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www.aeromagonline.com | August 2021

Rosoboronexport plans to conclude more than 10 contracts at Army

Visit : India Pavilion Hall c Stall no 3 D 1

India to Raise its Stakes in International Defence Arena

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‘DDP Envisions Expanding Defence Manufacture Base’

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GSL Focuses on Incorporating AI in Shipbuilding

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DRDO Endeavors to Become India’s Prime Defence Exporter

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Printed and Published by Sunny Jerome, Managing Editor, Aeromag Asia, Aerosun Media, Aeronautical Society of India Building, Suranjandas Road, Off Old Madras Road,Bangalore 560075, Karnataka.

Printed at Rashtrotthana Mudranalaya, 19/1, K.G.Nagar, Bangalore-19.

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IAC Vikrant successfully completes maiden sea trial

OFB Gears Up to Embrace Industry 4.0

36 Rosoboronexport plans to conclude more than 10 contracts at Army 2021

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BEML Puts Thrust on Aero-Structure Manufacture

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ARMY 2021: Sprut-SDM1 – a light tank with heavy firepower 3

Celebrating 50 years of a landmark treaty

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Russian President Vladimir Putin

India and the former Soviet Union signed the ‘Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ in August 1971. It was one of the most significant documents signed by India since Independence

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t is 50 years since India and the former Soviet Union signed the historic ‘Treaty of Peace, Friendship and Cooperation’ in August 1971. The treaty not only had a profound and long-lasting impact on the relations between the two nations but also altered the international power equations significantly.

The immediate cause that led to the signing of the agreement was increasing Pakistani ties with China and the United States, both of which were at that time

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hostile towards India. It was diplomatically and strategically one of the most important documents signed by India after Independence as the treaty helped India successfully tackle one of the greatest security challenges it ever faced.

Moreover, the treaty had a big role in India achieving its target of breaking up Pakistan, leading to the creation of Bangladesh.

One of the major reasons for India to sign the treaty was to seek a guarantee from the Soviet Union against the possible entry of China into the conflict on the side of Pakistan. Article IX of the treaty said: ‘In the event of either Party being subjected to an attack or a threat thereof,

India to Raise its Stakes in International Defence Arena With India looking forward to strengthening its presence in international defence avenues after a lull due to the pandemic, a delegation comprising of major defence players and stakeholders are set to showcase their might in Russia. The apex defence research establishment of India Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) along with defence public sector undertakings BEML Limited, Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), and Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) among others will be attending the event this year to showcase the indigenous manufacturing prowess of domestic defence sector in India.

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ith the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation hosting the latest edition of the International Military-Technical Forum "Army-2021" in Moscow amid the tough challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, India sends her best delegation of defence players and stakeholders to strengthen bilateral bonds with Russia and nurture defence business in the international sector.

The 7th edition of ‘Army’ will unveil its curtains on 22 August and will host the international defence industry stakeholders for nearly a week

the High Contracting Parties shall immediately enter into mutual consultations to remove such threat and to take appropriate effective measures to ensure peace and security of their countries’.

During the India-Pakistan war of 1971, India was facing security threats from Pakistan’s allies the US and China. When the war started in December 1971, the US navy tried to threaten Indian security. However, the Soviet Union dispatched a nuclear-armed flotilla from its Pacific Fleet based in Vladivostok, in support of India.

During the signing of the treaty, the Indian Government was led by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi and Soviet Union by General Secretary Leonid Brezhnev. The treaty was a landmark in

at Patriot Expo, Kubinka Air Base and Alabino military training grounds. It will provide them a platform which is the major exhibition event in Russia in the field of advanced technologies, armament, military equipment for the armed forces and security agencies.

In the recent six years the expo has turned into one of the world's leading exhibition of armament and military equipment, the authoritative platform for discussing innovative ideas and developments for the armed forces. With India looking forward to strengthening Indian presence in international defence avenues after a lull due to the pandemic, a delegation comprising of major defence players are set to showcase their might in Russia.

The apex defence research establishment of India Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) along with defence public sector undertakings BEML Limited, Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), and Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) will be attending the event this year to showcase the indigenous manufacturing prowess of domestic defence sector in India. They will present before the international market what all Indian companies and DPSUs could offer.

Besides, a high-level delegation from Indian Ministry of Defence (MOD), armed forces, DPSUs including Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) will attend the expo to interact with global delegations and seek new business opportunities and alliances.

Army-2021 combines the exhibition and dynamic demonstration of military equipment capabilities with extensive congress program and strong participation of international audience represented by foreign exhibitors, delegations and visitors.

Army-2021 will be an ideal platform for foreign companies to venture out into the Russian market, form alliances defined by joint ventures and industrial cooperation that will meet the requirements of end users in Russia.

The exhibition offers unparalleled opportunities to hold fruitful conversations, exchange experience and cooperate with foreign specialists in military and technical sphere. It creates new prospects for strengthening scientific-technical and industrial cooperation ties.

Around 1316 exhibitors from 15 countries around the globe will be present at Army this year with the diverse portfolio of products and technologies. While the exhibition are has an indoor space of 65 000 sqm, there is an outdoor space of 500 000 sqm.

the evolution of Indo-Soviet relations and also created a positive sentiment for the Soviet Union in Indian decision makers as well as the people and added to the traditionally warm relationship, especially in the security sphere.

In the subsequent years, Soviet Union became India’s biggest supporter in global politics. In addition, India began looking at Soviet Union as the leading supplier of advanced arms and equipment for its armed forces. In fact, the strategic partnership between the two countries was based on politics, defence, civil nuclear energy, anti-terrorism cooperation and space. In later years, another factor, economic, also gained prominence in the ties. After the treaty came into force, cooperation between India and the Soviet Union bloomed and the following two decades are considered the golden age of the bilateral relationship.

Later, after the formation of Russian Federation, the Indo-Soviet treaty was replaced by the ‘Treaty of Indo-Russian Friendship and Cooperation’. Meanwhile, the process set off by the treaty of 1971 continues to this day, with India and Russia engaged in several joint military programmes such as BrahMos cruise missile, Fifth generation fighter jet and Sukhoi Su-30MKI.

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‘DDP Envisions Expanding Defence Manufacture Base’ The size of the Indian Defence Industry, including Aerospace and Naval Shipbuilding Industry, is currently estimated to be about Rs 80,000 Cr (2019-20). The Government targets a turnover of Rs 1,75,000 Cr (US$ 25Bn) in Aerospace and Defence goods and services by 2025, for which a number of policy initiatives have been taken, said Raj Kumar, Secretary, Department of Defence Production (DDP), Ministry of Defence. In an interview with Aeromag, he said that the DDP envisions expanding the defense manufacturing base of India with equal participation of both Public and private sector including MSMEs and startups.

Raj Kumar Secretary, Defence Production Ministry of Defence

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ith the objective of achieving self-reliance in defence production, the Department of Defence Production (DDP) envisions expanding the defense manufacturing base of India with equal participation of both

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Public and private sector including MSMEs and startups, said Raj Kumar, Secretary, Defence Production, Ministry of Defence (MoD). In an interview with Aeromag, Raj Kumar said that the Ordnance Factories and DPSUs have been

continuously modernizing and upgrading their capabilities and widening their product range.

A large number of major products have been developed through in-house research and development initiatives apart from producing a number of products and equipment through transfer of technology.

The secretary said that restructuring of Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) is on the anvil and reforms in DPSUs and inspecting agencies are also being undertaken. He said that in order to expand the indigenous defence manufacturing sector in India, the government has identified broadly three focus areas to achieve this goal- investment promotion, export promotion and innovation. DDP has drafted a Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy, which would be positioned as MoD’s overarching guiding document to provide a focused, structured and significant thrust to defence production capabilities of the country for self-reliance and exports.

“The investments of Rs 20,000 Cr are planned in Defence corridors of Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu by year 2024. The progress is reviewed regularly at apex level. So far, investment of approx. Rs 3000 Cr have been made in both the corridors by public as well private sector companies,” he said.

The government has special focus to promote defence aerospace industry particularly in MROs and indigenous development of aero engines. DDP has also taken up with concerned ministries to align their PLI (Productivity Linked scheme) of the government to include defence products in their schemes.

On the role of how DPSUs support the modernization of Armed Forces, Raj Kumar

said that the DPSUs are being positioned as system integrators and mandated to maximize outsourcing from indigenous sources and create a multi-tier domestic supply chain.

“Strategic / partial Disinvestment of DPSUs will be pursued to bring more accountability, efficiency and greater autonomy. The focus is on modernization and technological upgradation in coordination with Services/DRDO. DPSUs/OFB has been allocated geographical regions/countries to take up focused promotional activities with an objective to enhance their exports,” he said.

The size of the Indian Defence Industry, including Aerospace and Naval Shipbuilding Industry, is currently estimated to be about Rs 80,000 Cr (2019-20).

The Government targets a turnover of Rs 1,75,000 Cr (US$ 25Bn) in Aerospace and Defence goods and services by 2025, for which a number of policy initiatives have been taken.

He said that the MoD’s ‘Negative list’ of 101 items was a big step towards self-reliance in defence. It would offer a great opportunity to the Indian defence

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(including alloys & special materials) and subassemblies for defence equipment and platform manufactured in India.

