SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army has taken a significant step towards enhancing soldier mobility and battlefield effectiveness with the procurement of 300 units of the TVS Sundaram All Terrain Tactical Hauler (ATT Hauler).

This indigenously-developed system, built in collaboration with Marom Dolphin of Israel, is an innovative, robust, and ergonomically designed hybrid electric-powered load-carrying solution. Available in both 2×2 and 4×4 variants, the ATT Hauler can carry up to 120 kg of weight over any terrain, ensuring soldiers remain fully combat-effective and mobile on the battlefield.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army’s GOC Vajra Corps is at the forefront of innovation in combat techniques. Recent operations in Kashmir saw the Corps deploy a unique integrated weapons system, combining small arms firing with Hexa Copters – a first for the Indian Army during counter-terrorism encounters.

This cutting-edge system equips soldiers with Hexa Copters, also known as multi-rotor drones, equipped with underslung AK rifles. This configuration allows for precise aerial targeting and eliminates the risk of collateral damage during ground operations. The system’s versatility is further enhanced by the ability to swap the AK mount for a Multi Grenade Launcher (MGL) in different tactical situations.

SOURCE: AFI

Temel Kotil, CEO of Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), has sparked debate by claiming their new 5th generation fighter jet, KAAN, surpasses the American F-35.

Kotil highlighted payload capacity as a key advantage, stating KAAN can carry 10 tonnes compared to the F-35’s 6 tonnes. He even suggested comparing KAAN to the F-22 Raptor, a more established American stealth fighter.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant development for India’s naval defense, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced plans to begin construction on a third indigenous aircraft carrier. This news comes in response to a pending proposal submitted by the Indian Navy.

The new carrier will be similar in size to INS Vikrant, India’s first domestically built aircraft carrier, which displaced 45,000 tonnes when it was commissioned in September 2022. This indigenous construction signifies a major step towards self-sufficiency in the country’s naval defense program.

SOURCE: AFI

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is reportedly working on a two-pronged approach for the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program, catering to both the current and future needs of the Indian Navy. This development signifies a significant step towards bolstering India’s naval aviation capabilities.

The TEDBF program will prioritize the development of a Short TakeOff But Arrested Landing (STOBAR) variant, aligning with the existing capabilities of India’s current aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. This variant will utilize a ski-jump ramp for takeoff and arresting gear for landing, seamlessly integrating with the operational infrastructure.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has unveiled its plans for Mangalyaan-2, a mission aiming for a historic touchdown on Mars. This ambitious project incorporates innovative techniques to ensure a safe and productive mission on the Red Planet.

One of the most exciting aspects of Mangalyaan-2 is the use of a sky crane for landing the rover. Similar to the system deployed by NASA’s Perseverance rover, ISRO’s sky crane will enable a controlled and delicate descent onto the Martian surface. This innovative approach is crucial due to Mars’ challenging terrain. Unlike traditional landing methods with airbags or ramps, the sky crane will gently lower the rover in an upright position, optimizing its readiness for scientific exploration. ISRO engineers are diligently developing their indigenous sky crane technology specifically designed for the Indian rover.

SOURCE: AFI

A report by India’s Military Intelligence has raised concerns about a potential security breach involving Aadhaar cards in Kerala. The report alleges that over 50,000 refugees from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar currently residing in Kerala may be using fake Aadhaar cards.

According to the report, these fraudulent Aadhaar cards were obtained by infiltrating enrolment centers in several locations. The specific centers mentioned include Madhupur and Nagaon in Assam, Kalimpong, Nadia, and Uttar Dinajpur in West Bengal, and Perumbavoor in Kerala itself.

SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a missile firing exercise. The designated area for the missile range is estimated to be around 1300 kilometers.

The specific missile being tested is unknown, but possibilities include:

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army has significantly bolstered its surveillance and security capabilities with the procurement of 1080 SWITCH UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) from ideaForge, a leading Indian drone manufacturer.

The SWITCH UAV stands out for its extended flight time, improved safety features, and user-friendly operation. The incorporation of fail-safe redundancies ensures reliable performance even in challenging situations. These attributes make the SWITCH UAV ideal for long-range, high-endurance, and high-altitude missions, particularly those requiring last-mile surveillance and security operations.

SOURCE: AFI

ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has unveiled plans for India’s first space station, the BAS, to demonstrate extended human spaceflight capabilities. Astronauts are expected to reside on the station for periods ranging from three to six months, with resupply missions planned quarterly.

The BAS will be constructed in low Earth orbit by meticulously docking pre-fabricated modules. This piece-by-piece approach allows for a gradual build-up, with the first module launching as early as 2028. Notably, the station will boast docking ports adhering to international standards, paving the way for potential collaboration with space agencies from other countries.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant stride towards bolstering India’s maritime defense capabilities, Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramane unveiled the highly anticipated ‘Arowana’ midget submarine today. Developed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), this cutting-edge submarine, internally designated as Y-51008 or MDL MSX02A, marks a pivotal moment in India’s naval engineering prowess. ‘Arowana’ is not just a submarine; it represents a leap forward in underwater warfare technology, designed to execute covert military operations with unparalleled precision and efficiency.

The ‘Arowana’ midget submarine is more than just a proof of concept; it embodies the culmination of years of research, innovation, and engineering excellence. Designed to seamlessly navigate both shallow and deep waters, ‘Arowana’ is poised to revolutionize maritime missions with its versatility and advanced capabilities. Equipped to support both ship-launched and independent operations, this submarine stands ready to undertake a diverse range of missions, from reconnaissance to sabotage, with utmost stealth and effectiveness.

SOURCE: AFI

Horrifying CCTV footage emerged on May 9, 2024, depicting a Bangladeshi Air Force Yak-130 trainer jet crashing dramatically into the Karnaphuli River. The incident, attributed to a botched low-level maneuver, serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with aerial acrobatics.

The video showcases the Yak-130 attempting a low-level roll over the runway. However, the maneuver goes disastrously wrong. The aircraft makes contact with the runway surface, sending sparks flying as it scrapes along the ground. Miraculously, the jet becomes airborne again momentarily, but with its tail section engulfed in flames.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy is nearing a key step in acquiring 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets from France’s Dassault Aviation. Following the submission of a formal bid by Dassault, the Navy is finalizing its report on the proposal.

The government-to-government deal, valued at approximately Rs. 50,000 crore (US$6 billion), involves the direct purchase of these jets, bypassing a lengthy tender process. However, the finalization hinges on crucial steps before the contract is inked.

SOURCE: AFI

Troops of the Panther Division under Western Command recently conducted integrated combat training under simulated operational conditions. This exercise emphasized professionalism and ensured operational readiness. What sparked online interest was the inclusion of T-55 main battle tanks (MBTs) in the drills, a rare sight in Indian Army exercises since 2011.

The T-55 MBT, a Soviet-era workhorse, served the Indian Army for nearly 700 units strong after induction began in 1965. By 2011, these tanks transitioned from the second line of defense, positioned behind T-72s, to the third line with the arrival of the more modern T-90 MBTs in the early 2000s. Subsequently, T-55s began phased retirement after four decades of dependable service.

SOURCE: AFI

Indian defense innovation initiative, iDEX, is celebrating a major win for a domestic company. 3rdiTech, an iDEX winner, has become the first Indian semiconductor company to be featured as a TSMC Innovation Partner at their prestigious annual conference held in San Francisco.

iDEX extended their heartfelt congratulations to the entire 3rdiTech team for achieving this remarkable milestone.