News Beat
News Beat reporting is an idrw.org initiative to let our Readers to report News Based on Actual facts but some how has not been reported in Main Stream Media .
SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Dr. Mansoor Ahmed, an Honorary Lecturer at the Strategic and Defence Studies Centre of Australian National University, recently discussed India’s nuclear strategic goals on World Echo News with host Syed Muhammad Ali. Dr. Ahmed emphasized India’s growing commitment to bolstering its sea-based nuclear deterrent through an extensive fleet of nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). He suggested that the Indian Navy would likely need an arsenal of around 300 nuclear warheads exclusively for its SSBN fleet by 2035 to establish a credible deterrent.
India currently operates two Arihant-class SSBNs and has two more advanced S4-class SSBNs nearing operational status. The next generation, the S5 class, is expected to consist of three more SSBNs, ultimately expanding the fleet to a formidable six nuclear-capable submarines. The addition of these submarines underscores India’s focus on strengthening its nuclear deterrent with a credible second-strike capability, which will play a vital role in its broader defense strategy.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant boost to India’s Indigenous defence capabilities, French aerospace giant Safran has proposed to partner with India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) for the development of a new 110kN engine to power India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. As part of this collaboration, Safran has committed to leveraging Chennai’s growing pool of engineering talent, ensuring that most of the research and development (R&D) for the engine will now take place on Indian soil.
This proposal marks a key milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the “Make in India” initiative, particularly in critical areas like jet engine technology, which has long been a strategic focus for the country.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Indian Air Force (IAF), are looking to integrate Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAM) into the “Super Sukhoi” upgrade configuration for 84 Su-30MKI jets. This upgrade will replace the current Russian R-73 close-combat missiles in the Sukhoi fleet, enhancing the aircraft’s short-range air-to-air combat capabilities.
The ASRAAM, developed by the European defence manufacturer MBDA, is already operational on India’s Jaguar DARIN-III strike aircraft and the LCA Tejas Mk1A. Its successful deployment on these platforms has encouraged the IAF to push for further integration into the upcoming Tejas Mk2 and HAL’s CATS Loyal Wingman unmanned system, signaling a broader shift towards Western missile systems for close-combat engagements.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)’s ADA has issued a tender for the supply of an Active Electronically Scanned Array Radar (AESAR), a sophisticated Fire Control Radar (FCR) intended for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) AF Mk2 platform. This tender aligns with India’s ongoing modernization drive for its indigenous defense aviation capabilities, focusing on outfitting the Mk2 variant of the LCA with a next-generation radar system capable of multiple operational modes across diverse mission requirements.
The AESA radar for the LCA AF Mk2 is designed as a modular, multi-functional system comprising three critical subsystems. Active Array Antenna Unit (AAAU), Exciter Receiver Processor (ERP) and Array Power Supply (APS).
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), in collaboration with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), Chennai, is advancing the development of a lab prototype for a smart antenna-based sensor, aimed for future use in Active Protection Systems (APS). This initiative signifies a pivotal step in enhancing the defence capabilities of Indian armoured vehicles, ensuring they are better equipped to counter evolving threats on the battlefield.
The smart antenna-based sensor is designed to integrate various modules that contribute to an effective Active Protection System. APS are critical for providing defensive measures against incoming threats, such as anti-tank missiles and projectiles. The development of this technology aligns with India’s focus on indigenizing defence systems and improving the operational readiness of its armed forces.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
As India ramps up its nuclear submarine fleet, the Indian Navy is constructing a strategic Very Low Frequency (VLF) transmitting station in Vikarabad, Telangana, set to become fully operational by 2027. This new infrastructure is critical for enhancing communication with the Navy’s expanding fleet of nuclear-powered submarines (SSBNs and SSNs), ensuring secure and reliable links for submerged vessels.
Located 75 kilometres from Hyderabad in the Damagudam Reserve Forest near Pudur village, the station will feature three imposing 500-meter-tall radio transmitter towers, equivalent to about 165 floors. These towering structures will form the backbone of the Navy’s advanced communication system, specifically designed to transmit messages to submarines operating at depths far below the surface.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Germany has extended an invitation to India to join the Eurodrone Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) UAV program as an observer, allowing India the opportunity to closely monitor the development of one of Europe’s most ambitious unmanned aerial vehicle projects.
The Eurodrone MALE UAV program, officially known as the European Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS), is being jointly developed by Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Leonardo for Germany, France, Italy, and Spain. It marks a strategic collaboration within Europe to produce a homegrown UAV capability that is competitive with international alternatives.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
With formal approval granted for the development of two nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) under Project-77 for the Indian Navy, the next phase of India’s nuclear submarine program is well underway. According to a former Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) official who spoke to idrw.org, work on the second-generation 190-MW nuclear reactor has been ongoing for nearly eight years and will be ready in time to power the upcoming submarines.
