SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM

In a significant milestone, the installation of the EL/M-2248 MF-STAR, a multifunction active electronically scanned array (AESA) naval radar system developed by IAI Elta, has been completed on India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant. This marks a crucial step towards the carrier’s operational deployment, slated for mid-2024.

The MF-STAR radar, also known as the “eyes of the ship,” is a state-of-the-art system that provides the carrier with superior situational awareness and surveillance capabilities. It can detect and track multiple air and surface targets simultaneously, even in challenging weather conditions.

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The Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), India’s indigenously developed artillery powerhouse, is back in action! After undergoing modifications based on the Indian Army’s feedback, the 155mm beast has returned to the Pokhran Field Firing Range for fresh trials, according to First India News, a leading Rajasthani news channel.

Reports suggest that the upgraded ATAGS is hitting its targets with pinpoint accuracy, much to the satisfaction of both Indian Army and DRDO officials present at the trials. These trials hold immense significance, as the Army is expected to place orders for a whopping 307 ATAGS guns once the trials are successfully concluded.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM

The first visuals of the Israeli-supplied Rampage Long Range Air-to-Ground Precise Strike Weapon equipped on the Indian Navy’s Russian-origin MiG-29K have emerged on social media. This integration marks a significant development in India’s military capabilities.

The Rampage is a long-range, air-to-ground, seekerless, precision strike weapon designed to destroy high-value, well-protected targets. It boasts a range of up to 200 kilometers and can be equipped with various warheads, making it highly versatile.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM

MBDA UK is actively pursuing opportunities to collaborate with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and integrate its advanced weaponry into the Indian-developed Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 fighter jets. This collaboration would bring together MBDA’s cutting-edge missile technology with India’s indigenous fighter aircraft capabilities.

MBDA has already offered India its ASRAAM and Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missiles, and now aims to introduce its next-generation SPEAR and Brimstone missiles. These missiles would provide the Tejas fighter jets with enhanced precision strike capabilities.

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Advanced Weapons & Equipment India Ltd. (AW&EIL) will be showcasing its advanced weaponry and equipment at the 3rd Egypt Defence Expo (EDEX-2023), the largest Defence and Security Exhibition in North Africa, scheduled for December 4-7, 2023.

EDEX-2023 is a crucial platform for AW&EIL to showcase its capabilities and connect with potential customers in the Middle East and Africa. The company will be offering a range of products, including the Dhanush 155mmX45 Calibre Gun and a variety of small arms ammunition, specifically developed and tailored for the Middle East and African markets.

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) will no longer need to import attack helicopters from abroad as the Prachand Combat helicopter developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will be sufficient to meet its requirements for any type of operation, said Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari.

The IAF currently operates a fleet of 22 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. Recently, the Union Defence Ministry approved a proposal to purchase 156 Prachand Combat helicopters. Out of these, 90 will be for the Indian Army and 66 will be for the IAF.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM

In a landmark decision, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced plans to establish its own space station, named Bharatiya Antariksha Station, in orbit around Earth. This ambitious project is slated to commence in 2035 and aims to become operational by 2040.

The announcement was made by ISRO chief S Somanath during a recent interview. He emphasized that the upcoming space station will play a pivotal role in India’s space exploration endeavors, enabling long-duration human spaceflight, conducting scientific research, and developing new technologies for space exploration.

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The Indian Army has gained a significant boost in its artillery capabilities with the induction of a new Mounted Gun System (MGS). Developed by the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE) in Ahmednagar, the MGS is a self-propelled artillery system based on a solo 8×8 high mobility vehicle. It is equipped with a 152 mm/52 caliber Towed Artillery Gun, which offers accurate target acquisition and destruction of enemies.

Prior to its induction into the Indian Army, the MGS underwent rigorous testing to ensure its performance and reliability. Technical trials were conducted at NCAT (VRDE) and on beaten desert and cross-country tracks at PFFR. Firing trials were also carried out at Pokhran Field Firing Ranges (PFFR), evaluating the system’s range, consistency, arc of fire, and direct firing capabilities.

