SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
The Indian Navy is evaluating Italy’s “Black Shark” torpedo as a potential solution for its Kalvari-class submarines, marking a re-emergence for this advanced heavyweight torpedo in India’s defense considerations. With a requirement for 48 new torpedoes, the Navy is conducting assessments and exploring options as several international contenders—including companies from Germany and France—vie for the contract. Notably, this interest in the Black Shark comes after the Italian company, which was previously blacklisted, has now re-entered the fray.
The Black Shark torpedo was initially evaluated for the Indian Navy in 2008 when it emerged as the leading candidate to fulfill a demand for 98 torpedoes intended to equip the Navy’s then-upcoming fleet of Scorpene-class submarines. The Black Shark, known for its long-range, high-speed performance, and advanced homing capabilities, seemed like an ideal match. However, the project faced a setback in 2013, when allegations of corruption linked to other defense deals with the same Italian company led to a comprehensive review and eventually a blacklisting by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). As a result, the entire acquisition process was suspended, and the case was subsequently referred to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
The Indian Navy has made significant strides in indigenization by deciding to install indigenously developed Software-Defined Radios (SDRs) on all its aerial platforms. Among the first platforms to benefit from this upgrade are the Navy’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, also known as Romeos. This development marks a leap in the Navy’s efforts to enhance encrypted communication capabilities across its fleet.
The SDRs have been co-developed by the Indian Navy in collaboration with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). They are already deployed on the Navy’s surface ships, showcasing their reliability and performance. The version installed on aerial platforms like the MH-60R is a miniaturized variant of the surface ship system, optimized for airborne operations.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The Indian Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to procure a new-generation Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) system. This move signifies India’s commitment to enhancing its military capabilities and addressing evolving threats in the region.
This new-generation ATGM is designed to address the increasing threat posed by modern armored vehicles, including Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). By acquiring this advanced weapon system, the Indian Army aims to maintain a decisive edge over potential adversaries.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The Indian Ministry of Defence is poised to issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the acquisition of 15 maritime variants of the Airbus C-295 aircraft. This move comes after the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) granted its approval earlier this year. The Indian Navy and Coast Guard are set to benefit from this acquisition, with the Navy receiving nine aircraft configured for medium-range maritime reconnaissance and the Coast Guard acquiring six multi-mission maritime aircraft.
These C-295 aircraft will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology to enhance India’s maritime surveillance capabilities. The Navy’s aircraft will be armed with sonobuoys, torpedoes, and anti-ship missiles, enabling them to effectively conduct anti-submarine warfare and surface warfare operations. The Coast Guard’s aircraft will be configured for a wide range of missions, including maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and law enforcement.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is on the verge of securing a significant repeat order for 100 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer guns. This advanced artillery system, developed in collaboration with South Korean defense giant Hanwha Defense, has proven its capabilities in the Indian Army.
L&T’s Armoured Systems Complex (ASC) in Hazira successfully delivered the initial order of 100 K-9 Vajra guns ahead of schedule in 2021. Valued at ?4,500 crore, this project marked a significant milestone in India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) recently revealed updates on its fifth-generation stealth fighter, the Su-75 “Checkmate” or Light Tactical Aircraft (LTS), at a recent presentation. This includes news of an increased maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 26 tons—similar to India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program—and plans to offer an upgraded AL-51FI engine, a shift from the previously offered AL-41. This announcement comes as UAC seeks to generate interest from potential international customers, including India. However, significant gaps in Su-75’s development may deter India, as it seeks a fighter that is not only advanced but also much closer to serial production.
Both the Su-75 and India’s AMCA are designed with a similar MTOW of 26 tons, indicating alignment in their weight class, potential payload, and operational capabilities. This would allow either aircraft to deliver similar performance in terms of range, weapons payload, and maneuverability, positioning them as direct competitors in the 5th-generation medium-weight fighter category.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The Oxford Union’s decision to host a debate on the contentious issue of Kashmir independence has sparked widespread condemnation in India. Security experts and analysts have called on the Indian government to take stern action against the prestigious university.
The Oxford Union, a debating society at Oxford University, announced on Instagram that it would host a debate on November 14th titled “This house believes in the independent state of Kashmir.” This move has been seen as a blatant interference in India’s internal affairs and a disregard for its sovereignty.
Continue readingSOURCE: JFD
JFD, part of James Fisher and Sons plc, is proud to announce a significant expansion of its partnership with the Indian defence forces through a new contract aimed at strengthening the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities.
