SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

A major advancement in Indian aviation technology marked the skies this February, as the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the successful flight testing of the Indigenously Designed and Developed Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for the pilot of the LCA Tejas fighter jet. This achievement signifies a crucial step towards India joining the elite club of nations possessing this complex technology.

Before this breakthrough, Indian fighter jets relied on imported liquid oxygen systems, creating dependence on foreign suppliers and jeopardizing operational flexibility. The indigenous ILSS, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), utilizes “bleed air” from the Tejas’ engine to generate oxygen onboard, marking a shift towards self-reliance and adaptability.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development, India’s Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Aerospace Laboratories (CSIR-NAL) has revealed the wind tunnel testing model of the upcoming Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), this indigenous high-speed flying-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is poised to play a crucial role in India’s future defence capabilities. The DRDO’s RPSA is expected to be scaled up into a formidable 13-ton Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW) Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) for use by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India is poised to begin deliveries of its BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines, marking a significant milestone in defence cooperation between the two nations. The deal, valued at $374.96 million, was signed in January 2022 and includes three batteries of BrahMos missiles, training for operators and support staff, and an Integrated Logistics Support (ILS) package.

The BrahMos missiles will significantly bolster the Philippines’ maritime defence capabilities, particularly in the face of territorial disputes in the South China Sea. The supersonic missiles boast a range of up to 290 kilometres and can penetrate even the most robust ship hulls, making them a potent deterrent against potential threats.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Godrej Aerospace and Paninian India Pvt Ltd have joined forces to create a powerhouse of innovation in the Indian aerospace and naval engine sector. This exciting partnership, marked by a formal Memorandum of Understanding signed at Godrej Aerospace headquarters in Mumbai, brings together the complementary expertise of both companies to accelerate the design, development, and delivery of top-notch gas turbine engines.

Paninian’s strengths lie in its deep understanding of complex systems, honed through its work on aeroengines and power plant designs. This expertise finds a perfect partner in Godrej Aerospace’s established prowess in manufacturing, assembly, and integration, specifically within the aerospace domain. By combining forces, they aim to create a streamlined engine development process, bringing efficient and powerful solutions to market faster.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Recent developments in India’s Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) programs have stirred discussions within defense circles. According to prominent defense journalist Anantha Krishnan M, the Rustom-2 Aka TAPAS program faced challenges in meeting the Prescribed Standard Qualitative Requirements (PSQR) set by users. However, despite the setback, the government has reportedly greenlit the continuation of the project under separate DRDO funds. This move aims to address the shortcomings and bring the project in line with user expectations. Additionally, the emergence of the Archer-NG program suggests a new direction in India’s pursuit of advanced UAV capabilities.

Previous reports from idrw.org had highlighted technical challenges and issues related to the overweight fuselage of the Tapas MALE UAV. Despite concerted efforts by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) along with Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), the weight reduction targets remained elusive. The technical hurdles posed significant obstacles to achieving the desired performance parameters.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The year 2023 has proven to be a remarkable period for India’s Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), showcasing several breakthroughs and achievements. idrw.org has compiled a list of the top 5 milestones that highlight DRDO’s contributions to India’s defense capabilities.

From the successful high-altitude chamber tests of the Kaveri derivative engine to the autonomous landing of a high-speed flying-wing Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), DRDO’s accomplishments underscore its commitment to advancing India’s technological prowess in the defense sector.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up to plug its aerial refuelling gap with a temporary solution from France. In 2024, the IAF plans to finalize a wet lease agreement for one Airbus A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft from the French Air Force. This lease, with an extension option of three years, will provide much-needed aerial refuelling capabilities while the IAF pursues a long-term procurement plan for six additional tanker aircraft.

The French offer comes as a welcome respite for the IAF, which has been grappling with a deficit of tanker aircraft for some time. The A330 MRTT is a proven and versatile platform, capable of refueling a wide range of IAF fighter jets, including the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, Rafale, and Jaguar. This enhanced refuelling capacity will significantly extend the range and operational flexibility of the IAF’s combat aircraft, allowing them to strike deeper into enemy territory and remain airborne for longer durations.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Dassault Aviation, the French aerospace giant, is gearing up for a major offensive in the Indian defense market with a comprehensive campaign aimed at securing both the Indian Navy’s 26-jet Rafale M deal and the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) much larger Medium Range Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.

