SOURCE: AFI

Umang Kohli, an Indian Army veteran, recently shared fascinating insights about his experiences with five different tanks during his distinguished career. From driving and firing to commanding some of the most iconic armored vehicles in military history, Kohli’s reflections offer a rare glimpse into the evolution of armored warfare.

Vijayant Tank : “Huge and bulky, I could barely change its gear. It was so heavy that it wouldn’t stop even after pressing the brake—you had to stand on it.” The Vijayant, known for its size and ruggedness, posed challenges in maneuverability. Despite these challenges, it held a special place in India’s armored history as a reliable platform during its era.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is hopeful that the upcoming administration in Washington, led by Donald Trump, will adopt a more pragmatic approach to allow India to procure Russian weapons and spare parts. India, one of the largest operators of Russian-origin defense systems, has been grappling with challenges in maintaining its existing inventory due to economic sanctions on the Russian banking system. These sanctions, imposed as part of broader U.S. measures against Russia, have disrupted payment mechanisms and restricted India’s ability to trade freely with Moscow.

The sanctions, particularly on the Russian banking system, have created logistical hurdles for the procurement of critical spare parts and upgrades. These delays threaten the operational readiness of India’s defense forces, forcing the MoD to explore alternatives while lobbying for exemptions or workarounds.

SOURCE: AFI

France has extended two pivotal proposals to India, aiming to deepen defense and technological collaboration. Among these, the most groundbreaking is the offer to co-design, develop, and manufacture an advanced aircraft engine in partnership with Indian entities. This collaboration promises full technology transfer, significant proprietary rights, and the potential to revolutionize India’s aviation industry.

At the heart of this proposal is the transfer of expertise in manufacturing single-crystal turbine blades, a critical component of high-performance aero-engines.

SOURCE: AFI

State-owned Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) has announced a significant breakthrough in the development of Inconel 718, a high-end superalloy critical for advanced aerospace applications. This alloy, considered one of the most challenging materials to manufacture, is pivotal for the development of aero engines and other strategic technologies in India.

Inconel 718 is widely regarded as one of the most difficult alloys to produce, particularly due to its high strength, resistance to extreme temperatures, and demand for stringent quality standards. MIDHANI has successfully developed a version of this alloy with a 325 mm diameter (over 12 inches), achieving exceptional quality standards and minimal defect levels of just 1.2 mm, a remarkable accomplishment in the field of metallurgy.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s quest for self-reliance in defense technology, particularly in aerospace propulsion, has seen significant progress but remains a work in progress. The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), the premier research agency under the DRDO responsible for developing indigenous jet engines like the Kaveri and its derivatives, has made strides but faces challenges in meeting global benchmarks. Allowing Indian-origin retired aerospace officials with experience in engine programs to join GTRE as consultants and engineers could provide the much-needed expertise and accelerate the development of world-class propulsion systems.

Over the decades, Indian-origin professionals have made significant contributions to the aerospace sectors of countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and France. Many of these experts have worked on cutting-edge engine programs, from the Pratt & Whitney and Rolls-Royce jet engines to next-generation propulsion systems for civilian and military aircraft.

SOURCE: AFI

The ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia has underscored a critical lesson for global powers: the era of quick, small conflicts is over. Wars in today’s interconnected and militarily advanced world are prolonged, economically draining, and geopolitically destabilizing. For China, which harbors ambitious plans to claim territories from neighboring countries, including India, this serves as a stark cautionary tale.

When Russia launched its military operations in Ukraine, many anticipated a swift resolution. However, the conflict has devolved into a protracted war, with no clear end in sight. Both sides have suffered immense human and economic losses, with ripple effects being felt globally.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan is among the most highly monitored and militarized borders globally. The Indian Army is continuously adopting next-gen technology to counter infiltration attempts by terrorists, employing a multi-layered strategy that integrates advanced surveillance, artificial intelligence, and robust communication networks to enhance border security and reduce human risk.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy has added a cutting-edge capability to its arsenal with the induction of the indigenously designed and developed Laser Ordnance Disposal System (LORDS-N). This state-of-the-art system, created by DRDO’s Centre for High Energy Systems and Sciences (CHESS), Hyderabad, marks a significant step forward in India’s indigenous defense technology development.

