SOURCE: AFI

Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary of Defence Research and Development (DD R&D) and Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), recently addressed a critical issue facing India’s defence sector. He pointed out that the private sector is currently shouldering much of the burden of funding research and development (R&D) in defence

Dr. Kamat emphasized the need for government intervention and allocation of funds to support these crucial R&D activities, expressing optimism that the situation would improve over the next 5-6 years as the Indian Armed Forces increasingly rely on indigenous solutions for their weapon and system requirements.

SOURCE: AFI

The journey began with the vision of physicist Homi Bhabha, who convinced Prime Minister Nehru to invest in nuclear technology despite international disapproval. India’s first Peaceful Nuclear Explosion (PNE) in Pokhran in 1974 marked a significant achievement, but it also triggered international condemnation. The IAEA, world powers, and even some fuel suppliers distanced themselves from India.

By the late 1990s, India’s security concerns escalated, leading to further nuclear tests in 1998. This resulted in exclusion from crucial nuclear groups like the NSG (Nuclear Suppliers Group) and CTBT (Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty). However, India responded by formulating a distinct nuclear doctrine.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s space agency, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), has made significant strides in space exploration, highlighted by the recent success of the Chandrayaan-3 mission. However, despite its achievements, ISRO faces several internal challenges that hinder its progress toward self-sufficiency. In a candid revelation, a scientist involved in the Chandrayaan-3 project outlined the issues of limited access to advanced technology and insufficient funding, shedding light on why ISRO isn’t yet self-sufficient.

One of the primary challenges ISRO faces is the restricted access to advanced space technology. International collaborations are crucial for the development and enhancement of space technology, yet geopolitical factors and international regulations often limit ISRO’s ability to acquire cutting-edge technology from foreign space agencies and companies. This limitation hampers the agency’s ability to develop and deploy state-of-the-art systems and innovations.

SOURCE: AFI

In an era where strategic military capabilities are continually evolving, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is redefining its approach to maritime power projection. With the integration of advanced aircraft and cutting-edge technology, IAF officers are increasingly confident that platforms like the SEPECAT Jaguar IM/IS and the multi-role Russian Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters can deliver more economical and secure maritime strike capabilities compared to traditional aircraft carriers.

The SEPECAT Jaguar IM fleet has long been a cornerstone of the IAF’s maritime strike force. These aircraft, now armed with AGM-84L Block II Harpoon missiles, represent a formidable asset in India’s maritime arsenal. The Harpoon missile, known for its precision and destructive power, significantly enhances the Jaguars’ strike capabilities against naval targets.

SOURCE: AFI

Dr. Rajagopala Chidambaram, a senior scientist during India’s first nuclear test in 1974 and chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission during the tests in 1998, has been a pivotal figure in shaping India’s nuclear landscape. His insights into the global nuclear dynamics highlight India’s unique position in the world of nuclear science and technology.

In a recent discussion, Dr. Chidambaram illustrated the interconnected nature of global nuclear relationships. He described the intricate web of nuclear collaborations and espionage among leading nuclear powers. For instance, since the Manhattan Project, the UK has been closely involved with the US in nuclear activities, forming an “American circle” that includes a smaller “UK circle.” Similarly, there are overlapping nuclear relationships between Russia and China, China and Pakistan, the US and France, and France with Israel and several other countries.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army has taken a significant step towards modernization with the launch of “Vidyut Rakshak,” an in-house innovation designed to enhance generator efficiency.

Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi, Vice Chief of the Indian Army, unveiled the integrated Generator Monitoring, Protection and Control System developed by Major Rajprasad RS of the Corps of Engineers. Vidyut Rakshak marks a milestone achievement, being the first such innovation to transition from concept to mass induction within the Indian Army.

SOURCE: AFI

Naval Group India, a key subsidiary of the French naval defense company Naval Group, is actively seeking partnerships with Indian companies to support upcoming defense programs.

In a recent seminar hosted by BRFOnline, Neeraj Aswani, Head Purchase & Sourcing at Naval Group India, emphasized the company’s commitment to India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-reliant India) initiative.

