Ex DRDO chief congratulates Mission Shakti scientists

<p>India's successful <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">anti-satellite missile test </a>on Wednesday showed that the country now possesses the capability to strike satellites in outer space with centimetre-level accuracy and precision, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy said.</p>

<p>Reddy, who oversaw the top-secret operation, said the government accorded clearance to the project around two years back with an aim to deter threats to the country's space assets.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a major feat, a DRDO-developed missile destroyed a low-orbiting satellite in a critical test that catapulted India as a space power alongside the US, China and Russia.</p>

<p>"It is a great achievement for India as the technology used for the test has been completely developed indigenously," Reddy said.</p>

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<p>"The test was a reflection of India's growing capability to develop critical technology and it will act as a good deterrence," he said adding India was the fourth country to go for an anti-satellite missile test after the United States, Russia and China.</p>

<p>The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Interceptor Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a 'Hit to Kill' mode.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Tracking data from range sensors has confirmed that the mission met all its objectives," it said.</p>

<p>The test was conducted, under 'Mission Shakti' operation, from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha.</p>

<p>Reddy said the test has demonstrated <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mission-shakti-how-chinas-long-march-on-asat-missile-technology-threatens-elite-club-206054">India's capability to defend</a> its assets in outer space and is a reflection of the country's growing capability to develop critical technology.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"The shooting down of a satellite with a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/anti-satellite-technology-will-be-deterrent-in-event-of-space-war-experts-206072">missile reflected </a>that we have matured to develop technology which could achieve accuracy in terms of centimetres" said Reddy, adding clearance for the project was given over two years back.</p>

<p>"The project was implemented in the fastest way possible and it showed the DRDO's capability in doing such programmes," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Reddy said the technology used has been completely developed indigenously and now India stands as one of the four nations to have it.</p>

<p>India is emerging as a major technologically advanced nation in space sector, he said.</p>

<p>The DRDO said the test has once again proven the capability of indigenous weapon systems.&nbsp;</p>

<p>India is yet to have a comprehensive national security doctrine. However, a joint operational doctrine for the Army, the Navy and the Air Force, released in April 2017 had proposed to set up a 'Defence Space Agency' to deal with issues relating to outer space.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs said the test was not directed against any country and that India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space.</p>

<p>"The test is not directed against any country. India's space capabilities do not threaten any country and nor are they directed against anyone," the MEA said in a 10-point explainer on the anti-satellite missile test.</p>


India's successful anti-satellite missile test on Wednesday showed that the country now possesses the capability to strike satellites in outer space with centimetre-level accuracy and precision, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy said.

India's successful anti-satellite missile test on Wednesday showed that the country now possesses the capability to strike satellites in outer space with centimetre-level accuracy and precision, DRDO chairman G Satheesh Reddy said. Reddy, who oversaw the top-secret operation, said the government accorded clearance to the project around two years back with an aim to deter threats to the country's space assets. In a major feat, a DRDO-developed missile destroyed a low-orbiting satellite in a critical test that catapulted India as a space power alongside the US, China and Russia. "It is a great achievement for India as the technology used for the test has been completely developed indigenously," Reddy said. "The test was a reflection of India's growing capability to develop critical technology and it will act as a good deterrence," he said adding India was the fourth country to go for an anti-satellite missile test after the United States, Russia and China. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) said a Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Interceptor Missile successfully engaged an Indian orbiting target satellite in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) in a 'Hit to Kill' mode. "The interceptor missile was a three-stage missile with two solid rocket boosters. Tracking data from range sensors has confirmed that the mission met all its objectives," it said. The test was conducted, under 'Mission Shakti' operation, from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island in Odisha. Reddy said the test has demonstrated India's capability to defend its assets in outer space and is a reflection of the country's growing capability to develop critical technology. "The shooting down of a satellite with a missile reflected that we have matured to develop technology which could achieve accuracy in terms of centimetres" said Reddy, adding clearance for the project was given over two years back. "The project was implemented in the fastest way possible and it showed the DRDO's capability in doing such programmes," he said. Reddy said the technology used has been completely developed indigenously and now India stands as one of the four nations to have it. India is emerging as a major technologically advanced nation in space sector, he said. The DRDO said the test has once again proven the capability of indigenous weapon systems. India is yet to have a comprehensive national security doctrine. However, a joint operational doctrine for the Army, the Navy and the Air Force, released in April 2017 had proposed to set up a 'Defence Space Agency' to deal with issues relating to outer space. Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs said the test was not directed against any country and that India has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space. "The test is not directed against any country. India's space capabilities do not threaten any country and nor are they directed against anyone," the MEA said in a 10-point explainer on the anti-satellite missile test.

ASAT technology completely developed indigenously: DRDO chief

<p>Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Wednesday congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its scientists for the success of ‘Mission Shakti’.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Praising the DRDO and its scientists associated with “Mission Shakti”, Kumar expressed happiness on India becoming the fourth country in the world to join the exclusive club of space superpowers after the US, Russia and China, an official release said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I extend my greetings to them (DRDO and scientists) as the entire nation is proud of their achievements,” he said.</p>

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers.</p>

<p>“In the journey of every nation, there are moments that bring utmost pride and have a historic impact on generations to come. One such moment is today,” he said in an unprecedented broadcast to the nation on television, radio and social media.</p>


Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Wednesday congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its scientists for the success of ‘Mission Shakti’.

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar Wednesday congratulated the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its scientists for the success of ‘Mission Shakti’. Praising the DRDO and its scientists associated with “Mission Shakti”, Kumar expressed happiness on India becoming the fourth country in the world to join the exclusive club of space superpowers after the US, Russia and China, an official release said. “I extend my greetings to them (DRDO and scientists) as the entire nation is proud of their achievements,” he said. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday announced that India had demonstrated anti-satellite missile capability by shooting down a live satellite, describing it as a rare achievement that puts the country in an exclusive club of space superpowers. “In the journey of every nation, there are moments that bring utmost pride and have a historic impact on generations to come. One such moment is today,” he said in an unprecedented broadcast to the nation on television, radio and social media.

