World
Defense News ,France :- The French defence procurement agency (DGA) has finished delivering the last of six H160 helicopters. These helicopters, ordered in 2020 and 2021 from Airbus Helicopters, Babcock France, and Safran Helicopter Engines, are stationed at the Lanvéoc-Poulmic Naval Air Base.The H160s have a crucial role in maritime rescue alert missions (Secmar), replacing older Caïman Marine, Dauphin, and Panther helicopters. This shift allows the older helicopters to return to their primary job of air-sea combat on French Navy ships.The H160 helicopters, designed for sea rescue operations, started deployment in 2023 from Cherbourg Airport and naval air bases. After more than 1,500 hours of flight time and numerous successful rescue missions, the feedback has been very positive. This input is helping develop the H160M “Guépard,” the military version under the Light Joint Helicopter (HIL) Programme managed by the DGA, as showcased at the 2023 Le Bourget Air Show.Manufactured by Airbus Helicopters with additional features by Babcock France, these H160s are equipped with a winch, the Euroflir 410 optoelectronic system by Safran Electronics & Defence, and modular cabins for optimized layouts suited for maritime missions. They are also certified for night vision goggle flights, crucial for night missions.Babcock France, in partnership with Airbus Helicopters and Safran Helicopter Engines, ensures high aircraft availability. This collaboration is vital for sustaining maritime rescue missions along the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts, as well as the English Channel.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:39:53
India
Defense News ,India :- Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to participate in a military exercise called 'Bharat Shakti' in Pokhran, Rajasthan on March 12. The unique aspect of this event is that it will exclusively feature weapons and systems designed within the country. High-ranking officers, including Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan, from all three branches of the military will also take part in the exercise.The primary focus of the 'Bharat Shakti' exercise is to demonstrate the concept of a 'self-reliant India.' According to a report by Hindustan Times, PM Modi might urge military leaders to develop a strategy centered around India, considering its geography and formulating a plan to address security threats. The exercise will serve as a testing ground for indigenous defense platforms and network-based systems, providing insights into the strength of locally-produced weapons.The Pokhran exercise will also assess the effectiveness of indigenous communication and networks in the face of potential cyber threats from enemy countries during wartime. A noteworthy aspect of 'Bharat Shakti' is the collaboration of the three branches of the military, offering a rare opportunity for them to work together, despite their usual distinct operational methods.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:35:38
World
Defense News ,Turkey :- Baykar Technologies, a top Turkish drone maker, recently shared exciting news on social media. They successfully tested their new drone, the Akinci, and it's equipped with powerful missiles made by the Turkish defense company Roketsan.The Akinci drone can carry two special missiles: the Çakır cruise missile and the UAV-230 air-to-surface supersonic ballistic missile. These missiles are quite advanced! The Çakır missile, with a range of at least 150 kilometers, can be used by drones, airplanes, helicopters, ships, and even land vehicles. It can have different warheads, like one for penetrating armored targets or a thermobaric one. The UAV-230 missile, with a range over 150 kilometers, has a fragmentation warhead. This missile is prepared during its pre-launch phase and, once released, ignites its engine for precise targeting. It has a 42kg warhead with options like frangible impact, armor-piercing, and thermobaric.In a successful test, the Akinci drone showcased its ability to fire MAM-L and MAM-T guided bombs at moving sea targets.. This is a significant step forward in Turkey's defense capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:31:36
India
Defense News ,India :- In 2009, an AN-32 transport aircraft made history by landing at the Nyoma Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Ladakh. Today, the Indian Air Force is enhancing this key military facility, strategically located near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), to bolster its capabilities.Recent developments reveal that Nyoma ALG is undergoing significant upgrades. The runway is being black-topped, and plans are in motion to extend it, enabling the handling of fighter jets. Defence sources report that despite the winter pause, approximately 15% of the work is complete, with a scheduled restart in April. The ambitious project is expected to conclude within two years, showcasing India's commitment to fortifying its defense infrastructure.Nyoma ALG, situated about 30 km from the LAC, is strategically well-placed, providing a significant advantage for India, according to defense sources. The extension of the runway to 9,000 or 10,000 feet aims to accommodate a variety of fighter aircraft from the Indian Air Force's inventory, enhancing its operational capabilities.The initiative, costing around ₹200 crore, gained momentum when Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone in September. Singh expressed confidence that Nyoma ALG, positioned at an altitude of about 13,700 feet and touted as one of the world's highest airfields, would be a "game-changer" for the armed forces.Nyoma's location, approximately 180 km from Leh and close to the southern bank of Pangong Tso, contributes to its strategic significance. Unlike other airfields in Leh, Thoise, Daulet Beg-Oldie, and Fukche, Nyoma boasts more stable weather conditions, facilitating seamless operations.During the 2020 standoff with Chinese forces, the