India
In June 2023, Thyssenkrupp of Germany and India Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MAZG.NS) officially inked an agreement to collaborate on a submarine tender for the Indian Navy, with an estimated value of approximately $5.2 billion.Under this strategic partnership, Thyssenkrupp will be responsible for the engineering and design aspects, while Mazagon Dock will oversee the construction and delivery of six submarines as part of the Indian Navy Project 75I. This initiative, valued at $4.8 billion, aims to procure six conventional diesel submarines to enhance India naval capabilities and address security concerns vis-a-vis neighboring nations such as Pakistan and China.The submarines at the heart of Project 75I are classified as HDW-214 Class submarines. Characterized by a single-hull, one-compartment design, these submarines amalgamate the design principles of the HDW Class 209 family with the exceptional features of HDW Class 212A boats. Notably, Thyssenkrupp-supplied boats from the 1980s are still operational in the Indian Navy.Facing competition from Spain Navantia, which has partnered with private shipyard Larsen and Toubro, Thyssenkrupp HDW Class 214 submarines boast impressive specifications:Length: 65 meters (213 feet 3 inches)Beam: 6.3 meters (20 ft 8 in)Draft: 6.0 meters (19 ft 8 in)Displacement: 1860 tons (submerged)Speed: 12 knots (22 km/h) - surface / 20 knots (37 km/h) - submergedRange, surfaced: 12,000 NM (22,200 km)Range, submerged on batteries: 420 NM (780 km) at 8 knots (15 km/h)Diving depth: More than 400 meters (more than 1,400 feet)Pressure hull diameter: 6.3 mSurface displacement: 2,000 tHeight include sail: 13 mThe HDW Class 214 operates as a diesel-electric submarine, featuring diesel propulsion complemented by an Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system employing a Siemens polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cell. Equipped with eight 533mm torpedo tubes, it has the capability to deploy heavyweight torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and lay mines. This collaboration underscores the commitment of both Thyssenkrupp and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders to bolstering India maritime defense capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-20 03:45:50
India
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a covert test of its upcoming submarine-launched cruise missile (SLCM) earlier this year. The SLCM, designed to be deployed from submarine torpedo tubes, is believed to be derived from the land-attack Nirbhay cruise missile.As per information shared on a poster by ANI on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), exhibited at the DRDO stall during the Dubai Air Show, the missile underwent successful testing in February 2023. The test achieved its objectives by accurately striking a target at a range of 402 kilometers.Described on the poster, the missile measures 5.6 meters in length, weighs 975 kg, and has a compact diameter of 505 mm. The SLCM will be available in two variants: a land attack cruise missile and an anti-ship cruise missile.For midcourse navigation, the SLCM utilizes an Inertial Navigation System/Global Positioning System (GPS)-based Global Navigation Satellite System, coupled with an active radio frequency radar seeker for precise terminal guidance.The missile is propelled by a solid-fuelled rocket motor booster, reaching a predetermined altitude and velocity before the booster separates. Subsequently, a turbofan-based sustainer engine propels the missile throughout its flight.Key technologies were validated during the February test, including thrust vector control for precise targeting, in-flight wing deployment, and in-flight engine start.The SLCM offers flexibility with two warhead options: a precision-cum-blast for penetrating bunkers and destroying strategic targets, and an airburst warhead for wide-area impact, targeting soft-skinned objectives.Operating at a speed of 0.7 Mach, the SLCM is expected to be integrated into submarines such as the Kalvari class, Sindhughosh class, and potentially the Project-75I class. ANI reports suggest that the missile 500-kilometer strike range may be extended in the future.This development follows recent considerations by the Indian government to incorporate a substantial number of Nirbhay cruise missiles across all three armed services. In contrast to the new SLCM, the Nirbhay boasts a longer range of over 1,000 kilometers, a greater weight exceeding 1,450 kg, and a length of 6 meters.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-20 03:37:45
Secrets/Mystery
