25.09.2015 by Livefist

The Indo-Israeli LRSAM/Barak-8 began its first hot trials with the Israeli Navy in May this year. In what could be the single most significant development in the weapon system's long-drawn journey, the Indian Navy has confirmed to Livefist that the LRSAM will sport an operational range a third higher than initially agreed upon. In effect, the LRSAM's range now moves from 70-km to in excess of 90-km or higher. Range upgrade discussions took place in November last year following a land test in Israel.

IAI and India's DRDO missile cluster (led by the DRDL) that have jointly developed the missile system, designated the Barak 8 for Israel and yet to be officially named in India, have begun work on boosting weapon range.

With preliminary integration activity already on, Livefist can also confirm that the LRSAM is all set to undergo its first test firing from Indian Navy destroyer INS Kolkata in November-December this year in the Arabian Sea. The weapon system is intended for a host of frontline surface combatants, including all future fighting ships of the Indian Navy.

Top Navy tell Livefist that while the 2nd Kolkata-class destroyer Kochi set to enter service on September 30, like the first ship of its class, sports a BEL-built HUMSA NG bow mounted sonar, the contracted active towed array sonar will be integrated within the next 16-18 months.

June 3, 2015: Strategy Page

India continues to have problems with its tank fleet. The latest disaster is the low readiness of the 120 locally designed Arjun tanks the army was forced to buy in order to keep an Indian tank factory working. After several years of use over 70 percent of the Arjuns are inoperable because of technical problems, mostly relating to imported spare parts. Over half the Arjun components are foreign made and the procurement bureaucracy, the army and the Arjun factory cannot agree on specifications and quantities of these parts. In addition to that there are dozens of unresolved technical problems with Arjun. All this adds up to nearly a hundred separate problems that need to be resolved to increase the readiness rate. The government seems to agree that Arjun is a failure and while the factory only has to make four more, it also now has orders for 118 Arjun 2s.

The order for the 124 original Arjuns came about in 2010 when competitive tests between the Indian designed (by DRDO, the government defense research and development organization) Arjun and Russian T-90 tank resulted in an unexpected victory by the Arjun. The Indian Army had been compelled (by pro-Arjun politicians) to conduct a field test between the domestically designed (but troubled and largely rejected) Arjun tank, and the Russian T-90 (now considered the army's primary tank). Fourteen of each tank were used, and the results were classified. But journalists had no trouble getting unofficial reports that the Arjun managed to best the T-90 in tests of mobility, endurance and gunnery.

This was surprising because until then Arjun was considered an expensive and embarrassing failure. Development of the Arjun began in the 1980s and by 2006 the army had received only five of them, for testing and evaluation. The evaluation did not go well. Originally, the Arjun was to have replaced thousands of older Russian tanks, but after so many delays, the army only reluctantly accepted enough to equip one Armored Brigade. The new test reports resulted in renewed pressure on the army to buy more Arjuns.

One good thing came out of this competition and that was the agreement by the Arjun developers to address the many technical problems with Arjun. To spare government or military officials’ embarrassment this was described as an effort to develop the next generation battle tank. Called the FMBT (Future Main Battle Tank), this vehicle aimed to build on the “success” of the Arjun.

This pitted the Defense Ministry weapons development and procurement bureaucrats against the generals. The bureaucrats were under pressure to deliver because the competition was won by Arjun mainly because it was assumed that Arjun would have fixed all the problems it was having with its electronics and some other components. The main problems were with the fire control system, the engine, and that fact that its size and weight prevented it from being used with current tank transporters. Thus the FMBT was to be lighter (50 tons) and based on what worked in the Arjun and other modern tanks. The FMBT is expected to replace older Russian tanks. The result was called Arjun 2 and it fixed most of the Arjun problems, including the size and weight issues. Arjun 2 weighs 50 tons and 60 percent of the components are Indian made. All this is optimistic, given what happened with the original Arjun and Indian developed weapons in general. The Arjun was originally intended as a replacement for most of the older T-72s and that still might happen.

Meanwhile in 2009 an Indian factory delivered the first ten (of a thousand) T-90 tanks to the Indian Army. The Russian designed armored vehicles are being built in India under license. Many of the components are Indian made, and some of the electronics are imported from Western suppliers. The Indian-made T-90s cost about $3 million each. India has already bought 700 Russian made T-90 tanks, at a cost of $3.5 million each. The Arjun 2 is expected to cost over $5 million each. The high price is due to a lot of high tech. This includes an active defense system to defeat anti-tank missiles, a much more powerful engine, lots of electronics and a hermetically sealed crew department to provide protection against chemical weapons and radiation. All this stuff is tricky to develop, just the sort of thing DRDO excels at screwing up. This is mostly the fault of the DRDO bureaucrats, who are not very good at using all the technical and manufacturing talent India has.

