The country’s air force department head Col. Hovhannes Vardanyan discussed possible areas of cooperation with Indian Armed Forces Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Anil Chauhan at the International Defence Aviation Exposition 2024 in Jodhpur in early September. 

“We are looking at modernising our Su-30s with the help of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited as it has a lot of expertise in the field,” Vardanyan told Hindustan Times.

Though the talks are still in the early stages, an unnamed source from India’s defense ministry informed The Print that Yerevan was looking to upgrade their Su-30s and integrate Indian-made weapons, including guided air-to-surface munitions.

The source noted that first addressing missile export protocols and the regional conflict surrounding Nagorno-Karabakh is crucial.

Tensions in the South Caucasus

Armenia and Azerbaijan, both former Soviet republics, have been engaged in a long-standing territorial dispute over Nagorno-Karabakh that has resulted in significant civilian displacement.

Russia acted as a broker for ceasefires and deployed peacekeepers in affected areas.

In the two countries’ 44-day war in 2020, Baku launched a military offensive that was backed by Turkey and also reportedly by Pakistan. 

Meanwhile, Yerevan failed to deploy its four Su-30s bought from Moscow due to their lack of firepower, which significantly contributed to Baku’s ability to regain control over the region. 

The results of this loss, coupled with the landlocked country’s frustrations with delayed Russian imports, prompted its push to diversify its defense partnerships.

India looked to supply arms to Armenia to boost its growing self-reliant defense industry and counterbalance Turkey and Pakistan’s influence in the region.

Since 2020, they have enhanced their military relationship through various arms agreements and announced plans to appoint defense attachés in each other’s countries. 

In the same year, Armenia signed a $40-million defense deal and a $2-billion military partnership with India that included provisions for various Indian-made weapon systems.

Among various munitions supplied recently, India sold its first indigenously designed Pinaka Multiple-Barrel Rocket Launchers to Armenia for around $265 million, facilitated through transfers via Iran. 

“The former Soviet Republic of Armenia has become the largest importer of weapons from India after concluding deals on the purchase of Pinaka multiple-launch rocket systems and Akash anti-aircraft systems,” according to an Indian Finance Ministry report. 

Azerbaijan’s Concerns

In July 2023, the assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Department Hikmat Hajiyev urged Indian Ambassador Sridharan Madhusudhanan to reconsider how their actions may contribute to Armenia’s militarization and impact ongoing peace negotiations between the two South Caucasus nations.

Hajiyev emphasized that India’s arms supply contradicts its stated foreign policy principles grounded in international law and the Bandung Principles of the Non-Aligned Movement, of which the South Asian country is a member.

In response, Madhusudhanan acknowledged Hajiyev’s concerns while underscoring the necessity for dialogue among involved parties.

The post Armenia Seeks India’s Support to Modernize Air Force: Report appeared first on The Defense Post.

More than 20 local drone manufacturers reportedly participated in the test, showcasing cutting-edge solutions as part of the Him-Drone-A-Thon 2 event, launched in partnership with the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).

The trial took place at a mountain pass in Ladakh, which stands at 17,300 feet (5,250 meters), one of the highest in the world.

#AtmanirbharBharat

HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is being organised at Wari La Pass, Ladakh on 17-18 September 2024 at altitudes exceeding 15,000 feet. The event offers an exclusive platform for over 20 drone manufacturers to showcase a spectrum of drone solutions designed for… pic.twitter.com/jeD2vBZVc0

— @firefurycorps_IA (@firefurycorps) September 17, 2024

According to reports, the participating drones performed surveillance, logistics, swarming, and first-person view operations, demonstrating their ability to withstand extreme conditions along India’s mountainous borders.

“Drone technology is becoming indispensable in modern warfare, and we are leveraging its potential to not only secure our borders but also position India as a global leader in this field,” an army official noted.

The Indian Army did not disclose the specific drones or manufacturers involved in the demonstration.

‘Year of Technology Absorption’

India has declared 2024 as a “Year of Technology Absorption,” streamlining the development, acquisition, and integration of emerging technologies into legacy systems.

The country seeks to employ autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and quantum technology to prepare for modern warfare.

New Delhi currently faces increasing tensions with China and Pakistan, stemming from territorial disputes and geopolitical rivalries.

