SOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
India is on the cusp of bolstering its air defense capabilities with the upcoming test-fire of SAMAR 2, a surface-to-air missile system designed for assured retaliation. Developed indigenously, SAMAR 2 boasts a substantial range of nearly 30 kilometers, significantly enhancing the country’s aerial defense shield.
Leveraging the R-27 missile, SAMAR 2 marks a strategic move to repurpose existing technology for a new role. Unlike its predecessor, SAMAR 1, which utilizes the R-73E missile, the newer system extends its reach considerably. However, this adaptation presents unique challenges as air-to-air missiles are typically designed for specific atmospheric conditions and flight trajectories.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
A retired Indian Army Lieutenant Colonel, J.S. Sodhi, has advocated for Russia as the ideal partner for a joint venture to develop an advanced light tank for the Indian Army. In an interview with Sputnik India, Sodhi highlighted the Sprut-SD technology, which includes turret gun stabilization, as a game-changer in light tank capabilities.
The former officer emphasized Russia’s history of willingly transferring critical defense technology without imposing conditions, contrasting this approach with the perceived reluctance of the United States to share such technology.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
India appears to have quietly retired its nuclear-capable Dhanush ballistic missile system, a significant development in the country’s nuclear posture. For years, the Dhanush, a ship-launched variant of the Prithvi missile, was deployed on two specially modified Sukanya-class offshore patrol vessels, INS Subhadra and INS Suvarna.
Satellite imagery and open-source intelligence have revealed that the distinctive missile stabilizer platforms once present on these vessels have been removed. This, coupled with the absence of official statements about the Dhanush system since 2019, strongly suggests that the system has been decommissioned.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
On the second day of the Army 2024 International Military-Technical Forum in Russia, Mr. Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Russian Federation Security Council, was given a comprehensive briefing on the BRAHMOS weapon system. The briefing was conducted by Mr. Alexander Maksichev, Joint Managing Director, and Mr. Praveen Pathak, Director (Marketing Promotion & Export) at BrahMos Aerospace, at the BrahMos pavilion, where the supersonic cruise missile was showcased in various configurations.
During the briefing, Mr. Maksichev and Mr. Pathak highlighted the recent achievements and progress of the BRAHMOS weapon system, which continues to be a cornerstone of India’s defense capabilities. The supersonic cruise missile, co-developed by India and Russia, is known for its precision strike capabilities and versatility across multiple platforms, including land, sea, and air.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
Sagar Defence Engineering is thrilled to have been selected to participate in the iDEX Startup and Innovation Showcase under INDUSX in Delhi. This prestigious event, focused on fostering a robust defense innovation ecosystem, provided a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies developed by startups and MSMEs.
Our CEO, Mr. Lakshay Dang, and VP Business Development, Mr. Amit Singla, had the distinct honor of engaging with Ms. Isabel Casillas Guzman, the 27th Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA), along with esteemed Indian officials Shri Amit Satija, Joint Secretary (Defence Production), Shri Vivek Virmani, PO(G), COO of DIO, and Capt Roy Joseph PD/DIO. This international platform offered invaluable opportunities for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and gaining crucial guidance and support.
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Big Bang Boom Solutions Private Limited, a leading cybersecurity firm, recently welcomed a high-level delegation from the Nacional de Investigação Criminal (SERNIC) of the Republic of Mozambique. Mr. Abubakar Abdul Azize Bin Abudou and Mr. Armando Francisco Billa Serviço visited the company’s Chennai headquarters for a comprehensive overview of its cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.
The visit provided a platform for in-depth discussions on the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the shared challenges faced by nations worldwide. The delegation expressed keen interest in Big Bang Boom Solutions’ innovative projects, recognizing the potential for collaboration to enhance Mozambique’s cybersecurity infrastructure.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
In a significant development, India has decided to pursue a self-reliant approach for its ambitious 5th generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This move comes amidst offers from various international Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) seeking collaboration in exchange for potential contracts under the separate Medium Range Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender.
