SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a noteworthy development, the Indian Navy has submitted a substantial proposal to the Ministry of Defence, urging approval for the production and procurement of a second indigenous aircraft carrier. The Navy intends to recommend the project to Cochin Shipyard Limited, a move that signifies the nation’s commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities. The Ministry of Defence is set to convene soon to evaluate and sanction the Navy’s proposal.

The second indigenous aircraft carrier, known as IAC-II, will undergo modifications to facilitate the deployment of Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) and High-Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These advanced aircraft are currently under development in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and will possess Short-Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capabilities. These unique aircraft can take off in as little as 586 feet and execute short landings within just 335 feet.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s esteemed state-owned aerospace and defence company, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is embarking on a significant endeavour that promises to reshape the country’s military aviation capabilities. HAL is currently at the forefront of two groundbreaking helicopter programs: the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH) designed for the Indian Air Force and Indian Army, and the Deck-based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH) tailored for the Indian Navy. These ventures are expected to secure approximately 400 orders, ensuring the sustained operation of production lines well into 2045.

The IMRH program is poised to adopt an innovative approach by implementing the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model, where private sector companies will hold a substantial stake in the newly formed entity. Production of the IMRH is scheduled to commence in 2031, initially producing six units annually. This rate will progressively increase to 12, 24, and eventually 30 units per year from 2035 onwards, with this pace maintained until 2044.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

On the sidelines of the decommissioning ceremony of the last IL-38SD Sea Dragon Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance aircraft from operational service at India’s largest naval aviation base, INS Hansa, Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral R Hari Kumar, made an important announcement. He revealed that the prototype of the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF), designed to operate from Indian Navy aircraft carriers, is set to be completed within the next four to five years.

The TEDBF represents a pivotal leap in India’s naval aviation endeavours. It is designed as a canard delta wing, twin-engine, carrier-based, multirole combat aircraft and is currently under development by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). The manufacturing process for this cutting-edge aircraft will be handled by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a premier Indian aerospace and defence company.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian government is turning to the country’s private sector for the development of small gas turbines with thrust capabilities of 40 and 80 Kgf (Kilogram-force) for an upcoming Lottery ammunition program. These engines are envisioned as single-shaft turbine jet engines featuring a one-stage radial compressor, radial and axial diffuser, annular combustion chamber, one-stage axial turbine, and outlet nozzle.

In comparison, the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) that developed the STFE engine, boasts a thrust capacity of 425 Kgf. This engine is intended for use in a 1-ton subsonic cruise missile program.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, Dr. SV Kamat, Secretary of Defense Research and Development (DD R&D), and Chairman of the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), recently paid a visit to the Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL) in Ambernath. The primary purpose of this visit was to assess the progress of various projects undertaken by NMRL, with a particular focus on the ‘Fuel Cell-Based Air Independent Propulsion System (AIP) for Indian Naval Submarines.’

Dr. Kamat was warmly welcomed by Shri PT Rojatkar, OS & Director of NMRL, and the visit began with a comprehensive briefing on the status of the AIP program, as well as updates on other ongoing projects. The respective project teams provided detailed presentations, shedding light on the significant milestones achieved in these vital defence initiatives.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In the realm of cutting-edge aerospace technology and missile development, precision is paramount. The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in India is leading the charge in the design and fabrication of wind tunnel models for the NASM-MR cruise vehicle, a subsonic cruise missile with applications in both ground and air launch scenarios. This endeavour represents a crucial step in fine-tuning the aerodynamic characteristics of this remarkable missile.

The NASM-MR, or New Generation Anti-Radiation Missile-Medium Range, is a subsonic cruise missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in India. 

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Tejas MkII program has reached a pivotal stage as the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is gearing up to place orders for components and parts crucial to the development and testing of four Tejas Mk2 aircraft. This significant move follows ADA securing an impressive 80 per cent Transfer of Technology (ToT) for the F-414 engines, setting the stage for the program’s advancement.

ADA had already initiated orders for smaller components earlier this year. Now, the program’s focus is shifting towards larger components as the necessary funds have started flowing in. To expedite production, many private sector companies involved in manufacturing the fuselage for the Tejas Mk1A program have been enlisted. Detailed designs have been shared, and contracts for the initial manufacturing of wings, front, mid, and rear fuselage components for the Tejas MkII program are set to be executed soon.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant move towards modernizing its fleet and embracing sustainable mobility, the Indian Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to procure approximately 423 electric motorcycles. These eco-friendly two-wheelers are slated to serve in the Peace Establishments and Units deployed in the plains and semi-hilly terrains across India.

