Defense News ,World :- Hyundai Heavy Industries is making big moves in the defense sector by teaming up with British company Babcock to create export-type submarines. This collaboration was confirmed during a meeting at the HD Hyundai Global R&D Center, where important people from both companies came together.The focus of the discussion was on a new export-type submarine project that will be lightweight, weighing less than 3,000 tons. Babcock's Weapon Handling and Launch System (WHLS) will be integrated, making this submarine a top-notch choice in technology for the global market.Hyundai Heavy Industries has a track record of success in submarine development, including the construction of a Type 214 submarine with an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system, as stated in their press release.Now, Hyundai Heavy Industries is looking to use its expertise to design and build various types of submarines, aiming to be a strong player in the global naval ship export market. They have already secured multiple orders from the Philippines for frigates, patrol vessels, and Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV), solidifying their leading position in the sector.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-26 07:03:57Defense News ,India :- Srinagar, A Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terror module was busted on Sunday in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district with the arrest of four militant associates, police said. Security forces arrested four terrorist associates and recovered arms and ammunition from their possession in the south Kashmir district, a police spokesman said.The arrests were made in connection with case FIR no. 14/2024 registered under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.The spokesman identified the arrested as Zahoor Ahmad Pandit, Basir Hussain Pandit, Imtiyaz Gull, and Gulzar Ahmad Khar, all residents of Wanpora.A pistol, two magazines, 20 pistol rounds, four UBGs, and 24 INSAS rounds were recovered from their possession, the spokesman said.Further investigation is going on as more arrests and recoveries are expected in the case, he added.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-26 06:58:57Defense News ,India , Ukraine Russia War :- Several Indians who were working as support staff for the Russian military have been released from their duties following India's request, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated on February 26.The MEA emphasized that it considers the discharge of Indian nationals from the Russian army as a top priority and is actively working with Russian authorities to address relevant cases promptly.Media reports suggested that some Indians, employed as security helpers, were compelled to engage in combat alongside Russian soldiers in specific areas near Russia's border with Ukraine.Addressing these reports, the MEA clarified in a statement that any such cases brought to the attention of the Indian embassy in Moscow were strongly communicated to the Russian authorities. Additionally, cases brought to the MEA's attention were raised with the Russian embassy in New Delhi. Consequently, several Indians have already been discharged from their roles.Last week, MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal had communicated that New Delhi was coordinating with Moscow to facilitate the early discharge of Indians working in support roles for the Russian army. Jaiswal urged Indian nationals to exercise caution and avoid involvement in the conflict in Ukraine.In a related development, Asaduddin Owaisi, the leader of All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM), had earlier appealed to the MEA to take steps to rescue the Indians involved.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-26 06:56:07Defense News ,India :- A 23-year-old man from Gujarat, India, named Hemil Ashvinbhai Mangukiya, lost his life in a drone strike in Ukraine. He was working as a "security helper" for the Russian army since December 2023. His family reached out to the Indian consulate in Moscow in December, asking for his return.This sad event is part of a larger situation where the Russian army has reportedly recruited more than 100 Indian nationals to join the conflict in Ukraine. India's Ministry of External Affairs recently confirmed this development.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-26 06:50:51Defense News , Ukraine Russia War :- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Sunday that the plans for Kyiv's counteroffensive in 2023 were leaked to Russia before it even began.Despite receiving significant military support from the West, Ukraine's counteroffensive last year was not successful. It failed to break through Russian defenses and fortifications.Zelensky revealed during a press conference in Kyiv that the Kremlin had access to their counteroffensive plans before they took action. His office later confirmed to AFP that sensitive military planning information had been obtained by Moscow, although Zelensky did not provide further details.Zelensky emphasized the need for caution and mentioned that Kyiv is preparing multiple versions of its battlefield strategy for 2024 to prevent a similar leak from happening again.When asked about plans for another counteroffensive this year, Zelensky confirmed that they have a clear plan. However, he mentioned the preparation of several plans due to concerns about information leaks.Currently, Russian forces are advancing in eastern Ukraine, having captured the symbolic frontline town of Avdiivka and seeking to capitalize on their advantage in ammunition and manpower.