Air Marshal Ashok K Goel (Retd.) PVSM, AVSM, VM

Pakistan’s Involvement in J & K – A Continuing Threat to National Security

2011-09-09T00:59:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

Pakistan’s Involvement in J & K – A Continuing Threat to National Security

The problem of militancy which has afflicted Jammu and Kashmir since the middle of 1988 has already taken a toll of over 40,000 lives. This is a huge loss by any standard and India is rightly perceived being engaged in a proxy war unleashed by Pakistan. In fact the roots of the present problem can be traced to the Pakistani misadventure of trying to take over the State by force in 1947-48. The situation that we face in land K today is a continuum of the events that unfolded sixty years ago.
Since 1947 Pakistan has forced regular wars on Us in 1947-48, 1965 and 1971: a limited armed clash in 1999 in Kargil sector and continuing proxy war J&K since 1988, in addition to Pak efforts to support rebel group;; and create problems in other parts of the country (Reference to MHA Annual Reports). The first confrontation in 1947-48 was a pre-cursor of the events to follow, as Pakistan learnt important lessons, like:
• Belligerence pays
• A mix of covert and open aggression is cost-effective and gainful
• High-pitch propaganda, manipulation of UN systems and~influel1tial friends is a very potent mix.
• India would tackle the aggression defensively and localize the area of conflict.
The militancy which surfaced in Sept 1988 is the improved version of Pak attempts in 1947-48 and 1965, refined with the experience gained from her involvement in Afghanistan and Punjab, in the late seventies and eighties .
We have' been consistently defensive, reactive and short sighted in our responses. Even while replying to sudden, provocative and unorthodox moves by Pakistan our reactions have been slow, ponderous, conventional and predictable. Set-piece responses to a cunning and often elusive adversary. Our only un-orthodox achievement in the last sixty years has been a mini Chindit like outfit named "Meghdoot" in 1965.
Also we have been irrationally magnanimous in our victories.
India, we must accept, has been successively out-maneuvered by Pakistani defence and diplomatic establishments.
Not withstanding cease-fire on borders since Nov 2003, and some progress in the ongoing peace Jalks, the situation on the borders remains a cause for concern. jt
and calls for continued vigil and preparedness.
The situation on India's borders will remain unsettled in the foreseeable future due to factors like geo-strategic considerations, fall out of the colonial legacy and inadequacy of India's power projections in the region. We have consistently failed to send a message across to the neighbors -big or small- that any tinkering with the established borders would not be tolerated and India would vigorously take all necessary steps to safe guard its vital national interests and security.
It is crucial therefore to stimulate a change in the collective psyche of the India's ruling" class, across the' political spectrum, to effectively project the country' military and economic power and potential. This •also means a fundamental shift from reactive mind set to pro-active approach. The political executive as well as the senior force commanders would also do well to imbibe a spirit of risk taking and un- orthodox approach to tackling problems.
It should also be realized that Pakistan does possess considerable military muscle and its fighting forces are efficient, well trained and well equipped. Therefore a conventional war may not be cost effective and attractive proposition. However; with low development indices and a fragile economy, it is far more vulnerable to economic pressures. Therefore, a logical course of action would be to follow the strategy of economic and political squeeze while keeping. The military pressure on. The Indian State should learn valuable lessons from the course of the cold war which, terminated the existence of U.S.S.R. and the Eastern Block.
Instead of taking defensive posture in countering Pakistan's proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir, our country should carry the fight to the enemy's territory.
This strategy will also have far-reaching adverse economic consequences for Pakistan as its financial condition is already very bad and it will. not be able to combat instability in its own territory for a long period as the cost of it will become unacceptable to Pakistan. The United States of America had done the same thing with the then USSR.
While India should step up its diplomatic efforts to expose the Pakistani game amongst the international community, particularly keeping in view its abhorrence for terrorism, and try to exert pressure from other countries, the limitations of such outside influence should be clearly realized. The extent of the US pressure and willingness to push Pakistan in the context of American interest in the region must be carefully studied. In addition to making all possible efforts to improve the existing internal situation, the country needs to take steps to make Pak involvement in India's aff1irs much more costly. This of course. is a separate subject in itself. We must also learn from the past mistakes to do well on the negotiating table.
Two things stand out clearly. Mischief from Pakistan continues and is unlikely to abate. Also a broad overview of the situation prevailing in different parts of the country clearly establishes that Pakistan's designs are not limited to J and K only but target entire India. The annual report of the Ministry of Home Affairs for the year 2003-04, inter-alia, mentions at para 1.12: "Pakistan has consistently• used terrorism and covert actions as an instrument of State policy• against India. It has recruited, trained, financed, armed and infiltrated terrorists in India and has provided sanctuary to anti-Indian elements. It has also sought to promote disaffection among the India people towards the State with a view to destabilize the country". This assessment continues to hold true and has been reiterated since then.

India has had to deal with Pakistan as a difficult neighbor and a source of
Constant trouble, at times downrightly dangerous. Pak involvement in the affairs of India, particularly in J and K, have serious implications not only to the national security and territorial integrity of this country, it also hits at the very core of Indian nationhood, based on secularism, pluralism and liberal democratic values. The conflict is not just for an area or a section of population, it is much more fundamental; of cherished values and lofty ideals. India -must gamer all her national resources, much beyond the military prowess, to decisively defeat the Pakistani designs. This effort to turn the comer should begin in J and K, where the Pak mischief originally• started way back in 1947.

MiG-29 Baaz

2011-09-09T00:58:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

MiG-29 Baaz

In order to fill the gap in the force level of the Air Force, Government approved in October 1981 the procurement of MiG-29 aircraft [including trainers] in flyaway condition and with an option for its license manufacture in India Payment of Rs 3.92 crores was made to the manufacturers in May 1982 for retention of this option. The contract for procurement of the aircraft was concluded with aircraft manufacturers of a foreign country in October 1982 for Rs 621.75 crores. The contract covered integration and operational clearance of a variety of weapons but not the supply of these weapons.
An Indian evaluation team evaluated the MiG-29 aircraft during November/December 1980 and found it suitable for the intended role. The team, however, stated that the aircraft was still in its infancy and its various systems were under different phases of development and the aircraft as a weapon system would achieve its designed performance when fully developed. The team recommended procurement of improved radar under development subject to its satisfactory performance in air to air and air to ground roles. However, as the improved radar was under development till completion of the negotiations, the existing radar was selected. The team added that the satisfactory performance of the aircraft be determined under tropical conditions in India.
A negotiation committee held discussions with the manufacturers between October 1981 and March 1982. The negotiation committee stated that they did not have any meaningful yardsticks to go by in determining the negotiating position According to the Ministry, the Air Staff Requirements (ASRs) available for air superiority and ground attack roles were to become the basis for price negotiations with the sellers. The fact, however, is that normally the ASRs are meant for technical evaluations and cannot form the basis of price negotiation.
An agreement was signed in October 1982 with the manufacturers for the supply of aircraft including trainers, and option for license manufacture in India at a cost of Rs 621.75 crores at 1981 price level plus escalation. The option was surrendered in June 1984 in favor of induction of another advanced technology aircraft. An additional agreement was entered into with the manufacturer in March 1986 for the procurement of aircraft in flyaway condition to be supplied by September 1988 at a cost of Rs 107.74 crores plus escalation for sustaining the unit establishment (UE) till the turn of the century.
All the aircraft contracted in October 1982 and March 1986 were delivered between December 1984 and May 1986 and February and September 1988 respectively as scheduled However, there was delay in ferrying of 31 per cent aircraft from the Soviet Union and the delay averaged six months per aircraft. Two aircraft delivered by the manufacturers in April and October 1988 were ferried only in October 1990. Ministry stated in December 1994 that the aircraft were ferried in batches to make the ferry cost effective. The Ministry added that after delivery, the two aircraft were loaned to seller for electronic warfare system (EWS) integration.
In November 1984, the flying task was fixed at 15 hours per month per aircraft in respect of the fighter and 20 hours per month per aircraft in respect of the trainer aircraft. There were, however, shortfalls in the flying task. Air HQ stated in March 1994 that flying efforts had to be curtailed due to limited availability of spares and other infrastructure required.
The aircraft were purchased when it was still at the development stage, with the result these had to be updated progressively through a series of modifications including refit. Though the modifications were completed by April 1988, there had been delay of six years in integration of the improved radar and other systems as discussed below.
The manufacturers had guaranteed certain performance parameters under tropical conditions. The tropical trials of the aircraft were conducted in India in July 1986. The system performance of the aircraft at the prescribed temperature, however, could not be evaluated as the maximum temperature during trials was below that value. The attack system of the aircraft also could not be evaluated as weapons were not available for trials by then. Admitting the facts, the Ministry stated in December 1994 that some trials had been carried out in ensuing years when weapons were made available and it met all the designed and operational requirements.
As regards the guaranteed performance of the aircraft systems, the Ministry had intimated in March 1990 that certain deficiencies were noticed during combat flying and the manufacturers had agreed to provide modifications to rectify these deficiencies and the implementation of these modifications was in progress. It was noticed that some of the deficiencies like misting of the canopy still persisted even after nine years of the induction of the aircraft.
Though the aircraft had been inducted into squadron service in June 1985 and its tropical trials conducted in July 1986 had revealed high rate of failure of aircraft radars, the modification was completed only in January 1993. i.e. after six years of the induction of the aircraft and till then the aircraft were without improved version of radars and EWS which affected the operational and training commitments of the Air Force.
While the aircraft was inducted in June 1985, the facilities in India for its repair/OH were completed only by 1996 and till then the repair arisings would continued to be sent to the manufacturers abroad for repair. In the absence of indigenous repair/OH facilities, the Air Force had entered into three different repair contracts for repair of assemblies, sub-assemblies and live repair units for which Rs 67.62 crores had been paid to the manufacturers till December 1993. Further, by the time the repair facilities would be completed, nearly 40 per cent of the total technical life of the aircraft would be over.

26/11 Kasab and the Euphoria

2011-09-09T00:57:00.001-07:00

11 Silver Estate,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel.:0581-2526650
Mobile:9411900090

amashokgoel@gmail.com
sacreatinon_2001@yahoo.uk

26/11 Kasab and the Euphoria

First week of May was heavily booked in print and electronic media on the trial of Kasab and death penalty to him. This gave an impression of a big victory of a battle won by India. Undoubtedly the legal luminaries of the country spared no effort of a transparent and fair trial, and the guilty had to be suitably punished.

But with the same Euphoria we have no answers to:

 How such a well planned terrorist attack was conceived planned & executed?
 How did Headly & Rana people of Pak origin kept on visiting this country 18-24 months earlier and went unnoticed?
 How (12) did well trained and highly motivated terrorists traveled by sea hundreds of KM unnoticed?
 How did they land on the shores of Mumbai and moved to predestined and defined locations to play havoc among our civilized establishments?
 Did our police force and STF Maharashtra reacted adequately,. Immediately and intelligently.
 Was there lapse of official duties by the local agencies?
 Did we not have total lack of intelligence failure and the vigilance by the local security agencies?
 Slackness on the part of senior police officers, all traveling together in a vehicle not adequately protected.
 Do you think that award of “Nations Highest “Gallantry Award”-Ashok Chakra” to fourteen killed security personnel was justified.
 Kargil was a greater challenge where 650 of our soldiers and young officers’ ware killed and far & few gallantry awards were conferred. All 650 killed in Kargil should be conferred with some gallantry award even now to correct the imbalance.
 Are we really serious on National Security search your heart and debate in yourself?

How safe are we in the “Open Skies”

2011-09-09T00:55:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
Former Director General Flight Safety & Inspection, IAF
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

How safe are we in the “Open Skies”

Aviation is an advent of move then 100 yrs old. Till early nineties there were only two players on the Indian Aviation scene. Air India & Indian Airlines. But today India’s aviation sector is on the threshold of unprecedented expansion, but its infrastructure is woefully unprepared to handle the growth in air craft. If the order placed at the recently concluded Paris air show are any indications Kingfisher & Jet, the two market leaders in India, will lead a surge in aircraft acquition in the coming years. The numbers of aircraft in Indian skies are now about 320, expected to grow to 500 by 2012 and all estimates indicate this number to reach 1000 by 2020.

While only 15 million passengers, a little more than the number of people who use the rail network in a single day, traveled by air in 2003-04, the figure was almost 15 million in 2005-06 (five times that of 2003-04). This number is expected is grow substantially and rapidly.

There are 449 airports / air strips in the country. Among these the AAI owns and manages 92 airports and 28 civil enclaves at defence airfields and provides air traffic service over the entire Indian airspace and adjoining oceanic areas. 52 % of the traffic was handled at the international airports at Mumbai & Delhi. It may be of interest that only .02% of the population has so far access to the facility of air craft travel.

Our economy is growing at 9% and the aviation boom is recording a growth of 25%. Unfortunately infrastructure is crawling, rendering flaying in India a nightmare. Aircraft acquition is a faster option but to create infrastructure like modern airports, airport facilities, air space management manpower to man these facilities is time consuming. More important “quality manpower creation” to ensure optimization of the resources. Also experienced personnel to fly these machines “Professionally and safely”. Remember for aviation activity each and every member of the team has to be in a “highly skilled category” even the loader who loads the baggage.

In the process of utilizing high cost acquitions the airlines may compromise on important factor of “Human Resource” QR’S.
The agencies like, Ministry of Civil Aviation, DGCA, Airlines Managements will have to be more conscious of these facts.
Some of the issues which are often seen as a matter of concern:-
(a) Seventy percent of the flights that take off or land in
Delhi are delayed.
(b) Tyre bursts skids and random mishaps with alarming
regularity set in longer delay as airports are unable to defuse crises swiftly.
(c) On 9 April for instance, 13000 passengers booked for
100 flights were delayed by one to three hrs in Delhi because main runway was blocked by an immobilized AI a/c.
(d) Run way relays - peak hour landing and takeoffs is just 30/35 at Iv1umbai & Delhi. Where as at busy international airports (Kennedy /Hethrow / Athens) average is 60/65.
(e) Terminal sickness - waiting long hrs in million:-
Delhi cap / handling 14/23
Mumbai cap/handling 14/25.5
Chennai cap /handling 7.7/10.1
Calcutta cap / handling 4.9/6.9
(f) Air Pocket:- Rickety infrastructure and scramble for market share through predatory pricing and fleet expansion are bleeding airlines despite the boom.
- The airlines industry losses for the year 2006-2007 expected Rs. 2500 Crore.
- Annual losses of USD 80 million due to infrastructure deficit.
- USD 500 million due to A TF. These are passed on to passenger. (Rs. 750/- congestion charges to passenger).
- High taxes make A TF 60% Costlier in India.

(g) Close shaves: - The high level of overall tension in the
operating environment has increased the rate of near mishaps.
- N ear misses / mid air collisions - 2 every month since 2005.
- Bird hits nearly 2 a month.
(h) Cattle Class: - Passenger often spend more time on the
runway or at airport lounges then actual flying time.
(i) Pilots Crunch: - has lead to compromises on having
(ii) foreign pilots/increasing the flying age / lowering the standards of command and overall cockpit experience. Not wanting to adhere to the international norms of FDTL.

The growing competition, hasty growth needs to be regulated and monitored by all closely. So that the growth of civil aviation does not grow into an unsafe and unhealthy activity. Otherwise the civil aviation boom is in the right direction.
Random thoughts:-
- Aviation Day - The day JRD took the first flight from Drig Road Karachi to Bombay.
- Greater Role of regularity bodies.
- Systemic development of training facilities to meet the requirement of manpower (Bodies like AICTE/MCI etc may be within DGCA).
- Infrastructure development- Participation of "Private Sector".
- Centralized Airport services on the lines of DNA TA of Dubai.
- Do not compromise on standards and quality of people, stakes are high.
- Objective should be only TQP - "Total Quality People".

As analyzed in mid 2008

Radical Islam

2011-09-09T00:54:00.000-07:00

P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

Radical Islam
VS
The World

Global peace is now threatened by western-educated, middle-class freelance soldiers who have bought into the Al Qaeda way of thinking. Is India immune?

His Jehad is His Very Own

Not a Pak-Afgan-bred radical, the new Islamic warrior could be a regular American guy, swayed by Al Qaeda, but not part of it.

When Faisal Sahzad parked his SUV at the Time Square in New York in the diabolic hope of exploding it, he joined the growing list of ‘normal dudes’ who inexplicably turn radical Islamists, willing to stake their lives or riches for waging Jehad against the world particularly America and its allies. Faisal had everything going for him: an MBA degree, a cushy job which he resigned from just a few months ago and a suburban lifestyle he shared with his wife and two kids. And then the madness, the rush of blood, leaving Americans gasping at the thought of the devastation the bomb could have wreaked had it exploded.
The New Faces of Jehad

Who they are whom they oppose

 Al Qaeda is now more a state of mind than a formidable terror organization. A state of mind shared by those Muslims who believe in violently opposing what they perceive as the injustices of the world.
 Primary directed against the West, particularly the United States. But it is also aimed against those countries seen to be oppressing Muslims-Russia, Israel and India, for example.
 Willing to target Muslim countries aligned to the West or fighting Musllim terror-Saudi Arabia, Egypt, even Pakistan.
 There is a war without boundaries-any country which is frequented by westerners, for instance, is considered a legitimate enough target.

What they seek to achieve

 No longer aims at establishing Islamic states. But wants a just world order, for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
 Its anti-West agenda has been expanded to include the politics of environment. Osama bin Laden’s last speech accused the West of damaging environment.
 It’s also opposing globalization, portraying it as a ploy of the developed world to exploit underdeveloped nations.
 Primary impulse is to weaken sole superpower. All other changes will ensue on their own.
 Become an umbrella group for other militant groups fighting different governments. Provide moral support and ideological justification for violent action.

How the new recruit is different

 He’s a Muslim living in western societies. Also in non western countries where Muslims nurse grievances.
 Belongs to affluent, educated families, often a product of Western educations institutes.
 Bilingual. English is the preferred language of global jehad.
 Voracious reader. Sources info from Islamic literature and doctrines, and from western philosophers and political figures.
 Not religious. Adapted to western lifestyle, drinks, gambles, even has white partners.
 Gets indoctrinated through the net. Downloads bomb-making manuals. Or, if he can, heads to Pakistan’s badlands or yamen.

The worlds can changes, argues Al Qaeda, only if the West, particularly America, is brought down to its knees. This idea was mooted in the late ‘90s by Osama’s deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who cited the close link between the collapses of the Soviet empire to its defeat in Afghanistan. If one superpower could be defeated, he argued, why not the US?

To fight the US though, Al Qaeda has to first transform itself into a global organization. It did this through the twin attacks on the US embassies in Nairobi and Dar-es0Salaam in 1998, integrating it at once into the global security regime administered by America. With 9/11, the group carved out a space for Islam in the West.

The battle against radical Islam is complicated. With Al Qaeda stressing on ethical issues to justify its acts of violence, many desperate Muslims in the West of elsewhere are likely.

To find their inspiration and redemption in jehad. The West, in turn, is likely to strengthen its already stifling security apparatus at the cost or eroding ideas it is associated with: of freedom of speech, expression and free movement. Curtailment of these rights would be akin to an Al Qaeda win. The West is also expected to intensify the war in terror-and the ensuing bloodshed will only help bolster the Al Qaeda campaign. The best way out for Washington is to resolve the Palestine-Israel issue and cease supporting discredited Muslim regimes.

Opinions

“To get radicalized, one doesn’t have to go to a madrassa or a training camp in the Pak-Afghan badlands. Internet chat room are good enough.”

Abdul Bari Atwan
Editor, Al Quds al Arabia, London

“They (the new radicals) are outliers, who can cause massive damage and get massive response. But they don’t belong to one group or movement.”

Faisal Devji
Author, ‘Landscape of the Jehad’

“The perception of occupation in Iraq, Afganistan, and Kashmir continues to be a catalyst exploited in terror organizations’ rhetoric/ideologies.”

John L. Esposito
Georgetown University, Washington

Adapted form Out Look May 24, 2010

Observations on Shahjad and Terror

This so called new trend of Jehad is really not new. The elite class joining the global terrorism has surfaced even in the mid and the later part of nineties. I am reminded of my visit to Israel in may-June 1997. The very departure to TelAviv from Mumbai can never be forgotten. Reporting time was four hours and the check in area at the airport was surrounded by Israeli security personnel and the sniffer dogs. I was interrogated for nearly 2 hrs as I was a criminal in spite of the fact that I was holding an official passport and was on the invitation of Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI). The experience was most horrendous.

After reaching TelAviv, the IAI chairman and MD had invited me for a dinner. I mentioned this extra ordinary security measure at the time of my departure from Mumbai to TelAviv. He narrated one incident One Palestinian Youngman educated in UK and settled, was married to a Jewish girl. This girl (wife of Palestinian boy) was flying from London to TelAviv for her first delivery. During security check at London airport a bomb was detected in the suitcase of the Jewish girl. Her husband had planted the Bomb. One can imagine the frame of mind of this Palestinian boy who was ready to kill his wife and the expected child. That was the height of mindset of these educated class of the people even at that time.

 Even the event of 9/11, the nineteen pilots of different nationalities (All Muslims) had gathered and planned highjacking of four American airliners. Two of them had flown directly into the Twin Towers in New York, and other two had crashed deliberately. Causing biggest catastrophe of this century. All these nineteen pilots were well educated, highly trained and leading a fairly high quality standard life style.

 There are innumerable cases of elite class of people indulging in such activities, Shahjad son of an Air Vice Marshal, western educated, well settled in life, married ,father of two children, indulging into a terror act should not surprise the world.

 The US never took a serious note of the terror activity globally, or the cross border terrorism perpetuated by a country like Pakistan and bleeding India day and day out.

 I am reminded of a visit of US defence team headed by a Mej Gen during Feb 2001 to Defence Services Staff College Wellington (DSSC). Where I was posted as Chief Instructor Air. The US defence team made a presentation on their (US), global engagements. During that time the security environment in Afghanistan was bad and getting worsened. During question hour one of the senior officers of the faculty asked a question “why US is not interfering in Afghanistan”. The head of the US team responded “how US is interested in Afghanistan”.

 If 9/11 hadn’t happened US would not have declared a Global War on Terror. However, after 9-11 US launched a “global war on terror” by massive aerial bombing of Afghanistan (from 07 Oct. 2001). Nearly 9 years have lapsed with hardly any sign of “global war on terror” getting even contained. If 9/11 hadn’t happened US would have kept aloof of this so called War on Terror. If US had indulged in a serious thought to fight about 20 years back (late eighties), the terrorism wouldn’t have risen so whemently globally and specially so in South Asia.

Now is the time that we have to evolve new strategies globally, regionally, nationally, to contain and manage this greatest menace of Terrorism.

Don’t Kill the Cricket Also

2011-09-09T00:52:00.000-07:00

11, Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

“Don’t Kill the Cricket Also”

With a population of nearly 1.20 billion (120 crores), India can barely make any impact in International Sports arena. It has been only in cricket that India has earned some international fame professionally and performance wise. Even on management front BCCI has earned name and fame as one of the best professionally managed sports bodies internationally.

The origins of IPL in the year 2008, against all expectations become a great success story. A brain child of Lalit Modi, who has ample and, elaborate experience of working in corporate world where he achieved only success. IPL became a every home story, It brought business, foreign capital, employment to the people. And the most a great entertainment.

The greatest service IPL did was, this activity germinated cricket to those who could how never imagined being at International levels. We in India could hardly pickup seamers/ spinners/batsman for our tests/ and ODI. Today we have dozens of seamers/spinners/batsman with a wide choice. A large no of small city youngsters have reached International fame and made a mark in Indian cricket. Our players like R P Singh / Praveen Kumar/ Pragyan Ojha / Ravindra Jadeja / Pathan brothers are rubbing shoulder with Brettlee/ Adam Gilchrist/ Symonds /Sangakara/Jaya Wardhan/Bonds and many others. The standards of game in every discipline have nearly touched the ultimate heights i.e. batting/fielding/bowling.

Unfortunately some of the events during the 3rd IPL have brought the IPL to disrepute. Every possible politician is giving sermon / “close the IPL give this to a Govt. body” etc. etc. Every politician wants to head the sports bodies. Be that at state level or National level. Every sports body at sate or national levels is headed and dominated by a politician. And politicians those who have not been able to make a mark are making maximum noise. It was disturbing and horrifying to see Lalu and Mulyam in the Lok Sahba giving sermons to the govt., on the future of IPL. Lalu’s biggest Crib was that his own son could not make the grade for any IPL team. Hope he knows that Sunil Govaskar’s son Rohan Govaskar could not make it to national side even what to say of IPL. Dear Lalu jee the only sports body which has been managed professionally independently and with fairness is BCCI, with your efforts don’t try to kill the Cricket in India.

When it comes to malpractices and corruption Lalu ji don’t forget “Chara Ghotala” and Mulayam jee don’t forget the defence deals when you were the RM, (SU 30 deal specially) Enough heat has been generated on IPL let the Law take its own course “but don’t kill the cricket”.

Common Wealth Games

2011-09-09T00:26:00.003-07:00

11, Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in
Fifty Days to Go!
Common Wealth Games, - A Big Question Mark?

Introduction

Common Wealth Games were conceived in the year 2003 when NDA Govt. was in power. It was a big achievement for the country and the IOA, and Suresh Kalmadi in particular to have won the bid for such an event. It was a no mean achievement.

There was a big task to erect renovate, modernize 13 stadium in Delhi. Capital city had to gear up with suitable roads, flyovers, metro connectivity and on top of that the internal security imperatives. There were nearly 22 agencies involved to see through all these activities. Throughout this period of 6 and half to 7 years it appears that Suresh Kalmadi the IOA president and designated CWG chairman was the sole individual responsible. Knowing Suresh Kalmadi for last 46 years I have no doubt he liked to hog, the limelight for the successful culmination of this mega sporting event in the country since independence.

Where did we go wrong-from the very beginning there were three main areas (a) infrastructure development not related to the games i.e. roads, flyovers, metro connectivity and such preparations. (b) Construction, renovation, modernization of 13 stadium (c) Actual conduct of the games and other event management. For all these activities separate high level committees should have been formed who should have separately conducted the media briefings as and when required. The role of chairman OCCWG should have been only providing specialists and professional advice for readying the stadiums. The likely delays, trials and gestation period should have been perceived keeping the expected rainy season from June to mid Sept. The expected leak and seepages is nothing new and should have been anticipated. I am of the strong opinion the time of the games should have been 1st fortnight of Nov, anticipating rains and likely hazards that would have given additional 30 dry days to the organizers.

The Criticism

Broadly it is of political nature, what Suresh Kalmadi is doing couldn’t have been done by many of his critics. Our politics is destructive in nature and not constructive. We want to see the individual being pulled down and not to succeed (an other example is Omar Abdullah Chief Minister of J & K)

Rajdeep Sardesai in his article in Hindustan Times, has very forthrightly stated that the corruption is nothing new in the system. The parliament debate on 9th Aug. saw 3 yadavs (Lalu, Mulayam and Sharad) heavyweight politicians, have a lot to answer to the nation on this account. But since they are heavyweight politicians, hence have skipped the wrath of the law. Some of the very close friends of Suresh Kalmadi’s cocktail circuit (and many of them I have met at Suresh Kalmadi’s luxurious parties at 3 kamraj lane) today are his biggest critics (from political, as well as media.) The way various contracts or deals have been made, reflects (through media if correct) high level irregularities. May be at every stage somebody or the other has tried to make a fast buck, since this opportunity may not come again.

Where Suresh Kalmadi went wrong

No doubt every agreement and deal on personnel management procurement etc. must had Suresh Kalmadi’s approval or stamp. He wanted to project himself as a hero and finally may land up zero in the political environment and media. His media management seem to has been disjointed as he wanted to project himself as the sole, individual responsible. One can draw a parallel between Lalit Modi of IPL fame. He (Lalit Modi) brought an event of unique standard and completed 3 seasons of IPL and finally landed up in a mess. Friend SK might land up in the same manner at the end of the CWG. He did not want really honest and transparent seniors to manage his affairs.

Mr. Jaipal Reddy the chairman of GOM for Common Wealth Games was very confident in his address to parliament on 9th Aug. The games would be conducted in the most befitting manner, and shall be the best organized Common Wealth Game so far.

Good luck to friend Suresh Kalmadi.

Random Thoughts

Fourth world military games were organized during Oct 2007 at Hyderabad & Mumbai. 102 countries participated. No. of participants was 4200. Cost was not even 1/100 of the Common Wealth Games. No show man ship or shoo-shaw.

Milkha singh stated the responsibility of Common Wealth Games should have been entrusted to the Armed Forces (Army in particular)

Lalit Bhanot – 2nd most powerful person in the OCCWG, an arrogant rustic Kabaddi player of yesteryears, He wields authority and displays adequately. Reliably learnt one day he threw a file on a senior army officer while interacting, thoroughly entrenched in all possible blame worthy activities of the OCCWG.

Common Wealth Games

2011-09-09T00:26:00.002-07:00

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Fifty Days to Go!
Common Wealth Games, - A Big Question Mark?

Introduction

Common Wealth Games were conceived in the year 2003 when NDA Govt. was in power. It was a big achievement for the country and the IOA, and Suresh Kalmadi in particular to have won the bid for such an event. It was a no mean achievement.

There was a big task to erect renovate, modernize 13 stadium in Delhi. Capital city had to gear up with suitable roads, flyovers, metro connectivity and on top of that the internal security imperatives. There were nearly 22 agencies involved to see through all these activities. Throughout this period of 6 and half to 7 years it appears that Suresh Kalmadi the IOA president and designated CWG chairman was the sole individual responsible. Knowing Suresh Kalmadi for last 46 years I have no doubt he liked to hog, the limelight for the successful culmination of this mega sporting event in the country since independence.

Where did we go wrong-from the very beginning there were three main areas (a) infrastructure development not related to the games i.e. roads, flyovers, metro connectivity and such preparations. (b) Construction, renovation, modernization of 13 stadium (c) Actual conduct of the games and other event management. For all these activities separate high level committees should have been formed who should have separately conducted the media briefings as and when required. The role of chairman OCCWG should have been only providing specialists and professional advice for readying the stadiums. The likely delays, trials and gestation period should have been perceived keeping the expected rainy season from June to mid Sept. The expected leak and seepages is nothing new and should have been anticipated. I am of the strong opinion the time of the games should have been 1st fortnight of Nov, anticipating rains and likely hazards that would have given additional 30 dry days to the organizers.

The Criticism

Broadly it is of political nature, what Suresh Kalmadi is doing couldn’t have been done by many of his critics. Our politics is destructive in nature and not constructive. We want to see the individual being pulled down and not to succeed (an other example is Omar Abdullah Chief Minister of J & K)

Rajdeep Sardesai in his article in Hindustan Times, has very forthrightly stated that the corruption is nothing new in the system. The parliament debate on 9th Aug. saw 3 yadavs (Lalu, Mulayam and Sharad) heavyweight politicians, have a lot to answer to the nation on this account. But since they are heavyweight politicians, hence have skipped the wrath of the law. Some of the very close friends of Suresh Kalmadi’s cocktail circuit (and many of them I have met at Suresh Kalmadi’s luxurious parties at 3 kamraj lane) today are his biggest critics (from political, as well as media.) The way various contracts or deals have been made, reflects (through media if correct) high level irregularities. May be at every stage somebody or the other has tried to make a fast buck, since this opportunity may not come again.

Where Suresh Kalmadi went wrong

No doubt every agreement and deal on personnel management procurement etc. must had Suresh Kalmadi’s approval or stamp. He wanted to project himself as a hero and finally may land up zero in the political environment and media. His media management seem to has been disjointed as he wanted to project himself as the sole, individual responsible. One can draw a parallel between Lalit Modi of IPL fame. He (Lalit Modi) brought an event of unique standard and completed 3 seasons of IPL and finally landed up in a mess. Friend SK might land up in the same manner at the end of the CWG. He did not want really honest and transparent seniors to manage his affairs.

Mr. Jaipal Reddy the chairman of GOM for Common Wealth Games was very confident in his address to parliament on 9th Aug. The games would be conducted in the most befitting manner, and shall be the best organized Common Wealth Game so far.

Good luck to friend Suresh Kalmadi.

Random Thoughts

Fourth world military games were organized during Oct 2007 at Hyderabad & Mumbai. 102 countries participated. No. of participants was 4200. Cost was not even 1/100 of the Common Wealth Games. No show man ship or shoo-shaw.

Milkha singh stated the responsibility of Common Wealth Games should have been entrusted to the Armed Forces (Army in particular)

Lalit Bhanot – 2nd most powerful person in the OCCWG, an arrogant rustic Kabaddi player of yesteryears, He wields authority and displays adequately. Reliably learnt one day he threw a file on a senior army officer while interacting, thoroughly entrenched in all possible blame worthy activities of the OCCWG.

Random Thoughts

2011-09-09T00:26:00.001-07:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Random Thoughts
Cricket :- Cricket is a game of British origin. Has flourished a great deal in this continent, particularly so in India. To the extent it has beaten totally the game of Hockey, in popularity and performance. There was a time when we Indians could not be outplayed and surpassed in performance in international or national events. Today even to make a respectable appearance is questionable.
Where as Cricket has assumed an unprecedented heights specially so during last 5 yrs. We are no-01 in Test cricket, T-20 world champions, winner of champion’s trophy, world no-2 in ODI’s. And recently added another feather in our cap, won the “World Cup” after 28 yrs.
The introduction of IPL (Indian Premier League or Indian Paisa League) added a new dimension to this game. Undoubtedly this format has given large opportunities to many, to show their mettle and make money. The busy cricket calendar has resulted in frequent hurts to the players, even touching them emotionally. Resulting in non availability of players when they are needed most to represent and play for the country.
The time has come for the BCCI to review their schedule of events. I would recommend:
(a) Whenever there is “World Cup” the IPL should not be held that year.
(b) After every major event or a tournament a break of 10 days should be prescribed, for the players to rest and give them time to charge up emotionally. By being with their families/ friends and give them time to lead their normal life.
(c) This would bring in a new charged up life among the players.

What Ails India

2011-09-09T00:09:00.000-07:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
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Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

As I Saw It

What Ails India

The last two decade, especially the first decade of the 21st century set the pace of economic liberalization.
Economic reforms will be 20 years old this July. Without political reforms, the full benefits of economic liberalization won’t reach the poor. The nexus between vested political and business interests, fused by lobbyists and middlemen, erodes those benefits. The reason poverty remains intractable in India is that good economic governance needs the protective umbrella of good political governance. Without that, both privilege and poverty will persist.
A fist rots from the head down, never from the tail up. The top political leadership sets the standard of governance. If that standard is set low, corruption infects the entire body politic. Every recent public scam involving leaders of the Congress and other parties can be traced to this systemic rot. Three key political reforms-police, judicial and electoral-are necessary to cleanse our public institutions.
In 2006, the Supreme Court directed the government to implement police reform. Make the national Police Commission autonomous, the court ordered, and give it a structure that is independent of political control.
Systemic corruption is symptom of failed governance. Political reforms that remove our key public institutions from government control can make 2011 the definitive year for sweeping institutional change just as 1991 was the inflection point for economic liberalization. That would greatly expand our moral universe.
The top political leadership sets the standard of governance. If that standard is set low, corruption infects the entire body politic.
The very recent happenings can’t be forgotten
• Sudden collapse and decline of economy in the west including US.
• Planned and systemic terrorist attack on 26/11/ 2008 in Mumbai.
• Scams 2G spectrum, Yedurappa scandal in Karnatka, CWG games-2010, Adarsh Society scam, Wilikileakes , exposure of Nira Raida contacts and revelations of her taped convertaion with “who is who” of India. And now the biggest ISRO scam.
These and the runway inflation have shaken the faith of the “Aam Admi” (common man) in the total governance mechanism of the country.
Whereas we would have been rejoicing our economic achievements and political stability, but we are to think very intently and seriously how to remodel ourselves on various aspects of inadequacies
I was at DSSC wellington 2000-2001 (Posted as CI Air). A national security seminar was held on “National Security” which I had the opportunity to organize as well as address one of the session. The topic I had chosen was “What Ails India”. In algebraic terms I had condensed the ailments in a formula P3C5.

