Ashley Again, IAF is in Crisis

Ashley Again, IAF is in Crisis

The famous think tank who behind the stronger military relationship between India and US, once again wrote a column focusing the Indian Air force's low number of operational fighters. He wrote this column with the proper inputs input ex IAF officials like AM Mathershwaran, and Indian Navy official like Adm Arun Prakash.

He comes with good points by showcasing how bad is the Indian air force, and what are the options left to revamp the modernization program. He not only blamed the low squadron number, he insisted the problematic force structure along with crippled acquisition and modernization programs. where rival forces Pakistan and China is in full swing to modernize their air inventory.

China and Pakistan field about 750 advanced air defense/multirole fighters against the IAF’s 450-odd equivalents. The airfield infrastructure limitations in Tibet, however, prevent China from bringing all of its air capabilities to bear against India. Yet after 2025, China could be able to deploy anywhere between 300 and 400 sophisticated air craft against India, in addition to the 100 to 200 advanced fighters likely to exist in Pakistan by then.

The IAF’s likelihood of reaching its 2027 goal with a high proportion of advanced fighters is poor. It is stymied by serious constraints on India’s defense budget, the impediments imposed by the acquisition process, the meager achievements of the country’s domestic development organizations, the weaknesses of the higher defense management system, and India’s inability to reconcile the need for self-sufficiency in defense production with the necessity of maintaining technological superiority over rivals.

All three tiers of the IAF are currently in trouble. The Tejas Mark 1 is handicapped by significant technological deficiencies; the prospects for expanding the MMRCA component to compensate for the Tejas’s shortcomings are unclear; and the IAF’s reluctance to proceed fully with the PAK-FA program could undermine its fifth generation fighter ambitions.

The IAF should revisit some aspects of its current approach. It should be cautious about expanding the Tejas acquisition beyond six squadrons and consider enlarging the MMRCA component with the cheapest fourth-generation-plus Western fighter available. India should also reassess the decision to develop the AMCA indigenously and avoid weakening the collaboration with Russia on the PAK-FA program.

India should expand its investments in advanced munitions, combat support aircraft, electronic warfare, physical infrastructure, and pilot proficiency all current strengths while being realistic about its domestic capacity to produce sophisticated combat air craft. Indian policymakers must especially guard against the temptation to prioritize indigenous design and manufacture over the imperative of providing the IAF’s able pilots with the best fighters available.

Like China, the IAF possesses various combat support platforms, but its airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) and its aerial refueling aircraft in particular are still too few in number to support effective air operations on a sustained basis around the Indian subcontinent. The IAF operates a small number of medium UAVs for tactical reconnaissance and maintains some armed drones, such as the Harpy, for the suppression of enemy air defenses.

When the number of aircraft actually operational on any given day is accounted for, the IAF’s numerical superiority over the PAF is less than two-to-one, way below the advantageous ratio necessary to underwrite the IAF’s obligations against both Pakistan and China and representing a considerable degradation in comparison to the 1980s, when the IAF enjoyed close to a three-to-one superiority over the PAF.

With all PAF F-16s likely to be eventually brought up to the Block 52 standard and equipped with the C5+ version of the potent AIM-120 A2A Missile, the force will have acquired a formidable BVR air combat capability.

If the PAF’s plans come to fruition with the acquisition of additional F-16s and new fifth generation
Chinese J-31s—something Islamabad is working frantically to procure—the Pakistani air arm could end up with a decent three-tier multirole force a decade or so from now. Based on discussions taking place between Pakistan and China and between Pakistan and the United States,

the PAF in the not-too-distant future could operate some 40 J-31 stealth fighters at the high-end; some 100 F-16s armed with among the best U.S. beyond visual- range air-to-air missiles and other advanced air-to-ground munitions, and possibly complemented by a smaller number of Chinese J-10s in the middle; and as many as 250 JF-17s at the low end.

Even the least capable fighter in this lineup, the JF-17, is an effective combatant: it is capable of all-weather operations against both air and surface targets, its aerodynamic performance compares favorably with that of the Indian Tejas, and the later units of its class will likely be armed with advanced Western sensors, weapons, and defensive systems.

The entire reports has lot of information's. and one can download the report from here 

INS Beas visits Doha, Qatar

INS Beas visits Doha, Qatar

Indian Naval ship Beas is on an official visit to Doha, Qatar from today onwards till 02 Apr 16 to participate in the fifth edition of Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition (DIMDEX).

DIMDEX is held biennially at Doha and provides an ideal platform for showcasing our indigenous shipbuilding capability and technological prowess as well as innovation in Naval systems. INS Beas, an indigenous Brahmaputra Class frigate commissioned on 11 Jul 05 will represent the Indian Navy at DIMDEX 16.

 Built by our Defence shipyard (DPSU), M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited, at Kolkata, the ship is a modern anti-submarine warfare frigate equipped with state-of-the-art weapons and sensors. The ship represents a unique amalgamation of Western and Eastern origin as well as indigenous equipment and leverages innovation to provide a potent mix of surface, anti-air and anti-missile as well as anti-submarine capabilities.

During the visit, the ship will have professional interactions with the Qatar Emiri Navy. The visit will also afford an opportunity to interact with other participating warships from various countries. These interactions will contribute towards strengthening ties, enhancing mutual understanding and building ‘Bridges of Friendship’. The ship is Commanded by Captain Deepak Bhatia, who is a Navigation and Operations specialist.

The Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Western Naval Command, Vice Admiral Sunil Lanba, PVSM, AVSM, ADC, will also visit Doha during the period of the ship’s stay. During the visit, the Flag Officer will also address the Middle East Naval Commanders’ Conference (MENC).

The visit by INS Beas to Doha for DIMDEX 16 will serve to showcase Indian indigenous shipbuilding capability and maritime prowess, enhance maritime ties with Qatar as well as other participating countries. 

- PIB 

Barracuda to Mistral DCNS show in DEF EXPO

Barracuda to Mistral DCNS show in DEF EXPO

French naval giant DCNS offers variety of naval systems in the defense exhibition held in Goa. The systems include next generation Barracuda submarine, Mistral helicopter carrier and evolved aircraft carrier model, the showcased models are all already front running in many naval tenders, which include the Scorpene submarine.

As expected earlier, The french formally offering the Barracuda submarine for the Indian navy's P 75I program. DCNS is front running in the Australian collins class replacement program, who also offering the same variant to Indian P 75I. which capable to launch cruise missile from vertical tubes and also capable to deliver marine commandos and capable to operate unmanned underwater vehicle's.

Barracuda is the French nuclear submarine, who is in construction as of now, French Navy plans to receive the first Barracuda by next year. They also modded the submarine by replacing the nuclear reactor and making it an conventional submarine. whose projected displacement is more than 4000 tons.  The conventional variant called as shortfin Barracuda Block 1A.

