Across the globe, nuclear weapons are considered as the ultimate deterrence. As per the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT), US, UK, Russia, France and China are the five nuclear-weapon states (NWS).

NATO countries Belgium, Germany, Italy, Netherlands and Turkey have nuclear weapons sharing agreement. Countries like India, Pakistan and North Korea also have nuclear weapons. Some countries like Israel are assumed to have nuclear weapons, but it has not been officially announced.

Nuclear weapons have been used just once. They serve as an effective deterrence tool against enemy forces. That’s why some countries are trying to develop nuclear weapons. At the other end of the spectrum, there’s an emerging thought that all countries can agree to denuclearize.

Progressives believe that the world would be a safer place without nuclear weapons. But is that true? Is nuclear disarmament good for planet earth? To answer the question, let’s take a look at what happens if there are no nuclear weapons.

Safety from nuclear terror attacks – With thousands of nuclear weapons, there’s always a lingering fear that nuclear weapons may fall into the hands of terrorists. They may not be able to launch it like it is meant to be, but a dirty bomb is always a possibility. A dirty bomb can cause widespread radioactive contamination, making the area unlivable for humans. Imagine if such a bomb is used in a city. When there are no nuclear bombs, the risk of nuclear terror attacks will be reduced significantly.

Shift to biological warfare – When nuclear weapons are no longer available, some countries may invest in other lethal alternatives such as biological warfare. While nuclear capabilities are widely publicized, biological warfare capabilities can be kept a secret. It can be used covertly and steps can be taken to ensure that the source is never found. Some experts are already calling Covid-19 a biological warfare, but a definitive proof is not available.

Significant cost savings – Developing nuclear weapons, keeping them safe and maintaining them is a costly affair. Nuclear deterrence is effective when it is available across land, sea and air assets. The overall cost of equipment and manpower needed for nuclear weapons easily runs into billions of dollars. For any country, removing the nuclear weapons can result in major cost savings.

Countries may fight more often – Without the protection of nuclear deterrence, countries may no longer be held back by the fear of nuclear war. This can actually lead to more fights between countries. However, at least, there won’t be any risk of a nuclear war.

As evident from above, complete nuclear disarmament has its pros and cons. It can be useful, but won’t prevent future wars and battles. But the world will definitely be safer without nuclear weapons, as large-scale destruction can be avoided.

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When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, it was felt that the war will be over within days. That thought had its logic, as Russia had the edge in terms of military might. However, now after almost a year’s time, much of Ukraine remains a free country. Regular funding and supply of weapons by NATO countries has helped Ukraine put up a stiff resistance.

As the war continues and none of the sides seem to be in a mood to give up their positions, it makes us wonder who will win the Russia-Ukraine war. Here are five potential scenarios that can help explain who will win the Russia-Ukraine war.

Russia loses Crimea – Instead of winning Ukraine or its regions, Russia could actually end up losing Crimea. Russia’s pull-back from Kherson is being seen as a key reason why Ukraine now has the option to take back Crimea. Much of the approaches that lead to Crimea can now be targeted by Ukrainian weapon systems. Russia is apparently aware of the risks, which is why it has been busy fortifying its defenses in the region.

Supply of advanced weapon systems – NATO has been supplying a wide variety of weapons to Ukraine since the beginning of the conflict. However, much of these are meant to be used for defensive purposes. Ukraine has been demanding more advanced weapon systems that can be used for active offence. Ukraine has asked for tanks, air defense systems, advanced fighter jets and long-range missiles. How fast NATO countries can deliver these weapons will determine the fate of Russia-Ukraine war.

Nuclear threat – As the conflict continues, some experts feel that the threat of nuclear war is increasing day by day. Russia had earlier stated that it will not hesitate to use nuclear weapons if its sovereignty is harmed. There are also talks that even Ukraine may be secretly working to build its nuclear weapons. It is felt that Ukraine has been repeatedly targeted, as it does not have a nuclear deterrence.

