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News Beat reporting is an idrw.org initiative to let our Readers to report News Based on Actual facts but some how has not been reported in Main Stream Media .

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s quest for robust underwater deterrence takes a significant leap forward with the advancement of DRDO’s SLCM program. Promising diverse capabilities and extended ranges, this initiative aims to equip both conventional and nuclear submarines with powerful offensive punch.

Last year’s successful test of a torpedo-launched SLCM marked a crucial milestone. With a current range of 402 km, the missile is slated for further trials pushing its reach to 500 km and eventually achieving an impressive 800+ km. This initial iteration focuses on equipping older diesel submarines, demonstrating DRDO’s commitment to enhancing legacy platforms.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has announced a critical milestone in its air defence capabilities with the successful completion of developmental trials for the New Generation Akash (Akash-NG) missile system. This successor to the existing Akash system promises improved performance and versatility, further bolstering India’s air defence against aerial threats.

First tested in 1990, the Akash missile system has served as a mainstay in India’s air defence arsenal for over two decades. However, technological advancements necessitated an upgrade. The Akash-NG sheds weight, replacing the older Ramjet propulsion with a more efficient Dual Pulse Rocket motor. This not only reduces its weight from 720kg to 350kg but also enhances its manoeuvrability and agility.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

C.B. Ananthakrishnan, Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), has announced significant progress in the development of the SARAS Mk II, a 19-seater indigenous aircraft program. This exciting project, a collaboration between HAL and the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), is poised to take to the skies with its maiden flight anticipated by the end of 2026.

The focus is currently on constructing two prototypes, with the possibility of a third being considered to expedite the certification process. This reflects the commitment of both HAL and NAL to bring this innovative aircraft to life.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Dassault Aviation’s Rafale fighter jet faces a surge in demand, with its production backlog reaching an impressive 228 aircraft. This presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges for the French manufacturer.

Despite aiming for 15 Rafales in 2023, Dassault only delivered 13. This gap widens with recent orders from Indonesia (18 aircraft), France (42 aircraft), and potential future orders from India (27 aircraft). Deliveries between 2026 and 2033 need to fulfil commitments to France, Indonesia, UAE, and Egypt, totalling 174 aircraft.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) quest for a Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) takes an interesting turn as HAL too wants to throw its hat in the ring, offering to design and build a 30-ton payload-carrying transporter in collaboration with an international OEM. This comes amidst increasing competition from global players and ongoing deliberations within the IAF about its desired capabilities for the MTA.

A HAL official, speaking to idrw.org, expressed the company’s confidence in its capabilities. They highlighted the ability to co-develop a 30-ton payload-carrying aircraft with an international partner, ensuring “Make in India” execution and retaining intellectual property rights (IPR) within the country. This proposal comes after the failed joint venture with Russia in 2017, leaving the IAF without a clear path forward.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Army’s quest for a modern towed gun system (TGS) has attracted a diverse range of contenders, including Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited’s (KSSL) 155mm/52 calibre ultra-light howitzer (ULH) named Mountain Artillery Gun-Extended Range (MArG-ER). While its lightweight design (under 8 tons) and impressive firing range (41 km) make it a viable option, it faces challenges from competitors offering more advanced features.

The Army’s Request for Information (RFI) doesn’t explicitly mention crucial aspects like Automatic Ammunition Load Assist Systems (ALAS) and steer-by-wire control systems for self-propelled capabilities. These features, however, are considered essential for modern howitzers, and their absence puts the MArG-ER at a disadvantage.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The C-17 Globemaster III, a beloved workhorse of military transport, may see a second life. At the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia, Boeing’s vice president Torbjorn Sjogren revealed renewed interest from existing operators in purchasing more C-17s if production resumes.

In 2013, faced with a lack of orders, Boeing made the difficult decision to end C-17 production. This news was met with disappointment from many air forces around the world, including the Indian Air Force (IAF), which is the second-largest C-17 operator after the US Air Force.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Indian defence companies are taking flight with Boeing’s T-7A Red Hawk program, securing key contracts for the development of this advanced pilot training system. This signifies a significant boost for India’s “Make in India” initiative and strengthens its position as a global player in the aerospace industry.

