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SOURCE: AFI

The Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) has taken a major step forward in implementing the Indian Space Policy 2023. On May 3rd, they released a detailed 147-page document outlining the authorization process for various space activities. This marks a significant development for India’s space sector, as it opens doors for broader participation from both government and non-government entities (NGEs).

The newly released document provides a much-needed roadmap for entities seeking authorization to conduct space activities in India. It outlines the specific steps and procedures for obtaining authorization for a wide range of endeavors, including:

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SOURCE: AFI

In a significant step towards advancing India’s indigenous defense capabilities, Lieutenant General JS Sidana, Director General of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (DGEME), EME, recently visited Bharat Forge Ltd. in Pune. This visit showcased the strides made by Bharat Forge in providing end-to-end solutions for defense needs, from design and development to integration and testing.

During his visit, Lt. Gen. JS Sidana had the opportunity to witness firsthand the indigenous solutions offered by Bharat Forge for various defense requirements. From design conceptualization to final delivery, Bharat Forge has established itself as a leading player in the defense manufacturing sector, offering a wide range of products and services tailored to meet the needs of the armed forces.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India is poised to take a significant leap in its military capabilities with the ambitious development of its own Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), also known as stealth combat drones. These drones, envisioned to fire missiles and precision-guided weapons, will offer a transformative edge in modern warfare.

While details remain under wraps, sources close to idrw.org suggest a funding proposal for the RPAS (Remote Piloted Aerial Vehicle) program, which encompasses UCAVs, could be presented later this year or early next year. Estimates suggest a potential budget of ?5,000 crore (approximately $600 million) to propel this program forward. Currently, the project is undergoing evaluation by a dedicated committee established by the Ministry of Finance.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are collaborating on a revolutionary project: the CATS-Warriors, a low-cost, highly capable unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV). This “loyal wingman” concept has the potential to redefine aerial warfare strategies.

In 2019, the seeds were sown for this innovative project with the development of a proof-of-concept prototype. These 1.6-tonne marvels boast low observability (stealth) capabilities and autonomous flight at high altitudes (around 36-40,000 feet). The estimated unit cost of a mere ?50 crore (approximately $6.7 million) makes them incredibly cost-effective compared to traditional fighter jets.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone in its cruise missile program with the successful development of the Manik engine. This small turbofan engine, produced by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE), is a key element that was missing for the indigenous development of low-cost subsonic cruise missiles.

The Manik engine, with a thrust of 4.5 kN, has undergone extensive testing and is nearing the end of its development phase. This paves the way for mass production, which is expected to last for the next 20 years or so. 

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SOURCE: AFI

India’s recent announcement of its first “bomber unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)” has raised eyebrows and elicited skepticism within the defense community. The unveiling of this UAV, touted as a game-changer in military aviation, has triggered a flurry of reactions ranging from admiration to outright mockery.

The term “bomber UAV” itself seems to be a misnomer, evoking images of sleek, stealthy aircraft capable of carrying out precision strikes deep behind enemy lines. However, the reality of India’s offering seems to fall short of these expectations.

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SOURCE: AFI

Group Captain Malliyakel Joseph Augustine Vinoth (21819) remembers the fateful day of March 1, 1995, vividly. A pilot commissioned in the Indian Air Force’s fighter stream in 1992, he was preparing for a routine takeoff in his MiG-21. But what unfolded next was a testament to his nerves of steel and quick thinking.

As the MiG-21 roared down the runway, ready to take off, disaster struck. The aircraft burst into flames, leaving Group Captain Vinoth with a mere 11 seconds to react. In those heart-stopping moments, he knew he had to eject.

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SOURCE: AFI

Recent ambushes on convoys in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district highlight the challenges security forces face in the region’s rugged terrain. The dense forests of Poonch-Rajouri offer militants a natural advantage, leaving personnel vulnerable. This article explores the problem and suggests solutions to improve security in the area.

The Poonch-Rajouri belt presents a complex landscape. Dense foliage restricts visibility, making it difficult to detect militant activity. This limited sight range gives attackers an upper hand in launching surprise attacks on convoys. Additionally, the mountainous terrain makes patrolling and setting up outposts difficult.