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-26 06:46:46Defense News ,India ,Armenia :- Armenia is working to become closer friends with India, wanting to make their relationship even stronger, says Armenia’s Labor Minister Narek Mkrtchyan in an interview with Mint. He believes their friendship has grown enough to be called a "strategic partnership" and hopes that the foreign ministers of both countries will talk about it.Armenia also wants to improve its defense cooperation with India. Mkrtchyan said they already work together on defense, but he wants to make that cooperation even better. This could mean they might make more defense deals in the future.This shows that Armenia is becoming more interested in the region and might join India's growing influence. If they become strategic partners and have stronger defense ties, it could be a big deal for both countries.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-26 06:42:58Guinea worm disease, also known as dracunculiasis, is a sickness caused by a large parasite called the Dracunculus medinensis worm. This worm, which can grow up to a meter long, causes a lot of suffering but isn't directly deadly. Let's break down what this disease is all about in simple terms:Guinea WormWhat Causes It:You get infected by drinking water that has tiny creatures called water fleas with baby Guinea worms.Symptoms:After a year inside your body, the female worm comes out through the skin, usually on your legs or feet, creating a painful blister.Other signs include swelling, redness, and trouble walking.Effects:While not deadly on its own, the disease can lead to disability, other infections, and money problems.Getting Rid of It: A global program launched in 1986 focused on: Clean Drinking Water: Teaching people to keep their water clean and giving them access to safe water. Containment: Keeping infected people away from water to stop baby worms from going back into it. Surveillance: Keeping an eye on cases and acting fast when more show up.Success:The number of cases has dropped a lot, from 3.5 million in the 1980s to only 15 in 2021.The goal is to totally get rid of it by 2030, which would be a big win for public health.Other Important Points:We still have challenges, like making sure everyone continues to have clean water and stays alert for any signs of the disease coming back.Lessons learned from fighting Guinea worm disease can help with other similar illnesses. Everyone doing their part and supporting groups fighting these diseases makes the world healthier.History:People have known about Guinea worm disease for a really long time, going back to ancient times in places like Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The first recorded case was in 500 BC in Egypt. For a long time, it caused big problems in different parts of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. In the 1900s, it was in 20 countries, with millions of cases every year.How the Cycle Works:The Guinea worm's life cycle involves humans and tiny creatures called copepods. People get sick by drinking water with copepods that have baby Guinea worms. These baby worms travel through the body for about a year. When the adult female worm is ready, it comes out through the skin, causing a painful blister. People often put the blister in water, releasing more baby worms and starting the cycle again.Life cycle of Guinea Worm DiseaseThe Battle for Eradication:Because Guinea worm disease was so bad, the World Health Organization (WHO) started a plan to get rid of it in 1986. They focused on stopping the worms from spreading by making sure people have clean water, teaching communities, and stopping outbreaks. The plan worked really well, and the number of cases dropped a lot, from millions to just 15 in 2021.Hoping for a Future Without Guinea Worms:With everyone staying watchful and working hard, the WHO aims to wipe out Guinea worm disease by 2030. If they do it, it'll be a big deal, erasing the second human disease after smallpox. The success in fighting Guinea worm disease gives us hope, showing that when the world works together, even tough diseases can be beaten.