You dont have javascript enabled! Please enable it!
Archives

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

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is taking proactive steps to mitigate delays in the supply of F-404 engines from GE Aviation, announcing plans to expand production capacity for the Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) to 30 units per year. This move aims to recover lost time, address the backlog of orders, and prepare for anticipated additional contracts for the aircraft.

HAL currently holds an order book of 73 Tejas Mk1A aircraft and is expected to receive an additional order for 97 units later this year, bringing the total to 170 aircraft. In addition to the Tejas Mk1A, HAL is also tasked with manufacturing 10 Tejas Trainer variants, all of which must be delivered by 2029.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant leap forward in missile technology, BrahMos Aerospace has commenced work on the BrahMos-LR (Long Range) variant, a new iteration of the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile with an extended range of 800km, while retaining its Mach 3 speeds. This advancement follows the successful development of the BrahMos-ER (Extended Range) variant, which boasts a range of 450km, surpassing the earlier MTCR-restricted range of 290km.

The BrahMos-LR’s development marks a pivotal moment in overcoming the constraints imposed by the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). The earlier BrahMos Block-III was limited to a 290km range due to these international agreements. However, by modifying software restrictions and expanding the internal fuel tank capacity, BrahMos Aerospace has pushed past these barriers, significantly enhancing the missile’s operational range.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to approach the United States Air Force (USAF) with a request to purchase five C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft to bolster its long-range strategic airlift capabilities. With a current fleet of 11 C-17s, the IAF is the second-largest operator of this aircraft type globally, following the USAF, which operates a massive fleet of 222 C-17s.

The C-17 Globemaster III has been a vital asset for the IAF since its induction, enabling the transport of troops, equipment, and humanitarian supplies across vast distances. The aircraft’s capabilities have been indispensable for military operations and disaster relief missions.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) ambition to bolster its fleet through the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender might see a significant increase in costs due to Dassault Aviation’s transition to the Rafale F4 configuration. A Ministry of Defence (MoD) official has hinted to idrw.org that the capital cost for procuring 110 Rafale jets could rise substantially if the IAF opts for this advanced variant with technology transfer (ToT).

The benchmark for this projection can be traced back to the UAE’s deal for 80 Rafale jets, which was valued at $16 billion. Adjusting for a 5% annual inflation rate over the last four years, this equates to approximately $17.6 billion in today’s terms. However, India’s plan to acquire 110 jets, coupled with the costs associated with ToT, suggests a potential price tag nearing $27 billion.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant milestone for India’s indigenous aerospace development, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently showcased the first of its kind composite nose cone developed for the Tejas MkII program. The event, held in Pune, was graced by the presence of the DRDO Chief, marking a proud moment for India’s defense technology sector.

The newly developed nose cone, or Radome, has been meticulously crafted to meet the rigorous demands of modern aerial combat. A sneak peek at the project confirmed that the Radome employs high-purity quartz, which is known for its ideal structural reinforcement capabilities in high-performance composite materials. This choice of material underscores the radome’s exceptional strength-to-weight ratio and its ability to minimize electromagnetic interference (EMI), critical for the performance of onboard avionics.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Manoj Jain, the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking, has expressed optimism regarding the finalization of a significant Rs 25,000 crore deal for the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system. The deal is expected to be concluded within the next 8 months to one year, aiming for an end date before March 26, 2026.

This announcement comes at a pivotal time for the QRSAM program, which has been under scrutiny for its performance and reliability. Back in 2023, it was reported that the system needed further testing in 2024 to enhance mission reliability and address some technical glitches. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), responsible for the missile’s development, had conducted tests in what was described as the final deployment configuration. This configuration included all indigenously-developed sub-systems like the missile with an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, mobile launcher, a fully automated command and control system, as well as surveillance and multi-function radars.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for India’s defence exports, an informed source close to idrw.org has revealed that Saudi Arabia could be the next customer for the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) 155×52, developed by Bharat Forge. This news comes after Saudi Arabia previously tested the Bharat-52, another 155mm, 52 calibre towed howitzer from Bharat Forge, which did not lead to a finalized deal.

The ATAGS, a product of collaboration between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Forge, represents a leap in indigenous artillery technology. Designed to meet the Indian Army’s requirements for a modern, high-performance howitzer, the ATAGS features an extended range, sophisticated fire control systems, and enhanced mobility compared to its predecessors.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has marked a pivotal moment in its ambitious Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) programme with the successful engine ground run of the CATS-Warrior full-scale demonstrator. According to insights shared with idrw.org, HAL is now gearing up to commence taxi trials and is eyeing the first flight within the next few weeks, accelerating the development of this loyal wingman UCAV.