Mission Shakti: Nitish Kumar calls it a historic moment, hails DRDO

<p>India has said it has no intention of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/what-is-low-earth-orbit-satellite-against-which-india-launched-a-surgical-strike-in-space-205974">entering into an arms race</a> in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets."</p>

<p>The test, Mission Shakti which was carried out by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/all-you-need-to-know-about-mission-shakti-indias-anti-satellite-missile-test-205998">Defence Research and Development Organisation</a> (DRDO) and was conducted from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island launch complex.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Remember that has been a long-standing policy of the Indian government there should not be any weaponisation of Outer Space and that space must be used only for peaceful purposes.</p>

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<p>The Ministry of external affairs( MEA) frequently asked questions (FAQ) released after the test said, "India believes that Outer space is the common heritage of humankind and it is the responsibility of all space-faring nations to preserve and promote the benefits flowing from advances made in space technology and its applications for all."</p>

<p>With this test, according to the FAQ, "India was able to demonstrate its capability to intercept a satellite in outer space based on complete indigenous technology. DRDO’s Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor was used to target an Indian satellite."</p>

<p>On the question of why the test was done now, India said since it had "acquired the required degree of confidence to ensure its success".</p>

<p>Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. Finance minister Arun Jaitley in a presser said, "In a matter of three weeks the whole environment will be debris free".</p>

<p>New Delhi in the past has participated in Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination (IADC) activities with regard to space debris management.</p>

<p>India has also already clarified that the test is not against any country and the test provides deterrence against threats.</p>

<p>India is a party to all the major international treaties relating to Outer Space.</p>

<p>New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space.</p>

<p>India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space.<br />
&nbsp;</p>


India has said it has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets.

India has said it has no intention of entering into an arms race in outer space and Anti-Satellite Missile(ASAT) test was done just to "verify" that the country has the "capability to safeguard our space assets." The test, Mission Shakti which was carried out by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and was conducted from the Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island launch complex. Remember that has been a long-standing policy of the Indian government there should not be any weaponisation of Outer Space and that space must be used only for peaceful purposes. The Ministry of external affairs( MEA) frequently asked questions (FAQ) released after the test said, "India believes that Outer space is the common heritage of humankind and it is the responsibility of all space-faring nations to preserve and promote the benefits flowing from advances made in space technology and its applications for all." With this test, according to the FAQ, "India was able to demonstrate its capability to intercept a satellite in outer space based on complete indigenous technology. DRDO’s Ballistic Missile Defence interceptor was used to target an Indian satellite." On the question of why the test was done now, India said since it had "acquired the required degree of confidence to ensure its success". Since the test was done in the lower atmosphere, India has said, there isn't much space debris. Finance minister Arun Jaitley in a presser said, "In a matter of three weeks the whole environment will be debris free". New Delhi in the past has participated in Inter-Agency Space Debris Coordination (IADC) activities with regard to space debris management. India has also already clarified that the test is not against any country and the test provides deterrence against threats. India is a party to all the major international treaties relating to Outer Space. New Delhi supports UNGA resolution 69/32 on No First Placement of Weapons on Outer Space and has called for substantive legal measures to ensure the prevention of an arms race in outer space. India has also ratified the 1967 Outer Space Treaty which prohibits weapons of mass destruction in outer space.

No intention of entering into arms race in outer space: India after ASAT test

'Mission Shakti', India's homegrown anti-satellite missile: All you need to know

India became 4th nation to test anti-satellite weapon: Arun Jaitley

India is now an elite space power: PM Narendra Modi

<p>India has successfully carried out the trial of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) being developed for infantry troops of the Indian Army.</p>

<p>The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the trial of the missile with two-three km strike range on Wednesday night in Rajasthan desert.</p>

<p>This was the fourth overall development trial of the MP-ATGM which is being developed for the infantry troops against the enemy tank regiments.</p>

<p>“Both the missiles hit their target with complete precision and all the desired mission objectives were met successfully,” DRDO officials said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The missile has been tested at all ranges including maximum strike range which is around two-three kms.</p>

<p>The missile is critical for the Indian Army as it has a requirement for more than 50,000 of these anti-tank missiles. This comes after India on Tuesday successfully carried out the third trial of Pinaka guided missile at Pokharan range.</p>

<p>Two trials of Pinaka guided extended range rockets were conducted on Monday. Both the rockets hit their targets at 90-km range.</p>

<p>Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launching system developed by the DRDO, for the Indian Army with a range of around 40 km. To meet the emergency requirement of the Army, the Defence Ministry had recently cleared the acquisition of 5,000 Milan 2T ATGMs for the Force.&nbsp;</p>


India has successfully carried out the trial of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) being developed for infantry troops of the Indian Army. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the trial of the missile with two-three km strike range on Wednesday night in Rajasthan desert.

India has successfully carried out the trial of the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MP-ATGM) being developed for infantry troops of the Indian Army. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) carried out the trial of the missile with two-three km strike range on Wednesday night in Rajasthan desert. This was the fourth overall development trial of the MP-ATGM which is being developed for the infantry troops against the enemy tank regiments. “Both the missiles hit their target with complete precision and all the desired mission objectives were met successfully,” DRDO officials said. The missile has been tested at all ranges including maximum strike range which is around two-three kms. The missile is critical for the Indian Army as it has a requirement for more than 50,000 of these anti-tank missiles. This comes after India on Tuesday successfully carried out the third trial of Pinaka guided missile at Pokharan range. Two trials of Pinaka guided extended range rockets were conducted on Monday. Both the rockets hit their targets at 90-km range. Pinaka is a multi-barrel rocket launching system developed by the DRDO, for the Indian Army with a range of around 40 km. To meet the emergency requirement of the Army, the Defence Ministry had recently cleared the acquisition of 5,000 Milan 2T ATGMs for the Force.

India successfully test fires Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile

<p>The indigenously developed Pinaka-guided rocket system was successfully test fired on Monday at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a boost to artillery capability of the Army, the defence ministry said.</p>

<p>The weapon system is equipped with state-of-the-art guidance kit comprising of an advanced navigation and control system.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The indigenously developed guided Pinaka, developed by DRDO, will significantly boost the capability of the artillery to make precision hits," the defence ministry said.</p>

<p>About the tests, it said the weapon systems impacted the intended targets with high precision and achieved desired accuracies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Telemetry systems tracked and monitored the vehicle all through the flight path. All the mission objectives have been met," the ministry said.&nbsp;</p>


The indigenously developed Pinaka-guided rocket system was successfully test fired on Monday at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a boost to artillery capability of the Army, the defence ministry said.

The indigenously developed Pinaka-guided rocket system was successfully test fired on Monday at Pokhran desert in Rajasthan, in a boost to artillery capability of the Army, the defence ministry said. The weapon system is equipped with state-of-the-art guidance kit comprising of an advanced navigation and control system. "The indigenously developed guided Pinaka, developed by DRDO, will significantly boost the capability of the artillery to make precision hits," the defence ministry said. About the tests, it said the weapon systems impacted the intended targets with high precision and achieved desired accuracies. "Telemetry systems tracked and monitored the vehicle all through the flight path. All the mission objectives have been met," the ministry said.

