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New Delhi Set to Host Landmark INDUS-X Summit on Defence Innovation

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New Delhi is gearing up to host the highly anticipated INDUS-X Summit on February 20-21, 2024, a landmark event poised to enhance defence innovation collaboration between India and the United States. This strategic convening is organized by the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the auspices of the Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, and the Department of Defence (DoD), United States.

The event is held in partnership with the U.S.-India Business Council and the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), symbolizing a significant step forward in defence industrial cooperation and technology partnerships between the two nations.

Launched in June 2023 during Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US, the India-U.S. Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X) has spearheaded efforts to bolster bilateral ties in defence innovation. The INDUS-X Summit aims to build on this momentum by bringing together key stakeholders from both countries to explore new opportunities and foster collaboration.

The summit is designed as a catalyst for strategic partnerships and will feature an array of activities, including panel discussions, workshops, senior leaders forums, and joint challenge winner felicitations.

These sessions are crafted to facilitate knowledge exchange and collaborative innovation, setting a path for the future of U.S.-India defence relations. Participants will include government representatives, academia, research organizations, investors, defence startups, technology incubators, industry associations, and other startup enablers, all converging to propel the INDUS-X initiative forward.

Highlighting the event will be the felicitation of the Joint INDUS X challenge winners under the IMPACT initiative, recognizing innovative solutions that have the potential to redefine defence technology and cooperation.

The INDUS-X Summit is not just an event but a pivotal moment in the journey of defence innovation between India and the United States.

It aims to stimulate cross-national science and technology networks, connect domestic entrepreneurs with markets, skilling institutions, government labs, and investment capital, thereby fostering a robust innovation ecosystem critical for success in the evolving defence sector.

Sarang Helicopter Display Team Ready to Dazzle at Singapore Airshow 2024

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Sarang Helicopter Display Team

The Indian Air Force’s esteemed Sarang Helicopter Display Team has landed in Singapore, gearing up to captivate audiences at the Singapore Airshow 2024. After their arrival on February 12, the team, stationed at the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s Changi airbase, conducted their first practice display on February 18, setting the stage for their performance at the event, which kicks off on February 20.

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The Singapore Airshow, a prestigious gathering in the aviation calendar, showcases an array of display teams from around the world, alongside leading aircraft and system manufacturers and operators presenting their latest advancements.

This year marks a special milestone for the Sarang Team as they operate the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) manufactured Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv), making its debut at the Singapore show. Notably, the Sarang Team’s first international appearance was also in Singapore, at the Asian Aerospace Airshow at Changi Exhibition Center in 2004, making this return even more significant.

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The team is set to perform a four-helicopter display, aiming to demonstrate the ALH Dhruv’s exceptional agility and manoeuvrability. This performance not only showcases the advanced capabilities of the helicopters but also the remarkable skills of the IAF pilots at the helm. The ALH Dhruv, an indigenously manufactured helicopter, is a testament to India’s commitment to self-reliance in the defense sector, being utilized across all military services of the country.

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The successful induction and operational use of the ALH Dhruv and its variants highlight the achievements of India’s defense industry in achieving Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance). The Sarang Helicopter Display Team’s participation in the Singapore Airshow 2024 is anticipated to be a highlight of the event, showcasing India’s advancements in aerospace and defense technology to the world.

Digital Flight Control Computer for Tejas Mk1A Successfully Flown

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Tejas Mk1A

In a significant milestone for India’s defense aviation, the indigenous Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) was successfully tested on the Tejas Mk1A aircraft. On February 19, 2024, the prototype LSP7, equipped with the newly developed DFCC, completed its maiden flight, marking a pivotal moment in the Tejas Mk1A program.

The DFCC, a product of the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, is designed to enhance the aircraft’s performance with its advanced computational capabilities and safety features.

The state-of-the-art DFCC integrates a Quadraplex Power PC-based processor, a high-speed autonomous state machine based I/O controller, and boasts enhanced computational throughput.