On Sunday afternoon, routine operations at Imphal International Airport in Manipur were thrown into disarray as officials reported the sighting of an unidentified flying object (UFO). The incident disrupted normal aircraft activities, forcing the rerouting of two planes and causing delays for three others. The situation persisted for approximately three hours before services returned to their usual operations.The IAF Eastern Air Command, upon receiving visual inputs from Imphal Airport, activated its Air Defence response mechanism. However, the unidentified object disappeared shortly thereafter, leaving authorities perplexed.A statement from Airport Director Chipemmi Keishing highlighted the impact on flight operations: "Due to the sighting of an unidentified flying object within Imphal controlled airspace, two flights have been diverted and three departing flights have been delayed. Flight operations recommence after clearance is received from the competent authority."An Air Traffic Control (ATC) officer revealed that around 2:30 p.m., they received communication from the CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) notifying them about the UFO near the airport. The mysterious object remained visible to the naked eye, moving westwards of the airfield until 4 p.m.Among the affected flights was an Indigo flight from Calcutta, initially instructed to "hold overhead" before being redirected to Guwahati after a 25-minute delay. The delayed flights eventually took off from Imphal Airport three hours later, following the necessary clearance.The incident drew the attention of the Indian Air Force Eastern Command in Shillong, which was promptly informed of the unusual occurrence. Situated near the international border with Myanmar to the east, Manipur shares borders with Nagaland, Mizoram, and Assam. The nature of the unidentified flying object remains a mystery, leaving authorities and aviation officials intrigued by the unexplained disruption at Imphal International Airport.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-20 03:28:25
Space & Technology
Europe finds itself lagging behind China and India in the ongoing space race, prompting concerns among experts about its future access to space. The European Space Agency (ESA) had set an ambitious target to launch a return cargo mission to the International Space Station (ISS) by 2028, but this objective is now in jeopardy. China and India have established substantial leads in space exploration, outpacing Europe, and continue to pour significant investments into their respective space programs.Industry insiders are urging Europe to take decisive action to keep pace with its competitors. They advocate for a substantial increase in funding for the ESA and a stronger commitment from European governments to collaborate on space initiatives.Described as being at a "crossroads," Europe faces the risk of falling behind if immediate action is not taken, according to experts. The ESA current annual budget stands at approximately €7 billion, a mere fraction of the financial resources allocated by China and India to their space endeavors. China estimated space budget is around €30 billion per year, while India allocates approximately €10 billion annually.To narrow the gap, Europe is advised to boost its space budget to around €20 billion per year. This increase would enable the ESA to invest in cutting-edge technologies and enhance its capabilities.Collaboration among European governments on space projects is also emphasized. The ESA, currently operating on a voluntary basis, faces challenges as member states are not consistently willing to share technology or funding. Overcoming these obstacles is crucial for Europe to retain its leadership in space exploration.Beyond financial concerns, Europe confronts a shortage of skilled workers in the space industry. The ESA estimates a need to hire an additional 20,000 engineers and scientists by 2030 to meet its goals.Europe challenges in the space industry are not unique, as the United States also grapples with keeping pace with China. Technical issues and budget cuts have plagued the U.S. space program in recent years, adding to the uncertainties surrounding the future of space exploration.In this competitive landscape, the countries that invest the most and collaborate effectively are poised to emerge as leaders in the ongoing space exploration endeavors.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-20 03:17:05
World
Lockheed Martin is gearing up to deliver its advanced TPY-4 radar to the U.S. Air Force for in-depth assessment. The radar, which has undergone extensive internal testing and adjustments at Lockheed facilities in rural New York, is a software-defined sensor with the capability to detect and track a wide range of targets, including small drones, jets, and ballistic missiles. It is slated to replace the aging TPS-75 radar as part of the Three-Dimensional Expeditionary Long Range Radar effort (3DELRR).Last year, the Air Force chose Lockheed technology over a proposal from Northrop Grumman, considering factors such as production and sustainment costs, as well as overall capability. Steve Allen, Lockheed program director for ground-based air surveillance, highlighted the TPY-4 upfront software-defined nature during a recent tour of the company test range and assembly lines. He emphasized the flexibility of adapting the radar to changes in targets through software modifications.Upon delivery to Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, the TPY-4 is anticipated to undergo rigorous testing to explore its full potential. Allen expressed confidence that the Air Force is committed to pushing the radar to its limits and uncovering its true capabilities. Testing is scheduled to commence in the summer.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-19 04:03:33
