SOURCE: AFI

A report by Azerbaijani outlet Caliber.az has ignited controversy, casting doubt on the functionality of Indian-supplied weaponry to Armenia. The report cites comments by former Armenian Defense Minister Arshak Karapetyan, who served for three months in 2021, alleging unidentified Indian-origin weapons have exhibited performance issues for the past year.

The crux of the issue lies in Karapetyan’s reported remarks. However, credibility is a factor here. Karapetyan served as Armenia’s Defense Minister for only three months in 2021. Additionally, the specific weapon systems he critiqued are not mentioned.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army has achieved a remarkable feat with the patenting and induction of the “Portable Multi Target Detonation Device (WEDC),” a revolutionary invention by Major Rajprasad RS of the Corps of Engineers. This innovation promises to significantly enhance the safety and effectiveness of demolition tasks for Indian troops.

The WEDC marks a significant leap forward in demolition technology. Compared to the previously used wired system with a limited range of 400 meters, the WEDC boasts long-range detonation capabilities, allowing troops to operate at a safer distance from the target. This reduces the risk of injury or casualties during demolition operations.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy’s aviation arm received a significant boost on March 18, 2024, with the induction of the first-ever Naval Aviation Radar Simulator (RADSIM) at Air Combat Training School (AIRCATS), Goa. This momentous occasion, graced by Rear Admiral Ajay D Theophilus, Flag Officer Naval Aviation, marks a major step towards self-reliance and enhanced training for Indian Navy Air Traffic Controllers (ATCOs).

The RADSIM, indigenously developed by the Software Development Institute (SDI) of the Indian Air Force (IAF), is set to revolutionize ATCO training within the Navy. This sophisticated simulator will provide a realistic and controlled environment for trainees to hone their skills in air traffic management.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) recently conducted a successful activation of an Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) located on National Highway-16 in Andhra Pradesh. This activation marks a significant step towards enhancing the IAF’s operational flexibility and disaster response capabilities.

The exercise involved various IAF aircraft, showcasing the ELF’s suitability for a range of missions. Fighter jets like the Su-30 MKI and Hawk Mk 132 demonstrated the ability for swift deployment in times of need. Transport aircraft such as the An-32 and Dornier Do-228 successfully performed takeoffs and landings, highlighting the ELF’s capacity to support logistical operations and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) missions in remote locations.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is gearing up for a significant milestone in Indian aviation. The state-owned aerospace and defense company is on track to deliver the first indigenously developed LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighter jet to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by the end of March. The inaugural test flight for this upgraded aircraft could even take place within the next two days.

The Tejas Mk-1A represents a crucial step forward for the Indian Air Force’s modernization program. This variant boasts enhanced capabilities compared to the earlier Tejas Mk-1 version. Ordered in 2021 as part of a 73-fighter jet deal, the Mk-1A promises to bolster the IAF’s air combat prowess.

SOURCE: AFI

The Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT) in Pakistan’s Taxila city buzzed with anticipation as Pakistan Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir graced the rollout ceremony of the Haider tank. This unveiling marked a significant moment in Pakistan’s defense capabilities, as the Haider tank is slated to become the nation’s Main Battle Tank. However, recent revelations from documents reviewed by ThePrint shed light on a different narrative, one that contrasts with the triumphant image the Pakistani military seeks to portray.

The genesis of the Haider tank can be traced back to Pakistan’s 2017 order of around 176 VT-4 tanks from China’s Norinco (North Industries Corporation). This procurement aimed to modernize Pakistan’s aging fleet of Main Battle Tanks, bolstering its defensive prowess. after it failed to develop Al-Khalid II MBT that was to be superior to the Al-Khalid I which was claimed to be based on the older T-9X tank from China. Al-Khalid I faced numerous issues and production was curtailed to just 250+ units, before it was shutdown.

SOURCE: AFI

India is bolstering its border defenses in Arunachal Pradesh with the construction of next-generation bunkers at Sela Pass. These climate-controlled shelters, designed to withstand harsh Himalayan conditions, prioritize soldier comfort and combat effectiveness.

These bunkers seamlessly integrate with existing border infrastructure and leverage eco-friendly technologies. Solar and geothermal energy power air conditioning systems, ensuring a comfortable environment for troops even in extreme temperatures as low as -30°C. This not only improves soldier well-being but also promotes alertness and readiness.

