aQLItA9GSlU/s1600/TATA-BM21.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/iKx4-XcYa4c?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Today, IA has options and
resources to address both the areas of concern – systems like Smerch and Pinaka
come with rockets with very high accuracy level and IA is not exactly short of
funds. The induction of systems like Smerch and Pinaka (and planned longer
range versions of Pinaka) indicates that IA looks at these weapon systems as
tools to hit deep behind the forward line of enemy troops. This sits quite well
with the concept of ‘maneuver by fire’ – where long range firepower delivered
by the modern Rocket Artillery can produce advantageous position for own
troops.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Holding of Rocket Artillery<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In terms of holding of Rocket
Regiments, the excerpt from Parliamentary Standing Committee Report-2009-10
tabled in 15 Lok Sabha gives a good indication:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>3.10 When enquired about the authorized and existing number of guns,
missiles and rocket systems, the Ministry in a written reply submitted as
under:-</i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>“Army is presently authorized 216 regiments which comprise of 180 Field
and Medium Regiments, 25 Light Regiments, 10 Rocket Regiments and one Cruise
Missile Regiment. All these units are existing except two rocket Regiments
which are in the process of raising. Out of these, superior firepower units
with enhanced range currently comprise of only three Multiple Rocket Launching
Regiments and one Cruise Missile Regiment.”</i><i><br /></i><i></i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>3.11 On number and type of guns, missiles and rockets produced
indigenously and imported during the last three years, the following
information was made available to the Committee:</i><i><br /></i><i></i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>“1. Equipment imported in the last three years :-</i><i><br /></i><i>(a) Guns. Nil.</i><i>(b) Missiles. Nil (Being procured through a Joint Venture).</i><i>(c) Rocket. Three regiments of Multiple Rocket Launching System each having
12 Launchers.</i><i><br /></i><i></i></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>2. Equipment procured indigenously in the last three years :-</i><i><br /></i><i></i></blockquote>
<i>(a) Guns. Nil.</i><br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>(b) Missiles. Through joint venture, a Cruise Missile Regiment
comprising of four launchers has been raised.</i></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">So, from the above report one can
ascertain that IA was authorized 10 x Rocket Regiments. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The breakdown of the
same is follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b><i>- BM-21 GRAD – 5 x Rocket Regiment</i></b> –
DRDO has developed a long range (35 km) rocket for these systems as against
their earlier range of 20 kms.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b><i>- Smerch – 3 x Rocket Regiments</i></b> –
each Regiment with 12 x Launchers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> <b><i>- Pinaka -2 x Rocket Regiments</i></b> –
these were being raised at the time of the above report but are now
operational. I will come to that in a short while.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From what I’ve been able to
ascertain, the distribution of Smerch and Pinaka is as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Each of the Artillery Division has 1 x Smerch
Rocket Regiment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">-<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->41 AD and 42 AD each have one Pinaka Rocket
Regiment<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The visual evidence of the above
is given below:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> - We've seen pics of Smerch system with formation signs of 40 and 42 Artillery Division. Below is picture of Smerch (along with Pinaka system) from exercise Sudarshan Shakti. The exercise involved formations from Southern Command and 21 Corps (Sudarshan Corps). So, I'm assuming that these Smerch systems are from 41 AD.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AISnUxSZRC8/UMOSoL7VLjI/AAAAAAAABAA/pa1CK2bs1fE/s1600/S-41.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AISnUxSZRC8/UMOSoL7VLjI/AAAAAAAABAA/pa1CK2bs1fE/s1600/S-41.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> - There is a pic listed earlier showing Pinaka R-day contingent from 41 Ad. The below pic is from last R-day parade showing Pinaka contingent from 42 AD and belonging to 1890 Rocket Regiment.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WOcr9nXSFHo/UMODUtjD0II/AAAAAAAAA-g/wzEW82rW7co/s1600/P-42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WOcr9nXSFHo/UMODUtjD0II/AAAAAAAAA-g/wzEW82rW7co/s1600/P-42.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As per the media reports, IA plan
to induct 2 x Pinaka Regiment per year in the 2013-2017 Defense Plan. The above
coupled with longer range versions of Pinaka will represents a quantum increase
in firepower.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, apart from Tube Artillery,
these Artillery Divisions have a healthy holding of Rocket Regiments.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Missile Regiments – </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">As the PSCD Report 2009-10 states; IA had
raised a Cruise Missile Regiment with four launchers. The first Brahmos
Regiment is the 861 Missile Regiment and a contingent from this Regiment
actually took part in Republic Day Parade. And the formation sign on the launcher
says that the Regiment is part of 40 Artillery Division.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Since the raising of this Missile
Regiment, IA has raised 2 more regiments with second being numbered as 862
Missile Regiment and third likely to be numbered as 863 Missile Regiment (guess
based on continuity). The three Missile Regiments are equipped with Block 1 and
Block 2 version of the Brahmos Missile. It is likely that other two artillery
divisions also have 1 x Missile Regiment. The Block 3 version of the missile,
customized for attacking targets in mountainous areas, is most likely to be
part of fourth artillery division to be raised under Eastern Command.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Please see below pic of Brahmos Missile contingent from R-Day parade with formation sign of 40 Artillery Division. The contingent belongs to 861 Missile Regiment - the first Brahmos Missile Regiment of the IA.</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHxcB_xPcEQ/UMODPxNRASI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/W0e6HzKgmMg/s1600/B-40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="210" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OHxcB_xPcEQ/UMODPxNRASI/AAAAAAAAA-Q/W0e6HzKgmMg/s1600/B-40.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Surveillance and
Target Acquisition (SATA) Assets – </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In order to fully harness the potential
of modern artillery, detection and acquisition of targets is of utmost
importance. Equally important is location of enemy artillery assets for Counter
Battery Fire (CBF).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Traditionally, artillery brigade of an Infantry Division had
organic SATA Battery. However, given the mandate and equipment profile of an
artillery division, it is important it has more assets in this domain. This
will allow it not only effectively utilize organic artillery assets but control
the assets from other formations in the battle area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">India has acquired Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) from USA
(AN/TPQ-37) and DRDO has developed an indigenous one based on Rajendra Fire
Control Radar of Akash SAM. In addition, IA today operates various UAVs which can
assist in real time data gathering and dissemination. When these sensors are
plugged into ACCCS/Project Shakti, the ability to respond in real time
increases dramatically.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>ANTPQ-37 WLR during Exercise Brazen Chariots in 2008:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zz8gMrMWWEU/UMOZwT7HnQI/AAAAAAAABA8/WGw3t8OAb4g/s1600/wlr.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zz8gMrMWWEU/UMOZwT7HnQI/AAAAAAAABA8/WGw3t8OAb4g/s1600/wlr.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>BEL WLR at one of the airshows:</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uPpbG4h0YGM/UMOUrzvmodI/AAAAAAAABAQ/ckd-rBxBD34/s1600/DRDO-WLR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-uPpbG4h0YGM/UMOUrzvmodI/AAAAAAAABAQ/ckd-rBxBD34/s1600/DRDO-WLR.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Performance specs of the BEL WLR:</i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y91dmqL2Q-I/UMOUqlUn2UI/AAAAAAAABAI/hK9QxYz2s7Q/s1600/BEL-WLR.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-y91dmqL2Q-I/UMOUqlUn2UI/AAAAAAAABAI/hK9QxYz2s7Q/s1600/BEL-WLR.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">So, while it is not known whether an artillery division has
SATA Battery or SATA Battalion, in my opinion,organic SATA Regiment makes more sense.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The Prithvi Missile Question – </b>Ever since the advent of artillery
divisions in IA, it has been assumed and written by various authors that Prithvi
Missile Group(s) is/are part of these artillery divisions. I have a contrary
opinion based on two reasons. The same are as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Role of Prithvi Missile</i></b> –
Ever since its induction, the Prithvi Missile in Indian context has been
supposed to have strategic role i.e. carrier of nuclear warhead. The missile
itself has gone various iterations in terms of range and guidance but there has
been no communication (in public domain) by Government of India or Ministry of
Defense on the change in the role of Prithvi Missile. Another indication of the
same is that all trials of Prithvi Missiles are carried out by formations from
Strategic Forces Command and to date; I don’t think any test has been done by
the user in the Thar Desert to test the missile in tactical role.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Artillery Division has a
conventional role and is accordingly equipped. For example, at no point in time
has India claimed that it will arm Brahmos with nuclear warhead – even if
ability to fabricate tactical nuclear weapon may well exist with Indian nuclear
establishment.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Moving Prithvi Missile from
strategic to conventional role without explicit statement to the effect can
create serious consequences in times of crisis. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For example, in case of another
Operation Parakram, artillery divisions along with Prithvi Missile (if the same
is part of artillery division) will need to mobilize. Given the range of this
missile, it will need to move quite a bit forward so as to be employed in
opening sequence of any war – for example, taking on airfields and POL depots.
Now, Pakistan (and USA with ubiquitous eyes in sky) may well construe this as
preparation for nuclear war-fighting by India and react accordingly. Pakistan
will not know if the incoming missile is tactical or nuclear armed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Such kind of ambiguity goes
against the grain of Confidence Building Measure (CBM) – if India moves Prithvi
Missiles into Tactical Battlefield Missile (TBM) role, I think it needs to
inform Pakistan in advance and remove any ambiguity on the role front.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Prithvi Missile formation sign – </i></b>We
again return to<i> </i>the formation sign
route; if one observes the formation sign on Prithvi Missiles in RD Parade or
otherwise, one sees them with formation sign of Strategic Forces Command (SFC).
Here, check some pictures:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hfKqhcOfJM/UMOW2QPfhuI/AAAAAAAABAY/jFHzCg0sxxE/s1600/Prithvi+MSL-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2hfKqhcOfJM/UMOW2QPfhuI/AAAAAAAABAY/jFHzCg0sxxE/s1600/Prithvi+MSL-2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WCrDeELL9PQ/UMOW39MeUnI/AAAAAAAABAc/bKpbtzLyP3A/s1600/Prithvi+MSL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WCrDeELL9PQ/UMOW39MeUnI/AAAAAAAABAc/bKpbtzLyP3A/s1600/Prithvi+MSL.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Conclusion –</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Based on the data points captured
above, we can reach the following conclusion about the artillery divisions in
the Indian Army –</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (1) The
raising of these artillery divisions represents a shift in the war-fighting
philosophy of the IA. Artillery, in all its manifestation, is seen as a Combat
Arm with the ability to shape battlefield and decide on the outcome.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (2) ‘Maneuver
by Fire’ is going to be one of the tenets of war-fighting where IA will look to
apply disproportionate firepower to both degrade and destroy the combat capability
of the enemy – and artillery divisions are central to this philosophy.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (3) The
ability to concentrate firepower becomes still more critical if the IA wants to
execute the Cold Start Doctrine (CSD) – Integrated Battle Groups will have to
be supported by high volume of fire to help them achieve their objective in
shortest time possible.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (4) As
the new Tube Artillery starts to come in (no smirks here, please - a man can
dream), these artillery divisions will achieve yet higher ability to destroy
the enemy even before contact is established with own troops.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (5) Rocket
artillery has gained traction and Pinaka is a great success. IA is looking
forward to enhanced range version of current system along with weapon system in
Smerch category. Given the various arrays of warheads on these systems, IA has
great flexibility in terms of target choice and decimation. My guess-estimate is
that after the artillery division, infantry divisions may well see induction of
at least 1 x MBRL battery in their artillery bde.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (6) Brahmos
equipped Missile Regiments are already a part of artillery divisions. This is a
high performance and expensive system and is likely to be limited to 1 x
Missile Regiment per Division. Brahmos is like a 290 km sniper which will be
used to take out C&C nodes and other such targets of critical importance.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (7) India
has recently tested the Prahaar TBM – this Mach 2+ missile with declared range
of 150 km is one of the most exciting systems to come out of DRDO stable. In my
opinion, this missile will be the mainstay of Tactical Missile Regiments of IA
and will fill the role between 290 km expensive Brahmos Missile and 90 km range
Smerch (and planned derivation of Pinaka).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><i>Prahaar TBM TEL with 6 x ready to fire missiles:</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EBzQeI067uY/UMObz9UbpZI/AAAAAAAABBU/1DvxHhLuTVs/s1600/Prahaar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-EBzQeI067uY/UMObz9UbpZI/AAAAAAAABBU/1DvxHhLuTVs/s1600/Prahaar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (8) Going
ahead, an artillery division is likely to see a Composite Missile Brigade with
1 x Brahmos Missile Regiment +1/2 x Prahaar Missile Regiments.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"> (9) All
the weapon systems taken together allow an artillery division commander to
target objectives from 30 km to 300 km – the sheer flexibility of options
available are mind-boggling and allow a Strike Corps to achieve much more. </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="mso-list: l3 level1 lfo5; text-align: justify; text-indent: -.25in;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com22tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-5243229675400767512012-09-10T00:22:00.000+05:302012-12-23T00:58:48.416+05:30Update: More Images-IA Canal Crossing Operations<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happened to come across some more images of Indian Army undertaking canal crossing operations. These are also from various exercises conducted by the IA over last couple of years.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. T-72 entering the bridge over a canal.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LV0sRvI_ahk/UEzbiWmXMbI/AAAAAAAAA7I/PclJRBRFl0U/s1600/Hind+Shakti-09+Livefist.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LV0sRvI_ahk/UEzbiWmXMbI/AAAAAAAAA7I/PclJRBRFl0U/s320/Hind+Shakti-09+Livefist.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. BMP-2 crossing the bridge over a canal. You can see the pontoon bridge has been tethered to the home and far bank of the canal. In case of a bigger water body, they would have required the use of the boats which form part of the whole PMS Pontoon Bridge System. The pic above and below are from exercise Hind Shakti-2009.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTHA8_XX_BU/UEzbj0upXhI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/WZY3AHXXli4/s1600/Hind+Shakti-09+Livefist2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oTHA8_XX_BU/UEzbj0upXhI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/WZY3AHXXli4/s320/Hind+Shakti-09+Livefist2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: justify;">3. BMP-2 crossing the canal. The water body in the image looks similar into which BMP-2 can be seen entering in the first image of original photo-essay on canal crossing operations.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nb4M02cGaoo/UEzblF4EPoI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/s4JQjpUsOuo/s1600/Vijaye+Bhava-livefist.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nb4M02cGaoo/UEzblF4EPoI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/s4JQjpUsOuo/s320/Vijaye+Bhava-livefist.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source (1, 2&3): <a href="http://livefist.blogspot.in/">Livefist.blogspot.in</a></span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">4. Infantry/Engineers waiting to cross over to the far bank of the canal. One can clearly see the raft. The tank will provide the fire-cover. I once remember seeing a video of IA on YouTube which showed a small body of engineers crossing over, followed by BMP-2 on their power and some T-72 tanks snorkeling over to the far bank. This seems to be a standard SOP to secure a lodgement across a water obstacle.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-coA3ys7sbjs/UEzbmrUsjEI/AAAAAAAAA7g/4DHmx80p-ik/s1600/defencetechdotin-vijay+bhava.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-coA3ys7sbjs/UEzbmrUsjEI/AAAAAAAAA7g/4DHmx80p-ik/s320/defencetechdotin-vijay+bhava.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">5. A small image which shows the process of crossing over being set in motion. The raft is being prepared for launching and smoke grenades have been fired to cover the crossing over.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B5mtj6Wea9o/UEzbqaSNrlI/AAAAAAAAA74/MuwjBw6CG8g/s1600/militaryphotosdotnet-ashwamedha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B5mtj6Wea9o/UEzbqaSNrlI/AAAAAAAAA74/MuwjBw6CG8g/s1600/militaryphotosdotnet-ashwamedha.jpg" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: Military-photos</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">6. A T-72 tank fording across a water obstacle during Exercise Vijay Bhava and Ashwamedha, respectively. You can see mine ploug (which I think are KMT-6 mine ploug) attached in the front of the tank in the top. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">A T-72 can ford water obstacles with depth up to1.2 meters. Snorkeling is used in case of water bodies with more depth. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ko0RJnnPMPI/UEzbn0OYjWI/AAAAAAAAA7o/tfLzOC1DVC0/s1600/defencetechdotin-vijay+bhava2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ko0RJnnPMPI/UEzbn0OYjWI/AAAAAAAAA7o/tfLzOC1DVC0/s320/defencetechdotin-vijay+bhava2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d3Jpu5BXouI/UEzbr8AGkuI/AAAAAAAAA8A/zXrfW-w2O90/s1600/tribune-ashwamedh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d3Jpu5BXouI/UEzbr8AGkuI/AAAAAAAAA8A/zXrfW-w2O90/s1600/tribune-ashwamedh.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: Tribune</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">7. Troops (seem like infantry, could be engineers too) crossing over a water body during exercise Pine Prahaar.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zyppQwlttA/UEzbpFuHYdI/AAAAAAAAA7w/Eu2nA7sSu7E/s1600/exercise_pine_prahar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6zyppQwlttA/UEzbpFuHYdI/AAAAAAAAA7w/Eu2nA7sSu7E/s320/exercise_pine_prahar.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">8. Troops can be seen carrying raft for water crossing. You can see two soldiers carrying Carl-Gustav 84mm RL on them</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_mSj1p0EsM/UEz5JEQOkcI/AAAAAAAAA8s/C3HrCubrkCM/s1600/709201.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4_mSj1p0EsM/UEz5JEQOkcI/AAAAAAAAA8s/C3HrCubrkCM/s320/709201.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source: <a href="http://www.demotix.com/news/709210/indian-soldiers-undertake-military-war-exercises">http://www.demotix.com/news/709210/indian-soldiers-undertake-military-war-exercises</a></i>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">9. A rare image of Arjun Tank demonstrating its fording capability.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TX9uK_Po_xE/UE4WkwIa0kI/AAAAAAAAA9I/uW9YJ366Rx8/s1600/Arjun+fording-defenceindia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TX9uK_Po_xE/UE4WkwIa0kI/AAAAAAAAA9I/uW9YJ366Rx8/s320/Arjun+fording-defenceindia.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: defenceindia</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">10. A T-72 Tank demonstrating its fording capability in what looks like a water body used for training in such activities.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>A</i></b><b><i>dded later: O</i></b><i>ne can see the cylindrical tube to the left of the commander; this is the snorkeling tube</i></span><br />
