IADN Strategic Focus (February 2023)

A Series of Newly Tested Platforms

PRITHVI SRBM TESTED

A successful training launch of a Short-Range Ballistic Missile, Prithvi-II was carried out on January 10, 2023 from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur off the coast of Odisha. A well-established system, the Prithvi-II missile, has been an integral part of India’s nuclear deterrence. The missile struck its target with high accuracy. The user training launch successfully validated all operational and technical parameters of the missile. Prithvi II has received multiple upgrades over the years, making it very accurate. Its Circular error probable is less than 10 meters. The missile can easily carry over 500kg payload to 350 Km.

HSTDV TESTED

India successfully tested the Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) from Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha on 27th January. The system can travel at over Mach 5 speed. This platform will be used to mature the technologies and future in service missiles will be derived from this technology demonstrator program. Developed by DRDO, the technology will help produce long-range hypersonic cruise missiles, glide vehicles, and to conduct satellite launches at low cost.

INS VAGIR 'SAND SHARK' COMMISSIONED

Indian Navy’s fifth stealth Scorpene class Submarine INS Vagir was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 23 Jan 2023 at the Naval Dockyard Mumbai in the presence of Adm R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff, the Chief Guest for the ceremony. Six Scorpene Class submarines are being built in India by the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) Mumbai, under collaboration with M/s Naval Group, France. INS Vagir would form part of the Western Naval Command’s Submarine fleet and would be another potent part of the Command’s arsenal.

Vagir was launched on 12 Nov 20, under Project 75 (P75) and was delivered to Indian Navy on 20 Dec 22 post-completion of sea trials. Vagir has the distinction of having the lowest build time among all indigenously manufactured submarines till date.

The Sand Shark represents ‘Stealth and Fearlessness’, two qualities that are synonymous with the ethos of a submariner. The motto of the submarine, ‘Saahas Shaurya Samarpan’ epitomizes the core values of Courage, Valour and Dedication. These values reflect in undertaking all operations at its peak efficiency to emerge victorious in all conditions and the ability to be synergised when faced with a difficult task. The motto has been imbibed by the men which inspires them to overcome adversities, to remain confident, bold and brave even in the toughest situations so as to keep the edge ‘Sharp and Ready’.

The induction of Vagir is another step towards the Indian Navy, consolidating its position as a builder’s Navy, as also a reflection of MDL’s capabilities as a premier ship and submarine building yard of the world. Project – 75 also marks a critical milestone in the Yard’s continued importance in the field of Defence Production.

Acquisition of New Weapons, Parts and Collaborative Developments

TATA BOEING AEROSPACE DELIVERS FIRST FUSELAGE FOR AH-64 APACHES

FOR ARMY

TATA Boeing Aerospace Limited (TBAL) on Thursday said it has delivered the first fuselage for six AH-64 Apache attack helicopters ordered by the Indian Army. The fuselage was produced at TBAL's production facility in Hyderabad. "This is a proud milestone and a testimony of our commitment towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat and the world-class manufacturing capabilities at our joint venture TATA Boeing Aerospace Ltd at Hyderabad," said Salil Gupte, president, Boeing India.

INDIAN COMPANIES COMPETE FOR ARMY’S SUBMACHINE GUN TENDER

A slew of domestic vendors have submitted their technical and commercial bids in response to an Indian Army (IA)’s tender, or request for proposal (RFP), to indigenously source 5,000 9×19 mm machine pistols as an ‘Emergency Procurement’ via the Fast Track Procedure (FTP) of the Defence Acquisition Procedure, 2020 (DAP 2020), for an estimated $6 million. The majority of the 10-odd manufacturers who responded to the RFP’s January 9 deadline were in tie-ups with overseas small arms original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), a provision admissible under DAP 2020’s ‘Buy Indian’ category through which the pistols were being acquired.

L&T TECH TO PROVIDE ADVANCED ENGINEERING CAPABILITIES, DIGITAL MANUFACTURING SERVICES TO AIRBUS

Leading pure-play engineering services company Larsen and Toubro Technology Services on Thursday announced that it has been selected as a strategic engineering partner to Airbus for providing advanced engineering capabilities and digital manufacturing services under a multiyear contract. Under this agreement, LTTS will support Airbus in key verticals and technology areas for its ongoing commercial and innovation programmes, according to a statement shared.

DRDO BUILDS AIRBORNE COOLING SYSTEM TEST FACILITY

The Airborne Cooling System Test Facility which was established at Combat Aircraft Systems Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC), Bangalore as part of the cooling system development project 'PRAVAH' was inaugurated on 27 April 2022. The Test Facility can simulate mass flow, inlet temperature and pressures experienced by the cooling system in different flight conditions for evaluation of its performance. Test Facility can also be used for the generation of performance maps of the heat exchangers and air cycle machines used for airborne application. Special provisions have been made in the Test Facility to simulate negative pressure experienced during flight at the exit scoop location of the cooling system. Variable heat load is also provided to check the performance of the cooling system against different heat loads.

IAF MI-17S GETS INDIGENOUS ARMOUR TO STAVE OFF FIRE FROM SMALL ARMS, SNIPERS

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is arming its fleet of the earlier variants of Mi-17 helicopters with indigenous armour to withstand fire from small arms and snipers in close contact operations, like in Naxal-infested areas. Sources in the defence and security establishment said that while the latest variants of Mi-17 – the V5s – have Russian clip-on, clip-off armour, the earlier variants do not. They also said the new armour being bought from state-run Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited (MIDHANI) is much lighter and more durable than the Russian product.

RUSSIAN AK-203 ASSAULT RIFLES TO BOOST THE FIREPOWER OF INDIAN ARMED FORCES

The Indian Army will soon be equipped with AK-203 assault rifles to be manufactured in India using the latest technology. India will produce six lakh AK-203 assault rifles with the help of Russia over the next 10 years. After being stuck for many years due to several issues, the production of AK-203 assault rifles has started in Amethi, Uttar Pradesh.

SPANISH FIRM TO EQUIP MAHINDRA'S ARMOURED LIGHT SPECIALIST VEHICLE WITH 120MM MORTAR SYSTEM

Spanish company Everis Aerospace and Defence is targeting the Indian market. This company has integrated its 120 mm Alakran mortar system into the ALSV chassis. ALSV is Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle from the Indian firm Mahindra. The ALSV is now in production for the Indian Army, which has purchased 1,300 units from Mahindra. The variant with the mortar mounted has a protected cabin with two doors. The Alakran mortar is located on the rear platform. This mortar can be integrated into the rear of light 4×4 vehicles or in heavier armoured vehicles.

EMBRAER CONFIRMS TALKS WITH INDIA ON C-390 SALE

Embraer is reportedly in talks with the Indian authorities, offering the C-390 Millennium to reinforce the medium/heavy transport capability of the Indian Air Force (IAF). According to the Aviacionline aviation website, the information was confirmed by Jackson Schneider, President and CEO of Embraer Defence & Security, who commented, “In the C-390 we are absolutely sure that it is the right product for India. In India to be candid, we are at the beginning of the process (of negotiations) with the Indian authorities. And we believe with the right Indian partner and the right approach, we will be able to deliver for India the best solution, even integrating into the plane Indian products, capacities and capabilities for the plane.”

SAAB SCRAPS AGREEMENT WITH ADANI GROUP TO BUILD FIGHTER AIRCRAFT IN INDIA

SAAB is one of seven aerospace companies competing in the MRFA program to provide 114 multi-role fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF), bidding for its Gripen-E. As reported by Gaston Dubois the Aviacionline site, Swedish aerospace and defence company SAAB, which had signed a pqartnership agreement with the Adani Group to manufacture the Gripen E fighter in India, said Monday that it was no longer going ahead with the deal.

ARMY ISSUES RFI FOR PROCUREMENT OF VEHICLEBASED DRONE JAMMERS

The Drone Jammer (Vehicle-Based) should provide Multi Sensor based (at least two sensors) complete and comprehensive solutions with regards to UAS/Drone and SWARMS. The system should be capable of UAS/Drones/SWARMS detection, tracking, designation & neutralization of Swarm / Drones / UAS approaching simultaneously from multiple directions. It should integrate all detection sensors and identify threats to provide the operator whith composite air situation pictures & facilitate the selection and management of responses for countering UAS / Drone, using jammer systems. All the sub-systems including integral power solutions should be transportable. Fast switching between wideband detection and wideband jamming modes to neutralize advanced UAS/Drone types which use multiband switching systems i.e. look-through mode should be supported. The fused target data from multiple sensors must be provided to the operator for quick decision-making.

