Latest news with #Mk1
India.com
6 days ago
- India.com
China, Pakistans New Fear: How Indias Gandiva Could Change South Asian Skies; Eliminate J-20, PL-15 Threats
photoDetails english 2933337 Updated:Jul 17, 2025, 07:52 PM IST Evolution Of IAF's Airpower 1 / 7 The Astra missile series began with the Mk1 variant, which is already operational with both the Indian Air Force and Navy. The Mk1 is a 3.6-meter-long missile weighing 154 kg and capable of striking targets over 100 kilometers away. The Mk3, however, takes this capability much further—both in terms of range and technological sophistication. Supersonic Speeds 2 / 7 At the core of Gandiva's enhanced performance is its Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) propulsion system. Unlike conventional solid rocket motors, SFDR engines draw in atmospheric oxygen during flight. This not only reduces the missile's weight but also allows it to sustain supersonic speeds up to Mach 4.5 over greater distances. This makes the missile more fuel-efficient and extends its effective range to over 300 kilometers. Thus, India Air Force can eliminate Pakistani, Chinese targets without being visible to them. 'No-Escape Zone' Missile 3 / 7 Thanks to its throttleable SFDR engine, the Astra Mk3 dramatically increases the 'no-escape zone'—the range within which an enemy aircraft cannot evade the missile, no matter how fast or agile it is. This makes Gandiva one of the most lethal air-to-air weapons in its class, capable of neutralizing threats like stealth fighters, bombers, and airborne early warning systems far before they can pose a danger. Next-Gen Radar Seekers 4 / 7 For guidance, the current prototype of Astra Mk3 uses an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) seeker based on Gallium Arsenide (GaAs) technology. However, DRDO plans to equip the final production model with a Gallium Nitride (GaN) based seeker. GaN technology promises better power efficiency, superior heat tolerance, and stronger resistance to electronic jamming—vital advantages in modern warfare. Testing Milestones 5 / 7 In December 2024, DRDO completed successful ground tests of the SFDR system at the Integrated Test Range in Odisha. The missile has since moved into captive carriage trials on a Sukhoi Su-30MKI to test its integration with the aircraft's radar and fire-control systems. Live-fire tests will follow, evaluating Gandiva's performance in intercepting real targets at full speed and range. Once proven, it will be deployed across platforms such as the Su-30MKI, HAL Tejas, Rafale, and MiG-29. Countering China, Pakistan 6 / 7 The Astra Mk3 is being developed with an eye on countering regional threats, particularly the Chinese J-20 stealth fighters and the PL-15 long-range missile used by China and Pakistan. Despite challenges in miniaturising ramjet technology, DRDO aims to enter full-scale production between 2030 and 2031. This aligns with India's broader 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' mission, focusing on defence self-reliance and indigenous technology development. Beyond-Visual-Range Missile 7 / 7 A Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile is designed to engage enemy aircraft at distances where the pilot cannot visually identify the target—typically between 50 and 300 kilometers. These missiles use a combination of inertial navigation for mid-course flight and active radar homing in the terminal phase, allowing them to autonomously track and destroy targets with high precision, even in electronic warfare environments.