Space & Technology
Meta Platforms announced on Saturday that it is redistributing its Responsible AI team members across various departments within the company, emphasizing their continued commitment to addressing potential harms associated with artificial intelligence.According to a spokesperson from Meta, the parent company of Facebook, the decision is aimed at bringing the Responsible AI team closer to the development of core products and technologies. The majority of team members will transition to working on generative AI, actively contributing to ongoing initiatives related to responsible AI development and usage across Meta platforms.Additionally, some team members will be integrated into AI infrastructure projects. Meta stated that these changes are part of the company ongoing efforts to prioritize and invest in the safe and responsible development of AI. The spokesperson highlighted that these adjustments will enhance Meta ability to scale and meet future needs in the rapidly evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.The move comes after The Information initially reported on the restructuring. In October, Meta introduced generative artificial intelligence tools, designed to enable advertisers to generate content such as image backgrounds and diverse variations of written text.Meta existing AI product lineup features notable components such as the language model "Llama 2" and an AI chatbot known as Meta AI, capable of generating text responses and producing photo-realistic images. The company remains committed to advancing these technologies while ensuring their responsible and ethical use.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-19 03:57:50
India
The Indian Air Force is currently engaged in a project aimed at creating a domestic jammer pod specifically designed for the indigenous LCA Mark 1A fighter aircraft, as stated by officials from the IAF on Saturday. The initiative reflects the IAF commitment to enhancing self-reliance by tasking its Base Repair Depots with the indigenization of various equipment for fighter and transport aircraft, along with other weapon systems, with the ultimate goal of reducing dependency on imports.In a noteworthy development, Colonel Vikram, the Vice President of Solar Group Economic Explosives Limited, highlighted that the multimode hand grenade marks a significant milestone as the first product manufactured indigenously by a private industry and delivered to the Indian Army, distinct from the ordnance factories. Colonel Vikram expressed confidence in the safety and advanced features of the hand grenade prototype, emphasizing its superior efficacy compared to the previous HE 36 hand grenade. He revealed the successful production and delivery of 10 lakh units to the Indian Army, citing positive reception and anticipation of subsequent orders.The LCA Mk1A, an upgraded iteration of the domestically developed LCA MK1, boasts additional features and enhancements, including a Self Protection Jammer. This strategic advancement aligns with the ongoing efforts to fortify the capabilities of indigenous defense systems, further establishing India prowess in military technology.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-19 03:47:16
World
At the 2023 Dubai Air Show, the Hongdu Aircraft Company of China has officially confirmed ongoing formal negotiations between China and Pakistan for the acquisition of light attack aircraft.The purpose behind this potential acquisition is to replace the aging F-7PG fighters currently in service with the Pakistan Air Force, particularly for combat pilot conversion.Hongdu revealed that Pakistan is interested in procuring a light attack aircraft variant based on the L-15 trainer.The armed version of the L-15 is equipped with nine hardpoints strategically distributed across its fuselage and wings, capable of carrying up to approximately three tons of weaponry. Noteworthy among its arsenal are the versatile HJ-10 anti-tank guided missiles and the LS series of 250-500kg laser- and satellite-guided bombs, enhancing its ground attack capabilities.Setting itself apart, the L-15 features a suite of Chinese lightweight aircraft sensors, including multi-mode targeting pods and electronic jammers. Its electronically scanned array radar facilitates an anti-aircraft role, complemented by the integration of PL-12 long-range air-to-air missiles and PL-10 infrared-guided short-range missiles.To further extend its operational range, the aircraft can utilize fuel drop tanks, effectively enhancing its combat radius to 500km, thereby increasing operational efficiency and on-station flight duration.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 17:54:17
India
