SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is facing a critical hurdle with its newly upgraded MiG-29 fighter jets, as technical issues have emerged in the retrofitted fuel tanks. These additional dorsal tanks, located behind the cockpit, are crucial for extending the aircraft’s range, but concerns have been raised about their structural integrity and fuel flow.
Sources within the IAF have confirmed challenges with both the tank’s physical design and the internal fuel movement. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Air Headquarters has prioritized finding a solution. An IAF officer emphasized, “This is a critical matter, and top priority is being accorded to it.”
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Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a subsidiary of Bharat Forge, has proposed acquiring a majority stake in Zorya Mashproekt India Private Limited (ZMI), a domestic company specializing in gas turbine engine technology. This move comes amidst renewed urgency to foster indigenous capabilities in this critical field, fueled by the war in Ukraine disrupting imports from the company’s Ukrainian parent, Zorya-Mashproekt.
The Indian Navy, a major user of Zorya-Mashproekt GTEs for its warships, has been impacted by the war in Ukraine. Potential disruptions in supply and maintenance could jeopardize operational readiness. This vulnerability highlights the importance of developing a domestic GTE ecosystem, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers and ensuring long-term operational sustainability.
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Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace, a Bangalore-based startup, has sparked interest with its development of the Narakyaan, a high-speed drone designed for counter-drone operations. Boasting an impressive 200 km/h cruise speed and a devastating 320 km/h dive attack capability, Narakyaan aims to provide a potent solution against enemy drones.
Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace has not yet disclosed the full technical specifications or timeline for Narakyaan’s operational deployment. However, the drone’s potential capabilities and the growing demand for counter-drone solutions make it a significant development in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s pursuit of acquiring 114 Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) has encountered significant hurdles, prompting the Standing Committee on Defence for the year 2022-23 to suggest contingency plans in case of further delays. With the procurement process at an advanced stage, concerns about potential setbacks akin to past projects, such as the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) or Kaveri engine, has advised the government to consider alternative options. The possibility of acquiring state-of-the-art fifth-generation fighter aircraft over the counter has emerged as a potential solution to maintain the nation’s defense capabilities without prolonged delays.
The prolonged delays in the issuance of the Request for Proposal (RFP) for the MRFA tender have raised concerns within the defense establishment. The Standing Committee on Defence has wisely advocated for a proactive approach, suggesting that if the current procurement process faces further setbacks, the government should explore alternative avenues to ensure the Indian Air Force (IAF) remains well-equipped and ready to address emerging security challenges.
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The Indian Army has unveiled a groundbreaking in-house innovation: a multipurpose octocopter designed to enhance its operational capabilities in challenging high-altitude environments. This versatile drone platform offers a range of functionalities, including:
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In a significant boost to India’s self-reliance in the defence sector, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari has announced that the upcoming upgrade of Sukhoi-30MKI fighters will transform them into truly Indian aircraft. This ambitious project, undertaken by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), will witness the replacement of nearly all major components and systems in the first tranche of 84 aircraft, leading to an incredible 78% indigenization.
The Sukhoi-30MKI, a potent fighter jet originally developed in Russia, has served as the backbone of the Indian Air Force (IAF) for decades. However, the upcoming upgrade program marks a pivotal shift in this partnership. Replacing crucial components like the AESA Fire Control Radar, avionics, and other systems with indigenously developed Indian technology will significantly reduce dependence on Russia and propel India toward self-sufficiency in advanced aerospace systems.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Airbus Defence and Space (ADS) Spain has secured the coveted role as the lead contractor for the conversion of six pre-owned A-321 aircraft procured from Air India into the Netra MkII Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&CS) for the Indian Air Force.
The chosen A-321s will undergo a complete metamorphosis, transitioning from commercial passenger jets to sophisticated reconnaissance platforms. This transformation will be overseen by Airbus, leveraging its expertise in aircraft customization and military integration. The Getafe site in Madrid, home to Airbus’ Military Aircraft Design and Engineering department, will play a pivotal role in equipping the aircraft with cutting-edge military avionics and transforming them into aerial sentinels.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is anticipating a Request for Proposal (RFP) from the Indian Army for the procurement of the indigenously developed Nag anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). Following the successful completion of trials earlier this year, BDL expects orders for the Nag missile to be placed by 2025.
