SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-owned aerospace and defense company, is set to spearhead a significant upgrade program for the Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI fighter jets. This news comes from HAL’s Q4 FY2023-24 earnings report and signifies a major step towards self-reliance in the Indian defense sector.

The earnings report highlights HAL’s designation as the lead agency for the Super Su-30MKI upgrade program. HAL will play a central role in managing the project, overseeing collaborations with Indian vendors, and ensuring the program’s successful execution.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Indian aerospace and defense major, has allocated significant funds towards the development of two crucial helicopter programs in its Q4 FY2023-24 earnings report.

The report details a ?4,000 crore budget earmarked for the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) program. This versatile platform is envisioned to fulfill various military roles, including troop transport, combat search and rescue, and reconnaissance missions. The IMRH’s development aims to reduce dependence on foreign helicopters and replace Mi-17 helicopter fleet and equip the Indian Armed Forces with a domestically produced, advanced multi-role platform.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities are set to receive a significant boost with the upcoming commissioning of its second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), INS Arighat. According to Janes, a leading defense intelligence provider, the commissioning is expected by the end of 2024.

INS Arighat will join its predecessor, INS Arihant, which was commissioned in 2016. This marks a crucial step in India’s development of a credible nuclear triad – the ability to deliver nuclear weapons by land, sea, and air.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

A WC-135R Constant Phoenix, a specialized US Air Force aircraft nicknamed the “nuclear sniffer,” was spotted conducting a mission off the west coast of India. While the exact nature of the operation is unclear, it’s likely a calibration flight to ensure the aircraft’s systems are functioning properly.

The WC-135R, nicknamed “Nuclear Sniffer,” plays a vital role in upholding the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963 by detecting radioactive materials in the atmosphere. Operating out of Diego Garcia, the aircraft likely flew near India’s Kaiga Nuclear Power Plant and the Trombay Nuclear Research Facility managed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) in Mumbai.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

The Indian Army has developed a resourceful and innovative solution to enhance its anti-tank capabilities. They have modified a tractor to serve as a mobile launcher for Konkurs-M anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). This ‘Jugad’ (Hindi for ingenious improvisation) creation, named the Improvised Tractor Mounted ATGM, can carry four ATGMs for quick reloading, with one launcher mounted on the tractor itself.

The Konkurs-M missile is a second-generation, mechanized infantry weapon designed to take down armored vehicles, including those equipped with explosive reactive armor. Offering versatility, it can be launched from both BMP-II tanks and ground launchers. With a range of 75 to 4,000 meters and a flight time of 19 seconds, the Konkurs-M provides a significant advantage in engaging enemy armor.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

India’s defense research agency, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is making strides in aerial surveillance with the development of a high-resolution radar for Dornier-228 aircraft manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under license.

This X-band Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) utilizes microwave technology to deliver real-time intelligence to decision-makers. Its all-weather and day-night operation capabilities make it a valuable asset for various missions.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) received a significant boost with the swift delivery of 15 RD33 series engines by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) within a month of signing the contract. This rapid turnaround underscores the priority placed on upgrading the IAF’s MiG-29 fleet.

The Rs 5300 crore contract marks a major step towards modernizing the IAF’s fighter jets. The RD33 engines are expected to significantly enhance the performance and lifespan of the MiG-29UPG aircraft, bolstering India’s air defense capabilities.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Bengaluru-based Zulu Defence Systems Private Limited is making waves in the Indian defense sector with two innovative technologies: DRAP and HOVERBEE.

DRAP stands for “Deployable Recce & Attack Platform.” This revolutionary system is a hovering munition, essentially a flying weapon, powered by computer vision. With a payload capacity of up to 5kg, DRAP can carry various warheads and fuse options, offering a versatile solution for modern warfare. The computer vision guidance system suggests a high degree of autonomy and precision in target acquisition and engagement.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

In a significant development aimed at bolstering bilateral relations, India and Kazakhstan recently engaged in constructive talks focusing on enhancing defence collaboration, procurement, and capability building. The discussions, held in a spirit of mutual cooperation and partnership, underscored the shared commitment of both nations towards strengthening regional security and fostering strategic cooperation.

During the deliberations, representatives from India and Kazakhstan exchanged views on a wide range of issues pertaining to defence engagement, including the exploration of new avenues for collaboration and the exchange of best practices in the field of defence technology and strategy. The talks provided a platform for both sides to reaffirm their commitment to deepening defence ties and leveraging each other’s expertise for mutual benefit.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Elbit Systems has been courting the Indian Air Force (IAF) for some time now, offering its Delilah series of air-to-surface missiles. According to sources familiar with the program, the IAF is actively evaluating the Delilah as a potential addition to its arsenal, considering factors like price, technology transfer terms, and overall capabilities.

The Delilah missile stands out for its ability to loiter in an area before striking, allowing for positive target identification and minimizing collateral damage. This advanced weapon system boasts of a turbo-jet engine that enables a range of 250 kilometers and the ability to adjust flight profiles for optimal mission execution.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is seeking collaboration with private Indian companies for the manufacturing and fabrication of a hybrid Brake Parachute system for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

The Brake Parachute plays a vital role in ensuring the safe landing of the LCA. It supplements the aircraft’s primary wheel braking system by reducing its landing run, particularly beneficial on runways with limited space.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

India’s state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) reportedly back in 2019 had proposed a design and development plan for a twin-engine fighter jet based on the LCA-Tejas platform, specifically catering to the Indian Navy’s needs. This proposal comes amidst discussions on the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program spearheaded by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).

Sources close to the development told idrw.org that HAL pre-empted the TEDBF program with their proposal. Their experience with the single-engine Naval LCA, used as a technology demonstrator, positions them as a contender. The ADA, the designated nodal agency for fighter jet design in the Country, initially proposed a 16.5-ton single-engine Naval LCA Mk2 with more powerful F-414 engines. However, concerns regarding the safety of single-engine fighter operations on aircraft carriers led to its rejection.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) has successfully delivered the first batch of upgraded T-90 Mark III tanks to the Indian Army. These upgrades aim to significantly improve the capabilities of the existing T-90 fleet. While specific details remain under wraps, some key aspects of the modernization program have come to light.

The T-90 Mark III boasts improved firepower through the integration of a Correction Input Device (CID). This device refines gunnery accuracy by factoring in environmental conditions and barrel wear. Additionally, Night Vision Enablement brings upgrades like a Commander’s Thermal Imaging Sight (CTIS) and a Muzzle Reference System. These advancements enhance situational awareness and targeting capabilities, especially during low-light operations.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, aimed at acquiring 114 new fighter jets, appears to be facing delays. While the last major update came from Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari in October 2023, significant progress seems to be lacking.

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, aimed at acquiring 114 new fighter jets, appears to be facing delays. While the last major update came from Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari in October 2023, significant progress seems to be lacking.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Two former Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter pilots have taken their passion for aviation to new heights with the creation of Axial Aero, a Telangana-based startup. Their revolutionary product – the AXIAL AERO 6 DOF-360° FLIGHT SIMULATOR – is poised to transform pilot training for the military and beyond.

The Axial Aero simulator surpasses existing technology with its advanced mechanical design and motion-cueing algorithms. Unlike traditional Stewart platforms, it offers a full 360° range of motion on all three axes (X, Y, and Z), replicating the G-forces experienced by pilots during real flight. Additionally, the simulator utilizes advanced actuators built into the seat to achieve realistic translational movement, creating an unparalleled immersive experience.