Latest news with #ISTAR
India.com
06-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
This Chinese system will let Pakistan track India's air activities, provide real time data of..., system is...
New Delhi: Pakistan has confirmed that it is going to buy KJ-500 surveillance aircraft from China after India shot down two of its three SAAB AEW&C surveillance aircraft during Operation Sindoor. The Indian S-400 air defense system made a record by shooting down a SAAB AEW&C from a distance of 314 kilometers after which Pakistan's surveillance capability has been destroyed by more than 70 percent. But now Pakistan's confirmation of the acquisition of the Chinese KJ-500 AEW&C (Airborne Early Warning and Control) aircraft can pose a new strategic challenge for India. China claims that this aircraft is not just a surveillance platform but a 'flying command center', which will give Pakistan advance information about the operations of the Indian Air Force. What is KJ-500 AEW&C? KJ-500 is a state-of-the-art airborne early warning system developed by China's Shanxi Aircraft Corporation. This aircraft is based on the Y-9 transport platform and has a permanent AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar installed in it, which gives 360-degree coverage. This radar system is capable of detecting fighter jets flying at a distance of 470 kilometers or more. If China's claim is true, it will mean that Pakistan can now look deep inside Indian airspace, that too without crossing the border. If a KJ-500 is flying near Lahore, it can track air activities up to New Delhi. What are the features of KJ-500? Defense experts believe that the cost of each KJ-500 aircraft is around $300 million which is much less than the surveillance aircraft built by American Boeing. China claims that it can fly continuously for about 12 hours and it is capable of flying continuously for 5700 kilometers. Pakistani experts believe that this aircraft gets the ability to maintain constant situational awareness on disputed air corridors from the Arabian Sea to the Himalayan borders. Actually, the AEW&C platform is not limited to just seeing. Its real strategic value is seen when it connects with fighter jets, drones, missile batteries and ground control centers through a network. KJ-500 will provide Pakistan with real time data processing and command and control, which will speed up its decision-making process. What are India's preparations against China-Pakistan combination? Experts believe that the KJ-500 may trouble the Indian Air Force initially, but not for long because India has invested heavily in the defense sector and is working on many projects to strengthen its electronic warfare system. India's Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the 'Acceptance of Necessity' for the Rs 10,000 crore ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) project. This decision is a part of India's defense modernization program, under which the Air Force will get three state-of-the-art ISTAR aircraft. The specialty of these aircraft will be that they will integrate indigenous technology, sensors and electronic systems developed by DRDO along with world-class aviation platforms. India is preparing its defense much faster than Pakistan and the China-Pakistan alliance, though a matter of concern, but there is no need to be afraid.
India.com
06-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Masterstroke by Modi govt as IAF to get new 'STAR', which will work as..., bad news for Pakistan, China due to...
Masterstroke by Modi govt as IAF to get new 'STAR', which will work as...., bad news for Pakistan, China due to... New Delhi: In recent years, India has made significant progress in defence weapons by increasing its domestic production and reducing dependency on foreign defence equipment. The country has also emerged as a leading defence equipment exporter. Apart from this, the Indian government is also focusing on strengthening the armed forces by procuring the latest weapons. On July 3, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, gave the green light to the plan as part of a larger Rs 1.05 lakh crore defence upgrade package. The Indian Air Force will procure three Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) aircraft under a Rs 10,000 crore project. This will significantly boost the IAF's surveillance and precision strike capabilities. Let's know more about it. The Air Force plans to add three advanced ISTAR aircraft that combine global aircraft platforms with Indian-made sensors developed by DRDO. This will put India among the elite group of countries who has air-to-ground surveillance capabilities. What Is ISTAR? ISTAR is a comprehensive system that has multiple advanced sensors and processing units integrated on a long-range, high-endurance aircraft. The system combines several intelligence methods, such as electro-optical, radar, signals intelligence (SIGINT), and electronic intelligence (ELINT). These methods give a complete battlefield overview to commanders. Unlike conventional reconnaissance platforms, ISTAR is not restricted to data collection it offers a more comprehensive analysis and understanding of the battlefield situation. It analyses the data and gives it in real-time using advanced analytics and artificial intelligence to frontline units and command centers with superfast precision. Why Is ISTAR a Strategic Imperative? In the era where modern warfare is rapidly evolving, information superiority is the most crucial factor that can even define victory. ISTAR aircraft can give an edge by providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition. Its advanced sensors can provide crucial data to commanders on which they can make precise decisions in complex battle environments. In the volatile geopolitical environment where the Indian Air Force operates, intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) aircraft are crucial for tracking enemy activity, identifying key targets, and guiding long-range, precise attacks. The ISTAR Program Under Rs 10,000 crore ISTAR project, the IAF will acquire three aircraft from foreign aviation manufacturers most likely from Boeing or Bombardier. Once acquired, these aircraft will be loaded with indigenous sensors and electronic systems which will be developed by Centre for Airborne Systems of the DRDO. India's defence technology has significantly advanced due to the successful testing of these new systems. The IAF is set to receive three advanced ISTAR aircraft by the year 2030. These aircraft will significantly enhance IAF's surveillance and strike capabilities. The acquisition will also put India among the elite countries which has such sophisticated technology. While the project has faced delays and potential security concerns, its strategic value remains undeniable.