Raj Kumar said that the ‘Strategic Partnership (SP)’ Model notified by the government in May 2017, envisages establishment of longterm strategic partnerships with Indian entities through a transparent and competitive process, wherein they would tie up with global Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to seek technology transfers to set up domestic manufacturing infrastructure and supply chains.

“The DDP has notified 46 items under the Public Procurement Order 2017 notified by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), for which there is sufficient local capacity and competition and procurement of these items shall be done from local suppliers only irrespective of the purchase value,” he said. industry to manufacture these items using their own design and development capabilities to meet the requirements of the Armed Forces in the coming years.

This list includes some high technology weapon systems like artillery guns, assault rifles, corvettes, sonar systems, transport aircrafts, light combat helicopters (LCHs), radars and many other items to fulfill the needs of India’s Defence Services.

Moreover, the government’s ‘Policy for Indigenisation of Components and Spares used in Defence Platforms’ in March 2019 has been serving the objective to create an industry ecosystem which is able to indigenize the imported components

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India’s Export Business Raj Kumar said that the Government eagerly looks forward to boost defence exports and targets defence export of Rs 35,000 Crores (US$ 5 Bn) by 2025 from about Rs. 9,100 Crores in 2019-20. To achieve this, a number of export promotion initiatives have been taken.

Export Promotion cell under DDP has been

coordinating and following-up on export related action including enquiries received from various countries and facilitate private sector and public sector companies for export promotion.

“The High Level Committee (HLC) constituted under the Chairmanship of Raksha Mantri is facilitating faster clearances to export of major indigenous defence platforms to Friendly Foreign Countries. A scheme for Export promotion of Indian Defence Equipment Manufactured in India by Indian Defence Attache has been rolled out wherein Defence Attachés are provided financial support to promote export of indigenous defence equipment abroad,” Raj Kumar said.

With the new online system created by the government the export leads received from various sources can be sent directly to Indian defence exporters registered on the defence exim portal on their email address. This facility helps the Indian defence exporters to quickly respond to export opportunities arising in other countries.

Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for

the export of munitions list items have been simplified to promote Ease of Doing Business (EODB). The existing online application system of export authorisation has been made more user-friendly to provide end to end solution. Also, DDP has brought in 2 OGEL’s (Open General Export License) one for the select parts and components and the other for intra-company transfer of technology. OGEL is a one-time export license, which permits the industry to export specified items to specified destinations, enumerated in the OGEL, without seeking export authorisation during the validity of the OGEL. Participation of Private Industry The private sector has received focused attention during the last 6 years by way of policy initiatives and interventions by the Government to promote their participation in defence, as mentioned below. A number of provisions have been added or amended in DAP 2020 to provide level-playing field for Indian private industry.

“The ‘Make’ Procedure of capital procurement has been simplified. There is a provision for funding of 90% of development cost by the Government to Indian industry under Make-I category. In addition, there are specific reservations for MSMEs under the ‘Make’ procedure. Separate procedure for ‘Make-II’ category (Industry funded) has been notified under Defence Procurement Procedure 2016 to encourage indigenous development and manufacture of defence equipment.

Many industry-friendly provisions such as relaxation of eligibility criterion, minimal documentation, provision for considering proposals suggested by industry/ individual etc. have been introduced in this procedure. So far, 55 projects relating to Army, Navy & Air Force, have been accorded ‘Approval in Principle’, valuing about Rs. 30,000 Crores,” Raj Kumar said.

He said that the two defence industrial corridors will serve as an engine of economic development and growth of defence industrial base in the country. They span across Chennai, Hosur, Coimbatore, Salem and Tiruchirappalli in Tamil Nadu and across Aligarh, Agra, Jhansi, Kanpur, Chitrakoot and Lucknow in Uttar Pradesh (UP). A number of private industries have either already invested or have plans to invest in these defence industrial corridors.

Defence Products list requiring Industrial Licences has been rationalised and manufacture of most of parts or components now does not require Industrial License. The initial validity of the Industrial Licence granted under the IDR Act has been increased from 03 years to 15 years with a provision to further extend it by 03 years on a case-to-case basis. About 500 Industrial Licenses have been issued so far, about 300 such licenses after the year 2014.

Nurturing Startup Ecosystem Various initiatives have been taken to promote the startup ecosystem in the defence sector. An innovation ecosystem for defence titled Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) has been launched by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2018. iDEX is aimed at creation of an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries including MSMEs, Start-ups, Individual Innovators, R&D institutes and Academia and provide them grants/funding and other support to carry out R&D which has potential for future adoption for Indian defence and aerospace needs.

“Under iDEX, Defence India Startup Challenges and open challenges are initiatives to tap startups for finding futuristic indigenous solutions catering to critical needs of the Indian Armed Forces. The indigenization portal SRIJAN, launched in Aug 2020, provides DPSUs /OFB/Services with an industry interface to provide development support to MSMEs/Startups/Industry for import substitution,” he said.

Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has been partnering with various Global Ministries (Singapore, Australia, Russia, Denmark, Sweden, Saudi Arabia etc.) and multilateral agencies like UNDP, BMGF, World Bank etc. to provide the needed acceleration for the growth of the Indian startup ecosystem. “As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan initiative, the government has organized a number of start-up competitions to encourage Indian entrepreneurs to ideate, incubate, build, nurture and sustain tech solutions for the Indian and the global market,” he said.

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DefExpo 2022 to be held in March in Gujarat

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visiting the exhibition stalls during DefExpo 2020 at Lucknow.

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ith an aim to showcase the comprehensive spectrum of India’s aerospace, defence and security interests, the latest edition of DefExpo, the flagship biennial defence exhibition of the Ministry of Defence, India, will be held in March 2022. Considered, India’s most premier and the largest defence exhibition, the 12th edition of the expo will be held in Gandhinagar from March 11-13 next year.

DefExpo 2022 will be India’s attempt at showcasing before the world its indigenization prowess in defence industry. The expo will be focusing on projecting the country as an emerging defence manufacturing hub, one of the top priorities for the government in the defence sector. The expo gains much significance as it comes at a time when the government has sharpened its focus on positioning India

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as an exporter of military hardware.

The DefExpo 2022 will be organized by the Ministry of Defence with the absolute support from Government of Gujarat. DefExpo-2022 will bring new technologies, solutions, where defence manufacturing companies from India and abroad showcase their products and services in defence arena, on a single platform.

This provides Indian defence industry an opportunity to promote its export potential.

The 11th edition of DefExpo was held at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh and it had witnessed thousands of delegates and decision-makers The latest edition is expected to be much bigger and grand in all aspects though the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic might prevail in 2022. The biennial mega defence exhibition will witness over 1000 national and international Companies vying to present their wares at the expo.

Reflecting the government’s focus on ‘Make in India’, Def Expo 2022 would offer an excellent opportunity for the Indian Defence industry to showcase its capabilities and seek new customers. The expo would prove to be an effective platform to showcase the unique products that help achieving the digital transformation of defence. India’s Defence public sector units, and growing private industry and MSME will be bringing their cutting-edge technological products to be showcased before the world.

GSL Focuses on Incorporating AI in Shipbuilding In keeping with the Government’s thrust towards adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into Defence Systems and processes, GSL has embarked upon a strategy for building a vibrant AI ecosystem with intelligent machines enabling high-level cognitive processes in its shipbuilding products and processes. “We have recognised the need to keep pace with Industry 4.0 requirements to keep our processes smarter and more efficient. Towards this, we have defined a roadmap for incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Yard’s processes and procedures and accordingly are working with academia and industry,” said Cmde Bharat Bhushan Nagpal (Retd.), Chairman and Managing Director (M/s Goa Shipyard Ltd).

In an interview with Aeromag, he talks about the latest updates of the shipyard and its future plans.

Cmde Bharat Bhushan Nagpal (Retd.)

Chairman & Managing Director, GSL GSL is rigorously pursuing the prospects of supplying its range of products to friendly countries. Could you talk about the company’s export business and clients?

GSL has made significant inroads into global market with the export of vessels to

Frigate

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Middle East, Africa and South East Asia and is presently recognized as the largest exporter of defence vessels in the Indian Subcontinent. The past exports include 11 Fast Interceptor Boats (FIB), two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPV) to Mauritius, two Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) to Sri Lanka, and Damage Control Simulator to Myanmar with all deliveries completed before contracted schedule.

In line with the stated strategic objective of Govt of India for enhancing defence exports, GSL is putting all out efforts for export of its products. A few of our projects are in advanced stages of finalisation. We are in dialogue with our DAs in Indian Missions to promote our products. We have also commenced export of soft skills in shipbuilding design to our neighbours.

GSLs in house designed Advanced OPV which have been supplied to the Indian Navy, Coast Guard and also exported in the past was showcased as the IOR OPV during the Aero India Show held in Feb this year. We see a good market for our standardised products like OPVs, FACs, FPVs and FIBs. Where we stand out is the fact that we deliver our products on time with no cost overruns.

What are the shipyard’s policy initiatives to boost foreign collaborations for nurturing R&D, widening client base and innovating new technologies?

In order to bring world-class technology to India and manufacture equipment/ systems here with significant indigenous content, GSL has collaborated with various leading OEMs in advanced countries. GSL has also entered into MoUs with various Industry and Academic Institutions such as Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), NBCC, L&T and IIT Goa to further boost its indigenisation and research efforts.

