SOURCE: AFI

A collaborative effort between researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) and NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) is tackling a critical issue: the presence of multidrug-resistant pathogens on the International Space Station (ISS).

This research delves into the microbial landscape aboard the ISS, specifically focusing on how these microorganisms might impact astronaut health. The ultimate goal is to not only safeguard the well-being of space travelers but also translate these findings into solutions for healthcare challenges here on Earth.

SOURCE: AFI

As Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term commences, the Defence Ministry is poised to embark on an ambitious journey of modernisation, marking a pivotal shift in India’s defence capabilities. With the agenda for the first 100 days of the new government being meticulously outlined, a significant focus is placed on bolstering the Indian Army’s artillery strength through the procurement of advanced weaponry.

One of the headline initiatives is the anticipated conclusion of a deal for the acquisition of 100 K9 Vajra artillery guns from Larsen & Toubro (L&T), expected to be finalized by August this year. This strategic move comes as part of a broader effort to enhance the Indian Army’s operational readiness and firepower.

SOURCE: AFI

Lockheed Martin India is making a strong play for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Multi-Transport Aircraft (MTA) program, offering its proven C-130J Super Hercules tactical transport aircraft. This comes despite the company also offering its KC-130J variant, a tanker version of the Hercules.

The IAF is seeking to procure 60-80 transport aircraft to replace its aging fleet of An-32s, originally acquired from the Soviet Union in the early 1980s. Lockheed Martin is clearly aiming for a larger slice of the IAF’s modernization pie.

SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan’s acquisition of Hangor-class submarines from China has sparked discussion about the country’s evolving naval deterrence strategy. On a recent state-TV program, retired navy officials weighed in on the significance of these new vessels.

Vice Admiral Ahmed Saeed, a retired official, described the Hangor submarines, equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP), as a “hybrid” element in Pakistan’s deterrence approach. They bridge the gap between conventional diesel-electric submarines and nuclear-powered boats.

SOURCE: AFI

New satellite imagery provides a clearer picture of the aftermath of a Ukrainian drone attack reportedly targeting a Su-57 Felon, Russia’s most advanced fighter jet, at Akhtubinsk Air Base hundreds of miles from the front lines.

The images, obtained by The War Zone from Maxar Technologies, offer a wider view compared to those released earlier by Ukraine’s Defense Intelligence Directorate (GUR). While the GUR images focused on the single Felon allegedly damaged, the Maxar views allow for more context and analysis

SOURCE: AFI

NewSpace Research and Technologies (NRT) recently had the distinct honor of hosting two prominent leaders from the Indian Armed Forces: Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar PVSM, AVSM, YSM, VSM, GOC-in-C of Northern Command, and Air Marshal Balakrishnan Manikantan AVSM, VM, AOC-in-C of Southern Air Command. Accompanied by other distinguished officials, the commanders visited NRT to review and discuss the company’s next-generation mission and technology development efforts.

During the visits, discussions centered around the ongoing deliveries and capability development aligned with the unique mission needs of the Northern and Southern Commands. The commanders were briefed on NRT’s Next Generation Mission Technologies (NGMT) vision and the progress made in product development. These strategic conversations provided valuable insights into how NRT’s innovations can support and enhance the operational effectiveness of the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making significant strides in Martian exploration with its ambitious project, the Martian Boundary Layer Explorer (MARBLE). A key component of MARBLE is the development of a novel coaxial rotor system specifically designed to operate in the Martian atmosphere.

The Martian atmosphere poses a unique challenge for rotorcraft. It’s roughly 100 times thinner than Earth’s atmosphere, and with an average surface temperature of -63°C (210K), it presents a harsh environment for traditional helicopter designs.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved a significant milestone with the development of the HTT-40 Basic Trainer Aircraft (BTA) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Set to enter service from 2025 onwards, the HTT-40 is poised to enhance pilot training within the IAF. However, to fully leverage the platform’s potential and tap into the lucrative export market, HAL should consider developing a light attack variant of the HTT-40, akin to the A-29 Super Tucano.

