SOURCE : AFI

For strategic reasons, robust aerial surveillance capabilities over the Tibetan plateau are crucial for India. High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs offer a solution, but jet-powered variants hold significant advantages compared to conventional propeller-driven options, particularly at high altitudes. Let’s explore why jet-powered HALE UAVs should be India’s priority program for this mission.

Propeller efficiency diminishes significantly in the thin air of high altitudes. This translates to reduced lift, limiting payload capacity and maneuverability. Propeller engines struggle to maintain optimal fuel burn at high altitudes, leading to a shorter operational range.

SOURCE : AFI

The Indian Army’s need for a modern close-quarter battle (CQB) carbine has been a pressing issue since 2008. The outdated 9mm Sterling submachine guns are nearing the end of their service life, and a replacement program for nearly 4.25 lakh (425,000) carbines is long overdue.

Enter BSS Material Ltd., a company whose offer of the AK-19, a 5.56 x 45mm assault rifle, was recently rejected by the Indian Army. This decision has been challenged in court by BSS, highlighting the ongoing search for the ideal carbine.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has achieved a significant milestone with the successful completion of all three autonomous landing tests for its spaceplane, “Pushpak.” This accomplishment, achieved within just 15 months, marks a major step forward in India’s reusable launch vehicle (RLV) technology development program.

The final and most challenging landing test took place on June 23rd, 2024, at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka. This successful test paves the way for the next phase of development for Pushpak.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent column for “The Print,” General Manoj Mukund Naravane, the retired Indian Army General and former 28th Chief of the Army Staff, expressed strong support for the Agnipath recruitment scheme. He believes that with the right adjustments, Agnipath can serve as a global model not only for military recruitment but also for various government jobs.

General Naravane highlighted the potential of the Agnipath scheme to revolutionize recruitment across the Indian Armed Forces. He suggested that if successfully implemented, this model could be extended to all central government jobs, including allied services and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF). “This will go a long way in demonstrating and vindicating the government’s stand that the Agnipath scheme is indeed a transformative and beneficial scheme,” he stated.

SOURCE: AFI

On June 28th, 2024, a significant agreement was signed between Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the supply of crucial equipment for the Indian Army’s BMP-2 infantry combat vehicle upgrade program. This collaboration aims to enhance the firepower and operational capabilities of the BMP-2 fleet.

The contract stipulates that BEL will provide 693 fire control systems and sighting systems to AVNL. These systems will be integrated into the existing BMP-2 vehicles, transforming them into the upgraded BMP-2M variant. The upgraded BMP-2M will boast improved night-fighting capabilities, enhanced gunner’s main sight and commander’s panoramic sight, and a modernized fire control system equipped with an automatic target tracker.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant milestone for civil aviation in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, an Indian Air Force (IAF) owned Narrow-body Airbus A321 successfully completed a nighttime landing at INS Utkrosh airfield today. This achievement reflects the collaborative efforts of the Indian Navy, the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC), and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in upgrading the airfield infrastructure.

The nighttime landing capability at INS Utkrosh opens new doors for increased air traffic and improved connectivity to the island chain. Civilian airlines will now be able to operate flights during evening and night hours, providing greater flexibility for passengers and businesses. This development is expected to boost tourism, trade, and overall economic activity in the region.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is making significant strides in data dissemination with its Geoportal, Bhuvan. According to ISRO Chief S. Somanath, Bhuvan offers users ten times more detailed information compared to global giants like Google. This advancement positions Bhuvan as a powerful tool with the potential to revolutionize data-driven decision-making across various sectors.

Somanath highlighted the launch of two crucial tools, Bhuvan-Panchayat and NDEM, that significantly expand Bhuvan’s capabilities. Bhuvan’s existing reputation lies in its comprehensive geospatial data offerings, providing valuable insights and resources for diverse fields like agriculture, urban planning, and disaster management.

SOURCE: AFI

Udupi Cochin Shipyard Limited (UCSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), has secured a significant international order for the construction of eight 6300 Deadweight Tonnage (DWT) dry cargo vessels. The prestigious contract, valued at approximately Rs 1,100 crore, was awarded by Wilson ASA, a leading short-sea fleet operator in Norway.

The agreement signing ceremony, held on June 28th, 2024, formalized the construction of four 6300 TDW dry cargo vessels. An additional agreement for another four vessels of the same type is in place, with the formal contract expected to be signed by September 19, 2024.

SOURCE: AFI

Maharashtra is set to etch its name in history as the first Indian state to purchase land in Jammu and Kashmir for a dedicated tourist facility. This move marks a significant development in inter-state collaboration and signifies growing openness in the region.

The state government plans to construct a ‘Maharashtra Bhavan’ in Budgam, central Kashmir. This first-of-its-kind facility will serve as a haven for tourists visiting the valley from Maharashtra. Located strategically near Srinagar Airport, the Bhavan will likely offer accommodation, cultural experiences, and potentially act as an information center for visiting tourists.