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:54:16Defense News ,China , Taiwan :- China's coastguard recently carried out patrols and inspections around the Taiwan-controlled Kinmen Islands, as reported by Taiwan News. The Fujian Coast Guard stated that these patrols aim to strengthen law enforcement inspections in crucial areas, maintain operational order in relevant sea areas, and ensure the safety of fishermen's lives and property.Simultaneously, closed-door meetings are ongoing between the families of Chinese fishermen who lost their lives on February 14. Their boat capsized after a chase by Taiwan's Coast Guard near the islands. China blames Taiwanese authorities for the deaths, and although Taiwan's Coast Guard apologized, they assert that their actions were in accordance with the law.These meetings between the families and Taiwanese authorities are expected to continue in the coming days. The United States and European Union have emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, advocating for a peaceful resolution of cross-Strait issues. Both countries also addressed challenges posed by China's non-market policies.A recent survey revealed that over 80% of Taiwanese people want to maintain the status quo with China, with a notable increase in those preferring to keep Taiwan's current status indefinitely. Those advocating for independence have been decreasing since 2020, according to Central News Agency Taiwan.Earlier, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence detected 11 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels around Taiwan. One of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line, and another entered the southwest sector of the air defence identification zone (ADIZ), as reported by Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:33:57Defense News ,Ukraine Russia War :- Ukraine's Defence Minister, Rustem Umerov, is urging Western countries to deliver the military aid they promised quickly. He pointed out that Kyiv is losing both people and territories in its war against Russia because half of the pledged aid from Western countries is arriving late. This delay is significantly impacting Ukraine's efforts on the battlefield.Speaking at a conference in Kyiv, Umerov emphasized that timely supply is crucial in this war, where allied forces must provide support promptly. He expressed concern that commitment alone doesn't help; the aid needs to be delivered on time.Umerov blamed the delays on the "dynamic and changing" situation. This comes at a time when Ukraine's support from its allies is showing signs of weakening. The United States' aid package is stuck in Congress, and the European Union has fallen short of its commitments to provide Ukraine with more ammunition.To address the shortfall, Ukraine is boosting its own defense industries. Ukraine's Strategic Industries Minister, Oleksandr Kamyshin, mentioned that the country tripled its production capacity last year. However, he also highlighted that Ukraine still needs more ammunition than it can produce on its own.Despite the challenges, Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal expects to receive USD 11.8 billion from the United States this year. Shmyhal is confident that the financial and military support from the United States will not waver.In the midst of these concerns, a recent wave of Russian missile and drone attacks hit Ukraine, causing damage to residential buildings, a train station, and educational facilities. Fortunately, the number of casualties appears to be small. The head of the Donetsk regional military administration reported that Russian forces shelled several districts, leading to the evacuation of 81 people.The urgency for timely military aid remains critical as Ukraine continues to face challenges on multiple fronts in its conflict with Russia.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:25:35Defensae News ,India :- Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd. (GRSE), a top Indian defense company, is now working on the Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) at their RBD Unit. The recent plate cutting ceremony for Yards 3039 and 3040 is a big step forward in this project.GRSE got a contract from the Ministry of Defence last year to build four NGOPVs. The whole project is expected to cost about Rs 3,500 crore. The first ship should be ready in 44 months from when the contract was signed, and the others will follow every six months.Key Features of the NGOPVs:1. Size and Speed: These new patrol ships will be around 110 meters long and weigh about 2,900 tons. They can travel at a maximum speed of over 23 knots.2. Versatile Roles: The NGOPVs are designed for various tasks such as defending the coast, handling emergencies in different areas, evacuating non-combatants, leading convoy operations, fighting piracy, countering infiltration, preventing poaching and trafficking, providing humanitarian aid during disasters, conducting search and rescue missions, serving as hospital ships, supporting fleet maintenance, and carrying out communications intelligence operations.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:18:10Defense News ,India :- In Churachandpur district, Manipur Police found a large amount of weapons and explosives in two villages. Security forces discovered four guns, an improvised heavy mortar, and ammunition near D Haolenjang village. Additionally, fake currency notes worth Rs 1,200 were also found there.In Moljang village, another search operation led to the recovery of 10 guns, eight gelatin sticks, and ammunition. Meanwhile, at Keisampat junction in Imphal West district, three individuals were arrested as two SLR rifles were confiscated from them. A case has been filed against them, and investigations are ongoing.These operations come in the backdrop of ethnic violence in Manipur since May of the previous year, resulting in over 180 casualties. The unrest began with a Tribal Solidarity March in protest of the Meitei community's demand for Scheduled Tribe (ST) status. Meiteis make up 53% of the population, residing in the Imphal Valley, while tribals, including Nagas and Kukis, constitute 40%, mostly residing in the hill districts.