SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

he Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has been making significant strides in the development of cutting-edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Their latest creation, the QUAD-Plane UAV, represents a remarkable fusion of multi-copter and fixed-wing capabilities, marking a breakthrough in the world of aerial technology.

The development of this innovative UAV is detailed in the ADA annual report, highlighting the key milestones achieved in recent times. Here’s an overview of this remarkable project:

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is gearing up for a significant expansion in its Tejas fighter jet production capacity. The company, which currently operates two Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) assembly lines in Bengaluru, has set its sights on activating a third assembly line for Tejas jets at Nashik by the end of 2024. This strategic move is aimed at enhancing the production capacity for Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets and fulfilling the increasing demands of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

HAL opened a third assembly line in Nashik earlier this year to expand the indigenous fighter jet production landscape in the country. The new assembly line is expected to deliver the first three Tejas Mk1A fighter jets by March 2025. With this expansion, HAL is poised to significantly augment its production capacity from the existing 16 aircraft per year to an impressive 24 aircraft per year.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for India’s defence and aerospace sector, the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) have joined forces to characterize high-strength intermediate modulus carbon composites. This collaborative effort marks a crucial step toward advancing indigenous technology and materials for military aviation.

The joint project involved the characterization of high-strength intermediate modulus carbon composites, which have shown immense promise in terms of durability and weight reduction. These advanced composite materials are anticipated to play a pivotal role in the development of India’s medium-weight combat aircraft, particularly in the Tejas MkII Program.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has recently released its annual report, shedding light on the significant advancements made in the development of High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAP) technology. The report showcases the meticulous design and analysis, testing, and integration processes carried out in the creation of the HAP Sub-Scale (HAP SS), which represents a groundbreaking advancement in aeronautical engineering.

Here are the key highlights from NAL’s annual report:

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development, the Indian Armed Forces have combined their requirements for Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Class Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) following a comprehensive study. This consolidation of requirements is a result of India’s growing emphasis on enhancing its aerial surveillance capabilities and modernizing its defence infrastructure.

Previously, India made the strategic decision to acquire 31 Predator drones from the United States, which fall into the High Altitude Long Endurance category. These drones are intended for the extensive surveillance of areas critical to Indian security interests. The acquisition of the Predator drones signifies India’s commitment to bolstering its capabilities in aerial reconnaissance and monitoring.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Bangaloru-based NewSpace Research and Technologies Pvt Ltd (NRT) has achieved significant progress in the development of its Solar Powered Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) for high-altitude and long-endurance missions. The company has begun Phase 2 of this innovative project, having completed the first phase of its 7.5-meter wingspan technology demonstrator.

Last year, NRT conducted tests using technology demonstrators launched from a speeding multi-utility vehicle on the runway at HAL’s testing and factory airbase in Bangalore, Karnataka. However, a recent video shared by NRT showcased the technology demonstrator flying independently, demonstrating its autonomous capabilities.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has released its annual report, highlighting significant progress in the development of the Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA). The report details various phases, from project definition to design optimization, market trend analysis, and the creation of a realistic mock-up. This endeavor represents a substantial leap in India’s efforts to contribute to regional aviation with innovative and efficient aircraft.

Here are the key highlights from NAL’s annual report:

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Army is poised to significantly enhance its artillery capabilities with the acquisition of 307 advanced towed artillery gun systems (ATAGS), in a move that reflects India’s commitment to modernizing its armed forces. This procurement, valued at over Rs 8,000 crore, underscores the Indian Army’s dedication to strengthening its arsenal with state-of-the-art artillery systems.

The proposal for this substantial acquisition has been initiated by the Indian Army and is in the final stages of approval. The order is set to be divided between two private Indian firms, Tata and Bharat Forge, both of which have demonstrated their expertise in developing variants of the ATAGS based on technological know-how shared by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has released its annual report, shedding light on its innovative work in the development of Target Tracking Algorithms for Infrared Search & Track (IRST) applications. These advancements are part of a project sponsored by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), further reinforcing India’s capabilities in defence technology.

The report highlights the substantial progress made in the development of multi-target tracking algorithms for the IRST System and Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) to be employed in advanced multi-role combat aircraft, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-II and Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has unveiled its ambitious upgrade plan for 84 units of the Sukhoi-30MKI, transforming them into the formidable “Super Sukhoi” configuration. This comprehensive upgrade encompasses a range of cutting-edge components and systems that will significantly enhance the aircraft’s operational capabilities.

Here’s a closer look at the key components that will be integrated into the Super Sukhoi:

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to make a significant move to bolster its fleet with the potential acquisition of 97 additional Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. This development comes as part of the IAF’s ongoing efforts to enhance its capabilities and maintain air superiority. IAF will move files to get clearance from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) for the purchase of additional jets later this month. 

Last week, the IAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal Vivek Ram Chaudhari, revealed the air force’s intentions to seek approval for the acquisition of 97 more Tejas Mk1A jets. The plan aims to conclude the deal for these additional aircraft by the end of the year, with an estimated cost of 60,000 crores.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s ambitious Project Zorawar, aimed at developing a 25-ton Light Battle Tank to counter Chinese deployments in high altitudes, has faced engine delays, leading to a potential shift to an American Cummins engine for the program. The project is a joint effort by the DRDO (Defense Research and Development Organization) and L&T (Larsen & Toubro).

The setbacks in the development of the indigenous tank primarily stem from the German MTU engine manufacturer’s failure to agree on the delivery terms set by DRDO-L&T. As a result, the program is now considering an American Cummins engine as an alternative. This decision could impact the project’s timeline.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy is on a path of modernization and augmentation of its capabilities, and one of the latest developments involves the incorporation of Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) into its submarine fleet. These UUVs are set to play a significant role in various underwater operations, providing the Navy with advanced capabilities and versatility.

Diverse Applications for UUVs in the Indian Navy

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is embarking on a significant modernization journey with its Super Sukhoi program. This initiative aims to upgrade 84 Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft, providing them with cutting-edge capabilities and enhancing their performance. While the program includes some components from Russia, the majority of upgrades are being developed indigenously, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.

Under the Super Sukhoi program, these formidable aircraft will receive 51 major upgrades, transforming them into even more potent assets for the IAF. 

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s ambitious project to develop the Archer-NG, a Weaponized Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle), is gaining momentum, with the rollout of the prototype expected by the end of the coming month. The Archer-NG is a significant development in India’s drone capabilities and is set to play a crucial role in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, target acquisition, tracking, and strike missions.

Initially, the rollout of the Archer-NG had been planned for mid-2023, as stated by officials from the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) during Aero India 2023. However, due to some delays in the construction process, the schedule was postponed by approximately three to four months. The first test flight of this advanced armed drone is now anticipated to occur within the next six months.