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.

SOURCE: AFI

The High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) has made significant advancements in the development of Explosive Reactive Armour (ERA) systems, critical for enhancing the survivability of tanks and armored vehicles on modern battlefields. These developments include ERA Mk-I, ERA Mk-II, and the next-generation NGERA (Next-Generation ERA), showcasing India’s growing self-reliance in advanced defense technologies.

HEMRL’s ERA Mk-I is already in service, providing enhanced protection for India’s T-72 tanks. Building on this success, the ERA Mk-II has been developed and is poised for induction on Arjun Mk-IA Main Battle Tanks (MBTs), As an import substitute for the T-90 tanks. The ERA Mk-II incorporates improved design and performance, meeting the evolving battlefield requirements for higher survivability against advanced anti-tank threats.

SOURCE: AFI

Bengali scientist Shantanu Bhowmik has created a groundbreaking material, Shaheed Udham Singh Armour, which demonstrates exceptional resilience against fire, explosions, and high-impact forces. Dubbed a “magic composition,” this high-impact resistance hybrid composite has the potential to revolutionize the protection of military personnel and equipment in conflict zones.

During a recent test conducted at the Terminal Ballistic Research Laboratory (TBRL) in Chandigarh, under the Ministry of Defence, the composite showcased its unparalleled durability by withstanding the force of 10 kg of TNT detonated at a mere 1.9 feet distance. The test adhered to NATO’s STANAG Level 4 standards, emphasizing the armor’s exceptional ability to neutralize intense explosive impacts.

SOURCE: AFI

Elbit Systems, a leading global provider of high-performance systems and defense solutions, has achieved a significant milestone by securing a contract from a European country for its advanced Hermes 900 Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). This strategic win underscores the growing global demand for cutting-edge UAS technology and the increasing prominence of India as a manufacturing hub for such systems.

A remarkable aspect of this contract is that the Hermes 900 UAS, which will be delivered to the European customer, will be locally manufactured in Hyderabad by Adani Defence. This development signifies India’s increasing role in the global defense industry and its potential to become a major exporter of advanced military technologies.

SOURCE: AFI

The Directorate of Engineering (Helicopters) Western, under the Air Headquarters (Vayu Bhawan), has issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) seeking aviation companies capable of repairing and recovering damaged AH-64E(I) Apache attack helicopters. This initiative is a significant step towards bolstering India’s self-reliance in military aviation maintenance and repair capabilities.

The EOI aims to identify companies with the requisite certifications, infrastructure, and experience to handle the intricate repair and recovery processes for the advanced AH-64E(I) Apaches. The initiative aligns with India’s broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), particularly in the defense sector.

SOURCE: AFI

At the ongoing International Defence Exhibition and Seminar (IDEAS) in Karachi, a surprising claim emerged from Awais Rauf, film producer and Chairman of the University of Lahore (UOL). Rauf, who also serves as the Director of Blue Search Private Limited, unveiled what he described as Pakistan’s first long-range air surveillance radar system, the AM350S, which he claims can monitor airspace up to 350 kilometers.

The radar, showcased as a mobile platform that can be rapidly deployed, is reportedly being developed in collaboration with Pakistan’s state-owned National Radio Telecommunication Corporation (NRTC) and private sector partners. According to Rauf, the radar has already drawn interest from Pakistan’s “friendly countries” for potential export.

SOURCE: AFI

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), India’s leading warship and submarine builder, has announced a massive expansion project aimed at doubling its shipbuilding capacity over the next 4-5 years. With an investment of ?5,000 crore (approximately $600 million), the expansion will include constructing a state-of-the-art dry dock facility measuring an impressive 180 meters in length and 60 meters in width. This new infrastructure will enable MDL to enhance its production rate, modernize operations, and meet the rising demand for advanced naval vessels in India and abroad.

A pivotal component of this expansion is the construction of a new very-long dry dock facility, which will be capable of accommodating some of the largest ships and submarines in the Indian Navy’s fleet. The dry dock, with dimensions of 180 meters in length and 60 meters in width, will significantly increase MDL’s flexibility and allow the shipbuilder to work on multiple projects simultaneously.

SOURCE: AFI

Zen Technologies has introduced the Sthir Stab 640, a robust and versatile stabilized sight designed to enhance situational awareness and precision for armored vehicles, infantry combat vehicles (ICVs), and boats. This advanced system integrates state-of-the-art fiber optic gyro stabilization and offers automatic search and tracking capabilities, ensuring optimal performance in challenging combat environments.

The Sthir Stab 640 stands out as a medium-sized, vehicle-mounted, intelligent image stabilization platform equipped with long-range photoelectric detection capabilities. It is an indigenous innovation, combining multiple detection modules such as high-definition visible light cameras and uncooled thermal imagers. The system is adaptable to various weapon mounts, including 7.62mm, 12.7mm, 20mm, and 30mm calibers, making it suitable for a broad range of operational platforms and mission requirements.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent statement, J.D. Patil, CEO and Managing Director of Larsen & Toubro (L&T), revealed that the company initially proposed a K9 Vajra-based chassis for the Indian Army’s light tank program. However, the Army opted for a lighter platform weighing around 25 tons, prompting L&T and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to develop an entirely new chassis for the Zorawar light tank.

L&T’s K9 Vajra, a 155mm self-propelled howitzer system, has already seen success with its induction into the Indian Army. The company initially aimed to leverage this proven platform for a light tank variant. However, the K9 Vajra-based chassis faced challenges.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has long relied on the Sukhoi-30MKI as a workhorse in its fighter fleet, thanks to its multirole capabilities, impressive payload capacity, and combat range. With the upcoming Super Sukhoi upgrade program, the Sukhoi-30MKI is poised to become a cornerstone in India’s adoption of cutting-edge technologies, including Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). Defence analyst Ranesh Rajan shared his insights with idrw.org, explaining why this aircraft will be an ideal platform for integrating MUM-T capabilities.

The Super Sukhoi upgrade promises to enhance the Sukhoi-30MKI’s radar, avionics, electronic warfare (EW) systems, and weapon-carrying capacity. Key upgrades include the integration of an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, new mission computers, and advanced sensors, which will significantly boost its situational awareness and combat performance.

SOURCE: AFI

The Ministry of Defence (MoD), Government of India, has announced its intent to procure 12,056 Multi-Spectral Camouflage Nets (MSCNs) for deployment in plain and jungle terrains. This acquisition aligns with the MoD’s broader strategy to enhance operational camouflage and reduce equipment detectability across various electromagnetic (EM) spectrum ranges, thereby bolstering battlefield survivability.

The MSCN is a state-of-the-art camouflage solution designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment in diverse terrains. Its capabilities include suppressing signatures across Visual, Infrared (IR), Thermal Infrared (TIR), and Radar spectrums, effectively minimizing the chances of detection by enemy surveillance systems. When used to conceal critical equipment such as tanks, radars, and other vital assets, the MSCN significantly reduces their recognition probability, even under advanced sensor scrutiny.