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

 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 15:53:16

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  Union Home Minister Amit Shah said on Saturday that the Centre has resolved a large number of problems in the northeastern states and made the region violence and insurgency free, while over 10,000 militants from various outfits have shunned the path of violence and surrendered before the government.Addressing the tripartite meeting between the Home Ministry, Tripura government and leaders of the opposition Tipra Motha Party (TMP) in the national capital, the Home Minister said that various accords were signed with many militant outfits in the northeast to restore peace and accelerate all-round development and welfare of the region.The accords signed with various militant outfits and other organisations include the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), Bodo, National Liberation Front of Tripura (NLFT), Dimasa, Karbi, Adibasi, and Reang tribals.Besides, inter-state border problems in Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya have also been resolved, he said.The Home Minister said that with the signing of the accords and resolution of the problems, development in the northeastern region has accelerated.“Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a developed India would also develop the northeast region and Tripura. The Government of India is always sincere in upholding the rights of the tribals and the people of the northeast,” Shah said.The Home Minister also thanked the erstwhile kings of Tripura for settling the people who migrated from then East Pakistan, now Bangladesh.The tripartite agreement was signed on Saturday in Delhi between the Centre, Tripura government and the Tipra Motha Party (TMP) to provide more empowerment to the state’s tribals, who constitute one-third of Tripura’s four-million population.Meanwhile, the TMP, which has been demanding ‘Greater Tipraland’ or a separate state for the tribals under Articles 2 and 3 of the Constitution, is continuing with its demonstrations since February 28 at Hatoi Katar (Baramura) on National Highway-8, the lifeline of Tripura.The TMP is demanding further strengthening of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), protection of the constitutional rights of the tribals, direct funding to the tribal autonomous body, and further modification of the tribals’ land rights.Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, Tribal Welfare Minister Bikash Debbarma, Tribal Welfare (TRP and PTG) Minister and Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT) leader Sukla Charan Noatia, senior TMP leader Animesh Debbarma, TTAADC Chairman Jagadhish Debbarma, TMP President Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhawl and other leaders went to Delhi on Friday night to attend the meeting.The IPFT, a tribal-based party, is an ally of the ruling BJP in Tripura.TMP supremo and former royal scion Pradyot Bikram Manikya Deb Barman and other party leaders have been camping in Delhi since February 28.Deb Barman had earlier claimed that he was called by the Central government to Delhi to discuss their demands.“What we are asking is as per the Constitution. We want the government to fulfil the tribals’ constitutional and land rights-related issues,” the TMP chief had told the media.Former Tripura Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb, Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha and senior MHA officials also attended the tripartite meeting in Delhi.Ever since the TMP wrested power in the politically-important TTAADC in April 2021, the party has intensified its agitation in support of the ‘Greater Tipraland’ demand, which has been strongly opposed by the ruling BJP, the opposition Left Front, Congress, Trinamool Congress and other parties.The TTAADC, which has a jurisdiction over two-third of Tripura’s 10,491 sq km area, and is home to over 12,16,000 people, of which around 84 per cent are tribals, is, in terms of its political significance, the second most important constitutional body after the Tripura Assembly.The ruling BJP often tries to take TMP’s support to gain tribal votes, which constitute one-third of the state’s 28.57 lakh voters.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 15:12:33