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<i>From Wikipedia on T-72 snorkeling:</i></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">"The T-72 is designed to cross rivers up to 5 m (16.4 ft) deep submerged using a small diameter </span><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vehicle_snorkel" style="background-color: white; background-image: none; color: #0b0080; line-height: 19.200000762939453px; text-decoration: none;" title="Vehicle snorkel">snorkel</a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> assembled on-site. The crew is individually supplied with a simple re-breather</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> chest-pack apparatus for emergency situations. If the engine stops underwater, it must be restarted within six seconds, or the T-72's engine compartment becomes flooded due to pressure loss. The snorkeling procedure is considered dangerous but is important for maintaining operational mobility<b>"</b></span></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQkaSBbpUj4/UE4WpVp3hSI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/6h7LPsXuXQQ/s1600/T-72+fording-indiadefence.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OQkaSBbpUj4/UE4WpVp3hSI/AAAAAAAAA9Q/6h7LPsXuXQQ/s320/T-72+fording-indiadefence.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: indiadefence</span></i></div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-70875153873707288032012-09-05T23:36:00.001+05:302012-12-23T00:59:12.134+05:30Indian Army - Canal Crossing Operation-II<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Introduction</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the previous post, I had presented a photo essay on the canal/water crossing operations as practiced by the Indian Army during various exercises. To undertake such operations, right kind of bridging equipment is of utmost importance. In this post, I've tried to compile information about the bridging equipment of the Indian Army. In addition, we also take a look at videos of river crossing operations which show the sequence of various events.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Water obstacles crossing</b> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From what I've seen, such water obstacle crossing enterprise can be broadly divided into following components:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Secure the home bank of the canal.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Amphibious assault(s) across the water body to establish a lodgement and subsequently, a larger bridgehead. The far bank of the water obstacle needs to be secured so that bridge can be put across and uninterrupted communication channel established. Needless to say, the forces which cross over need to be strong enough to first overcome the defenders and then guard against counter-attacks. These amphibious operations are undertaken by Infantry mounted on Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICV) like our BMP-2, in rafts of various kind and Main Battle Tanks (MBT) suitably modified to undertake such operations. Artillery support to suppress/eliminate the defenders and counter-battery fire is a must. In addition, air-support is required to keep away the enemy air-force as well as to suppress/eliminate enemy's defenses and forces in the area. Self Propelled (SP) Air Defense systems like Tungushka and Akash SAM mounted on T-72 chassis are used to provide AD cover.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bridging operations - Once the bridgehead has been established, a bridge of a suitable type is put across the water obstacle. The main body of troops can then cross over and dash towards the main target(s). The support troops and vehicles forming the logistic chain follow thereafter to sustain troops fighting in the front.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Rest assured, such major crossing operations will receive every bit of love and attention from the enemy. The enemy will try to foil any such crossing and the event where he cannot do so, he'll try to delay the operations as much as possible. The fate of a major operation, battle or even the war may depend on the success (or otherwise) of such planned crossings. The enemy will bring to bear every possible asset under his command on such an operation by Indian Army.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Videos</span></b></div>
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Check these videos to have a look at the anatomy of such water obstacle crossing operation(s).</span></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;">(a) Video 1 - Russian Army River crossing exercise.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The sequence of events in the video might not be correct. However, you can observe the following:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Infantry crossing over in BMP-2 ICVs. The BMP-2s can be seen firing their co-axial machines guns while still in water. I haven't manage to find a video of BMP-2 firing its main 30mm canon during amphibious crossings.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A strong body of tanks crossing over using the snorkeling method. Combined with Infantry+ICVs, these will constitute the main force to secure a lodgement and beat back initial counter-attacks.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You can also see a flight of Mi-8s crossing over the river; these can be used to insert infantry or special forces behind the enemy's defenses on the far-bank of the river and assault these defenses from the rear.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The ubiquitous Mi-24 gunships can be seen in the video giving top cover to the forces crossing over. In any major crossing, these gunships will be used to suppress/neutralize enemy defenses on the far-bank as well take out enemy forces in deep.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One can also see the Su-25 'Frogfoot' in action. In my opinion, the role of Su-25 in our case will be carried out to limited extent by Mig-27s.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One can also see amphibious ferry vehicles carrying trucks across the river.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In the final section, the Russian Army engineers can be seen putting together a pontoon bridge which is steered in place by tug-boats.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Once the bridge is put in place, the main body of troops can be seen crossing over, including a ZSU-23-4 or 'Shilka'. These are used to provide AD cover to the troops.</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">In my opinion, what is missing is tanks providing direct fire support from home bank of the canal to forces crossing over.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>(b) Video 2 - Russian Army River crossing exercise.</b>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This is also quite similar to the one posted earlier. However, certain aspects are show in more detail (though, there might be an issue with sequence of events here as well). For example:</span></div>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Simulated attack by a flight of Su-25 'Frog foot' aircraft to soften up the defenses on the far-bank of the river.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Mi-8 helicopters can be seen inserting troops on the far bank of the canal.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tanks get in position on the home bank of the canal and provide direct fire support before the ICVs can cross over.</span></li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tungushka seen providing air-defense on the on home bank of the canal</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is the video:</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian Army - Bridging Equipment</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1. AM-50 Bridge<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This was developed in erstwhile Czechoslovakia. This is a special wheeled
vehicle for launching a mobile bridge over obstacles of 10 to 12,5 m in width,
that can support vehicles of up to 50 tons. Obstacles of greater width can be
spanned by up to 8 of these bridge layers.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The bridge construction is
mounted on the chassis of a 8x8 TATRA-815 truck. It is equipped with central
controlled air pressure in its tires and a protection system against chemical,
biological and radioactive agents. The depth of a bridged obstacle can be from
2 to 6 meters.</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://www.army.cz/scripts/detail.php?id=6074" style="text-align: left;">http://www.army.cz/scripts/detail.php?id=6074</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Here are some excellent pics which show the AM-50 bridge in various stages of operation. Regrettably, I haven't comes across good pics of various system in IA colors, so I have used pics/videos of these systems in service with armed forces of other nations from the internet.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsTAHi2bJ4o/UEZToxXX8bI/AAAAAAAAAuo/sfS2zy3SQKE/s1600/AM+50-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vsTAHi2bJ4o/UEZToxXX8bI/AAAAAAAAAuo/sfS2zy3SQKE/s320/AM+50-3.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The following two images show how multiple units can be combined to put together a bigger bridge. The TATRA vehicle unloading the bridge in the pic is positioned on a already laid AM-50 bridge.The new bridge being laid is articulated with the existing bridge.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-acxoU6oBy58/UEZUxwR1EEI/AAAAAAAAAvA/CGxCkDSrvAU/s1600/AM+50-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-acxoU6oBy58/UEZUxwR1EEI/AAAAAAAAAvA/CGxCkDSrvAU/s320/AM+50-4.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hrK86JJCVR8/UEZTsOeJXZI/AAAAAAAAAu4/CMTorGHMNjk/s1600/AM+50-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hrK86JJCVR8/UEZTsOeJXZI/AAAAAAAAAu4/CMTorGHMNjk/s320/AM+50-5.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/czecharmy/sets/72157626370941936/with/5567264803/">http://www.flickr.com/photos/czecharmy/sets/72157626370941936/with/5567264803/</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is a Czec Army video of the AM-50 Bridge being laid out.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2. Sarvatra</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 11pt;">SARVATRA is a multi – span scissor launched fully fabricated
bridging system which is carried on a TATRA vehicle and is used to cross the
obstacles during advance of tank columns.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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The equipment consists of a bridge superstructure, launching mechanism,
hydraulic actuators and piers which are mounted on the carrier vehicle. The
pier system forms the bottom support for the superstructure when launched.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 11pt;">Special feature of this bridge is the fully fabricated structure,
efficient steering with twin cabin (front and rear) control, low weight
combined with high strength and load carrying capacity, short launching time
(One Set consisting of 5 bridges can be launched in 150 min.), can be launched
up to 75m obstacles and easy transportation<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source:</i><a href="http://www.larsentoubro.com/lntcorporate/LnT_Offerings/Product_Template1.aspx?res=P_HED_COFF_SBU_PROD&pid=1845&sbu=75"><i>http://www.larsentoubro.com/lntcorporate/LnT_Offerings/Product_Template1.aspx?res=P_HED_COFF_SBU_PROD&pid=1845&sbu=75</i></a><i><o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">As the source of the above description suggests, L&T has played a crucial role in the development of this system and partnered with DRDO for the R&D. However, instead of awarding the contract for production of this system to L&T, MOD gave the contract for the same to BEML.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">Salient features of the system:</span></span><br />
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<strong><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Salient Features</span></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong><em>Load Class:</em> </strong>MLC-70 - <i>this means it can handle MBT Arjun</i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong><em>Single Span Length:</em> </strong>15/20 m</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong><em>Multi-Span Capability:</em> </strong>75/100 m</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong><em>Roadway Width:</em> </strong>3.45 m during transportation; 4 m during use</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em><strong>Span Height:</strong></em> 2.6 m to 6 m</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><em><strong>Construction time:</strong></em> 15 minutes</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><strong><em>Crew:</em></strong> 1 driver + 3</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The height of the span is an important criterion as canals in Pakistan are of varying depth. From what I've been able to gather, the depth of the canals varies from 1.5 meters to 3 meters. For example, the 30 meter wide Lahore Canal has a depth of approximately 5 feet or 1.5 meters.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here are pics of the system.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A single span mounted on TATRA vehicle </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IUrOifqgIkc/UEZbXzG2rKI/AAAAAAAAAv0/YGm0k4tNCcw/s1600/Sarvatra3-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="205" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IUrOifqgIkc/UEZbXzG2rKI/AAAAAAAAAv0/YGm0k4tNCcw/s320/Sarvatra3-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">Bharat-rakshak.com</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">TATRA 815 platform for mounting Sarvatra Bridge. The rear cabin has controls to drive/manage the vehicle and assist in accurate laying of the bridge</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgb5kE_VtQE/UEZbVd8vL4I/AAAAAAAAAvk/3eAB45Zfhw4/s1600/Sarvatra-platform-DRDO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="143" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Wgb5kE_VtQE/UEZbVd8vL4I/AAAAAAAAAvk/3eAB45Zfhw4/s320/Sarvatra-platform-DRDO.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: BEML</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Excellent pics showing the multi-span capability of the system. In the pics below, the additional spans are being added to existing ones to create a bigger bridge (up to 75 meters). In the second pic, it seems that two spans have already been laid while third is being laid out.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aSdHPrnznY/UEZbSwhLuRI/AAAAAAAAAvU/RRHiqsoGmPA/s1600/Sarvatra-BR.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="181" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5aSdHPrnznY/UEZbSwhLuRI/AAAAAAAAAvU/RRHiqsoGmPA/s320/Sarvatra-BR.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">Bharat-rakshak.com</a></span></i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EPCAeJvcIuE/UEZbUHNRAlI/AAAAAAAAAvY/O2BGsxCpg_4/s1600/Sarvatra-FON.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="204" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EPCAeJvcIuE/UEZbUHNRAlI/AAAAAAAAAvY/O2BGsxCpg_4/s320/Sarvatra-FON.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: Frontline</span></i><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">T-72 tanks crossing a water obstacle using the Sarvatra Bridge. One can count that at least 4 x single spans (of 15M each) have been used. So, the water obstacle is 50+ meters at the minimum.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8sBPxsUSKXI/UEZbWv8XmII/AAAAAAAAAvs/tzLihJxuXvA/s1600/Sarvatra2-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="198" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8sBPxsUSKXI/UEZbWv8XmII/AAAAAAAAAvs/tzLihJxuXvA/s320/Sarvatra2-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">3. Bridge Laying Tank </span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well, as the name suggests, these are tanks modified to carry bridges (of varying sizes) instead of a turret with main gun. The bridge is used to provide mobility across wet/dry obstacles.Generally, the main battle tank in the inventory is used for the purpose as it simplifies the logistic aspect. Wikipedia has a detailed write-up on the such systems.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From what I've been able to gather, Indian Army<b> </b>has three types of BLT in service. These are T-55 BLT, Kartik BLT and T-72 BLT. While DRDO has developed a MLC-70 BLT based on Arjun<b> </b>tank, the same may not be inducted into the service. I think the T-72 BLT has become the staple BLT of the army in recent years. I think as of 2010, an indent of 135 T-72 BLT had been placed by the army.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The bridge laying mechanism on these BLTs is of two types - (a) horizontal deployment or cantilever type (b) Scissor type. One advantage cited in favor of horizontal type of deployment is that it maintains a low silhouette thereby leading to lesser chances of discovery by the enemy. Arjun BLT is also a horizontal type BLT. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Picture as they say is a worth a thousand words, so I guess a video should be worth couple of million words. Here is a video each of horizontal/cantilever type and scissor type BLTs deploying their bridges. As is the norm, there aren't any videos of IA on this subject matter as well. So, I have linked videos of equipment from other armies. By the way, a BLT is called AVLB (Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridge) in western literature. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;"><b><i>Scissor type BLT/AVLB</i></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/2oyLgTBZHe4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Horizontal/Cantilever type BLT/AVLB</span></i></b><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian Army BLTs</span></b></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><b style="font-weight: bold;">a. T-55 BLT - </b>As the name suggest, this BLT is based on a T-55 chassis. It can lay a bridge of 18m length which can support weigh up to 50 tonnes.</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Video of MT-55 of Czech Army deploying it and then retrieving its bridge. Under normal circumstances, the vehicle will move aside to allow the traffic to pass through and then, retrieve the bridge from this, or other side of the gap</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">T-55 in IA service