Back in 2006 India adopted the Russian T-90 as its new main battle tank. By 2020, India will have 2,000 upgraded T-72s, over 1,500 T-90s, and few hundred other tanks (including over 240 Arjuns, depending on how the Arjun 2 works out in practice). This will be the most powerful armored force in Eurasia, unless China moves ahead with upgrades to its tank force. The border between China and India is high in the Himalayan Mountains, which is not good tank country. India's tank force is mainly for use against Pakistan.

The T-90 is a highly evolved T-72. Originally, the T-90 was a fallback design. The T-80 was supposed to be the successor to the T-72. But like the T-62 and T-64 before it, the T-80 didn't quite work out as planned. So the T-72, with a much improved turret and all manner of gadgets, was trotted out as the T-90. Weighting 47 tons, its 7 meters (23 feet) long, 3.4 meters (11 feet) wide and 2.3 meters (7.5 feet) high. Same package, better contents. And with well-trained crews, it can be deadly. The original Arjun was a larger vehicle (59 tons, 10.7 meters long and 3.9 meters wide).

Arjun 2 is similar in size to the T-90. Indian armor experts, both military and civilian, are hoping the Arjun 2 is more like the T-90 than the Arjun. But the most worrisome aspect of the Arjun 2 project is DRDO which also developed Arjun. It's feared that the DRDO wonks have not learned from the many errors made with the Arjun. The hope is that the Arjun 2 will not be another DRDO disaster.  

Mar 18, 2015 defense-aerospace.com

(Source: Indian Ministry of Defence; issued March 17, 2015)

Overhauling of the DRDO and DPSUs

The functioning of Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) was reviewed by a Committee headed by Prof. P. Rama Rao. DRDO has accepted several recommendations which inter-alia include:

-- creation of Seven Technology Domain based Clusters headed by Director’s General;

-- Restructuring of DRDO HQrs;

-- Creation of Directorate of Quality, Reliability and Safety (QR&S);

-- increase in budget for Extramural Research;

-- creation of empowered Defence Technology Commission (DTC);

-- creation of a Commercial Arm of DRDO;

-- creation of 5 Senior Administrative Grade (SAG) posts along with 162 other posts for full scale implementation of Integrated Financial Advisor (IFA) Scheme etc.

Recently, a review of all DRDO Projects along with the three Services, OFB and Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) has been carried out so as to realign the focus towards the “Make in India” Programme.

Also, more than 1,000 small, medium and large Indian industries have been involved in the development and productionisation of products for the delivery to the Services.

With the objective of achieving self-reliance in defence production, the DPSUs have been continuously modernizing and upgrading their capabilities and widening their product range. Some of the DPSUs have also collaborated with DRDO and other R&D institutions in this regard. There is also increasing emphasis on partnerships of DPSUs with the private sector for sourcing various components so that DPSUs can play the role of system integrators and become more competitive.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar in a written reply to Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar in Rajya Sabha today.

January 28, 2015 by Livefist

Some good news in from the Tejas Programme currently fighting to finish high-altitude cold weather test points in Leh, Ladakh. Here's the full DRDO statement just in: [With] three consecutive start-ups of its engine after overnight soak in extreme cold (around -15ºC) conditions of Ladakh, that too without any external assistance, Tejas, the Indian Light Combat Aircraft has achieved yet another and a rare distinction. Starting the fighter aircraft under such extreme condition without any external assistance or heating is a technology challenge. The requirements become further stringent when the starting is to be done three times consecutively with a partially charged battery. Team LCA led by AERD&C of HAL, and members from ADA, NFTC, IAF, CEMILAC and DGAQA have succeeded in achieving this. “The team LCA has achieved a technological breakthrough”, stated Dr. PS Subramanyam PGD (CA) & Director, ADA.

The engine starter is developed indigenously by HAL Aero Engine Research and Design Centre (AERDC), Bangalore. Prior to aircraft tests, the Jet Fuel Starter (JFS) was extensively tested on test rig to meet starting conditions across the operating altitudes including Leh (10,700 ft.) and Khardungla  (18300 ft.). The control software of JFS was fine tuned to work at all operating altitudes with no adjustments from cockpit. GE-F404-IN20 engine start up control schedule was also varied with several control patches to establish reliable [start].

03.01.2015 source Livefist
 

With increasing numbers of military systems indigenously designed and developed for the Indian armed forces being produced by Indian industries, the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) continued on a path of building self-reliance. About 55% of the requirements for our defence forces are being met indigenously, largely with the technologies developed by DRDO, contributing greatly to nation’s economy. The production value of DRDO developed systems inducted or cleared for acquisition (excluding strategic systems) crossed Rs 1,70,000 crore.

The year 2014 witnessed yet another series of accomplishments with enormous potential to further enhance the level of self-reliance in defence technologies.

