SOURCE: AFI

The strategically located Andaman and Nicobar Islands are undergoing a significant modernization of their military infrastructure. This upgrade aims to strengthen India’s presence in the region and enhance its ability to monitor and secure the vital trade routes of the Indo-Pacific.

Airstrips at key naval air stations are being extended in phases to accommodate larger aircraft like P8I maritime patrol planes and fighter jets. Additionally, jetties are being enlarged to handle bigger warships.

SOURCE: AFI

Continuing its series of Emergency Landing Facilities (ELF) activations across India, the Indian Air Force (IAF) recently brought an ELF online in the crucial western sector. This activation involved cooperation from various government organizations, highlighting a coordinated effort to bolster national security.

The newly activated western sector ELF witnessed the maiden operations of the C-295 MW transport aircraft and the Tejas light combat aircraft. These landings mark a significant milestone, demonstrating the IAF’s ability to operate these new platforms from austere locations.

SOURCE: AFI

For the past year, Russia has significantly increased its deployment of glide bombs in the Ukraine war. The size and launch rate of these bombs have risen sharply in recent months.

Glide bombs offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional artillery. Launched from beyond Ukrainian air defense reach, these bombs pack a hefty punch, carrying 500 kg to 1,500 kg of explosives and creating massive craters. This destructive power, combined with their lower cost compared to shelling, makes them a potentially attractive option for Russia.

SOURCE: AFI

Australia and India are forging a closer partnership in the crucial area of Underwater Surveillance driven by concerns about China’s growing underwater military presence. This collaboration holds significant potential for enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Underwater Surveillance refers to the ability to track and understand activities happening underwater, including submarine movements, underwater mines, and other potential threats. Effective UDA is essential for safeguarding vital sea lines of communication, protecting critical infrastructure, and deterring underwater aggression.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy successfully completed the maiden landing gear replacement of a P8I aircraft in a mere six days, showcasing the collective expertise and collaborative spirit of the team involved. The complex operation, undertaken between April 1st and 6th, 2024, at INS Rajali, involved a composite team comprising personnel from M/s AIESL, Mumbai and Indian Navy representatives.

The swift and flawless execution of this critical maintenance feat underscores the Indian Navy’s commitment to maintaining mission-readiness of its P8I fleet. The P8I is a long-range maritime patrol aircraft that forms a vital part of India’s maritime surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. A functional landing gear system is critical for the safe operation of the aircraft.

SOURCE: AFI

General Christopher G. Cavoli, head of US European Command and NATO’s Supreme Allied Commander, presented a measured assessment of Russia’s military capabilities during a Congressional hearing on April 10th. While acknowledging Ukrainian successes, he highlighted the relative strength of the Russian Air Force.

General Cavoli stated that Russia’s Air Force has only lost around 10% of its fleet despite over two years of war in Ukraine. Russia’s strategic forces, long-range aviation, cyber capabilities, and space capabilities reportedly remain largely intact.

SOURCE: AFI

The Previous conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan had highlighted the crucial role of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), particularly the Turkish Bayraktar TB2, in modern warfare. Armenia’s struggle against these drones has reignited interest in air defense systems capable of effectively countering such threats. Here’s how India’s Akash Air Defense System could potentially be a game changer for Armenia.

The TB2 drone has proven to be a potent weapon, particularly in the hands of Azerbaijan during the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War. Its ability to deliver targeted strikes and conduct reconnaissance presented a significant challenge for Armenian defenses.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant strategic maneuver, India has embarked on a proactive initiative to bolster its military ties with key nations worldwide while simultaneously fostering opportunities for arms exports. This move comes amidst a backdrop of evolving geopolitical dynamics and increasing competition, particularly in regions where rival powers are seeking to expand their influence.

Government sources disclosed on Wednesday that India is deploying 15-16 new military and defence attaches from the Army, Navy, and Air Force to several countries, marking a notable shift in its diplomatic outreach. These countries include Poland, Armenia, Tanzania, Mozambique, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Ivory Coast, and the Philippines. This decision follows a rationalization process, wherein the number of military officials stationed at larger missions in traditional allies like Russia, the UK, and France has been streamlined.

SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up for a leadership change as its current chairman, Dr. Samir V. Kamath, prepares to retire on May 31st after a nearly three-year tenure. This leadership transition coincides with a period of significant transformation within the DRDO.

A high-powered committee led by former government advisor Prof. K. VijayRaghavan recently submitted a report outlining the need for the DRDO to develop cutting-edge technologies for future war scenarios. This vision necessitates a leader who can steer the organization towards these ambitious goals.

SOURCE: AFI

China’s long-awaited strategic bomber, the H-20, is poised to be unveiled, marking a significant leap forward for the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and potentially altering the balance of power in the region. Here’s why India should be wary of this development and invest in long-range anti-stealth technology.

The H-20 is believed to be a next-generation, subsonic stealth bomber similar to the American B-2 Spirit. Its stealth capabilities present a major challenge for Indian air defenses. Traditional radar systems struggle to detect stealth aircraft designed to absorb or deflect radar waves. This allows the H-20 to potentially penetrate Indian airspace undetected and deliver long-range precision strikes on critical infrastructure or military installations.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) is poised to take a leap forward with the integration of a Distributed Aperture System (DAS). This cutting-edge technology promises to revolutionize the AMCA’s capabilities, making it a true game changer in aerial warfare.

Imagine a fighter jet with eyes all around its body. That’s essentially what DAS offers. It’s a network of high-resolution infrared (IR) sensors strategically placed around the aircraft. These sensors continuously scan the surrounding environment, providing the pilot with a complete 360-degree spherical view.

SOURCE: AFI

Canada has recently made a significant acknowledgment regarding allegations of Indian interference in past elections won by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Following an official probe into foreign meddling in elections, unsubstantiated claims of Indian involvement have been refuted. The investigation, however, highlighted instances of Chinese influence in both the 2017 and 2021 elections.

A polling official involved in the investigation panel stated, “I do not believe that during the 2021 election, we saw evidence of the Government of India using those tools in the campaign.” This statement contradicts previous accusations made by Ottawa, which had initiated an inquiry into alleged Indian meddling amidst strained relations between the two nations. The tensions escalated following Trudeau’s accusations against the Indian government regarding the involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

SOURCE: AFI

India has taken a significant step in boosting its connectivity with Southeast Asia by securing the rights to operate Sittwe Port in Myanmar. This marks India’s second overseas port venture, following the Chabahar Port in Iran.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) greenlit a proposal for India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) to assume complete operational control of Sittwe Port, strategically located on the Kaladan River.

SOURCE: AFI

European missile developer MBDA has announced the development of the MICA NG (Next Generation) air-to-air missile. This new weapon system is slated to replace the legacy MICA missiles currently deployed by the French Air Force and Navy on Dassault Rafale and Mirage 2000 fighter jets.

The MICA NG is designed as a successor to the original MICA missiles, developed in the 1980s and 1990s. These missiles currently serve as the primary air-to-air weapon system for Rafale and Mirage 2000 jets operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF) as well.

SOURCE: AFI

For decades, the Indian Navy has relied heavily on Ukrainian-made marine gas turbine engines for its warships. However, recent geopolitical events have highlighted the vulnerabilities of depending on a single foreign supplier. This article argues that India should prioritize the development of indigenous marine engines for its warships, ensuring greater self-reliance and strategic autonomy.

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has exposed the risks associated with depending on a single source for critical defense equipment. Disruptions in supply chains, potential sanctions, and limited control over upgrades and maintenance are all potential consequences. Developing indigenous marine engines would free India from this dependence, guaranteeing a steady supply of vital components for its warships.