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It also features complex on-board software that complies with DO178C Level-A safety requirements. The successful integration and testing of the DFCC have demonstrated satisfactory performance across all critical flight control parameters.

Wing Commander Siddarth Singh KMJ (Retd), from the National Flight Test Centre, piloted the Tejas LSP7 during its landmark flight. His expertise contributed significantly to the testing process, ensuring that the aircraft and its newly integrated systems performed as expected.

The Tejas Mk1A, an advanced version of the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), has been operationalized by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and boasts several improvements over its predecessor.

These enhancements include an advanced mission computer, the DFCC Mk1A, Smart Multi-Function Displays (SMFD), an Advanced Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, an Advanced Self-protection Jammer, and an Electronic Warfare Suit, among others. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), under the Department of Defence R&D and the Ministry of Defence, has successfully type-certified the Tejas LCA.

Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has praised the collaborative efforts of the DRDO, IAF, ADA, and the industries involved in developing and testing the DFCC for the Tejas Mk1A.

He highlighted this achievement as a significant step towards achieving self-reliance (Atmanirbharata) in defense technology and reducing dependence on special imports.

The Secretary of DDR&D and Chairman of DRDO also extended their congratulations to the teams responsible for the successful flight test. This achievement is seen as a major boost to the confidence in delivering the Tejas MK1A to the IAF within the stipulated timeframe, further strengthening India’s defense capabilities and its commitment to indigenization in defense technology.

HAL, DRDO to begin Rs 60,000 crore Sukhoi fighter jet fleet upgrade

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In a groundbreaking development, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is set to undertake a massive Rs 60,000 crore upgrade of the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet.

This ambitious project, greenlit by the defence ministry, aims to bolster the aircraft’s capabilities through the integration of cutting-edge technologies, signaling a significant leap forward in India’s indigenous defence manufacturing prowess.

The upgrade project will encompass a wide array of enhancements, including the installation of state-of-the-art radars, advanced mission control systems, electronic warfare capabilities, and the integration of new weapon systems.

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HAL Chairman and Managing Director, CB Ananthakrishnan, affirmed to ET that substantial private sector participation would be instrumental, with HAL positioned as the lead integrator for the upgrade initiative.

The project is delineated into two distinct phases, each focusing on different aspects of the aircraft’s modernization. The initial phase will primarily entail the installation of new avionics and radars, while the subsequent phase will concentrate on upgrading the flight control systems. Notably, indigenous systems will replace several Russian-origin components, underscoring India’s steadfast commitment to achieving self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Key upgrades set to revolutionize the Su-30MKI’s operational capabilities include the installation of an indigenous radar system, designed to significantly enhance target detection and engagement capabilities, thereby addressing previous concerns regarding radar performance.

Additionally, the aircraft will be outfitted with a cutting-edge electronic warfare system, empowering it to effectively counter incoming threats and disrupt adversary communication channels. The integration of indigenous infrared search and track systems will further augment air-to-air and air-to-ground targeting capabilities, ensuring unparalleled precision and effectiveness in combat scenarios.

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) is poised to commence work on integrating the new systems within the current year. The initial phase of the upgrade project will encompass approximately 90 fighters, all of which will undergo transformation entirely within India, showcasing the nation’s burgeoning capabilities in indigenous defence manufacturing.

The Su-30MKI, constituting the backbone of the IAF’s fighter fleet, with an initial order of 272 jets from Russia, has received a fresh impetus with an additional order for 12 jets cleared last year.

HAL will spearhead the manufacturing process, incorporating over 50 per cent indigenous content, thus reaffirming India’s commitment to self-reliance and indigenization in defence production.

Moreover, with over 600 Su-27/30 type aircraft manufactured globally, countries such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Algeria present a lucrative export market for these advanced upgrades, positioning India as a key player in the global aerospace industry.

As HAL and DRDO embark on this monumental endeavour, the upgrade of the Su-30MKI fighter jet fleet stands as a testament to India’s unwavering resolve to achieve self-sufficiency in defence technology and bolster its national security capabilities for the challenges of tomorrow.