On Saturday, President Mohamed Muizzu of the Maldives formally requested the withdrawal of Indian troops from the strategically positioned archipelago, delivering on a campaign promise made on his first day in office.During a meeting with Indian Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju, President Muizzu made the formal request, urging New Delhi to bring back personnel deployed to operate three gifted aircraft patrolling the maritime territory. Although the statement from the President office did not specify a timeline or the number of personnel to be withdrawn, Muizzu had emphasized the removal of foreign troops as a top priority during his inauguration the day before.In a televised, open-air ceremony, President Muizzu declared, "The country will not have any foreign military personnel in the Maldives. When it comes to our security, I will draw a red line. The Maldives will respect the red lines of other countries too."While assuring that the intention was not to disrupt the regional balance by substituting Indian military presence with Chinese troops, Muizzu had earlier stated that he aimed to foster "strong ties" with China, a significant financial supporter of the Maldives. The new president, a former mayor of the capital Male and a seven-year construction minister, succeeded a pro-China predecessor who was imprisoned on corruption charges.The Maldives, renowned for its pristine beaches and exclusive resorts, has evolved into a geopolitical focal point due to its strategic location along global east-west shipping lanes. With a chain of 1,192 coral islands stretching approximately 800 kilometers across the equator, the nation significance has grown beyond its reputation as a luxurious holiday destination.China representation at Muizzu inauguration ceremony by State Councillor Shen Yiqin, as a special envoy of President Xi Jinping, highlighted the geopolitical dynamics, especially considering China past involvement in the Maldives during the presidency of Muizzu mentor, Abdulla Yameen, in 2014.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 17:45:28
Secrets/Mystery
In a groundbreaking scientific revelation, researchers have identified peculiar "vampire viruses" in soil samples from Maryland and Missouri in the United States. While the existence of these intriguing entities, known as mobile genetic elements (MGEs), has been acknowledged by scientists for decades, this marks the first instance of their discovery in soil samples.At the University of Maryland Baltimore County, researchers made a significant observation as they detected virus-like entities, MGEs, attaching themselves to helper viruses during the infection of bacterial cells. These MGEs, often referred to as vampire viruses, are pathogens that rely on other viruses to facilitate their replication.This unique relationship unfolds when a bacteriophage attaches to a soil-based virus, essentially utilizing the viral host resources for its independent survival. The intricate dynamic between these two pathogens is termed a "satellite and a helper." The satellite, an infectious strand, depends on the helper throughout its life cycle. This reliance extends to the construction of a protective shell, known as a capsid, around its genetic material, as well as assistance in DNA replication.Notably, most satellite viruses carry a gene that enables them to integrate into the host cells genetic material upon entry, allowing them to reproduce whenever a helper virus enters the cell. The host cell, in turn, replicates both the satellite DNA and its own during cell division.The concern arises from the fact that vampire viruses latch onto helper viruses to insert their genes into host cells. This process requires both viruses to infect the cell simultaneously, necessitating close proximity during the event. The recent discovery, made possible through the use of an electron microscope emitting beams of electrons, revealed a unique attachment of the satellite virus to the helper virus at the neck, where the outer shell of the helper virus connects to its tail.This unprecedented observation was documented in a study published on October 31 in the Journal of the International Society for Microbial Ecology.Initiated as part of a routine undergraduate project, the research involved isolating bacteriophages – viruses targeting bacteria – from environmental samples for sequencing in labs. The researchers uncovered that, to ensure the satellite-helper pair enters the host cell simultaneously, the satellite employs a distinctive adaptation to attach to the helper using its tail. The consistency of these findings across multiple experiments underscores the significance of this newfound understanding of vampire viruses in the microbial world.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 17:40:53
Space & Technology
