Fincantieri REPMUS 2024: Portugal: Fincantieri, a global leader in shipbuilding, is once again participating in the REPMUS 2024 military exercise, showcasing its advanced unmanned systems technology. The company is collaborating with the Italian Navy, Graal Tech, and WSense to test cutting-edge solutions in a realistic maritime environment.
Leonardo acquires majority stake in GEM Electtronica: Rome, Italy – Global aerospace, defense, and security company Leonardo has finalized its acquisition of a controlling stake in GEM Elettronica, a leading Italian developer and manufacturer of navigation systems, situational awareness, radar sensors, optronic, and inertial sensors for military naval and coastal surveillance applications. The acquisition, valued at approximately €16 million, increases Leonardo’s ownership in GEM Elettronica from 30% to 65%. This strategic move aligns with Leonardo’s Industrial Plan, which prioritizes bolt-on acquisitions in key areas to strengthen its market position.
Russia’s Lancet-E Loitering Munition: Baku, Azerbaijan – ROSOBORONEXPORT, a subsidiary of Rostec State Corporation, is making a significant debut at the ADEX 2024 International Defence Industry Exhibition. The company is showcasing a wide range of Russian defense products, including the Lancet-E loitering munition system, a weapon that has seen extensive use on the battlefield. “Russia…
Airbus-Tata Strive Skill Training Centre: New Delhi, India – Airbus, a global leader in the aerospace industry, and Tata STRIVE, a renowned skill development initiative, have announced the opening of two new skill training centers in Delhi and Bengaluru. These centers will provide underprivileged youth with the opportunity to acquire valuable skills in aviation and…
Bristol, UK – Rheinmetall Defence UK, a leading provider of defense equipment and services, has formally pledged its support to the UK Armed Forces by signing the Armed Forces Covenant. This commitment underscores the company’s dedication to recognizing and honoring those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, as well as their families.
GRSE bags major MPV order from German company: Kolkata, India – Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), a state owned Indian shipyard, has secured a significant follow-up order from a German company for the construction of four additional Multipurpose Vessels (MPVs). This news comes after GRSE successfully secured an initial contract for four MPVs in June 2024.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – A high-ranking delegation from the Brazilian Air Force recently visited the headquarters of EDGE, a leading global advanced technology and defense company, in Abu Dhabi. The visit aimed to strengthen cooperation between the two countries and showcase EDGE’s innovative capabilities.
INS Arighat joins Indian Navy: Visakhapatnam, India – In a significant boost to India’s nuclear deterrence capabilities, the second Arihant-class submarine, INS Arighaat, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on August 29. The ceremony was graced by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, who lauded the achievement as a testament to the government’s commitment to self-reliance in…
Tank Swap: Rheinmetall to supply Leopart MBTs to Czech Army to support Ukraine: Prague, Czech Republic – German defense contractor Rheinmetall has secured a new contract to supply main battle tanks and armored recovery vehicles to the Czech Republic as part of a broader effort to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia. The deal, valued at over €100 million, was signed in late July and marks the second such agreement between the two countries since October 2022.
DRDO tests Phase 2 of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence System: New Delhi, July 24: In a significant boost to its national security against long range ballistic missiles, India Wednesday successfully conducted the Phase II test of its indigenously developed Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) defence system. The trial, conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Odisha’s Chandipur, marks a crucial milestone in India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.
Rheinmetall Ammunition Factory Ukraine: Rheinmetall will be responsible for the complete technical outfitting of the factory, including its commissioning. The company aims to begin construction shortly and anticipates completion within several years. Ammunition production is slated to commence within 24 months.
Global Combat Air Programme: Italy, UK and Japan, the partner nations of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Monday unveiled new fighter jet concept at Farnborough International Airshow. This marks the first time the three nations have exhibited together, showcasing the substantial progress made towards delivering this cutting-edge fighter jet. The new concept model, on display at Farnborough International Airshow, represents a significant evolution from previous designs. Featuring a notably larger wingspan, the aircraft is optimized for improved aerodynamics, a crucial factor in modern aerial combat.
Leonardo M-346 trainer aircraft: Aerospace and defense giant Leonardo has announced a significant upgrade to its M-346 integrated training system, designed to meet the evolving demands of modern warfare. The announcement, made at the Farnborough International Air Show, outlines a comprehensive package of enhancements to the aircraft’s avionics, navigation, mission equipment, and ground training capabilities.