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0A814w2v8Ks/UEczqi5xhaI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/cCr4iOUiPKk/s1600/T-55+BLT2-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="203" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0A814w2v8Ks/UEczqi5xhaI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/cCr4iOUiPKk/s320/T-55+BLT2-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<i style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">Bharat-rakshak.com</a></span></i><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90LuOz9ln_U/UEczuRw_CeI/AAAAAAAAAwY/meLCMGuc9W8/s1600/BLT-Pine+Prahar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-90LuOz9ln_U/UEczuRw_CeI/AAAAAAAAAwY/meLCMGuc9W8/s320/BLT-Pine+Prahar.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>b. Kartik BLT - </b>This is a second generation BLT of the Indian Army and is based on Vijayanta tank chassis. It can lay a bridge of 20 meter span and 4 meter wide. It carry loads up to MLC-60. Wiki has a detailed article on the topic </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartik_BLT">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kartik_BLT</a>).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is an image of Kartik BLT</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iy8ZHIufMm8/UEc1XChIFMI/AAAAAAAAAwg/iFjZBaM_5rE/s1600/Kartik+BLT-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-iy8ZHIufMm8/UEc1XChIFMI/AAAAAAAAAwg/iFjZBaM_5rE/s320/Kartik+BLT-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">Bharat-rakshak.com</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>c. T-72 BLT - </b>As per the 2011 Annual Report of Ministry of Defense (MOD), a Limited Series Production (LSP) of 12 systems was completed and handed over to the army. Army has placed an indent of 135 such vehicles which will be manufactured at Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF), Avadi.</span></div>
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<i style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">From Bharat-rakshak.com:</i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Crew</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">A team of 3 personnel, including the driver, with complete NBC protection.</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Length & Width</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> 22 metres span and 4 metres wide, with each track way 1.64 metres wide.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Material</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> Light weight, high strength, weldable, self-ageing, aluminium zinc-magnesium alloy (RDE-40).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Bridge Weight</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> 8800 kg (19,404 lbs).</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Launching</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> Electro Hydraulic (high pressure) scissoring type of launch.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Launch Time</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> Approximately 3 to 5 minutes, using either manual or automatic launch.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-decoration: underline;">Modes of Launch</span><strong style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">:</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> Manual, electro-mechanical and automatic.</span></span></div>
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Image of T-72 BLT:</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YsXTdXfPR4c/UEc8fhMRBkI/AAAAAAAAAw0/XDQL5PR2HQg/s1600/T-72+BLT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YsXTdXfPR4c/UEc8fhMRBkI/AAAAAAAAAw0/XDQL5PR2HQg/s320/T-72+BLT.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="text-align: justify;">d. Arjun BLT - </b><span style="text-align: justify;">As the name suggests, this BLT is based on Arjun chassis. The BLT can support MLC-70 class vehicles which includes the Arjun tank as well. There are two bridging options - 24m and 26m long bridges made of steel and aluminium, respectively. Unlike other BLTs in the IA, Arjun BLT uses the horizontal method of bridge deployment.</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I think after the development of the technology demonstrator, no firm orders were placed by the army. As per the latest interview of Director, CVRDE, carried by the Force Magazine, IA has intimated that it will not be placing orders for Arjun BLTs.</span></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Arjun BLT</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8kXqJNy5bI/UEdAZb0Dt1I/AAAAAAAAAxI/51CqY-oUFao/s1600/Arjun+BLT.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R8kXqJNy5bI/UEdAZb0Dt1I/AAAAAAAAAxI/51CqY-oUFao/s320/Arjun+BLT.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Interestingly, there are videos of Arjun BLT (from same event - Techfest 2009 at IIT) which shows a portion of the entire bridge laying operation.
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/K5p0YaICi7g?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: left;">4. Pontoon Bridge - </b><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif; text-align: left;">This system offers tremendous flexibility o in terms of length and depth of the water body which can be covered. In all the images and videos of river/water obstacle crossing that I've seen, Pontoon bridges are used to cover the gap.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-align: left;">In India, the Pontoon bridge is manufactured by </span><b style="text-align: left;"> </b><span style="text-align: left;">BEML and is based on technology acquired from Omnipol of Czech Republic. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-align: left;">As per Jane's, the initial purchase of PMS system was directly from then Czechoslovakia and subsequently, ToT in favor of BEML was effected. The entire system comprises of </span>TATRA 8 × 8 transport and launcher vehicles, TATRA 8 × 8 trucks with a portable roadway system for use at bridging sites, TATRA 6 × 6 mobile cranes, and MO-634 bridging boats and SP-5 trailers</span></div>
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<i>Source:<a href="http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Military-Vehicles-and-Logistics/BEML-PMS-folding-pontoon-bridge-system-India.html">http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Military-Vehicles-and-Logistics/BEML-PMS-folding-pontoon-bridge-system-India.html</a></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>The System details - (</b><a href="http://www.bemlindia.nic.in/product_defence.php" style="text-align: left;">http://www.bemlindia.nic.in/product_defence.php</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Pontoon Bridge Set is used by Army to transport military vehicles over water obstacles and marshy grounds. It consists of various members like mid-stream & shore for assembling a bridge over water obstacles. Mid-stream, shore & road laying members are loaded on BEML-Tatra vehicles thereby allowing for easy transportation of the equipments. The set is fully equipped for unloading / loading of the members and formation of the bridge within a short span of time. </span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The maximum load carrying capacity of the bridge is 60 tonnes. Mid-stream members are joined together to form the floating bridge. Shore members are connecting to the mid-stream members & serve as the transition section between the floating part and the bank. The bulldozer attachment fitted on the road laying truck is used for creating approached road, removal of obstacles etc. road laying members are used for consolidating on the soft soil terrain. Ferries can also be constructed by using Mid-stream & Shore members. The ferry can carry individual loads from one bank to another with the boats pushing it.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The boat loaded on the dolly is towed by a BEML-Tatra vehicle. Dolly is equipped with the system for launching the boat as well as loading the boat back. The boat is used for pushing / towing the pontoon members for the bridge construction as well as for pushing the ferry.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The truck mounted crane is used for loading / unloading of various members both at launching as well as in the maintenance work shops.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Shore Pontoon segment</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v_lRghKvC0M/UEdpQTgbccI/AAAAAAAAAxk/S454WKnR7Ms/s1600/Pontoon+shore.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-v_lRghKvC0M/UEdpQTgbccI/AAAAAAAAAxk/S454WKnR7Ms/s320/Pontoon+shore.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Mid-stream Pontoon segment</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4f1FWDIQo0/UEdpSPeKENI/AAAAAAAAAxs/S_8z--bZBEs/s1600/midstream+pontoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="219" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-p4f1FWDIQo0/UEdpSPeKENI/AAAAAAAAAxs/S_8z--bZBEs/s320/midstream+pontoon.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Tug-Boat: BO-634 - this is used to set the alignment of the bridge in place and push/pull sub-components together to form a larger bridge. These boats can push/pull sub-components with load (like trucks, tanks, guns etc) and use the Pontoon System as a ferry.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zr2iM3Cn1WY/UEdpOlybGhI/AAAAAAAAAxc/7anGrUBRckU/s1600/MO-634-1+boat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zr2iM3Cn1WY/UEdpOlybGhI/AAAAAAAAAxc/7anGrUBRckU/s320/MO-634-1+boat.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Here are two excellent videos of pontoon bridges being put together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>(a) </b><span style="color: #333333; letter-spacing: -0.5px; line-height: 1.1363em; text-align: left;"><b>1st Armored Division (USA) Bridge over the Sava River (Operation Joint Endeavor) - </b>you can listen to the commentary in the video to get an overview of such operations.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/KaYHTO82xMk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">(b) <span style="color: #333333;"><span style="line-height: 18.16666603088379px;">Pontoon bridge being laid by Hungarian Army:</span></span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">In the video, you can see various sub-components being put together by the boats. You can also see the boats placed against the bridge at regular intervals to ensure that sub-components don't fall out of alignment due to water current or vibrations induced by the movement of the vehicles. The length of the bridge seems pretty long and the aerial shot is quite amazing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/7H6na4puNuk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; text-align: justify;">The video of IA Corps of Engineers linked in the previous post has sections which show glimpse of laying of AM-50 and PMS Pontoon Bridge system.</span><br />
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<b style="text-align: justify;">5. Manually Launched Assault Bridge:</b></span><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">I've been able to get only one detailed reference to this system with one small picture. The pic is shown below:</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wtX32M5Pcr8/UEeFmslR1kI/AAAAAAAAAyA/7XcggaV-NJ4/s1600/MLAB-DRDO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wtX32M5Pcr8/UEeFmslR1kI/AAAAAAAAAyA/7XcggaV-NJ4/s1600/MLAB-DRDO.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is the report from Janes (<i style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;"><a href="http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Military-Vehicles-and-Logistics/Manually-Launched-Assault-Bridge-MLAB-India.html" style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%;">http://articles.janes.com/articles/Janes-Military-Vehicles-and-Logistics/Manually-Launched-Assault-Bridge-MLAB-India.html</a>)</i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333;">Development
-</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333;"> The Manually Launched Assault Bridge (MLAB) was designed and developed by the
Research and Development Establishment (Engineers) at Dighi, Pune. It is in
service with the Indian Army as an assault bridge as well as a line of
Communication Bridge and can be delivered in several bridging kit
configurations to meet requirements.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Description -</b> The MLAB is fabricated of a lightweight,
high-strength weldable, self-ageing aluminium zinc-magnesium RDE-40 alloy
capable of withstanding extremes of temperature and humidity. The heaviest
component can be carried by a team of six personnel, while palletised loads can
be configured for truck transport or for slinging under helicopters such as the
Mil Mi-17. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For
vehicle transport, a standard three-tonne pallet is used.The MLAB is a
deck-type two-girder bridge system involving a fully modular, pin-jointed
structure with inter-locking components, providing a 4 m-wide roadway. A
standard double-storey bridge can bridge gaps up to 31 m (MLC 60). If longer
gaps are encountered, this can be extended to 49 m using ancillary
reinforcement equipment. If MLC 70 is required, shorter spans can be
constructed. A single-span MLAB is constructed using two parallel girders
consisting of top panels, each 1.83 m long. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With the
addition of deck panels and bank-seat beams, bridges of MLC 60 at 9.8 m span
and MLC 16 at 22 m span can be constructed.By adding bottom panels to
single-storey girders during construction, the girder depth is increased and
strengthened to form a double-storey bridge, capable of carrying MLC 60
vehicles over a 31 m span or MLC 16 vehicles over a 49 m single span. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A Link
Reinforcement Kit (LRK) can enhance the load carrying capacity to MLC 60 for a
49 m span. Construction crew and times (MLC 60 bridge)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><i>Added later (on 7th August ,2012)</i>:</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span><i style="text-align: justify;">A fantastic link which gives details about similar system in British Army was shared by someone who left a comment on this blog entry. I'm putting the same below for reference:</i></span><br />
<a href="http://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2012/01/uk-military-bridging-equipment-medium-girder-bridge/" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">http://www.thinkdefence.co.uk/2012/01/uk-military-bridging-equipment-medium-girder-bridge/</span></a><br />
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<span style="text-align: justify;">It also has details about other engineering systems used by the British Army. Good reference point if someone wants a still deeper understanding of these things.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">6. Short Span Bridge:</span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">R&DE(E) is developing a short span bridge of 5 m and 10
m, which can be connected to the existing Sarvatra bridges or can be launched
independently to bridge smaller gaps.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I think this has been inducted into the army.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUtR-WRoh8g/UEeHxaIip2I/AAAAAAAAAyI/ctXiFY_0RoA/s1600/Short-span+bridge-5mSystem.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-yUtR-WRoh8g/UEeHxaIip2I/AAAAAAAAAyI/ctXiFY_0RoA/s1600/Short-span+bridge-5mSystem.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: <a href="http://drdo.gov.in/drdo/labs/RDE(E)/English/index.jsp?pg=achieve.jsp">http://drdo.gov.in/drdo/labs/RDE(E)/English/index.jsp?pg=achieve.jsp</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>7. Other systems - </b>apart from the bridging equipment listed above, there is another very exciting system which has been showcased during Republic Day Parades. <span style="background-color: white; text-align: justify;">Amphibious Floating Bridge and Ferry System (AFFS) is </span>listed as 'achievement' on DRDO website but I haven't come across news item confirming induction of this system in the army. If anyone has better information, please do share. </span></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Details of the system:</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><i>This 42 tonne mammoth is the Amphibious Floating Bridge and
Ferry System (AFFS) developed by the R&DE (Engineers) branch of DRDO, for
the ferry of traffic across large and deep water obstacles. The 10m x 3.6m x 4m
vehicle can covert to a fully decked bridge configuration of length 28.4
metres, in 9 minutes. </i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i>Two more vehicles can be joined in tandem to form a
floating bridge of length 105m, in 30 minutes. The bridge superstructure is
integrated with floats (shown inflated) to provide stability and additional
buoyancy. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 55 km/h on road, 40 km/h cross
country and an aquatic mobility of 2.7 m/sec with twin pump jets. The vehicle
is also capable of retracting it's wheels for use as a grounded bridge/ramp for