On Saturday, SpaceX achieved significant milestones in the development of its Starship rocket during its second test flight, marking a momentous step forward for Elon Musk space exploration company.Taking off from SpaceX Texas facility at around 8 a.m. ET, the Starship rocket soared for over seven minutes, successfully detaching from its booster before a deliberate mid-flight destruction initiated by the onboard system. Notably, no individuals were on board for this test flight.John Insprucker, SpaceX principal integration engineer, noted that the Automated Flight Termination System on the second stage appeared to trigger late in the burn, leading to the loss of data from the second stage. The intentional destruction, a safety measure in rockets, occurred at an altitude of approximately 148 kilometers, nearly half the orbit of the International Space Station.The planned trajectory involved flying Starship most of the way around Earth, with a re-entry into the atmosphere and a splashdown off the coast of Kauai, Hawaii. Despite the premature end to the flight, SpaceX deemed it an "incredibly successful day."Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced its standard mishap investigation into the flight. This regulatory procedure is customary after rocket launch failures, and corrective actions may be required before SpaceX can proceed with another Starship launch. The FAA confirmed no injuries or property damage during the incident.NASA Administrator Bill Nelson acknowledged SpaceX progress, stating, "Spaceflight is a bold adventure demanding a can-do spirit and daring innovation. Today test is an opportunity to learn—then fly again."Starship, standing as the tallest and most powerful rocket ever launched, consists of the 397-foot-tall fully stacked Starship atop the 232-foot-tall Super Heavy booster. The system, designed for reusability, utilizes liquid oxygen and liquid methane, requiring over 10 million pounds of propellant for launch.The Starship system holds strategic importance for NASA lunar exploration plans, with SpaceX securing a multibillion-dollar contract to deploy Starship as a crewed lunar lander as part of the Artemis moon program. The company envisions spending approximately $2 billion on Starship development this year.During this second flight attempt, SpaceX aimed to exceed the nearly four-minute flight of the initial launch, reach space, and showcase improvements to ground infrastructure and rocket design. Upgrades were implemented to address engine issues and communication delays experienced in the debut attempt back in April.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 17:25:19
India
In a significant stride towards enhancing India defense capabilities, DRDO Chief Dr. Samir V Kamat announced on Saturday that the engines for the LCA Mark 2 and the initial two squadrons of the homegrown Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) will be manufactured domestically. Speaking to ANI, Dr. Kamat stated, "The engines for LCA Mark 2 and the first two squadrons of the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft would be produced within the country through a collaboration between American GE and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, with all necessary clearances received from the US."The collaboration between HAL and GE from the US will see the joint production of these engines in a facility based in India.The Cabinet Committee on Security, on August 30, approved the development of the LCA Mark 2 fighter aircraft, slated to replace the Mirage 2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29 combat aircraft in the Indian Air Force (IAF)."The government has given the green light to the LCA Mark 2 fighter aircraft development project. This marks the initiation of the design phase for an advanced 17.5-tonne single-engine aircraft, with the development set to conclude by 2027," stated Girish Deodhare, Chief of Aeronautical Development Agency, referring to the project.He disclosed that prototypes would be developed, with the first one expected to roll out within a year. The comprehensive project, involving extensive flying trials and related work, is scheduled for completion by 2027.DRDO envisions the aircraft to be comparable to Rafale-class aircraft in terms of avionics and capabilities but with a lighter weight. The government has mandated that the engines used in the aircraft must be "Made in India" post the initial development phase.DRDO plans to equip the aircraft with a GE-414 engine, an advanced version of the GE-404s currently powering the existing LCAs in service and the upcoming 83 LCA Mark 1As set for induction into the IAF in the coming years.As of now, the IAF operates 30 LCAs, with two being utilized by HAL for the development of the Mark 1As. The proposal for the AMCA aircraft development, with a substantial focus on indigenous inputs, is pending government approval but is expected to receive the green light soon.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 17:04:49
India