Royal New Zealand Navy Chief’s India Visit Sparks Maritime Collaboration

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Rear Admiral David Proctor, Chief of Navy for the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN), embarked on an official visit to India from February 19 to 27, 2024, in a bid to bolster bilateral maritime ties between the two nations. His visit holds significant promise for enhancing cooperation in various realms of naval operations and strategic engagements.

Upon his arrival, Rear Admiral Proctor engaged in a pivotal meeting with Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of the Naval Staff for the Indian Navy, in New Delhi on February 20.

The meeting served as a platform to deliberate on avenues to fortify bilateral maritime cooperation, with a keen focus on augmenting operational engagements, facilitating training exchanges, and fostering seamless information sharing mechanisms between the two naval forces.

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As a customary gesture, Rear Admiral Proctor received a warm welcome, including the prestigious Guard of Honour, on the South Block Lawns in New Delhi. This ceremonial reception underscored the significance attached to his visit and symbolized the mutual respect and camaraderie shared between the Royal New Zealand Navy and the Indian Navy.

The highlight of Rear Admiral Proctor’s itinerary includes his participation in the Indian Navy’s Flagship Exercise MILAN 24, scheduled to take place in Visakhapatnam. This exercise serves as a premier platform for naval cooperation and interaction among participating countries, fostering interoperability and enhancing maritime security in the region.

Additionally, Rear Admiral Proctor is slated to undertake high-level engagements at the Western Naval Command, further deepening strategic ties between the two navies.

The visit of Rear Admiral Proctor marks a significant milestone in the burgeoning maritime cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Royal New Zealand Navy.

The foundation for this enhanced collaboration was laid during the Chief of Naval Staff’s visit to New Zealand in October 2022, which culminated in the conclusion of a Technical Arrangement on White Shipping Information Exchange—an agreement aimed at bolstering maritime domain awareness and promoting maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.

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Moreover, both navies have witnessed a steady increase in bilateral interactions, with regular port calls by warships at each other’s ports. Notably, the Indian Navy’s INS Kolkata and INS Sahyadri made port calls at Auckland and Wellington in September 2023, reaffirming the commitment to strengthening naval cooperation and fostering goodwill between the two nations.

Furthermore, naval exercises such as Passing Exercises (PASSEX) conducted by Indian Navy ships with the Royal New Zealand Navy and the Royal New Zealand Air Force in the Tasman Sea post-departure, underscore the shared commitment to enhancing operational interoperability and readiness in the maritime domain.

As Rear Admiral David Proctor’s visit unfolds, it is expected to further invigorate the robust maritime partnership between India and New Zealand, paving the way for enhanced cooperation in maritime security, counter-piracy operations, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief efforts, thereby contributing to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Tejas Mk1A: Successful Integration of Digital Fly by Wire System

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In a significant stride toward enhancing the Tejas Mk1A programme, the Digital Fly by Wire Flight Control Computer (DFCC) has been seamlessly integrated into prototype LSP7 and completed a successful flight on February 19, 2024.

Developed indigenously by the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru specifically for the Tejas – Mk1A, the DFCC marks a critical milestone in advancing the capabilities of India’s indigenous fighter aircraft.

The DFCC boasts a Quadraplex Power PC based Processor, a high-speed autonomous state machine-based I/O controller, enhanced computational throughput, and sophisticated on-board software compliant with DO178C level-A safety requirements.

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During the maiden flight, all critical parameters and performance of the flight controls were found to be satisfactory, affirming the efficacy of the integrated system. The historic flight was piloted by Wg Cdr Siddarth Singh KMJ (Retd) of the National Flight Test Centre.

This achievement underscores the collaborative efforts of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), under the Department of Defence R&D and Ministry of Defence, in advancing the capabilities of the Tejas-Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).

With the successful type certification of Tejas-LCA, the Indian Air Force has already operationalized the Tejas LCA Mk1. The Tejas Mk1A, an upgraded version of the aircraft, incorporates advanced features including an advanced mission computer, high-performance Digital Flight Control Computer (DFCC Mk1A), Smart Multi-Function Displays (SMFD), Advanced Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Advanced Self-protection Jammer, Electronic Warfare Suit, among others.