Sources have revealed to idrw.org that HAL is in the process of initiating taxi trials, a crucial step before the aircraft can take to the skies. These trials are essential to test the aircraft’s ground handling characteristics, control systems, and overall system integration.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a key laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is taking a significant step toward enhancing the combat capabilities of the Archer Short-Range Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (SRUAV). Plans are underway to integrate the DRDO-developed Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) into the Archer SRUAV, making it a formidable platform for precision-strike missions.

The Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) is a long-range, precision-guided munition designed for anti-airfield operations. Weighing approximately 125 kg, it boasts a range of at least 100 km, allowing it to neutralize critical airfield assets such as runways, hangars, and radar installations from a safe distance. Its lightweight and compact design makes it an ideal payload for unmanned platforms like the Archer SRUAV.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a candid interview with idrw.org, an anonymous serving Indian Naval official has expressed concerns over the suitability of the Rafale M fighter jet for operations on India’s aircraft carriers. According to the official, the decision to procure the Rafale M was made despite known limitations, echoing a pattern observed with the earlier acquisition of the MiG-29K.

One of the significant shortcomings of the Rafale M is its non-foldable wings, which restrict its manoeuvrability and storage on the confined decks of India’s current aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. This design flaw necessitates more deck space for each aircraft, potentially reducing the number of aircraft that can be deployed.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program is progressing towards its goal of rolling out the first prototype by the end of 2026 or early 2027. Developers at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) are not only focusing on building a state-of-the-art 5th-generation fighter jet but also ensuring it is affordable for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and appealing to global markets.

According to an ADA official speaking to idrw.org, the initial prototypes of the AMCA, equipped with maximum hardware to validate the program, indicate that the production model will be among the most cost-effective 5th-generation fighter jets available. The goal is to provide advanced capabilities—stealth design, sensor fusion, and superior avionics—at a competitive price point without compromising on quality or performance.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

While India and Indonesia left no stone unturned to take bilateral ties to the next level during the recent visit of President Prabowo Subianto, the Chief Guest for the Republic Day celebrations, the much-touted talks for sealing the deal on BrahMos missiles did not witness much progress. Multiple sources indicate that Jakarta wants further discussions on the multi-million-dollar purchase from Delhi.

Indonesia has sought more time from India to move ahead with the BrahMos missile deal, signalling that additional negotiations are required before finalizing the agreement. Despite the delay, a defence delegation from Jakarta is expected to visit Delhi soon to strategize and iron out the remaining details of the procurement process.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has recalibrated the development schedule for the Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF). This project had hit a snag due to delays in approvals from the Ministry of Defence (MoD). Classified as a ‘5th generation minus’ fighter jet, the TEDBF is poised to fulfil the Indian Navy’s need for a modern, carrier-capable combat aircraft.

After overcoming bureaucratic hurdles, ADA officials have announced a new timeline for the TEDBF. Originally, the first flight was aimed at 2026, but due to the extended review and approval processes, this has now been pushed to 2029. However, the induction into the Indian Navy’s fleet is set for a much later date, 2036, reflecting the extensive developmental and testing phases required for a deck-based fighter.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

REPRESENTATIONAL IMAGE

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India has reportedly commenced work on the development of the Rudram-IV, an advanced air-to-surface weapon system. Initial details about this missile system were first reported by idrw.org, and new information now sheds light on its specifications and intended mission profile.

The Rudram-IV is confirmed to have a range exceeding 300 kilometres, placing it in the category of long-range stand-off weapons. Interestingly, the missile is speculated to be lighter than the Rudram-III, which could allow for greater operational flexibility and enable it to target smaller and more precise objectives effectively.

Continue reading

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-run aircraft manufacturer, is set to commence deliveries of the newly ordered Sukhoi-30 fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in April 2027. This development follows the signing of a significant ?13,500-crore contract on December 12 with the Ministry of Defence for the procurement of 12 Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft, along with associated equipment.

The Sukhoi-30MKI jets under this contract will feature an Indigenous content of about 62.6%. The aircraft will be produced at HAL’s facility in Nashik, which has a history of manufacturing both MiG and Sukhoi aircraft under license, demonstrating HAL’s pivotal role in India’s defence production ecosystem.

Continue reading