Auto Blog
08-07-2025
- Automotive
- Auto Blog
This $115K Tribute to the Ford Escort Aims for Driving Purity Over Power
By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. A Legend Reborn by Modern Hands Once a humble rally hero, the Ford Escort has become an unlikely legend. Especially the Mk1 and Mk2 models – lean, lightweight, rear-wheel-drive machines that left a lasting mark on motorsport and the hearts of enthusiasts. Now, British outfit MST (Motorsport Tools) is keeping that spirit alive. Known for resurrecting these iconic Escorts with hand-built creations that blend modern engineering with vintage style, MST has earned a reputation for doing it right. Their latest project, the Mk1 and Mk2 Sports, dials back the wildness of their 230-horsepower builds and returns to basics. This time, it's all about pure and analog driving, without the extreme price tag. Relatively speaking, anyway. Previous Pause Next Unmute 0:00 / 0:10 Full screen 2025 Ford Explorer vs 2025 Chevrolet Traverse: Which is America's best family hauler? Watch More Built Like the Good Old Days, Only Better Scheduled for production in 2026 (Mk1) and 2027 (Mk2), the new Sports models are a nod to the narrow-arched AVO and RS Escorts of the '60s and '70s. Power comes from a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated twin-cam engine with Jenvey throttle bodies, producing 180 hp. That's routed through a 5-speed T5 manual gearbox and into a live rear axle with a torque-biasing differential. Suspension is Group 1 spec with adjustable dampers and a Twin Cam anti-roll bar, while braking is handled by four-piston calipers gripping vented discs. The body is all-new, hand-built in the UK with reinforced panels, and comes standard in white with AVO flared arches, chrome trim, and classic 6×13-inch four-spoke alloys. Inside, it's a retro-styled two-seater layout with sports recliners, a suede steering wheel, and luggage space in the rear. It's got modern electrics for daily reliability, but otherwise it's gloriously simple. Buyers can spec it further with period-correct paint, rally stripes, Cibie spot lamps, Minilite wheels, and more. Twice the Price, Twice the Charm Starting at £74,500 before taxes, or around $115,000 at current exchange rates, the MST Mk1 Sports costs about twice as much as a brand-new S650 Mustang GT. That's a steep ask for something visually inspired by an old Escort, but there's more to the story. Autoblog Newsletter Autoblog brings you car news; expert reviews and exciting pictures and video. Research and compare vehicles, too. Sign up or sign in with Google Facebook Microsoft Apple By signing up I agree to the Terms of Use and acknowledge that I have read the Privacy Policy . You may unsubscribe from email communication at anytime. Each unit is hand-assembled in limited numbers (just 25 of each variant), with brand-new bodyshells, top-tier componentry, and the kind of focused craftsmanship that no factory Ford could offer. It's less a car for mass-market muscle buyers and more a collector-grade machine for those who want the feel of a classic, without the compromises of 50-year-old hardware. It's an indulgence, yes, but a sensible one for fans of the rallying legend. Source: MST About the Author Jacob Oliva View Profile
The Irish Sun
28-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
Car mechanic expert reveals most reliable used car in UK… it's 20 years old and cost just £500
A LEADING car mechanic has revealed one of the UK's most reliable cars. The 20-year-old Advertisement 3 The MK1 Ford Focus is one of the most reliable cars on the roads Credit: BNPS 3 Some versions of the car cost just £500 Credit: BNPS Paul Lucas, a car expert, has said that the iconic MK1 According to him, it's both reliable and focuses on simplicity. The star is an owner of an MK1 vehicle himself and bought it for just £500. He's owned the car for over 15 years and has never looked back. Advertisement Read more about used cars here He said: 'For me a 20-year-old 1.6 litre Mk1 'It was designed before all the unnecessary bells and whistles came in and even lets you start the car with a real key rather than press a button. 'I bought mine 15 years ago for £500 and have no regrets.' According to AutoExpress, the Focus has an "incredible agility" thanks to its innovative multi-link rear suspension. Advertisement Most read in Motors Although the engine isn't the most fearsome on the road, it's 113bhp 1.8-litre four cylinder units remain fresh for years. The car has a spacious interior, with 350 litres of boot space which is only 31 litres less than a brand-new Ford is forced to immediately shut down factories and halt car production as CEO admits 'day to day' struggle for brand As the cost of a new vehicle soars, Brits are looking for alternative ways of getting on the roads for less. According to Wheeler Dealer superstar Advertisement The Dealers will be eager to fill up their stocks and you'll get some money off of your purchase, making both parties happy. However, Advertisement He said: 'Make sure if you've got a good part exchange. 'If you've got a decent car, clean it, make sure it's really presentable and choose the right dealer to take it to and change up your car. 'That is very important.' Car sales have remained stable over the year, with the Ford Puma Advertisement Over 21,900 models have been sold this year, with the Kia Sportage coming in second place with over 19,600 sales being made. In a close third, the Nissan Qashqai has sold over 17,000 models. 3 The humble vehicle is known for its simplicity Credit: BNPS
