SOURCE: AFI

In a strategic development that underscores India’s growing clout in defense technology collaborations, the Indian defense sector has left both Safran of France and Rolls-Royce of the UK in a state of uncertainty regarding the co-development of the engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), under India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has yet to announce its choice of partner for this critical project.

The AMCA program, aimed at producing a 5th generation stealth fighter jet, is at the heart of India’s ambitions to achieve self-reliance in military aviation. The engine, a key component, is expected to deliver between 110-130kN of thrust, marking a significant leap in capability over current Indian fighter engines.

SOURCE: AFI

Larsen & Toubro (L&T), one of India’s premier engineering and construction conglomerates, has embarked on a significant technological venture with the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-Delhi) to develop an indigenous 3D scanning SONAR system tailored for underwater applications. This partnership aims to push the boundaries of underwater exploration and surveillance in India, highlighting a step towards self-reliance in advanced marine technology.

The collaboration focuses on creating a state-of-the-art 3D SONAR system that leverages the latest in acoustic technology to provide detailed three-dimensional imaging of underwater environments. The project is particularly aimed at enhancing capabilities for applications such as underwater inspection, mapping, and navigation, which are crucial for industries like defense, oil and gas, and marine research.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) finds itself at a critical juncture with its Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) program, particularly with the imminent threat of increased competition from the Airbus H125 in the Indian market. The Airbus H125, soon to be assembled in India through a partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), poses a significant challenge to HAL’s LUH.

Here’s why HAL needs to accelerate the development and production of an improved LUH MkII.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force’s indigenous fighter jet projects, the Tejas MkII and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), showcase India’s ambition to become self-reliant in military aviation. A notable distinction between these two aircraft is the use of Diverterless Supersonic Inlet (DSI) technology. While the AMCA adopts this modern design feature, the Tejas MkII does not. Here’s an analysis of the reasons behind this difference in design philosophy.

DSI intakes are a modern innovation in aircraft design, particularly for fighters, where they replace traditional intake systems with diverter plates. They offer benefits like reduced radar cross-section due to fewer moving parts, less drag, and potentially better airflow management. This technology is particularly advantageous for stealth aircraft, where minimizing radar visibility is crucial .

SOURCE: AFI

In a surprising turn of events, both Nigeria and Botswana have reportedly halted negotiations with India regarding the purchase of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. This development could be a significant setback for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and India’s ambitions to expand its defense export market.

Nigeria’s interest in the Tejas was seen as part of its broader plan to upgrade its air force, which has been actively seeking to replace its aging fleet of aircraft. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has been exploring multiple options, including the Tejas, to enhance its combat capabilities, especially against the backdrop of ongoing security challenges like insurgency and piracy. However, recent reports indicate that Nigeria has decided against proceeding with the acquisition.

SOURCE: AFI

In a remarkable shift in its military procurement strategy, Bangladesh has recently shown interest in the Chinese-Pakistani joint venture, the JF-17 Thunder, after earlier considerations of acquiring more advanced Western and Chinese fighters like the Eurofighter Typhoon, Rafale, and J-10CE. This development was highlighted when Bangladeshi pilots were photographed inside the cockpit of JF-17 jets during a visit to Pakistan, as reported by various Pakistani media outlets.

Bangladesh’s pursuit of modernizing its air force has been marked by a strategic evaluation of various aircraft. Initially, there were reports of interest in the Eurofighter Typhoon and later in France’s Rafale, both known for their advanced capabilities and technology. However, the high costs associated with these Western jets, coupled with geopolitical considerations, might have led Bangladesh to reassess its options. The interest in the J-10CE, China’s fourth-generation-plus fighter, was a step in that direction, showcasing Bangladesh’s intent to diversify its military assets.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant development for India’s aerospace industry, Airbus Helicopters, in partnership with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), has shortlisted four states to establish a new production line for the H125 helicopter. This initiative marks the fourth such facility globally and is poised to enhance the “Make-in-India” campaign, as per industry insiders who spoke on condition of anonymity.

The final assessment is focusing on potential sites in Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, and Karnataka. An announcement regarding the chosen location is anticipated shortly, with the goal of commencing production to roll out the first H125 helicopter from an Indian facility by next year. This move signifies a major step towards local manufacturing in the aerospace sector .

SOURCE: AFI

As 2024 draws to a close, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India has once again proven its mettle in advancing the nation’s defense capabilities. From pioneering missile systems to cutting-edge propulsion technologies, here are some of the landmark achievements that have marked DRDO’s year:

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army has embarked on an ambitious initiative to modernize its ordnance depots, which are critical for maintaining the supply chain of military equipment and materials. This modernization drive aims to update the ageing and often dilapidated infrastructure of these facilities and introduce state-of-the-art inventory management practices.

These facilities operate under the Directorate General Ordnance Services (DGOS) at Army Headquarters, which oversees their operations and ensures their alignment with the Army’s logistical requirements.

SOURCE: AFI

In a groundbreaking development for defense technology, Larsen & Toubro (L&T), one of India’s leading conglomerates, has embarked on a collaborative journey with Amrita University (Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham) to develop a lightweight bulletproof material. This partnership aims to revolutionize the materials used in protective gear and armor for various defense applications.

L&T, renowned for its engineering prowess and commitment to technological innovation, has joined forces with Amrita University, which brings its expertise in research and development within the realms of science and engineering. This synergy is expected to yield a material that not only offers superior protection but also reduces the weight burden traditionally associated with bulletproof solutions.