According to reliable sources close to idrw.org, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) is not considering any international collaboration for the AMCA program. The project aims to achieve a high degree of Indigenous content, with most of the work being executed by Indian Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and private sector companies.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
A significant milestone has been achieved in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence technology. The indigenously developed 600 horsepower engine, a joint venture between the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE) and Ashok Leyland, is on the cusp of production readiness.
Initially conceived in 2021, the engine has undergone rigorous ground trials over the past three years. Incorporating advanced technologies, the engine is designed to be compact, efficient, and lightweight, making it a suitable power source for future combat vehicles.
Continue readingSOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has initiated work on a homegrown Laser Designation Pod (LDP) for its fighter jets. This critical component will significantly enhance the precision strike capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
The LDP is a sophisticated sensor-cum-targeting system that detects, recognizes, identifies, and designates surface targets for accurate delivery of precision-guided munitions. It also possesses the capability to transmit real-time target video and imagery to ground stations.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
India’s state-owned National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) has recently unveiled an indigenous kamikaze drone, a significant advancement in the country’s defense technology. According to a report by NDTV, this drone is equipped with a home-built engine, enabling it to cover a distance of up to 1,000 kilometers.
The kamikaze drone, a crucial addition to India’s unmanned aerial capabilities, measures approximately 2.8 meters in length with a wingspan of 3.5 meters. Weighing around 120 kilograms, it can carry an explosive payload of 25 kilograms. The drone is powered by a 30 HP Wankel engine, which allows it to maintain a maximum speed of 180 kilometers per hour while flying continuously for up to 1,000 kilometers.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
The ongoing Tarang Shakti exercise at Sulur Airbase has witnessed a unique camaraderie between the French and Indian Air Forces. French Rafale pilots, participating in the multinational air combat exercise, have expressed their admiration for the indigenous Indian Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA).
Several French pilots have drawn parallels between the Tejas and the Mirage 2000, highlighting the agile maneuverability and impressive performance of the smaller fighter jet. The LCA, despite its size, has proven to be a formidable opponent in simulated combat scenarios, showcasing its capabilities alongside larger and more advanced fighters.
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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is reportedly leaning away from acquiring heavy category fighter jets, similar to its existing Su-30MKI, for its upcoming Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender. This preference could significantly impact Boeing’s bid for the F-15EX, a heavy fighter, in this competition.
The IAF’s reluctance towards heavy fighters stems from several operational and economic considerations.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
India’s defence exports have witnessed a commendable rise in recent years, with the government setting an ambitious target of ?35,000 crore by FY25. While the nation has managed to achieve ?21,000 crore in FY24, concerns linger about the sustainability of this growth trajectory.
A significant portion of the recent export surge can be attributed to the pressing needs of countries like Armenia and Ukraine, which have faced geopolitical challenges. While these orders have provided a much-needed boost to the domestic defence industry, experts caution that relying heavily on such short-term demands could hinder long-term growth prospects.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is gearing up to elevate its civilian helicopter, the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv, to new heights. According to Group Captain M.R Anand VM (G) Retd, General Manager and Chief Test Pilot (Rotary wing) for HAL, the company is currently undergoing civil certifications for a significantly upgraded version of the helicopter.
One of the major enhancements is an upgraded glass cockpit. While this technology has already been successfully implemented in the military variant of the Dhruv, HAL is now working to adapt it for civilian aviation standards. The new glass cockpit promises to provide pilots with a more intuitive and efficient flight experience.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG TEAM
India’s state-owned Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is set to expand its global footprint with the establishment of a new office in São Paulo, Brazil. This strategic move is driven by the Brazilian Army’s growing interest in acquiring a Medium/High Altitude Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) system.
BEL, the manufacturer of the indigenous Akash and Akash-NG missile systems, has emerged as a strong contender for this lucrative contract. The company’s fortunes received a significant boost following a visit by Brazilian Army Commander General Paiva to India in August 2023. Impressed by a live demonstration of the Akash missile system, General Paiva has reportedly advocated for a Government-to-Government (G2G) deal to acquire the Akash SAM.
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