SOURCE: AFI

In a spectacular display of India’s growing air prowess, the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas successfully intercepted Eurofighter Typhoons and Rafale jets from Germany, Spain, and France, respectively. These advanced fighter aircraft were en route to Sulur for the multinational exercise, Tarang Shakti.

The interception was carried out by none other than Air Force Vice Chief Air Marshal AP Singh, who was piloting the Tejas. Adding to the significance of the encounter, the German aircraft was flown by German Air Force Chief Lt Gen Ingo Gerhartz himself.

SOURCE: AFI

The recent capsizing of INS Brahmaputra in harbor has prompted the Indian Navy to convene a Board of Inquiry (BoI) to investigate the incident. While the BoI’s findings will take time, here is an analysis from a fire fighting and damage control specialist’s perspective on what could have potentially gone wrong.

A ship undergoing refit is at a higher risk of fire due to many of its systems being under repair. This period is marked by “Hot Work” activities such as welding and gas cutting occurring at multiple locations onboard, which increases the likelihood of fires. Although common, such fires can be effectively managed with prompt action and appropriate fire extinguishers. Problems arise when these conditions are not met, allowing fires to grow uncontrollably.

SOURCE: AFI

In a recent address at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, Dr. Kota Harinarayana, the visionary behind India’s Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, unveiled the extraordinary challenges faced during the program’s inception.

The first flight of the LCA’s Technology Demonstrator (TD1) in 1998 was a monumental achievement, but it was accomplished under the most daunting circumstances. Coinciding with India’s nuclear tests, the nation found itself under stringent US sanctions, leaving the LCA project in a precarious position.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Naval Air Squadron 324 (INAS 324), fondly called “The Kestrels,” celebrated its second anniversary with great enthusiasm on July 4, 2024, at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam. This elite squadron, known for its unwavering dedication to the nation’s maritime security, operates a fleet of indigenously built Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Mk III.

The ALH Mk III helicopters embody the spirit of “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-reliant India). These versatile helicopters significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s maritime surveillance capabilities and strengthen coastal security, particularly along the eastern coast. Notably, the ALHs can be equipped with removable medical Intensive Care Units (ICUs), allowing them to provide critical medical support during emergencies.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s pursuit of advanced fighter jet technology includes the evaluation of various engines to power its indigenous aircraft. Currently, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A light combat aircraft are powered by the General Electric GE-404 engines. But due to delays in deliveries from GE this ignited debate in Indian defence community about seeking interest in alternatives, such as the Safran M-88-3 engines used in Dassault’s Rafale jets, But they exists several factors that will make an immediate replacement challenging.

This article delves into the reasons behind this reluctance, comparing the thrust, dimensions, and production capabilities of both engines.

SOURCE: AFI

The ongoing political turmoil in Bangladesh has cast doubt over the country’s participation in the upcoming Tarang Shakti 2024, India’s largest multilateral air combat exercise. Scheduled to take place in two phases, the exercise is set to showcase India’s military prowess on the global stage.

Bangladesh Air Force Chief, Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan, had confirmed his country’s participation shortly before the outbreak of the political crisis. However, the recent resignation of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and the subsequent political instability have created uncertainty about Bangladesh’s involvement in the exercise.

SOURCE: AFI

A high-level delegation from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), headed by Major General Lukwikila Metikwiza Marcel, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, visited Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru yesterday.

The DRC delegation showcased keen interest in BEL’s diverse range of defence products and systems. The Director (Marketing) of BEL provided a comprehensive overview of the company’s capabilities, focusing on products that align with the DRC’s defence requirements.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has arrived in Kuantan, Malaysia, to participate in the bilateral exercise, Udara Shakti 2024. This joint military exercise aims to strengthen the existing ties between the Indian and Malaysian Air Forces, facilitating knowledge sharing on maintenance practices and enhancing operational coordination.

As part of the exercise, the IAF’s formidable Su-30 MKI fighter jets will engage in joint aerial maneuvers with the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) Su-30 MKMs. This collaborative platform will provide an opportunity for both air forces to learn from each other’s expertise and refine their combat capabilities.

SOURCE: AFI

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), renowned for its shipbuilding prowess, has emerged as a dominant force in another critical domain: the manufacturing of Bailey Type Portable Steel Bridges.

With a commanding market share of over 60% in India, GRSE has supplied over 5400 of these modular bridges to date.   These bridges, known for their durability, ease of assembly, and reliability, have found extensive use in India’s challenging terrains, especially in border areas. The Indian Army and Border Roads Organisation (BRO) are the primary consumers of these bridges, relying on them for crucial infrastructure in remote and hostile environments.