SOURCE: AFI

The recent delivery of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles from India to the Philippines has sparked a wave of confidence within the Filipino military, according to defense analyst Atty. Josephus B. Jimenez. This development comes amid heightened tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS), a contested region in the South China Sea.

Jimenez highlights the morale boost this acquisition provides to Filipino troops. The BrahMos missiles, known for their speed and precision, significantly enhance the Philippines’ defensive capabilities. This newfound capability serves as a deterrent against potential aggressors in the contested waters.

SOURCE: AFI

oklonnaya Hill in Moscow, a site steeped in history and significance, has recently become adorned with a new array of trophies. These trophies, however, are not the traditional symbols of victory in battle, but rather the spoils of conflict from various corners of the globe. Amidst the backdrop of political tension and international scrutiny, the display of military hardware on Poklonnaya Hill serves as a testament to Russia’s perceived victories and strategic prowess.

Among the notable additions to the collection are several pieces of equipment that reflect a diverse array of origins and capabilities. The M777 howitzer, a staple of modern artillery, stands tall alongside American armored vehicles such as the “HMMWV M1151” and “HMMWV M998,” showcasing the technological might of the United States.

SOURCE: AFI

Turkey has embarked on an ambitious program to develop and construct its first indigenous aircraft carrier, showcasing its growing aspirations in the realm of naval power. This follows the recent unveiling of key details about the project.

While technically classified as an amphibious assault ship, the TCG Anadolu, launched in 2023, serves as a crucial stepping stone towards a full-fledged aircraft carrier. With a length of 285 meters and a displacement of 60,000 tons, the TCG Anadolu boasts an impressive capacity.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) finds itself at a critical juncture, strategically assessing its needs and capabilities amidst evolving regional security dynamics. In a recent statement, IAF officials emphasized the imperative of maintaining a fleet of 42 squadrons of manned fighter jets, underscoring the necessity to confront potential two-front threats effectively. While plans to procure Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), and Loyal Wingman platforms are in motion, it is clear that these unmanned platforms cannot fully substitute manned fighter jets.

The IAF’s rationale for the requirement of 42 squadrons is rooted in the complex geopolitical landscape India finds itself in, with adversaries like China and Pakistan continuously modernizing their air capabilities. The ability to engage in simultaneous two-front warfare necessitates a robust and versatile fleet that can swiftly respond to threats across multiple theaters of operation.

SOURCE: AFI

A captivating artist rendition by Kuntal Biswas of the LCA Tejas Trainer aircraft adorned in the vibrant colors of the Surya Kiran aerobatic team has set the internet abuzz. This artistic vision has sparked a fervent discussion among netizens, advocating for the adoption of the LCA Tejas Trainer for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) aerobatic team.

Currently, the Surya Kiran team, also known as SKAT, utilizes BAE Systems Hawk advanced jet trainers (AJT) for their awe-inspiring displays. However, SKAT faced a temporary disbandment due to a shortage of aircraft. Previously, the team used the HJT-16 Kiran aircraft, but these were withdrawn and returned to the IAF for pilot training purposes.

SOURCE: AFI

Major General Saleh Mohammed bin Majren Al Ameri, Commander of Joint Operations for the United Arab Emirates, recently embarked on a visit to the People’s Republic of China. Accompanied by a delegation from the UAE Ministry of Defence, his trip began with a meeting in Beijing with General Chang Dingqiu, Commander of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Air Force.

The discussions centered on strengthening military cooperation and joint efforts between the two nations. High-ranking officials from both countries’ defense ministries participated in the session, exploring avenues for further development in these areas.

SOURCE: AFI

Chinese researchers are reportedly on the verge of a breakthrough in underwater propulsion technology. Their design for a laser-powered system promises silent, superfast submarines, potentially revolutionizing naval warfare.

According to a recent paper published in the Chinese academic journal Acta Optica Sinica, the design boasts remarkable efficiency. The system, dubbed “underwater fiber laser-induced plasma detonation wave propulsion,” can generate a thrust of nearly 70,000 newtons – close to the power of a commercial jet engine – using a mere 2 megawatts of laser energy.