The Him-Drone-A-Thon 2 event provided the Indian Army with an opportunity to identify promising technological solutions, which could be procured to aid border operations.

Its collaboration with the FICCI also fostered a culture of homegrown technological advancement, part of the country’s “Make in India” initiative.

“HIM-DRONE-A-THON 2 is a forward-looking initiative that reflects the army’s recognition of the immense potential for drones to enhance operational capabilities in difficult terrains,” an army spokesperson said.

The post Indian Army Tests Domestic Drones for High-Altitude Operations appeared first on The Defense Post.

The agreement supports New Delhi’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program “while also deepening India-US strategic ties,” the American aerospace giant said.

It also outlines a framework to collaborate on future potential business opportunities, including the launch of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul facility to support the Indian Air Force’s fleet of 12 C-130Js in addition to other global Super Hercules fleets as well as expanding C-130J manufacturing and assembly in India.

The IAF seeks to purchase up to 80 medium transport aircraft, issuing a request for information last year. Lockheed Martin responded to the request by offering its C-130J-30 Super Hercules.

“Collaborating with Lockheed Martin on the C-130J platform proposition for IAF’s MTA project is a milestone for Tata Advanced Systems,” Tata Advanced Systems’ Sukaran Singh said.

“The current announcement is also significant as it marks the entry of Tata Advanced Systems into the defence [maintenance, repair, and overhaul] space in India for large aircraft platforms.”

Lockheed VP of Air Mobility and Maritime Missions Rod McLean added that teaming “demonstrates Lockheed Martin’s commitment to a self-reliant India and the degree of confidence that exists in our relationships with our partners in India and the Indian industry at large.”

About the C-130J-30

Lockheed Martin’s C-130J-30 is a military transport aircraft equipped with four turboprop engines.

It has a payload capacity of 44,000 pounds (19,958 kilograms), enough to carry up to 124 fully-equipped soldiers.

The tactical airlifter possesses a maximum speed of 410 miles (659 kilometers) per hour and an operational range of 1,700 nautical miles (3,148 kilometers).

According to the company, the “unmatched” capabilities of its Super Hercules fleet have made it an in-demand aircraft with over 2,500 deliveries worldwide.

It has surpassed more than three million flight hours across 63 nations.

“Always evolving, continually innovating, and ready for what’s next, the Super Hercules leads the charge by setting standards and shaping the future of tactical airlift missions,” the company stated.

The post Lockheed, Tata Advanced Systems to Enhance C-130J Development in India appeared first on The Defense Post.

A total of 10 capital acquisition proposals received acceptance of necessity from the council, marking the beginning of the procurement process.

Defence Acquisition Council cleared 10 capital acquisition proposals today, worth Rs 1.45 lakh crore, to enhance defence preparedness of the country.@giridhararamane pic.twitter.com/9RI1Dpvqk7

— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) September 3, 2024

Among the most important defense items that received approval are the Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCV), which are expected to modernize the Indian Army’s tank fleet.

The futuristic vehicles will reportedly offer superior mobility and multi-layered protection to withstand the challenges of modern warfare.

Furthermore, the plan to acquire air defense radars for detection and tracking of aerial targets has been approved by DAC.

A Multi-Domain Investment

The multibillion-dollar investment is a strategic move for New Delhi as it pushes to bolster its land, air, and naval capabilities.

Apart from the FRCV, the country will buy Forward Repair Team tracked vehicles to provide in-field repairs during mechanized operations.

India is also making multiple investments in its navy, including the procurement of Next-Generation Fast Patrol Vessels and Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels for long-range missions in challenging sea conditions.

For the air force, DAC has greenlighted the purchase of Dornier-228 aircraft to support special missions.

While the council did not disclose the exact number of assets or their costs, it stated that 99 percent of the items will be procured domestically to support the “Make in India” initiative.

The post India Approves Massive $17B Purchase of Defense Equipment appeared first on The Defense Post.

The NORA-50 antenna, dubbed UNICORN, is the second defense equipment export by Japan since the lifting of a ban on non-lethal defense equipment transfers in 2014. 

Tokyo exported an air surveillance radar to the Philippines last year and has announced the export of the Patriot Advanced Capability system to the US after further easing the ban in 2023.

