SOURCE: AFI

In a promising development for India’s indigenous fighter jet program, a high-level review meeting of the LCA Mk-II project was held at DRDO Bhawan. Secretary, Department of Defence Research and Development & Chairman of DRDO, along with the Deputy Chief of Air Staff, led the discussions.

The meeting involved key stakeholders, including DRDO laboratories and Defence PSUs (Public Sector Undertakings) contributing to the development of various systems and sub-systems for the LCA Mk-II. Representatives from CEMILAC (Central Electro Magnetic Engineering Research Institute) and NFTC (National Flight Test Centre) – crucial players in the prototype’s flight testing – also participated and presented the project’s progress, potential risks, and mitigation plans.

SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has confirmed the initiation of development for an Active Protection System (APS) tailored for India’s T-90 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). Having received clearance last year, the fabrication phase is now underway, with system testing slated to commence either later this year or early next year.

An APS is a crucial defensive suite designed to detect, track, and intercept incoming threats such as anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) and tank rounds before they can inflict damage. This system significantly enhances a tank’s survivability on the modern battlefield.

SOURCE: AFI

The aerial battleground between India and Pakistan has witnessed a significant escalation in recent times, with both nations vying for supremacy in the skies. A crucial aspect of this aerial dominance is the employment of Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEWC) systems.

Pakistan has made substantial strides in this domain by expanding its fleet of Saab 2000 Erieye AEWC aircraft to nine. While India boasts a smaller fleet of three NETRA AEWC aircraft based on the Embraer ERJ 145 platform, it is actively working to bridge this gap. The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to induct six more NETRA Mk1A AEWC aircraft, leveraging the enhanced capabilities of the Embraer 145 jet platform.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Army’s upcoming Zorawar Light Tank is set to be a formidable force on the battlefield, thanks in part to its integration of the advanced John Cockerill 3150 turret. This cutting-edge weapon system is equipped with the M1060CV round, a NATO standard ammunition capable of penetrating an astonishing 560mm of armor at a range of 2000 meters.  

This level of firepower is unprecedented for a tank of its class and places the Zorawar in a unique position to engage even the most heavily armored adversaries. The M1060CV round effectively bridges the gap between light and main battle tanks, enabling the Zorawar to hold its own against superiorly armored vehicles.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Air Force (IAF) has secured a major boost to its aerial capabilities with the recent clearance for the production of 200 Astra MkI missiles. This indigenous beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) is set to replace the aging Russian R-77, significantly enhancing the IAF’s air superiority.  

The Astra MkI has undergone rigorous testing and has already been integrated into the Sukhoi Su-30MKI fleet, with plans to equip the Mirage 2000, MiG-29, and Tejas fighters in the future. The transition from the limited series production phase (LSP) to full-scale production is a crucial milestone, enabling domestic production on a larger scale and reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.  

SOURCE: AFI

Indian Army’s Light Tank Requirements will see faceoff between DRDO-L&T developed Zorawar Light Tank and AWEIL proposed Russian 2S25 Sprut-SD. This article compares two prominent light tanks: the Indian Zorawar and the Russian 2S25 Sprut-SD. Both of these platforms embody the fusion of mobility and firepower, but they cater to different operational needs and strategic doctrines.

Zorawar Light Tank Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), addresses the specific needs of the Indian Army, particularly in high-altitude regions like Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The tank is named after Zorawar Singh, a legendary military general known for his campaigns in the Himalayas, reflecting its intended use in mountainous terrain. The Zorawar is part of India’s strategy to counter potential threats along its northern borders, especially from China.

SOURCE: AFI

Yesterday, ARTPARK (AI & Robotics Technology Park) played host to Shri Priyank M Kharge, the Minister of IT, BT, and S&T, Government of Karnataka, at their innovative space, ARTgarage. The visit marked a significant milestone in fostering closer collaboration between the government and the deep tech community in Karnataka, with the aim of expanding the region’s technological ecosystem.

During his visit, Shri Priyank M Kharge engaged in dynamic discussions with ARTPARK’s leadership and other key stakeholders. The conversations focused on enhancing the partnership between the government and ARTPARK to further develop and expand Karnataka’s deep tech ecosystem. Recognizing the critical role that emerging technologies like AI and robotics play in the state’s economic future, the minister emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that drive innovation and technological advancement.

SOURCE: AFI

Recent reports indicate that at least three Chinese state-linked research vessels are currently operating in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). These vessels, identified as Xiang Yang Hong 03, Zhong Shan Da Xue, and Yuan Wang 7, are known for their dual-use capabilities, raising concerns about their activities in this strategically significant area.

Xiang Yang Hong 03: This vessel is a part of China’s fleet of oceanographic research ships, equipped with advanced sensors and equipment for underwater mapping, marine surveys, and data collection. While officially designated for scientific research, the Xiang Yang Hong 03 has the capability to gather intelligence, which could be used for military purposes.

SOURCE: AFI

Solar Industries India Limited is gearing up for significant international expansion. The company’s Managing Director & CEO, Manish Nuwal, has announced plans to enter new markets in Kazakhstan and Thailand. Additionally, the acquisition of Problast BS (Pty) Ltd in South Africa underscores the company’s commitment to strengthening its global presence.

This strategic move aligns with Solar Industries’ broader vision to expand its operations beyond domestic borders. By establishing a foothold in these key markets, the company aims to capitalize on growth opportunities and diversify its revenue streams.

SOURCE: AFI

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore is at the forefront of a groundbreaking project to develop a High-Altitude Platform (HAP). This unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is designed to operate at a stratospheric altitude of 20 kilometers, offering a unique blend of satellite-like persistence and aircraft-like flexibility.

HAPs are poised to revolutionize telecommunications and earth observation. By operating above weather conditions and flight paths, they can provide uninterrupted service for up to 90 days. This endurance, combined with the ability to be repositioned, sets them apart from traditional High-Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs.

SOURCE: AFI

A striking monument stands tall at the Maintenance Command Headquarters in Vayu Sena Nagar, Nagpur: a MiG-29 fighter jet. This particular aircraft, bearing the serial number KB3298, holds a unique place in the annals of Indian Air Force history.

Introduced around 2005, it was the first MiG-29 to be publicly displayed in India. However, its journey to becoming a static display was far from ordinary. The aircraft had suffered a significant drop tank accident at Adampur Air Force Station, resulting in damage so extensive that a full restoration was deemed economically impractical.