high bank</i></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 115%;"><i>s</i>.</span><span style="line-height: 115%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 15.383333206176758px;">Source:</span></i><i><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Army/Galleries/Mod/Logistics/Engineers/0571.jpg.html">http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Army/Galleries/Mod/Logistics/Engineers/0571.jpg.html</a></i></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 15.366666793823242px;">Images of the system:</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3b2j404d2lc/UEeKgt8fZ8I/AAAAAAAAAyc/SLSFl1-qkrA/s1600/AFFS-ACIG.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3b2j404d2lc/UEeKgt8fZ8I/AAAAAAAAAyc/SLSFl1-qkrA/s320/AFFS-ACIG.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i2VO9HZ3HQQ/UEeKjlaXD1I/AAAAAAAAAyk/sqy721pUIz8/s1600/AFFS-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i2VO9HZ3HQQ/UEeKjlaXD1I/AAAAAAAAAyk/sqy721pUIz8/s320/AFFS-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xhPlpVuB5Uw/UEeKmg2IH2I/AAAAAAAAAys/BCbig3R82jM/s1600/AFFS2-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xhPlpVuB5Uw/UEeKmg2IH2I/AAAAAAAAAys/BCbig3R82jM/s320/AFFS2-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iitmy_jM8tg/UEeKoMl7l4I/AAAAAAAAAy0/as67HsKY4aw/s1600/affs-DRDO.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Iitmy_jM8tg/UEeKoMl7l4I/AAAAAAAAAy0/as67HsKY4aw/s1600/affs-DRDO.jpg" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While I've not come across much details about this system apart from what I've shared here, there is one comparable system with French Army. It is known as <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 16px;">EFA (Engin de Franchissement de l'Avant) or Forward Crossing Apparatus. The image is linked below.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AUJLKAGWDc/UEeOg-li4EI/AAAAAAAAAzM/qDpSTyvOdPg/s1600/efa_l1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0AUJLKAGWDc/UEeOg-li4EI/AAAAAAAAAzM/qDpSTyvOdPg/s320/efa_l1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 16px;">You can check the details of the system here to get an idea about what AFFS is capable of doing:</span></div>
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<a href="http://www.military-today.com/engineering/efa.htm"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">http://www.military-today.com/engineering/efa.htm</span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: justify;">There is an excellent video in the lower part of the web-page linked above which shows the deployment and use of this system. Multiple systems can be combined to form a bridge or ferry their payload (on captive power) towards the far bank of the water obstacle. This is like a pontoon bridge with power.</span></span><br />
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-5409323041065344072012-08-29T23:15:00.003+05:302012-09-16T12:35:04.946+05:30Indian Army - Canal Crossing Operations (Photo Essay)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Introduction</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We have seen that the territory to the west is strewn with canals and other water obstacles of varying sizes. So, it is but obvious that managing such obstacles should be one of the top priorities of the army.</span></div>
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Let us take a look at the pictures of canal crossing(s) during various exercises undertaken by the Indian Army.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;"><br /></b>
<b style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;">Exhibit 1 -</b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;">BMP-2 moves into
a canal during a pre-training exercise at Suratgarh, Rajasthan.</span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;">This picture was
taken during summer exercise “Vijay Bhava” in mid 2011 where II Corps undertook
maneuvers to test “operational and transformational” effectiveness.</span></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5X4V15gx20/UD5GrVM7FoI/AAAAAAAAAsA/98DNRjz3obs/s1600/BMP-2+Hindu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t5X4V15gx20/UD5GrVM7FoI/AAAAAAAAAsA/98DNRjz3obs/s320/BMP-2+Hindu.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00626/09-army_626871f.jpg" style="line-height: 115%;">http://www.thehindu.com/multimedia/dynamic/00626/09-army_626871f.jpg</a></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Exhibit 2 -</b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;">Exercise Pine Prahaar </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 18px;">BMP-2 crossing Sutlej River - So, apart from canals, IA seems to have planned for crossing of large water bodies as well. This may come handy in case bridges on rivers cannot be secured. However, the current of the river is an important parameter while judging the crossing point.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tSs-3B4NOcc/UD5GwTTTwXI/AAAAAAAAAsI/xfPAL2ORB0I/s1600/BMP-2-Satluj+during+Ex-Pine+Prahar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="128" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tSs-3B4NOcc/UD5GwTTTwXI/AAAAAAAAAsI/xfPAL2ORB0I/s320/BMP-2-Satluj+during+Ex-Pine+Prahar.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">BLT - Bridge Laying Tank - used to bridge gaps (water/dry) and allow for movement of mechanized columns across.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2G6mNZYPqEg/UD5HCiMxTOI/AAAAAAAAAtg/YUi_cWLDp40/s1600/BLT-Pine+Prahar.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="178" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2G6mNZYPqEg/UD5HCiMxTOI/AAAAAAAAAtg/YUi_cWLDp40/s320/BLT-Pine+Prahar.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">Bridge on canal - this is how the bridge is placed on the water body.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eu9Q0ffOIn4/UD5G-ypvihI/AAAAAAAAAtY/JWcUyq_B_QI/s1600/ex_pine_prahar-DEFTECh.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Eu9Q0ffOIn4/UD5G-ypvihI/AAAAAAAAAtY/JWcUyq_B_QI/s320/ex_pine_prahar-DEFTECh.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><i>Source:
<a href="http://manamanchhina.blogspot.in/2011/05/photographs-of-exercise-pine-prahaar.html">http://manamanchhina.blogspot.in/2011/05/photographs-of-exercise-pine-prahaar.html</a></i><span style="font-size: small;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">Exhibit 3 -</b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;">Exercise Unknown</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">Infantry
crossing the river to establishment bridgehead</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_Cp2T3U6ao/UD5G8M8jfVI/AAAAAAAAAtI/LwZCeAs7GP4/s1600/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-7.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-y_Cp2T3U6ao/UD5G8M8jfVI/AAAAAAAAAtI/LwZCeAs7GP4/s320/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-7.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">BMP-2 entering
canal water</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2shkM8jdLqM/UD5G5U2hY_I/AAAAAAAAAs4/HdW5-Z14Amw/s1600/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-5.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2shkM8jdLqM/UD5G5U2hY_I/AAAAAAAAAs4/HdW5-Z14Amw/s320/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-5.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 18px;"><b>BMP-2 crossing over</b> – if you observe the embankment of the canal, the cement lining of the bank has been broken. This I think is required to provide traction and easy access for entry and exit of the mechanized vehicles. Otherwise, the angle of the embankment might prove a challenge for smooth entry and exit.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VAfYXrD04ds/UD5G6-Rw66I/AAAAAAAAAtA/ZVO0JbNiP3U/s1600/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-6.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VAfYXrD04ds/UD5G6-Rw66I/AAAAAAAAAtA/ZVO0JbNiP3U/s320/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-6.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">If you compare with the first
picture in this post, you can see that the water body (probably a canal), does
not have steep embankment and the BMP-2 has been launched directly into the
water.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%; text-align: left;">BMP-2 exiting
the canal at other bank. Here again, the canal embankment has been broken and a
passage cleared.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpE1RfegO2k/UD5G34aGn_I/AAAAAAAAAsw/wYM1TiIoLW4/s1600/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tpE1RfegO2k/UD5G34aGn_I/AAAAAAAAAsw/wYM1TiIoLW4/s320/Sudarshan+Shakti-Livefist-4.JPG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif; line-height: 115%; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 115%; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;">Source(exhibit3):</span><a href="http://livefist.blogspot.in/2011/11/indian-army-set-for-big-mean-wargame.html" style="line-height: 115%; text-align: left; text-indent: 0.5in;">http://livefist.blogspot.in/2011/11/indian-army-set-for-big-mean-wargame.html</a></span></i></div>
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<b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Exhibit 4 -</b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Exercise Divya Astra</span></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">T-72 tanks
crossing the bridge on the canal. Here again, the canal bank has been broken to
allow the laying of bridging equipment. You can see the dozer in the background
which would have cleared the passage.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">Gun forward, the
length of each T-72 is ~9.5 mtrs – so, with three tanks on the bridge and the
gap between the tanks, I think the bridge length is around 50 meters.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">This is a pontoon bridge. You can see how it is constructed in the video about Corps of Engineers linked below in the post.</span></div>
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</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jb49bXHBy40/UD5Gxk9893I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/KM16jT-BG1M/s1600/Divya+Astra-BR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jb49bXHBy40/UD5Gxk9893I/AAAAAAAAAsQ/KM16jT-BG1M/s320/Divya+Astra-BR.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: </span></i></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><a href="http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Army/Galleries/Exercises/Divya/Astra08.jpg.html"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/LAND-FORCES/Army/Galleries/Exercises/Divya/Astra08.jpg.html</span></a></i></div>
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<b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Exhibit 5 -</b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">BMP-2 Amphibious Armoured Dozer</span></span></div>
</div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">This is capable
of amphibious crossing to prepare the far bank of canal for laying of own
bridge equipment.</span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">
</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvP3AbcJUWs/UD5MNwzJUiI/AAAAAAAAAt0/YDxUsLMx4hM/s1600/bmp-2-Armoured-Amphibious-Dozer.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvP3AbcJUWs/UD5MNwzJUiI/AAAAAAAAAt0/YDxUsLMx4hM/s320/bmp-2-Armoured-Amphibious-Dozer.jpeg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<i style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i>
<i style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From: <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">bharat-rakshak.com</a></span></i><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i style="background-color: white; color: #333333; line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"The vehicle has a crew of two, consisting of the driver and operator who are seated back-to-back and are provided with a dual control system. Trials of the vehicle were completed during 1998-99 and it is now under final evaluation for acceptance. Standard equipment includes a hydraulically operated earth bucket,a winch, front mounted track with mine ploughs and a rocket propelled earth anchor. The rocket propelled earth anchor is used for self recovery and has a maximum range of between 50 metres to 100 metres depending on a number of factors. It is provided with an NBC system and in the future an autonomous version with a NBC system could be developed for use in hazardous areas. The equipment has immense potential in project sites and areas affected by natural disasters like floods, earth quakes, etc. It's winching, towing, amphibious, high mobility cross country performance, capability of loading and unloading of cargo and rugged design make it an extremely versatile equipment"</span></i></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span>
<span style="line-height: 18px; text-align: justify; text-indent: 0.5in;">AAD launching rocket propelled anchor</span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: justify;"> </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mSW59qE16f4/UD5MRRvD86I/AAAAAAAAAt8/BPUjNwKKS6g/s1600/AAD-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="208" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mSW59qE16f4/UD5MRRvD86I/AAAAAAAAAt8/BPUjNwKKS6g/s320/AAD-1.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-style: italic; line-height: 14px; text-indent: 0.5in;">Source: </span><a href="http://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/Hindi/dpi/image004.jpg" style="font-style: italic; line-height: 14px; text-indent: 0.5in;">http://www.drdo.gov.in/drdo/Hindi/dpi/image004.jpg</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;">Exhibit 6 - </b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;">BMP-2 Armoured Engineer Reconnaissance Vehicle (AERV)</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;">From <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">Bharat-Rakshak.com</a>:</span></i><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></i>
<span style="color: #333333;"><i><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">"Based on the BMP-2 ICV, the Engineer Reconnaissance Vehicle
(ERV) is intended to be a fully integrated system amphibious vehicle capable of
acquiring, recording and transmitting combat engineer and military bridging
reconnaissance data to a central command post. This enables the engineers to
cross both dry and water obstacles. The ERV can provide a considerable amount
of detailed information including height and slope of the river bank, load
bearing capability of the soil and bed profile of the river. Equipment
installed on the ERV includes a gyro land navigation system, a global
positioning system, a radio navigation and guidance system, a hand held
recording cum penetrometre to test soil, an electronic disomat and theodolite, a
water current </span></span><span style="line-height: 18px;">meter</span><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 115%;">, an echo sounder, a laser rangefinder, picket driving and
trail blazing equipment"</span></span></i></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vtoHWwjQE_Y/UD5MSzee1UI/AAAAAAAAAuE/6EzFQ3jn-eo/s1600/AERV.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vtoHWwjQE_Y/UD5MSzee1UI/AAAAAAAAAuE/6EzFQ3jn-eo/s320/AERV.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Exhibit 7 - </b><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px;">Tank Snorkeling</span></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%; text-align: justify;">Tanks have
the ability to cross submerged and get to the other side of water body. This is
called snorkeling. However, the tank needs to be prepared for this and the time
required depends on the tank.</span><span style="text-align: justify;"> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="text-align: justify;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: justify;">Video of Russian T-90 and T-80 tanks demonstrating snorkeling</span></span><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/y-QWQsDNsRs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Exhibit 8 - </b><span style="color: #333333;">Indian Mechanized Infantry Canal Crossing</span></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="color: #333333; line-height: 18px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; line-height: 115%;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 115%;">Please check between 2:00
and 3:00 minutes to get a glimpse of amphibious canal crossing operations.</span> </span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><object class="BLOGGER-youtube-video" classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0" data-thumbnail-src="http://1.gvt0.com/vi/c1Uqbfh7n_E/0.jpg" height="266" width="320"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/c1Uqbfh7n_E&fs=1&source=uds" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#FFFFFF" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><embed width="320" height="266" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/c1Uqbfh7n_E&fs=1&source=uds" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object></span></div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b style="text-align: justify;">Exhibit 9</b><span style="text-align: justify;"> - Indian Army Corps of Engineers</span></span><br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
A must see video of Corps of Engineers...you can see how various kinds of bridges are put in place</span></div>
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/oiHKMGo-7qs?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Exhibit 10</b> - Exercise Video</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Video of what looks like Exercise Pine Prahaar. You can see the video of the picture linked earlier (of BMP-2 in Sutlej) in the video</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/6wDX5pTZcBc?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></span></div>
<br /></div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-74279721990392866882012-08-28T01:32:00.001+05:302012-09-16T12:44:02.391+05:30Pakistan: Defense Canals in South Punjab and Sindh-II (Rahim Yar Khan)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In this section of analysis about
Canal based defenses in Pakistan, we look at the general area of Rahim Yar Khan
(RYK) city. RYK is also the southernmost district in Pakistan Punjab and lies
opposite Jaisalmer District in the Indian state of Rajasthan. RYK City is the
largest city in the district of RYK and an important commercial center. We will
be looking at the general area RYK and Sadiqabad.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Strategic Importance<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As introduced earlier, the city
of RYK is an important commercial center in South Punjab. Apart from that, the
major north-south communication axis of Pakistan, National Highway-05, which
connects the port city of Karachi with important cities like Lahore and
Rawalpindi in Punjab runs at less than 10kms towards west of the city. Capture
of this town would represent a major psychological defeat for Pakistan and
would literally mean splitting Pakistan into two by severing the north-south
link.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<b><i>RYK: Regional Setting</i></b></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fPNBfo0CmGw/UDvEYjf_v5I/AAAAAAAAAqo/HmgNTKk5ht4/s1600/RYK+Setting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="170" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fPNBfo0CmGw/UDvEYjf_v5I/AAAAAAAAAqo/HmgNTKk5ht4/s320/RYK+Setting.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">What makes RYK a still more
attractive option is the distance of the city from India—Pakistan border – the
city lies at a distance of <50kms from border and <200kms from Jaisalmer,
as the crow flies. A dash from Indian side can be made to RYK – any Indian
success here can threaten the flanks and rear of Pakistan defenses in the Fort
Abbas-Bahawalpur area while creating headache for defenders of southern Sindh.
