SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has appointed Dr K Rajalakshmi Menon as the Director General (Aero Cluster), based out of Bengaluru. In addition to her new role, Dr Menon will continue to serve as the Director of the Centre for Airborne Systems (CABS).

Dr Menon’s appointment marks a significant milestone for DRDO, as she becomes the second woman scientist to hold the position of Director General (Aero Cluster). Her expertise in airborne surveillance systems and her extensive experience in various areas of defense research make her a valuable asset to the organization.

SOURCE: AFI

In the wake of a recent accident involving a Dhruv advanced light helicopter (ALH Mk-III), the Indian Coast Guard has ordered a one-time safety inspection of its entire ALH fleet. The focus of the inspection will be on the flying controls and transmission system. As a precautionary measure, the fleet has been temporarily grounded.

The accident occurred near Porbandar, Gujarat, when the Dhruv helicopter (Tail Number CG 863) plunged nose-down into the Arabian Sea. Initial investigations revealed that the helicopter, which belonged to the Coast Guard’s Porbandar-based 835 Squadron, experienced a critical failure in its flying control system.

SOURCE: AFI

The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) has been engaged in a long-standing endeavor to modernize the 9mm pistol, a mainstay of the Indian Armed Forces since the late 1970s. The pistol, a licensed version of the Browning Hi-Power, has been a workhorse for Indian troops, but its reliability issues, particularly stoppages, have been a persistent concern.

Despite these shortcomings, the pistol remains indispensable in counter-insurgency (COIN) operations, where a reliable sidearm is crucial. Recognizing the need for a superior, indigenously produced pistol, the OFB has been working tirelessly to develop a replacement that meets the stringent demands of modern warfare.

SOURCE: AFI

A significant step towards strengthening defense cooperation between India and Tanzania was showcased recently as Lt Gen Pawan Chadha, VSM, GOC Maharashtra Gujarat and Goa Area, witnessed a successful ICV field firing demonstration by Tanzanian Mechanized Infantry Battalion (MIB) personnel.

The Tanzanian troops, currently undergoing a BMP Training Course at the Mechanized Infantry Centre & School (MIC & S) in Ahmednagar, exhibited their impressive ICV firing skills, including missile launches. This demonstration is a testament to the intensive training they have received at the MIC & S and their rapid assimilation of the complex operations of the Infantry Combat Vehicle.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Pavilion at the Egypt International Air Show 2024 showcased a wide range of advanced defense systems, highlighting India’s growing capabilities in the aerospace and defense sector.

Among the notable exhibits were the Astra Mk1 air-to-air missile, the Akash surface-to-air missile system, and scaled models of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Tejas. Additionally, models of the Surface-to-Air Weapon (SAAW) and Helina anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) were also on display.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Navy is set for a significant expansion of its fleet, with the delivery of 12 new warships scheduled over the next 12 months.

These additions, ranging from destroyers and frigates to submarines, corvettes, and survey vessels, will bolster the Navy’s operational capabilities and enhance its maritime presence.

SOURCE: AFI

Former Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria, in a recent interview with Bharat Tak, emphasized that the selection process for the Indian defense services will continue to be based purely on merit, ruling out any possibilities of a reservation-based selection system. Bhadauria, who has recently joined the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), categorically dismissed any future implementation of such a system in the defense forces, underscoring the importance of maintaining a meritocratic approach for recruitment and promotions.

Speaking to Bharat Tak, Bhadauria reinforced the Indian Armed Forces’ long-standing tradition of merit-based selection, stating, “The strength and effectiveness of our defense services rely on the quality and capabilities of the personnel. Introducing any form of reservation in the recruitment process would undermine this principle, which is why it will not be considered now or in the future.”

SOURCE: AFI

The Machine Tool Prototype Factory (MTPF), located in Ambarnath and operating as a unit of Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVANI), has been granted a patent by the Indian Patent Office for its groundbreaking invention titled “Electronic Point Detonation Fuze.” This development marks a significant advancement in India’s defense manufacturing capabilities, showcasing the innovation and technological expertise within the nation’s defense sector.

The “Electronic Point Detonation Fuze” is an advanced detonation mechanism designed to enhance the effectiveness and safety of munitions used by the armed forces. Unlike traditional mechanical fuzes, which are prone to reliability issues and limitations, the electronic variant offers several key improvements.

SOURCE: AFI

Radia, a Colorado-based aerospace company, has unveiled ambitious plans for its Windrunner, the world’s largest transport aircraft currently under development. This behemoth is designed to revolutionize both commercial and potentially military transportation.

Powered by four fuel-efficient engines, the Windrunner is capable of reaching cruise speeds of up to Mach 0.6 while carrying payloads of up to 72,575 kg. Its primary purpose is to transport Radia’s massive GigaWind onshore turbines, which boast blades over 100 meters in length and are designed to significantly increase energy output while reducing the overall cost of wind power.