The Ministry of Defence, under the Government of India, has set its sights on electric mobility, aligning with the nation’s larger commitment to reducing its carbon footprint. This endeavour not only represents a green shift but also a forward-looking approach to technological advancement in the realm of military transport.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant move to bolster its air defence capabilities, India is progressing swiftly with Project Kusha, a mission aimed at developing a state-of-the-art air defence system that rivals the effectiveness of the renowned S-400 system. This visionary initiative, greenlit by the Cabinet Committee on Security in May 2022, is now in full swing and has garnered considerable attention.

Project Kusha encompasses a multifaceted approach to enhance India’s air defence capabilities. The defence ministry recently granted the much-anticipated Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the acquisition of five squadrons of this advanced system, designed specifically for the Indian Air Force (IAF). This pivotal development comes with an estimated budget of Rs 21,700 crore, signifying the nation’s commitment to building a formidable defence infrastructure.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is taking significant steps to enhance the capabilities of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Air Force Mk2. ADA has entered into collaboration with Safran Data Systems, a reputable French company, to facilitate software modifications for Unified Video Cum Digital Recorder (UVDR) Airborne Units and Ground Replay System (GRS).

This partnership aims to cater to additional requirements for the LCA Air Force Mk2, which is a crucial advancement in India’s defence technology.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant move towards self-reliance and indigenous defence production, India is embarking on the manufacturing of advanced missiles used in the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) formidable Su-30 MKI aircraft. With the Atmanirbhar (self-reliant) scheme taking centre stage, there is a pressing need to produce these missiles within the country. This initiative aligns with the “Make III” procedure outlined in Chapter III of the Defense Acquisition Procedure 2020 (DAP 2020).

The R-27 ET1 missiles are vital components of India’s air defence capabilities, designed for use with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. IAF is planning to buy approximately 200, with a primary focus on enhancing air combat capabilities.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to play a more hands-on role in the Tejas MkII Program as it assumes responsibility for the integration phase of weapons testing. This marks a shift from the Tejas Mk1A Program, where the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handled weapons testing, including the Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) and Final Operational Clearance (FOC) configuration testing.

In the Tejas MkII Program, the focus will be on successful integration testing and safe separation releases of weapons systems. The IAF, in collaboration with ADA and HAL, will clear weapons systems based on hardware and software integration, as well as results obtained from computer simulations.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has initiated discussions with the French Naval Group regarding the procurement of three additional Advanced Scorpène class submarines for the Indian Navy. This move is part of a broader effort to bolster India’s naval capabilities, following the successful delivery of six Scorpène class submarines (Kalvari) to the Indian Navy.

These three additional Advanced Scorpène class submarines are expected to come for 10,000 crores each. The increased expense is due to several enhancements made to the submarines, including the incorporation of additional Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system plugs and the integration of advanced Lithium-ion battery packs. Furthermore, various changes in submarine sensors and equipment have contributed to the elevated price.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development, the Ordnance Factory Medak is set to roll out the Carrier Command Post Tracked (CCPT) vehicles on October 30. These highly specialized vehicles are designed to perform crucial tactical and technical fire control functions, ensuring the effective deployment of Self-Propelled (SP) Artillery guns.

The CCPT vehicles play a pivotal role in modern warfare scenarios, enhancing the capabilities of military forces in terms of operational control and strategic deployments. These vehicles represent a noteworthy modification of the Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP-II, specifically engineered to meet the demands of contemporary military operations.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

As Russia’s after-sales support for Su-30MKI/MKK/MKA operators diminishes, India is eyeing not only overhaul orders from countries with Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighters but also orders for mid-life upgrades for these platforms. According to sources familiar with the matter, told idrw.org that several nations operating Russian-origin Su-30MKI-based variants have been in contact with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) and closely monitoring the “Super-30” upgrade program.

The “Super-30” upgrade initiative aims to modernize India’s current fleet of over 270 Su-30MKI fighters by replacing Russian-origin equipment and systems with Indian-made counterparts. This overhaul includes significant hardware upgrades to the aircraft, such as the integration of the Uttam AESA Radar, advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) systems, enhanced weapons systems, a modern Mission Control Computer, Infrared Search and Tracking (IRST) capabilities, digital cockpit, and various other systems.