India will have prime strategic land available to barter at the negotiation
table. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<i><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Highway network map-Pakistan</span></b></i></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BcJN_U6578M/UDvE2UP82II/AAAAAAAAAqw/rBYj9nKllG8/s1600/Pakistan_Nationalhighways.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BcJN_U6578M/UDvE2UP82II/AAAAAAAAAqw/rBYj9nKllG8/s320/Pakistan_Nationalhighways.PNG" width="320" /></span></a></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source:</i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pakistan_Nationalhighways.PNG" style="text-align: left;">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pakistan_Nationalhighways.PNG</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">At a strategic level, from
Pakistan Army’s perspective, loss of N5 would represent major loss of north-south
communication axis and cut-off its forces in Punjab from those in Sindh. This
would diminish the chances of sending reinforcement from 2 Corps/31 Corps
combine to V Corps. V Corps for all practical purposes would be left alone. For
example, in 1971 war, after the reversal of PA’s 18 Division at Longewala and
when Indian 11 Division made advance towards Naya Chor in Sindh, Pakistan Army
sent 33 Division (then under II Corps) to reinforce the sector. Such
north-south movements would become difficult. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<a name='more'></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was exactly to pre-empt any
such development that Pakistan built National Hgihway-55 or, the Indus Highway.
N55 runs to west of the mighty River Indus – thus, giving it more depth and
protection from any Indian advance in the area. It was meant to ensure that in
case of any Indian interdiction of N5, N55 will serve as the back-up and ensure
that the north-south link is not severed.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">However, while the above may well
be true, N5 remains the lifeline of Pakistan. One simply cannot overlook the
fact that it passes through some of the most important towns and cities of
Pakistan. As per a 2005 Asian Development Bank Report on National Highways in
Pakistan (concerning loans to Pakistan), had this to say about the volume of
traffic on N5:</span></div>
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<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">“Traffic using the national highway network, comprising about 8,320 km
of national highways and 710 km of motorways, is largely commercial: 75–80% of
traffic. The main domestic artery is concentrated along the 1,760 km
Karachi–Lahore–Peshawar (M9/N5) corridor. This serves 80% of the urban
population and carries over 55% of intercity traffic. The corridor also links
Punjab and the northern parts of the country with international markets through
the southern Karachi area ports, which account for 96% of all trade. About 60%
of the port traffic moves along this corridor. Other national highways include
N55 (Indus Highway), N25, N65, N40, N70, and N35 (Karakoram Highway)”. <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
Source: <a href="http://www2.adb.org/Documents/RRPs/PAK/37559-PAK-RRP.pdf">http://www2.adb.org/Documents/RRPs/PAK/37559-PAK-RRP.pdf</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">On top of that, we have the minor
issue of bridges on the River Indus – most of the PA formations are in
cantonment to east of Indus. Exception being the formations under XI and XII
Corps in Peshawar and Quetta. In case of interdiction of N5, Pakistan Army
formations will have to cross the Indus at these points – and from Multan in
north to Hyderabad in south, there are grand total of four such locations. The
time required for using these routes to shift troops would not be consistent with
the urgency which PA may face with. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Military Balance<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A detailed assessment of this
aspect was provided in the previous blog post along with the situation as was
obtained in Mid-2002. To sum up the key points:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sutlej River to
RYK is considered as responsibility of 31 Corps.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">31 Corps has
three divisions –</span></li>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">14<sup>th</sup>
Infantry Division at Okara</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">35<sup>th</sup>
Infantry Division at Bahawalpur</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">26<sup>th</sup>
Mechanized Division at Bahawalpur</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From what I
know, PA maintains an infantry brigade (60 Infantry Brigade) at RYK. </span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">India can
deploy a permutation and combination of assets under Southern Command i.e. 21
Strike Corps and 12 Corps.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There have been
suggestions on the internet that in 2002, 31 Corps HQ shifted south from
Bahawalpur to Pano Aqil. The same is quite likely as otherwise, facing the
might of an entire Indian Strike Corps would have been the lone 16 Infantry
Division (under 5 Corps, Karachi) based out of Pano Aqil in northern Sindh
(close to Sindh-Pakistan Punjab border).</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From Fort Abbas
to RYK is >250 km as the crow flies; so, 31 Corps does manage the defense of
a very large front.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">However, the
saving grace is the presence of vast Thar Desert opposite Jaisalmer and
Cholistan Desert opposite Sri-Ganganagar area. Capture of territory in the
desert area does not pose any cost on Pakistan. It will be happy to trade space
for time here.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pakistan Army
is likely to adopt a strategy of defending approaches to important commercial
centers relying on presence of natural + man made defensive structures to
impede the advance of Indian mechanized columns.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thar Desert
does represent a formidable challenge in itself as any Indian advance deep into
Thar towards Pakistan heartland stretches and exposes Indian logistical tail. Such
an advance takes it away from Indian air cover (and within reach of PAF) and
into a more compactly defended territory.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pakistan Army 5
Corps is likely to launch offensive action(s) more from the view point of
disrupting Indian plans than anything else.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian Army may
well attack at the seam between AOR of 5 Corps and 31 Corps.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">In my opinion,
PA will be forced to induct more troops – especially armor – into this sector. And
this is likely to come from 31 Corps Reserve. Any such dispersal of armor
assets will further reduce the offensive potential of PA Holding Corps and
their reserves.</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Map of road network in Jaisalmer and Bikaner district which shows presence of road network till border with Pakistan. This allows India to move formations that much closer to border.</span></i></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0tp9JiMFgRc/UDvFfdifKYI/AAAAAAAAAq4/G9tYNgqWBOw/s1600/jaisalmer-road-map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="251" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0tp9JiMFgRc/UDvFfdifKYI/AAAAAAAAAq4/G9tYNgqWBOw/s320/jaisalmer-road-map.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XShBRS6SdQQ/UDvFjTFUMXI/AAAAAAAAArA/O22JibaNFgs/s1600/bikaner-road-map.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="261" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XShBRS6SdQQ/UDvFjTFUMXI/AAAAAAAAArA/O22JibaNFgs/s320/bikaner-road-map.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: Maps of India</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Canal and Evaporation Pond System<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Unlike other areas, the water obstacle in this sector
consists of two inter-related systems – one, the usual canal system and other,
a system of evaporation ponds. Both of
them are explained in detail below.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Canal System<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The canal system in the study
area is fed by Punjnad Barrage on River Chenab. From this barrage, two main
canals off take water – (a) Punjnad Canal (b) Abbassia Canal. The Punjnad Canal
runs towards west of Abbassia Canal and the main body of this canal lies between
River Indus and National Highway 5 (N5). From the perspective of this study, Punjnad
Canal is of no interest. Abbassia Canal on the other hand takes a more easterly
course and the main canal and its major/minor channels lie between Indian
border and town of RYK.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Schematic diagram of the Punjnad Barrage and course of its
major canals is given below:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<b><i>Punjnad Barrage</i></b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ncXGl6Dq3sU/UDvF4cQvbyI/AAAAAAAAArI/E1KmZYEvQSI/s1600/Punjnad+Barrage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ncXGl6Dq3sU/UDvF4cQvbyI/AAAAAAAAArI/E1KmZYEvQSI/s320/Punjnad+Barrage.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source: Water Statistics handbook of Pakistan</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Satellite image and route of Abbassia Canal and its major/minor
channels is given below:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNa-8nuB18s/UDvGKEoAt9I/AAAAAAAAArQ/eYfK55Z3c_I/s1600/RYK+Canal+Network.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hNa-8nuB18s/UDvGKEoAt9I/AAAAAAAAArQ/eYfK55Z3c_I/s320/RYK+Canal+Network.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Analysis</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Q84WdyvnVY/UDvGjYy6s1I/AAAAAAAAArY/SvfrWdEOEzA/s1600/Canal+Evaporation+Ponds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/--Q84WdyvnVY/UDvGjYy6s1I/AAAAAAAAArY/SvfrWdEOEzA/s320/Canal+Evaporation+Ponds.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As can be seen from the image above, the city of RYK lies
behind a ring of canals.The image also shows the evaporation ponds, which will be explained subsequently.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Any Indian advance on this axis will face these water obstacles. The obstacles have the potential to force the Indian columns to advance along a narrow and predictable axis...any such development will allow PA fight behind prepared defenses with relatively far lesser number of troops than would be required otherwise. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian Army would not want to fight in a narrow corridor where it cannot bring the maneuver element of its mechanized into play. Also, it would ideally want enough real estate to commit and create disproportionate force levels against the defenders to overwhelm them in shortest time possible. It would not want to suffer a Thermopylae moment where a lesser force holds out against a larger one because the larger force could not commit its forces/</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Such defenses can also impede the advance thus giving PA enough time to hold out against superior Indian forces and allow international geo-political pressure to call for a ceasefire.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In terms of width, the width of the canals at which markers in the above image are placed are ~ 20 meters, 5 meters and 25 meters. The width of the canals is not constant across their entire stretch but fall with in a particular range. Given the spatial distance between the canals, I have not been able to show them in a single image.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Evaporation Ponds</span></b><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div>
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Ever since I started researching the topic of canals in Pakistan, these water structures came across as a puzzle. They are in the middle of a desert and had to be man made. But why would anyone do something of this sort?</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Well, the answer is that these ponds are called as Evaporation Ponds and were built as part of Salinity Control and Reclamation Project (SCARP). There have been many such SCARPs in Pakistan and one in question were built under SCARP-VI.<b> </b></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Basically, what happened is this - once the mass irrigation was introduced in the area, the water table started to rise. This was on account of water seepage from the canals as well as blocking of path of natural surface drains due to construction of dykes and canals across the path of such natural drains. In addition to this, there was an issue of rising salinity of ground water...both these effects combine together led to agricultural areas becoming unsuitable for cultivation. Therefore, projects were launched to develop a drainage system which takes water away from the fields as well as sub-surface level into evaporation ponds from where it is lost to the nature.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is a more technical explanation:</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">"Disposal of drainage effluent, especially when it is saline, has always been a problem. In the FESS Project,surface and sub-surface drainage effluent is being disposed of by gravity through outfall surface drains into evaporation ponds. The evaporation ponds are a series of inter dunal depressions locally known as `Tobas' located in the south of the Haroonabad. These ponds are located in Cholistan situated along the fringe of</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i></i><br />
</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bahawalnager and Bahawalpur districts. In these ponds, drainage effluent is evaporated at high temperatures and percolates into the groundwater underneath. The area is agriculturally unproductive as the valley floors are highly sodic, consist of sandy and silty clays and do not support any vegetation."</span></i></i></div>
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">
</span></i></blockquote>
</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Source:DISPOSAL OF DRAINAGE EFFLUENT IN EVAPORATION PONDS OF PAKISTAN</span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">by I. Javed(1) and Abdul Hafeez(2) </span></i></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>(1)Senior Engineer, (2)Director, International Water-logging and Salinity Research Institute (IWASRI),</i><i>Muhammadpura Raiwind Road, Lahore, Pakistan.</i></span></div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, these ponds are fed by canals which drain water from the agricultural areas. While the initial objective was agricultural in nature, I think their placement on Indo-Pakistan border gives them defensive value as well.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is a closer look at these ponds.</span></div>
</div>
<div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i>Evaporation Ponds</i></b></div>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qIH7A0avX5c/UDvPyX0x1XI/AAAAAAAAArw/AGMvyvMVu24/s1600/Evaporation+ponds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qIH7A0avX5c/UDvPyX0x1XI/AAAAAAAAArw/AGMvyvMVu24/s320/Evaporation+ponds.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There is an additional possibility of the walls of these ponds being breached or, additional water pumped through canals to cause overflow and general flooding in the area. The sand may become unsuitable for large scale movement of tracked as well as wheeled vehicles.</span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Conclusion</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Like other areas, Pakistan has built formidable defensive structures which will test the resolve and resourcefulness of Indian offensive formations. IA will need good engineering support as well as air-cover as it dashes across the Thar towards its objectives.</span></div>
</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-30343255568046415132012-08-25T03:34:00.000+05:302012-09-11T01:08:01.197+05:30Strategic Importance-South Punjab and Sindh<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Preamble<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The main reason for writing this
article is to help readers better understand the series that I have begun about
the canal based defenses. This article will help (at least that is what I hope)
people to appreciate the offensive potential of the Indian Army in the study
area and, the reasons behind Pakistan erecting the canal based defenses. I have
used the example of Indian Army deployment during Op. Parakram as a case study - it shows the likely axis of advance by
Indian Army into South Punjab and Sindh in Pakistan. This information, when combined with knowledge about orientation
and features of canals, shows the usefulness of canals and other water bodies
as defensive features.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Introduction<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Year 2002 was a landmark as far
as the war fighting philosophy of the Indian Army is concerned. Or, to put it
more accurately, it demonstrated for the first time that Indian Army was ready
to go beyond the ‘tried and tested’ route and take bold decisions. Decisions which would allow it to enforce a result
in the anticipated time period available given the geo-political situation obtained presently.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One prior such land mark was
re-orientation of the Indian Army from defensive mindset to offensive one by
leveraging the growing modernization (and mechanization) with in the army. This
transformation reached its culmination when General Sundarji was at helm of
affairs and an eponymous doctrine of war-fighting, called the Sundarji
Doctrine, became the mantra of the army. Under the re-organization, the offensive firepower was
concentrated in three Strike Corps (1, 2, 21) with an armored division each. It was envisaged that in any
conflict with Pakistan, not only will these formations inflict attrition on Pakistan
Army Strike Reserves (ARN and ARS), thereby degrading its war fighting potential, but
also make a dash to Indus, thus splitting Pakistan into two.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With the advent of nuclear
weapons and geo-political environment obtained presently, I don’t think IA is
planning to split Pakistan into two anytime soon – but the objectives of
degrading the war fighting potential of PA and capturing strategic territory
(to be used during bargaining) very much remain on the table.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The intention of this write-up is
to assess the Indian options in the area south of Fazilka (inclusive of
Abohar) and right up to Barmer Sector in south Rajasthan. We also assess the
position of Pakistan Army and options available to it. The importance of canal
developments in the region and their potential as defense structures gets
highlighted in the process. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b></b><br />
</span><br />
<a name='more'></a><b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Military Balance<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The military balance obtained as
of today in the study area is as follows:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><b>Indian Army</b></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->South Western Command – Jaipur (Note: SWC was
formed in 2005; earlier, the entire area from Punjab to central Rajasthan was
under the aegis of Western Command)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->10 Corps – Bhatinda</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->16 Infantry Division, Sri Ganganagar</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->24 RAPID, Bikaner</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->18 RAPID, Kota</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->6(I) Armored Brigade</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->1 Strike Corps – Mathura (based in Central
Command area during peace time)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->33 Armored Division, Hissar</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->4 RAPID, Allahabad</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->23 Infantry Division, Ranchi</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->16(I) Armored Brigade, Pathankot (may have been
moved under 9 Corps)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->42 Artillery Division, Alwar (to move to Jaipur
