SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant move towards enhancing naval capabilities, the governments of India and the United Kingdom are in discussions to develop an electric propulsion system for Indian warships. This initiative marks a pivotal moment in India’s quest for technological advancement in maritime warfare.
Presently, Indian warships rely on traditional propulsion systems such as diesel engines, gas turbines, or steam turbines. However, the potential introduction of electric propulsion represents a paradigm shift in naval engineering. Electric propulsion systems offer numerous advantages, including increased efficiency, reduced emissions, quieter operation, and enhanced manoeuvrability.
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India’s vast landscape presents a challenging environment for its air force. From the scorching deserts of Rajasthan to the frigid heights of Leh, fighter jets need to be versatile and handle extreme weather conditions, especially at the borders. Let’s delve into how the Gripen E tackles these challenges.
Cold weather throws a wrench into the smooth operation of any aircraft. Hundreds of complex systems work together, and sub-zero temperatures can make things worse. Ice accumulation on the exterior and finicky sensors are just a few hurdles to overcome.
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TKMS has pledged to deliver a submarine design that is not only unique but also meticulously tailored to meet the specific operational needs of the Indian Navy. This commitment ensures that the vessel will be equipped with the most flexible conventional submarine configuration possible, aligning perfectly with the strategic objectives outlined by the Ministry of Defence.
The U212 submarine will be equipped with cutting-edge propulsion technologies to enhance its operational capabilities. One of the key features is the Fuel Cell Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, as per the requirements set forth in the Request for Proposal (RFP) by the Ministry of Defence. This AIP system will significantly extend the submarine’s endurance and stealth capabilities, allowing it to operate autonomously for longer durations without surfacing.
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India is set to significantly enhance its military capabilities with the upcoming acquisition of MQ-9B Predator drones from the United States. The anticipated contract signing in June marks a major step forward in modernizing the country’s defense infrastructure.
These advanced drones, known for their intelligence gathering and surveillance prowess, will be strategically deployed across two key states: Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. This nationwide distribution reflects India’s commitment to comprehensive border security.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
India’s National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO) is taking a significant step towards self-reliance in its intelligence gathering operations. The agency, responsible for conducting technical intelligence and surveillance activities for national security, will reportedly be utilizing its own indigenously developed Artificial Intelligence (AI) for these critical tasks.
NTRO’s core function involves sifting through vast amounts of technical data, including communication signals, satellite imagery, and other forms of electronic information. Traditionally, this analysis has relied on a combination of human expertise and existing technology. However, AI integration promises to significantly enhance these processes.
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Larsen & Toubro (L&T), a leading Indian private sector conglomerate, showcased its indigenously developed SOV-400 Unmanned Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) to the Defence Secretary. The SOV-400 falls at the larger end of the “midget submarine” category with a displacement of 400 tons.
The SOV-400 appears to be specifically designed for special forces missions. It has the capacity to carry 10 special forces operators and integrate two four-person Swimmer Delivery Vehicles (SDVs) on its lower hull. These SDVs extend the range and endurance of underwater missions for combat swimmers.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) crossed a significant milestone on April 30, 2024, with the release of the 2500th overhauled Viper 22-8 aero engine for Kiran MK I/IA aircraft. The landmark achievement was celebrated at the Base Repair Depot (BRD) located at Air Force Station (AFS) Kanpur.
Air Marshal Vibhas Pande, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of Headquarters Maintenance Command (HQMC), was present at the ceremony to recognize this accomplishment. He lauded the exceptional service rendered by the BRD Kanpur, which has been entrusted with the overhaul of Viper engines since 1974.
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Hyderabad-based Vector Technics, a company dedicated to pushing the boundaries of electric propulsion for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and robotics, made a significant splash at the recent Xponential Expo in San Diego. The company unveiled its innovative “eVector” series of counter-rotating motors, generating considerable excitement within the industry.
Xponential Expo is a leading trade show specifically focused on unmanned systems. Vector Technics’ decision to launch the eVector series at this prestigious event underscores the transformative potential of this technology.
