SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
Pakistan recently conducted a test of its Ababeel missile, marking a significant development in its ballistic missile program. However, what has raised eyebrows is the noticeable silence surrounding previous claims that the missile is capable of carrying multiple warheads, known as Multiple Independently Targetable Reentry Vehicles (MIRVs), which can target different locations simultaneously.
The test, as reported by the Inter-Services Public Relations Pakistan (ISPR), was conducted with a focus on revalidating “various design, technical parameters, and performance evaluation of different sub-systems.” The statement clarified that the test’s primary aim was to “strengthen deterrence and enhance strategic stability in the region.” This underscores the significance of Pakistan’s missile program in the context of regional security and its commitment to maintaining a credible deterrent.
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Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), India’s leading aerospace and defence company, is engaged in discussions with the Philippines regarding the potential sale of 20 ALH-Dhruv helicopters. This move signifies a significant step in the expansion of HAL’s footprint in the international market.
HAL Chairman and Managing Director, CB Ananthakrishnan, has confirmed that talks are in progress, highlighting the growing interest in Indian-made helicopters from abroad. People familiar with the matter have said that the Philippines is looking to procure Maritime variants for SAR and Marine Reconnaissance (MR) missions of the ALH-Dhruv Helicopters.
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The world’s largest military procurement in recent years is underway, as the Indian Air Force (IAF) seeks to acquire 114 advanced fighter jets under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. Boeing, a leading aircraft manufacturer, has responded to the Indian government’s request for information (RFI) with its formidable F-15EX fighter jet.
In 2021, Boeing received a license from the U.S. government to offer the F-15EX to the Indian Air Force, showcasing its commitment to the Indian defence market. The F-15EX, a versatile and proven fighter, was also exhibited at Aero India 2021 in Bengaluru, where it garnered attention for its capabilities and potential fit for India’s defence needs.
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Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the renowned Indian aerospace and defence company, is gearing up for a significant transformation in its approach to international markets. HAL’s chairman and managing director, CB Ananthakrishnan, has confirmed the creation of a dedicated commercial and marketing arm. This strategic move aims to bolster HAL’s efforts in promoting and exporting its cutting-edge aerospace products to the global market.
HAL’s decision to establish a separate commercial and marketing arm comes in response to challenges faced in international markets. Notably, the company lost a deal to supply 18 LCA-Tejas Mk1A fighter jets to Malaysia in favour of South Korean Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and its FA-50 fighter jets. It was a surprising turn of events, as the LCA-Tejas Mk1A was not only more cost-effective but also demonstrated superior capabilities in various performance parameters.
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India’s ambitious project to develop a Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) for aircraft carriers is set to take a significant step forward with private sector participation. According to a recent report in the “Economic Times,” the development and production of the TEDBF will be facilitated through Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) companies, with private sector ownership taking a majority stake in these entities. This approach mirrors the one adopted for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), which is also being developed through an SPV jointly formed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), and private players.
The Cabinet Committee on Security is expected to provide clearance for the TEDBF program by mid-2024. The project received approval in 2020, with the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) slated for completion by early 2024. Subsequently, it is estimated that it will take another 1.5 to 2 years to build the prototype. The first TEDBF prototype is anticipated to make its maiden flight by 2026, with production readiness targeted for 2031. However, some delays, estimated at around 12 months, are expected to affect both of these milestones.
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The prestigious No.31 Squadron ‘Lions’ of the Indian Air Force (IAF) commemorated a momentous occasion on the 21st of October 2023, celebrating its illustrious 60 years of service to the nation. The Diamond Jubilee event, held at the Air Force Station Jodhpur, was a testament to the squadron’s exceptional contributions and longstanding legacy in serving the country.
The grand event, graced by Air Marshal SP Dharkar, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command, and the Commodore Commandant of 31 Squadron, was a vibrant display of the squadron’s rich history and accomplishments. The highlight of the celebration was the unveiling of a striking Su-30MKI adorned with the squadron’s emblem, the Lion, along with the motto “Shatru Chhidrey Prahret” (A Kill with every blow), representing the squadron’s indomitable spirit and dedication.
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Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), one of India’s premier aerospace and defence companies, is actively pursuing opportunities for the export of Tejas Mk1A fighter jets to multiple countries. This move comes in response to the growing confidence in the Made in India fighter jet by the Indian Air Force (IAF), which has already placed significant orders for these advanced aircraft. As India’s Tejas program gains momentum, several nations have expressed interest in procuring the Tejas Mk1A for their air forces, presenting a promising avenue for international collaboration.