GSL has a well-established R&D centre, which has been recognized and registered as in-house R&D unit by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. The Yard’s capability to innovatively design seafaring platforms has been gainfully utilized over the years to produce most potent platforms. We have recognised the need to keep pace with Industry 4.0 requirements to keep our processes smarter and more efficient. Towards this, we have defined a roadmap for incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Yard’s processes and procedures and accordingly are working with academia and industry.

In keeping with the Government’s thrust towards adoption of Artificial Intelligence into Defence Systems and processes, GSL has embarked upon a strategy for building a vibrant AI ecosystem with intelligent machines enabling high-level cognitive processes in its shipbuilding products and processes. The Yard continuously focuses on improving the productivity and efficiency with focus on technology intensive processes. As part of digital strategy, GSL in collaboration with an Industry partner has developed a Condition Monitoring System (CMS) using Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Main Engine On-Board for Offshore Patrol

105M Naval Offshore Patrol Vessel

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Vessel (OPV). The system brings together best of engineering and data science expertise to solve the complex problem of engine health prediction.

How does GSL associate with MSME, startup and private companies to support the Indigenization drive launched by the government? What are the policies and programmes to support Atmanirbhar Bharat?

GSL provides a huge business platform in sync with preference to ‘Make in India’ drive to encourage domestic industry for participation in development of items locally. Yard has taken up a host of measures to encourage participation of MSMEs in its shipbuilding efforts. The National Small Industries Corporation (NSIC) has been included as approved vendor by GSL for participation in limited tenders floated by GSL. In order to encourage procurement from MSEs as per Public procurement policy, Public Sector Undertakings are mandated to meet a target of 25% annual procurements from MSEs with a sub-target of 5% to be procured from MSEs owned by SC/ST entrepreneurs and minimum of 3% procurement from women-owned MSEs within the above mentioned 25% reservation.

During FY 2020-21, GSL achieved 43.34% of the indigenous procurement from MSE sector, as against the revised mandatory target of 25%.

GSL has also reserved 18 Shipbuilding Project items for exclusive procurement from MSEs over and above the list of 358 items as reserved by GoI as per MSME orders.

We have a robust Vendor Development program in place which looks into Regular conduct of vendor meets, active participation in vendor meet at Regional as well as National

Fast Attack Craft

level, facilitating yard visit for vendors for interaction with stakeholders at GSL and understand requirement, imparting training on TReDS to MSEs, rebate in Class approval fee for MSEs owned by SC/ST entrepreneurs from Indian Register of Shipping and Handholding local suppliers.

GSL has proactively taken initiative for 10% Rebate in Class approval fee for MSEs owned by SC/ST entrepreneurs through Indian Register of Shipping. GSL has implemented waiver of Tender Fee and EMD to MSE vendors, Implemented waiver of submission of Security Deposit by MSEs holding valid NSIC registration Certificate for supply of Goods.

The Indigenization efforts of GSL are yielding good results, as the indigenous content has been increased to over 70% on current 05 CG OPV project under construction. One of the

major import substitution equipment was the Gear Boxes for Coast Guard OPVs manufactured by M/s Walchandnagar Industries Ltd (WIL).

The on-going P1135.6 Frigates Project at GSL is also likely to have fairly large level of indigenous components, including major equipment, weapons and sensors, control and monitoring systems, etc. GSL has identified many of the major equipment for indigenization in the Frigate Project.

What are the challenges faced by the shipyard during the pandemic in terms of operations and business? What were the counter measures taken to fight the impact of Covid?

The biggest challenge during these times was to keep the organisation running without compromising on employees’ safety. An essential step for keeping operation running during this challenging situation is to stand in solidarity with our employees, customers, our supply partners and each individual contributing towards the growth of organisation.

GSL during the crises not only supported its employees but also took care of the communities by providing all necessary support. Constant efforts have been made to educate workers about COVID-19 and involving them in responding to tackle this emergency situation. Different methodologies were used to educate

105M Advance Offshore Patrol Vessel

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employees on spread of COVID 19, its symptoms and treatment. During the crisis situation, constant efforts were made to ensure that the migrant workers, who are the most vulnerable groups, do not feel neglected and regular touch was maintained with these workers by providing them with groceries and other financial assistance required. Effort was made to provide employment to contract workers so that they don’t leave the station due to lack of earning. This resulted in keeping the workers in station during lockdown due to which the production activities could be resumed at a faster pace post lockdown.

As part of CSR, GSL has contributed Rs.1.25 Crores to PM cares Fund and Rs.50 lakhs to state government towards prevention of COVID-19 pandemic. We also set up an ‘Onsite Oxygen Generating Plant’ for South Goa District (COVID-19) Hospital, Government of Goa. How do you look at the years ahead for GSL? What are the expansion plans and major goals to be achieved?

With the present upgraded capacity GSL can undertake concurrent construction of 14 steel hulled vessels at a time, 08 at Hull Fabrication stage and 06 at the outfitting stage. In addition, we can undertake concurrent construction of 05 FRP hull ships such as MCMVs. So now our focus is to expand the product portfolio and cater to the ever-increasing requirements of the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.

A large number of projects are lined up for both Indian Navy and Coast Guard and GSL is confident of bagging few of these. In addition to the mid-sized vessels where we have domain expertise, we are developing expertise in niche segments such as Hovercrafts and Missile Vessels. We have ramped up our expertise and capabilities to execute these additional shipbuilding projects concurrent to the ongoing long-term project for Missile Frigates.

Taking into consideration the dynamic management, exceptional track record and outstanding performance of the yard, GSL has been entrusted with the construction of advanced missile Frigates with the most advanced weaponry and

Fast Interceptor Boat

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systems.

As a Defence Public sector Undertaking, Goa Shipyard Limited has over the years played a significant role in the specialised field of shipbuilding, contributing in no small measure towards meeting the requirements of Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard for sturdy and dependable vessels that would effectively safeguard the nation’s extensive territorial waters and shipping lanes. The momentum of growth and expansion garnered in the recent past is sure to continue with GSL building bigger and better ships in future for nation’s requirements.

The considerably big Order Books comprising the 2 Advance Missile Frigate Project, diversified product range, Ship refits along with few Export orders in the pipeline combined with excellent execution and planning skills developed over the years has placed GSL in a league of its own when compared to other Yards of the country.

GSL is a yard that is profit-making debt-free, enjoys excellent Industrial Relations and has a diversified product portfolio. Our varied client base both within the country that includes Defence Forces, Inland Waterways, State Governments and international customers are extremely satisfied with our performance over the years.

Defence Minister flags off nationwide events as part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually launching the nationwide events related to 75th Independence Day, in New Delhi.The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Bipin Rawat, the Chief of the Army Staff, General Manoj Mukund Naravane, the Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Karambir Singh, the Defence Secretary, Dr. Ajay Kumar and the Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar are also seen.

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efence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually launched a series of events, organized by the Armed Forces & various other organisations of Ministry of Defence, to mark the 75th anniversary of India’s Independence, being celebrated as ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’.

Addressing the gathering, Rajnath Singh congratulated the Ministry & the Armed Forces for organising various events across the country which will instill a sense of national pride among the people. He stated that events represent the Indian ethos of ‘unity in diversity’.

Defence Minister paid homage to all the bravehearts who laid down their lives and defended the sovereignty & integrity of the country. Remembering Captain Vikram Batra who made the supreme sacrifice during the Kargil war, the minister said the bravery and deep-rooted passion of the gallant heroes will always be an inspiration for generations to come.

He also threw light on the five pillars (Freedom Struggle, Ideas at 75, Achievements at 75, Actions at 75 and Resolves at 75) envisioned

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he had kicked off the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations in March 2021. He stated that the five pillars will act as a guiding force for the country to move forward in the path of development.

Echoing the Government’s resolve, Rajnath Singh stated “we aim to develop a powerful

& self-reliant Bharat which is peace-loving but fully capable of giving a befitting reply whenever challenged”. He assured the nation that the Armed Forces are fully equipped to deal with any challenge that endangers the safety, security, unity, and integrity of the nation. He said the decisions aimed to promote jointness among the Armed Forces will play a pivotal role in bolstering the security infrastructure of the country.

Reiterating the Government’s action plan to make India ‘AatmaNirbhar’, the the minister said no stone is being left unturned to make the country self-reliant in defence manufacturing. He said the country’s dependency on imports has decreased considerably due to measures taken by the Government, including notifying two positive indigenisation lists to promote self-reliance and defence exports. He also made special mention of Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) Vikrant, the first aircraft carrier to be built in India, saying that it was a moment of immense pride for the entire nation when the aircraft carrier undertook its maiden sea voyage recently.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat remembered Mahatma Gandhi and Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose for their leadership role in India’s Independence movement. Saying that the Armed Forces are ready to deal with any challenge, he stated that the efforts taken to increase jointness among the forces will enhance their capabilities.

