World
Defense News ,UK :- The UK's Ministry of Defence (MoD) has conducted successful tests of its first-ever laser weapon, named "DragonFire". The high-powered laser is designed to target and neutralize drones, offering a potentially low-cost alternative to traditional missiles. The tests, conducted in January at the Herbrides Range in Scotland, demonstrated the weapon's precision, with the ability to hit a coin from a kilometer away. Cost-effective Alternative to MissilesThe DragonFire laser weapon is expected to significantly reduce the reliance on expensive ammunition, offering a cost-effective solution for air defense. According to the UK government, firing the laser for just 10 seconds costs the equivalent of using a heater for an hour, typically less than £10 per shot. This cost efficiency makes it a promising option for military operations.Future Deployment and CapabilitiesDragonFire will be utilized by both the Army and the Royal Navy, enhancing their air defense capabilities. While the UK's defence ministry has not disclosed the weapon's maximum range, it has confirmed its capability to engage with any visible target. This advancement marks a significant step forward in the development and deployment of directed energy weapons.Technology Demonstrator for Future DevelopmentsDespite its success, DragonFire will not be immediately deployed as a standard weapon. Instead, it will serve as a technology demonstrator to gather data for the development of a second-generation weapon system. This future system will aim to replace overseas-built components with British versions, further advancing the UK's military technology and capabilities.International SignificanceThe development of laser weapons is of international interest, with countries like the US, Germany, and Israel also exploring similar technologies. As drones become increasingly prevalent in modern warfare, laser weapons offer a promising solution for defense against these threats. The successful testing of DragonFire represents a significant milestone in the UK's defence capabilities and its contribution to modern military technology.The UK defence ministry has not revealed the weapon's maximum range, but the military said it can "engage with any visible target"."These trials have seen us take a huge step forward in realising the potential opportunities and understanding the threats posed by directed energy weapons," The Independent quoted Paul Hollinshead, chief of the UK Defence Science and Technology Laboratory, as saying.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 15:22:05
World
Defense News ,India :- The US Army has decided to cancel its Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) program after facing challenges in the prototype stage last year.Launched in 2018, the ERCA initiative aimed to enhance the Paladin M109 self-propelled howitzer by adding a 30-foot, 58-caliber gun tube to launch 155-millimeter rounds, providing a long-range capability with an expected operational range of 70 kilometers (43.5 miles).Unfortunately, the project faced "technical challenges" that hindered its progress, and the prototypes did not meet the necessary criteria for production, according to Doug Bush, the army acquisition head. The initial plan was to deploy 24 new systems, including the ERCA, to soldiers by the end of 2023.Despite efforts, the army concluded the prototyping activity last fall, with the weapon falling short of success.The troubled program encountered engineering challenges as early as June 2023, leading to the expectation that the ERCA program would miss its deployment target. The original completion date was set for December 2022. Live-fire tests revealed excessive wear and tear on the cannon, even after firing a relatively low number of rounds.Instead of developing a new system, the US Army has decided to shift its focus to existing systems for long-range artillery capabilities. The plan includes issuing a request for information and selecting promising candidates domestically and internationally.Doug Bush emphasized the need for a longer-range artillery platform, and the army is set to request $55 million in 2025 to explore suitable extended-range cannon solutions.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 15:14:49![IAF's Tejas Crashes Near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, Pilot Ejected Safely [VIDEO]](postimages/840dea6999c3475aba5beefc656246b9.jpg)
India
Defense News ,India :- A light combat aircraft Tejas crashed near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan on Tuesday during an operational training sortie, the first such incident involving the indigenously-built jet. However, the pilot was ejected safely and no casualties were reported.In a post on X (formerly Twitter), IAF said "One Tejas aircraft of the Indian Air Force met with an accident at Jaisalmer, today during an operational training sortie. The pilot ejected safely."It also stated that a Court of Inquiry has been constituted to find out the cause of the accident. The crash took place around 100 km from the Pokhran desert where a mega war game 'Bharat Shakti' witnessed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and top military brass was underway.According to PTI, military sources indicated that the Tejas jet was to be part of the exercise.Jaisalmer Additional Superintendent of Police Mahendra Singh said that there was no loss of property or human life in the crash near Kalla residential colony. Thick black smoke was seen billowing out from a single-storey brick structure where the aircraft crashed.Officials said it was the first Tejas jet involved in an accident, reported PTI.Manufactured by state-run aerospace behemoth Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL), the Tejas aircraft is a potent platform for air combat and offensive air support missions while reconnaissance and anti-ship operations are its secondary roles.Tejas aircraft are set to be the mainstay of the IAF. It has already inducted nearly 40 Tejas of initial variants.In February 2021, the defence ministry sealed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd for the procurement of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the IAF.In November last, the ministry accorded an initial approval to procure an additional batch of 97 Tejas jets for the IAF.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 15:06:29
