SOURCE: AFI

As the nature of warfare evolves, so do the demands placed on weapon stockpiles and the ability of nations to replenish them. Modern battlefields are witnessing longer, more protracted conflicts, which can strain military resources. For India, a nation that faces the potential challenge of two-front conflicts with adversaries like China and Pakistan, ensuring a steady and agile supply chain for weapons and critical components is crucial. In this context, 3D printing, or Additive Manufacturing (AM), has emerged as a promising solution to help Indian forces address potential gaps in their military supply chains.

Additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, is revolutionizing production in defense and aerospace industries worldwide. It involves creating objects layer by layer from digital 3D models, effectively building the part and material simultaneously. This technology offers a significant advantage over traditional manufacturing methods, where materials are often cut away or assembled from multiple components. The benefits of additive manufacturing in defense are multifold:

SOURCE: AFI

According to a report published by The Hindu, India declined a request from Israel last year for the supply of Indian-made artillery shells, specifically 155mm and 105mm, which were sought at the onset of Israel’s operations along its border with the Gaza Strip and southern regions. Despite growing defense ties between the two nations and the robust partnership between Israeli arms companies and their Indian counterparts, New Delhi took a cautious stance and opted not to fulfill the request for these critical munitions.

In the early phases of its military operations along the Gaza Strip, Israel turned to India for artillery shells, likely driven by the rapid depletion of its ammunition reserves. Artillery shells, especially 155mm and 105mm, are essential in land-based military engagements, providing both offensive and defensive firepower. Israel, which has been involved in periodic skirmishes with Hamas and other militant groups in Gaza, needed to replenish its stockpiles quickly. However, India, which has significantly increased its indigenous defense production capabilities, declined the request, citing concerns over the ongoing conflict.

SOURCE: AFI

Vikram Rai, CEO of GE Aerospace (South Asia), recently outlined the company’s ambitious plans for India, signaling its growing commitment to the country. In a conversation with Indian media, Rai revealed that GE Aerospace has increased its exports from India “20 times” between 2018 and 2022, a significant leap demonstrating the country’s rising importance as a key player in the global aerospace supply chain.

GE Aerospace’s expansion in India is reflected in its robust presence in the country’s aviation sector. The company currently has over 1,300 engines operational in India, powering aircraft such as Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Boeing 777s, and Airbus A320neo family planes for major airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara. In addition to this existing fleet, GE Aerospace, along with its joint venture CFM International (a partnership with French aerospace giant Safran), has 2,000 more engines on order to be delivered over the next eight to nine years. This translates to a pace of roughly one aircraft equipped with GE Aerospace engines being delivered every week, highlighting the scale of the company’s operations in India.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy is set to bolster its maritime strength with the induction of seven new warships and one submarine over the next four months, according to defense sources who spoke to Sputnik India. This significant boost to naval capabilities aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet, enhance operational readiness, and protect its extensive maritime interests.

While one of the vessels is being built in Russia, the majority of these platforms are being constructed domestically in Indian shipyards, underscoring the country’s increasing focus on indigenous defense production.

SOURCE: AFI

A significant milestone in Indian naval history was reached as the indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, was officially inducted into the Western Fleet. This marks the beginning of its operational deployment, reinforcing India’s maritime capabilities.

INS Vikrant, commissioned into the navy in September 2022, will be stationed at INS Kadamba, a strategic naval base located near Karwar in Karnataka. The Western Naval Command announced the induction, emphasizing the significant boost it provides to the navy’s maritime power and reach.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defense manufacturing has been marked by both successes and setbacks, with the Arjun Main Battle Tank (MBT) program often cited as a significant lesson in the challenges of indigenous defense production. As the Indian Army embarks on its Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV) program to replace its ageing fleet of T-72 MBTs, the critical question remains: has the Army learned from the shortcomings of the Arjun MBT program, or will it once again lean towards foreign imports for its armored capabilities?

The Arjun MBT program, conceived in the 1970s and delivered decades later, highlighted numerous issues in India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities. The tank faced problems related to weight, mobility, and integration of advanced technologies. It was also subjected to delays, cost overruns, and shifting operational requirements from the Army, leading to a long development cycle.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent showcase, Harsh Vardhan Thakur, the Chief Test Pilot at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), presented a 3D rendering of three significant Indian-made training aircraft. These aircraft represent the future of pilot training in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and aim to replace older models.

The first aircraft showcased was the HTT-40, a Stage-I Basic Trainer Aircraft. Designed and built by HAL, the HTT-40 is intended to provide initial flight training to aspiring pilots. Its advanced features and modern avionics make it a suitable platform for imparting fundamental flying skills.

