SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Army is taking a significant step towards bolstering its artillery capabilities with plans to procure up to 1200 next-generation Towed Gun Systems (TGS), with an initial order for 400 units. This procurement initiative represents a crucial advancement in the modernization of India’s artillery forces.

The TGS, designed to be within the 15-ton weight category, will incorporate a range of state-of-the-art upgrades and features to enhance its performance and versatility. Among these enhancements are:

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a strategic move to bolster its maritime defence capabilities, the Indian Navy is exploring the integration of Frontline Warship Low-cost Loitering Munitions. These precision munitions represent a cost-effective solution to counter sea-based threats, including unmanned surface vessels and enemy warships equipped with long-range capabilities, thereby acting as force multipliers in naval warfare.

Loitering munitions, also known as suicide drones or kamikaze drones, are unmanned aerial vehicles designed for a unique purpose – to loiter on the battlefield, identify high-value targets, and then engage and neutralize them. Their ability to linger in the vicinity of potential threats makes them invaluable assets in modern naval warfare.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) from its eastern coast, indicating an upcoming missile test that is scheduled to take place from October 5, 2023, to October 9, 2023. The designated testing area covers a range of 2,000 kilometres, signifying the likely test of the Agni-1P missile.

The Agni-1P is a two-stage, solid-fueled Medium-Range Ballistic Missile (MRBM) that falls under the category of surface-to-surface missiles. It is designed to be road-mobile, offering enhanced flexibility and mobility for the armed forces. This missile variant has been developed and tested by India’s Strategic Forces Command (SFC) as part of the User Trials phase before it can be cleared for production and operational deployment.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy is embarking on an ambitious endeavour to bolster its naval capabilities with the development of a second aircraft carrier, known as the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier II (IAC-II), and the proposed third aircraft carrier, IAC-III. These carriers will play a pivotal role in enhancing India’s maritime security and power projection in the Indo-Pacific region.

IAC-II represents a significant leap in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence manufacturing. It will be based on the Vikrant Class lead aircraft carrier but with a higher degree of indigenization. This means that a larger portion of the carrier’s components and systems will be manufactured domestically, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is gearing up for a crucial phase in the development of its Long-Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM), which is set to undergo trials in the coming weeks. This sub-sonic cruise missile boasts an impressive range of over 1000 kilometres, making it a significant addition to India’s defence capabilities.

The LRLACM program represents a strategic successor to India’s ongoing Nirbhay Cruise Missile program, which is being developed for both the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force (IAF). With its extended range and advanced features, the LRLACM promises to bolster India’s offensive capabilities and serve as a formidable deterrent.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

During the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC) held in the Indian capital, New Delhi, Brazilian Army Chief of Staff, General Fernando Jose’ Santana Soares e Silva, expressed keen interest in Indian defence technologies. The conference provided an opportunity for India to showcase its indigenous defence capabilities to international delegates, and Brazil, in particular, expressed interest in several Indian innovations.

One of the highlights was the ALS-50, developed by Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). This state-of-the-art system garnered attention from the Brazilian delegation due to its advanced features and capabilities.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM

In a significant development, Elbit Systems, a global leader in defence technology, has joined forces with Adani Defence and Aerospace to bid for the Indian Army’s artillery gun requirements. The Indian Army’s quest for advanced artillery capabilities has led to the exploration of cutting-edge solutions, and the Elbit-Adani partnership aims to provide just that.

The Indian Army is actively seeking a 155mm/52 calibre howitzer that meets specific criteria, including a weight limit of under 15 tons. This requirement reflects the army’s emphasis on mobility and agility in modern warfare scenarios. Reports from idrw.org suggest that the Indian Army is contemplating the procurement of 20 regiments, which amounts to nearly 400 guns. These artillery pieces are expected to be lighter and more agile compared to existing options such as the ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System) and the Dhanush Artillery gun.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Brazilian Army Chief of Staff, General Fernando Jose’ Santana Soares e Silva, has revealed that Brazil is interested in procuring India’s indigenous Akash Air Defence system. However, this interest comes with a unique proposal—a barter deal. Brazil is willing to supply the Akash Air Defence system to India if India agrees to purchase Embraer aircraft from Brazil.