On Friday, the Central government announced the appointment of Alok Sharma, a 1991-batch Uttar Pradesh cadre Indian Police Service officer, as the Director of the Special Protection Group (SPG). The SPG is India premier force responsible for ensuring close security to the Prime Minister of India and their immediate family members.Currently serving as the Additional Director General in the SPG, Alok Sharma will assume the role of SPG Director from the date he takes charge, and this appointment will continue until further notice. The decision was endorsed by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.According to a statement from the Ministry of Personnel, "The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of Alok Sharma, IPS (UP:1991), Additional Director General, SPG to the post of Director, Special Protection Group (SPG) from the date of assumption of charge of the post and until further orders."Alok Sharma, born in 1966 and hailing from Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, is a Science graduate (B.Sc.) and joined the Indian Police Service in 1991. With significant experience in various crucial roles in Uttar Pradesh, Sharma assumed the position of Inspector General (IG) in the SPG in 2018, later progressing to his current role as Additional Director General in 2021.Established in 1988 through an Act of the Parliament of India, the SPG functions as a specialized operations force dedicated to providing immediate security to the Prime Minister and their immediate family members globally. Originally tasked with safeguarding former prime ministers as well, the SPG now focuses solely on the current Prime Minister and their immediate family members residing with them at the official residence, offering a high level of security cover.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 16:51:22
World
The relatives of Israeli hostages, currently held by the Hamas terror group, led a march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, according to a report from The Times of Israel on Saturday. The march, attended by thousands of Israelis, aimed to reach the Israeli Prime Minister office.Approximately 30,000 people participated in the march, as reported by local news media. Kobi Ben Ami, whose family members are among the hostages in Gaza, expressed that the families were "begging" for a meeting with ministers to discuss plans for the hostages return. Many relatives feel abandoned by the government, he added.During the final stretch towards Jerusalem, the marchers were joined by opposition leader Yair Lapid. The procession entered the capital around 3 p.m., leading to a protest at the Prime Minister Office at 4 p.m. Residents of the city welcomed the marchers with yellow balloons bearing the words "bring them home."After the protest, the families planned to return to Tel Aviv for a meeting with war cabinet minister Benny Gantz and cabinet observer Minister Gadi Eisenkot. The families stated that they had not received a response to their meeting request from other war cabinet ministers, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant, and cabinet observer Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.Following the meeting, a rally was scheduled at 7 p.m. with speeches beginning at 8 p.m. at "Hostages Square" outside the Tel Aviv Museum of Art. The marchers spent Friday night at Ein Hemed, where they held a Shabbat service and had a traditional Friday night meal. Benny Gantz joined them, speaking with relatives of hostages and offering support.Naor Pakciarz, representing the families of Kibbutz Beeri, emphasized the need for the war cabinet to engage directly with them before making decisions. "Look us in the eye!" Pakciarz urged, questioning how they could welcome Shabbat without knowing the whereabouts of their loved ones.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 16:42:25
India
Sri Lanka is poised to initiate the search for potential investors interested in establishing nuclear power plants, according to the country Energy Minister. The move comes as Sri Lanka endeavors to secure cost-effective electricity to bolster its economic recovery. Currently, the primary sources of energy in the island nation include imported oil, coal, and hydropower. In alignment with its sustainability goals, the government aims to generate 70% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, with nuclear power being viewed as a low-carbon option. The ultimate objective is for Sri Lanka to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.Energy Minister Kanchana Wijesekera conveyed the government commitment to incorporating the safe use of nuclear energy into its long-term generation plans following discussions with officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency in Colombo. Announcing the decision on the X social media platform, Wijesekera stated that the government will soon invite expressions of interest (EOIs) for the establishment of nuclear power plants, emphasizing the integration of modern technology.Earlier reports in July indicated that Sri Lanka was evaluating offers for nuclear power plants from various countries, including Russia, the United States, India, and European nations. This move echoes a 2010 announcement, wherein the country expressed its intention to construct a one-gigawatt nuclear power plant by 2030.Currently, India and Pakistan are the sole South Asian countries with operational nuclear power plants, while Bangladesh is in the process of establishing its own. Russia is actively involved in constructing nuclear power plants in Bangladesh, and a recent deal between China and Pakistan outlines plans for a 1,200-megawatt plant in Punjab province.Sri Lanka, home to 22 million people, grappled with a severe economic crisis prompting a $2.9 billion bailout loan from the International Monetary Fund in March. This financial assistance aims to address the nation overwhelming debt burden and mitigate the impact of its worst economic downturn since gaining independence in 1948.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 16:31:00
