SOURCE: AFI
India’s growing prowess in defense manufacturing received a boost with the Adani-Elbit joint venture delivering over 20 Hermes 900 medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) UAVs to Israel. This marks a significant achievement, as the Hyderabad-based Adani-Elbit Advanced Systems India Ltd became the first entity outside Israel to manufacture these advanced drones.
While contributing to Israeli defense through exports, Adani-Elbit has also secured initial orders from the Indian Army and Navy for two Hermes 900 units. These units were procured under emergency powers for immediate needs, but they also serve as vital tools for evaluation and benchmarking, potentially paving the way for larger domestic orders in the future. Recognizing the capability of the Hermes 900, the Indian Armed Forces have expressed a combined requirement for 155 MALE-class UAVs.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Following the recent approval for the sale of 31 MQ-9B high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) UAVs to India, the Biden administration is now reportedly considering a deal for the supply of six additional P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft to the Indian Navy. This potential deal further underscores the growing strategic partnership between the US and India in the Indo-Pacific region.
The Indian Navy currently operates a fleet of 12 P-8I aircraft, split into two squadrons stationed at Arakkonam and Goa. These Boeing-made planes, based on the 737-800 commercial platform, offer advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW), long-range surveillance, and intelligence gathering capabilities.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Last year marked a significant milestone for India’s defense capabilities as Dr. Samir V Kamat, Chairman of DRDO, confirmed the commencement of flight trials for the Rudram-II Air to Surface (A2S) missile. With a formidable range of 300 kilometers, the Rudram-II represents a cutting-edge addition to the nation’s arsenal. Recently, a video showcasing the developmental testing of the Rudram-II from the Su-30MKI was prominently featured in a promotional video by the Indian Air Force (IAF), underscoring the missile’s pivotal role in enhancing the country’s air superiority.
One of the standout features of the Rudram-II is its versatility, offering two distinct variants tailored to address specific operational requirements. The first variant serves as an anti-radiation missile (ARM), equipped with a PHH-IIR Seeker engineered to neutralize radar installations with unparalleled accuracy. This capability significantly enhances the IAF’s ability to suppress enemy air defenses and establish aerial dominance in contested airspace. Meanwhile, the second variant of the Rudram-II functions as a formidable Ground Attack missile, featuring an IIR Seeker optimized for targeting airstrips, bunkers, and aircraft hangars. This dual functionality further bolsters the IAF’s strategic capabilities and ensures flexibility in mission planning and execution.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force’s combat power faces a potential gap, prompting urgent calls for an interim solution while its ambitious indigenous fighter program, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), takes flight. Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari, in a recent interview, sounded the alarm about depleting combat assets and the crucial need for the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program to fill the void.
“We are aware that projects like AMCA take time and resources to fructify,” acknowledged Chaudhari. “However, given our not-so-friendly neighborhood, it is important that the strength of our combat assets is not depleted further.” This blunt statement underscores the urgency of the situation, with India surrounded by strategic challenges and an ageing fighter fleet nearing retirement.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Bangalore’s NewSpace Research and Technologies, a rising star in the Indian private defense sector, has piqued the industry’s interest with a glimpse of its latest creation: a Small Rotary Tactical UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle). While details remain under wraps, the image sparks speculation about its capabilities and potential applications.
The image showcases a compact, rotary-wing design, likely utilizing a multirotor configuration for Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) capabilities. This suggests agility and maneuverability, crucial for operating in tight spaces or complex environments. Additionally, the presence of an EO/IR camera payload hints at the UAV’s ability to conduct day-night surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In a significant development, India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is set to conduct a missile test launch from the Digha coast in West Bengal, marking the first time the state will host such an event. Typically, DRDO utilizes the neighboring state of Odisha for missile testing activities.
The launch is scheduled for late February or early March, with the Junput coast near Digha serving as the designated launchpad. The West Bengal government has collaborated with DRDO by providing the necessary land for the launchpad construction. Interestingly, another missile will be launched simultaneously from Balasore, Odisha, raising questions about the purpose of this dual launch.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In a rare treat for defense enthusiasts, the Indian Air Force (IAF) recently shared an image on its X platform (formerly Twitter) showcasing its fleet of Jaguar IM maritime strike fighters equipped with AGM-84L Harpoon anti-ship missiles. This image sent a wave of excitement through the defense community, highlighting the capabilities of this specialized unit.