Indian Air Force strategically deployed Mi-17 medium-lift helicopters, CH-47F Chinook heavy-lift helicopters, and AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to Nyoma. This move supported the forward deployment of troops, as well as surveillance and intelligence gathering efforts in the region.One of the challenges faced by fighter jets at high-altitude airfields is starting in extremely low temperatures, which can plummet to -40 degrees during winter. To address this, engine modifications are underway to ensure optimal performance under harsh weather conditions.The upgrade of Nyoma ALG comes in response to China's extensive infrastructure development along the 3,488 km-long LAC. Over the last three years, China has upgraded existing airfields and constructed new ones, along with roads, troop accommodations, and ammunition storage facilities. This has significantly altered the status quo in the region.India, in turn, has scaled up its efforts to enhance infrastructure and connectivity along the LAC, especially following the 2020 standoff. The upgrades at Nyoma ALG signify a strategic response to regional dynamics, ensuring that India's defense capabilities are aligned with evolving challenges.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:24:51
Space & Technology
Space News ,Europe :- On February 27th, at 07.27 UTC, the MAPHEUS 14 sounding rocket took off from the Esrange Space Center in Kiruna. This launch was special because it introduced the new Red Kite rocket motor, signifying a fresh start for European sounding rockets.The German Aerospace Center (DLR) operated the rocket, reaching a peak altitude of 265 km. Scientific experiments, conducted under microgravity conditions, were a success. The payload was safely recovered within an hour after liftoff.The experiments focused on advanced material science and biological studies involving human and animal cells. The goal was to understand how microgravity affects the brain and the central nervous system.Elin Lundqvist, the campaign manager at SSC, expressed her satisfaction with the campaign and launch. The collaboration between SSC and DLR, especially on the new rocket motor, was highlighted. Lundqvist thanked everyone involved.Maiden Launch for Red Kite MotorMAPHEUS 14 marked the debut of the Red Kite rocket motor at Esrange. This new motor, a joint effort between DLR and Bayern-Chemie, underwent testing at Esrange the previous summer. The collaboration is seen as beneficial for both SSC and customers due to improved transport and availability within the EU.Dr. Prof. Felix Huber, Director of Space Operations and Astronaut Training at the German Aerospace Center, emphasized the advantages of having their own motor. The Red Kite motor is tailored to their flight profile, providing a significant advantage.Swedish-German Collaboration in Shared ModuleThe MAPHEUS rocket carried a Shared Module from SSC, accommodating seven scientific and technical experiments from Australia, Sweden, and Germany. The Shared Module offers access to professional sounding rocket missions with a microgravity environment under the SubOrbital Express program.Stefan Krämer, the project manager of the Shared Module at SSC, expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the DLR MAPHEUS team and acknowledged the hard work of scientists and researchers on the payload and experiments.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:19:37
Space & Technology
Technology News ,India :- India's Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC), a big power producer, is teaming up with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCL) to check out the use of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) at its coal mines. This move could change the way India gets its energy.SMRs: A New Kind of Nuclear PowerSMRs are a new kind of nuclear technology. Unlike big reactors that produce gigawatts of power, SMRs are smaller, operating at capacities under 300 MWe. They are more modular, meaning they can be put together like building blocks.NLC's leader, M Prasanna Kumar, says SMRs have the potential to fill the gap between large nuclear power plants and the changing power from sources like solar and wind.Why It Matters for IndiaSMRs could bring some important benefits to India:1. Stable Power Supply: SMRs could give a steady supply of power, making the electricity grid more stable and reducing the ups and downs that come with renewable energy.2. Working Towards Zero Emissions: India wants to have zero carbon emissions by 2070. SMRs could be a cleaner energy choice in India, which still depends a lot on coal for power.3. Moving Toward Cleaner Energy: NLC looking into SMRs shows they are thinking ahead and planning for a cleaner energy future.Early Steps, Big PotentialEven though NLC and NPCL are still in the early stages of working together, this is a big step toward trying out SMRs in India.The possible benefits, like more secure energy and less pollution, make investigating SMRs an interesting idea.Other Things to Think AboutBut, before fully jumping in, experts say we need to think about a few things:1. Cost: We need to make sure SMRs make economic sense compared to other ways of making energy.2. Rules and Regulations: There should be clear rules about how to use and run SMRs.3. What People Think: People might worry about nuclear technology, so it's important to address their concerns.What's Next for Indian EnergyNLC checking out SMRs is a big deal for India's move toward cleaner energy. We don't know yet if SMRs will become a big part of the change, but this effort adds something interesting to the conversation about India's energy future.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:13:28
World