India
The Jx2 NG Short Range LM is a Multi Role Short Range Loitering Swarming Munition manufactured by Kadet Defence Systems. It is designed to be an aerial target system for weapon training, development and evaluation, as well as an aerial test platform.AutopilotThe Jx2 NG utilizes Embention's Veronte Autopilot, which provides the drone with:Fully autonomous flight capabilitiesVersatilitySensor redundancyAbility to adapt to different operation requirementsEasy installation in various unmanned platforms (combustion or turbine engines)Kadet Defence SystemsTarget Drone Solutions Kadet Defence Systems offers ready-to-fly target drone solutions that include all necessary components for autonomous missions in harsh environments. These solutions include:Ground control stationsGround support equipmentCatapult launchersPropeller or turbojet powered aerial targetsIndustry Growth Avdesh Khaitan, CEO of Kadet Defence Systems, recognizes the significant growth in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAS) applications for both defense and commercial purposes. Partnering with Embention allows Kadet to:Efficiently integrate the Veronte AutopilotContinuously improve system performanceProvide customers with an operational edge in simulating hostile attack scenariosSystemMaximum Speed: 200km/HrEffective Range (with 10kg payload): Greater than 400kmLaunch Capability: Air, Ground and SeaFlight Capability: High Altitude and Sea SkimmingTeaming Capability: Manned and UnmannedProduct SpecificationsWingspan: 2.5 MetersLength: 2.6 MetersLine of Sight Range: Greater than 40 kilometersEndurance: Greater than 45 minutesSpeed: Greater than 60 meters per second (in clean configuration)Maximum Take-off Weight: 35 kilogramsLaunch Method: CatapultRecovery Method: ParachuteApplicationsThe Jx2 NG Short Range LM is used as an Aerial Target System for:Air defense trainingGunnery practiceSurface-to-air and air-to-air missile trainingWeapon and radar evaluationMaterialCompositePropulsion2 Stroke EngineStabilizationIntegrated Avionics with Digital AutopilotTracking & TelemetryIntegrated GPSAutonomous Waypoint NavigationDigital Telemetry SystemsRole EquipmentScoring SystemIR FlaresLuneberg LensISR Camera Package
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 08:39:04
World
Defense News ,U.S :- A new report from the Association of the US Army (AUSA) suggests that the US Army needs to invest more in its ability to cross rivers, known as wet-gap crossing, to be ready for potential conflicts in the future. Wet-gap crossing involves troops, tanks, and artillery moving across rivers or other water obstacles to reposition or engage with enemies. This requires using boats and bridges and careful planning, as highlighted by AUSA. The report points out that the US Army hasn't faced contested wet-gap crossing operations against strong adversaries since World War II. To address this gap, the paper recommends conducting more training exercises and updating the army's bridge-laying equipment. Major Aditya Iyer, the author of the report, emphasized the need for the US Army to be prepared for large-scale combat against formidable opponents like Russia and China, especially after years of focusing on counter-insurgency operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. Drawing lessons from the Russia-Ukraine war, the report highlighted an unsuccessful attempt by invading forces to cross the Siverskyi Donets River. The Ukrainian forces successfully defended against this using small drone reconnaissance, exposing the importance of modernizing wet-gap crossing strategies. The paper suggests incorporating deception tactics into wet-gap crossing operations, including more than just using smoke to hide movements. It emphasizes the need for effective planning, training, and deception strategies to ensure soldiers are well-prepared for potential wet-gap crossings in the current and future operating environments.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 08:05:33
Space & Technology
Space News ,U.S :- The White House has proposed a budget of $25.4 billion for NASA in the fiscal year 2025, showing a 2% increase from the previous year's budget of $24.9 billion. This proposal was revealed on March 11, raising questions about the agency's financial future. It's important to note that the enacted budget for fiscal 2024, approved by Congress on March 8, was $24.9 billion, which represents a notable reduction from the $27.2 billion initially requested by the White House for the current fiscal year.Despite the proposed increase for 2025, there's no certainty that NASA will receive the full $25.4 billion, as adjustments may occur during the budget approval process, which typically concludes before the fiscal year begins on October 1.To put this in perspective, the proposed 2025 budget is a fraction of the overall federal spending, which is estimated to be around $7.3 trillion. Within this budget, $7.6 billion has been earmarked for NASA's Artemis program. This program's primary goal is to establish a human presence on and around the moon by the end of the 2020s.The allocated funds for the Artemis program are crucial for maintaining the agency's schedule. NASA officials have