THE GRSE DESIGNED AND BUILT FAST PATROL VESSEL ICGS KAMLA DEVI COMMISSIONED

ICGS Kamla Devi, the Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV) designed, built and delivered by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Ltd to the Indian Coast Guard a few days ago, was commissioned in Kolkata on January 12, 2023. ICGS Kamla Devi is officially the fifth and last vessel of the series of FPVs designed and built by GRSE as per the specifications of the Indian Coast Guard. GRSE is the only Indian shipyard to achieve the unique distinction of delivering 100 warships and this ship is the 108th warship to be delivered by GRSE since 1960 when it became a Defence Public Sector Undertaking. GRSE is also the first shipyard to export a warship the Offshore Patrol Vessel MCGS Barracuda to Mauritius back in 2014.

DELIVERIES OF THIRD SQUADRON OF RUSSIAN S-400 AIR DEFENCE SYSTEMS TO INDIA BEGIN — RUSSIAN MEDIA

Indian deliveries of the third squadron of the S-400 Triumf missile systems from Russia are currently underway. "Initial deliveries of the third operational squadron of the S-400 Triumf surface-to-air missile systems from Russia have now begun after some delay," sources told the Indian newspaper. Amid Western sanctions on Russia, India is grappling with alternate payment mechanisms for new deliveries of Russian weapons and their maintenance, "but it’s being

managed," a source told the newspaper. By the end of this year, India is slated to get five S-400 squadrons.

INDIAN NAVY SHIP IN THE NORTHERNMOST ATOLLS FOR HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEY: MALDIVES MEDIA

The governments of India and Maldives are preparing to launch a joint hydrographic survey in the Maldives. Surveyors will monitor the seas, dry land, reefs, and lagoons under the study. The survey will commence on January 19 and continue until the 28th of this month on the northern atolls of the Maldives; Haa Alifu, Haa Dhaalu, and Shaviyani atolls.

INDIA IS AN IDEAL CANDIDATE FOR IMPROVING ARMENIA’S SU-30SM FIGHTER JETS WITH ASTRA AND BRAHMOS MISSILES

Rumour has it that Armenia is "keen" on having India supply weapons and train fighter pilots for its Russian-built Su-30SM Flanker fighter jets. While no such arrangement has been confirmed, New Delhi could certainly improve these Armenian aircraft markedly. But is that really a priority

for Yerevan? reported an international portal. India has an enormous fleet of 272 Su-30MKI Flankers, most of them built by New Delhi under license. Aside from operating such a large number of these fighters for 20 years, India has also acquired and developed formidable nonRussian armaments for them. "What makes the Indian Su-30MKI different from the Flankers operated across the world is that it is a beautiful integration of various weapons, sensors, and avionics from all over the world," an ace Indian fighter pilot told local media in January.

DRDO DEVELOPING AN INTELLIGENT AIRCRAFTMOUNTED SYSTEM FOR LONG-RANGE SURVEILLANCE AND RECONNAISSANCE

The system will be retrofitted on aircraft, helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles to facilitate auto-acquisition and auto-tracking of multiple targets by day and night in varied climatic and environmental conditions. The DRDO is developing an intelligent electro-optical imaging system that can be mounted on aerial platforms for long range surveillance and reconnaissance.

INDIAN NAVY MAY REPEAT KALVARI CLASS SUBMARINE ORDER

When visionary Manohar Parrikar was the Defence Minister of India, he had suggested to then Navy Chief Admiral Robin K Dhowan that Indian Navy should exercise the option of three more Kalvari (Scorpene) class rather than go for fresh acquisition of six of Project 75 I, air independent propulsion equipped, submarines. Admiral Dhowan did not agree because of which the options clause for Project 75, which was approved by Atal Bihari Vajpayee government way back in 2003, was cancelled in September 2016.

On July 20, 2021, the Ministry of Defence floated a request for proposal (RFP) for AIP equipped six Project 75 I class submarines at the cost of ₹40,000 crore. Since it is normal for Indian military-civilian bureaucracy to take at least 10-15 years to complete any big acquisition, it means that the current Scorpene submarine line at MDL will go to seed with the next set of 75 I class being built in late 2030s with a fresh massive investment on submarine line. All this appears to be set for a change.

1,470 UNITS 2023 MAHINDRA SCORPIO CLASSIC JOINS

INDIAN ARMY - NEW ORDER

Mahindra has announced an order for 1,470 units of the Scorpio Classic vehicle for use by the Indian Army. The special vehicles would be used by 12 units of the Indian army. Not only is this another feather in the cap for the manufacturer, it further adds to the legend of Scorpio. Mahindra Scorpio Classic in its newest avatar was made available in August 2022. Alongside the new twin peaks logo, the front was updated. This included changes to the headlamps, DRLs, and foglights. Front bumper and grille too. Among other changes was the use of the ‘Classic’ badge.

DRDO TO MAKE 4 VARIANTS OF NASM-MR MISSILE, WILL BOOST INDIAN NAVY

In order to address the big chasm in capability between the Indian navy and the PLA Navy (PLAN), the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been given permission to develop an indigenous anti-ship missile. The NASM-MR is a Harpoon class antiship missile with a longer range. Although the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China is trying to engage the Indian military in the Himalayas, the real tussle for supremacy between the two Asian giants is being played out on the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean.

ARMY TO GET

INDIGENOUSLY DEVELOPED

HELINA ANTI-TANK MISSILES, VSHORAD MISSILE SYSTEM WORTH RS 4,276 CR

Under Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Tuesday accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for three capital acquisition proposals, amounting to Rs 4,276 crore. All three proposals - two of the Indian Army and one of the Indian Navy - are under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. The DAC approved the procurement of HELINA Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, launchers and associated support equipment which will be integrated to the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH).

MOD ISSUES REQUEST FOR INFORMATION (RFI) FOR PROCUREMENT OF NEW WATERJET FAST ATTACK CRAFT

The Ministry of Defence, intends to procure 21 (Twenty-One) NEW WATERJET FAST ATTACK CRAFTs Indigenous (NWJFAC) for the Indian Navy from registered Indian Shipyards. The NWJFAC would be constructed in a phased manner over a period of 04 years (2026-2030). The NWJFAC should be capable to carry out local naval defence, seawards defence of defended ports, offshore installations, vital areas and vital points. In addition, NWJFAC will carry out interception of high-speed craft and seaward anti-terrorist patrols for the security of coastal installations, naval harbours and own coast. NWJFAC will be used for special operations and anti-piracy operations. Further, the vessels will be used for Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO), Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) and Presence cum Surveillance Mission (PSM).

INDIAN ARMY HAS PLACED ORDERS FOR NEARLY 2,000 DRONES FOR SURVEILLANCE

The army has placed orders for nearly 2,000 drones, some of which will be used for taking vital supplies to forward posts and others which will undertake important surveillance and reconnaissance work. “Multiple manufacturers are competing,” for the logistics bid, says Smit Shah, president, Drone Federation of India. These bulk orders are needed in a hurry because of the high-altitude skirmishes in Ladakh and more recently in Arunachal Pradesh between Indian and Chinese troops.

INDUCTION READY BHARAT FORGE'S 8 X 8 ATAGS MOUNTED GUN SYSTEM

The advanced towed artillery guns system (ATAGS) a 155 mm/52 calibre gun system designed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), that is on priority and going through trails under the extreme General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR). On the very first, ATAGS set to be the most advanced and the first gun in the world which has the capability to fire BMCS zone 7. And on the high altitude trials in Sikkim, the ATAGS created a new record as it fired at 13,000+ feet height and successfully completed 500+ km in treacherous high-altitude terrain up to 15,400 feet; proved extreme mobility in the narrow mountain curves. While it did have some setback in the trails in the Pokhran under 50 degree+ temp, it sums up the determination and herculean effort towards indigenization that such calibre of next generation of military equipment requires.

INDIAN NAVY SIGNS CONTRACT FOR AUTONOMOUS ARMED BOAT SWARMS UNDER SPRINT SCHEME

The Indian Navy has signed an agreement with Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt. Ltd for armed autonomous boat swarms under ‘SPRINT’, an initiative to promote development of niche defence

technologies by domestic companies. This is the 50th contract under ‘SPRINT’, which aims at the development of 75 indigenous technologies by the industry for the Navy, officials said. “We are keeping the pressure on to sign the 100th contract by January end. Our aim is to induct 75 new technologies by August 15, 2023 as part of Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav,” a Navy official said. Sagar Defence Engineering has the know-how to create the nation’s first armed autonomous unmanned boat with swarming capabilities, the company said in a statement.