Defense News ,Russia Ukraine War :- In recent news, Ukrainian intelligence and armed forces revealed insights into Russia's plans to boost artillery ammunition production. President Vladimir Putin announced an expansion during a recent speech, shedding light on the scale of the Russian defense industry.Ukrainian intelligence and armed forces shared that Russia is planning to make more artillery ammunition. President Putin wants to increase the production even more. Currently, they make about 3.8 million units each year, including different sizes of shells and rockets. They aim to reach 4.5 million units by the end of 2024.The focus is on shells of 122mm and 152mm calibers, but some sources say the real number might be less than expected. Russia produces ammunition faster than Western countries, which are expected to make about 2.5 million units yearly. The main reason for this difference is that Russia hasn't shifted its economy to wartime production, making their increase slower.Despite making more ammunition, reports suggest that it's not enough for Russian troops in the Ukraine invasion. Russia is also getting ammunition from other places like Iran and North Korea. North Korean ammunition is known for being of low quality, causing more wear and tear on artillery systems.Ukrainian media talked about Russia facing problems in making barrels for their artillery systems. The quick firing during combat wears out the barrels fast, and they struggle to replace them quickly.Even with these challenges, Russia still has a big advantage over Ukraine in artillery. The situation is made worse by the US not making quick decisions on giving more military aid funding to Ukraine, leaving them at a big disadvantage.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 15:05:16
Space & Technology
Space News ,India :- India marked a significant stride in space exploration as Prime Minister Narendra Modi revealed three new space projects, collectively costing Rs 1,800 crore. Among these, the inauguration of the Trisonic Wind Tunnel (TWT) at Kerala’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) stands out. This large wind tunnel, a first of its kind in India, will play a crucial role in enhancing the aerodynamic design of rockets for greater efficiency. In this simplified overview, we delve into the purpose and significance of the Trisonic Wind Tunnel.Understanding Trisonic Wind Tunnel:The Trisonic Wind Tunnel at VSSC is India’s third hypersonic wind tunnel. It can operate at three distinct wind velocity ranges: subsonic (below the speed of sound), transonic (at the speed of sound), and hypersonic (above the speed of sound). The facility has undergone successful testing for a year, showcasing its capabilities. Its primary function is to aerodynamically enhance rockets and re-entry spacecraft using scaled-down models.This unique equipment is expected to reduce overall testing and development costs for launch vehicles and re-entry capsules that navigate through the Earth's atmosphere. India now joins an elite group of three countries, including the United States and France, possessing wind tunnels capable of producing speeds above the speed of sound.What are Wind Tunnels ?:Wind tunnels are essential tools used to assess airflow properties, aerodynamic forces, temperature and pressure variations, and structural stability of objects. They find applications in testing various vehicles like planes, rockets, cars, and trucks, as well as structures such as buildings and bridges. Wind tunnels come in different sizes based on wind velocities and the size of the objects being tested.The Trisonic Wind Tunnel at VSSC is an impressive cylindrical structure, measuring 160 meters in length and with a diameter of 5.4 meters. Its 'trisonic' label signifies its capability to operate at three speed settings concerning the speed of sound. It can reach maximum wind velocity conditions of four times the speed of sound (1360 meters per second) and a minimum speed of 0.2 times the speed of sound (68 meters per second).Building the Trisonic Wind Tunnel:Tata Projects, in collaboration with Aiolos Engineering Corporation in Canada, spearheaded the construction of the Trisonic Wind Tunnel. The project saw involvement from various industry players and small start-ups, including Walchandnagar Industries, Summits Hygronics, Acoustic India, Hydrocare Fluid Power Systems, Artson Engineering, Siemens Energy, and more.Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC):Situated in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, VSSC is one of ISRO’s prominent research and testing centers. The main campus, located at Thumba, was initially known as the Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station (TERLS). Thumba was chosen for India’s first launch station due to its proximity to the equator.TERLS, dedicated to the United Nations in 1968 by then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, played a crucial role in launching over 1,000 USSR weather rockets between the 1970s and 1990s. The present-day VSSC is one of ISRO’s largest, actively contributing to the development of all ISRO’s rockets. Notably, it houses the Space Physics Laboratory, focusing on atmospheric research.VSSC extends its facilities to nearby regions, with Valiamala hosting an integration facility, Vattiyoorkavu dedicated to materials development, and Aluva serving as the center for solid propellant fuel production. Dr. S. Unnikrishnan Nair currently leads VSSC, having succeeded S. Somanath, who served as the director until 2022.Here are some benefits of the TWT for ISRO:1. Better Designs and Efficiency: Engineers at ISRO can study how models behave in the TWT and make improvements to rocket and spacecraft designs, making them work better and use less fuel.2. Reduced Development Costs: Instead of spending a lot on real flight tests, the TWT is a more affordable way for ISRO to test and improve designs quickly.3. Positioning India at the Forefront: With the TWT, India now stands alongside the US and France in being able to test at hypersonic speeds. This shows that India is a major player in the global space exploration race.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 14:56:45
Space & Technology
