SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy has been assigned the pivotal role of overseeing the development of India’s upcoming High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Class Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) proposed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) for the Indian Armed Forces.

While ADE is still finalizing the configuration of the Turboprop-powered HALE UAV in collaboration with the tri-service branches of the Indian military, it has been decided that the Navy will collaborate with ADE in establishing the fundamental parameters of the HALE UAV. Simultaneously, the Army and Air Force will recommend specific sensors and payloads based on their operational requirements.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Philippines Air Force (PAF) is currently evaluating its options for acquiring a fleet of fighter jets to enhance its defence capabilities. While the Indian-made HAL Tejas was initially considered a potential choice, recent developments indicate that the PAF is leaning towards the procurement of second-hand Gripen C/D aircraft from Sweden.

One of the primary factors influencing the Philippine Air Force’s decision-making process is the cost-effectiveness of the options available. Saab’s offer of used Gripen C/D aircraft presents an attractive opportunity due to its lower price tag compared to the HAL Tejas. The budgetary constraints faced by the PAF make the Gripen C/D a more financially feasible option, allowing the Philippines to acquire a larger fleet of fighter jets within their allocated resources.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The potential acquisition of the Indian-made BrahMos supersonic cruise missile by Indonesia has faced hurdles due to compatibility issues with the country’s existing coastal radars and combat management systems. While Indonesia has expressed interest in procuring the BrahMos missile as part of its defense modernization efforts, integrating it into its defense infrastructure poses technical challenges. The Indonesian government emphasizes the transfer of technology as a crucial component of any defense equipment procurement, which further complicates the situation.

Indonesian warships’ Combat Management Systems heavily rely on Western original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or technology transfers from OEMs to PT Len Industri, an Indonesian state-owned communications equipment manufacturer.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making significant strides in promoting the participation of private sector companies in the production and launch of the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV).

Recognizing the potential of the private sector, ISRO is actively seeking collaborations with private companies to manufacture and launch SSLV rockets. By involving private entities in SSLV production, ISRO aims to boost indigenous manufacturing capabilities while also promoting innovation and efficiency.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India and France are set to discuss potential collaboration in the development of nuclear attack submarines during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to France as the chief guest for the Bastille Day parade. This meeting holds significant importance as it aims to foster cooperation and strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Earlier in 2023, France had extended an offer to jointly develop nuclear attack submarines (SSNs) with India as part of its atmanirbharta (self-reliance) initiative. This collaboration would involve the transfer of technology based on France’s advanced Barracuda-class SSNs, with the Naval Group, responsible for developing the Scorpene boats, leading the project. The first of the Barracuda-class SSNs, Suffren, was commissioned into the French Navy in mid-2022. France plans to commission a total of six SSNs by 2030, each costing over $2 billion.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), Indian Air Force (IAF), and the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) are set to initiate developmental trials of the Air-Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (ALUAV) later this year or early next year. These trials will be conducted from IAF-operated C-130J Transport Aircraft, marking an important milestone in the joint project undertaken by the United States and India under the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) initiative.

The ALUAV, which will be used for Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) roles, will feature joint intellectual property rights (IPR) for both the United States and India. The collaboration aims to develop an indigenous capability for manufacturing the ALUAV in India by leveraging technology transfer from the United States.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India is set to equip its Light Tank with the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO). This strategic move aims to bolster the offensive capabilities of the light tank, which is currently under development and slated for rollout later this year. The MPATGM, a low-weight and fire-and-forget missile, will significantly enhance the tank’s offensive firepower.

The indigenously developed MPATGM features a miniaturized infrared imaging seeker and advanced avionics for precise onboard control and guidance. The missile has undergone successful test trials, proving its performance and maximum range. Earlier this year, the DRDO announced its plans to develop a lighter variant of the MPATGM, reducing its weight by 10-20 per cent to ensure it is man-portable.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

BrahMos Aerospace, the renowned Indo-Russian missile manufacturer, has recently confirmed the successful completion of the preliminary design phase for the next generation of BrahMos-NG missiles. Pravin Pathak, the export director of the missile producer, revealed that the shape of the BrahMos-NG missiles has been finalized, signalling that the production phase is approaching rapidly.