News18
04-07-2025
- Business
- News18
From Spy Jets To Minesweepers: Inside India's Rs 1 Lakh Crore Defence Push
Last Updated: India shifts focus to homegrown defence technologies, greenlighting Rs 1,00,000 crore for indigenous mine vessels, QRSAM, and ISTAR spy aircraft In a bold and strategic shift, India has greenlit a massive defence procurement plan focused entirely on homegrown technologies instead of foreign fifth-generation fighter jets like the US F-35, French Rafale variants, or Russia's S-500 air defence system. Buoyed by the global spotlight on indigenous capabilities after Operation Sindoor, the government's decision signals a major pivot in India's military modernisation policy, emphasising self-reliance over imports. Indian defence products, especially the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akash surface-to-air missile system, earned global praise following their performance in Operation Sindoor, India's military offensive against terror camps in Pakistan. The operation showcased India's evolving battlefield prowess and technological sophistication, prompting speculation about major new arms deals with foreign nations. However, the Modi government has made it clear that the future lies in indigenous defence innovation. In a landmark move, the Defence Acquisition Council has cleared three major military purchases and seven other deals, all designed, developed, and manufactured in India. These include next-generation spy planes, mine-sweeping vessels, and mobile missile defence systems. Rs 44,000 Crore For Homegrown Mine Vessels Among the most significant approvals is the procurement of 12 indigenous Mine Countermeasure Vessels (MCMVs), with an estimated outlay of Rs 44,000 crore. These 900-1,000-tonne specialised warships are designed to neutralise underwater mines that pose threats to naval operations, especially in wartime scenarios where enemy nations may attempt to blockade ports or shipping routes. Indian Navy currently relies on basic 'clip-on" mine detection systems attached to existing vessels. With the induction of purpose-built mine sweepers, India's warships and submarines will be shielded more effectively. These vessels will serve as a frontline defence, securing maritime corridors from stealthy threats, a critical move given India's long coastline and the deepening China-Pakistan naval nexus in the Indian Ocean. Rs 36,000 Crore For QRSAM To Fortify Air Defence The government has also approved the acquisition of Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missiles (QRSAM) worth Rs 36,000 crore. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), these mobile missile batteries are designed to neutralise enemy aircraft, helicopters, and drones within a 30 km radius. Three squadrons each will be provided to the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force initially. The Army has projected the need for 11 full regiments. These missiles, easily transportable across varied terrains, will plug critical gaps in India's multi-layered air defence network, which already includes the S-400 and Akash systems. Rs 10,000 Crore For ISTAR Spy Aircraft India is also stepping up its electronic warfare and surveillance game with the approval to purchase three ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance) aircraft. At a cost of Rs 10,000 crore, these advanced aircrafts will significantly enhance India's ability to peer deep into enemy territory. Designed with indigenous sensors and systems, including synthetic aperture radar, infrared sensors, and electro-optical payloads, these aircraft are capable of detecting and tracking even the subtlest movements. Developed in collaboration with DRDO, they are expected to boost precision targeting for both fighter jets and missiles in hostile environments. Self-Reliance Over Imports This aggressive push toward indigenization comes even as other global powers continue to sell fifth-generation fighter jets and next-gen missile defense systems. While India has already inducted French Rafale jets and Russian S-400s, officials say the focus now is on creating a self-sustaining defense ecosystem. Sources within the Ministry of Defence confirm that India's own 5th generation fighter project, the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), is progressing rapidly, with prototypes expected in the next few years. By opting out of immediate foreign acquisitions, India is signaling confidence in its domestic capabilities and a long-term strategy to emerge as a global defence exporter.
