India 

Defense news ,India :- India is working hard to make air travel better in Arunachal Pradesh, an important state on the border. The Indian Army’s 3 Corps is leading the way by building nine helipads, and six more are on the way.The plan is to connect all seven valleys in the state with special helipads for Chinook helicopters. These helipads are strong and can handle the heavy-lifting Chinook helicopters of the Indian Air Force (IAF). This will make it much easier for the military to move around quickly and respond faster in the area.Arunachal Pradesh, which shares a border with China, is very important for India's safety. Improving air travel within the state helps the military be ready by allowing them to send troops, supplies, and be flexible in case of any danger.The Indian Air Force has 15 Chinook helicopters, and they are a big part of this effort. These helicopters can carry a lot, up to 10 tons, and transport troops and artillery pieces quickly. They make the military much stronger by giving them more reach and firepower.Building more helipads and using Chinook helicopters strategically is a big step in making Arunachal Pradesh safer for India. This improved air network will be crucial in keeping the state secure and protecting its borders.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-24 06:58:30

 India 

Defense News ,Ukraine Russia war , India :- India is telling its citizens to stay away from the conflict in Ukraine and not join the Russian army. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued this warning after hearing that some Indians have joined the Russian army for support jobs in the conflict.MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaishwal is worried about this and said, "We know that a few Indians have joined the Russian Army." Jaishwal also mentioned that the Indian embassy in Moscow is working with Russian authorities to bring back any Indians in these roles early.Jaishwal emphasized, "We advise all Indians to be careful and stay away from this conflict." This concern arose when Mohammad Sufiyan from Hyderabad was tricked by agents and forced to fight for Russia in Ukraine. His family is asking the government and MEA to safely bring back these young people and take strong action against the responsible agents.Asaduddin Owaisi, an AIMIM MP, is also worried. He is urging the Indian government to talk to the Russian government and bring back the 12 trapped youths. AIMIM posted, "The Narendra Modi government should talk to the Russian government and bring back the 12 youths trapped in the Russia-Ukraine war."Imran, Sufiyan's brother, shared how his brother got involved. Sufiyan was recruited by Baba Blocks Company, which works in Dubai, Delhi, and Mumbai. The company promised jobs as army helpers but sent them into Ukraine instead.Imran tried seeking help from the Embassy and MEA but is frustrated with the lack of concrete assistance. He urges the government to bring back the trapped youths and take strict action against the agents.The Indian government promises to work with Russian authorities to safely bring back any Indians in support roles with the Russian army. They advise citizens to be cautious and avoid getting involved in the conflict in Ukraine.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:35:48

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Officials from the Indonesian Navy and other delegations recently got a special chance to explore India's first home-built aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant, during the MILAN 2024 event. This event not only showcased India's strong naval capabilities but also highlighted the friendly cooperation between the two nations.INS Vikrant is a symbol of India's growing sea strength and its dedication to strengthening naval power in the Indo-Pacific region. It's the biggest warship ever made in India, marking a significant achievement in the country's efforts to modernize its defense and build ships domestically.During the visit, attendees enjoyed watching a captivating display of naval aviation, with various aircraft on the flight deck. Notable ones included the powerful Mig-29K fighter jets, versatile Alouette III helicopters, reconnaissance-focused Kamov Ka-31, reliable SH-3 Sea King, advanced MH-60R helicopters, and the indigenous HAL Dhruv.Each aircraft displayed represents a different aspect of naval aviation, covering combat, reconnaissance, and search and rescue missions. This diverse fleet highlights India's commitment to maintaining air superiority and maritime security in the region.The visit also provided a platform for strengthening ties between the Indian and Indonesian navies. As maritime nations with shared interests and challenges, India and Indonesia are working together to enhance cooperation in maritime security, counter-terrorism, disaster response, and joint exercises.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:26:26

