SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) made a significant impact at the Dubai Airshow by unveiling a range of Indian-made weapon systems, including the upcoming Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SR-SAM) Mobile Air Defence System. This marks the first public appearance of the SR-SAM system, designed to provide inner-circle protection against aerial threats for both the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force.
The SR-SAM is a truck-based air defense system based on the Vertical Launch Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (VL-SRSAM), initially developed for the Indian Navy to replace the Israeli Barak-I Point Defence Missile system on frontline warships. The system is part of DRDO’s efforts to enhance India’s indigenous air defense capabilities.
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In a significant leap forward for India’s indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1, the wind tunnel model of the aircraft was recently showcased, revealing the integration of the Twin missile carrying pylon equipped with Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missiles (ASRAAMs) Close Combat Missile (CCM). The unveiling, led by HAL Test Pilot Harsh Vardhan Thakur, marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Tejas platform, highlighting its enhanced firepower capabilities.
The spotlight of the showcase was on the newly designed Dual-Rack Pylons, a key upgrade for the Tejas Mk1. These pylons, attached to the outermost wings, are equipped with ASRAAMs Close Combat Missiles, showcasing the aircraft’s versatility in handling both air-to-air and air-to-surface missions. This development aligns with the commitment made at Defexpo 2018, confirming that the upgraded Tejas Mk1A variant would feature these advanced Dual-Rack Pylons.
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The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) showcased the upcoming Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) fighter jets for the first time at the Dubai Airshow, providing insights into the potential weapons package of this deck-based fighter jet designed to replace the Russian Mig-29Ks currently in service with the Indian Navy.
The TEDBF Weapons infographic revealed at the Dubai Airshow highlighted a formidable arsenal, including the Mach 3.5 capable Air-Launched BrahMos-NG Supersonic Anti-ship Cruise missile. The Rampage Standoff Weapon system was also featured in the infographic, showcasing the versatility of the TEDBF in engaging a variety of targets.
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Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a prominent defense technology company in India, is actively engaged in discussions with its Israeli partners to mitigate potential impacts caused by the ongoing conflict in Israel. While BEL acknowledges that some disruptions are expected in the short term, it remains optimistic about the commitment from its Israeli counterparts to minimize these effects. The company’s focus remains on fulfilling its defense contracts and further advancing localization efforts.
Bhanu Prakash Srivastava, Chairman and Managing Director of BEL, recently shared insights into the company’s ongoing collaboration with its Israeli partners and the challenges posed by the current conflict in Israel. While acknowledging the short-term nature of the war’s impact, Srivastava emphasized that the Israeli partners have provided assurances that they are dedicated to minimizing any disruptions.
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German shipbuilder ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) has responded to the Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the Indian Navy with an enticing offer – an enlarged variant of its renowned Type-214 Submarine. The proposed submarine, tailored to meet the specific requirements of the Indian Navy, is set to surpass the Kalvari-class submarines acquired under the P-75 program.
The Type-214, known as the export model of the Type-212, typically boasts a submerged displacement of around 1860 tons. However, TKMS’s proposal for India introduces a substantial upgrade, featuring a submerged displacement exceeding 2000 tons. This enhancement positions the proposed submarine as larger than the Standard Kalvari-class submarines, what’s on offer might be similar to AIP-equipped Kalvari-class submarines that are under consideration.
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India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) has embarked on an ambitious journey to develop and execute high-priority military projects under the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) model. This approach involves a government agency leading the project and partnering with private sector companies to develop critical technologies and components. While the SPV model holds great promise, it faces challenges and uncertainties, particularly in enticing major private sector players to participate fully in projects like the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH), 5th generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), and Deck-based Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) fighter jet programs for the Indian Navy.
The IMRH program, which seeks to develop a modern helicopter for the Indian armed forces, highlights the lukewarm response from private sector companies. Despite India’s growing foray into the defence sector over the past few decades, many private sector companies have limited themselves to tier-II supplier partnerships in defence programs. This cautious approach stems from concerns over the availability of a skilled talent pool and the profitability of their contributions. Private sector players are wary of entering projects that may not yield viable profit margins.
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The Ministry of Defence, Government of India, has announced its intent to procure 6,175 Multi-Spectral Camouflage Nets (MSCN) for High Altitude Areas, including Barren Mountains and Snow Bound Areas. This procurement initiative seeks participation from prospective bidders to provide this specialized equipment, designed to enhance the concealment and protection of critical military assets in challenging terrains.
The MSCN for High Altitude Areas (HAA), specifically Barren Mountains and Snow Bound Areas, is crafted from specially developed polymer-coated fabric with a disruptive pattern. The primary objective is to create a camouflage net that seamlessly blends with diverse environmental terrains while suppressing signatures in various ranges of the electromagnetic spectrum, including Visual, Infrared (IR), Thermal Infrared (TIR), and radar.
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In a landmark event, the Dubai Air Show is set to witness a unique spectacle as light fighters from regional rivals India and Pakistan, the HAL Tejas and CAC/PAC JF-17, respectively, take center stage in the same exhibition and air display.