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Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) celebrated a significant milestone with the keel laying ceremony of the first Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (Y 1280) . The ceremony was officiated by Vice Admiral B Sivakumar, AVSM VSM, CWP&A, in the presence of the Chairman, Managing Director (CMD), and senior management of GSL .
This development comes after the Ministry of Defence awarded a contract to Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL) in Mumbai on December 20, 2023, for the construction of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) . The contract, valued at Rs 1614.89 crore, falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category, promoting indigenous shipbuilding [1].
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India is exploring the local manufacture of the Long Range Stand-Off Weapon System (ROCKS), also known as Crystal Maze-2, an air-launched rocket system. This move has sparked questions as India already possesses the Rudram-2 and Rudram-3 missiles.
Indian Air Force (IAF) officials speaking to idrw.org have clarified the reasoning behind pursuing both missile systems. They categorize Rudram-2 and Rudram-3 as air-launched ballistic missiles (ALBM) with a superior range of 300-500 km. These high-speed missiles (Mach 5+) are designed to destroy high-value targets like enemy radars, surface-to-air missile batteries, runways, command bunkers, and air hangars from a safe distance, minimizing risk to the launching aircraft.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In the realm of modern military aviation, the Su-35 stands as a pinnacle of technological prowess and combat capability. As the Director of the Gagarin Aviation Plant in Komsomolsk-on-Amur proudly asserts, this formidable aircraft, part of the United Aircraft Corporation within the state tech giant Rostec, is poised to impress India as it vies for the nation’s MRFA tender for 114 jets.
With a maximum take-off weight of 34.5 metric tons and a blistering top speed of 2,500 km/h, the Su-35 embodies speed, agility, and power. Its operational range of 1,500-4,500 km and service ceiling of 20,000 meters ensure versatility and adaptability across a spectrum of mission profiles.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Army and Strategic Forces Command (SFC) are planning a complete phase-out of the Prithvi-1 and Prithvi-2 short-range ballistic missiles (SRBMs) by 2030. This move signifies India’s commitment to modernizing its missile arsenal and deploying next-generation solutions.
The Prithvi-I, inducted in 1996, served as India’s first indigenously developed short-range ballistic missile. With a range of 150 kilometers, it played a crucial role in bolstering India’s early missile capabilities. Production of the Prithvi-I was discontinued shortly after its induction, with only a limited number stockpiled. Due to its reliance on less readily available liquid fuel and lower accuracy compared to modern alternatives, the Prithvi-I was quietly phased out.
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Veda Aeronautics, a rising star in Noida’s defense startup scene, is making strides in the crucial area of counter-drone technology. Their innovative interceptor system is designed to address the growing security concern posed by unauthorized Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs).
Veda’s interceptor technology offers a robust solution to counter UAV threats, safeguarding critical infrastructure, personnel, and airspace from unauthorized intrusions. These drones, also known as unmanned aerial vehicles, can be used for malicious purposes like surveillance, espionage, or even attacks.
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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made a significant contribution to India’s military technology with the IFF Mk XII(S) system. This system, derived from the Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) program, plays a vital role in identifying friendly forces from potential threats.
The IFF Mk XII(S) system represents a clever adaptation of technology developed for the AEW&C program. While the AEW&C system utilizes a distributed IFF configuration due to its unique platform requirements, DRDO recognized the potential for a more streamlined, single-box version. This vision led to the development of the Mk XII(S) variants, catering to the needs of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and other branches of the military.
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In a significant move towards modernization, the Indian Navy has embarked on a program to convert the propulsion systems of its warships from steam to diesel. This upgrade aims to significantly enhance the lifespan, maintainability, and overall capability of the vessels.
According to sources familiar with the development, the conversion process began in early April with the INS Beas, a frigate belonging to the Brahmaputra class. The project is being undertaken in collaboration with Cochin Shipyard Ltd., a government-owned shipbuilding company.
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