as per latest media reports - (<a href="http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/army-south-west-command-to-move-closer-to-jaipur/1/184194.html">http://indiatoday.intoday.in/story/army-south-west-command-to-move-closer-to-jaipur/1/184194.html</a>)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Southern Command</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->12 Corps – Jodhpur</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->12 RAPID, Jodhpur</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->11 Infantry Division, Ahmedabad</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->4 (I) Armored Brigade</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->340 (I) Mechanized Brigade</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->21 Strike Corps – Bhopal</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->31 Armored Division, Jhansi</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->36 RAPID, Sagar</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->54 Infantry Division, Secunderabad</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->41 Artillery Division, Pune</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Western Command</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span> 2 Strike Corps – Ambala</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->1 Armored Division, Patiala</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->14 RAPID, Dehradun</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->22 Infantry Division, Meerut</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 2in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->14(I) Armored Brigade (larger than average independent
armored brigade)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">· 40 Artillery Division</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The other Corps under Western
Command is 11 Corps based out of Jalandhar. The reason 2 Strike Corps has been
included here because the traditional hunting ground of 2 Strike Corps has been
area between south Punjab and central Rajasthan.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">·<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> <b> </b></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><!--[endif]--> Pakistan Army </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->2 Corps, Multan (Army Reserve South)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->1 Armored Division, Multan</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->40 Infantry Division, Okara (Mechanized)</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->31 Corps, Bahawalpur</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->26 Mechanized Division, Bahawalpur</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->35 Infantry Division, Bahawalpur</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->14 Infantry Division, Okara</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->V Corps, Karachi</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->16 Infantry Division, Pano Aqil</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->18 Infantry Division, Hyderabad</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->25 Mechanized Division, Malir</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">o<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->XI Corps, Peshawar</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->One Infantry Division</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 1.5in; text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">§<span style="font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->One (I) Armored Brigade</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Note on 25<sup>th</sup> and 26<sup>th</sup> Mechanized Divisions</b> – The
deployment of three Strike Corps by the Indian Army in Southern Punjab and
Rajasthan sectors brought home a very stark reality to the Pakistan Army – that
is, it did not have sufficient reserves to counter the formidable punch which
the three Indian Strike Corps could throw in this sector. Adding to the problem
was the new Indian doctrine of Cold Start Doctrine, which envisaged its holding Corps
initiating offensive actions (through Integrated Battle Groups) when the
balloon went up. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In short, the plan from Indian perspectives seems to be that
the exploits of IBGs would force PA to commit its reserves in the study area– 2 Corps (Army
Reserve South) in this case. This then would give Indians the options (both in time and space) in terms
of deploying its own Strike Corps. Basically, the idea was to get Pakistan to
blink first when it came to deployment of the strategic reserve.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To counter this situation,
Pakistan Army created Corps Reserves with 5 and 31 Corps (25<sup>th</sup> and
26<sup>th</sup> Mechanized Divisions, respectively) which can serve as
counter-penetration forces or initiate offensive actions on their own. This
would ensure that Army Reserves are not deployed in the initial stages of
conflict and holding Corps (5 and 31 Corps) can manage the situation on their
own.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i>Composition of Corps Reserves</i>
- </b>Not much is known in public domain about the composition of these
Mechanized Divisions (at least to me) but I’ve a hypothesis (actually two) – </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> (a)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>Pakistan
Army has had number of Independent Armored Brigades attached to Corps,
generally at the rate of one (I) Armored Brigade per Corps (some had more than
one brigade with 5 Corps being a prime example). I’m of the opinion that these
armored brigades have been folded together with a Division HQ to form these
Mechanized Divisions. In terms of Mechanized Brigades with these formations,
Pakistan Army has had Heavy and Light Anti-Tank Battalions in its Orbat – the
former are equipped with APC mounted ATGMs while the latter have 4x4 vehicles –
these were grouped earlier into anti-tank brigades. It is likely that these
formations provide the mechanized infantry elements of these mechanized divisions.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">( (b)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>For
example, 5 Corps has had 2(I) Armored Brigade and 31(I) Mechanized Brigade in
its Orbat for a long time. It is quite possible that these brigades (plus
additional mechanized infantry assets) have been folded together under a higher
HQ to form the 25<sup>th</sup> Mechanized Division.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="text-align: justify; text-indent: -0.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> (c)<span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span>However,
what adds to the confusion is the fact that these (I) brigades continues to be
mentioned as Independent formations in the media reports that I’ve seen from
Pakistan and on various forums dedicated to Pakistan Armed Forces. Therefore,
it is quite likely that PA has created a higher HQ with support elements <i>which will be used to manage these formations
as a single entity, if required, in case of a conflict.</i> The only issue with
this approach is that the formations which are likely to fight together in a
conflict need to train together in peace time as part of one entity. Ad-hoc
amalgamation in times of conflict does not serve the purpose well as it takes
time to build synergy between various components of the formation.</span></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It is because of the above likely
scenario that I’ve not mentioned the independent armored/mechanized brigades of
PA with 5, 30 and 2 Corps. They are considered as part of the Corps Reserve
Divisions.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For clarity and reference sake,
the (I) Armored/Mechanized Brigades in the study area that I’m aware of (based
on data available on internet) are as follows</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">5 Corps</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">2(I) Armored
Bde</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">31(I) Mech Bde</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">31 Corps</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">10(I) Armored
Bde</span></li>
</ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">2 Corps</span></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">13 (I) Armored
Bde</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">44(I) Mech Bde</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One main reason I have to believe
that independent brigades are being used to form the Corps Reserves is that the
total number of armored regiments has not gone up – the present number of
armored regiments is not sufficient to have (I) armored/mechanized brigades (same as earlier level) as
well as new raisings for Corps Reserves.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Therefore, the Corps Reserves, in
my opinion, do not represent a net increment in capability in terms of numbers.
However, what it surely does is concentrate the mechanized assets under a
higher formation (with necessary support elements) which will allow PA to apply pressure in a concentrated manner
– the cardinal principal of armored warfare which allowed German Army (with
lesser and inferior assets) to break the back of French Army in WWII. Using Corps Reserves, PA can develop a strong
offensive across a particular axis and a minor/complimentary offensive on a
parallel axis. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This further brings out two
observations – (a) the number of (I) armored brigades in Pakistan Army is
lesser than what is generally observed (b) these formations for all intent and
purpose are armored divisions. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2002 Stand-Off – Operation Parakram</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The attack on Indian Parliament
on 13<sup>th</sup> December, 2001 triggered the largest mobilization of Indian
Armed Forces after Brasstacks in 1986-87. As per various media reports, India came close
to going on offensive on two occasions (a) first in January 2002 in the immediate
aftermath of Parliament attack (b) second in June after terrorist attack on
Indian Army Camp in Kaluchak in May 2002.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The center piece of our study is
drastic change in the deployment of the Indian Army between January 2002 and
June 2002 and its impact on the likely war scenario in the region. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A major source of this
information is an article written by Lt. General Kamal Matinuddin (retd.) of
Pakistan Army which appeared after the 2002 stand-off. This paper appeared in 2003, in the publication of Institute of Regional Studies, Pakistan. It is no longer available on line. Apart from that, it is
internet chatter/analysis picked up from various forums (like Bharat Rakshak- <a href="http://bharat-rakshak.com/">bharat-rakshak.com</a>-the archive section of the forum has a very fine analysis of the deployment pattern –but you'll need a log-in to check the archives) and articles.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b>Indian Army Deployment</b> - <b>Op Parakram</b>
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">January 2002 scenario<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">There was an accepted wisdom till
January 2002 as far as the deployment of Indian Strike Corps was concerned,
especially, 1 Strike Corps. This Strike Corps was expected to be committed in
the Pathankot-Sambha-Gurdaspur Corridor opposite the Shakargarh Sector. This
was driven by operational and geographical considerations. A brief overview of
the same is as follows:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">The strategic Indian town of Akhnoor is under
100kms from PA cantonment in Kharian and Jhelum. The general area of Jhelum-Kharian-Mangla
is home to PA’s Army Reserve North - 1 Corps – one of their Strike Corps. Akhnoor
is the gateway to the Indian towns of Nowshera, Rajauri and Poonch. Control of
Akhnoor means that the flanks of India forces in north becomes exposed.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Similarly, capture of this town can threaten the
city of Jammu towards south and outflanking Indian forces in south.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 9px;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">While one potential axis of advance is from
Jaurian to Akhnoor the other is through a salient jutting into Indian Territory.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Presence of this salient – called famously Chicken’s
Neck by Lt. General Zoru Bakshi – allows it to develop attack on both Akhnoor
and Jammu.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 9px;"><br /></span>
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Alternately, PA could cross the Chenab River towards
south (at Gujrat-Wazirabad inside Pakistan) and move along Sialkot –Jammu axis
and threaten the city directly.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-indent: -0.25in;">Or, they could threaten the Pathankot-Jammu road
between Madhopur and Sambha.</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In 1965, Indian I Corps went on
offensive in Shakargarh Sector because it wanted to relieve the pressure on Akhnoor
by Pakistan Army. By threatening the defenses in Shakargarh and Pasrur Sector,
India could threaten the flanks of Pakistan Army’s defenses in Lahore sector to
south. By going on offensive in this sector, India can give depth to its
defenses in the area.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">And this is what I think India
planned to do in January 2002 when I Corps moved into the area with its
attendant formations.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Map of the Shakargarh Sector is shown below</span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3Y3UWPysaI/UDf1dBR6oZI/AAAAAAAAApw/W79PeimGhR8/s1600/Shakargarh+Sector.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="197" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-s3Y3UWPysaI/UDf1dBR6oZI/AAAAAAAAApw/W79PeimGhR8/s320/Shakargarh+Sector.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Mid 2002 scenario<o:p></o:p></span></i></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Between January 2002 and May-June
2002, the deployment plan of the Indian Army changed quite drastically –
something which was not witnessed earlier or what Pakistan had expected. There
were two important developments which happened during the intervening period
between January 2002 and May 2002 which might have allowed for this change to happen.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">First, after the initial round of
deployment when 1 Strike Corps went north, the element of surprise had been
lost. Pakistan Army had mobilized to its forward areas and I think army rightly
calculated that there was not much to be had in case the balloon went up.
Secondly, the mountain divisions from Eastern Command which were mobilized for
western theater had enough time to re-orient in terms of training and equipment
profile.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So, HQ 3 Corps went to the
Pathankot-Jammu corridor and became responsible for managing the formations
between 16 Corps to north and 11 Corps to south. It had the 57 Mountain Division
and 4 Infantry Division (of 1 Strike Corps) under it. 27 Mountain Division of 33 Corps was already under Northern Command for CI Ops when Parliament attack happened. This sector also had 3 x (I) Armored Bdes - 16, 2 and 3 (I) Armored Brigades.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">HQ 1 Strike Corps along with 33
Armored Division and 23 Infantry Division were shifted to sector between 2 Strike
Corps and 10 Corps in South Punjab/North Rajasthan and 21 Strike Corps in
Jaisalmer Sector. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The broad deployment pattern during this period was as such</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; font-size: 7pt; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 7pt; text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;"> </span><span style="text-align: left; text-indent: -0.25in;">2 Strike Corps – general area Bhatinda, Abohar
and Sri Ganganagar.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">10 Corps – general area
Hanumangarh and Suratgarh.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 Strike Corps – general area
Phalodi and Bikaner. (16(I) Armored Bde and 4 Infantry Division had been left behind in Pathankot
Sector under 3 Corps)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">21 Corps – general area Jaisalmer
and Barmer</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">12 Corps – general area Jaisalmer
and Barmer (it seems formations between 21 Corps and 12 Corps were mixed and
matched between these two sectors. Shifting between sectors, especially of 31
Armored Division, seems to have happened between January and May 2002)</span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<br />
<b><i>
Map 1 - January 2002 Deployment</i></b></span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQ4I3TtNVbY/UDf2S5LanHI/AAAAAAAAAp4/-hJ0qobH11E/s1600/Early+2002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MQ4I3TtNVbY/UDf2S5LanHI/AAAAAAAAAp4/-hJ0qobH11E/s320/Early+2002.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Map 2 - Mid 2002 Deployment</span></i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yqh1X44u_l4/UDf2dxTPG6I/AAAAAAAAAqA/hYuOS6GZwZo/s1600/Mid-2002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="248" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yqh1X44u_l4/UDf2dxTPG6I/AAAAAAAAAqA/hYuOS6GZwZo/s320/Mid-2002.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This represented a never before
amassing of armor as 1, 2 and 21 Strike Corps each commanded an armored
division along with one (I) Armored Brigade and two of four RAPIDs in IA (then-now
IA has six RAPIDs). In addition, 10 Corps further had two RAPIDs and an
(I) Armored Brigade. To further add to this mix, 12 Corps in Barmer Sector had an
(I) Armored and (I) Mech Brigade. These formations accounted for 37 Armored
Regiments or >60% of all the Indian armor assets in terms of regiments.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Against this, Pakistan Army
deployed 1 x Armored Division (2 Corps), 3 x (I) Armored Brigades (2, 31 and 5
Corps) and 2 x Mechanized Brigades (2 and 5 Corps). Even if one adds the (I)
Armored Bde of XI Corps which it seems managed the area north of river Sutlej
in the Sulemanki Headworks area, we’re here talking about 15 odd armored
regiments. This was ~40% of Indian strength in the entire sector.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<i>(Note: Indian Armored Divisions and (I) Armored Brigades are bigger than their PA counter-parts)</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">But, there is a larger picture
here – that Indian Army could have deployed and concentrated mechanized formations
over a narrow corridor to punch through the defenses of either 5 Corps opposite
central Rajasthan or 2 Corps/31 Corps combine opposite north Rajasthan. Indian
Army could have achieved the twin objectives of engaging Pakistan Army in a
battle of attrition to degrade its fighting capability as well as capture prime
real estate for bargaining later on.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To me, the above scenario substantiates
the internet chatter (on various Pakistan centric forums) that 1 Armoured Division
under 2 Corps was deployed in a defensive manner to contain an Indian break-out
and a counter penetration reserve. This was contrary to the ‘Doctrine of Riposte’
under which PA would have fought the battle on Indian soil.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian Options – June 2002<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Given the concentration of
forces, in my opinion, the following options could have been possible:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">South Punjab – North Rajasthan</span></i></b></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 Corps and 10
Corps could have mounted very powerful offensives on parallel axis.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 Corps could
have advanced on the Abohar-Berwala axis and Sri-Ganganagar-Bahawalnagar axis. The northern flank of this advance would have
been protected by the presence of River Sutlej. Of course, Indian Army had to
ensure that bridges on river Sutlej are either taken out or controlled by IA to
prevent north-south movement of PA troops to threaten the flanks of 2 Corps
advance.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">On the other
hand, capture of these bridges gives an option to IA to move north of Sutlej