Pathak shared this exciting update during the International Maritime Defense Show held in St. Petersburg last week, generating significant interest and anticipation among defence enthusiasts and experts alike. The BrahMos-NG (Next Generation) missile is set to be a miniaturized version of its predecessor. Although it will offer the same range and speed capabilities as the current BrahMos missile operated by the Indian Army, it will be considerably lighter in weight.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Hanwha Ocean, a leading global player in the field of submarine technology, has expressed its keen interest in responding to the Indian Navy’s Request for Proposal (RFP) for the construction of six diesel submarines. The company has confirmed that its offering will meet the stringent requirements set forth by the Indian Navy, including the incorporation of a fuel cell-based Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system and cutting-edge lithium-ion battery technology, in which Hanwha Ocean is a recognized world leader.

Hanwha Ocean’s expertise in advanced submarine technology has been demonstrated through the successful deployment of the KSS-III Batch-II submarine, which boasts one of the highest underwater endurance capabilities among non-nuclear submarines. The KSS-III Batch-II submarine features an impressive fuel cell-based AIP system and a lithium-ion battery pack, showcasing Hanwha Ocean’s proficiency in these technologies.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has set its sights on acquiring 108 Tejas Mk2 fighter jets, which will be equipped with the powerful American F-414 engine generating 98kN of thrust. This initial projection is just the beginning, as the order book is expected to expand further with the development of the second improved variant of the Tejas Mk2.

The upgraded variant of the Tejas Mk2, although yet to receive an official designation, will be equipped with a brand-new engine capable of generating 110kN of thrust. This engine is being specifically designed and developed for the 5th generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. In addition to the enhanced engine, the improved Tejas Mk2 will also incorporate a range of other improvements.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Hanwha Group’s defence division has presented its upgraded K9 Vajra Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) to the Indian Army, showcasing a host of new features and advancements. The South Korean company claims that the upgraded variant, known as the K9A2, is a game-changer in the field of artillery, providing novel opportunities for artillery deployment and enabling rapid shoot-and-scoot operations to enhance survivability and extend battlefield coverage.

One of the key enhancements in the K9A2 SPH is the introduction of a full-automatic turret. This advanced turret system can handle ammunition feeding, loading, and propellant charge 100% automatically. With this feature, the K9A2 is capable of firing up to 10 rounds per minute, significantly improving its rate of fire and overall operational efficiency.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone with the completion of the 200th flight of the TAPAS (Tactical Airborne Platform for Aerial Surveillance) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV). The TAPAS UAV was recently demonstrated to a Tri-services team at ATR Chitradurga on June 27, 2023, marking its debut before the esteemed group. The indigenous development efforts showcased in the UAV were highly appreciated by the Tri-services team, reflecting the growing recognition of India’s self-reliance in defence technology.

DRDO took to Twitter to share the news, stating, “Tri-services team appreciated the indigenous efforts for the development of UAV. TAPAS is now ready for user evaluation trials,” signifying a major step forward towards potential integration into the Indian Armed Forces. The user evaluation trials will allow the armed forces to assess the performance and capabilities of the TAPAS UAV in real-world scenarios.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program, which aims to develop a next-generation naval fighter aircraft for the Indian Navy, may face further delays as the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) clearance for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) 5th generation program is expected to take precedence.

The CCS clearance for the AMCA program, which focuses on the development of an indigenous 5th-generation fighter jet, is likely to be granted only by the end of this year, potentially causing a ripple effect on the TEDBF program.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) have agreed to revise their approach for the development of the Next-Generation Close Combat Missile (NGCCM), potentially leading to an extended timeline for its completion. The decision was made to develop the NGCCM from scratch instead of incorporating an infrared-homing seeker onto an existing airframe, which was initially planned as a temporary solution using the Astra-Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) airframe.

The IAF has set high expectations for the NGCCM, anticipating significant cost reductions in weapon procurement and maintenance across its fleet. By adopting a standardized Close Combat Missile (CCM) for its aircraft, the IAF aims to streamline its arsenal and enhance operational efficiency. To achieve this goal, the IAF plans to equip the MBDA-developed Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) as a common infrared (IR) missile, replacing the R-73 missiles on the Su-30MKI fleet, as well as being compatible with the Tejas Mk1A and Mk2 aircraft.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

French aerospace and defence multinational company Safran, in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), a state-owned aerospace heavyweight in India, is actively seeking a partnership with a private Indian aerospace company specializing in the manufacturing of engine components, particularly combustors for the development of new high thrust engines for India’s AMCA program if India chooses to partner with them.

Safran and HAL had previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in the previous year to initiate the joint development of this high-thrust engine. The co-development process is expected to involve Safran, the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), and a private Indian aerospace company. The engine’s production will be overseen by a joint venture plant between Safran and HAL located in Bangalore.