This robust and reliable trainer aircraft is intended to provide new pilots with the skills they need before transitioning to more advanced fighter jets. Its induction into the IAF marks a significant step forward in reducing dependency on foreign trainers and bolstering indigenous defence production.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s Agnipath scheme, designed to recruit soldiers for a four-year term, is undergoing revisions based on feedback from senior army officers. Discussions are underway to extend the minimum service tenure for Agniveers (recruits) to seven or eight years. Additionally, proposals include retaining a larger portion of the force, with a target of 60-70% transitioned into permanent positions.

These recommendations are part of an ongoing review of the Agnipath scheme, which has been in place for a few months. Feedback is being collected from formations and senior officers to assess the scheme’s impact on operational efficiency. The goal is to ensure Agniveer recruitment doesn’t lead to functional issues within the army.

SOURCE: AFI

On June 8, Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport witnessed a near-miss incident involving Air India flight AI657 and IndiGo flight 6E5053. This incident highlights a critical lapse in air traffic control coordination, leading to a dangerous reduction in the separation between the two aircraft. The incident occurred when AI657 was cleared for departure from Runway 27 at the same time 6E5053 was cleared to land on the same runway.

Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) data provided granular details about the proximity of the two aircraft. According to Flightradar24, the closest point of approach was just 1,671 feet—a dangerously low margin for aircraft safety. This analysis is based on detailed ADS-B data that offers a high-resolution account of the positions and movements of both flights.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant development for India’s defense procurement, the T4 rifle, developed jointly by Jindal Defence and Brazilian firm Taurus Arms, has successfully passed a series of rigorous trials. This achievement brings the T4 rifle one step closer to being selected in a massive bid to supply 425,000 rifles to the Indian armed forces, marking a crucial milestone in the nation’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military equipment.

The T4 rifle underwent extensive testing under various conditions to evaluate its performance, reliability, and durability. These trials are part of the Indian Army’s stringent evaluation process to ensure that any new weapon system meets the highest standards of operational readiness and effectiveness. The successful completion of these trials is a testament to the rifle’s robust design and advanced features, making it a strong contender in the large-scale procurement process.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to host its biggest-ever multinational exercise, “Tarang Shakti 2024,” this August in Jodhpur. Skies above the city will witness the roar of fighter jets from some of the most advanced air forces around the world.

This exercise marks a significant milestone for Indian-German defense cooperation. IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari’s recent visit to Germany and his sortie in a Eurofighter Typhoon underscore the strong ties between the two nations. The German Air Force itself confirmed participation with their Eurofighter jets via a social media post .

SOURCE: AFI

In a historic achievement for India’s burgeoning space sector, Saraniya Periaswamy and Umamaheswari K have emerged as pivotal figures in the successful launch of the world’s first rocket equipped with a 3D-printed engine. This remarkable milestone, achieved by Agnikul Cosmos, was executed from the Indian Space Research Organisation’s (ISRO) launch facility in Sriharikota on May 30. The mission’s success underscores the increasing impact of women in the field of space exploration in India.

The path to this groundbreaking launch was fraught with challenges. Agnikul Cosmos, a Chennai-based startup, had to abort the mission four times in the preceding months due to various technical issues. However, the perseverance and expertise of the team, led by Periaswamy and Umamaheswari, ensured that these setbacks were only temporary.

SOURCE: AFI

Garuda Aerospace Pvt Ltd., a leading Indian drone tech startup, proudly announces the grand opening of its first exclusive drone showroom in Chennai! This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant step forward for the drone industry in India.

Driven by the visionary leadership of CEO Agnishwar Jayaprakash and the esteemed Dr. R Velraj from Anna University, the showroom transcends mere product display. It’s a portal to the future of aerial innovation.

SOURCE: AFI

Group Captain MJA Vinod (retired Indian Air Force) recounted his experience evaluating the Eurofighter Typhoon in X Post (Formerly Twitter). This evaluation, conducted before the induction of the Rafale, involved both flying the Typhoon and engaging it in simulated combat.

While acknowledging the “neat” towed decoy system of the Typhoon, Group Captain Vinod reportedly expressed reservations about its overall performance.