IAI’s REX MK-II Robot in European Land Robot Trial: Berlin, Germany – A joint venture between Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Germany’s FFG has secured the top prize for the best scientific solution at the European Land Robot Trial (ELROB). The companies’ REX MK II unmanned land vehicle impressed judges with its off-road autonomous capabilities in challenging environments.
Leonardo RINA’s anti-corruption certification: Rome, Italy (July 19, 2024) – Leonardo, a global player in aerospace, defense and security technologies, has solidified its position as a leader in the fight against corruption. The company successfully renewed its Anti-Corruption System Certification, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to preventing bribery and upholding the highest ethical standards.
Fincantieri-Hera Group partnership for sustainable shipbuilding: Monfalcone, Italy (July 19, 2024) – Shipbuilding giant Fincantieri and Italian environmental leader Hera Group have announced a partnership to tackle waste management and promote sustainability in Fincantieri’s shipyards across Italy. This collaboration will see the creation of a new joint venture company specifically designed to handle the nearly 100,000 tons of industrial waste produced annually by Fincantieri. The key objective? Reduce waste generation and maximize recovery through the principles of a circular economy.
Pratt & Whitney Service Center Bengaluru: Bengaluru, India – July 17, 2024 – Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of Raytheon Technologies Corporation (RTX), announced the opening of a new Customer Service Center in Bengaluru, India. The center will be part of Pratt & Whitney’s existing India Capability Center and will focus on providing customer service and operational support for Pratt & Whitney Canada’s 68,000 engines worldwide.
Düsseldorf, Germany – July 17, 2024. German defense company Rheinmetall signed a framework agreement with the Bundeswehr, the German Armed Forces, to deliver 70mm practice rockets for their combat helicopters. The total order value is expected to exceed €100 million.
Zen Technologies 4 AI based defence solutions: Pune, India – July 15, 2024 Zen Technologies Limited, a leading Indian defense contractor, witnessed a significant surge in its stock price today following the unveiling of four innovative defense products. The company’s share price reached the upper circuit, a maximum permissible increase in a single trading day, reflecting investor confidence in Zen Technologies’ future prospects.
S&P Global Ratings upgrades Rafael Advanced Defense Systems credit rating: Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. (Rafael) announced a credit rating upgrade to ‘A’ from S&P Global Ratings, with a stable outlook. This upgrade reflects Rafael’s robust financial health, growing order backlog, and leading position in the defense industry.
Indian Air Force Exercise Pitch Black 2024: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed a contingent to Darwin, Australia, to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2024, the largest iteration of the multinational drill in its 43-year history. The biennial exercise, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), will be held from July 12 to August 2 and will see the participation of 20 countries, over 140 aircraft, and 4,400 military personnel.
DRDO awards 7 new projects to Indian startups: India’s Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has awarded seven new defence projects to private Indian companies, with a particular focus on nurturing micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and startups. These projects have been awarded to Indian defence startups spread across the country, from Delhi-NCR to Maharashtra to southern state of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These startups are active in defence engineering and innovation and the seven projects have been awarded by the DRDO under the Defence Ministry’s Technology Development Fund (TDF).
Agniveer Scheme Reservation, Age Relaxation in Paramilitary: In a significant relief for Agniveers of Indian military, the chiefs of India’s three large central paramilitary forces – the CISF, BSF and CRPF on Thursday said that 10 per cent posts of soldiers will be reserved for Agniveers in line with a decision by the Union home ministry.
Saudi Arabia Airbus 1330 MRTT: Getafe, Spain – July 11, 2024- The Royal Saudi Arabia Air Force (RSAF) has significantly bolstered its aerial refueling and transport capabilities by ordering four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. This marks the third contract between Airbus and Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, solidifying the RSAF’s position as a leading operator of this versatile aircraft globally.
Hanwha Aerospace Romania K9-self-propelled howitzers: Hanwha Aerospace, a South Korean defense contractor, has secured a $1 billion contract to provide Romania with K9 self-propelled howitzers and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles. The deal, signed on July 9th, also includes ammunition and various support vehicles. This agreement marks Romania as the 10th member of the K9 user club, solidifying the K9’s position as a dominant force in the global self-propelled howitzer market with over 50% market share.
Diehl Defence BAAINBw Ammunition Order: Coblenz, Germany – July 11, 2024: Diehl Defence, a leading German defence contractor, has secured a landmark agreement with the German Armed Forces for the production and delivery of 155mm artillery projectiles. This marks the largest ever ammunition order for Diehl Defence, solidifying their position as a key supplier for the German military and its allies.
Zorawar Light Tank: In a significant development for its domestic defense industry, India recently unveiled its new light tank, the Zorawar, at Larsen & Toubro’s (L&T) heavy engineering plant in Hazira, Gujarat. Named after the 19th-century Dogra general Zorawar Singh, who led successful military campaigns in Ladakh and Western Tibet, the Zorawar is designed specifically…
Ministry of Defence Technology Development Fund: India’s Ministry of Defence’s Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme has already sanctioned a total of 77 projects with a combined value exceeding Rs 300 crore. These projects have successfully yielded 27 new defence technologies, said the government on Wednesday.
Rheinmetall-Leonardo Battle Tank Cooperation: Rome/Düsseldorf, July 3, 2024 – In a move that significantly bolsters European defense capabilities, Italian defense giant Leonardo and German counterpart Rheinmetall Wednesday announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a 50-50 joint venture. This venture will spearhead the development of cutting-edge land defense systems, with a focus on the Italian Army’s needs and ambitions for international export.
Dassault Avisation SA MRO facility India: French aviation giant Dassault Aviation is setting up a foothold in India with plans for a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility near Jewar International Airport near national capital Delhi. This move paves the way for potential local manufacturing of the latest Rafale fighter jets, fulfilling India’s long-standing requirement for new warplanes.
Indian Air Force’s Weapon Systems School, Hyderabad: The Indian Air Force (IAF) marked a significant milestone on July 1, 2024, with the inauguration of the Weapon Systems School (WSS) at Air Force Station Begumpet, Hyderabad. Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari led the ceremony.
Rheinmetall wins record order for military trucks: German defense company Rheinmetall signed a landmark contract with the Bundeswehr (German armed forces) for the delivery of up to 6,500 military trucks, valued at €3.5 billion (including VAT). This marks the largest order in Rheinmetall’s history for logistic vehicles. The agreement comes after the German Parliament approved funding in June 2024. The initial call-off includes over 610 vehicles worth €312 million, with 250 scheduled for delivery this year. Financing for this initial portion comes primarily from the Bundeswehr’s special funds.
General Upendra Dwivedi takes charge: The new Chief of the Army Staff, Gen Upendra Dwivedi, has operational experience along the frontiers with China and Pakistan. He has also served as Vice Chief of the Army and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command. General Dwivedi, who has vast operational experience along the frontiers with China and Pakistan, was serving as the Vice Chief of the Army.
SpacePixxel gets contract for IAF’s miniaturized satellites: India’s ministry of defence Tuesday signed a contract with SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd. for the design and development of a miniaturized satellite capable of carrying multiple advanced payloads weighing up to 150 kilograms. This project is specifically led by the Indian Air Force, highlighting the importance of this technology for national defence.
Bundeswehr awards record €8.5 billion ammunition order to Rheinmetall: In a landmark deal, German defense company Rheinmetall has secured the largest order in its history – a $9.6 billon (€8.5 billion) framework contract to supply the Bundeswehr (German Armed Forces) with 155mm artillery ammunition. Signed on June 20th, 2024, the agreement significantly expands upon an existing framework and aims to replenish ammunition stocks for Germany, its allies, and Ukraine’s ongoing defense efforts.
HAL to supply 156 LCH Prachand Combat Helicopters: India’s quest for self-reliance in defense manufacturing takes a significant leap forward with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) issuing a Request for Proposal (RFP) to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for a staggering 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) christened “Prachand.” This large-scale order marks the culmination of a long-standing program aimed at developing a potent attack helicopter specifically designed for the nation’s demanding high-altitude borders.
Rheinmetall-Anduril to build Europe’s most advanced C-UAS: In a move to combat the growing threat of drone warfare, German defense company Rheinmetall and American defense technology firm Anduril Industries announced a partnership at the Eurosatory trade show. Their goal: to develop the most sophisticated Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-sUAS) defense system specifically for European militaries.
EEL’s Nagastra Loitering Munitions: In a significant step towards self-reliance in defense technology, the Indian Army recently received its first batch of Nagastra loitering munitions. This delivery marks a crucial milestone in the nation’s efforts to equip its armed forces with cutting-edge, domestically produced weaponry. The Nagastra, developed by Solar Industries’ subsidiary Economics Explosives Limited (EEL), is a testament to India’s growing prowess in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This loitering munition, also known as a “suicide drone,” offers a potent offensive capability for the Indian Army, particularly in high-altitude border regions.
Kelly Horan Succeeds Kim Kinsley at IAE International Aero Engines: EAST HARTFORD, Conn. (June 13, 2024) – IAE International Aero Engines AG (IAE), a multinational consortium comprised of shareholders including RTX’s Pratt & Whitney, Pratt & Whitney Aero Engines International GmbH, Japanese Aero Engines Corporation, and MTU Aero Engines AG, has announced the appointment of Kelly Horan as its new president. Horan succeeds Kim Kinsley, who held the position since June 2023.
Adani-EDGE sign landmark defence cooperation agreement: Abu Dhabi, UAE / Ahmedabad, India – In a move that promises to reshape the landscape of defense technology, India’s Adani Group and UAE’s EDGE Group signed a landmark cooperation agreement on June 11, 2024. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both companies and the defense industries of India and the UAE.
Video: This collaboration will leverage the strengths of both companies, combining India’s Adani Group’s growing defense capabilities with the UAE’s EDGE Group’s established expertise. The joint venture will focus on various areas including missiles, weapons systems, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and electronic warfare technologies.
ARLINGTON, VA (June 10, 2024) – In a move to bolster its capabilities, the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) has awarded a $73.5 million contract to UVision Inc. and Mistral Inc. for the procurement of Hero-120SF Loitering Munitions. The contract encompasses not just the munitions themselves, but also spare parts, engineering modifications, training for new equipment, and the conversion process to integrate these loitering munitions into medium-range precision strike systems.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – EDGE Group, a leading global player in advanced technology and defence solutions, is set to make a remarkable first appearance at Eurosatory 2024, the world’s largest land and air defence exhibition. Taking place in Paris, France from June 17th to 21st, 2024, EDGE will showcase its extensive portfolio alongside eight of its subsidiary companies.
Zen ADS HK anti-drone system: New Delhi, India – June 8, 2024 – Zen Technologies, a leading Indian defense and training solutions provider, has successfully delivered its next-generation anti-drone system, Zen ADS HK, to the Army Air Defence College in Gopalpur, Odisha. This marks a significant advancement in India’s ability to counter aerial threats posed by drones.
GRSE wins Advanced Dredger order from Bangladesh: India’s leading public sector defence shipyard, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, has secured a $16.6 Million Contract for Advanced Dredger from Bangladesh. The advanced dredgeder to be built by the GRSE will be supplied to the Bangladesh Inland Waterways Transport Authority (BIWTA). The contract, signed on June 2nd in Dhaka, Bangladesh, marks another milestone for GRSE’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and delivering high-quality maritime solutions.
Bremen, Germany – June 6, 2024 – Rheinmetall Aviation Services GmbH (RAS) and Science and Engineering Services LLC (SES) have joined forces to provide comprehensive maintenance, repair, and modification services for military helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft across Europe. This new alliance will offer a wide range of solutions, from routine maintenance to complex modifications.
Iron Fist APS for US Army’s Bradley IFVs: Haifa, Israel – May 5, 2024 – In a move that significantly bolsters the defensive capabilities of the U.S. Army’s Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs), Elbit Systems Ltd. (ESLT) has secured a $37 million contract to supply its Iron Fist Active Protection Systems (APS). The 24-month contract involves furnishing General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems (GD-OTS) with the Iron Fist APS, integrating this next-generation technology into the M2A4E1 variant of the Bradley IFV.
India DRDO’s Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART): The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested a new missile system designed to revolutionize the Indian Navy’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities. The Supersonic Missile-Assisted Release of Torpedo (SMART) system was launched from a ground-based mobile launcher off the coast of Odisha on Wednesday (May 1, 2024).
Indian Navy Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan: Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, a distinguished officer with over 35 years of experience, officially assumed the position of Vice Chief of Naval Staff on Wednesday (May 1, 2024). A specialist in Communication and Electronic Warfare, Admiral Swaminathan has a decorated career marked by numerous leadership roles and prestigious awards, said the MoD.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor assumed the appointment of Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Training Command (TC) of the world’s fourth largest air force, the Indian Air Force, on Wednesday (01 May 2024). Air Marshal N Kapoor was commissioned into the Fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on 06 December 1986. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College and National Defence College. A Qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader, he has more than 3400 hours of flying experience.
Elbit Systems’ Red Sky Air Defense System: Elbit Systems, a leading Israeli defense technology company, has been awarded a $50 million contract for its innovative air defense system, “Red Sky.” This Tactical Very Short-range Air Defense (VSHORAD) system is designed to specifically counter low-altitude aerial threats, offering a comprehensive solution for border and strategic asset defense. The Red Sky system incorporates both electronic warfare (EW) and hard-kill defense capabilities, providing a multi-layered approach to aerial threat neutralization.
US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) project: The future of air combat took a significant step forward with the US Air Force’s selection of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) and Anduril to develop and manufacture Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) prototypes. This program aims to revolutionize aerial warfare by deploying fleets of low-cost, modular, and highly autonomous unmanned aircraft alongside manned fighter jets.
Anduril Industries USAF’s CCA Programme: The US Air Force (USAF) has taken a bold step towards the future of aerial combat with the selection of Anduril, a non-traditional defense company, to participate in the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. Announced on April 24, 2024, this selection marks a significant shift in the defense industry landscape and opens doors for innovative approaches to unmanned aerial systems (UAS).
GA-ASI selected for USAF’s CCA programme: San Diego, CA – April 24, 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) has been awarded a contract by the U.S. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) to build production representative flight test articles for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. This decision comes after a successful initial six-month phase that culminated in a positive preliminary design review (PDR) of GA-ASI’s CCA concept earlier this year.
Abu Dhabi, UAE – April 25, 2024 – Saab, a Swedish defense and security company, has delivered its fourth GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks the completion of the fourth aircraft out of a total order of five within just four years. The handover ceremony took place on April 18, 2024, at Al Dhafra Air Base in Abu Dhabi. This latest addition strengthens the UAE Air Force’s aerial surveillance capabilities.
Changwon, South Korea – April 26, 2024 – Hanwha Aerospace, a leading South Korean defense company, has further solidified its partnership with Poland by signing a second executive contract worth $1.6 billion. This agreement marks a significant step towards strengthening Poland’s national security and highlights Hanwha’s growing role in the global defense market.
The HUGIN Endurance enters the market at a time when unmanned undersea vehicles are playing an increasingly vital role in oceanographic research, defense applications, and commercial operations. Compared to other AUVs, the HUGIN Endurance boasts unmatched range and endurance. With a full battery pack, it can operate for up to 15 days at sea, traveling an impressive 2,200 kilometers (1,200 nautical miles). This extended reach allows for comprehensive exploration of vast underwater areas, previously unimaginable with traditional AUVs.
Rheinmetall German Military’s Tactical Communication System Contract: In a significant win for the German defense company Rheinmetall, a leading manufacturer of military equipment, the company has secured a framework contract with the Bundeswehr, the German Armed Forces, valued at around €400 million (US$446 million). This contract marks a major step forward in modernizing the Bundeswehr’s tactical communication capabilities.
Stockholm, Sweden – April 24, 2024 – Saab, a leading defense and security company, announced today that they have received a SEK 540 million order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to support the ongoing development of the Gripen fighter jet. This new contract signifies Sweden’s commitment to maintaining the Gripen’s position as a powerful and adaptable aircraft.
San Diego, CA – April 23, 2024 – General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) successfully completed a live-fire demonstration of its Mojave Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) in the Yuma Desert on April 13th. This impressive feat not only validates the Mojave’s capabilities on the battlefield but also marks a significant milestone for the innovative drone.
Embraer Q1 2024 Financial Results: Embraer delivered a total of 25 jets in Q1 2024, a remarkable 67% jump compared to the 15 aircraft delivered in the same period last year. This marks the highest number of deliveries for the first quarter in the past eight years. The growth was driven by a surge in Executive Aviation deliveries, which more than doubled year-over-year, reaching 18 jets from just 8 in Q1 2023. Commercial Aviation deliveries remained flat year-over-year at 7 aircraft.
Nirbhay Cruise Missile with Indian Engine: India successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Nirbhay cruise missile on Thursday, marking a significant step towards bolstering its long-range precision strike capabilities. Launched from Chandipur in Odisha, the Nirbhay missile boasts a range of 1,000 kilometers and is designed for conventional (non-nuclear) attacks. This time Nirbhay missile has been tested with an indigenous engine, reducing the country’s reliance on foreign vendors and partners.
Operation Meghdoot and Indian Air Force: Operation Meghdoot, launched in 1984, stands as a testament to the remarkable collaboration between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF) in securing the strategically vital Siachen Glacier. This unforgiving terrain, known as the world’s highest battlefield, has witnessed decades of unwavering commitment from the IAF in ensuring India’s dominance in the region.