In his welcome address, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar gave a brief overview of the various events launched on the occasion, saying that these are aimed at inculcating a sense of patriotism among the people on the 75th anniversary of Independence Day. Chief of the Army Staff General MM Naravane, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar, Secretary (Ex-servicemen Welfare) B Anand, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy, Financial Advisor (Defence Services) Sanjiv Mittal, DG Indian Coast Guard K Natarajan, DG National Cadet Corps Lieutenant General Tarun Kumar Aich, DG Border Roads Organisation Lt Gen Rajeev Chaudhary and other senior civil & military officials of Ministry of Defence were present on the occasion.

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DRDO Endeavors to Become India’s Prime Defence Exporter DRDO has taken various initiatives to fulfill the government mandate for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and to position India amongst the leading countries of the world in Defence sector. DRDO has transferred a large number of technologies to industries for production; some of them are being exported. The industries have been provided handholding at each stage and are encouraged to produce and export the products. “With the development of futuristic, cutting-edge defence technologies and equipment, our endeavor will be to become a net exporter of defence equipment as envisaged by the Prime Minister,” said Dr. G Satheesh Reddy, Secretary of the Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). In an interview with Aeromag, he talks about the DRDO domestic and export operations.

Dr. G Satheesh Reddy Secretary DDR&D & Chairman DRDO Could you share the details of DRDO’s export operations? How do you intend to boost the defence export prowess of India?

DRDO has taken various initiatives to fulfill the government mandate for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and to position India amongst the leading countries of the

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world in Defence sector. DRDO is part of the various export facilitation measures taken by the Government.

DRDO has displayed cutting-edge defence technologies and systems in many international exhibitions at different locations around the

world. Wide publicity of DRDO products is ensured during various international exhibitions and flagship defence exhibitions of India like ‘DefExpo’ and ‘Aero Show’ with an aim to showcase Indian defence export prowess to visiting global leaders and decision-makers.

DRDO products like Akash, Ashlesha Radar, BFSR, WLR-Swathi, Revathi Radar, SONARS, aircrafts and missiles have attracted interest from large number of countries.

A compendium of 156 world-class exportready products has been launched during Aero India-2021 and is available on DRDO website along with procedures and policies for export.

DRDO has transferred a large number of technologies to industries for production; some of them are being exported. The industries have been provided handholding at each stage and are encouraged to produce and export the products.

defence scene. And the best way to do this is through co-development and coproduction of systems and platforms in the country.

Right from the beginning of the pandemic, DRDO has been inventing many technologies and products to fight Covid? Could you talk more about it? How did the pandemic affect the business?

Right from the beginning of the pandemic, DRDO took the initiative of creating counter measures to deal with Covid-19 in our country. Apart from the mandated R&D work, our scientists worked round the clock and developed many products

What are DRDO policy initiatives to promote collaboration by foreign OEMs and companies?

How important is strengthening links with foreign players?

DRDO follows various policies of the government to promote collaboration with foreign OEMs and companies. DRDO is actively involved in the joint-development of large weapon systems, which are produced by Indian industries, with international players thus contributing towards ‘Make in India’.

Strengthening links with foreign players is very important for the country to realize its ambition of being a significant player in the global

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like ventilators, N99 masks, PPE kits, sanitizing system and many other aids which were produced by industries and supplied to the various hospitals, government agencies and healthcare workers on a war footing.

DRDO also took the challenge of establishing a Covid Hospital with 1000 beds at Delhi. The design, development and operationalisation of the facility were done and the facility was built in a record time of 11 days to meet the emergency requirement. Based on this efficient and effective model of augmenting the

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health care infrastructure, DRDO built and operationalised 13 COVID hospitals at various locations across the country, with approval of the government during the more virulent second wave period.

Based on DRDO technology, 866 nos. of Medical Oxygen Plants are being set up by industry partners in every district hospital funded by PMCARES across the country, to make medical oxygen. DRDO has developed a unique system, "Oxycare" which senses the individual's SPO2 level and accordingly regulates oxygen supply from a cylinder. This helps to optimize the quantity of oxygen used by the patient. Funded through PMCARES, 1.5 lakhs such systems are being procured by the Govt. of India.

DRDO has also developed SARS-CoV-2 lgG Antibody ELISA Detection kit which is a rapid and reliable antibody test kit.

An anti-COVID-19 therapeutic application of the drug 2-DG (2-deoxy-D-Glucose) has been developed by DRDO to benefit the people suffering from COVID-19. Clinical trial results have shown that this molecule helps in faster recovery of hospitalized patients and reduces supplemental oxygen dependence. Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has approved the emergency use of this drug.

Even during the pandemic, the defence R&D efforts were going on in full swing without any significant impact on our work. In fact, the pandemic provided us with an opportunity for making India Atmanirbhar by indigenously developing more than 80 nos. of Covid related products and 20 technologies. ToTs of the products have been given to more than 175 industries.

There is a need to build an indigenous defence system in the country to reduce imports. How important is private participation in this regard and how does DRDO support Atmanirbhar Bharat?

Harnessing available expertise and capabilities of the private sector is important for building an indigenous defence system in the country and promoting self-reliance in defence. DRDO has taken appropriate initiatives in this regard by starting a number of industry-friendly initiatives to support the indigenous development as well as manufacturing. A list of 108 items, comprising systems and subsystems has been released that will be developed and manufactured only by Indian industries. Free access of DRDO patents

by Indian industries has been implemented.

Technology Development Fund (TDF) has been created under DRDO to promote self-reliance in defence technology through participation of

public/private industries especially MSMEs and start-ups. Identifying Development cum Production Partners (DcPP) has been introduced for all projects of DRDO. DRDO test facilities have been opened to the industry. Performance Bank Security for development contracts by DRDO has been waived off. With the promulgation of new ToT policy of incorporating zero per cent ToT fee and zero per cent royalty, for DP/PA/DcPP of DRDO, a large number of defence manufacturers have shown interest.

DRDO has helped in transforming many private companies from simple fabricators to major defence manufacturers. India will become completely selfreliant in defence manufacturing in the next few years and will not need critical technologies from outside.

Could you share with us the future programs of DRDO and the major objectives?

DRDO has come up with many new programs like next generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), Long Range Radars, Advanced Missile Technologies, Advanced SONARS, EW Systems etc. AMCA will have capability to be operated in stealth and non-stealth modes and it will be equipped with many advanced technologies making it lethal and apt for crucial and reliable missions.

Development of next-generation aircraft engine within the country will also be taken up. We are also developing light tank for the Indian Army for deployment in mountainous terrain. This light tank will be able to fire multiple ammunitions.

DRDO is deeply engaged in the development of drone technology, counter drone technologies, artificial intelligence, robotics and unmanned systems, stealth technology, as well as swarm drones. We are also working on the development of high power microwave and laser based Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) technology.

With the development of futuristic, cutting-edge defence technologies and equipment, our endeavor will be to become a net exporter of defence equipment as envisaged by the Prime Minister.

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IAC Vikrant successf completes maiden sea

ndigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant’ successfully accomplished its maiden sea voyage for which she had sailed from Kochi. Trials progressed as planned and system parameters proved satisfactory. The carrier would continue to undergo series of sea trials to prove all equipment and systems prior handing over the vessel to the Indian Navy.

‘Vikrant’ designed by Indian Navy's Directorate of Naval Design (DND) is being built at Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), a Public Sector Shipyard under Ministry of Shipping (MoS). IAC is a leading example of the nation’s quest for “Atma Nirbhar Bharat” and Indian Navy’s “Make in India” initiative, with more than 76% indigenous content.

The Indigenous Aircraft Carrier is 262 m long, 62 m at the widest part and height of 59 m including the superstructure. There are 14 decks in all, including five in the superstructure. The ship has over 2,300 compartments, designed for a crew of around 1700 people, having gender-sensitive accommodation spaces for women officers. The ship with high degree of automation for machinery operation, ship navigation and survivability, has been designed to accommodate an assortment of fixed wing and rotary aircraft.

During the maiden sailing, ship’s performance, including hull, main propulsion, Power Generation and Distribution (PGD) and auxiliary equipment were tested.

Trials, which were reviewed by Vice Admiral AK Chawla, Flag Officer

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Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval Command, have progressed as planned and system parameters have been proved satisfactory. The successful completion of maiden trials sorties, despite challenges faced due to COVID-19 pandemic and COVID protocols in place, is testimony to the dedicated efforts of large number of stakeholders for over a decade. This is a major milestone activity and historical event. The carrier would undergo a series of Sea Trials to prove all equipment and systems prior to its delivery in 2022.

Delivery of Vikrant is being targeted to coincide with celebrations to commemorate 75th anniversary of India’s independence ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’. With the delivery of IAC, India would join a select group of nations with the capability to indigenously design and build an Aircraft Carrier and provides thrust to Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. Delivery of IAC would also strengthen India’s position in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and its quest for a blue water Navy.

fully a trial

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OFB Gears Up to Embrace Industry 4.0

C S Vishwakarma Director General & Chairman OFB

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everaging on the two-century-old legacy, the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) is undoubtedly a key player in ensuring India’s war preparedness by providing sophisticated battlefield equipment from arms to artillery guns.

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Since its inception, the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) has engaged in the production, testing, logistics, research, development and marketing of a comprehensive product range in the area of land, sea and air systems. And with the distinction of more than 200 years’ experience in weapons manufacturing, OFB has created an integrated base for indigenous production of defence hardware and equipment, with the primary objective of self-reliance in equipping the armed forces with state of the art battlefield equipment. Even amid the talks of proposed reforms, OFB’s is gearing up to embrace Industry 4.0 by undergoing absolute modernization, which would definitely help its growth-trajectory to crest.