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In the vast ocean depths lie untold stories of the past - stories of bravery and tragedy hidden in the quiet world below. Recently, the Indian Navy's Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) brought one such story to light, revealing the wreckage of the Pakistani submarine PNS-Ghazi near the Vizag coast. This not only showcases India's advanced underwater search and rescue abilities but also revisits a crucial moment in the 1971 Indo-Pak war.Discovery of PNS-GhaziDuring a routine mission to strengthen India's presence in the Indian Ocean, the DSRV located the long-lost PNS-Ghazi. The Pakistani submarine, sent to mine India's eastern seaboard and target the INS Vikrant, met its end off the Vizag coast on December 4, 1971. The discovery of its wreckage, resting silently at a depth of about 100 meters, is evidence of the DSRV's capability to carry out complex rescue missions at depths of up to 650 meters. This recent accomplishment marks a significant milestone in underwater exploration.Vizag: A Submarine GraveyardVizag's coast, with its strategic significance in submarine operations, has become a resting place not only for PNS-Ghazi but also for a Japanese submarine from World War II. This emphasizes the city's historical role in naval warfare. The Indian Navy, by respecting the fallen and leaving the wreckage undisturbed, pays tribute to the lives lost and acknowledges the area's impact on maritime history. The DSRV's operation near Vizag aligns with India's broader initiative to enhance its strategic advantage in the Indian Ocean, highlighted during the MILAN 2024 naval exercise.Enhancing Regional Maritime SafetyWith the addition of two indigenously manufactured diving support vessels (DSVs) alongside the DSRVs, the Indian Navy underscores its commitment to regional maritime safety. These vessels not only demonstrate the ability to operate at significant depths but also represent advancements in indigenous defense technology. The discovery of PNS-Ghazi, made possible by this state-of-the-art technology, reaffirms India's growing capabilities in underwater search and rescue operations, promising a safer future for maritime activities in the region.The recent discovery by the Indian Navy's DSRV not only illuminates a crucial moment in the past but also showcases the technological advancements and strategic foresight defining India's position in maritime safety and regional security today. As the sea continues to reveal its secrets, it is the skill, dedication, and technological acumen of those exploring its depths that will guide us through the unwritten pages of history.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:14:29

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Israel's military exports to India, its largest defence buyer, have not been affected by the war in Gaza, an Indian source and an Israeli source aware of the details said.India has imported military hardware worth $2.9 billion from Israel over the last decade, including radars, surveillance and combat drones, and missiles.Israel launched its months-long military campaign after militants from Hamas-ruled Gaza killed 1,200 people and took 253 hostages in southern Israel on Oct. 7. Since then, more than 29,000 Palestinians have been killed, according to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry.But Israel's war needs have not conflicted with its defence supplies to India, the Israeli source and the senior Indian military official said.Israel's operations have created a growing need for ammunition, but not radars of the type it is exporting to India, the Israeli source said."We made sure our (military) exports to India are not impacted," he said.The Indian official said Israel had ensured a steady supply of weapons bought by New Delhi, which also include drone components.Both sources spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the subject.India's foreign ministry and the Israeli embassy in New Delhi did not respond to requests for comment.With a strong presence at the Singapore Airshow, Israeli arms manufacturers are back at international events after an absence following the start of the war in Gaza.India is the world's largest arms importer, buying $37 billion worth between 2012 and 2022, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.Israel is the fourth largest supplier of military hardware to India, which has bought weapons worth $21.8 billion from Russia, $5.2 billion from France and $4.5 billion from America in the last decade.India has been trying to reduce its dependence on Russian weapons by diversifying purchases to countries such as France and Israel, and boosting its nascent domestic arms manufacturing industry.Israel's Elbit Systems partners with Indian conglomerate Adani group to manufacture some of its Hermes900 drones at a facility in southern India, which are exported back to Israel for its use.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 15:07:46

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The Indian Air Force (IAF) is getting stronger in the air, planning to make 20 more Su-30MKI fighter jets even more powerful by adding BrahMos-A Air Launched Cruise Missiles (ALCM).The BrahMos-A ALCM is one of the most dangerous air-to-surface weapons globally. It can reach 450km and travels super fast at Mach 3. This missile is precise and speedy, making it a strong tool for India's air defense. It can quickly and accurately target important enemies.Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), a top aerospace and defense company in India, is given the important job of making the Su-30MKI stronger to carry the BrahMos-A ALCM. HAL is strengthening the plane's structure and adding special systems so that the Su-30MKI can effectively use and launch the 2.5-ton BrahMos-A missile from its centerline hardpoint.Already, about 40 Su-30MKIs are ready to use the BrahMos-A ALCM. This means that the IAF can do more in both attack and defense.Getting money for changing the Su-30MKI planes and buying more BrahMos-A missiles is a big goal for the IAF. They want to be more ready for combat and update their fighter planes. Adding the BrahMos-A ALCM not only makes the Su-30MKI more powerful but also shows that India is prepared and strong, sending a clear message to possible enemies.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 14:58:01