India
On Saturday, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar expressed optimism about the significant expansion of the Indian Navy in the coming years. Plans are underway to augment the fleet size to approximately 165-170 ships and submarines by 2035, a notable increase from the current tally of 130 ships and around 220 aircraft.Admiral Kumar underscored the Navy pivotal role in safeguarding, conserving, advancing, and pursuing national interests. He assured that the Navy is well-equipped with the necessary funding and resources to support its ambitious growth agenda. Presently, the Navy is actively engaged in the construction of 67 ships and submarines across various sizes. Moreover, with the approval for the construction of an additional 45 ships and submarines, a substantial expansion of the Navy fleet is anticipated in the coming years.In addition to the emphasis on hardware expansion, Admiral Kumar shed light on the Navy strategic plans to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations. While acknowledging the projection of a complete AI takeover by 2045, the immediate focus lies on manned-unmanned teaming. A dedicated unmanned squadron has been established in Karwar, with significant developments in unmanned air assets, unmanned surface water vessels, and unmanned underwater vessels.The outlined growth trajectory of the Indian Navy mirrors its increasing significance in the Indo-Pacific region. The Navy evolving role as a guardian of India maritime interests and a guarantor of regional security underscores its escalating importance in the geopolitical landscape.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 16:21:11
India
In Uttarkashi, Uttarakhand, the efforts to rescue 40 workers trapped inside the Silkyara tunnel faced a setback on Saturday when drilling operations were temporarily halted. According to Anshu Manish Khulko, the director of NHIDCL, the tunnel-making company, the drilling work reached a depth of 25 meters into the debris before being suspended. The workers have been stuck for six days since a section of the under-construction Silkyara tunnel collapsed on November 12.Khulko clarified that the pause in drilling was not due to any issues with the rescue machine. He explained that the focus had shifted to preparing for the insertion of a pipeline to extricate the trapped workers, a process that has been ongoing for the past three days with only 25 meters of the pipeline laid so far.The managing director of NHIDCL is expected to arrive at the incident site on Saturday to assess the ongoing rescue efforts and provide further details. Meanwhile, a heavy-duty drilling machine from Indore, Madhya Pradesh, is anticipated to reach the tunnel site later in the day.The collapsed tunnel, part of the Brahmakhal-Yamunotri national highway between Silkyara and Dandalgaon, occurred on November 12. The National Highways & Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited, responsible for the tunnel construction, reported progress in excavation and shotcreting (concrete spraying) for 40 meters of the collapsed tunnel. A cavity has formed 10 meters above the crown on both sides, and a chimney formation has started along the tunnel, according to a statement released on Friday. An additional shotcrete machine has been relocated to the work site from RVNL Package-lll.The Silkyara Tunnel, measuring 4531 meters, is a crucial component of the Chardham Project initiated by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. Intended to connect the Gangotri and Yamunotri axis under the Radi pass area, the tunnel is being constructed by NHIDCL through Navayuga Engineering Company Ltd at a cost of Rs 853.79 crore.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 04:33:25
World
The Dutch (Nederland) Ministry of Defence has announced a significant commitment of €2 billion ($2.2 billion) in military aid to Ukraine for the year 2024. This financial support aims to address Ukraine immediate requirements for ammunition and the maintenance of existing platforms and systems. Additionally, a portion of the funds will be allocated to fortify Ukraine air defenses, enhancing its ability to safeguard critical infrastructure against potential attacks.Dutch Defence Minister Kajsa Ollongren emphasized the resolute commitment to supporting Ukraine, stating, "With this substantial amount, we send a clear signal that we are determined to continue our support for Ukraine, now and in the future." The Netherlands has consistently been among the most significant contributors to Ukraine military assistance since the Russian invasion, with a total pledge of €2.48 billion by the end of July. This places the Netherlands