and thus, envelop PA forces in the Haveli-Kasur-Lahore sectors.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Similarly, 10
Corps could have advanced on the Suratgarh-Anupgarh-Fort Abbas axis. Its northern
flank would have been protected by the advance of 2 Corps to the north.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">These formations
would have faced PA’s 2 Corps and 31 Corps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In my opinion,
PA would have diluted the 31 Corps and 2 Corps to some extent to bolster
defenses in Central and South Sindh. Here, a lone PA 5 Corps faced potentially
three Indian Corps (21 Strike Corps, 12 Corps and 1 Strike Corps).</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Map</span></i></b><br />
<div>
<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></i></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCr9jOZFtRM/UDf2qBYJdXI/AAAAAAAAAqI/OpdNtrQul4U/s1600/Fort+Abbas+Area.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-UCr9jOZFtRM/UDf2qBYJdXI/AAAAAAAAAqI/OpdNtrQul4U/s320/Fort+Abbas+Area.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><i><br /></i></b>
</span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Central Rajasthan</span></i></b></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This was the playground
of 21 Corps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">With base at
Jaisalmer, 21 Corps could have struck out at Rahim Yar Khan.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">21 Corps would
have most likely faced elements of 5 Corps and 31 Corps which, in my opinion
would have been sent south of bolster the defenses in the area.</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Southern Rajasthan</span></i></b></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">12 Corps on
Barmer-Umarkot Axis.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It would have
also squared against elements of 5 Corps.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If Lt. General Matinnudin’s
article is to be believed, then 31 Armored Division (from 21 Corps) shifted to
Barmer-Umarkot axis my mid 2002 while Jaisalmer-RYK axis consisted of 12 RAPID,
4(I) Armored Bde and 340(I) Mech Bde. 36 RAPID was held back in reserve. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Either ways, it represented
a powerful punch and would have presented a formidable challenge to PA forces in
the area.</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">1 Strike Corps</span></i></b></li>
<ul>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It seems 1
Strike Corps was held back in the Bikaner-Phalodi area. It consisted of 33
Armored Division and 23 Infantry Division.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">To me, it seems
1 Strike Corps could have been used to either support the offensive of 2/10
Corps combine in north or 21 Corps advance towards RYK.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Presence of 1
Strike Corps presented the ultimate trump card in the pack – its deployment
would have been used to press home the advantage even further.</span></li>
</ul>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
<!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Present Scenario<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Today, the situation obtained on
both sides of border in Southern Indian Punjab and Rajasthan Sectors is a
continuation of developments in 2002.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Indian Army established the
South-Western Command (SWAC) at Jaipur to manage the sector between Western
Command to north and Southern Command to south. It has under it aegis the 1
Strike Corps and 10 Corps – this is formalization of deployment structure during
2002.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">All the Strike Corps now have an
Artillery Division each which is the custodian of Rocket Artillery and
conventional guns. In due course of time, Brahmos and Prahaar Regiments are
also likely to come under the aegis of these Artillery Divisions.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Pakistan Army on its part created
the Corps Reserves under 5 and 31 Corps to better manage the resources in the
sector. This was also required to counter the new Indian Strategy of Cold
Start. This author believes that Cold Start (or whatever other fancy name one
might want to give it) is a realty and between 2002 and present, the number of
exercise carried out by Indian Army have all been used to perfect various facets of doctrine.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Considering the challenge and
threat faced by Pakistan in the study area, the Canal based defenses are an important
part of the overall strategy. These canals help in evening out the odd against
PA to some extent – its helps it to conserve forces for counter strike while
all the while presenting formidable obstacles to impede any offensives by Indian
Army mechanized formations.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A note on Pakistan Army 2 Corps (Army Reserve South) deployment<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">2 Corps HQ is located in Multan
in South Central Punjab in Pakistan. As discussed earlier, it is the repository
of Pakistan Army’s major offensive potential and which is expected to take the
battle to enemy. Given the location of the Corps,
it can either be deployed in the Bari Doab area (area in Pakistan Punjab between
River Ravi and River Sutlej) or to south of it.<i>(Please see the map of Indian 2 and 10 Corps offensive options; the major bridges are marked on the map) </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For deployment to a sector south
of Bari Doab area, the Corps and its assets need to cross the Sutlej River at
four potential locations. From north to south, these are Sulemanki headworks, bridge
along Bahawalnagar-Arifwala Road, Islam headworks and bridge on Bahawalnagar- Multan
road. During 1987 Brasstacks crisis, 1 Armored Division was deployed in Bari
Doab area aimed at Indian Punjab. I think during 2002 stand-off, 2 Corps went south of River Sutlej to defend against potential Indian offensive in Bahawalnagar to Fort Abbas Area.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br />
<i><b>Map of Doabs in Punjab</b></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i><b><br /></b></i>
</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UpYxYlEJhWQ/UDf9deH5ymI/AAAAAAAAAqY/PqyUpJop-Qk/s1600/punj_doab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UpYxYlEJhWQ/UDf9deH5ymI/AAAAAAAAAqY/PqyUpJop-Qk/s320/punj_doab.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source: </i><a href="http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2112/4512765482_2c2011793f.jpg">http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2112/4512765482_2c2011793f.jpg</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>PS: Evaluate the importance of setting up airbase by IAF in Phalodi (Rajasthan) in light of the above write-up</i>.</span></div>
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</div>
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</div>
VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-22591368738496147382012-08-15T04:30:00.000+05:302012-09-16T12:46:58.131+05:30Pakistan-Defense Canals in South Punjab and Sindh-1 (Sulemanki-Fort Abbas)<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A. Introduction</span></b></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Bambanwala Ravi
Bedian Link Canal (BRB Canal), better known as Ichhogil Canal, is synonymous
with the 1965 Indo-Pak war and Lahore sector of the war. This canal ran 8 km
inside Pakistan and proved to be a formidable defensive structure. The home
bank of the canal (on the Lahore side) was lined with concrete pill-boxes with
over-lapping arcs of fire. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From an army’s
stand-point, defensive structures like water canals offer two important
advantages – (a) economy of forces (b) delaying the advance of the enemy and
limiting his ability to maneuver</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In case (a),
home bank of the canal can be lined with fortified and concrete defensive
positions in a mutually supporting manner. Given the protection offered by these
structures, the manpower required is relatively less as compared to say, defending
over an open ground. The manpower and other assets like tanks/mechanized
infantry can be reserved for counter-attacks on the enemy using these canal
based defenses as firm base.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The other
benefit [point (b)] is that it forces the enemy into expending resources in
first securing its home bank, creating a bridgehead and then securing the
bridgehead. Creating and securing bridgeheads is never an easy task against an
entrenched enemy and are prone to counter-attacks from the enemy reserves in
the areas. The D-Day landings in Normandy were all about creating and securing
bridgeheads. All this activity adds to the time component.</span></div>
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<br />
<a name='more'></a><br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Image of Pakistan Army fortification on home bank of BRB Canal</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47sOXqcKOVM/UCrURmL4WQI/AAAAAAAAAng/2THQ_4HBmGU/s1600/bunker-BRB+Canal.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-47sOXqcKOVM/UCrURmL4WQI/AAAAAAAAAng/2THQ_4HBmGU/s320/bunker-BRB+Canal.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><br /></b></div>
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<b style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">B. India - Pakistan Scenario</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif; text-align: justify;">Pakistan
inherited an extensive canal infrastructure in Punjab on independence with most
of it concentrated in Pakistan Punjab.</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">However, to
better protect its commercial centers like Lahore and lines of communication,
it constructed further canals. The famous Ichhogil Canal (connecting Ravi and
Sutlej Rivers) was constructed to east of Lahore between Indian border and
Lahore while the Marala-Ravi-Link Canal (MRLC) was constructed to protect the
lines of communication from Lahore to Peshawar. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">In case of
Pakistan, the canal based defenses allow it many advantages. The same are
mentioned below:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(a) Protection of
vital economic centers – all the economic centers are situated to west of these
canals. Lahore is the prime example of the same. Therefore, perforce, any direct
assault will require substantial manpower and engineering effort from India’s
Strike formations.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Given the lack
of geographical depth, these canal based defenses allow it fight the battle as
far away as possible from the centers of political or military gravity.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(b) Coupled with
the implicit understanding that world powers will not allow a war to continue
beyond a 10-15 day period, such time consuming options are automatically ruled
out. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(c) In addition to
the above, all the major road networks run to west of these canals thus,
affording them depth and protection from interdiction by Indian forces.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(d) Conservation of
forces – these defenses allows Pakistan Army to use the minimum number of
troops and other assets for defending the home bank. In case, a critical
situation evolves in any of the sectors, Pakistan Army (Pakistan Army) can move
forces to reinforce such an area using the lateral lines of communication
situated west of these canals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(e) The presence of
these defensive canals when coupled with the level of urbanization in Pakistan
Punjab also means that mass scale deployment and maneuver warfare may well be a
distinct possibility. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(f) By preserving
forces for offensive operations, these defenses allow Pakistan to implement the
‘Doctrine of Riposte’ – which calls for offensive actions across narrow front
using the Army Reserves (Army Reserve North and Army Reserve South).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">C. Canal System</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The irrigation
system consists of water reservoirs (03), barrages or headworks (18), major
canals(45) and their distributaries and 12 inter-link canals (which connect
rivers – like Ichhogil Canal)</span></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A headwork is
situated on a river and it is used to divert and control the flow of water into
canals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Here is a definition
of a headwork: <i>“Any hydraulic structure
which supplies water to the off taking canal. Diversion head-work provides an
obstruction across a river, so that the water level is raised and water is
diverted to the channel at required level. The increase water level helps the
flow of water by gravity and results in increasing the commanded area and
reducing the water fluctuations in the river”</i> (source: <a href="http://www.aboutcivil.org/headworks-types-&-locations.html">http://www.aboutcivil.org/headworks-types-&-locations.html</a>)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">A river has
multiple headworks at various places on the river to serve a particular area.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Picture of Sulemanki Headworks </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_UWNKHkrUMY/UCrSsdyeUgI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/td20nKF-1ZQ/s1600/suleimanki.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_UWNKHkrUMY/UCrSsdyeUgI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/td20nKF-1ZQ/s320/suleimanki.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><i>Source:</i> <a href="http://irrigation.punjab.gov.pk/images-portal/suleimanki.jpg">http://irrigation.punjab.gov.pk/images-portal/suleimanki.jpg</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Satellite image of Sulemanki Headworks and associated canals</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XeDRgSz2e5A/UCrTmo5dKwI/AAAAAAAAAnY/DxfEM1HgDTE/s1600/Sulemanki+Satellite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XeDRgSz2e5A/UCrTmo5dKwI/AAAAAAAAAnY/DxfEM1HgDTE/s320/Sulemanki+Satellite.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Canal
network has its own hierarchy which is as follows – </span></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Main Canal –
off take directly from the Headwork.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Branch Canal –
Main canals bifurcate into branch canals. Together, the main canal and branch
canal form the primary component of the distribution system.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Distributary – Water
channel on which the distribution points are located. Generally, a branch canal
feeds multiple distributaries.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Minor Canals –
off take from the distributaries. Distributary and Minor Canals together form
the secondary tier of the distribution network.</span></li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: center;">Watercourse - Water channel drawn from minor
canal on which </span><i style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: center;">Moghas</i><span style="font-size: 11pt; line-height: 115%; text-align: center;"> (inlets to
fields) are placed</span></span></li>
</ul>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">D. Study Area<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Most of the
area in Pakistan Punjab opposite Indian state of Punjab is densely populated
with various urban centers and with a complex network of canals. Any large
scale maneuver warfare involving large mechanized formations is generally ruled
out in this area.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">That does not
mean there would not be any offensive action undertaken in these areas. In my
opinion, the offensives in these areas will be broadly of these types – (a) in
areas which are vulnerable to PA assault, offensive would be undertaken to put
Pakistan Army on back foot. This will automatically provide defense to these
areas (b) Assaults to threaten or capture important nodes to keep Pakistan Army
under pressure, exploit success in these assaults (outflank the enemy advance,
capture headworks and restrict movement
of enemy forces from these sector to other sectors (c) capture as much vital
territory as possible for discussion on the bargaining table (d) threaten the
flank of enemy forces in adjoining areas of operations and create possibility
of outflanking and enveloping them.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The big
challenge in fighting in these areas from India’s perspective is that as we
advance further, the more urban the landscape becomes. Also, the defenses
become more compact with attendant challenges.</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in;">
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The real hammer
is likely to fall in the desert – areas in south Pakistan Punjab and Sindh. The
area is far less developed and offers scope for deployment of large mechanized
formations. It is not a coincidence that the Area of Responsibility (AOR) of
Indian Southern and South-Western Command straddles area between North Rajasthan
and Gujarat. And that both these Commands each have a mechanized heavy Strike Corps
in their ORBAT (21 Corps and 1 Corps, respectively).</span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Therefore, this
paper studies the status of water/canal system in south Pakistan Punjab
(Fort-Abbas) to areas opposite Barmer Sector in India. </span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The map of study area is as follows:</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16vvQsR3C54/UCrVVMBtbHI/AAAAAAAAAno/EvU8J0VNn2Y/s1600/Canal+-Study+Area.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-16vvQsR3C54/UCrVVMBtbHI/AAAAAAAAAno/EvU8J0VNn2Y/s320/Canal+-Study+Area.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Sector 1 - Fort Abbas - Bahawalnagar Area<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The origin of
the canal network in the Sector 1 (S1) is at Sulemanki Headwork on river
Sutlej, opposite Indian Fazilka Sector. From the left bank of Sulemanki
Headwork originate two major canals namely Fordwah Canal and Eastern Sadiqia
Canal. Both these canal move in south-western direction and while the Fordwah
Canal moves deeper into Pakistan Punjab, the Eastern Sadiqia Canal covers the
areas on the Indo-Pakistan border. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">After traveling 74kms from the Sulemanki
Headwork, this canal trifurcates into Hakra and Malik branches and Sirajwah
Distributary. The schematic layout of this system is given the map below.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9oF9Zw_0z0/UCrVw8MxTSI/AAAAAAAAAnw/ADQUQGegx10/s1600/S1-schematic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y9oF9Zw_0z0/UCrVw8MxTSI/AAAAAAAAAnw/ADQUQGegx10/s320/S1-schematic.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">From irrigation
administration purpose, this Hakra Canal falls under the Hakra Division of
Bahawalnagar Circle. Bahawalnagar Circle falls under the Bahawalpur Zone of
Department of Irrigation, Punjab Government.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Hakra Canal
further travels from Jalwala Headworks up till a point near Gulab Ali and
bifurcates into Hakra Left and Hakra Right Distributary. During its travel from
Jalwala Headworks, many distributaries and minor canals off take water towards
east and west of canal. These off take channels create a further mesh of
smaller canals in north-south direction which adds depth to the existing obstacle
presented by the main canal.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The subsequent
map shows the alignment of Hakra Canal and its two main distributaries. As can
be seen in the picture, the canal runs parallel to the India-Pakistan border
and is situated at a depth of 2-6 km from the border. </span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Image of Hakra Canal Alignment</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CkhTvNWHgiU/UCrWZ942szI/AAAAAAAAAn4/PqvSjarFO1I/s1600/Hakra+Alignment.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CkhTvNWHgiU/UCrWZ942szI/AAAAAAAAAn4/PqvSjarFO1I/s320/Hakra+Alignment.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As explained
earlier, there are many off take channels from the canal on both the east and
west side of the canal. These distributaries add further layer to the defenses.