SOURCE: AFI

Israel’s leading defense electronics company, ELTA Systems Ltd., has placed a substantial order with Indian defense manufacturing player DCX Systems Ltd. The order, valued at Rs 154.80 crore, entails the supply of RF (radio frequency) electronic modules.

ELTA Systems, renowned for its expertise in developing advanced defense and intelligence electronics, including sensors, radars, electronic warfare, and communication systems, has recognized DCX Systems’ capabilities in manufacturing high-quality electronic components. This strategic partnership underscores DCX Systems’ growing prominence in the global defense supply chain.  

SOURCE: AFI

Avantel Ltd, a prominent player in the Indian defence and aerospace sectors, has recently secured a significant purchase order from NewSpace India Limited (NSIL) valued at Rs. 67.9 crores. The contract involves the supply of prototype terminals, with delivery scheduled by April 2025. This new order reflects Avantel’s continued prominence in delivering critical communication solutions to key players in India’s strategic sectors.

Avantel Ltd has long-established itself as a trusted partner to various defence and aerospace organizations in India. Its customer base includes the Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), alongside global industry giants such as Lockheed Martin and The Boeing Company. These collaborations underscore Avantel’s reputation for providing cutting-edge technology and communication solutions that are integral to both domestic and international defence programs.

SOURCE: AFI

UAE’s EDGE Group, a leading advanced technology and defense company, is actively seeking an Indian private sector partner to expand its defense collaboration with India. This partnership aims for the local production of EDGE Group’s extensive UAV portfolio, catering not only to the Indian market but also for potential exports.

EDGE Group boasts an impressive portfolio of over 20 drones and UAVs, offering a variety of solutions for Indian defense needs. According to idrw.org, EDGE Group has expressed particular interest in offering the REACH-M Fixed-Wing MALE UAV to Indian defense forces with the possibility of local production rights.

SOURCE: AFI

According to prominent defense journalist Anantha Krishnan M, both squadrons of the Tejas fighter aircraft, currently stationed at Air Force Station Sulur, are grappling with significant maintainability issues. Sources have confirmed to Mr. Krishnan that certain components within the Tejas are experiencing recurring problems.

The Indian Air Force operates two Tejas Mk1 squadrons, each consisting of 16 jets. These aircraft recently participated in Exercise Tarang Shakti-24, one of the largest multinational air exercises conducted by the IAF in Jodhpur. Mr. Krishnan also said, ” Please note that these are common issues fighter squadrons face the world over”.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) showcased its latest Combat Free Fall (CFF) parachute system at the Land Forces 2024 exhibition, held from 11 to 13 September in Melbourne. This advanced system is designed to enhance the capabilities of paratroopers by allowing them to jump from extreme altitudes and land at precise locations, ensuring mission success in challenging environments.

The CFF parachute system features a sophisticated nine-cell ram air design, which measures 8.84 meters in length. This design offers excellent lift and maneuverability, boasting a lift-to-drag ratio of 3.3:1. With a maximum forward speed of 40 km/h, the parachute enables controlled descents from altitudes ranging from 2,000 to 30,000 feet. The system allows paratroopers to glide over long distances, with the ability to cover 30 km and reach designated targets with precision.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) workhorse rocket, the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), is set to make history as the first-ever privately built version of the launch vehicle takes flight. According to D Radhakrishnan, the chief of NewSpace India Limited, this maiden launch is anticipated to occur by the end of 2024.

The industry consortium of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) is spearheading the development of the private PSLV, known as the PSLV-XL N1. The consortium has successfully completed several critical stages, including the realization of solid motors, last year.

SOURCE: AFI

Lokesh Machines Limited has achieved a significant milestone with the acquisition of a license from the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Government of India. This authorization empowers the company to manufacture Fixed/Towed Heavy Machine Guns with calibers ranging from above 12.7mm to up to 30mm.  

The acquisition of this license underscores Lokesh Machines Limited’s commitment to contributing to India’s defense capabilities and self-reliance in critical military equipment. The company’s ability to manufacture heavy machine guns domestically will not only reduce dependence on imports but also create opportunities for technology transfer, skill development, and local job creation.

SOURCE: AFI

Turkey is reportedly planning to procure 100 F404 engines from GE Aerospace to power its new Hurjet light fighter jet. The move highlights Turkey’s efforts to bolster its domestic aerospace capabilities while securing advanced propulsion technology for its indigenous aircraft programs. Additionally, Turkey has also requested that the more powerful F110 engines be manufactured domestically to meet its growing defence needs.

The Hurjet, which uses an F404-GE-102 afterburning turbofan engine generating 78 kN of thrust, is Turkey’s ambitious light fighter and advanced jet trainer project. The aircraft is expected to serve both training and combat roles, with the F404 engine at its core. This engine choice aligns with global trends for light fighter jets, but the large procurement of 100 units shows Turkey’s determination to accelerate the program and ensure reliable engine supply.