SOURCE: AFI

In a move that could strengthen India-Philippines defense ties, a high-level delegation from the Philippine Navy, Philippine Coast Guard, and Department of National Defense (DND) recently interacted with the crew of the indigenously built Naval Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH-Dhruv) onboard the Indian Navy ship INS Shakti.

This interaction is seen as a significant development in the ongoing discussions between India and the Philippines regarding the potential acquisition of the ALH-Dhruv helicopters. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Indian aerospace giant, has already offered the Dhruv to both the Philippine Army and Air Force.

SOURCE: AFI

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has announced that New Delhi and Moscow are in the process of identifying additional sites for the construction of Russian-built nuclear reactors in India. Speaking at an event in Mumbai, Jaishankar highlighted the ongoing collaboration between the two nations, particularly emphasizing the significant progress made at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP) in Tamil Nadu.

Kudankulam, India’s largest nuclear power plant, has seen substantial development with the help of Russia’s state-owned nuclear energy corporation, Rosatom. Four reactors, each with a capacity of 1,000 Megawatts (MW), are already operational at the site. In December, India and Russia reached an agreement to construct two additional reactors, further enhancing the plant’s capacity and reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two countries in the energy sector.

SOURCE: AFI

India has deployed warships to the South China Sea this month, in a move seen by analysts as a subtle message to China about the importance of respecting international law. While there’s a potential for China to react aggressively, observers in New Delhi say countries in the region have welcomed India’s presence.

Three Indian vessels, the guided-missile destroyer INS Delhi, fleet tanker INS Shakti, and anti-submarine corvette INS Kiltan, arrived in Singapore on May 6th. Indian Navy spokesman Commander Vivek Madhwal stated the purpose was to strengthen “friendship and cooperation.”

SOURCE: AFI

Recently, a large number of 4×4 multipurpose tractors in army green were spotted on the road, hinting at a major delivery to the Indian Army. This significant development aligns with a recent ?550 crore order fulfilled by Indian manufacturer ACE for these versatile tractors.

These 4×4 tractors are designed for a variety of purposes, thanks to their ability to handle different attachments. This adaptability makes them ideal for the diverse needs of the Indian Army.

SOURCE: AFI

Images captured at HAL facilities in Bangalore have revealed the Tapas UAV in Tipnis Grey undergoing production. This indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is receiving significant modifications to enhance its operational capabilities.

The key aspect of the Tapas UAV’s ongoing development is weight reduction and drag reduction. These measures are crucial for achieving the Indian armed forces’ requirement of operating the UAV at over 30,000 feet.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has announced that negotiations are still underway with General Electric (GE) regarding the local manufacturing of the F-414 engine in India. This engine is pivotal for the Tejas MkII fighter jet program and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) MkI project. While the discussions continue, GE has confirmed that it will retain the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) for the engine. Additionally, any export of fighter jets equipped with the F-414 engine will require export clearance from the United States.

The F-414 engine is a high-performance turbofan engine known for its reliability and advanced technology. It is designed to provide superior thrust and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for the next generation of Indian fighter jets. The Tejas MkII and AMCA MkI programs are central to India’s efforts to modernize its air force and enhance its indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities.

SOURCE: AFI

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have received a significant boost in their fight against terrorism and other criminal activities with the deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI). This innovative technology is being used to track wanted individuals, including terrorists, their Over Ground Workers (OGWs), and other criminals.

Marking a step forward in “smart policing,” the Jammu and Kashmir Police have implemented a cutting-edge AI-based facial recognition system at the Navyug Tunnel Qazigund. This strategic location serves as the main entry and exit point for the Kashmir Valley.

SOURCE: AFI

VAdm Krishna Swaminathan, VCNS, visited Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) & Electronics Research and Development Establishment (LRDE) at Bengaluru on 18May 24.

Discussions were held with Director Generals of ADE & LRDE, and CMD, HAL on wide-ranging subjects with emphasis on indigenisation, future projects & collaborative efforts necessary to enable timely delivery of advanced systems to the Indian Navy.

SOURCE: AFI

Following the reported success of Israel’s Arrow defense systems in repelling a recent Iranian missile and drone attack, the technology is attracting renewed interest from potential buyers. However, this comes with echoes of a past roadblock for India.

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the developer of Arrow systems, has seen a surge in interest from countries seeking to bolster their missile defense capabilities. IAI’s CEO attributes this to the system’s apparent effectiveness in thwarting a major attack.

SOURCE: AFI

Competence Exports Private Limited (CEPL), a company based in Hajipur, Bihar, is carving a niche for itself in the international market. They’re achieving this by catering to two distinct segments: safety shoes for the demanding needs of the Russian army and fashionable footwear for European markets.

Shiv Kumar Roy, General Manager of CEPL, explains their vision: “We established our Hajipur facility in 2018, focusing on generating local employment. Here, we manufacture safety shoes specifically designed for export to Russia. These shoes prioritize lightweight construction, slip resistance, and the ability to withstand harsh weather conditions, including temperatures as low as -40 degrees Celsius.”

SOURCE: AFI

On May 18, 1974, the ground shook in the Pokhran desert of Rajasthan, India. A successful nuclear detonation marked India’s entry into the world’s most exclusive club – the nations possessing nuclear weapons. Codenamed “Smiling Buddha” in a deliberate irony, the test was a calculated move by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s government.

Facing declining popularity, Gandhi seized the opportunity to rally the nation. The timing of the test, coinciding with the birthday of Buddha, a symbol of peace, further emphasized India’s stated goal of using nuclear power for peaceful purposes only. However, the international community remained skeptical.

SOURCE: AFI

IIT Madras is taking innovation to new heights with its incubator program. A startup based at the institute, ePlane Company, is developing India’s first electric flying taxi, showcasing the growing potential of Indian incubators to nurture groundbreaking ideas.

This exciting project isn’t just a local development – it’s a sign of India’s rising status as a global innovation hub. With ambitious incubators like IIT Madras at the forefront, the country is shedding the image of lacking homegrown innovators.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has set its sights on a March 2026 rollout for the first prototype of the LCA Mk-2 fighter jet, as confirmed during their Q4 FY2023-24 earnings conference call. This news comes amidst earlier estimations suggesting a 2025 maiden flight.

Previously, Prabhulla Chandran VK, director of avionics and weapon systems at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), which oversees the LCA Mk-2 design, had indicated a possible 2025 maiden flight with an American engine. However, HAL’s revised target suggests a slight delay, pushing the rollout to March 2026.

SOURCE: AFI

The Maldives’ recent decision to replace Indian Dornier aircraft and helicopters with Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones has raised strategic and operational concerns. Despite the allure of advanced drone technology, the Indian Dornier aircraft offer capabilities that drones cannot match.

The Maldives, seeking to diversify its strategic partnerships, has opted for a new security approach. This includes acquiring defense equipment from China and Turkey. However, experts believe the chosen replacements may not be optimal for the Maldives’ specific requirements.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian military is poised to embrace a revolutionary technology – High-Altitude Platforms (HAPs) – that promises to transform its surveillance capabilities. These long-endurance, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) offer significant advantages over traditional aircraft and satellites, making them a game-changer for border security and maritime domain awareness.

Leading the charge is the Indian Navy, which has already signed a contract with NewSpace Research & Technologies Pvt. Ltd. for the development of HAPs specifically designed for monitoring the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These next-generation platforms boast an impressive 60-day airborne endurance, a stark contrast to the limited flight times of conventional aircraft and drones.