 India 

Defense News ,India ,Europe :- As tensions rise in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the European Union (EU) has imposed sanctions on companies from China and India, sparking debates about their effectiveness and broader implications. The EU aims to pressure Russia economically amidst its military actions, but Chinese analysts suggest these sanctions may not significantly impact the conflict and instead reveal complex geopolitical maneuvers.The EU sanctions extend beyond Russian entities, targeting companies from China, India, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Thailand, Serbia, and Kazakhstan. This move by Western powers seeks to use economic influence as a tool to coerce Russia into reconsidering its military actions in Ukraine. However, the success of such measures remains uncertain, given past experiences with sanctions against Russia.The strategy behind expanding sanctions reflects an attempt to create economic consequences that may influence Russia's behavior on the battlefield. Chinese analysts caution against overestimating the impact, citing limited success with previous sanctions. The inclusion of Chinese and Indian firms raises concerns about the broader effects on global trade and diplomatic relations.From China's perspective, these sanctions represent external pressure aimed at limiting the country's economic activities and global influence. China sees them as attempts to disrupt economic partnerships and undermine its role in international affairs. The involvement of Indian firms highlights the interconnected nature of global trade and the challenges of navigating geopolitical fault lines.The sanctions add a new dimension to the evolving dynamics of international politics as the Ukraine conflict unfolds. They underscore the difficulty of maintaining a delicate balance between economic interests, geopolitical considerations, and the pursuit of global peace and stability. The situation reveals the challenges faced by major players like China and India in aligning with Western powers while balancing existing partnerships with Russia.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 07:13:07

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In a recent G20 ministerial meeting, India emphasized the need for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) and its Security Council, labeling the current multilateral governance structure as "outdated." The meeting, under the presidency of Brazil, addressed crucial global issues and outlined the necessity for urgent changes to the existing international framework.V Muraleedharan, Minister of State for External Affairs, highlighted the urgency of multilateral reforms, emphasizing a fourfold approach. Firstly, he stressed the importance of making international financial institutions more representative and effective. Secondly, he called for improvements in the working methods of international organizations. Thirdly, he advocated for the multilateral system to prioritize common causes over individual interests. Lastly, he underlined the need for comprehensive UN reforms, including those concerning the UN Security Council.India has been a strong proponent of UN Security Council reform, advocating for its inclusion as a permanent member at the UN high table. The country aims to address geopolitical issues constructively and find common ground with other nations.During the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Muraleedharan addressed various international tensions. Regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict, India called for an urgent return to dialogue and diplomacy. On the Israel-Palestine issue, India expressed support for a two-state solution. Muraleedharan condemned terrorism in all its forms and urged against the spread of conflict in West Asia. He emphasized the importance of security on high seas, especially in the Red Sea, and highlighted the critical nature of ensuring the safety of sea lanes of communication.Reiterating India's commitment to sustainable development, Muraleedharan reminded the gathering that the G20, as an economic forum, should focus on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and climate change. He pledged steadfast support to Brazil during its presidency, aligning with the theme of the Foreign Ministers’ Meeting: 'Building a Just World & a Sustainable Planet,' which resonates with India's vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future.'The G20 Foreign Ministers have been convening since 2012, with the recent meeting in Rio marking the 10th session. Over the years, this forum has grown in significance, providing a valuable platform for discussions on international issues among G20 members.Media reports indicate that Brazil's Foreign Minister, Mauro Vieira, echoed India's sentiments, calling for reforms of the UN and other multilateral institutions. He criticized their inability to prevent global conflicts, citing the UN Security Council's failure to address ongoing crises in Ukraine and the Gaza Strip. Vieira emphasized the inadequacy of current multilateral institutions in dealing with contemporary challenges, highlighting the unacceptable paralysis of the Security Council in addressing conflicts.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 06:56:11

