SOURCE: AFI

In a significant move reflecting regional security concerns, India has deployed a Global 5000 Special Mission (SIGINT) aircraft near Bangladesh. This aircraft, used by India’s Research and Analysis Wing (R&AW), is designed for Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) operations and is equipped with an advanced suite of electronic warfare and reconnaissance capabilities. The deployment comes amid rising violence in Bangladesh, particularly against minorities, and follows the recent ouster of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, which has further destabilized the region.

The Global 5000 SIGINT aircraft is a heavily modified version of the Bombardier Global 5000 business jet, tailored for intelligence gathering missions. It is equipped with the EL/I-3001 Airborne Integrated Signal Intelligence System, developed by Israel’s Elta Systems. This system is based on the EL/I-2060T, a proven platform used for various electronic intelligence (ELINT) and communications intelligence (COMINT) tasks.

SOURCE: AFI

A historic moment unfolded at Sulur Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu as a Spanish Eurofighter jet pilot experienced firsthand the capabilities of India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas trainer. The sortie was part of the ongoing Exercise Tarang Shakti 24, a significant multinational air exercise hosted by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

This unprecedented opportunity not only underscores the growing global interest in India’s aerospace industry but also highlights the confidence the IAF has in its homegrown fighter jet. By allowing a foreign pilot to fly in the Tejas trainer, India showcases its commitment to fostering international defense cooperation.

SOURCE: AFI

Mumbai-based space tech startup, Manastu Space, has achieved a significant milestone in its journey by successfully conducting the first test firing of its 300N-class hydrogen peroxide engine. While operated at a lower combustion efficiency for this initial test, the successful ignition and sustained combustion mark a crucial step forward for the company.

Hydrogen peroxide engines offer several advantages, including high specific impulse, non-toxic propellants, and relatively simple design. Manastu Space’s achievement brings India closer to mastering this propulsion technology, which has potential applications in various space missions, such as satellite orbit raising, and future deep space exploration endeavors.

SOURCE: AFI

Brazilian aerospace giant Embraer is positioning India as a potential base for its C-390M aircraft’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in the Asia-Pacific region. This strategic move is contingent on the Indian Air Force (IAF) selecting the C-390M for its Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) requirement.

The company’s confidence stems from the recent success of securing a significant order for the C-390M from South Korea, marking its first sale in Asia. This breakthrough, coupled with the growing demand for advanced transport aircraft in the region, has fueled Embraer’s optimism.

SOURCE: AFI

Skyroot Aerospace, a leading Indian space startup, received a significant boost to its operations with a visit from A. Rajarajan, Director of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR (SDSC SHAR). During his visit to Skyroot’s MAX-Q Campus, Rajarajan gained firsthand insights into the company’s cutting-edge carbon composite manufacturing process.

Skyroot expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase its advancements and highlighted the invaluable support received from SDSC SHAR and ISRO, which has been instrumental in the company’s journey towards its maiden orbital mission, Vikram-1.

SOURCE: AFI

In a promising development for India’s indigenous fighter jet program, a high-level review meeting of the LCA Mk-II project was held at DRDO Bhawan. Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development & Chairman of DRDO, along with the Deputy Chief of Air Staff, led the discussions.

The meeting involved key stakeholders, including DRDO laboratories and Defence PSUs (Public Sector Undertakings) contributing to the development of various systems and sub-systems for the LCA Mk-II. Representatives from CEMILAC (Central Electro Magnetic Engineering Research Institute) and NFTC (National Flight Test Centre) – crucial players in the prototype’s flight testing – also participated and presented the project’s progress, potential risks, and mitigation plans.

SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has confirmed the initiation of development for an Active Protection System (APS) tailored for India’s T-90 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). Having received clearance last year, the fabrication phase is now underway, with system testing slated to commence either later this year or early next year.

An APS is a crucial defensive suite designed to detect, track, and intercept incoming threats such as anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and tank rounds before they can inflict damage. This system significantly enhances a tank’s survivability on the modern battlefield.

SOURCE: AFI

The aerial battleground between India and Pakistan has witnessed a significant escalation in recent times, with both nations vying for supremacy in the skies. A crucial aspect of this aerial dominance is the employment of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEWC) systems.

Pakistan has made substantial strides in this domain by expanding its fleet of Saab 2000 Erieye AEWC aircraft to nine. While India boasts a smaller fleet of three NETRA AEWC aircraft based on the Embraer ERJ 145 platform, it is actively working to bridge this gap. The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to induct six more NETRA Mk1A AEWC aircraft, leveraging the enhanced capabilities of the Embraer 145 jet platform.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army’s upcoming Zorawar Light Tank is set to be a formidable force on the battlefield, thanks in part to its integration of the advanced John Cockerill 3150 turret. This cutting-edge weapon system is equipped with the M1060CV round, a NATO standard ammunition capable of penetrating an astonishing 560mm of armor at a range of 2000 meters.  

This level of firepower is unprecedented for a tank of its class and places the Zorawar in a unique position to engage even the most heavily armored adversaries. The M1060CV round effectively bridges the gap between light and main battle tanks, enabling the Zorawar to hold its own against superiorly armored vehicles.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has secured a major boost to its aerial capabilities with the recent clearance for the production of 200 Astra MkI missiles. This indigenous beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) is set to replace the aging Russian R-77, significantly enhancing the IAF’s air superiority.  

The Astra MkI has undergone rigorous testing and has already been integrated into the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fleet, with plans to equip the Mirage 2000, MiG-29, and Tejas fighters in the future. The transition from the limited series production phase (LSP) to full-scale production is a crucial milestone, enabling domestic production on a larger scale and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.  

SOURCE: AFI

Indian Army’s Light Tank Requirements will see faceoff between DRDO-L&T developed Zorawar Light Tank and AWEIL proposed Russian 2S25 Sprut-SD. This article compares two prominent light tanks: the Indian Zorawar and the Russian 2S25 Sprut-SD. Both of these platforms embody the fusion of mobility and firepower, but they cater to different operational needs and strategic doctrines.

Zorawar Light Tank Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), addresses the specific needs of the Indian Army, particularly in high-altitude regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The tank is named after Zorawar Singh, a legendary military general known for his campaigns in the Himalayas, reflecting its intended use in mountainous terrain. The Zorawar is part of India’s strategy to counter potential threats along its northern borders, especially from China.