SOURCE : AFI

In May 2024, significant updates have been made to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and Open General Export Licenses (OGELs) for exporting munitions list items, as announced by the Department of Defence Production (DDP). These modifications aim to streamline defence exports and support India’s Defence Export Strategy.

The SOP for defence exports has been revised to be more business-friendly, facilitating easier compliance for exporters. These changes are part of a broader initiative to simplify regulatory processes and promote the ease of doing business in the defence sector. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles, the new SOP is expected to encourage more companies to engage in defence exports.

SOURCE: AFI

Three years after India’s agreement with GE for F-404 engine supplies, a critical situation has emerged. Delays due to supply chain issues and a dwindling order book from other manufacturers threaten the timely delivery of the remaining 99 engines. This shortage could significantly impact production of the Tejas Mk1A fighter jets.

South Korea’s experience with the FA-50 program offers a stark contrast. By achieving Transfer of Technology (ToT) for the F-404 engine, South Korea ensured a stable supply chain and maintained a high production rate for its jets. India, lacking ToT, faces dependence on external factors beyond its control.

SOURCE: AFI

Bharat-Forge, a leading Indian defense manufacturer, is experiencing a surge in inquiries for its artillery guns from European nations. This growing interest coincides with the company’s rising reputation for possessing the world’s most extensive portfolio of 7 artillery guns.

Bharat-Forge’s impressive artillery portfolio includes the ATAGS, MArG 155-BR, Garuda 105-V2, Bharat 52, Bharat ULH 155mm 39 CAL, and MGS 155mm/52 Cal guns. Industry sources suggest that the Bharat ULH 155mm 39 CAL and Garuda 105-V2 models are particularly attracting the attention of European countries.

SOURCE: AFI

International Aerospace Manufacturing Pvt Ltd (IAMPL), a joint venture between Rolls-Royce and Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), is setting its sights on significant growth in Tamil Nadu. The company is actively exploring the possibility of establishing four to five new manufacturing units in the state, according to Kishore Jayaraman, President of Rolls-Royce – India and South Asia.

During a discussion at the Tamil Nadu Technology Hub (iTNT hub) day event, Mr. Jayaraman highlighted the positive factors influencing IAMPL’s expansion plans in Tamil Nadu. He commended the state’s strong infrastructure, skilled workforce, excellent academic institutions, and supportive governance.

SOURCE: AFI

IdeaForge, a leading drone manufacturer based in Navi Mumbai, has acquired a non-controlling stake in GalaxEye Space, a Bengaluru-based spacetech startup, for INR 8.28 crore (approximately $1 million). This strategic move comes after the two companies reportedly signed an agreement earlier this year to collaborate on the development of a foliage penetration radar-equipped unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).

The acquisition underscores IdeaForge’s commitment to developing advanced drone-based sensors. GalaxEye Space’s expertise in multi-sensor imaging satellites aligns perfectly with IdeaForge’s vision of creating next-generation drones capable of operating in challenging environments like foggy and foliage-dense areas.

SOURCE: AFI

Just days before the recent NATO summit in Washington, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held its annual meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan. This gathering of leaders from the world’s largest regional organization saw the addition of Belarus to the bloc.

Established in 2001 by China and Russia, the SCO’s initial focus was on security and economic matters in Central Asia. However, amidst intensifying global competition and strained relations with the West, China and Russia are increasingly portraying the SCO as a counterweight to the US-led international order.

SOURCE : AFI

The Indian Navy has recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) for an advanced autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) that can be launched from undersea platforms. This initiative, known as the Underwater-Launched Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (ULAUV) project, aims to enhance the Navy’s capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as mine-countermeasures (MCM) deception operations.

The RFI, released on 1 July, outlines the primary functions the ULAUV must perform. These include detecting both surface and subsurface targets and relaying target information to another underwater platform using an acoustic communication link. The vehicle should be capable of recording acoustic and visual data of targets for thorough analysis. Additionally, it must feature homing capabilities to detect the distress frequency of disabled underwater platforms, indicating a role in rescuing distressed submarines.

SOURCE: AFI

The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in India is pioneering a revolutionary engine concept called “flat rating” for the GTX engine. This concept addresses a critical challenge faced by modern high-pressure ratio engines – a rapid decline in thrust with increasing compressor inlet temperature (T1). This effect is particularly pronounced in bypass engines, where thrust loss worsens with a higher bypass ratio.

The flat rating concept tackles this issue by employing a “variable cycle” approach. It dynamically adjusts the maximum cycle temperature to maintain optimal dry thrust even under varying flight conditions. This concept is gaining traction in the design of combat aircraft engines, specifically for achieving sustained supersonic cruise at high altitudes.

SOURCE: AFI

Bharat Electronics Ltd. (BEL), a leading Indian defense public sector undertaking (PSU), has secured a significant export order worth €25.75 million. This win marks a major milestone for India’s defense exports and BEL’s growing international presence.

Thales Reliance Defence Systems (TRDS), a joint venture between Reliance Aerostructure Limited and Thales India Private Limited, entrusted BEL with the manufacture and supply of Transmit Receive (TR) modules. These modules play a vital role in the functioning of Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars, a key technology in modern fighter jets.

SOURCE : AFI

Pakistan’s top military official, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, recently visited Ankara, Turkey, in a move highlighting the growing defense ties between the two nations.

General Mirza met with key Turkish defense officials, including Defense Minister Yasar Guler, Chief of General Staff General Metin Gurak, and Land Forces Commander General Selcuk Baytaktaroglu. A key topic of discussion was reportedly the potential acquisition of Turkish F-16 fighter jets.