Pinaka-guided weapons system successfully test fired: Defence Ministry

<p>India's Strategic Forces Command Saturday successfully test-fired its indigenously developed nuclear capable Prithvi-II missile during night time as part of a user trial by the Army from a test range in Odisha, defence sources said.</p>

<p>The surface-to-surface missile, which has a strike range of 350 km, was launched from a mobile launcher from launch complex-3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur near Balasore around 8.30 pm, they said.</p>

<p>Prithvi-II was previously successfully test-fired during night time on February 21 this year from the ITR at Chandipur.</p>

<p>The missile is capable of carrying 500 to 1,000 kilogramme of warheads and is thrusted by liquid propulsion twin engines. The state-of-the-art missile uses an advanced inertial guidance system with manoeuvring trajectory to hit its target, they said.</p>

<p>The missile was randomly chosen from the production stock and the entire launch activities were carried out by the specially-formed Strategic Forces</p>

<p>Command of the Army and monitored by the scientists of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as part of training exercise, they said.</p>

<p>"The missile trajectory was tracked by radars, electro-optical tracking systems and telemetry stations by the DRDO along the coast of Odisha," the sources said.</p>

<p>The downrange teams on board the ship deployed near the designated impact point in the Bay of Bengal monitored the terminal events and splashdown.</p>

<p>On November 21, 2016, two Prithvi-II missiles were successfully test fired in salvo mode in quick succession from the same base.</p>

<p>Inducted into the Armed forces of the country in 2003, the nine-metre-tall, single-stage liquid-fuelled Prithvi-II is the first missile to have been developed by the DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, the sources said.</p>


India's Strategic Forces Command Saturday successfully test-fired its indigenously developed nuclear capable Prithvi-II missile during night time as part of a user trial by the Army from a test range in Odisha, defence sources said.

India's Strategic Forces Command Saturday successfully test-fired its indigenously developed nuclear capable Prithvi-II missile during night time as part of a user trial by the Army from a test range in Odisha, defence sources said. The surface-to-surface missile, which has a strike range of 350 km, was launched from a mobile launcher from launch complex-3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur near Balasore around 8.30 pm, they said. Prithvi-II was previously successfully test-fired during night time on February 21 this year from the ITR at Chandipur. The missile is capable of carrying 500 to 1,000 kilogramme of warheads and is thrusted by liquid propulsion twin engines. The state-of-the-art missile uses an advanced inertial guidance system with manoeuvring trajectory to hit its target, they said. The missile was randomly chosen from the production stock and the entire launch activities were carried out by the specially-formed Strategic Forces Command of the Army and monitored by the scientists of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as part of training exercise, they said. "The missile trajectory was tracked by radars, electro-optical tracking systems and telemetry stations by the DRDO along the coast of Odisha," the sources said. The downrange teams on board the ship deployed near the designated impact point in the Bay of Bengal monitored the terminal events and splashdown. On November 21, 2016, two Prithvi-II missiles were successfully test fired in salvo mode in quick succession from the same base. Inducted into the Armed forces of the country in 2003, the nine-metre-tall, single-stage liquid-fuelled Prithvi-II is the first missile to have been developed by the DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme, the sources said.

Successful night trial of Prithvi-II missile conducted

<p>Several countries have evinced interest in procuring the indigenously developed Akash missile, a top Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) official said here on Saturday.</p>

<p>There is a growing demand for the Akash, an all-weather medium-range surface-to-air missile, and many nations have shown interest in it, DRDO chairman S Christopher told reporters here.</p>

<p>Developed by the DRDO, the Akash missile system has the capability to neutralise aerial targets such as fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles as well as ballistic missiles.</p>

<p>Talks were underway with the countries and "it (orders for the missile) will come", Christopher said without divulging further details.</p>

<p>To a query on the allocation for research and development, he said this year the organisation has a budgetary allocation of Rs 2,000 crore.</p>

<p>Christopher, who was here to participate in a function, also said there were export inquiries for the BrahMos missile.&nbsp</p>

<p>BrahMos is a joint venture between the DRDO of India and the NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM) of Russia.&nbsp</p>

<p>PSU Bharat Dynamics Ltd Chairman and Managing Director, V Udaya Bhaskar said the Akash missile is going to be in good demand for another three to four years as both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army need them in good numbers.&nbsp</p>

<p>L&T Board whole-time Director (Defence) Jayant Patil said a new aerospace facility in the district will become operational in another 10 months and it will manufacture rocket motors for Isro.</p>

<p>The defence arm of the L&T, which has so far invested Rs 500 crore in the unit here, is also supplying airframe to BrahMos missile and will expand the product range in the near future.&nbsp</p>


Many nations have shown interest in the medium-range surface-to-air missile, DRDO chairman said

Several countries have evinced interest in procuring the indigenously developed Akash missile, a top Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) official said here on Saturday. There is a growing demand for the Akash, an all-weather medium-range surface-to-air missile, and many nations have shown interest in it, DRDO chairman S Christopher told reporters here. Developed by the DRDO, the Akash missile system has the capability to neutralise aerial targets such as fighter jets, cruise missiles and air-to-surface missiles as well as ballistic missiles. Talks were underway with the countries and "it (orders for the missile) will come", Christopher said without divulging further details. To a query on the allocation for research and development, he said this year the organisation has a budgetary allocation of Rs 2,000 crore. Christopher, who was here to participate in a function, also said there were export inquiries for the BrahMos missile. BrahMos is a joint venture between the DRDO of India and the NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM) of Russia. PSU Bharat Dynamics Ltd Chairman and Managing Director, V Udaya Bhaskar said the Akash missile is going to be in good demand for another three to four years as both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army need them in good numbers. L&T Board whole-time Director (Defence) Jayant Patil said a new aerospace facility in the district will become operational in another 10 months and it will manufacture rocket motors for Isro. The defence arm of the L&T, which has so far invested Rs 500 crore in the unit here, is also supplying airframe to BrahMos missile and will expand the product range in the near future.

Foreign nations have shown interest in Akash missile: DRDO

<p>India's mega defence exhibition -- the DefExpo -- began in Chennai with the participation of major global and domestic military firms, which are eyeing billions of dollars of contract as part of the country's military modernisation programme.</p>

<p>The NDA government is trying to project the 10th edition of the event as first serious attempt to transform India -- the largest importer of military platforms and weapons -- into a hub of military manufacturing.</p>

<p>India is expected to spend close to $300 billion in the next five years in procuring defence equipment and almost all major global defence firms are eyeing a slice of it.</p>

<p>Though the four-day-long DefExpo, on the outskirts of Chennai and close to the temple town of Mahabalipuram, began today, it will formally be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow.</p>

<p>Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in a tweet, said. For the first time, India will be showcasing its defence export potential at @DefExpoIndia.</p>

<p>According to the Defence Ministry, over 670 defence firms, including 154 foreign manufacturers, are participating in the exhibition of weapons and military hardware.</p>

<p>It is being attended by official delegations from over 47 countries, including the US, the UK, Russia, Afghanistan, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Portugal, Seychelles, and Vietnam.</p>

<p>The theme of the expo is India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub.</p>