 India 

Defense News ,India :- In great news for India's defense and self-sufficiency, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) has given the green light to a Rs 7,000 crore deal with Indian defense giant Larsen & Toubro (L&T). This deal involves acquiring close-in weapon systems, and a standout component is the "Made in India" Close-in Weapon System (CIWS), developed based on L&T's Sudarshan SHORAD system.The Sudarshan SHORAD is a cutting-edge Short-Range Air Defense System made by L&T Defence. It comes with impressive features:1. 3D Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar: This radar provides complete 360-degree coverage, spotting airborne threats early       on.2. Sophisticated threat identification: The system can accurately recognize and categorize drones, helicopters, and low-flying aircraft.3. Effective engagement: The CIWS is designed to effectively counter these threats, safeguarding critical assets and installations.The Sudarshan SHORAD system consists of three main parts:1. Tracking Radar and Command & Control Unit: This unit gives situational awareness and coordinates defense actions.2. Fire Control Radar: It accurately tracks and targets incoming threats.3. Firing Unit: It delivers precise firepower to neutralize threats.This approval is a big leap for India's air defense capabilities. The homegrown close-in weapon systems, with their advanced technology and versatile approach, will play a crucial role in protecting the nation's airspace.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 06:38:26

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The Indian government has given the green light to a ₹6,000 crore project to set up powerful radars along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). These radars, built by Larsen & Toubro, will keep an eye on the activities of the Chinese Air Force. The plan is to place these "Made in India" radars along the LAC and the Line of Control with Pakistan, mainly focusing on monitoring the Chinese Air Force in the Ladakh region.According to defense sources, it's relatively easy to cover radar in the western areas of Rajasthan, Punjab, and Gujarat. However, it becomes challenging from Jammu and Kashmir up to Arunachal Pradesh in the Northeast due to the mountainous terrain. The improved radar coverage is crucial because of suspicious activities by the Chinese force on the eastern front.The Chinese Air Force has been testing Indian responses in the Ladakh region, particularly in the Demchok sector. In response, the Indian Air Force scrambled fighter jets to the area. The new high-power radars are designed to detect threats from the air at long distances, providing early warnings to the Indian Air Force. Additionally, these radars will be integral to India's Ballistic Missile Defense (BMD) system, tracking and engaging incoming ballistic missiles.The radars will be Equipped with Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology, these radars offer superior detection, tracking, and jamming resistance compared to conventional ones. The Indian Air Force plans to install a significant number of these radars in phases, with the next phase focusing on fully indigenous radars, promoting self-reliance and strengthening India's defense capabilities.Another project approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security, led by Prime Minister Modi, is the acquisition of Close-in Weapon Systems. These systems will be deployed to safeguard essential assets and locations, according to top defense sources.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-23 06:24:27

 India 

Defense News ,India ,U.S :- The recent gathering in New Delhi at the INDUS-X Summit brought together leaders, experts, and academics from India and the US to discuss their strategic partnership. A major focus of the summit was the joint development of advanced military technologies, with a special emphasis on improving underwater communications.Why Focus on Underwater Communications ?India aims to enhance its underwater communication capabilities, especially for its growing submarine fleet and overall maritime security. The Indian Navy faces challenges in effectively coordinating submarine operations and maintaining situational awareness in expansive maritime regions due to limitations in underwater communication.The Solution Presented at INDUS-X:The summit served as a platform to explore solutions to these challenges through collaborative research and development efforts. The goal is to utilize the expertise of both nations, including their defense establishments and private sectors, to:Develop advanced underwater communication technologies: This involves advancements in acoustic communication systems, laser-based underwater communication, and satellite-based relay solutions.Improve interoperability between Indian and US forces: Working together on common standards and protocols ensures smooth communication during joint operations.Strengthen the defense industrial base: Co-development aims to facilitate technology transfer and create a robust ecosystem for underwater communication technologies in both countries.Expectations from the Partnership:The INDUS-X Summit has raised expectations for:Faster development of technologies: By combining resources and expertise, India and the US aim to expedite the development of crucial underwater communication technologies.Collaborative research and development initiatives: Joint efforts can harness the strengths of both nations, leading to more effective solutions.Increased involvement of the private sector: Involving private companies in co-development can bring innovation and agility to the process.Looking Ahead:The INDUS-X Summit signifies a significant step forward in India-US defense cooperation. By concentrating on co-developing critical technologies like underwater communications, this partnership has the potential to:Enhance maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region: Improved communication capabilities can stabilize the region and deter potential threats.Advance shared strategic interests: Both India and the US are concerned about China's growing maritime influence, and collaboration on underwater communication can help address these concerns.Stimulate economic growth: The development of new technologies can generate employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in both countries.While challenges persist, the INDUS-X Summit lays the groundwork for a more profound and impactful India-US defense partnership, with underwater communications playing a crucial role in shaping the future of maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 15:49:17

