SOURCE: AFI

The Indian-developed Tejas MkII, a 17.5-ton light fighter jet, could emerge as a compelling option for countries looking for a versatile and cost-effective solution for their air force needs. With global dynamics shifting away from traditional suppliers like Russia and China due to geopolitical concerns and increasing sanctions, the Tejas MkII is uniquely positioned to capture a significant share of the international market, provided it is marketed effectively.

The Tejas MkII builds upon the success of the Tejas MkI, offering several enhancements in terms of avionics, weapon systems, and range.

SOURCE: AFI

The induction of the S-400 Triumf air defense system, coupled with the development of the indigenous Project Khusha, marks a significant leap forward for India’s air defense capabilities. These systems, with their impressive long-range interception capabilities of 350-400 kilometers, are set to drastically alter the dynamics of aerial warfare in the region.  

The deployment of the S-400 and Project Khusha systems will create a formidable air defense umbrella over India’s critical assets. The long-range nature of these systems means that enemy aircraft, including fighter jets, will have to operate much deeper within their own territory to avoid detection and interception. This will significantly reduce the reaction time available to potential adversaries, limiting their options for offensive operations.  

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian government has partnered with the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) to train its inaugural batch of cyber commandos. The specialized wing is set to be commissioned next month, comprising approximately 350 selected personnel from various state police forces.

These cyber experts will be tasked with responding to cyberattacks, preventing, and addressing such threats. The selected candidates, including investigation officers and senior police officers, will undergo rigorous training at the IITs and IIITs.

SOURCE: AFI

Commander Arnab Ghosh, a serving officer in the Indian Navy, has made history by becoming the first naval officer to secure double-digit patents. His 10th patent was recently granted, a significant milestone that underscores the Navy’s commitment to innovation and research.

Commander Ghosh’s achievement is a direct result of the Naval Innovation and Indigenization Organization (NIIO)’s efforts to foster a culture of innovation within the Indian Navy. The initial focus on medical and dual-use innovations proved to be a strategic move, not only kickstarting the innovative process but also aligning with the Navy’s tagline, “Indian Navy – Innovating for Nation Building.”

SOURCE: AFI

A sight to behold, the Airbus Beluga, one of the world’s largest cargo planes, touched down at Hyderabad’s Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in the early hours of Friday, August 30, 2024.

The Airbus A300-608ST Beluga, with the callsign ‘BCO4003,’ arrived in Hyderabad at 12:23 AM following its departure from Muscat International Airport at 7:27 PM (local time). The aircraft’s journey began on August 27, taking off from Toulouse, France, and making stops in Marseille, France, Cairo, Egypt, and Muscat, Oman.

SOURCE: AFI

The JAS 39 Gripen is currently the most advanced fighter jet in the inventory of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). As a 4.5-generation multirole fighter, the Gripen has enhanced Brazil’s air combat capabilities significantly. However, with global air forces moving towards fifth-generation platforms, Brazil may soon find itself in need of a more advanced fighter to maintain parity with potential adversaries.

Given the ongoing closeness between Brazil and India in defense collaborations, there is an opportunity for India to offer Brazil a role in its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) 5th generation fighter jet program. Such collaboration could benefit both countries strategically and economically.

SOURCE: AFI

Saab India has highlighted its commitment to technology transfer beyond the establishment of local assembly lines. The Swedish aerospace and defense company aims to bolster the local defense industry by partnering with indigenous suppliers in its global supply chain.

A prime example of this approach is AEL Sistemas, a Brazilian company that equips the new Brazilian Gripen fighters with advanced cockpit displays. AEL Sistemas has not only benefited from Saab’s technology transfer but has also expanded its business by exporting these high-tech components to other markets.

SOURCE: AFI

Naval Group, a leading naval defense company in France, recently hosted Ambassador Jawed Ashraf and other Indian dignitaries at its facility in Lagoubran. The visit provided an opportunity for the Indian delegation to witness the capabilities of the company’s XL-UUV demonstrator and learn about its ongoing UCUV program.

The XL-UUV, an unmanned underwater vehicle, showcased its advanced features and potential applications during the visit. Naval Group began working on the UCUV program in May 2023, and within nine months, the company successfully identified various use cases and developed key architectural concepts for a combat-oriented XL-UUV.

SOURCE: AFI

As Bangladesh has decided not to participate in the second phase of the multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti, with its C-130 aircraft, Sri Lanka has stepped in to fill the void. This marks the island nation’s involvement in this phase of the largest air exercise hosted by India.

The second phase of Tarang Shakti will take place from August 30 to September 14, 2024. The event will showcase the daring aerial maneuvers of fighter jets from Australia, the United States, Greece, Bangladesh, Singapore, and the United Arab Emirates.