<p>Major international companies, which are participating at the expo include Lockheed Martin, Boeing (US), Saab (Sweden), Airbus, Rafael (France), Rosonboron Exports, United Shipbuilding (Russia), BAE Systems (UK), Sibat (Israel), Wartsila (Finland) and Rhode and Schwarz (Germany).</p>

<p>India's indigenously developed land, air, and naval systems are also being showcased.</p>

<p>The weapons and platforms being displayed include the Tejas fighter jets, advanced towed artillery gun systems (ATAGS) designed by the DRDO Arjun Mark 2 tank and Dhanush artillery guns.</p>

<p>The DRDO's exhibits include the Nirbhay missile system with launcher, autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (AUGV), MBT Arjun Mk-I tank, Astra missile, low-level transportable radar (LLTR) system, medium power radar (MPR) system and</p>

<p>Varunastra -- heavyweight anti submarine electric torpedo.</p>

<p>The exhibition is spread over an area of 2.90 lakh square feet.</p>


The NDA government is trying to project the 10th edition of the event as first serious attempt to transform India -- the largest importer of military platforms and weapons -- into a hub of military manufacturing

India's mega defence exhibition -- the DefExpo -- began in Chennai with the participation of major global and domestic military firms, which are eyeing billions of dollars of contract as part of the country's military modernisation programme. The NDA government is trying to project the 10th edition of the event as first serious attempt to transform India -- the largest importer of military platforms and weapons -- into a hub of military manufacturing. India is expected to spend close to $300 billion in the next five years in procuring defence equipment and almost all major global defence firms are eyeing a slice of it. Though the four-day-long DefExpo, on the outskirts of Chennai and close to the temple town of Mahabalipuram, began today, it will formally be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, in a tweet, said. For the first time, India will be showcasing its defence export potential at @DefExpoIndia. According to the Defence Ministry, over 670 defence firms, including 154 foreign manufacturers, are participating in the exhibition of weapons and military hardware. It is being attended by official delegations from over 47 countries, including the US, the UK, Russia, Afghanistan, Sweden, Finland, Italy, Madagascar, Myanmar, Nepal, Portugal, Seychelles, and Vietnam. The theme of the expo is India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub. Major international companies, which are participating at the expo include Lockheed Martin, Boeing (US), Saab (Sweden), Airbus, Rafael (France), Rosonboron Exports, United Shipbuilding (Russia), BAE Systems (UK), Sibat (Israel), Wartsila (Finland) and Rhode and Schwarz (Germany). India's indigenously developed land, air, and naval systems are also being showcased. The weapons and platforms being displayed include the Tejas fighter jets, advanced towed artillery gun systems (ATAGS) designed by the DRDO Arjun Mark 2 tank and Dhanush artillery guns. The DRDO's exhibits include the Nirbhay missile system with launcher, autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (AUGV), MBT Arjun Mk-I tank, Astra missile, low-level transportable radar (LLTR) system, medium power radar (MPR) system and Varunastra -- heavyweight anti submarine electric torpedo. The exhibition is spread over an area of 2.90 lakh square feet.

Defence Expo begins; major military firms showcase latest weapons and platforms

<p>India today test-fired Agni-V missile from launch pad no 4 of integrated test range (ITR) at Abdul Kalam island off Odisha coast.</p>

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<p>The missile -&nbsp;the most advanced missile in the Agni series - has a range of 5000 km. It is a surface-to-surface nuclear capable ballistic missile.</p>

<p>The user associate test-flight of the missile has further boosted indigenous missile capabilities and deterrence strength of the country.</p>

<p>All radars, tracking systems and range stations monitored the flight performance, defence sources said.</p>

<p>Agni-V is capable of carrying nuclear warhead of about 1.5 tonnes.</p>

<p>The sleek missile was test-fired from a canister launcher at 9:53am (local time). Describing the trial as &quot;fully successful&quot;, the sources said, the sophisticated missile travelled for 19 minutes and covered 4,900 km.</p>

<p>After four successful developmental trials, this was the first user associate test of Agni-5 missile, sources added.</p>

<p>The missile has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).</p>

<p>The missile is so programmed that after reaching the peak of its trajectory it will turn towards Earth to continue its journey towards the intended target with an increased speed due to the attraction of the earth&#39;s gravitational pull, a DRDO official said.</p>

<p>Its path is precisely directed by the advanced on-board computer and inertial navigation system, the official added.</p>

<p>The first two successful flights of Agni-5 in 2012 and 2013 were in open configuration.</p>

<p>India has at present in its armoury of Agni series, Agni-1 with 700 km range, Agni-2 with 2,000 km range, Agni-3 and Agni-4 with 2,500 km to more than 3,500km range.</p>

<p>The first test of Agni-5 was conducted on April 19, 2012, the second on September 15, 2013, the third on January 31, 2015 and fourth trial on December 26, 2016 from the same base.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from PTI)</em></p>


The missile was launched from Abdul Kalam island off Odisha coast.

India today test-fired Agni-V missile from launch pad no 4 of integrated test range (ITR) at Abdul Kalam island off Odisha coast. × The missile - the most advanced missile in the Agni series - has a range of 5000 km. It is a surface-to-surface nuclear capable ballistic missile. The user associate test-flight of the missile has further boosted indigenous missile capabilities and deterrence strength of the country. All radars, tracking systems and range stations monitored the flight performance, defence sources said. Agni-V is capable of carrying nuclear warhead of about 1.5 tonnes. The sleek missile was test-fired from a canister launcher at 9:53am (local time). Describing the trial as "fully successful", the sources said, the sophisticated missile travelled for 19 minutes and covered 4,900 km. After four successful developmental trials, this was the first user associate test of Agni-5 missile, sources added. The missile has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The missile is so programmed that after reaching the peak of its trajectory it will turn towards Earth to continue its journey towards the intended target with an increased speed due to the attraction of the earth's gravitational pull, a DRDO official said. Its path is precisely directed by the advanced on-board computer and inertial navigation system, the official added. The first two successful flights of Agni-5 in 2012 and 2013 were in open configuration. India has at present in its armoury of Agni series, Agni-1 with 700 km range, Agni-2 with 2,000 km range, Agni-3 and Agni-4 with 2,500 km to more than 3,500km range. The first test of Agni-5 was conducted on April 19, 2012, the second on September 15, 2013, the third on January 31, 2015 and fourth trial on December 26, 2016 from the same base. (With inputs from PTI)

India successfully test-fires nuclear-capable Agni-V missile

<p>The INS Kalavari will change the dynamics of warfare in the south and south-east Asia. The reasons why it will have such a profound impact on Indian defense strategy is because of the new features that the DRDO is adding to it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>INS Kalvari happens to be the first submarine of Indian Navy to be equipped with Air Independent Propulsion which is currently supplied by DCNS. DCNS is a French industrial group which specialises in&nbsp;naval defence and marine renewable energy. But to develop INS Kalavari more in the tune of Prime Minister Narendra Modi&#39; Make in India campaign, the AIP of the last two submarines under this category will be developed indigenously by the DRDO. Under the new technology, involving the use of an Air Independent Propulsion system, the submarines will not&nbsp;need atmospheric oxygen to run its propulsion system. This means that the submarine can remain underwater for more time and can remain undetected.</p>

<p>The INS has been developed as an attack submarine which can carry 18 heavyweight torpedoes. To serve the purpose of the Indian Navy, the DRDO is developing a specialised torpedo called Varunastra, which is a 1500kg, 8-meter-long guided torpedo. The torpedo has a range of 40 kms and can destroy even aircraft carriers with its 250 kg warhead. It&nbsp;gets even locked on to the acoustics generated by the components of any ship.</p>

<p>INS Kalavari is here to change the how war is fought on land and sea. INS Kalavari has the capacity to carry&nbsp;30 mines for protective laying in any of the waters. The 18 Exocet Anti- Ship Missile which the submarine carries can destroy any enemy ship within a range of 180km. This means it can destroy any enemy ship without coming in its detection range. Incidentally, Exocet is a state of the art anti-ship missile made by French company MBDA. The MBDA works with over 90 armed forces worldwide and is highly reputed as a manufacturer of missiles. The Exocet missile, carried by the INS Kalavari, is a missile which when launched, goes in a sea-skimming way to attack its target and, hence, remain totally undetected till its final target. With a small change, it can also be used to attack&nbsp;the land-based targets. Thus, equipped with this technology, INS Kalavari with subsequent development can play a crucial role in land warfare too.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSKalvari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSKalvari</a>, first made-in-India Scorpene class submarine commissioned into the Navy <a href="https://t.co/ODggsc31wh">pic.twitter.com/ODggsc31wh</a></p>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/941164016314884096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#">&times;</a></div>

<p>The INS Kalvari, unlike other nuclear-powered&nbsp;submarines, does not&nbsp;generate any noise. The Air Independent propulsion can keep the submarine silent for over 21 days at a stretch. In case of other nuclear-powered submarines, there is some noise because they need to constantly pump coolant in their reactor and, therefore, generate some kind of noise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>INS Kalvari is one of the six submarines built under this program. Two of the rest five are also under manufacturing and are expected to commission in next 1-2 years. These are INS Khanderi and INS Karanj. INS Karanj is the name of the submarine which remained underwater for 18 days to track the famous Paki Submarine PNS Ghazi in 1971 war and played an important role in the sinking of the same.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">A big day for us as we get first of our <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Project75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Project75</a> submarines Kalvari. To be commissioned by Hon&#39;ble Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in a few hours. Tune in to <a href="https://twitter.com/DDNewsLive?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DDNewsLive</a> from 0830 AM onwards <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SpokespersonMoD</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/makeinindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@makeinindia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Cmdmdl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Cmdmdl</a> <a href="https://t.co/FVRIYkB3tC">pic.twitter.com/FVRIYkB3tC</a></p>
&mdash; SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/941112247996125184?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#">&times;</a></div>

<p>The submarine has a range of over 12000 km&nbsp;when surfaced and over 1000 km&nbsp;when totally submerged. Which means it can play a vital role in entire south-east Asia. INS Kalvari is one of the fastest submarine available in the region with a speed of over 37 Km per hour in totally submerged position. Most interestingly, the submarine can go up to a depth of 350 meters which keeps it undetected from most of the commonly available submarine detection systems.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Hon&#39;ble Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> addressing the gathering on Commissioning of INS Kalvari <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DefenceMinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nsitharaman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nsitharaman</a> <a href="https://t.co/pPrz7aC5OG">pic.twitter.com/pPrz7aC5OG</a></p>
&mdash; SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/941149045376016384?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 14, 2017</a></blockquote>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#">&times;</a></div>

<p>The submarine is designed with a special steel alloy which not only reduces its weight but also enhances its load and stress bearing capabilities. The structure is made of two layers of steel making it absolutely safe from enemy attacks.</p>

<p>Some of the systems like Sonar and internal communication system were also developed by the DRDO. Which means we can say that this submarine is not totally French built but the first step towards indigenisation of Indian defence equipment.</p>

<p>Surrounded by water on three sides, submarines such as the INS Kalavari will play a crucial role in India&#39;s defense. It will not only protect the country but take the war to the enemy ships and, with some developments, to hostile territories too. In years ahead, with sufficient path-breaking research from the DRDO, INS Kalavari will serve as India&#39;s badge of honour.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).</em></p>


The submarine has a range of over 12000 km when surfaced and over 1000 km when totally submerged. Which means it can play a vital role in entire south-east Asia.

The INS Kalavari will change the dynamics of warfare in the south and south-east Asia. The reasons why it will have such a profound impact on Indian defense strategy is because of the new features that the DRDO is adding to it. INS Kalvari happens to be the first submarine of Indian Navy to be equipped with Air Independent Propulsion which is currently supplied by DCNS. DCNS is a French industrial group which specialises in naval defence and marine renewable energy. But to develop INS Kalavari more in the tune of Prime Minister Narendra Modi' Make in India campaign, the AIP of the last two submarines under this category will be developed indigenously by the DRDO. Under the new technology, involving the use of an Air Independent Propulsion system, the submarines will not need atmospheric oxygen to run its propulsion system. This means that the submarine can remain underwater for more time and can remain undetected. The INS has been developed as an attack submarine which can carry 18 heavyweight torpedoes. To serve the purpose of the Indian Navy, the DRDO is developing a specialised torpedo called Varunastra, which is a 1500kg, 8-meter-long guided torpedo. The torpedo has a range of 40 kms and can destroy even aircraft carriers with its 250 kg warhead. It gets even locked on to the acoustics generated by the components of any ship. INS Kalavari is here to change the how war is fought on land and sea. INS Kalavari has the capacity to carry 30 mines for protective laying in any of the waters. The 18 Exocet Anti- Ship Missile which the submarine carries can destroy any enemy ship within a range of 180km. This means it can destroy any enemy ship without coming in its detection range. Incidentally, Exocet is a state of the art anti-ship missile made by French company MBDA. The MBDA works with over 90 armed forces worldwide and is highly reputed as a manufacturer of missiles. The Exocet missile, carried by the INS Kalavari, is a missile which when launched, goes in a sea-skimming way to attack its target and, hence, remain totally undetected till its final target. With a small change, it can also be used to attack the land-based targets. Thus, equipped with this technology, INS Kalavari with subsequent development can play a crucial role in land warfare too. #INSKalvari, first made-in-India Scorpene class submarine commissioned into the Navy pic.twitter.com/ODggsc31wh — ANI (@ANI) December 14, 2017 × The INS Kalvari, unlike other nuclear-powered submarines, does not generate any noise. The Air Independent propulsion can keep the submarine silent for over 21 days at a stretch. In case of other nuclear-powered submarines, there is some noise because they need to constantly pump coolant in their reactor and, therefore, generate some kind of noise. INS Kalvari is one of the six submarines built under this program. Two of the rest five are also under manufacturing and are expected to commission in next 1-2 years. These are INS Khanderi and INS Karanj. INS Karanj is the name of the submarine which remained underwater for 18 days to track the famous Paki Submarine PNS Ghazi in 1971 war and played an important role in the sinking of the same. A big day for us as we get first of our #Project75 submarines Kalvari. To be commissioned by Hon'ble Prime Minister @narendramodi in a few hours. Tune in to @DDNewsLive from 0830 AM onwards @nsitharaman @DefenceMinIndia @SpokespersonMoD @makeinindia @Cmdmdl pic.twitter.com/FVRIYkB3tC — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) December 14, 2017 × The submarine has a range of over 12000 km when surfaced and over 1000 km when totally submerged. Which means it can play a vital role in entire south-east Asia. INS Kalvari is one of the fastest submarine available in the region with a speed of over 37 Km per hour in totally submerged position. Most interestingly, the submarine can go up to a depth of 350 meters which keeps it undetected from most of the commonly available submarine detection systems. Hon'ble Prime Minister @narendramodi addressing the gathering on Commissioning of INS Kalvari @DefenceMinIndia @nsitharaman pic.twitter.com/pPrz7aC5OG — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) December 14, 2017 × The submarine is designed with a special steel alloy which not only reduces its weight but also enhances its load and stress bearing capabilities. The structure is made of two layers of steel making it absolutely safe from enemy attacks. Some of the systems like Sonar and internal communication system were also developed by the DRDO. Which means we can say that this submarine is not totally French built but the first step towards indigenisation of Indian defence equipment. Surrounded by water on three sides, submarines such as the INS Kalavari will play a crucial role in India's defense. It will not only protect the country but take the war to the enemy ships and, with some developments, to hostile territories too. In years ahead, with sufficient path-breaking research from the DRDO, INS Kalavari will serve as India's badge of honour. (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Opinion: INS Kalvari will change the face of war in South Asia