THE FIRST PROTOTYPE OF DURGA DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPON IN 2023

The DRDO is focussing on new-age tech in the Directed-Energy Weapon (DEW) space. DRDO has initiated a project – Directionally Unrestricted Ray-Gun Array (DURGA)-II, which is a 100kilowatt lightweight DEW. The work of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has often been commended, or criticised, with reference to a handful of notable projects. These are usually the TEJAS, the Arjun tank and missiles like the Agni series. Less well-known has been the DRDO's work on cutting-edge technologies and weapons, which are yet to enter widespread operational service worldwide.

DRDO DEVELOPS UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE FOR OPERATIONS IN HIMALAYAN FRONTIER

Aiming to improve logistics for operations in the Himalayas, India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a untethered multi-copter payload, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), capable of flying with a five kilo payload. Unveiled at the 108th Indian Science Congress in Maharashtra's Nagpur, the craft is capable of dropping bombs in enemy territories.

RADAR STATION FOR COASTAL SURVEILLANCE AT BELEKERI READY SAYS COAST GUARD

Of two more radar stations for coastal surveillance coming up on the Karnataka coast the station at Belekeri in Uttara Kannada is ready. It will take some more time for another station to be ready at Kundapur in Udupi district, according to Deputy Inspector General P. K. Mishra, Karnataka

Commander of the Indian Coast Guard. In an informal chat with press persons at the Karnataka headquarters of the Indian Coast Guard here on Saturday on the side-lines of an interactive meeting the Coast Guard organised with fishermen, Mr. Mishra said that the State’s coast had radar stations in operation at Surathkal and Bhatkal. When two more stations are commissioned the entire 170 nautical miles (about 315 km) long Karnataka coast will come under radar surveillance.

BPCL LAUNCHES LOW-SMOKE SUPERIOR KEROSENE OIL FOR INDIAN ARMY

Indian state refiner Bharat Petroleum Corp announced the launch of low-smoke superior kerosene oil (SKO) for the Indian Army in Jammu. BPCL has emerged as the first OMC to commence the supply of the new LSLA grade SKO supplies to the Army, which will go a long way in improving the serving environment and alleviating the issues related to smoke and smell in the use of SKO. “Normal kerosene emits substantial smoke, which poses a health hazard to the Army personnel who use it at higher altitudes, where oxygen level is very low. Hence, the low-smoke kerosene is a big step towards providing a cleaner fuel to our soldiers operating in very tough terrains," the company said in a statement.

MOD ISSUES RFP FOR PROCUREMENT OF 12,730 BALLISTIC HELMETS FOR SIKH TROOPS

Indian Army has released a Request For Proposal for the procurement of Qty 12,730 Ballistic Helmet for Sikh Troops under Emergency Procurement through Fast Track Procedure under Buy (Indian). Till now, Sikh Soldiers were unable to use modern headgear & equipment in combat that could provide them an all-round head protection. Developed using smart design and techniques, Kavro SCH 111 T is a special ballistic helmet designed to be worn by Sikh soldiers in the line of duty. Its special shape allows it to be worn over the ‘cloth patka carried by Sikhs soldiers. The helmet provides uniform and all-round ballistic protection across the complex and compound curves in the helmet shell. It keeps the weight under control for extended usage for long hours in spite of additional surface area and added materials.

INDIA TO SEND AQUANAUTS 500 MTRS UNDER SEA THIS YEAR IN SAMUDRAYAAN

India will send three explorers to a depth of 500 metres under the sea in an indigenously built vessel, Samudrayaan, this year, an official said. Engineers at the National Institute of Ocean Technology in Chennai have already designed the steel sphere that will house the aquanauts for their journey, he said. However, the plan to send the Samudrayaan to 6,000 metres deep into the sea could be delayed due to difficulty in procuring the titanium sphere capable of withstanding pressure at those depths, the official, requesting anonymity, told PTI on the sidelines of the Indian Science Congress underway here.

PRODUCTION OF QRSAM TO START WITHIN SIX MONTHS FOR INDUCTION IN INDIAN ARMY

The indigenously developed Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile Weapon System (QRSAM) of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will be inducted in Indian Armed Forces soon. “The missile system has completed all trials and the production is likely to start within six months after getting green signal from the Ministry of Defence,” Mahesh Sahu, Senior Technical Officer, DRDO said.

DRDO DEVELOPS UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE FOR LOGISTIC OPERATIONS IN HIMALAYAN FRONTIER

With an aim to carry out logistic operations in the Himalayan frontier, an Untethered Multi-copter payload, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The UAV is capable of flying in the Himalayan environment with 5 kg of payload and even dropping bombs in the enemy areas. The multi-copter was displayed by DRDO in the 108th Indian Science Congress.

INDIA'S TAPAS MALE UAV ENTERS USER TRIAL STAGE

India’s Tactical Advanced Platform for Aerial Surveillance (TAPAS) Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) UAV entered user trials stage in Q4 2022. The UAV, earlier called RustomII, has also successfully crossed multiple developmental milestones. Developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), the TAPAS achieved the interim endurance target of 18 hours, the DRDO announced on December 7. According to information released during DefExpo-2022 held in October, TAPAS had flown with a Medium Range Electro Optic (MREO) payload for 10 hours 20 minutes and had landed with 7 hours of fuel remaining.

INDIAN ARMY PROCURES MILREM THEMIS UGV

The THeMIS Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) by Estonian firm Milrem Robotics is in service with the Indian Army. This was revealed in the Indian Parliament by Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt. THeMIS was listed among the major defence equipment imported in the last three years. The quantity and date of purchase of the UGVs are unknown. However, the UGVs are likely to have been procured under emergency procurement powers granted to the Army. Indian Army has a net requirement for over 700 ‘autonomous combat vehicles’ with capabilities similar to that of THeMIS.

INDIAN ARMY PLANS TO BUY 300 ROUGH TERRAIN VEHICLES FOR HIGH ALTITUDE

The army is swiftly upgrading its capability along the border with China with a variety of weapons and systems including artillery guns, swarm drone systems. The Indian Army is planning to buy 300 indigenous logistics rough terrain vehicles that can be used for transportation of loads and evacuation of casualties in medium to high-altitude areas, officials familiar with the matter said.

DEFENCE MINISTRY STARTS PROCESS

TO BUY 100 MORE K-9 VAJRA HOWITZERS

The K-9 Vajra is a 155 mm, 52-calibre tracked self-propelled howitzer built by L&T with technology transferred from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defence based on its K-9 Thunder. The Defence Ministry has started the process for the procurement of 100 more K-9 Vajra tracked self-propelled howitzers which are built in India by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) using technology transferred from South Korean defence major Hanwha Defence.

ARMY COULD INDUCT MADE-IN-INDIA ARTILLERY GUN ATAGS BY END OF THIS YEAR

The Indian Army on Sunday put up an imposing firepower display at the sprawling field firing range in Maharashtra’s Devlali, with a raft of indigenous artillery guns, rocket systems and ammunition, including weapons, deployed along the contested Line of Actual Control (LAC) where the Indian and Chinese armies have been locked in a lingering dispute for over 32 months.

INDIA TO EQUIP 150 SU-30 MKI WITH INDIGENOUS UTTAM ACTIVE ELECTRONICALLY SCANNED ARRAY

India is about to launch the long-delayed Super Sukhoi program. 4 billion USD has already been requested by the Indian Ministry of Defence. 150 fighters out of 260 operationally ready Su-

30MKI will go through complete modernization. The Super Sukhoi program was supposed to start nearly two years ago.

In 2022, Russian troops invaded Ukraine and this delayed the plans of the Indian Air Command. However, the time has come for a change, and seeing the threat from China, India is ready to invest in the backbone of its Air Force.

FRANCE GIVES INDIA'S SUBS A STEALTHY TECH BOOST

France and India have signed an agreement to cooperate on air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology to upgrade the latter’s Kalvari-class submarines, deepening the growing strategic relationship between the two countries. AIP technology allows conventional submarines to stay submerged for weeks at a time, approaching the underwater endurance of nuclear submarines.

GARDEN REACH SHIPBUILDERS AND ENGINEERS (GRSE) TO PRODUCE MARINE ENGINES IN INDIA

In a major step aimed towards bolstering the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) Limited has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Rolls Royce Solutions of Germany for the manufacture of high-quality marine diesel engines. The MoU was signed by GRSE’s Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) Cmde. PR Hari, IN (Retd) and MTU India’s Managing Director (MD) GS Selwyn in the august presence of Chief of Materiel of the Indian Navy Vice Admiral Sandeep Naithani (AVSM, VSM) on January 27. Senior officials from Indian Navy and GRSE were present on the occasion. The MoU shall go forward among the highlights for the upcoming Aero India 2023.

