Taiwan Deploys NASAMS for Taipei Defense: Taiwan has deployed the NASAMS (National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System) in North Taiwan to enhance Taipei's defense capabilities. This missile defense system offers a strong countermeasure against aerial threats, and its features are comparable to India's missile defense technologies, improving security in the region.
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With increasing military conflicts and incidents of state actors posing a threat to civil aviation, the issue of training expertise and skills is becoming more important.
Date |
Incident |
Details |
Key Lessons |
September 1, 1983 |
Korean Airlines Flight 007 shot down by Russian Sukhoi fighter jet |
The flight deviated from its flight path due to a navigational error. All 269 onboard were killed. Hans Ephraimson-Abt, who lost his daughter, advocated for aviation safety. Russia opposed conflict risk regulations proposed by ICAO. |
Geopolitical interests hinder aviation safety measures; need for stricter international conflict risk protocols. |
November 22, 2003 |
DHL Cargo plane struck by a surface-to-air missile in Baghdad |
The plane's left wing was hit by a missile. Despite losing all hydraulics, the crew used engine differential thrust to control and safely land the plane. The full fuel tank prevented an explosion due to lack of vapors. |
Extraordinary skill in emergencies; need for improved defenses against terrorist attacks. |
July 3, 1988 |
Iran Air Flight 655 shot down by the USS Vincennes |
Mistakenly identified as a fighter jet by the US Navy during the Iran-Iraq War. Procedural failures and inaccurate assumptions led to the death of 290 civilians. |
Emphasis on robust identification protocols and reducing procedural errors in conflict zones. |
February 27, 2019 |
Indian Air Force Mi-17 helicopter shot down during Balakot operation |
The Indian air defense system mistakenly identified it as an enemy target. The incident underscored the risks posed by inadequate identification protocols and human error. |
Extensive training, technology upgrades, and effective identification systems are critical to avoid errors. |
Aspect |
Details |
Navigational Vulnerabilities |
Proximity to conflict zones (Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar) raises risks of GPS jamming, spoofing, and navigation system failures. Airlines lack clarity on implementing alternative systems like inertial navigation. |
Pilot and Skills Training |
High pilot demand leads to accelerated training, compromising quality. Inadequate preparation for GPS jamming or communication failures creates vulnerabilities. |
Aging Aircraft Risks |
Use of older, leased aircraft lacking robust capabilities for long-haul flights, especially over challenging terrains. Critical for routes to the U.S. West Coast. |
Regulatory Gaps |
DGCA was criticized for poor transparency and oversight. Incidents like Jet Airways Flight 9W 118 (2017) highlight failures in enforcing protocols and accountability. |
Feature |
Details |
Affiliation |
Ministry of Civil Aviation |
Headquarters |
New Delhi |
Key Role |
Regulatory body dealing with civil aviation safety issues. |
International Coordination |
Coordinates regulatory functions with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) |
Main Functions |
|
Safety Oversight |
Ensures passenger and crew safety on flights operating in India. |
Safety Inspections |
Conducts regular safety inspections of airlines and aircraft. |
Incident Investigation |
Investigate incidents/accidents in Indian airspace and take preventive actions. |
Industry Growth |
Collaborates with airlines and airport operators to promote aviation growth and enhance passenger experience. |
Airport Development |
Develops new airports and upgrade existing facilities. |
Air Transport Regulation |
Regulates air transport services in India. |
Air Traffic Systems |
Develops new air traffic control systems and technologies for improved efficiency. |
Licensing and Certification |
Issues licenses and certificates to pilots, aircraft maintenance technicians, and other aviation personnel. |
Both historical and current incidents of shooting down civilian aircraft are stark reminders of the devastating consequences of misidentification and procedural failures. As the aviation industry continues to expand, especially in regions such as India, the need for strict safety protocols and international cooperation is becoming more pressing.
Source:
PRACTICE QUESTION
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