SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has recently decided against the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) proposal to involve private sector companies in manufacturing the Tejas MkII fighter jets, citing cost efficiency and optimized utilization of current production facilities. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the state-owned aerospace and defence company, has been designated as the primary manufacturer of the Tejas MkII, ensuring continuity in production and avoiding unnecessary expenditure.
HAL, which is currently leading the Tejas Mk1A production line with an order of 83 jets for the IAF, is expected to secure an additional 97 orders for the Tejas Mk1A variant. This expansion of orders could keep the Mk1A production line operational until 2032, a notable extension beyond the previously planned 2028 deadline. This shift allows HAL to continue fulfilling Mk1A orders, even as the MkII production line gradually ramps up.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
Following the induction of the C-295M transport aircraft into its fleet, the Indian Air Force (IAF) is evaluating the same platform to replace its ageing fleet of Soviet-era An-32 transporters. While the C-295M was initially introduced to replace the Hawker Siddeley HS 748 aircraft, its operational capabilities and size make it a viable option for replacing the An-32 as well. However, the C-295M may require modifications to meet the specific demands of high-altitude operations—capabilities that were purpose-built into the An-32 when it was developed for the IAF.
The An-32, an improved variant of the An-26, was specially tailored for high-altitude operations and rugged conditions. The IAF has relied on the An-32 for decades to transport cargo and personnel to remote, mountainous regions, a role that any replacement will need to fulfil effectively. As the C-295M begins operations in similar terrains, initial observations and performance feedback will be essential for determining what adjustments may be required to fully meet the IAF’s needs in higher altitudes and challenging environmental conditions.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
At the recent inauguration of the Tata Aircraft Complex for the production of Airbus C-295 aircraft in India, a new variant of the C295 platform was showcased, drawing significant attention to its potential to enhance India’s maritime patrol capabilities. The proposed modifications to the C295 platform aim to develop it into the Multi-Mission Maritime Aircraft (MMMA) and Medium Range Maritime Reconnaissance (MRMR) aircraft for the Indian Coast Guard and Navy. Equipped with cutting-edge weapon systems, the new platforms represent a substantial boost for the country’s maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
The MMMA and MRMR variants of the C295 are designed to meet the unique needs of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard. This customization is a notable step in India’s ongoing efforts to build a robust Indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative. As part of this transformation, the weaponized C295 platform is expected to address the demand for multi-mission capabilities, offering a solution that combines surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike capabilities on a single, versatile airframe.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
According to recent reports in the Indian media, India is preparing to conduct a test of the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) in the coming days in an ambitious step towards bolstering its naval capabilities. This advanced quasi-ballistic missile is designed specifically for anti-ship operations, and with an impressive range of 1500 kilometres, it is set to become a powerful tool in India’s arsenal for maritime security in littoral and open-sea theatres.
The LR-AShM’s long-range reach and quasi-ballistic trajectory distinguish it from other anti-ship missiles in the Indian arsenal. This missile is engineered to target large formations of enemy warships or high-value vessels like aircraft carriers, giving it a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s maritime boundaries. Reports indicate preliminary tests were conducted in 2023, likely as part of developmental trials to assess the missile’s performance and refine its capabilities.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Recent reports confirm that the French Army is evaluating India’s Pinaka rocket system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), as a potential replacement for its existing LRU M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). The LRU, a modernized version of the U.S.-origin M270, has served the French Army since its production began in the 1980s and was upgraded in the early 2010s. Although the LRU has been a reliable system for long-range artillery strikes, its capabilities are now falling short of the French Army’s evolving operational needs.
The LRU (Lance-Roquettes Unitaire) is a guided rocket launcher system mounted on a tracked chassis, offering versatile mobility across different terrains. This design enables it to be deployed in a range of environments, making it ideal for the French Army’s need for flexible firepower. Capable of launching guided rockets to a maximum range of 70 kilometers, the LRU has been a valuable asset for providing precise and swift artillery strikes on strategic targets while keeping a safe distance.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL), one of India’s leading defense shipyards, has successfully indigenized a critical submarine component—O-rings for sealing applications and pipe flanges in submarine systems. Previously imported from Naval Group, France, these essential items are now being produced domestically in collaboration with James Walker Inmarco Pvt Ltd, a Mumbai-based company specializing in sealing solutions. This indigenization effort is part of MDL’s larger strategy to enhance self-reliance in critical submarine components, aligning closely with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) mission.
The O-ring plays a crucial role in submarines, particularly for sealing various systems and ensuring watertight integrity under high-pressure conditions. Used in pipe flanges and multiple sealing applications, O-rings prevent leakages, maintaining the safety and operational efficiency of the submarine. Given the sensitive nature of submarines, even a minor flaw in sealing systems can lead to significant operational risks. Thus, ensuring reliable O-ring quality and fitment is critical for submarine integrity, especially when operating at depth.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The Heritage Flight, originally named the Vintage Aircraft Flight, was founded in April 1988 at the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Air Force Station Palam. This unique unit was established to honor the legacy of historical aircraft that once served the IAF and to offer a living tribute to India’s rich aviation heritage. Renamed the Heritage Flight (HF) in 2020, this unit allows both the IAF and the public to connect with the storied history of military aviation in India.