Third world war – In the previous world wars, the friction started in a specific region, which later spread to other parts of the world. In that sense, Russia-Ukraine war has potential to escalate into a third world war. Already, there is involvement of NATO countries, whereas Russia has its own set of supporting nations such as Iran, Syria, Belarus, China, etc. Many countries are also supporting Russia through economic engagements.

Peace treaty – A long-term war is a big drag on the economy and people of the countries involved. As history reveals, wars can continue for years without any positive gains. United States spent 20 years in Afghanistan and now things are back to square one. Emerging world powers like India and China can probably broker a truce between Russia and Ukraine. Both India and China have significant influence over Russia-Ukraine. So, a truce could be possible soon.

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You may have seen them in movies, documentaries or read about their achievements in articles, blogs, etc. Most countries have an elite commando force that shares multiple responsibilities such as protecting top leaders, special operations, handling emergency situations and tackling terrorists and anti-national agents. Elite commando groups receive special training and have access to advanced weapons and equipment that make them capable of dominating any situation.

As most countries have their own commando groups, it makes us wonder which one of these are the best. This is tough to answer, as commando to commando combat situations may not be that common. However, we can still get a fair idea based on the missions completed by commando groups and the type of training they receive and technology tools they have. Based on these factors, here’s a look at some of the best commando special forces in the world.

Delta Force (US) – This is a special operations force, part of the United States Army. Primary tasks include special reconnaissance, hostage rescue, direct action and counter terrorism. Delta Force is the primary choice when it comes to handling covert, complex and extremely dangerous missions. Selection rate is under 10%, which is evidence to the extremely tough and grueling tests that candidates have to undergo. Much of the missions completed by Delta Force are highly classified.

Alpha Group (Russia) – Also called Spetsgruppa “A” or Alfa, this group is part of Russia’s special forces, functional within the Russian Federal Security Service (FSB). It was originally created by KGB in 1974. Missions of Alpha Group are highly classified, but it is estimated that these commandoes handle various types of operations. It includes protecting top leadership, covert operations both inside and outside country and special police duties. Alpha Group also acts against hijackers, hostage takers and terrorists.

Shayetet 13 (Israel) – Part of the Israeli Navy, Shayetet 13 handles various types of missions such as intelligence gathering, hostage rescue, sabotage operations, counter-terror ops, and sea-to-land incursions. This unit has been active in almost all major wars where Israel was involved. Shayetet 13 commandoes are considered among the toughest in the world. The commandoes are equipped with advanced weapons such as M4 carbine, M203 grenade launcher, Uzi 9mm Sub-machine gun and SR-25 sniper rifle.

United States Navy SEALs – The primary special operations force in United States, Navy SEALs is a part of Naval Special Warfare Command. Navy SEALs handles a wide variety of special missions in various environments such as urban, jungle, desert, mountainous, maritime, etc. It is tasked with missions like collecting information behind enemy lines, eliminating high-level targets, capturing wanted individual and rescuing kidnapped personnel. Navy SEALs has played in key role in Vietnam War, Operation Desert Storm, War in Afghanistan, etc. Selection rate for Navy SEALs is around 20%.

Special Air Service (UK) – Functional under the British Army, Special Air Service (SAS) came into existence in 1941 as a regiment. It was later changed into corps. Much of the operations of SAS have never been seen in media reports, as the team handles highly classified missions. It is said to be handling missions involving covert reconnaissance, direct action, hostage rescue and counter-terror operations. The selection process for SAS is so grueling that only around 15% make it through the initial physical endurance tests.

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While outcome of earlier wars was mostly decided through face-to-face combat, things have changed dramatically in 21st century. As of now, itº£½ÇÖ±²¥ the long-range missiles, drones and unmanned combat aerial vehicles that are changing the rules of the game. Countries globally are cutting down on manpower, so that they can focus on new weapon systems that can be operated remotely and yet be just as effective against enemy targets. To understand their capabilities, here’s a look at some of the deadliest missiles in the world.