in the company of major contributors such as the U.S., Germany, the U.K., Norway, Poland, and Denmark.Germany has also expressed intentions to bolster military aid to Ukraine, with plans to double the support to €8 billion in 2024, as confirmed by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.The Dutch aid will be provided through various means, including commercial procurement, utilizing stockpiles, and collaborating with international partners. The Netherlands, in coordination with Denmark, is overseeing European efforts to supply F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine. As part of this initiative, five aircraft are stationed at a training center in Romania this month.The support extends beyond conventional weaponry and includes technologically advanced equipment. While specific details were not provided by the Dutch ministry, part of the funding will be allocated to enhance Ukraine cybersecurity capabilities.Continuing its commitment, the Netherlands will extend military training for Ukrainian personnel throughout 2024. Since October 2022, the country has deployed numerous instructors and troops, both in the U.K. and as part of the European Union training mission.This significant aid package aligns with the Netherlands pledge made at the NATO meeting in Vilnius in July, demonstrating a commitment to long-term support for Ukraine. Notably, the Netherlands has previously supplied Ukraine with various equipment, including T-72 tanks, Patriot air defense systems, PzH 2000 155 mm self-propelled howitzers, Alkmaar-class minehunter vessels, F-16s, Leopard 2A4 tanks, and Leopard 1 tanks through collaborations with Denmark and Germany.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 04:25:49
World
A cutting-edge drone prototype, named Anshar, has been unveiled by a Brazilian defense organization, Mac Jee Group. This development coincides with the increasing significance of such weaponry, particularly in light of Russia involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. Referred to as loitering munitions, these drones can stay airborne until a remote operator commands them to target and crash into designated objectives.At the recent Dubai Airshow, Mac Jee Group showcased the Anshar, boasting a range of 120 kilometers (62 miles), a speed of 612 kph (380 mph), an impressive one-hour endurance, and a payload capacity of 20 kilograms (44 pounds). Mathieu Izquierdo, the sales business development director of Mac Jee, emphasized the alignment of this new product with contemporary war doctrines, particularly those observed in Eastern Europe conflicts. He highlighted Anshar purpose of efficiently eliminating high-value targets at a reduced cost, emphasizing its user-friendly maintenance and operation features, although specific equipment costs were not disclosed.According to Izquierdo, a live demonstration of the Anshar drone is scheduled for the upcoming World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia, set to take place from Feb. 4-8. He revealed that Mac Jee primarily exports its products to the Middle East and announced the company intention to officially launch the product in early 2025.Headquartered in Sao Jose dos Campos, one of Brazil key defense hubs, Mac Jee operates alongside aerospace giant Embraer and other prominent defense firms. The unveiling of the Anshar drone marks a significant stride for the Brazilian defense industry, positioning it as a key player in the evolving landscape of modern warfare technologies.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 04:15:04Space & Technology
As per NASA officials, the launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) is scheduled for the first quarter of 2024 after undergoing initial tests, with a focus on vibration-related assessments. Phil Barela, the NASA NISAR Project Manager, mentioned during a media briefing, "ISRO is projecting the first quarter of next year. So, I mean, that is ready."The NISAR mission, a collaborative effort between NASA and ISRO, aims to monitor Earth evolving ecosystems, dynamic surfaces, and ice masses. It will offer valuable insights into biomass, natural hazards, sea level rise, groundwater, and various other applications.NISAR is designed to observe the Earth land and ice-covered surfaces globally with a regularity of every 12 days on ascending and descending passes. This means it will capture data on average every 6 days throughout its baseline 3-year mission.In this partnership, NASA contributions include the mission L-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR), a high-rate telecommunication subsystem for scientific data GPS receivers, a solid-state recorder, and a payload data subsystem. On the other hand, ISRO will provide the satellite bus, an S-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR), the launch vehicle, and associated launch services. The collaboration is poised to enhance our understanding of Earth various facets through advanced remote sensing capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2023-11-18 04:06:23Search
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