SOURCE: AFI

In a testament to the growing global demand for advanced defense systems, a Brazilian delegation is set to arrive in India later this month for discussions centered around the acquisition of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. The missile, a joint venture between India and Russia, has garnered significant international interest due to its unmatched speed and precision.

The escalating geopolitical tensions worldwide have underscored the critical importance of robust air defense capabilities. Countries are increasingly seeking cutting-edge technologies to bolster their military prowess. The BrahMos missile, with its ability to strike targets with pinpoint accuracy, has emerged as a coveted asset for nations seeking to enhance their defense arsenals.

SOURCE: AFI

In a historic move that propels India’s space ambitions to new heights, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced a strategic partnership with Axiom Space Inc. for the Axiom-4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS). This collaboration marks a significant milestone in India’s human space flight program, ‘Gaganyaan’.

Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla has been selected as the prime astronaut for this prestigious mission, with Group Captain Prasanth Balakrishnan Nair serving as the backup. This decision comes after a rigorous selection process conducted by a National Mission Assignment Board.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Naval Submarine (INS) Shalki arrived at the Port of Colombo today on a formal visit. The submarine was accorded a warm welcome by the Sri Lanka Navy in keeping with naval traditions.

INS Shalki, a formidable vessel measuring 64.4 meters in length and manned by a crew of 40, is under the command of Commander Rahul Patnaik. As part of the visit, the Commanding Officer of INS Shalki paid a courtesy call on Commander Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Chinthaka Kumarasinghe, at the Western Naval Command Headquarters.

SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan’s national news channel, BOL NEWS, has made a significant claim, asserting that Pakistan Air Force (PAF) pilots have commenced training on the Chinese J-31 stealth fighter aircraft within China.

This development follows the statement made by Air Force Chief Marshal on January 2nd, where he announced the impending induction of the FC-31 aircraft into the PAF’s fleet. While the FC-31 is the export variant of the J-31, the news of pilot training on the advanced platform suggests that Pakistan may be taking steps towards acquiring the more sophisticated version.

SOURCE: AFI

Defense technology company Zeus Numerix has announced the launch of a revolutionary Universal Adaptor Kit (UAK) designed to equip Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with the capability to deploy a wide range of munitions. The kit promises to enhance the versatility and effectiveness of UAVs in modern warfare.

The UAK is a modular system that allows for the integration of both standard and custom-designed munitions onto UAV platforms. By optimizing aerodynamic performance, the kit significantly improves the accuracy of munition delivery, even without the aid of guidance systems. When paired with guidance systems, the UAK is expected to achieve an exceptionally high hit probability.

SOURCE: AFI

Astr Defence, a pioneer in Indian firearms manufacturing, is thrilled to announce the launch of the Atal Gen2 pistol. Building upon the success of its predecessor, the Atal Gen1, this reengineered handgun represents a significant advancement in design, engineering, and performance.

The Atal Gen1, India’s first indigenously designed pistol, set a benchmark for domestic firearm manufacturing. The Atal Gen2 takes this legacy forward by incorporating valuable user feedback and incorporating cutting-edge technology. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Atal Gen2 boasts superior build quality and advanced features, making it a standout choice for both civilian and military users.

SOURCE: AFI

A group of prominent Indian activists and civil society organizations have called for an immediate cessation of arms exports to Israel, arguing that such trade is a violation of international law. In a strongly worded letter addressed to India’s Defence Ministry, the group cited the International Court of Justice’s (ICJ) ruling condemning Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories as a basis for their demand.  

Signatories to the letter, including renowned author Arundhati Roy, economist Jean Dreze, and lawyer Prashant Bhushan, allege that several Indian companies have been granted permits to export arms, drones, and explosives to Israel. They assert that providing military equipment to a nation accused of violating international humanitarian law renders India complicit in these violations.  

SOURCE: AFI

Recent media reports claiming the infiltration of nearly 600 Pakistani Special Service Group (SSG) commandos into Kashmir for terrorist attacks have been debunked as fake news, according to sources close to idrw.org.