The 4000 km range road mobile nuclear capable ballistic missile AGNI-4, was successfully flight tested twice. The flight on 20th January, last among the development flights paved the way for flight on December 2 by the armed forces. Agni 4 is equipped with state of the art Avionics, 5th generation On Board Computer and distributed architecture. The missile is equipped with latest features to correct and guide it for in-flight disturbances. Its highly advanced Inertial Navigation System ensures high accuracy. It’s re-entry heat shield, capable of withstanding high temperatures that may reach as high as 4000 degree centigrade and above during reentry of missile in earth’s atmosphere, makes sure that the inside temperature remain less than 50 degree centigrade.

With Agni 1, 2, 3 and Prithvi already in India’s arsenal, Agni 4 further extends the reach and enhances effective deterrence capability. Besides, practice cum training launches of strategic missiles already inducted, such as Agni-1, Agni-2, P-II and Dhanush were carried out by armed forces.

Nirbhay, the 1000-km class long range sub-sonic cruise missile was successfully flight tested on the 17th October 2014. The flight lasted for over one hour and met all the mission objectives with missile following the predefined trajectory with very high accuracy throughout its path.

Maiden flight of PDV exo-atmospheric interceptor on 27th April 2014 was a significant milestone in the direction of developing a two layered Ballistic Missile Defence system. In addition to the interceptor itself, the two stage target for mimicking a "hostile Ballistic Missile approaching from more than 2000 km away" too was specially developed for the mission.

Productionisation and induction of Akash, the medium range air defence system with multi-target, multi directional capability was another remarkable achievement. Several squadrons of Akash (AF) have been inducted, with specified number of missiles from each production lot undergoing comprehensive flight tests in various operational modes before acceptance of the lot. Akash (army) has been accepted and is undergoing induction process. LRSAM, the long range surface to air missile was successfully tested against a flying target in Israel on 10 Nov 2014.

Successful trials of Helina, a “lock- on before Launch (Fire & Forget)” third generation Antitank Guided missile that can attack in both direct and top attack mode was integrated with advanced light helicopter (ALH). The missile with capability to defeat futuristic armors underwent successful field trials on 27th Jun 2014.

ASTRA-BVR (Beyond Visual Range) air-to-air missiles was successfully tested from a Su-30MKI by the Indian Air Force, demonstrating interception of an electronically simulated target at long range. The series of tests conducted have demonstrated the aerodynamic characteristics of the missiles and its repeatability, robustness and endurance capability as a weapon system.

A 1000-kg class guided glide bomb was designed developed and successfully tested. The bomb, after getting released by the aircraft and guided by onboard navigation system is capable of gliding accurately to its target even 100 km away.

Over thirty missions such as launches of strategic and tactical guided missiles kept the Integrated Test Range, the only one in the country, heavily engaged with activities throughout the year.

A four km long Rail Track Rocket Sled (RTRS) Penta Rail Supersonic Track, a national test facility was established and made operational bringing India among a handful of countries in the world now possessing this unique test facility. The RTRS will facilitate testing and evaluation of a wide range of critical systems such as payload for manned missions of ISRO, the navigation system for missiles and aircrafts, proximity fuses for advanced warheads, fuses for armament systems parachutes for payload delivery, arrester systems for aircraft such as LCA.

Even as the total number of flights of all the LCAs put together crossed 2800 mark, The Light Combat Aircraft -LCA program witnessed yet another milestone on November 8 when Tejas trainer PV6, the two-seater version of Tejas LCA for Air Force, in its first flight took to the skies and became the 16th Tejas variant to have flown as part of the program. Having absorbed all the major design modifications undertaken during the flights of earlier aircrafts PV6 is the final prototype leading to series production of trainer and has the capability to deliver all ‘air-to-air’ and ‘air-to-ground’ weapons deliverable by the single seat counterpart.

In another landmark event, LCA (Navy) Prototype 1 (NP1), the first indigenously designed and developed 4th plus generation combat aircraft designed to operate from the decks of air-craft carriers, took-off majestically from ski-jump facility of Shore Based Test Facility at INS Hansa in Goa on 20th December. The special flight control law mode of LCA-Navy allows hands-free take-off from the ramp and automatically puts the aircraft in an ascending trajectory. It is designed with stronger landing gears to absorb forces exerted by the ski jump ramp during take-off, to be airborne within 200 m as against 1000m required for normal runways. The Shore Based Test Facility (SBTF) created to replicate the aircraft carrier with a Ski Jump for take-off and arresting gear cable for arrested landing, became operational for R&D as well as pilot training.

Two AEW&C aircraft having fitted with the indigenous radars and other equipment such as data links, mission system controller, data handling and display system; have been flying. A wheeled version of Nishant UAV named Panchi has been realized and had it’s maiden flight on Dec 24 after series of high speed taxi trials.

An expendable 450 Kgf thrust class Gas Turbine engine ‘Manik’ was developed for 1000 km class subsonic cruise missile [Nirbhay] and is undergoing endurance tests.