OFB, comprising 41 ordnance factories across the nation, is the oldest and largest defence production organization in India, functioning

under the Department of Defence Production of Ministry of Defence. And since its inception OFB has been serving as the hub for modern manufacturing industry to meet the armament requirements of the armed forces by providing the most varied portfolio of defence products.

Great organisations survive by transforming themselves and it is be the greatest challenge confronting OFB today. In order to achieve an all-encompassing transformation, OFB is giving thrust on many areas viz. customer focus, modernisation of plant layout and production process with a view to enhancing productivity, policies for creating a knowledgeable and motivated work force, effective communication for enhancing brand image.

Also, OFB has chalked out a long-term business strategy keeping in view the LongTerm Perspective Plan of the Army. The modernization plan envisages introduction of state-of-the-art manufacturing technologies; resulting in higher productivity, improved reliability and consistent quality. These initiatives would not only place OFB on a higher growth-trajectory but also equips to embrace the technology of future- Industry 4.0.

The Ordnance Factories supply a very large range of weapons and equipment which require a mastery of different technologies and expertise in a wide number of areas.

OFB is the only organization in the world which makes the entire range of ammunition for 5.56mm to 155mm. Handling this multiproduct, multi technology portfolio and delivering quality products in their strict timelines is a very challenging task and calls for many unique still sets.

OFB has spearheaded the modernisation programmes which include induction of robotic forging technology, new generation CNC machines, predictive maintenance, application of artificial intelligence etc, which will enhance productivity and quality of our products. OFB products are made from integrated state-of-the-art manufacturing that passes through rigorous quality standards. With high degree of backward & forward integration and an ambitious modernisation plan, OFB's manufacturing capability is poised to take up new challenges.

Hallmark of Make in India OFB has been a hallmark of Make in India and the core competence of OFB is mass manufacturing. ‘Make in India’ has made the defence sector more competitive and opened up new opportunities in the defence

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sector. OFB aims to capitalise on these prospects to emerge as the single largest dependable indigenous source of supply of arms and ammunition to the Armed Forces.

Keeping in mind that excellence in manufacturing cannot be achieved without focus on customer OFB is trying to become a customer-centric organisation. Apart from being a pillar of Defence Production for the country since its inception, OFB’s products are geared up for the futuristic demands of the Armed Forces. More than 61 products designed and developed by Ordnance Factories are in service with Indian Armed Forces.

OFB’s customers are not only the Armed Forces but also the Police and Paramilitary Forces, Civilians and from Export Market as well. OFB manufactures the entire weapon system platform-along with its ammunition and related accessories, artillery guns, arms, ammunition, tanks, combat vehicles, troop comfort items and other equipment required by the armed forces, Central Armed Police Forces, State Police Organisations [SPO] and civil indenters.

A slew of products have been developed by OFB through in-house R&D over these years. 155mm Artillery Gun ‘Dhanush’, Upgunning of 130mm Artillery Gun to 155 mm x 45, Mine Protected Vehicle (MPV) and Modernised Mine Protected Vehicle (MMPV), Bi-Modular Charge System (BMCS) for 155mm Artillery Ammunition, 7.62 x 39mm Assault Rifle ‘Ghaatak’, Chaff Launcher ‘Kavach MOD-II’ and Chaff, Naval Gun CRN-91, Under Barrel Grenade Launcher, are some among them.

Other projects include the Upgraded BMP-II, Futuristic Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV), Air Defence Gun and related ammunitions and Electronic Fuses. OFB has also developed prototype of 7.62X51mm Assault Rifle in a record time as per the requirement of the Indian Army.

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Boost Indigenization and Exports a Larger Goal OFB has implemented several initiatives for defence indigenization and promotion of defence exports. OFB has always been committed to the policy of indigenous manufacturing and the indigenous content of its products is above 91%. OFB has achieved major successes in development and indigenisation of many new products like upgraded L-70 Air Defence Gun, 7.62x39mm Assault Rifle Ghatak, A-7 ammunition, 20 mm Anti Material Rifle ammunition, 7.62 PKT ammunition, Indigenous manufacture of Bi-Modular Charge System for 155mm Guns etc.

OFB has been exporting its products since 1989 and making sustained efforts to reach out to new markets in West Asia and South East Asian countries and beyond. Presently, OFB is exploring new markets in Africa and the developing world. Apart from exporting established products, OFB’s technological expertise is also leading to enquiries for new products which along with the growth drivers

would lead to a more visible footprint in the technical market. OFB is increasingly making its presence felt in the area of exports of medium and high caliber ammunition, explosives such as TNT, DNT& RDX, MPVs, brake–parachutes etc.

of elevation from -3 degree to 70 degree and an arc of traverse of 60 degree, Dhanush is the most maneuverable artillery system and can be deployed in any terrain.

OFB is also up-gunning the existing 130 mm guns with the army to 155mm to increase their range. Named Sharang, the factory is supposed to deliver 300 guns.

Dhanush Artillery Gun OFB has boosted the Indian artillery firepower when it delivered its first batch of long-range 155 mm/45 calibre artillery gun Dhanush Howitzer Guns, the Indian version of Bofors to the Army. It is the first long-range piece of artillery to be produced in India. The move was hailed as the milestone in further strengthening the Indian Army’s artillery.

Though based on Swedish Bofors, Dhanush is an advanced weapon system with higher range and accuracy. It took a series of trials for the army to finally place an order for 114. The guns have fired 5,000 rounds during trials to get the final clearance. This was a record on its own.

Dhanush incorporates the latest features such as an inertial navigation system, an on-board ballistic computer, direct day and night firing system, a modern target acquisition system and a communication system that makes the weapon compatible with the Army’s project “Shakti”. Weighing less than 13 tonnes, with a high ground clearance of 400 mm, a range

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BEML Puts Thrust on Aero-Structure Manufacture BEML is aggressively marketing its capabilities and bidding for projects that the company could participate in with existing capabilities and partnerships. The strategy is to become a leading aero-structures manufacturer in India, with special focus on UAVs by accelerating strategic partnership with OEMs and focusing on orders from domestic and global customers. Moreover, there is a continuous surge in the demand for spares for High Mobility Vehicles & Armoured Recovery Vehicles and BEML is gearing up to meet the requirements, said M V Rajasekhar, Chairman and Managing Director, BEML Limited.

In an interview with Aeromag, he talks about the company’s indigenization efforts and expansion plans.

M V Rajasekhar Chairman & Managing Director BEML

India is keen on pushing its defence exports and has been taking various initiatives in this regard. How does BEML support the country to boost its exports? Can you share the details of exports business?

BEML’s ‘International Business Division’ IBD), is working in tandem with Marketing divisions for execution of export orders. Several measures are being adopted to meet the export targets and to expand the export business.

BEML is in the process of enhancing its marketing network by way of appointing Distributors/Representatives in various countries. We are in discussion with the Defence attaches of Africa, Middle-East and neighbouring countries for export of defence products and have registered with defence portals of foreign countries like Philippines and Singapore to participate in the tenders initiated by these countries.

Govt. of India’s Department of Defence Production has allotted Kenya region to BEML to carry out all export promotional activities on behalf of DPSUs/OFB through its branch office at Kenya. BEML has floated Global EOI for widening the market network through appointment of authorized representatives and service providers. BEML will appoint a representative in Africa, Middle-East and neighbouring countries and has already appointed representative for defence products in Bangladesh.

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For promotion of defence products, BEML has organized global outreach program with EXIM Bank of India and ECGC through EXIM Bank’s global offices. Our products and technology were displayed and demonstrated at Def Expo and other exhibitions for product familiarization.

Moreover, webinars are being organised in Senegal, Kenya, Zambia, Azerbaijan, Saudi Arabia, Abu Dhabi, Oman and Sri Lanka for promotion of defence exports. Also, BEML is building its brand and enhancing its visibility by taking part in international exhibitions and events.

Further, we are exporting defence products through LoC under Govt. of India and utilizing EXIM bank opportunities.

There were reports of BEML firming up tie-ups with two foreign companies for setting up joint manufacturing facilities in India. Could you shed some light onto the company’s collaboration with foreign players?

BEML has worked out a strategy to partner or collaborate with many firms to setup joint manufacturing facilities in India. EoI has been published for Wheeled Infantry Combat Vehicle (WICV), Remotely-Operated Armoured Dozer & Armoured All-Terrain vehicle to select the

technology partners for joint development. Responses have been received from Global OEM’s and are under evaluation. We have also signed MoU with M/s Rakkatec, Finland for jointly exploring the feasibility of developing an autonomous ground vehicle. The technical requirements are under study.

How did BEML gear up to survive the challenges faced by the Covid pandemic?

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What were the various initiatives taken by the company during the pandemic?

BEML is encouraging the employees to follow Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) and ensuring a safe working environment thereby, aiming for increased employee yield compared to previous quarters.

We extended our manufacturing support to M/s. Skanray Pvt. Ltd., Mysore by supplying critical machining aggregates to manufacture CV200 Ventilators & ICU Ventilators, developed exclusively for treating COVID-19 patients.