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Congratulating the joint teams from DRDO, IAF, ADA, and industries involved in this achievement, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh hailed the successful integration and flight test of the DFCC Mk1A as a major stride toward achieving self-reliance with a reduced reliance on special imports.

Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO expressed his appreciation for the teams involved in the successful flight test, emphasizing that this accomplishment has bolstered confidence in the timely delivery of Tejas MK1A to the Indian Air Force, furthering India’s quest for self-sufficiency in defence technology.

Indian Army Establishes New Corps for LAC Operations

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In a strategic move aimed at bolstering its operational capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC), the Indian Army has decided to convert its Headquarters Uttar Bharat (HQ UB) area into a fully operational corps. This transition signifies a significant shift in focus from peacetime duties to active operations in the central theatre, particularly along the LAC.

Previously serving as a static formation responsible for overseeing peacetime locations and training establishments in Uttarakhand and western Uttar Pradesh, HQ UB’s elevation underscores the growing importance of operations along the LAC. Situated in Bareilly, the HQ UB area encompasses crucial border regions extending into Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand.

Traditionally comprising one brigade and a handful of scouts battalions, the HQ UB area has witnessed an upgrade in its combat capabilities over time.

In response to frequent face-offs with Chinese troops along certain disputed points along the LAC, the formation was gradually reinforced with three independent brigades and an infantry division based in Uttarakhand.

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Referred to as the Combatised UB Area, this evolution involved the integration of fighting elements into the formation. However, recognizing the need for a more comprehensive structure, the Indian Army has now decided to transform HQ UB into a traditional operational corps.

This reconstituted corps will not only include combat units but also additional artillery brigades, engineering brigades, and other logistical components necessary for conducting operations effectively in the central theatre.

Officials emphasize that the decision to elevate HQ UB into a full-fledged operational corps stems from increased troop density in the area and emerging operational requirements.

By consolidating all troops and equipment from various arms and services, including artillery, engineers, and aviation, under its direct command, the newly formed corps aims to enhance its operational readiness and response capabilities.

With tensions persisting along the LAC and the broader geopolitical landscape remaining dynamic, the Indian Army’s strategic realignment underscores its commitment to securing the nation’s borders and safeguarding its territorial integrity.

As HQ Uttar Bharat transitions into a key operational hub, it is poised to play a pivotal role in ensuring security and stability in the central theatre and beyond.

Supreme Court Urges Fair Policy for Women Officers Permanent Commission in ICG

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The Supreme Court on Monday expressed strong disapproval towards the Centre and the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) for not granting permanent commission to its women officers, emphasizing the need for a policy that ensures fair treatment of women within the maritime force.

During the hearing of a plea by Officer Priyanka Tyagi, who sought permanent commission for eligible women in the ICG, the bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, highlighted the need for the ICG to align with the principle of ‘nari shakti’ (woman power) by developing a gender-neutral policy.

women officer in ICG

The court criticized the apparent “patriarchal approach” of the Union, questioning the reluctance to integrate women fully into the coastal defense force, especially in light of previous judgments that supported the granting of permanent commission to women in the Army, Air Force, and Navy.

The bench, which also included Justices J.B. Pardiwala and Manoj Misra, expressed perplexity over the hesitance to consider the case of the petitioner, who is among the women seeking permanent commission.

Questioning the rationale behind limiting permanent commissions for women to 10%, the Supreme Court challenged the notion of viewing women as lesser beings and urged the ICG to adopt practices similar to the Indian Navy, which grants permanent commission to women.

The court’s directive for a gender-neutral policy underscores a significant push towards equality and fair treatment of women in the armed forces, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for gender parity in the military sector.

Navy Nears Deal: 31 Predator Drones from US on Horizon

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In a landmark decision aimed at fortifying India’s maritime prowess, Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar announced the approval of a pivotal agreement to acquire 31 Predator drones from the United States. The clearance, granted by the Defence Acquisition Council, paves the way for the contract signing in the near future.