JETPACKS, ROBOT MULES, DRONES ON ORDER

The ministry of defence has decided to procure weapons such as jetpacks, robot mules, drone systems, and jammers with an eye on increasing its advantage in combat. “The Ministry of Defence, Government of India, intends to procure quantity 100 Robotic Mule along with

Associated Accessories under emergency procurement through Fast Track Procedure (FTP) under Buy (Indian) category and seeks participation in the procurement process from prospective Bidders,” the ministry said in a statement.

DRDO, NAVAL GROUP REACH AGREEMENT ON INDIGENOUS AIP MODULES ON SCORPENE SUBMARINES

In an important step that will significantly enhance the endurance of the Scorpene-class conventional submarines of the Indian Navy, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Naval Group have reached an agreement to fit the indigenous fuel cellbased Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system on INS Kalvari soon. The AIP has been developed by DRDO’s Naval Materials Research Laboratory (NMRL), and the land-based prototype has been tested.

ISRO ADITYA L1 MISSION

ANKIT KUMAR

An independent analyst with an electrical engineering background covering military affairs. He also takes interest in covering space, airlines, infrastructure, nuclear, energy and related issues. He has been the lead editor at IADN since 2014.

Aitya L1 space observatory is going to be India’s first mission to study the Sun and its corona. Diagnostics of Corona and Coronal structures and the magnetic field measurements are the main science goals of the mission. The mode in which this mission is aimed to be conducted will be a 1st not only in India but for the whole world.

The Aditya L1 Mission, a spacecraft mission being developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to study the Sun and its effects on the Earth is slated to be launched in the latter half of 2023. It will be placed in a unique orbit called Lagrange point 1 (L1), which is a location 1.5 million km from the Earth towards the Sun.

Along with ISRO and its allied agencies, some other important agencies involved in the project are Brahmos Aerospace, Shiva Creations, Silvergrey Engineers, Bit Tul Pvt. Ltd from various locations across India.

OBJECTIVE

The main objective of the mission is to carry out comprehensive studies of the Sun, its corona and other associated phenomena such as solar flares, coronal mass ejections (CMEs), and interplanetary shocks. The Sun is the most important object in our solar system, and it has a profound impact on the Earth and the entire universe. The Sun's energy drives the Earth's weather, climate, and communication systems, and it is also responsible for the creation and maintenance of the Earth's magnetic field. The Aditya L1 mission will provide valuable information about the Sun, its behaviour, and its impact on the Earth, which will be of immense scientific value. The mission will help us understand the Sun's energy output, magnetic field and its influence on the Earth and its environment.

The mode in which this mission is aimed to be conducted will be a 1st not only in India but for the whole world

The Sun is the most important object in our solar system, and it has a profound impact on the Earth and the entire universe

INSTRUMENTS

Visible Emission Line Coronagraph (VELC)

One of the primary instruments on the Aditya L1 satellite will be a coronagraph, which will capture images of the corona and study its temperature, density and magnetic field. The mission will also study the coronal mass ejections (CMEs) that are associated with solar flares and have significant impacts on the Earth's space environment. The CMEs can cause geomagnetic storms and auroras, which can disrupt communication systems, power grids, and navigation systems on Earth. Understanding the formation, acceleration and propagation of CMEs will provide important insights into their impact on the Earth. This instrument was handed over to ISRO on 26th January, 2023.

Solar Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (SUIT)

SUIT will observe the Sun between 200-400 nm wavelength range and it will provide full disk images of different layers of the solar atmosphere by making use of 11 filters. The Sun has never been observed from space in this wavelength range. The spacecraft being at the first Lagrange point, SUIT shall be observing the Sun continuously without interruption.

A map of five Lagrange points; Image: NASA

Aditya Solar wind Particle Experiment (ASPEX)

To study the variation and properties of the solar wind as well as its distribution and spectral characteristics.

Plasma Analyser Package for Aditya (PAPA)

To understand the composition of solar wind and its energy distribution.

Solar Low Energy X-ray Spectrometer (SoLEXS)

To monitor the X-ray flares for studying the enigmatic coronal heating mechanism of the solar corona.

High Energy L1 Orbiting X-ray Spectrometer (HEL1OS)

To observe the dynamic events in the solar corona and provide an estimate of the energy used to accelerate the solar energetic particles during the eruptive events.

Magnetometer

Another key instrument on Aditya L1 is a magnetometer, which will measure the magnetic field in the interplanetary medium. This will be useful in understanding the impact of the Sun's magnetic field on the Earth's environment, as well as the dynamics of the solar wind and other plasma phenomena. The mission will also study the solar radiation and its effects on the Earth's atmosphere, and this will provide valuable information for predicting the space weather conditions and mitigating their impacts on the Earth

INDIA’S STRIVE AT SPACE RESEARCH

The Aditya L1 mission will provide an unprecedented opportunity for scientists to study the Sun and its effects on the Earth. The data gathered from the mission will be used for a variety of scientific and technological applications, including space weather forecasting, prediction of auroral activity, and the study of the Earth's environment. The mission will also provide valuable data for the design and testing of new space technologies and the development of new space applications.

The Aditya L1 mission is a major milestone for the ISRO and a significant step in the country's space exploration efforts. It represents a new level of collaboration between India and other spacefaring nations, and will be an important part of the global effort to study the Sun and its effects on the Earth. The mission will demonstrate India's technological capabilities and its ability to conduct complex space missions, and it will provide valuable experience and expertise that can be applied to future missions.

The Aditya L1 Mission is an important and exciting project that will have a significant impact on our understanding of the Sun and its effects on the Earth. The mission will provide valuable data for scientists and will help us better understand the dynamics of the solar system and its impact on the Earth.

It is a major milestone for the ISRO and a testament to India's growing capabilities in space exploration. As of July 2019, the mission has an allocated cost of ₹378.53 crore rupees excluding launch costs. The ISRO is also considering to set up a temporary tracking station in Fiji Islands specifically to support India’s 1st mission to send a space observatory to study the sun. [End]

The Aditya L1 mission is a major milestone for the ISRO and a significant step in the country's space exploration efforts

AEROSPACE

POWER AND BEYOND SHANTANU K. BANSAL

Fonder of IADN. He has more than 10 years of experience in research and analysis. An award-winning researcher, he writes for the leading defence and security journals, think tanks and in-service publications. He has been a senior consultant to the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), Shimla and Helicopter Training School (HTS), Hyderabad.

The updated version of the Indian Air Force doctrine published in June 2022 gets concise and more focused attention towards realising the air force as an aerospace power. To be an agile and adaptable air force that provides decisive aerospace power in furtherance of national interests. Air power has become a preferred medium for the launch of offensive operations as it offers the advantage of inter-continental range, short-notice employment, high speed of delivery and the ability to provide precision strikes providing assured, clean, swift, calibrated, varied and flexible response for strategic-operational-tactical agility to achieve strategic goals.

The air power will be required to dominate the Tactical Battle Area (TBA), providing comprehensive Air Defence (AD), air superiority over the hostile air environment, enhanced cyber-electronic capabilities to aid Effect Based Operations (EBOs), furthermore, undertaking multi-domain options spreading from conventional to nuclear operations and kinetic to non-kinetic strikes along with responding to natural calamities, Out of Area Contingency (OOAC) and delivering results in the scenario of No War No Peace (NWNP). The increased focus on network-centric operations calls for increased utilisation of spacebased assets in all operational domains of land, sea and air. Especially in the case of air power the increased dependency on space-based assets has given the term “aerospace power,” an adage in recent times.

The changing nature of warfare all over the world suggests that air power combined with space assets is taking the front seat. The trend suggests most of the advanced militaries around the world are trying to converge traditional air dominance elements with space support elements, as in the case of China, an idea which is bolstered by the introduction of the PLA Strategic Support Force (PLASSF) in 2015. The US has already operationalised its 8th uniformed service branch the US Space Command under its Department of Air Force, other countries also have got a similar setup in recent years as France has the French Space Command as a formation of the French Air and Space Force. In a comparable format, the Russian Aerospace Forces combine its space and air arm.

China, in this case, has undertaken one of the most significant defence reforms in recent times which included giving priority to expanding its Navy and Air Force to enhance its influence beyond the borders while cutting down a significant number of troops in the PLA Ground Forces (Chinese Army). The PLA Air Force, Navy, Rocket Force and Strategic Support Force (PLASSF) now make up more than half of the Chinese military overtaking the PLAGF, which has traditionally been the dominant service.

Realising this need of the future, the IADN was founded in 2012 with a focus on the term

“aerospace” rather than “air power” or other related terms

China’s high-end white papers have often emphasised the idea of integrating air and space power. The 2013 edition of the Science of Military Strategy of China states that “the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is accelerating its modernization and transformation from an aviation force into an integrated air and space force, from a mechanized air force into an informatized air force, and from a supporting air force into a strategic leading force.”

