SOURCE: AFI

Sputnik, a Russian state-owned news agency, has cast doubt on India’s recent acquisition of 31 MQ-9B High-Altitude Long-Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) from the United States. The deal, valued at over $3 billion, has raised concerns from Sputnik regarding the effectiveness of the drones.

Sputnik points to the recent downing of several MQ-9 variants (not specifically MQ-9B) by Houthi rebels in Yemen as evidence of potential vulnerability. The news agency highlights the loss of nearly six MQ-9 drones within a few weeks, questioning the platform’s survivability in contested environments.

SOURCE: AFI

China’s rise as a military power includes a growing presence in the arms trade. However, despite significant economic and military advancements, China’s ambitions in the high-end fighter jet market haven’t quite hit the mark.

China’s J-10 and J-20 fighter jets appear impressive on paper, with the J-20 often compared to the top-of-the-line US F-22 Raptor and F-35. However, these jets lack real-world experience. Flown exclusively by the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), they haven’t participated in international exercises or actual combat. This lack of a proven track record makes potential buyers hesitant, especially since established players like the US have a long history of successful fighter jet deployment.

SOURCE: AFI

Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Eastern Naval Command (FOC-in-C ENC), along with Mrs. Sandhya Rao Pendharkar, President Navy Wives Welfare Association (Eastern Region) (NWWA(ER)), undertook a visit to INS Rajali at Arakkonam from June 5 to 7, 2024.

The visit focused on assessing the operational preparedness of the naval air station. FOC-in-C Pendharkar reviewed the infrastructure and facilities, ensuring their readiness for optimal functionality. He also interacted with officers, sailors, civilian staff, and Defence Security Corps (DSC) personnel, commending them for their dedication to duty and the exceptional performance achieved over the past year.

SOURCE: AFI

In a tit-for-tat move, India is set to rename over two dozen locations within China’s Tibet Autonomous Region. This action comes in response to China’s recent renaming of places in India’s Arunachal Pradesh state.

The list of targeted locations for renaming, obtained by The Diplomat from Indian military sources, is expected to be officially announced by the new Indian government formed next week following the recent national elections.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken delivery of the third of 56 Airbus C295 aircraft, marking a significant step forward in its program to modernize its transport fleet. This aircraft, delivered on May 28th, joins the two previously received C295s and paves the way for the complete replacement of the aging Avro-748 fleet.

The C295 acquisition signifies a powerful example of cross-cultural collaboration. Airbus Defence and Space, the manufacturer of the C295, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) have joined forces to establish a pioneering “Make in India” aerospace partnership. This program ensures not only the delivery of these vital transport aircraft but also fosters domestic production capabilities.

SOURCE: AFI

The air war over Ukraine has showcased the formidable capabilities of the Russian air force’s Mikoyan MiG-31BM interceptor, particularly when paired with its very-long-range R-37M missile. This combination has given Russia a significant aerial advantage, even as the wider conflict continues to unfold. However, this prompts an interesting comparison with the Indian Air Force’s historical use of the MiG-25 and its subsequent decision regarding the MiG-31.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) utilized the MiG-25 long-range interceptor/reconnaissance aircraft with great effectiveness. The MiG-25, known for its exceptional speed and high-altitude capabilities, was unrivaled in South Asia. During the Kargil War, the MiG-25 played a crucial role in gathering intelligence over Pakistani soil, taking detailed photographs of strategic locations without any competitor in the region able to match its performance.

SOURCE: AFI

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), a leading Indian shipbuilding company, has announced significant advancements in the development of autonomous platforms across all three domains of operation: surface, subsurface, and aerial. With successful prototype tests already completed for surface and subsurface platforms, and aerial platforms designed for maritime operations expected to launch by the end of the year, GRSE is positioning itself at the forefront of autonomous defense technology.

GRSE’s foray into autonomous technology has already yielded promising results in the surface and subsurface domains. The company has developed prototypes that have undergone rigorous testing, demonstrating their operational viability and effectiveness. These platforms are designed to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, providing advanced surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational support.

