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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Army is keen on expanding its fleet of cargo-carrying unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), currently capable of handling payloads ranging from 5kg to 250kg, by introducing much larger UAVs with significantly enhanced lifting capacities. The Army has initiated discussions with several key UAV manufacturers in India, exploring the development of UAVs capable of transporting 1-2 tons of cargo. These UAVs will be instrumental in delivering supplies to remote and difficult-to-access regions, especially in areas where adverse weather conditions make traditional cargo transportation by manned aircraft risky.

The current fleet of cargo-carrying UAVs has been highly effective in transporting light loads, and supporting military operations by ensuring timely delivery of essential supplies in difficult terrains and high-altitude areas. However, with the Army’s increasing logistical demands in remote regions, such as along the Himalayan border, there is an urgent need for UAVs with higher payload capacities. The Army is particularly interested in UAVs capable of carrying 1-2 tons of cargo, significantly increasing operational efficiency and reducing the need for manned helicopters in hazardous conditions.

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SOURCE: AFI

Jayem Automotives Private Limited has been selected to integrate an advanced, indigenously developed 600HP V8 diesel engine into the WhAP 8×8 Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), a move that marks a significant leap forward for India’s armored vehicle capabilities. This powerful V8 engine, developed jointly by the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE) and Ashok Leyland, will replace the current Cummins engine, bringing enhanced power, torque, and performance tailored for demanding military operations.

The new 600HP V8 diesel engine boasts a 90-degree crank configuration, delivering an impressive 1,505 Nm of torque. This power upgrade not only surpasses the current Cummins engine used in the WhAP 8×8 but also enhances the APC’s overall agility, speed, and reliability in challenging terrains. This level of power and torque is a substantial boost, especially beneficial for an 8×8 platform designed to handle a variety of missions, from troop transport to reconnaissance and fire support.

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SOURCE: AFI

In a significant advancement for India’s unmanned vehicle capabilities, Combat Robotics India has developed a versatile simulator named “Astra,” tailored for Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), Marine Vehicles (both surface and underwater), and Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Supported by the Technology Development Fund (TDF) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Astra simulator has been handed over to DRDO’s Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics (CAIR), marking a new chapter in India’s indigenous defense technology development.

The Astra simulator is designed to offer a realistic and immersive training environment for operators of unmanned systems across multiple domains—ground, marine, and aerial. This multi-platform capability enables personnel to train and test unmanned vehicles in diverse scenarios without the logistical and safety challenges of real-world deployment. With its advanced simulation software, Astra allows operators to experience conditions that closely mirror actual field environments, thus improving proficiency, decision-making, and operational readiness.

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SOURCE: AFI

In a notable development for China’s naval aviation, the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has officially unveiled the J-15T, a catapult-capable variant of the J-15 carrier-based fighter jet. The J-15T, which is believed to be based on the Russian Su-33 Flanker-D, introduces advancements in avionics, radar, and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities, and is powered by China’s indigenous WS-10 engines. However, despite the enhancements, the J-15 remains beset by longstanding issues stemming from its design origins and current carrier limitations.

The J-15T retains the core airframe design of the Su-33, a Soviet-era naval fighter originally developed for Russia’s Kuznetsov-class carriers. China acquired the Su-33 design by purchasing a prototype from Ukraine, an acquisition that enabled its engineers to reverse-engineer the platform and adapt it for the PLAN’s requirements. This approach, while cost-effective, has introduced limitations and challenges that have hampered the J-15’s performance.

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SOURCE: AFI

Star Air, India’s largest private regional carrier and a part of the Sanjay Ghodawat Group (SGG), has unveiled an ambitious fleet expansion plan. The airline aims to reach a fleet size of 25 aircraft by 2027, significantly enhancing its domestic connectivity and reinforcing its commitment to the government’s UDAN initiative.

As part of this expansion, Star Air will be inducting two Embraer E175 aircraft in FY25, followed by four more in FY26. These fuel-efficient and passenger-friendly aircraft will enable the airline to serve underserved regions, making air travel more accessible to a larger population.

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SOURCE: IDRW.ORG

After experiencing delays in the supply of F-404 engines from GE Aerospace, the Indian government is considering a strategic move to mitigate future supply chain disruptions for the indigenous Tejas Mk1A fighter jet program. With the Indian Air Force (IAF) planning to induct nearly 180 Tejas Mk1A aircraft, powered by F-404 engines, India is expected to request that GE Aerospace expand its local supply chain footprint within India. This request aims to secure a reliable supply of components and services for the F-404 engines and establish a robust, sustainable support network for the next four decades.

Recent delays in the delivery of F-404 engines have impacted the IAF’s production timeline for the Tejas Mk1A, raising concerns about the long-term viability of relying solely on GE’s existing global supply chain. As the Indian defense sector is increasingly prioritizing self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the need for an uninterrupted and efficient supply chain for critical equipment like engines has become essential. A localized supply chain in India would minimize the impact of global disruptions and streamline support for the growing fleet of Tejas aircraft.

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SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

The Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, a prominent Research and Development Laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of the Ministry of Defence (MoD), has issued an Expression of Interest (EOI) aimed at Indian manufacturers. This initiative seeks companies with sufficient experience, expertise, and the willingness to undertake the production of the Multi Influence Ground Mine (MIGM).

The Multi Influence Ground Mine (MIGM) is a cutting-edge naval mine designed and developed by NSTL, DRDO, with the primary objective of providing the Indian Navy a tactical advantage against modern stealth ships. The MIGM represents a significant advancement in maritime defense technology, incorporating state-of-the-art components that enhance its operational capabilities.

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SOURCE: AFI

Lakshmi Machine Works (LMW) has successfully delivered the first air intake assembly for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), marking a significant milestone in the indigenous production of the advanced fighter jet.