The IAF operates 10 Jaguar IM aircraft within its No. 6 Squadron, specifically dedicated to maritime strike missions. These jets have undergone significant upgrades over the years, receiving IAI ELta’s EL/M-2032 radar and improved electronic defense systems. Prior to the integration of the Harpoon missiles, the Jaguar IMs carried Sea Eagle anti-ship missiles.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
India has paid USD 32.89 million to the United Nations Regular Budget for 2024, joining the “honour roll” of 36 Member States who have paid their regular budget dues in full to the UN on time. The UN Committee on Contributions said that as of January 31 2024, 36 Member States have paid their regular budget assessments in full, within the 30 day due period specified in UN financial regulations.
India contributed 32.895 million dollars to the 2024 United Nations Regular Budget and made the payment on January 31, 2024.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is gearing up for a new era of aerial warfare, setting its sights on armed Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to bolster its offensive capabilities. Air Chief Marshal VR Choudhary recently announced the IAF’s interest in acquiring larger UAV platforms capable of carrying out targeted strikes, marking a significant shift in the country’s defense strategy.
This move comes amid the IAF’s satisfaction with the domestic development of smaller drone technologies. “We are happy with the development of swarm drones and loitering ammunition by private sector companies,”. Several orders have already been placed for these agile and cost-effective options, ideal for reconnaissance, surveillance, and close-range attacks.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
India’s ambitious plans to co-develop the BrahMos-II Hypersonic Cruise missile with Russia have hit a roadblock, with both countries yet to finalize an agreement and timeline for the development of this cutting-edge missile system. Despite discussions between National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Russian counterpart Nikolai Patrushev last year, progress has been slow, and significant developments have yet to materialize.
The BrahMos-II project holds immense strategic significance for both India and Russia, representing a leap forward in hypersonic missile technology and bolstering the countries’ defense capabilities. In 2022, Atul Rane, the CEO of BrahMos Aerospace, expressed optimism about the BrahMos-II’s potential, highlighting its anticipated capabilities comparable to Russia’s Tsirkon (Zircon) missile, albeit with a slightly lower speed of Mach 6. This ambitious endeavor, however, comes with a price tag, as the BrahMos-II is expected to be more expensive than its predecessor, the BrahMos Cruise missile, which operates at Mach 3.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The image has emerged that shows design of the Fleet Support Ships (FSS) that are currently under construction for the Indian Navy. These ships, which are being built by Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam, represent a significant milestone in India’s shipbuilding industry and its pursuit of self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The FSS are large, multipurpose vessels that will provide logistical support to the Indian Navy’s fleet at sea. They will be able to refuel and rearm other ships, provide fresh water and provisions, and carry out repairs and maintenance. The first ship is expected to be delivered in 2026, with the remaining four ships to follow over the next few years.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Tata Advanced Systems (TAS), a leading player in India’s aerospace and defense sector, is taking its manufacturing game to new heights through digitalization, streamlined processes, and cutting-edge technologies. This move positions them as a key player in the aerospace industry’s ongoing digital transformation.
TAS embraces lean manufacturing solutions like Advanced Planning and Scheduling (APS) and SAP S/4HANA, streamlining processes and boosting operational efficiency. This digitalization drive allows for better resource allocation, improved production control, and ultimately, faster turnaround times.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s pursuit of indigenous fighter jet prowess continues, with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in talks for additional Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A fighters. This comes on top of the 83 Mk1A jets already ordered in 2021, showcasing the growing confidence in the aircraft’s capabilities.
The IAF is reportedly interested in procuring 97 more Mk1A jets, bolstering its fighter fleet with this domestically built platform. While the IAF seeks no major design changes for this second batch, HAL is proposing minor upgrades based on ongoing refinement of the aircraft.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian aviation landscape is set for a revolution as Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) join hands to establish a Final Assembly Line (FAL) for helicopters within the country. This collaborative venture marks a significant step towards India’s self-reliance in helicopter manufacturing, with the iconic Airbus H125 taking centre stage.
The H125, Airbus’ best-selling single-engine helicopter, boasts immense popularity across diverse sectors. From private ownership and aerial tourism to emergency medical services and military operations, the H125’s versatility has earned it a global reputation. Over a dozen countries rely on the H125 for their armed forces, making its India-based production a compelling proposition.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s quest for indigenous defence solutions takes a crucial step forward as the 25-ton Light Tank embarks on internal developmental trials at the L&T facility. This potent and agile platform, developed in collaboration with Larsen & Toubro (L&T), promises to bolster India’s military capabilities, particularly in challenging high-altitude terrains.
The current internal trials at L&T mark a crucial stage in the Light Tank’s development. These rigorous tests will assess the vehicle’s performance in various aspects, from mobility and firepower to crew comfort and survivability. The success of these trials is vital for handing over the tank to the Indian Army for further evaluation in April.
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