SOURCE: AFI

A recent National Interest report has reignited the debate about India acquiring the F-35A fighter jet from the US, potentially replacing the ongoing Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.

Last year’s Aero India airshow witnessed the first appearance of F-35s in India, leaving audiences “awestruck” according to CBS. This showcase, coupled with China’s growing assertiveness, has sparked discussions about the F-35’s role in India’s strategic partnership with the US. Retired Air Vice Marshal Manmohan Bahadur highlights the shift in geopolitical considerations.

SOURCE: AFI

Indian defense analyst VatsRohit (VatsRohit@KesariDhwaj on X) makes a strong case for the LCH Prachand as a future export leader in the attack helicopter market. Here’s a breakdown of why the Prachand stands out:

Traditional players like the US Apache and AH-1Z Viper are undeniably powerful, but their hefty price tags (over $20 million) and limitations on export due to US foreign policy make them less accessible. The Eurocopter Tiger, envisioned as a rival to the Apache, turned into a commercial failure with its exorbitant cost exceeding $40 million per unit. Many European nations are now looking elsewhere.

SOURCE: AFI

China recently unveiled a model of a new nuclear submarine, the Type 093B. The 6,200-ton submarine features an 18-unit underwater vertical launch system, a teardrop-shaped design with a slightly humped back, an integrated sonar station, and a signature integrated optical-electronic mast on the sail. It is also equipped with a ducted pump-jet propulsion system.

According to information published by Chinese media, the Type 093B is designed to carry out long-range patrols and anti-ship warfare missions. The submarine’s underwater vertical launch system is believed to be capable of launching cruise missiles and anti-ship missiles. The teardrop-shaped design of the hull is likely to improve the submarine’s underwater performance, while the integrated sonar station and optical-electronic mast will enhance its situational awareness. The ducted pump-jet propulsion system is expected to make the submarine quieter than previous models.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army is revamping its incentive scheme for officers performing exceptionally well in promotion exams. This move aims to encourage better preparation and enhance overall professional capabilities.

The revised policy, coming into effect from next year, will reward officers with bonus marks in subsequent exams for exceeding expectations in the current ones. This replaces the existing system, deemed too stringent, which hasn’t yielded results in a decade.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) arsenal is set for a significant upgrade with the induction of the Rudram II and III missiles. These air-launched, long-range missiles boast a range of 350-500 kilometers, allowing IAF jets to engage targets from a safe distance and minimize their exposure to enemy air defenses.

The Rudram missiles offer a substantial leap in capability compared to previously inducted options. This includes the Israeli-made Rampage with a 250km range and the planned air-launched cruise missile with a 1,000km range. The Rudram Family fill a crucial gap between these two options, providing flexibility for various strike missions.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy plays a vital role in safeguarding the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and conducts frequent diving operations for various critical missions. These missions include submarine rescue, underwater inspections, and salvage operations.

Submarines, both conventional and nuclear, are susceptible to accidents during operations. In such situations, a well-established protocol for submarine distress response is crucial. While protocols exist for emergency ascents and communication, specialized divers and equipment are essential for successful search and rescue (SAR) missions.

SOURCE: AFI

In the annals of India’s military aviation history, the MiG-27 has had a prominent yet tumultuous role. Originally inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in the mid-1980s, the MiG-27 was envisaged as a powerful ground-attack aircraft. However, its operational life was marred by several issues that eventually led to its premature retirement. Among the various plans to extend the life and enhance the performance of the MiG-27, the proposal to re-engine the aircraft with the AL-31F engine stands out as a significant yet ultimately abandoned initiative.

The IAF inducted the MiG-27s, known as the Bahadur in India, during 1984-85. These aircraft were licensed-built by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under a transfer of technology agreement with the Soviet Union. A total of 165 MiG-27Ms were produced, serving as the backbone of the IAF’s ground-attack capabilities for several decades.

SOURCE: AFI

The global defense market is witnessing a shift as nations seek to modernize their military capabilities amid evolving security challenges. For decades, China has been a dominant player in supplying defense equipment to countries in Africa and Asia. However, recent issues with the reliability and quality of Chinese military hardware have opened opportunities for other countries to fill the void. India, with its burgeoning defense industry, stands poised to capitalize on this shift.

India has long-standing diplomatic relationships with many countries in Africa and Asia. By leveraging these ties, India can position itself as a trusted partner in defense. The Indian government’s proactive engagement with African and Asian nations, through initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit and the India-ASEAN Summit, provides a solid foundation for expanding defense cooperation. Strengthening these diplomatic ties with targeted defense agreements can pave the way for increased sales of Indian military equipment.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army is bolstering the battlefield survivability of its tank fleet by integrating Saab’s Mobile Camouflage System (MCS) onto its T-90 and T-72 tanks. This move signifies a significant step towards enhanced protection for armored vehicles.

Tanks are most susceptible to detection and attack when they are mobile. Saab’s MCS aims to address this critical challenge.