SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is closely monitoring a significant asteroid named ‘Apophis’, which is on a trajectory that will bring it dangerously close to Earth. This asteroid, named after the Egyptian deity of chaos, is expected to make its nearest approach to our planet on April 13, 2029.

ISRO, in recent years, has expanded its focus to include planetary defense, a field dedicated to safeguarding Earth from potential threats posed by extraterrestrial objects. “A large asteroid strike is a real existential threat for humanity,” said an ISRO official. “Our Network for Space Objects Tracking and Analysis (NETRA) is monitoring Apophis very closely. India will cooperate with all nations to ward off this and other such future threats.”

SOURCE: AFI

India’s upcoming K-5 Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM) is set to significantly enhance the country’s strategic nuclear deterrent. With a range of 5000 kilometers, the K-5 showcases its ability to reach targets across the Indo-Pacific region, including China.

As depicted in the image, Indian Naval SSBNs equipped with K-5 SLBMs can safely launch nuclear strikes on China from within the Bay of Bengal. This eliminates the need for SSBNs to venture into the Pacific Ocean or South China Sea, reducing the risk of detection and increasing survivability.

SOURCE: AFI

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has secured a significant order worth Rs. 850 crore from Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) for the supply of indigenous Multi-Function Radar in X Band. This radar system will be integrated into the Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMVs), a new class of anti-surface warfare corvettes being developed by CSL for the Indian Navy.

The NGMVs are expected to start deliveries to the Indian Navy from 2027 onwards. The integration of BEL’s Multi-Function Radar will enhance the NGMVs’ capabilities in detecting, tracking, and engaging surface targets.

SOURCE: AFI

Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Air Command, conducted a visit to the Helicopter Division of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at Bengaluru and Tumakuru on September 9, 2024.

During his visit, the AOC-in-C interacted with representatives of the design bureau responsible for the Light Utility Helicopter (LUH). He was briefed on the ongoing progress in the production of the LUH, which is slated to be launched by HAL’s Tumakuru division in the near future.

SOURCE: AFI

The night skies over Jodhpur were illuminated by the powerful engines of fighter jets during the second phase of Exercise TarangShakti-24. The nocturnal missions showcased the Indian Air Force’s exceptional capabilities in precision strikes, aerial refueling, and coordinated operations.

These night missions are a testament to the unwavering dedication, skill, and unwavering commitment of the IAF’s personnel. The seamless execution of these operations highlights the high level of training, coordination, and interoperability within the force.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy’s indigenous Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel (NOPV), INS Sumitra, marked its 10th anniversary on September 4, 2024. As a stalwart member of the Sunrise Fleet, INS Sumitra has proven to be an invaluable asset to the Indian Navy, consistently safeguarding the nation’s maritime interests.

Over the past decade, INS Sumitra has undertaken numerous Mission Based Deployments (MBDs) and exercises, demonstrating its versatility and operational capabilities. These missions have aligned with the Government of India’s vision of SAGAR (Security And Growth for All in the Region), ensuring maritime security and promoting regional cooperation.

SOURCE: AFI

The Biden administration has sent a clear message to New Delhi: no weapons system or hardware is off the table when it comes to strengthening India’s defence capabilities. In a significant move to demonstrate this commitment, the U.S. government offered India two of its most advanced missile defence systems, the MIM-104 Patriot and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), in an attempt to dissuade India from purchasing the Russian S-400 air defence system. Despite the U.S. offer, India went ahead with the S-400 acquisition, a decision that has not deterred the Biden administration from pursuing deeper defence ties with New Delhi.

The MIM-104 Patriot is a surface-to-air missile (SAM) system that provides medium-range, high-altitude air defense capabilities against a wide range of threats, including tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and advanced aircraft. The THAAD system, on the other hand, is an advanced anti-ballistic missile defense system designed to intercept and destroy short, medium, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal phase of flight. Both systems are among the most sophisticated and capable in the U.S. defense arsenal, reflecting the seriousness of Washington’s desire to engage India as a strategic defense partner.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Defence Ministry is reportedly considering a deal worth around USD 3.1 billion with US-based General Atomics for the acquisition of an unspecified number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). While the Ministry has remained tight-lipped about the specifics of the deal, it is understood that the Cost Negotiation Committee (CNC) has finalized the pricing.

The Defence Ministry is now set to approach the Finance Ministry for expenditure approval before seeking the final nod from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). If the deal is not signed by October 31, the manufacturer has indicated that there could be a price revision.

SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is on the verge of selecting an industry partner for the development of an Electro-Magnetic Launch System (EMALS). This advanced technology will be capable of launching projectiles at speeds exceeding Mach 6, revolutionizing how aircraft and other payloads are launched from naval platforms. The EMALS system, which will be compact and designed in a mobile configuration, marks a significant leap in the Indian Navy’s modernization efforts, especially for future aircraft carriers.

DRDO’s Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) [R&DE(E)], which is leading the project, has already made significant strides in developing a scaled technology demonstrator. This demonstrator has successfully launched payloads of up to 400 kg, equivalent to the weight of a UAV, over a short distance of 16 to 18 meters. This achievement proves the viability of the technology and sets the stage for further development.

SOURCE: AFI

As the war in Ukraine rages on, there is an increasing demand for artillery, tank, and mortar shells. To meet this demand, Western countries have been sourcing ammunition from various sources around the world, including India.

One of the most intriguing sources of ammunition for Ukraine has been India, which was likely one of the non-EU suppliers for the Czech ammunition initiative. Photos of Indian-made tankers with high-explosive fragmentation ammunition have become more frequent in Ukraine.

SOURCE: AFI

In a notable development, Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots flying the Final Operational Clearance (FOC) variant of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1 fighter jets have been seen donning the MSA Gallet LA 100 helmet for the first time. According to sources at idrw.org, a tender to procure these advanced helmets for the Mirage and LCA fleet was floated in 2022, marking a significant upgrade in pilot safety and comfort.

The MSA Gallet LA 100 helmet is specifically designed for jet aircraft pilots performing combat missions or aerobatic flights, where the use of an oxygen supply and an ejection seat is critical. Its lightweight yet durable construction enhances performance in demanding flight conditions while maintaining high levels of protection.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s upcoming generation of ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs), the S5 class, is set to significantly bolster the country’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. These submarines will feature a substantial increase in the number of launch tubes, accommodating a larger arsenal of submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs).Both S4 and S4 Star submarines are already on outer docks getting final fitments with S5 design phase nearing end, program is set to get official sanction soon.

The S5 class SSBNs are expected to have 12 or more launch tubes, a significant upgrade from the current Arihant-class submarines, which have only 12 tubes. This increased capacity will allow India to deploy a larger number of K5 and K5 SLBMs, which are currently under development. These missiles are designed to carry multiple nuclear warheads over long distances, providing India with a potent nuclear deterrent.

SOURCE: AFI

Lockheed Martin, a global leader in aerospace, defense, and security solutions, is gearing up to host the 10th edition of its India Suppliers Conference in Bengaluru on September 11-12, 2024. This significant event comes just ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States later in the month, marking a pivotal moment in India-US defense relations.

The conference will be inaugurated by Priyank Mallikarjun Kharge, Karnataka’s Minister for Information Technology and Biotechnology, and Christopher W. Hodges, the US Consul General in Chennai. Their presence underscores the diplomatic importance of this event and its potential to strengthen bilateral ties.

SOURCE: AFI

In a groundbreaking move, the Indian Army has inaugurated its first on-site 3D-printed construction at the Military Hospital in Jhansi Cantonment. This innovative project, a joint endeavor by the Military Engineer Services (MES), the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Hyderabad, and Simpliforge Creations, represents a significant leap forward in the Army’s technological advancements.  

The 3D-printed construction technology offers several advantages, particularly in addressing the logistical challenges posed by remote and inaccessible areas. By eliminating the need to transport large quantities of building materials to construction sites, this technology can significantly reduce construction time and costs. Additionally, 3D printing allows for greater adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, making it a valuable tool for infrastructure development in challenging terrains.

SOURCE: AFI

Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024, a significant multilateral air exercise held in India, showcased the impressive capabilities of participating fighter jets, including the Eurofighter Typhoon and the Indian Su-30MKI. A video that has gone viral captures a thrilling moment during the exercise, where a Typhoon and an Su-30MKI engaged in a simulated dogfight.

In the video, the Eurofighter is seen maneuvering aggressively in an attempt to achieve a radar lock on the Su-30MKI, a critical step in simulated air-to-air engagements. However, the Indian Su-30MKI swiftly executes a tight right-hand turn, evading the Typhoon’s lock-on attempt with impressive agility. This visual demonstration of the Su-30MKI’s supermaneuverability highlights the aircraft’s prowess in close-combat situations, known as within visual range (WVR) dogfights.