The specific Embraer aircraft in question was not specified, but it aligns with India’s ongoing procurement plans. The Indian Air Force (IAF) is currently seeking to acquire 40 Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA), and Embraer has offered its C-390M Medium-Haul Transport Aircraft for this purpose. Additionally, the IAF is exploring options to procure six EMB-145 aircraft for its Netra Mk1/A Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) fleet.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India is poised to take significant strides in its Nuclear Attack Submarine (SSN) program, with France’s Naval Group emerging as a crucial partner in this endeavour. The cooperation between the two countries holds the potential to elevate India’s maritime defence capabilities to new heights.

The collaboration between India and France in the field of SSNs comes after India sought France’s assistance in its SSN program, and discussions are progressing favorably. France, with its rich expertise in submarine technology, is a natural ally for India’s ambitions in this domain.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant move towards bolstering India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) has set an ambitious target to completely reduce its reliance on Russia for certain components of the T-90 Main Battle Tanks operated by the Indian Army. The goal is to achieve this milestone by mid-2024, marking a significant shift towards indigenous production and reducing dependency on foreign sources.

The T-90 Main Battle Tanks are a critical component of India’s armoured forces, and ensuring their self-sufficiency in terms of components and parts is of paramount importance. AVNL, in collaboration with the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) at Avadi near Chennai, has already made significant strides in this direction.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Brazilian Army Chief of Staff, General Fernando Jose’ Santana Soares e Silva, is currently in India to attend the Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC) in New Delhi. During his visit, he had the opportunity to inspect Indian artillery guns, specifically the OFB-developed Dhanush 155mm/52 calibre artillery gun and the DRDO-developed ATAGS (Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System).

After a thorough examination, General Soares e Silva confirmed Brazil’s interest in procuring at least 40 artillery guns from India in the first phase, with the possibility of acquiring more in subsequent stages. He emphasized that India’s indigenous artillery guns are not only competitive in price but also renowned for their high-quality build.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Army, in line with the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ programs, has issued a Request for Information (RFI) on behalf of the Ministry of Defence to procure Unit Maintenance Vehicles (Indigenous) or UMV (I). The UMV (I) is based on a 6×6 High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) with a Mobile Hydraulic Crane (MHC). The intended quantity is 77 units, and these vehicles will play a crucial role as Tech Support Vehicles (TSVs) for the maintenance of Tank T-90 in field conditions.

The UMV (I) will be designed to facilitate preventive maintenance tasks and conduct light repairs on the automotive and electrical systems of the Tank T-90. The crew for these vehicles will consist of four personnel, including the driver.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development aimed at advancing India’s defence capabilities and promoting the “Make-In-India” model, Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVANI) has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP). 

This initiative seeks to tap into the technological expertise within the Indian industry, surmount the challenges of achieving an indigenous solution, and foster collaboration with experienced industry partners in the field of military vehicle design, manufacturing, and integration of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

As the Indian Air Force (IAF) looks toward its future needs, it has identified a critical requirement for strategic airlift aircraft to replace its ageing fleet of IL-76MDs, which were procured in the mid-1980s from the Soviet Union. These aircraft have served the IAF well but are now reaching the end of their operational lives.

Sources familiar with the matter have informed idrw.org that efforts to upgrade the existing IL-76MDs, particularly with modern PS-90A-76 turbofan bypass engines, have faced challenges and have not materialized as planned. Consequently, IAF is now undertaking studies to assess its strategic airlift aircraft requirements and identify suitable options to maintain its cargo-moving capabilities.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has taken a significant step in advancing the capabilities of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Air Force Mark 2 (MK-2) by issuing tenders for the Design, Development, Qualification, Supply, and Integration of a Low-Profile Head-Up Display (HUD). This critical development marks a milestone in enhancing the avionics systems of the LCA AF MK-2 aircraft.

The Scope of Work (SOW) outlined in the tender document delineates the responsibilities of both ADA and the selected vendor in this endeavour. The key points within the tender include: