SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is embarking on a dual-track approach to bolster its fighter jet fleet, with the procurement of 100 Tejas Mk1A aircraft and the upcoming Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. The recent decision to procure an additional 100 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, following the initial order of 83 in 2021, marks a significant stride towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The induction of these aircraft is set to commence in 2024, with a steady ramp-up in production over subsequent years.

However, this move towards strengthening the Tejas fleet should not be misconstrued as a substitute for the ambitious MRFA program. Under the Make in India initiative, the IAF’s plans to procure 114 fighter jets of foreign origin with complete Transfer of Technology (ToT) remain firmly intact.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Undeterred by the recent crash of the TAPAS UAV during an experimental flight trial in nearby farmland from ATR Challakere, Karnataka, plans for user trials of the TAPAS UAV remain steadfast. The trials, originally slated to commence later this year, will proceed as scheduled, according to information obtained by idrw.org.

The recent crash marks the second instance of TAPAS experiencing an accident in the past four years, but preliminary reports suggest that the crash might not be linked to any technical defects, reinforcing the dedication to advancing the program.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its aerial prowess and modernizing its fleet, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has taken a decisive step by placing orders for an additional 100 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets. The acquisition of 100 more Tejas Mk1A fighter jets will translate to an augmentation of five squadrons, making significant strides in replacing the retiring Mig-21 and Mig-29 squadrons.

The phased retirement of the Mig-21 and Mig-29 squadrons is a necessary step in the IAF’s evolution. The Mig-29, a stalwart in the IAF’s fleet for nearly four decades, is nearing the end of its airworthy lifespan. With around five to six years of operational viability left, the IAF’s plans to procure 21 unused Mig-29 aircraft from Russia faced a hurdle due to economic and trade sanctions imposed by Western and European countries.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is taking decisive steps to halt the gradual decline in its fighter jet squadron numbers. In a strategic move to bolster its aerial prowess, the IAF is in the process of introducing an additional 90-100 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, building on the initial order of 73 placed in 2021.

Earlier this year, a significant milestone was achieved as Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane inaugurated the third production line of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) at the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) facility in Nashik, Maharashtra. This new production line is poised to play a pivotal role in the induction of the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets into the IAF’s fleet.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Argentina, a country without an active fighter jet fleet, is poised to make a crucial decision that could reshape its defence capabilities and strategic partnerships. As the nation deliberates over the purchase of 15 fighter jets by the end of this year, fierce competition is underway between two contenders: India’s LCA-Tejas and China’s JF-17 fighter jets. This choice carries significant implications for Argentina’s defence posture and global alliances.

The backdrop of this decision is complex, with multiple geopolitical factors at play. The United States Congress is considering transferring ex-Danish F-16A/B fighter jets to Ukraine, which is embroiled in a conflict with Russia. The possibility of these jets being offered to Argentina adds another layer of intrigue to the situation.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) recently issued a Request for Expression of Interest (REOI), DRDO has initiated the process of identifying and shortlisting potential Defense Collaborative Production Partners (DCPPs) for the development and production of Missile/Bomb weapon system projects under the Missile System and Subsystem (MSS) cluster.

The objective of this initiative is to forge strong partnerships with capable Indian companies to collaboratively bring to fruition the ambitious missile and bomb weapon system projects envisioned by DRDO.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Indian Ministry of Defense’s (MoD) Collegiate Committee has granted Approval in principle (AIP) for the indigenous development of the Air-Launched Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM) for the Indian Air Force to be used from Fighter jets.

The LRLACM is a homegrown, subsonic missile that is being developed to cater to the requirements of the Indian Army, Indian Air Force, and Indian Navy. Spearheading this ambitious project is the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), a Bengaluru-based DRDO lab known for its contributions to advanced aerospace technologies.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has marked a significant step towards bolstering its military capabilities with the Approval In-Principle (AIP) granted for the indigenous development of high-altitude platforms (HAPs). These cutting-edge platforms, designed for border surveillance, have the potential to revolutionize military reconnaissance and surveillance efforts, enhancing national security.