Tomahawk Cruise Missile

Jet-powered, all-weather missile travelling at subsonic speed, Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) is used by United States Navy as well as Royal Navy. Tomahawk cruise missile is primarily used for land-attack operations conducted via ships and submarines. They have been in use since 1983. The thing that makes Tomahawk lethal is its ability to fly at low altitude. It is thus difficult to detect by enemy radar. Tomahawk missiles have been used in various operations such as Gulf War, Operation Desert Fox, 2003 invasion of Iraq and most recently in 2018 missile strikes against Syria.

DF-41

A fourth-generation intercontinental ballistic missile, Dongfeng-41 (DF-41, CSS-20) is in use by the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force. It is the latest-gen missile systems developed by China. It was inducted in active service in 2017. DF-41 is powered by solid-fuel and has operational range of 12,000 to 15,000 km. It is capable of carrying thermonuclear weapon and has top speed of Mach 25 (19,000 mph; 30,600 km/h). Accuracy is +- 100 meters.

RS-28 Sarmat (Satan II)

Manufactured by Makeyev Rocket Design Bureau, RS-28 Sarmat or Satan II is a super-heavy intercontinental ballistic missile. It is powered by liquid fuel and has MIRV capabilities. RS-28 Sarmat will work as a replacement for R-36M ICBM (SS-18 ‘Satan’). It was unveiled in 2018 and test fired for the first time in 2022. It is expected to be inducted into active service in 2022. RS-28 Sarmat has operational range of 11,000 miles (~18,000 km).

LGM-30 Minuteman III

Operated by the Air Force Global Strike Command, LGM-30 Minuteman III is land-based intercontinental ballistic missile. It is part of the US nuclear triad that also has long-range strategic bombers with nuclear weapons and Trident submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM). Manufactured by Boeing, LGM-30 Minuteman III costs a whopping $7,000,000 per unit. The missile utilizes a 3-stage solid fuel rocket, with operational range of 8,700 miles (14,000 km). Top speed is Mach 23.

3M-54 Kalibr

A Russian cruise missile, 3M-54 Kalibr was developed by Novator Design Bureau (OKB-8). This is the latest-generation of cruise missile developed by Russia. It has different variants that can be launched from land, ship, submarine and aircraft. 3M-54 Kalibr utilizes a multi-stage solid fuel rocket and has operational range of 1,500-2,500 km. A newer version with 4,500 km range is under development. 3M-54 Kalibr missiles were most recently used in 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.

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With the Agnipath scheme, Government of India seeks to bring about major changes to recruitment of military personnel. While a number of benefits have been pointed out, the Agnipath scheme has witnessed massive protests in certain states. It makes us wonder if India is doing something very different from what is standard practice in other parts of the world. To get a fair idea about Agnipath scheme, hereº£½ÇÖ±²¥ a quick look at military recruitment schemes of other powerful countries.

Agnipath scheme Vs. USA military recruitment

USA follows a voluntary system of military recruitment. Just like Agnipath, candidates are enrolled for a period of four years. This is followed by reserve duty period of four years. If needed, the candidates in reserve duty period can be recalled for active duty. Pension is provided for personnel that complete 20 years of military service. Others may be eligible for specific allowances.

Agnipath scheme Vs. China military recruitment

Although China has a policy of compulsory military service, it is not enforced. As such, Chinese military recruitment process is largely voluntary. New recruits in the Army serve three years whereas those joining Navy and Air Force serve for a term of four years. In case of volunteers, the service period is 8 to 12 years.

Agnipath scheme Vs. Russia military recruitment

Russia follows a hybrid model for military recruitment. It has compulsory military training, but alternative service options are available. As per rule, male citizens in the age group of 18 to 27 years are required to undertake one year of service in armed forces. A specific percentage of these candidates are inducted in the armed forces as permanent personnel.

Agnipath scheme Vs. Israel military recruitment

Israel has compulsory military training for both men and women. While male candidates have 32 months of military service, women candidates serve for 24 months. This period can be extended if any candidate volunteers for additional service time. Only around 10 percent of candidates are inducted into the armed forces. Pension is given to personnel who have served at least 12 years in the armed forces.