P-3 - These are at National Level Population-Poverty-Pollution

Population- After 1977 (i.e. the emergency period 1975-1977) no political leader has dared to talk this most important and sensitive issue. We have grown from 300 million (30 crores) at the time of independence (1947) to 1200 million (120 crores/1.2 billion) by the end of 2010. We were expected to overtake the china’s population of 1.32 billion by 2050. Now demographers expect by 2025 if not earlier. Population stabilization was expected by 2045 (TFR of 2.1) but stands postponed to 2070. Main reason, the TFR in our big states (and most populous areas like UP, Bihar, MP, Rajasthan still continues to be 3 to 3.5). It would be of interest to know, if UP was an independent country, would have been the fifth most populous nation (after China, India, USA and Brazil)
Poverty & Pollution
In spite of outstanding economic progress during last 20 years, our poverty line has remained about 65% and the ultra poverty line (less than USD per day nearly 50% of that, 65% of the population defecates in the open, nearly same percentage of people have no access to potable drinking water and proper sanitation.
Pollution is directly related to fist two factors population and poverty. Unhygienic conditions/more energy requirement leads to illegal deforestation/lagers Carbonization
Some Important Statistic
The INDIA you may not know

• 71% or 770 million people are below 35 years of age. Indians are young.
• 90% to 94% drop out rate of children between kindergarten and 10+2. This includes those who have never been to school.
• The Indian definition of literacy is based on a survey of people-“If you can write your name, you are literate”; nobody has seriously ever challenged this definition!
• India has only 1.72 % of the world GDP and has 17% of the world population. Demands are high but buying power is low. Hence we will need to increase our exports related activities by 10 times, as the foreign trade is 1.00% down from 33% 1000 years ago, down from 27% wh9en the British landed in India and down from 3% in 1947.
The population BOMB
• India’s Population Policy- much to catch up and learn from others!
India has 1, 200 million people. Chins has 1,314 million. Nearly 27 million are born every year in India and ONLY 15 million in China. China has had a more effective population policy than India, although they started in 1970. India’s population policy started much earlier, in 1952. By 2045, (now expected by 2025) we shall overtake the Chinese population, with an India population of 1,550 million! Life expectancy in China is now 74 years vs 68 years in India. In China the average family size is 3.63 members. In India it is much higher, with 5.52 members.

• Percentage of people below poverty line. China and India
We fail to understood the fact why some thinkers and leaders in India, mention that our population is our strength. How can they make such statements, with so much poverty, illiteracy and a low standard of living? It’s a nightmare for the poor in India!

• India’s economic parameters- the simple truth!
India has 17% of the world’s population, 2.2% of the land area, 1.72% of the world’s GDP and only 1% of the world trade. This means that 98.27% of the World’s GDP [Buying Power] and 99% of the world’s trade is not with India! India must plan larger exports, for increasing the standard of living of its people.

• Adjustment for population increases the hard facts!
If the GDP grows by 9.2% per year, as in 2006-2007, the per capita does not grow at 9.2%. It is reduced due to the yearly population increase, inflation and other issues. Therefore the final per capita increase would be much lesser. This is only, one of the disadvantages, of ballooning population.

• Economy India has only – grow faster

C-5 This is at political level, that is
• Criminalization of politics
• Communalism in politics
• Casteism in politics
• Corruption in politics
• Compromises in coalition politics
Criminalization- Today 25 to 45% of elected reps are in the categories of criminals. Recently in a seminar in Lucknow where CEC Mr. Qureshi and Km. Mayawati both were present CEC had opined that if a person is charged with certain section of the IPC, he/she should be debarred from contesting elections. This was negated and the interests of the criminals were fully defended by the CM of UP.
Why not debar the individuals charged with criminal acts, loot, murder, rape or abetments’ of such crimes, till they are proved innocent in the court. Today politics has become a safe haven for those who are actually criminals.
Communalism- It is a very serious threat even to national security. Communalism perpetrates division and hatred among social groups. This hatred and divisiveness ferments fundamentalism. Fundamentalism activates hard liners, and hard liners find space to pollute the healthy social environment. These hard liners get activated to create unrest by violent means. This violence allows tensions to flourish resulting into terrorism.
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Castism: To achieve narrow aims of political power the very basis of political activism is caste based selection of candidates/propaganda and canvassing, all is totally caste based. We are digging in more & more.
Corruption- The less said the better It has become a part and parcel of our daily life. The recent happenings of 2G spectrum Radia tapes, lands scam of Karnataka, CWG/ Adarsh scam are all are very recent. All are from political fraternity. There have been much larger scams in the past “Chara Ghotala” of Bihar and “Koda scam of Jharkhand”. Aam Adami is waiting to see if anyone is correctly and seriously penalized.
Fast track courts, life ban on public life (election etc.) heaviest punitive action would be the only answer.
Compromise in coaltine politics
These are more than 300 registered political parties with the election commission. (some say this no. is more than 600). Political parties are just mushrooming (one man parties) regional parties, and national parties.

The very objective of these one man and regional parties is to gain some seats during general election. And then bargain with large national parties to support them, demand ministerial berths and lucrative ministries. Such outfits are only looking for quick and smart money. Because of this very factor instead of one captain of the team we have many (Like in the present scenario we have Karunanidhi/Mamta Banerjee/Sharad Pawar and many more).
What do we do to overcome P3-C5
• National consensus on certain vital issues (Social, National Security, Foreign Policy)
• Political Reform
• Electoral Reform
• Legal Reform
• Administrative Reform
• Social Reform
• Police Reform (in spite of 2006, SC directive most of the big states are not ready to implements them)
We are waiting for population explosion, which is slowly blooming and would kind us in a population bomb.
All there ills (P3-C5) weaken the country, governance gets diluted, our political masters are to wake up, unrest is showing. All threats like terrorism, Naxalism, youth unrest, unemployment, large gaps in inclusive growth are serious threats to the security of the country.

The Topiwala Camera

2011-09-09T00:07:00.002-07:00

The Topiwala Camera
ANIL DHARKER
In covering Anna, TV seems to have shed its critical faculties

“CORRUPTION,” I remarked the other day on a television channel, “takes more than one form.” We were talking about-what else?-the latest incremental progression in the Anna Hazare saga. “Everyone talks of money corruption, but what about the other kind=”Power corrupts, absolute power corrupts absolutely’? And who has any kind of power now? Only two entities: Anna Hazare and television.”
Rigidity of Team Anna, and its constitutional implications, but no one wants to talk about how the television medium itself is dictating what we think, what we say and when we say it.
In this prevailing atmosphere, you better be for Anna Hazare completely, without any qualifications or reservations, or you will be deemed to be either for corruption or a lackey of the government.
Anna is a television creation.
Is it really old-fashioned to believe that the media should remain, under all circumstances, balanced and objective?
Everyone would want the media to be against corruption, so when a movement like Anna’s starts, you expect the media to be on that movement’s side. But do you expect it to act as the movement’s propagandist?
Television’s lack of objectivity has meant that really important questions are also not being discussed: like the dictatorial tendencies of Team Hazare, the flaws in the Jan Lokpal Bill, the monumental machinery required for the Lokpal agency and the difficulty in keeping it corruption free.
Television’s all-consuming obsession with the campaign has prevented it from looking at already established anti-corruption agencies and why they are not working agencies like the CBI, CVC, ACB, and the Lok Ayuktas set us in some states.
But the channels won’t say it, or many of the other things that need to be said. If they did so, it just might weaken the movement, and that wouldn’t be good for TRPS, would it ?

Comments:

The opinion of Dharker was published in “Outlook”) of 5 Sept. 2011
The media remained highly biased on the side of so called civil society. Electronic media aired 24x14 only the Ram Lila ground. Just to earn the TRP.
Dissenting views were completely ignored. Some of them were:
(a) Tushar Gandhi-great-great grandson of Mahatma Gandhi.
(b) Arudhanti Roy –A renowned social activist.
(c) Prakash Singh (IPS) -Retd. DGP –UP Assam & BSF. Who steered the PIL on Police reforms and won favourably in the SC.
(d) Anil Dharker – a Columnist.
(e) No. of prof of JNU and others.
Anyone who wanted to use derogatory language against the Govt had a Manch ¼eap½, Mike, Media and the Messes to air the abusive language.
Should we not formalize certain self imposed taboos on the electronic media so the reporting is unbiased and objective.

As I Saw It Former Pakistan President Pervez Mus

2011-09-09T00:07:00.001-07:00

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Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

As I Saw It

Former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf, who announced his political party on October 1 in London, has been in the news for his admission to a German magazine that Pakistan had trained militant groups to fight against India and “the government turned a blind eye because they wanted India to discuss Kashmir”.
We want good relations with India, but it has to be based on justice and fairness. Kashmir is the primary problem and improvement in bilateral relations between the two countries depends on the resolution of the Kashmir issue.
Pakistan’s security situation gets muddled when India becomes hyper active in Afghanistan.
Taliban has conducted several suicide attacks in the heartland of Pakistan. Military action has to create space for political solution. Tough measures were not undertaken on a whim. We tried all option but failed. Now, a mix of soft and tough measures need to be adopted. If I return to power, the armed forces in Pakistan will be well-equipped and maintained. Any adventurism against Pakistan will be thwarted.
Pakistan is passing through turmoil and turbulence and we believe that an alternative political option should be available to the people. Democracy needs to be overhauled in Pakistan and it will have to be rid of the traditional vestiges like kinship and feudalism.
But he has to remember that Pakistan has been its most important ally in the war on terror and he has to acknowledge the sacrifices and initiatives that Pakistan undertook after the attack on the World Trade Center in New York on September 11.
Failure of governance is the greatest threat today. Immediate necessity on the ground in Pakistan is a functional governance structure free of corruption.
While people like Bhutto and Sharif were sent into exile by dictators, in Musharraf’s case, the dictator himself had to flee following the return to democracy in the country. Musharraf is now trying to be part of that democracy with the launch of his political party, The All Pakistan Muslim League (APML, on October 1 at London’s former National Liberal Club.
Two things are clear about Musharraf’s politics in London. One, his reading and thinking have increased his conviction against religious extremists like the Taliban; second, his exile has not been apolitical.
No one knows why Musharraf decided to relaunch his political career. It is a popular joke among Pakitani journalists that Musharraf did so because he considers himself a gift of a God to mankind.
Low on international trust, under assault of Islamic fundamentalists and Taliban, ravaged by worst floods in the century, Pakistan is a challenge to any aspiring ruler. Musharraf, it seems, is not afraid to take up the challenge. Apart from “Pakistan First”, his other slogan is “Jaag Pakistan Jaag”. His party’s symbol is the introvert eagle, shaheen in Urdu. Musharraf, like the bird, is not afraid of being a lone ranger.

Osama and the would there after

2011-09-09T00:06:00.002-07:00

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Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Osama and the would there after

• The beginning of another war against Terror.

First Three Months

• Regrouping, charting out new strategies, redefining new targets.
• Regionalization and new command and control structures.
• Intensity heavy blows in / Afghanistan/Pakistan & India.
• Europe as a whole / UK and France will be their prime targets, Attempt to strike in US may not succeed.
American citizen and the US interest globally would be the prime targets.
These observation comments were offered during 1st week of Jun 2011. (on completion of one month of operation “Geronimo”).
The recent downing of two “heavy lift helicopters” in Afghanistan is an indicator. Just the beginning.

Article/observation on “Operation Geronimo” is attached.

Operation Geronimo Pak & India

2011-09-09T00:06:00.001-07:00

As I Saw It

Operation Geronimo Pak & India
May 1 & 2 2011 became the day of global celebration for the US. They succeeded in eliminating world’s most dreaded terrorist “Osama Bin Laden”. This operation fully demonstrated the application of the strength of the economic power, strongest of military power, supported by extra ordinary advanced technology, and the most important decisive, discreet and unwavering Political will.

All that took even the unipolar power ten years to achieve their first objective of the war against terror, US has been attacked only twice, first time during 2nd world war the attack on “Pearl Habour” and then 9/11-where hijacked commercial air liners flew into the twin towers.
There has been large scale jubilation especially in the US and NATO countries. And there are anti US and anti NATO demonstrations from and within the Muslim world. India has demonstrated a modest support, not being very vocal about it. Undoubtedly Pak has been a perpetrator of global terrorism and its biggest recipient has been India.

Indian “Electronic Media” as well as print media have shown their aggressive behavior as they have shown for such events. There have been many debates on the electronic media “why India has not launched such a surgical operation (like operation “Geronimo” ½ May 2011). “Some chair borne security analyst” have claimed that we should have carried out such a surgical operation after the tragic event of 26/11 2008 in Mumbai. COAS during his visit to Lucknow on 2/3 May did mention that “we do have the capability”.

I am reminded of two such events of my career, where I was directly involved, in spite of all the inputs we failed within our own country.

Hostages Rescue Operation-1995

Six foreigners were taken hostages on 7 July 1995 on the upper ridges of Pahalgam (in J & K). The group which had claimed this act was “Al-Faran” consisting of fourteen members. One US national out of the six escaped. He was picked up by an army helicopter (He drew the attention of the flying chopper by waving his shirt). One Norwegian was beheaded and his body was thrown on the streets of Anantnag to spread terror (1st week of Aug 1995).

As a followup a task force was created end Aug 1995. I was posted as SASO Hq AOC J & K located at Udhampur. (In the state of J & K) I was asked on 30 Aug 1995 “to move to Srinagar and report at Hq 15 Corps. The details with Operation order from Hq WAC would follow”.

The task force assembled on 31 Aug 1995 under the overall command of GOC 15 Corps to rescue the four foreign hostages from the terrorist group “Alfaran”. 2 Army Bn for ground rescue and cordoning operation. 150 NSG Commandoes 12 Mi -17 Helicopter & 6 attack helicopter (Mi 35) formed the overall force.

Maj Gen Sihota ( victor force Cdr) was the ground force cdr; Col BS Daulta was heading the NSG group and I was designated the “Air Borne Force” cdr.

After detailed briefings from IB, RAW state int, local Army intelligence the task force got going. Briefing by various int agencies was the daily routine to have an update. Air force and NSG started their integrated training on a daily and regular basis at “Toshe Maidan” range located near AF base in Srinagar valley.

GOC 15 corps, Maj Gen Sihota and I started flying close to the reported location of the Alfaran group. We used to land in small grounds and interact with the locals to ascertain and reestablish the inputs from intelligence agencies and ground reports. By 8/9 Sep 1995 exact location of the Alfaran group in the village, the house location were established. On 11/12 Sep mid night the complete operation group carried out full fledged mock drill over Gulmarg. Highly motivated and well trained commandoes were escorted by attack helicopters. Carried out slithering operation from a height of 30 meter from ground. Even I had slithered down with the commandoes during the mock drill and the full fledged rehearsal.

On 14 Sep 1995 then COAS Gen Shanker Roy Chaudhary had flown to Awantipur (Air base in the Srinagar Valley). A presentation was made to the COAS, how int reports and ground interaction substantiated by humint had assured the task force of striking the terrorist group. The task force was fully charged, ready and confident of the success of the operation COAS departed with the words “you will get the suitable instructions”. On 18 Sep a message was received from the CMG, “can the task force guarantee the safety of the hostages”. (Crisis management group-chaired by Cab Sec. Members Foreign/Home/Defence Securities and ambassadors/high commissioners of the countries whose nationals were the hostages) Which fool could guarantee the safety of even one person in such an operation. The answer “NO” was communicated to the CMG. On 21 Sep 1995 a message was received task force can disperse, further instructions would follow. No instruction followed till 2003 end (when I retired) and even till now. I often met Lt Gen Sihota (Retd as Army Cdr southern Command), Maj Gen BS Daulta. We just lamented in not giving a successful culmination to our well thought out, planned and ready to execute plan.

Hijacking of IC-814-(24 Dec-31 Dec 1999)

IC 814 was hijacked on a flight from Kathmandu to Palam on 24 Dec 1999. I was on deputation to ARC aviation wing of the RAW. I was the operation head of the ARC. At 5 PM (24 Dec 1999) I was informed of the hijacking. ARC’s one of the assigned roles is anti hijacking operation. Hijacked aircraft had landed at – Amritsar around 6:15 PM. The IL-76 air craft was ready by5:30 PM, NSG troupes had arrived by 6 PM. The IL-76

aircraft with the NSG commandoes was ready to depart at 6:45 PM. I was constantly in touch with Billy Bedi. (Director ARC at that time) who was operating from CMG outfit. As the IL-76 aircraft was on the take off point a message was received that the hijacked aircraft is all set to take off from Amritsar A decision was taken to let the IL-76 aircraft go with the NSG anti hijacking force.

The hijacked flight (IC-814) took off from Amritsar after being on ground for about 40-45 min. What a shame, there were about half a dozen ways to incapacitate the hijacked aircraft at Amritsar.

(a) During the landing itself crew could have operated the max rate unit. (in the wheel braking system) this could have deflated the wheels on the runway itself .
(b) Emergency retraction of the u/c at lower speeds of the landing run would have u/c system collapse on the r/w itself.
(c) Aircraft could have been swerved off the runway and stopped in the Kaccha.
(d) 40 commandoes of the PAP (Punjab Armed Police) had surrounded the aircraft immediately on landing. These commandoes were fully trained and professionally competent to storm the aircraft.
(e) The commandoes could have fired few bullets to deflate the aircraft tyres.
(f) A fuel bowser Could have been placed just in front of the aircraft, not to roll ahead.

But all the actions could have lead some violent action by the hijacker & , so what.

Biggest shameful act for a nation that a hijacked air craft departs from its soil. Finally the IC814 departed from Amritsar and landed at Lahore-refueled, flew to Dubai and reached Kandhar on 25 Dec 1999, under the full control of Taliban. The GOI succumbed to the demands of the hijackers. We acceeded to their demands and released three hard core terrorist (Azahar Massod, Omer Shaikh, Lakhavi) who were languishing in our jails (Jammu & Srinagar) for last 5 years. We handed them over to the Taliban force on 31 Dec 1999 and returned home with the released IC-814.

In both the cases we have shown utter lack of of foresight indecisiveness and lack of courage on the part of our political leaders.

If the CAOS says we have the capability to launch surgical operation like Geronimo-yes we do have, but we don’t have the will. The only time when we had such an opportunity was during Kargil ops.

Pakistan has felt humiliated only twice.

First time- on 16 Dec 1971 when 93000 Pak army troops surrended to Indian Armed force and their eastern wing was clipped
Second time- On ½ May 2011 when US SEAL commandoes entered Pak and annihilated “Osama Bin Laden” the most wanted Global Terrorist.

On both the occasion the strong willed political heads displayed, decisive, definite decision making. Indira Gandhi in 1971 and Barak Obama now.

Environment was favorable during the Kargil war to initiate hot pursuit or a surgical operation. We have failed to meet the terrorist threats within our own territory, snooping into a neighboring country has its inherent dangers.

Like the US, India must explore the option

2011-09-09T00:03:00.000-07:00

As I Saw It

Like the US, India must explore the option
of covert military action against terrorists

Every time any country carries out a successful covert military operation against a terrorist target, the question inevitably arises in India as to why it cannot do the same. On the face of it, there are sound arguments as to why this option should be part of the country’s counter-terrorism strategy. India regularly gets listed as among the world’s worst affected countries when it comes to terrorism-and is probably number one or number two when it comes to the cross-border variety. Pakistan, which tolerates if not facilitates the actions of the militant groups responsible, has made it clear it sees terrorism as a means to extract concessions from India in the arena of normal statecraft. New Delhi’s seeming lack of a proactive military policy against terrorism is detrimental to its own attempt to project India as a rising power and a safe investment destination.

But this is not a simple decision of blood and guts. A number of larger issues come into play. The least significant is the issue of capacity. Countries like Israel, smaller and with less resources, have been able to create fear-inspiring covert military capabilities. India almost certainly lacks the capacity today, but the ability can be created if there is political will and public pressure to do so. Probably the most difficult facet of covert military actions is creating an intelligence system that can provide actionable information.

How US could do operation “Geronimo”
in Pak and why India cannot do & Succeed.

• US forces are operating from Pak terrority for last 10 years.
• They control 4 Pak air bases.
• They have undertaken anti terrorist attacks/including drone attacks within and in neighboring Afghanistan.
• US provides extra ordinary financial support to Pak, US rather is sustaining Pak economy.
• US is a Strong Economy.
• US is largest & strongest military power.
• US is an unchallenged power in the unipolar world.
• Pak is thousands of miles away from US.
• No possibility of escalation of the conflict.
• No threat or danger of any nuclear fallout.
Wake up
Yashwant Sinha - BJP Leader
G Parthsarathy - Former high commissioner to Pak
Dhobal - Former DIB
Jovadeker - spokes person BJP
Brig Kanwal - Director CLAWS

They are vocal on “Geronimo” type of ops from Indian soil.

The most problematic issue is whether such actions would be politically feasible in the kind of environment that exists in South Asia. Pakistan is happy to allow terrorist attacks on India because it is unconcerned about international opinion and, in fact, encourages the world to see the subcontinent as an unstable and dangerous place. India wishes to do the opposite and has the additional ambition to be seen as responsible global player.

Light Combat Aircraft Tejas or Late Combat- Aircraft

2011-09-09T00:02:00.000-07:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Light Combat Aircraft Tejas or Late Combat- Aircraft
The word Tejas-refelects energy, power, lethality, and has a killer instinct.
To indigenize has been a “key results area” since independence in every sphere of industrialization. We have been spearheading indigenization in every field, consumer goods electrical, electronic car manufacturing. Even in defence the very needs of the army & navy in arms and shipbuilding have advanced favorably. We have lagged behind seriously in the aviation circles. We have not been able to produce even a single transport plane worth ‘its’ utility in civil aviation format or for military utilization.
We did have a go on the first flighter plane. HF-24 was produced in late sixties. Took the lives of our most renowned test pilots. Two squadrons did get inducted at Jodhpur as show pieces. Could never prove their combat viability-due to “power weight ratio” imbalance and were phased one in a matter of ten years. Marut had retired by mid seventies. Fire in the belly was always burning with our scientific community. The development of Tejas (LCA) has taken 27 years beginning 1983. The first flight took off on 4 Jan 2001/. Since then, 10 prototypes have been produced and nearly 1500 flights have been done so far.
10 Jan 2011 was a memorable day at HAL airport Banglore. IOC (Initial Operational Clearance) certificate was given to the Tejas. Hon Def minister handed over the IOC to the CAS. What does that mean- aircraft is air worthy, but all systems and weapons have not been fully integrated. Media hype was unprecedented and over reactive. Media was broadcasting and speculating “By this event India has become a “regional super air power and all its neighbours are going to be just not only threatened but would be annihilated”.
The costs have gone much beyond expectations.
(A) The overall developmental cost of the Tejas has zoomed to Rs. 17269 cr from the initial Rs 560 or earmarked in 1983.
(B) Each Tejas would cost around Rs 200 cr.
(C) India will spend over Rs 25000 cr on the project. Now the planned and projected induction.
(D) Final operational clearance is expected by Dec 2012.
(E) The real induction of the first 40 Tejas jets will begin only towards end 2013, and likely to be operational at Sulur airbase by 2015. The first 40 aircraft will be fitted with GE 404 engines.
(F) The first test flight of the Tejas MKII with more powerful GE 414 engines will be possible by Dec 2014.
(G) IAf is expected to receive an inventory of 200 aircraft totally as the initial contract (expectedly by 2015-16).
Even if these dates are sacropart and meticulously adhered to we can expect these aircraft with the IAF not earlier than 2018 or so. Even if we take very modest period of slippages and delays (beyond manufactures control) we can expect their full strength operational not earlier than 2020.
The shape of the IAF in 2015-2020
Post 1962, after Chinese debacle, govt. had approved for a force of 64 Sqn (nearly 1275 aircarft for the Air Force) including MR & SOW. The same was pegged down to 45 Sqn after Indo Pak conflict of 1965 (nearly 900 a/c). It was further reviewed and diluted to 39.5 Sqn (About 800 aircraft including MR & SOW)
We registered a maximum number up to of 700 front line combat aircraft (nearly 35-36 Sqn). Primary composition remained Mig-21 type of the air crafter in the similar series Mig 21’S have been depleting at a fast rate during the last 5-7 years on completion of their TTL (Total technical life) It would be fairly accurate to state we are down to less than 30 Sqn just about 500 + at the end of the 1st decade of the 21st century.
The IAF inventory as perceived during the 2nd decade i.e. 2015-2020 would be (including MR & SOW)
SU 30 272 by 2015 (inducted 12-15 years back)
Mig 21 Big 126
Mirages upgraded 50 (inducted 25 years back)
Jaguars 60 (inducted more than 30 years back)
MRCA 126 (To be inducted not earlier than 2015)
Mig-29 & Mig 27 100 (inducted more than 25 years back)
534
LCA 200

LCA 2015-2020 by that time 126 Mig Biz would have been out of service.

Some politicians and their chairborne analyst and commentators would have the following comments to offer.

(a) One Su-30 is capable of delivering the weapon load of one SQn of Mig-21.
(b) HAL would speed up the production line of LCA to produce about 40 aircraft per year.
(c) There is every possibility delay in induction of MRCA & LCA in the time frame envisaged.
(d) A gap of nearly 250 aircraft would remain during this decade.
The no of aircraft cannot be reduced dramatically with their enhanced lethality.
The capability of the HAL to produce 40 aircraft per year is highly sceptical: The experience of production of ALH is very recent.
How would LCA finally end up as a 3½ generation combat aircraft could only be assessed and proved on its induction?
IAF has to gear up from now only to fill a serious gap of 250 aircraft now and another 250 aircraft gap in the third decade 2021 to 2030. This gap of nos and technology advancement would always remain a night mare for the planners of the IAF.

On National Security

2011-09-08T23:56:00.000-07:00

“As I Saw It”
“On National Security”

Brig Gurmeet Kanwal has lamented once again on certain old issue “Big Chinks on our security armour”. (An article published in TOI on 24 July 2011)He starts with Subramanium committee report after “Kargil conflict of 1999.

Big chinks in our security armour

I quote Brig Gurmeet Kanwal on certain issues which he considers relevant.
“An issue that needs no further debate is the appointment of a Chief of Defence Staff as the principal military adviser to the government. It is an idea whose time has come. However, the appointment of CDS should be followed by the establishment of tri-service integrated theatre commands for greater synergy in the planning and execution of military operations and aid to civil authority. Another key requirement is for the immediate raising of an integrated cyber, aerospace and Special Forces command.
The task force must also consider whether it is necessary to appoint a National Security Commission to oversee the day-to-day management of national security in this era of strategic uncertainty and threats”.
I had written an article on facts in Kargil at that time. And later also to elaborate certain issue-not known normally. I am again attaching the article for reference.
The issues brought out creation of IDS, NTRO, and creating other security related organizations don’t make the systems more efficient and effective. As far as NTRO is concerned, ARC was already there: we should have revamped ARC further. By creating more and more parallel organization we only dilute the effectiveness of already existing org.
I remember having attended one lecture by renowed ICS officer Shri AN Jha. He had stated we should have a “Plan Holiday” (referring to five year plans) and not announce new schemes but we should aims optimization of our already existing organizations and schemes. Same applies for the “Armed Forces”.
Creation of Strategic force command was an operational imperative. Creation of Inter services A & N Command on an experimental basis was also an operational necessity.
Brig Kanwal has once again lamented on creation of an institution of CDS. We have three chiefs of the armed forces. Three some becomes a much more powerful instrument to influence decision making at the political & national level. Only one individual at the apex level may not be rightful. Rather we saw the voice of three service chiefs more powerful in the implementation of the 6th pay commission. Three professional’s are more powerful to represent and advice the Govt. All three services chiefs should be the part of NSC. (National Security Commission) as and when created.
A CDS could be easily mollified and may finally result as a puppet to the Govt. Looking forward to some political gain.
As far as the synergy understanding, cooperation is concerned we have not found it lacking. We saw IPKF, Maladives, Kargil as the recent happenings (20 years hence) Bangladesh was another exceptional example of our synergy and professionalism (40 years hence). We have not gained much even by creating CIDS (except some more senior ranks) CDS would be no exception.

Heroes of self determination

2011-09-08T23:46:00.000-07:00

As I Saw It

Heroes of self determination

MS DHONI

A very ordinary boy of average family of small city Ranchi of Jharkhand, Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s name was on few finger tips prior his shining as star in India cricket. His own contribution based on his labour, effort, passion towards the game, superseded his livelihood of ordinary job of TTC in Railways. Now setting an example of his personality through cricket to be included in 100 popular personalities of the world being placed on No 52 (Time Magazine 2010) leaving Obama (President of US) behind on 73. This is for the first time that any sportsman of such a small town has reached to this stage wherein only few big cities like Chennai, Calcutta, Bangalore, and Delhi were earlier on the list in this field. Now Dhoni is the pride of India as one of the best Cricket captains ever before.

ANNA HAZARE

Anna Hazare 73, a bachelor belonging to a interior backward village “Relgaon sidhi”, served as a army Jawan (1963-1978) settled down 80 km from Pune. He not only fought against liquor but initiated reform (population, poverty and pollution) in social, economic and civic field to convert a backward village to a model one. While the Govt. schemes for upliftment could not even touch the border line of the rural areas. Now revolutionary courage of Anna against corruption, the central govt. had to accept the necessity to bring in the “Lokpal Bill” in the Parliament and again in 1975.

Similar revolutionary agitation was started in 1970 by Jai Prakash Narain with special reference to political reform, administrative reform and police reform, resulting massive national uprise, political upheaval, changed the political demography. But the time passed and the followers forgotten the mission of JP by involving themselves in self upliftment suppressing/ leaving behind the national cry.

Comment

Now as a responsible citizen we need Anna Hazare in every locality. One of the important causes of corruption is overpopulation due to which work in demand is less than the availability of workers, which gives room to corruption.

Common feature of Corruption within us

Black money in home deals/ capitation fee, bribing for school admission/bribing for illegal driving license and now even a pilot license, avoiding paying income tax and many more.

Anna Hazare has boosted the courage in the masses to fight against corruption.

Anand Kumar- Super 30 belongs to rural area nearby Patna

Initially started his carrier by coaching to only 3-4 students of weak socialbackground and lead them to place in reputed position in the society. He started preparing students for IIT in 2002 in the name of super 30. In first batch of 30 students 18 were selected in IIT. In 2nd batch 22 out of 30 and in 3rd batch all the 30 were selected for IIT. Now the batch has been increased to number 90 with maintaining result to almost 100 percent. His simplicity and self confidence urge within him, created special power. His aim, passion, honest approach, hard and sincere work, risk taking ability, contributing to benefit others and enjoying the success of others. Anand Kumar stood as a boon to the society of neglected ones and now as a shining star.

At present he is a global personality and many countries like Japan, England, and Italy etc have known his caliber. Their representatives visited India to contact Anand Kumar. BBC had special broadcast about his specific thought for such a monarchial social upliftment. His personality development can be well estimated seeing his name in focus magazine of Italy, the only Indian to be included among 100 dignitaries of the world who have impacted the society.

Chhavi Rajawat- belongs to a village Soda 60 km from Jaipur

A charming and model type well educated girl (MA, English and MBA) holding a reputed post in Airtel, decided to improve the backward rural area where she belongs to. Due to her commitment with herself, she left the job and got elected to be the Sarpanch, in panchyat elections. She gracefully and challengefully started doing the reform in respect of social, civic and economic field. She has taken up the problem of basic requirement i.e.. water, toilets, neatness, schools and jobs. She is quite hopeful that she will transform her village in the list of best model village having all the facilities which town/city enjoys. She does not want money she wants people and organizations to adopt projects. She represented India at UN and addressed the session on poverty alleviation”. She displayed confidence of changing the face of her village in next 3 years (By end of 2013.)

If such feelings prevailed and efforts took place 250000 panchyat will definitely be on the global map to taking care of about 12 lac villages of the India. The Govt could not do even after 65 years of independence.

Note: Extracts from the lecture delivered on a seminar/convocation on 30 April - 01 May 2011 at one of the management colleges at Pune.

An Open Letter to Shri Anna Hazare

2011-09-08T23:40:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

“As I Saw it”

An Open Letter to Shri Anna Hazare
India Against Corruption
20 August 2011
Dear Shri Anna Ji,
Sadar Pranam,

1. I write this letter to you with high sense of appreciation and deep anguish & pain.

2. We both belong to the same class. You served the Indian Army for 15 yrs (1963-1978) and I served the Indian Air Force for 40 yrs (1963-2003). You have been a social crusader since you left the army and brought dramatic social transformation in the life of the people of your village “Ralegaon Sidhi”. I have been working voluntarily as a “Social Entrepreneur” for the empowerment of mentally challenged & other disabilities through medium of games & music. And also for the welfare of ex-servicemen.

3. Your crusade against corruption is legitimate and praise worthy.

But let us look at the problem (corruption) more holistically.
This (corruption) is not a “Stand Alone” problem. While delivering a National Security lecture in the yr 2001 I had probed on the subject “What ails this county” (India). I had coined an algebraic formula. P-3, C-5. P-3 is at National level and C-5 is at Political level.

P-3 at National level:-
 Population
 Poverty
 Pollution

C-5 is at Political level:-
 Casteism in politics
 Communalism in politics
 Criminalization of politics
 Corruption in politics
 Compromises in coalition in politics

Corruption is a fallout of these ailments and many more.
I shall be brief on

4. Population:-
in 2011, 1.25 Billion (125 Crore)
in 2025, 1.40 Billion (140 Crore)
in 2050, 1.60 Billion (160 Crore)

By the end of the century we would have 2.0 billion (200 Crore) people. We occupy just 2 % of land mass and nearly 18% of population (as of now) by the end of this century we would be nearly 25 % of the total world population. We are facing population explosion, which is disturbing demand and supply equation, impatience / anger / unemployment / lack of opportunities are on the increase. Massive crowds of youth represent that.

5. Every country man is corrupt in some way or the other.
a. Purchase & sale of property (Home and land) :- transactions take place in unaccounted money (Black money) to the tune of 20% to 60% to evade tax, registry charges. The registration department is fully aware of this. They demand and receive gratification, because the individuals have faltered.

b. Power:-Globally T&D losses (transmission & Distribution losses) are 2 %. Once upon a time Maharashtra was considered to be the best managed and T & D losses were 8%. In the state of UP T & D losses are 60 %. Common citizens thieve the power by unfair, means in connivance with the departmental people. The department people collect gratification on these weaknesses.

c. UP Govt.:- Most corrupt political outfit in the country. More than ten ministers of the state are behind bar – (for murders, planned murders, rapes attempted rapes). Of the remaing (ruling party and some others) more than half are recorded criminals. A substantial amount (in crores) is collected from each of the 72 districts of the state to fill up the coffers of the ruling political outfit. You wanted permission to hold meetings in UP, in the month of June. Fearing you could have fuelled the fire in the state, you were denied this permission. But see the apathy the same political out fit is supporting you, and supporting Justice Sen in the parliament.

6. Unfortunately your methodology has given larger space to castiest and communal forces. Both are divisive and spread hatred and anger in the society. Your civil society members have only talked about Fundamental Rights. We have some Fundamental Duties also enshrined in our constitution. We should strike a balance between Fundamental Rights / Fundamental Duties. One sided approach would result in weakening of our well established democratic institutions.

7. Politics:-
Over all decline in standards of poliety due to reasons mentioned

 Political reform:- We have more than 600 political parties registered with the Election Commission. An individual elected just represents 10% to 25% of the people. We need to consider a change.

 Electoral reform:- There is no taboo on criminals to contest elections. If a person is charged with the kind of murder abetment to murder, rape attempt to rape embezzlement, he should be debarred to contest election, till proved not guilty.

 Judicial reform & business reform.
 Administrative reform
 Police reform

List could be long.

8. I appreciate your concern to route out corruption from the system. I am also over whelmed by the support to this call.
I once again reiterate, “to route out corruption,” can not a “Stand Alone” movement. To route out corruption in totality we all have to be well aware and concerned of the contributing factors.

9. Respected Anna ji, I shall request you to kindly issue an appeal to the fellow Indians.

a. Firstly:- Follow a small family norm, preferably one child But certainly not more than two. Exploding population is a greatest danger for our country.

b. Secondly:- Exercise your voting right. Elect only honest and secular candidates. Do not elect tainted and criminals.

c. Thirdly :- Be a responsible citizen – contribute to nation building. Even if you are on agitation do not cause damage & destruction of private and public property (This you did emphasizes in your on going agitation). Be a disciplined citizen in every facet of life.

d. Fourthly :- Not only exercise your fundamental rights, the duties of a citizen as enshrined in the constitution of India should be part of our daily life.

e. Fifthly :- Do not indulge in to corrupt practices as an individual.

Ask not what country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your county :- Words of President of USA Mr. John Kenndey

Gandhi was a democratic leader and believed in dialogue. You apparently are following gandhian path. Respected Anna ji do not be a yksdrkaf=d rkuk”kkg (Democratic Dictator). Fallow Gandhi ji.

Jawan’s & Kissan’s are the ultimate hope of this country.

