SOURCE: AFI

The CEO of Pakistan’s Global Industrial and Defence Solutions (GIDS) has recently made bold claims about the capabilities of their newly developed Shahpar-III unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). According to the CEO, the Shahpar-III features an impressive wingspan of 67 meters, can operate at altitudes above 35,000 feet, and boasts an endurance of 30 hours with a range of 2,500 kilometers. Additionally, it reportedly has six hardpoints and can carry a payload of 500 kilograms, including up to eight weapons. The UAV is said to be entirely developed locally within two years.

While these specifications, on paper, appear to position the Shahpar-III as a game-changing platform, they raise questions about their feasibility and real-world performance, especially given Pakistan’s historical dependence on foreign partners such as China and Turkey for UAV technologies.

SOURCE: AFI

The Kargil War of 1999 between India and Pakistan remains one of the most significant and controversial conflicts in the history of South Asia. While the war’s outcome has been well-documented, the question of Pakistan Army casualties during the conflict continues to be a topic of debate, with conflicting figures presented by different sources over the years.

Dr. Ishtiaq Ahmed, a noted Pakistani-Swedish political scientist and historian, shed light on the divergence in casualty figures provided by prominent Pakistani leaders. According to him, former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto claimed that around 3,000 Pakistani soldiers died during the Kargil War. In contrast, her political rival and another former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, estimated the figure at 2,500 soldiers.

SOURCE: AFI

Guyana has shown a keen interest in bolstering its defense capabilities and is currently in discussions with Indian defense companies to procure a range of equipment, including Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), arms, ammunition, and other critical systems. The move reflects the South American nation’s commitment to modernizing its defense infrastructure amidst evolving security challenges, particularly in its maritime domain.

Guyana, with its vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in the Atlantic Ocean, relies heavily on effective maritime patrols to safeguard its natural resources, especially oil and gas reserves. To enhance its maritime security, the country is engaging with Indian manufacturers known for producing high-quality and cost-effective patrol vessels tailored to coastal and offshore operations.

SOURCE: AFI

During the Cold War, the SR-71 Blackbird, a top-secret reconnaissance aircraft, represented the pinnacle of American aerospace engineering and a critical tool for intelligence gathering. However, a shocking incident involving a Soviet pilot in the 1970s led the US Air Force to implement an unusual requirement for SR-71 pilots: they had to be married.

This rule was not just a procedural formality but stemmed from deep concerns about loyalty and the security of sensitive military assets.

SOURCE: AFI

BrahMos Aerospace has been entrusted with the development of a new afterburner section for the Dry Kaveri engine, a project aimed at showcasing its ability to generate an impressive 80kN of thrust. The advanced afterburner, designed entirely from scratch, is a pivotal step in optimizing the engine’s performance for potential applications in advanced fighter aircraft.

The new afterburner section is designed to deliver 29kN of additional thrust when engaged, enhancing the engine’s power significantly. This development aligns with ongoing efforts to refine the Dry Kaveri engine, which is a non-afterburning variant of the Kaveri engine family originally conceived by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) under DRDO.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has retained approximately 40 retired MiG-23 fighter jets, stored under the oversight of the IAF’s Maintenance Command. While these aircraft were officially retired from active service, they have not been scrapped, indicating a strategic decision to keep them as part of a long-term reserve. The retention of these MiG-23s could serve multiple purposes, from acting as a reserve for critical components to providing platforms for training, experimentation, or even as potential sources of spare parts. Here’s a look at why the IAF may have chosen to store these aircraft and the strategic advantages this choice offers.

Maintaining combat aircraft demands a highly skilled workforce of technicians and engineers. Even though MiG-23s are retired, they still offer a valuable hands-on training platform for IAF’s technical personnel. Ground crew training on these stored MiG-23s allows technicians to practice servicing procedures, understand aircraft architecture, and gain experience in handling older Soviet-era systems, which may still be present in other IAF assets.

SOURCE: AFI

Aartech Solonics Limited, in collaboration with the Sudarshan Chakra Corps (EME) of the Indian Army and IIT Mumbai, has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation: the Adaptive Alternate Power Module (AAPM). This indigenous technology is set to revolutionize power management in Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs) and artillery systems, including the K9 Vajra self-propelled howitzer.

The Adaptive Alternate Power Module is designed to provide regulated DC power to armored vehicles and artillery systems based on operational requirements. By eliminating the need to switch on the main engine to power onboard systems.