An advanced Parachute System meeting stringent requirements of Human Space Program (HSP-II) was designed developed and successfully evaluated by DRDO. The system developed for India’s manned space missions was successfully proven with the recovery of Moon Mission Crew Capsule flown into space by the GSLV Mk-III on 18th December. The parachute deployment system functioned perfectly and achieved the required descent rate.

A Heavy Drop System (P-16) for dropping form IL76 heavy lift aircraft was developed and is undergoing user assisted trials. The system consisting of a platform system suitably designed for harnessing & mounting of variety of payloads of 16 Ton class and a highly advanced parachute system to drop loads. The load typically consists of military stores such as vehicles (including BMP class), supplies and ammunition.

The first indigenously designed and developed Inflatable Radom to serve as a shelter to provide controlled environment for effective and continuous 24x7 functioning of sensitive systems such as RADARs for civil and military applications was installed. The inflatable structure consists of hemispherical envelope of coated fabrics with airlock tunnel, centrifugal air blowers, packaged air conditioners, electrical control system and emergency generator.

Phase-IV of user trials of Arjun Main Battle Tank Mk-II, that included Trench crossing and step climbing capabilities, were successfully completed. Development of Arjun Catapult 130mm Self-Propelled Artillery Gun, a blend of 130 mm SP Art Gun with Arjun chassis has been completed as per GSQR. DRDO's internal trial validation has been completed and the Arjun Catapult is ready for Users trials. User demo trials of Pinaka Mk-II rockets with enhanced range were successfully conducted.

Successful User Assisted Technical Trials (UATT) of CBRN Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) and Multi-Purpose Decontamination System (MPDS) were carried out. User and DGQA trials of BMCS (Bi-modular charge system) using both Soltam and Bofors guns were completed. The trials included validation of manufacturing process. Dynamic trials of 120 mm Penetration-cum-Blast (PCB) ammunition for MBT Arjun Mk II were conducted successfully.

A man-portable modular military bridging system suitable for rapid deployment in mountainous regions and capable of bridging gaps up to 35 m successfully completed user assisted technical trials. The modules weighing less than 18 kg each allow the bridge to be constructed from near-bank without any access to far-bank. A 35m bridge can be launched in about one hour.

Three major radar systems namely Aslesha, 3D Tactical Control Radar (TCR) and Troop Level Radar (TLR) / Troop Control Center (TCC) successfully completed the evaluation of the First Of Production Model (FOPM) and are under production.

NABHRATHNA, a Flying Test Bed (FTB) based on a Dornier aircraft acquired from HAL was realized. The FTB serves as a test bed platform for evaluation of airborne Radars. FTB sorties with Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) & Maritime Patrol Airborne Radar (MPAR) have been taken up successfully.

A series of secure communication systems based on Software Defined Radio, ranging from hand held sets to aircraft and ship based systems have been developed. The compact systems are capable of operating on multiple frequency bands, avoiding need for multiple systems. Dhruva-3, the latest in series of indigenous High Performance Computing Systems designed for solving mission critical Defence R & D applications and one of the fastest computing facilities in the country became operational.

Microwave Power Module (MPM), a compact transmitter employing a micro travelling-wave tube (micro-TWT) and a compact high efficiency electronic power conditioner was designed, developed and led to production with indigenous travelling-wave tube. The MPM has been incorporated in the indigenous Flight Level Radar (FLR) and Troop Level Radar (TLR).

ALTAS was realized with establishment of Towed array SONAR technology with 100% indigenous capabilities with two production centers. The system is designed to detect and identify submarines and underwater weapons. First technical trial on ALTAS has been conducted with satisfactory results.

ABHAY and HUMSA-UG compact sonars, ideal for fitment on smaller platforms for surveillance purposes, having advantages of reduced installation and maintenance load on the technical personnel were installed on two platforms and are undergoing technical trials. The hull mounted sonar HUMSA-NG has been installed onboard INS Kolkata and INS Komorta. Varunastra, the heavy weight torpedo and Maareech, the decoy system for defence against torpedo attacks successfully completed 10 and 12 sets of user evaluation trials respectively.

Development of indigenous materials is vital for successful development of military systems and some remarkable ones are mentioned: Enhanced protection level of Kanchan armour for MBT Arjun Mk-II was achieved without any weight penalty. Armour for Wheeled Armoured Platform, was successfully developed.

A challenging task of developing seven types of critical turbine parts, namely high pressure turbine blades, vanes, convergent-divergent starter nozzles, inner and outer shroud rings, integrally cast low pressure turbine rotor blisks and low pressure nozzle guide vane stator blings was completed for the development of the small turbofan engine.

The life sciences labs of DRDO continued with vigor, DRDO’s efforts to develop soldier support systems and processes to help the soldiers perform effectively in diverse and harsh conditions of terrain and climate encountered in the country.

Submarine Escape Set 120 M to assist safe escape from underwater vessels from depths upto 120 meters is undergoing trials. Mark I version of Submarine Escape Set is already in production.

‘Telemedicine System’ has been accepted for induction in Indian Navy. The system capable of exchange of vital medical information and advice in a secure manner through multiple channels (including satcom) will be installed in various IN ships as well as remote naval units.

A light weight Helicopter Oxygen System MkII has been developed and is undergoing user trials. Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) as LRU (line replaceable units) for ‘Tejas’ light combat aircraft has undergone certification processes. Integration and successful testing under all simulated flight profiles up to height ceiling of LCA was completed in high altitude test chamber. ILSS consists of systems such as Onboard Oxygen Generating System, Back up Oxygen System, Emergency Oxygen System, Oxygen Sensor, Electronic Control Unit, Breathing Gas Management Solenoid Valve and Quick Disconnect Coupling.

HAPO Bag MK-II, a lifesaving equipment for management of ‘High Altitude Pulmonary Odema’ was accepted by user for induction; MkI is already in production. Oxygen enrichment shelters for extreme altitude were designed developed, installed and handed over to the armed forces for prevention and management of Acute Mountain Sickness.

Computerized Pilot Selection System (CPSS) has undergone series production leading to installation at various Air Force Service selection Boards. Other Rank Trade Allocation System (ORTAS) Battery has been handed over to the users. Computerized Cognitive Battery item bank for the selection of officers has been handed over to Coast Guard Selection Board.

‘DEFENDER’, a DEPA impregnated mosquito net was accepted by users and is under production. As a part of the Jammu & Kashmir flood relief operations, DFRL Mysore supplied around 5 Tonnes of food materials.

The year 2015 awaits many more successes on the path of enhancing self-reliance in military systems.

DRDO director-general and scientific adviser to the defence minister Avinash Chander (right), former director-general VK Saraswat and RCI director G Satheesh Reddy arriving at the Defence & Aero Supply India-2014 expo at Hotel Novotel, near the international airport, at Shamshabad on Friday. | A SURESH KUMAR

15th November 2014 By Express News Service

HYDERABAD: Recognising Hyderabad as a potential hub for growth and development of aerospace industry, experts called for creating a conducive environment with better infrastructure, and skill development among youth to enhance the industry in the state, during a session titled ‘Changes, implications and opportunity’ on the concluding day of the Defence & Aerosupply India 2014 here on Friday.

‘’Hyderabad continues to be a hub for aerospace activity and there is a vast industrial potential in the city,” said Avinash Chander, scientific advisor to defence minister and director general of  Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).

Pointing out the Union government’s initiatives such as ‘Make in India’ campaign to enhance the sector across the country, Chander said, “We need to have an R&D base in the industry and must invest more in R&D. We are also encouraging new start-ups and anyone who comes with an innovative idea will be encouraged and supported by the government.”

Chander also urged private players in the industry to be more pro-active instead of waiting for an order to develop the industry. “There is a need for the industry to look beyond order and they can develop new equipment which are on par with world class standards. The industry has to take these initiatives rather than waiting for an order,” he advised.

Calling for creating more government-owned infrastructure in the private industry, Chander said that major DRDO labs are being set up in various parts in and around the city, such as Nagarjuna Sagar, Shamirpet and Dundigal. “We are also looking at new models to fund new projects. We are considering a model which will cover 80 per cent funding,” he added. Special chief secretary to the government and commissioner for industrial promotion & mines, government of Telangana, K Pradeep Chandra laid out the state government’s initiatives to enable the aerospace sector during the hour-long discussion.

‘’We are trying to create a business-friendly environment and are willing to partner with anybody, from private sector to educational institutions to develop any sector, including aerospace,” Pradeep Chandra stated.

Pointing out that the Telangana government had done an extensive land survey, he said, “Around 2.5 to 3 lakh acres of land has been identified for the aerospace industry. We have also purchased bulk water so that water supply will be available to each of the industries. In addition, to this `1000 crore for industrial infrastructure development has been allotted in the budget.”

SGK Kishore, chief executive officer, GMR Hyderabad International Airport had earlier pointed out that the Telangana government  must focus on south of Hyderabad for enabling the aerospace sector as it consists of Hyderabad airport, Aerospace Park in Adibatla, proposed ITIR, RCI and other establishments. However, Pradeep Chandra shared a different view. “We are looking to develop at least one cluster in north or north-west of Hyderabad,” Chandra added.

The three-day conference, organised by Kenes Exhibition - an Israel-based company, in association with government of Telangana, witnessed around 200 participants. There were several expert technical sessions and panel discussions during the event. IT minister KT Rama Rao was conspicuous by his absence.

Job Opportunities in Aerospace Industry

Laying emphasis on the importance of education to employment, UB Desai, director, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, felt there was a need to create awareness about potential jobs in the aerospace industry among the youth.

Revealing interesting data, he showed that according to International Labour Organisation, 75 million young people are unemployed. Across nine countries only 43 per cent employers agreed that they could not find skilled entry level workers. Researches have estimated that by 2020, there will be a shortfall of 85 million high and middle skilled workers. Desai also revealed that 39 per cent of employers feel shortage of skill is the reason for lack of entry level vacancies.

“Youth do not feel that there are job opportunities in aerospace industry. There is a need for an awareness campaign in all colleges to educate the youth about the opportunities and potential of this industry,” said Desai. He also pointed out that only 10 per cent of Indians receive skill training compared to 96 per cent in South Korea and 80 per cent in Japan. India also has the least productive workforce at just 10 per cent, with China marginally better at 17 per cent.

Desai urged Telangana government to establish skill development centres in every industry.

NEW DELHI, 10 novembre - RIA Novosti

L'Inde et Israël ont testé un missile sol-air guidé à longue portée, LRSAM, sur le territoire israélien, a annoncé lundi le gouvernement indien.

"Tous les systèmes, y compris le radar, le système de lancement et le missile, ont fonctionné comme prévu et le missile a détruit sa cible", a indiqué le gouvernement dans un communiqué.

Les représentants de l'entreprise de construction aéronautique Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) et de l'agence indienne Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) ont assisté à l'essai du missile qui doit équiper les forces armées des deux pays.

May 04, 2014 by Shiv Aroor - Livefist

DRDO STATEMENT: India's first indigenously developed Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Air-to-Air missile "ASTRA was successfully test fired by the Indian Air Force on May 04, 2014 from a Naval range in the western sector meeting all the mission objectives. The air-launch was captured by side and forward looking high speed cameras and the separation was exactly as per the simulation. ASTRA is India's first BVR Air-to-Air Missile indigenously designed and developed by DRDO, possessing  high Single Shot Kill Probability (SSKP) making it highly reliable. Astra is an all aspect, all weather missile with active Radar terminal guidance, excellent ECCM features, smokeless propulsion and process improved effectiveness in multi-target scenario making it a highly advanced, state-of the-art missile.

The Scientific Advisor to Raksha Mantri, Secretary Deptt of Defence R&D and DG, DRDO, Shri  Avinash Chander congratulating the team for their high competence and tenacity to make such an event happen seamlessly said "Astra's successful launch from the Su30 combat aircraft is a major step in missile aircraft integration. Extensive flight testing that has preceded today's air launch was indeed a joint effort of DRDO and IAF. This will be followed by launch against actual target shortly. Many more trials are planned and will be conducted to clear the launch envelope. Weapon integration with 'Tejas' Light Combat Aircraft will also be done in the near future."

Dr. V.G. Sekaran, Director General (MSS) who chaired the Flight Readiness Review Committee along with Shri. S Som, Director, DRDL, Shri. P Venugopalan, former Director, DRDL among others, said "This is one of the proud moments for DRDO and the entire country." Dr. K Tamilmani, Director General (Aeronautics) who has overlooked the entire flight safety in the program said that quality of integration and performance is of high standards and there was no doubt in the success of the launch. He further added that this is the beginning of the phase for demonstration of launch over a wide air-launch envelope. The Project Director Dr. S. Venugopal said that "the Air Launch of ASTRA was perfect in all respect and is a culmination of years of effort by a very dedicated and competent team of the Missile Complex, Hyderabad, CEMILAC and Indian Air Force. HAL carried out the modification in Su-30 along with IAF specialists, and many Indian industries have an important and enabling role in the production of reliable avionics, propulsion system, materials, airframe and software passing stringent airworthiness requirements for the missile." The missiles have undergone rigorous testing on Su30 in the captive mode for avionics integration and Seeker evaluation in 2013. The project has thus reached the final stage of testing and evaluation, and the Mk-II variant with higher range capability is also planned to be tested by the end of 2014.

24.03.2014 Pacific Sentinel

The Arjun MK II main battle tank for the Indian Army may get delayed further than its pre-fixed 2016 induction date. A key source in the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said, the Israelis who customised the LAHAT Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) for firing from the 120 mm main gun of the Mark II variant, has gone back to the drawing boards for correcting the error.

The DRDO source said, ‘This has delayed the induction of the tank a bit, but then we are telling the army that since the platform, the tank, is ready they can take it up, with the missile getting mated later.’

The tank itself has undergone about 89 major and minor ‘improvements,’ and still have a few unsolved issues which are decidedly ‘minor’ like changing the position of a light bulb or so.

The range of the LAHAT missile pay-load is about three-and-a-half kilometres on the plains and about two-and-a-half kilometres in the deserts.

