SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has unveiled a groundbreaking Digital Soldier as a System (DSaaS) concept, designed to significantly enhance the capabilities and survivability of soldiers in modern battlefields. The system integrates cutting-edge technologies, making each soldier a networked combatant with advanced situational awareness, communication, and decision-making tools.

The Digital Soldier as a System leverages a Body Area Network (BAN) to seamlessly connect an array of smart devices and sensors, enabling real-time data sharing and enhancing combat efficiency. The components include:

SOURCE: AFI

A Bengaluru-based company has achieved a significant milestone by winning the iDEX Prime X Challenge of Innovations for Defence Space Agency (DSA). The challenge focused on the development of a 200-Watt Ka-band Solid State Power Amplifier (SSPA), a critical technology for satellite ground stations. This development is expected to strengthen India’s capabilities in space-based communication and defense systems.

The iDEX Prime X initiative, under the Ministry of Defence’s Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) program, seeks to foster innovation and technology development by engaging startups and MSMEs in addressing specific challenges posed by the Indian defense sector. The challenge by the DSA specifically aimed at addressing the need for high-power, efficient, and reliable amplifiers operating in the Ka-band frequency range, which is essential for satellite communications.

SOURCE: AFI

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has issued a tender for the procurement of 613 Submachine Guns (SMGs) chambered in 9x19mm. The procurement will also include holographic sights and other essential accessories.

This move is part of the CISF’s ongoing efforts to modernize its arsenal and enhance the operational capabilities of its personnel. The new SMGs are expected to provide improved firepower and accuracy, particularly in close-quarters combat situations.

SOURCE: AFI

Larsen & Toubro (L&T), one of India’s leading defense manufacturers, has been working diligently on the development of its Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV), which is currently undergoing an upgradation process to meet the requirements outlined in the Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the Indian Army. The FICV program is part of India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its armored vehicle fleet and enhance the capabilities of its mechanized infantry.

The FICV is envisioned as a key platform for the Indian Army’s infantry forces, providing superior mobility, firepower, and protection in modern combat scenarios. The vehicle is designed to be a highly versatile combat platform, capable of performing a wide range of roles, including offensive operations, defensive maneuvers, combat support, and surveillance missions.

SOURCE: AFI

As the global strategic landscape continues to evolve, Italy has emerged as a key partner for India in the field of defense equipment and technology cooperation. With both nations sharing a growing and robust global strategic partnership, Italy views its defense ties with India as an essential area for future collaboration. This burgeoning relationship is exemplified by Italy’s offer of the Falco Xplorer Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), a cutting-edge platform developed by Leonardo S.p.A., one of Italy’s premier defense and aerospace companies.

The Falco Xplorer stands at the forefront of Italy’s defense technology offerings to India. Capable of performing a wide range of missions, the UAV is engineered to excel in intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, reconnaissance (ISTAR), and even airstrike capabilities. This versatility makes it a highly attractive asset for India, which faces complex security challenges across its vast and diverse terrain.

SOURCE: AFI

The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL), a constituent of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), has achieved a significant milestone in propulsion technology by developing advanced Wankel engines in two power categories: a 10-15 kW hybrid Wankel engine and an 80-100 kW Wankel engine. These engines are poised to play a pivotal role in powering Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and cruise missiles, boosting India’s self-reliance in cutting-edge propulsion systems for strategic and tactical applications.

The 10-15 kW hybrid Wankel engine is designed to combine the best of combustion and electric propulsion systems. The hybrid configuration ensures high efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and extended operational range, making it suitable for lightweight UAVs that require silent operation during critical missions.

SOURCE: AFI

On November 15, 2024, India and Japan took a significant stride in their defense partnership by signing a Memorandum of Implementation (MoI) for the co-development of the UNICORN antenna complex for Indian warships. This marks a historic milestone, signifying the first-ever co-development/co-production of defense equipment between the two nations.

The UNICORN antenna complex, a technological marvel conceptualized by the Japanese Navy and manufactured by NEC Corporation, Japan, is a state-of-the-art composite communication antenna designed to enhance the stealth capabilities of warships. It has been specifically developed for the Future Frigate Multirole (FFM) class of warships, also known as the “Upgraded Mogami.”

SOURCE: AFI

In a demonstration of its commitment to regional security cooperation, the Indian Navy is currently undertaking the maintenance and repair of two important vessels for its neighboring countries: the Maldivian Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Huravee and the Mauritius Coast Guard Ship (MCGS) Valiant. These refits are being carried out at no cost to the respective governments, highlighting India’s proactive approach to strengthening maritime security in the Indian Ocean region.