Space News ,World :- SpaceX had planned to launch NASA's Crew-8 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) on Saturday, but the liftoff got delayed for 24 hours due to elevated winds during ascent. The new scheduled launch time is on Sunday at 10:53 p.m. EST from Pad 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Florida. You can catch the live broadcast of the launch on NASA TV starting at 6:45 p.m. EST.The Crew-8 mission is part of SpaceX's contract with NASA to transport astronauts to and from the ISS. This mission will carry NASA astronauts Matthew Dominick, Michael Barratt, and Jeanette Epps, along with Russian cosmonaut Alexander Grebenkin, on a six-month journey to the ISS.Despite the delay, the astronauts, dressed in their white SpaceX spacesuits, are ready for the mission. The launch delay means they have to go through the preparations again, but it also provides them with more rest. As NASA astronaut Raja Chari mentioned during a commentary on NASA TV, it's like a "Groundhog Day" scenario, but with the advantage of added rest for the crew.This delay is the latest in a series of setbacks for the Crew-8 mission. Initially set for a March 1 launch, it was pushed back due to weather concerns. Previous delays occurred on Feb. 22 and Feb. 28, allowing additional preparation time after a private moon lander launch on Feb. 18 from the same launch pad.Saturday's weather forecast was already uncertain, with a 40% chance of favorable conditions, according to the U.S. Space Force's 45th Weather Squadron. However, Sunday's forecast is more promising, with a 75% chance of good conditions for the launch.For the Crew-8 mission, SpaceX will use a new Falcon 9 rocket, while the Dragon capsule, named Crew Dragon Endeavour, is a spaceflight veteran. Endeavour was the first SpaceX capsule to carry NASA astronauts and is now embarking on its fifth spaceflight.Had the launch taken place on Saturday, it would have coincided with a significant anniversary for SpaceX. Five years ago, on March 2, 2019, SpaceX launched its first Crew Dragon mission, the uncrewed Demo-1 test flight, marking a pivotal moment for the company's human spaceflight capabilities."With Crew-8, we'll go from Zero-G to 50, as Falcon 9 is targeted to launch Dragon Endeavour for the fifth time with our 50th crew member on board," SpaceX shared in a statement on social media.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:45:56
India
Defense News ,India :- In a recent event, the Indian Navy showcased an ingenious training solution at the MILAN Technical Exposition (MTEX 2024), highlighting their innovation in repurposing decommissioned weapons.The Naval Armament Depot took a retired Kh-35E (3M-24E) anti-ship missile, originally from Russia, and turned it into a sea-skimming target drone. Unlike its past role as an offensive weapon, this missile now serves as a practice target for naval vessels during air defense drills.This transformed missile, flying at a low altitude of less than 10 meters above sea level, mimics real-world anti-ship attack profiles. The goal is to create a lifelike simulation that helps naval crews enhance their air defense systems and missile interception capabilities.The Kh-35E missile is a sophisticated piece of technology, featuring various components like a body, active radar seeker, high-explosive fragmentation penetrator warhead, self-destruct system, inertial navigation system, radio altimeter, air intake, fuel system, turbofan engine, and solid-state rocket booster.What makes this initiative even more commendable is the cost-saving aspect. Instead of developing new target drones from scratch, the Navy is recycling decommissioned missiles, demonstrating an economically efficient approach to training.Beyond financial benefits, the Kh-35E's natural sea-skimming trajectory adds another layer of realism to the training. Ship-based crews can now practice defense maneuvers against a missile that behaves similarly to potential threats. This innovative method not only saves resources but also aligns with environmentally responsible practices by reducing waste.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:39:05
India
Defense News ,India :- In recent developments, India's Kalyani Group has introduced a groundbreaking feature in its Multi-terrain Artillery Gun (MArG) 155 - BR – an autoloader system. This innovation has the potential to transform the efficiency of the artillery system and enhance crew safety, aligning with global trends in automation. Let's delve into the significance of this autoloader and explore the unique features of the MArG 155 - BR.The Significance of the Autoloader:Traditionally, artillery systems have relied on manual loading, a process that, despite improvements, comes with inherent limitations. The introduction of an autoloader in the MArG brings several advantages:1. Increased Rate of Fire: The autoloader enables a faster and more consistent firing rate, potentially enhancing the overall firepower of the gun.2. Reduced Crew Fatigue: Manual loading is physically demanding, and an autoloader helps lessen crew fatigue, improving their performance over extended periods.3. Enhanced Crew Safety: Handling heavy shells and charges poses risks. With an autoloader, the potential for accidental detonations and injuries is significantly reduced.Armenian Contract and Beyond:Recent reports suggest that newly manufactured MArG 155 - BR guns are being delivered to Armenia through Iran as part of a 2023 contract. While it remains uncertain whether these specific units have the autoloader, this export deal highlights the growing international appeal of the MArG.Additionally, the Indian Army is currently conducting trials of the MArG 155 – BR. The inclusion of an autoloader could play a pivotal role in influencing the Army's decision, aligning with India's goals of modernizing its artillery capabilities.MArG 155 - BR: A Unique and Powerful Platform:Beyond the autoloader, the MArG 155 - BR distinguishes itself in several ways:1. 