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SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Larsen & Toubro (L&T) Defense, a leading Indian defense contractor, has successfully delivered 100 K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers to the Indian Army. These howitzers are a testament to India’s growing self-reliance in defense equipment, with over 18,000 components sourced domestically.

The K-9 Vajra is a customized variant of the K-9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer originally developed by the South Korean defense company Hanwha Defense. L&T Defense undertook significant research and development to tailor the K-9 Thunder to meet the specific requirements of the Indian Army. This customization involved using over 18,000 Indian-made components, marking a significant step towards India’s defense indigenization goals.

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SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

The Indian Navy is making strides in maritime security with the ongoing sea trials of its indigenously developed Autonomous Fast Interceptor Boats (A-FIBs). These unmanned vessels mark a significant advancement in India’s coastal defense capabilities.

A-FIBs are designed for high speed and maneuverability, making them ideal for patrolling vast swathes of India’s coastline. Their autonomous operation allows them to function without a crew onboard, reducing risks and expanding operational reach.

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SOURCE: AFI

South Korea’s indigenous KF-21 fighter jet program is experiencing a surge in development, with a particular focus on enhancing its air-to-air and air-to-surface strike capabilities. Here’s a breakdown of the key advancements:

South Korea has officially launched the “Long-range Air-to-Air missile-II” program for the KF-21. This signifies a significant step towards equipping the fighter jet with advanced long-range aerial combat capabilities.

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SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan recently marked a significant milestone in its space exploration endeavors with the launch of its first-ever lunar mission, iCube-Qamar. Launched in collaboration with China, the satellite embarked on its journey from the Chinese city of Hainan, destined to orbit the moon as part of Beijing’s Chang’e-6 space mission. While this event signifies a leap forward for Pakistan’s space ambitions, it has also sparked comparisons and controversies, particularly in the context of India’s Chandrayaan-2 mission.

The parallels drawn between iCube-Qamar and Chandrayaan-2 by Pakistani netizens have stirred debate and mockery from their Indian counterparts. One of the primary reasons for this comparison is the involvement of China in both missions. However, the nature of collaboration and the level of contribution from each country differ significantly.

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SOURCE: AFI

Several Pakistani YouTube channels known for highlighting positive developments in India have reportedly shut down following a warning from the Pakistani military. These channels, which often garnered views from Indian audiences, employed tactics like staged street interviews to discuss topics like Kashmir or Indian progress.

The reported reason for the closures is a directive from the Pakistani military, concerned about these channels portraying Pakistan in a negative light. The content, particularly the staged interviews discussing sensitive topics like Kashmir from an Indian perspective, may have been deemed inappropriate by the military establishment.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Navy’s quest for enhancing its airborne early warning and control capabilities has taken a significant turn, with a shift towards exploring indigenous solutions in light of recent developments and strategic imperatives. The cancellation of plans to procure additional Ka-31 helicopters, coupled with the unfeasibility of procuring US-built E-2 Hawkeye aircraft, has prompted a reevaluation of the Navy’s approach to fulfilling its vital need for extended radar coverage.

In 2019, the Indian Navy opted to cancel plans to acquire an additional 10 Ka-31 helicopters, despite having procured nine of these helicopters earlier, with four acquired in 1999 and an additional five in 2001. Originally intended to support the country’s second aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, the decision to halt procurement reflects shifting priorities and considerations within the naval establishment.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has shed light on its Long Range Radar (LRR) system, a significant development in India’s missile defense capabilities. This news comes on the heels of previous tenders hinting at the LRR’s development, and the DRDO’s official details offer a glimpse into this cutting-edge technology.

The DRDO has confirmed that major subsystems of the LRR have already been successfully developed. A crucial stage is currently underway – the stage-wise assembly of the Active Array Antenna Unit (AAAU). The AAAU is the heart of the AESA radar, responsible for transmitting and receiving radar signals. Its successful assembly signifies a significant milestone in the project’s timeline.

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