Tk; toku] t; fdlku] ;s gS ns”k dh “kku!
;s nsa lsok] lqj{kk vkSj lEeku] bu lcdks gS esjk lykeA

Jai hind, Jai Bharat.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)

Message for Delhi in Arab winds of change

2011-02-01T01:54:00.000-08:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Message for Delhi in Arab winds of change
SHAUN GREGORY
(Dean at Breadford University, UK)

From Morocco to Pakistan and from Syria to Indonesia, the Islamic world is struggling with modernity.
Most of Islamic world is ruled by unrepresentative elites, whose power flows not from democratic legitimacy but from repressive militaries and intelligence agencies.
The Future-of –the-Global Muslim-Population.aspx projects that the global Muslim population will grow 35% in the next 20 years, with much of that growth in Asia.
This is why India has to look at Tunis, Cairo, Algiers and Sa’na and ask what the lessons are. Above all, it has to ask what the implications are for those parts of the Indian polity where Muslim/non Muslim fissures are most exposed. This means places like Kashmir. It is not to question Kashmir’s place as part of India, or to cede a square inch of ground to terrorism or to Pakistani interference, but to ask a deeper question about the relationship of ordinary Kashmiri Muslims to the Indian state. Do ordinary Kashmiri Muslims experience the Indian state as a guarantor-or at least as an agent-of political freedom, justice, and economic and social security or do they experience it as repressive power? To the extent the answer is the latter, the challenge for India is to find ways to move to the former.
Extracts from an article published in TOI dated 30 Jan 2011

Observations & Comments

The happenings in Egypt are serious and alarming. Should send signals to our politicians, social activist and to social reformers.
(a) Muslim population in presently 23.6% globally. Likely to reach 35% in next 20 years.
(b) Pakistan would become the largest Muslim country in the next 20 years (leaving behind Indonesia)
(c) Muslim majority state of J & K is yet to be fully integrated with India.
A thought:
 Our politicians should stop playing politics all the time in the state of J & K.
 The role of main opposition party in J& K has been communal, destructive and disruptive. They have only succeeded in separating Jammu (a Hindu dominated area) with the valley ( a Muslim dominated area)
 This was clearly evident when they had created a blockade for the movement of essential supplies from Jammu to valley (during agitation on land allotment for Amarnath Yatra)
 The recent Lalchowk episode and earlier blockade strengthened the cause and voice of the antinational elements.
 An appeal to politicians, evolve a system of consensus on major security, economic, foreign policy issues, to see the country moving ahead rather than working towards, gaining political leverage and advantage all times.

Transforming India - 5 (Catch me if you can?)

2011-01-18T21:17:00.000-08:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Catch me if you can?
China – India, Economic & Socio – Economic Factors

Economic/Social Factor Unit of measure China India
Total Area (out of which water) Million of sq km 9.60 (2.8%) 3.29 (9.5%)
Railway-length In km ‘000 75.44 63.23
Roadways- Proved/unpaved In km ‘000 1,515/354 1.604/1,800
Natural Gas-Proved/Reserves In billion cu m 2,503 1,056
Airports-Total/paved/unpaved numbers 467/403/64 346/250/96
Food grain production million tons/year 418 210
Crude Oil production million tons/year 180 40
Electricity generated Billions of Kilowatts 3,256 630
Transmission & distribution losses as % of total power 6.8 23.4
TV sets in households millions 600 100
Mobile/cellular phones millions 461 240
Internet users millions 162 51
Tourist Arrivals millions/year 87 6
TV Broadcast stations numbers 3240 562
Forex Reserves (China+Hong Kong) US$ billion 1493+153= 1,646 314
Population millions 1,330 1,148
Population increase per year millions 8.9 15.3
Birth rate Numbers per 1000 13.71 22.22
Per Capita income US$ per year/person 2,420 950
Population Growth Rate % of population 0.59 1.61
Fertility Rate children/woman 1.77 2.76
Literacy Rate- Defined as age 15 and over Can read & write - % of Pop 91 61

Our India Series VI

Transforming India - 4 (Difference between poor & rich)

2011-01-18T21:16:00.000-08:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Difference between Poor & Rich
1. The difference between the poor countries and the rich one is not the age of the country.
2. Countries like India and Egypt, which are more than 2000 years old and are still poor.
3. On the other hand, Canada, Australia and New Zealand, were unknown 100 years ago, and
today they are developed and rich.
4. On analyzing the behaviour of the people in rich and developed countries, we find that the
vast majority follow the following principles in their lives:

a. Ethics, as a basic principle
b. Integrity
c. Responsibility
d. Respect to the laws and rules of the land
e. Respect to the rights of other citizens
f. loving their work
g. Strive for saving and investment
h. Will to be of superior action
i. Punctuality at work and play

5. In poor countries, only a minority follow these basic principles in their daily life.
6. We are not poor because we lack natural resources or because natural is cruel to us.
7. We are poor because we lack attitude. (of being responsible citizen)
8. We lack the will to comply with teach these functional principles of the rich and developed
societies.

Amazing Maths !
If:
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Z Y Z
Is represented as:
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26
Then:
K – N – O – W – L – E – D – G - E
11 + 14 + 15 + 23 + 12 + 5 + 4 + 7 + 5 = 96%
And:
H – A – R – D – W – O – R - K
8 + 1 + 18 + 4 + 23 + 15 + 18 + 11 = 98%
But:
A– T – I – T – U – D – E
1 + 20 + 20 + 9 + 21 + 4 + 5 = 100%
Our India Series V

Transforming India - 3 (That must be diffused )

2011-01-18T21:15:00.000-08:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

That must be diffused
The population BOMB
1. India’s Population Policy- much to catch up and learn from others!
India has 1, 200 million people. Chins has 1,314 million. Nearly 27 million are born every year in India and ONLY 15 million in China. China has had a more effective population policy than India, although they started in 1970. India’s population policy started much earlier, in 1952. By 2045, (now expected by 2025) we shall overtake the Chinese population, with an India population of 1,550 million! Life expectancy in China is now 74 years vs 68 years in India. In China the average family size is 3.63 members. In India it is much higher, with 5.52 members.
2. Percentage of people below poverty line. China and India
We fail to understood the fact why some thinkers and leaders in India, mention that our population is our strength. How can they make such statements, with so much poverty, illiteracy and a low standard of living? It’s a nightmare for the poor in India!
3. India’s economic parameters- the simple truth!
India has 17% of the world’s population, 2.2% of the land area, 1.72% of the world’s GDP and only 1% of the world trade. This means that 98.27% of the World’s GDP [Buying Power] and 99% of the world’s trade is not with India! India must plan larger exports, for increasing the standard of living of its people.
4. Adjustment for population increase The hard facts!
It the GDP grows by 9.2% per year, as in 2006-2007, the per capita does not grow at 9.2%. It is reduced due to the yearly population increase, and due to inflation and other issues. Therefore the final per capita increase would be much lesser. This is only, one of the disadvantages, of ballooning population.

Our India Series IV

Transforming India - 2 (The INDIA you may not know)

2011-01-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

The INDIA you may not know

1. 71% or 770 million people are below 35 years of age. Indians are young.
2. 90% to 94% drop out rate of children between kindergarten and 10+2. This includes those who have never been to school.
3. 300 million unemployed of employable age and only 41 million have actually registered with employment offices with little or no hope of getting employment (our estimates)
4. The Indian definition of literacy is based on a survey of people-“If you can write your name, you are literate”; nobody has seriously ever challenged this definition!
5. India has only 1.72 % of the world GDP and has 17% of the world population. Demands are high but buying power is low. Hence we will need but buying power is low. Hence we will need to increase our exports related activities by 10 times, as the foreign trade is 1.00% down from 33% 1000 years ago, down from 27% wh9en the British landed in India and down from 3% in 1947.
6. As per www. Loksatta.org, about Rs. 2, 600 crores are spent every day, to govern India at the centre and state levels, both on revenue as well as on capital account. Is this transparent? Is the money well spent? Citizens need to use The Right to Information, RTI bill, and also take part in the governance of India, through citizen groups.

Our India Series II

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

A Tale of 3 countries, after 1947 Germany, India, Japan
Human Development is the key and not the size of quantity of natural resources of a country!

Germany India Japan
Total Area ‘000 sq km 357 3288 377
Coastline km 2,389 7,000 29,751
Population millions 82 1200
(as on 2010) 127
Median age years 43 25 44
Population growth rate % -0.033 +1.606 -0.088
Life expectancy years 79 68 82
Literacy % age 15 & over can read & write 99 61* 99
Effect of 2nd World War Destroyed Intact Destroyed
Rebuilding started 1946-47 1947 1946-47

* If you can sign you name you are literate.

Our India Series III

Transforming India - 1

2011-01-18T21:11:00.000-08:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

Comparable data (As on Jan 2009)
Education
1. India has 27,000 foreign students while Australia has 400,000 foreign students.
2. India has 1.0 million schools vs 1.8 million in China.
3. India has 373 Universities vs 900 in China.

Governance
1. Tourist traffic into India is only 4 million per year vs 80 million per year into China.
2. World trade is about 1.0% against 8.0% for China.
3. Electrical loss due to transmission and other losses from electricity boards vary from 25% to 50% in India vs 6% to 8% in China
4. Foreign exchange reserves about US $ 314 billion for India vs US$ 1493 billion in China

Economy
1. India has only 1.8% of world GDP. Buying power is low, but demand is high due to high population of 17%. Exports are the answer. Enough emphasis not given so far in 60 years. SEZ’s need to grow faster.
Employment Generation
1. While China spends nearly 2.5 % of GDP on Vocational Education & Training (VET) in 5000,000 VET centres covering nearly 3000 vocations. India hardly spends 0.1% of its GDP in VET in 5500 centres covering about 200 vocations. (The actual expenses in VET are more but data is not available).
2. The Demographic dividend of supplying young skilled manpower to the world markets must be seized by future Indians by using VET.
3. The present work force of 509 million can be divided into 29 million in the organized sector and 480 million in the unorganized sector. The biggest challenge facing us is to provide world class VET for the 480 million in the unorganized sector!
Our India Series I

Civil Aviation - HOW SAFE ARE YOU WHEN YOU FLY?

2010-07-13T22:46:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

Civil Aviation

HOW SAFE ARE YOU WHEN YOU FLY?

Despite the ghastly Manglore crash, India’s skies have luckily been safe. But, unknown to you, airlines are constantly bending the rules and playing with your life.

How safe is it to fly in India? In the immediate aftermath of the May 22 air crash in Manglore, in which Air India Express Flight No. 182 from Dubai overshot the runway, exploded into a ball of fire in the gorge below and killed 158 of the 166 people on board, the temptation to sound alarmist is only nature. For a decade, the Indian skied had been free of any catastrophic incident, even as the number of road and rail accidents registered sharp increases. It was, therefore, considered all right to assume that our aviation sector was completely air-worthy and that the rapid mushrooming of low-cost carriers had only brought air travel within the reach of those who earlier could not even consider flying as an option.

Infrastructure

POST-2004, Indian aviation has swung from one extreme to the other. Domestic travel has tripled in volume, while international travel has more than doubled. Passenger load has increased fourfold from 10.5 million passengers in 1997 to 40 million in 2008-09. From 175 aircraft in 2004, we now have 380 aircraft. The size and scale of the business has changed.

The phenomenal growth in Indian aviation is reflected in the load on Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. It now handling over 700 flights a day on an average, from the 77 it was handling in 2002.

Air Traffic Control (ATC)

GLOBAL research has shown that nearly 70 percent of all air accidents occur due to human error, involving, pilots, maintenance crew and the ATC. ATC system in the West can enable a take-off and landing every minute “ACTS across India”, says Kaul, “are clearly overworked.”

Pilot Fatigue

THIS has emerged as a major area of concern. Pilots are clocking in more hours because of commercial considerations overtaking all else. While pilots have different permutations and combinations of rest periods drawn up according to their schedules, operators often compromise on this.

Quick turnaround time

In airports like Srinagar, the minimum required turnaround time is 40 minutes- the time an aircraft’s tyres take to release the heat they absorb on landing at high altitudes. Many private airlines, however, have far lesser turnaround time.

Maintenance standards

IT is well known that the financial health of an airline company depends upon the maintenance of its aircraft. The better you keep your aircraft, the more you get out of it in the long run. While most factors in aviation are looked at from a revenue generating aspect, maintenance is the only component which is not. Massive expenditure is involved to have a workable aircraft.

Difficult/Dangerous airports

WHILE some airports are termed difficult due to the terrain they may be located in, others become difficult to operate in because of adverse weather conditions such as shallow fog, heavy rainfall or wind direction. Nothing illustrates this better than the plight of national capital during the dense winter fog. Short runways too are very common across the country, making landing a very well-calculated process, with little margin for error. Another factor that often goes unnoticed is how safety considerations often become secondary during the planning phase of an airport, and political and business pressures take over.

Manpower Shortage

FROM pilots to engineers, the aviation industry is facing a manpower shortage, exerting a pressure on existing resources. “It is estimated that the direct and indirect economic impact of this sector could be employment for 2.6 million people by 2020.” According to report by CAPA titled ‘addressing the skills crisis in Indian aviation’. To quote from the report: “Education and training have virtually been an afterthought in Indian aviation. The industry has muddled through by deploying as hoc measures to fight fires. This approach will neither deliver a professional, sustainable or a safe industry.”

Changes in safety regulations and policies

CHANGES in aviation have to begin at the top. The regulatory agency responsible for enforcing a global standard of airline operations-the Directorate-General of Civil Aviation- needs a revamp to keep up with the current boom in the aviation sector.
Adapted from Outlook Magazine dated June 07

Observations and Comments

INTRODUCTORY

The accident of Air India Flight no. 182 at Manglore (on 26 July 2010) shocked the nation and created a doubt, “How safe are you when you fly. Aviation as a profession or as a mode of transportation has been the safest and would continue to be so. As per the Govt published statistics 1, 30,000 lives are lost every year which amounts to 356 deaths per day in road accidents alone.

The profession of aviation is a highly skilled activity the managers the operators are to display highest standards of professionalism in managing its affair.

Infrastructure and Manpower

Undoubtedly we are growing from strength to strength. The recent opening of T-3 terminal at IGIA at Delhi is an example of our vision and its implementation. Even the aircraft strength is gradually growing which is now 380 air craft will grow to 500 by 2012. (Which is against 700 of China and 7000 in USA as per 2008 statistics?)

We have to keep the manpower argumentation in all spheres of aviation activity i.e. airport management, maintenance, Air traffic controllers and the pilots to keep pace with the infrastructure development including the faster induction of aircraft. Some how or the other our manpower training programs fall short of argumentation of aircraft and ground infrastructure. The result is shortcuts for initial training, continuation training and advance training. Thus we land up in short fall, and result is compromising on safely standards (for examples increasing the age limit of the pilots enhancing FDTL, burdening the maintenance and Cabin Crews in extended duty hours). And the employees do accept and enjoy the extra buck.

Air Traffic Control Vis Viz Frequency of Flights

Often it has been stated that our controllers are over burdened. About 6-7 years back the busy airports handled less than 100 flights a day where as they are handling 700 flights a day. The busy airports in the world (Hethrow- London, Kennedy Airport- New York, Only France, Athens-Greece) handle nearly 1400 flights a day i.e. one flight per minute. If we are planning to create world class airports we have to train world class controllers as well. Our airports like Delhi & Mumbai now and Chennai, Kolkutta, Hyderabad and Bangalore later could reach those standers in years to come.

Difficult and Dangerous Airport

No airports (airfield) can be termed as risky or dangerous. DGCA has listed Leh, Port Blair, Mangalore, Kozikode Lengpui as risky runways. There are many more air fields which could be termed even more risky. (i.e. Thoise, Dumduma, Carnicobar, Vizag in this list). None of these air fields are risky or dangerous. They throw a different kind of challenge where the margin of error is some what negligible. The management and the operators have to lay down norms in terms of types of aircraft to operate, all up weight limitation (AUW) pilots experience, weather limitations (IFR and VFR). If required operator is to take care of referring to aircraft manuals and check on WAT (weight altitudes and temperature) limitations before undertaking a flight. As these are, three primary factors which affect the aircraft performance and operating parameters. Air lines in their eagerness to make fast buck ignore some of these basic safety factors while operating at these so called dangerous risky runways. No airfields are unsafe to operate if operations are managed professionally.

Training and Attitude

The objective of basic training, continuation training and advance and applied training should never be neglected at the cost of safety measures. The time has come for civil aviation to have doctors, specialist in aviation medicine and psychotherapist on their panels to train cockpit and cabin crews and maintenance personnel. This is equally applicable for ATC controllers and others who are managing aviation as ground support system.

Regulatory Body and Quality Control

In Indian context DGCA has been all in one, they are regulatory body, inspection body, accident investigation agency as well. We need to establish, independent inspection and accident investigation bodies. We need to create a Directorate General of Inspection and Safety and independent accident investigation authority like NTSB-National Transportation Safety Board. As the future of the civil aviation is bright (we are expected to have nearly 1000 commercial aircraft by the 2020). All the measures suggested above would go a long way, in enhancing civil aviation image in the country and nobody should question “How Safe Are you When you fly?

Air Marshal Ashok Goel served the IAF for forty years. He is an experienced transport pilot with more than 10,000 in flying to his credit. He has landed at all the so called risky and dangerous airfields (Aircraft flown to these airfields included, IL-76, B-707, Gulf stream-III types of aircraft).

Helicopters & VIPs

2010-07-07T22:43:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

Helicopters & VIPs

An accident is accident, and when it happens to be of an aircraft/helicopters accident especially with a VIP on board becomes a catastrophe and national news. The helicopter crash on 2nd September 2009, near Hyderabad with CM of AP on board sent shock waves all over the country and specially so in AP. YSR was a dynamic leader and had touched the nerves of the masses.

Whenever any accident takes place in Indian skies I am reminded of the Boeing Corporation’s world wide study on aircraft accidents. Study covered commercial aviation accidents of 30 years but is equally applicable to military aviation. Study had revealed that the rate of aircraft accidents is higher in Latin America, African continent and South Asia, as compared to US and Europe. The two attributes which were identified specific to South Asia were (a) “Chalta Hai” attitude (b) A tendency not to point out, fellow beings inadequacies/failings/faults committed. These very attitudinal deficiencies have been the reason of many accidents.

Let us critically analyze various contributory factors for the Bell-430 accident on 2nd Sep 2009.

Distance versus the endurance:-

The helicopter was tasked to fly a distance of 600 KM with an endurance of nearly 3 hrs. with speed of 240 km, could have a ground speed of 220 km, or even less (depending on the prevailing winds) This restricted endurance would have been fine in a clear weather conditions. This would have left very little margin of error on account of variation in track due to weather. Such a situation could have created hypertension among the pilots thus. Lowering the performance level, in rational thinking and decision making. Basically to undertake 600 km flight, in the prevailing and forecasted weather, was an in correct decision.

Route safety heights and its appreciation :-

Calculating the route safety height and airfield safety ht and descending below them under IFR conditions is inviting trouble. We have lost many aircraft/helicopters (even fitted with GPWS) who have ignored this basic principle of flying ‘Do Not Descend Below the Route Safety Height” under IFR, condition. The Belt-430 ignored this and seemed to have hit a hill on a diverted track.

Weather versus the helicopters flying:-

The norms laid down for helicopters flying are well defined and time tested. Basically helicopters are designed for VFR flights. Single engine most stringently. Twin engines not more than 4/8 (four Octa) of clouds/ That mean not more than half the sky should be obscured with clouding. Clouding should be stratus types of clouds. Not cumulus large cumulus build ups and under no circumstances vertical development clouds (Cb clouds). During the year 2009 monsoon had hit the India later. Month of Sept. was experiencing the worst phase of monsoon all over the country and AP is famous for its extra ordinary monsoon fury.

Why was the flight undertaken? :-

All the preflight conditions, that is flight envelop, weather conditions, operational planning indicated a “NOGO”. Pilots who are on deputation to State Govts, or other governmental agencies are their own master of decision making. Supervisions levels are negligible. Pilots trend to show over confidence of their performance levels. They (Pilots) try to come closer to the center of power to derive personnel benefits. (Permanent Placement higher position/allotment of land or houses at highly subsidized rates).

The CM had to attend a wedding of one of his colleagues. The pilot must have been pressurized or over emphasized the urgency of the CM to reach his destination point. By violating all possible safety norms (weather/Flight Envelop/Operational Limitation) pilot laid to rest the CM, other passengers and himself and his colleagues.

Dear aviators do not overreach the ORM (operational Risk Management), do apply and think rationally. We lost a great leader in YSR and our aviation colleagues (It was a human error accident).

Air Marshal Ashok Goel, served the IAF for 40 yrs. He was a transport pilot, and has more than 10000 hrs of flying on 13 types of aircraft. His last appointment in the IAF was Director General Flight Safety and Inspection.

PS :- Recommended to be printed in Aug 10 issue if approved by the Editorial Board.

His Jehad is His Very own

2010-06-17T22:42:00.000-07:00

AIR MARSHAL ASHOK GOEL (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

Radical Islam
VS
The World

Global peace is now threatened by western-educated, middle-class freelance soldiers who have bought into the Al Qaeda way of thinking. Is India immune?

His Jehad is His Very Own

Not a Pak-Afgan-bred radical, the new Islamic warrior could be a regular American guy, swayed by Al Qaeda, but not part of it.

When Faisal Sahzad parked his SUV at the Time Square in New York in the diabolic hope of exploding it, he joined the growing list of ‘normal dudes’ who inexplicably turn radical Islamists, willing to stake their lives or riches for waging Jehad against the world particularly America and its allies. Faisal had everything going for him: an MBA degree, a cushy job which he resigned from just a few months ago and a suburban lifestyle he shared with his wife and two kids. And then the madness, the rush of blood, leaving Americans gasping at the thought of the devastation the bomb could have wreaked had it exploded.
The New Faces of Jehad

Who they are whom they oppose

v Al Qaeda is now more a state of mind than a formidable terror organization. A state of mind shared by those Muslims who believe in violently opposing what they perceive as the injustices of the world.
v Primary directed against the West, particularly the United States. But it is also aimed against those countries seen to be oppressing Muslims-Russia, Israel and India, for example.
v Willing to target Muslim countries aligned to the West or fighting Musllim terror-Saudi Arabia, Egypt, even Pakistan.
v There is a war without boundaries-any country which is frequented by westerners, for instance, is considered a legitimate enough target.

What they seek to achieve

v No longer aims at establishing Islamic states. But wants a just world order, for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.
v Its anti-West agenda has been expanded to include the politics of environment. Osama bin Laden’s last speech accused the West of damaging environment.
v It’s also opposing globalization, portraying it as a ploy of the developed world to exploit underdeveloped nations.
v Primary impulse is to weaken sole superpower. All other changes will ensue on their own.
v Become an umbrella group for other militant groups fighting different governments. Provide moral support and ideological justification for violent action.

How the new recruit is different

v He’s a Muslim living in western societies. Also in non western countries where Muslims nurse grievances.
v Belongs to affluent, educated families, often a product of Western educations institutes.
v Bilingual. English is the preferred language of global jehad.
v Voracious reader. Sources info from Islamic literature and doctrines, and from western philosophers and political figures.
v Not religious. Adapted to western lifestyle, drinks, gambles, even has white partners.
v Gets indoctrinated through the net. Downloads bomb-making manuals. Or, if he can, heads to Pakistan’s badlands or yamen.

The worlds can changes, argues Al Qaeda, only if the West, particularly America, is brought down to its knees. This idea was mooted in the late ‘90s by Osama’s deputy, Ayman al-Zawahiri, who cited the close link between the collapses of the Soviet empire to its defeat in Afghanistan. If one superpower could be defeated, he argued, why not the US?

To fight the US though, Al Qaeda has to first transform itself into a global organization. It did this through the twin attacks on the US embassies in Nairobi and Dar-es0Salaam in 1998, integrating it at once into the global security regime administered by America. With 9/11, the group carved out a space for Islam in the West.

The battle against radical Islam is complicated. With Al Qaeda stressing on ethical issues to justify its acts of violence, many desperate Muslims in the West of elsewhere are likely.

To find their inspiration and redemption in jehad. The West, in turn, is likely to strengthen its already stifling security apparatus at the cost or eroding ideas it is associated with: of freedom of speech, expression and free movement. Curtailment of these rights would be akin to an Al Qaeda win. The West is also expected to intensify the war in terror-and the ensuing bloodshed will only help bolster the Al Qaeda campaign. The best way out for Washington is to resolve the Palestine-Israel issue and cease supporting discredited Muslim regimes.

Opinions

“To get radicalized, one doesn’t have to go to a madrassa or a training camp in the Pak-Afghan badlands. Internet chat room are good enough.”

Abdul Bari Atwan
Editor, Al Quds al Arabia, London

“They (the new radicals) are outliers, who can cause massive damage and get massive response. But they don’t belong to one group or movement.”

Faisal Devji
Author, ‘Landscape of the Jehad’

“The perception of occupation in Iraq, Afganistan, and Kashmir continues to be a catalyst exploited in terror organizations’ rhetoric/ideologies.”

John L. Esposito
Georgetown University, Washington

Adapted form Out Look May 24, 2010

Observations on Shahjad and Terror

This so called new trend of Jehad is really not new. The elite class joining the global terrorism has surfaced even in the mid and the later part of nineties. I am reminded of my visit to Israel in may-June 1997. The very departure to TelAviv from Mumbai can never be forgotten. Reporting time was four hours and the check in area at the airport was surrounded by Israeli security personnel and the sniffer dogs. I was interrogated for nearly 2 hrs as I was a criminal in spite of the fact that I was holding an official passport and was on the invitation of Israeli Aircraft Industries (IAI). The experience was most horrendous.

After reaching TelAviv, the IAI chairman and MD had invited me for a dinner. I mentioned this extra ordinary security measure at the time of my departure from Mumbai to TelAviv. He narrated one incident One Palestinian Youngman educated in UK and settled, was married to a Jewish girl. This girl (wife of Palestinian boy) was flying from London to TelAviv for her first delivery. During security check at London airport a bomb was detected in the suitcase of the Jewish girl. Her husband had planted the Bomb. One can imagine the frame of mind of this Palestinian boy who was ready to kill his wife and the expected child. That was the height of mindset of these educated class of the people even at that time.

ü Even the event of 9/11, the nineteen pilots of different nationalities (All Muslims) had gathered and planned highjacking of four American airliners. Two of them had flown directly into the Twin Towers in New York, and other two had crashed deliberately. Causing biggest catastrophe of this century. All these nineteen pilots were well educated, highly trained and leading a fairly high quality standard life style.

ü There are innumerable cases of elite class of people indulging in such activities, Shahjad son of an Air Vice Marshal, western educated, well settled in life, married ,father of two children, indulging into a terror act should not surprise the world.

ü The US never took a serious note of the terror activity globally, or the cross border terrorism perpetuated by a country like Pakistan and bleeding India day and day out.

ü I am reminded of a visit of US defence team headed by a Mej Gen during Feb 2001 to Defence Services Staff College Wellington (DSSC). Where I was posted as Chief Instructor Air. The US defence team made a presentation on their (US), global engagements. During that time the security environment in Afghanistan was bad and getting worsened. During question hour one of the senior officers of the faculty asked a question “why US is not interfering in Afghanistan”. The head of the US team responded “how US is interested in Afghanistan”.

ü If 9/11 hadn’t happened US would not have declared a Global War on Terror. However, after 9-11 US launched a “global war on terror” by massive aerial bombing of Afghanistan (from 07 Oct. 2001). Nearly 9 years have lapsed with hardly any sign of “global war on terror” getting even contained. If 9/11 hadn’t happened US would have kept aloof of this so called War on Terror. If US had indulged in a serious thought to fight about 20 years back (late eighties), the terrorism wouldn’t have risen so whemently globally and specially so in South Asia.

Now is the time that we have to evolve new strategies globally, regionally, nationally, to contain and manage this greatest menace of Terrorism.

A “zhengyou” (serious & real) relationship with China

2010-06-15T23:19:00.001-07:00

11, Silver Estate,
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

A “zhengyou” (serious & real) relationship with China

During Pratibha Patil’s recent visit to China, both sides celebrated
the Copenhagen spirit and affirmed to take the relationship
beyond bilateral to global cooperation.

At the Asia Hotel in Beijing, Ma Jisheng, an official with the informa¬tion department of the Foreign Ministry, was declaiming on mil¬lennia-old India-China relations. Suddenly he flung aside the prepared text and an¬nounced that he would speak straight from the heart: "Would the media on both sides be please give India and China a chance to develop normal, relations?"

The official's point was simple. Attitudes' hardened when the media sensationalized to issues, and the events of 2009, when bilateral relations reached a precipitous low following media frenzy and scare-mongering, proved as much. "This constant harping on border, visa and other things, is it not like (eating the same food everyday?" Mr. Ma asked plaintively, adding, "I cannot help but think sometimes that China and India would solve their problems if only the media kept quiet a bit."

Yet as the tour- organized to coincide with the landmark 60th anniversary of the establishment of India-China diplomatic re¬lations- progressed, it was evident that even at the highest level of the Chinese lead¬ership there was a degree of candour and responsiveness that took the Indian side by surprise.

It certainly helped that Ms Patil arrived in Beijing at a time when India-China relations were seen to be on the mend after a difficult year characterized by intense mistrust on both sides. The irritants seemed daunting enough on their own: China's angst over the Dalai Lama's visit to Arunachal Pradesh, and the Indian unhappiness at stapled visas, not to mention apprehensions over Chinese-as-sisted construction in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). But aided by irresponsible speculation on an upcoming war, they began to look insurmountable. In July 2009, the editor of an Indian defence magazine proph¬esied that China would attack India by 2012. A month later, a so-called Chinese strategist posted a web article that argued that China with some effort could indeed balkanize India.

The summit revealed the humongous po¬tential of India-China cooperation on in¬ternational platforms. Given the size of either country's population and economy, India and China are intimidating enough individually. Together their might could be staggering. Not surprisingly, Copenhagen became a metaphor for forward movement at the 2010 India-China Beijing talks. Ms Patil and President Hu Jintao agreed that the Asian neighbours were now ready to beyond bilateral engagement to consider cooperation at International groupings and venues, among them G-20, Doha and BRIC (Brazil, Russia, India, Chins).

The enlarged scope of cooperation was brought up again on the last day of talks by Vice-President Xi Jinping, who made several, significant points. First, he declared that In¬dia and China were ripe for a "new start." Second, he reiterated the prospects for glob¬al cooperation between the Asian neigh¬bours. Third, he pointed out that between them China and India boasted a combined population of 2.6 billion. The imagery would overawe anyone: Two fastest growing econo¬mies with close to 40 per cent of the global population acting in tandem.
Inevitably India's growing trade with Chi¬na - China is India's largest trading partner with volumes targeted to reach $ 60 billion this year - figured prominently in the talks as did the fact that it was adversely balanced against India.

As against this, the media mood swing was overly positive on India's aspirations for a United Nations Security Council seat. Ms Patil did seek China's backing for it during her summit meeting with President Hu, and China did broadly indicate its support but the phraseology was far more nuanced than understood by the Indian media which drummed it up as "China backs India on UNSC seat." Indeed, the omission of the "promised" UNSC seat from the Chinese Foreign Ministry statement issued the same day underscored the pitfalls of overinter-preting what Foreign Secretary Nirupama Rao described as "a gradually developing re¬lationship." What official sources did convey later was that on the UNSC seat, "the Chin¬ese were far more positive than they have been so far."

A top member of the Inian official delegation summed up India-China relations in terms of "pengyou" and "zhengyou." "Pen¬gyou" is a superficial friend. "Zhengyou" is a serious, real friend who will frankly admit to problems and work at overcoming them: ''We have a zhengyou relationship with China.

Adopted from “Hindu National Daily”

Observations on Sino indo relationship

 What intrigues China?

 Political asylum to Dalai Lama and fleeing Tibitians in the year 1959.

 Setting up of “Govt. in Exile” of Tibet in India in Dharamshala (HP) with the declared seat of power of Tibet.

 US setting up the security & intelligence agency DGS (Director General of Security) post 1962 to end Chinese hegemony in the area.

 This plan did not succeed in its primary and desired aim. But the US succeeded in establishing their roots to activate anti Chinese intelligence activities from Indian soil.

 All such events made China to adopt “enemies–enemy” Pakistan as their friend and provided them material & diplomatic support in world forum.

 The US never desires a close and friendly Sino-India. As that would dilute US position in the region.

 Are we really to follow old dictums “National Interests only” should decide our global and diplomatic initiative.

These observations are based on a discussion with the Chinese Ambassador to India in the year 2000 at DSSC Wellington. Where I was posted as CI (air) 2000-2001)

Air Crash in Russia on 10 April- A big disaster and lesson for Aviation/Aviators

2010-06-04T22:11:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11 Silver Estate,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel.:0581-2526650
Mobile:9411900090

amashokgoel@gmail.com
sacreatinon2001@yahoo.uk

“AS I Saw It”

Air Crash in Russia on 10 April
A big disaster and lesson for Aviation/Aviators

The Polish-AF-One crashed on 10 April near moscow. This was one of the biggest air disasters of this year. The “Polish Air Force One” was coming with Polish President and many cabinet ministers, top civilian officers, top military commanders for an official ceremony of the victory of 2nd world war.

The weather was bad and deteriorating. Pilot made four approaches and crashed killing all on board. 95 people were killed. Poland was in grief and turmoil nearly all top people were killed in one go.

From aviation point of view there are few serious flaws.

Firstly- A large no of important people should never be carried in a single aircraft. In the IAF strict norms are laid down. And similarly norms are laid down for VIP/VVIP flights and substantiated in the Blue Book for VVIP flights.

Secondly- A pilot making four approaches and insisting on landing is inviting disaster. ATC has also assisted and corroborated the end of several valuable lives. It is a well known fact that after two missed approaches pilots’ performance deteriorates. This is medically substantiated. This happens due to anxiety, fatigue and tension levels rising. Norms exist; a pilot is not to make more than two attempts. ATC is to direct the aircraft to divert.

Thirdly- Black Box analysis through media reports is revealing. 25 minutes before landing the weather had deteriorated. ATC advised captain of Polish Air Force-One weather is not advisable to land. A Russian Air Craft after having made two attempts is diverted to another Airport. In the mean time diplomatic head of protocol Mr. Kazana walked into the cockpit (against all professional ethics of the aviation.) Pilot intimated that very poor weather conditions exist, and suggested to circle around for 30 min and wait, weather would improve the chief of protocol walkout. In the mean time the head of the Polish Air Force also walked into the cockpit”. It is presumed that there was extra ordinary pressure on the pilot to make another attempt and the result was the Poland lost there top leadership in a matter of few minutes

The Lessons Learned

A large no. of important people should never be carried on one aircraft. The norms should be laid down and strictly followed.

International norms suggest that not more than two approaches should be made. ATC should not only play an advisory role, should instruct to divert and ensure the instructions are executed in the interest of flight safety.

The decision making during flight is only the pilot’s decision. It is not repeat not based on rank structure. Nobody regardless of his position or rank should walk into the cockpit to influence or pressurize the pilot. It would only lead to disaster.

Personal Experiences

To substantiate the about I narrate life experiences of flying:

We were on a trip to erstwhile USSR in Jan 1980. We were flying Antonov-12 Aircraft. Our flight was from Moscow to Odessa (A port city on Black Sea) now part of Ukraine. Actual weather forecasted at Odessa was low clouds and poor visibility conditions (500 Mtr cloud base and visibility 750 Mtrs.) It was also forecasted that weather will further deteriorate. Flying time from Mascow to Odessa was 3:30 hours. On arrival the ATC positioned the aircraft for an ILS approach on the main runway. However we came down to MDA (Minimum Descent Altitude) and couldn’t site the runway. We overshot; the ATC again made us try and position for the 2nd approach on the ILS. However due to poor visibility and low cloud base, we could not site the runway. ATC directed the aircraft to divert to “Simperofol”. Heading distance to diversion, flying time and the alternate to the diversion also was communicated by the ATC. Just imagine the relief in the cockpit. We set course to “Simperofol” and safely landed. One week stay, awaiting diplomatic clearances, was most memorable. In my 40 years of aviation with in India never heard such a confidence inspiring instructions from any ATC, whether civil or air force.

Having flown 13 types of aircraft in the IAF and ARC, had experience to fly as young and senior captain. Never there was an occasion when any senior officers (AOC in C, or the CAS) ever walked into the cockpit and pass instructions to influence the judgment or decision making of the captain of the aircraft.

Conclusion

I have always impressed the transport aircraft accident weather military or civil aviation or caused due to human error. When would we learn?

Air Marshal Ashok Goel served the IAF for 40 years and has more than 10,000 hrs of flying on 13 types of aircraft. His observations are all based on his personal experiences. His last appointment in the IAF was Director General Flight Safety and Inspection.