The approval for these two SSNs marks a significant step forward in bolstering India’s maritime capabilities. Nuclear-powered attack submarines are critical assets for modern navies due to their ability to remain submerged for extended periods and travel vast distances without surfacing, making them indispensable for surveillance, deterrence, and offensive operations.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Drishti 10 (Hermes 900) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), locally manufactured by Adani Defence at its Hyderabad facility, was procured by the Indian Navy and Army for benchmarking testing purposes. Initially seen as an interim solution, both services acquired two units to assess their performance while awaiting a larger procurement initiative for Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAVs. However, as the services continue testing, it seems that further orders for the Drishti 10 might not materialize.
Both the Indian Army and Navy are keen on issuing a tender for the procurement of nearly 76 MALE UAVs, with 60 units designated for the Army, 12 for the Indian Air Force, and four for the Navy. This would allow the forces to acquire modern UAVs capable of meeting their operational requirements, rather than settling on interim solutions like the Drishti 10.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Veteran defence journalist Sandeep Unnithan has reported that Russia has once again extended an offer to India for its heavy bomber aircraft, the Tu-22M3 and Tu-160 “White Swan.” The Soviet-designed Tu-22M3 was previously proposed for the Indian Navy nearly two decades ago. However, high leasing costs and modernization expenses kept the deal from finalizing. Now, with the potential addition of the Tu-160M, a modernized, highly capable strategic bomber, Russia seeks to provide India with aircraft that could enhance its long-range strike capabilities.
Russia’s renewed offer includes the Tu-160M, a modernized version of the iconic Tu-160 “White Swan.” Unlike the Tu-22M3, the Tu-160M is still in production under a 2018 contract that calls for 10 units to be delivered to the Russian Air Force by 2027. These upgraded models come with extensive avionics and navigation enhancements, and Tupolev, the manufacturer, claims the modernized Tu-160M is 60% more effective than its predecessor. Each Tu-160M, priced at around $163 million, is equipped to carry up to 12 long-range cruise missiles or short-range nuclear missiles, giving it significant reach and flexibility.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant boost to its aerial capabilities, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has ordered additional Astra Mk1 air-to-air missiles, which will be integrated into the upcoming Tejas Mk1A squadrons set to be formed later this year. This development highlights the IAF’s commitment to enhancing its operational readiness, particularly in strategically sensitive areas.
The new Tejas Mk1A squadrons will be stationed at Nal Air Base, located in Bikaner, Rajasthan—a mere 200 kilometres from the Pakistan border. This strategic placement underscores the importance of having advanced weaponry and technologies in the region, particularly in light of the geopolitical dynamics in South Asia.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Royal Moroccan Army, which received 92 Tata 6×6 LPTA 2445 trucks last year from India’s Tata Group, is planning to procure additional batches to further modernize its military logistics fleet. The trucks, originally exported for transporting and handling ammunition, have proven their value in the Moroccan military, especially following their outstanding performance during the Al Hoceima earthquake relief operations. This positive feedback has placed Tata as the front-runner for securing larger orders from Morocco.
The LPTA 2445 truck is a 6×6 military vehicle built on the Tata 1623 platform, drawing on technology from the Czech Tatra 815, which Tata Advanced Systems began producing under license in 2010. The truck has gained a strong reputation for its durability and reliability in tough terrains, which has made it a popular choice for military use in India and now Morocco. Its robust design and adaptability for various tasks, including transporting ammunition and other military supplies, have contributed to the truck’s increasing popularity.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Hyundai Rotem, a key player in South Korea’s defence industry and better known globally for its affordable car range, manufactures one of the world’s most advanced main battle tanks (MBTs), the K2 Black Panther. However, despite the tank’s cutting-edge capabilities, Hyundai officials have confirmed to idrw.org that the K2 Black Panther will not be offered for the Indian Army’s tender for 1,770 Future-Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs), which is one of the largest MBT procurement programs in the world.
Hyundai officials did not provide specific reasons for the decision not to participate in the Indian Army’s FRCV tender, but several contributing factors can be inferred.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
France has invited India to collaborate on the development of the next-generation Armement Air-Sol Modulaire (AASM) Hammer, a sophisticated air-to-surface stand-off weapon. The proposal was made during high-level discussions between the two countries, highlighting the deepening defence partnership.
The AASM Hammer, developed by Safran Electronics & Defense, is a versatile weapon system for close air support and deep strike missions. It boasts advanced features, including all-weather capability, smart guidance, and a high degree of modularity.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Instrument Research & Development Establishment (IRDE), a lab under the Defence Research & Development Organization (DRDO), has taken a significant step in advancing India’s defence technology capabilities by issuing an Expression of Interest (EOI). This EOI invites Indian industries to propose the establishment of an Infrared Scene Generation and Projection System-based Hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) Test Facility for testing and evaluating advanced Electro-Optical (EO) Sensors.
The IRDE’s initiative aims to pre-qualify Indian industries based on their technical capabilities, with responses evaluated by a Technical Assessment Committee (TAC). Following this, a Request for Proposal (RFP) will be issued to shortlisted firms through Limited Bidding Mode (LBM), and the final selection will be based on the lowest bid (L1) criteria, subject to fulfilment of all techno-commercial conditions of the RFP.
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