Heritage Flight has evolved over the years, focusing on the restoration and operation of iconic aircraft that once played significant roles in IAF operations. These vintage aircraft are meticulously preserved and occasionally flown to showcase the IAF’s journey from its inception to its current state.
Continue readingSOURCE: ANI
At a time when defence forces are looking at creating a rocket force, India is all set to soon test fire a new long-range anti-ship ballistic missile which would be able to hit moving warships or aircraft carriers at distances of over 1,000 kms.
The ballistic missile is expected to be tested in the next few days by the Defence Research and Development Organisation, defence sources told ANI. The anti-ship ballistic missile would be capable of being launched from both warships and shore-based locations, the sources said.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
An Odisha-based startup Bon V Aero has launched a fully autonomous logistics drone service called Air Orca. The launch of the drone service was made in the presence of venture capitalist Tim Draper. “Today’s launch of Air Orca marks an important advancement for India’s logistics sector and for us as an Odisha-based company”, said Satyabrata Sathapathy, CEO of Bon V Aero said on Saturday.
“Developing and manufacturing this drone indigenously has allowed us to tailor it for India’s specific needs. Tim Draper’s support strengthens the impact of this launch, and we are grateful for his involvement as we aim to extend Air Orca’s benefits to both civilian and defence applications across India,” Sathapathy said.
Continue readingSOURCE: ANI
Canadian journalist Terry Milewski on Sunday criticized Canada’s approach to the Khalistan issue, calling it “hypocritical” and a “national disgrace.” Speaking to ANI, Milewski expressed his concerns about Canada’s handling of the Khalistani separatism, stating, “I have been saying for 20 years that Canada has been hypocritical in its approach to the Khalistani menace.
The Khalistan issue, as it’s been treated by Canada over the years, has been a national disgrace.” He further disputed claims that Australia Today being blocked and attributed the issue to a long-standing commercial negotiation between Facebook and Canadian regulators, who insist that content creators should be paid. “All you have to do is click on the site and see if it’s blocked. I can tell you that it’s not; it hasn’t been since the very beginning… It hasn’t been blocked, it hasn’t been banned, it hasn’t been censored.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
Security was beefed up outside the Canada High Commission in Chanakyapuri area after Hindu-Sikh group held a protest there denouncing the attack on a Hindu Temple in Canada. Many Sikh protesters climbed the barricades and raised slogans against the violence inside a temple in Canada’s Brampton.
The protest was held under the banner of Hindu Sikh Global Forum, which claimed more than 1,200 Sikhs, 300 of them women, participated in the demonstration.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
The Canadian police have arrested a 35-year-old Brampton resident on charges of assault with a weapon during a violent demonstration at a Hindu temple in the city, authorities said.
On November 3, a protest occurred at the Hindu Sabha Mandir in Brampton and unverified videos circulating on social media appeared to show demonstrators holding banners in support of Khalistan. The videos showed fist fights and people striking each other with poles on what appears to be the grounds surrounding the temple.
The Peel Regional Police responded to the altercation during the demonstration at the mandir. As tensions between opposing sides increased, the demonstrations became physical and assaultive, a statement said on Saturday. Police began investigating several offences that occurred during the demonstration, many of which were captured on video, including individuals using flags and sticks to assault people, it said.
Investigators from the 21 Division Criminal Investigations Bureau and Strategic Investigation Team (SIT) have arrested and charged Inderjeet Gosal of Brampton, the Peel Police statement said. Gosal, is Sikhs for Justice coordinator for Canada, Toronto Star reported. The US-based SFJ is banned in India.
SOURCE: UNI
Indian Naval Submarine INS Vela arrived at the port of Colombo on Sunday on a formal visit to strengthen camaraderie between the Indian and Sri Lankan navies. The visiting submarine was welcomed by the Sri Lanka Navy in precision with naval traditions, the Island nation’s navy said in a statement. During the submarine’s stay in Colombo, the Indian naval crew is expected to participate in activities organized by Sri Lanka to strengthen camaraderie between the two navies.
In addition, personnel of the Lankan Navy are expected to visit the Indian submarine to take part in an awareness programme on its operational features. Moreover, the crew members of the submarine are also expected to explore some of the tourist attractions of the Island nation. After concluding the official visit, INS Vela will depart Sri Lanka on November 13, it added.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar on Thursday said he held a good conversation with his Polish counterpart Radoslaw Sikorski on several topics such as the Ukraine conflict, the situation in the Indo-Pacific and bilateral cooperation.
Jaishankar is here as part of the visiting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s delegation.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG.
The Indian Army after recently taking delivery of 96 ATOR N1200 Specialist Mobility Vehicles, is a major step forward in modernizing its logistical and operational capabilities. These vehicles, manufactured by JSW Gecko, a subsidiary of the JSW Group, are part of a larger Rs 250 crore contract awarded earlier this year.
As part of its expansion plans, the Indian Army intends to further increase its fleet of ATOR N1200 vehicles by procuring an additional 24 units. This will bring the total number of vehicles in service to 120. The ATOR N1200 is a cutting-edge amphibious extreme mobility vehicle, designed to excel in challenging terrains. Based on the renowned SHERP N1200, known for its robustness and versatility, the ATOR N1200 has been customized to meet the specific needs of the Indian Army.
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