LCA Tejas Mk1A contract: India is in the process of acquiring 97 domestically produced fighter jets, known as Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A (LCA Mk-1A), to strengthen the Indian Air Force (IAF) amid a shortage of fighter squadrons. The new fighter jets are estimated to cost around $9.2 billion (₹67,000 crore).
Indian Navy Fleet Support Ships: The Indian Navy is poised for a significant boost in its operational capabilities with the commencement of construction on a new fleet of Fleet Support Ships (FSS). A ceremony held on April 10, 2024, at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam marked the official steel cutting of the first vessel, signifying the beginning of this crucial project.
Maiden flight of Tejas Mk1A: India Thursday conducted successful maiden flight of an upgraded version of indigenous fighter jet LCA Tejas Mk1A. On March 28, an upgraded variant of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1, took to the skies for its maiden flight from the state owned aircraft manufacturer HAL’s facility in Bengaluru in Southern India. This successful 18-minute sortie marked a significant leap forward in the country’s quest for self-reliance in fighter jet production.
IIT Jodhpur’s drone for air, water and land use: Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Jodhpur have unveiled a groundbreaking innovation – a 3D-printed hybrid unmanned aerial-underwater vehicle (UAV). This versatile drone can transition seamlessly between land, air, and water, making it ideal for various applications.
Mission Divyastra – India’s Agni 5 ICBM with MIRV Technology: Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi Monday (March 11) announced successful test-firing of India’s Agni-5 missile with advanced MIRV technology which makes India’s nuclear deterrence more potent as it is difficult for an adversary to intercept multiple warheads. With successful test-firing of Agni-5 missile with MIRV capability, India’s strategic missile program took a significant step forward with Multiple Independently Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. This marked a crucial advancement in India’s indigenous missile development and deterrence capabilities.
CCS nod for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): India’s Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), the apex decision making body of the Union Government, gave the green light to the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project on March 7, 2024. This project, estimated at around $1.8 billion (Rs 15,000 crore), aims to design and develop a fifth-generation stealth fighter jet.
Rheinmetall Mission Master SP Unmanned Ground Vehicle: American Rheinmetall Vehicles, in collaboration with Rheinmetall Canada, has successfully conducted a live-fire capability demonstration for the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) at Fort Clinton, Ohio. The demonstration showcased the unique capabilities of the Rheinmetall Mission Master SP autonomous, unmanned ground vehicle (A-UGV) paired with the Fieldranger Remotely Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS).
Saab’s defence factory in Jhajjar, Haryana: Saab, a Swedish aerospace and defense company, has been a trusted supplier for India’s defence and security forces for over four decades. In a significant move, Saab, after receiving approval for 100% foreign direct investment, has established a new company, Saab FFVO India Pvt Ltd. This company will fully own a new manufacturing facility and produce the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon.
Self-reliance in defence: In a significant boost to the local defence and aerospace companies under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Make in India initiative, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed five major capital acquisition contracts worth $469.5 million on Friday (March 1, 2024) in New Delhi. The contracts were exchanged in the presence of defence minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane.
Adani Group’s missile-ammunition factory Kanpur: The Adani Group, a prominent infrastructure conglomerate in India, Monday inaugurated a state-of-the-art integrated missile and ammunition manufacturing complex in the northern state of Uttar Pradesh. The opening of this facility coincided with the fifth anniversary of the Balakot air strike, a significant event when the Indian Air Force targeted terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan. Adani Defence and Aerospace said that the facility consists of two mega facilities dedicated to the production of ammunition and missiles in Kanpur.
Indigenous Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control System for Tejas: In a major step towards achieving self-reliance in defence sector, Indian scientists and engineers have successfully integrated indigenously developed Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) in prototype LSP7 on Monday (February 19, 2024). The digital fly-by-wire flight control computer has been indigenously developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE), Bengaluru for the Tejas Mark-1A fighter jet.
US-India MQ-9B Drone Deal: The US State Department expressed optimism about the proposed drone deal with India, emphasising its ‘significant potential’ to advance strategic technology cooperation. The deal was announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit last year, marking substantial growth in the US-India defence partnership over the past decade.
Saab-MBDA join hands for anti-tank, air defence weapons: Two leading major European powers France and Sweden have decided to strengthen their defence co-operation under a new strategic partnership signed on 30 January as part of French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Sweden. According to a press statement issued by Swedish defence company Saab, Anti-tank and air defence have been identified as priority areas for co-operation.
JSW Defence and Aerospace: India’s steel maker giant JSW Group has entered into the country’s growing defence manufacturing space which has seen a large number of lucrative defence contracts awarded to private and state owned defence companies since the launch of ambitious self-reliant India programme (Atm Nirbhar Bharat) initiated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government in 2020 to reduce the country’s dependence on imports in critical sector, including defence sector.