SOURCE: AFI

Mumbai-based InspeCity Space Laboratories Pvt. Ltd. has achieved a remarkable milestone by winning the prestigious iDEX Prime X Challenge of Innovations for Defence Space Agency (DSA). The company has been recognized for its cutting-edge contributions to two critical areas of space technology: the development of a Space-Grade Robotic Arm with Ground Control for Orbital Transfer Vehicles (OTV) and an Intelligent Object Identification System integrating Light Detection and Ranging (LIDAR) and Electro-Optical (EO) sensors.

The iDEX Prime X Challenge, a flagship initiative under the Ministry of Defence’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) program, is aimed at encouraging private sector participation in developing niche technologies for defense applications. The DSA, tasked with safeguarding India’s space assets, posed the challenge to design a robotic arm that could perform complex tasks in orbit while being remotely operated from the ground.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is exploring the possibility of converting its newly acquired Airbus C-295 transport aircraft into tactical air-to-air refuelling (AAR) platforms. By integrating a roll-on/roll-off AAR kit, the C-295 could become a cost-effective, multi-role asset capable of refuelling both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft during day and night operations.

The AAR conversion utilizes a centre-line hose-and-drogue system, which can be loaded via the C-295’s rear ramp. This modular design minimizes aircraft modifications, making it possible for any in-service C-295 fleet to adopt the refuelling role with ease. The system operates entirely on electric power, enhancing reliability and reducing maintenance complexity compared to traditional hydraulic systems.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the cusp of a critical capability challenge, with its combat squadron strength projected to dip below the sanctioned 42-squadron strength to under 30 squadrons in the coming years. This shortfall arises amidst a growing threat environment and delayed acquisition programs for manned combat aircraft. In this context, the IAF urgently needs to fast-track the development and induction of highly autonomous Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) and cost-effective “loyal wingman” drones to bolster its combat potential and address capability gaps.

Stealthy, long-range UCAVs offer unparalleled advantages in modern aerial warfare. Equipped with advanced sensors, precision weaponry, and artificial intelligence (AI), these platforms can penetrate heavily contested airspaces, conduct surveillance, and neutralize enemy threats with minimal human risk. For the IAF, such capabilities are critical given India’s vast borders and the need to maintain air superiority in multiple theaters against adversaries like China and Pakistan.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant milestone for India’s defense exports, the first batch of Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launchers (MRBLs) was dispatched to Armenia earlier this month. This delivery is part of a contract signed between the two nations, marking a new chapter in their defense partnership and showcasing India’s growing prowess in the global arms market.

Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and produced by private-sector firms in collaboration with state-run Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), the Pinaka MRBL is a highly versatile, indigenous rocket artillery system. Designed for rapid deployment and high-volume firepower, the Pinaka system has proven its effectiveness in the Indian Army’s inventory during multiple operations.

SOURCE: AFI

In response to an increase in attacks targeting unarmored military vehicles by Pakistani-backed terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, the Indian Army is planning to procure additional Tata Wheeled Armoured Personnel Carriers (WhAPC). These vehicles are expected to enhance the safety of troops operating in high-risk zones while providing robust mobility and protection during combat operations.

The Tata WhAPC is a 4×4 Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC) designed with multi-role capabilities. It features mine protection and is built to serve various operational needs, including Mine-proof troop transport for counter-insurgency operations. Special response vehicles for law enforcement and security forces. Escort and protection vehicles for convoys in conflict zones.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army is gearing up to bolster its capabilities in the digital age by recruiting domain experts in cyber warfare, information technology, and information warfare. This move is in response to the evolving nature of conflict, where technology plays a crucial role.

Lt Gen Rakesh Kapoor, Deputy Chief of Information Systems and Coordination, highlighted the transformative impact of modern technology on warfare. He emphasized the need for specialized personnel to address the challenges posed by cyber threats and the strategic use of information and disinformation.

SOURCE: AFI

Earlier this year, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a significant milestone by successfully flight-testing the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30MKI platform of the Indian Air Force. The test marked a key step in the development of this advanced missile system, which is poised to strengthen India’s air combat capabilities.

The RudraM-II, a solid-propelled air-launched missile, has been designed for a precise air-to-surface role, capable of neutralizing a wide range of enemy assets such as military infrastructure, radar installations, and communication hubs.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army is set to receive the first batch of three AH-64E Apache attack helicopters from Boeing in December 2024. This delivery marks a significant milestone in enhancing the Army’s aerial combat capabilities, despite a delay of over six months caused by global supply chain disruptions.

Originally scheduled for February 2024, the delivery of the helicopters was postponed due to delays in critical components, reflecting ongoing challenges in the global defense manufacturing ecosystem. Boeing has now confirmed that the revised delivery schedule will commence in December 2024, with subsequent batches to follow.