outlined plans to launch astronauts around the moon in September 2025 with the Artemis 2 mission. Additionally, boots are expected to touch down near the lunar south pole with the Artemis 3 mission scheduled for a year later.Notably, the proposed budget supports crewed spaceflight efforts closer to Earth. A significant portion, amounting to $109 million, is designated for the development of a vehicle in collaboration with the private sector. This vehicle aims to safely deorbit the International Space Station (ISS) around 2030. Furthermore, the budget continues to finance the development of one or more private successors to the ISS in low Earth orbit (LEO).Margaret Vo Schaus, NASA's Chief Financial Officer, highlighted the inclusion of $170 million in the budget for three commercial LEO partnerships in Phase 1. These partnerships are currently progressing through early design maturation stages.The proposed budget also allocates $2.73 billion for robotic planetary exploration. This funding will enable NASA to advance various missions, including the Dragonfly project—a rotorcraft designed to explore Saturn's moon Titan, which is believed to have conditions suitable for hosting life.A significant portion of the $2.73 billion is reserved for the Mars sample return (MSR) project. This ambitious initiative, developed in collaboration with the European Space Agency, aims to bring samples collected by NASA's Perseverance rover back to Earth in the 2030s. However, MSR has faced challenges such as cost overruns and scheduling issues, as highlighted in a recent audit by the NASA Office of Inspector General.Due to these challenges, the budget for MSR in 2024 and 2025 is yet to be finalized. NASA is awaiting information from an independent review committee, expected to issue a report at the end of March. Nicola Fox, associate administrator for NASA's Science Mission Directorate, acknowledged the need for tough choices in maintaining a balanced portfolio. The agency aims to provide clarity on the MSR budget in April, following the review team's report.In summary, NASA's proposed budget for 2025 reflects a strategic allocation of funds for critical programs like Artemis, LEO partnerships, and planetary exploration. However, uncertainties surrounding the MSR project highlight the challenges the agency faces in managing costs and scheduling. As the budget approval process unfolds, the space community eagerly awaits NASA's decisions on these funding priorities.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:57:43
India
Defense News ,India :- India's Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is committed to upgrading the country's armed forces, with a focus on improving the combat abilities of armored units.The Combat Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (CVRDE), a key DRDO lab, is leading the charge by creating a Battlefield Situational Awareness System (BSAS) as part of the broader initiative called "Advanced Vetronics for Futuristic AFVs."Understanding What Situational Awareness Means:The BSAS aims to help armored vehicle crews better understand the chaos of the modern battlefield. Situational awareness involves being aware of friendly and enemy troop positions, identifying threats, and analyzing terrain to plan the best routes. Having better situational awareness helps crews make better decisions, increasing their effectiveness and survivability.Technology Behind the BSAS:The BSAS is a complex system with a powerful tactical computer at its core, processing information from various sources. A user-friendly interface, following Generic Vehicle Architecture (GVA) standards, will present this crucial information to the crew. GVA compatibility ensures seamless integration with India's broader military technology.Precise navigation is crucial in combat, and the BSAS achieves this by combining inertial sensors, vehicle odometers, and a multi-constellation GNSS receiver supporting NavIC and GPS/GAGAN. This combination ensures accurate location information, even in GPS-denied environments.Smooth coordination within the armored vehicle is made possible by an integrated communication system compatible with both modern software-defined radios (SDRs) and older equipment.Impact and Importance:The BSAS has the potential to revolutionize how Indian armored units operate by providing real-time, comprehensive information, giving crews a decisive advantage and boosting their speed and confidence. This improved awareness can directly save lives. Commanders will benefit from enhanced awareness, making more informed tactical decisions.The development of the BSAS highlights India's growing technological capabilities in the defense sector. It demonstrates DRDO's commitment to equipping India's armed forces with cutting-edge battlefield technology, ensuring they remain a formidable and efficient force.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:50:21
World
Defense News ,Red Sea :- Yemen's rebel group, the Houthi rebels, attacked a United States ship named 'Pinocchio' with missiles in the Red Sea. The attack was announced by the group's military spokesperson in a televised speech on Tuesday (Mar 12).The 'Pinocchio' is a container ship carrying the Liberian flag and is owned by the Singapore-registered company Om-Mar 5 Inc, according to public databases operated by Equasis and the UN's International Maritime Organization (IMO).The Houthi military spokesperson, Yahya Sarea, stated that the group would intensify military operations during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, expressing solidarity with the Palestinians. Sarea reported, "The Yemeni Armed Forces targeted the American ship 'Pinocchio' in the Red Sea with naval missiles, and the hit was accurate."He added, "The Yemeni Armed Forces will continue