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.

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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.

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.

The country’s Defence Acquisition Council led by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh recently accorded the acceptance of necessity, which is the initial step in the procurement process.

The ALNS Mk-II works by providing army units aboard armored vehicles with “highly-accurate” navigational guidance when traversing paths or following military coordinates.

It boasts high levels of encryption to prevent spoofing – a deceptive practice wherein fake signals are sent to the receiver to mislead the vehicle about its actual location.

According to a statement from the defense ministry, the system is compatible with the existing Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System that uses the Indian Constellation.

It can also work alongside America’s Global Positioning System (GPS) and Russia’s Global Navigation Satellite System.

The ministry has not disclosed the cost of the planned purchase.

Three Modes

The ALNS Mk-II uses an advanced gyroscope that helps measure a vehicle’s orientation and angular velocity, aiding in precise navigation.

It works efficiently, even in areas without distinct landmarks.

The system’s most unusual feature is its ability to operate in three modes: Inertial Mode, Hybrid Mode, and GPS Mode.

In Inertial Mode, the ALNS Mk-II relies entirely on data from inertial sensors, eliminating the need for accelerometers and gyroscopes.

In Hybrid Mode, the system uses data from both an inertial sensor and a GPS receiver to accurately calculate navigational parameters.

Lastly, an armored vehicle with the ALNS Mk-II in GPS Mode relies solely on GPS to function and does not need data from inertial sensors.

The post India to Make Armored Vehicles ‘Spoof-Proof’ With Navigation System Purchase appeared first on The Defense Post.

An aerial target mimicking a ballistic missile was detected and intercepted by the system’s radar and interceptor, validating a “complete network centric warfare” capability.

“The performance of the missile was monitored from the flight data captured by range tracking instruments like electro-optical systems, radar and telemetry stations deployed by ITR, Chandipur at various locations including on-board ship,” the Indian Ministry of Defence stated in a press release.

Endo-Atmospheric

The indigenous system comprises long range sensors, a low latency communication system, mobile command and control, and advanced interceptor missiles.

The two-stage, solid-fuelled, ground-launched system is designed to intercept a range of ballistic missile targets from a distance of up to 5,000 kilometers (3,107 miles) and in the altitude range of endo (below 100 kilometers/62 miles) to low exo-atmospheric.

Phase 1 of the system has an interception range of 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles).

The post India Flight-Tests Indigenous Ballistic Missile Defense System Phase-2 appeared first on The Defense Post.

An airfield to support the operations of fighter and transport aircraft will be constructed on the Minicoy islands, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from the small island nation.

An existing military facility on Agatti island in Lakshadweep will also receive an extended airfield that can be used both by the Indian Armed Forces and civil airliners.

According to officials, the new airfields will provide the military with the opportunity to extend their area of surveillance and gain a tactical edge in the region.

The Indian Air Force is expected to lead the project.

A Strategic Move?

Plans to build military infrastructure near the Maldives were announced as early as March, almost four months after the island nation asked India to withdraw its troops from its territories.

Pro-China Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu has advocated for an “India Out” campaign, saying New Delhi’s influence is a threat to his country’s sovereignty.

But the timing of the move raised suspicions in the international community, as Male has recently upgraded its defense ties with Beijing.

Concerns are mounting that the Asian military superpower could potentially use the island nation and Pakistan to assert its influence in the Indian Ocean.

Building military installations near the Maldives will allow India to keep a close watch on growing Chinese activities in the region.

New Delhi already indicated that any potential military presence in the Maldives by China would be viewed as a threat in its own backyard.

The post India Clears Construction of Two Military Airfields Near Maldives appeared first on The Defense Post.

The vehicle should be able to safely transport various types of ammunition for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

It should also help reduce the risk of fire and other accidents that could lead to unwanted loss of life.

According to the army, which is leading the joint procurement, the potential solution would have to undergo field evaluation trials before official deployment.

The selected vendor will also be required to supply spare parts and other associated services throughout the service life of the winning platform.

An official request for information is expected to be released soon.

Increased Efficiency, Interoperability

An Indian military official explained that each service practices a common explosive segregation strategy.

But when it comes to transporting live ammo, he said the three major branches are individually utilizing their own platforms, risking handling safety requirements.

“This also led to increased logistics costs due to multiple redundancies,” he told local media outlets.

With the common explosives vehicle, the military is hoping for enhanced interoperability, which would contribute to improved operational preparedness.

The vehicle is also expected to boost the functional efficiency of army, navy, and air force units, as well as optimize repair and maintenance processes.

“Procuring a platform jointly for the three services will also lead to reduced inventory, optimize repair infrastructure, and less storage space,” another official said. “There will be an enhanced flexibility as being a common platform.”

The post Indian Military to Buy Common Explosive Vehicles for All Services appeared first on The Defense Post.

Muslim-majority Kashmir has been divided between India and Pakistan since their independence from British rule in 1947, and the disputed northern territory has suffered an uptick in attacks in the past two months.

The Indian army’s 16 Corps said security forces had launched an operation Monday evening in Doda district.

“Contact with terrorists was established… heavy firefight ensued,” it said in a statement. “Initial reports suggest injuries to our bravehearts.”

The army gave no further details of casualties, and there was no official confirmation of deaths.

But Indian media widely reported five soldiers had been “critically” wounded, and the Press Trust of India (PTI) news agency reported on Tuesday that four later died of their wounds.

The army said “additional troops” had been brought in.

“Operations are continuing,” it added.

The clashes come a day after the Indian army killed three suspected militants in Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Sunday.

India and Pakistan both claim Kashmir in full and have fought multiple conflicts for control of the Himalayan region.

New Delhi and Islamabad accuse each other of stoking militancy and espionage to undermine each other.

Rebel groups have waged an insurgency since 1989, demanding independence for the territory or its merger with Pakistan.

The conflict has killed tens of thousands of civilians, soldiers, and rebels.

Earlier this month, gunmen killed five soldiers after ambushing an army convoy, and two other soldiers and six suspected militants were killed in separate clashes.

In June, nine Indian Hindu pilgrims were killed and dozens wounded when a gunman opened fire on a bus carrying them from a shrine in the southern Reasi area.

It was one of the deadliest attacks in years and the first on Hindu pilgrims in Kashmir since 2017, when gunmen killed seven people in another ambush on a bus.

The post Indian Troops Battle Gunmen in Kashmir, Several Wounded appeared first on The Defense Post.

According to an official statement, the armored vehicle got stuck in the Shyok River due to suddenly rising water.

Rescue teams rushed to the location, but the high current caused the rescue mission to fail.

“Indian Army regrets loss of five brave personnel while being operationally deployed in eastern Ladakh,” the Army’s 14 Corps said.

The tank and its crew were participating in military training near the Line of Actual Control that divides India and China.

‘Unfortunate Accident’

The tank involved in the fatal incident was a Russian-origin T-72, according to local media outlets.

It was engaged in fording, a maneuver by amphibious vehicles to cross water obstacles that are usually several meters deep.

It is common for some military vehicles to be fully submerged in the water, but investigations revealed that the sunken T-72 suddenly drifted and lost its track while crossing the river.

Last Saturday, Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh took to social media to express his sympathy for the fallen soldiers.

He called the incident “unfortunate” and extended his condolences to the bereaved families.

“We will never forget [the] exemplary service of our gallant soldiers to the nation,” he wrote. “The nation stands firm with them during this hour of grief.”

Deeply saddened at the loss of lives of five of our brave Indian Army soldiers in an unfortunate accident while getting the tank across a river in Ladakh.

We will never forget exemplary service of our gallant soldiers to the nation. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved…

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) June 29, 2024

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