The Tejas Mk1A, a versatile and capable fighter jet, has gained considerable recognition and acceptance within the Indian Air Force. The IAF’s initial order of 73 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets signifies a high level of confidence in the aircraft’s performance and capabilities. The impending order for an additional 97 Tejas Mk1A fighter jets further underscores the IAF’s trust in this homegrown fighter.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly enhance its air superiority capabilities with the “Super Sukhoi” upgrade package, which includes the equipping of 84 Sukhoi-30MKI aircraft with the domestically manufactured Virupaksha Gallium Nitride (GaN) based Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar.
This advanced radar system will replace the existing Russian NIIP N011M Bars (Panther) radar, which dates back to the early 1980s. The “Super Sukhoi” upgrade, proposed in 2012, initially explored the possibility of Russian radar replacements. However, the decision to opt for the indigenous Virupaksha radar reflects India’s commitment to self-reliance and the development of cutting-edge defence technologies.
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In a significant move, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has been actively seeking a Wet Lease of Flight Refueling Aircraft. This endeavour aims to enhance its aerial refuelling capabilities, and one of the key contenders for this lease is Boeing’s KC-46 Pegasus, an American military aerial refuelling and strategic transport aircraft based on the 767 jet airliner that has been offered to IAF for Wet Lease.
The IAF issued a global Request for Proposal (RFP) last year, outlining the specific parameters of the lease arrangement. The key details include:
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South Korean defense manufacturer, Poongsan, has announced a groundbreaking development in the field of artillery munitions. Poongsan has introduced an extended-range version of its 155 mm ammunition designed for the Hanwha Land Systems K9 self-propelled howitzer (SPH). With an impressive range of 60 kilometers, this new ammunition offers an extended operational reach, making it a significant advancement in artillery technology.
The key innovation in Poongsan’s 155 mm extended-range ammunition (ERM) lies in its impressive range of 60 kilometers. This remarkable achievement has been made possible by implementing a smaller TNT charge compared to the K307 munition, combined with the utilization of a potent solid-fuel propellant. This combination of reduced explosive content and enhanced propellant has resulted in a substantial increase in the projectile’s effective range.
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Pune-based Sagar Defence Engineering has made significant strides in the field of drone technology by developing the Spotter drone, which recently played a pivotal role in tracking the descent of an Indian Navy crew module. The successful deployment of the Spotter drone marked a remarkable achievement in enhancing real-time situational awareness and live tracking capabilities for critical missions.
Sagar Defence Engineering’s Spotter drone is a cutting-edge unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed to offer advanced surveillance and tracking capabilities. This innovative drone was recently employed by the Indian Navy in a mission that involved tracking the descent of a crew module, eventually splashing down in the Bay of Bengal.
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In response to the evolving strategic landscape in the Himalayan region, the Indian Army has prioritized the development of advanced long-range rocket launchers, focusing on capabilities tailored to address Chinese threats. The decision comes as the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China deploys rockets with a range of 160 kilometers along the border.
The Indian Army, in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO), is actively working on the technical specifications for these upcoming rocket systems. The goal is to enhance India’s rocket capabilities, with proposed ranges of up to 150 kilometers and an advanced variant of a Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS) boasting a range of 250 kilometers.
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India and the United States are on the cusp of finalizing a deal for the procurement of 31 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), with an anticipated conclusion by early February 2024. Price negotiations have largely been concluded, and both nations are now awaiting the formal issuance of the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) from the U.S. administration to proceed with the deal.
This significant procurement was approved by the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) in June, covering the acquisition of 31 MQ-9B UAVs from General Atomics (GA). The order includes 15 Sea Guardians designated for the Indian Navy, and eight Sky Guardians each for the Indian Army and Air Force. The estimated cost of this procurement stands at $3,072 million, and it is facilitated through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route.
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On October 17, the Indian Army marked a significant step in its modernization efforts as it approved the Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the procurement of 118 Integrated Surveillance and Targeting Systems (ISAT-S). This advanced system, as outlined in the AON, is set to bring a revolutionary transformation to the way the Army’s armoured divisions conduct their operations.
This procurement is part of the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC)’s approved AoN for nine capital acquisition proposals, collectively valued at approximately Rs 45,000 crore. The ISAT-S has been meticulously designed to provide comprehensive surveillance and targeting capabilities tailored to the needs of mechanized forces, making it a game-changer in the landscape of modern warfare.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is on a mission to bolster its fleet with 114 fighter jets, and it’s not sparing any effort to expedite the procurement process. In a recent move, the IAF has disclosed its plan to allow some of these jets to be manufactured by the Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) at their facilities before production commences at the designated Indian plant.
The IAF’s aspiration to acquire 114 fighter jets under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender is gaining momentum. To expedite the process, the IAF is willing to adopt an unconventional approach: allowing the OEMs to produce a portion of the jets at their own facilities. This deviation from the traditional procurement path aims to save time and speed up the induction of these jets into the IAF’s inventory.
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