Read the full story at ArmyRecognition

10.02.2014 par Guillaume Belan (FOB)
 

Durant le salon d’armement de New Delhi, qui s’est tenu la semaine dernière, les nouveautés étaient quasi-exclusivement indiennes. À la faveur de la politique « make India », obligeant les industriels de défense étrangers à des transferts de technologies importants, l’industrie de défense, encore balbutiante en terme de qualité, progresse néanmoins. De très nombreux projets étaient ainsi visibles sur les stands indiens, souvent des copies de matériels existants ou des équipements réalisés en partenariats avec des industriels occidentaux. A noter une très forte présence russe et israélienne, bien implantés dans le paysage défense indien. Voici un panorama des nouveautés roulantes.

Tata Motors à la pointe

Dans le domaine terrestre, outre les florissants projets d’artillerie, c’est Tata Motors qui présentait un stand bien fourni, révélant son ambition de devenir le fournisseur incontournable de véhicules à l’armée de terre indienne.

Le groupe présentait le Kestrel, un blindé 8X8 amphibie de transport de troupe, basé sur une coque, rappelant étrangement le best seller de Patria. De la gamme des 25 tonnes, le Kestrel peut recevoir 12 soldats (dont 2 d’équipage) et offre (selon Tata) une excellente mobilité grâce à des roues motrices indépendantes (100 km/h). Il etait muni d’une tourelle teleopérée de 30 mm de Kongsberg. A noter que Thales fournit la partie communication.

L’autre nouveauté sur le stand du géant du transport était le LAMV (Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicle), un véhicule 4X4 blindé léger (8 tonnes) pouvant transporter 6 soldats (2 d’équipage) au blindage modulaire (niveau Stanag 2+), suspension indépendante, vitesse de 100 km/h+

Les MRAP

OFB (Ordnance Factory Board), sorte d’arsenal d’état présentait également son MRAP, baptisé Jabalpur : moteur en ligne 6 cylindres, classe des 10 tonnes, vitesse : 85 km/h, monocoque en « V » contre les mines.

Robot

La DRDO, agence gouvernementale en charge du développement de technologies militaires fourmillait de projets en tout genres. Sorte de bric à brac à la « géotrouvetout », parmis les très nombreux projets fous, FOB a repéré celui là : Le Rudra, ou robot 6X6 équipé de deux systèmes d’armes : mitrailleuse de 7.62 LMG et un lance grenade de 30 mm AGS30. Autonomie  de 3 heures, pouvant grimper des pentes de 40 degrés, et transmission vidéo en temps réel.

21 January 2014 Pacific Sentinel

 

AGNI-IV, the 4000 kms range Nuclear Capable Ballistic Missile was successfully launched today at 1052 hrs from the Wheeler island off the coast of Odisha. This was the third consecutively successful trial and the last one in the series of development launches. The missile took off majestically, rose to a height of over 850 km, covered the intended range in about 20 minutes, hit the target with two digit accuracy; meeting all mission objectives and proving the capabilities of the missile. The AGNI-IV missile propelled by composite solid fuel rocket motor technology was launched from its road mobile launcher indigenously developed by DRDO. The long range Radars and Electro-Optical Tracking Systems (EOTS) located all along the coast have tracked and monitored all the parameters throughout the flight. Two ships located near the target point tracked the vehicle and witnessed the final event. The Defence Minister, Shri AK Antony congratulated the DG, DRDO and Scientific Advisor to Defence Minister, Shri Avinash Chander and his team on the success. 

“The event is of greater significance since the system was tested in its deliverable configuration with the active participation of Strategic Forces Command (SFC) personnel. The missile is now ready for induction and its serial production will now begin” said Shri Avinash Chander, who commanded the launch sequence. He congratulated all the team members from DRDO and SFC. ‘Today’s launch takes India’s level of deterrence and its preparedness and effectiveness to newer heights. Seen together with recent momentous events: the second launch of Agni 5, operational clearance of Tejas – Light Combat Aircraft, achieving the criticality of nuclear reactor of India’s first nuclear powered submarine ‘Arihant’, completion of development phase of underwater launched missile BO5 and development of mark II version of ‘Arjun – Main battle tank’, Shri Chander said. He further stated that it also reflects the high maturity level of India’s capabilities in design development and leading to production, contemporary weapons and platforms for strengthening its deterrence and defence capabilities. 

Agni-IV is equipped with state-of-the-art Avionics, 5th generation On Board Computer and distributed architecture. It has the latest features to correct and guide itself for inflight disturbances. The most accurate Ring Laser Gyro based Inertial Navigation System (RINS) and supported by highly reliable redundant Micro Navigation System (MINGS), ensured the vehicle reach the target within two digit accuracy. The re-entry heat shield withstood temperatures in the range of 4000 degree centigrade and made sure the avionics function normally with inside temperature remaining less than 50 degree centigrade. Agni-I, II, III and Prithvi are already in the arsenal of armed forces, giving them reach of over 3000 km, giving India an effective deterrence capability. 