France also showcasing the model of Mistral helicopter landing ship in the expo. who offered the Mistral many times before, Where govt yet to announce the winner of the project. Mistral along with Juan Carlos leading the project. The Mistral was once studied by Indian navy, However they rejected the model due to the podded propulsion system.

DCNS joined with Reliance's Pipavav shipyard to build those LHD's in Indian shipyard, to accelerate the construction govt announced in the RFI, that two shipyards will be selected to build those ships. DCNS announced that they will ready to redesign the ship as Indian Navy wanted.

French also displays the evolved air craft carrier model in the Def Expo, with the operating capacity of some 40 aircraft's. However sources say the proposed aircraft is conventionally powered, with assisted launching. Indian navy in talks with the Americans to build the next gen aircraft carrier. France and Russia also proposes their interest in building one for India. However It's highly unlikely India won't look on other models.

DCNS also showcasing the lightweight MU 90 torpedo, which can be launched from warships and helicopters assigned for ASW mission. The MU 90 jointly developed by french and Italian company, which is already being used by many nations.

Indian navy also looking for Torpedo's for both surface and submerged launched platforms, The MU 90 is one of best available system, however Indian Varunastra torpedo also evolving as a best system, Varunastra also offering Helicopter launched, Sub launched and Ship launched version, However the torpedo programs are kept as secret, where more details are not available in open media. 

DRDO to Hand Over Sonar Dome to Defence Minister

DRDO to Hand Over Sonar Dome to Defence Minister

Goa will have its own proud moments during the prestigious Defexpo being held at Quitol, Goa apart from hosting the mega event first time outside Delhi.

A huge bow mounted Sonar Dome designed & developed by Research & Development Establishment (Engineers) [R&DE(E)], a DRDO laboratory based in Pune is going to be flagged off by Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar, Secretary Department of Defence (R&D) & DG DRDO Dr. S. Christopher will also be present on this important occasion. The ceremony will be held at Defexpo site in Goa on March 29, 2016. The Sonar dome will be delivered to Mazgaon Docks, Mumbai.

The Sonar Dome, a first of its kind in the country has been manufactured by a composites manufacturing company in India. This is a huge contribution by Indian Industry to the ‘Make in India’ movement. Only a couple of companies worldwide have the capability of realising such structures.

All anti-submarine warfare (ASW) ships have a sonar array fitted to the ship structure below the waterline. The sonar functions as the ship’s underwater eyes and ears. The sonar dome is a structure fitted over the sonar array so that its electronics and sensors are not exposed to surrounding hostile environment. The sonar dome has to be structurally sound as well as acoustically transparent.

R&DE(E), DRDO, Pune has successfully developed process technologies to realise large composite structures that can be used in Naval ships & submarines. The Laboratory has also developed technologies related Integral Composite Armour that can be used in Combat Vehicles. The Laboratory is also significantly contributing in development of aerospace structures. NPOL, a DRDO Laboratory at Kochi played a significant role in development of the Sonar Dome.

It is prudent to mention that Composite Material Technologies relevant to Indigenously developed Missiles have already been well established.

DRDO is also fielding Live Demonstration of number of Systems with Cutting Edge Technologies for the first time in Defexpo.

SONAR from DRDO

Sonar dome is a protective cover to sonar equipment of surface war ships. The dome is designed to house sonar array, and to maximize the performance of the array by reducing the effects of noise of water turbulence and protecting the array from wave slamming, minor collisions etc. In the design of sonar dome, both structural and acoustic considerations come into play.

Typical structural constraints may include the deformation of the structure under steady external flow, accelerations, slamming loads and shock loads. From an acoustic stand point of view, the goal is to maximize the fidelity of incoming sound by ensuring that the self-noise and flow induced noise can be inherently minimized. 

The current sonar domes in advanced composites bring additional benefits for strength and acoustic performance, extending the ability of the vessel to locate, evade and engage hostile environments. The sonar dome is mounted at the bow of the ship.

R&DE(E) has developed design, analysis and manufacturing capabilities of composite sonar domes. A typical dome consists of stiffeners, acoustic window area (acoustically transparent region), baffle plate, and flange with gasket for water tight connection of the dome to ship. Acoustic window area is a composite-rubber sandwich construction. Lifting hooks are provided for handling dome during handling and fitting.

R&DE(E) has established two manufacturing processes, Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) and Resin Film Infusion (RFI) for realization of large composite structures. Either of them can be used for realization of composite sonar dome. Both the processes require mold for realization of a structure. Since RFI is a high temperature curing process, it requires oven for curing or a heating system embedded in the mold. Whereas, VARTM can be a room temperature curing process, hence may not require any oven or heating system for curing.

To realize sonar dome, male or female mold may be used depending on factors like dimensional accuracy, surface finish, ease of lay-up, demolding etc. Type of mould shall be chosen depending on the merits and demerits of the process and finished product requirements.

In VARTM process, vacuum and resin points are provided for creating vacuum and sending resin into dry fabric, respectively. These points are decided based on guidelines obtained from process modeling and flow simulation studies. In VARTM process, resin is sucked under vacuum and it flows into the dry fabric until it is saturated with resin.

To monitor resin flow online in complex regions, a process monitoring system is also available which can be deployed wherever necessary. After resin infusion, job is allowed to cure at room temperature for 24 hr then the job is demolded. Thus the complete design to manufacturing know-how of composite sonar dome is available with R&DE(E) and can be transferred to interested industry partner for commercial use.

This technology is ready for ToT to Indian Industry for supply of domes to Indian Navy/ Indian Armed Forces/ Other Govt. Agencies only.

Why IAF rejected MiG 35 Fulcrum F

Why IAF rejected MiG 35 Fulcrum F

Many in the social media claiming that the MiG 35 is the better low cost option to ramp up the number of fighter jets in Indian Air force, without knowing the actual reason behind why IAF didn't said any words about MiG 35. Russian fighters are good, but not suits for modern Indian requirements. The air fighting evolved since years that dog fighting replaced with long range BVR missiles.

During the initial days of MMRCA evaluation, IAF rejected American F 16 and Swedish Gripen as a reason of single engine. the first lesson for the contenders that IAF clearly looking the modern fighter should fight in the dense condition, even if the IR guided missiles burst the engine, the fighter need to be return to base without being crashed.

During evaluations, MiG 35 was forced out, without even tested by IAF in many conditions, This is recently declassified by the MiG CEO, which was published in IDRW .  This due to some reasons, one is during the evaluation trails two MiG 29's crashed in Russia, which forced all MiG 29 grounded. This issue also well addressed by live fist in early 2010. The detailed information explained by Shiv aroor and posted in Livefist .

The IAF's intentions is clear, that they don't want the MiG platforms so the Russian planes. This due to the IAF's serious discussion after the evolving ground threats and need of good close air support platform. Here many think dumb bombs can easily worked out. However this is not true, A fighter needs to be visually identifies the ground target before dropping bombs.