Expressing confidence in the progress of the deal, Admiral Kumar stated, “We are the lead servers who are steering it. The letter of request has been cleared by the Defence Acquisition Council and the letter of request has gone to the US government. They have given us a draft letter of availability. Now the final one will come. It has to be placed before the (the US) Congressional committee thereafter it will come.”

The acquisition of these cutting-edge drones is poised to significantly enhance India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, particularly in the maritime domain. Valued at approximately USD 4 billion, the contract encompasses provisions for weaponry and essential equipment for operational deployment.

While the procurement process entails a lead time for manufacturing and delivery, the first aircraft is expected to be operational within an estimated 36 months. Admiral Kumar stressed the strategic importance of this acquisition in advancing India’s national security interests, especially in maritime security.

In tandem with the acquisition of Predator drones, the Indian Navy is actively fostering regional maritime cooperation. The upcoming MILAN 2024 exercise, scheduled from February 19 to 27 in Visakhapatnam, will witness the participation of over 50 countries. This exercise underscores India’s commitment to ensuring safe and secure maritime environments through collaboration with international partners.

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Moreover, the Eastern Naval Command recently welcomed Corvette 20 of the Vietnam People’s Navy and USS Halsey (DDG-97) of the United States Navy for the MILAN 2024 exercise, demonstrating growing cooperation and camaraderie among nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

The MQ-9B Predator drone, a variant of the MQ-9 Reaper developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI), is a high-altitude, long-endurance UAV designed for extended flight durations at altitudes exceeding 40,000 feet. With a maximum endurance of 40 hours, it provides a reliable platform for prolonged surveillance missions.

Equipped with strike missiles, the MQ-9B Predator is capable of engaging and eliminating enemy targets with high precision, enhancing its effectiveness in various roles, including land and maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, electronic warfare, and expeditionary missions.

With its two variants, SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian, the MQ-9B drone has been operational with the Indian Navy since 2020. Its automatic take-off and landing capabilities, coupled with its integration into civil airspace, make it a versatile asset for joint forces and civil authorities, offering real-time situational awareness in the maritime domain.

The procurement of 31 Predator drones by the Indian Navy signifies a significant leap forward in augmenting India’s maritime capabilities. This acquisition, alongside the ongoing MILAN 2024 exercise, underscores India’s steadfast commitment to promoting regional maritime security and cooperation.

Admiral R Hari Kumar Urges Modernization of War Machinery

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Admiral R Hari Kumar, Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS), in a compelling address at the Military Institute of Technology (MILIT) in Girinagar, Pune, has emphasized the imperative need to overhaul traditional war machinery to align with the evolving paradigms of future conflicts.

In his lecture titled “Maritime Challenges of India and Indian Navy’s Endeavours,” Admiral R Hari Kumar delineated the vision of the Indian Navy as the Preferred Security Partner.

Highlighting the significance of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), he underscored the pressing maritime challenges and advocated for a self-reliant approach bolstered by collaborative efforts to ensure maritime security.

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The Admiral accentuated recent anti-piracy operations undertaken by Indian Navy warships as a testament to India’s commitment to safeguarding maritime interests.

He stressed the pivotal role of techno-warriors in shaping the armed forces amidst the era of jointness, emphasizing the integration of niche technologies in future warfare strategies.

The timing of Admiral R Hari Kumar’s visit to MILIT in Pune holds special significance as it coincides with the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the illustrious Indian warrior whose legacy laid the foundation of the modern Indian Navy.

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During his visit, the CNS also toured newly established labs at MILIT, commending the institute for its role in nurturing officers from the three services, as well as those from friendly foreign countries, into techno-warriors, future commanders, and staff officers.

Admiral R Hari Kumar’s address serves as a clarion call for proactive adaptation in the face of evolving security dynamics, emphasizing the Indian Navy’s commitment to staying ahead of emerging challenges and ensuring the nation’s maritime sovereignty.