SOURCE: AFI

BrahMos Aerospace, a joint Indo-Russian venture, is set to achieve a significant milestone in its quest for self-reliance. The company plans to indigenously manufacture the ramjet engine that powers the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile. This move comes as BrahMos production is slated to continue until 2032, and the company seeks to reduce its dependence on Russia for critical components.

BrahMos has already made significant strides towards self-sufficiency. They have successfully developed a local solid propellant booster engine and even produce indigenous fuel for the missile. However, the ramjet engine, a vital part of the BrahMos’ impressive speed and range, is currently sourced from Russia.

SOURCE: AFI

In a seismic development, a Chinese road has traversed the historic Aghil Pass, piercing through into the lower Shaksgam Valley of Kashmir. Situated at a towering altitude of 4805 meters, the pass marks a significant geographical boundary between Kashmir and Sinkiang, serving as a historical frontier. The incursion has now brought the road-head within striking distance, less than 30 miles away from the strategically pivotal Siachen Glacier.

The approach to Aghil Pass reveals a stark reality: the once-remote border is now witnessing the tangible presence of Chinese infrastructure. Recent imagery vividly depicts the encroachment, showcasing the Chinese road snaking its way through the rugged terrain, defying previous boundaries.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army is gearing up for the challenges of tomorrow by exploring the creation of an in-house “adversarial force” for wargaming exercises. This initiative, aimed at promoting innovation and developing futuristic capabilities, aligns with India’s push for self-reliance (Atmanirbharta) in the defense sector.

The concept of an adversarial force involves establishing a dedicated unit within the army that simulates the strategies and tactics of potential future opponents. This allows for more realistic wargaming scenarios, enabling the army to identify vulnerabilities and test new technologies and doctrines against a constantly evolving threat landscape.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian experience with developing indigenous weapon systems like the Arjun MBT (main battle tank) and LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) Tejas Mk1A has had a mixed impact on the upgradation programs for the Russian-origin T-90 MBT and Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jets. While a direct technological transfer might not be evident, the Arjun and Tejas programs have indirectly influenced the Indian Armed Forces’ approach to modernization.

The Arjun program, despite facing criticism on cost and operational complexities, pushed the boundaries of Indian tank design. Its features, like a ballistic computer and a composite armor layout, might have indirectly influenced the upgrade path of the T-90 MBT currently in service with the Indian Army.

SOURCE: AFI

An Indian Air Force (IAF) remotely piloted aircraft (RPA) went down near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan during a routine training mission today. Thankfully, there were no reports of casualties or damage to property on the ground.

The IAF confirmed the incident in a statement but did not disclose the specific type of RPA involved. However, reports from independent defense observers at idrw.org, citing debris from the crash site, suggest it could be an Israeli-made Heron drone.

SOURCE: AFI

The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, a joint venture between India and Russia, is experiencing a surge in international interest, according to a recent interview with Sujan R. Chinoy, Head of the Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses.

Chinoy, a former Indian Ambassador to Japan, spoke to RT during the Baltic Platform 2024 conference in Kaliningrad, Russia. He highlighted that numerous countries are lining up to acquire the BrahMos missile system, signifying its growing global appeal.

SOURCE: AFI

Naval Group, the renowned French defense contractor specializing in naval defense and marine renewable energy, recently played host to General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) of the Indian Armed Forces, at its headquarters in Paris. This visit marked a significant milestone in the ongoing collaboration between France and India in the defense sector, reflecting the shared commitment to bolstering strategic partnerships and fostering technological advancement.

The meeting provided a platform for both parties to reaffirm their longstanding cooperation and explore avenues for further collaboration in line with India’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India). With a focus on leveraging the latest generation of technologies, Naval Group expressed its readiness to offer cutting-edge solutions to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s plan to lease a nuclear attack submarine from Russia appears to be facing potential cancellation, according to a report by Politico and comments from senior defense journalist Rahul Bedi.

In 2019, India signed a significant deal with Russia worth USD 3 billion. This agreement entailed the lease of another nuclear-powered attack submarine, designated Chakra III, for the Indian Navy. The terms of the deal stipulated delivery by 2025, bolstering India’s underwater deterrent capabilities.