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:14:25Defense News ,India :- India is on the brink of achieving a groundbreaking milestone in its defense sector, as announced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The nation anticipates reaching an annual defense production of Rs 3 lakh crore by 2028-29, emphasizing a long-term vision to transform India into a developed nation by 2047. The Defence Minister highlighted the significant strides made in defense exports, surging from under Rs 1,000 crore to an impressive Rs 16,000 crore.Boosting Indigenous Defense ProductionSingh underscored India's emergence as a weapons exporter, ranking among the top 25 globally. Radical changes in the defense production sector have been implemented to align with Prime Minister Modi's vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' or a self-reliant India. The focus on domestic defense production has exceeded Rs 1 lakh crore annually, signaling a shift towards self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing.Structural Reforms for Enhanced CoordinationAddressing a defense conclave, Singh discussed structural defense reforms, emphasizing improved coordination among the three services – the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Previously working in "silos," these services are now better prepared to collaboratively address challenges. Singh highlighted the importance of jointness, ensuring enhanced coordination during crises.Strengthening the Domestic Defense IndustryDespite initial challenges, including bans on certain weapon system imports, Singh affirmed that these measures have fortified the domestic defense-industrial base. He expressed confidence in the domestic industry's ability to deliver state-of-the-art products and unveiled plans to manufacture high-end systems like aero-engines and gas turbines within India over the next five years.Budget Allocation and Strategic AcquisitionsThe defense ministry has been allocated a significant budget of Rs 6.2 lakh crore in the 2024-25 budget, the highest among all ministries. Singh emphasized that over Rs 4.3 lakh crore has been approved for capital acquisitions, showcasing the government's commitment to enhancing national security. Jointness among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force remains crucial for addressing challenges collectively.Future Outlook and Industry OpportunitiesSingh reiterated the government's focus on long-term gains, stressing the necessity of self-reliance in defense production for India's security. Initiatives such as positive indigenization lists and allocating 75% of the capital acquisition budget for local procurement demonstrate the commitment to supporting domestic companies. The government also champions start-ups in the defense sector, aiming to harness their innovations for global recognition in defense manufacturing.Singh affirmed the government's determination to make India a major defense manufacturer, involving both established companies and start-ups. The recent Defence Acquisition Council meeting showcased effective steps taken to promote start-ups, with liberalized terms for procurement, costing, payment, and eligibility.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:09:52Defense News ,Finland :- In March 2024, the Finnish Defence Forces are gearing up for their most significant involvement in an international exercise, Nordic Response 24. Led by Norway and taking place in the northern regions of Finland, Norway, and Sweden from the 4th to the 15th of March, this exercise is part of the broader Steadfast Defender 24 drills.Approximately 2,500 personnel, including 350 service members, 1,060 conscripts, and 1,120 reservists, from the Finnish Army will be part of this joint effort. The primary focus is on enhancing the Alliance's capabilities to reinforce troops in the northern regions and conducting a defensive joint operation in Arctic conditions.Nordic Response 24 involves the collaboration of the Finnish and Swedish Armies, forming a division alongside a detachment from the U.K. The commander hails from Finland, with the deputy from Sweden. The exercise scenario unfolds with a fictional offense against the Alliance, triggering the activation of Article 5 of NATO's founding treaty, compelling member nations to defend the attacked area.Brigadier General Sami-Antti Takamaa, Chief of Army Operations, emphasizes the unwavering commitment of the Alliance to defend all its territories, including Finland. He highlights Finland's extensive and long-term cooperation with partner countries, enabling the integration of the Finnish Defence Forces into NATO's collective defense. General Takamaa also underscores