The delivery follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between HAL’s LCA Tejas Division and LMW on October 19, 2022, at DefExpo 2022 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Under the agreement, LMW is set to manufacture a total of 40 air intake assemblies for the LCA Tejas Mk1A, bolstering the indigenous supply chain for critical components of India’s indigenous fighter aircraft program.

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SOURCE: AFI

With the increasing role of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in modern warfare and surveillance, India must bolster its domestic UAV manufacturing capabilities. The current development of the indigenous TAPAS (Tactical Advanced Platform for Aerial Surveillance) UAV by DRDO is a significant step toward establishing a reliable Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV. However, to fast-track innovation and address the growing demand for UAVs, India should consider empowering the private sector with funding and incentives while ensuring that the end product is highly indigenous and not based on foreign technology. Here’s why India should leverage the private sector’s expertise to develop a homegrown MALE UAV program.

Relying on foreign UAV technology has potential risks, including supply chain vulnerabilities, cybersecurity concerns, and political dependencies that could affect the reliability of critical defense assets. By developing an indigenous UAV with the private sector, India can avoid these vulnerabilities, ensure self-reliance, and have full control over future upgrades. Furthermore, an indigenous system could avoid the sanctions and restrictions associated with foreign technology, ensuring that the Indian armed forces can access and modify UAVs as per national needs.

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SOURCE: AFI

In an era marked by rapid advancements in military technology and shifting global defence dynamics, the Indian Army is accelerating its modernization initiatives to create “SMART Soldiers” with state-of-the-art capabilities. Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi underscored this vision on Wednesday at the 64th National Defence College (NDC) Course. Highlighting a future-ready approach, General Dwivedi discussed the Army’s adoption of technologies such as the Futuristic Infantry Soldier as a System (F-INSAS), advanced mobility vehicles, and night combat systems to prepare for conflicts across varied and challenging terrains.

At the core of the “SMART Soldiers” initiative is F-INSAS (Futuristic Infantry Soldier as a System), a comprehensive program that integrates soldiers with advanced communication, weaponry, and protective gear. The F-INSAS project aims to revolutionize the infantryman’s role, enhancing situational awareness and operational flexibility through wearable tech, secure communications, and sensor networks. Soldiers under this system are equipped with sophisticated weapons, thermal and night-vision capabilities, and lightweight ballistic protection, allowing them to operate more effectively in hostile conditions, from dense urban areas to high-altitude combat zones.

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SOURCE: AFI

Zen Technologies has introduced Barbarik, the world’s lightest Ultralight Remote Controlled Weapon System (URCWS), a breakthrough in military technology that brings precision targeting to ground vehicles, naval vessels, and even static defensive positions. Designed to operate weapons between calibers of 5.56mm to 7.62mm, Barbarik enhances battlefield effectiveness while keeping personnel safely out of harm’s way, signaling a new standard for compact, powerful remote weapon stations.

The Barbarik URCWS is an adaptable weapon platform designed for the rigors of modern combat, capable of integration on various platforms, including wheeled and tracked ground vehicles, naval vessels, and fixed positions such as rooftops. This versatility allows Barbarik to meet the diverse demands of contemporary warfare, serving as a powerful force multiplier across multiple operational theaters.

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SOURCE: AFI

In a striking move to address the U.S. Air Force’s evolving aerial refueling needs, Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works advanced projects division has introduced a new concept for a pilot-optional, stealth-enabled tanker aircraft. As the Air Force develops its requirements for a future Next Generation Air-Refueling System (NGAS), Skunk Works’ proposal brings a forward-thinking vision to the table, suggesting a low-observable, flexible tanker with advanced capabilities to meet the demands of tomorrow’s battlespace.

The U.S. Air Force envisions NGAS as a ‘system of systems,’ a comprehensive suite of platforms and capabilities that would revolutionize aerial refueling while seamlessly integrating with future combat aircraft. Lockheed’s Skunk Works has taken this opportunity to showcase an innovative design that addresses some of the most pressing challenges, particularly in the realm of survivability, adaptability, and operational cost.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a recent discussion with idrw.org, a senior Indian Air Force (IAF) official revealed that the IAF would consider settling for 90 additional Rafale fighter jets under the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender if the Dassault Rafale is selected even though the MRFA tender was for 114 jets.

This move would align with the IAF’s original objective under the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) program, which initially sought a total of 126 aircraft to fill a critical capability gap.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The LCH Prachand, India’s indigenously developed Light Combat Helicopter (LCH), is set to receive a Tactical Video Data Link (TVDL) system, significantly enhancing its network-centric warfare capabilities. This development will enable real-time data sharing across various platforms, improving coordination and battle management.

According to industrial sources close to idrw.org, work has already begun on the development and testing of such a system, designed specifically for the LCH Prachand to provide its crew with a comprehensive visual and data-sharing advantage in the battlespace.

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SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Bengaluru-based start-up Pravaig has achieved a significant milestone with its Veer EV, which completed rigorous trials in Ladakh and other northern high-altitude regions. These trials, conducted by the Indian Army, spanned nearly two months and tested the vehicle’s capabilities across challenging terrains and conditions. The trials are part of the Army’s evaluation for potential use by its Special Forces, and initial results suggest the Veer EV could be an excellent addition to their operational capabilities.

The Veer EV is powered by a dual-motor setup that generates an impressive 408 horsepower and 620Nm of torque. Equipped with a 90.9kWh battery, the vehicle boasts a range of over 500km, making it suitable for extended operations in remote areas. Designed to operate efficiently in harsh environments, the Veer EV was subjected to trials in Ladakh’s difficult terrains, including steep inclines, rocky paths, and extreme temperatures, proving its resilience and operational potential.

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