We have received an order from DEBEL-DRDO for manufacturing and supply

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of 80 Medical Oxygen Equipment to enhance the availability of oxygen at hospitals treating COVID-19 patients. So far 45 of them have been supplied to various hospitals across the country and the entire order will be executed by August 2021.

In the offices and factory premises we have implemented various measures to overcome the

challenges of Covid-19 Pandemic. This includes; • Dividing the manpower 50 % on each alternate day for production department.

• Organizing work from home in the areas of R&D, Planning, Finance etc.

• 100% thermal screening at entry gates.

• Vaccination drive for employees and their family members The better participation of private players in manufacture to support indigenization is the need of the hour. What are BEML’s initiatives to nurture private participation and Atmanirbhar Bharat?

BEML has made considerable efforts during the last few years to indigenize large number of imported parts across all the three Business verticals under Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Accordingly, 1458 parts have been identified for indigenisation over a period of five years and same have been uploaded in SRIJAN Portal for indigenisation.

We have indigenized the products manufactured under license and technology transfer agreements through extensive R&D efforts and achieved over 90% indigenisation in most of Mining and Construction products, over 84% in Defence & Aerospace products and over 60% in Metro & Rail products.

BEML recognizes outsourcing as one of the strategic tools to achieve cost benefits and also complement the strengths of private sector to build a strong industrial base. BEML has established itself as a system integrator by outsourcing substantial part of manufacturing activities to domestic suppliers.

Further, BEML has indigenously developed and manufactured various equipment by involving Indian private industries. They are: • Arjun Armoured Recovery & Repair Vehicle (Arjun ARRV) • Medium Bullet Proof Vehicle (MBPV) • Mounted Gun System (MGS) Dhanush • Mounted Gun System (MGS) with AK630.

• AI based Medical Health Care Diagnostics System (MHDS)

• • • • • • • • •

Mobile Stand by command post vehicle (MSCPV) on 4x2 chassis.

Pinaka 5th to 10th Regiment.

Sarvatra Bridge System 10 Mtr. & 5 Mtr. Short Span Bridge System Mine Field Marking Equipment (MFME) Mechanical Munition Self Propelled (MMLSD) India’s Biggest High-end Dump Trucks of 150 Ton & 190 Ton India’s Biggest High-end Excavator of 180T Unmanned Train Operation (Driverless) Metro Rolling Stock

What is the roadmap ahead for BEML and what are the major programmes to be implemented in future?

BEML is aggressively marketing its capabilities and bidding for projects that the company could participate in with existing capabilities and partnerships.

Our strategy is to become a leading aero-structures manufacturer in India, with special focus on UAVs by accelerating strategic partnership with OEMs and focusing on orders from domestic and global customers.

Moreover, there is a continuous surge in the demand for spares for High Mobility Vehicles & Armoured Recovery Vehicles and BEML is gearing up to meet the requirements. The supply of spares is a substantial portion of the revenue generation in the defence segment. We have undertaken major overhaul programmes of Defence Services are being pursued which will propel our growth further.

BEML is developing defence equipment to induct them in next 4-5 years so that they could be included in the Negative list of imports. In Mining and Construction Business, the emphasis is on design and development of higher capacity equipment.

On Rail & Metro front, BEML is pursuing orders for Medium / High speed Coaches / LHB Coaches.

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DRDO develops Advanced Chaff Technology for Indian Air Force • The technology to safeguard fighter aircraft from hostile radar threats • Given to the industry for production in large quantities • Indian Air Force begins process of induction following completion of successful user trials • Raksha Mantri terms it another step of DRDO towards ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’

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efence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed an Advanced Chaff Technology to safeguard fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) against hostile radar threats. Defence Laboratory Jodhpur, a DRDO laboratory developed the advanced Chaff material and chaff cartridge118/I in collaboration with High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), a Pune based laboratory of DRDO, meeting qualitative requirements of IAF. The Indian Air Force has started the process of induction of this technology after completion of successful user trials.

In today’s electronic warfare, survivability of fighter aircraft is of prime concern because of advancement in modern radar threats. To ensure survivability of aircraft, Counter Measure Dispensing System (CMDS) is used which provides passive jamming against Infra-Red and radar threats. Chaff is a critical defence technology used to protect fighter aircraft from hostile radar threats. The importance of this technology lies in the fact that very less quantity of chaff material deployed in the air acts as decoy to deflect enemy’s missiles for ensuring safety of the fighter

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aircraft. The technology has been given to the industry for production in large quantities to meet the annual rolling requirement of the Indian Air Force.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has lauded DRDO, IAF and the industry for indigenous development of this critical technology, terming it as one more step of DRDO towards ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’ in strategic defence technologies. Secretary Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr G Satheesh Reddy congratulated the teams associated with the successful development of this advanced technology that will further strengthen the Indian Air Force.

Vice President Visits HAL Facilities, Calls for Developing Indigenous Cutting-edge Technologies

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he Vice President, Venkaiah Naidu, paid his maiden visit to HAL facilities along with Thaawarchand Gehlot, Governor of Karnataka. “I am assured of our nation’s security and safety after seeing this impressive infrastructure in Aerospace and Defence,” he said in his address to senior officers of HAL and ADA. He hailed the ongoing publicprivate partnership in various defence projects of HAL and said all efforts should be made to develop cutting-edge technologies indigenously to strengthen India’s defence against the background of the complex geo-politics. The

dignitaries visited LCH, ALH Hangars, and LCA Tejas division.

“HAL has attributes of a global leader and I envisage the Company to play a greater role in realizing India’s dream of self-reliance in aerospace and defence in the future. I am proud of the role the Company has played for the past 80 years ever since its inception. I am happy that India’s homegrown fighter LCA Tejas will be produced in large numbers and the Government has taken initiatives to galvanize the Indian Defence Industry,” he added.

Hailing HAL’s sterling contributions,Thaawarchand Gehlot said HAL is a unique aerospace company with a diverse range of products and is transforming itself as a lead integrator on most of the projects. “There are a lot of expectations as the Company steps into the future,” he added.

R Madhavan, CMD, HAL in his welcome address said that the Company would further the cause of initiatives taken by the Government.

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Defence Minister launches Defence India Startup Challenge 5.0

• DISC 5.0 reflects Government’s resolve to create a selfreliant defence sector • The challenge to take innovation, design & development to newer heights • iDEX playing a crucial role in building a strong military & ‘AatmaNirbhar’ defence industry • Government support to private sector in building ‘AatmaNirbhar Bharat’

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efence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC) 5.0 under Innovations for Defence Excellence - Defence Innovation Organisation (iDEX-DIO) through video conferencing.

Thirty-five Problem Statements – 13 from the Services and 22 from Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) – were unveiled under DISC 5.0. These are in areas such as Situational awareness, Augmented Reality, Artificial Intelligence,

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Aircraft-trainer, non-lethal devices, 5G network, Under-water domain awareness, Drone SWARMS and Data Capturing. The Problem Statements, designed to ensure military advantage in the foreseeable future, are the highest in any edition, so far.

Lauding the efforts of iDEX-DIO, Shri Rajnath Singh, in his address, termed DISC 5.0 as another step towards independence in the defence sector as the launch comes at a time when the country is celebrating ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’. Stating that DISC 5.0 is a reflection of Government’s resolve of creating an ‘AatmaNirbhar’ defence sector, he exuded confidence that this challenge will move forward from its earlier editions and take innovation, design & development to newer heights. He shed light on the previous four editions of

DISC and said that more than 80 startups, MSMEs and individual innovators have joined as winners in over 40 technological areas. He added that modern and futuristic problem statements launched in DISC 5.0 demonstrate the confidence of young entrepreneurs and innovators in DISC. The Raksha Mantri underlined the importance of creating a strong, modern & well-equipped military and an equally capable & self-reliant defence industry, given the rapidly changing geo-political and security scenario in the world.

To realise this vision, he said, iDEX is playing a crucial role by providing a platform wherein the Government, Services, think tanks, industry, startups and innovators can work together to help the defence & aerospace sectors reach full potential.

“Defence India Startup Challenge and Open Challenges provide many opportunities to our youth and entrepreneurs. They give a new direction to defence innovation and capabilities by highlighting the potential of India's science, technology and research”, said Shri Rajnath Singh. He added that iDEX4fauji is a similar initiative that gives an opportunity to the service personnel to showcase their talent in these fields.

Sharing his insights on the broad contours of iDEX, the minister stated that the initiative has succeeded in bridging the gap between talent and demand in the country. “iDEX provides a strong foundation of innovation, R&D to the industry. Initiatives like iDEX form a link between our youth, academia, R&D, start-ups and the Armed Forces,” he added.

Rajnath Singh listed out measures taken by Ministry of Defence to promote innovation, such as including iDEX as a procurement avenue

under Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP-2020); earmarking Rs 1,000 crore for domestic procurement through iDEX for financial year 2021-2022 and approving a budget of Rs 498.8 crore for the next five years to support over 300 startups and foster innovation in defence & aerospace sectors.

He expressed confidence that iDEX will support five times more start-ups over the next five years as the aim is to accelerate progress, reduce costs and complete procurement in a time bound manner. For this, he said, there is need to adopt the concept of 5 Is (Identify, Incubate, Innovate, Integrate and Indigenise).