As I Saw It - Kargil recalled

2010-05-31T23:17:00.000-07:00

11, Silver Estate,
AIR MARSHAL ASHOK GOEL (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VMPilibhit Bypass Road,
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

The recent judgment of the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) concerning the happenings of Kargil War sent sensational messages to the general public, and armed forces personnel in particular. Compliments to Brig Devender Singh who fought this battle for 10 years to bring the facts of that time to limelite.
I have written in great detail on Kargil many years back under the title:
“As I Saw it”
Kargil
Adventure for Pak
Blunder for India
Victory for those Who Perished

Some relevant para’s are reproduced

Kargil -99 caused the biggest flutter in the Indian subcontinent. This brought the two neighbors close to the nuclear holocaust inspite of the fact that we were far away from a full fledged declared war of the yester years (1965-1971).

Much has been written about the historical and military perspective of the Kashmir issue since independence. So I shall confine my self to Kargil as “I Saw it”, from the closest quarter.

The biggest players of this event were:-
(a) The Govt. the highest echelon of the Political Leadership.
(b) The top rug of the military leadership – The Army Chief, GOC-in-C Northern Command,15 Corps Cdr , and the 3 Div Cdr.
(c) The intelligence agencies primarily the IB & RAW.
(d) The role of Air Power.
(e) And the role played by the dedicated and committed soldiers and the junior level leaders. Who saved the situation of the fiasco created by our senior (Political & Military) leaders?

It is a well known fact that Srinagar Leh axis runs closest to the LOC in Dras –Kargil Sector. Not only that the terrain on the Indian side is hostile to defend, where as the terrain on Pakistan side is favorable to launch an offensive. Strategically Pakistan always intended to block/ disrupt or permanently dislocate the “Srinagar Leh Highway” in Dras Kargil Sector.

After being commissioned in the year 1963 first posting was to Jammu in No. 43 Sqn. (A Dakota operational Sqn). The main task was to operate to Kargil and Thoise to provide logistic support to the troops deployed in forward areas. I was fortunate to be deputed to be the base Cdr of AF clement at Kargil from Feb to May 1964, working along with 121 (Ind) infantry brigade was all education. Brig Cdr Brig Chopra (an armd corps officer) always used to mention that Dras-Kargil Sector is the most sensitive sector because of its close proximity to the LOC and terrain factors. Being a transport pilot interaction with the Army remained a part of service life. I was once again with the Army’s most prestigious Institutions College of Combat “MHOW” (Now renamed Army War College). This was during 1980-81 to undergo the “Higher Command Course”. Fortunately Gen Sunderjee was the commandant. Who always believed in real time situations to be part of “sand model discussion”. Dras-Kargil sector was one such situation discussed during the course Not only that he had planned a similar offensive during 1987-88 during his tenure as the Army Chief. I was a privy to that plan along with Gen BC Nanda Army Cdr Northern Command, Air Marshal MM Singh AOC-in-C WAC and some other officers. The plan was conceived, articulated discussed at 15 corps HQ for weeks. The same was presented at Army HQ, however was not found feasible due to nearly whole of the IAF being deployed for the air defence. One has to visualize how senior commanders of the Army, could remain so insensitive to this sensitivity of Dras-Kargil Sector.

After Oct 1998 it was only on 07 May 1999 that DGMI from Army HQ had called up Billi Bedi (Director ARC) to provide Air Reccece Mission in Dras-Kargil sector. When the info was filtered down to the air operation it was surprising and astonishing to decipher that the area to be covered was our own territory. Immediately mission was planned and launched the next day. However we did not succeed due to inclement weather. First six days that is upto 13 May 99 inclement weather did not allow the success of our missions. By, this time ground situation was becoming explosive and the media was very active in projecting the scenario as a war like situation. Most of the civilian pilots were reluctant to fly in the war like zone. Since I was fully qualified and operational on Gulf Stream type of aircraft fitted with MCRS ( Multi Camera Reconnaissance System), first three successful missions were flown by me personally. The PR mission flown on 18 May indicated 6 MI-17 helicopter of Pak Army parked in Mushok Valley area of our territory. These photographs were shown to the honourable RM he was aghast. This could not have happened with few weeks preparation this plan & preparation must have taken months of planning and preparation.

Some of the observations of Subramaniam Committee are relevant:-

“However, it acknowledges that the Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB) did convey certain inputs on activities in areas under Gilgit-based FCNA (Force Commander Northern Areas) of Pakistan to the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the Cabinet Secretary, the Home Secretary and the Director-General Military Operations (DGMO).

There is a general lack of awareness of the critical importance of and the need for assessed intelligence at all levels. JIC reports do not receive the attention they deserve at the political and higher bureaucratic levels. Of the 45 intelligence inputs generated between May 1998 and April 1999, only 25 percent went through the JIC.

A Kargil-type situation could perhaps have been avoided had the Indian Army followed a policy of Siachenisation to plug unheld gaps along the 168 km stretch from Kaobal Gali to Chorbat La- Such a dispersal of forces to hold uninhabited territory of no strategic value would have dissipated considerable military strength and effort and would not have at all been cost effective. The alternative should be a credible declaratory policy of swiftly punishing wanton and willful violation of the sanctity of the LOC."

There is much evidence available to suggest the agencies concerned with intelligence gathering, RAW and IB, had in fact provided their political masters and military commanders with ample warning about Pakistani intentions and activities. RAW went as far as telling the government that the Pakistanis were getting ready to launch a major operation in Kargil.

Lack of strategic intelligence could have been made up by the observation on the ground through scouts and patrol’s. Let us not forget that two shepherds observed the Pakistanis first and reported their presence to the forces. They had one pair of binoculars between them. Purposeful and planned patrolling would certainly have revealed the presence of 1500/2000 troops spread over an area of about 1400 square kilometers even if their ingress was not contemporaneously detected much earlier. The aggression across the LOC in Kargil clearly indicated a well planned military operation with a view to capture territory across the LOC, which would provide a springboard for further offensive operation inside Indian Kashmir. An operation of this magnitude could only be planned at the highest level in Pakistan with complete approval of the government.

We have to accept that our political leaders did not show enough foresight, they neglected, “National Interest” (of security) to gain political advantage. At the same time senior military leadership cannot escape the responsibilities of dereliction of duty in safe guarding the “National Frontiers”. Those who should have been censured were awarded and decorated. We have to come out of that shell of a “holy cow” attitude.

India’s decision to limit the scope of operations in Kargil by not crossing the LOC despite suffering greater losses in the process was calculated not to enlarge the conflict or provide an excuse to Pakistan to seek UN intervention. The Army and the Air Force took this restriction in its stride and forged ahead. We saved the situation because of our highly professional, committed troops, junior leaders (JCO’S) and officers who were fighting in the field. The commitment and sacrifice of those who perished is commendable and “Nation Salutes” them.

Undoubtedly the damaged caused not only to Brig Devender Singh and some others can not be undone. If the observations and assessments of people like Brig Devender Singh and others had been taken into account at the right time may be we wouldn’t have lost 527 dedicated soldiers and officers. But for the folly of our Sr Commanders. I reiterate this point the generals who should have been sacked were awarded highest of gallantry awards, can we undo all that.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.) served the Indian Air Force for 40 years. He has more than 10,000 hours of flying on 13 types of aircrafts. He has operated at airfields, like Dumduma, (6000 feet length, Thoise (when airfield was less than 6000 feet) and many so called difficult air fields. The aircraft operated were Boeing 707, IL76 and Gulf Stream. His last appointment in IAF was Director General Flight Safety and Inspection, IAF.

Air Marshal was on deputation the RAW. He was operational head of the Air Wing of the ARC during the year Feb1997 till 31 December 99. During the period of Kargil War, Air Marshal visited Sri Nagar, Dras, Kargil, Mashkahvalley, Leh, and Thoise extensively. He also flew Intelligence Mission many a times during the Kargil War. All observation are based as first hand account.

You can visit his blooger firstly - open the www.google.com and than type Air Marshal Ashok Goel and find my blooger

Naxalism-Maoist and the Massacre at Dantewada

2010-05-28T01:17:00.001-07:00

AIR MARSHAL ASHOK GOEL (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM 11, Silver Estate,
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

Naxalism-Maoist and the Massacre at Dantewada

Naxalism erupted in the year 1967 in a village called Naxalbari. However, the same was nearly brought under control because of wisdom of the political class, duly supported by the bureaucracy and the security forces. The same further reemerged as Maoist in the eighties and remained dormant till beginning of nineties.

However declining standards of polity, infested with criminal elements casteism, communalism and corruption political masters lost site of development & governance, (to remain on power), kept in the background. Undesirable, unlawful, elements gathered momentum and this lead to further isolation deprivation of the people of these areas.

Today the situation has reached that in 12 states more than 160 districts are under the influence of Maoism. The prime minister of the country in 2007 boldly declared that the Maoism is the biggest internal security threat to India. With this background we launched a very big antimaoist program in the state of Chattisgarh as Operation Green Hunt. And before even the operation could have been anywhere near its real launch 76 CRPF personnel were massacred on the early hours of 6 April 2010

Why did that happen?

Firstly CRPF as a force was created and has been employed for crowd control, mob control during large scale agitation against unarmed people.

Secondly CRPF is highly stressed in their deployment and their basic comfort zones are very low.

Thirdly the quality of leadership is poor for fighting insurgency environment. The leadership is to be leading from the front i.e. should be pulling the force and not pushing.

Fourthly lack of coordination with the state police and the intelligence agencies was totality in adequate.

Fifthly even the political leadership has been lacking in there stewardship, statesman like qualities and connectivity with the people. It was only India Gandhi the prime minister who ever visited the tribal areas in early eighties. Since then no political leader worth the name has made even an effort of that kind.

Sixthly very hard hitting and bold statements by the people in position become retaliatory by such an organization as Maoist.

Seventhly there appears to be mismatch between the state government and the central government. The state government has snubbed the recommendation of the Ram Mohan Committee.

Eighthly the recent revelation of police personnel supplying arms to Maoist is very alarming. The possibility of ex-serviceman joining the rank and file of Maoist can not be ruled out. The reason they remain (ex-serviceman) isolated deprived and neglected.

What do we do?

Firstly it has to be a stick and carrot policy to be adopted.

Secondly lines of communication with the adversaries should be opened and maintained.

Thirdly fast & committed development process should be initiated.

Fourthly we should infiltrate into the core groups of the Maoist to slowly weaken them. Superior human intelligence force to be developed.

Fifthly at the same time we should train some paramilitary forces Bn like (CRPF, BSF, and SSB) as Special Operation Groups. Which has to be on the lines of commando units of the Indian Army, RR Bn (deployed in J&K) Assam Rifles (in the North East).

Naxalism and Maoism has been result of decades of perpetuated social order in which the inherent structural violence subjugates exploits, displaces tortures and destroys the poor and the weak to benefit the rich and the powerful. It’s from this indictment of the state that the Maoist combatants claim legitimacy for their armed struggle for the over throw of such a state. Naxalism is a political challenge that is in the hearts and mind of the people. Ultimately it is not superior violence but the superior politics that will win the day for one of the adversaries.

The problem is serious and grave but certainly not insurmountable the political leadership has to rise above low quality standard to bring up the bureaucracy and the security forces to very high level of leadership.

IX-812 22nd May 2010 and the disaster

2010-05-28T01:16:00.001-07:00

AIR MARSHAL ASHOK GOEL (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM, Silver Estate,Pilibhit Bypass Road,
P.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

IX-812 22nd May 2010 and the disaster

The astrologer fraternity has already declared that this major disaster was due to numerological combination of the many twos. We may discount this theory in totality and come to the real professional assessment.

Media reports clearly indicate that the preliminary factors of aviation i.e. is weather, aircraft status, ground based NAV & landing aids and all other support elements like ATC, runway, were all in a high state of serviceability and readiness.

Other factors which are for critical assessment:

1. Aircrew Status

Whether they were medically fit and breath analyzer test had been done before each of the flight. Presumably the same crew has departed from Manglore at 8:00 Pm (IST). In that case they could be counted on duty from 5:00 PM onwards. Their arrival was between 6 and 6:30AM in the morning hours. It is a matter of judgment the crew flying the whole night would have crossed FDTL than laid down. It may be appreciated the flight between 4 o’ Clock morning till 6 in the morning is the most critical time of rest. It is during this hour that an individual feels most sleepy, sloppy, and sluggish. Many accidents have been caused during such early hours. Though FDTL (flight duty time limitations) are laid down but they seem to be not taken in to consideration all night operation.
2. Airfield Status

Manglore is just about 4 years old airfield with very little undershoot and stop ways, and is termed as tabletop airfield. There are many airfields in India (Lengpui, Dumduma, Portblair, Thoise, Leh Kargil, Carnicobar) which pose a greater challenge to the pilots for safe operations. These airfields are not unsafe, but operating agencies are to define categorically the types of aircraft to operate experience level of aircrew, and training patterns to qualify to operate at such airfields (for captains and Co-pilots both). These airfields are not unsafe but margin of error is negligible. A constant reminder and preflight briefing is the hallmark, and that is the responsibility of the operating agency.

3. DGCA Circular AIC Sl. No. 9 of 2007 dated 6 December 2007

This circular is professionally unsound, germinates complacency and finally accident prone. Though circular runs in 16 paragraph I quote the opening paragraph and para 12

Opening Para

“The pilot in Command who is solely vested with the responsibility of the safety of aircraft and passengers therein, may, authorize a Co-pilot of his flight to effect landing and take-off and route flying, under his direct supervision in accordance with the following conditions.

Para 12

The Pilot-in Command shall ensure that during approach to land for a supervised landing, the aircraft is established on the correct approach profile by 1000 feet above the aerodrome elevation. He shall also ensure that the aircraft is stabilized during approach at the correct approach speed and aligned with the runway centerline and maintain a rate of descant within the specified limits for the type of aircraft and approach being made”.

Though the DGCA seems to have taken all precautions to ensure the safety in their wisdom, but it does not take care of the CRM, “transcockpit, gradient” and the attitude and behavioural patterns of different pilots.

If Co-pilots are expected to be trained to land the aircraft from right-hand seat, this training should be on simulater and in pure training sorties. We can’t play around risking the lives of passengers by training copilots for landing from RHS, whatever the reason may be. (Landing an aircraft from RHS poses greater challenge. Authorized to QFI’S or specially trained RHS qualified pilots in the IAF.)

If we take into consideration all the factors it is apparent the aircraft has made highly overshooting approach and touched down passed midway point of the runway, and the pilots’ assessment to decide the go round after touch down has played the havoc.

A Boeing 737 class of aircraft requires 4000-4500 feet of landing run (i.e. from touch down to complete stop) if flown at the correct approach speed. This air craft has air brakes, engine reverse, automatic breaking system (where the degree of breaking 40% to 80% can be adjusted) in addition the emergency brakes.

The above factor have been analyzed as preliminary causes of the accident, the analyses of CVR and FDR can reconstruct the flight if total transparency is observed.

We need to review the:
(a) Operating Agencies Training System
(b) Continuation and Refresher Training program
(c) and DGCA Circular
Transport aircraft accidents whether military aviation or commercial sector, 90% are due to human error (could call as pilot error accident). This is based on the statistical study on transport air craft accidents of the IAF and the study by Boeing Corporation (for commercial aviation) over a period of 30 years all over the world. Both reflect the same.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.) served the Indian Air Force for 40 years. He has more than 10,000 hours of flying on 13 types of aircrafts. He has operated at airfields, like Dumduma, (6000 feet length, Thoise (when airfield was less than 6000 feet) and many so called difficult air fields. The aircraft operated were Boeing 707, IL76 and Gulf Stream. His last appointment in IAF was Director General Flight Safety and Inspection, IAF.

Congress Strategy for 2012 UP

2010-05-24T22:20:00.002-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

August 11, 2009

Congress Strategy for 2012 UP

You were in Lucknow on 06 August 2009 to attend the coordination meeting to discuss and plan out the party’s strategy in UP. (for 2012 assembly election). I was also asked to be present, however technicalities did not allow even the entry in the UPCC headquarter area.

I have assumed the present responsibility about a year ago. Soul aim being to rejuvenate and strengthen the Congress in the state. With absolute assurances to the leaders to whom I had met (Shri Digvijai Singh, and Dr. Rita Bahuguna Joshi) prior to the appointment and even later that I am not looking for any gains of any kind as an individual.

Recently concluded parliamentary elections rightly proved and established the fact that our leaders at the “Apex level” (i.e. Smt. Sonia Gandhi, Dr. Manmohan Singh, and you) projected the rarest of the rare qualities not heard of in the political arena i.e. Honesty, Modesty, Humility and Connectivity. When I talk of Honesty that is not only in financial terms, but honesty of purpose, honesty of commitment, honesty of accomplishment, honesty of deliverance. That made all the differences.

It is with this message we have to evolve over strategy not only in UP may be all over India. Other salient points are:

Why only Congress? dkaxzsl gh D;ksa \& 62 Years of independence 50 years of congress rule at the centre we have enough to say on four major counts (“Governance-lq”kklu Development-çxfr, Internal Security- vkUrfjd lqj{kk and National Defence- ns”k dh j{kk½
2- 12 years of Non Congress Govt. Only negated the achievements of the Congress Govt. or failed on their own.

…..2

…..2…..
3- Don’t allow the politics of venom and personal attacks.
4- Defeat the politics of hatred- We lost three great national leaders Mahatma Gandhi, Smt Indira Gandhi, Shri Rajiv Gandhi, only due to politics of hatred.
5- Condemn Communal Forces- Communalism spreads venom and hatred in the society is divisive in nature. Ruptures the social fabric of the country. All this leads to fundamentalism, fundamentalism leads to communal violence and disturbances. And the final out come is terrorism. ¼lkeaiznkf;drk] ?kz.kk vkSj vyxkookn c<+krk gSA blls lekt esa dV~Vjokfnrk c<+rhA dV~Vjckfnrk ls mxzokfnrk c<+rh gSA vkSj ;g tUe nsrh gSa] vkradokn dksA
6- Fight the Regional Parties on their ground-They are largely dependent on a few individuals and their families. They have limited organizational and policy resources. They have no manifestoes or agenda to offer. They are like cancer for the political scenario. They have only one agenda to secure large no. of seats in parliamentary election and so that they can indulge in “Saudebazi” ^^ ¼lkSnsckth**½ in forming the govt., due to compulsions of a coalition politics. And then demand lucrative ministries, so that they can fill up their coffers.
7- Focus on Youth- India’s median age is just 25 years. There were 43 million registered first time voters in 2009 general election. By some estimates there will be 100 million possible first time voters in each of the next five elections. The percentage voting of last parliamentary election does not indicate a large participation of this segment. We have to evolve strategy to attract, this young crowd towards the congress.
8- The Indian politics is transiting from identity based politicization to result based governance. This shift may well lead to less fragmented and relatively stable bipolar political systems.

We have to move ahead with a +ve note at all lines. We should aim 210 seats in UP in 2012 and not only 80.

Shri Rahul Gandhi
General Secretary, AICC

Copy to:
Shri Digvijai Singh, General Secretary, AICC
Smt. Rita Bahuguna Joshi, President, UPCC
Shri Moti Lal Vora, Treasurer, AICC

Moti Lal Vohra : 33 --------------
Digvijai Singh
Rita Bahuguna
055-2239825/Fax UPCC
0522-2237581

Credentials of “Mazboot Neta”.

2010-05-24T22:20:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com
Credentials of “Mazboot Neta”.

1. He is 82 Years of age.
2. He has been in politics for more than 5 decades.
3. He is a refugee from Pakistan migrated in 1947.
4. However he became an Indian citizen only in 1954.
5. He has been a member of RSS since his child hood
6. He was president of BJP twice.
7. He is one of those senior leaders who visited Pak.
8. During his visit to Pak he made some favorable remarks on Jinnah (A secular leader) to earn the goodwill of Indians Muslims and to present himself as a secular leader of Communal and fundamentalist party i.e the BJP.
9. This bounced back on him, and the custodians of Hindu Raj the RSS bosses were annoyed with him for his utterances in Pakistan.
10. He retracted his statements on Pak and was forced to shed the BJP president ship.
11. To shadow his weakness and take shelter he writes his biography with too many contradictions.
12. During his tenure a HM and DPM the internal security scenario showed was at its worst
(a) Attack on Parliament 13 Dec 01. How did two loads of Ambassador Cars enter the high security zone of Parliament, was any body made accountable and punished?
(b) Attack on Aksherdham in Gujrat and on Raghnath temple in J&K are other examples.
(c) Kargil happened due to overwhelming exuberance of the NDA Govt for Feb 99 Bus Yatra. To Lahore
(d) 24 Dec 99 –IC -814 is hijacked , on ground at Amritser for 45 Minutes , / half a dozen ways to incapacitate the aircraft on ground at Amtritsher indecisiveness of the Govt resulted in IC -814 taking off from Amritser . Most shameful event.
13. As a matter of bargain (subsequent to the poor design making) three most dreaded terrorist longing in our Jails. (Azher Masood / Omer Sharief / Zorawar) for more than 5 years are released and escorted by then FM on 31 Dec 99 to Kandhar.
14. OP Parakram (subsequent to Parliament attack on 13 Dec 2001) all three wings of armed force were put on high alert Dec end 2001. The complete Western border was concentrated and futified. All combat elements from the EAC / CAC were moved to the western front. They all remained on high alert for eleven months. It was difficult to explain to the combat elements after few weeks why and for how long.

These are reflections of the “Mazboot Neta and Nirnayak Sarkar” for you to Judge.

Compiled By Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)

IPL T-20 World Cup and India

2010-05-24T22:19:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

IPL T-20 World Cup and India

Recently concluded T-2- world cup raised many questions to the dismal performance of India.

We have to find the right answers to many questions.

ü Media hype from the very beginning, as India is already a winner (of T-20 World Cup) be ready to welcome them as the T-20 World Cup Champion.

ü There were total of 12 teams eight of them frontline world class teams, when any of them could be a winner and even then only four qualified for the semifinals.

ü Top teams like South Africa & Windies also got washed out of the semifinal race.

ü Indians poor performance has been greatly attributed to IPL, just because Lalit Modi has become a discredited performer during last thirty days, don’t blame the IPL.

ü If we look at the performance of the cricketers of other countries who were part of IPL, they have performed the best.

ü Why should our media hype the event, to such an extent that if our cricket team does not return as champion, we are ready to thrash them/stone them or the over enthusiast are ready to cause them physical harm.
ü Game is game, winning or loosing are the two sides of it as the “Life & Death”. Please accept it.

Do analyise the reasons:-

(a) Was the selection correct?
(b) Was the schedule too tight?
(c) Was the desired discipline and decorum maintained?
(d) Are the cricketing conditions so different from India? Specially in a Coastal Country?
(e) Are our players not able to adjust to “Poce & Bounce”?

ü Dear Media (specially the electronic Media), India under Dhoni has achieved most remarkable standards in Cricket. No. 1 in Test Cricket, No. 2 in One Day International. T-20 Format is very different and unpredictable don’t discredit the captain and players to an extent that they become the most envious members in the eyes of the fan club.

“Don’t Kill the Cricket Also”

2010-05-24T22:18:00.002-07:00

11, Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
AIR MARSHAL ASHOK GOEL (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VMP.O. Rohilkhand University,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel. 0581-2526650
Mob.: 9999-722-636
9411-900-090

amashokgoel@gamil.com
sacreation_2001@yahoo.co.in

“Don’t Kill the Cricket Also”

With a population of nearly 1.20 billion (120 crores), India can barely make any impact in International Sports arena. It has been only in cricket that India has earned some international fame professionally and performance wise. Even on management front BCCI has earned name and fame as one of the best professionally managed sports bodies internationally.

The origins of IPL in the year 2008, against all expectations become a great success story. A brain child of Lalit Modi, who has ample and, elaborate experience of working in corporate world where he achieved only success. IPL became a every home story, It brought business, foreign capital, employment to the people. And the most a great entertainment.

The greatest service IPL did was, this activity germinated cricket to those who could how never imagined being at International levels. We in India could hardly pickup seamers/ spinners/batsman for our tests/ and ODI. Today we have dozens of seamers/spinners/batsman with a wide choice. A large no of small city youngsters have reached International fame and made a mark in Indian cricket. Our players like R P Singh / Praveen Kumar/ Pragyan Ojha / Ravindra Jadeja / Pathan brothers are rubbing shoulder with Brettlee/ Adam Gilchrist/ Symonds /Sangakara/Jaya Wardhan/Bonds and many others. The standards of game in every discipline have nearly touched the ultimate heights i.e. batting/fielding/bowling.

Unfortunately some of the events during the 3rd IPL have brought the IPL to disrepute. Every possible politician is giving sermon / “close the IPL give this to a Govt. body” etc. etc. Every politician wants to head the sports bodies. Be that at state level or National level. Every sports body at sate or national levels is headed and dominated by a politician. And politicians those who have not been able to make a mark are making maximum noise. It was disturbing and horrifying to see Lalu and Mulyam in the Lok Sahba giving sermons to the govt., on the future of IPL. Lalu’s biggest Crib was that his own son could not make the grade for any IPL team. Hope he knows that Sunil Govaskar’s son Rohan Govaskar could not make it to national side even what to say of IPL. Dear Lalu jee the only sports body which has been managed professionally independently and with fairness is BCCI, with your efforts don’t try to kill the Cricket in India.

When it comes to malpractices and corruption Lalu ji don’t forget “Chara Ghotala” and Mulayam jee don’t forget the defence deals when you were the RM, (SU 30 deal specially) Enough heat has been generated on IPL let the Law take its own course “but don’t kill the cricket”.

“Citizens and Nation Building”

2010-05-24T22:18:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

“Citizens and Nation Building”

More than sixty years of independence is a long period in a Nation’s life. We have made long strides and made significant achievements, specially having established Democratic system of Governance. This gave us total freedom to think, reach and make our own choices of choosing our way of life. However, when we look at our social and economic development, we find ourselves much lacking in ensuring its even distribution to our people. Where have we failed?

Human resource development or quality of our human resource has to keep pace with our infrastructure development only then we can see and appreciate an overall development. It has been emphasized over and over again that an increase in any physical capital formation by itself cannot ensure rapid economic growth unless it is supplemented by an increase in Human capital formation.

Our objective is:-

To produce good human beings
To produce good professionals
To produce good citizens

However we are failing to produce good citizens.
Two important facets are discipline and cleanliness.
Manifestation of discipline has to be in every facet of life i.e.

Community
Society
Road
Family
Social

Standard of Cleanliness
Places of public interest
Should not be only a show piece
Middle class towns
Tourist places

Wars and conflict, it is widely thought, are the biggest dealers in human death around the world. The ongoing conflict in Kashmir has, over the last quarter century or more, claimed more than 1, 00,000 lives. But how does that figure compare with death due to other causes. Take road fatalities, in 2008 alone, as many as 140,000 were killed in accidents on Indian roads. Another 550,000 were seriously wounded. More people, in other words, are killed and injured on the Indian roads in a single year than all the wars put together since Independence. India suffers an economic loss Rs. 55,000 crore per year due to road crashes which is almost equal to the cost of building the entire Golden Quadrilateral.

We talked about the major problems.
What is the remedy?

Human Resource Development.

Quality of human resource to match the infrastructure development.

Every Independence Day, we proudly enumerate, and rightly so, our achievements. There is no doubt that our achievements in every area of development be it agriculture, space, atomic energy, electronics, information technology or pharmaceuticals have been remarkable. India today is the fourth economic power in the world. And certainly, better times lie ahead.

Having said that, it must be acknowledged that India is a very complacent country, whatever we have achieved has been not entirely because of the system but in spite of it. This, however, does not diminish the record of our achievements in any sense. Even after 62 years of Independence, roughly 50 percent of the population, above the age of 35, has no formal schooling; 25 percent has incomplete education. Our literacy rate in 65 percent which includes even those who have learnt only to sign their names. Out potential and capability can achieve much more than what we have done so far.

Amongst the 370 and odd universities hardly 30, in any discipline, can be counted as having respectable standards. Yet we have witnessed the miracle of India’s developments and achievements for which we should be proud. Out leaders talk of Japan but they refuse to follow its example. Japan has no resources of any kind at all. Its resource is only one and that is human capital.

I know of nothing so helpful for the timid, those who lack faith in themselves, as the habit of constantly affirming their own importance, their own power, their own divinity. When a man once gets a glimpse of his own capability, he will never be content to wallow in the mud and mire of things; nor will be doubt his own kingship.

There are many persons who are always looking to government, to reform societies, to improved educational institutions, to working- men’s or other associations, to anything and everything but their own hands and brains, to better their condition and make their life- journey easy. But even the best institutions can give a man no active help. Laws, wisely administered, will secure to men the fruits of their industry; but no laws which the will of man can devise can make the idle industrious, the thriftless provident, or the drunken sober. Nine-tenths of the great social evils which our reformers denounce are but the outgrowth of individual life, and no legislation can extirpate them, unless the axe is also laid at their root.

The art of being yourself at your best is the art of unfolding your personality into the man you want to be. A good place to begin is by having faith in yourself”, wrote Emerson, “every heart vibrates to that iron string.” We are a proud “Nations” of 1.2 billion (120 crore) and nearly 65% are below the age of 35 years. We have the power to change the destiny of the country. Appeal to youth.

Take time to live: it is the secret of Success.
Take time to think: it is the source of Power.
Take time play: it is the secret of Youth.
Take time to read: it is the foundation of Knowledge.
Take time for friendship: it is the source of Happiness.
Take time to dream: it hitches the soul to the Stars.
Take time for laugh: it helps to life life’s Worries.
Take time for God: it is life’s only lasting Investment.
Take time to meditate- it is the lifting of your Heart.
Take time to pray- it is the union of your mind with God.
Take time to love- it is the privilege of the good.
Take time to work- it is the price of success.

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam former president of India articulated A vision of India (while addressing Indian Science congress in April 2005. In a nutshell.

“A developed India in 2020 should be a nation where the divide urban-rural has reduced a thin line: A nation where education is not denied to any meritorious candidate due to societal or economic discrimination. And finally, a nation that is one of the best places to line in and brings smiles to billion plus people” A youthful nation has a challenge and only enlightened “Peoples Power” can make the dream come true.

Secrets of RAW

2010-05-24T22:17:00.001-07:00

Secrets of RAW By Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

This is a commentary on a recently released book by a former officer in India’s external spying agency. There have been views and counter-views and occasionally, some of RAW operatives have spoken out of hand. Strangely, one RAW officer, posted in a Gulf mission, tried to denigrate his successor by alleging that he was using the diplomatic bag to smuggle gold.

Nonetheless, there has been some serious debate on whether the government should have released the tapes of conversation between Gen Musharaf and his Chief of Army Staff on the occupation of Kargil heights. Of course, Pakistan lied and was nailed by the conversation. But still, one the Indian government let it be known that its agencies could monitor the highest level of conversation between the Pakistani military brass, the source dried up.

Needless to say that it was an invaluable source.

Maj Gen VK Singh’s recent book has sent quite a flutter in the intelligence fraternity in particular and has given the media another masala subject to ponder and deliberate upon.

I also happened to serve an outfit of RAW, the Aviation Research Center (ARC), as the Operations Manager for three years from Feb 97 to 31 Dec. 99.

My predecessor had called me up and advised me not to accept this deputation, as he had felt most unhappy 9during his two years tenure) mostly due to administrative arrangements and some what lopsided hierarchy. Since I had been on the advisory panel of the ARC during the late 1980s to establish the new inductions. I was quite familiar with the working environment. I accepted the deputation as directed by the Air Hq and joined the outfit during the first week of Feb 1997. Of course, the was against the advice of my predecessor.

A fleet of more than 30 aircraft (fixed & rotary using), half a dozen air bases and about 1500 personnel spread out at the various places, I set the targets for myself: high serviceability, fully operational aircrews, high standards of maintenance and fulfillment of operational tasks.

Overall objective” 100 per cent mission accomplishment. And I can say that this was achieved within the first 3 to 6 months.

All I can the say is that the organization provided an open platform, to use one’s managerial skills, administrative acumen, and professional approach to achieve the organizational objectives. No such directives were given by my superiors. I had set by goals, I was responsible for my actions and I also set my objectives to ensure my accountability.

The organization, up to the highest level, provided support to achieve all these institutional objectives. That is all an operative can ask for in an intelligence outfit.

I served with three RAW chiefs- Mitra, Arvind Dave and AS Dullat, My immediate bosses were Mahajan and Billy Bedi , each of them an officer of impeccable character, excellent as human being and through professional.

Having gone through Maj Gen VK Sing’s book’s 12 chapter, I did not feel any chilling feeling. The first three chapters are dedicated to his years with the Indian Army, the next two on very mundane issues of how the offices are located and to whom you report, and how many flower pots at the entrance of an office etc.

One has to understand that in an organization like RAW – or for the matter in any intelligence organization-people have to work on the need-to-know basis.

Having an office on the first, second, or third floor does not matter and certainly did not affect the functioning of the organization. People were available to the senior executives for interaction of issuance of any directions.

Whether there are name plated or not outside the offices of various executives or personnel, id decided by the organization itself as part of its cultural on how to transact its business. People can be at different places;

What matters is that the required connectivity should be there. Even the Army and Navy officers are widely dispersed in South Block, Send Bhawan, and hutments and even farther.

Maj Gen VK Singh has talked about signal intelligence in three chapters. May be for an Army formation for its operational task, the signal Regiments plays a role which a commander cannot relegate elsewhere. That is a role peculiar to the Army.

But for the conduct of external intelligence, there are may sources, humint, personal contacts, publications, satellites, and other sources of technical intelligence. As regards the interception of two generals being monitored and its tapes being handed over to Nawaz Sharif, RAW couldn’t have this on its own.

This was deliberate decision at the highest political level. May be the dividends in terms of political and diplomatic gains were considered higher, and hence the assessment. Judgments are relevant to the time they are taken at.

It should be well understood that intelligence organizations work at the behest of their political masters. It would be appropriate to quote an incident here.

During Oct 1998, the Prime Minister’s Officer (PMO) advised RAW and ARC to go slow on surveillance of Pakistani activities to help ease the tension between the two countries, and build a friendly atmosphere. The focus was on Indian Prime Minister AB Vajpayee’s Bus Yatra (journey) to Lahore.

The Pakistani military establishment, particularly the Inter services Intelligence (ISI) has not shown any such gesture. But despite that, New Delhi wanted to show a sense of goodwill. It was conveyed from the highest quarters that peace is important for both the countries, and sooner or later, Islamabad should evolve a sense in its own interest that peace with India would mean economic prosperity with its own people.

Only when there were reports of Pakistani incursions in the Kargil heights that the ARC was tasked to check if the Pakistanis had indeed crossed the Line of Control to the Indian side and violated the border agreement.

They had.

We saw six Pakistani Mi 17 helicopters 10-12 km inside of the Indian side of LoC, mules and camps, in Mushkoh Valley, and Kargil and Dras sectors. Their pictures were immediately given to the then Defence Minister. George Fernandes, and the Chief of Staff of the Indian Army. In fact Fernandes expressed shock that Pakistani government talked of peace on the one hand and sent its troops to across the LoC on the other. What lies and double-speak, he had commented, and asked the Army to immediately address the intrusion.

And we know the consequences. The Pakistanis initially denied-lies being a part of their state culture always-and later tried to rationalize it when caught.

There are only two chapters, 11 and 12, where Maj Gen V.K. Singh has expressed serous apprehension of the organizational functioning.

May be he was in an era where a particular set of people could not enforce and continue with the organizational cultural. A certain decline seemed to have set in and that is why Tharakkan, an outsider, was brought in to head the organization.

There was a time when the Intelligence Bureau Chief and later, the RAW Chief, could meet the Prime Minister at any time. The hearsay is that Mallick and Kao used to brief the prime Minister every morning. They did not need an appointment.

When Morarji Desai succeeded India Gandhi in 1977 after the Emergency, he did try to distance the RAW chief from himself, who was the legendary RN Kao, and asked him to go to the Cabinet Secretary first.

03 RAW Chiefs IO served with also enjoyed a fairly decent equation with the higher political leadership.

To quote an incident, the Army and Naval Chiefs had complained to the Defence Minister about inadequate and ineffective functioning Raw and its other outfits. A briefing cum presentation was planned in the Minister’s office in April 1998.

This was attended by the Minister, George Fernandez, as well as the then Defence Secretary. RAW was represented by the RAW Chief, three addl/spl secretaries, Billy and myself. The Minister and the Defence Seretaries were more than satisfied.

The inadequacies in fact were identified on the part of the Army and Naval Headquarters; there was no proper dissemination of the information given to them.

