SOURCE: AFI

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) has officially launched the initial manufacturing phase of the KF-21 ‘Boramae’ multirole fighter aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the country’s indigenous defense capabilities. The commencement of production follows a substantial contract awarded to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in June, valued at KRW 1.96 trillion (approximately USD 1.4 billion). This contract, which extends through August 2027, covers the manufacturing of an initial batch of 20 KF-21 aircraft.

DAPA has outlined a clear timeline for the production and delivery of the KF-21 aircraft. The first batch of 20 aircraft is scheduled for delivery to the Republic of Korea Air Force (RoKAF) starting in late 2026. This initial phase is expected to set the stage for further production, with DAPA indicating plans to award a second contract for an additional 20 KF-21s in 2025. If this plan is executed, South Korea will have 40 KF-21 fighter jets by the end of the decade, significantly boosting its air combat capabilities.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s defense exports have witnessed a meteoric rise, with the United States emerging as the primary destination for Indian-made defense goods. The government’s strategic focus on expanding defense exports to countries in Africa and other regions, coupled with easier lines of credit and diplomatic efforts, has significantly contributed to this growth.

According to recent data, defense exports in the first quarter of 2024-2025 surged by a staggering 78 percent compared to the previous year. The value of exports during this period reached Rs 6,915 crore, up from Rs 3,885 crore in the year-ago period.

SOURCE: AFI

A groundbreaking launch is set to take place on August 24 from the Chennai shores. Space Zone India, a Chennai-based startup, will be launching a reusable hybrid rocket, a first for India. This innovative rocket will carry three CubeSats and 50 PICO satellites into sub-orbit to monitor and collect data on various atmospheric conditions.

The project, named ‘Mission Rhumi -2024’, is guided by the renowned Mylswamy Annadurai, former ISRO director and fondly referred to as the “Moon Man of India”. The launch is scheduled for around 7 am from the TTDC Ground on East Coast Road.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant development underscoring the deepening naval cooperation between India and Russia, a high-level Russian delegation led by Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Navy, Admiral Aleksandr Moiseyev, visited the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) today. The visit included an inspection of an under-construction warship and an exploration of the MDL Heritage Gallery, followed by strategic discussions with the MDL leadership team, headed by Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) Narayan Prasad.

Admiral Moiseyev’s visit to MDL, one of India’s premier shipbuilding yards, reflects the ongoing commitment between the Indian and Russian navies to collaborate on various defense projects. MDL has a long-standing history of constructing advanced warships and submarines for the Indian Navy, many of which have been developed with Russian technological assistance. This visit not only strengthens the existing ties but also opens new avenues for future cooperation, particularly in the domain of shipbuilding and naval technology.

SOURCE: AFI

As technology in the aerospace domain advances, India faces the inevitable need to replace its fleet of Su-30MKI fighter jets, despite upcoming upgrades. The Super-Sukhoi, a planned upgrade that brings the Su-30MKI closer to the capabilities of the Su-35S, will still have limitations in terms of radar cross-section (RCS) and infrared signature (IRS). These factors, coupled with the rapid evolution of radars, surface-to-air missiles (SAMs), and air-to-air missiles (AAMs), emphasize the need for next-generation aircraft that can maintain air superiority against modern threats.

Fifth- and sixth-generation fighter jets are designed to operate as “spies and snipers,” equipped with the latest technology to outperform adversaries. While previous-generation jets can supplement these advanced aircraft, frontline fighters must incorporate cutting-edge stealth, sensors, and weaponry. The Su-30MKI, even with its Super-Sukhoi upgrade, will eventually fall behind in these areas as adversaries field more advanced systems aimed at countering fifth-generation aircraft.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is actively developing laser and microwave-based Directed Energy Weapons (DEW) systems with the capability to neutralize threats ranging from small drones to fighter aircraft.

DRDO Chairman, Dr. Samir V Kamat, confirmed the organization’s focus on this cutting-edge technology. While acknowledging the higher initial procurement costs, he emphasized the potential for significant operational cost savings through the use of DEWs.

SOURCE: AFI

Magicmyna, a Bengaluru-based startup, has made significant strides in drone technology with the launch of its MuniTrix 4 Mortar Shell Drop System. The innovative system was unveiled by Dr. P.V Sathya Narayana Murthy, Head of UAV CSIR – National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL).

MuniTrix 4 is a UAV-based solution capable of delivering payloads carrying up to four 60mm or two 81/82mm mortar ammunition. The system boasts an advanced algorithm that accurately determines the impact area of the mortar shells. Moreover, it offers flexibility in choosing the type of warhead, including impact detonation (IMP), delayed detonation (DLY), near-surface detonation (NSB), and distance detonation (PRX).

SOURCE: AFI

On this day, 21 August 1990, a somber chapter was written in the annals of the Indian Navy. The INS Andaman (P 74), a patrol vessel, sank in the Bay of Bengal during an operational exercise of the Eastern Naval Command. The tragedy claimed the lives of 15 brave Indian sailors, their names forever etched in the hearts of their countrymen.

The loss of INS Andaman was a devastating blow to the Indian Navy. The vessel and its crew were engaged in a routine exercise when disaster struck. The exact circumstances leading to the sinking remain shrouded in mystery, but the loss of life was a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve their country at sea.

SOURCE: AFI

Sanjeev Singhal, the chairman and managing director of Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDS), a defense public sector undertaking (PSU), has expressed optimism about securing the order for the 75I submarine. In a recent interview, he stated that MDS is participating in the project alongside TKMS Germany and is confident of a positive outcome.

Singhal highlighted the strong order pipeline for shipbuilding, submarines, and offshore projects. He noted that the Indian Navy has recently cleared the TKMS-offered U-214 variant of the submarine after a thorough evaluation, finding it to meet all technical specifications. This positive development further strengthens MDS’s chances of securing the 75I submarine order.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on the lookout for a modern, versatile transport aircraft to replace its aging fleet of IL-76s. The Kawasaki C-2, a cutting-edge medium-range military transport aircraft developed by Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI),

One of the C-2’s most significant advantages is its impressive payload capacity. With a larger cargo hold than its predecessors, the C-1 and C-130 Hercules, the C-2 can transport significantly heavier loads. This capability enables it to fulfill a wide range of missions, including international cooperative operations, troop transport, supply drops, and medical evacuation.