The pictures below shows one such off take point and its location with respect
to Indian border and the overall network of such off take channels.<b><i> </i></b></span></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Close up image of off-take channels at a particular point</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UqDZ0iKELSg/UCrW5Ydg4ZI/AAAAAAAAAoI/uyxPYA-P1_I/s1600/HC-Close-up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UqDZ0iKELSg/UCrW5Ydg4ZI/AAAAAAAAAoI/uyxPYA-P1_I/s320/HC-Close-up.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><i><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Complete network of off take channels</span></i></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_w6eYwVigY/UCrW3bRXayI/AAAAAAAAAoA/82L8Qo2RdXg/s1600/HC+Network.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_w6eYwVigY/UCrW3bRXayI/AAAAAAAAAoA/82L8Qo2RdXg/s320/HC+Network.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Fort Abbas Area</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The city of
Fort Abbas is situated at a distance of ~18km from the Indian border, opposite
Indian town of Anupgarh. Any Indian success in the Fort Abbas area would not
only mean a big psychological impact but also have military ramifications.
Indian forces can move either north or south threatening the flanks of Pakistan
Army in these areas and isolating them from their rear. PA elements opposite
Indian Sri Ganganagar and Abohar could find themselves facing Indian offensive
from east as well as south.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The canal
network between Fort Abbas and Indian border consists of the Left Distributary
of the Hakra Canal. Further on, this canal bifurcates into smaller channels
known as flood minors.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">While Hakra Left
Distributary is between 10-12 meters in width, the smaller flood canals are
between 2 to 8 meters in width. The picture below gives the outlay of the canal
system in the general area of Fort Abbas.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Northern flank of Fort Abbas town is covered by the Hakra Right Distributary which is 30+ meters in width.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Hakra Left Distributary is not a perennial
canal but used to manage the excess flow during peak seasons. In wartime, while
the Hakra Left Distributary will for sure be kept filled up by diverting water
from Hakra Right Distributary, the flood minors will most likely be used to
flood the area between Indian border and these minor canals.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Straight Indian advance towards Fort Abbas can be checked by flooding the area between Indian border and Hakra Left Distributary and by manning the defenses on western bank of this canal. Crossing north of the point where Hakra Canal bifurcates means any approach towards Fort Abbas will involve either capture of bridge over Hakra North Distributary or crossing of the same. Other option could be to bypass the canal network towards south and then moving in north-westerly direction. But, one can be sure that Pakistan Army will build these permutations and combinations into their defensive set-up.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The image below shows the location of Fort Abbas town and the surrounding canal network</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvZ1DhYN5Gw/UCrYE1prSFI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/RMg9-f8Pgxg/s1600/Fort+Abbas+Area.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="189" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZvZ1DhYN5Gw/UCrYE1prSFI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/RMg9-f8Pgxg/s320/Fort+Abbas+Area.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Study of other sectors will follow in subsequent ports.</span></span></div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-68537443610703270202012-08-05T14:50:00.003+05:302012-09-11T01:08:41.978+05:30Military Geography in Sikkim Sector<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">A brief analysis of geography and surface infrastructure in Sikkim and how it impacts the force deployment from Indian perspective.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 18.200000762939453px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">(a) Geography</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"> - First things fist – let us look at the geography of Sikkim and the available infrastructure. The state extends in north-south direction with length being more than the breadth. It has border with Tibet on its north and east while on its west it shares boundary with Nepal. To its south lies the state of West Bengal.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">The northern and eastern borders with Tibet are the areas of interest to us. </span></span></div>
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The Sikkim-Tibet border in east runs in north-south direction and in its entirety is a high ridge line with mountain ridges north of 4,000 meters in height and crossing 5,000 meters easily as one goes north. The valley floor in southern part of this border (on Tibet side) is less than 3,000 meters and goes up to 3,500 meters as one goes north. Except for certain areas in northern section of this border with passes which can allow for lateral movement of troops, the area will not permit any large scale east-west movement of troops. Except for the vegetation, the geography resembles the one obtained along LOC north of Northern Gullies in Ladakh. Interestingly, there are some valleys which go in east-west direction (up to ridge line) and if one observe Google Earth one can observe that Chinese have tracks and troop deployment in these valleys leading right up to border. There are similar such valley running in west-east direction on Indian side. </div>
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The link to the map below is zeroed on the Sikkim-Tibet boundary in east.</div>
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<a href="http://wikimapia.org/#lat=27.6770889&lon=88.8151353&z=11&l=0&m=h">http://wikimapia.org/#lat=27.6770889&lon=88.8151353&z=11&l=0&m=h</a>
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<span style="font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">(b) Infrastructure -</span><b> </b>Now, consider the infrastructure available on Indian side. There is grand total of ONE major road which runs in south-north direction – the North Sikkim Highway (NSH). This road bifurcates at a key point (Cheungtong) and serves eastern and western shoulders of Northern Sikkim. It is this road which provides connectivity with most of the areas on Sikkim-Tibet border in east – from what I could make out on the map, extreme North and North East Sikkim are served by the western arm of the North Sikkim Highway as eastern arm cannot reach these areas because of a massive mountain ridge.</div>
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The eastern arm of NSH runs close to eastern Sikkim-Tibet border and at many places is under 15kms. The important town of Cheungtong is also under 20kms from the border. PLA could make a grab for the eastern arm of NSH and the town of Cheungtong - capture of these two objectives would cut off eastern part of northern Sikkim and isolate the Indian garrison in North and North Eastern Sikkim.</div>
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Similarly, the northern and north eastern parts of Sikkim are connected by one major road – the western arm of NSH. One important aspect to understand here is that the extreme north and north-east parts of Sikkim are extension of Tibetan Plateau – the famous Fingers Area is also here. Because of similar geography as Tibet, the area is relatively flat and gives opportunity for breakout – road S 204, the main communication axis which connects the Chinese positions in Chumbi Valley with Tibet mainland, runs under 10kms towards east from north-eastern Sikkim. There have been press reports which say that IA wanted to deploy an armored regiment in the area. </div>
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However, while these areas are relatively flat and even, the area leading to them and through which the single communication axis passes is not – the road passes runs along narrow river valley with steep mountain sides and which are prone to landslides.</div>
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You can look up the road network here:</div>
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<a href="http://wikimapia.org/#lat=27.5821874&lon=88.641414&z=10&l=0&m=h">http://wikimapia.org/#lat=27.5821874&lon=88.641414&z=10&l=0&m=h</a>
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<span style="font-weight: bold; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;">(c) Troop Strength</span><b> - </b>So, what does all the above gyaan about geography tell you? That given the lack of suitable infrastructure, India will be required perforce to hold these areas like stand alone sectors – which means there have to be more ‘forces in being’. Even if the forces are not deployed right along the border, they will need to be maintained at relatively short distance (mostly within Sikkim or close to Sikkim) from where they can be quickly moved to their future deployment area. Lateral movement between sectors in mountains is never an easy option to begin with - lack of infrastructure on Indian side simply makes that impossible. So, not only will the ‘forces in being’ be required, even the reserves need to be maintained fairly up – and too, dedicated reserves for each sector.</div>
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The moment balloon goes up, the road communication will see love and affection from the PLA which is tenuous to begin with – which means IA will be required to move men and material upfront in whatever lead time it has. Mountain warfare eats up men and material and given the road infra situation in our case (and need to acclimatize), we need to over compensate. I hope that explains the ‘LARGE’ force deployment by India in this sector relative to the PLA.</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-11328544761973722642012-08-02T23:04:00.005+05:302012-09-11T01:09:11.544+05:30Indian Army disposition in North-East<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, 'Lucida Grande', 'Trebuchet MS', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.200000762939453px;">A </span>brief overview of the Indian Army set-up in the North East.<br />
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The entire area comes under Eastern Command based out of Kolkata. It has three Corps under it. The same are as follows:<br />
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33 Corps - Siliguri (West Bengal). Responsible for Sikkim and Western Bhutan. <br />
4 Coprs - Tejpur (Assam). Responsible for Western Arunachal Pradesh and Eastern Bhutan. <br />
3 Corps - Dimapur (Nagaland). Responsible for Eastern Arunachal Pradesh and Indo-Burma border. <br />
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This is how the situation is stacked up<br />
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- 33 Corps has three Mountain Divisions (MD); 17MD (Gangtok), 20MD (Kalimpong) and 27MD (Binaguri).<br />
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- 2 new Mountain Divisions have been raised in the north east. <br />
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- While 4 Corps always had three Mountain Divisions [5MD (Bomdila), 21MD(Rangiya), 2MD (Dinjan)], 3 Corps had only one division (57 MD - Leimakhong). 8 Mountain Division was once part of 3 Corps but moved to Srinagar in 90s because of insurgency and today guards the Kargil sector (as part of 14 Corps in Leh).<br />
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- So, what IA has now done is raise two new mountain divisions in the area (56 MD in Zakhama, Nagaland and 71 MD in Misamari, Assam)<br />
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- 2 MD, which is based in upper Assam (Dinjan - it is before Tinsukhia) has been transferred to 3 Corps. So, along with 57 MD (Leimakhong in Nagaland) and 56 MD, 3 Corps now has three mountain divisions to man the eastern AP. The Area of Responsibility (AOR) has been rationalized this way between 4 Corps and 3 Corps. Earlier, 4 Corps was literally responsible for the entire AP border.<br />
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- 4 Corps with 5MD, 21MD and 71MD is now responsible western AP and eastern Bhutan.<br />
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- A new mountain strike corps (MSC) has been sanctioned with two more divisions and this will bring total forces under Eastern Command to 11 Mountain Divisions - an impressive number. Plus, a new Artillery Division has also been sanctioned by CCS for Eastern Command.<br />
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- The biggest problem we have is that because of geography (and political negligence), our road network is like ribs of a Japanese fan. They radiate outwards from a central location but there is no lateral (east-west) connectivity - which means that shifting of formations from one sector to another is near impossible. And which further means that each sector needs to be staffed and treated as stand alone entity - which means over compensation in terms of troops and other assets.<br />
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- China that ways has one big advantage - it has a river valley running parallel to the AP-Tibet border (depth of >30kms) and it has built a road S306 in this river valley. What this means is that PLA can move troops from Tibetan Plateau to sectors opposite AP and given the lateral connectivity, shift forces and apply pressure where it deems feasible. The depth of the road (with high and parallel ridges in between) means that it is out of Indian interdiction.<br />
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Please see the image below - the airplane symbol is Mechuka ALG and you can see how lateral (east-west) movement between sectors on Indian side is restricted due to ridges running in north-south direction. On our side, the valleys are narrow and very steep. The dense vegetation is an added obstacle.</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1871184185816837096.post-14445697768897521332012-08-02T22:41:00.000+05:302012-09-11T01:09:26.423+05:30PLA options in Sikkim-Tibet Region<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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My assessment of Chinese options in the Sikkim-Tibet(Chumbi Valley)-Western Bhutan Corridor.</div>
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While everyone seems to be harping on the Indian position and options vis-à-vis the Chinese, what no one comments on is the Chinese position and options in the area. Geography is a double edged sword and its effects Chinese as much as it does Indians. In my opinion, the Chinese are at a back foot when it comes to options across the Chumbi Valley area. And they might just have to go on offensive to pre-empt this area being pinched off from the Tibetan plateau. Here is my take on the situation.</div>
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(a) Geography - As always, first things first. Let us look at the geography. On the Chinese side, there are two roads which lead to the Chumbi Valley from Tibetan Plateau – one is S204 and another one which runs parallel to Tibet-Bhutan boundary – there seem to some radar + communication sites along this road. They both converge at the Chumbi Valley and from one road goes south (to the base of Nathu La on Tibet side) and another feeder road moves north along the Sikkim-Tibet border. The moment these two main roads leave the Tibetan Plateau, they move along narrow valleys with very high (and steep) surrounding mountain ridges. </div>
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This is an important aspect – because what people describe as ‘wedge’ aimed at Siliguri corridor also resembles a funnel – with the broad base of the funnel towards Tibet and narrower part comprising of Chumbi Valley towards India. </div>
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What this means is that while the ‘broad’ top area may allow you to park troops/assets in large numbers, the narrower bottom part can accommodate only that many troops. There is simply no real estate here – as the map shows, the PLA Garrison HQ in Chumbi Valley is placed in an area which is hardly 500 meters wide. This place will be a chock-a-block with men and material once the shooting match starts. And which will represent extremely vulnerable targets to IAF and Indian Artillery.</div>
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And it will have to content with the famous dictum of requiring 9:1 (minimum) ratio in terms of attackers to defender. But where will it park such a large force. </div>
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(b)PLA Options – More than anything else, PLA will be forced from day one to draw IA in areas towards central part of Sikkim and North/North-Eastern part. They will simultaneously try to put pressure across Nathu La. As I explained earlier, Indian garrisons in central and north/north-east Sikkim (more in case of the latter) are likely to fight and operate as standalone sectors due to connectivity issue – which will come under intense pressure once the balloon goes up. </div>
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While the western arm of North Sikkim Highway is much better protected (there being multiple north-south ridges between border and this road), PLA will try and isolate these areas by striking at (or trying to strike at) Cheungtong itself. They would want IA to be on defensive from word go. Their game plan could be to pinch the areas north of central Sikkim. With there being only two main roads in the area, if the PLA occupies the critical node(s), rest of the areas to north can be isolated. The IA garrison in North/North-East (and also south) would face PLA threat from rear itself.</div>
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However, this limited option in terms of number of roads available due to geography also means that should the PLA manage to secure the nodes, their movement in northern or southern directions will be through known areas – areas which can be defended. PLA will face the same issues which IA will if some day it decides to go west from Ladakh along the Indus or Shyok river. The defender can control the high ground, sabotage the road and bring every inch of the road under observation and fire. A road blockage here can hold up traffic and movement for days.</div>
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I personally don’t buy the argument of PLA threatening the Siliguri Corridor by moving down the Teesta river valley from Nathu La – IA has blocked that access, sure and proper. In my opinion, the real threat to Siliguri Corridor and adjoining areas comes from PLA deciding to enter India through Bhutan. If one observes Google Earth, one can see feeder roads leading from Tibet to Bhutan-Tibet border. PLA could come down western Bhutan using the existing road infra inside Bhutan, enter India and then turn west.</div>
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But – it all the above seems improbable to me because of that one single factor – where from will PLA sustain such an offensive? Where will it form the firm base for offensive formations? Where will the POL and ammunition and other logistic dumps be created? The entire PLA lines of communication will be exposed to IAF. And IA can threaten the flanks of these lines of communication and cut-off the forward elements from their rear base.</div>
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You can appreciate the placement of mountain divisions under 33 Corps in the sector in the above context.</div>
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VRhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15325973498628657512noreply@blogger.com7