The LORDS-N system is designed for the safe, efficient, and rapid disposal of unexploded ordnance and life-expired ammunition. Its laser-based technology minimizes risk to personnel and enhances precision in neutralizing potentially hazardous materials. The system represents a leap forward in ordnance disposal, replacing older, less efficient methods.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent interview with Sputnik India, Group Captain Uttam Kumar Devnath (Retd.) highlighted the potential interest of the Indian Armed Forces in acquiring or developing a weapon system akin to Russia’s Oreshnik missile. Known for its devastating battlefield impact and its nearly impossible-to-detect signature, the Oreshnik missile has been a focal point in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, showcasing advanced stealth and precision.

The Oreshnik missile is celebrated for its ability to evade enemy detection systems while delivering pinpoint strikes on critical targets. This has earned it the reputation of a game-changer in modern warfare. Its stealth, speed, and advanced guidance systems make it exceptionally challenging for adversaries to counter.

SOURCE: AFI

GRSE, a leading shipyard in India, has achieved another significant milestone with the commissioning of a new state-of-the-art test bed for marine diesel engines at its Diesel Engine Plant (DEP) in Ranchi. The inauguration ceremony was graced by Cmde PR Hari, IN (Retd.), CMD, GRSE, and DIG Subrato Ghosh, ICG (Retd.), Director (Personnel), GRSE, along with other senior officials of the organization.

The newly commissioned test bed is equipped with an indigenously built Water Brake Dynamometer capable of handling a rated capacity of 6.7 MW. This advanced facility will enable DEP to conduct full power trials of two diesel engines simultaneously, significantly enhancing its testing capabilities.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant boost to India’s defense manufacturing capabilities, Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) is set to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing unit in Murranahalli, Madakasira, Andhra Pradesh. The project, supported by the Andhra Pradesh government, involves a massive investment of ?2,400 crore, reinforcing the state’s position as a hub for defense and aerospace industries.

The Andhra Pradesh government has allocated 1,000 acres of land for the facility, which will focus on the production of gun propellants and the development of an ammunition filling complex. The facility is expected to serve both domestic and export markets, contributing to India’s growing prominence as a defense manufacturing powerhouse under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

SOURCE: AFI

South Korea’s KF-21 Boramae program has reached a major milestone by completing 1,000 accident-free flight sorties since its maiden flight in July 2022. This accomplishment highlights the program’s efficiency and safety standards, reflecting the robust developmental and testing protocols implemented by South Korea’s defense industry. The milestone was achieved in just over two years, underscoring the program’s rapid progress and commitment to timelines.

During its developmental phase, the KF-21 has undergone diverse tests, demonstrating exceptional safety, reliability, and performance. These sorties covered structural integrity, avionics systems, aerodynamics, and advanced combat scenarios, ensuring the aircraft is ready for operational deployment. This achievement serves as a testament to South Korea’s engineering excellence and streamlined approach to fighter aircraft development.

SOURCE: AFI

The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), a premier laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), celebrated its 63rd Lab Raising Day with grandeur, recognizing significant contributions to India’s aerospace ambitions. Among the honorees was Lakshmi Machine Works (LMW) Limited, lauded for its exceptional work in developing the gearbox module for a 50 kN thrust-class aero engine.

This milestone achievement underscores the synergy between GTRE and Indian industry partners in advancing indigenous aerospace technologies. The gearbox module, a critical component of jet engine systems, demands the highest precision and reliability, as it manages power transfer and operational efficiency in the aero engine. LMW’s success in delivering this module represents a leap forward in the indigenization of complex aeronautical systems.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent viral video clip shared on X (formerly Twitter), Dr. Shahiduzzaman, a Bangladeshi academic and outspoken commentator, has made highly controversial remarks advocating for Bangladesh to procure three squadrons of JF-17 fighter jets from Pakistan. In his statement, Dr. Shahiduzzaman boldly compared the JF-17 Thunder, a Chinese-Pakistani co-production, to the American F-35, claiming that the former offers similar advanced capabilities despite its significantly lower price tag.

Dr. Shahiduzzaman, who had earlier gained attention for his proposal to form a nuclear pact with Pakistan to counterbalance India, has stirred the pot again with his recent comments, raising eyebrows among defense analysts and policymakers in both India and Bangladesh.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent military exercise, the newly inducted Dhanush guns showcased their destructive firepower and pinpoint precision in conjunction with other weapon systems. The exercise provided an opportunity for the gun crews to hone their skills and demonstrate their proficiency in operating these advanced artillery systems.

The Dhanush guns, known for their long-range capabilities and accuracy, were integrated seamlessly with other weapon systems, creating a formidable force. The joint exercise allowed the troops to practice coordinated fire missions, simulating real-world combat scenarios.