<p>On the Navy Day, it is appropriate to review the role technology is playing in the Indian Navy&rsquo;s (IN) operational transformation. In recent years, the IN&#39;s efforts to acquire advanced weapons and sensors technology have attained critical momentum, resulting in the inducting of autonomous unmanned platforms, high-definition radars, advanced sonars and electronic warfare suites.</p>

<p>India&#39;s premier defence research agency, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been at the centre of the navy&rsquo;s tech-revolution. The thrust of the research agency&rsquo;s efforts has been to develop disruptive technologies and &lsquo;smart&rsquo; weapons, such as precision munitions, drone-launched guided missiles, loitering missiles and lethal autonomous systems. Informational systems and network-centricity too have received a significant share of R&amp;D investment, in particular, the development of a dedicated naval communications satellite, GSAT-7 (Rukmini) that has enabled the operational integration of naval units in widely dispersed formations.</p>

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<h5>The thrust of the research agency&rsquo;s efforts has been to develop disruptive technologies and &lsquo;smart&rsquo; weapons.</h5>
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<div class="share-blockquote"><a class="twitter popup" href="http://twitter.com/intent/tweet?text=The thrust of the research agency?s efforts has been to develop disruptive technologies and ?smart? weapons." target="_blank"><i class="fa fa-share">&nbsp;</i></a></div>
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<p>With the emergence of space as a new theatre of inter-state conflict, there is renewed interest in satellite-enabled warfare. Indian space scientists are exploring the possibility of launching &lsquo;mini-satellites on demand&rsquo; for military purposes, even as existing satellites and sensors are being hardened for protection against anti-satellite weapons. Similarly, growing concern over the Navy&rsquo;s rising dependent on data processing and network centricity has led to the search for reliable cyber protection measures.</p>

<p>It is automation and &lsquo;artificial intelligence&rsquo; (AI) that are being seen as the real &lsquo;game-changers&rsquo; in future naval operations. Onboard autonomous systems today are able to self-regulate and self-actuate, using new computing and automated decision-making capabilities. A combination of analytics and cloud computing in combat systems has created greater awareness among naval professionals of the need for automated weapons systems with AI enabled decision-cycles.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, efforts are also on to rid Indian naval ships off gunpowder through the induction of directed energy weapons (DEWs). The DRDO, which has been developing small DEW systems for the Indian Army is known to have started work on a naval laser weapon and the electromagnetic rail gun. The ability to precisely hit an enemy target without collateral damage makes DEWs a very attractive proposition.</p>

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<h5>The ability to precisely hit an enemy target without collateral damage makes DEWs a very attractive proposition.</h5>
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<p>In keeping with the Indian Navy&rsquo;s penchant for big platform development, aircraft carrier and submarine technology continue to attract attention and investment. The Navy is attempting to assimilate and integrate several advanced technologies such as the Electro-Magnetic Launch System (EMALs), Advanced Arrester Gear (AAG) and Integrated Full Electrical Propulsion (IFEP) / Nuclear Propulsion, as also to construct advanced nuclear powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs).</p>

<p>Much of the Indian Navy&rsquo;s technological focus presently is on developing unmanned autonomous systems. With the US announcing the sale of predator Guardian drones, India will soon have a credible sea-based surveillance capability. The Indian Navy, however, is also keen to acquire strategic unmanned systems, including a fleet of high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) maritime UAVs as well as rotary-wing tactical drones for intelligence gathering and strike missions in the far littorals. In the undersea domain, the DRDO is working on a prototype for an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUVs), but progress has been slow. What is needed is AUVs for conventional submarine search and strike missions in the distant littorals.</p>

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<h5>The Navy&rsquo;s move towards self-reliance, it notes, will only be possible through investments in R&amp;D, and a public-private partnership to make processes self-sustaining.</h5>
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<p>Many of the aforementioned technologies find mention in the &lsquo;Indian Naval Indigenization Plan (INIP) 2015-2030&rsquo;, a road-map for technological self-sufficiency which envisions the development of advanced naval systems under the &lsquo;Make in India&rsquo; initiative. The Navy&rsquo;s move towards self-reliance, it notes, will only be possible through investments in R&amp;D, and a public-private partnership to make processes self-sustaining.</p>

<p>It is the Strategic Partnership model, involving the Indian private sector in defence manufacturing that has generated the most hope. The Navy&#39;s leadership is confident the model would take India a long way in defence manufacturing, with international partnerships triggering a paradigm shift in technology induction. But the Navy is also clear that building a sustainable model of growth will be a slow process, requiring long-term investment in niche technologies.</p>

<p><em>(Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).</em></p>


'Make in India' initiative is all set to Indianise and empower Indian Navy.