With the US Air Force planning to induct over 350 T-7A Red Hawks, Boeing is looking to source aerostructures from Indian companies. This presents a lucrative opportunity for Indian firms that are already developing aerostructures for the indigenous LCA-Tejas program. Talks are underway with select companies, indicating a potential shift in the global supply chain for major aircraft programs.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) faces a crucial decision regarding its Stage-II Pilot Training Program with the ageing Kiran-MkII jet trainers nearing retirement in 2025. The indigenous HJT-36 Sitara envisioned as the successor, remains mired in technical delays, pushing the IAF to consider foreign alternatives.

Developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the HJT-36 Sitara promised an advanced indigenous trainer. However, plagued by technical issues since its first flight in 2003, it has yet to meet all IAF requirements. Despite recent modifications and renewed flight testing, uncertainty lingers about its ability to enter service before the Kiran-MkII retirement deadline.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) may soon see its fighter jets equipped with a homegrown marvel: the Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Fire Control Radar (FCR). Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), the Uttam AESA FCR has completed most of its pre-production flight trials, paving the way for potential production clearance later this year.

The Uttam AESA FCR has undergone rigorous testing, demonstrating its capabilities in various flight modes, including air-to-air combat, air-to-ground operations, and weather and terrain avoidance/following. This comprehensive testing ensures the radar’s effectiveness in diverse operational scenarios.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India is poised to finalize a deal for 31 MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from the US, a move that bolsters its maritime surveillance capabilities but raises questions about its future drone strategy. While the MQ-9B’s features impress military planners, some experts doubt its effectiveness in contested airspace.

Indian Air Force (IAF) officials, speaking to idrw.org, expressed concerns about the MQ-9B’s vulnerability in hostile environments. This aligns with India’s long-term ambition of developing its own High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) UAV program, particularly a stealthy version capable of operating in contested airspace.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is exploring options to extend the operational life of its Mirage-2000H fighter jets, including integrating the indigenously developed Astra MkI Beyond-Visual-Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM). This move comes as the current standard BVRAAM, the 80km Mica-IR/RF, faces increasing obsolescence in the face of more advanced missiles in the region.

With plans to keep the Mirage-2000H operational until 2035, the IAF seeks to enhance its capabilities. Integrating the Astra MkI, boasting a range of 110km, would significantly improve the jet’s long-range air combat potential. Additionally, DRDO’s ongoing development of the Astra MkII with a 160km range presents further possibilities for future upgrades.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s quest for indigenous jet engine technology leaps forward with the planned integration of the Dry Kaveri engine with an afterburner section on the LCA-Tejas fighter jet. This technological demonstrator marks a significant step towards the development of the Kaveri 2.0 engine, aiming to replace imported engines on future Tejas variants.

The current Dry Kaveri engine falls short of powering advanced fighter jets due to its thrust, necessitating the afterburner addition for testing. Achieving the target 73-75kN thrust in this configuration is crucial for securing funds and launching the Kaveri 2.0 program. This upgraded engine, designed to deliver 95-99kN thrust, could potentially replace the F-404 and F-414 engines currently powering the Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 models.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Indonesia has officially scrapped its plan to acquire 12 used Mirage 2000-5 fighter jets from Qatar, citing concerns about the high price tag and the relatively old age of the aircraft. This decision comes after months of negotiations and speculation surrounding the deal, which was valued at €733 million (approximately $790 million).

While the Qatari Mirage 2000-5s, delivered in 1997, are younger than some currently in operation elsewhere (ranging from 25 to 27 years old), they still faced concerns about their age and associated maintenance costs. Previous potential buyers like India and Pakistan also walked away due to these factors.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The U.S. Air Force is seeking valuable insights from its key partners, including the Indian Air Force (IAF), as it embarks on a major upgrade program for its C-17 Globemaster III aircraft fleet. This program, known as the “C-17 Aircraft Globemaster Operational Enhancements (GLOBE) program,” aims to breathe new life into the iconic aircraft by integrating cutting-edge capabilities and addressing obsolescence concerns.

The IAF, with its impressive fleet of 11 C-17s, holds the distinction of being the second-largest operator of this versatile transport aircraft globally. This extensive experience makes their feedback crucial in shaping the GLOBE program’s direction.

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