Agnipath scheme Vs. France military recruitment

France had compulsory military training earlier, but it has been discontinued since 2001. As of now, recruitment to French armed forces is done via a voluntary and contractual basis. Candidate can initially sign-up for a one-year contract, which can be later extended for a period of five years. Pension is given to personnel who have served for more than 19 years.

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Indian government recently unveiled the Agnipath Armed Forces Recruitment Scheme, which seeks to introduce radical changes to the existing recruitment system followed by Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. Since the time it was announced, the scheme has received praise and criticism in equal amounts. A number of protests have taken place in several locations across the country. All these developments have resulted in a lot of confusion among candidates who are trying for a career with Indian Armed Forces.

As the recruitment rules have been completely changed, candidates are asking if the new Agnipath scheme is good or bad for them. Some defense experts are also asking if the Agnipath scheme will negatively impact the morale of armed forces. To get a fair view of central governmentº£½ÇÖ±²¥ new Agnipath scheme, let’s dig deeper and analyze each aspect in detail.

What is Agnipath scheme?

Agnipath is a new way of recruiting candidates for the armed forces. Unlike the earlier scheme where selected candidates got permanent jobs in armed forces, the Agnipath scheme will have a mix of temporary and permanent jobs. All candidates selected under Agnipath scheme will have to work for the armed forces for a period of 4 years. This includes the training period.

After four years, only one out of four candidates will be given permanent job in the armed forces. The remaining 75% will be relieved of their duties with adequate tax-free compensation, skill certificate and credits for higher education. They will also be eligible for bank loans for starting their own business or profession.

What is eligibility criteria for Agnipath scheme?

Any individual who is between 17.5 to 21 years is eligible to apply under Agnipath scheme. For 2022 only, the government has relaxed the age limit to 23 years. The various tests conducted for the recruitment will be the same as earlier. Recruitment will be done based on merit.

What is purpose of Agnipath scheme?

With the Agnipath scheme, the government is targeting multiple objectives. Some of these are described below.

• Ballooning salary and pension – Due to manpower-intensive armed forces of India, the country has to bear massive expenditure on salary and pension. With the Agnipath scheme, armed forces manpower can be optimized. Shortage situation can also be avoided, as there will be a continuous flow of candidates every year via Agnipath scheme.
• Military modernization – Due to heavy payroll expenditure, it has become difficult for the army to acquire new weapons and create other infrastructure. Only around 18% of India’s defense budget is available for military modernization, which is quite less. Lack of advanced weapon systems can create a risky situation with aggressive neighbors such as China and Pakistan.
• Create more jobs – With Agnipath scheme, more jobs can be created for the country’s youth every year.
• Nation building – Agnipath scheme opens the doors even for those candidates who may not be looking for a full-time career with the armed forces. They will get to serve the nation and better understand the ethos of the nation.
• Reserve force – Agnipath scheme will help create a ready pool of trained combat professionals. The ones who are relieved of their duties after 4 years will work as backup force for the country. In case of a war, they can be called upon to voluntarily serve the nation.

How candidates will benefit from Agnipath scheme?

• Attractive financial package – For all candidates selected through Agnipath scheme, first year package will start at around Rs 4.76 lakh. By the fourth year, this will increase to around Rs 6.92 lakh. The candidates will be eligible for risk and hardship and other allowances. At the end of fourth year, candidates will be getting around Rs 11.71 lakh as corpus fund. This is entirely tax free.
• Full life insurance – All candidates selected through Agnipath scheme will have life insurance cover of Rs 48 lakh. This will be funded entirely by the government. Candidates don’t have to contribute any money for the life insurance cover.
• Disability and death compensation – In case of disability, the individual will be eligible for compensation based on the level of disability. It is Rs 15 lakh / Rs 25 lakh / Rs 44 lakh for 50% / 75% / 100% disability, respectively. In case of death attributable to service, the compensation will be Rs 44 lakh.
• Priority in CAPFs – Candidates who are relieved after four years of service will be given preference in recruitment to Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs). It includes organizations such as BSF, CRPF, CISF, SSB and ITBP. Several states have also announced plans to offer jobs in state police force.
• Unique resume – With four years of service in the armed forces, the candidates can stand out among the crowd. It will give them the edge when looking for a job or starting a business.
• Disciplined individual – With military training, all candidates will emerge as disciplined individuals. They will learn the importance of time and become adept at overcoming challenges. All these qualities will help them in their future job or profession.