preventing Israeli navigation in the Red and Arab Seas until the aggression stops and the siege on the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip is lifted."Sarea emphasized that military operations would escalate during Ramadan, the month of jihad, in support of the Palestinian people and their mujahideen brothers in the Gaza Strip.In a separate development, a US-British coalition conducted airstrikes in western Yemen on Monday (Mar 11), resulting in at least 11 deaths and 14 injuries while defending commercial shipping. The internationally recognized government of Yemen confirmed the airstrikes on port cities and small towns.Reports indicate that 17 airstrikes were carried out across the country, including the principal port city of Hodeidah and Ras Issa Port. These airstrikes occurred shortly after the first civilian casualties and vessel loss following the Houthi attacks on commercial shipping that began in November, expressing solidarity with the Palestinians during the Gaza war.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:44:11
World
Defense News ,U.S :- President Joe Biden recently released the U.S. defense and national security budget for the upcoming year. The budget is just 1% higher than last year's, causing a slowdown in spending on various programs. This includes efforts to replenish weapons stocks depleted by conflicts in Ukraine and Israel.The total budget is $895 billion, covering homeland security and nuclear weapons-related activities by the Department of Energy. This figure is a result of a two-year budget deal limiting the increase to 1%, agreed upon in mid-2023.Despite being an increase, the budget does not adequately cover inflation. The Pentagon's share of the national defense budget is $850 billion under this cap. Consequently, spending cuts will affect the purchase of Lockheed Martin's F-35 jet and air defenses for Guam. Additionally, programs such as the construction of an aircraft carrier and submarines will be delayed.The budget proposes a 4.5% pay raise for troops but offsets costs by retiring older, more expensive-to-operate ships and planes. Ten Navy ships, including two Littoral Combat Ships, will be retired early.While the budget asks for a 1% increase, the Pentagon initially estimated needing $880 billion in 2025. The smaller-than-expected increase limits available funds.Debates in Congress may lead to an increase in the national defense budget beyond $900 billion for fiscal 2025, according to budget watchers.The 2025 budget prioritizes purchasing the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) and the Long Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM) from Lockheed Martin. The Pentagon plans to buy more of these missiles than initially planned.Defense spending constitutes about half of the U.S. discretionary budget, with the other half allocated to transportation, education, diplomacy, and other departments. Entitlements like Social Security make up the nondiscretionary portion.The 2024 budget, which includes $886 billion for national security, is yet to be approved by Congress. A continuing resolution is in place, keeping spending at 2023 levels until the 2024 budget is passed. The resolution ensures government operations until later in March.As a result of the budget constraints, the Pentagon's order for Lockheed Martin's stealthy fighter will decrease to 68, down from the expected 83, leading to an estimated $1.6 billion reduction in spending on the jets.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:36:23
India
Defense News ,India :- National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza. The two leaders also talked about efforts to release hostages and provide humanitarian assistance.In a statement on social media platform 'X,' the Israeli Prime Minister's office shared, "Today, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to discuss recent developments in the fighting in the Gaza Strip. The meeting also addressed the ongoing efforts to release hostages and provide humanitarian aid. The Director of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister's Foreign Policy Advisor, and the Indian Ambassador to Israel were also present at the meeting."Netanyahu, on Sunday, reiterated his commitment to military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. He emphasized the need to prevent a recurrence of an attack similar to October 7. Netanyahu stated, "We'll go there. We're not going to leave. You know, I have a red line. You know what the red line is? That October 7 doesn't happen again. To do that, we have to complete the destruction of the Hamas terrorist army."The Israeli Prime Minister clarified that the operation would not exceed two months but did not provide specific details about the timeline.Responding to U.S. President Joe Biden's criticism that Netanyahu is "hurting Israel more than helping," the Israeli PM defended his policies in the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu said in an interview, "I don't know exactly what the president meant, but if he meant that I'm pursuing private policies against the wish of the majority of Israelis and that this is hurting the interests of Israel, then he's wrong on both counts."Meanwhile, Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh expressed openness to continued mediated talks with Israel. Despite the failure to reach a truce agreement before Ramadan, Haniyeh insisted that a permanent ceasefire and the withdrawal of all Israeli forces from Gaza are essential for any agreement. In a televised speech, he stated, "We have established the most important principle for reaching an agreement, which is a comprehensive ceasefire and an end to the war on Gaza, the complete withdrawal of the occupation army from all the territory of the Gaza Strip."