Air Commodore Jasjit Singh in his book Defence from The Skies (New Delhi: KW Publishers 2007) had presciently articulated, “with no dividing line between air and space, it is indeed a continuum of the third dimension above the earth surface; growing economy, trade expansion and commercial interests will necessitate the pursuance of the aerospace continuum in our national interest. Military operations in the future will increasingly use this continuum to further national security.”

Furthermore, realising the need of the future, the IADN was founded in 2012 with a focus on the term “aerospace” rather than “air power” or other related terms.

Aerospace power as an element of national power provides multiple options to the nation in the emerging battlespace. In order to exploit the capabilities offered by modern air power to dominate the battlespace, the utilisation of space-based assets is a prerequisite. Increasing utilisation of ‘space’ in the operational domains of land, sea and air has made space a common enabler, as per the IAF’s updated doctrine. The air and near space domain are increasingly a continuum for the IAF due to the high dependency on ISR, navigation, imagery, targeting, meteorology, communication, operational networks, command and control, enhanced AD responsibilities etc. It would not be wrong to say that, aerospace power has emerged as a key enabler of national power.

AIR POWER IS STILL THE LINCHPIN OF AEROSPACE POWER

Aerospace power combines air and space power but space assets are itself limited and sometimes are available in scarcity, the satellites follow predetermined paths and effective data relay are dependent on various factors. Although of immense value but space assets complement air power, and the prime objective for any air force still remains the ability to project firepower to achieve strategic goals.

The importance of air power in present and future warfare is well known. Air power is an integral part of the country’s defence capabilities and plays an important role in making-up a country’s deterrence against potential adversaries. However, it is of great concern that India’s fighter squadron strength is dropping, primarily due to India’s inability to develop a productive aviation industry in the country which in turn has been reducing India’s clout in the domain of air power.

The Air Force is down to less than 30 fighter squadrons strength against the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons to face a two-front conflict. The IAF has witnessed significant delays in introducing new fighters and phasing out the old fighters in the required timeframe. The four remaining MiG 21 squadrons are to be

retired with the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk 1A expected to enter service only by 2024, the Air Force could see a further dip in squadron numbers. It is also worth mentioning that the idea of having 42 fighter squadrons in inventory as optimal strength of the IAF is against the ‘wish list’ of 60 squadrons to face a two-front war.

The prime objective for any air force still remains the ability to project firepower to achieve strategic goals

The PLAAF on the other hand has forecasted that it will have about 2000 fighter aircraft in its inventory by 2030 with the majority of them would be 4th generation category. This may also include its 5th-generation fighters such as the J-20 and J-31. Some analysts believe that China can deploy no more than 300-400 aircraft on the Tibetan plateau with infrastructure upgradation in 10-15 years from now. The General Aviation Development Plan (2021-2035) was released on 02 February 2023 in which China announced to build of 59 new airports and 300 helipads in Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR) by 2035.

Pakistan shall operate some 400 aircraft in the inventory in the next 10-15 years. Going by planned inductions, the IAF itself admits that it cannot reach the sanctioned strength of 42 fighter squadrons in the next 10-15 years and the force will remain at 35 squadrons, as per the statement given by Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari on the eve of Air Force Day, 2021.

Air Marshal Anil Chopra (Retd.) notes that with fast-depleting squadrons, the IAF will require 500 fighter aircraft of the fourth-generation ++ category. He suggests that a good mix could be around 200 LCA Tejas Mk 1A, 125 twin-engine Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) class, ideally already selected Rafale. The remaining nearly

175 aircraft should be single-engine MMRCA class, much cheaper than the Rafale such as the Tejas Mk 2.

To face a short intense war, the IAF is preparing for maximum uptime of its equipment with a minimum turnaround time between missions to maximise the strike with given aircraft numbers. The clear emphasis is to make the aircraft more effective for each mission they undertake. The up-gradation of combat aircraft is a continuous process to maintain the fleet’s operational relevance.

The Air Force is down to less than 30 fighter squadrons strength against the sanctioned strength of 42 squadrons to face a two-front conflict

NEED FOR INNOVATION IN AIR POWER

It is not just about numbers but increasing technological gaps. China is closing the technology gap with the West and Russia; India cannot afford to lag behind. Technical parity is an important feature of deterrence against potential adversaries which must be maintained to ensure the Balance of Power (BOP). India needs to work on nextgeneration technologies in the defence sector and develop systems which can be called game-changer on the battlefield.

China’s military industry’s main focus is on achieving technologies in the field of hypersonic missiles, Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs), and quantum and electromagnetic domains. The future system will have to counter adversaries equipped with next-generation advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) suits with integrated Self-protection, supported by Integrated Air Defence Systems (IADS) with sophisticated detection capabilities, DEWs, hypersonic missiles with long range engagement capabilities, sophisticated cyber-attack capabilities and Anti Satellite weapons (ASAT), especially the soft-kill ASAT systems.

India needs to work on next-generation technologies in the defence sector and develop systems which can be called game-changer on the battlefield

Therefore, India must focus on getting innovation in air power. It must promote the development of technologies like SWARM drones, remotely piloted airborne vehicles with Man and Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), satellite soft-kill techniques and technologies such as quantum radar, Aerial lasers as a priority project. Efforts should be made in achieving high-end technologies by developing a high-quality scientific ecosystem in the country. This also calls for reforms and encouragement in the Research and Development (R&D) sector of the country which can directly impact innovation in the defence sector. Through better Civil-military Integration (CMI) the overall ecosystem of education and research prevailing in the country should be improved.

Today, Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) and Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) the public sector companies

which can be considered as precursors of India’s aeronautics sector have not been able to provide indigenous fighter aircraft in a worthy timeframe. The reality is that while the world is moving to develop a 6th Generation fighter, India is still not able to develop an effective 4th Generation fighter. China’s aviation industry has advanced to produce large transport aircraft; modern force multipliers, four plus to fifth generation fighters incorporating low observable technologies; modern reconnaissance and attack UAVs in very large numbers, long-range Radars and diversified PGMs for variety of roles. Possibly, the only area where China has to achieve self-sufficiency is highperformance aircraft engines.

Maj Gen. Mrinal Suman (Retd.), an expert in defence procurement procedures and offsets, rightly notes that the HAL is suffering from proverbial lethargy, self-righteous complacency and gross inefficiency. India needs holistic reforms in making a sound aerospace industry in the country. Many experts like Air Marshal M. Matheswaram (Retd.) point out that HAL should be dissolved into different firms for i.e. all Bangaluru divisions could be one firm, then the radar and avionics in Hyderabad, the Nashik unit and the engine unit in Koraput must all be different companies.

However, such drastic changes may not be suitable for the present time especially when India under the aegis of DRDO, ADA, HAL and other sister PSUs is undertaking a number of important aircraft projects. The HAL itself is working on about seven known-advance versions of the Tejas including a wingman concept besides AMCA and the new HLFT-24. These organisations in past have not handled so many projects altogether, this goes without mentioning the number of helicopters, UCAVs, UAVs, and other platforms under development. Therefore, such harsh measures might impact the further development of important projects especially when these changes don’t guarantee outcomes in the short and medium term.

There were various reasons for the LCA Tejas Mk1 delay and one of them was the lack of an empowered committee to keep a tap on such crucial projects which led to disoriented work culture. The prevailing work culture ridden by unaccountability and lack of work incentives across the Defence PSUs needs to be looked after. The HAL, ADA and sister PSUs require strengthening organizations from within for i.e. modern project management techniques, setting-up of accountability, providing greater autonomy to the management, sound Human Resources policies like changing appraisal policies based on meritocracy rather than seniority, skilfully neutralising the labour unions and establishing better labour relations, rewarding exceptional thinking in the organisation which shall promote innovation, sourcing quality on the job training sessions, ensuring wages which are comparable to what the private sector provides among others.

India requires significant investment and cooperation with like-minded countries in order to develop its indigenous aviation industry

There is also a recommendation to let IAF head these agencies which will get sound management skills in these organisations. The establishment of the National Aeronautical Commission (NAC) has also been recommended under the Prime Minister’s Office which can help the government to pa provide a roadmap and assist in the development of an international niche in the aerospace industry of India by stipulating the efforts of several organisations. This goes without saying that India requires significant investment and cooperation with like-minded countries in order to develop its indigenous aviation industry and maintain a quality edge over the adversaries in the region.