What are disadvantages of Agnipath scheme?

Just like everything else, Agnipath scheme has also received fair amount of criticism. Some of these are described below.

• Uncertain future – As only one out of four candidates will get permanent job with the armed forces, it puts a question mark on the career prospects of remaining 75% candidates that will be relieved after four years. While compensation package is attractive, changing careers and finding new jobs is not easy in the country.
• Lack of motivation – As a part-time recruit, candidates may not have the morale to give it their 100% in the service of nation. They may be averse to taking risks, as they may not be sure about their future. All these factors might negatively impact overall capabilities of the armed forces.
• Possibility of corruption – As only one out of four candidates will be absorbed in the armed forces, it may create chances of corruption. It is possible that decision to select a single candidate among four individuals can be biased.

While the big picture looks promising with Agnipath scheme, it is apparent that it has inherent flaws as well. We hope government will look into these and make the necessary changes. Achieving a balance between nationº£½ÇÖ±²¥ needs and career prospects of candidates can make Agnipath scheme a lot better.

Agnipath scheme Vs. military recruitment schemes of other countries

Earlier, there were talks about making military training compulsory for all youngsters in India. The practice is referred to as Conscription. It is an old practice that is still functional in some countries. Countries that have compulsory military training include Israel, North Korea, Mexico, Qatar, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey, Russia and Ukraine. European countries like Finland, Sweden and Switzerland also have conscription policy, but there are alternative options available to candidates.

India has chosen not to go for compulsory military training. Agnipath scheme is completely voluntary. Due to the massive population, it will be hugely challenging to introduce compulsory military training for all youngsters in India. Massive expenditure on military training is another factor why it cannot be made mandatory for every individual.

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Pedestrian accidents are a significant public health concern. Legal defenses help determine the liability of the party at fault and help determine the amount of damages awarded. The type of legal defenses you have available will depend on where you live and your accident circumstances. If you’re ever involved in a pedestrian accident with serious injuries or property damage, it’s essential to keep an open mind about ways to minimize the negative consequences. Here we will look at some of the most common types of defenses.

1. Temporary Insanity

Temporary insanity is a legal defense used in cases of involuntary intoxication. It allows people to claim that they did not have the ability to know what they were doing at the time of the accident. This is often used in cases where the intoxicated person was distracted or disoriented by drugs or alcohol. Most states consider a person to be temporarily insane if they have an episode of mental illness lasting a few days.

2. Defective Product

When a product like a car or a jacket is defective, you have a legal ground to fight a pedestrian accident case. Defective products can include anything from a car too dangerous for pedestrians to drive to a jacket that tears easily. A defective product may have caused your injuries in a pedestrian accident.

3. Assumption of the Risk

This defense is based on the idea that if you agree to participate in a particular activity, you are assuming some degree of risk. In a pedestrian accident, this would mean that you assumed some level of risk for your injuries or property damage. You cannot use this defense if there were obvious safety measures to avoid the accident. Assumption of the risk is not a complete defense, however. You must still prove that you did not contribute to the accident.

4. Improper Use of the Roadway

The proper use of the road must be considered before proceeding with an accident in which there was an injury. This is a common defense and can be applied to various accidents. If there was an injury because the driver failed to use the roadway safely, then the driver may be held responsible. If you’re injured because of someone misusing the road, you may have a case against that person.