The Americans and the Western fighters doing this since decade after learning lessons in Gulf war. Pakistan and China has massive number of mobile platforms like Artillery's and Tanks. A good fighter with loads of LGB can only stop the enemy's offensive platforms.

The MiG or the Su 35 can't do this. Russians has different operating procedure, their main objective is defend the Russian air space from enemy fighters and provide air cover to the ground troops. The reason why Russia using so many Fighter jets and interceptors and operating very less number of ground attack jets like Frogfoots.

The Indian air force expanded it's capabilities from defensive mission into air offensive and close air support. Currently India has enough number of such fighter aircraft's. 300 of Su 30 MKI and another 60 MiG 29 UPG is enough for such mission. More over Indian air space is heavily guarded by long range missiles like Barak ( upcoming ) and Akash SAM systems. So the Indian air space is well protected by those layered defensive networks.

Those SAM's has highest availability rate and operating costs too very low, compared to a fighter jet. The Europeans are more smart in this field that they understand in the SAM theory, so they moved into multi role fighter jets and deploying more SAM systems.

The IAF is so happy with the usage of western fighter jets like Jaguar and Mirage 2000 and planned to keep those fighters upto 2030. those fighters are very good in precision bombing missions. they were upgraded and can provide close air support to the ground units in anytime, day night and any tough weather conditions.

Here too the Russian fighters do carry such precision guided munitions. But they were so costlier and they can't fly very low to drop those bombs. IAF can equip sixteen LGB's in a western platform with the cost of single MiG 29 or Su 30 MKI armed with one Kh 25 missile. hardly the Russians using the Missiles for precision strike and West uses bombs.

The Russians too tried GLONASS guided bombs, which is combat proven in Syrian civil war. However they were never comes closer to the western PGM's accuracy. PGM used to hit stationary targets, while LGB used to strike mobile targets. for both LGB and PGM, west uses Bombs, Russia uses Missiles for moving targets, and uses guided bombs for stationary targets. 

Lets assume a mission, a friendly forces operating with several armors and infantry units surrounded by large enemy column. The Infantry man calls for an close air support mission and the location also identified.  Fighter jets are usually very fast, they can cross some 400 kmph at minimum speed, The battle is encircled at some five square kilometers.

So the hard job for the Fighter jet is to identify the enemy targets, and escape from MANPAD threats. Usually two to eight fighter jets assigned to perform the task. So these fighter jets must be equipped with modern sensor suites to defeat the MANPAD threats and modern EO systems to identify the enemy targets in the grounds.

As one more the enemy targets are highly mobile, and they were close to the friendly units. One hard thing should be understand everyone, that our ground troops ill equipped to mark the enemy troops, the recent acquisition of multi purpose binoculars are the only option to laze the enemy target and directly feed into the fighter jets mission computer.

Once the identification acquired from the ground troops they cross check the info by checking their own. for that they need to be fly low and slow. Few fighter jets are performed this mission, like Tornodo, F 15, F 18 and the Rafale. Hardly no Russian jets can perform such mission. they hits many stationary objects in Syria, but no identities of mobile targets. US on the other side performed some good mission by destroying many mobile targets and convoy's.

India is not going to fight against militia or poorly equipped army's, India needs to fight against two modern army's even in tough terrain condition. So CAS will be achieved with modern multi purpose fighters like Rafale. not the air superiority fighters like MiG 29 or 35.

Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha on a Visit to the State of Israel

Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha on a Visit to the State of Israel

Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha is on a four day goodwill visit to the State of Israel. The visit is aimed at consolidating the existing robust bilateral military to military cooperation between India and Israel.

During his visit to Israel, the Air Chief is scheduled to call on the Israeli Defence Minister Mr Moshe Ya’alon. He would also meet Lieutenant General Gadi Eisenkot, Chief of the General Staff, Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Major General Amir Eshel, Commander of Israeli Air Force and Mr. Ophir Shoham, Director of the Ministry of Defense (MOD), Directorate for Research and Development MAFAT. The meetings would essentially focus on a wide range of bilateral issues pertaining to the ongoing defence cooperation between the two countries.

During his visit to the various operational air bases, Air Chief Marshal Raha would also visit the Israeli Air Force, Flight School, at Hatzerim air base. He would also be updated on the progress of various defence projects being carried forward as joint ventures between the two countries.

The itinerary also includes a visit to `Yad Vashem', Israel's Memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust, established in 1953 and a visit to the 'Memorial of Indian Soldiers' built in commemoration of sacrifice of the Indian soldiers who laid down their lives during World War I in the liberation of Haifa.

In recent years, there have been several close and high level contacts at the political and military levels between the two countries. Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha’s visit to Israel would further boost bilateral relations between two Air Forces and is likely to provide greater convergence at the operational level.

- PIB

Parrikar priorities Submarines, Ammunition and Aircraft

Parrikar priorities Submarines, Ammunition and Aircraft

After clearing the new defense procurement policy, Parrikar said that the government will focus three major aspects in the defense, which include buying more submarines, increasing the ammunition stockpile, and additional production line for new fighter jets. He also suggested that a new aircraft production line will be established with the support of private industry.

Indian Navy who is the biggest player in the Indian defense, who lack of submarines for under water escort and offensive mission. Submarine's are still one of the effective player in the modern battlefield, who can sneak through enemy defense zone and sunk the bigger warships using the heavy torpedo's.

India now only has revamped the Submarine acquisition program, by commissioning one submarine every year, with the help of P 75 project. India plans to produce nine scorpene submarines, where two of them already in the water for trails. Mostly these submarines can be used to escort duties only, since it's range and endurance is limited.

The SSN who is the one can operate as solo and conduct long range missions, hide under the water for longer periods. India have two bigger projects whose market is more than $20 billion. One is the P 75I project another is the SSN project, where private players keen to seal the project. Reliance is the one who front running the SSN project with Russian support.

If ministry fast tracks the submarine acquisition program, the dream of indigenous SSN can be reality in next fifteen years. building as SSN is as much as hard in the Indian defense industry who have no experience in building one. SSBN is other game, who is fat and slow, is not capable to maneuver underwater, SSN is the one can perform any tasks very easily and operate as solo for more than months.

Ammunition reserve is one of the most criticized issue in last some years, that the armed forces especially the  Indian army who doesn't have ammunition to fight for 20 days. CAG is the one who revealed the information citing the 2013 auditing report and raises the alarm. CAG also reports poor standard of ammunition from OFB and poor storage capabilities in Army storage.

As simple, In foreign, Infantry soldiers can carry seven magazines each with thirty bullets for assault rifle and three 250 round magazine for light machine guns. Here the karma forced on the Indian soldiers "Ek Kholi, Ek Dushman"  one bullet one enemy, and even with the use of iron sights.