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  In a recent development, Indian security agencies at Mumbai’s Nhava Sheva port intercepted a Karachi-bound ship from China on suspicion of carrying a dual-use consignment potentially linked to Pakistan’s nuclear and ballistic missile program. The Malta-flagged merchant ship, CMA CGM Attila, was halted on January 23, following intelligence input received by customs officials.The consignment, which included a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine manufactured by an Italian company, was inspected by both customs officials and a team from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The DRDO certified that the equipment could be utilized by Pakistan for its nuclear program and manufacturing critical parts for missile development.CNC machines, controlled by computers, provide a level of efficiency, consistency, and accuracy not achievable manually. These machines have been regulated since 1996 under the Wassenaar Arrangement, an international arms control regime aimed at preventing the proliferation of equipment with both civilian and military uses. India, being one of the 42 member countries, actively participates in the exchange of information related to transfers of conventional weapons and dual-use goods and technologies.The consignment, weighing 22,180 kilograms, was initially identified with the consigner as "Shanghai JXE Global Logistics Co Ltd" and the consignee as "Pakistan Wings Pvt Ltd" of Sialkot. However, a deeper investigation revealed that the shipment was actually sent by Taiyuan Mining Import and Export Co Ltd and was intended for Cosmos Engineering in Pakistan.Cosmos Engineering, a Pakistani defense supplier, has been on the radar of Indian authorities since March 12, 2022, when a shipment of Italian-made thermoelectric instruments was intercepted at the Nhava Sheva port. There are growing concerns that China might be serving as a conduit for Pakistan to acquire restricted items from Europe and the US, using deceptive practices to evade detection.This incident is not an isolated one, as previous cases involve the interception of dual-use military-grade items shipped from China to Pakistan. The ongoing investigation seeks to determine if suspected Pakistani entities receiving these items are supplying them to the Defence Science and Technology Organisation (DESTO), responsible for much of Pakistan’s defense research and development.Despite claims of adherence to international conventions by both Pakistan and China, the interception of covert shipments underscores persistent cooperation in potential proliferation activities, in violation of global agreements and regulations. The concern has heightened, particularly in light of the 2020 case where an industrial autoclave crucial for missile production was concealed as industrial equipment on a Chinese vessel bound for Pakistan.In February 2020, another incident involved China supplying an autoclave to Pakistan under the guise of an "industrial dryer." The autoclave, seized from the Chinese ship Dai Cui Yun, carried a Hong Kong flag and had left the Jiangyin port in Jiangsu province, China, bound for Pakistan’s Port Qasim. Such seizures reinforce suspicions that Pakistan is engaging in the illegal trade of missiles, potentially violating the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR).In a significant move in June 2023, the US Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) sanctioned three Chinese companies, including General Technology Limited (autoclave supplier to Pakistan), Beijing Luo Luo Technology Development, and Changzhou Utek Composite Company, for their involvement in supplying missile-applicable items to Pakistan’s ballistic missile program.As the investigation unfolds, the international community is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the need for stringent measures to curb the illicit transfer of dual-use technologies that could contribute to the escalation of nuclear and missile capabilities in the region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 14:59:36

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  In Pakistan, people are uncertain and suspicious about the recent death of Azam Cheema, the intelligence chief of the militant group Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT). Although officially reported as a heart attack, Cheema's sudden passing at the age of 70 has raised questions about the true cause.Lashkar-e-Toiba is a group based in Pakistan known for carrying out violent acts against India. They are infamous for the 2008 Mumbai attacks, a coordinated assault that left 166 people dead and continues to affect the city.Cheema's death is part of a series of mysterious killings targeting anti-India terrorists in Pakistan. Some suspect there might be a hidden force at play, while Pakistan accuses Indian intelligence agencies. India, however, denies any involvement.Azam Cheema played a crucial role in orchestrating the Mumbai attacks. The mastermind, Hafiz Saeed, is still at large. With important figures now dying under questionable circumstances, the mystery of who is behind these deaths deepens, adding tension to the region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 14:50:10

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The coast of Kochi is all set to witness the pinnacle of airborne supremacy of the Indian Navy next week when it inducts the aerial marvel, the MH 60R helicopter into its fleet, bolstering the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will commission the newly inducted MH 60R Seahawk multi-role helicopter at the INS Garuda here on March 6, Navy officials said.The squadron will be commissioned in the Indian Navy as INAS 334, under the Command of Captain M Abhisheik Ram.The Indian government signed a deal with the United States of America in February 2020, to acquire 24 fourth-generation MH 60R helicopters. Six of them have been delivered to the Indian Navy so far.Speaking to PTI, Ram said the induction of these helicopters into the Indian Navy will bring about a significant surge in its maritime prowess and capabilities.Detailing the capabilities of the new chopper, he said that apart from the ASW, it is designed for anti-surface warfare, search and rescue operations during the day and night, medical evacuation and vertical replenishment, among others."With this MH 60R, we have filled a major gap in our anti-submarine warfare capability. The anti-submarine capability and the sustenance of the chopper will change the way we are doing our surveillance and it will give us a larger surveillance bubble," Ram said.He added that the newly inducted choppers have been integrated with almost all the ships under the Indian Navy and ready for operational deployments.The MH 60R is also capable of firing torpedoes, missiles and advanced precision kill weapon system rockets.The self-protection suite on the helicopter comprises Chaff and Infrared Flares, which can be deployed automatically upon detection of a threat, Lieutenant Commandant Aneesh Ayarotil, one of the trained pilots of MH 60R said.This is the only chopper in the Indian Navy with a self-defence capability from incoming gunfire or missiles."We can deploy flares against the incoming heat-seeking missiles, while chaffs that contain high radar-reflecting materials can be deployed to confuse the radar-homing missiles," Ayarotil told PTI.Ayarotil, who was earlier a Chetak pilot, said the MH 60R is one of the most advanced choppers and the systems are pilot-friendly."We can engage autopilot to hover and reduce the workload of the pilots," he added.The first five batches of pilots and observers, who handle the detection and weapon systems and make the necessary tactical and navigational decisions, were trained in the US.Ram said the rest of the training was held at INS Garuda in Kochi where a simulator is also coming up."This training here is more realistic because when you embark on an Indian ship, we are giving them a realistic sense of tactics. Because most of the training in the US was on the simulator and they do not let us expose ourselves much. Here we are actually doing exercises with submarines, ships, aircraft so the training becomes realistic," he said.The new chopper can be used for rescue operations, especially in night search and rescue missions, as it has night vision goggles and forward-looking infrared facilities.The choppers have been integrated with the INS Vikrant and the Navy considers it as a milestone.The advanced weapons, sensors and the avionics suite onboard have been tested rigorously for the past eight to nine months.The chopper can also exchange information in real time through advanced data link systems with Indian as well as platforms from friendly foreign countries making it completely interoperable.Currently, all six delivered Seahawks are in Kochi. It has also participated in the recently held multinational MILAN exercise on the eastern seaboard of India.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 07:41:55