AEROSPACE POWER AND INTEGRATION WITH SISTER SERVICES

Under the new chair of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) India has finally kicked off the actual groundwork for creating four Integrated Theatre Commands which include Maritime Theatre Command, Air Defence Command and two land-based commands for combating emerging threats besides various other initiatives to get better integration among the forces but the IAF opposition towards integrated commands is understandable, especially when IAF is increasingly focusing on releasing India’s aerospace power. Keeping evolving threats in view, the IAF cannot limit its resources to certain geographical commands. The idea of integrated commands doesn’t suit the requirements of India being an aerospace power. We are already short of fighter squadrons, and far away from achieving the desired strength of 42 fighter squadrons. Therefore, at this juncture, the division of air force resources as part of the integration drive will lead to sub-optimal force projection on both fronts rather in the backdrop of reduced numbers of fighter squadrons the objective should be to utilize the maximum out of the existing pooled resources rather bifurcating them under different commands.

Moreover, some experts believe that the delineation of the IAF Area of Responsibility (AoR) based on certain integrated commands shall eventually lead to a reduction of operational space available to the IAF. The IAF by nature does centralised planning for allocating roles, missions, tasks and resources therefore exceptions shall be required for IAF. Consider the fact that China in the year 2015 announced the creation of the Western Theatre Command (WTC) as one of the 5 theatre commands; as a matter of fact, China’s WTC AoR is larger than that of the main Indian landmass. Therefore, it is still advisable that to get real integration among the armed forces, India should adopt only those changes which suit it in light of the peculiar geography, terrain, threat perception, resources and technological threshold.

Former Air Chief Marshal and COSC Arup Raha once rightly pointed out that “the 21st century belongs to aerospace power.” Moving beyond networkcentricity, the future awaits the convergence of more air-space offensive elements in actual battles to be fought. Therefore, the IAF need to propose better ways of integrating with the rest of the services rather than allowing delimiting its resources based on a land-oriented understanding of geography. [End]

Moving beyond network-centricity, the future awaits the convergence of more air-space offensive elements in actual battles to be fought

Technologies Which Are Changing the Battlefield In India and Beyond

GARUDA AEROSPACE TO UNVEIL CARBON-NEUTRAL DRONE AT WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM 2023

India's largest and most valuable drone start-up Garuda Aerospace is participating in World Economic Forum 2023 to unveil the first-ever carbon-neutral drone at the Indian Sustainability Lounge, Davos. Agnishwar Jayaprakash, Founder & CEO at Garuda Aerospace discussed ESG

and carbon neutrality and how it owed responsibility to the greater good of the world with drones along with technology and innovation.

SRMIST SIGNS MOU WITH NAVY FOR R&D IN DEFENCE TECH

The MoU was signed by Kala Hari Kumar, president, of Navy Welfare and Wellness Association (NWWA), Rear Admiral Sivakumar and Prof C Muthamizhchelvan, Vice Chancellor, SRMIST, in the presence of Prof S Ponnusamy, Registrar and Prof VP Nedunchezhiyan, Advisor, Centre for Research in Defence and International Studies (CRDiS). Artificial Intelligence, data science, space communication and quantum analysis will decide the course of future warfare and training, research and development in these areas will be of mutual benefit to the Indian Navy and SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Rear Admiral B Sivakumar, Asst Chief of Material (Information Technology and Services), Indian Navy, said.

ARMY PREPARES ROADMAP FOR INFUSION OF LATEST 'ATMANIRBHAR' TECHNOLOGIES AT TWODAY SEMINAR

The Northern Command faces the unique challenge of dealing with two adversaries on the borders, coupled with the threat of state-sponsored actors attempting to destabilise internal security. Faced with the unique challenge of dealing with two adversaries on the borders, coupled with the threat of state-sponsored actors attempting to destabilise internal security, the Indian Army's Northern Command has charted a roadmap infusing the latest 'Atmanirbhar' technologies to fight future wars. The roadmap was prepared at a two-day Northern Command Techno Commanders' Seminar, which culminated at the military station in Nagrota, a Defence spokesperson said.

INDIAN ARMY SHOWS INTEREST IN GENERAL ROBOTICS’ PITBULL REMOTE CONTROL WEAPONS

STATION (RCWS)

The Indian Army has shown interest in procuring Israel-based General Robotics' Pitbull remotecontrolled weapon station (RCWS). Shahar Gal, the CEO of General Robotics, told Janes that the Indian Army and the Indian Navy are “willing to procure the company's Pitbull RCWS” the Janes reported. General Robotics, an Israeli developer of light and smart remote control weapon stations manufactures the PITBULL Remote Control Weapons Stations (RCWS), with enhanced AIdriven capabilities, which will enable armoured vehicles and unmanned platforms to gain substantial improvement in situational awareness, response rate, and firepower.

DRDO DEVELOPING A SPACE BORNE IMAGING RADAR

UNFURLABLE REFLECTOR ANTENNA

DRDO is developing a space borne imaging radar for military application, this radar is an Unfurlable Reflector Antenna, pictured above. The design is scalable & can develop into any size or shape. Most likely this could be a Ku band Radar. It uses a rim truss deployable mechanism. Rim truss mechanism has the advantage of high thermoelastic stability & deployment reliability. Large unfurlable antennae have been built for spaceborne radars with different structural schemes, most of them can be classified as radial structures, modular structures, and rim trusses. Among these, a rim truss antenna with the advantage of high thermo-elastic stability and deployment reliability is most suited for space-based applications.

CHINA IS TESTING AN UNKNOWN FOURTHGENERATION MAIN BATTLE TANK

Russian media claim that China has begun testing a fourth-generation main battle tank. A video is circulating from Chinese sources showing the tests. There is currently no information on the name of the tank. In mid-October, Chinese state television announced that China would soon introduce a fourth-generation tank. The news more or less coincided with the period in which the US had announced the presentation of its fourth-generation AbramsX tank. Even then, there was a lack of information, with China National Television publishing only a picture of “something covered with cloth”.

IMPETUS ON INDIGENOUS EQUIPMENT PRODUCTION PAYING OFF

Despite undisputed world-class talent yet India has not been the manufacturing hub of the world, paternalistic attitude and the tepid response of the past, are the obvious reasons. Within months of taking the oath, PM Modi visualised, conceptualised and rolled out the project ‘Make in India’, to give impetus to manufacturing in India. Subsequently, all policy decisions were modified to facilitate investment, encourage innovation, upgrade skill development, protect our intellectual property and build the best infrastructure.

With years of sustained efforts, guidance and support, the results are now for everyone to see, uppity of India is widely noticed now. Stymieing technology transfer to India has backfired for the exporting countries as now we belong to the elite club of satellite launching nations, the best and cheapest among all, a nuclear nation with self-developed surface-to-surface, surface-to-air, air to air and air-to-surface and underwater launched indigenous missiles capable of striking any part of the world, some even nuclear-capable, a major deterrent and security asset.

BRAHMOS, ASTRA MISSILES GIVE INDIAN SU-30 EDGE OVER FLANKERS OPERATED BY OTHER COUNTRIES

Integration of indigenous weapons like the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Astra airto-air missiles gives an edge to the Su-30MKI combat aircraft operated by India over similar jets operated by other air forces including China, said Group Captain Arpit Kala, who is the

Commanding Officer of Su-30MKI fighter aircraft squadron said. Around 15 countries operate the different variants of the Sukhoi Su-30 combat jets including China, its original manufacturer Russia, Armenia, Indonesia and Algeria along with others. With 272 aircraft, Indian Air Force has the largest fleet of these planes. Ace fighter pilot Group Captain Arpit Kala heading a Su-30 fighter aircraft squadron in the desert sector, said the Indian Su-30MKIs are unique in the sense that they have been equipped with the best of technologies and weaponry from around the world along with indigenous ones too.

RAFAEL'S SPYDER GAINS COUNTER-TACTICAL BALLISTIC MISSILE CAPABILITY

Israeli firm Rafael Advanced Systems Limited announced on 3 January, that its SPYDER air defence system is now enhanced with a sophisticated Counter-TBM (Tactical Ballistic Missile) capability. The new feature is the product of Rafael’s Counter-TBM SPYDER program, which involved researching and analysing the lessons learned from recent and ongoing armed conflicts involving extensive use of tactical ballistic missiles. The program has brought about a practical upgrade to the SPYDER system which is equipped for implementation.

DRDO DEVELOPS ‘GUN ON DRONE’ TECHNOLOGY FOR FUTURISTIC WARFARE

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a ‘Gun on Drone’ technology under its ‘Asymmetric Warfare’ initiative. This technology is capable of recognising, communicating and destroying targets automatically after getting command from the command centre. “The technology demonstration of ‘Gun on Drone’ has already been done. Further development in the project is on,” said Hari Babu Srivastava, Director General (Technology Management), DRDO, while interacting with media persons during the 108th Indian Science Congress at RTMNU campus.