Finland's valuable contributions to the Alliance, expressing gratitude for the recognition of their competencies.The exercise sees the participation of nearly all Finnish Army brigade-level units, totaling forces from various branches. About 1,700 personnel will act as defenders, while approximately 670 will play the role of offenders. Over 100 personnel will be part of the exercise's security organization. The total equipment strength is estimated at around 630 units. The exercise aims to enhance the skills of service members, reservists, and conscripts at both the individual and collective levels.Arctic conditions training is a crucial aspect covered in the exercise, a routine for almost all individuals subject to military service in Finland. The country also extends this training to other Alliance troops, leveraging its geographical significance in securing northern Europe and the Baltic Sea region.Participating in Nordic Response 24 further aligns Finland with NATO, fostering closer integration. The exercise is instrumental in developing interoperability and joint operating capacity with NATO forces and Sweden, which is on the path to completing its NATO accession. Joint training not only supports capability development but also ensures a seamless joint operating capacity for both national defense and Alliance purposes.Brigadier General Takamaa acknowledges that the exercise will be noticeable and audible, urging patience and caution to everyone on the road and encountering the training forces. He recommends familiarizing with the information provided on the traffic release to minimize any potential delays.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 15:01:42Defense News ,India :- In a significant move, the Indian Government has recently prohibited 17 Chinese companies from participating in tenders in the country. The ban extends beyond the companies themselves to include Indian entities that sell products from these companies. The decision comes as a response to concerns about Chinese products entering the Indian market through rebranding and collaborations with Indian partners, potentially compromising the strategic and security interests of India. This article delves into the details of the ban, shedding light on the companies affected and the implications for India's procurement practices.Background and IntroductionThe ban, announced at the end of January, targets a range of Chinese companies, including Xp-pen, Highvision Hikvision, Lenovo, Dahua, Lava, Ottomate, Xolo, Airpro, Grandstream, Wi-Tek, Realtime, Maxhub, Nokia, Domino, Reputer, and Tyco. The government has not only restricted their participation in tenders but also cautioned private companies doing business with the government against utilizing products from these Chinese entities.Crackdown on Chinese Products in IndiaThis move follows revelations from The Sunday Guardian last year about the usage of Chinese products in government public sector undertakings operating in strategic sectors. The ban is aimed at curbing the influx of Chinese products that attempt to conceal their origin by changing brand names and collaborating with Indian entities. This practice not only impacts India's strategic and security concerns but also benefits the Chinese economy.Details of the BanThe official government order dictates the removal of Indian sellers associated with these Chinese brands from the Government e Marketplace (GeM). Consequently, these sellers are disqualified from participating in any bids on GeM. The order also empowers GeM to cancel orders where products from these Chinese companies are identified in the bidding process.The highest number of banned products, seventy in total, belong to Hangzhou Hikvision Digital Technology Co., Ltd. - a major supplier to Indian government agencies. DNS overseas, a player in the Indian tablet market associated with the Beijing-based Hanvon Ugee Group, has also been delisted from the GeM portal.Specific Companies and Products BannedLenovo, a Chinese-origin company founded in 1984, has 22 products, including servers, banned. It is reported to have ties with the Chinese military through the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS). Zhejiang Dahua Technology Company Limited, specializing in video surveillance equipment, has five products banned. Lava International, despite being perceived as an Indian company, has nineteen products banned. These include smartphones, fans, and tablets, all manufactured in China. Airpro, Grandstream, Wi-Tek, Realtime, Maxhub, Nokia, Domino, Reputer, and Tyco also face product bans.Exclusion of Certain Companies Raises QuestionsNotably, the list does not include entities with significant Chinese investments and control operating in India, such as Huawei, Alcatel Lucent (now owned by Chinese promoters), TvT, Tiandy Technologies, and Uniview. These companies have a substantial presence in India and have engaged with government agencies over an extended period.Committee Oversight and Future ExpansionsA Registration Committee under the Department of Expenditure Order, chaired by Manmeet Kaur Nanda, was formed on August 6, 2020. This committee evaluates