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:31:02
World
Defense News ,UK :- The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) doesn't have a solid plan to pay for a 10-year defense initiative that aims to provide all the military capabilities it desires. A report from the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) revealed this, and it's a big concern because the government didn't set aside extra money for the military in 2024.The PAC report says there's a gap of £16.9 billion ($21.7 billion) in the MoD's plan, and it could grow to £29 billion ($37.2 billion) if they consider all the costs for what they want to achieve. The MoD thought the government would increase defense spending to 2.5 percent of the country's total economic output (GDP) each year. Right now, it's just under 2.3 percent, and the minimum allowed by NATO is 2 percent.If this spending problem continues, the committee warns that the UK military will have to cut programs it can't afford.The main reason for this money issue is the government's choice to focus on its nuclear weapons, specifically building four Dreadnought-class nuclear submarines. This decision is squeezing the budget for other military needs, especially if more money is needed for nuclear programs.The report also suggests that relying too much on allies for protection might be part of the problem. Since many allies are facing similar challenges, the MoD needs to figure out how to handle the risk if support from allies is reduced or withdrawn.The PAC chairman, Dame Meg Hillier, says this problem isn't new, but it's becoming more serious when threats are increasing. She points out that the MoD's inconsistent plan and budgeting issues are creating big problems. The funding gap is putting the country in a worrying situation, and Hillier concludes that the MoD needs to manage things better to provide the military capabilities the country needs.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:27:10
World
Defense News, Russia :- In recent years, there have been big changes in how countries buy and sell weapons around the world. Russia, in particular, has seen a big drop in the number of weapons it sells to other countries.Between 2014-18 and 2019-23, Russia's sales of weapons went down by 53%. This shows that Russia is having a hard time in the business of making and selling military equipment, and it might be losing its influence in the world.Less Countries BuyingRussia used to sell weapons to 31 different countries in 2019, but by 2023, that number had dropped to only 12. This means fewer countries are buying weapons from Russia, making it harder for Russia to be a top supplier.Changes in Asia and OceaniaThe region of Asia and Oceania was a big market for Russian weapons, making up 68% of their sales from 2019 to 2023. India was the biggest buyer, taking 34% of Russia's weapons, followed by China at 21%. But things are changing.Even though Russia is still India's main source of weapons, it's the first time in a long time (since 1960-64) that less than half of India's weapons come from Russia. This shows that India is looking for weapons from other places too.Reasons for the DropThere are a few reasons why Russia is selling fewer weapons and facing more challenges in the global market:1. Tough Competition: Countries like the United States, France, and Israel are now strong competitors. They offer advanced military technology at good prices, making it harder for Russia to keep its customers.2. Political Issues and Punishments: Other countries put restrictions on Russia because of things it did in Crimea and Eastern Ukraine. These restrictions make it tough for Russia to access certain markets and make deals to sell weapons.3. More Choices for Buyers: Countries like India used to rely a lot on Russia for weapons, but now they are looking for other options. This helps them avoid depending too much on just one country for their military needs and creates more competition.What It MeansRussia's drop in selling weapons is a big deal for the global arms trade. As countries look for different places to get their military equipment, Russia has to figure out how to deal with more competition and the restrictions from punishments.The way the market is changing will shape how countries buy and sell weapons in the future and will also affect how different countries work together in terms of military alliances.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:22:30
World
Defense News ,U.S :- Aerojet Rocketdyne, part of L3Harris Technologies, got a job to create motors for Stinger missiles, helping replenish the U.S. stockpile. They've been making Stinger motors for a long time, supporting foreign military sales and a program to extend the life of Army missiles. This new contract is a big deal because it's been almost 20 years since new missiles were made for the U.S. military.Ross Niebergall, President of Aerojet Rocketdyne, said the work done by their Camden team is crucial for both allies and the U.S. stockpile. They're excited to provide Raytheon and the U.S. military with reliable motors for the new batch of Stinger anti-aircraft missiles.Here's how it works: The launch motor shoots the Stinger missile from its tube or a vehicle. After the launch, the flight motor kicks in, making the missile reach its target. Stinger missiles are effective against different types of targets, including helicopters and planes. With a proximity fuse, they can even take down small, self-controlled targets.Aerojet Rocketdyne has been making Stinger motors for over 30 years. They used to do it in Virginia, but since 2007, production moved to Camden, Arkansas. The Camden team has made around 9,000 flight motors and 2,000 launch motors for Raytheon Stinger production, helping foreign military sales and the Army's program to extend missile life.The motors are made in Aerojet Rocketdyne's Camden site, with support from facilities in Huntsville, Alabama, and Orange County, Virginia.The Stinger missile started in 1981 and is used by the Army, Marines, and U.S. allies. The U.S. even gave Stinger missiles to Ukraine to help protect against Russian air attacks on their cities.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-12 07:13:11