5. Negligence in Design and Construction of Pedestrian Facilities and Traffic Control Devices

Poor design or construction of pedestrian facilities and traffic control devices may be used as a legal defense. This can include the failure to maintain sidewalks, crosswalks, and other safety features. If the government is held liable for this type of accident, it may be possible that the government could pay damages to help pay for medical expenses and lost wages.Fresno pedestrian accident lawyers can help you determine whether you have a case against the government.

6. Contributory Negligence

Contributory negligence is the failure to exercise due care or reasonable care. It is a legal defense that says that you were not at fault for the accident because you contributed to the accident. This is a common defense in pedestrian accidents because you are not responsible for any of your injuries or property damage.

7. Self Defense

Self-defense is a common legal defense used in pedestrian accidents. It is a legal defense that allows someone to use force to protect themselves or another person from imminent harm. Self-defense is not absolute, and there must be sufficient evidence to prove that the person used force in self-defense.

After an accident, the first thing to do is contact an attorney. If you are an injured party, you will need to provide information about your injuries, the other person involved, and any witnesses. If a defense is necessary in the case, a reputable attorney can help you determine the right course of action.

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The Navy plays an important role in conflict situations, as has been evident in wars fought over the past centuries. Modern day navy comprises several warships such as aircraft carriers, submarines, frigates, destroyers, corvettes, cruisers and amphibious assault ships. Among these, destroyers play an important role of protecting the naval fleet. These were widely used in World War I and II. Over the years, destroyers have gotten highly advanced. To understand their capabilities, here’s a quick look at some of the world’s most feared destroyers.

USS Arleigh Burke – Commissioned in 1989, USS Arleigh Burke is the lead ship for Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers. It has been equipped with special features that allow it to evade radar detection. It can launch its own missiles, all while tracking and evading missiles fired by enemy ships. The vessel is built using high strength steel, which gives it comprehensive protection. The destroyer has specialized equipment, allowing it to operate in even adverse environments such as biological, chemical and radiological warfare.

Sejong the Great-class destroyer – Also referred to as KDX-III, these are a group of three guided missile destroyers operated by South Korean navy. The lead ship is called as Sejong the Great. The name is derived from the fourth king belonging to Korea’s Joseon Dynasty. Some of the key features of Sejong the Great destroyer include AN/SPY-1D multi-function radar antennae and Aegis Combat System (Baseline 7 Phase 1). Other equipment includes 127 mm/L62 Mk. 45 Mod 4 naval gun, 30 mm Goalkeeper CIWS, anti-aircraft guns, and a RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile Block 1 21-round launcher. It also has dedicated anti-submarine and anti-ship armaments.

Kolkata-class destroyer – This is a class of stealth guided missile destroyers operated by the Indian Navy. It has three ships, Kolkata, Kochi and Chennai. The destroyer has space for landing large helicopters as well as an enclosed hangar that can handle around two maritime helicopters. primary air defense system comprises four eight-cell vertical launching systems (VLS) that are equipped with Barak 8 / MRSAM air defense missiles. Kolkata class destroyers have demonstrated Cooperative Engagement Capability, which is available with only select countries such as United States. They are also equipped with supersonic BrahMos anti-ship and land-attack missiles.

Type 052D destroyer – This class of guided missile destroyers is operated by Chinese navy. As per claims made by Chinese media, Type 052D destroyer has capabilities similar to US naval ships that have the Aegis Combat System. The destroyer is equipped with YJ-18 anti-ship cruise missiles, HHQ-9 surface-to-air missiles and CY-5 anti-submarine missiles. Radar systems include Type 518 L-band and Type 346A AESA. The destroyer can communicate with other vessels in the fleet and other units using naval common tactical data link (NCTDL) and joint service integrated datalink system (JSIDLS).

Atago-class destroyer – Operated by Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, Atago-class destroyer was commissioned in 2007. One of the key features of the destroyer is that it is equipped with the advanced Aegis Combat System. Surface-to-air missiles include SM-2MR Block IIIA/B whereas defense capabilities include Aegis BMD 5.0CU system that can launch SM-3 Block IA and IB anti-ballistic missiles. Anti-submarine armaments include Mark 32 Surface Vessel Torpedo Tubes.

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