1. COAS launches Xtreme Weather Grade Diesel for military vehicles

 
Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Dhiraj Seth today launched the indigenously developed Xtreme Weather Grade (XWG) Diesel in New Delhi on 31st July 2026. Developed jointly by the Indian Army and Oil Marketing Companies, the specialised fuel will enhance the mobility, safety and operational availability of combat and logistics vehicles in extreme climatic conditions.
 
The Defence Ministry noted that the technology has wider civilian use in high-altitude and severe winter regions and represents a significant step towards ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’. Gen Seth highlighted that the fuel would eliminate practices previous required to keep vehicles functional during severe winters, thereby improving the safety and morale of personnel.

2. Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja appointed as DG-Armed Forces Medical Services

 
Air Marshal Sandeep Thareja, SM, VSM & Bar has been appointed as the Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS), with effect from the afternoon of August 31, 2026. He will assume the appointment upon the retirement of Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, PVSM, AVSM, VSM.
 
Air Marshal Thareja will assume the country’s highest military medical appointment after leading several premier Armed Forces medical institutions and commanding key military hospitals across India.
 
3. Air Marshal AK Bharti retires from IAF

 
Air Marshal AK Bharti, the IAF’s Director General Air Operations during Operation Sindoor and one of its most recognisable public faces since, has retired from the Indian Air Force. A graduate of the 70th NDA Course and the 139th Pilot Course, he was commissioned as a fighter pilot on 13 June 1987. He was part of tri-service media briefings for Operation Sindoor.
 
4. Vice Admiral AN Pramod assumes charge as Deputy Chief of Naval Staff

 
Vice Admiral AN Pramod assumed charge as the Deputy Chief of Naval Staff on 1st August 2026. He succeeds Vice Admiral Tarun Shobhti, who retired on July 31 after more than 38 years of distinguished service.
 
Vice Admiral Pramod was commissioned into the Indian Navy on July 1, 1990 and Alumnus of the 38th Integrated Cadet Course at the Naval Academy, Goa. He previously served as the Director General Naval Operations (DGNO) and Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra Naval Area.

Chakra Desk

Chakra News is a specialised digital media platform committed to in-depth coverage of India’s defence, national security, geopolitics, and critical technologies.