Indian infantry units usually carries, three magazine each with 20 rounds for Assault rifle and three magazines with 30 rounds for LMG's. So the need of stocking small arms ammunition numbers also needs to be raised into maximum.

The new government bit sensible, that they orders more numbers of ammunition's from OFB, who license manufacture the ammo for variety of small arms, which include ammo for artillery and main battle tanks. The ministry must ensure that the OFB's ammo's should be in higher quality to last long.

Air force is in very bad shape, who having one assembly line for Su 30 MKI, and another assembly line for Tejas, first one can rolls twelve aircraft per year, another can rolls out eight per year. Ministry recently authorized another production line for Tejas to produce another eight, however the line will be operational only after 2019.

So the need of private player must for building another line of fighter jets, which can produce sixteen aircraft per year. It's either Rafale production line or some other minister's favored fighter aircraft. It's better Rafale under TATA production line is feasible option to get quality and higher standard Rafale as like in Dassault plant in France.

Pakistani claim of RAW agent Capture

Pakistan claimed RAW agent arrest

   Pakistani sources claimed that a man was arrested last day in Baluchistan is an Indian agent, who working on clandestine operation against the Pakistani forces in occupied Baluchistan. Indian side confirmed that he was an Ex Naval officer who was on premature retirement, But never said anything about his involvement in Indian premier intelligence agency RAW. 

Pakistan get a chance to cry on the international media, about Indian activity in occupied Baluchistan, that India working on clandestine operation against Pakistan to liberate Baluchistan from Pakistan. Pakistani officials reported in the media, the suspected Indian arrested in southern Baluchistan, where Pakistani army carrying out genocide operation against it's own Peoples in the name of killing terrorists.

As a neutral point of view, that anyone can easily claim, if a foreign national captured inside a conflict zone, his identity in armed forces is also a strong evidence that he is doing sabotage operations against the enemy. Here also the Indian naval officer trapped, and caught inside the conflict zone.

One more, when agents doing works inside enemy territory they usually carries multiple passports and identity cards. Also he had no fire arms and other equipment, Usually agents are highly trained to escape in any tough scenario's, so they must have a pistol or an knife, Pakistan failed to show any proof of fire arms or any weapons from the officers pocket.

Pakistan crying since years, that Indian and Afghan intelligence working closely to carryout clandestine operation against the Pakistan army, They also assisting the militia group named Balouch Republic army. However they have no proper evidences to claim their words. This is the only option to cover their faces.

India formally replied to the Pakistani claiming of arresting the Navy officer, The said individual has no link with government since his premature retirement from Indian Navy. We have sought consular access to him. India has no interest in interfering in internal matters of any country and firmly believes that a stable and peaceful Pakistan is in the interest of all in the region," the Ministry of External Affairs said.

Sources confirmed that, The officer's surname is Mr.Yadav who is a ex commander of Indian Navy. He get premature retirement from the Navy, and he has no more connection to the government works. 

Pakistani media claimed that the alleged Indian officer moved to Islam-a-bad for further investigation, they also claimed they recovered some maps of strategic zones in Pakistan. 

Some other propaganda peoples works on full swing to claim that he is an Indian Agent, the Agent worked under the code name of Hussein Mubarak Patel, the name also in the Passport says Hussein, who is deployed in Iranian Chabar port, that India currently working on to establish a major Port for economics. 

They also reported that the officer was showing his identity as a Indian and having the Iranian visa stamp, that he might infiltrate into Pakistan from Iranian border. however it's not confirmed so far by the officials. 

DRDO to Bring Alive Spirit of ‘Make In India’ at Defexpo 2016

DRDO to Bring Alive Spirit of ‘Make In India’ at Defexpo 2016

The display of state-of-the-art military systems and technologies by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) will narrate the saga of self-reliance & national pride with “Make in India” spirit in Defence Expo 2016 during 28th-31st March at Goa.

Hon’ble RakshaMantri Shri Manohar Parrikar will inaugurate the ninth edition of this biennial Land, Naval and Internal Homeland Security Systems Exhibition, on 28th March 2016 at NaqueriQuitol in Quepem Taluka of South Goa.

This year the design theme of DRDO Pavilion is “Rise of Futurism”. DRDO Futurism emphasises its vision to make India prosperous by establishing world class science and technology base and provide our Defence Services decisive edge by equipping them with internationally competitive systems and solutions.

DRDO’s participation in this event is marked with the live demo of star products for first the time at Defexpo which includes Airborne Early Warning & Control System (AEW&C), Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Arjun MBT MK II & I, Wheeled Armoured Platform (WHAP), AKASH Air Defence System, Pinaka the Multi Barrel Rocket Launcher System, Radars, BLT T-72, Bridging System Sarvatra, Modular Bridge and Mountain Foot Bridge etc., besides, 

Static display of other attractive outdoor exhibits such as Quick Deployable Mobile Communication Terminal; Aslesha, Bharani and Coastal Surveillance Radars (CSR); MRSAM and Nirbhay launcher; Pinaka launcher & Rocket Mk I & Mk II; Advanced Torpedo Defence System (ATDS), Remotely Operated Vehicle Daksh, etc.

The indoor models and exhibits covers nearly the entire gamut of R&D from aeronautics, armaments & combat engineering, missiles, electronics and communication systems, materials, naval systems, life sciences, micro-electronic devices and computational systems.

Some indoor exhibits includes: Model of Akash and Brahmos missiles; Aslesha, Bharani and SWATHI the Weapon Locating Radar, IR Guided Missile Tester, Laser Guided Bomb Kit Tester, Hand-held Stand-off Explosive Detector, Short Range Laser Dazzler, Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), Nakshatra the Aerostat System, Combat Free Fall System, Biotoilet model, Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS) model, Multimode Hand Grenade, Family of small Arms, Sonars and Torpedoes, Night Vision and Microwave Devices, Bullet Proof Jacket, Robotics & Unmanned Systems, Telemedicine, Ready to Eat Food Technologies etc.

DRDO Press Conference addressed by Dr S Christopher, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Director General, DRDO will be held during 1000 hr _ 1100 hr on Tuesday,

the 29th March 2016 at Def-Expo venue in Goa.

Focusing on “Make in India” and “Self-Reliance”, the DRDO participation will provide a platform for collaboration with industry and academia. DRDO has amply demonstrated capability to design, develop and realize highly complex multidisciplinary weapon platforms for Army, Navy and Air force. These systems are among the most extensively evaluated systems in harsh environmental conditions, meeting stringent quality requirements of our services.

With the aim of ‘Make in India’, DRDO’s is participating in this event for fruitful collaboration with various industry and research institute towards indigenous development of defence systems and platforms.