Since 2018, JFD has built a strong collaborative partnership with the Indian Navy, underpinned by a commitment to delivering mission critical systems. Through the successful delivery of two Submarine Rescue Systems and a 25-year maintenance contract, the company works closely with navy personnel to ensure these systems remain available and ‘rescue ready’.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appointed Maj Gen Ramon Guardado Sanchez of Mexico as head of the UN Observer Group in India and Pakistan.
Major General Guardado succeeds Rear Admiral Guillermo Ríos of Argentina as Head of Mission and Chief Military Observer for the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP), said a statement issued here on Wednesday.Sánchez has had a long and distinguished career in the Mexican Army, currently serving as Commissioner of the National Guard in Yucatán.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
Western Australia’s Parliament on Friday felicitated the all-women crew of the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel, Tarini, which is undertaking a global circumnavigation expedition.
The two-member crew of Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A was present during the felicitation ceremony. The vessel, which is undertaking a global circumnavigation expedition christened Navika Sagar Parikrama II, arrived at its first port of call in Fremantle, a port city in Western Australia. “Western Australian Parliament felicitated the crew of Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini, which is undertaking a global circumnavigation expedition ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama II’,” the High Commission of India in Canberra posted on X.
Continue readingSOURCE: REUTERS
The U.S. Air Force said that it would retire its A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft in key regions including South Korea by the fiscal year 2025 in favour of advancing fourth-generation fighter jet upgrades.
The move is part of its modernisation strategy, according to a statement issued on Tuesday.
SOURCE: PTI
US president-elect Donald Trump, who enjoys very good relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is expected to build on the progress made during his first term and continue strengthening ties with India, his South Asia point-person at the White House during his first term has said.
Speaking to PTI in an interview, Lisa Curtis, who served as deputy assistant to president Trump and as National Security Council senior director for South and Central Asia from 2017 to 2021, also said she expected the same bumps for India and the US, as in Trump’s first term, including tariff, dependence on Russia over arms supply and oil purchase from Iran.
Continue readingSOURCE: PIB
‘Keel Laying’ ceremony of first of the five Fleet Support Ships (FSS) was held at Hindustan Shipyard, Limited, Visakhapatnam on 14 Nov 24. The ceremony was presided by Vice Admiral B Siva Kumar, Controller Warship Production & Acquisition in presence of Chairman & Managing Director, HSL and other senior officials from Indian Navy and HSL. Indian Navy had signed a contract with HSL for acquisition of five Fleet Support Ships in Aug 2023. The ships are scheduled to be delivered to Indian Navy, commencing mid 2027.
On induction, the Fleet Support Ships will bolster the ‘Blue Water’ capabilities of the Indian Navy through replenishment of Fleet ships at sea. The ships, with more than 40,000 Tons displacement will carry and deliver fuel, water, ammunition and stores enabling prolonged operations without returning to harbour, thus enhancing the Fleet’s strategic reach and mobility. In secondary role, these ships would be equipped for Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief operations for evacuation of personnel in emergency situations and quick delivery of relief material at site during natural calamities.
Continue readingSOURCE: UNI
Today is a very special day for India. On 14 November, Indian Space Center ISRO achieved its first success on the moon. Today, after the great success of Chandrayaan-3, India is preparing for Chandrayaan-4, but the first mission to the moon was started 16 years ago. 16 years ago on 14 November, Chandrayaan-1 crash landed on the moon, after which India celebrated with great enthusiasm. ISRO had designed Chandrayaan-1 in such a way that it could crash land on the moon. In this mission, India discovered water on the moon. Due to this unprecedented discovery, India showed its space power to the world for the first time.
On November 14, 2008, India’s first Chandrayaan made history by successfully landing on the surface of the Moon. An important component of the Chandrayaan-1 mission was designed to crashland on the surface of the Moon (Moon Impact Probe). This was not only a technological achievement for India but also a strategic move to collect important data about the structure of the Moon.
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
The probe by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) into Bengaluru’s Rameshwaram Cafe blast incident has revealed the jailed suspected terrorists’ link to Pakistan and global terror outfit ISIS, sources confirmed on Friday.
Sources further stated that NIA found a connection of jailed terror suspects to Pakistan and they also received instructions from Pakistan to carry out subversive activities in India. The main operative in the cafe blast case is reportedly still missing and is suspected to be in Pakistan, sources confirmed.
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