SOURCE: AFI

A loud, unexplained sound caused panic among residents of Balasore and Bhadrak districts in Odisha on Friday afternoon, according to reliable reports. People in areas like Basudevpur (Bhadrak) and Nilagiri (Balasore) reported the sound being strong enough to shake doors and windows.

The origin of the sound remains a mystery, with authorities currently investigating the cause. This incident follows a similar occurrence yesterday that triggered widespread panic in Balasore.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is soaring into the international spotlight once again, participating in the massive Exercise Pitch Black 2024 to be held in Darwin, Australia from 12 July 2024. This biennial multinational air combat drill, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), is shaping up to be the largest in its 43-year history.

The IAF has deployed a contingent of its formidable Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets, renowned for their agility, versatility, and advanced capabilities. These jets will be put through their paces in a series of demanding scenarios designed to hone the skills of participating air forces in complex combat situations.

SOURCE: AFI

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), a leading Indian shipyard, has emerged as the frontrunner to construct a new research vessel for the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). While a formal contract award is still under negotiation, reports suggest the project is valued around Rs 500 crore.

GRSE submitted the lowest bid for the project, positioning them strongly for the contract. This potential win would mark another significant achievement for the shipyard, solidifying their expertise in constructing specialized vessels.

SOURCE: AFI

The Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group (STEAG) recently hosted TechNext, a major event aimed at promoting indigenization in the field of next-generation communication equipment. The event brought together 27 leading Indian firms who showcased a staggering 51 cutting-edge solutions.

TechNext served as a platform for Indian companies to demonstrate their capabilities in developing advanced communication technologies. This focus on indigenization aligns with the country’s efforts to become self-reliant in critical defense sectors.

SOURCE: AFI

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, undertook a visit to key facilities at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Ghaziabad today. During the visit, he lauded the BEL team for their accomplishment in successfully commissioning the indigenously developed and cutting-edge Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) at designated locations.

As a token of appreciation, a certificate was presented to the General Manager (Network Centric Systems) at BEL. Air Marshal Dixit interacted with BEL personnel and emphasized the critical significance of indigenous efforts in strategic projects like IACCS. He further urged BEL staff to maintain their focus on achieving established timelines for commissioning the remaining nodes that are integral to this vital project.

SOURCE: AFI

GSL has signed a prestigious contract for the construction of next-generation TSH Dredgers (1+1) for a reputed European owner. This contract signing signifies GSL’s foray into foreign commercial shipbuilding and diversification in Hybrid Propulsion & Dredger construction.

The new dredgers will be equipped with advanced features and technologies, making them some of the most efficient and environmentally friendly dredgers on the market. The contract is a major win for GSL and positions the company as a leader in next-generation dredging solutions.

SOURCE: AFI

Chinese Air Force off late has been deploying its J-20 stealth fighter close to Indian border for last 3 years and increasing presence of the jet confirms that the PLAAF has been receiving large numbers of J-20 off late. IAF’s best bet is on the Dassault Rafale fighter jets when it comes to taking on J-20 stealth fighters. This analysis delves into the stealth features of the J-20 and Rafale and examines why the Rafale stands out as the best option for the Indian Air Force (IAF) until the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) becomes operational.

The Chengdu J-20, developed by China, is often classified as a fifth-generation stealth fighter. It incorporates advanced stealth technology to minimize its radar cross-section (RCS), making it difficult to detect and track.

SOURCE: AFI

Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) is poised for a significant leap in water jet propulsion technology, thanks to a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kongsberg Finland. This collaboration holds immense potential for the “Make in India” initiative and future Indian naval and coast guard vessels.

Presently, most high-speed Indian Navy and Coast Guard ships rely on imported water jet propulsion systems. With the “Make in India” initiative gaining traction, increasing domestic production of crucial marine equipment is essential. Water jets, being extensively used in these vessels, become a prime target for indigenous development.