applications from countries sharing a land border with India for participation in public procurement. Nanda, now with the Cabinet Secretariat, has overseen this committee, but officials suggest that the current list is not exhaustive. More companies may be added based on ongoing assessments and inputs received.The Indian Government's ban on 17 Chinese companies from tenders marks a crucial step in safeguarding national security and interests. The focus on GeM and the removal of associated sellers indicate a determination to scrutinize and control the procurement process. As the situation evolves, industry insiders and security experts will closely watch for potential expansions to the list and the inclusion of companies currently absent from the ban. This move underscores India's commitment to securing its strategic sectors from potentially compromised products with origins in China.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 14:56:13Defense News ,India :- India and Japan have started a two-week military exercise named 'Dharma Guardian' at Rajasthan’s Mahajan field firing range. The exercise aims to strengthen cooperation in addressing common security challenges. This annual event, conducted alternately in India and Japan, involves 40 personnel from each side.Representing Japan, troops from the 34th Infantry Regiment are participating, while the Indian Army is represented by a battalion from the Rajputana Rifles. The primary goal is to enhance military cooperation and joint operational capabilities.The exercise will focus on several key aspects, including high physical fitness levels, joint planning, tactical drills, and the basics of special arms skills. Tactical drills will cover establishing a temporary operating base, creating an intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance grid, setting up mobile vehicle check posts, executing cordon and search operations in a hostile village, and heliborne operations.Additionally, an exhibition showcasing weapons and equipment will be organized to highlight India's 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative and the country's growing defense industrial capability. Lt Gen Togashi Yuichi, the Commanding General of the Eastern Army, Japan Ground Self Defense Force, is also expected to visit India during the exercise.The Army emphasized that 'Dharma Guardian' will provide an opportunity for both sides to share best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting tactical operations. The exercise aims to enhance interoperability, camaraderie, and cooperation between the troops of both nations, ultimately fostering stronger bilateral relations.By participating in this exercise, India and Japan seek to strengthen their defense capabilities and deepen their strategic cooperation. The joint efforts are geared towards effectively addressing security challenges and promoting peace and stability in the region.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 14:51:06Defense News ,India :- In the past week, the Indian government took significant steps to strengthen the country's defense capabilities by approving several major defense deals worth over Rs 92,000 crore. These investments are part of a broader strategy to enhance defense capabilities and promote self-reliance in defense manufacturing. Let's delve into the key developments and their implications for India's defense landscape.IAF's Sukhoi Fighter Jet Upgrades:Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), received approval from the defense ministry for a Rs 60,000 crore project to upgrade the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet. This initiative aims to enhance the aircraft's capabilities by integrating new radars, mission control systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and weapon systems. Importantly, this project reflects India's commitment to replace Russian-origin components with indigenous systems, including a new radar system and electronic warfare capabilities.Brahmos Supersonic Missiles:One of the major contracts approved involves the acquisition of over 220 extended-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, valued at approximately Rs 19,500 crore. These missiles, with a striking range of 450 km, will be deployed on the frontline warships of the Indian Navy. This contract, expected to be signed in March, marks the largest-ever deal for BrahMos missiles, providing a substantial boost to India's naval capabilities and will be delivered over five to six years.Advanced Engines for Fighter Jets:In addition to the BrahMos deal, the Indian government approved a project for the manufacture of advanced engines for the existing fleet of MiG-29 fighters in the Indian Air Force (IAF). This collaboration between HAL and Russia is estimated to cost about Rs 5,300 crore, contributing to the modernization of the IAF's fighter jet capabilities.High-Powered Radars and Air Defence Guns:Further strengthening India's defense capabilities, the government gave the green light to two projects for the acquisition of high-powered radars and new versions of the L-70 air defense guns, with each project valued at around Rs 6,000 crore. These