Even during the Kargil operations, despite the clear picture of Pakistani helicopters well inside the Indian side of LoC, some Indian generals in the northern sector kept on insisting that there were no Pakistani troops inside India but only 60 to 80 infiltrators. The Pakistan President would have been the happiest with them.

The Indian Army is yet to say what impact this perception, ignorance, or mindset of a couple of generals at the command level had on the Kargil operations.

The K Subrahmanyam Committee, which looked into the Kargil War, did not go into the Army’s operational details, and I understand that he has mentioned that he was not aware of this mindset of the top army brass on the operational area.
Perhaps the Army should have a re-look, if only to ensure that mistakes at the command level do not happen ever again Was it the system at the Army HQ which failed to convey the ARC reports to the Army Brass in the northern sector, or they deliberately ignored it so as not to own responsibility for the Pakistani intrusion.

Reference to Subrahmanyam Committee

A lot has been talked about the Subrahmanyam committee.

Sixteen meetings were held between the Committee and ARC and RAW from August 1999 to Dec 2000.

I quote relevant portions: “No intelligence failures had been attributed on account of functioning of RAW and ARC. However, certain equipment inadequacies were highlighted such as:

(a) Satellite imagery resolution.
(b) All weather capability with sub-meter resolution
(c) Availability of UAVs
(d) Better coordination

Some of the observations of the Subrahmanyam Committee are relevant. It says in its report:

“However, it acknowledge that the Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB) did convey certain inputs on activities in areas under Gilgit-based FCNA (Force Commander Northern Areas) of Pakistan to the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the Cabinet Secretary, the Home Secretary and the Director General Military operations (DGMO).

There is a general lack of awareness of the critical importance of and the need for assessed intelligence at all levels. JIC reports do not receive the attention they deserve at the political and higher bureaucratic levels. Of the 45 intelligence inputs generated between May 1998 and April 1999, only 25% went through the JIC.

A Kargil-type situation could perhaps have been avoided had the Indian Army followed a policy of Siachenisation to plug upheld gaps along the 168 km stretch from Kaobal Gali to Chorbat La… such a dispersal of Forces to hold uninhabited territory of no strategic value would have dissipated considerable military strength and effort and would not have at all been cost effective. The alternative should be a a credible declaratory policy of swiftly punishing wanton and willful violation of the sanctity of the LoC.

Specific to Kargil Operation

The Army HQ asked for photographic intelligence of the LOC in Oct 1998. After that no requisition was given by them. Only on 10 May 1999, a requisition was given to photograph our own territory. A number of missions were flown and I would like to mention the comments of the Chief of Air Staff of the operation, sent to director ARC:

“I would like to place on record my sincere appreciation for the sterling work done by the ARC during Operation Vijay. The electronic and optical information provided by the ARC before and during the actual operations was of immense value to the conduct of air strikes.

The co-operation extended by your men in carrying out missions under difficult and demanding circumstances in an eloquent testimony to the excellent leadership and guidance provided by you to the organization.

I am confident that the co-ordination between our organizations achieved during the operation will continue in times to come.”

Not only that there used to be nearly daily meetings between the DGMI or even with the Chief of Army Staff, Gen VP Malik. I quote the Gen VP Malik as saying:

“ I highly appreciate the efforts of ARC in making our tasks easier. But you will appreciate I cannot publicly acknowledge these contributions.

But I have no hesitation in admitting that it was with your organization’s sterling effort that the Army could link up and correlate their operational plans and execute them timely and successful; otherwise the causality figures could have been much higher.”

Even after my retirement whenever Gen Malik me, he always complimented the efforts of the ARC.

Every organization develops its own culture. Some allow more freedom, which actually help an officer, and an operative, to set the direction of his goals and objectives. As long as there is responsibility, this should be okay.

There are enough checks and balances in the form of National Security Council and National Security Advisor, and checks can only restrict the flexibility of the organizational functioning of intelligence bodies. That may not be wise idea.

(The views expressed by Subrahmanyam Committee u the author are based on his personal experience and do not necessarily reflect any policy of this publication).

TERRORISM AND OUR RESPONSE

2010-05-24T22:16:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

TERRORISM AND OUR RESPONSE

2008 the year of terror. Major incidents where Indian cities were on line of fire (Jaipur 13 May 2008, Bangalore 25 July, Ahemdabad 26 July, Surat 29 July Delhi 13 Sep, Delhi 27 Sep, Malegaon 29 Sep, Guwhati and other places in Assam 30 Oct and finally Mumbai 26-29 Nov)

The terrorist attack in Mumbai (26/11) through a new medium (Sea route) and Fidayean attack has added a new dimension. This resulted in 183 dead (including 28 foreign nationals) and nearly 300 injured. This catastrophe is being compared with 9/11 of the US and sent the electronic media, the diplomats, security and defence analysts into a frenzy. Hundreds or even thousands of articles and essays have appeared all over in magazines and National dailies. To day nearly forty days have lapsed since 26/11 but even now this frenzy continues. Not only that state CM (Chief Minister) and “Home Minister” had to go home. Even the Union Home Minister was packed off. India’s top leadership have spared no effort in shouting on top of their voices that Pakistan is the “Perpetrator of all this Terror Attacks”. Pakistan being the perpetrator in nothing new. Pakistan would like to see India bleed and bleed continuously and as long as they can.

Pakistan was built on hatred for India, US has been a collaborator since the time Pakistan came into being, member of SEATO & CENTO in the early years. Pak & US came much closer after the Soviets entered Afghanistan and installed a pro Soviet Govt. Americans saw this as a design of “Soviet Expansionism” to the east. American had to halt this expansion of the Soviets. They could not find a better ally and partner than Pakistan, not only that this could please the Chinese as well indirectly. The US along with CIA & ISI of Pakistan worked on a strategy to prop up groups with in Afghanistan who were opposed to the Soviet occupation. CIA & ISI created Taliban, hard-core fundamentalist group to over throw the Soviet forces from Afghanistan. The Taliban ably trained and motivated succeeded in their mission and over threw the soviet Forces. This creation and success of Taliban in throwing out a mighty power (of that time) legitimized “Global Terrorism”.

India faced the terror situation first in Punjab in early eighties. The same was handled firmly and differently and contained. J&K was brewing up with the calls of separatists and dissents from time to time. How we have fared in last twenty years in reacting to threats and demands of the terrorist needs a recall and analysis, to appreciate how we have allowed these elements to be on the upper edge.

One cannot forget the first of such an act on 8 Dec 1989. That was the day when Rubaiya Sayed (daughter of Mofti Mohammed Syed, who was then the home Minister of V P Singh Govt at the Center) was kidnapped by the militants in Srinagar. The Kidnappers demanded the release of militants who were in jail. The Govt succumbed within no time, and five hard core militants were released on 13 Dec 1989. This very soft approach changed the security scenario in the valley. Within no time chaos had commenced, Pandits, academicians, defence personnel were targeted at open and public places. And the valley was now gripped with terror.

The second such incident can be recalled of the year 1995. It was on 5 Jul 1995 six foreign nationals were taken hostage by a terrorist group “Al Faran” consisting of fourteen militants. American hostage escaped and was luckily saved by an Army Chopper. A Norwegian was beheaded and his body was thrown on the streets of Anantnag. As a follow up of these ghastly acts a task force was created. The task force assembled at Srinager (15 corps Hq). The task force had the elements of the Army, NSG and the Air Force. (Author was the Air borne force Cdr.) Not going into many details suffice to say by 9 Sep 1995 the task force had full knowledge of the hide out of the militant group, Al Faran. Then COAS had flown in to Awantipur and a presentation was made on 14 Sep 1995, that the force is really to strike. (Force had done night drills at similar heights at Gulmarg on 11/12 night Sept). Than COAS went quite satisfied, On 18 Sep 1995 a message was received, that the CMG would like to know if the task force could give guarantee on the safety of the hostages in this operation. Which fool could give such a guarantee? On 21 Sep 1994 the task force was asked to disperse and told, if required they would be recalled. More than 13 years have lapsed and that day never came. CMG (Crisis Management Group consisted of cabinet secretary, home secretary, defence secretary, foreign secretary and the ambassadors of those countries whose nationals were taken hostages). Later it was also learnt that the then Governor of J&K (whose was a former Army Chief) had also opposed the operation for the reasons best known to him.

The third security failure and internationally known hijacking of IC-814 on 24 Dec 1999 was the most shameful and regrettable event of this decade. Hijacked aircraft had landed at Amritsar and was on ground for more than an hour was allowed to take off for Lahore (just with 15 minutes fuel), we should hang our heads in shame.

There were half a dozen ways to incapacitate the aircraft while landing, or when parked. One hundred and fifty commandos of the Punjab Police had surrounded the aircraft with in no time though NSG and all other relevant actions were initialed. What happened ultimately that is release of three terrorists held in our jails for last 5 years, they were Omar Shiekh, Maulana Massod Azhar and a Kashmiri separatist Lat ram. There three terrorist were picked up in a Gulf Stream duly escorted by them RAW chief from Srinagar & Jammu. These three terrorist were put on an Indian Air lines plane. They were duly escorted by Jaswant Singh who was a Cabinet Minister in the NDA Govt in power at that time. Three hard core terrorist planners and thinkers were duly exchanged for the passenger’s on board the flight IC – 814.

In all three incidents (Rubiaya Sayed 8 Dec 89, Foreigners Hostage crisis-Aug, Sep- 1995, Hijacking of IC – 814) we did not respond in an aggressive and firm manner. We reflected indecisiveness and politically weakness for hard decisions.

Whenever we talk about “terrorism” we should remember Kargil as well. That was the longest and most well planned terrorist act by Pakis. It was planned directly by the top most military leadership of Pakistan. Though it happened prior to hijacking of IC-814, but its reasons and fall out are important “Indian Political Leadership” was over whelmed with the forthcoming “Bus Yatra” in Feb 1999. PMO had advised to go slow on Pak on intelligence gathering activities. This seems to have percolated down in military establishment as well. And we faced the biggest military challenge of our security lapse along J&K. We lost nearly 600 men and young officer. Due to folly of our “Political Masters” and “Top Military Leadership”.

26/11 and thereafter has sent the whole nation into frenzy . This was a unique attack of a kind. A group of well trained and highly motivated group of ten Fidayeen’s (Suicide attackers) sailed through Indian waters and struck some “Elite Destination” in the economic capital of India, Mumbai, leaving nearly 180 dead and more than 300 injured.

The writings, of commentates have said a lot. US secretary of state and British Prime Minster were in India within first week of the massacre. The reasons our simple, the region in now termed as the most “Volatile and Dangerous zone”

Pakistan is a deeply wounded state from India the reason are.

· Partition 1947.
· Annexation of majority states (Muslim) into Indian union, acquiring a minority status.
· Defeat of Pakistani raiders in 47-48.
· India’s Pokhran – 1 – 1974.
· Dismemberment of Pakistan, 1971 war, creation of Bangladesh.
· Surrender of Pakistan Army with 93000 Pow’s on 16 Dec 1971.
· Surrender of Bhutto - Simla agreement 1972.
· Kargil war -1999, unconditional withdrawal of Pakistani “Terrorists”.
· 2004-2008 Growing Indo US relations.
· Indo/US Nuclear Deal.
· Pak in Turmoil due US/Pakistan alliance on “War on Terror”.

Pak would like to see India bleed the jihadis logic in employing soft state India as their laboratory has been that if they can bleed the world’s largest democracy through novel technique for application against the tougher free societies in the west.

We reflect more of an emotive approach than realistic & practical. We have the intelligence, we have the security personnel well trained and motivated. But we fail. We have always responded in a manner to gain political advantage rather than react in larger national interest. We are arguing “Actionable information’s’ or not, NSG was delayed, these are week statements as we always try to save the organization and their masters.

We would blame every existing mechanism, and would not squarely and directly put the blameworthiness. And we land up creating new agencies or proliferate the assets. NIA has already been created. We are looking for additional Coastal command, NSG should have their own aircraft like etc (though there was no delay on the despatch of NSG from Delhi by ARC Aircraft) Rather punishing those who were guilty of ignoring the early signals, we all are moving ahead of doing every thing, rather than looking at failure & remedies.

Not only that proliferation of “Gallantry Awards” were not spared. One organization recommended even award of “Ashok Chakra” (Nation’s highest peace time gallantry award) to all 12 police officer’s killed. Don’t be emotive we should be more realistic with this yardstick all-military personnel killed during Kargil should have been decorated with the “Nation Highest Gallantry Award”.
So much has been written about state sponsored terror. Public has been sounded on military action, hot pursuit, limited military action, to dismantle terrorists camps in POK. These may not find a favourable response and the same has been adequately reflected in the print media. We had this option of “limited offensive in POK” only during Kargil conflict but our political leadership displayed lack of foresight and proactive aggressive approach.

We have been quite aggressive in our diplomatic offensive this time. A “Diplomatic Offensive” not only now but this should become a state policy. Global terrorism has acquired a greater menace then even nuclear-armed open & clandestine states, responsible or irresponsible states. United Nations should create an international mechanism where, all states should be subject to inspection of terrorist related activities.” International mechanism should be set up to extradite the terrorist from the state and law fully tried, or should be tried through “International Court of Justice”.

India has to launch an aggressive diplomatic offensive to woo China & Saudia Arabia two great supporters of Pak in their defence and economic built up.

We have to look total indigenous solution to mange or contain terror. Diplomatic offensive a “National Political Consensus” do not politicize “terror” to grain some votes, First and foremost political leadership is to show maturity, firmness, statesmanship. To conclude finally the words of a well-known strategic analysist are awakening “while Pakistan is guilty of sponsoring terror and making the country an easy prey. Make no mistake if Pakistan is to dismantle its state reared terror complex, India’s leaders will have to first dismantle their terror “Emboldening Outlook”

“As I Saw it”

2010-05-24T22:15:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

“As I Saw it”
Kargil
Adventure for Pak
Blunder for India
Victory for those Who Perished

Kargil -99 caused the biggest flutter in the Indian subcontinent. This brought the two neighbors close to the nuclear holocaust inspite of the fact that we were far away from a full fledged declared war of the yester years (1965-1971).

A large number of books and reviews have been written by military leaders & civilian defence analyst. Not only that a high level committee was set up under the steward ship of the most experienced and renowned defence & security analyst of the country Mr. K Subramaniam. Most interestingly the two books which talk most eloquently – one by General VP Malik (Retd.) who was the Army Chief during the period of Kargil war and the other by Shri LK Advani who was Dy PM ( a defacto PM) and the Home Minister of the Govt. (NDA Govt. from April 98 to May 2004) are actually main actors of the Kargil making .

As the anniversary of the Kargil gets closer the main actors of the event become more vocal and anticulative in palming off the responsibility and shaking off their lapses. What prompted me to write this article was the news item in the “Hindustan Times” of 19 Jun 2008. “Lack of Visualization led to Kargil: - Gen Malik. In a foreword to book “Indian Army vision 2020” Gen Malik writes “ The Fact is that even after 60 years of independence, knowledge and experience of defence and military issues is lacking in most of our political leaders and civilian bureaucrats”. Though not sharing their own lapses and neglect of responsibilities.

Much has been written about the historical and military perspective of the Kashmir issue since independence. So I shall confine my self to Kargil as “I Saw it”, from the closest quarter.

The biggest players of this event were:-
(a) The Govt. the highest echelon of the Political Leadership.
(b) The top rug of the military leadership – The Army Chief, GOC-in-C Northern Command,15 Corps Cdr , and the 3 Div Cdr.
(c) The intelligence agencies primarily the IB & RAW.
(d) The role of Air Power.
(e) And the role played by the dedicated and committed soldiers and the junior level leaders. Who saved the situation of the fiasco created by our senior (Political & Military) leaders.

The Role of the Political leadership

May 1998 was the pinnacle of the NDA Govt. Having done the nuclear test in May and put India in the nuclear power list of the Nations , the biggest strategic achievement. Now the aim was to resolve the Kashmir issue for ever or create such a diplomatic environment that Kashmir issue should be freezed for ever. So that Vajpayee/Advani duo could go in the annals of the history. Political leadership was keen to encash the political gains of these two events. Hectic diplomatic activity had commenced. Vajpayee was overly keen to establish a political dialogue at the earliest with his counter part in Pakistan. This journey also was to be formalized in a dramatic manner to invite maximum media attention. Hectic activity commanced in Sep 1998. To the extent “PMO directed the RAW in Oct 98 (ARC who collects aerial intelligence”) to go slow on Pak. This kind of a directive was to send a message across the border that all our intentions are towards normalization of relations Vajpayee went to Lahore by “Bus” the famous “Bus Yatra” in Feb 99. It is a well known fact that Musharraf The Army Chief of the Pak did not show up with full respects to the visiting head of a neighboring country who was purely on a good will and a friendly mission. An indication enough for any leadership with foresight and insight to the astute feelings of an adventurous military leader like Musharraf.

May be this massage of Oct 98 “Go slow on Pak” would have trickled down to the Indian Army leadership as well, and made them complacent down the lime.

It is a well known fact that Srinagar Leh axis runs closest to the LOC in Dras –Kargil Sector. Not only that the terrain on the Indian side is hostile to defend, where as the terrain on Pakistan side is favorable to launch an offensive. Strategically Pakistan always intended to block/ disrupt or permanently dislocate the “Srinagar Leh Highway” in Dras Kargil Sector.

After being commissioned in the year 1963 first posting was to Jammu in No. 43 Sqn. (A Dakota operational Sqn). The main task was to operate to Kargil and Thoise to provide logistic support to the troops deployed in forward areas. I was fortunate to be deputed to be the base Cdr of AF clement at Kargil from Feb to May 1964, working along with 121 (Ind) infantry brigade was all education. Brig Cdr Brig Chopra (an armoured corps officer) always used to mention that Dras-Kargil Sector is the most sensitive sector because of its close proximity to the LOC and terrain factors. Being a transport pilot interactions with the Army remained a part of service life. I was once again with the Army’s most prestigious Institutions College of Combat “MHOW” (Now renamed Army War College). This was during 1980-81 to undergo the “Higher Command Course”. Fortunately Gen Sunderjee was the commandant. Who always believed in real time situations to be part of “sand model discussion”. Dras-Kargil sector was one such situation discussed during the course Not only that he had planned a similar offensive during 1987-88 during his tenure as the Army Chief. I was a privy to that plan along with Gen BC Nanda Army Cdr Northern Command, Air Marshal MM Singh AOC-in-C WAC and some other officers. The plan was conceived, articulated discussed at 15 corps HQ for weeks. The same was presented at Army HQ, however was not found feasible due to nearly whole of the IAF being deployed for the air defence. One has to visualize how senior commanders of the Army, could remain so insensitive to this sensitivity of Dras-Kargil Sector.

ARC’s role:-

Till mid 97 the user agencies could approach ARC only through RAW for their operational tasks. This used to delay the process by a week. Billy Bedis initiative made the functioning of ARC transparent and user friendly. The user agencies could send their indents for operational tasks directly to ARC, mission used to be launched the very next day. The prints and the analysis were delivered with in forty eight hours. During Kargil ops ARC Mi-17 were positioned at Srinagar and the prints and the PI analysis were delivered to the formation cdr’s directly- within forty eight to seventy two hours.

VCAS and AOC -in- C WAC and equivalent rank officers from other services were invited to ARC HQ for a presentation on ARC’s functioning, role and support to be provided. Most of the AF officers only attended the presentation. They were also taken to the other facilities with in Delhi Area. They were all invited to visit ARC bases and were offered to fly in ARC’s mission aircraft Gulf Stream and “B-707 (SASS aircraft)”. Only person who availed this opportunity was Air Marshal AY Tipnix (VCAS at that time) and some of his operational staff. He flew two missions in B-707 strategic air borne surveillance aircraft. He sent a letter to the Raw chief complimenting the operation, role and the effort. Some of the contents of that letter are quoted below.

I would like to convey my appreciation for providing me an opportunity to observe ARC’S Elint Operations on Board the Boeing-707. …………………………..

The missions, one along the IB/LAC with China and the other along the IB/LAC with Pakistan were well planned and executed……………My warmest compliments to both the crews-cockpit and technical. The ops manager has enthused a very positive work culture.

Future conflicts will require the IAF to proceed to high value targets, located deep within enemy territory, and penetrating hostile radar envelope of surveillance and weapon control systems. The survivability of our crew and aircraft will be very largely dependent upon our EQ efficiency; real time intelligence on the Electronic Order of Battle (EOB) of the adversary are central to mission planning and programming of warning receivers and jammers. In this task the ELINT……….My brief first hand experience has reinforced my confidence in our combined abilities and mutual trust.

Deployment of Air Power – The Kargil Commences

After Oct 1998 it was only on 07 May 1999 that DGMI from Army HQ had called up Billi Bedi (Director ARC) to provide Air Reccece Mission in Dras-Kargil sector. When the info was filtered down to the air operation it was surprising and astonishing to decipher that the area to be covered was our own territory. Immediately mission was planned and launched the next day. However we did not succeed due to inclement weather. First six days that is upto 13 May 99 inclement weather did not allow the success of our missions. By, this time ground situation was becoming explosive and the media was very active in projecting the scenario as a war like situation. Most the civilian pilots were reluctant to fly in the war like zone. Since I was fully qualified and operational on Gulf Stream type of aircraft fitted with MCRS ( Multi Camera Reconnaissance System), first three successful missions were flown by me personally. The PR mission flown on 18 May indicated 6 MI-17 helicopter of Pak Army parked in Mushok Valley area of our territory. These photographs were shown to the honourable RM he was aghast. This could not have happened with few weeks preparation this plan & preparation must have taken months of planning and preparation.

Even the Jaguar of the IAF were deployed in photo missions , but the results provided did not have the clarity, analysis and interpretation as compared to what could be provided by the ARC Gulf stream aircraft. Jaguar had limitation of height (not beyond 30,000 fit) endurance (45 to 60 minutes on task) and high vibration level restricted the clarity. The analysis and interpretation was by the personnel with limited experience. On the other hand ARC’s Gulf Stream aircraft operated at 45000 – 50000 feet, stable and silent platform (more than most of the Jet airliners) and an endurance of five and half hours. And the most important part of analysis and interpretation, ARC had experienced and dedicated PI’s on it strength, who were on the job for last 5 to 15 yrs or even more. Most of then were deputationist of the IAF & Army initially, however they had opted to be absorbed in ARC in that profession.

The missions launched by ARC were always discussed at Air HQ and such missions were under taken with full “Air Defence Cover” and air escort missions by Mirage 2000 or Mig 29 aircraft of the IAF.

The role of Air power remained restricted to “PR & Elint” missions only, till 25 may 1999. After deliberations at the highest level on 25 May it was decided to use the air power in an offensive role.

From the reports of the local Army commanders, the air attacks were effective and successful. On the same day, the IAF lost two fighter aircraft, a MiG-27 which went down after engine failure and MiG-21 which was shot down by a Pakistani surface –to-air missile (SAM) 9. The next day , on May 28,the IAF suffered another loss when a Mi-17 helicopter, while on an offensive mission in Drass sector was shot down by a man – portable Stinger SAM fired by the intruders. All 4 crew members, including the two pilots were killed.

During a final briefing to the press, the Air Force spokesman summing up the experience gained during the air operations in Kargil said that the air operations had taken place in an environment that was totally new in the history of world military aviation. The IAF had to unlearn what had been taught before as it was operating with a new set of paradigms such as ballistic trajectory of weapons in high altitude operations.

Air Marshal Vinod Patney ,Air Officer Commanding in-Chief Western Air Command, who conducted the air operations in Kargil, summarized the air effort as follows.31

1. Strike missions 550
2. Escort missions 500
3. Reconnaissance missions 150
4. Helicopter sorties for
Casuality evacuation and airlift. 2185

(d) The role of the intelligence agencies

Reference to Subramaniam Committee :-

A lot has been talked about Subramaniam Committee.

Sixteen meetings were held between the Subramaniam committee and ARC and RAW during the period of Aug 99 till Dec 2000.

I quote relevant portions "No intelligence failures had attributed on account of functioning of RAW and ARC. However, certain equipment inadequacies were highlighted such as :

(a) Satellite imagery resolution.
(b) All weather capability with sub metere resolution
(c) Availability of UAVs.
(d) Better coordination.

Some of the observations of Subramaniam Committee are relevant:-
However, it acknowledges that the Director, Intelligence Bureau (IB) did convey certain inputs on activities in areas under Gilgit-based FCNA (Force Commander Northern Areas) of Pakistan to the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the Cabinet Secretary, the Home Secretary and the Director-General Military Operations (DGMO).

There is a general lack of awareness of the critical importance of and the need for assessed intelligence at all levels. JIC reports do not receive the attention they deserve at the political and higher bureaucratic levels. Of the 45 intelligence inputs generated between May 1998 and April 1999, only 25 percent went through the JIC.

A Kargil-type situation could perhaps have been avoided had the Indian Army followed a policy of Siachenisation to plug unheld gaps along the 168 km stretch from Kaobal Gali to Chorbat La... Such a dispersal of forces to hold uninhabited territory of no strategic value would have dissipated considerable military strength and effort and would not have at all been cost effective. The alternative should be a credible declaratory policy of swiftly punishing wanton and willful violation of the sanctity of the LOC."

Specific to Kargil Operation:-

Army HQ asked for photographic intelligence of the LOC in Oct 98. After that no requisition was given by them. Requisition was given only on 07 May 99 to photograph our own territory. Numbers of missions were flown and I would like to place on record the comments of the CAS on the operations:

"I would like to place on record my sincere appreciation for the sterling work done by the ARC during Operation Vijay. The electronic and optical information provided by the ARC before and during the actual operations was of immense value to the conduct of air strikes.

The co-operation extended by your men in carrying out missions under difficult and demanding circumstances is an eloquent testimony to the excellent leadership and guidance provided by you to the organization.

I am confident that the co-ordination between our organizations achieved during the operation will continue in times to come."

Not only that there used to be nearly daily meetings between the DGMI or even with the CO AS.

I quote Gen VP Mallik the then CO AS.

"I highly appreciate the efforts of ARC in making our tasks easier. But you will appreciate I can not publicly acknowledge these contributions. As the Army has to show their commitment.

But I have no hesitation in admitting that it was your organizations, sterling effort that Army could link up and correlate their operational plans and execute them timely and successfully, otherwise the causality figures could have been much higher."

Even after my retirement whenever Gen Mallik met me always complimented the efforts of the ARC.

Conclusion

There is much evidence available to suggest the agencies concered with intelligence gathering, RAW and IB, had in fact provided their political masters and military commanders with ample warning about Pakistani intentions and activities. RAW went as far as telling the government that the Pakistanis were getting ready to launch a major operation in Kargil. It is also now evident that the three responsible political leaders, the Prime Minister, the Defence Minister and the Home Ministers, were all warned about what was brewing by their respective snoops. That they did not seem to act is indicative of their naivete, irresponsible attitude or sheer incompetence or they were absessed with the Bus Yatra and to its likely favourable fallout. The fact that two of the officials directly involved, the then RAW chief and the then Home secretary were rewarded with cushy post retirement position suggests that there might be quid-pro-quo for silence. Arvind Dave became the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh and B.P Singh was sent to the World Bank; their appointment became effective immediately on the day of their retirements. Not only that successor of Arvind Dave (who retired on 31st July, 1999) As Dulat (who was an OSD during Kargil operation) on his retirement as RAW Chief was inducted in the PMO as security advisor on Kashmir Affairs.

Lack of strategic intelligence could have been made up by the observation on the ground through scouts and petrol’s. Let us not forget that two shepherds observed the Pakistanis first and reported their presence to the forces. They had one pair of binoculars between them. Purposeful and planned patrolling would certainly have revealed the presence of 1500/2000 troops spread over an area of about 1400 square kilometers even if their ingress was not contemporaneously detected much earlier.The aggression across the LOC in Kargil clearly indicated a well planned military operation with a view to capture territory across the LOC, which would provide a springboard for further offensive operation inside Indain Kashmir. An operation of this magnitude could only be planned at the highest level in Pakistan with complete approval of the government.

We have to accept that our political leaders did not show enough foresight, they neglected, “National Interest” (of security) to gain political advantage. At the same time senior military leadership cannot escape the responsibilities of derelition of duty in safe guarding the “National Frontiers”. Those who should have been censured were awarded and decorated. We have to come out of that shell of a “holy cow” attitude.

India’s decision to limit the scope of operations in Kargil by not crossing the LOC despite suffering greater losses in the process was calculated not to enlarge the conflict or provide an excuse to Pakistan to seek UN intervention. The Army and the Air Force took this restriction in its stride and forged ahead .We saved the situation because of our highly professional, committed troops, Junior leaders (JCO’S) and officers who were fighting in the field. The commitment and sacrifice of those who perished is commendable and “Nation Salutes” them.

KASHMIR CALLING

2010-05-24T22:14:00.002-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

KASHMIR CALLING
The year gone by 2008 has been called a year of terror. Ten terror attacks last one on 26/11 the Mumbai massacre. The year was also significant for a mini general election (the so called semi final) held in six states. However the most important of them has been the election in the state of J & K and its follow-up. The state went into election against all possible odds, separatist call for the boycott of elections, the serious divide created due to Amarnath episode, and inclement weather due to onset of serious wintry conditions

The people of Jammu & Kashmir were determined to defeat them all. The most important election since 1957 when the first Assembly was voted. Highest voter turn out i.e. 60% and above, and no militant threats and no coercion to vote. The mandate remained fractured as expected. However the political maturity of the leaders at the state and national level has chosen the best coalition and ready to deliver under the young, dynamic and enthusiastic leadership of Omar Abdulla. At 38 years he represents the youngest leadership. Events of the state to emerge may change the political, social and security environment of the state and would have its fallout on National & Regional level as well.

Between 1963 to 2003 forty years in the IAF gave an ample opportunity to see every nook and corner of the state. No city, lakes, valleys, passes, airfields, dropping zones were spared to be visited and seen in absolute reality. Kashmir is heaven on earth, Kashmir is Switzerland of East, are not imagination but the realities. Valley or for that matter whole of J & K remained nearly peaceful. It was only after 8 Dec 1989, when Rubaiya Sayed daughter of Mufti Mohammed Sayed was kidnapped and as a surrender the unreasonable demands of the kidnappers were met with (by the VP Singh Govt.) within no time. That was the beginning of the Militancy in a big way in the state of J & K and particularly in the valley.

While in service one could normally have an official view of the ground realities. After retirement I had the opportunity to address “Civil Aviation Seminar” in Rajashthan, Uttrakhand, Haryana, MP, UP and Assam. Had the opportunity to address one such seminar at Srinagar (J & K) in the first week of Aug 2007. The seminar was organized by civilian businessmen who were setting up a civil aviation academy in the state. Till them nearly 20-25 seminar had been addressed all over the country from “Sriganganagar to Gauhati” The gathering at Srinagar ( as at other places) was mainly of young boys & Girls. The young crowd at Srinagar was the most well informed, appeared better educated, the knowledge of English was also far better. The standard of general knowledge and a desire to achieve was reflected in everyone, the boys and the Girls. The girls were beautiful, modest and confident. However most of them reflected an apprehension, how to get injected into the National main stream. While going around the town one could also see young girls handling varieties of jobs confidently in their traditional outfits.

The hosts took extraordinary care in extending the hospitality. I did ask the hosts how do they feel after nearly 60 years of independence. They replied nothing much has changed. “People feel alienated, politicians are corrupt, no job opportunities, the youth are rudderless and lack direction. One could feel the pain of the local people. Next day while traveling in a private taxi from Badamibagh to the Air port (nearly 20 Km distance) the taxi must have been stopped 20 times. It was my defence ROIC (Retired Officers Identity card) which saved the time. Otherwise the baggage would have been opened at every check point and frisking of all occupants (including the driver) would have been the most time consuming and embarrassing.

The events of J & K are directly linked to the happening of Pakistan. Pakistan is deeply wounded for the reasons:

Partition 1947
Annexation of majority states (Muslim) into Indian union, acquiring a minority status.
Defeat of Pakistani raiders in 47-48
India’s Pokhran – 1 - 1974
Dismemberment of Pakistan, 1971 war, creation of Bangladesh
Surrender of Pakistan Army with 93000 Pow’s on 16 Dec 1971
Surrender of Bhutto - Simla agreement 1972
Kargil war -1999, unconditional withdrawal of Pakistani “Terrorists”
2004-2008 Growing Indo US relations.
Indo/US Nuclear Deal
Pak in Turmoil due US/Pakistan alliance on “War on Terror”

Dear Omar Abdulla you have a great opportunity to change the history of the state of J & K, which would a have direct bearing on the National & Regional scene. The aspirations of the people are simple; the corruption free governance, job for the young, bring them into the National stream, and the last but slowly and steadily; the common people should not only feel Kashmiris, but Indians as well. Your success could be guiding factor and a role model for the right governance at the National Level.

Training to Fly-Option and System in the 21st Century

2010-05-24T22:14:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

Training to Fly-Option and System in the 21st Century

1. The well though out seminar (Better Late than Never) and timely.

2. The adage ‘The more we sweat in peace, the less we bleed in war’ is ever relevant today. And this sweat is ‘training’. Training plays a vital role in the life of any aviator, more so of a combat flier. Only the best trained emerge to take their place in front line fighter squadrons in defence of the country. These consummately trained pilots are the human mainstay of air power of the country. Associated costs must be well managed, with a rational balance between simulator time and actual flying training.

3. Concern for aircraft accidents needs no emphasis. Various studies in the IAF have revealed nearly 45% accidents are due to Human Error Aircrew (HE (A)) and 45% accidents occur due to Technical Defects (TD).

4. Another revelation of (TD) Technical Defect Accidents is that majority of technical defect accidents in fighters, hepters and trainer fleet are only on those aircraft (90%) which are serviced or produced under license or are produced indigenously by HAL –(Mig-21, Mig-27, Jaguar, Chetak, Cheeta helicopters and Kiran and HPT-32 trainers) the reason for these high rates of technical defect accidents have been highlighted in various forums or inquires.

5. The story of HPT-32 has been a victim of this public sector lethargy in a monopolistic industry. HPT-32 was supposed to be an improved version of old HT-(2) (produced in late 50% early 60’s). HPT-32 (produced in early 1985) has had its inherent problem of engine oil system. The maneuvers required a fool proof engine. Rather than improving the engine IAF decided to eliminate some of the maneuvers (hammer stall/inverted flying etc) to ensure better engine reliability. Even that has failed.

6. HPT-32 is a “Basic flying Trainer”. Where in a pilots confidence level in this profession has to be built. A machine not technically sound does break the basic requirement of confidence building into a nighmare and fear. At the training stage we need, “Reliability, Versatility, Maneuverability, Quality and high Confidence level of the operations. All appearing to be shattering. HAL does not have any accountability to offer. We have to shed this “Captive customer “policy of the Government and look elsewhere. Time has come to look for a “Turboprop” basic trainer elsewhere to restore the confidence of the user till HAL comes out well in all spheres of “Reliability, Versatility Maneuverability and Quality to restore the confidence of the user.

7. Considering the IAF is to induct some 600 + new generation combat aircraft in the next 10-15 years, the flying training platforms need to be of contemporary technology, with glass cockpits, simulated sensors etc. so as to prepare fledgling pilots most cost-effectively for operational flying of advanced combat aircraft.

8. We need to establish world class training facilities like the one at Flight Safety International. “Pan Am Academy” in USA.

9. Simulators provide solid foundation to a pilot to attain high professional standards.

Firstly- to fly the aircraft to its ultimate limits thus develop a total confidence in the machine.

Secondly- when a budding pilot is able to handle the aircraft (on simulators) to its ultimate limits builds his own confidence level to utmost capacity.

10. The training has to develop in the three stages:

(a) Simulators
(b) Basic Trainer ( A turbo )
(c) Intermediate Jet Trainer

Either HAL is to provide or we should explore International market. Def Expo 2010 gave enough of exposure. “South Korea”, “Germany”, Italy and Spain have adequacy in the field. We should set the target beginning of 2013 have all this.

May be the older generation of the IAF did not appreciate this well enough the new generation of commanders must change and accept this new environment.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
PVSM AVSM VM
Mobile:09411900090
amashokgoel@gmail.com

Ms. Ritika Sabharwal
ritikasabharwal@gmail.com
Tel.:09999-082-782

Acquisition of Advanced Combat Helicopters

2010-05-24T22:13:00.001-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

Acquisition of Advanced Combat Helicopters

ü So far Air Force has depended on soviet built M1-35 helicopters
ü Acquired more than 25 years back do need a replacement with more modern & advanced machines.
ü Basically an offensive weapon system.
ü The command & control of these units has always been a bone of contention between Army & and the Air Force.
ü The maintenance and upkeep is the responsibility of the Indian Air Force.
ü In the beginning all aircrews were from the Air Force.
ü Now there is a mix of Air Force and Army Pilots.
ü The existing machines have a operational limitation upto a height of 10000’ (i.e. upto 3.3 km.)
ü That is why their usage in Kargil war was nearly nil.
ü Basically the weapon system is to be a part of a strike corps. To provide safe passage for moving combat columns.
ü But in our context we may need then in J & K and Siachen Glacier also.
ü The performance at highest altitudes say between 15000 to 20000’ (i.e. 4.5 to 6.5 km) height a.m.sl. could be a big deciding factor.
ü We need to test them in the deserts of Rajasthan and the hills of J & K.