HAPs often likened to drones but with a distinct advantage, are engineered to operate at altitudes ranging from 18 to 20 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. This altitude advantage sets them apart from conventional drones, enabling them to survey vast areas and provide critical data for strategic decision-making. While satellites orbit at much greater altitudes using gravitational forces, HAPs are deployed at a lower altitude, granting them greater manoeuvrability and responsiveness.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s naval prowess continues to evolve as it inches closer to testing the second generation of its Arihant-class submarines. The S4, an eagerly anticipated addition to this class, is set to showcase enhanced capabilities with a 1000-tonne increase in displacement compared to its predecessor.

The S4, the third submarine in this class, achieved a significant milestone when it was quietly launched at Visakhapatnam in late November of the previous year. Satellite imagery has confirmed that the submarine is now out of the dry dock and positioned in the wet dock, marking a pivotal step toward its operational readiness.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Francisco Gomes Neto, President & CEO of Embraer, recently highlighted the company’s eagerness to showcase the exceptional capabilities of the C-390 Millennium aircraft in the challenging conditions of India’s high-altitude regions. In a recent media interview, Neto expressed Embraer’s readiness to demonstrate the ruggedness and efficiency of the C-390 Millennium on short or unpaved runways at significant altitudes, at the request of the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The C-390 Millennium, a state-of-the-art transport aircraft, has achieved a significant milestone by attaining Full Operational Capability (FOC) with the Brazilian Air Force in April 2023. Neto emphasized the aircraft’s remarkable versatility, which spans a wide range of operations including air-to-air refuelling, medical evacuation, troop and cargo transport, firefighting, and more.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant stride towards bolstering coastal surveillance and maritime security, the Indian Navy is set to equip sixteen Shallow Crafts with the advanced Hull-mounted Sonar ABHAY. Developed by the Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), ABHAY is poised to enhance the capabilities of these vessels, promising a new level of effectiveness in coastal patrolling and sub-surface surveillance.

The Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) in Kolkata and the Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi are at the helm of this vital project.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been making significant strides in the development of radar technology, turning its radars into sought-after assets by countries worldwide. The organization’s efforts have not only bolstered India’s self-reliance but have also positioned it as a key player in the international defence market.

BK Das, a distinguished scientist and Director of General Electronics and Communication Systems at DRDO, recently highlighted the organization’s remarkable achievement. He emphasized that DRDO-developed radars have become highly desirable for numerous countries that were once importers of such technology. India’s transformation from an importer to an exporter of advanced radar systems has been a testament to the nation’s technological prowess.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India is on the cusp of a significant milestone as it prepares to conduct final user and developmental trials of its Indigenous Anti-Radiation Missile, Rudram, later this year.

Rudram, a missile that has undergone meticulous development and refinement, is at the forefront of DRDO’s mission to achieve self-reliance in defence technology. This upcoming round of trials aims to validate and fine-tune the missile’s performance, ensuring it meets the highest standards of efficiency and effectiveness.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Following the successful test firing of the Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVR AAM) from the LCA-Tejas, HAL and the IAF are poised to add another formidable weapon to the fighter jet’s arsenal. The ASRAAM, developed by the European missile-maker MBDA, is renowned for its Within Visual Range (WVR) air dominance capabilities and boasts an impressive range of over 25 kilometers.

HAL’s ongoing discussions with MBDA are focused on not only integrating the ASRAAM missile on the LCA-Tejas but also exploring its potential fitment on the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, another cornerstone of India’s air power. This collaborative effort is a testament to India’s drive to harness the expertise of global defense technology leaders to strengthen its own defense capabilities.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Army, Bharat Earth Movers Ltd. (BEML), a leading Defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has clinched a substantial order worth 385 crore from Bharat Electronics (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics (BDL). The order encompasses the supply of high-mobility vehicles designed specifically for deployment as Command Post Vehicles, a crucial component of modern battlefield communication and coordination.

BEML, known for its expertise in manufacturing and supplying top-notch defence equipment, has successfully secured the order to provide high-mobility vehicles that will serve as advanced Command Post Vehicles.