4x4 High Mobility Vehicle (HMV) Base: Mounted on a 4x4 HMV, the MArG offers unparalleled mobility and deployability in challenging terrains, setting it apart in its class.2. Exceptional Maneuverability: With a 30-degree gradient negotiation capability, the MArG earns the moniker of a "go-anywhere gun," operating where traditional towed or larger truck-mounted artillery may face challenges.3. Shoot and Scoot Capability: The MArG boasts a fast deployment time (less than 2 minutes) and a shoot-and-scoot capability, reducing its vulnerability to counter-battery fire.The Kalyani Group's continuous innovation with the MArG 155 - BR, now incorporating an autoloader, positions it at the forefront of modern artillery technology. Whether destined for the Indian Army or achieving further export successes, the MArG 155 - BR is undoubtedly leaving a mark in the defense world. Its unique features and evolving capabilities make it a system that warrants close attention in the coming years, signaling a new era in artillery development.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:32:41
World
Defense News ,Ukraine War :- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday called on the West to rapidly deliver more air-defence systems as a wave of Russian missile, drone and artillery strikes killed at least 11 people.Eight were confirmed dead, including a child and a baby, after an overnight drone strike on the southern port city of Odesa, a regional official said.Separate shelling attacks on the frontline regions of Kharkiv in the northeast and Kherson and Zaporizhzhia in the south killed another three people, Ukrainian officials said."Russia continues to hit civilians," Zelensky said in a post on social media."We need more air defences from our partners. We need to strengthen the Ukrainian air shield to add more protection for our people from Russian terror. More air-defence systems and more missiles for air-defence systems save lives."Ukraine is currently on the back foot in the two-year war as a crucial $60 billion aid package is held up in the United States Congress.In Odesa, "a nine-storey building was destroyed as a result of an attack by Russian terrorists", Interior Minister Igor Klymenko said in a Telegram post Saturday.Around 10 people were still unaccounted for, with almost 100 rescuers set to continue a search and rescue operation overnight.Footage from the scene showed several floors of a residential building collapsed and its facade ripped off.Ukraine's air force said falling debris from Russian drones it had shot down fell onto residential buildings in both Odesa and Kharkiv.'Difficult situation'The attacks came as Russia sought to press its advantage on the battlefield.Kyiv has acknowledged that it is heavily outgunned and outnumbered, facing ammunition shortages and aid delays.Half of all promised Western ammunition arrives late, the defence minister has said.Russian forces have advanced westwards following last month's capture of the key eastern town of Avdiivka, seizing several small villages in recent days.Visiting frontline military posts on Saturday, Ukraine's new Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrsky said "the situation at the front remains difficult, but controlled".Kyiv appeared to have launched its own overnight drone attack, with the Russian defence ministry claiming early on Sunday to have shot down 38 drones over the occupied territory of Crimea.An apparent Ukrainian drone also damaged a residential building a day earlier in Saint Petersburg, Russia's second-largest city.Videos on Russian social media showed what appeared to be a drone spiralling downwards into the building, triggering an explosion that blew out windows and caused small fires.The city's National Guard division said its preliminary assumption was that the damage was caused by a "falling drone".Ukrainian media reported that the drone was shot down by Russia's air defences while targeting an oil depot around a kilometre from the crash site.Kyiv has hit several Russian oil facilities in recent months in what it has called fair retribution for Moscow's attacks on Ukraine's power grid.Russia's Investigative Committee said separately that four of its officials had been wounded when a Ukrainian drone dropped explosives over the Bryansk border region.Russia also expressed outrage at a leak of confidential German army talks in which officers allegedly discussed missile strikes on the annexed Crimean peninsula.German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Saturday promised a full investigation after the head of Russia's state-run RT outlet posted the alleged leaked recording on social media.A spokeswoman for the German defence ministry confirmed on Saturday that a secret air force conversation had been tapped, but that they could not say for certain whether any changes had been made to the conversation in the leaked audio file.Russia's foreign ministry demanded a "prompt" explanation from Berlin, while Moscow's top diplomat Sergei Lavrov said it showed Ukraine's European backers were intent on inflicting a "strategic defeat" on Russia on the battlefield.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:23:02
Space & Technology