German Military’s Air Defence System for Short and Very Short-Range (LVS NNbS): Germany’s military procurement agency, the Federal Office for Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support (BAAINBw), Thursday signed a development contract with the Short- and Very Short-Range Air Defence System Consortium (ARGE NNbS) for the “Air Defence System, Short- and Very Short-Range”, or LVS NNbS.
Boxer Infantry Fighting Vehicle begins user trials for UK Army: Boxer Infantry Vehicle produced by German defence company Rheinmetall has started customer verification and validation trials for the UK Army’s Mechanised Infantry Vehicle (MIV) programme. These trials are taking place at Millbrook Proving Ground at Bedford in United Kingdom. These trials will qualify the design against the MIV technical requirements, demonstrating the Boxer vehicle’s capability and performance for the British Army, said the company.
Israel’s Spyder Air Defence System: Israel’s leading defence company Rafael and Israel’s ministry of defence (IMOD), and the Directorate of Defense Research and Development (DDR&D) have successfully tested advanced Spyder Air Defense System in its latest All-In-One Configuration, said the Israeli defence company.
Germany’s Panther KF51 MBT: The Hungarian government has joined forces with Rheinmetall to develop the Panther KF51 through to production maturity. A contract to this effect has now been signed in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary. The development contract is worth around €288 million. A demonstrator vehicle will be constructed and qualified, paving the way to full-scale production, said the German defence giant on Friday.
DRDO Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator: India’s apex defence research body, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) Friday successfully conducted the flight trial of the Autonomous Flying Wing Technology Demonstrator, an indigenously designed and developed flying wing UAV, at the Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Chitradurga district in southern state Karnataka.
India Defence News: India’s apex defence procurement body, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) Thursday cleared the procurement of indigenously designed and developed 97 Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk 1A and 156 Light Combat Helicopters from state owned aircraft and helicopter manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The approvals also involve other major defence procurements and upgrades entailing an expenditure of around $27 billion (Rs 2.23 lakh crore).
India NPCIL Nuclear Power Plant: India’s nuclear power operator NPCIL on Friday said it has started loading fuel in the second indigenously-built 700 MW atomic power station at Kakrapar in Gujarat. “Loading of nuclear fuel for the first time, termed as Initial Fuel Loading (IFL). commenced today in NPCIL’s Kakrapar Atomic Power Project Unit-4 (KAPP 4-700 MWe), after receipt of permission from the regulatory authority, Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB),” the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) said in a statement.
India-US 2+2 meeting: Amid the ongoing global turbulence, India and the US are scheduled to hold the 2+2 meeting in New Delhi around November 9-10. The US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital, officials told media.
Skyroot Aerospace MoU with French firms for Vikram Mission: Two French companies on Tuesday inked pacts with India’s space start-up Skyroot Aerospace to launch their constellation of satellites onboard its indigenously-developed Vikram-I rocket early next year. France-based Promethee Earth Intelligence signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Skyroot for satellite launch services onboard Vikram rockets for the Japetus earth observation constellation, a Skyroot statement said.
The Indian Air Force, the fourth largest air force in the world, is today (October 8, 2023) celebrating its 91st raising day. The IAF was established on October 8, 1932 during the British period. IAF is the first responder in case of several crises and projects the country’s military might beyond its borders. Here is a small video presentation.
IAF gets first twin-seater version of LCA Tejas: In a momentous event for India’s aviation history, the Indian Air Force (IAF) received its first Tejas twin-seater trainer version aircraft on Wednesday (October 4). This significant milestone marks the handover of the first Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) twin-seater trainer version aircraft to the IAF by India’s state owned aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Designed with the strategic intent of transitioning budding pilots into fighter pilots, the LCA Tejas Twin Seater is a remarkable achievement. This delivery is part of the Tejas contract between HAL and the IAF, with a requirement for eight twin-seater trainer aircraft.
NASA’s X-66A Sustainable Flight Demonstrator Project: In a groundbreaking partnership, the US defence and aerospace company RTX has been selected by Boeing to collaborate on the X-66A flight demonstrator as part of NASA’s Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project. This initiative is dedicated to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions for commercial aviation. With the support of RTX business units Pratt & Whitney and Collins Aerospace, Boeing aims to develop the next-generation single-aisle aircraft with improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
India Air Force and Army seek over 150 Prachand attack helicopters: Indian military, which faces the difficult prospect of tackling a two front simultaneous war with both China and Pakistan has pitched for purchase of hundreds of locally designed and developed attack helicopters known as Prachand (Fierce in English).