DRDO SCIENTISTS DEVELOP 'RAT CYBORGS' THAT CAN HELP IN MILITARY OPERATIONS

'Rat cyborgs' are nothing but standard laboratory rodents, in whose brains the scientists have installed an electrode that can receive signals from outside. Indian defence scientists have created the first batch of “rat cyborgs” in their laboratory with the ultimate aim of providing a live video feed to security forces from inside a building in case of a 26/11-type scenario, in which the enemy has taken over a premise, but troops are bereft of a sitrep. Developed by a bunch of young researchers from Hyderabad, rat cyborgs are nothing but standard laboratory rodents, in whose brains the scientists have installed an electrode that can receive signals from outside. A tiny camera would be strapped in its back for capturing live images. Once released inside a building, the rat cyborgs, armed with such tools, can go anywhere in an inconspicuous manner, climb a wall and hide from the enemy using their natural ability to camouflage. Scientists are in the process of perfecting the way in which rodents can be manoeuvred using external signals.

CVRDE DEVELOPING ENGINE FOR FIRCV AND ADVANCED ARMED PLATFORMS

The Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE), a premier establishment of DRDO is involved in the design and development of Battle tanks for Indian Army. CVRDE has taken initiative to develop indigenous engine to power futuristic combat vehicles. In this regard CVRDE designed 600 hp engine ab-initio, which is compact, efficient,

light weight due to incorporation of advanced technologies. The engine is comparable to contemporary battle tank engines. Ashok Leyland, Chennai, a leading automotive industry is identified as Development cum Production Partner by CVRDE for manufacturing of 600 hp engine. Ashok Leyland had applied modern & innovative methods and completed manufacturing of engine in a record time despite total lockdown due to COVID-19.

MOD WANTS THE INDIAN INDUSTRY TO DEVELOP AN ORBITAL TRANSFER VEHICLE

The MoD wants Indian industry to develop an Orbital Transfer Vehicle which can be operated in space for debris removal. This would require a space vehicle to undertake close proximity operations and development of associated guidance system for autonomous / semi-autonomous operations. As per the debris detection, the OTV should be capable of shifting from one orbit to other in LEO. It includes development of sensors such as LIDAR, EO etc and associated ground system.

IIT-MADRAS, DRDO CONDUCTS RESEARCH ON ADVANCED DEFENCE TECHNOLOGIES

It is conducting directed research in advanced technologies for the defence and security needs of the nation with the objective of creating world-class research centre developing cutting-edge technologies and contributing to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras is operating a research centre dedicated to defence technologies jointly with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) to develop advanced technologies for the national defence and security needs of the nation. The centre ‘DRDO Industry AcademiaRamanujan Centre of Excellence’ (DIA-RCoE) has been established to conduct directed research in advanced technologies for defence and security and to create a world-class research centre developing cutting-edge technologies. It will also make a major contribution towards ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ in the defence sector.

BHARAT ELECTRONICS LIMITED TO EXHIBIT AI, MISSILE SYSTEMS, RADARS AT AERO INDIA

The BEL will also be showcasing its R&D capabilities during the show through launches and demonstrations of new products and technologies. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) will showcase an array of its products and systems across domains at the upcoming Aero India 2023 in Bengaluru, the Defence PSU said. The products and systems will be displayed under 12 clusters at the show — air defence and surveillance, C4I systems, AI-based products, non-defence and diversification products, radar systems, communication systems, airborne products and systems, homeland and cyber security, futuristic technologies, missile systems, electro-optics and laserbased products, and outdoor display products.

INDIA'S THIRD LUNAR MISSION CHANDRAYAAN-3

ALMOST READY, LAUNCH IN JUNE-JULY: ISRO

CHAIRMAN

The Chandrayaan-3 mission will tentatively be launched between June and July 2023. The mission will only be carrying a Lunar lander and rover, unlike its predecessor which carried an orbiter, lander and rover. India's third Lunar mission Chandrayaan-3 is almost ready, the satellite has been fully integrated and its ruggedization tests have been completed, Dr S Somanath, Chairman, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) said.

From The Field of Space And Space Technologies

ISRO AND MICROSOFT JOIN FORCES TO BOOST

INDIA'S SPACE TECH ECOSYSTEM

Microsoft and the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) on Thursday established a partnership to support the development of space technology businesses in the nation. The space tech startups picked by ISRO will be included in the Microsoft for Entrepreneurs Founders Hub platform through this partnership, which supports startups at every step of their development, from ideas to unicorns.

COSTA RICA KEEN TO WORK WITH ISRO IN SATELLITE BUILDING, SPACE TECH

Costa Rica is keen to collaborate with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) in space technology and satellite building. Dr.Claudio Ansorena Montero, Ambassador of Costa Rica to India called on ISRO Chairman and Secretary,Department of Space S Somanath at at ISRO Headquarters Bangalore.

GAGANYAAN DELAYED AS ISRO DEVELOPING INHOUSE LIFE SUPPORT FOR ASTRONAUTS, SAYS ISRO CHIEF

India’s first manned mission to space, Gaganyaan, has been delayed because ISRO is developing environmental control and life support for astronauts, after it found the cost of importing these components prohibitive, the agency chairman S Somanath said Wednesday, on the sidelines of the Indian Science Congress. The ongoing science congress, being held at the Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi Tuesday. Several dignitaries. including Union ministers Jitendra Singh and Nitin Gadkari, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy CM, Devendra Fadnavis, also attended the event.

INDIA TO LAUNCH FIRST HUMAN SPACE FLIGHT PROGRAM ‘GAGANYAAN’ IN 2024

Union Minister of State Dr. Jitendra Singh interacted with the media and briefed them about “2023 Science Vision” on the first day of New Year 2023. During the interaction, he announced that ‘Gaganyaan’ is all set to be launched in 2024. While speaking to the media, the Minister highlighted India’s achievements in the field of Science and Technology and that’s why India’s first self-sufficient Gaganyaan will enter space in 2024. He also shed light on the launchings and experiments of Gaganyaan.

INDIAN NAVIGATION SATELLITE SYSTEM NAVIC TO FEATURE L1 SPECTRUM FOR CONSUMER LEVEL GPS

It may be received by civilian devices as essential as a wristwatch. NavIC's primary functions are to keep an eye on public transit and to keep deep-sea fishermen apprised of any urgent situations. The Indian Minister of State for the Space Department, Jitendra Singh, recently stated in Parliament that the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) would equip all of its future satellites with the L1 frequency to promote the use of Navigate with the Indian Constellation (NavIC), the Indian version of GPS/Galileo/GNSS. NavIC is the Indian acronym for “Navigate with the Indian Constellation.”

WITH 7 PAYLOADS, ISRO'S ADITYA-L1 GATHERS

STEAM TO DEEP DIVE INTO MYSTERIES OF SUN

Nearly a decade after India successfully got its spacecraft to fly millions of kilometres away to the Martian orbit in its first-ever inter-planetary mission, it is now aiming straight for the Sun. The country’s first solar mission – Aditya L1 has been a long time in coming. Though initially set to take-off this year, the mission has suffered multiple delays, only to be pushed further back by the pandemic. But with ISRO now on track to speed up its series of pending missions including taking a second shot at moon landing with Chandrayaan-2 this year, country’s first solar mission has also gathered pace and is now edging towards completion, say scientists.

INDIAN INSTITUTE OF ASTROPHYSICS HANDS OVER CRUCIAL PAYLOAD TO ISRO FOR INDIA'S FIRST SOLAR MISSION

In a major boost to India’s first mission to the Sun, the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) on Thursday handed over the Visible Line Emission Coronagraph (VELC) payload to the Indian Space Research Organisation for India’s first space mission, Aditya-L1, to observe the Sun and the solar corona to be launched in June-July 2023. The VELC is the primary payload on board Aditya-L1, designed as an internally occulted reflective coronagraph and has been assembled, tested, and calibrated at the Centre for Research and Education in Science and Technology

(CREST) Campus of the IIA. One of the main puzzles in solar astrophysics is that the atmosphere of the Sun (called the Corona) is at a temperature of about a million degrees Celsius, whereas the surface of the Sun is only a little below 6,000 degrees Celsius.

GENERAL ATOMICS, BHARAT FORGE ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP TO MANUFACTURE AEROSTRUCTURES

General Atomics has announced a partnership with Bharat Forge to manufacture main landing gear components, subassemblies, and assemblies of remotely piloted aircraft in India. US-based drone manufacturer General Atomics has signed an agreement with leading Indian forging company Bharat Forge to manufacture main landing gear components, subassemblies, and assemblies of remotely piloted aircraft. The move is expected to help India build a manufacturing ecosystem for high-end drones in the country.