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The Indian Ministry of Defence has recently granted Larsen & Toubro (L&T) a significant contract for the provision of High Power Radars (HPR) to the Indian Air Force (IAF).HPR, designed as a stationary sensor for extensive aerial surveillance with increased uptime, comes equipped with numerous Next-Gen features. Capable of remote operations, these radars will bolster the IAF's capabilities in monitoring specific areas of interest, accurately designating and tracking adversaries. The comprehensive project is turnkey in nature and is slated for implementation across multiple locations.Additionally, L&T has inked another contract for the delivery of indigenously developed Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) as part of a previously secured major order for the IAF. The CIWS deployment plan spans various locations in India, aiming to safeguard critical assets from a spectrum of low-flying, low-signature aerial threats, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. The CIWS package includes Air Defence Guns, Tracking Radars, a Search Radar linked to a Command & Control Shelter, and associated simulators and communication equipment.L&T's cutting-edge manufacturing facilities, in collaboration with a network of industrial partners, including MSMEs across India, will realize the production of CIWS and HPR. Mr. Arun Ramchandani, EVP & Head of Defence Business at L&T, highlighted, "Winning these complex high-tech projects competitively after extensive trial evaluation is a testimony to our capabilities in design, development, precision engineering, and manufacturing of advanced platforms and systems for the Indian Armed Forces. Our efforts are constantly focused on enhancing the self-reliance of the Indian Armed Forces."

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 07:37:46

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  India's aerospace sector is on the cusp of substantial expansion, as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) gears up to deliver the inaugural upgraded Tejas Mk1A fighter jets next month.The expected procurement of an additional 97 Tejas Mk1A fighters is sparking a surge of growth within the Tejas ecosystem, aiming to cater to the escalating requirements of the Indian Air Force and potential international export demands.HAL Takes the LeadSpearheading India's indigenous fighter jet initiative, HAL is catalyzing its extensive network of private vendors to significantly enhance their production capacities.Key collaborators, such as Dynamatic Technologies, VEM Technologies, Alpha Tocol, and others, are committing investments to expand their capabilities, aiming to streamline the production of 180 Tejas Mk1A jets within the next 6-7 years.This comprehensive expansion plan involves the establishment of additional Tejas production lines, with a gradual increase in annual output, targeting an ambitious 24 jets by 2026-27 and the potential to escalate to 30 jets per year by 2030.The successful negotiation and confirmation of the order for 97 additional Tejas Mk1A jets by the year-end would accelerate this production ramp-up.Supply Chain VigorCrucially, approximately 70% of the Tejas Mk1A is manufactured by Indian companies. HAL acknowledges that a robust and expanded supply chain is pivotal in meeting both domestic and potential export demands, ensuring timely deliveries for the Indian Air Force.HAL's recent successful bids to Argentina and the Philippines for the Tejas underscore the jet's export potential, and an expanded production capacity will play a vital role in fulfilling any forthcoming export orders.Significance and ProspectsThe expansion of the Tejas Mk1A production network represents a significant uplift for India's self-sufficiency in defense manufacturing and its burgeoning standing in the global aerospace market.HAL's strategic production enhancements not only pave the way for a seamless transition to the more advanced Tejas Mk2 but also fortify the nation's defense capabilities and technological prowess, positioning India as a prominent player in the evolving aerospace landscape.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 07:25:35