SOURCE: AFI

A collaborative effort between researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is tackling a critical issue: the presence of multidrug-resistant pathogens on the International Space Station (ISS).

This research delves into the microbial landscape aboard the ISS, specifically focusing on how these microorganisms might impact astronaut health. The ultimate goal is to not only safeguard the well-being of space travelers but also translate these findings into solutions for healthcare challenges here on Earth.

SOURCE: AFI

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term commences, the Defence Ministry is poised to embark on an ambitious journey of modernisation, marking a pivotal shift in India’s defence capabilities. With the agenda for the first 100 days of the new government being meticulously outlined, a significant focus is placed on bolstering the Indian Army’s artillery strength through the procurement of advanced weaponry.

One of the headline initiatives is the anticipated conclusion of a deal for the acquisition of 100 K9 Vajra artillery guns from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), expected to be finalized by August this year. This strategic move comes as part of a broader effort to enhance the Indian Army’s operational readiness and firepower.

SOURCE: AFI

Lockheed Martin India is making a strong play for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Multi-Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, offering its proven C-130J Super Hercules tactical transport aircraft. This comes despite the company also offering its KC-130J variant, a tanker version of the Hercules.

The IAF is seeking to procure 60-80 transport aircraft to replace its aging fleet of An-32s, originally acquired from the Soviet Union in the early 1980s. Lockheed Martin is clearly aiming for a larger slice of the IAF’s modernization pie.

SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan’s acquisition of Hangor-class submarines from China has sparked discussion about the country’s evolving naval deterrence strategy. On a recent state-TV program, retired navy officials weighed in on the significance of these new vessels.

Vice Admiral Ahmed Saeed, a retired official, described the Hangor submarines, equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP), as a “hybrid” element in Pakistan’s deterrence approach. They bridge the gap between conventional diesel-electric submarines and nuclear-powered boats.

SOURCE: AFI

New satellite imagery provides a clearer picture of the aftermath of a Ukrainian drone attack reportedly targeting a Su-57 Felon, Russia’s most advanced fighter jet, at Akhtubinsk Air Base hundreds of miles from the front lines.

The images, obtained by The War Zone from Maxar Technologies, offer a wider view compared to those released earlier by Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR). While the GUR images focused on the single Felon allegedly damaged, the Maxar views allow for more context and analysis

SOURCE: AFI

NewSpace Research and Technologies (NRT) recently had the distinct honor of hosting two prominent leaders from the Indian Armed Forces: Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VSM, GOC-in-C of Northern Command, and Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan AVSM, VM, AOC-in-C of Southern Air Command. Accompanied by other distinguished officials, the commanders visited NRT to review and discuss the company’s next-generation mission and technology development efforts.

During the visits, discussions centered around the ongoing deliveries and capability development aligned with the unique mission needs of the Northern and Southern Commands. The commanders were briefed on NRT’s Next Generation Mission Technologies (NGMT) vision and the progress made in product development. These strategic conversations provided valuable insights into how NRT’s innovations can support and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making significant strides in Martian exploration with its ambitious project, the Martian Boundary Layer Explorer (MARBLE). A key component of MARBLE is the development of a novel coaxial rotor system specifically designed to operate in the Martian atmosphere.

The Martian atmosphere poses a unique challenge for rotorcraft. It’s roughly 100 times thinner than Earth’s atmosphere, and with an average surface temperature of -63°C (210K), it presents a harsh environment for traditional helicopter designs.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved a significant milestone with the development of the HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft (BTA) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Set to enter service from 2025 onwards, the HTT-40 is poised to enhance pilot training within the IAF. However, to fully leverage the platform’s potential and tap into the lucrative export market, HAL should consider developing a light attack variant of the HTT-40, akin to the A-29 Super Tucano.

This robust and reliable trainer aircraft is intended to provide new pilots with the skills they need before transitioning to more advanced fighter jets. Its induction into the IAF marks a significant step forward in reducing dependency on foreign trainers and bolstering indigenous defence production.