SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is encountering a slight delay in the first flight of its upgraded Tejas Mk1A fighter jet, according to prominent defense journalist Anantha Krishnan M. The originally planned internal company deadline for this month appears out of reach.
While the maiden flight might slip to mid-March, the good news is that the first newly built aircraft’s sortie could be witnessed by Prime Minister Modi, possibly even remotely.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Spain has upped the ante in its bid to win India’s Project-75I contract for six new submarines. Amparo Valcarce, Spain’s Secretary of State for Defence, has extended an invitation to the Indian Navy to witness trials of their cutting-edge Bioethanol Stealth Technology (BEST) Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system.
This technology is integrated into their new S-80 Plus-class submarines and could be a game-changer for the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Japan is exploring the export of advanced communication antennas for warships to India, according to a Nikkei report. The antenna system, dubbed “UNICORN,” is a collaborative effort by Japanese firms including electronics giant NEC and Yokohama Rubber.
The antenna system, dubbed “UNICORN,” is a technological marvel developed by a consortium of Japanese firms including NEC, a leading electronics manufacturer, and Yokohama Rubber. The UNICORN, formally known as the NORA-50 antenna, is known for its distinctive horn-shaped design that integrates multiple antennas into a single, stealthy structure. This innovative design is currently deployed on Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force escort vessels (FFMs).
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG
Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ), a unit of the Ministry of Defence’s Armoured Vehicles Nigam Ltd (AVNL), has successfully completed the delivery of the latest batch of Mine Protected Vehicles (MPVs) to the Indian Army. The vehicles were flagged off from the VFJ Jabalpur Unit by the CGM (General Manager) ahead of schedule.
The MPV provides vital protection for soldiers on the battlefield. Its robust design features a monocoque hull and cabin constructed from high-grade steel alloy. This, combined with the distinct “V” shaped hull, effectively shields occupants from ballistic threats and mine blasts. The “V” shape also offers a practical advantage by allowing for easier replacement of axles and other crucial components in field conditions.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to conduct its second Reusable Launch Vehicle Autonomous Landing (RLV-LEX) mission this month, before March 16th, according to Dr. V Narayanan, Director of LPSC-ISRO.
This mission builds upon the success of the inaugural RLV-LEX mission conducted in April 2023 at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga, Karnataka.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM.
The Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative has launched the ADITI #1 challenge, seeking proposals for the development of a Two-Man Tactical Aerial Vehicle (TM-TAV) specifically designed for High-Altitude (HA) operations. This novel aircraft falls under the category of Personal Aerial Vehicles (PAVs) and utilizes electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) technology.
The Two-Man Tactical Aerial Vehicle represents the culmination of advancements in electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) technology, ushering in a new era of human-sized manned vehicles tailored for high-altitude operations. Equipped with a spacious cabin/cockpit capable of accommodating a pilot and additional payload, this innovative platform offers unparalleled versatility and performance.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
C.J. Varghese, a pioneering innovator from Kerala, India, has once again captured attention with his latest invention—a hand-portable Kamikaze drone. With an impressive portfolio boasting six patents, Varghese recently secured yet another patent from the Patent Office of the Government of India for this groundbreaking creation. Resembling a capsule or a smart grenade in appearance, this innovative device features distinctive foldable and deployable mechanisms, coupled with an ingenious engagement strategy that sets it apart in the realm of drone technology.
The portable Track and Kill Suicide Drone, as dubbed by its inventor, represents a paradigm shift in warfare tactics. Varghese asserts that infantrymen can effectively operate this cutting-edge drone, marking a significant departure from conventional drone operation methodologies. The unveiling of the device showcases a quad-propeller design engineered for flight, augmented by a built-in camera system tailored for guidance and terrain assessment.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Global Industrial & Defence Solutions (GIDS), a Pakistani state-owned defense company, recently impressed military officials from 11 allied nations with a demonstration of their latest Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), the Shahpar II.
The Shahpar II, classified as a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone, showcased its targeting capabilities by engaging ground targets with its air-to-ground guided missile, the “Burq,” while flying at an altitude of 14,000 feet.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
An Indian Navy team is set to visit ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) facilities in Germany this month to inspect the U-212/214 submarines offered for India’s Project-75I tender. This project seeks next-generation submarines to bolster India’s naval prowess.
The U-212/214 class submarines boast a unique design featuring a one-and-a-half hull configuration. The pressure hull, the core of the submarine, is built with non-magnetic steel, enhancing stealth capabilities.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India is rapidly climbing the ranks of global artillery shell manufacturers, currently sitting as the third largest behind Russia and China. This newfound prominence, however, comes with challenges amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Recent success stories include a $225 million deal with Saudi Arabia for artillery ammunition and a private Indian company securing a contract from the US Army for its Bi-Modular Charge System (BMCS), a crucial propellant for 155mm artillery guns. Indian-made ammunition stands out due to its NATO compatibility and modern manufacturing processes, leading to significantly fewer duds (faulty shells).
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Border Security Force (BSF) of India is reportedly considering acquiring at least two C-295M transport aircraft, subject to approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs, according to information provided to idrw.org.
The BSF currently operates a fleet of over 20 helicopters for transportation and other missions. They also have a single Embraer 135 BJ business jet, likely used for VIP transport. However, a Beechcraft Super King Air aircraft was unfortunately lost in a crash in 2015.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has secured a vital deal for its fleet of MiG-29 fighter jets. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s state-owned aerospace giant, has been awarded a contract to supply RD-33 aero engines for these aircraft.
HAL’s RD-33 engines are specifically designed to meet the IAF’s requirements for extending the operational lifespan of its MiG-29 fleet. These engines will ensure continued peak performance for the remaining service life of these fighter jets.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
HALCON, a joint working group (JWG) formed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), has embarked on a significant endeavor by entering the realm of handling strategic air cargo exports to Armenia. The inauguration of the first flight, presided over by Shri Saket Chaturvedi, CEO of the MiG Complex at HAL, marks a pivotal moment in India’s logistics infrastructure and strategic export capabilities.
The collaboration between HAL and CONCOR signifies a concerted effort to capitalize on emerging opportunities in the global market, particularly in regions with strategic significance such as Armenia. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, there is an increasing demand for reliable and efficient logistics solutions to facilitate international trade and commerce.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM.
India’s ambitious AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) program recently received a critical boost with CCS (Cabinet Committee on Security) clearance for development. However, the journey to deploying this 5th generation fighter jet heavily relies on the Tejas MkII program, acting as a technological stepping stone and crucial “feeder” program.
The Tejas MkII program goes beyond being just an upgraded version of the Tejas fighter jet. It serves as a vital test bed for several advanced technologies destined for the AMCA. This not only reduces risks associated with untested systems in the AMCA but also streamlines the development process.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM.
Chennai-based space startup Agnikul is gearing up for a historic launch! They have confirmed that their sub-orbital rocket, Agnibaan SOrTeD, will lift off from Sriharikota sometime between March 22nd and 28th, 2024. This will mark India’s second private space launch, following Skyroot’s successful Vikram-S launch.
Agnibaan SOrTeD is a single-stage launch vehicle powered by a revolutionary engine – the Agnilet. This engine holds the distinction of being entirely 3D-printed, a single-piece, 6 kN semi-cryogenic marvel. Unlike traditional sounding rockets that require launch rails, Agnibaan SOrTeD will take off vertically, following a predetermined path and performing a series of precise maneuvers during its flight..
Continue reading