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with an Indian firm to upgrade the simulators of the Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force."Led by MSME, this upgrade will incorporate all indigenous weapons and capabilities, enhancing operational training for IAF pilots," an official statement said.The Su-30 MKI fighter jets are the backbone of the Indian Air Force's fighter fleet and over 270 of them have been inducted in to the force.The simulators will help in further improving the training of pilots.Earlier, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed five major capital acquisition contracts worth Rs 39,125.39 crore on Friday in Delhi.The contracts were exchanged in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane.Out of the five contracts, one was with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for procurement of Aero-engines for MiG-29 aircraft, second with Larsen an Toubro Limited for procurement of Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) and procurement of High-Power Radar (HPR) and two with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for procurement of BrahMos missiles and procurement of Ship borne BrahMos system for the Indian Defence Forces.These deals will further strengthen indigenous capabilities, save foreign exchange and reduce dependency on foreign-origin equipment manufacturers in the future.The contract for RD-33 Aero Engines for MiG-29 aircraft has been signed with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) at a cost of Rs 5,249.72 crore. These aeroengines will be produced by the Koraput Division of HAL.The contract for procurement of CIWS has been signed with Larsen and Toubro Limited at a cost of Rs 7,668.82 crore.The contract for procurement of HPR has also been signed with Larsen and Toubro Limited at a cost of Rs 5,700.13 crore. It will replace existing long-range radars of lAF with modern Active Aperture Phased Array based HPR with advanced surveillance features.The contract for procurement of BrahMos missiles has been signed with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) at a cost of Rs 19,518.65 crore.These missiles would be utilized to meet combat outfit and training requirements of the Indian Navy.This project is likely to generate employment for nine lakh man-days in Joint Venture entity and around 135 lakh man-days in ancillary industries (including MSMEs) in the country.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 07:09:38

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The Indian Army has recently released a tender for the acquisition of 4x4 'light vehicles' designed for general service (GS) duties.Outlined in the request for proposal (RFP) issued on February 29, the Indian Army aims to acquire 1,054 light vehicles falling under the 'Buy (Indian)' category. This procurement category mandates that a minimum of 50% of the purchased product must be of indigenous origin.The specified light vehicles must possess a gross weight exceeding 2,500 kg and should demonstrate mobility in challenging terrains such as hilly, high-altitude, cross-country, and desert landscapes. The primary application of these light vehicles will be the swift deployment of small teams in both conventional and counter-insurgency operations.As per the RFP guidelines, the length of the procured vehicles should be 4,450 mm, accompanied by a width of 1,690 mm, a height of 1,680 mm, and a ground clearance of 180 mm.To ensure versatility, the procured vehicles must operate efficiently in temperatures ranging from -15°C to +45°C. Additionally, they must feature a manual transmission with a minimum of five forward and one reverse gear, coupled with a selectable 4x4 or 4x2 transmission system. The 4x4 option should include selectable high and low gear ratios, and a differential lock facility on the rear axle is also mandated by the RFP.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-02 07:05:43

 India 

Defense News ,India :-  The Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Friday signed five capital acquisition contracts worth Rs 39,125.39 crore, the government said in a release.Out of the five contracts, one was with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for procurement of Aero-engines for MiG-29 aircraft, two with Larsen & Toubro Limited for procurement of Close-in Weapon System (CIWS) and procurement of High-Power Radar (HPR) and two with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for procurement of BrahMos missiles and procurement of Ship borne BrahMos system for the Indian Defence Forces."These deals will further strengthen indigenous capabilities, save foreign exchange and reduce dependency on Foreign Origin Equipment Manufactures in future," the official release stated.The contract for RD-33 Aero Engines for MiG-29 aircraft has been signed with HAL at a cost of Rs 5,249.72 crore. These aeroengines will be produced by the Koraput division of HAL. These Aero Engines are expected to fulfill the need of Indian Air Force (IAF) to sustain the operational capability of the MiG-29 fleet for the residual service life.The aero-engines will be manufactured under Transfer of Technology (TOT) license from the Russian OEM. "The programme will focus on indigenisation of several high value critical components, which would help increase the indigenous content of future Repair and Overhaul (ROH) tasks of RD-33 aero-engines," it said.The contract for procurement of CIWS has been signed with Larsen & Toubro Limited at a cost of Rs 7,668.82 crore, highlighted the release. CIWS will provide terminal Air Defence to select locations of the country. The project will boost and encourage active participation of Indian aerospace, defence and associated industries including MSMEs. "The direct and indirect employment generated by this project would be approximately average of 2,400 persons/ year over the period of five years," it said.The contract for procurement of HPR has also been signed with Larsen & Toubro Limited at a cost of Rs 5,700.13 crore. It will replace existing long-range radars of lAF with modern Active Aperture Phased Array based HPR with advanced surveillance features.The contract for procurement of BrahMos missiles has been signed with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) at a cost of Rs 19,518.65 crore. "These missiles would be utilized to meet combat outfit and training requirements of Indian Navy," the government highlighted.This project is likely to generate employment of nine lakh man-days in Joint Venture entity and around 135 lakh man-days in ancillary industries (including MSMEs) of the country, it stated.The contract for Procurement of Ship borne BrahMos system has also been signed with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) at a cost of Rs 988.07 crore."This system is the Indian Navy's primary weapon for maritime strike operations fitted onboard various frontline warships. The system is capable of hitting land or sea targets from extended ranges with pinpoint accuracy at supersonic speeds. The project is likely to generate employment of around 60,000 man-days over a period of 7-8 years," the press release highlighted.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-01 16:02:57

