Mahindra, Embraer Tie up for Medium Transport Aircraft in India
Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly bid for the Indian Air Force's (IAF) Medium Transport (MTA) Aircraft tender. Embraer is pitching its C-390 Millennium multi-mission aircraft for the deal. The MoU was signed at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi.
Embraer and Mahindra will engage with the Indian Air Force to identify the next steps of the MTA program, as well as contact the local aerospace industry in India to start developing the industrialization plan for the project.
The C-390 Millennium attained its Full Operational Capability status with the Brazilian Air Force in 2023 and there is also a configuration with air-to-air refuelling equipment, with the designation KC-390 which functions both as a tanker and as a receiver.
Feb 10, 2024
DRDO Successfully Concludes Four Flight Trials of ABHYAS
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted four flight trials of the high-speed expendable aerial target named 'ABHYAS.' The trials held at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha's Chandipur, accomplished four distinct mission objectives.
Using a revised robust configuration with a single booster designed by the Advanced Systems Laboratory in Hyderabad, the trials showcased reduced launch acceleration. This success marks a crucial milestone for DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) and its collaborative efforts with production agencies.
The flight trials of ABHYAS focused on achieving specific mission objectives, including the safe release of the booster, launcher clearance, and attaining the required end-of-launch velocity. These goals were successfully met, showcasing the effectiveness of the revised robust configuration and the single booster designed by the Advanced Systems Laboratory.
Feb 09, 2024
World Defence Show in Riyadh
Three women military officials, Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth, Colonel Ponung Doming and Lt Commander Annu Prakash, were among the personnel who represented India at the World Defence Show in Riyadh. The five-day mega event showcased the latest advancements in defence technology serving as a vital platform for international collaboration among the participating companies.
The participation of these three exceptional women officers at the World Defence Show served as a testament to the growing role of Indian women in the defence landscape.
Under the esteemed leadership of HRH Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI), World Defense Show hosted its second edition in 2024.
India to Host 9-day Milan Naval Exercise
India will host a nine-day mega naval exercise in Visakhapatnam beginning February 19 that is expected to see participation of over 50 navies against the backdrop of fractious geopolitical environment including increasing security concerns in the Red Sea. Navies from the US, Japan, Australia, France, Bangladesh, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia and Malaysia are set to be among the participating nations in the 'Milan' exercise to be conducted off Visakhapatnam from February 19 to 27.
Milan is a biennial multinational naval exercise which started in 1995 with the participation of Indonesia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Thailand in consonance with India's 'Look East' policy. The exercise flourished under the aegis of Andaman and Nicobar Command till its 10th edition.
The upcoming exercise would comprise two phases -- the 'Harbour phase' and the 'Sea phase'.
The harbour phase, aimed to promote cultural sharing amongst the participating nations, would consist of an international maritime seminar, international city parade, maritime exhibition and various sporting events.
In the sea phase, ships along with aircraft of friendly foreign countries would participate along with the Indian Navy's aircraft and other units.
Feb 08, 2024
Rashtriya Raksha University and Assam Rifles Sign an MoU for Holistic Learning and Academic Colla...
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU) and the Assam Rifles to enhance training for academic excellence.
The agreement was signed by Dr. Bimal N Patel, Vice Chancellor, RRU, and Lt Gen PC Nair, Director General Assam Rifles, at the Rashtriya Raksha University in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
The MoU aims to accredit the academic and training programme of Assam Rifles, provide certification for various courses, facilitate training in undertaking studies, dissertations, and doctoral research, and encourage joint research initiatives, faculty exchange and collaborative projects.
As per Lt Gen PC Nair, the partnership between the Assam Rifles' practical experience and the academic rigour of RRU will create a holistic learning environment that nurtures both character and competence.
Feb 07, 2024
India Seals Major Artillery Deal with Saudi Arabia
India entered a pivotal chapter in its defense export narrative by securing a lucrative $225 million deal to supply artillery rounds to the Saudi Arabian Ground Forces. The agreement signed between Nadrah Company and Munitions India, marked a significant stride in India's global military outreach and economic prowess. The deal is touted as one of the largest Indian defense export orders, reflecting the South Asian nation's growing influence in the international defense market.
This deal not only showcases India's substantial artillery ammunition production capabilities but also its commitment to producing high-quality, reliable military equipment. India currently ranks third in the world in terms of artillery ammunition production, surpassed only by China and Russia, and stands ahead of the United States and North Korea.
India to Fence Indo-Myanmar Border for Enhanced Security
Effectively putting an end to the free movement regime or FMR with Myanmar, which allows people on both sides to venture 16 km into each other's territory without any document, the Union Government said that the entire 1,643 km long Indo-Myanmar border will be fenced.
The decision to construct a fence along the entire 1643-kilometre-long Indo-Myanmar border would facilitate better surveillance, and a patrol track along the border will also be paved.
Out of the total border length, a 10-km stretch in Moreh, Manipur, has already been fenced.