Space News ,India :- In an exciting development on Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi awarded "astronaut wings" to Group Captain Prashanth Balakrishnan Nair, Group Captain Ajit Krishnan, Group Captain Angad Pratap, and Wing Commander Shubhanshu Shukla. Many might assume that these four individuals are set to become India's first astronauts, given the historical context of space exploration by Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma in 1984. However, they are destined to be known as the world's first vyomanauts.This distinction in naming is part of a tradition where space travelers are identified based on their national origin or language. The practice traces back to the Cold War-era space race between the United States and the Soviet Union, where each country named its space explorers in alignment with linguistic and cultural influences.India joins the ranks of the United States, the former Soviet Union (now Russia), and China as the fourth country to develop an indigenous human space travel program. The terminology for space travelers, such as astronauts for the U.S., cosmonauts for Russia, and taikonauts for China, reflects a unique cultural identity.The U.S. initiated its human spaceflight program under the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The term "astronaut" was chosen, drawing inspiration from Greek roots, symbolizing America's commitment to peaceful space exploration. In Greek, "astron" means star, and "nautes" means sailor, translating to "star sailor."During the early years of space exploration, there was a discussion within NASA about whether spacecraft crew members should be called astronauts or cosmonauts. "Cosmonaut" was favored by some, emphasizing the broader cosmos, while "astronaut" prevailed due to common usage.The term "astronaut" had earlier surfaced in literature, with Neil R. Jones using it in his 1930 short story "The Death's Head Meteor." The word had earlier appearances in works like Percy Greg's 1880 book "Across the Zodiac" and J.H. Rosny aîné's 1925 work "Les Navigateurs de l'infini." The term might have drawn inspiration from "aeronaut," coined in 1784 for balloonists.In Russian, an astronaut employed by the Russian Federal Space Agency is called a cosmonaut, derived from the Russian term "kosmonavt." "Cosmos" in Russian means space, and "nautes" means sailor, translating to "space sailor" or "cosmic traveler." Yuri Gagarin became the first cosmonaut in 1961, orbiting Earth in the Vostok 1 spacecraft.China joined the human space exploration race with the launch of its first crewed mission, Shenzhou-5, in 2003. The Chinese term for their space travelers is "taikonaut," with "Taikong" meaning space and "Naut" borrowed from Greek for sailor. However, the official Chinese term is "Vuhangyuan," meaning "travelers of the Universe."India continues this tradition by naming its space travelers "vyomanauts." In Sanskrit, "Vyoma" means space, and "Naut" reflects the Greek term for sailor. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has reportedly coined this term for individuals participating in India's indigenous human space program.Three vyomanauts are set to crew Gaganyaan, India's first crewed orbital spacecraft. While Prashanth Nair and Angad Prathap have been confirmed as the first two vyomanauts, Ajith Krishnan and Subhanshu Shukla are competing for the third spot.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:17:31
World
Defense News ,Germany :- Chancellor Olaf Scholz has promised a swift investigation into a leaked recording of private discussions among high-ranking German military officials regarding the Ukraine war. The German military acknowledged the authenticity of the leaked recording but couldn't confirm if it had been edited.Germany's Defense Ministry confirmed on Saturday that the leaked recording, shared by Russian state media, captured a confidential conversation among Bundeswehr officers discussing the Ukraine conflict. A ministry spokesperson stated that they are currently unable to determine if any alterations were made to the circulated version on social media.The head of Russian state broadcaster RT, Margarita Simonyan, released an audio recording on Friday, claiming it featured German officers, including Air Force Chief Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz.German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called the situation "very serious" and assured a thorough and speedy investigation during his visit to Rome.The leaked audio includes discussions about the potential use of Taurus cruise missiles to destroy a bridge, possibly referring to the bridge connecting Russian-occupied Crimea to the Russian mainland over the Kerch Strait. The conversation, recorded from a video conference among Luftwaffe officers discussing Russia's war in Ukraine, also explores ways German officers could provide targeting information to Ukrainians without direct involvement.The audio leak also mentions the presence of British individuals "on the ground" related to the deployment of Storm Shadow cruise missiles to Ukraine. According to reports, the virtual meeting did not utilize a secure line but relied on the Webex platform, as disclosed by German outlet Der Spiegel.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:07:55
India
Defense News ,India :- India is getting more serious about its own Tejas fighter jets, and plans are in motion to add 97 more Tejas Mk1A aircraft. This big move comes with both challenges and opportunities, especially when it comes to the powerful engines that make these planes soar.Challenges and TeamworkHindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and the Indian Air Force (IAF) are working together to finalize the plans. Before everything is set, HAL and GE representatives will meet in Bangalore. One important topic on the agenda is resolving issues from a previous engine deal, where there were delays in delivering 99 F404-IN20 engines for an earlier set of 83 Tejas Mk1A jets. The delays were due to problems in the supply chain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.The Special EngineThe F404-IN20 engine is no ordinary engine. It's the most powerful version in its family, producing a thrust output of 84kN. This engine stands out with features like a high-flow fan, an advanced FADEC system, and single-crystal turbine blades – all top-notch technology. Production of this particular engine had actually stopped until HAL's recent order revived it.Meeting the DemandBefore the increase in Tejas orders, GE had slowed down the production of the F404-IN20. The last order from HAL was way back in 2007. Now, GE is working hard to catch up and has already delivered 75 engines to HAL. GE plans to ramp up production to 20 engines per year, but with HAL needing more than 120 new engines, GE will have to step it up even more, aiming for an annual output of 24-30 units.In ConclusionThe Tejas program showcases India's growing ambitions in aerospace. The partnership with GE for the F404-IN20 engine is crucial for the program's success. Overcoming production challenges and meeting the increased demand will be key in making sure India's Air Force is equipped with a strong, homegrown fighter.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 07:04:58