DRDO welcomes one and all to its pavilion to get a first-hand account of Nation’s capabilities in the area of advanced defence technologies and opportunity to share the pride of the vibrant DRDO community.

- PIB

Bye Bye Rafale, Ministry plans to buy F 18 IN

Bye Bye Rafale, Ministry plans to buy F 18 IN

Source's close to Defense ministry confirms that India plans to produce the American F 18 in India with TATA as the indigenous supplier. The proposed sale will be discussed and to be drafted in the upcoming visit of US DOD Chief to India. US major Lockheed proposed the F 16 IN to India, due to the single engine and the Lockheed's relationship with Pakistan forced the IAF keep out  Lockheed's offer.

On the other side Boeing has made good relationship with India, recent signatures of AH 64 and CH 47, and Boeing's MoU with TATA also good example for that. F 18 IN is the advanced variant of F 18 E/F version, IN version has larger Indian sub components, also allows to carry Indian and Israeli made weapons.

There is no information about how many numbers of F 18 could be produced in India, however there is no delays in the new procurement like earlier, The new DDP allows faster negotiations and contract agreements. Also there is no details mentioned in the earlier signe MoU of 36 Rafale acquisition program with France.

Many feasible options in the F 18, F 18 engines can be used in desi Tejas and the upcoming AMCA. the need of F414 engine numbers  may cross over 3000 for the next twenty years, and GE already signed a contract with an Indian company to produce those engines in India,

F 18 also certified to be operated from aircraft carriers, which can be used in upcoming IAC 2 carrier, as one more the F 18's master piece variant EA 18 G also a good choice for dedicated jamming. the air force's long time dream of operating dedicated special squadron after retiring the MiG25

F 18 E/F one of the newest bird in the US Navy and air force based on the legendary F 18 hornet. which was introduced in the USAF in 2000. as of now Royal Australian force is the only export customer who use both E/F and G version of F 18.

The F 18 can be used in multiple missions, same like Rafale. the F 18 carry more variety of ammunition and more number of weapons than the Rafale. whose range is quite lower than the Rafale when comes to comparison.  The new F 18 also comes with advanced modern AESA radar AN/APG 79 made by Raytheon.

The IN version comes with eleven hard points which allows the aircraft to carry more number of air to air, air to ground and air to ship munitions, Modern missiles like AIM 120 D, JDAM and Harpoon also can be used from the Indian Hornet.

The Hornet's are costs less than the Rafale in all aspects, which include weapons and acquisitions. However Rafale leads in less operating and maintenance cost. As like other US fighter jets, The F 18 too have modern avionics, electronic warfare and jamming suites. which include towed decoy's.

Buying both F 18 and Rafale makes the IAF once again in the logistics nightmare, maintaining both Rafale and F 18 is so hard since Pilots need to be trained in different platforms and also there is no option of interoperability. Less number of Pilots in the IAF also a issue operating both Rafale and F 18. ammo nightmare is also a problem. since F 18 can be support Indian and Israeli weapons, but not the french one. Especially on the air to air missiles. 

It's the IAF who can send a formal proposal for the eligible aircraft, However it's the ministry who decide which one need to be bought.  

Resolution introduced in US to bring India on par with NATO allies

Resolution introduced in US to bring India on par with NATO allies

US Republican George Holding introduced a bill in the US congress, which can bring India on par with NATO allies in terms of trade and technology transfer besides elevating its "status" in the export of defense articles from the US. The bill named US-India defense technology and partnership act, which is cleared by the US congress members with a majority of votes.

This new resolution brings close the Indians and the US together when comes into military level relationships. where both nations almost clear to sign the much-needed CISMOA, LSA, and BECA agreements.

The bill indicates, US will not impose any sanctions against India, and allows to supply munitions and much-needed technologies, which means India will be treated same like other NATO members. The treaty also allows US to transfer higher technologies without the notification in Congress, Earlier defense exports and technological sharing with India must need US Congress approval.

The treaty also allows US to assist in military operations which are spearheaded by India, Which include supports from the US military. A step to counter Chinese aggressive movements in Indian sub-continent.

US has such treaties with South Korea, Japan, and some NATO countries, who deployed its fighter jets and missile defense systems to safeguard his allies air space. The US also in talks with South Korea to deploy THAAD missile defense system after the Ballistic missile threat posed by the North Koreans.

This bill also indicates, both the US and India way closer in Military relationship. India never made such defense cooperation with any other countries, which include Soviet and Russia, who is the top weapon supplier to India and it's rival China.

The Republican senator also expressed his concern of US government's sale of F 16 fighter jet to Pakistan, "What, I ask, is the benefit of the sale to our national security and the security of the region and our partners? This is one question, but the request to use taxpayer dollars to finance the sale of these F-16s to Pakistan is entirely another question," he asked.

"What has Pakistan actually done to deserve these fighter jets let alone financing from the United States taxpayers? Certainly not enough, in my view, as I firmly oppose the sale from start to finish,"

For the US, it encourages the government to designate an official to focus on US-India defense cooperation, facilitate the transfer of defense technology, maintain a special office in the Pentagon dedicated exclusively to the US-India Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI).

For India, it encourages the government to authorise combined military planning with the US for missions of mutual interest such as humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, counter piracy and maritime domain awareness.

Manufacturing of Helicopters in India

Manufacturing of Helicopters in India

At present, there is no such proposal to prepare a separate policy on Make-in-India to invite private companies in defence sector. The defence production sector was opened in 2001 for 100% private sector participation. Further in pursuance of the Defence Production Policy 2011, the Government has taken the following major steps to promote the participation of private sector in production of defence equipments:

Technology Perspective and “Capability roadmap (TPCR), which gives out the equipment and technologies required by our Armed Forces, has been put in public domain to provide the industry an overview of the direction in which the Armed Forces intend to head in terms of capability over the next 15 years.

Preference to ‘Buy (Indian)’, ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ & ‘Make’ categories over ‘Buy (Global)’ or ‘Buy & Make’ categories of Capital Acquisition cases.

The procedure for ‘Buy and Make (Indian)’ category, has been simplified in order to make the category more attractive for Indian Defence industry.

A clear definition of indigenous content has been provided which would not only bring more clarity on the indigenous content required for different categorization, but also enhance the indigenization of defence products in India.

Indian private sector industry has also been allowed to receive Maintenance Transfer of Technology (MToT) in ‘Buy (Global)’ cases.

FDI Policy in Defence sector has been reviewed and as per the new policy, composite foreign investment up to 49% has been allowed through FIPB route and beyond 49% with the approval of Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS).

Defence Products List for the purpose of industrial licensing has been revised and in the revised list most of the components / parts / raw materials have been taken out from the purview of the industrial licensing.

) Defence Exports Strategy has been formulated and put in public domain. The Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for issuing NOC for export of military stores has been simplified and made online.

