SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
The Indian Army’s formidable T-90 tanks are about to get even more potent. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the integration of two cutting-edge technologies: the Digital Ballistic Computer (DBC) and the Automatic Target Tracker (ATT). This upgrade promises a significant leap in accuracy and battlefield effectiveness.
Gone are the days of meticulously manual tank positioning. The ATT eliminates this time-consuming process, automatically tracking enemy tanks with unwavering precision. This crucial advantage allows for quicker engagement and a higher chance of hitting the target first.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s ambitions for its naval power take a turn, as it enters talks with British engineering giant Rolls-Royce to power its upcoming Second Aircraft Carrier (IAC-II) with the MT30 marine gas turbine. This potential shift marks a significant departure from the American General Electric LM2500 engines used in the current INS Vikrant.
The MT30 boasts superior fuel efficiency compared to the LM2500, a crucial factor for extended operations at sea. However, this advantage comes at a price tag almost 1.5 times higher. Additionally, while IAC-II’s design will largely mirror Vikrant’s 45,000-ton displacement, the choice of engines signifies a strategic decision beyond immediate operational needs.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a remarkable display of technological prowess, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed the successful combat trial of Varunastra, an indigenously developed ship-launched anti-submarine heavyweight torpedo (HWT). The trial, conducted on June 6, 2023, by the Indian Navy, marked a significant milestone as the torpedo, fired from a submarine, precisely hit an underwater target. This achievement underscores the combat worthiness and capability of Varunastra, showcasing its ability to meet the Navy’s operational requirements.
The combat trial of Varunastra represents a critical phase in the testing and validation of this homegrown anti-submarine torpedo. The successful launch from a submarine and the precise hit on an underwater target validate the torpedo’s performance in real-world scenarios, affirming its reliability and effectiveness in naval operations.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant achievement for India’s drone technology landscape, Bengaluru-based startup NewSpace Research and Technologies National has successfully completed the Winter Solstice flight test campaign for its solar-powered High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) prototype. This milestone was achieved as part of the Ministry of Defence’s Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) challenge, conducted at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga. The sub-scale demonstrator model showcased an impressive 21+ hours in the air, meeting all design goals for long-endurance flight.
The successful completion of the Winter Solstice flight test marks a pivotal moment for India’s venture into the stratosphere. NewSpace’s HAPS prototype, developed as part of the Combined Air Teaming System (CATS) programme under the unmanned drone warfare initiative, has met all design goals, unlocking new possibilities for high-altitude, long-endurance flight capabilities.
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The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) year-end review has revealed a significant development: the successful flight test of a Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) capable of engaging warships at extended distances. While details remain under wraps, this test marks a crucial step towards bolstering India’s maritime prowess.
Details surrounding the weapon are scarce, with the MoD report only confirming the test date (February 21st, 2023) and location (Integrated Test Range, Balasore, Odisha). The ambiguity leaves open the possibility of this LRASM being either a land-based or submarine-launched variant. However, considering the February test of a 402km-range Submarine Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM), speculation naturally arises about a potential connection.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
A Mumbai-based company, Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt Ltd, has successfully demonstrated the capabilities of its quadcopter drone with a historic takeoff from the Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. The drone not only soared from the mighty carrier but also completed a seamless landing on another ship, marking a significant milestone in India’s drone warfare ambitions.
The demonstration wasn’t just about showcasing the drone’s technical prowess; it served as a glimpse into the Indian Navy’s vision for integrating drones into its operations. The Navy envisions these drones playing a crucial role in the Naval Shipborne Aerial System (NSAS), enhancing its capabilities in various domains:
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
India’s Tejas MkII program is experiencing an acceleration in progress following the realization of funds from September onwards. Recent developments, coupled with insights from individuals familiar with the program and vetting of tenders by idrw.org, shed light on the components and timeline associated with the Tejas MkII program. With a focus on enhancing the capabilities of the indigenous Tejas aircraft, the program is poised to achieve significant milestones in the coming years.
The Tejas MkII program has seen a surge in activity, particularly in the procurement of essential components. Recent tenders issued by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) highlight the acquisition of critical elements, including LRUs, Data Acquisition systems, elevon, actuators, rudder actuators, Unified video cum Digital Data Recorder (UVDR) MkII, Hydraulic seals for flight control actuator, components for the Centre fuselage, Aircraft Mounted Accessory Gear Box (AMAGB), and Low-Profile Head-Up Display (LPHUD). These components are slated for delivery from early 2024 to mid-2024.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed in its year-end review that the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has made significant strides in air-to-air missile technology. While specific details remain under wraps, the review mentions the successful testing of a state-of-the-art air-to-air missile powered by a “Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR)” propulsion system.
This isn’t the first time DRDO has showcased its SFDR capabilities. Last year, the organization successfully flight-tested the SFDR booster, setting the stage for further advancements. This technology promises to significantly enhance the range and performance of Indian air-to-air missiles.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is making rapid progress on its project to develop a subscale demonstrator of a stealthy flying wing uncrewed aircraft system (UAS). This technology is seen as critical for the development of India’s own Remotely Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA), also known as the Indigenous Stealth Drone.
Sources familiar with the program have revealed to idrw.org that the RPSA program will require dedicated funding as the Indian Air Force (IAF) and DRDO are still finalizing the configuration of the aircraft. This separate funding is estimated to be around 8000 crore rupees and will cover the development of two variants – one for strike missions and another for air dominance.
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India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) is expressing optimism about securing export orders for its indigenously developed Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) and Smart Anti-Air Weapon (SAAW) systems. BDL officials are currently in talks with several countries that have shown strong interest in these advanced weapons, potentially marking a significant milestone in India’s defense exports.
The Astra Mk1 has been actively promoted to operators of Su-30 and MiG-29 fighter jets, offering a compelling alternative to the Russian-developed R-77 BVRAAM. BDL highlights several key advantages of the Astra, including:
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In a pursuit of knowledge and cross-cultural exchange, a delegation from the Indian Air Force Test Pilots School (IAFTPS) recently embarked on a study tour to the National Test Pilot School (NTPS) in the heart of California’s Mojave Desert. Led by the Officer Commanding IAFTPS, the group, comprising the Deputy Schoolmaster and students of the 45th Flight Test Course, delved deep into the world of American test flying, forging valuable connections and enriching their understanding of this critical domain.
The IAFTPS, established in 1957, is a premier institution responsible for training India’s elite test pilots, who push the boundaries of aviation technology and ensure the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force’s diverse aircraft fleet. The NTPS, founded in 1961, boasts a similarly prestigious reputation, having trained generations of American test pilots who have shaped the course of aerospace history.
Continue readingSOURCE: 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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