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Swedish aerospace giant Saab is actively promoting its Gripen-E fighter jet for India’s upcoming Medium Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, offering a “Make in India” deal with complete technology transfer. However, any concrete developments on the program will have to wait until after the national elections scheduled for late spring.Saab hopes that the Indian government will soon issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the 114-jet MRFA program, a crucial initiative to modernize the Indian Air Force (IAF). The company is confident that the Gripen-E, with its advanced capabilities and potential for local production, aligns well with India’s strategic objectives.“Gripen-E is a perfect fit for India’s defense needs,” says a Saab spokesperson. “It offers the latest technology, competitive pricing, and a comprehensive Make in India package.”Saab’s “Make in India” proposal reportedly involves establishing a local production line and transferring critical technologies to Indian partners. This approach aligns with the Indian government’s emphasis on boosting domestic defense manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign imports.However, the timing of the MRFA program coincides with India’s upcoming national elections, which typically see a slowdown in major defense decisions. As a result, any concrete progress on the MRFA tender, including the issuance of the RFP or selection of a winner, is likely to be delayed until after the new government takes office.Several other international players, including Dassault Aviation (Rafale), Boeing (F-15EX), and Lockheed Martin (F-21), are also expected to vie for the MRFA program. The final decision will depend on a range of factors, including technical capabilities, pricing, and the effectiveness of each proposed “Make in India” plan.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 15:30:04

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Armenia's Minister for Labor and Social Affairs, Narek Mkrtchyan, emphasized the country's advantageous position to provide India with an alternative sea trade route, particularly with Europe, during the ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Mkrtchyan outlined Armenia's commitment to collaboration in major regional and global projects, including the North-South Transport Corridor (INSTC), the Gulf Black Sea transport, the transit corridor, and the development of the Chabahar port in collaboration with India and Iran.The Raisina Dialogue, India's premier conference on geopolitics and geoeconomics, serves as a platform to address critical global issues. Mkrtchyan underscored the significance of Armenia's proposal, considering the current global interest in alternative sea routes due to security concerns on traditional paths like those in the Red Sea, where commercial vessels have faced attacks.Highlighting the importance of the proposal, the minister pointed to the recent Houthi attacks disrupting Red Sea trade routes, beginning in mid-November. The Houthi group linked these disruptions to its demands for an end to Israel's offensive in Gaza and the delivery of aid to Palestinians facing siege. Mkrtchyan reiterated Armenia's strategic position to offer India an alternative sea trade route, particularly in light of these challenges.In addition to trade routes, the minister proposed collaboration between Armenia and India in the field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He suggested the formation of a global coalition where ministers from both countries can consult and stimulate investments in AI. Mkrtchyan highlighted the potential for collaboration on AI for social good, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation planning.He also proposed the establishment of a global AI innovation platform to facilitate the sharing of solutions and research between the two nations. This collaboration would not only strengthen ties but also contribute to advancements in AI technology with a focus on addressing societal challenges.Bilateral dialogue between India and Armenia currently takes place through mechanisms such as Foreign Office Consultations and the Inter-Governmental Commission, covering trade, economic, scientific, technological, cultural, and educational cooperation. The Ministry of External Affairs released an official statement outlining these mechanisms for communication.The ongoing ninth edition of the Raisina Dialogue, organized by the Ministry of External Affairs in collaboration with the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), features Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis as the chief guest and keynote speaker. The event, which commenced on Wednesday, is set to conclude on February 23. More than 100 nations are represented, with participants including ministers, National Security Advisors, senior officials, and representatives from various sectors such as industry, technology, and finance.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 07:47:03