On the Navy Day, it is appropriate to review the role technology is playing in the Indian Navy’s (IN) operational transformation. In recent years, the IN's efforts to acquire advanced weapons and sensors technology have attained critical momentum, resulting in the inducting of autonomous unmanned platforms, high-definition radars, advanced sonars and electronic warfare suites. India's premier defence research agency, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been at the centre of the navy’s tech-revolution. The thrust of the research agency’s efforts has been to develop disruptive technologies and ‘smart’ weapons, such as precision munitions, drone-launched guided missiles, loitering missiles and lethal autonomous systems. Informational systems and network-centricity too have received a significant share of R&D investment, in particular, the development of a dedicated naval communications satellite, GSAT-7 (Rukmini) that has enabled the operational integration of naval units in widely dispersed formations. The thrust of the research agency’s efforts has been to develop disruptive technologies and ‘smart’ weapons. × With the emergence of space as a new theatre of inter-state conflict, there is renewed interest in satellite-enabled warfare. Indian space scientists are exploring the possibility of launching ‘mini-satellites on demand’ for military purposes, even as existing satellites and sensors are being hardened for protection against anti-satellite weapons. Similarly, growing concern over the Navy’s rising dependent on data processing and network centricity has led to the search for reliable cyber protection measures. It is automation and ‘artificial intelligence’ (AI) that are being seen as the real ‘game-changers’ in future naval operations. Onboard autonomous systems today are able to self-regulate and self-actuate, using new computing and automated decision-making capabilities. A combination of analytics and cloud computing in combat systems has created greater awareness among naval professionals of the need for automated weapons systems with AI enabled decision-cycles. Meanwhile, efforts are also on to rid Indian naval ships off gunpowder through the induction of directed energy weapons (DEWs). The DRDO, which has been developing small DEW systems for the Indian Army is known to have started work on a naval laser weapon and the electromagnetic rail gun. The ability to precisely hit an enemy target without collateral damage makes DEWs a very attractive proposition. The ability to precisely hit an enemy target without collateral damage makes DEWs a very attractive proposition. × In keeping with the Indian Navy’s penchant for big platform development, aircraft carrier and submarine technology continue to attract attention and investment. The Navy is attempting to assimilate and integrate several advanced technologies such as the Electro-Magnetic Launch System (EMALs), Advanced Arrester Gear (AAG) and Integrated Full Electrical Propulsion (IFEP) / Nuclear Propulsion, as also to construct advanced nuclear powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). Much of the Indian Navy’s technological focus presently is on developing unmanned autonomous systems. With the US announcing the sale of predator Guardian drones, India will soon have a credible sea-based surveillance capability. The Indian Navy, however, is also keen to acquire strategic unmanned systems, including a fleet of high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) maritime UAVs as well as rotary-wing tactical drones for intelligence gathering and strike missions in the far littorals. In the undersea domain, the DRDO is working on a prototype for an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUVs), but progress has been slow. What is needed is AUVs for conventional submarine search and strike missions in the distant littorals. The Navy’s move towards self-reliance, it notes, will only be possible through investments in R&D, and a public-private partnership to make processes self-sustaining. × Many of the aforementioned technologies find mention in the ‘Indian Naval Indigenization Plan (INIP) 2015-2030’, a road-map for technological self-sufficiency which envisions the development of advanced naval systems under the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The Navy’s move towards self-reliance, it notes, will only be possible through investments in R&D, and a public-private partnership to make processes self-sustaining. It is the Strategic Partnership model, involving the Indian private sector in defence manufacturing that has generated the most hope. The Navy's leadership is confident the model would take India a long way in defence manufacturing, with international partnerships triggering a paradigm shift in technology induction. But the Navy is also clear that building a sustainable model of growth will be a slow process, requiring long-term investment in niche technologies. (Disclaimer: The author writes here in a personal capacity).

Opinion: Indian Navy is all set for a weapon revolution

A sealed box bearing the name and logo of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was found at a farm in India&rsquo;s western state of Maharashtra<br />
<br />
The box was spotted on Sunday by Nandubhau Kakulte, a farmer, at his field in Kikwari Khurd around 70 km from Nashik city.<br />
<br />
The box carried instructions that it should be opened by DRDO scientists only and be kept away from electronic items, the police informed.<br />
<br />
&ldquo;After the farmer found the box, he approached the police. They informed the officials concerned, following which a DRDO team came and inspected the box,&rdquo; sub-divisional police officer (Malegaon rural) Ashok Nakhate told PTI.<br />
<br />
&ldquo;Investigation into the matter is on and only officials of the department concerned can tell properly about what is inside the box. We are questioning four to five people in this regard. However, we suspect that it is an act of mischief,&rdquo; he said.<br />
<br />
DRDO works in areas of military technology, including aeronautics, armaments, combat vehicles, missiles, naval systems, simulation and life sciences.<br />
<br />
(WION with inputs from PTI)

The box carried instructions that it should be opened by DRDO scientists only and be kept away from electronic items

A sealed box bearing the name and logo of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was found at a farm in India’s western state of Maharashtra The box was spotted on Sunday by Nandubhau Kakulte, a farmer, at his field in Kikwari Khurd around 70 km from Nashik city. The box carried instructions that it should be opened by DRDO scientists only and be kept away from electronic items, the police informed. “After the farmer found the box, he approached the police. They informed the officials concerned, following which a DRDO team came and inspected the box,” sub-divisional police officer (Malegaon rural) Ashok Nakhate told PTI. “Investigation into the matter is on and only officials of the department concerned can tell properly about what is inside the box. We are questioning four to five people in this regard. However, we suspect that it is an act of mischief,” he said. DRDO works in areas of military technology, including aeronautics, armaments, combat vehicles, missiles, naval systems, simulation and life sciences. (WION with inputs from PTI)

Sealed box with DRDO logo found abandoned at fields in India's Maharashtra

Indian ministry of defence today said that it was seeking information from the manufacturers of the Embraer aircraft over alleged payment of bribes in a three-aircraft deal inked in 2008 under the tenure of United Progressive Alliance (UPA government).&nbsp;<br />
<br />
&quot;DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) to seek explanation and details from manufacturers of Embraer aircraft on media reports on deal for the aircraft signed in 2008,&quot; principal spokesperson, ministry of defence, tweeted taking cognizance of the media reports about the deal coming under the US scanner.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">DRDO to seek explanation &amp; details from manufacturers of Embraer aircraft on media reports on deal for the aircraft signed in 2008.1/2</p>
&mdash; DPR (@SpokespersonMoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD/status/774477080155258880">September 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<div class="twitter-block">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">On receipt of information by DRDO further steps may be initiated.2/2</p>
&mdash; DPR (@SpokespersonMoD) <a href="https://twitter.com/SpokespersonMoD/status/774477357667196928">September 10, 2016</a></blockquote>
<script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>