The minister also referred to a number of initiatives taken by the Government, including steps to increase partnerships with the private sector, technology transfers and restrictions on import of more than 200 items, to promote self-reliance as well as generate employment opportunities. Commending various stakeholders for indigenously developing world-class technologies, he called for identifying and developing new technologies to take forward the vision of ‘Make in India – Make for the World’. He called upon the private sector to come forward and contribute towards building a self-reliant defence sector and assured all possible support of the government.

In his welcome address, Secretary (Defence Production) Raj Kumar termed innovation and self-reliance as the two aspects of iDEX. He said India has the third largest startup ecosystem in the world and these startups are not just wealth creators but employment generators. He added that today the nature of warfare is technology-driven and these startups can play a crucial role in developing indigenous defence capabilities, reducing imports and improving exports.

Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar and other senior officials of Ministry of Defence were present at the launch of DISC 5.0. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Chief of the Army Staff General MM Naravane, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee Vice Admiral AK Jain; young innovators and representatives of the industry attended the event virtually.

The launch of DISC 5.0 by iDEX-DIO comes three years after the launch of DISC 1.0. The launch of DISC 5.0 is a massive leap towards leveraging the startup ecosystem to develop India’s defence technologies, equipment design and manufacturing capabilities. It will encourage startups to become more attuned to innovative concepts and inculcate the approach of creative thinking in India’s budding entrepreneurs.

The iDEX initiative was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in April 2018 to achieve self-reliance and foster innovation & technology development in defence and aerospace sectors.

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BDL, MBDA sign agreement to establish ASRAAM Missile facility in India

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harat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and MBDA are establishing a facility for the Final Assembly, Integration and Test (FAIT) of Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) missiles in India.

BDL and MBDA, UK signed a licencing agreement to establish the manufacturing facility in India. The agreement was signed by NP Diwakar, Director (Technical), from BDL and George Kyriakides, International Industrial Cooperation Director from MBDA in the presence of Commodore Siddharth Mishra (Retd), CMD, BDL at a virtual ceremony.

P. Radhakrishna, Director (Production),BDL, N Srinivasulu, Director (Finance), BDL and senior officials of both the companies were also present on the occasion.

Under the licensing agreement, MBDA will transfer the equipment and knowledge to BDL for establishing the facility. Work on establishing this capability in India is due to start immediately and is expected to commence operations by the year 2022-23.

Commodore Siddharth Mishra (Retd), CMD, BDL stated that signing of the licencing agreement reinforces the company’s commitment to contribute towards ‘Make in India’ and the‘Atmanirbhar’ initiatives of Government of India in the Defence sector. ASRAAM is one of the Within Visual Range missiles available and BDL will be manufacturing these at its Bhanur Unit for the domestic and export in future through MBDA. The new facility will provide India with the ability to carry out final assembly, integration, and test of ASRAAM missiles.

BDL has been endeavouring to enter tie-up with foreign OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) in pursuit of its expansion programme. The agreement signed with MBDA today, is one such effort,which will go a long way in further strengthening the collaboration,which BDL has with MBDA for its various missile programmes.

George Kyriakides, International Industrial Cooperation Director of MBDA said: “we are very pleased to be establishing this new ASRAAM facility in India with BDL. MBDA has a long and highly successful history of working with BDL for over fourdecades, a partnership that has seen BDL manufacture large number of MBDA-designed Milan missiles in India.”

The agreement to establish the facility follows on from an earlier Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between BDL and MBDA on ASRAAM FAIT signed

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during 2019.

This new BDL ASRAAM facility will have the potential to also conduct maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) of ASRAAM missiles. The facility can also be adapted to conduct final assembly, integration and test of the CAMM missile of MBDA. CAMM is the missile used by the Sea Ceptor naval air defence system that has been offered as Short Range Surface to Air Missile (SRSAM) requirement.

ASRAAM, a Within Visual Range Air Dominance weapon, is New Generation Close Combat Missile. Its low drag, aerodynamic airframe, unrivalled speed and manoeuvrability throughout its flight, increased agility make the best missile in its category of weapons.

The missile has full ‘Lock On Before Launch’ and ‘Lock On After Launch’ operating modes.

BDL is the only Company in India involved in manufacturing various types of missiles and underwater weapons for supply to the Indian Armed Forces and friendly foreign counties.

The Company also handles launchers, test equipment, refurbishment / life extension of missiles and counter measures systems for domestic as well as international market.

MBDA is the only European defence group capable of designing and producing missiles and missile systems that correspond to the full range of current and future operational needs of the three armed forces (land, sea and air). MBDA has a significant presence in five European countries and in the USA.

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Rosoboronexport plans to conclude more than 10 contracts at Army 2021 Rosoboronexport JSC (part of the Rostec State Corporation) will hold dozens of negotiations and conclude contracts with foreign customers at Army 2021. The International militarytechnical forum will take place from August 22 to 28, 2021 on the premises of the Patriot Congress and Exhibition Center of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.

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“Rosoboronexport plans to hold more than 70 negotiations with their foreign partners at Army 2021 and sign more than 10 contract documents. This will significantly increase the company’s order book, which currently exceeds $52 billion, and ensure that Russian industrial enterprises will be kept busy with export orders,” said Alexander Mikheev, Director General of Rosoboronexport.

More than 800 members of 35 foreign delegations, 17 of which are headed by defense ministers, their deputies and senior officials of our partner countries, have confirmed their visit to the forum at the invitation of Rosoboronexport. In total, representatives of around 150 countries invited through the Ministry of Defense of Russia, the Federal Service for Military-Technical Cooperation of Russia and the Rostec State Corporation are expected to arrive.

In addition to applications for negotiations, Rosoboronexport received requests from delegations from 40 countries to hold more than 500 presentations of Russian military, dual-use and civilian products.

“Rosoboronexport considers the Army Forum as the main platform enabling to demonstrate the widest range of Russian products for all services and branches of the armed forces, as well as equipment for special forces and police units to foreign customers,” Alexander Mikheev added. “We will showcase equipment and weapons for

the land forces, aircraft, advanced precision guided weapons for them, air defense and electronic warfare assets. There are a lot of applications for the demonstration of naval equipment, to which a separate cluster is dedicated at Army this year.”

In 2021, for the first time, Rosoboronexport will organize an exhibit and a presentation pavilion next to the entrance group A of the forum. The pavilion and an outdoor area adjacent to it will feature small arms, including Kalashnikov AK-100 series, AK-200 series, AK-12, AK-15 and AK-19 assault rifles, KORD

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assault rifles, sniper rifles and machine guns manufactured by the Kalashnikov Concern and the Degtyarev Plant, which are part of the Rostec State Corporation. A wide range of communications equipment, ammunition for various weapons, mortars and remote controlled weapon stations, civilian and sports weapons and an impressive line of equipment and gear for special forces and security agencies, as well as the Lobaev Arms Volkodav (Wolfhound), Dominator and Sumrak (Twilight) sniper rifles, which are most popular among specialists, will also be on display in the area.

In addition, the company will showcase products from Russian defense manufacturers being promoted abroad at Rostec’s demonstration center.

Rosoboronexport will enable its partners to test the exhibited small arms at 4 shooting ranges of the leading Russian manufacturers: the Kalashnikov Concern, the High-Precision Weapons Holding, the Tochmash Central Research Institute and Lobaev Arms.

“Our partners are interested in both proven weapons and military equipment, including those having a track record, and new products. Among them I can mention the newest T-14 Armata tank, combat vehicles based on the Boomerang combat platform that surpass all their foreign counterparts in performance, the Orion-E reconnaissance/strike UAV, which is the star of this year, the Antey-4000 battlefield anti-aircraft missile system designed to equip the land forces, the Pantsir-S1M air defense gun/missile system, the fifth-

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generation Su-57 fighter, helicopters, the BK16 high-speed landing boat, as well as the latest small arms,” said Alexander Mikheev.

A live demonstration of the capabilities of weapons, military and special equipment for representatives of foreign states will be an event at this year’s forum. It will be held on August 24 at 15.00 at the Alabino Proving Ground. The running and firing capabilities of army equipment and army aircraft as applied to maneuver actions of a joint force grouping will be showcased. The scenario of the demonstration was prepared by the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation on the proposals and taking into account the interests of Rosoboronexport partners.

On August 22 and 23, Rosoboronexport will hold public presentations of modern Russian security equipment, clothing and gear for special forces and police units in Russian and English. A presentation of the T-90MS tank is also planned.

On August 23, at 11:00, Rosoboronexport will carry out a public presentation “CounterUAV Package” at Automatika Concern stand.

Its specialists will unveil a new integrated solution – a system able to effectively counter unmanned aerial vehicles, which combines electronic warfare and air defense systems of various classes.

Rosoboronexport will take part in the II scientific and practical conference “Military law in the national security system, implementation of State policy in the field of military-technical cooperation”. It will be held on August 24 as part of the forum.

“ Russian Helicopters" to present a wide range of military rotorcraft at Army

"Russian Helicopters" to present a wide range of military rotorcraft at the "Army-2021" forum “Russian Helicopters” Holding of Rostec State Corporation will present a wide range of military helicopters at the international military and technical forum “Army-2021”.