World
Defense News ,Red Sea :- A ship attacked by Yemen's Houthi rebels has sunk in the Red Sea after days of taking on water, officials said Saturday, the first vessel to be fully destroyed as part of their campaign over Israel's war against Hamas in the Gaza Strip.The sinking of the Rubymar, which carried a cargo of fertilizer and previously leaked fuel, could cause ecological damage to the Red Sea.Persistent Houthi attacks have already disrupted traffic in the crucial waterway for cargo and energy shipments moving from Asia and the Middle East to Europe. Already, many ships have turned away from the route.The sinking could see further detours and higher insurance rates put on vessels plying the waterway - potentially driving up global inflation and affecting aid shipments to the region.The Belize-flagged Rubymar had been drifting northward after being struck by a Houthi anti-ship ballistic missile on Feb. 18 in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial waterway linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.Yemen's internationally recognized government, as well as a regional military official, confirmed the ship sank. The official spoke on condition of anonymity as no authorization was given to speak to journalists about the incident.The British military's United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations center, which watches over Mideast waterways, separately acknowledged the Rubymar's sinking Saturday afternoon.The Rubymar's Beirut-based manager could not be immediately reached for comment.Yemen's exiled government, which has been backed by a Saudi-led coalition since 2015, said the Rubymar sank late Friday as stormy weather took hold over the Red Sea. The vessel had been abandoned for 12 days after the attack, though plans had been made to try and tow the ship to a safe port.The Iran-backed Houthis, who had falsely claimed the ship sank almost instantly after the attack, did not immediately acknowledge the ship's sinking.Ahmed Awad Bin Mubarak, the prime minister of Yemen's internationally recognized government, called the ship's sinking "an unprecedented environmental disaster.""It's a new disaster for our country and our people," he wrote on X, formerly Twitter. "Every day, we pay for the Houthi militia's adventures, which were not stopped at plunging Yemen into the coup disaster and war."Greenpeace also raised concerns about the ship sinking."Without immediate action, this situation could escalate into a major environmental crisis," said Julien Jreissati, program director at Greenpeace MENA."As well as any further leaks of fuel oil from the engines, the sinking of the vessel could further breach the hull, allowing water to contact with the thousands of tonnes of fertilizer, which could then be released into the Red Sea and disrupt the balance of the marine ecosystems, triggering cascading effects throughout the food web."The Houthis have held Yemen's capital, Sanaa, since 2014, expelling the government. Its fought a Saudi-led coalition since 2015 in a stalemated war.Satellite pictures analyzed by The Associated Press from Planet Labs PBC showed smaller boats alongside the Rubymar on Wednesday. It wasn't immediately clear whose vessels those were. The images showed the Rubymar's stern sinking into the Red Sea but still afloat, mirroring earlier video taken of the vessel.The private security firm Ambrey separately reported Friday about a mysterious incident involving the Rubymar."A number of Yemenis were reportedly harmed during a security incident which took place" on Friday, Ambrey said. It did not elaborate on what that incident involved and no party involved in Yemen's yearslong war claimed any new attack on the vessel.A satellite image taken Friday from Maxar Technologies showed new blast damage on the Rubymar not previously seen, with no other vessels around it.Since November, the rebels have repeatedly targeted ships in the Red Sea and surrounding waters over the Israel-Hamas war. Those vessels have included at least one with cargo bound for Iran, the Houthis' main benefactor, and an aid ship later bound for Houthi-controlled territory.Despite over a month of U.S.-led airstrikes, Houthi rebels remain capable of launching significant attacks. That includes the attack on the Rubymar and the downing of an American drone worth tens of millions of dollars. The Houthis insist their attacks will continue until Israel stops its combat operations in the Gaza Strip, which have enraged the wider Arab world and seen the Houthis gain international recognition.However, there has been a slowdown in attacks in recent days. The reason for that remains unclear.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 06:52:02
India