Transport Fleet and its Relevance to the IAF

2010-05-24T22:12:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

Transport Fleet and its Relevance to the IAF

The Indian Air Force was officially established on 08 October 1932, being the date of its formal constitution. The first aircraft flight however was not formed until 01 April 1933, at which time it possessed a strength of six officers trained at RAF cranwell and 19 “Hawai Sepoys” (literally air soldier), its aircraft inventory comprised four westland wapiti II A.

The year 1946 also saw the establishment of the first RIAF transport unit, No. 12 squadron (first as sprit fire squadron in 1945) and received Dakota’s in Panagarh in late 1946.In Jan 1950 India became a Republic and the IAF dropped its prefix “Royal”.

At this time India possessed six fighter squadron, one bomber and one C-47 Dakota transport squadron. In addition had one AOP flight, a communication squadron and training organization.

A second transport squadron No. 11 had been formed on C-47 Dakota’s in Sep 1951. Eighty C-119G packet aircraft were inducted during the period 1954 to early 1963 under US emergency military aid. Packet aircraft propeller driven piston engine aircraft which served the IAF till Jul 1985 for more than 30 yrs. A most beautifully crafted military transport aircraft of its time. The cockpit, the delivery system, loading facilities were immaculate and was air crews delight, specially for the pilots. An aircraft totally unpressurized not designed to fly beyond 18000 feet. It was recharged with additional jet engine (J-34) to operate up to 24000 feet. This magnificent machine operated regularly to Leh, Thoise, Kargil and Fukche. All airfields were beyond 3200 meters (11000 feet) elevation. Not only, that the aircraft created history by landing at Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) an airstrip located beyond 16000 feet elevation.

Sixties revealed a serious security concern for India. Frequent clashes with china and finally an unprovoked attack on India’s sovereignty in October 1962 necessitated quick and timely builtup of the Air Force. Transport aircraft and logistics became a hall mark. Soviet built An-12 and IL-14 were inducted during the period March 1961 to July 1963. Two new operational squadrons were formed namely No. 44 and 25 squadron at Chandigarh.

An-12 aircraft also had its limitations. The aircraft was partially pressurized (only the crew cabin & the Kabina with 14 passenger capacity). In spite of its limitation of Navigational aids, the aircraft played a remarkable role in Air Transport, Air maintenance and Maritime reconnaissance roles.

The most remarkable achievement of the An -12 fleet (No 44 Squadron) was modification in “Bombing Role” just prior to the 1971 conflict. It can be said unhesitatingly that the An – 12 aircraft in its intense usage in ‘Bombing Role’ in the “western” as well as in the “Eastern” sector turned the fate of the war in India’s favor. Even the Russians were amazed to know this role of the An-12 aircraft .Finally this magnificent and magestic machine went our of Indian skies during Jul 1993.

IAF’s peacetime role has been “Air Maintenance” of its troops in the western sector and maintaining troops and civilians population in the Eastern sector in a big way. This requirement by itself necessitated deployment of 4 squadrons in the western sector and nearly four squadrons in the Eastern sector. The Dakota and the packet fleet which were the back bones of the transport fleet had out lived their technical life and maintenance support was, becoming a nightmare. Since mid seventies, the fleet had shown signs of dwindling force and was lying in pains.

We delayed in identification and induction of replacements by seven years (since mid seventies). By this time An – 12 fleet was also showing signs of fatigue and in adequate maintenance support.

It was only during early eighties that a final decisions was taken to completely replace the ageing Dakota & Packet fleet with An – 32 aircraft. Soviets had offered modified An – 26 with high powered engines for high attitude operations. It would be interesting to know that 118 An – 32 aircraft were contracted on a 20 years military credit arrangement, with no interest liability. Literally one aircraft cost was just Rs. 1 crore (USD 200,000 thousand at the present rate of exchange).

I still remember the words of then JS (Air) Mr Desai in a meeting, when he said “sign as many aircraft you want, after few years even a car may cost more than that”. Interestingly today just one aircraft of its class would cost double of the cost of 118 aircraft paid at that time.

By this time replacement of An – 12 was also thought out IL – 76 MD was found to be the most suitable aircraft. An aircraft with 48 tones pay load capacity. Four engines multipurpose aircraft capable of operating at unpaved surface. An aircraft which can operate without any ground support system most reliably. Most suitable for quick induction of troops in battle zones or disturbed area. A full complement of 225 troops can be landed and deployed in a matter of three minutes with no hassles.

The induction of An – 32 during the early 1984 and IL-76 MD aircraft during 1985 added a new dimension to the Indian subcontinent. Besides their taking over the control of Air maintenance role and Air transport operation within 3-6 months of their induction gave a tremendous boost to the Air Force and the Nation as a whole. IL-76 MD landed at Leh during Oct 85 even landed at Thoise when airfield was only 1700 meters long during Jan 1987.

The first testing ground for India’s new resurgence in strategic reach was evident in Srilanka operation. First during Jun 1987 when 6 An-32 aircraft carried out food supply drops to display their solidarity for the suffering of Tamils in Jaffan peninsula. On 29 Jul 1987, once Srilanka accord was signed by our PM (late Shri Rajeev Gandhi) from 30 Jul 87 onwards massive induction of IPKF commenced and lasted till March 1990. The IAF’s transport fleet provided unhindered massive support during the operation.

In spite of the fact that IPKF operation were going on another major call came from our neighbors, Maldives on 3 Nov 88. It was for the strategic reach of the IAF that 5 IL-76 aircraft and 30 An – 32’s were pressed into service within few hours of the SOS from President Gayoom and his Govt. And the Govt. was saved.

Since the time we last inducted the transport aircraft was 25 years back. Both An – 32 and IL – 76 MD aircraft have completed their calendar life as per Soviet specification. Both are on their extended life may be another 10-15 yrs or a maximum of 20 yrs. It is time to put on our thinking caps to look for replacements.

Most ideally we should have developed our own METAC (7-10 tons) capacity aircraft. A thinking seem to have gone about developing MTA (Multi role Transport Aircraft) in a joint venture with the Soviets we should certainly go ahead.

Presently induction of 6 C – 130 aircraft at a cost of Rs. 1000 crore appears to be a viable proposal. But other avenues first indigenization, secondly C-295 (Spanish) and M – 400 A (EADS) are other options, which should be explored.

In heavy lift capability IL-76 MD aircraft with 48 tones (could carry T – 72 tank weight 42 tones) has served well. May be IAF would need to look for an aircraft with 70 tons pay load capacity for our long reach and futuristic engagements.

We have to keep with the pace of the time and timely identification and induction of replacements.

Delayed induction of METAC costed us very heavily during the period 1984-1993. In a period of 9 yrs we lost 13 An-32 aircraft in Cat –I accidents. Be wiser and don’t let that experience be repeated.

IAF: Transport Aircraft and Helicopters

2010-05-24T22:11:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com

IAF: Transport Aircraft and Helicopters

New Delhi. Air Power is about reach. Reach of the fighter aircraft, but supported and sustained by a complex system of transport aircraft, helicopters, midair refuelers, AWACs, communication assets, ultramodern airbases, and certain other factors. Timely supplies of equipment and weapons, and overall logistics, constitute the backbone of combat jet operations.

Transport aircraft play a defining role as the mobility needed in the combat operations depends on them.

At the same time, helicopters also have an independent and highly significant role of their own; they reach where fixed aircraft cannot go.

To airlift troops, equipment, weapons, or to evacuate pilots from a combat zone, injured soldiers or stricken civilians, or to act as a gunship in combat or urban environment, the helicopter is the ideal flying machine.

Like its combat jets, the Indian Air Force (IAF) needs to augment its strength both in transport aircraft and helicopters.

Of course, steps are being taken now, and according to Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F H Major, an RfP for 12 heavy lift helicopters to replace the old and outdated Mi 26 is around the corner, while another RfP for timely replacement of the IL 76 fleet with what he called Very Heavy Transport Aircraft (VHTAC) is being finalized.

One only hopes that there are no interests this time who oppose the modernization of the Indian Air Force as well as the Army and Navy. We need not be reminded of poor systems only when situations like the Kargil War, or as this time, the terror attack on Mumbai happen.

Replacement of worn out systems, and their augmentation in line with growing requirements is a periodic exercise, and the process must not be tempered with. There are aberrations indeed some times in the acquisition process, but as and when they happen, cases should be isolated and quarantined for investigation.

As for the existing fleet, we need to consider this: IAF inducted the AN 32 medium lift aircraft beginning 1984, and the heavy lift IL 76 aircraft beginning 1985 from the erstwhile Soviet Union. As per the manufacturers’, or suppliers’ specifications, both these aircraft have outlived their calendar lives in terms of the number of flying hours as well as the number of landing.

Right now, some extension is being given to both these aircraft with newer engines and avionics to make them useful for another 15 years beyond what is technically called the “Total Technical Life or TTL.”

It may be noted that while western manufacturers indicate the life of their aircraft by the number of flying hours, the Soviets/ Russians follow the number of landings to measure the life of an aircraft. But the way IAF has innovatively used transporter aircraft, on high altitudes, or even for bombing missions has surprised even the Russians.

Necessity is the Mother of Invention. With limited availability of systems and steadily rising demands in war and peace, Indians have played with sophisticated systems as no one else.

For instance, during the Chinese aggression, IAF modified the propeller-driven Fairchild Packet aircraft by adding a third engine on the top of its fuselage for its operations in the thin Himalayan air of North and North-eastern India. It used the Orpheus jet engine of its Gnat fighter aircraft.

The experiment was not very successful as the engine was heavy and virtually neutralized the advantage it generated. But the Americans, who had supplied the aircraft to India, caught on, improved upon the idea and installed better jet packs on their own and Indian aircraft.

During the Bangladesh crisis leading to the 1971 War, the Indian Army expected a major attack from Pakistan in the western sector. Sure enough, when the Pakistani Army deployed some 30,000 troops in an attempt to cut off Kashmir from the rest of India, IAF used its AN 12 aircraft to carpet-bomb their concentrations, and flattened the attack formations.

Aircraft of the 44 Squadron flew night missions in waves of six, unescorted, rolling out nine tonnes of fire from each aircraft. Night fighting capability was zero with both the countries in those days, and the Pakistani Air Force (PAF) was unable to intercept even a single AN 12.

Wg Cdr B V Vashisth inspired and led the waves virtually in every mission, setting an unprecedented record. He was awarded India’s second highest gallantry award, the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) while the squadron won three Vir Chakras (VrCs).

The Soviets expressed amazement at the war fighting capability of their own aircraft. The magnificent machine, inducted in 1961, was phased out in 1993.

IAF has a record though of operating various machines well beyond their limitations, and in the most difficult and inhospitable terrains, whether it is combat or transport aircraft, or helicopters. Routine ferries to Siachen are an example.

To do innovations however, the armed forces must at least have contemporary systems. Strap-on booster shots cannot make up for numbers and the accelerating pace of technology.

Some so-called experts say that once the IAF inducts modern machines, the number of aircraft, both combat and transporters, can come down. That’s a strange argument. They forget that others are also going in for newer systems, and rather than simply matching developments around us, it is time to go in for capability-based acquisitions rather than threat-based systems.

As pointed out, we purchased our Mirage 2000 and Mig 29 aircraft in response to Pakistan’s acquisition of F 16 aircraft, Harpoon anti-shipping missiles, C³I computers and other systems from the US in 1982.

It takes our system long – around seven years to acquire an aircraft – and if every time we were to buy something in response, we would be nowhere.

India is a large country, with hostile neighbours and hostile elements in neighbouring countries. India also a large coast line, that requires constant patrolling and offensive measures against infiltration. The armed forces can fight, but the political system has to have the will to make sure that the Navy has the best ship, the Army the best gun, and the Air Force the best aircraft.
And well in time.

Armed forces play a decisive role in peacetime also. Besides deterrence emanating from their strength, they are the best and most organized means to alleviate suffering in any major natural disaster. But for the IAF, many Indians would die every year. This role need never be under-estimated.

It is worthwhile here to quote Deputy National Security Adviser Shekhar Dutt, who is also a former Defence Secretary. He told the National Seminar on Aerospace Technologies (N-SAT) held in September by the India Strategic defence magazine that India needs a “high-end capability air force” be it in combat jets, transport aircraft and helicopters, or advanced systems.

“The sheer expanse of our geography, which includes land borders with five countries and a 7,500+ km coastline along with our Exclusive Economic Zones, makes monitoring and protecting our soverign territory a significant challenge. It makes control of the airspace above our territory and maritime approaches especially crucial.”

Warning that “we are living in a volatile region” – and he mentioned this in September, well before the Pakistani terrorists attacked Mumbai – he observed: “ Our defence preparedness and, I daresay expeditionary capability, for undertaking operations to protect our strategic interests has to evolve accordingly. This aspect becomes important as water, energy and maritime resources will increasingly become issues of future conflicts.

“India needs an air force with a high-end capability that will ensure the confidence of victory. India also needs a strike capability that will allow India more scope to determine the pace and parameters of hostilities, impose major costs on an adversary contemplating hostile action against us, along with providing requisite support to Indian forces deployed anywhere.”

One only hopes that Mr Dutt’s observations are followed in letter in spirit, irrespective of who is in power today or tomorrow.

As for the aircraft, the IL 76 has served India well. It added a new dimension to air power in the Indian subcontinent and boosted the reach of the Indian Air Force. IAF deployed the aircraft within three to six months of their induction, and landed it at a short runway of 5500 feet in northern airfields while the manufacturers asked for a minimum runway length of 7500 feet.

During Operation Brasstacks in 1986-87, one IAF pilot conducted a record 28 missions in seven days on IL 76 to land BMPs for the army in tough mountainous terrain.

The first testing ground for India’s new strategic reach due to the transport aircraft was evident in Sri Lanka and Maldives operations. AN 32s provided unhindered support for the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF), and later, on 3rd November 1988, the IL 76 and AN 32 aircraft were pressed into service to ferry troops to Maldives within hours of a request from President Moumoon Abdul Gayoom to tackle a coup attempt.

India had consulted world powers, and there was support from Washington, Moscow, London, and even Bahrain in the Gulf for the Indian mission.

Five IL 76 and 30 AN 32 transporters were used in the Maldives operation.

But it is time now to look for the replacement of these aircraft. If we make the choice now, the induction of the new machines could begin by 2015, by which time the security scenario would predictably be more complicated. In a realistic sense, we are already behind schedule in this regard.

Going by the Chief of Air Staff, India could be inducting bigger and better aircraft than the IL 76, in the 70+ tonne category.

On offer in this regard is the US-built C 17 Globemaster, which, according to its manufacturer Boeing, is being brought to the Aero India 2009 in February for display and flight demonstrations. The aircraft has a record of landing on a small 3000-foot runway, although it generally needs more than 7500 feet to take off with full load. It has however demonstrated that it can take off with a 40 tonne load in just around 1500 feet.

The IL 76 has a load factor of less than 50 tonnes, or just about the capacity of ferrying one tank.

IAF has already signed with the US Lockheed Martin to buy six Hercules C 130J special operations aircraft, which can land and take off fully loaded from grassy football ground size patches. There is an option for six more, and IAF is also coordinating acquisition of one additional C 130J, albeit with less capable avionics, for the Border Security Force (BSF).

BSF is also looking for two smaller C 27J Spartan aircraft from Italy’s Finmeccanica.

Similar aircraft are also needed by the Aviation Research Centre (ARC), the aviation wing of India’s external intelligence agency, RAW. Notably, it were the ARC aircraft which were used to ferry NSG commandos from New Delhi to Mumbai when the terrorists attacked there in October.

It is our personal observation that while aircraft could be acquired with funds from different organizations like BSF, their operations should be concentrated with the IAF or ARC. Experience has shown that it is difficult for the BSF, which comes under the Home Ministry, to employ pilots at commercial rates in accordance with civil aviation rules from the civil market.

IAF on the other hand trains its pilots and it is mandatory for them to serve in accordance with laid out rules.

Also, IAF needs transport aircraft in numbers. For a country the size of India, a dozen aircraft like the C 130J are not enough. And Transfer of Technology is worth under Offsets rules if the orders are sizeable. Maintenance is also easy then.

IAF is also buying 45 Indo-Russian Multi-role Transport Aircraft (MTA) through HAL but the plans for the development of this medium capacity aircraft are yet to be finalized. However, IAF has signed an agreement with Russia to buy 80 more Mi 17 helicopters in a follow-on order. These are time-tested machines.

But again, its plans to buy lighter helicopters to replace the old Chetak and Cheetahs are delayed along with those of the Indian Army.

The acquisition is now time-critical.

India cannot afford another surprise like Kargil or Mumbai. If the government can order the armed forces to fight, the leadership must also ensure that our officers and men have the cutting-edge capability.

Transporters, carrying men, fuel or electronic warfare systems, are the backbone of the combat pilot. (2050 words)

The writers are defence analysts.

IAF: A peep into the future Modernisation must be stepped up, say Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (retd)

2010-05-24T22:10:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11, Silver State, Pilibhit Byepass Road,
Bareilly-243005 (U.P.) INDIA
Tel:-0581-2526650,
Mob: 9411900090, 09999722636
Email-amashokgoel@gmail.com
IAF: A peep into the future Modernisation must be stepped up, say Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (retd)
IAF performed very well during the four-nation Red Flag exercise held in the US in August. Picture (Left) shows an IAF Su 30 taking off from the Nellis air force base. An F-18 pilot with advanced technology helmet-mounted cueing system (Right). The picture tube of this helmet is made in Germany by a company now owned by New Delhi-based Samtel.
THE Indian Air Force (IAF) needs everything: new aircraft, helicopters, sensors, precision engagement systems, weapons, electronic warfare platforms, AWACs, midair refueling, long-range night attack capability, secure connectivity, anti-missile capability, well-protected modern airbases, space assets, Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) and more.
Why so? Will it not involve too much expenditure? Of course, Yes. After all, it has to make up for several years of inaction after 1990, when the IAF as well as the Indian Army and Navy were not given even routine replacement and augmentation of their equipment.
The costs indeed are heavy. We had thought initially that it would be around US$ 35 billion, then $ 70 billion. We were wrong.
At the recent National Seminar of Aerospace Technologies (N-SAT) held by the India Strategic defence magazine, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F.H. Major, said that the Indian aerospace sector needed an investment of $ 100 billon in the coming years, pointing out also that IAF was already under a major transformation. The results, he added, would be visible within the next decade.
The Air Chief was merely stating the fact that the Indian Air Force is under an overall “transformation.” He did not indicate any timeline, but did say that the estimated expenditure did not cover only aircraft and systems, but developments like airbases, infrastructure, and so on.
He mentioned the approximate figures of financial implications while inviting the industry to invest in the aerospace sector, which also entailed an offsets element of 30 per cent – or a $ 30 billion opportunity – as mandated now by the Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) of the Indian Defence Ministry.
He also assured that IAF took its responsibility of protecting the country seriously, and that nothing but the best would be acquired.
No Chief of Air Staff has ever given such an indication before. But the scale of IAF’s modernisation programme now has also never been matched in India’s history. IAF has never suffered the obsolescence of its systems as today.
Air Chief Major said: “IAF is in a very comprehensive modernisation programme. We are at various stages in the induction of a wide range of equipment which includes all types of aircraft, weapons, missiles, sensors, communications equipment etc. We are even upgrading our airfield infrastructure, laboratories and maintenance facilities.
“The scale is simply immense. We are looking for state-of-the-art equipment and we will not settle for the second best.”
It would be appropriate to recall here that the Indian armed forces as well as the intelligence organisations suffered badly due to the virtual ban by the political leadership in 1990 on all acquisitions in the light of the ill-fated Bofors acquisition programme. It was not easy for the system to restart, particularly as the ban had been imposed by the then Prime Minister himself.
The routine process of replacement and augmentation could be triggered again only by the 1999 Kargil War following Pakistan’s occupation of mountaintops on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) in an attempt to cut off parts of Kashmir from India.
Much to its horror, the government of the day was told that the Army neither had munitions for its Bofors guns nor appropriate clothing for troops to fight in icy heights, the Navy had no protection for its ships against enemy missile attacks, and the Air Force had no helicopters to attack intruding Pakistani soldiers in mountaintops.
If we heard every now and then about the inadequacy of equipment with the Indian armed forces, the Kargil War was an eye opener.
The IAF has been wanting new aircraft to replace the bulk of its strength consisting of Soviet vintage assortment of Migs, the Army wants tanks and artillery guns, and the Navy new ships and anti-missile capability.
Technology is the key and common element in all the systems any of the three services acquire. As the armed forces did not buy much for long, the need of the hour also clearly implies that they buy the best and the latest to take advantage of their late start.
As for IAF, the Air Chief pointed out that the “drivers of aerospace power are markedly different from those” of the surface combatants. “The components of aerospace power are inherently dependent upon technology, and technology largely dictates performance and capability.”
He noted that an air force has to possess an advantage in terms of the quality of equipment, and a demonstrated superiority in tactics and training, saying that “accessibility to and availability of timely and appropriate technology is often the impediment.”
Most of the platforms made in the 1980s did not have modular concepts; this changed in the 1990s. In the 21st century, particularly for India, it makes sense to update and upgrade the equipment of its armed forces. But then, most of our equipment is of the 1970s Soviet vintage, and there is nothing much one can do than to strap on a little booster shot here and there.
The first requirement is to have platforms, in adequate numbers, with sophisticated onboard technology. Technology that can be pulled out like a chip or a computer bus, and replaced with a better module periodically.
By the very nature of its requirements, an air force is powered by hi-tech.
Aircraft have to fly, operate intrusive missions, evading hostile radars and fire, and come back safely after delivering results. If there is a war, and unfortunately possibilities always exist, only an air force can take the war to an enemy’s territory. It is an old principle that battles must be fought “not on my territory but on yours.”
Former Air Chief Marshal S.P. Tyagi, during whose tenure a couple of years ago the IAF finalised the parameters for acquiring 126 Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (M-MRCA) to replace its mostly Mig 21 squadrons, elucidated this principle very well at the seminar. India is a peaceful country, unlikely ever to initiate a conflict. But, he pointed out, if forced into war, “only the IAF can be a delivery vehicle to inflict punishment on an aggressor where he is.”
Four years ago, in the columns of this esteemed newspaper, we had first disclosed that the number of IAF squadrons was falling down.
The government had decided in 1961 to give the IAF 65 combat squadrons, or 1150 fighter jets, keeping in mind the security scenario on the western and north-eastern borders. It was reduced to 45, but actually, their number never exceeded 39, or a little more than 700 aircraft.
More than 300 of these were Mig 21s, a majority of whom are already being phased out, and are due to be replaced gradually by the Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (M-MRCA), the process for acquiring 126-plus of whom is already under way.
As for the combat aircraft, IAF’s focus now is to rely on its growing fleet of powerful SU 30MKIs for long range air dominance, the MRCAs for routine patrols and engagement if needed around the borders, the upgraded Jaguars for deep strikes, and Mig 29s and Mirage 2000s to augment the air defence.
By 2016-17, according to Air Chief Major, IAF should also lay its hands on the futuristic Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) in collaboration with Russia.
As for the MRCAs, for whom six manufacturers have submitted proposals in response to tenders, their field trials are expected to begin by February or March, and the air force expects the first batch of 18 off the shelf supplies from the selected manufacturer by 2012-13.
The focus of IAF was well defined by Vice Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal P.V. Naik, who said that recent conflicts had demonstrated the necessity of network centric warfare capability, and cutting edge technologies in the fields of surveillance, targeting, avionics and weapon lethality.
He specified: Platforms that combine stealth, and situational awareness as a result of interacting with a broad array of networked systems.All-weather strike capability. Standoff attack capability with high degree of accuracy. Passive radar technology.Fire and Forget Beyond-the-Visual-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAAMS).Sensor technologies for long range BVRAAMS.Enhancing Electronic Warfare (EW) capability by extension of electromagnetic spectrum to optimal wavelengths, and warning of illumination by Infra Red (IR) Laser or Radar (by hostile elements).
Apparently, the future combat fleet of the IAF would be largely multi-role, with air dominance capability in accordance with India’s strategic requirements to secure its trade routes, say from the Strait of Malacca in the East to the Gulf of Aden in the West. And perhaps beyond.
India’s FGFA would be a piloted aircraft, but gradually, the air force would rely on steadily increasing induction of unmanned aircraft, technically designated Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, which are already being used for surveillance around the borders.
At a later date, say by around 2030, as their developments mature and they become affordable, their combat versions or Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) would be used, piloted remotely from distant grounds.
Classified video recordings have shown US drones sniping successfully at individual targets one by one in the war zones of Afghanistan and Iraq.
It’s our estimate that by 2050, at least one-fourth of the Indian Air Force would consist of UCAVs. A fair target though should be 50:50.
At the moment, the only high-powered combat aircraft with IAF are the Russian-built SU-30MKI. Besides being new, these are also the only ones with both long reach and precision engagement capability.
In fact, during the recent four-nation Red Flag exercise held in the US, the SU-30 MKI pilots distinguished themselves, despite the fact that they did not operate all their systems so as not to give away some of their secrets.
This was the first time ever that the IAF took part in such a large simulated war scenario with three other air forces, and with at least 80 aircraft at any time in the air day or night.
Interestingly, when, as part of the exercise, the US Air Force fiddled with its GPS constellation to mislead the participating aircraft, the Indian Sukhois were not affected as they automatically switched to the Russian Glonass system. The US, French and South Korean aircraft did not have this advantage.
Significantly, IAF already has a plan to build its own satellite constellation and use the GPS and Glonass as well. That is another key element of IAF’s modernisation in the future.
The acquisition of the SU 30MKIs was a fortunate decision, although there was some opposition even from former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda. Russia has delivered 60 of them as completely built units as contracted and production of another 170 has commenced in India with a production rate now exceeding 20 per year.
The IAF is upgrading its Mirage 2000 to Mirage 2005 standards, enhancing its performance above the original capability and to extend the aircraft’s life by another 20 years. Thales of France is negotiating with IAF in this regard.
The Mig 29 is similarly being upgraded with better target acquisition systems under a contract with Russia to integrate some western avionics also.
The IAF has inducted the BAE Systems-built advanced jet trainer Hawk to enable its pilots to convert to any fighter jet. But for the IAF to declare “Mission Accomplished,” political will is imperative to give it equipment and capability to reach and engage an aggressor on his territory.
The modernization process has begun; it needs to continue as scheduled by the Air Headquarters.
The writers are defence analysts.

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.) 26/11 Kasab and the Euphoria

2010-05-24T21:21:00.000-07:00

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM
11 Silver Estate,
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)
Tel.:0581-2526650
Mobile:9411900090

amashokgoel@gmail.com
sacreatinon_2001@yahoo.uk

26/11 Kasab and the Euphoria

First week of May was heavily booked in print and electronic media on the trial of Kasab and death penalty to him. This gave an impression of a big victory of a battle won by India. Undoubtedly the legal luminaries of the country spared no effort of a transparent and fair trial, and the guilty had to be suitably punished.

But with the same Euphoria we have no answers to:

ü How such a well planned terrorist attack was conceived planned & executed?
ü How did Headly & Rana people of Pak origin kept on visiting this country 18-24 months earlier and went unnoticed?
ü How (12) did well trained and highly motivated terrorists traveled by sea hundreds of KM unnoticed?
ü How did they land on the shores of Mumbai and moved to predestined and defined locations to play havoc among our civilized establishments?
ü Did our police force and STF Maharashtra reacted adequately,. Immediately and intelligently.
ü Was there lapse of official duties by the local agencies?
ü Did we not have total lack of intelligence failure and the vigilance by the local security agencies?
ü Slackness on the part of senior police officers, all traveling together in a vehicle not adequately protected.
ü Do you think that award of “Nations Highest “Gallantry Award”-Ashok Chakra” to fourteen killed security personnel was justified.
ü Kargil was a greater challenge where 650 of our soldiers and young officers’ ware killed and far & few gallantry awards were conferred. All 650 killed in Kargil should be conferred with some gallantry award even now to correct the imbalance.
ü Are we really serious on National Security search your heart and debate in yourself?

Older Mig-21’s flying in to Sunset

2009-11-15T23:33:00.000-08:00

Older Mig-21’s flying in to Sunset

A magnificent flying machine of yester years (inducted into IAF during mid 60’s) main stay of the fighting force of the IAF going to close down its wings in another two years. (Barring 126 MIG “Bison’s the upgraded and modified ones).

IAF flew them as competent “air defense” machines, so what if they were good enough only for point defense. Just enough to loiter around in the air, with after burners, for 15 – 20 minutes. Not only that IAF used them as “advanced jet trainers as well and lost many precious lives. Because of inordinate delay in procurement process of AJT (1984 to 2004) The delay in decision making is once again bringing the “Air Power” to a stage of serious concern.

IAF is to have nearly 40 Squadron on its roll (39.5 to be very precise). News paper reports indicate IAF would come down to 28 Squadron but in all probability we could take an all time low of 26 Squadron or in real terms or even less .

An thought of a concern that we are going to be short of nearly 14 squadron in another two years. That amounts to 14X18=252 aircraft and if we include MR and SOW as well we can add another 84 aircraft. A short fall of 252 + 84 = 326 aircraft is a matter of serious concern in the immediate future.

Where are the aircraft? SU 30 MK –I a total of 230 with 80 aircraft already in skies. Another 150 would takes not less then 5 years. The super selection process of 126 aircraft (MRCA) deal with six competitors has just begun . IAF may not accomplish the summer trials in this year . The process and identification of the real fighter may take from now to 30 -36 months. Tech evaluation and PNC another 24 months. And than the process of 1st delivery another 36 months. Oh surprisingly we have lost out 7-8 years.
Where is the LCA ? 2010 initially 2015 revised plan of induction.

Sorry it’s all too late and difficult to digest.

“Air Chief Marshal emphasized to “India Strategic” that air craft numbers are as important as technology and that “both these have their own specific compulsion” .

It may be recalled that in the 1990’s , when India was about to acquire SU 30 aircraft from Russia , certain quarters had campaigned that the MIG-21 was good enough and India need not go in for modern aircraft . The same voices are being heard on numbers now.

According to the well known Defence analyst Air Commodore Jasjit Singh (Former Director of IDSA and now director of CAPS – Centre for Air Power Studies)” those who raise such voice have no perception of air power in terms of numbers and technology”.

We have created a large gap for ourselves, decisions makers along with professionals have to find quick solution rather than become a silent spectators to the flight a likely dooms day.

MRCA

2009-07-27T23:45:00.001-07:00

MRCA – still a Challenge

It is an old saying ‘we learn from our mistakes”. IAF has shown (or say the decision makers) have remained totally ignorant of this saying.

We always knew the mig-21’s inducted in mid 60’s would last only till 90’s. So the process of identification and process of procurement should have commenced in early 80’s. We started hearing about floating an RFP for this famous 126 aircraft deal only during “TP’s’ time. After that “Keecha” continued to make enough noise for 3 years and “Bundle” also did not spare any forum during his 27 months. No body heard even his loud and articulative statements. Finally it was left to poor hepter pilot “Fali” to make a break through and a RFP was floated during 2007-2008.

Six foreign companies were short listed –Russian –Mig – 35 , US (Lock heed) F-16 , US –Boeing–F-18 super hornet , EADS –Euro flight Typhoon, Swedish –Grippen and the last entrant French Rafael . It may be of interest that “Keecha” during his tenure had insisted only on single tender selection of “French Rafael’, based on IAF’S good experience of flying French –Mirage -2000 (May be this was one of the factor that RFP never found its place during his tenure).

Interestingly the hurdle of RFP was over during “Falis” tenure and finally six fourth generation aircraft were short listed.

The process of trials and technical evaluation has just commenced. One has to remember that IAF operates all types of aircraft (Transport, fighters, hepters) to their ultimate limits. Some of the Air Forces who came in operational contact with this author were amazed and overawed when they landed with us, the IAF crews at high altitude airfield like Leh and Thoise . Once an aircraft is flight tested and technically evaluated in “Indian Environment” this establishes its absolute supremacy in any part of the ‘Globe’.

The nodal agency for any such trials and technical evaluation is ASTE (Aircraft Systems and Testing Establishment). A house for “Test Pilots” and “Test Engineers”. The process demands training of these test pilots and test engineers with the OEM’S in their country to assure and establish basic parameters. Training at each of the OEMS, is this complete for all the six? A big question mark remains. Once the teams have completed their training they are to be at Bangalore ASTE for formalizing a testing plan under humid conditions, (nothing better than South and North East ), for very hot conditions deserts of Rajasthan and for High Altitude trials at Leh –not only during winter but summer as well (May to Aug). Summer at high altitude throws in different challenge (e.g. at 250 C surface temperature An -32 and IL -76 aircraft carry ‘0’ payloads while returning from Leh & Thoise. What kind of payloads, rotation speeds, approach speeds, touch down speeds there fighter aircraft would experience, one would have to evaluate carefully. It may be possible that OEM’S have no performance graphs available above 3 km elevation. (This happened when IL-76 aircraft were inducted in mid 80’s).

The process of evaluation is to be designed for each of the aircraft type meticulously and standard performance parameters are to be designed. Not only that different teams assigned this task are to be on the same performance level.

Air Chief giving details of “Field Evaluation Test” (FET’S), he said that in the first round, Indian pilots would visit the country of manufacture of each aircraft to see the facilities, in the second round, two the three aircraft from each manufactures would be flight tested in Bangalore, Jaisalmer and Leh; and in the third round actual weapon firing test would be conducted in the manufactures or in another country as designated by the manufactures (not all European countries have firing ranges).
There would be a common leader but two or three different teams under him. The aircraft would go to Bangalore for performance system and humidity trials and to Leh for high attitude and cold weather trials.

The process of flight testing trials and evaluation is most demanding and time consuming. Comparing the data against common denominators with different set of trial teams is likely to bring in subjective assessment. To make the trials be absolutely successful in different environmental condition and them short list the contenders would be a Herculean task. One should not be surprised that all six may end up equally worthy of induction into the IAF.

What would decide them the selection:-
a. Life Expectancy
b. Life Costing
c. Maintenance support.
d. Strings Attached
e. Bilateral agreement on production and maintenance facilities in India.
f. Technology Transfer
g. Price negotiations
h. Political Considerations
j. Old friendship syndrome.

We are in a serious business of short fall of numbers which is equally important to technology. The total process (Trials – and short listing 24-36 months, PNC and Contract finalization 24-36 months, commencement of delivery 36 months). By the time aircraft gets inducted could be another 7-8 yrs, we have to shorten this period between 4-6 years, just keep the target of inductive 2014 before the next General Election. Congress Govts have a great deal of achievement of finalizing defence deals. Let that be Jaguars in 70’s Mirage-2000 in 80’, IL-76 in 80’s. Decisions makes are to be reminded again and again be quick and decide before the IAF’s Mig 21st close their wings in entirety.

LOG BOOK

Social Curruption

2009-07-27T23:24:00.001-07:00

ONE RANK ONE PENSION

2009-06-15T01:28:00.001-07:00

Dear Friends

Press release regarding “One Rank One Pension” dated 10 June 2009 has already fwd to all Press is circulated herewith for your info please.

With Kind Regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email :
satbirsm@yahoo.com

PRESS RELEASE

Dated: 10 June 2009
ONE RANK ONE PENSION

Dear Members of the Media,
1. In her address to both houses of Parliament, the Supreme Commander of Armed Forces Mrs. Pratibha Patil on 04 June 2009 announced that long pending demand of One Rank One Pension (OROP) of the Defence Forces will be reexamined and decision arrived at by 30 June 2009. The announcement has been widely welcomed by the Defence personnel specially the Ex-Servicemen who have been agitating for the past one year to press for their demands specially the One Rank One Pension. Deeply hurt and anguished at the apathy shown by the Govt in not accepting their main demand of OROP, they on four occasions deposited over 15000 gallantry and distinguished service medals with the President.