Defence Acquisition Council has taken a decision to procure 384 Light Helicopters for Indian Air Force (IAF) & Indian Army and 56 Naval Utility Helicopters through ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ route. Acquisition covered under the ‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ route would mean purchase from an Indian vendor (including Indian company forming the joint venture / establishing production arrangement with Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), followed by licensed production / indigenous manufacture in the country.

Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) has decided to augment its helicopters manufacturing capacity of Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) from 24 to 36 helicopters per annum.

- PIB

All time low, Air force struggles with low squadron

All time low, Air force struggles with low squadron

   Indian air force once again raises its concern of depleting squadron numbers and strength, expressing no steps taken to control the attrition. and yet they need to wait couple more years to induct new fighter jets. Since rival forces already massing up their fighter jets numbers. The air force also keens to buy newer fighter jets under the new DPP policy which will be unveiled by coming 28th March.

Reports circulated earlier that the air force officials shows concerns of the very low number of fighter jets in the air force. The air force has only twenty-two squadrons of fighter jets, which are combat capable. another eleven squadron fighters are not combat capable during war time. The older MiG 21 and MiG 27 comprises eleven squadrons in the existing operational 33 squadrons.

The air force has to maintain the same 22 squadrons till 2019. Which is 50% less than the sanctioned fighter jets to confront against both China and Pakistan simultaneously. The air force has not placed new orders so far. The ordered LCA comes in later 2019 only, which will form his first operational squadron. The proposed MMRCA yet to be signed, FGFA contract nose-dived, AMCA still on the drawing board.

MMRCA is one of the major reason behind this low number of the squadron. That the air force keen to induct along with the homemade LCA Tejas. The politics played the bigger role in the MMRCA acquisition program. which is known as one of the biggest military deal in the Indian history? The Government earlier allocated some $8 billion to buy 126 fighter jets from France. which estimated some $60+ millions per fighter jet.

The selection process completed in early 2012 and Air force plans to rolls out first Rafale squadron from Indian assembly line by 2016, Even till now the government didn't sign the MRCA contract with France.

Airforce selected the Rafale for many reasons, from the experience gathered from Mirage 2000 to its small size which can fit in existing MiG 21 shelters. The politics played on the other side providing alternate options to the air force. However, IAF won't ready to accept the proposals made by the politicians.

They were offered more Su 30, later allowed the SAAB to propose the Gripen, proposing F 18 E/F, and the current F 16 offer. Air force completely rejected all such offers and insisted the government buy the Rafale only. and allows building AMCA and LCA in parallel.

This is the only option that IAF can sustain from the depleting squadrons. The Americans pushing the F 16 to the IAF with the government support. those fighter jets will not suit for Indian requirements, who also kills the Tejas project too.

The ministry all set to clear the new defense procurement policy to  speed up the procurement's. The new DPP allows faster defense procurement same like during in wartime, said defense minister.

Anyway, The IAF loves the Rafale and wants the fighter just like how the MMRCA drafted by the air force officials, If Defense Minister gives up the F 16 to the IAF, there is no chance IAF has to work with F 16 and forget the MMRCA.

Israeli firm Controp selected to modernize Indian Army's L 70

Israeli firm Controp selected to modernize Indian Army's L 70

  CONTROP Precision Technologies Ltd. a company specializing in advanced electro-optics (EO) and infrared (IR) defense and homeland security solutions – announces the supply of hundreds FTA Optronic Sensor Systems for the Air Defense Systems program for the Indian Army.

Following extensive product assessment, the FTA was chosen by the Indian Army to be part of an Air Defense Systems program with the modern upgrade of the L-70 Air Defense Gun, providing day/night anti-aircraft protection by means of the advanced automatic air tracking system.

 The FTA cameras will be supplied throughout 2016 – 2017. The unique FTA is a ruggedized day/night optronic sensor system, which includes the FOX-250, a high performance Thermal Imaging Camera and a high performance color CCD Day Camera, each with a continuous optical zoom lens.

CONTROP's VP Marketing, Mr. Johnny Carni, added that "the Indian Army chose our FTA System following very successful field trials and is enthusiastic due to the outstanding performance of these optronic systems in harsh environmental conditions".

In addition, CONTROP has supplied dozens of FOX thermal imaging cameras to a large Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) systems' integrator in India, as part of the new Naval Fire Control Systems Programs. These FOX thermal imaging cameras, which include CONTROP's proprietary Continuous Zoom Lens, have been interfaced with a Weapon Station and with Fire Control Radar.

Controp Israel and Defsys India JV for the Upgrade

CONTROP ­– a company specializing in the field of electro-optics (EO) and infrared (IR) defense and homeland security solutions – announces an agreement with the Indian company, Defsys Solutions Pvt. Ltd. According to the agreement, Defsys will market and locally produce CONTROP's advanced electro-optical solutions for the Indian market.

According to Mr. Dror Sharon, CONTROP's President & CEO, "We are delighted to partner with the Indian company, Defsys, a supplier of electro-optic solutions to the Indian Ministry of Defense. The company has very advanced manufacturing facilities that will allow us to produce our products in India, and thus meet the 'Make in India' policy promoted by the Indian government. CONTROP has been active in India for more than 10 years.

There is a significant need in India for our extremely popular intruder detection systems and camera payloads, which their unique technology characteristics make them good value for money solutions. We see the Indian market as strategic and with huge potential – and are very much ready to transfer knowledge and production to local industry."

According to Mr. Dmitry Bernadiner, Defsys’ Executive Director, "We are proud to partner with CONTROP ­– a global leader in electro-optics – and to manufacture CONTROP’s unique solutions in India."

- CONTROP

Chocking China, Philippines gives five air bases to US

Choking China, Philippines gives five air bases to the US

In a move to bolster the regional security, Philippines gives up five major airbases adjacent to China to the American's to counter the Chinese provocation in South China sea and nearby atolls Islands. On the other side Japan also close to commission it's forward outpost and surveillance radar site in the Snake Island.

Once the American troops withdrew from the Philippines in early 1992, China starts acting as a regional superpower by claiming foreign Islands and Atolls. The Chinese invaded the Philippines island in the south china sea in 1994 and captured the Mischief Islands from the Philippines.

Earlier many times severe clashes broke out between Philippines and Vietnam Navy's against Chinese naval ships, who illegally prowling their waters and attacking their fisherman illegally.

The Philippines is very less equipped military in the south Asian region. Due to their economics and the Chinese pressure to arms export nations. This resulted from Philippines huge losses in its territory. especially the loss of mischief island to the Chinese.

Under the new defense cooperation between Philippines and USA, The US can use five air bases in the Philippines, which include Antonio Bautista Air Base; Basa Air Base, Fort Magsaysay; Lumbia Air Base; and Mactan-Benito Ebuen Air Base. Those bases located close to South China sea, and within the range of Fighter jets attacking zone.