“The Ministers further appreciated the successful completion of the cooperation in the areas of Unmanned Ground Vehicle/Robotics,” the third Japan-India 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministerial Meeting statement read.

“They appreciated the progress made for the transfer of Unified Complex Radio Antenna (UNICORN) and related technologies and early signing of related arrangements.”

In addition, the navies of the two countries are exploring cooperation in ship maintenance in India.

Unified Complex Radio Antenna 

The Japanese government announced plans to transfer the UNICORN to India in 2022.

A trio of Japanese firms developed the antenna: NEC Corporation, Sampa Kogyo KK, and Yokohama Rubber.

It is fitted on the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Mogami-class stealth frigates to detect missiles and drones by sensing radio waves.

It includes a stack of multiple antennas covered with a radome, reducing their radar cross section.

“UNICORN is a system that consolidates various antennas that were previously attached to multiple masts on the deck into a single support for the purpose of improving stealth,” according to Yokohama Rubber.

“In addition to its excellent stealth properties, the optimal placement of the antennas has improved the maximum detection distance of radio waves emitted from outside, and simplified the maintenance and installation process.”

The post Japan to Export ‘Unicorn’ Naval Ship Stealth Antenna to India appeared first on The Defense Post.

A medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) platform, the FWD 200B is armed with missile-like weaponry for conducting air strikes and bombing missions.

It also boasts sophisticated optical payloads to support surveillance and reconnaissance operations.

FWD-200B : Experience cutting-edge defense technology as the FWD-200B demonstrates unrivaled precision and power in our latest testing video.#flyingwedge #FWD200B #defencetechnology #aerospace #defence #model #techinnovation #ucav #dronerevolution #technology #testflight pic.twitter.com/AWG349G7Mm

— FLYING WEDGE DEFENCE AEROSPACE (@Flying_Wedge_) September 4, 2024

Comparable in size to the Iranian Shahed-136 drone, the FWD 200B can reportedly reach speeds of up to 250 kilometers (155 miles) per hour and stay in the air for more than seven hours.

It also has an extended operational range of 800 kilometers (497 miles) and requires a 300-meter (984-foot) runway for takeoff.

Once operational, the drone is expected to bolster India’s combat capability and enhance its strategic flexibility with a maximum altitude of 15,000 feet (4,572 meters).

Cost-Effective Alternative

The development of the FWD 200B comes as India faces challenges in securing an international supplier to fill its combat drone needs.

Turkey has refused to sell its Bayraktar drones to New Delhi over fear of “war profiteering,” while India’s planned acquisition of American MQ-9B Predator drones continues to face delays.

According to developer Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace (FWDA), the new unmanned combat aircraft promises to be a cost-effective alternative to imported systems.

It will also boost India’s self-reliance in defense, as the drone’s aerodynamics, airframe, propulsion systems, control systems, and electronics have all been designed and developed domestically.

“India is the world’s largest importer of arms in the last five years, and has often paid up to ten times the cost for military technology from countries like the US and Israel,” FWDA CEO Suhas Tejaskanda said.

“The successful flight of the FWD 200B is not just an achievement for our company, but a victory for the entire nation.”

The post India’s First Unmanned Bomber Aircraft Completes Maiden Flight appeared first on The Defense Post.

The teaming will focus on the design, manufacture, supply, and support of the Aravalli turboshaft engine that will power the aircraft family’s standard 13-ton variant and its 12.5-ton naval deck-based counterpart.

The resulting motor is expected to maintain operability across “diverse and challenging environments” where the future fleet will be primarily deployed, according to the consortium.

Work will be coordinated under Safran and HAL’s joint venture SAFHAL.

“We are extremely proud to collaborate with HAL on this strategic project, capitalizing on 25 years of successful partnership between Safran and HAL,” Safran Helicopter Engines CEO Cedric Goubet remarked.

“With this project, we are enriching the collaboration with HAL as well as the strategic relationship between India and France.”

“Our combined expertise and resources will ensure the success of the [Indian Multi-Role Helicopter] programs, while contributing to the growth of India’s aerospace & defence sector. Together we remain fully dedicated to our customers in India.”

The Indian Multi-Role Helicopter

New Delhi’s Multi-Role Helicopter was conceptualized in the early 2000s to replace India’s aging Soviet-made Mil Mi-17 and Mi-8 fleets.