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First Post
04-07-2025
- Business
- First Post
India clears Rs 1 lakh cr defence purchases: spy planes, minesweepers, and missile systems get nod
The projects include specialised spy aircraft and advanced minesweepers to quick-reaction air defence missiles and underwater autonomous vessels read more Defence Minister Rajnath Singh with MoS Sanjay Seth during the flagging off ceremony of 'Sanjay' Battlefield Surveillance System (BSS) at South Block. PTI India's defence ministry on Thursday (July 3) okayed three major and seven smaller acquisition projects, with a total worth of INR 1 lakh crore ($11.7 billion). The projects include specialised spy aircraft and advanced minesweepers to quick-reaction air defence missiles and underwater autonomous vessels, reported Times of India. Notably, the ministry has only given a preliminary nod or 'acceptance of necessity' so far, which is just the first step in the arduous and long acquisition process. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD One of the biggest projects to secure the nod is the indigenous construction of 12 mine countermeasure vessels (MCMVs) for around Rs 44,000 crore ($5.14 billion), which will take about a decade to materialise. These warships would be able to detect, track and destroy underwater mines installed by enemy forces. At a time when Pakistan and China are increasingly expanding maritime co-operation, developing the MCMVs is crucial to secure India's maritime boundaries and commercial shipping. Quick reaction surface to air missile (QRSAM) The second major project involves the Rs 36,000 crore ($4.2 billion) acquisition of quick reaction surface-to-air missile (QRSAM) systems, developed by DRDO, comprising three regiments for the Army and three squadrons for the Indian Air Force. The Army Air Defence (AAD) has identified a need for 11 such regiments. These highly mobile QRSAMs, designed to neutralise hostile fighter jets, helicopters, and drones at ranges up to 30 km, will enhance India's multi-layered air defence network, which proved vital during Operation Sindoor in countering Turkish-origin drones and Chinese missiles launched by Pakistan from May 7-10. ISTAR aircraft The third significant project is the Rs 10,000 crore ($1.17 billion) procurement of three ISTAR (intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance) aircraft. These planes, equipped with DRDO-developed indigenous sensors like synthetic aperture radars, electro-optical, and infrared systems, will enable precise targeting of high-value enemy ground targets by fighter jets and missiles, providing real-time actionable intelligence on enemy infrastructure, troop build-ups, and movements. Another approved project involves semi-submersible autonomous vessels for ISR missions, acquired under the 'Make-II' category, where industry funds prototype development. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Additionally, two naval projects were greenlit: the procurement of super-rapid gun mounts (SRGMs), the primary 76mm guns for warships, through competitive bidding, and DRDO-developed 'processor-based moored mines' that detonate by detecting an enemy warship's acoustic, magnetic, or pressure signatures.
Techday NZ
20-06-2025
- Business
- Techday NZ
Drone Forge secures record Flexrotor order with Airbus in Asia-Pacific
Drone Forge and Airbus Helicopters have signed an agreement for the purchase of six Flexrotor uncrewed aerial systems, totalling 17 aircraft, in the largest single order for the Flexrotor to date. The agreement specifies that the Flexrotor systems will be mission-ready and tailored to support a wide range of operational requirements within the Asia-Pacific region. These include littoral surveillance, high-altitude inland missions, infrastructure monitoring, and maritime environment assessment. Each Flexrotor unit will be equipped with a heavy fuel engine designed for maritime operations. This configuration is intended to enhance safety, ensure widespread fuel availability, and improve interoperability with naval assets in the field. Starlink connectivity will be integrated into the systems to facilitate beyond-line-of-sight operations and enable real-time situational awareness. Furthermore, the Flexrotor will incorporate PT-6 imaging technology. This technology provides stabilised, high-resolution capabilities for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, supporting efficient wide-area maritime monitoring. Thomas Symes, Chief Executive Officer of Drone Forge, emphasised the anticipated impact of the Flexrotor in new market segments. "We are fully convinced that the Flexrotor, built on a strong engineering heritage, will allow us to tap into new markets with a proven solution where real-time intelligence, mission flexibility and reliability matters," said Thomas Symes, Chief Executive Officer of Drone Forge. "We look forward to integrating and commercialising the Flexrotor systems in the region." The agreement is the follow-up to a recent Letter of Intent signed between Drone Forge and Airbus, establishing a framework for collaboration in the deployment and integration of the Flexrotor UAS in Asia-Pacific operations. Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters, highlighted the significance of the order for the company's partnership with Drone Forge. "The landmark order opens a new chapter in our partnership with Drone Forge, reinforcing our shared commitment to delivering cutting-edge crewed-uncrewed teaming capabilities to Asia-Pacific operators," said Olivier Michalon, Executive Vice President of Global Business at Airbus Helicopters. "With strong confidence in the Flexrotor's efficiency and reliability, this force multiplier will drive operational excellence in defence and security applications." The Flexrotor is the latest addition to the Airbus UAS portfolio. It is a modern Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) uncrewed aircraft with a maximum launch weight of 25 kg. It is designed for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions, with an operational endurance of over 12–14 hours under typical configurations. The system supports the integration of varying payloads, including electro-optical systems and advanced sensors that can be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual customers. Its autonomous launch and recovery capability is designed for operation from both land and sea, requiring only a 3.7 by 3.7 metre area for deployment, making it suitable for expeditionary missions that demand a minimal logistical footprint. With the agreement now in place, Drone Forge and Airbus Helicopters will move forward with the commercialisation and regional deployment of the Flexrotor systems in the Asia-Pacific market. The order marks a significant commitment to expanding the scope of uncrewed aerial systems in defence, security, and monitoring missions across the region.