The US soon to deploy fighter jets, Bombers and maritime patrol aircraft's along with missile defense systems like THAAD and PAC 3. and also plans to deploy few combat units in those airbases. These bases can be used against China only, Earlier US flew bombers and ASW aircraft's from Anderson Military base Guam. 

This makes the Chinese almost cornered by nations like South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and India. Vietnam is the only nation on the list who importing arms from Russia, Major weapon systems like Kilo class submarines, Bastion coastal missile defense systems are already operational which was supplied by Russia.

India also beefing up its fortifications close to the Chinese border. Those NATO standard landing strips can support NATO planes like C 130 J and C 295. India also close to ink CISMOA, LSA, and BECA with the US, which allows the US to use Indian bases in case of emergency and during in warfare's.

The US already signed similar agreements with South Korea and Japan to enhance the military stability in the South Asian theater to counter the Chinese over power in the Asian region. Taiwan is the most threat prone nation in the region. who are just a few miles away from the Chinese mainland.

China always maintains harsh relationship to his neighbor nations.the nation who illegally captured Hong Kong and Tibet, who also claims Atolls and Islands in the south China sea. on the other side, China troubles the Indian borders in Arunachal and Kashmir. This resulted almost all anti-Chinese nations joined together to fight against the Chinese aggression.

It's almost clear that earlier China showed himself as a super power and it can't beat anyone. However now the time Changes, A coordinated strikes with the USA can send China back to stone age.

- Blue Planes : US Air bases in Philippines and Guam
- Blue Light House : Japanese Observation post in Senaku Island
- Red Earth : Chinese FOB in South China sea

Navy bids farewell to Sea Harrier jump jets after 33 yrs

Navy bids farewell to Sea Harrier jump jets after 33 yrs

They were always a sight to behold, a force to reckon with. Fighters landing vertically, akin to helicopters, with ear-splitting roars on a moving airfield despite being fixed-wing. It left even the usually phlegmatic Manmohan Singh slightly nonplussed during the "PM's day at sea" in 2006. Similar was the case of other politicians, before and after him, like A B Vajpayee and L K Advani.

But the old must give way to the new. Ahead of the 56-year-old aircraft carrier INS Viraat's retirement later this year, the Navy has bid adieu to its eyeball-grabbing Sea Harrier "jump jets" after 33 years of yeomen service.

The force, after all, now has its first supersonic fighters in 30 MiG-29Ks - out of the 45 contracted from Russia for over $2 billion - for INS Vikramaditya and the under-construction indigenous carrier INS Vikrant.

Navy inducted 30 of the British-origin Sea Harriers from 1983 onwards, but only 11 "air frames" are left now due to old age, lack of spares and cannibalisation as well as accidents over the years. "They have flown their last. The six Sea Harriers on board INS Viraat, which has returned to Mumbai from her final operational journey to the International Fleet Review last month, disembarked from the carrier on March 6," said an officer.

The 11 Sea Harriers are now been mothballed at naval air station INS Hansa in Goa before being distributed as museum pieces to different establishments. "Their pilots are going for career advancement courses or MiG-29K conversion training," he said.

Interestingly, Sea Harriers were part of INAS 300 (Indian naval air squadron 300) nicknamed the 'White Tigers'. And much like the feline genetic oddity, a Sea Harrier stood apart, capable as it was of VTOL (vertical take-off and landing) operations.

"Harriers were certainly unconventional in their vertical landing, even though they usually took-off from the angled ski-jump on INS Viraat. With time, their production was stopped in the UK. The British Royal Navy also retired its Sea Harriers in 2006," said another officer.

The White Tigers squadron will now hibernate till it's re-commissioned with MiG-29Ks for INS Vikrant, which is slated to be ready by 2018-19. Incidentally, INS Vikramaditya's MiG-29K squadron INAS 303 is christened 'Black Panthers'.

Though the Sea Harriers had an operational speed of 640 knots or 1,186 kmph, with a range of around 800 nautical miles, they fell short of exceeding the speed of sound at Mach 1 or 1,235 kmph. They did undergo a "limited upgrade" some years ago, including being fitted with Israeli Elta EL/M-2032 multi-mode fire control radars and 'Derby' beyond visual range air-to-air missiles, but have outlived their utility. "MiG-29Ks give us a four-fold capability jump over Sea Harriers," an officer said.

- Rajat Pandit Time of India

Parrikar hints to invest huge amount in S 400 SAM

Parrikar hints to invest huge amount in S 400 SAM

   Defense minister Parrikar said in an interview with economic times, to save money we are planned to cut the medium range SAM procurement to buy more units of S 400 long range surface to air missile system. He also said deploying the S 400 close to Pakistani border will force the PAF to operate fighter jets from Afghan, saying with slight overconfidence.

Parrikar says this move will save more than $7 billion which are slated to spend for lower range surface to air missile systems. that he failed to study the operational differences between long range and medium range systems. Since air defense networks coupled in a layered manner who interconnected with civil and military surveillance radars.

Russia connects the FGFA contract with S 400, which makes some serious troubles in the IAF, who already invested funds in the Indo-Israeli joint project Barak 8. The missile is lesser in range, however, increased performance compared to the Russian S 400 system. IAF freezes the FGFA contract and the S 400 contract due to some issues in the PAK FA's performance.

The layered defense comes with, AAA batteries, such as 23mm and L 70 anti-aircraft artillery's, Quick reaction short range missiles like SpyDer, medium range SAM missiles like Akash, at last, the Barak 8 long range SAM, with additional deployment of homemade AAD, PDV for ballistic missile defense.

The above is layered defense system proposed by both air force and the army, who already operates the above-mentioned systems, except the Braak 8 and the BMD system. The Russian offer of S 400 increases the layer number and also expand the layer's cover zone from initial 80 kilometers into whooping 350 kilometers.

What defense minister saying is, removing few short, medium, long range missiles can save more money when they get covered by the bigger S 400 batteries. failing to understand the tactics used by fighter jets such as low flying, using decoy's, ECCM suites, jamming and more. Long range batteries can be spotted easily by the satellites because of its size, Since both S 400 and Barak 8 is highly mobile, they survive from such precision strikes by cruise missiles.

The defense minister failed to understand the another Russian tactics, using Indian money in every defense projects, Brahmos is absolutely a better platform, however, the clones of P 800 are widely used by other navy's. Even so, Brahmos meant to be 50-50 joint venture, Still India imports 65% of its components from Russia, The reason why production cost of Brahmos is very high and the reason behind the very low number of Brahmos stocks in arsenals.

What Russia planning is the same, By forcing the Indians keep on the S 400 and sacrifice Indigenous efforts to build such long-range missiles, where most of the S 400 equipment's could be outsourced, and it's very rare option of transfer of technology and making S 400 in India with more than 50% of sub-components.