initiatives, led by Larsen and Toubro (L&T), aim to enhance India's radar coverage along both borders and include the ambitious Made in India Close-in Weapon System project, valued at around Rs 7,000 crore.Strengthening National Security and Indigenous Manufacturing:These investments underscore India's commitment to bolstering defense capabilities and promoting indigenous manufacturing. With the BrahMos missiles already playing a crucial role in precision strikes, contracts worth over Rs 38,000 crore, India solidifies its position as a key player in the global defense market. These developments align with India's broader strategy of self-reliance in defense production, contributing to both national security and global recognition.Future Outlook:India's defense sector is undergoing a paradigm shift towards indigenization and self-reliance, evident in the recent approvals of significant deals and projects. The focus on enhancing the Indian Navy's firepower with BrahMos missiles and the emphasis on 'aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in defense manufacturing reflect India's evolving defense strategy. These developments aim not only to strengthen national security but also position India as a key player in the global defense export market.Rs 3 Lakh Crore Annual Defense Production by 2028-29:Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced a milestone for India's defense sector, with the annual defense production expected to reach Rs 3 lakh crore by 2028-29. Singh highlighted the government's focus on long-term gains across all sectors, aiming to develop India into a developed nation by 2047. The defense sector has been allocated Rs 6.2 lakh crore in the 2024-25 budget, the highest among all ministries, reflecting the government's commitment to national security.Budget Allocation and Strategic Acquisitions:In the 2024-25 budget, the defense ministry received Rs 6.2 lakh crore, the highest allocation among all ministries. Capital acquisitions worth over Rs 4.3 lakh crore have been approved, underscoring the government's commitment to enhancing national security. Singh emphasized the importance of jointness among the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, highlighting improved coordination to address challenges jointly.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 14:43:33Defense News ,India :- The chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF) Maintenance Command, Air Marshal Vibhas Pande, recently shared that the SAMAR-2 air defense system is a great example of how outdated missiles can still be valuable. He explained that by repurposing these missiles, the IAF can enhance its air defense capabilities.Air Marshal Vibhas Pande emphasized that SAMAR-2, the upgraded version of the missile system, showcases the IAF's ability to use missiles that have reached the end of their life for effective air defense. The demonstration includes integrating the R27 missile into the SAMAR system.The IAF is proud to demonstrate its capability to develop systems internally, working hand in hand with the industry. According to Air Marshal Vibhas Pande, this effort is a step towards making the air defense system stronger. He highlighted that in the future, they aim to integrate other missiles as well.SAMAR-2, which stands for "Surface to Air Missile for Assured Retaliation," is an air defense system crafted by the IAF. It repurposes old Russian-origin R-27 air-to-air missile systems from the IAF's inventory. The SAMAR system was developed at the IAF's 7 Base Repair Depot Tughlakabad (BRD), showcasing the organization's ingenuity.Successful firing trials of the SAMAR system took place during the Astrashakti 2023 exercise at Suryalanka Air Force Station in Andhra Pradesh. Here are some key specifications of the SAMAR 2 air defense system:Range: 20 kilometers (12 mi)Altitude: Up to 15,000 meters (49,000 ft)Speed: Mach 4.5Warhead: High-explosive fragmentationGuidance system: Active radar homingLauncher: Twin-turret launcher with the capability of launching two missiles in single and salvo mode
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 08:33:51Defense News ,India :- India has made significant strides in the defence sector, transforming from an arms importer to one of the top 25 arms exporter nations. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh shared this achievement at a Defence Summit, highlighting the remarkable growth from the earlier status of being a major arms importer.Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, India has ventured beyond its comfort zone, breaking into the list of top 25 arms exporter nations. Just seven to eight years ago, defence exports were below Rs 1,000 crore, but today they have surged to Rs 16,000 crore. The Defence Minister envisions that by 2028-29, annual defence production will reach Rs three lakh crore, with defence exports touching Rs 50,000 crore.Singh emphasized the government's focus on long-term gains, distinguishing it from previous short-term strategies. The government's policies, formulated and implemented under the present leadership, aim to secure lasting benefits for the nation. This includes support for established companies as well as welcoming young minds through start-ups, paving the way for long-term gains in the coming decades.The Defence Minister highlighted recent steps taken to promote start-ups, liberalizing procurement processes to encourage innovation. In the financial year 2023-24, in-principle approval exceeding Rs 4,35,000 crore for capital acquisition has been granted. The government's commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) has led to radical changes in the defence sector, turning short-term difficulties into opportunities.Singh stressed the importance of self-reliance in defence production, stating that a nation cannot be adequately protected with equipment imported from outside. He highlighted the success of the government's efforts, with defence production surpassing Rs one lakh crore. Looking towards the future, the Defence Minister emphasized investments in cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, quantum computing, smart weapons, cyber warfare, and space warfare.The government's long-term vision includes making India a major player in technology, with initiatives like Innovations of Defence Technology (iDEX), the Technology Development Fund scheme under DRDO, and the establishment of the National Research Foundation. Singh revealed the government's aim to manufacture high-end systems like aero-engines and gas turbines in India within the next five years.Emphasizing the extraordinary abilities and dedication of the youth, the Defence Minister expressed confidence in achieving extraordinary goals. He also highlighted the government's commitment to providing equal opportunities for women in every field, aligning with the long-term approach for a prosperous and self-reliant India.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 08:21:44Future Weapons, India :- Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a top missile maker in India, recently introduced a new weapon called the "Drone Delivered Missile" (D2M), named Jishnu, at the Aero India 2023 show. This high-tech weapon is a big step forward for India's defense capabilities, especially in using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and precise striking technology.Key Features of Jishnu:Lightweight and Miniaturized: Jishnu is designed to be launched from drones, and it's a small missile. This makes it great for secret missions and doesn't need a big launching platformDual Guidance System: Jishnu boasts both semi-autonomous and fully autonomous capabilities, depending on the chosen configuration. This flexibility allows for precise targeting in diverse scenarios.Effective Range: With a range of 1.5 kilometers and a flight time of 9 seconds, Jishnu offers a lethal punch for engaging soft-skinned targets at a safe distance.Adaptability: BDL envisions Jishnu being integrated with various UAV platforms, expanding its operational reach and applications.Potential Applications:Counter-terrorism operations: Jishnu's precision and covert launch capabilities make it ideal for neutralizing high-value targets in urban environments with minimal collateral damage.Border security: The D2M can effectively engage infiltrators and other threats along India's vast borders, enhancing security measures.Anti-insurgency operations: With its ability to strike remote targets precisely, Jishnu can be a valuable tool in counter-insurgency campaigns.Significance for India:Jishnu is a big step for India's defense tech. It shows that India can create and use advanced UAV-based weapons, making the country more independent and less reliant on foreign weapons. Plus, Jishnu could become a valuable product for export, helping India's defense industry in the global market.Challenges and Future Prospects:Even though Jishnu looks promising, there are challenges. Making sure it works well with different UAVs, having strong communication systems, and testing it in the field are important steps before using it widely. Also, there are legal and ethical questions about using autonomous weapons that need careful thinking.Despite these challenges, Jishnu is a big achievement for India's defense. As the technology improves and we learn more from using it, the D2M could change how India deals with modern warfare, giving more precision, flexibility, and tactical advantage.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 08:14:46In a swift and crucial mission on February 23, the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed its Dornier aircraft to transport a team of doctors from Army Hospital (R&R) in Delhi to Pune. The goal was to retrieve a liver urgently needed to save the life of an army veteran.The IAF activated the Dornier aircraft on short notice, emphasizing the urgency of the mission. The team of doctors successfully retrieved the liver during a nighttime operation on February 23.The life-saving transplant surgery was performed at Army Hospital (R&R), the primary medical care center in Delhi Cantt for the armed forces and their families. Thanks to the quick and efficient efforts of the Indian Air Force and the medical team, the veteran's life was saved.
Read More → Posted on 2024-02-25 07:52:37