<p>&quot;On receipt of information by DRDO further steps may be initiated,&quot; the spokesperson said in another tweet.<br />
<br />
The Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer is being probed by prosecutors in Brazil and the US Justice Department, according to media reports, over commissions allegedly paid to a UK-based defence agent for clinching the 2008 deal.<br />
<br />
After the controversy over the 2013&nbsp;Agustawestland&nbsp;chopper deal, where several politicians of&nbsp;former UPA government were accused of taking bribes, the Embraer deal has yet again cast a shadow on the grand old Congress party that led the alliance. The scam was termed as &#39;VVIP chopper scam&#39;&nbsp;or &#39;choppergate&#39; by local media.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
It&#39;s pertinent to mention that three EMB-145 planes for $208 million were purchased under the deal. &nbsp;While the first aircraft was delivered in 2011, the other two were delivered later.<br />
<br />
According to media reports, the research and development wing of the ministry of defence, DRDO, has denied any knowledge on the matter.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
(WION with inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</p>


The Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer is being probed by prosecutors in Brazil and the US Justice Department

Indian ministry of defence today said that it was seeking information from the manufacturers of the Embraer aircraft over alleged payment of bribes in a three-aircraft deal inked in 2008 under the tenure of United Progressive Alliance (UPA government). "DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) to seek explanation and details from manufacturers of Embraer aircraft on media reports on deal for the aircraft signed in 2008," principal spokesperson, ministry of defence, tweeted taking cognizance of the media reports about the deal coming under the US scanner. DRDO to seek explanation & details from manufacturers of Embraer aircraft on media reports on deal for the aircraft signed in 2008.1/2 — DPR (@SpokespersonMoD) September 10, 2016 On receipt of information by DRDO further steps may be initiated.2/2 — DPR (@SpokespersonMoD) September 10, 2016 "On receipt of information by DRDO further steps may be initiated," the spokesperson said in another tweet. The Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer is being probed by prosecutors in Brazil and the US Justice Department, according to media reports, over commissions allegedly paid to a UK-based defence agent for clinching the 2008 deal. After the controversy over the 2013 Agustawestland chopper deal, where several politicians of former UPA government were accused of taking bribes, the Embraer deal has yet again cast a shadow on the grand old Congress party that led the alliance. The scam was termed as 'VVIP chopper scam' or 'choppergate' by local media. It's pertinent to mention that three EMB-145 planes for $208 million were purchased under the deal. While the first aircraft was delivered in 2011, the other two were delivered later. According to media reports, the research and development wing of the ministry of defence, DRDO, has denied any knowledge on the matter. (WION with inputs from agencies)

Indian defence ministry seeking details of $208 mn Embraer deal amid graft allegations

A USD 208-million Embraer jet deal inked under the former United Progressive Alliance (UPA)-government in India has come under the scanner of the US authorities over alleged kickbacks paid to secure the contract.<br />
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The deal was signed in 2008 between the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer and India&#39;s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for three aircraft equipped with indigenous radars for AEW&amp;C (airborne early warning and control systems).<br />
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The company has been under investigation by the United States Justice Department since 2010 when a contract with the Dominican Republic raised the Americans&#39; suspicions.<br />
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&quot;Investigations that have been opened by the government of the United States to establish whether Embraer paid bribes in order to obtain contracts abroad have affected deals that the Brazilian company closed with Saudi Arabia and India,&quot; Brazilian newspaper Folha De Sao Paulo reported.<br />
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It is suspected that a leading Indian middleman based in UK was roped in for the deal.<br />
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Indian defence ministry officials here said that the DRDO is yet to hear anything on the probe by the US authorities.&nbsp;<br />
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The DRDO chief S Christopher, who headed the AEW&amp;S programme earlier, did not pick up calls or respond to messages.<br />
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Since then, the investigation has widened to examine business dealings with eight more countries.<br />
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Embraer is cooperating with the investigations and announced in July that it was expecting to reach a deal soon with American authorities, the paper said.<br />
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The company has put USD 200 million aside to pay any eventual fines that come about as a result of the process.<br />
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The company has not released details regarding the state of the investigations, but three people who have been following the case have confirmed to Folha that the deals concluded in Saudi Arabia and India are being examined, the paper reported.<br />
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In both cases, suspicions were underlined in May this year when an employee with more than 30 years at the company reached a plea-bargain agreement in investigations being conducted by the Federal Public Prosecutor&#39;s Office in Brazil.<br />
<br />
Albert Phillip Close, manager of Embraer&#39;s defence area, told prosecutor Marcello Miller that he had heard a former sales director who worked in Europe admit to American investigators the payment of commissions to facilitate the sale of aircraft to the Saudis.<br />
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In November of 2010, the company announced the delivery of two Embraer 170 executive jets to the Saudi Arabian state-owned oil company Aramco. The amount of the deal was not announced at the time.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
(PTI)&nbsp;

The deal was signed in 2008 between the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation

A USD 208-million Embraer jet deal inked under the former United Progressive Alliance (UPA)-government in India has come under the scanner of the US authorities over alleged kickbacks paid to secure the contract. The deal was signed in 2008 between the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer and India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for three aircraft equipped with indigenous radars for AEW&C (airborne early warning and control systems). The company has been under investigation by the United States Justice Department since 2010 when a contract with the Dominican Republic raised the Americans' suspicions. "Investigations that have been opened by the government of the United States to establish whether Embraer paid bribes in order to obtain contracts abroad have affected deals that the Brazilian company closed with Saudi Arabia and India," Brazilian newspaper Folha De Sao Paulo reported. It is suspected that a leading Indian middleman based in UK was roped in for the deal. Indian defence ministry officials here said that the DRDO is yet to hear anything on the probe by the US authorities. The DRDO chief S Christopher, who headed the AEW&S programme earlier, did not pick up calls or respond to messages. Since then, the investigation has widened to examine business dealings with eight more countries. Embraer is cooperating with the investigations and announced in July that it was expecting to reach a deal soon with American authorities, the paper said. The company has put USD 200 million aside to pay any eventual fines that come about as a result of the process. The company has not released details regarding the state of the investigations, but three people who have been following the case have confirmed to Folha that the deals concluded in Saudi Arabia and India are being examined, the paper reported. In both cases, suspicions were underlined in May this year when an employee with more than 30 years at the company reached a plea-bargain agreement in investigations being conducted by the Federal Public Prosecutor's Office in Brazil. Albert Phillip Close, manager of Embraer's defence area, told prosecutor Marcello Miller that he had heard a former sales director who worked in Europe admit to American investigators the payment of commissions to facilitate the sale of aircraft to the Saudis. In November of 2010, the company announced the delivery of two Embraer 170 executive jets to the Saudi Arabian state-owned oil company Aramco. The amount of the deal was not announced at the time. (PTI)

India's USD 208mn Embraer deal under US scanner for alleged graft

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