In a year marked by persistent conflicts and geopolitical fragmentation, India focused on enhancing its military capabilities, firming up defence procurement worth Rs 4.22 lakh crore, and addressing tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). On October 21, India and China achieved a significant breakthrough by disengaging from the legacy border face-off points at Demchok and Depsang in eastern Ladakh. It marked a much-awaited thaw in relations following over four years of heightened tensions that began with the deadly Galwan Valley clashes in June 2020.
Enhanced Surveillance Vigilance Along LAC
Despite the disengagement, the Indian military maintained an assertive posture along the nearly 3,500-km-long LAC. Surveillance mechanisms were bolstered to monitor activities by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) on the Chinese side of the border. This approach ensured that India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty remained uncompromised.
Strategic Expansion in Maritime Domain
India’s strategic influence extended to the maritime domain, with the Indian Navy playing a pivotal role in ensuring security in critical waterways. The Navy deployed over 30 ships to counter threats posed by Houthi militants in the Red Sea, who targeted cargo vessels with drones and missiles. Indian naval forces responded to over 25 such incidents, safely escorting 230 merchant vessels carrying approximately 90 lakh metric tonnes of cargo valued at over USD 4 billion. These swift actions reportedly saved over 400 lives.
Boosting Defence Procurement and Indigenous Manufacturing
India made significant strides in strengthening its combat capabilities through domestic and international acquisitions. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) and Defence Procurement Board (DPB) approved 40 capital acquisition proposals worth Rs 4.22 lakh crore by November 2024, with 94.19% of these allocated to indigenous sources. It underscores the government’s commitment to promoting domestic defence manufacturing, which saw record production of Rs 1.26 lakh crore in 2023-24, a 16.7% increase from the previous fiscal year.
Key developments included:
- Tata Aircraft Complex Inauguration: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the Tata Aircraft Complex to produce C-295 transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Of the 56 aircraft under the ₹21,935-crore deal, 40 will be manufactured in India, with the first delivery expected in 2026.
- INS Arighaat Induction: The indigenously-built Arihant-class nuclear-powered submarine ‘INS Arighaat’ was commissioned into the Indian Navy on August 29.
- Nuclear Submarine Projects: Approval was granted for the construction of two indigenously designed nuclear attack submarines.
- Predator Drone Acquisition: India signed a deal with the US to procure 31 Predator drones for nearly USD 4 billion, enhancing surveillance and combat capabilities, particularly along the LAC.
Technological and Tactical Advances
India achieved milestones in missile technology and emerging defence capabilities:
- K-4 Missile Test: The successful test of the nuclear-capable K-4 ballistic missile, with a range of 3,500 km, marked India’s inclusion in an elite group capable of launching nuclear weapons from land, air, and sea.
- Hypersonic Missile Test: A long-range hypersonic missile was flight-tested, showcasing India’s progress in cutting-edge weaponry.
- Zorawar Light Tank: The Indian Light Tank ‘Zorawar’ demonstrated precision firing at high altitudes exceeding 4,200 meters.
The armed forces also focused on integrating artificial intelligence and quantum computing technologies to adapt to modern warfare challenges.
Defence Exports and Financial Allocation
India’s defence exports reached a record Rs 21,083 crore in 2023-24, reflecting a 32.5% growth over the previous fiscal year. The government allocated Rs 6.22 lakh crore for defence expenditure in 2024-25, with Rs 1.72 lakh crore earmarked for capital investments in new weaponry, aircraft, and warships.
Joint Exercises and Strategic Partnerships
The armed forces participated in and hosted several high-profile wargames, including:
- Malabar Exercise: Conducted in October, featuring navies from India, the US, Australia, and Japan, emphasizing Indo-Pacific cooperation.
- Bilateral and Multilateral Drills: Various exercises showcased India’s growing strategic partnerships and operational readiness.
Challenges and Setbacks
The Indian Navy faced challenges, including:
- A major fire aboard the frontline warship INS Brahmaputra in July.
- A tragic collision in Mumbai involving a passenger ferry and a navy speedboat resulted in 13 fatalities.
Leadership Transitions
The year witnessed leadership changes across the three services:
- Navy: Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi assumed command as the 26th Navy Chief in April.
- Army: General Upendra Dwivedi became the 30th Chief of Army Staff in June.
- Air Force: Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh took charge as IAF Chief in September.
Conclusion
The year 2024 showcased India’s unwavering focus on enhancing its military strength and strategic influence. From advancements in indigenous manufacturing to securing key maritime routes, India reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding national security and maintaining regional stability. However, challenges such as delayed theatre command implementation and operational setbacks underline the need for continued vigilance and innovation.
Ravi Shankar