Dr V.G. Sekaran, DS & DG (MSS) reviewed the launch activities and guided the team. Smt. Tessy Thomas, Project Director AGNI-IV led the team of scientists during the operation.

Indian Press Information Bureau

NEW DELHI, 7 janvier - RIA Novosti

Les forces armées indiennes ont tiré mardi avec succès un missile balistique Prithvi-II d'une portée d'environ 350 km, rapporte la chaîne de télévision Zee News. 

Le missile a été tiré depuis le polygone de Chandipur situé dans l'Etat de l'Orissa (ouest). "Le tir a réussi à 100%. Toutes les cibles ont été atteintes", a déclaré M.V.K.V Prasad, directeur du site d'essais du polygone. 

Selon  l'Organisation militaire pour la recherche et le développement (DRDO),  de tels essais ont pour objectif de "démontrer clairement l'état de préparation opérationnelle de l'Inde" et sa capacité à "réagir à toute éventualité".

Elaborés depuis le début des années 1980, les Prithvi sont des missiles balistiques à courte portée capables de transporter une ogive nucléaire, dont la version sol-sol équipe l'armée de terre indienne depuis 2003. Le Prithvi-II est capable de transporter une charge allant de 500 à 1.000 kg.

December 6, 2013: Strategy Page

India recently had another successful test of their Prithvi II ballistic missile. This is progress, because in September 2010 a Prithvi II test failed as the rocket motor began burning fuel, but not enough to get it off the launcher. There was lots of smoke and confusion, but no launch. This was a user trial where military crews were making sure they were able to use a new weapon that had been successfully completed testing using manufacturer personnel to operate it. This is a common practice, but particularly necessary in India, where the manufacturers often cut corners during development and testing. The troops on the military launch crews are usually not privy to these workarounds, and the developers sometimes just keep their fingers crossed that the troops can handle things on their own. For example, in 2009 the first user test of the ground launched BrahMos cruise missile failed. Not a major problem, it turned out. After a few months, everything was put right. That’s what happened with the Prithvi II.

The first successful test of the 4.6 ton Prithvi II took place in 2009 and it successfully hit a target 350 kilometers away. The 2010 launch was to test the ability of the missile to carry a half ton warhead. This is the minimum size for a nuclear warhead. Used with a nuclear warhead Prithvi II is a strategic weapon, since it can put those nuclear warheads on major targets within neighboring Pakistan. In the last three years Prithvi II has been improved to the point where it can reach targets 350 kilometers away while carrying a one ton warhead.

A Prithvi III is in development. This is the Prithvi II modified to be operated from ships. This missile can carry a half ton warhead 600 kilometers. The increase in range and warhead weight for the Prithvi III was achieved by using a solid fuel rocket motor, and adding a second stage with a liquid fuel motor. The Prithvi II uses a liquid fuel rocket. The navy has not installed the Prithvi III on any of its ships because it was discovered that the liquid fuel was too dangerous to handle aboard a ship at sea.

The Prithvi is a ballistic missile that reaches its target within 5-10 minutes of launch and was originally developed as a shorter range (150 kilometers) missile. Prithvi uses liquid fuel, meaning it takes up to an hour to ready for launch. In 2013 India announced that it is replacing over a hundred Prithvi I ballistic missiles with the solid fuel Prahar. While the air force controls long range ballistic missiles, the army has long been supplied with some shorter range Prithvi Is. This is a single stage, road mobile, liquid fuel battlefield support missile that weighs 4.4 tons and is nine meters (27.3 feet) long, 110cm in diameter and costing about a million dollars each. Introduced in 1994, the army version has a 150 kilometer range and carries a one ton warhead.

The Prahar is more compact and reliable. It weighs 1.3 tons, is 7.3 meters (23.6 feet) long and 42cm in diameter, costing less than a million dollars each and carrying a 200 kg (440 pound) warhead. Prahar can be carried and fired from a TEL (Transporter Erector Launcher) that will haul six Prahars, each in a sealed container. Prahar can carry nuclear or conventional warheads and the TEL can fire salvos of up to six missiles, each in quick succession. The guidance system brings the missile to within ten meters of its aiming point. This is more than twice as accurate as Prithvi I. Most importantly, a Prahar can be fired within minutes of receiving the order while the Prithvi I takes over an hour to fuel and prepare for launch.

Prithvi I is similar to the old Russian SCUD, which is a direct descendent of the first ballistic missile, the German V-2 in World War II. The U.S. produced the Corporal missile as an equivalent to the SCUD, but replaced it with solid fuel missiles in the 1960s. Russia replaced its SCUDS in the 1970s and the U.S. replaced its liquid fuel battlefield missiles a decade earlier. But a lot of SCUD type missiles remain in service around the world. India is in the process of replacing most of its liquid fuel missiles with solid fuel types.