The Indian Air Force has made a significant presence with three HAL Tejas LCA (Light Combat Aircraft) fighters, accompanied by the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, showcasing the ALH (Advanced Light Helicopter). The Tejas, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is a symbol of India’s technological advancements in indigenous fighter aircraft.
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In a groundbreaking showcase of technological prowess, Noida-based start-up Raphe mPhibr Pvt has captured the spotlight at the Dubai Airshow by unveiling its MR-20 and MR-10 hexacopter drones. These cutting-edge UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) are set to redefine the landscape of aerial logistics, showcasing India’s prominence in research and development in the field of drone technology.
The MR-10, a notable addition to Raphe mPhibr’s portfolio, stands out as a swarm drone, capable of operating collaboratively to accomplish complex tasks efficiently. This innovative approach to drone technology opens avenues for synchronized and coordinated operations, expanding the scope of applications across various sectors.
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India has recently granted Acceptance of the Necessity for the development of Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missiles (LR-SAM) under Project Kusha, a significant move to bolster the country’s air defence capabilities. While the formal acceptance took place last month, the program has been in development for several months, reflecting India’s commitment to indigenous defence technologies.
The LR-SAM system aims to deploy advanced missiles capable of detecting and neutralizing a wide array of threats, including stealth fighters, aircraft, drones, cruise missiles, and precision-guided munitions. The system is designed to have a range of up to 350 km, providing an extensive defensive shield against aerial threats.
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In the wake of the recent 2+2 ministerial consultations between the foreign and defence ministers of India and the United States, a senior US defence official announced plans for the co-production of the Stryker Armoured Fighting Vehicle (AFV). However, insiders familiar with the matter suggest that the deal may face challenges as the current variants of the Stryker might not align with the specific requirements of the Indian Army.
While there is enthusiasm from the American Military-Industrial Complex (MIC) for the sale of the Stryker, the Indian Army is reportedly cautious and is not seeking large-scale procurement. Technical evaluations indicate that Stryker may not offer substantial superiority compared to alternatives already presented by Indian companies, including Tata, Mahindra, and Kalyani.
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The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) has recently issued a tender for support in the mechanical assembly and associated aero-mechanical activities of the Archer UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle) at ADE and in ATR, Chitradurga. This initiative represents a significant step in advancing the development and deployment of cutting-edge UAV technology.
The tender outlines a comprehensive set of tasks to be carried out in the mechanical assembly process, emphasizing precision and adherence to specific engineering requirements. The key activities encompassed in the tender include:
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India’s indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft, LCA-Tejas Mk1, has taken center stage at the prestigious Dubai Airshow 2023. The fighter jet, designed and manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is participating in the event to showcase its capabilities and explore potential collaborations. The first glimpse from the Airshow reveals the LCA-Tejas Mk1 on static display, strategically positioned alongside AL TARIQ’s LR-PGM, a precision munitions system developed by the UAE-based EDGE group.
Earlier this year, HAL and EDGE Group solidified their partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The collaboration aims to explore the integration of AL TARIQ’s family of modular, long-range, all-weather, day-night precision munitions onto HAL’s fixed-wing aircraft. This strategic alliance brings together the expertise of two leading entities in the aerospace industry, promising advancements in precision munition capabilities for military aircraft.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked the end of an era in October by retiring the Number 4 Squadron, known as the Oorials, which was stationed at the Uttarlai Air Force Station in Barmer, Rajasthan. This move is part of the IAF’s plan to retire two more squadrons of the MiG-21 Bison by 2025, ultimately phasing out the entire fleet of these legendary aircraft after over 50 years of service.
While the retirement of the MiG-21s is seen as a necessary transition to more modern and advanced fighter aircraft, what’s intriguing is the potential future of these aging airframes. Surprisingly, the average age of the MiG-21s set for retirement and those yet to be retired is just 37-38 years. This means that these airframes still have approximately 7-8 years of service life left in them, opening up exciting possibilities for their repurposing into unmanned drones.
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The Indian Army and Indian Air Force, which had initially sought to procure Russian Kamov Ka-226T ‘Hoodlum’ light utility helicopters, are now exploring other options due to uncertainties surrounding the over $1.2 billion tender initiated in 2014 for 200 of these helicopters. It appears that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) is considering scrapping the deal, as negotiations between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Kamov have encountered numerous complexities, including issues related to technology transfer, indigenous content, and overall costs.
The Ka-226T ‘Hoodlum’ light helicopter, powered by two advanced Arrius 2G1 engines developed by Turbomeca (a Safran Group company), offers a level of performance that surpasses HAL’s 3-ton Light Utility Helicopter (LUH), which operates with a single HAL/Turbomeca Shakti-1U turboshaft engine. The Ka-226T’s advanced features, including FADEC-equipped engines, make it suitable for high-altitude operations, an essential capability in the rugged terrain of the Indian subcontinent.
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