SOURCE: AFI

Aviation enthusiasts and defense experts are eagerly anticipating the release of a new book that delves into the fascinating story behind India’s indigenous carrier-borne fighter, the LCA Navy. Titled “Paper to Flight,” the book is authored by Cmde C D Balaji (Retd), a former Director of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).

Set to be launched on October 19, 2024, “Paper to Flight” chronicles the remarkable journey of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) from its initial concept to its successful flight operations. The book provides a comprehensive overview of the Air Force variant, the Tejas, before diving deep into the origins, design, and development of the LCA Navy.

SOURCE: AFI

Jitendra J. Jadhav, the architect behind the Tejas fighter aircraft’s Initial Operational Clearance (IOC), has assumed the mantle of Director General at the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). As the agency spearheads India’s ambitious military aircraft development programs, Jadhav’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping the future of Indian aviation.

ADA, established in 1984, has been responsible for the development of the Tejas light combat aircraft, which is currently in service with the Indian Air Force. Now, under Jadhav’s leadership, the agency will focus on developing the Tejas Mark 2 and the advanced medium combat aircraft (AMCA), as well as the twin-engine deck-based fighter (TEDBF) for the Indian Navy.

SOURCE: AFI

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma announced on Friday that Dassault Systèmes, the technology division of the French conglomerate Dassault Group, will establish an aerospace and defense automotive electric vehicle training hub in the state. The project is expected to attract an investment of Rs 240 crore.

During a press interaction in Guwahati, Sarma revealed that the Assam cabinet had approved the proposal for the training hub. Dassault, renowned for its Rafale fighter jets, 3D printing technology, and other advanced innovations, will be setting up the facility to provide specialized training and skill development in the aerospace, defense, automotive, and electric vehicle sectors.

SOURCE: AFI

An Egyptian delegation recently toured the facilities of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to inspect the Tejas Mk1A production line. This visit suggests that Egypt is seriously considering purchasing the Indian-made light combat aircraft to bolster its air defense capabilities.

While Egypt currently operates a mix of French Rafale and older F-16 fighter jets, the limited range of their air-to-air missiles due to lack of latest AMRAAM and Meteor has prompted the country to explore alternative options. India’s Tejas, armed with advanced weaponry, appears to be a promising candidate.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army is poised to significantly enhance its artillery capabilities with the planned upgrade of 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers. This upgrade will involve replacing the current 155mm 39 caliber barrels with longer 155mm 52 caliber barrels.

The move is expected to provide the Indian Army with a significant boost in firepower and range. The longer barrels will allow the M777s to fire shells over greater distances, making them more effective in counter-battery fire and deep strike operations.

SOURCE: AFI

Star Aerospace, a leading Indian aerospace company, has secured a contract worth ?18 crore to supply 2000 upgraded kits for the Indian Army’s INSAS Light Machine Gun (LMG). The upgrade kits will enhance the capabilities of the INSAS LMG, making it more effective for modern combat operations.

The modification/upgradation system offered by Star Aerospace includes several key features:

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army has inducted a new technological marvel into its ranks: unmanned robotic dogs. These sturdy, steel-made machines, officially named MULES (Multi-Utility Legged Equipment), are designed to assist troops in various tasks, from surveillance to combat support.

The MULES, which resemble real-life dogs in appearance, are equipped with a range of advanced features. They can carry heavy payloads, including surveillance equipment, small arms, sensors, and even thermal imaging cameras that provide clear images in low-light conditions. Their ability to climb stairs and navigate challenging terrain makes them ideal for reconnaissance missions, especially in urban environments or mountainous regions.

SOURCE: AFI

The future of the DRDO’s Arjun main battle tank (MBT) program hangs in the balance as the Indian Army prioritizes the development of the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV). With limited orders and ongoing challenges, the Arjun program, which has spanned over three decades, may soon be deemed a failure.

The FRCV is set to supersede the Arjun MBT, signaling a shift in the Indian Army’s modernization plans. The Arjun program has faced setbacks, including a shortfall in orders from the Indian Army. Despite initial expectations of 500 units to make the program financially viable, the current order tally stands at less than 250 tanks. This shortfall has cast a shadow over the program’s future.

SOURCE: AFI

The recent commissioning of the INS Arighaat, India’s fifth nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), marks a significant milestone in the country’s strategic Indo-Pacific framework. According to former Indian naval officer Commodore C Uday Bhaskar, the development is particularly noteworthy given China’s “creeping assertiveness” along its border with India.

India joins an elite club of nations, including the United States, Russia, Britain, France, and China, that possess nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines. Bhaskar emphasized that neighboring nations will be keenly observing India’s progress, especially considering the country’s growing domestic defense manufacturing and hi-tech design capabilities. Pakistan, in particular, is likely to monitor India’s expanding naval power closely.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) decision to not assign a new combat aircraft design project to the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) immediately after the HF-24 program proved to be a significant misstep. This lack of foresight led to a gradual erosion of design expertise within HAL, a critical asset for the nation’s defense industry.

The HAL design bureau, which had demonstrated its capabilities with the HF-24, was left with little to no design work following the project’s completion. As a result, valuable experience and knowledge were lost, hindering the organization’s ability to contribute meaningfully to future aircraft development efforts.