Another question is the slow death of desi ballistic missile defense program, India has a good project for BMD mission, who comes in PDV, AAD in the first phase who is in the final phase of testing now, and AD 1 and AD 2 as the second phase for very long range protection. the BMD scheduled to be deployed before 2014, However the program slowly moving away from the revised timeline.

There is no idea what stopping the DRDO to deploy the BMD system. The 8th successful test of BMD conducted in November last year, deploying the S 400 will surely kill or slower down the desi BMD program. earlier some reports suggested that India went to Russia for the S 400 because of the seeker issues in the BMD missiles.




Reports circulated in the media, that defense minister said, deploying an S 400 launcher unit close to the border will force the Pakistani air force to ground all the fighter's or to be operated from Afghan only. It's clear the Range of S 400 may cover entire Pakistan, Question is can the S 400 take down every military airborne target flying in Pakistan If S 400 deployed close to the border.

Defense minister must acknowledge that China will deploy those S 400 close to Lhasa and in Tibet, which covers northern and eastern India, which includes capital New Delhi. the question repeats, can the Chinese S 400 stops the IAF jets operating from New Delhi and Arunachal.

On the other side, Indo-Israeli joint project Barak 8 almost ready to be operational, and both of them currently working on the land based Barak 8 launchers, even before the pre-production 40% of the Barak 8 components are from India, the % of Indian sub-components will increase in coming years. who decreases the acquisition costs gradually.

As of now all plans are in talks, same like the previous government, This deal to take the time to materialize.

Deal With Myanmar, Thailand Soon for Road Network: Gadkari

Deal With Myanmar, Thailand Soon for Road Network: Gadkari

India will soon sign an agreement with Myanmar and Thailand to provide road connectivity in the region, following a similar agreement with three other nations, Road Transport, Highways and Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Thursday.

"The IMT trilateral highway project will be signed among three countries -- India, Myanmar and Thailand. The agreement is ready. We will sign it within 15 days so that there will be seamless connectivity to all these countries," Gadkari told the India Today Conclave here.

"Connectivity between Bangladesh, India, Bhutan and Nepal to promote seamless movement of goods from border has been already signed," the minister said, referring to the agreement inked in June last year, as part of a larger plan to connect the Subcontinent with Asean members.

"Now, 25 places from India have a bus service to Bangladesh."

Dwelling on faster road network, Gadkari said work had started on eastern and western principal express highways. This apart, the Delhi-Panipat highway was being built at a cost of Rs.15,000 crore, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi setting a target of 400 days for completion.

He also said that the 90-km, 14-lane Delhi-Meerut Express Highway will be a first of kind in India.

Gadkari said the country's northeast region was also a top priority for his government and that Rs.1 lakh crore had been allocated for roads projects there. "Our target is to complete the project in the northeast by five years," he said.

"Our 'Bharatmala' project is also on track," the minister said, referring to the plan for a major initiative for the national highways to improve road connectivity along the coast, borders, least developed regions, religious places, tourist spots along with bridges and road widening.

Detailed project reports are already being prepared for 17,200 km of roads with 205 rail over- and under-passes and 1,500 major bridges along the national highways. In ports, modernisation plans are afoot, even as work is progressing fast on inland waterways, Gadkari said.

- New Indian Express

Indian Army gets $2 billion worth of Ammo pack

Indian Army gets $2 billion worth of Ammo pack

   Cabinet Committee on Security meets Friday night to discuss to clear army's long time proposal of stocking more ammo for small arms and handheld devices for surveillance and improve the situational awareness. The meet cleared proposals worth of one billion, which could be inked in coming days.

The proposed deals are, Buying more ammo for Carl Gustav rifle and Milan anti-tank missiles, Other procurement's include handheld thermal image devices and indigenous swathi weapon locating radar. The CCS gives more importance to the Infantry, this time, buying these sophisticated systems.

CCS will spend more than $200 million to buy nearly 65,000 of low-cost high-power shoulder launched rocket system. which is used in the Carl Gustav recoilless rifle. Carl gustav is the known good alternative of RPG. Indian army selected the Carl Gustav instead of the RPG. Army uses the Carl Gustav in many operations. which include the ongoing asymmetrical war in Kashmir.

Carl Gustav is an 83mm rifle system, which can fire multiple types of ammunition. with the effective range of nearly 500 meters. The CG even can use to disable armored personnel carrier and infantry vehicle in short range.

HE- High explosive rounds are used for anti-personnel missions and special operations, such as counter-terrorism,  Smoke rounds can be used as a countermeasure, with an effective range of one kilometers. HEDP- a High explosive anti-tank used to disable light and medium armour vehicle. this round can penetrate the armour up to 15cm.

The CCS also approved $300 million to buy 5000 Milan 2nd generation anti-tank missile. Milan is a 2nd generation wire guided command line of sight system used to destroy main battle tanks and military bunkers. with the effective range of some 2000 meters. The additional procurement of the Milan anti-tank missiles can increase the ammo reserve more. It's believed the army already has some 35,000 Milan missile's.

However, CCS didn't mentioned about the proposed 3rd gen fire and forget anti-tank missile, which could be bought from the Israeli Rafael systems. Sources said that the Spike deal would be cleared before the PM's trip to Israel.

In a boost to the infantry's fighting capability, CCS also cleared another $200 million to buy more than 4000 handheld multi-function thermal and laser range finder devices.  which can be used in Sniper operation and infantry fighting. The TI Binocular systems can calculate the exact distance to the target and can also find targets using IR during night and harsh weather conditions. This device can also laze the targets to call the air support and guide anti-tank missiles too.

One of the most important device which could assist the infantry units from hidden threats. This device can laze targets to Apache gunships, Main Battle Tanks, and the fighter jet's Laser guided bomb for precision strike. So far only a few number of such devices in use with the Army. This additional 4000 units can help the army to fight in dense conditions.




CCS, this time, more responsible, that Army proposed the DAC and CCS to buy more homemade weapon locating radar's for Indian army. which is based on the DRDO developed Swathi WLR. This will boost Army's fighting capability by locating enemy mortar and artillery positions and use counter weapons to destroy the enemy assets. The exact information about the usage of the weapon locating radar is explained in this article [ - Army looks to buy more weapon locating Radars .] Army will get 30 new Swathi radars for some $300 million

The CCS also briefed the new plans of raising an additional number of Pinaka and Brahmos regiment, both will cost more than $1 billion. Army requested to raise one more Brahmos supersonic missile regiment close to the Arunachal border which costs some $700 million.  also requested to raise two more Pinaka multiple rocket launching system for $480 million. which could be deployed along the Indo-Pakistani border.

CCS postponed the above two decision to the next meet. CCS is the highest known authority who can clear DAC's proposal of buying new arms and ammunition. CCS is led by highest authorities from the cabinet ministry, which include Fiance minister, Defense minister the meet headed by the Prime minister.