SOURCE: AFI

In a display of outrage, pro-Khalistan demonstrators desecrated the Indian flag during a protest in Calgary on [date], sparking tensions with the Indo-Canadian community. The incident, organized by the Sikhs For Justice (SFJ) group, involved activists using swords, daggers, and spears to damage the Indian tricolour, according to local reports.

This act of disrespect comes just one week after clashes between SFJ supporters and police in Edmonton. The Calgary protest also reportedly led to the cancellation of a planned meet and greet with Indian High Commissioner Sanjay Kumar Verma, who was targeted by the SFJ for disruption at events across Canada.

SOURCE: AFI

The Dutch government’s decision to award a submarine construction contract to French company Naval Group has sent ripples across the international defense scene. This deal, seen as a lifeline for the Dutch shipbuilding industry, could also have significant implications for India’s own ambitious submarine program.

Naval Group will provide the Netherlands with four conventionally powered Barracuda-class submarines, replacing their aging Walrus-class fleet. This win comes three years after the company lost a major Australian contract for 12 submarines.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Ministry of Defense (MoD) has initiated a global tender process to procure Canister-Launched Anti-Armour Loiter Munition (CALM) systems for the Indian Army. This move highlights India’s focus on acquiring advanced weapon systems to bolster its border defenses.

Meanwhile, Russian military expert Dmitry Kornev has proposed Russia as a potential supplier for these CALM systems. He suggests a joint-production route, where India would assemble the systems and develop the software. This approach, according to Kornev, would enhance the legitimacy of these loiter munitions for India in the international arms market.

SOURCE: AFI

A recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report has cast a shadow over the combat readiness of the F-35 fighter jet program. The report, released in September 2023, reveals a significant gap between the advertised capabilities and the reality on the ground.

The crux of the issue lies in the definition of “mission capable” used by the Department of Defense (DoD). While the public might interpret it as combat-ready, the reality is far less impressive. According to the DoD definition, a mission-capable F-35 can simply fly and perform at least one mission. This mission could be training, testing, or something entirely non-combat related.

SOURCE: AFI

General Lee Youngsu, Chief of Staff of the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF), met with Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) of the Indian Air Force (IAF), in New Delhi today.

The focus of the meeting was on fostering closer ties and collaboration between the two air forces. Discussions reportedly centered on issues of mutual interest, including:

SOURCE: AFI

India has embarked on a significant infrastructure project near the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh. The project involves constructing a 5.2-kilometer ropeway, connecting the renowned Tawang Monastery to the picturesque PT Tso Lake. Expected to be completed within three years at a cost of Rs 522 crore, this initiative aims to boost tourism in the region.

The new ropeway will significantly reduce travel time between the Tawang Monastery, a popular pilgrimage site, and PT Tso Lake, known for its mesmerizing beauty. Currently, reaching the lake can take a considerable amount of time. This swift and convenient ropeway access will undoubtedly enhance the tourist experience in the region.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is gearing up for the future of human spaceflight. While the current astronaut training facility in Bengaluru prepares the “Fabulous Four” – Group Captains Prashanth Nair, Ajit Krishnan, Angad Prathap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla – for Gaganyaan’s first mission, plans are already underway for a much larger training center.

Sources close to ISRO reveal that the new facility, likely to be located in Devanahalli with Challakere still in consideration, will be built to accommodate a significantly larger astronaut corps. This expansion reflects India’s long-term commitment to human space exploration and could see the capacity grow to house 25-30 astronauts, potentially even including their families.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent statement, C Uday Bhaskar, the Director of the Society for Policy Studies, pointed out an intriguing paradox in India’s defense narrative. Despite the jubilation surrounding India’s recent Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) success, the latest annual report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) delivers a sobering reality check: India maintains its position as the world’s largest importer of arms. The report, released in March 2024, reveals a 4.7 percent increase in India’s arms imports between 2014-18 and 2019-23.

This revelation echoes the findings of SIPRI’s 2023 report, emphasizing India’s persistent status as the top global arms importer. The 2023 report underscored India’s dominance in this regard, with an 11 percent share of total global arms imports during 2018-22, a position it has maintained since 1993.