India
Defense News ,India :- India is making significant progress in developing its own fifth-generation fighter jet, known as the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Project Director Krishna Rajendra recently shared exciting details, revealing plans for the AMCA's first flight in September 2028.Collaborative DevelopmentThe Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) are spearheading the AMCA project. Their main focus is creating five initial prototypes of the AMCA, crucial for refining the aircraft's design. These prototypes will undergo rigorous flight testing to evaluate vital systems like avionics, sensors, and overall combat performance.Weapons Integration and Production ScheduleBefore moving to production, the ADA and HAL will carefully integrate weapons into the AMCA. The chosen weapons suite will undergo extensive testing and integration, extending the production clearance to around 2034-35.Development HighlightsThe ADA aims to reveal the first AMCA prototype by the end of 2027. To enhance the development process, a dedicated Ground Test Vehicle (GTV) will be constructed. This ground-based platform will simulate various flight scenarios and test critical aircraft functionalities before the prototype takes flight.Ambitious Goals, National PrideIf the AMCA successfully takes its maiden flight in 2028, it would mark a significant achievement for India's aerospace industry and its pursuit of self-reliance in defense technology. The AMCA project not only enhances India's military capabilities but also stands as a source of national pride.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 16:12:39
World
Defense News ,Red Sea :- On March 9, the UK Ministry of Defence shared exciting news about the Royal Navy's ship, HMS Richmond. It used a powerful air defense system, called Sea Ceptor, to destroy two flying robots (UAVs) in the Red Sea. This is the first time they used the Common Anti-Air Modular Missile (CAMM) in a real battle.HMS Richmond was part of a team of ships from different countries. While sailing in the Red Sea, it faced a threat from attack drones sent by a group called Houthi rebels. Thanks to the Sea Ceptor missile system, the ship successfully stopped two of these flying threats. This event shows how well the new air defense technology works.The Ministry of Defence made sure to share videos and pictures of this event to show how important it was. The attack happened at a close distance, and the UK wants to make it clear that they are actively protecting innocent people and keeping the world economy stable.Originally, HMS Richmond was sent to the Red Sea to replace another ship, HMS Diamond, which had to go back to Gibraltar for repairs after two months of work. Now, HMS Diamond is back in action, joining the mission to make sure the region stays safe.The Sea Ceptor system, made by a company called MBDA, is a big step forward in protecting against air threats. It can work in any weather and defend against many different flying dangers, like advanced fighter planes and really fast anti-ship missiles. The Royal Navy is putting this system on their Type 23 ships and will also use it on the upcoming Type 26 frigates. It's a crucial part of their plan to keep the fleet safe from air attacks.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 16:03:05
India
Defense News ,India :- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is expected to announce the rules for the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) 2019 today. These rules, introduced by the government, aim to give Indian citizenship to non-Muslim migrants who faced persecution in Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Afghanistan and came to India before December 31, 2014. This includes Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, and Christians.After the CAA was passed in December 2019, there were protests across the country. Sources suggest that the regulations for the CAA could be revealed today, allowing eligible people to apply for Indian citizenship.The implementation of the CAA has been delayed for over four years, and now its associated rules need to be formulated. An official mentioned that the rules are ready, and there is an online portal for the entire digital process. Applicants will only need to disclose the year of their entry into India without requiring additional documents.Union Home Minister Amit Shah emphasized that the CAA cannot be stopped and accused West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee of misleading the public. The BJP, led by Amit Shah, has been committed to implementing the CAA, while the TMC, led by Mamata Banerjee, has been opposing it.As per parliamentary procedures, the guidelines for any legislation should have been formulated within six months of receiving the presidential assent. However, the Ministry of Home Affairs has been seeking extensions to continue the process of framing rules associated with the CAA.Over the past two years, district magistrates and home secretaries in nine states have been authorized to grant Indian citizenship to non-Muslim minorities arriving from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan under the Citizenship Act of 1955. Between April 1, 2021, and December 31, 2021, 1,414 individuals from non-Muslim minority communities were granted Indian citizenship through registration or naturalization.Under the Citizenship Act of 1955, Indian citizenship is granted to non-Muslim minorities in nine states. Notably, authorities in Assam and West Bengal have not been given these citizenship-granting authorities so far.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 15:57:56