 India 

Defense News ,India :- Skydio, a leading American drone manufacturer, has announced plans to introduce its commercial drone products in India, in addition to its current focus on defence-related UAVs. The company recently partnered with Indian firm Aeroarc to manufacture unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for defence customers in the Indo-Pacific region. This move follows Skydio's establishment of an R&D center in Bengaluru last year.Expansion to Commercial Market:Skydio's chief revenue officer, Callan Carpenter, revealed that while the company initially enters new markets with its defence products, it aims to expand into non-military and non-government sectors over time. Carpenter emphasized that this expansion would cater to commercial use cases, marking a significant progression for the company.“Today we focus on three main market segments — government/defence; public safety and inspection of critical infrastructure. The last one is (about) power distribution lines and generation bridges, highways. We can also provide the same kind of overwatch and security that we provide for say a military base or for a military unit in the field for perimeter security at a power plant or for overwatch at a construction site. Inspection is required everywhere like oil and gas construction. We even have our drones being used for inventory management. We have a large customer base,” Carpenter said in an interview with TOI.Skydio says over time it is adding more attachments and different kinds of sensors to its drones to “make them useful in different, different use cases.”Market Segments and Applications:Currently, Skydio focuses on three main market segments: government/defence, public safety, and inspection of critical infrastructure. Carpenter highlighted the versatility of Skydio's drones, which are used for tasks such as perimeter security at power plants, overwatch at construction sites, and inspection in industries like oil and gas and construction. Skydio's drones are equipped with various attachments and sensors to adapt to different use cases.Defence Partnership with Aeroarc:Skydio's collaboration with Aeroarc aims to develop, manufacture, deploy, and support small uncrewed aircraft systems (SUAS) for the Indian defence ministry and other global defence customers in the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership underscores Skydio's commitment to bringing advanced autonomous flight technology to India.Future Plans:Skydio's CEO and co-founder, Adam Bry, expressed the company's enthusiasm for investing in India and partnering with Aeroarc to develop critical dual-use products. He emphasized the importance of autonomous drone technology in India's defence innovation strategy, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.Skydio CEO & co-founder Adam Bry said: “As the largest manufacturer of small uncrewed aircraft systems outside of China, we’re excited to continue our investment in India and partner with Aeroarc on critical, dual-use products and capabilities that help allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region deter conflict and protect troops. We believe autonomous drone technology is central to the future of India’s defence innovation strategy.”Skydio's expansion into the Indian market with its commercial drones signifies a significant step towards establishing India as a global hub for advanced defence technology. The company's partnership with Aeroarc and its focus on developing innovative drone solutions highlight its commitment to advancing drone technology for both defence and commercial purposes.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 07:35:40

 India 

Defense News ,India :- The Indian Navy is all set to get a mega firepower boost. The Cabinet Committee on Security has approved the acquisition of over 200 BrahMos extended-range supersonic cruise missiles for deployment on Indian Navy warships, reports said on February 22 quoting top government sources.The supersonic cruise missiles can be fired from submarines, ships, aircraft, or land platforms, which makes them a highly versatile weapon.The Rs 19,000-crore mega deal was cleared yesterday. The formal contract will be signed by the BrahMos Aerospace and Ministry of Defence in March first week, news agency ANI reported.The Indian Navy deploys the BrahMos as a primary weapon system for anti-ship operations. The Navy has been regularly firing the weapon in its test attacks.The business of BrahMosThe export of the BrahMos missile to the Philippines, the first global customer of this missile, is set to begin soon.Besides the Philippines, many other countries in the Southeast Asian region have also showed major interest in the missile system. According to various reports, these countries are looking at the possibility of deploying the BrahMos in multiple ways.It may be noted here that Modi has set a $5-billion target for BrahMos sale to other countries. As of now, theBrahmos Aerospace, which is headed by Atul Rane, is working towards meeting that export target.The BrahMos team is trying to meet the target by 2025. The export deal with the Philippines is worth $375 million.The BrahMos BackstoryThe BrahMos Aerospace is a joint venture between India and Russia. The missile, however, has been significantly indigenised. More parts of the weapons system are being indigenised.In many test-firings, BrahMos missiles with a high level of local content have been used. Currently, the missile is being equipped with an indigenous seeker.India's defence industry expects that the success of BrahMos with partner nations will open many more doors for India to sell other successful weapon systems such as the Akash, ATAGS howitzers, etc, among others.Work is currently on to further improve the hardware quality of the BramMos to match global competition.More and more Indian weapon systems have been showcased in foreign countries in the recent past. A few PSUs have also set up sales & support offices in countries where prospective markets seem to exist.

Read More → Posted on 2024-02-22 06:34:54