SOURCE: AFI

Anand Mahindra, Chairman of Mahindra Group, has expressed immense pride in the development of the DRDO-Mahindra Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8. In a social media post, he highlighted the vehicle’s capabilities, including its amphibious nature, optimized engine performance for high-altitude operations, and advanced CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear) protection measures.

The WhAP is designed to accommodate a crew of 8+3 with provisions for weapons. Mahindra emphasized the vehicle’s impressive performance both on land and water, showcasing its versatility and adaptability to challenging terrains.

SOURCE: AFI

In a surprising revelation, an Indian Army study has found that Agniveers, recruited under the controversial Agnipath scheme, have significantly outperformed their predecessors in military academic examinations conducted during the training period. The study, which analyzed data from two batches inducted over the past two years, indicates a 30% performance advantage for the Agniveers.

The findings directly contradict the criticisms leveled by opposition parties and some veterans who questioned the scheme’s effectiveness. The report further underscores the Agniveers’ aptitude for technological absorption and their high levels of motivation, asserting their operational readiness.

SOURCE: AFI

A pivotal stride in India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing was initiated in 1977-78 with the commencement of the Gun Carriage Project. This ambitious undertaking aimed to develop an indigenous prototype for the 105 mm Field Gun ‘IFG MK-II’, excluding the barrel and recoil system.

The project, a collaborative effort between the Gun Carriage Factory and the Armour Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), marked a significant step towards India’s capability to produce advanced artillery systems indigenously. The development of the gun carriage, a crucial component of the field gun, was a complex endeavor requiring expertise in engineering, metallurgy, and manufacturing.

SOURCE: AFI

A significant milestone was achieved for India’s indigenous defense capabilities as the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced that the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s first 5.5 generation stealth fighter, is scheduled for induction by 2035.

DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat expressed confidence in the project, stating that India is on the cusp of joining a select group of nations capable of developing such advanced aircraft. The AMCA, a testament to India’s growing aerospace prowess, was showcased as a scale model at the Defence Aviation Exposition IDAX 2024 during the Tarang Shakti exercise in Tamil Nadu’s Sulur.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), the chosen partner for the production of F-414 engines in India, has initiated the groundwork for a new engine factory. The company has identified a suitable land parcel in Bengaluru to house the upcoming manufacturing facility.

HAL aims to have the facility fully operational within two years of the finalization of the F-414 deal. Once operational, the factory will be responsible for manufacturing 99 F-414 engines for the Tejas MkII program, with deliveries commencing within three years.

SOURCE: AFI

Tata Advanced Systems (TASL) has made a strong presence at the prestigious Tarang Shakti 2024, showcasing its cutting-edge aerospace capabilities at the Sulur Air Force Station.

The company’s display highlighted a range of advanced products, including the C-295 model, a testament to its growing capabilities in aircraft manufacturing. Additionally, TASL showcased its expertise in Vertical Take-off and Landing (VTOL) technology, a critical area for future aviation advancements.

SOURCE: AFI

In a testament to the deep-rooted strategic partnership between India and France, a unique opportunity has emerged for French pilots to experience firsthand the capabilities of India’s indigenous fighter aircraft. As part of the ongoing Exercise Tarang Shakti 2024, a select group of French air force personnel have been given the chance to fly in both the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI and the indigenously developed HAL Tejas.

This unprecedented exchange allows French pilots to gain valuable insights into the operational characteristics and strengths of these aircraft, contributing to the overall enhancement of their tactical acumen. The experience is also expected to foster deeper cooperation and interoperability between the two air forces.

SOURCE: 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.

SOURCE: 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.