Indian Air Force C-295 MW Aicraft: India’s defence minister Rajnath Singh Monday formally inducted a new medium transport aircraft manufactured by the European defence company Airbus Defence and Space into the service of Indian Air Force. This is first of the 56 Airbus C-295 MW aircraft on order by India. While 16 aircraft will be delivered to India in the flyaway condition, a joint consortium of Airbus and India’s Tata Group will manufacture remaining 40 C-295 MW aircraft in Vadodara in western state of Gujarat.
GDELS-Rheinmetall Anaconda tactical bridge: General Dynamics European Land Systems – Bridge Systems and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles have presented for the first time the ANACONDA tactical bridge-laying system mounted on a high-mobility 8×8 HX2 carrier vehicle at the 5th User Forum Armament and Utilization – RÜ.NET 2023 conference held on August 30 – 31 in Koblenz. The bridge, the laying mechanism and vehicle together provide a dry-gap bridge capability for medium- and heavyweight forces, said the company.
Rheinmetall will supply smart sea mines to Australian Navy: Australian government has ordered a significant quantity of smart sea mines produced by German defence company Rheinmetall’s wholly owned Italian subsidiary RWM Istalia SPA. According to Rheinmetall, the order is worth a figure of low three-digit million-euro range with potential growth in the coming years.
Australia orders Rafael’s Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles: Australia has finalized a finalised a substantial acquisition contract with Israel’s Rafael’s Australian subsidiary Rafael Australia for supply of the Rafael’s Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles to Australian Defence Forces (ADF) under the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) systems programme, Rafael Australia said on Tuesday.
Elbit Systems’ ReDrone Counter-UAS: Israel’s leading defence company Elbit Systems Limited Monday (August 21) said that it has won a contract worth approximately $55 million to supply multi-layered ReDrone Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) to the Netherlands. The contract will be performed over a period of four years. As part of the contract, Elbit Systems will supply several mobile, stationary and deployed configurations of the ReDrone integrated Counter-UAS solution along with a logistic support package and training.
Rheinmetall’s Lynx IFV plant in Hungary: German defence company Rheinmetall officially opened its new factory in Zalaegerszeg in Hungary on Friday (August 18). The new plant marks a major milestone for Rheinmetall and underscores the Group’s commitment to the country. Rheinmetall said this cutting-edge facility will produce the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle, the world’s most advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV).
Hanwha Defence selected for Australian Army’s Land 400 project: Israeli defence company Elbit Systems Wednesday (August 16) announced that its partner in the Australian Land 400 Phase 3 project, Hanwha Defense Australia has been downselected by the Australian Government, as the preferred tenderer for the project, with final Government approval to be sought at the conclusion of contract negotiations. Hanwha further reported that Elbit Systems is a key partner to Hanwa to deliver the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) under the Australian Army’s Land 400 Phase 3 Project.
Rafael wins maintenance contract from Asian Navy: Israeli defence company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. is announcing that it has won a new contract with an Asian nation to provide comprehensive maintenance support services for operational systems employed by its navy, the company announced on Wednesday (August 9). The multi-year agreement is estimated at 100 million Shekels (30 million dollars) and will include maintenance services for the navy’s TYPHOON and MINI-TYPHOON remotely-controlled naval weapon stations, Naval SPIKE ER and NLOS missile systems, EO surveillance systems, as well as EW Integrated Decoy Systems (IDS).
The ISO Bill 2023 for Theatre Commands: The lower house of Indian Parliament, the Lok Sabha, Friday cleared the Inter-Services Organisation (Command, Control and Discipline) Bill, 2023 that seeks to empower the Commander-in-Chief and Officer-in Command of Inter-Services Organisations with all disciplinary and administrative powers with respect to personnel serving in or attached to such organisations, a Defence Ministry statement said. Once passed by the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s bicameral Parliament, the law will pave the way for providing rules and regulation for Indian military’s theaterization.
India’s first military drone testing centre in Tamil Nadu: India’s ministry of defence has the country’s first ever testing centre for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAVs) under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) will be established on five acres of land at Vallam Vadagal in Kancheepuram district in southern state of Tamil Nadu. The Rs 50 crore ($6 million) facility was granted approval by the Ministry of Defence after a bid was submitted by Keltron-led consortium in collaboration with Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO).