2. The Indian Ex-servicemen Movement (IESM,) an umbrella organization for all Ex Servicemen of India appeals to the Govt that the committee headed by Mr Chandrasekhar must not dilute the Definition of OROP ie irrespective of the date of retirement, the Defence Personnel who have rendered same years of service and holding same rank must get same pension. Only the grant of Full Parity with the new pensioners will meet the ends of justice.
3. We appeal to the Govt to accept the concept of One Rank One Pension with full Parity and make it the policy for grant of pensions to the Defence Personnel. Any other thoughts/proposal of One Time increase/modified parity/near parity will not be in line with the “Just and Fair” solution to the emotive issue of OROP. We are hopeful that the Govt will give due consideration to this important aspect of Defence Forces.
With regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email: satbirsm@yahoo.com

IAF chooses C 17 Globemaster III

2009-06-15T01:26:00.000-07:00

Gulshan Luthra Gulshan.Luthra@indiastrategic.in and Air Marshal Ashok Goel amashokgoel@gmail.com

IAF chooses C 17 Globemaster III

New Delhi. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has shortlisted the Boeing C 17 Globemaster III as its new Very Heavy Lift Transport Aircraft (VHTAC).

Chief of Air Staff air Chief Marshal P V Naik told India Strategic that the aircraft had been chosen after a thorough study because of its capability to take off and land on short runways with heavy loads, long range, and ease of operation.

IAF was looking at acquiring 10 C 17s initially through the US government’s Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route, and that a proposal in this regard was being considered by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), he said adding that the aircraft should come in about three years after a contract is signed.

At present, India has less than 20 IL 76 Soviet-era aircraft for strategic lift, but they were acquired two decades ago. The requirement today is for technologically better, easier to maintain, and a larger number of aircraft due to the strategic scenario around India and the need to ferry troops, men and material even within India in times of contingency.

An IL 76 can carry a cargo of around 40 tonnes while a C 17 can carry 70 tonnes, and is much easier to operate with a small crew of two pilots and one loadmaster (total three) only despite its massive size, thanks to its various power-assisted systems. Two observers though can also be seated.

Despite its massive size – 174 ft length, 55 ft height and about 170 ft wingspan – a pilot can fly the aircraft with a simple joystick, much like a fighter aircraft, which can be lifesaving in a battlezone as the aircraft can take off quickly and at steep angles. It is powered by four Pratt & Whitney F-117-PW-100 turbofan engines.

The C 17 is the mainstay of US forces for worldwide deployment, and can be refueled midair. It is in fact the lifeline of US and NATO troops deployed in Afghanistan and Iraq.

Boeing has brought the aircraft several times to India for its literal catwalk on IAF tarmacs, including at the Aero India 2007 and 2009 in Bangalore. Indian military officials and journalists have been invited for the aircraft’s flight displays during the Paris Air Show beginning June 15.

According to the Boeing company, the high-wing, 4-engine, multi-service T-tailed military-transport C-17 can carry large equipment including two tanks, supplies and troops directly to small airfields in harsh terrain anywhere in the world day or night.

The massive, sturdy, long-haul aircraft tackles distance, destination and heavy, oversized payloads in unpredictable conditions. It has delivered cargo in every worldwide operation since the 1990s. It can take off from a 7,600-ft airfield, carry a payload of 160,000 pounds, fly 2,400 nautical miles, refuel while in flight for longer range, and land in 3,000 ft or less on a small unpaved or paved airfield day or night.

The aircraft can also be used as an aerial ambulance.

The cost of the aircraft is not available but according to published reports, it was $237 million in 2007.

Special Olympics Bharat

2009-05-04T00:41:00.000-07:00

What is Special Olympics?

Special Olympics is an international Movement dedicated to empowering people with intellectual disabilities to become physically fit, productive and respected members of society, though sports training and athletic competition. The Movement involves:

• 2.5 million Athletes, with a goal of 4 million by 2009
• More than 200 Special Olympics programs in 170 countries
• 26 Olympic-type summer and winter sports
• 7 regional offices around the world, including Belgium, Egypt, Zimbabwe, India, China, Panama, and USA
• Approximately 750,000 volunteers
• More than 2, 00,000 coaches
• More than 20,000 competitions around the world each year

Special Olympics Mission

· To provide year-round sports training and athletic competition in a variety of Olympic-type sports for children and adults with intellectual disabilities, giving them continuing opportunities to develop physical fitness, demonstrate courage, experience joy and participate in a sharing of gifts, skills and friendship with their families, other Special Olympics athletes and the community.

Special Olympics Vision

· The Special Olympics Movement will transform communities by inspiring people throughout the world to open their minds, accept and include people with intellectual disabilities and thereby celebrate the similarities common to all people.

History and Leadership

· Special Olympics began in 1968 with the First International Special Olympics Games at Soldier Field in Chicago. Since then, millions have benefited from the Movement.

· Timothy P. Shriver is the Chairman, President, and CEO of Special Olympics.

· The Board Vice Chairs are Nadia Comaneci, Olympic Gymnastics Gold Medalist; and Raymond J. Lane, Partner, Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers.

· Eunice Kennedy Shriver is the Founder of Special Olympics and its Honorary Chairperson.

·
Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd.) AVSM PVSM VM is the Chairman, President Special Olympics Bharat Uttar Pradesh and National Trustee of Special Olympics Bharat.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel Chairman SOB-UP,
Air Cmdr NK Bhoan, AOC , Kanpur
Dr. Amitav Mishra, Vice Chairman & State Program Director SOB-UP

Philosophy

Special Olympics is founded on the belief that people with intellectual disabilities can, with proper instruction and encouragement, learn, enjoy and benefit from participation in individual and team sports. Special Olympics also believes that through millions of individual acts of inclusion where people with and without intellectual disabilities are brought together, long-standing myths are dispelled, negative attitudes changed and new opportunities to embrace and celebrate people with intellectual disabilities are created.

Special Olympics Initiatives

·
Special Olympics Healthy Athletes™ includes dental screening, vision examinations, hearing examinations, injury prevention, and nutrition. These screenings and exams are conducted at Special Olympics local, State, National and World Games and are provided at no cost to Special Olympics athletes.

· Special Olympics Get Into It™ is a K-12 service-learning curriculum developed to introduce Special Olympics and explain intellectual disabilities to young people and encourage them to become involved in the Movement and work to dispel the myths and stereotypes that surround people with intellectual disabilities.

· Special Olympics Athlete Leadership Programs (ALPs) offer athletes the opportunity to take active leadership roles both on and off the playing field. Athletes serve on the Boards of Directors, officiate competitions, coach other athletes and make decisions about the future of Special Olympics.
· Special Olympics Unified Sports™ is a program that brings together people with and without intellectual disabilities on the same athletic team.

· Family Support Network gives families a support system within Special Olympics.

Benefits

· Individuals who compete in Special Olympics develop improved physical fitness and motor skills and greater self confidence. They exhibit courage and enthusiasm and build lasting friendships. These life skills enhance their ability to live normal productive lives.

· More than ever, Special Olympics athletes hold jobs, own homes, go to school and successfully confront life challenges on a daily basis.

Funding

· Special Olympics receives funding in support of the Movement from individuals, corporations, foundations, government and restricted grants. The vast majority of funding received is from individuals through the Special Olympics direct mail program.

Eligibility

· To be eligible to participate in Special Olympics, an athlete must be at least eight years old and identified by an agency or professional as having one of the following conditions: mental retardation, cognitive delays as measured by formal assessment, or significant learning or vocational problems due to cognitive delay that have required specially designed instruction.

For More Information:
About Special Olympics, please visit. www.specialolympics.org

The 1999 Kargil War Not a Generals’ Victory

2009-03-28T00:13:00.000-07:00

The 1999 Kargil War Not a Generals’ Victory

By Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : January 2009

New Delhi. The 1999 Kargil War caused the biggest .utter in the Indian subcontinent, bringing India and Pakistan close to a nuclear holocaust. Despite the fact that the last two wars between the two neighbours had been way back, in 1965 and 1971, it happened because the Indians were lax as usual and the Pakistanis in a mischief mode, also as usual.
Much has been written about the event, including by the Chief of Army Staff at that time, Gen V P Malik, as also by the then Home Minister L K Advani. There was an official inquiry by India’s renowned strategic affairs analyst, K Subrahmanyam, but he has pointed out to this writer that he did not go into operational details and accordingly, could not comment on certain weaknesses some top Indian commanders displayed. The mid-level and younger officers and men though fought well, and even though many of them perished, the victory actually belonged to them.
The Pakistani military leadership as well as its Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) have always been indulging in nasty manoeuvers against India. But that they dared to infiltrate troops into India and tried to capture a part of Kashmir yet again was possible because we were negligent, partly because we generally are so by temperament and partly because the government of the day, led by Mr A B Vajpayee, had ordered the forces to be “soft” on Pakistan because of the “positive” talks between him and his Pakistani counterpart, Nawaz Sharif towards maintaining peace and building friendship.
While opportunities for peace must be seized by politicians, there was no reason for the armed forces – the Army in particular – to be lax. In fact, the Pakistani move as it happened had been debated in the Indian Army for years and had been taken up as a strong possibility in periodic exercises. Yet, when it was happening, we were blind to it.
In the foreword to Brig Gurmeet Kanwal’s book, Indian Army Vision 2020, Gen Malik says: “The Fact is that even after 60 years of independence, knowledge and experience of defence and military issues is lacking in most of our political leaders and civilian bureaucrats.”
But the General has not shared the lapses and neglect of responsibilities of the Army leadership, particularly of the sector commanders, and to an extent, his own. Some of these are by now, well known, including the mindset of the 15 Corps Commander, Lt Gen Krishan Pal, who insisted that there were only a handful of infiltrators – 60 to 80 – and that none of them was a Pakistani soldier. He committed troops without allowing them adequate weapons and strength, and if facts given by Lt Gen Y M Bammi in a book are taken into account, he punished an officer, Brig Devinder Singh, who wanted better preparations insisting that there were a large number of Pakistani soldiers inside the Indian territory.
The officer had eight battalions under his charge, and by all accounts, he fought very well, leading the troops from the front. Gen Malik himself has been seen and heard praising this officer at various fora. Yet, Brig Devinder Singh’s career was cut short to save those who were wrong.
To recall, the biggest players of the Kargil War were:
a. The Government at the highest echelon of the Political Leadership;
b. The top rung of the military leadership – The Army Chief, GOC-in-C Northern Command, 15 Corps Cdr , and the 3 Div Cdr;
c. The intelligence agencies, primarily the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Research and Analysis Wing (RAW);
d. The Indian Air Force (IAF) and its exercise of Air Power.
e. The dedicated and committed soldiers and the middle and junior level officers.
THE ROLE OF THE POLITICAL LEADERSHIP
The NDA government was at its pinnacle in May 1998, having successfully conducted the nuclear test that month and having put India in the list of Nuclear Weapon States (NWS). The aim now was to resolve the Kashmir issue by seeking wellmeaning diplomatic and economic relations with Pakistan.
Mrs Indira Gandhi had also attempted that, after the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, by trying to tell the then Pakistani leader Z A Bhutto that only peace between the two neighbours would ensure their long-term economic prosperity and growth. In fact, she went out of the way to ensure a comfortable stay for Bhutto, personally choosing even the tapestry of the room he was to stay in Simla during the 1972 summit between them, and by telling Indian officers that the Pakistani leader must be given the respect due to a visiting head of government or state, and not that of a country which had lost war. She agreed to Bhutto’s request to release nearly 96,000 Pakistani POWs, and Bhutto promised to work for peace with India.
Needless to say that he backed out.
Mrs Gandhi did what was right in those circumstances. But the lesson for the Indian leadership was to understand that Pakistan is never to be trusted. Islamabad built a network of nuclear capability and missiles by smuggling and deceit, lying even to Washington which gave it liberal aid as a friend and mentor.
Prime Minister Vajpayee and his deputy, Advani, tried to establish a political dialogue with Pakistan. Coupled with the nuclear tests, a success with Islamabad would give them respect in the history books forever.
Intelligence organizations were told to be easy, and the armed forces stopped looking for periodic information from them. There was the February 1999 Bus Yatra (journey) by Vajpayee to Lahore to meet with his counterpart, Nawaz Sharif. It was a goodwill mission, seemingly wellresponded by Sharif.But the fact that the then Pakistani Chief of Army Staff, Gen Parvez Musharraf, did not pay due respects to the visiting Indian leader during the visit, should have been an indication of the Pakistani army’s intentions; that it had no intention to accommodate the rapprochement that the political leadership in Islamabad perhaps then wanted.
It may be noted that as a Brigadier on assignment with a think tank in London, Musharraf had written in a thesis that Pakistan must capture Kashmir to secure water from the Himalayan rivers for itself. As a Chief of Staff, he would certainly try to realize his thoughts.
It is a well known fact that the Srinagar-Leh axis runs closest to the Line of Control (LOC) in the Dras–Kargil Sector. Also, the terrain on the Indian side is hostile to defend, whereas the terrain on the Pakistan side is favorable to launch an offensive. Strategically, Pakistan has always intended to block, disrupt or permanently dislocate it.
My first posting after being commissioned into the IAF in 1963 was to Jammu in Squadron 43, flying Dakotas. The main task was to operate to Kargil and Thoise to provide logistic support to the troops deployed in forward areas. I was fortunate to be deputed as the Base Commander of Air Force clement at Kargil from Feb to May 1964, working along with 121 (Ind) Infantry Brigade.
It was an education.
Brig Chopra, an Armoured Corps officer who was the Brigade Commander, always used to say that the Dras-Kargil Sector was the most sensitive because of its close proximity to the LOC as well as the terrain factors.
Much later, during a course in 1980-81 at the Army’s prestigious College of Combat at MHOW, now renamed Army War College, this lesson was repeated by none other than the Commandant, Lt Gen K Sunderji.
He became the Chief of Army Staff later, and had a sand-model exercise conducted, visualizing exactly what the Pakistanis did to occupy Kargil. A counteroffensive plan was discussed at the 15 Corps Headquarters. I was privy to that along with Lt Gen B C Nanda, Army Commander Northern Command, Air Marshal M M Singh, AOC-in-C Western Command and some other officers.
That in 1998 and 1999, the top brass in the same sector was oblivious to the risk from the Pakistani Army, is absolutely un-understanable.
RAW’S AVIATION RESEARCH CENTRE (ARC)
Till mid-1997, a user could approach ARC only through the RAW HQ for its operational tasks. This used to delay the process by a week. The legendary Billy Bedi, who headed ARC for several years, initiated userfriendly steps, and a required mission could be launched within hours. Analytical reports were delivered ASAP, within hours if required.
Top 3-star officers from the services were invited and informed of the ARC’s capabilities in airborne electronic intelligence, and the then Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal A Y Tipnis, commended the ARC.
THE KARGIL SURPRISE
In May 1999, once reports of Pakistani infiltration had come in, Army’s Directorate General of Military Intelligence (DGMI) sought Air Reconnaissance Mission in the Dras-Kargil sector.
I personally flew missions beginning May 13 and soon, on May 18, we had pictures of six Pakistani Army MI-17 helicopters parked in the Mushok Valley area on the Indian side. These photographs were shown to the then Defence Minister George Fernandes, who was aghast and observed that this could have happened only after months of planning and preparation.
Gen Malik also praised ARC for the inputs but strangely, till some three weeks after this input, Lt Gen Krishan Pal still seemed to believe that there were only a few infiltrators on the Indian side. He himself said in a TV statement that he revised his opinion only after India lost many lives in the Battle of Tololing (June 13).
Did the Army HQ fail to convey him the confirmation of the Pakistani helicopters, and presence, inside India? Or he just insisted on ignoring reality?
Perhaps, the Army should come out with the truth after an honest introspection.
For record, Gen Malik had told ARC that he had no hesitation in admitting that its inputs enabled the Army to correlate its operational plans and that otherwise the causality figures could have been much higher.
The gap between this statement and Lt Gen Krishanpal’s observation is glaring, and led to a tragic loss of lives.
THE INDIAN AIR FORCE
IAF does not have combat helicopters for high altitude offensive operations, and on May 25, it was decided to commit aircraft to neutralize the Pakistan-occupied positions on the Indian side.
Initially, IAF lost two aircraft and one Mi 17 helicopter.
An IAF spokesman pointed out that the air operations in Kargil had taken place in an environment that was totally new in the history of world military aviation. The IAF had to unlearn what had been taught before, as it was operating with a new set of paradigms such as the ballistic trajectory of weapons in high altitude operations.
A well-respected Air Marshal Vinod Patney, Air Officer Commanding in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Western Air Command, conducted the air operations after a short course to his officers in precision bombing.
THE SUBRAHMANYAM COMMITTEE
The Subrahmanyam Committee did not attribute any intelligence failures to RAW or ARC, but highlighted equipment inadequacies like the lack of high resolution, all-weather and sub-meter imaging capability.
Lack of UAVs and better coordination between the security agencies was also mentioned but it acknowledged that the IB Director did convey certain inputs on activities in areas under the Gilgit-based FCNA (Force Commander orthern Areas) of Pakistan to the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the Cabinet Secretary, the Home Secretary and the Director-General Military Operations (DGMO).
There is apparently a general lack of awareness of the critical importance of, and the need for, assessed intelligence, at all levels. Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC) reports do not receive the attention they deserve at the political and higher bureaucratic levels. One officer in a listening post mentions that a senior bureaucrat asked him about some entertainment programmes only in a span of one year.
It is clear that a Kargil-type situation could have been avoided either by plugging gaps as in Siachin, or by a credible declaratory policy of swiftly punishing wanton and willful violation of the sanctity of the LOC, as the Committee observed.
THE NUCLEAR TANGLE
Kargil was a stupid adventure for Pakistan.
Threats from Islamabad about using nuclear weapons were considered but dismissed as Pakistan would not have been more stupid to invite destructive retaliation.
The Kargil War has also helped strengthen India’s doctrine that while India would not first use nuclear weapons, it would retaliate by inflicting massive destruction.
CONCLUSION
There is much evidence available to suggest that the intelligence agencies, RAW and IB, had in fact provided their political masters and military commanders with ample warning about Pakistani intentions and activities.
In any case, lack of strategic intelligence could have been made up by the observation on the ground through scouts and patrolling. One did not have to get basic inputs about the Pakistani infiltration from shepherds, which as a matter fact, happened. After all, the Pakistani infiltration was spread over a large front.
India deliberately limited its response to the eviction of Pakistani soldiers.
But many of our officers and men died needlessly as we were neither prepared for the war nor ready to absorb the inputs towards efficient and better coordination between the security forces.
The victory indeed belonged to those officers and men who fought, died or survived, but won.
Not the Generals.

IAF Helicopters

2009-03-28T00:12:00.000-07:00

IAF Helicopters• IAF to acquire Eurocopter Fennec• RfP for Heavy Lift helicopters next year• IAF's Helicopter induction programme will complete in 10 years

By Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : August 2007

New Delhi. The Indian Air Force (IAF) will buy a large number of Eurocopter Fennec AS 550 C3 helicopters to replace its ageing fleet of Chetak and Cheetah helicopters.

This was indicated by Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major in an interview here with India Strategic. He did not name the helicopter make but as the Indian Army has already chosen the Eurocopter over Bell 407 this year, it is apparently going to be the same machine for the IAF as well as the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
It may be noted that former Defence Secretary Shekhar Dutt, who introduced the offsets concept in defence procurement, has also ensured that the three services and the coast guard go in for the same system if their required specifications are the same or nearly the same.
Earlier, each service could buy a system from the same manufacturer individually under different contracts. Now, the overall requirement is being negotiated and options are kept.
The air chief said that the IAF was working on acquiring various types of helicopters, including the Mi 17 1Vs, and even some heavy lift 20-ton machines. He did not give machine-wise acquisition period but said that it would take about 10 years to complete the induction programme.
"IAF's requirement of helicopters will be met by induction of additional helicopters for various roles in a phased manner during the next two five-year plan periods. This will offset the force-depletion due to phase-outs."
Plans also include induction of combat helicopters.
It may be recalled that IAF has already decided to buy 80 Mi 17 1V helicopters in a follow-on order to replace the older machines as well as to make up for the depleting strength of this multi-role machine.
"As the helicopter is a versatile machine and has multi-role capability during peace and war," IAF's operational philosophy gives due emphasis on what is required and in how many numbers.
"The role and numbers are in accordance with our operational plans" and that as there was indeed "some force depletion" due to the phase out of older machines, there was some urgency and the government was giving it due attention, he said.
The air chief disclosed that IAF would float the RfP for the heavy lift helicopters next year - possibly in fiscal April 2008 - March 2009 - to who ever manufactures them and that the machines would be inducted after thorough technical trials and examination of financial details as per the DPP 2006, possibly within three years after that.
There was an initial, and immediate, requirement of about a dozen heavy lift helicopters.
IAF has executed major relief missions during calamities like tsunami and snow storms but it is hampered badly by the lack of heavy lift helicopters that can carry substantial load on the one hand and withstand the mountain drafts on the other.
It had acquired a small number of Mi 26 heavy lift helicopters from the Soviet Union in the 1980s, but their manufacture was stopped in the disintegration process of that country. There is a big problem now in their maintenance as there are virtually no spares available.
IAF pilots swear by the reliability of the 8-rotor Mi 26 helicopters, the biggest ever in the world, but of course, Russia does not make them any more, times have changed and technology has improved towards digital systems for optimized performance.
The only 20-ton helicopter available in the market today is the twin-rotor Boeing CH 47, which the US company had displayed at the Aero India air show in February 2007 at Bangalore. Test rides were given to air force personnel to showcase this helicopter's advanced capabilities.
There are some indications though that either the Russian or Europeans could come up with new machines, but after how long is the crucial question. The war or terror, as being demonstrated in Afghanistan, has thrown up new requirements. Both the NATO and US forces there are "hungry" for helicopters.
As for India, nearly all the helicopters with the Indian armed forces are around 20 or more than 20 years old, and the Aérospatiale Alouette and Lama helicopters, called Chetak or Cheetah in accordance with the roles assigned them by different services in India, have been the prime machines with them ever since the 1960s when they were first inducted. Cheetah is the more powerful variant though.
Both these have also been upgraded with better Turbomeca 333-2B engines to Chetan and Cheetal versions, giving them higher carrying capacity as well as higher altitude capability.
But the armed forces need new generation and new helicopters.
The acquisition of Fennec will fill in a wide gap, but in terms of different roles, the Army and Air Force will have to be given helicopters suited to different requirements.
Fennec in French is the name of an elusive North African desert fox, with oversized ears. The helicopter, used mostly in France but also in several other countries, is named after that animal.
Unconfirmed reports indicate that a requirement of small, agile helicopters that can fly in a city landscape crowded with high-rise buildings, is also being considered. It may be a while however when this type of machine is available.
A helicopter that fits this requirement is still being developed by Bell Helicopter in collaboration with an Israeli company.
None of the Services in India has a dedicated attack aircraft, and till that is acquired, some of the Eurocopters would be used in that role. Other roles envisaged are reconnaissance, electronic warfare, anti-tank role, and also injection and extrication of personnel from the battlefield. In its armed version, the Eurocopter is fitted with coaxial guns, rockets and air-to-air missiles.
Fennec makes a substantial use of composite materials, in body, rotor and rotor blades and tail rotor. These materials are described by the company as "rugged, low cost, efficient and corrosion-free."
The existing number of Alouette and Lama variants operational in India is estimated at a little more than 400, including some with private Indian organisations and business houses. But eventually, as the assembly and progressive manufacture of the aircraft is done at the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL), around 600 of the new Fennec helicopters could be made in India, depending upon the price and required rate of production.
The Indian Army recently chose the European Eurocopter Fennec over the US Bell 407, and its technical evaluation report is being processed at the Ministry of Defence. Discussions are beginning with Eurocopter for the best possible technical specifications within a given price.
The government though has still not officially disclosed if the Fennec has been chosen by the Indian Army. But India Strategic had learnt reliably, as reported in its April issue, that the Army had indeed preferred this helicopter in its technical trials.
The army is buying 197 helicopters for multi-role deployment, 60 of them in flyaway condition and the rest gradually assembled in India by the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL).
The number of Fennecs for IAF would be less than that, but set to nearly match that of the Army over the years as the requirements grow.
Indications at the recent Paris Air Show were that Safran, which makes the helicopter's Turbomeca Arrius engine, will further fine-tune the system for still better performance. The engine has the Full-Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) for optimized performance.
Air Chief Marshal Major, who is a helicopter pilot, visited various aircraft and helicopter companies at the Show and evinced keen interest in the development of the new systems.
He pointed out though that IAF was a fighting force and that its options for various aircraft, helicopters, weapons and systems were in accordance with the calculated Air Staff Requirements (ASR) and not based on what machine which air chief flew.
"We want the best in fighters, best in onboard systems, best in weapons, best in helicopters, and the best of everything for our officers and men," he told India Strategic.
As for the Eurocopter, or the replacement for the Cheetahs, the air chief did not disclose if the IAF would also buy some helicopters in a flyaway condition or they would be assembled at HAL and then delivered to the IAF.
Eurocopter, Turbomeca and Safran are now part of the aerospace major, the European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS) company.
Eurocopter is also supplying the Turbomeca 333-2B engines for the Dhruv, the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) designed and developed by HAL for the air force, army, navy, coast guard and police forces.
The helicopter requirements of all the services in India, including those paramilitary and police, has grown substantially, even for peace time and disaster relief. So it is not just a case of only replacing the existing stock with them but also of meeting the new needs. However, the new needs also warrant different types.
IAF also needs new helicopters for VVIP requirements, and the process to acquire them is already under way. These helicopters would be equipped with special protection measures.
As for the Mi 17 1V, IAF is phasing out the older versions of this machine but retaining and upgrading the 1V model. As this helicopter is already flying with IAF from around 20 years, the order for them is a follow-on step and does not require floating a fresh tender.
Mi 17 1V is in fact the work horse of IAF, and also the backbone of its helicopter fleet.
As for the heavy lift helicopters, IAF is keen to lay its hands on whatever is available. When there is a civil emergency, it is tasked to help. But it has no helicopters or not in adequate numbers.
The Mi 26 is as big as the An 12 transport aircraft that the IAF once used - now phased out - and it could easily go to 16000 feet, and ferry even heavy guns like Bofors to that height. But how and where do you get the spares from? is the big question.
Designated "Halo' by NATO, the Mi 26 is the most powerful helicopter ever made. It was inducted by the Soviet forces in 1983 and a little later by India in small numbers in two batches.
Chinook was first deployed 50 years ago in the Vietnam war. But the machine sold today is entirely new, except that it has the same twin-rotor concept. It has a sophisticated glass cockpit and very powerful General Electric engines. Due to its versatile capability, it was chosen by the US Air Force (USAF) for the future Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) machine although its competitors have sought rebids and the US Department of Defense is likely to decide on that by November.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that that the Defence Procurement Policy (DPP) 2006 would facilitate the induction of various systems as the IAF could conduct trials speedily and the Ministry of Defence could also do the required clearance likewise.
He said that due attention was also being given to meet the requirement of combat helicopters.
The Indian Air Force uses the Mi 25 Soviet vintage helicopters, but as the 1999 Kargil War showed, IAF needs machines which can go to 25,000 or 26,000 feet, or even higher.
The Mi 25, although a good machine, has a service ceiling of 14,500 feet.
Most important though, over the last 15 years, the technology in every thing, the platforms and the systems they carry, has changed tremendously in what is called as the Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA). So whatever is acquired today, has to be in line with any anticipated technological developments over the next 30 to 40 years.
Any platform has to have a modular approach to enable replacement of equipment that gets outdated with better and contemporary systems as they evolve.

IAF to buy 40 more Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers

2009-03-28T00:11:00.002-07:00

IAF to buy 40 more Hawk Advanced Jet Trainers
Navy to follow with 17

By Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : February 2008

New Delhi. The Indian Air Force (IAF) will buy 40 more Hawk Advanced Jet trainers (AJTs).
Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F H Major told India Strategic that IAF's original plan was to induct 122 AJTs but the acquisition got delayed by nearly a quarter of the century, and when the deal was signed in March 2004, it was only for 66 aircraft.
IAF needs more AJTs, and they would be acquired in accordance with the emerging requirements and acquisition of newer medium and air dominance fighters, he said.
Of the 66 AJTs that IAF has contracted to buy from the British BAE Systems, 24 are being acquired in a flyaway condition and the rest in Semi Knocked Down (SKD) and Completely Knocked Down (CKD) kits for progressive manufacture within India using indigenous components.
BAE Systems has already begun transferring technology and equipment to the public sector aviation giant HAL at its Bangalore facility under the deal.
Naval sources indicated that the Indian Navy was also acquiring the same Hawks to maintain commonality with IAF, rather than its navalized T-45 Goshawk version built by the US Boeing company in collaboration with the BAE Systems.
The Goshawk imparts actual aircraft carrier training, but the Indian Navy has opted to prefer the Hawk, and is likely to buy 16 to 20 of these aircraft. The figure mentioned though is for 17 Hawks.
The US Navy has trained several Indian Navy pilots on Goshawks since 2006 at its Pensacola Naval Air Station in Florida.
The Indian naval Hawks would be modified slightly for simulated carrier landings, but on the ground.The Navy should be expecting its Gorshkov aircraft carrier from Russia in two to three years along with Mig 29K aircraft, and training of the pilots for them has to commence well in time. It takes five years to train a fighter pilot from the induction stage.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that while the future requirements would be defined with emerging needs, both the air force and navy would place order for the newer jets with HAL, which is tasked with indigenous manufacture.
He described the Hawk 132 that India is buying to its specifications as an excellent aircraft. Pointing out to its ultra-modern glass cockpit, he said that a pilot trained on a Hawk could easily walk into another modern aircraft like the SU 30, or the coming Medium-Multi Role Combat Jets without much conversion training.
The Air Chief described training as a very important element of combat, pointing out that today, every system from radar to missiles to aircraft was coming with simulators.
He said that the IAF Flying Training Establishment (FTE) at Bidar, the designated home of the Hawks in Karnataka, was a futuristic flight training academy with new equipment and a 9000 feet runway, much different than it was just a few years ago.
All the 66 aircraft would be based there.
"Framing of the flying and operating procedures in the local flying area will take top priority," according to Air Officer Commanding Air Commodore Ramesh Rai.
The first two twin-seater Hawks had reached Bidar on November 12, flown by a mix crew of BAE Systems and IAF pilots from BAE Systems’ Technical Training Academy at Warton in UK. After some preliminary formalities, instructor's conversion began on them right away.
Wg Cdr Pankaj Jain and Sqd Ldr Tarun Hindwani were the first two pilots to land the aircraft in India at Jamnagar, from where they moved to Bidar.
By Feb-end, 10 of the newer gleaming jets would at this base. BAE Systems and HAL are scheduled to complete supply of all the 66 aircraft by 2011.
According to Air Marshal Satish Inamdar (Retd), who had worked on the AJT project, India could eventually acquire or build at least 200 of the Hawk jets. “They have potential for growth in line with modernisation of the Indian Air Force.”It may be noted that IAF suffered several accidents in the late 1970s and early 1980s as fighter pilots graduated from basic jet trainers to the supersonic Mig 21 without intermediary - or Stage III - training. When the then Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Dilbagh Singh, drew prime minister Indira Gandhi's attention to it, she immediately called for action.
Due to political and bureaucratic delays, their supplies have only begun now.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that IAF had trained 12 instructors and 75 pilots in Britain, and that all of them had excelled in flying.
BAE Systems Managing Director Training Solutions, Mark Parkinson, says that the British firm also trained 100 engineers.
A company statement quoted him as saying: 'We have completed conversion training of experienced IAF Flying Instructors to become instructor pilots on the Indian Hawk - these instructors are returning to India to train the Indian Air Force's next generation of frontline pilots.'
BAE Systems sold more that US$ 27 billion worth of military hardware and services in 2006.

Transformation IAF

2009-03-28T00:11:00.001-07:00

Transformation IAF$ 70 billion to be spent over the next 20 Years

By Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : February 2008

New Delhi. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has initiated a major transformation process, requiring around US$ 70 billion over the next few years.
According to an India Strategic study, except for the newly acquired SU 30MKIs, IAF needs to replace and augment nearly 100 per cent of its fighter, transport and helicopter fleets for the simple reason that all of them are around 20 years old or more, and would need replacement even after their useful lives are extended by around 10 years or so with new onboard avionics and missiles as the airframes and engines remain the same.
Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F H Major told India Strategic in an interview “that the process to transform the force had begun and that the next 10 years would be important in this regard” as there would be positive, all-round changes.
From aircraft to airbases with precision approach and surveillance radars, there would be visible changes by 2015, the Air Chief observed adding that the emphasis was on all-weather, round-the-clock operational capability.
He did not comment on the financial figure calculated by us but said that the IAF “plan is three-pronged – to preserve, upgrade and acquire” and that “adequate budgetary support is available for procurement of new aircraft.”
He also said that the direct acquisition of SU 30MKIs from Russia had been completed and their that their production was “proceeding satisfactorily” at the HAL facilities in India.
As a thumb rule, it takes about $ 1.5 billion to set up a fighter squadron, inclusive of 18 aircraft, systems and weapons with supporting equipment. Even if the combat squadron strength is maintained at 35 – if not the original sanctioned 45 – the cost comes to nearly $ 50 billion. Except that the SU 30 MKIs, of which the IAF is acquiring 230 aircraft, would be somewhat cheaper because the contracts were signed in the late 1990s.
The problem for the overall transformation has arisen because nearly all acquisitions for the armed forces and intelligence agencies were stopped by the then government in 1990, and the process to re-equip was triggered only after Pakistani troops occupied the Kargil heights, leading to the 1999 war.
The other factor was the rising number of air crashes, both because there were no Advanced Jet Trainers (AJTs) and also as some of the aircraft were getting old.
In an earlier study, we had considered a figure between $ 35 to 45 billion, but a revision is imperative and $ 70 billion looks more or less a realistic figure.
The Air Force now needs to replace as well as augment its aircraft and systems in line with modern technology. In war-fighting, there is no choice but to have an edge, and that too, a decisive edge.
About the ageing aircraft and their declining strength, the Air Chief said: “With regard to the hardware, it is our endeavour to make good all deficiencies, upgrade the existing equipment and procure state-of-the-art weapon systems.”
Logically, there should have been periodic replacement of equipment with all the forces, but that did not happen, and as for the IAF, except the SU 30 MKIs, its entire fleet has to undergo a transformation.
Apparently, the costs would keep rising if timely decisions are not taken. The country would have to pay dearly for any political or procedural bottlenecks.
IAF has already phased out nearly two-thirds of its 300 Mig 21 aircraft, as well as Mig 23-MF, (six) Mig 25 spy jets, Hunters, Canberras and some transporters over the last 10 years.
Of the 300-plus Mig 21s, which formed the mainstay fighting force of the IAF, about 125 are being retained and upgraded to the Mig 21Bis category. That is, the platform and engines are same but overhauled, and the onboard avionics and missiles are the latest.
The Air Chief said that the IAF had already completed the upgrade process for 100 Mig 21Bis, fitting them with Beyond the Visual Range (BVR) missiles, a new navigation-attack radar and other weapons “dramatically improving their capability.”
The pilot workload is lower and “its flight safety record has been very good.”
The mainstay role however has been taken over now by the SU 30MKI air dominance fighters, which can fly far and stay in the air for up to 8 hours. By any standard, these are formidable jets, capable of effectively countering any threat.
Notably, although now some aircraft are planned to be used for up to 40 years with periodic technological upgrades, the earlier aircraft were designed for a useful life of 20 years.
The SU 30MKI is designed for periodic technological insertions like all modern aircraft.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that the IAF “started upgrading its combat fleet a few years ago to enhance their operational capability” and that in addition to the SU 30MIs under procurement, “the planned induction of Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MRCAs), the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the 5th Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) – being developed with Russia – would arrest the declining combat squadrons strength.”
It may be noted that our study takes into account acquisition of 230 SU 30 MKIs, 126 MRCAs, new transport aircraft, new helicopters, AWACs, midair refuelers, pilot-less Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and possibly Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), radars, Aerostats and secure satellite and other communications, contemporary electronic systems as well as a periodic cost escalation between .5 to 1 per cent per year.
The IAF also needs to update and upgrade its aircraft pens around the country, and work in that direction has also started. Most of the existing hangars at its airbases were designed for small aircraft like the Mig 21 but today’s SU 30MKIs, MRCA or FGFA would be bigger and it’s prudent to move assets from one place to another, particularly during operations.
The cost of an SU 30 MKI, fitted with some French and Israeli avionics, is not known but an MRCA should be anywhere between $ 40 to 50 million, depending upon the number of engines, fire control radars like AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array), Targeting pods and some sophisticated gadgetry.
Boeing, which has offered its twin-engine F 18 Super Hornet in the MRCA category as the replacement for the Mig 21, has set a price tag of $ 49.9 million.
Boeing’s President of Precision Engagement and Mobility Systems Chris Chadwick, who has been coordinating his company’s potential sales to India, told us that this price included the AESA radar and most of the equipment on board the Super Hornets supplied to the US Navy, which in fact, flies the world’s second-largest air force.
About the ongoing modernization, Air Chief Marshal Major said: “Of the available fleets, the Mig 21Bis, Mig 27 and Jaguar aircraft have already been upgraded. “Upgrades of the Mirage 2000 and Mig 29 aircraft is being processed.”
As for the transport and helicopter fleets, he said that the IAF had already signed an agreement for six Lockheed Martin C 130Js transport aircraft while 24 combat helicopters and 12 heavy lift helicopters would also be acquired. A plan to buy 80 Mi 17 helicopters from Russia to augment the fleet was already being pursued.
“The IAF is actively pursuing a comprehensive plan to upgrade its helicopter fleet, by upgrading older aircraft and inducting new ones,” he said adding that the existing “Mi 17s multi role helicopters and Mi 35 combat helicopters will be upgraded.”
The Air Chief also pointed out that the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) built by the public sector HAL was already operational and being continuously improved” and that “the armed version of the ALH has also flown while its attack version, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), is in the pipeline.”
HAL Chairman and Managing Director Ashok Baweja had told India Strategic earlier that HAL would also develop 60 hi-altitude helicopters for Siachin and Kargil type of heights in the Himalayas. This is likely to be a helicopter other than the LCH as this would have to be made from special materials capable of withstanding the extremes of cold.
Air Chief Marshal Major said: “A number of procurement schemes are being processed and we will, in future, have a mix of indigenous and imported aircraft to meet our operational requirements, which include heavy, medium-lift and utility helicopters.
“These helicopters will be inducted in a phased manner, during the next two five-year plans (ending 2017).
The Air Chief pointed out that the demands on the IAF transport fleet are growing due to the enhanced national and international commitments” and that “they will only increase in future.”
“Our fleet is set to expand to meet these enhanced tasks and a variety of procurement schemes are being progressed,” he said, adding that there are plans to enhance our air transportation capabilities in the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) category,” which will be produced in a joint venture with Russia.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that the IAF reviewed its operational strategy and philosophy constantly, “in step with the changes in the security scenario.”
“Concurrently, the equipment, weapons and systems are modernized, which in turn necessitates changes in the organization structure and training, and all these changes are incorporate in the IAF Doctrine.”