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n front of the pavilion "A", at the static display will be deployed attack helicopter Mi-28NE, as well as transport-combat Mi35M and Mi-35P. These aircraft are loaded with a wide range of guided and unguided missiles, and the most up-to-date avionics allow them to carry out missions at any time of the day or night. Also, in the "Patriot" park will be presented an upgraded military transport helicopter Mi-171Sh. It is characterized by increased protection of the crew and troops through the use of kevlar armor plates. The helicopter will also have an expanded armament

to effectively support the paratroopers from the air.

Another aircraft presented at the static display will be a light helicopter Ka-226T in a new design, adapted to meet the high mountain requirements. The helicopter's fuselage is made with the use of modern lightweight materials, the control and the electrical helicopter systems have been modernized, an impact-resistant crashproof fuel system has been installed, which meets the increased safety requirements. At the same time, the volume of fuel tanks has been increased because of centralized refueling support. The helicopter is also equipped with a new complex of pilot navigation and radio communication equipment.

Besides, for the first time, an unmanned aircraft BAS-200 will be presented at the "Army" forum and placed in the aviation exposition area at "Kubinka" airfield. The maximum take-off weight of the device is 200 kilograms. It can reach speed up to 160 km/h and is capable of transporting commercial load up to 50 kilograms.

The BAS-200 is capable of flying up to 4 hours at altitudes of up to 3,900 meters.

There also presents a ground control complex to provide communication with the drone at a range of up to 100 kilometers. The device is 3.9 meters long and 1.2 meters high. The BAS-200 project is being developed by the National Helicopter Center "Mil & Kamov" of "Russian Helicopters" Holding Company.

As part of the holding's exposition at the Kubinka airfield, the world's largest serial helicopter, the modernized Mi-26T2B, as well as transport-paratroopers Mi38T and civil Ansat Aurus helicopter, will also be presented.

At the demo center of Rostec State Corporation, the holding will present the latest onboard equipment for Russian helicopters. In particular, guests and participants will be able to view the perspective helicopter ergonomic cabin, as well as Ansat helicopter main power elements technical condition control system.

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Russia to showcase latest training systems at the ARMY 2021

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he Moscow-based RPA RusBITech company is presenting its Spektr7E software & hardware system, intended for recreating the complex environment of warfare both at the command and ground levels at the ARMY 2021 expo in Moscow.

The core of the Spektr-7E is a unified information and modeling environment, which, together with special software tools, performs calculations for the use of groupings of troops and military formations, simulation of military operations in air, at sea and on land with simultaneous display of the situation on digital maps in both 2D and 3D modes in full accordance with the terrain of the theater of operations.

The Spektr-7E ensures the integration of simulators of various weapons and military equipment into a single virtual battlefield, which allows multiple training of servicemen and military formations to perform tasks in any terrain and in various climatic conditions. Thanks to modern technologies any number of

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simulators of various configurations can be built into the training circuit of the system.

The system's library of virtual objects includes about thousands of different models matching the characteristics of real weapons and military equipment.

The Spektr-7E's headquarters training system makes it possible to train command personnel and command posts in planning combat actions, making decisions on the use of the troops, and building a command and control system.

Another major developer in this field of is the Tula-based Training Systems company. It has developed more than 50 models of simulators of tanks, APCs, ATGMs, artillery, anti-aircraft systems, small arms etc. As the company says in its official presentation materials, its simulators allow to train personnel both individually and in units, to teach the servicemen to operate both the latest generation systems, as well as the 1520 year old ones.

The Training Systems' portfolio includes the simulators for T-90MS main battle tank, TOS1A heavy flame-thrower system, Kornet antitank missile system, Igla MANPADS etc. The Igla MANPADS simulator ensures the execution of target capture, tracking and 'launch' of the missile in manual and automatic modes, and even the psychological preparation of the trainees.

Amur-1650: compactness and firepower at Army 2021

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he St. Petersburg based Central Design Bureau for Marine Engineering Rubin (part of the United Shipbuilding Corporation) is to demonstrate at the ARMY expo its vast experience and competences in the submarine domain and in the field of various other underwater systems. Over 85% of submarines in the Soviet and later Russian Navy have been built according to the Rubin’s designs.

Today the company is also actively exploring the civil product line, including the systems for offshore oil and gas field development.

The center point of the Rubin’s exposition is the Project Amur 1650 diesel-electric submarine. It continues the line of the famous Kilo class (many dozens of ships of the basic and upgraded design have been constructed and inducted into the Russian and other navies). The Amur 1650 is the next generation submarine which is more compact: with similar weapon pack (six torpedo tubes with ammunition comprising 18 torpedoes and missiles) its surface displacement has been reduced (from about 2,400 tons to about 1,800 tons). Due to automation, the complement has been reduced

from 52 to 35 men.

The powerful torpedo-missile armament gives the Amur 1650 a long arm to hit both underwater and surface targets, as well as land targets. The torpedo or missile salvo can be launched from all six tubes. The improved stealth is said to give it an advantage in duels. The stealth is ensured by the curvature of the hull lines, the carefully designed propulsor (propeller), the slow-speed and low-noise permanent magnets propulsion motor, the low noise equipment and advanced acoustic protection means. The coating reduces the probability of detection by surface ships and anti-submarine aircraft, while – in turn – its own sonar equipment enables the detection of very low-noise targets at considerable distances.

Ventilation and air conditioning systems are designed for tropical waters operations. The submarine has highly ergonomic Combat Information Centre (CIC) – the operators’ consoles are of modern design and have a user-friendly interface.

The Rubin also has an AIP system developed for the Amur 1650 project.

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Uralvagonzavod armored vehicles to be exhibited at ARMY

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ostec’s Uralvagonzavod (UVZ) corporation is demonstrating the BMPT72 Terminator tank-based armored fire support vehicle (AFV) and the T-90MS main battle tank at the ARMY 2021 Defence show.

"The T-90MS and BMPT-72 developed by the Ural Design Bureau of Transport Engineering (UKBTM, a subsidiary of UVZ) are successful modernizations of the T-90S and T-72 tanks, respectively. They apparently demonstrate how the active and efficient operation of these special vehicles can be prolonged with the greatest benefit and at the lowest cost. The vehicles’ high potential for further upgrade allows improving their design based on modern requirements and offering to a customer a new combat unit, which features enhanced capabilities or is modified

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for specified tasks", Uralvagonzavod reported on the eve of the ARMY 2021 show.

All UVZ armoured vehicles have phenomenal reliability, strong protection and high maneuverability, the manufacturer emphasizes.

'Excellent maintainability' is also among the main advantages of these land systems.

The other major development of the UVZ is the TOS-1A heavy rocket launcher. The system destroys targets effects of high temperature and overpressure by the unguided rockets with thermobaric warheads. The main difference of the TOS-1A system from a typical multiple rocket launcher (MRL) lies in its ability to provide almost the same firepower but at close ranges and with higher precision. It can also be used in the indirect firing mode. The Russian military regularly reports on the use of the TOS-1A systems during various field trials.

The TOS-1A has a range of fire between 600 m and 6,000 m. Its firing unit can be mounted on either T-72 or T-90 MBT chassis, given the unified chassis with these tanks.

11 - 13 March 2022 GANDHINAGAR GUJARAT

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ARMY 2021: Sprut-SDM1 – a light tank with heavy firepower

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ostec’s holding High-Precision Weapons is to showcase its newest Sprut-SDM1 light amphibious tank, which is the only 125 mm gunarmed light tank in world, at the ARMY 2021 defence show to be held near Moscow between 22-28 August. The vehicle’s capability to accurately fire its main gun while swimming makes the Sprut-SDM1 the most tactically flexible light land system in the global arms market Russia announced the start of the international marketing of the Sprut-SDM1 in 2018. This July, state corporation Rostec reported successful Black Sea trials of the tank, which included unloading from the landing ships.

“Sprut-SDM1 is not inferior in firepower to tanks such as T-80 and T-90, and its mobility on land and water is at the level of the BMD-4M airborne infantry fighting vehicle. The tank is capable of completing complex tactical missions, in particular, reconnaissance, working as part of raid or forward detachments, defense maneuvers, attacking through water obstacles, amphibious operations, and territory control. The main operator of the Sprut is the Russian Airborne Troops, but I am sure it will also kindle interest of foreign customers. First of all, we are focusing on the markets of India, Asia and the Middle East”, said Rostec’s Industrial Director of Weapons, Ammunition and Special Chemistry Bekkhan Ozdoev.

Developed by the High-Precision Systems’ Kurganmashzavod, the Sprut-

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SDM1 is equipped with a 2A75 125 mm main gun, which can fire armor-piercing finstabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), highexplosive anti-tank (HEAT), high-explosive fragmentation (HE-Frag) rounds, as well as air-burst ammunition. Besides that, the SprutSDM1 can fire guided missiles, which also makes it unique among the light tanks. It can destroy targets at range of up to 5 km. The 500 h.p. multi-fuel diesel engine provides power required to move an 18 t combat vehicle with a three-strong crew at speeds up to 70 km/h on land and up to 10 km/h on water.

The Sprut-SDM1 is said to be highly capable in high mountains and hot tropical climate.

Without refueling it can make marches over a distance of 500 km, can be transported by military transport aircraft and landing ships, and airdropped with a crew inside the vehicle.

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