 India 

Defense New ,India :-  In a recent milestone for the Indian Army's operational prowess, the Annual Eastern Command Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) field firing exercise unfolded at West Bengal's Teesta field firing range. Executed under the Trishakti Corps, this event showcased the army's commitment to precision and effectiveness in anti-tank warfare, firing over 260 missiles with the overarching objective of achieving "one missile one tank."A noteworthy development during the exercise was the debut of Mahindra's Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ALSV), marking its firing capacity for the first time. This missile signifies a paradigm shift in armored mobility and battlefield versatility, providing enhanced protection and firepower in high-threat environments.Enhancing ALSVs with ATGMs: A Tactical Edge in WarIntegrating Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs) onto the Mahindra Armored Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV) holds the potential to significantly boost its anti-armor capabilities, offering a tactical advantage in war scenarios. Here's a breakdown of the key benefits:1. Increased Firepower: ATGMs extend the ALSV's combat reach, enabling the destruction of heavily armored enemy tanks at significant distances.2. Precision Strikes: ATGMs offer superior accuracy, allowing the ALSV to target specific weak points of enemy tanks for maximum damage.3. Ambush Potential:With speed and mobility, an ATGM-equipped ALSV can conduct surprise hit-and-run attacks against enemy armor, making them harder to counter.4. Force Multiplier:The ALSV's versatility as a personnel carrier, combined with ATGM firepower, makes it a formidable force multiplier, capable of fulfilling multiple battlefield roles with enhanced anti-tank capabilities.Learning from History: Parallels with the 1965 WarExamining historical context, particularly the 1965 India-Pakistan War, provides insights into the effective use of anti-tank weapons. Drawing parallels between Abdul Hamid's actions with a recoilless gun (RCL) mounted on a Jeep and modern armored vehicles equipped with ATGMs, several factors emerge:1. Mobility:The Mahindra Armored Light Specialist Vehicle, being a light and agile platform, offers greater mobility than traditional tanks. Its ability to traverse varied terrains quickly and access confined spaces can be advantageous for hit-and-run tactics.Abdul Hamid's use of a Jeep-mounted RCL gun showcased the importance of mobility, allowing for strategic positioning and surprise attacks on enemy tanks.2. Flexibility and Adaptability:Anti-tank missiles provide a flexible and adaptable solution to engage armored threats. They can be fired from a variety of platforms, including vehicles, helicopters, and infantry positions.   In the 1965 war, the adaptability of Abdul Hamid's Jeep-mounted RCL gun demonstrated the effectiveness of using unconventional platforms for anti-tank warfare.3. Cost-Effectiveness:Light armored vehicles with anti-tank missiles are often more cost-effective than heavy tanks. They offer a balance between firepower and affordability, allowing for the deployment of a larger number of such vehicles.   Abdul Hamid's use of a Jeep-mounted RCL gun highlighted the resourcefulness of employing cost-effective solutions to counter armored threats.4. Stealth and Surprise: Light armored vehicles can operate more stealthily than tanks, utilizing natural cover and terrain to approach targets unnoticed. This element of surprise can be crucial in engaging enemy armor. Abdul Hamid's actions exemplified the importance of surprise, as he used the element of stealth to get close to Pakistani tanks and destroy them with the RCL gun.5. Urban Warfare:Light armored vehicles are better suited for urban warfare scenarios, where the ability to navigate through narrow streets and respond quickly to changing situations is crucial.Abdul Hamid's use of a Jeep-mounted RCL gun in the 1965 war showcased the adaptability of such platforms in varied combat environments.While the technology and tactics have evolved since the 1965 war, the principles of mobility, adaptability, cost-effectiveness, and surprise remain relevant in modern anti-tank warfare. The Mahindra Armored Light Specialist Vehicle, equipped with anti-tank missiles, embodies these principles and can offer unique advantages in certain operational contexts.

Read More → Posted on 2024-03-01 15:59:48