These reports alleged involvement of the SSG, led by Major General Adil Rahmani, in orchestrating attacks across Jammu and Kashmir. The claims also suggested airdropping of commandos and their deployment under Lt. Col. Shahid Saleem.

SOURCE: AFI

In a testament to India’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its western frontier, the Indian Army’s Western Command, renowned as the PineWarriors, recently conducted a comprehensive Infantry-Armor integrated training exercise. This rigorous drill aimed at validating interoperability and operational readiness for swift and decisive actions in the event of a contingency on the western front.

The exercise showcased the synergy between infantry and armored units, a cornerstone of modern warfare. By seamlessly integrating these two critical components, the PineWarriors demonstrated their ability to execute complex maneuvers, rapid advances, and coordinated fire support. Such training is instrumental in enhancing combat effectiveness and ensuring victory in future battles.

SOURCE: AFI

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is on the lookout for a seasoned propulsion expert to contribute to its ambitious projects. The selected candidate will play a pivotal role in driving propulsion-related activities for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF).

Interestingly, the job description also includes a significant component dedicated to the integration of the Kaveri engine into the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas. This task is projected to span over two years post the contract signing.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Rescue Academy is thrilled to announce the latest addition to its arsenal of life-saving equipment: the state-of-the-art ITUS water drone. This innovative technology is set to revolutionize rescue operations and enhance the Academy’s capabilities to protect lives and preserve India’s pristine waters.

The ITUS water drone is a versatile and robust unmanned surface vehicle designed to operate in various aquatic environments. Equipped with advanced sensors and cameras, it can efficiently conduct search and rescue missions, detect underwater hazards, and monitor water quality.

SOURCE: AFI

New images circulating on social media appear to confirm the use of Indian-manufactured 125mm High Explosive (HE) tank rounds on Ukrainian T-64 tanks. This development comes on the heels of the Czech Republic’s recent confirmation of a significant order for 125mm ammunition from Munitions India Limited (MIL).

MIL had secured a substantial contract to supply 80,000 120mm HE mortar shells and 50,000 125mm HE tank rounds to the Czech Armed Forces. The new images suggest that a portion of these rounds may have found their way to the Ukrainian battlefield.  

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has extended the bid deadline for its procurement of three Intelligence, Surveillance, Targeting, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) special mission aircraft until August. This procurement is a critical step in enhancing the IAF’s capability to acquire and disseminate actionable intelligence in real time.

The ISTAR system is designed to provide accurate, actionable intelligence through the use of advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Electro Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) sensors. These sensors are crucial for monitoring and reconnaissance activities, offering high-resolution imagery and data even in challenging conditions. The information gathered is then disseminated via SATCOM, Wideband Line of Sight (LoS), and Operational Data Links (ODL), ensuring swift communication and coordination.

SOURCE: AFI

Kalashnikov Concern, the renowned Russian arms manufacturer, has successfully delivered 3,000 production tools to India for the licensed production of the AK-203 assault rifle. This significant development marks a crucial milestone in the Indo-Russian defense collaboration, aimed at enhancing India’s self-reliance in small arms manufacturing.

The comprehensive shipment includes a wide range of essential equipment required for the production of the AK-203 rifle. The tools delivered encompass cutting tools, stamps, fixtures, and over 2,000 military gauges necessary for rigorous field testing. These tools are integral to ensuring that the rifles produced meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.

SOURCE: AFI

In a groundbreaking achievement for India’s aerospace industry, Mrs. Padmavathi, a distinguished scientist at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), has been appointed as the Project Director of the Tejas Mk1A program. This historic milestone marks the first time a woman has helmed the prestigious Tejas project.

Previously leading the Tejas Mk1 program, Mrs. Padmavathi’s elevation underscores her exceptional capabilities and unwavering dedication to the project. Hailing from Sagara in Karnataka, she has been an integral part of the Tejas program since the late 1980s, bringing a wealth of expertise and problem-solving acumen to the table.