The Nag ATGM has been categorized as a fire-and-forget, third-generation missile, offering significant advancements over previous generations. It boasts an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker, enabling effective engagement with static and moving targets in both day and night conditions.
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According to a report by Zee Business, India’s defense prowess receives a major boost as Armenia inks a deal to acquire the Akash Air Defence System and 15 AAD Systems from Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL). This crucial government-to-government agreement, estimated to be valued between Rs 5,000 crore and Rs 6,000 crore, marks a significant development in India’s defense exports and strategic partnership with Armenia.
The Akash Air Defence System is a medium-range surface-to-air missile system designed and developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is capable of engaging aerial targets at a range of up to 25 kilometers and an altitude of 18 kilometers. The system can track and destroy multiple targets simultaneously, making it a formidable shield against aerial threats.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) extends a warm invitation to industry stakeholders for an Industry Outreach Program at Air Force Station Sulur on December 22, 2023. This event serves as a unique opportunity for participants to gain insights into the distinctive operational environment of the IAF and explore avenues where the industry can contribute to bolstering India’s defense capabilities. Embracing the spirit of #AtmanirbharBharat, the IAF actively encourages private sector participation in its quest for self-reliance in defense research and development (R&D) and manufacturing.
Under the visionary initiative of #AtmanirbharBharat, the IAF is committed to promoting self-sufficiency in the aerospace domain. The Industry Outreach Program is a crucial step in this direction, providing a platform for collaboration between the IAF and the private sector. By fostering partnerships with industry players, the IAF aims to harness the collective expertise and innovation needed to develop cutting-edge technologies and capabilities.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has faced significant challenges in maintaining its fleet of 260 Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets due to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and subsequent Western sanctions on Russia. These sanctions have disrupted the traditional supply chain for crucial spares and systems, forcing the IAF to adapt and innovate.
Fortunately, IAF officials have revealed to idrw.org that the long-term spare storage policy implemented in the past has helped them navigate this turbulent period. This foresightful approach ensured a reserve of essential parts, allowing the IAF to maintain operational readiness despite the supply chain disruptions.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Air Force’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft is set to receive a significant upgrade in electronic warfare (EW) capabilities with the successful development and testing of the Dual (LH & RH) ASPJ pods by CASDIC. These pods, mounted on the left and right sides of the aircraft, will significantly enhance the Su-30MKI’s ability to defend itself against enemy radar and electronic threats.
The success of the ASPJ pods is a testament to extensive collaboration and testing. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) conducted detailed feasibility studies using various simulations and analyses, including:
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In 2020, India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) unveiled the Amogha-III, a third-generation anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) that promises to revolutionize the country’s ground-based anti-armour capabilities. This “fire-and-forget” weapon, currently undergoing Army trials, promises to significantly bolster India’s ground forces’ anti-armour capabilities. Amogha-III is likely to get Army Clearance likely next year as informed to idrw.org.
The Amogha-III is a “fire-and-forget” weapon, meaning the operator acquires the target and launches the missile, which then navigates to its destination autonomously. This reduces the soldier’s exposure to enemy fire and allows for quicker engagement. The missile boasts a range of 200 to 2,500 meters, giving it flexibility in various combat scenarios.
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India’s ambitious Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, aiming to develop a fifth-generation fighter jet, is nearing a crucial stage in its engine selection process. While the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) continues discussions with potential partners, Safran of France appears to be taking the lead in the race.
The AMCA program requires a high-thrust engine in the 110-120kN class, significantly more powerful than engines currently used in India’s fighter jets. GTRE is actively seeking collaboration with a foreign partner to co-develop this critical technology, ensuring both expertise and timely delivery.
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Tonbo Imaging has unveiled its latest innovation, the Infinity EOIR fire control system, designed to revolutionize the way crew-served weapons like the AGS-30 automatic grenade launcher are operated. This advanced multi-sensor system boasts a range of features that promise unparalleled accuracy, increased first-hit probability, and enhanced situational awareness in all weather and visibility conditions.
At the heart of Infinity lies a powerful combination of optronics and inertial sensors. These sensors work in tandem to provide a disturbed reticle, which automatically compensates for barrel movement and environmental factors, allowing for rapid target acquisition and engagement. This translates to faster reaction times and a significant increase in first-hit probability, crucial in high-pressure combat situations.
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