Defense News ,India :- In the vast Indo-Pacific region, the Philippines, India, and Japan are teaming up to make a big impact on security and the economy.The Indo-Pacific: Where Things Are HappeningThe Indo-Pacific is becoming really important in the world. China is getting stronger economically and militarily, especially in the South China Sea. This is making the existing order in the region a bit shaky.In response, countries like India, Japan, and the Philippines are working together to find ways to protect their independence and interests in this active area.Working Together: More than SecurityThis partnership follows Japan's idea of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). This means they want to focus on following the rules, having freedom to navigate, and solving problems peacefully.But it's not just about security. They are also looking at growing economically, developing sustainably, and dealing with shared issues like climate change.What They're Doing Together1. Sustainable Economic Development: The countries will share their knowledge and technology to make important sectors like energy and infrastructure more eco-friendly. For example, India knows a lot about solar power, and Japan has expertise in advanced green technologies. This helps the whole region to grow while taking care of the environment.2. Enhanced Connectivity: Having good connections through better roads and highways is crucial for more trade and travel. They are planning things like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which will make it easier to move goods and people around.3. Maritime Security: Keeping the waterways safe for global trade is a big focus. India is helping the Philippines strengthen its defenses with BrahMos missiles, and they are also doing joint coast guard exercises to work together better at sea.What It All MeansThis collaboration is like a strategic balancing act against China's strong presence in the Indo-Pacific. Instead of just relying on themselves, these three nations are combining their resources, intelligence, and diplomatic power.While it's not always easy to align different interests, the potential benefits are clear: a safer, wealthier, and more sustainable Indo-Pacific based on cooperation and following rules.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 06:48:59
India
An Indian Navy seaman, Sahil Verma, has been reported missing from a naval ship since February 27. The Western Naval Command in Mumbai has launched a comprehensive search operation to locate him. A high-level board of inquiry has also been ordered to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. Updates will be provided as the investigation progresses. The Western Naval Command posted on Twitter, "In an unfortunate incident, Sahil Verma, Seaman II, has been reported missing at sea from Indian Naval Ship whilst on deployment since 27 Feb 24." "The Navy immediately launched a massive search operation with ships and aircraft, which is still continuing." Another tweet stated, "Naval Board of Inquiry has been ordered for detailed investigations." The exact details leading to the incident are currently unknown, and an investigation is ongoing.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-03 06:40:37
India
Defense News ,India :- On March 1st, an Indian Air Force (IAF) Lockheed Martin C-130J Super Hercules transport plane had a technical problem that made it perform an emergency landing, highlighting the importance of pilot training and readiness.The issue occurred shortly after takeoff at 2:30 PM, involving a malfunction in the landing gear system. The quick-thinking crew declared an emergency to inform ground control about the seriousness of the situation. A crucial factor in their decision was the substantial amount of fuel on board the C-130J.To reduce the risk of complications during landing due to excess fuel, the pilots followed a standard procedure. They entered a holding pattern above the city, allowing them to strategically use up fuel, making the aircraft lighter and ensuring a safer landing.The skilled IAF pilots successfully landed the C-130J without any further problems, prioritizing the safety of everyone on board. This incident underscores the rigorous training and preparedness protocols that IAF crews undergo regularly.The IAF is now investigating the specific technical glitch that led to the emergency landing. This thorough analysis is crucial to identify the cause of the malfunction, enabling the IAF to implement preventive measures and guarantee the ongoing safety and reliability of its C-130J fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 15:57:38
India
Defense News ,India :- The Indian Navy is getting ready to officially open a naval base in Minicoy, calling it INS Jatayu. Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Naval Staff, will be present for the commissioning on March 6. This event is a big step forward in the Navy's plan to boost security in the strategically important Lakshadweep Islands.The Minicoy Naval Detachment started in the early 1980s and operates under the command of a Naval Officer-in-Charge. Minicoy is the southernmost island in Lakshadweep, sitting on crucial Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs). Creating an independent naval unit there with the right infrastructure will improve the overall ability of the Indian Navy in the islands.This new base will extend the Navy's reach and help with operations against piracy and narcotics in the Western Arabian Sea. It also makes the Indian Navy better equipped to respond quickly in the region and improves connections with the mainland. This naval base aligns with the Indian government's focus on developing the islands comprehensively.INS Jatayu becomes the second naval base in Lakshadweep, joining INS Dweeprakshak in Kavaratti. By establishing INS Jatayu, the Indian Navy is strengthening its presence in the Lakshadweep islands. This move enhances surveillance, reach, and support, marking a new era in building capacity and developing the island territories.Additionally, the Indian Navy plans to conduct its commanders' conference on board two aircraft carriers, INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant. This includes high-tempo operations like taking off from one carrier and landing on the other, involving other warships and submarines. The Navy will also formally introduce the MH-60 Romeo multirole helicopter at Kochi in the upcoming week. Furthermore, the Navy aims to showcase, for the first time, the simultaneous operations of two aircraft carriers near Lakshadweep, marking a significant milestone after the induction of INS Vikrant.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 15:53:16Search
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