Covering International and Geopolitical Matters

RUSSIA ADJOURNED BILATERAL TALKS WITH UNITED STATES

Russian government has announced the bilateral meeting that was about to held between United States and Russia is postponed due to unknown reasons. The official statement came from Russian Foreign Ministry said "The session of the bilateral coordinating committee on the Russian-American START Treaty, previously scheduled to take place in Cairo between November 29 and December 6, will not take place on the dates indicated”.

IRAN SHOWS-OFF ITS NEW SURFACE-TO-AIR MISSILE

Iran’s new longer-range surface-to-air missile Sayyad 4B has unveiled during a ceremony by Iranian Defence Minister and Commander of Islamic Republic of Iran Air Defense Force (IRIADF). The Sayyad 4B missile is equipped in Iran’s Bavar-373 air defence system that will be capable of hitting a target within 300 km of range.

PROTESTS WAGE UP IN CHINA AGAINST “ZEROCOVID POLICY”

The ongoing protests in China are taking heat against Chinese government’s zero-covid policy. According to the sources, Chinese government is forcefully ceasing people and violating the human rights by taking advantage of zero-covid policy. The protesters are showing their anger in streets of Shanghai and other prominent cities of China by holding blank papers. Slogans of “freedom” and “step down Jinping” are raising in the protests.

PAKISTAN APPOINTS ASIM MUNIR AS NEW ARMY CHIEF

Asim Munir has taken the charge of Pakistan Army by replacing Qamar Javed Bajwa, who had hold the position of two-consecutive terms. Asim Munir has earlier headed Pakistan’s spy agency ISI and Military Intelligence wing. The appointment has created a chaos between supporters of former Army chief Bajwa and his opponents since there were rumors heated up for Bajwa’s reappointment as Army Chief.

The Department of Defense of United States has announced the supply of its “air-to-air” and “airto-surface” missiles to Finland after the tension between Russia and Nordic countries arises again. The supply of “AIM 9X Block II” tactical missiles and “AGM-154” Joint Stand-Off weapons will be soon delivered to Finland as per the US sources.

JAPAN PLANNING TO

INCREASE THE DEFENCE

BUDGET BY TWO PER CENT

The Prime Minister of Japan Fumio Kishida has announced that Japan will increase its defence budget by two percent by 2027. The announcement has come after Chinese aggression in waters near Japanese territory and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The series of missile launches by North Korea has also played the key role in the decision.

UNITED KINGDOM INCREASES

MILITARY SUPPORT TO UKRAIN

United Kingdom has announced the delivery of 10,000 artillery rounds along with a search and rescue helicopter to Ukraine. The decision has come by the cabinet of newly appointed PM of United States, Rishi Sunak. As per the sources, United Kingdom is also supplying winter kits to Ukraine so that Ukrainian forces can counter Russian threats even in heavy cold.

AUSTRALIA TO GET LONG-RANGE STRIKE CAPABILITY THROUGH ACQUISITION OF US-MADE ROCKET SYSTEM HIMARS: REPORT

Australia will get unparalleled long-range strike capability with the purchase of the US-made High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) system, Australia-based broadcaster ABC News reported. The US-made HIMARS system has previously been praised in Ukraine for its effectiveness against the invading Russian forces. A deal has been finalised by the Australian

government to buy 20 of the truck-mounted rocket launchers by 2026. Another deal has also been signed to acquire the Norwegian-made Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) for Australian warships in 2024, reported ABC News.

SOUTH KOREA AIMS TO RAMP UP ARMS SALES TO UAE

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol travelled to the UAE on Sunday seeking to capitalize on new opportunities for weapons sales. Seoul is deepening its defence ties with Abu Dhabi as the Emirates pivots away from relying on Washington for military support in the wake of the botched US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Yoon arrived in Abu Dhabi for a state visit and was welcomed at the presidential palace with an honour guard and military air show. UAE President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan announced plans to invest $30 billion in South Korea, telling Yonhap News, "We decided to make the investment with confidence in the Republic of Korea that keeps its promises under all circumstances."

COLOMBIA APPROVES THE PURCHASE OF INDOISRAELI BARAK-MX AIR DEFENCE MISSILE SYSTEMS

According to media reports on January 5, 2023, Colombia approved the purchase of the Israelimade Barak-MX air defence missile system produced by IAI (Israel Aerospace Industries) for an amount of $131.2 million. Barak-MX is a derivative of the Barak-8 surface-to-air missile (SAM) system, designed to defend against any type of airborne threat including aircraft, helicopters, antiship missiles, and UAVs as well as ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and combat jets. Both maritime and land-based variants of the system exist.

India participating in international and bilateral military exercises

INDIA-FRANCE ‘VARUNA’ 2023

The 21st Edition of the Bilateral Naval Exercise between India and France Ex Varuna took place on the Western Seaboard. While the bilateral exercise between the two navies were initiated in 1993, it was christened as ‘VARUNA’ in 2001 and has become a hallmark of India – France strategic bilateral relationship. This edition witnessed participation of indigenous guided missile stealth destroyer INS Chennai, guided missile frigate INS Teg, maritime patrol aircraft P-8I and Dornier, integral helicopters and MiG29K fighter aircraft. The French Navy be represented by the aircraft carrier Charles De Gaulle, frigates FS Forbin and Provence, support vessel FS Marne and maritime patrol aircraft Atlantique. The exercise was conducted over five days from 16 to 20 January 2023 and witnessed advanced air defence exercises, tactical manoeuvres, surface firings, underway replenishment and other maritime operations.

The exercise facilitates operational level interaction between the two navies to foster mutual cooperation for good order at sea, underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to security, safety and freedom of the global maritime commons. France maintains a permanent presence in Indian Ocean Region and is major strategic partner of India across a wide number of issues.

INDO-EGYPT JOINT TRAINING EXERCISE CYCLONE I

The first ever joint exercise between the special forces of the Indian Army and the Egyptian Army named “Exercise Cyclone-I” took place at Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. The exercise aimed to bolster defence co-operation between the two nations and focus on sharing professional skills and interoperability of Special Forces in desert terrain while undertaking counter terrorism, reconnaissance, raids and other special operations.

Exercise “Cyclone - I” is the first exercise of its kind bringing the special forces of both the nations on a common platform. The 14 days long exercise carried out in the deserts of Rajasthan engaged both the contingents to advance special forces skills such as Sniping, Combat Free Fall, Reconnaissance, Surveillance & Target Designation, sharing of information on weapons, equipment, innovations, tactics, techniques & procedures. The participants also undertook joint planning and drills for Special Forces operations in a mechanised warfare setting as well as surgical strikes on terrorist camps / hideouts to include sniping of High Value Targets.

144 soldiers from Egypt also marched down the Kartavya Path on Republic Day while Egyptian President Abdel AL-Sisi was the chief guest on the occasion. Egypt has shown interest in procuring Indian weapon systems.

TRI SERVICES AMPHIBIOUS JOINT EXERCISE AMPHEX 2023

The biennial Tri-Services Amphibious Exercise, AMPHEX 2023 was conducted at Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh from 17 to 22 January 23. AMPHEX is aimed at joint training of elements of all three services in various facets of amphibious operations to enhance interoperability and synergy.

AMPHEX 23 is the first time that the exercise was undertaken at Kakinada, and was the largest ever AMPHEX conducted till date. The participating forces undertook complex exercises in all domains of amphibious operations over five days. The exercise culminated in a successful Amphibious Assault which was reviewed by Vice Adm Sanjay Vatsayan, AVSM, NM, Chief of Staff, Eastern Naval Command, in the presence of Force Commanders of the Indian Navy and Indian Army.

The exercise witnessed the participation of a number of amphibious ships consisting of Large Platform Dock (LPD), Landing Ships and Landing Crafts, Marine Commandos (MARCOS), helicopters and aircraft from the Indian Navy. Indian Army participated in the exercise with over 900 troops which included Special Forces, Artillery and Armoured vehicles. Jaguar fighters and C 130 aircraft from the IAF also participated in the exercise.

INDIA-JAPAN EXERCISE VEER GUARDIAN 2023

The inaugural edition of the bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian 2023' between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) concluded in Japan, on 26 January 2023. The JASDF participated in the exercise with its F-2 and F-15 aircraft, while the IAF contingent participated with the Su-30 MKI aircraft. The IAF fighter contingent was complemented by one IL-78MKI Flight Refueling Aircraft and two C-17 Globemaster strategic airlift transport aircraft.

During the joint training spanning 16 days, the two Air Forces engaged in complex and comprehensive aerial manoeuvres in multiple simulated operational scenarios. The exercise involved precise planning and skillful execution by both the air forces. IAF and JASDF engaged in air combat manoeuvring, interception and air defence missions, both in Visual and Beyond Visual Range settings. Aircrew of the two participating Air Forces also flew in each other's fighter aircraft to gain a deeper understanding of each other's operating philosophies.