India
India recently signed a free trade agreement with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. The deal involves reducing tariffs and securing $100 billion in investments for India over the next 15 years. Here are the important details about the agreement:Boost to Trade and Investments:India believes that this agreement, along with previous deals with the UAE and Australia, will increase exports of items like pharmaceuticals, garments, chemicals, and machinery. It also aims to attract investments in areas such as automobiles, food processing, railways, and the financial sector.Trade Relationship with EFTA:India is the fifth-largest trading partner of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) after the European Union, the United States, Britain, and China. The total two-way trade between India and EFTA was $25 billion in 2023. India exported $2.8 billion worth of goods to EFTA, while imports amounted to about $22 billion during that period.Benefits for Swiss Companies:Swiss manufacturers of machinery, luxury items, and transport are expected to benefit from this agreement. Swiss government encourages its transport companies to invest in Indian railways. The pact allows EFTA nations to export processed food, beverages, electrical machinery, and other engineering products to a potential market of 1.4 billion people at lower tariffs.India-Swiss Relations:India aims to strengthen trade ties with Switzerland, its largest partner in EFTA. Over 300 Swiss companies operate in India, including Nestle, Holcim, Sulzer, and Novartis. Indian IT majors like TCS, Infosys, and HCL also have a presence in Switzerland.Negotiation Challenges:The negotiations for this pact have taken 16 years, with talks on trade pacts with Britain, the European Union, and other partners running for years. India has been cautious, ensuring it does not compromise the interests of its domestic industries.Exclusions and Challenges:India rejected demands for "data exclusivity" that could impact its drug companies. "Sensitive" farm products and gold imports are mostly excluded from the pact. Challenges remain, such as Switzerland's tariff-free entry policy for industrial goods and difficulties in exporting farm produce to Switzerland due to tariffs and quality standards.In conclusion, this trade deal holds significant promise for both India and the EFTA nations, fostering economic growth and cooperation in various sectors.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 15:35:53
World
Defense Newws ,Sweden :- Sweden recently conducted its initial surveillance mission as an official member of NATO near Russia's border over the Baltic Sea. The Swedish Air Force reconnaissance flight flew along the eastern border of Poland, which is partly shared with the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad.For this mission, a Saab 340 aerial early warning and control plane and a Gulfstream S102B Korpen electric intelligence aircraft were deployed by the 72nd Special Air Squadron and the 73rd Signals Intelligence Squadron. Both flights took off from Malmen Air Base in southern Sweden.This surveillance flight occurred just three days after Sweden joined NATO as its 32nd member, marking the end of the country's 200-year non-alignment. The membership had faced a 20-month delay due to Turkey's initial holdout.Sweden's NATO membership officially took effect after it delivered its instrument of accession to the treaty in Washington, DC. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized that Sweden's accession strengthens NATO, enhances Sweden's security, and contributes to the overall security of the Alliance.Stoltenberg highlighted that Sweden's recent contributions to NATO include troop reinforcements in Latvia and collaborative efforts with NATO's Civil Protection Group to enhance cooperation between the private sector and the alliance. The accession underscores NATO's commitment to keeping its doors open and respecting each nation's right to choose its own path.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 15:26:20
India
Defense News ,India :- Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced the first flight test of Made-in-India Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology. MIRVs consist of several reentry vehicles, each equipped to carry 2–10 nuclear warheads. These warheads can be designated for various targets, spaced hundreds of kilometers apart. Alternatively, multiple warheads can target a single location.PM hailed DRDO scientists for developing this technology. "Proud of our DRDO scientists for Mission Divyastra, the first flight test of indigenously developed Agni-5 missile with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology," PM Modi announced on X. What's MIRV Technology?A MIRV is a ballistic missile payload designed for exoatmospheric deployment, housing multiple warheads, each capable of targeting distinct objectives. While primarily associated with intercontinental ballistic missiles equipped with thermonuclear warheads, the concept extends beyond strict limitations. An intermediate variant, the Multiple Reentry Vehicle (MRV) missile, disperses multiple warheads without individual targeting.What are the benefits of MIRV?Deployment of MIRV can enhance first-strike proficiency for strategic forces and also provide greater target damage for a given thermonuclear weapon payload.Mission Divyastra: PM Modi congratulates DRDO for 1st flight test of indigenously developed Agni-5 missile through MIRV techMoreover, as it can release multiple warheads, it serves the purpose of a cluster munition, as it reduces the number of missiles and launch facilities required.With the MIRV, the effectiveness of an anti-ballistic missile system that relies on intercepting individual warheads is also reduced.Who has MIRV?While India is now a part of the elite club, the countries which boast to possess MIRV include:USA, UK and France- have MIRV technology on their Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile (SLBM).China- has MIRVed on Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)Russia- has both MIRVed ICBMs and SLBMs.Pakistan is also believed to be experimenting with MIRV technology.Whats' Agni V Missiles?Jointly developed by the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics, the Agni-V stands as a testament to India's technological prowess in the field of missile development.Key Features of Agni-VWeighing close to 50,000 kilograms and standing at 1.75 meters tall with a diameter of two meters, the Agni-V boasts impressive specifications. It carries a formidable 1,500-kilogram warhead atop three-stage rocket boosters powered by solid fuel. The missile can clock at 24 times faster than the speed of sound, reaching a staggering 8.16 km per second or 29,401 km per hour. Equipped with advanced navigation systems including a ring laser gyroscope inertial navigation system (NavIC) and satellite guidance, the missile ensures precise targeting capabilities, further enhanced by its launch flexibility from mobile launchers.Agni-V Trajectory and Thermal ResilienceThe Agni-V's trajectory showcases its sophisticated design, as it maneuvers towards its target with precision even after reaching the peak of its trajectory. As it re-enters the Earth's atmosphere, temperatures soar beyond 4,000 degrees Celsius. Yet, the missile's indigenously developed heat shield maintains internal temperatures below 50 degrees Celsius, ensuring operational integrity.Can Agni-V Cover Entire China: Range and TestingWith a range extending across Asia, Europe, and parts of Africa, the Agni-V significantly bolsters India's strategic capabilities. Having undergone seven successful trials, the missile, with a range exceeding 5,000 kilometers, has attracted attention from global players, particularly China. India's relentless testing regime underscores its commitment to bolstering its defence capabilities.The Agni-V adds to India's existing arsenal of the Agni missile series, enhancing its deterrence capabilities. With missiles ranging from Agni-I to Agni-IV, India joins an elite league of nations possessing intercontinental ballistic missile capabilities, including the US, Russia, China, France, and Britain.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 15:21:45
India
Defense News ,India :- India remains the world's top arms importer and its imports increased by 4.7 per cent between 2014-2018 and 2019-2023, Swedish think tank SIPRI said in a new report on Monday. Russia continued as India's main arms supplier, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said, adding around 55 per cent of arms imports by European states in 2019-23 were supplied by the US, up from 35 per cent in 2014-18."India was the world's top arms importer. Its arms imports increased by 4.7 per cent between 2014-18 and 2019-23," the think-tank said in a statement."Although Russia remained India's main arms supplier (accounting for 36 per cent of its arms imports), this was the first five-year period since 1960-64 when deliveries from Russia (or the Soviet Union before 1991) made up less than half of India's arms imports," it said.According to the report, Pakistan significantly increased its arms imports (43 per cent).Pakistan was the fifth largest arms importer in 2019-23 and China became even more dominant as its main supplier, providing 82 per cent of its arms imports, it said.Arms imports by two of China's East Asian neighbours increased, Japan's by 155 per cent and South Korea's by 6.5 per cent, it said.China's own arms imports shrank by 44 per cent, mainly as a result of substituting imported arms -- most of which came from Russia, with locally produced systems."There is little doubt that the sustained high levels of arms imports by Japan and other US allies and partners in Asia and Oceania are largely driven by one key factor: concern over China's ambitions," said Siemon Wezeman, Senior Researcher with the SIPRI Arms Transfers Programme."The US, which shares their perception of a Chinese threat, is a growing supplier to the region," it said.Thirty per cent of international arms transfers went to the Middle East in 2019-23.Three Middle Eastern states were among the top 10 importers in 2019-23: Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Egypt.Saudi Arabia was the world's second-largest arms importer in 2019-23, receiving 8.4 per cent of global arms imports in the period, the SIPRI said.Saudi Arabian arms imports fell by 28 per cent in 2019-23, but this was from a record level in 2014-18.Qatar increased its arms imports almost fourfold (396 per cent) between 2014-18 and 2019-23, making it the world's third biggest arms importer in 2019-23, according to the report.
Read More → Posted on 2024-03-11 15:13:16Search
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