Indian Air Force and its Transport Fleet

2009-03-28T00:10:00.002-07:00

Indian Air Force and its Transport Fleet

By Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : October 2008

New Delhi. The Indian Air Force was officially established on 8 October 1932, that being the date of its formal constitution. The first aircraft flight however was not formed until 1 April 1933, at which time it possessed a strength of six officers trained at RAF Cranwell and 19 “Hawai Sepoys” (literally air soldiers), and an inventory of four Westland Wapiti II-A aircraft.
The year 1946 saw the establishment of the first RIAF transport unit, No. 12 squadron (initially a Spitfire squadron in 1945). It received Dakotas in Panagarh by late 1946. In January 1950, India became a Republic and the IAF dropped its prefix “Royal”.
At this time India possessed six fighter squadrons, one bomber and one C-47 Dakota transport squadron. In addition, IAF had one AOP flight, Communication squadron and training organization.
A second transport squadron, No. 11, had been formed on C-47 Dakotas in September 1951.
Eighty C-119G Fairchild Packet aircraft were inducted during the period 1954 to early 1963 under US emergency military assistance.
These propeller driven twin engine piston aircraft served the IAF with distinction till Jul 1985, for more than 30 years. It was a most beautifully crafted military transport aircraft of its time. The cockpit, the delivery system, loading facilities, all were immaculate and the machine was a pilot and crews delight.
As an un-pressurized aircraft, it was designed to fly below 18000 feet. However, the Indian Air Force added a jet pack -Gnat’s Orpheus J-34 engine – on the top of its fuselage to take it up to 24000 feet to drop supplies to troops facing Chinese incursions.
It would have been impossible to operate in the thin air otherwise. The Indian innovation was copied by the CIA for its Latin American operations, not necessarily for heights but for fast takeoff after dropping supplies.
This magnificent Packets operated regularly to Leh, Thoise, Kargil and Fukche. All the airfields were beyond 3200 meters (11000 feet) elevation. Not only that, the IAF created history by landing it at Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO), an airstrip located beyond 16000 feet elevation. The sixties revealed a serious security concern for India.
Frequent clashes with china and finally an unprovoked attack on India’s sovereignty in October 1962 necessitated quick and timely buildup of the air force. Till then, the political mindset was not even in favour of buying jeeps for the Indian Army.
Transport aircraft and logistics became a hallmark for the Indian Air Force due to the Indian debacle in the face of Chinese aggression.
Soviet built An-12 and IL-14 were inducted during the period March 1961 to July 1963. Two new operational squadrons were formed, namely No. 44 and No. 25, and based at Chandigarh.
The An-12 aircraft also had its limitations. It was partially pressurized (only the crew cabin and the Kabina with 14 passenger capacity). Nonetheless, in spite of its another, and serious, limitation in navigational aids, it played a remarkable role in Air Transport, Air maintenance and Maritime Reconnaissance roles.
(No. 44 Squadron)The most remarkable achievement of the An -12 fleet was its modification to a “Bombing Role” just before the 1971 Bangladesh War.
The Indian Army had expected a massive attack from Pakistan on the western borders, and indeed, at one time, the Pakistani Army concentrated some 30,000 troops around Kashmir to capture it. Sure enough, this happened, and IAF saved the day by deploying the modified An-12s to bomb Pakistani positions and troop concentrations.
Aircraft of the No. 44 Squadron flew night missions, unescorted, and did intense carpet bombing, rolling out nine tones of fire from each aircraft. They were always in waves of six aircraft, and fortunately, all returned home safely and smilingly.
The Squadron won one MVC (Maha Vir Chakra) and three VrCs (Vir Chakra).
It may be noted that night fighting capability was virtually zero with the air forces of both the countries, and the Pakistani Air Force (PAF) was unable to intercept even a single An-12.
The aircraft was deployed on both the Western and Eastern sectors, and played a crucial role in turning the fate of the War in India’s favour.
In fact, the Russians were amazed to know this role of their An-12 aircraft, and praised the IAF profusely for its innovative spirit. This magnificent and majestic flying machine went out of the Indian skies during July 1993.
IAF’s peacetime role has been “Air Maintenance” of Indian troops in the western sector and maintaining troops and civilians population in the Eastern sector in a big way.
This requirement by itself has necessitated deployment of four squadrons in the western sector and nearly four squadrons in the Eastern sector. The Dakota and the Packet fleets, which were the backbones of the transport fleet, had outlived their technical life.
Their maintenance support had become a nightmare. In the mid-seventies however, the IAF’s transport fleet had shown signs of a dwindling force.
We delayed in identification and induction of replacements by seven years (since the mid-seventies). By this time the An–12 fleet was also showing signs of fatigue and inadequate maintenance support.
It was only during the early 1980s that a final decisions was taken to completely replace the ageing Dakota and Packet fleets with An–32 aircraft.
The Soviets had offered modified An–26, with high-powered engines, for high attitude operations. It would be interesting to know that 118 An–32 aircraft were contracted on a 20 years military credit arrangement, with no interest liability. Today, perhaps one modern transport aircraft equals them in cost.
I still remember the words of then Joint Secretary (Air) in the Ministry of Defence, Mr Desai, who said in a meeting: “Sign as many aircraft you want, for after few years even a car may cost more than them.”
How true!
By this time the replacement for An–12s was considered, the Soviet IL–76 MD was found to be the most suitable aircraft.
It could carry 48 tonnes of payload, or one T-72 tank weighing 42 tonnes comfortably.
Its four engines gave the aircraft some multipurpose capability, including operating at unpaved surface. It was an aircraft that could operate without any ground support system, and most reliably. It was suitable for quick induction of troops in battle zones or disturbed area. A full complement of 225 troops could be landed and deployed in a matter of three minutes with no hassles.
The induction of An–32 during the early 1984 and IL-76 MD aircraft during 1985 added a new dimension to air power in the Indian subcontinent.
IAF deployed the IL-76s effectively, taking over the control of Air maintenance role and air transport operations within three to six months of their induction. These aircraft gave a tremendous boost to the IAF. And strategic reach.
In another first, the IAF landed an IL-76 MD at Leh on 14 October 1985, and then again at Thoise on 30 January 1987, on a short runway of about 5500 feet. The manufacturer’s specifications warranted a runway length of mnimum 7,500 feet.*
In fact, the Indian Air Force has a record of operating various machines well beyond their limitations, and in the most difficult and inhospitable terrains, whether it is combat or transport aircraft, or even helicopters.
Ferries to Siachen are an example. During Operation Brasstacks, an exercise to test war games, one IAF pilot conducted a record 28 missions in seven days by the Il-76s to land BMPs in the tough and high mountainous terrain.*
The first testing ground for India’s new resurgence in strategic reach was evident in the Sri Lanka operations. First, during June 1987 when six An-32 aircraft carried out food supply drops to display their solidarity for the suffering of Tamils in the Jaffna peninsula.
From 29 July 1987 onwards, once the Sri Lanka accord was signed by the then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, there was a massive induction of the Indian Peace Keeping Force (IPKF) from 30 July itself. The IAF transporters provided unhindered and massive support during the operations till 1990.
Alongside the IPKF operations, there was a sudden call from one of our smaller but important neighbour, Maldives. There was an SOS from President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom who faced a Coup D’etat on 3 Nov 1988.
The Indian government consulted world powers and some Islamic friends, and then rushed troops to save the beleagured government.
This could be done due to the strategic reach that the IL-76 aircraft gave the Indian Air Force. Five Il-76 and 30 An-32 aircraft were pressed into service within houurs of his distress call to land Indian troops on this nation of 1000 islands and the government was saved.*
It may be noted though that the last time we last inducted transport aircraft was 25 years back. Both the An–32 and IL–76 MD aircraft have completed their calendar life as per the Soviet manufacturer’s specifications. Both are on their extended lives, and could go on for another 10 to 15 years.
It is time to put on our thinking caps to look for replacements.
Ideally, we should have developed our own transport aircraft, but the MTA venture with Russia for nearly 50 aircraft should do well. We have already placed order for six Hercules C 130J special operations aircraft from the US Lockheed Martin, but that is too small a number for the size of Indian Air Force. Perhaps, we will exercise the option for another six.
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal F H Major, has made a welcome announcement about the induction of Very Heavy Transport Aircraft of &0-plus tones capacity. Whatever aircraft we buy, the time is of essence now as the existing aircraft are ageing, and their replacements must come as soon as possible.
Thankfully, after years of paralysis at the Ministry of Defence after 1990, the system is well geared now, and the government is adequately taking care of the equipment requirements for the forces. The vagaries of politics, as to who should come to power, should have no impact on the normal replacement and augmentation process.
The lack of munitions during the Kargil War for instance, when mortar shells had to be acquired at a week’s notice to shell the positions occupied by intruding Pakistanis, should be a warning.
Like the Indian Army and Navy, the IAF has to keep up with the pace of the time and timely identification and induction of replacements has to be done. The Ministry of Defence has to support this effort always.

Future of Military Aviation and Indian Air Force

2009-03-28T00:10:00.001-07:00

Future of Military Aviation and Indian Air Force
IAF is an Emerging Power

By Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : October 2008

New Delhi. What will be future of air power, and that of the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the coming years?
This is a question concerning the strategic analysts, defence industry, and of course, the actual practitioners of air power – those in the air force.
With this in mind, India Strategic held a two-day conference, the first National Seminar on Aerospace Technologies (N-SAT) September 25-26, and in the formal and on-thesidelines discussions, the participants agreed on a mixed use of advanced manned and unmanned aircraft.
The emphasis was also on long and longer range missiles in the coming years to ensure a much-beyond the visual range kill of an enemy, and one’s own survival in terms of men and platforms.
The Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal F H Major, set the ball rolling with his inaugural address, declaring: The last couple of decades have been marked by a number of new emergent technologies which have changed the way operations will be conducted.
These have and will continue to have, far reaching effects on the way we do our business. It is fittingly appropriate that we take stock of the emergent technologies, the requirements of the Indian Air Force, the capability of the Indian Defence Industry and plan out the strategy ahead.
IAF’s Vice Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal P V Naik, observed that the Indian defence industry and organizations like the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) needed to visualize what the future technologiescould be like. He agreed that a body like the US DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency), or Boeing’s Phantom Works and Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works should be set up in India.
There was none at the moment, he lamented, adding that IAF would support this idea. Both the Chief and Vice Chief emphasized the importance of technology, and pointed out that the IAF was networking all its assets to make the maximum possible and timely use of its aircraft, systems and weapons. Secure net-centricity was the key in today’s and tomorrow’s air warfare, they said.
Air Marshal Naik said that the IAF had operated for the first time in a totally networked environment in the Red Flag Exercise in the US in August. There were 80 aircraft at any given time, day or night, from four countries with AWACs control, hostile radar and simulated missiles. “Our pilots stood out exceptionally well.”
The Chief and the Vice Chief also indicated that the IAF would have mix of manned and unmanned assets in the visible future.
While observers in the US say that after the Lockheed Martin’s 5th generation F 35 there would be no more manned aircraft, India should get its 5th generation aircraft only by 2016-17. While the joint project with Russia was on, IAF was looking at both manned and unmanned missions, although the number of unmanned sorties would increase gradually as and when required, Deputy Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal N A K Brown said on the sidelines of the seminar.
Deputy National Security Advisor Shekhar Dutt indicated the thinking of the Government of India when he said in his valedictory address that India needed a “High-end Capability” air force and that “in the development of Air Power one has to look ahead and not at what has gone by.”
As a civil servant, Mr Dutt has spent long years in the Ministry of Defence as a Joint Secretary, Secretary Defence Production, and finally Defence Secretary.
In fact, he is regarded as the author of the Offsets Policy that has become mandatory now for all major defence deals that India signs with major companies from across the world.
Indian Army’s Additional Director General, Perspective Planning, Maj Gen A K Singh outlined the growth of the Army Aviation in the coming years while Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air) Rear Adm V Shankar, emphasized the importance of technology in naval aviation.
Maj Gen Singh said that the Indian Army would be the biggest user or space based assets.
Rear Admiral Shankar observed that net-centricity would play a key role in linking ships and submarines not only with its own aircraft but also those of the air force.
The theme of the seminar was provided by the Conference Chairman and former Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal S P Tyagi (Retd), who told us in an informal interaction that while dogfights would always be there perhaps, he would want the Indian Air Force pilots to shoot down a threat much before it has a chance of coming near them.
As the IAF Chief till last year, he had emphasized the acquisition of latest technologies like the AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, a capability which the IAF hopes to mount on all its aircraft one day.
Former President A P J Abdul Kalam, a space and missile scientist, delved into futuristic missiles, suggesting their developments indigenously. India had a talented pool of defence scientists.
He lauded the Indo-Russian BrahMos missile as an example of collaboration with other countries, pointing out that this supersonic missile was way ahead of any competition from anywhere in the world.
Dr Kalam suggested a virtual aeronautical grid between the user and partners, and expressed the hope that an Earth-Moon-Mars complex to exploit the nature’s resources for mankind would be a reality in not too distant a future.
He also said that IAF should aim to get about 100 indigenously built Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) and stressed on the need for lowcost aircraft, including 50-90 seat turbojets to operate from small airports without the need for costly instrumentation.
Dr Kalam set Vision, Mission and Realisation (VMR) as the three steps in aerospace development.
Dr Prahlada, Distinguished Scientists and Chief Controller in DRDO, said that the government realized the importance of advance technologies and that it was encouraging the Indian state-run and private industry to acquire the best of the technologies through joint ventures. In some cases, the Foreign Direct Investment (FDA) was selectively being raised from 26 per cent to 49 per cent.
The new rules were being devised in a way that everybody had a stake; the armed forces as a user and the industry as developers to make sure that a given project fructified and grew.
As for DRDO, Dr Prahlada said that from now on, it would take only large projects, and once a product or technology had been developed, it would be onpassed to the industry. The private sector was being encouraged and treated at the same level as the state-run corporates. Leading industrial powers as well as major MNCs were offering their best to India.
The N-SAT was supported by Boeing, Eurofighter, Rolls-Royce, Snecma and Samtel. Their representatives said that they supported the cooperation between the Indian and foreign defence industry.
President of Boeing Military Aircraft Chris Chadwick clearly said in a video message that his company would offer the best possible technology to India while Boeing’s Robert Gower and Vivek Lall elaborated some of the futuristic technologies in various fields from space to laser warfare and fighter aircraft like the F-18 Super Hornet which it has offered to India for its requirement of 126+ Medium Multi Role Combat Aircraft (M-MRCA).
Erwin Obermeier of Eurofighter, who has been associated with the development of this aircraft from its beginning, said that the four countries associated with this aircraft – Germany, Britain, Spain and Italy – had pools of cuttingedge technologies, and that they were willing to share them with India.
Paul Andre Chevrin of the French Snecma, which has been making engines for civil and military aircraft, elaborated on the cooperation already existing between India and his company, and delved into the future of aircraft engines. In the near future, he observed, they would look like more or less the same as the engines of today, but the challenge was to reduce their weight and consumption and get more power out of them.
Air Vice Marshal D C Kumaria, Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Ops - Space ) spoke on the importance of sensor-to-shooter time and the importance of precision missiles and weapons.
He showed a real-time footage of how an unmanned US aircraft picked six terrorists one by one after a persistent search and destroy mission in Afghanistan. Satellite connectivity played a key role in identifying and neutralizing the threats.
Air Vice Marshal Kumaria said that space was extremely useful for both civil and military purposes, and one day, it would be possible for aircraft to navigate seamlessly the world over using a network of satellites and ground stations.

IAF should induct the MRCA by 2014, says Air Chief

2009-03-28T00:09:00.001-07:00

IAF should induct the MRCA by 2014, says Air Chief

By Gulshan Luthra and Air Marshal Ashok Goel (Retd)
Published : February 2009

New Delhi. The Indian Air Force (IAF) will begin flight trials of all the six competing Multi Role Combat Aircraft (MRCA) within the next few months with a timeline to induct them latest by end-2014.
Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F H Major told India Strategic on the eve of Aero India that he was expecting the procedural clearance from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) within a couple of months and the flight trials should begin soon after. The process was on schedule, and knowing that it would take three years to acquire them after the agreement with the winner was made, IAF was keen to complete the process as soon as possible in a transparent way.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that there was no credence to the rumours that the approximately $10 billion acquisition would be divided into two competitors. “Our plan is to use Su-30 MKIs, MRCAs, Tejas, upgraded Mirage-2000 and Mig-29 as well as Jaguar aircraft.”
In about 10 years, IAF should also have manned Fifth Generation Fighter Aircraft (FGFA) produced jointly with Russia.
The interview was held also to mark the Third Anniversary of India Strategic.
India is a Huge Market with huge Offset Opportunities
Air Chief Marshal Major said that India was a huge defence market now with combined orders from the Army, Navy and Air Force estimated to touch $100 billion during the current five year plan (ending 2012) while in the aerospace sector itself, the value of acquiring aircraft, sensors, satellites, ground support systems, precision weapons and the host of other systems that form the backbone of an air power would cost another $ 100 billion over an estimated 20-year period.
The Indian market is a tremendous opportunity for the foreign and Indian industry.
Offsets at 30 percent for combined projects – or $30 billion within the next five years and another $30 more in the Aerospace sector in about 20 years – Transfer of Technology (ToT), Indigenization, all these would help in forging and strengthening industrial partnerships to mutual advantage, he said adding that “he expected the foreign and Indian companies participating in the Aero India 2009 to fully appreciate this huge opportunity.”
Air Chief Marshal Major said that IAF had been able to arrest the depleting number of its aircraft, thanks to the increased and continuous production of SU-30 MKIs and acquisition of the latest and hi-tech precision engagement and other modern force multiplier systems.
By 2020-22, he observed, IAF should have 42 squadrons of a very potent fighting force, deployed evenly both in the East and West. At present, there are more aircraft in the western sectors.
The Air Chief, who had said at the recent National Seminar on Aerospace Technologies (N-SAT) held by India Strategic that IAF was “under a process of Transformation,” disclosed that the first of the three Phalcon AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control Systems Aircraft) from Israel would be delivered in March.
With AWACS, a dozen-plus tethered Aerostats, dedicated satellites and net connectivity, midair refuelers, a new set of combat and heavy lift helicopters, new short takeoff transport aircraft, and supporting infrastructure, IAF was steadily moving towards “a quantum jump in our operational capabilities.”
“The entire force would be networked for seamless operations,” he said adding that it would not matter who was where for every one would see the picture that he or she would be supposed to see.
All IAF aircraft and ground stations would know where they and their friends are, thanks to the Data Links for situational awareness being installed on IAF aircraft. Midair refueling capability on all combat jets has also been activated.
He described the SU-30 MKI as an “extremely capable aircraft with an amazing array of possibilities” with “state-of-the-art components” from various sources. IAF had acquired all the aircraft it had contracted with Russia, and HAL was now producing the aircraft “at the maximum possible rate” to complete delivery of a total of 230 aircraft.
Service Support Centres (SSCs) for these and other aircraft were being set up all over the country to ensure that IAF assets were available for maximum possible utilization.
Periodic upgrades in the aircraft’s sensors and weapons were already planned to ensure their air dominance role.
The Air Chief mentioned the AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars for their jump in sensor performance and reliability, pointing out that overall, “IAF would have the capability to dominate the required airspace for the specified time period.”
“It involves the employment of potent combat platforms, armed with long range sensors and BVR (Beyond the Visual Range) missiles, along with requisite Electronic warfare and Precision Strike capability. The range and reach would be enhanced by utilizing air-to-air refueling. Command and Control would be exercised by airborne AWACS in coordination with other airborne and ground-based sensors like Aerostats and high-powered radars.
“The size and composition of the composite package would depend on the target system, the threat envisaged and many other tactical considerations.”
Upgrades
IAF’s Mirage-2000, Mig-29s and Jaguars were also being upgraded with state-of-the-art systems, some of which would be specific to MRCAs, so as to ensure data integration and night capability.
“The upgrade programmes focus on equipping the aircraft with newer radars and sensors, advanced weapons, faster and more capable mission computers, newer navigation systems incorporating the latest in Ring Laser Gyros and INGPS technologies.”
As for replacement of older aircraft, Air Chief Marshal Major said that there would “always be some assets being phased out, upgraded or inducted, at any given time. (More than 100) Mig-21 had already been upgraded to Bison standard, which is an extremely capable platform, and surprised some of the foreign participants in international exercises. The Mig-27 has also been upgraded.”
“We will continue to fly and upgrade aircraft which have relevant operational life remaining.”
Asked how would he define the roles of newer aircraft like FGFA, SU-30 MKI, MRCA and India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, he said that “aircraft today are capable of a wide variety of roles and are not usually designed for specific or limited roles, as used to be earlier. To illustrate, the SU-30 MKI can be used as an air dominance fighter, for precision night strike, for gathering electronic intelligence (ELINT), or even as an air-to-air buddy refueler. Their operational deployment would depend on the prevalent situation.”
Significantly, in the next 10 to 15 years, he expected the IAF to develop into a credible strategic force with the ability to deliver aerospace power, wherever required, in whatever form, as directed by the national leadership.
“We would exploit space-based assets to dominate the conduct of operations, executed in real time, and achieved through robust and responsive Command Control Networks. We would have the potential to transport men or material, through airlift and heli-lift, providing immense flexibility to the commanders. The IAF will attain and maintain a credible capability across the entire spectrum, and that display will (also) ensure deterrence.”
Overall Transformation
Asked to elaborate the “Overall Transformation” that he had mentioned at the N-SAT seminar, Air Chief Marshal Major said: “A large number of projects of a very wide variety are presently underway and would achieve completion with the next decade. Almost every facet of our capability is being systematically addressed, that will cumulatively provide us with a quantum jump in our overall capability to deliver aerospace power.”
By 2022, all the important modernization plans for IAF would be over but the results of the ongoing process, he pointed out, would be visible from the middle of the next decade itself. He was satisfied at the pace of the process, he said.
The younger generation of pilots were also being trained accordingly, and to cater to the “extremely complex operational environment” and the “changing demands of the new environment,” knowledge of the pilots would be refreshed periodically and newer and newer aids like simulators would be inducted with increased pace of exercises
.The newly inducted Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer (AJT) aircraft would be playing an important role as “appropriate lead-in trainers to the modern fleet of combat aircraft.”
Space-based Assets
Air Chief Major said that space-based assets increased the ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance) capabilities tremendously.
IAF had plans for own satellites to act as its eyes in the sky, and that would help in extending the reach and power of its combat units. Space played an important role in the civil life in communications; for an air power, space-based assets were vital for connectivity and ISR.
With the country’s increasing maritime interests including trade, and area of responsibility, space was playing an important role for IAF.
UAVs and UCAVs
The Air Chief described UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or pilotless Drones) and UCAVs (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles) as “very versatile platforms with immense possibilities.
“UAVs have been integrated into our operational loop and we look forward to acquiring newer capabilities and payloads. UCAVs are very cost-effective platforms and would be acquired in due course of time.”
He also indicated that the IAF was working towards indigenous capability in rotary UAVs in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Missiles
The Air Chief Marshal gave a clear picture of the Missile programme of the Indian Air Force for the first time, both air to air and surface to air.
Fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force are being equipped with “a number of modern air to air missiles of different capabilities.”
As for air defence, he said that IAF had placed orders for two squadrons of the indigenous Akash (or Sky) Missile Systems, constituting four firing units with four launchers each. These would be delivered within two years.
“We have also placed an order for three squadrons of Spyder Quick Reaction Missiles (QRSAMs, from Israel) which will be in IAF service by 2011. Each Spyder squadron will have four firing units and each firing unit has four launchers.”
The process would continue as required.
Air Chief Marshal Major said that the IAF had to be technologically a highly sophisticated air power. Although numbers are always important, some of the depletion due to non-acquisition in the past several years had been made up with newer technologies already. And that has been proved in exercises with air forces of other countries. In the Red Flag exercise in August 2008 for instance, IAF SU-30 MKIs were deployed far, far away and in the day and night exercise with US and other aircraft, “our pilots matched their counterparts.”
New Technologies
New technologies and force multipliers are needed to refine IAF’s operational efficiency, he said adding: Besides the acquisition of most capable combat assets available, we are laying down a robust secure network that will integrate all our sensors, weapons and Operations Centres so as to reduce the decision cycle and make our air and space operations responsive and effective.”
He described force multipliers as “combat assets that enhance our capability.” Air to air refuelers, AWACS, Wide Body heavy lift transport aircraft, and a technology doctrine are force multipliers.
He pointed out that while DRDO and public sector undertakings like HAL, BEML, BEL had played an important role, overall, India has had “the disadvantage of being left out of the early years of aerospace development and industrialization.”
The new Defence Procurement Procedures (DPPs) were designed to acquire talent and technology precisely towards building indigenous capabilities. Private industry is being encouraged now in the defence sector, but rather than attempting large scale indigenization, the industry “must develop expertise in niche capabilities.”
Air Chief Marshal Major said that he wanted to assure his “fellow countrymen that their Air Force is one of the finest in the world, and they can justifiably be proud of the capability and professionalism of its personnel.”

BIO Two Page

2009-03-24T20:55:00.000-07:00

BIO DATA

AIR MARSHAL ASHOK GOEL (Retd.) PVSM AVSM VM

Air Marshal Ashok Goel PVSM AVSM VM was born on 26th September 1943 in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel is a topper of BSc (Hons) in Agriculture and Animal Husbandry from Govind Ballabh Pant University, Pantnagar (UP) now in Uttrakhand, in Feb 1963, he was commissioned in the Indian Air Force as a Transport Pilot on 31 December 1963.

The Air Officer has held several prestigious staff appointments at Air HQ with distinction. This include Deputy Director Operations, Joint Director Operations and Director Operation, Transport & Helicopters.

In 1984 he was appointed as the team leader of the group of personnel selected to be trained in the erstwhile USSR to facilitate the induction of the strategic lift II-76 in the IAF, resulting his posting as first Commanding Officer of the II-76 formed at Agra. Who had the privilege of first landing at Leh on 14 October 1985, Thoise runway on a mere 1700 m length runway on 30 Jan 1987, Jaffan on 31 July 1987 as overall commander during Sri Lanka operation, Male on 03 Nov 1988 is support of operation Cactus.
The Air Officer has commanded two major transport bases of the Indian Air Force i.e.
(a) Air Force Station Agra commanding approx. 325 officers and 5000 personnel during 1991-1992.

(b) Air Force Station Chandigarh 1992-1994.

He has undergone the Higher Command Course at the college of Combat, Mhow in 1981 and the Senior Defence Management Course at the College of Defence Management, Secunderabad in 1990. In 1994 he underwent the 34th National Security Course at the National Defence College, New Delhi following which he held the appointment of senior Air Staff Officer, HQ J & K.
Thereafter he was appointed as the Operations Manager, Aviation Research Centre (ARC) at RAW. He interacted very closely with foreign aviation companies and underwent specialized training on the Boeing 707 at Tel Aviv, Israel and the Gulf Stream – III at USA.

He was the Chief Instructor (Air) at the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington from January 2000 to March 2001. He was appointed the Guide and Examiner for M Phil & PhD students for Defence Studies by the Madras University for 3 yrs.
Air Marshal Ashok Goel has more than 10,000 hours of operational flying to his credit on different types of aircrafts, which include Dakota, Packet, An-32, II– 76, B-200, Learjet, Gulf Stream-III and

Boeing–707. His flying experience includes overseas trips to countries like Bangladesh, Cyprus, Egypt, France, Greece, Germany, Italy, Iraq, Israel, Nepal, Oman, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Turkey, USSR, UAE and UK.

The Air Officer has been decorated on many occasions. He has been awarded the following Commendations and Presidential Awards :-

(a) Commendation by the chief of Air Staff in October 1976.
(b) Commendation by Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command in October 1979.
(c) Vayu Sena Medal in January 1988.
(d) Ati Vishist Seva Medal in January 1994.
(e) Param Vishist Seva Medal in January 2003.

Air Marshal Ashok Goel retired from the IAF on 30 September 03 after a glorious span of close to 40 years of service. His last appointment was Inspector General of the Indian Air Force.

Presently he is engaged as a “Social Entrepreneur”. He is engaged as

(a) Defence & Security Analyst & Commentator.
(b) Adviser & Consultant – Aviation Studies & Aviation Management.
(c) Adviser Consultant – HR Development & Management.
(d) Aviation Editor and Member Editorial Board of two National Magazine ‘India Strategic and South Asia Defence Strategic Review’.
(e) National Trustee –Special Olympic, Bharat.
(f) Chairman– Special Olympic, Bharat (U.P Chapter).
(g) Member Organizing Committee – Common Wealth Games 2010.
(h) Patron – “Initiative for Social Transformation” – NGO.
(i) Patron – Defence Officers Association – Bareilly.
(j) Member, Board of Directors, Sadhna Centre for Management & Leadership Development, Pune.
(k) Social Educator.

A very keen sports person and regularly plays, Golf, Tennis and Squash and keeps himself physically fit.

BIo Full

2009-03-24T20:53:00.002-07:00

Bio One Page

2009-03-24T20:52:00.001-07:00

11 Silver Estate,
Pilibhit Bypass Road,
PO Rohilkhand University
Bareilly-243006 (U.P.)

Air Marshal Ashok K. Goel (Retd.)
PVSM AVSM VM

amashokgoel@gmail.com
sacreatinon_2001@yahoo.uk

v Born on 26 September 1943. B.Sc. (Hons) in Agriculture and Animal husbandry from prestigious Pt GB Pant University, Pantnagar.

v Commissioned in the Indian Air Force in December 1963 as a tpt pilot. Had more than 10,000 hrs flying and under took most challenging and riskiest of missions during the career.

v Held most coveted appointments, i.e Joint Director, Director Operations at Air HQ. Commanded two largest bases (Agra+ Chandigarh). Served as Director General “Flight Safety and Inspection” of the IAF.

v During the 40 years service visited almost 60 countries around the world. Which includes all the neighboring countries, countries of the far East, Europe, U.S.A., erstwhile USSR, middle East and African continent.

v During the process of various appointments interacted with President’s, PM’s, Cabinet Ministers, bureaucracy up to the highest level within the country and abroad. And achieved desired objectives.

v Though a pilot by profession but administration, management and public relation was always the core activity to achieve the desired organizational objectives. The basic principle of life has always been honesty, full commitment and involvement to the assigned tasks.

v After retirement for last four years actively involved in “Special Olympics Bharat” as National Trustee and Chairman UP Chapter. Besides this actively involved in other social and journalistic activities as a “Social Entrepreneur”.

v A fitness freak, play Golf and squash regularly .Highest medical standards (A1G1) as per IAF laid down medical norms, still maintained.

Sabre SlayersThe Gnat in India

2009-03-24T01:42:00.000-07:00

Sabre Slayers
The Gnat in India

(As told by Air Marshal Denzil Keelor PVSM, KC, AVSM, VrC, VM
to
Air Marshal Ashok Goel PVSM, AVSM, VM)

The smallest machine ever produced as a fighter plane in the fifties and proved to be a “Sabre Slayer” is a story which only Indian Air Force Pilots could prove again & again.

This was an aircraft which British had rejected. The aircraft was accepted as a necessity in a poor country’s fighting outfit, with very little choice.

It was in the year 1956 the Government of India formalized an agreement with Folland and for production of Gnat under license at Bangalore. Inspite of earlier, forced armed conflicts (47 & 48) 1965 war was thrust on India (1962 did not see any air force involvement). Second major armed conflict after 1947 within a period of less than 20 yrs of independence.

I very distinctly remember the beginning of aerial combat on 6 Sep 1965. Twelve Vampire aircraft were sent to halt the advancing columns of the Pak tanks in Chhamb sector and unfortunately 1/3rd of these were shot down.

It is a matter of surprise and pride that the Gnat first fired its guns in anger on 03 Sep 1965 over the Chhamb sector of J&K. The Gnats first kill, an F-86 sabre of the Pak air force was taken by senior brother Trevor Keelor, who was in No. 23 Sqn. He was duly supported by Amarjit Sandhu who was part of No. 9 Sqn.

It is also interesting to know that IAF had only four Gnat Squadron at the time when war broke out. Fifth squadron was just under formation, at the very onset of war.

During the first few days of war Sikand was on a mission, and to surprise of all he did not land back. As later understood, Sikard’s gnat was low on fuel and over unfamiliar territory. He saw an airfield and landed at Pasrur (a Pak air field). He was taken a POW and the aircraft was impounded another first for Gnat aircraft.

Denzil & Trevor two brothers were a unique combination. Two brothers both fighter pilots, flying the same type of air craft in a similar battle scenario.

Denzil was part of No 4 Sqn (which he later commanded also). Denzil came on the scene of war slightly later. Denzil also shot down a saber a rare feet of achievement, both the brothers were awarded the coveted Veer Chakra in the same operation and during the same war.

I take great pride to say that I belonged to the old Gnat fraternity. Once again after 74 months that sabers next fell to the gnats cannon.

It was in December 1971 India & Pakistan had a third round. The events preceding the third round are well known. Victory of Shiekh Mujiber Rehman’s party in the Eastern Wing had annoyed the Pathan’s in the west. An angry reaction by the Eastern Wing and the gurilla campaign by “Mukti Bahine” brought an intense reaction by the Pak Forces. Incursion by the Pak Army was on the increase and a war hysteria has been created. The situation got worsened in the eastern sector, and it was on 22 Nov71, intruding PAF sabers were down by Indian Air Force Gnats, (over the Boyra Salient).

The ultimate display of air superiority of Gnat was displayed on 14 Dec 1971. It was around 8 ‘O’ clock in the morning of 14 Dec 1971 at Srinagar airfield, a formation of two aircraft was scrambled. Srinagar was already under attack by Pak Sabres. One of the pilots was Flt Lt Nirmal Sekhon he got airborne against all odds and engaged two of the Pak sabers and got both of them. Unfortunately he was also hit, he ejected, but was too low to make a safe landing. He was posthumously awarded the Nation’s highest Gallantry awards the “Param Veer Chakra” PVC.

Denzil Keeler takes pride in being the ‘Gnat’ pilot and very proudly states “an aircraft which was rejected by the British became the first to shoot down a Sabre in 1965, was the first to have shot down a ‘Saber’ in the 1971 war. First to claim the “Nation’s” highest award (and the only one so far also by a Gnat Pilot).

India Strategic salutes all those who flew the Gnats, who saved the Indian border sand laid down their lives and also to those who kept these flying machines agile and trust worthy (In spite of all limitations) the “Maintenance Personnel”.