Dassault is close to finalizing a deal for 26 Rafale M fighter jets for the Indian Navy, which will operate from the country’s aircraft carriers. This, combined with the IAF’s existing fleet of 36 Rafales, will bring India’s total to a formidable 62, further solidifying Dassault’s presence in the country.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Tata Advanced Systems (TASL), under Tata Aerospace & Defence, proudly announces the successful readiness for dispatch of its Tata Quick Reaction Force Vehicles (QRFV) to the Indian Army. The significant achievement was shared by Tata on Twitter, stating, “TASL has successfully delivered the Quick Reaction Fighting Vehicle to the Indian Army.”

The Tata QRFVs, designed and manufactured at the Tata Advanced Systems facility in Pune, have demonstrated their operational readiness in challenging terrains. Impressed by the performance and capabilities of these vehicles, the Indian Army has placed a reorder with TASL for a larger quantity, marking a substantial expansion of the fleet.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India and Tanzania are stepping up their military cooperation, with a recent visit by Tanzanian Chief of Defence Forces, General Jacob John Mkunda, laying the groundwork for exploring a range of defence opportunities. The potential collaboration holds significant implications for both nations and the wider East African region.

While weaponry is at the forefront of the discussions, the potential for collaboration extends beyond mere hardware sales. India has expressed interest in sharing its expertise in training, maintenance, and technology transfer, fostering a deeper understanding and partnership between the two military establishments.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The skies above India are buzzing with anticipation as Dassault Aviation gears up to defend its title in the country’s upcoming Medium Range Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. The French aerospace giant, riding high on the success of its existing Rafale jets in the Indian Air Force (IAF), is confident of clinching the lucrative $20 billion deal for 114 locally assembled fighter aircraft.

Dassault Aviation isn’t merely dreaming; it has several aces up its sleeve. Cost optimization stands out as a major trump card. Thanks to the infrastructure and technological advancements funded by the initial Rafale contract for 36 jets, the MRFA version can be produced at significantly lower costs. This financial edge could prove decisive in a competition known for its intense cost scrutiny.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy is embarking on a significant modernization program for its fleet of MiG-29K fighter jets, partnering with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) for a crucial upgrade: the integration of a cutting-edge GAN-based Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.

This marks a shift towards self-reliance, as the radar is under development for the IAF’s Tejas MkII program and will be customized for the Mig-29K with minimal changes.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant boost to India’s maritime surveillance capabilities, Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, Indian Navy, has confirmed the upcoming induction of two Hermes 900 Medium-Altitude Long-Endurance (MALE) Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) by February 2024. These advanced drones, ordered from Adani Defence, mark a crucial step towards strengthening India’s aerial intelligence gathering and reconnaissance capabilities.

The Hermes 900 program exemplifies a successful collaboration between Indian and Israeli experts. The drones will be manufactured in India under a Transfer of Technology (ToT) agreement with Elbit Systems, a leading Israeli defence technology company. This agreement ensures 60% indigenous content in the drones, bolstering India’s self-reliance in the critical defence sector.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Dassault Aviation, the French aircraft manufacturer, is currently laser-focused on finalizing crucial orders for the Indian Navy: the 26 Rafale M fighter jets. These high-priority acquisitions will equip the newly commissioned INS Vikrant aircraft carrier and bolster India’s maritime defence capabilities.

In a competitive race for a place on the new Indian aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, the Rafale M emerged victorious. Chosen over the American F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet, the Rafale M’s performance and compatibility with INS Vikrant’s design proved decisive. These 26 aircraft will form the backbone of the Indian Navy’s carrier-borne air power, significantly enhancing its offensive and defensive capabilities.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL), riding high on the recent sale of the Akash Air Defence System to Armenia, is now in advanced talks with another undisclosed country for its acquisition, according to sources familiar with the program. This potential deal, following closely on the heels of the Armenian contract, marks a significant surge in India’s defence exports and cements the Akash system’s position as a sought-after technology in the global arms market.

While the exact identity of the interested nation remains under wraps, reports suggest Oman has expressed keen interest in acquiring the Akash system. Initial rounds of discussions have already concluded, paving the way for deeper negotiations. Both India and Oman are reportedly eager to finalize the deal, with BDL aiming to secure a firm contract by 2024.