The new system will measure approximately 25 meters (82 feet) to accommodate more than 30 personnel.

There will be a twin Aravalli engine with about 2,800 horsepower each to run the platform for a top speed of 300 kilometers (186 miles) per hour, a range of 800 kilometers (497 miles), and altitudes up to 6,700 meters (21,982 feet).

The post Safran, HAL Team for Indian Multi-Role Helicopter Engine Production appeared first on The Defense Post.

A 31-year-old women was killed and six people were wounded Sunday in what police said was an “unprecedented attack” by rebels who used drones to drop the heads of rocket-propelled grenades.

Fighting broke out in Manipur in May 2023 between the predominantly Hindu Meitei majority and mainly Christian Kuki community, an ethnic conflict that has since killed at least 200 people.

Rival militias have set up blockades in parts of the state, which borders war-torn Myanmar.

Longstanding tensions between the two groups revolve around competition for land and public jobs, with rights activists accusing local leaders of exacerbating ethnic divisions for political gain.

“While drone bombs have commonly been used in general warfare, this recent deployment of drones to deploy explosives against security forces and the civilians marks a significant escalation,” Manipur police said in a statement Sunday.

The attack outside the state capital Imphal was carried out by “alleged Kuki” rebels, the statement said.

Those injured included an eight-year-old girl — the daughter of the woman who was killed — as well as three civilians and two police officers.

“The involvement of highly trained professionals, possibly with technical expertise and support, cannot be ruled out,” the police said.

The post Indian Insurgents in Manipur Launch Deadly Drone Attack appeared first on The Defense Post.

The order builds on an initial agreement signed in 2019 for 72,400 weapons, increasing the service’s SIG716 stock to 145,400. About 10,000 were delivered to the army’s northern command the same year.

The latest procurement’s approval in December 2023 came shortly after a standoff at India and China’s Himalayan border.

Meanwhile, New Delhi revealed that the guns will be utilized for counter-terrorism and related missions in Jammu and Kashmir, where Muslim and Hindu militants continue to clash over territorial claims.

Continued Frontline Support

The SIG716 is a 7.62 NATO-standard assault weapon based on the New Hampshire company’s proven SIG516 design.

It has a 16-inch barrel, an advanced attachment system for modern accessories, and a six-position telescoping stock for enhanced shooting control.

“We are proud to be a partner in the modernization effort of the Indian Army, and prouder still that the SIG716 rifle achieves the Ministry of Defence’s modernization goals with the second largest army in the world,” SIG Sauer President and CEO Ron Cohen stated.

“Since the initial fielding of the SIG716, we have received phenomenal end-user feedback on the performance and reliability of the platform.”

“Throughout this time, we have strengthened and further solidified our partnership with the Indian Ministry of Defence and are honored to earn their continued trust equipping their frontline infantrymen.”

The post SIG Sauer to Supply More Assault Rifles to Indian Army appeared first on The Defense Post.

New Delhi requested the purchase of AN/SSQ-53G high altitude anti-submarine warfare (HAASW), AN/SSQ-62F HAASW, and AN/SSQ-36 sonobuoys.

Sonobuoys are small expendable sonar buoys dropped from aircraft and vessels for anti-submarine warfare or underwater acoustic research.

To Enhance MH-60R Capability

The equipment will enhance the anti-submarine capacity of the Indian Navy’s MH-60R helicopters, six of which were commissioned in March.

India bought 24 MH-60Rs from the US in 2020 for $2.2 billion, with delivery expected through 2025.

“The proposed sale will improve India’s capability to meet current and future threats by enhancing its capacity to conduct anti-submarine warfare operations from its MH-60R helicopters,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated.

“India will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”

The principal contractor(s) will be Sparton Corporation in De Leon Springs, Florida, or Undersea Sensor Systems Inc. in Columbia City, Indiana, or a combination of both. 

The proposed sale includes no offset agreements as of now.

Key Security Agreements Signed

The approval came the day Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin in Washington, DC.

A day earlier the countries signed two key pacts: a non-binding Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and a memorandum of agreement regarding the assignment of liaison officers to improve cooperation and interoperability.

The SOSA mandates India and the US to provide reciprocal priority support for defense goods and services, enabling “both countries to acquire the industrial resources they need from one another to resolve unanticipated supply chain disruptions to meet national security needs.”

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