Originally commissioned by India in 2016, the MCGS Huravee was formally handed over to the Maldives in 2023. The vessel is currently undergoing a comprehensive refit at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. This process involves critical repairs and upgrades aimed at enhancing its operational capabilities, ensuring its continued service in safeguarding Maldivian waters. The decision to refit the Maldivian vessel was made during the state visit of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih to India in October 2023.

SOURCE: AFI

The forthcoming report of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence is expected to echo last year’s recommendation for the government to consider acquiring fifth-generation fighter aircraft “over the counter” if delays plague the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) project. This suggestion underscores the urgency of bolstering the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) dwindling fighter squadron strength amidst long-standing procurement challenges.

In its previous report, the committee expressed concerns over the pace of the MRFA procurement process, which aims to induct 114 fighter jets. The panel highlighted the risk of the project following the protracted trajectories of earlier programs like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas and the Kaveri jet engine.

SOURCE: AFI

On November 4, 2024, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), responsible for the development of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), issued a tender for the procurement of raw materials required for the manufacturing of ECS (Environmental Control System) valves. These valves are a crucial component of the AMCA, playing a pivotal role in regulating and maintaining the aircraft’s environmental systems, ensuring optimal performance and survivability under various operational conditions.

The tender specifies the raw materials to be procured, primarily focusing on high-performance alloys and stainless steel that are essential for the demanding aerospace applications of the AMCA. The materials mentioned in the tender include various grades of Nimonic, Inconel, and 17-4 PH steel, all of which are well-known for their excellent strength, corrosion resistance, and thermal stability—key characteristics needed for aircraft components.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively seeking replacements for its ageing fleet of Soviet-era Ilyushin Il-76 heavy transport aircraft. As these aircraft approach the end of their operational life, the IAF requires a modern, reliable, and efficient transporter capable of meeting its strategic airlift requirements. Among the contenders are the Airbus A400M Atlas, a turboprop-driven aircraft, while not on offer but the Kawasaki C-2, a twin-turbofan-engine cargo aircraft should be considered. While both aircraft offer significant capabilities, a closer comparison reveals distinct advantages and drawbacks for each.

The Airbus A400M is a modern, multi-role turboprop-driven transport aircraft that has been lauded for its versatility and advanced systems. It is capable of carrying up to 37 tons of payload, placing it in the same league as the Il-76 and Kawasaki C-2. The aircraft is designed to operate from short and unprepared airstrips, making it ideal for tactical and strategic airlift operations.

SOURCE: AFI

The Bofors 40mm Automatic Gun L/70, originally developed by the Swedish arms manufacturer AB Bofors, has been a cornerstone of air defense systems for decades. Recently, the legacy weapon system received a significant technological boost, as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) integrated its Drone Guard System (DGS) into the platform. This development underscores the evolving role of the L/70 autocannon in countering emerging aerial threats, particularly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones.

The upgraded Bofors L/70 now features BEL’s advanced Drone Guard System, which has been specifically designed to detect, track, and neutralize rogue drones. The DGS works to provide security to the autocannon also as an integrated solution for low-altitude aerial threats.

SOURCE: AFI

Bengaluru-based startup Astrogate Labs Pvt Ltd is making significant strides in revolutionizing communication technologies through its innovative Free Space Laser Communication (FSLC) systems. Under DRDO’s Dare to Dream 4.0 initiative, the startup is developing high-speed, cost-effective solutions that could transform how data is transmitted across vast distances in space and for military applications.

Despite advances in space exploration, humanity still relies on radio signals for interplanetary communication. While dependable, radio waves are inherently slow for transmitting data over vast distances, leading to significant delays. For instance, it takes anywhere from 4 to 21 minutes for a message to travel from Mars to Earth.

SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is urging Indian drone startups to take on an ambitious project: the development of swarm drones that can collectively function as a static early warning radar system to monitor incoming aerial threats. This cutting-edge initiative aims to leverage advances in drone technology and artificial intelligence to create an innovative, resilient, and deployable defense mechanism.

The concept involves using multiple drones equipped with small radar sensors to form an interconnected “wall” in the air. These swarm drones would collaborate to create a real-time radar array capable of detecting and tracking incoming aerial threats, such as missiles, drones, or low-flying aircraft.

SOURCE: AFI

India and Italy have taken significant steps to deepen their defence and industrial cooperation, with both nations agreeing to negotiate a defence industrial roadmap and other key agreements. These developments were highlighted in the Joint Strategic Action Plan 2025-29, which lays out a vision for bilateral cooperation over the next five years.

The roadmap aims to foster collaboration between the two countries’ defence sectors. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) is set to be negotiated between the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Italian Industries Federation for Aerospace, Defence, and Security (AIAD). The agreement will serve as a platform to explore joint ventures, technology transfers, and co-development opportunities in the defence sector.