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Tata Advanced Systems (Tata Aerospace & Defence) will be showcasing a range of armoured mobility vehicles to Indian and International Defence forces at its Chinchwad facility in Pune in the upcoming weeks. The company will be showcasing the Mine Protected Vehicles carrier, which offers NIJ Level 3 protection and features ten gun firing points. It incorporates a special V-shaped hull for blast resistance. The Mine Protected Vehicles carrier has been offered in the export market and has already been inducted into the Indian Army and the Indian Paramilitary Forces.

In addition to the Mine Protected Vehicles carrier, Tata will also be showcasing the Wheeled Armoured Amphibious Vehicle (WHAP), the Infantry Protected Vehicle (IFV), and the Light Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (LAMV). The WHAP is a fully amphibious vehicle that can be used for a variety of missions, including troop transport, reconnaissance, and combat support.

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Amidst the ongoing conflicts in various parts of the world, including the Israeli-Hamas clashes and the Russian-Ukraine war, the United States is actively exploring opportunities to collaborate with Indian defence sector companies. The pressures on the U.S. Military-Industrial Complex (MIC), exacerbated by depleting stocks due to simultaneous engagements on multiple fronts, have prompted a keen interest in India’s capabilities as a significant player in the global defence market.

India, unlike some nations, has maintained a neutral stance in both the Israeli-Hamas conflict and the Russian-Ukraine war. Despite being one of the largest operators of Soviet/Russian-origin weapons, India has refrained from taking sides, opting for a careful and observant approach. The country has been closely monitoring export inquiries and orders for Indian-made small arms ammunition, ensuring that such transactions are transparent and adhere to international norms.

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The Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) is planning to convert its Multi-Caliber Individual Weapon System (MCIWS) rifle into a Single Caliber Individual Weapon System (SCAWS) of caliber 6.8mm and 7.62mm (39 & 51). This move is aimed at addressing the Indian Army’s requirements for a more versatile and effective rifle.

The MCIWS rifle was developed by ARDE in response to the Indian Army’s need for a rifle that could fire different calibers of ammunition. The rifle can currently fire 5.56mm x 45mm, 7.62mm x 39mm, and 6.8mm x 43mm ammunition.

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In a recent address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the significance of the LCA-Tejas Trainer aircraft, emphasizing its role in bolstering India’s domestic defense capabilities and enhancing the country’s position in the global export market.

The LCA-Tejas Trainer aircraft, built and inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) just a month ago, has garnered positive attention from the international media. This recognition serves as a significant boost to India’s efforts to export the fighter jet, which has previously faced lukewarm responses due to limited operational deployment within the IAF itself.

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Airbus S.A.S. and Tata Advanced Systems have announced a strategic partnership to enhance India’s defense supply chain and develop new products to meet the country’s defense requirements. This collaboration will focus on developing capabilities for acquiring raw materials, manufacturing detailed parts, establishing sub-assembly and assembly facilities, and prioritizing the production of electric harnesses.

“We are excited to partner with Tata Advanced Systems to strengthen India’s defense supply chain,” said Jorge Tamarit-Degenhardt, Head of the C295 Transport Aircraft Programme for Airbus. “This partnership will help us to develop the capabilities we need to meet the growing demand for military transport aircraft in India.”

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM

The Indian Navy is set to acquire Meteor and Scalp missiles for its Rafale M fighter jets, which are currently being negotiated with the French Dassault group. The Meteor is a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) that is designed to engage enemy aircraft at very long distances. It is one of the most advanced BVRAAMs in the world, and it is currently deployed on the Rafale fighter jets of the Indian Air Force.

The Scalp is a long-range air-launched cruise missile (ALCM) that is designed to hit high-value and strongly protected targets deep inside enemy territory. It is a highly accurate and versatile missile that can be used against a variety of targets, including land-based targets, ships, and airfields.

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In a momentous occasion marking its 60th year of service to the nation, Air Force Station (AFS) Yelahanka witnessed a significant milestone with the inauguration of a Full Motion Simulator (FMS) for Dornier aircraft. This state-of-the-art simulator will revolutionize training standards and enhance aerospace safety for Dornier pilots.

The inauguration ceremony was held on November 24, 2023, and was presided over by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari. The FMS, designed and manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), is a sophisticated training system that accurately recreates the flight dynamics and cockpit environment of the Dornier aircraft.