Wales Online
26-06-2025
- Automotive
- Wales Online
Mechanic reveals that this 20-year-old car is the most reliable in the world
Mechanic reveals that this 20-year-old car is the most reliable in the world Paul Lucas, a mechanic, said that the Mk1 Ford Focus is the most reliable car in the world due to its simplicity and reliability - and it's also a cheap used car to buy (Image: Iancu Cojocar / 500px via Getty Images ) Buying a new car during the cost of living crisis, has become an increasingly difficult task as shoppers consider longevity as well as price. However, an experienced mechanic has shared that a 20-year-old used car is actually one of the most reliable vehicles to purchase. Paul Lucas, a well-known mechanic, praised the Mk1 Ford Focus as a solid used car choice due to its simplicity and reliability. As an owner of a Mk1, Paul revealed that he had purchased one of these vehicles for £500 15 years ago and it hadn't missed a beat thanks to his meticulous maintenance. Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: "For me a 20-year-old 1.6 litre Mk1 Ford Focus is top for reliability. "It was designed before all the unnecessary bells and whistles came in and even lets you start the car with a real key rather than press a button. I bought mine 15 years ago for £500 and have no regrets.", reports the Express. Paul recommended the Ford Focus for it's reliability (Image: Getty ) Paul isn't alone in his views on used vehicles, with other mechanics and car experts also sharing their thoughts in recent months. Article continues below In today's current climate, more people are turning to the used car market for their latest vehicle purchase instead of buying new. Some individuals have even opted to buy a second-hand electric car, although many remain hesitant. Read the biggest stories in Wales first by signing up to our daily newsletter here Jeff Wong, a used car controller at Porsche Centre Bristol, told the Express that customers were still cautious due to concerns over battery health. Paul Lucas, praised the Mk1 Ford Focus , which was also a successful rally car (Image: Getty ) He explained: "People are now starting to ask the question. But now we have devices in all our Porsche centres where we can actually test the battery life of an electric vehicle. Our cars are around the five-year mark, 2020 is when they were first launched, so they are about five years old. "We are getting more and more people asking the questions, and we can quite simply plug in the batteries and tell the customers exactly what kind of life is left on these cars. Hopefully, with that we can give them good news and give them more confidence buying these cars." Meanwhile, specialists have been available to advise on the optimal times for selling and purchasing a second-hand vehicle. A representative from the pre-owned car purchasing service informed the Express that the prime time for selling a used car might already be behind us. They shared with the news outlet that April was the peak month due to dealerships' need to restock their showrooms in springtime. Their comment was: "April is the sweet spot for selling a used car. Dealers need stock to replenish their forecourts after the surge in new car sales in March, and many buyers are looking for a more affordable alternative to a brand-new model." Article continues below
Daily Mirror
24-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
'I'm a car mechanic and this £500 20-year-old motor is top for reliability'
An experienced mechanic has recommended a 20-year-old used car as one of the most reliable vehicles one can buy after purchasing one for £500 - and it's all down to how simple it is An expert mechanic has endorsed a 20-year-old used car as one of the most reliable motors on the market to purchase. Paul Lucas, a respected mechanic, praised the Mk1 Ford Focus as a solid second-hand buy due to its simplicity and dependability. An owner of a Mk1 himself, Paul revealed he had purchased one of these vehicles for £500 15 years ago and it hadn't missed a beat thanks to his meticulous maintenance. Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said: "For me a 20-year-old 1.6 litre Mk1 Ford Focus is top for reliability. "It was designed before all the unnecessary bells and whistles came in and even lets you start the car with a real key rather than press a button. I bought mine 15 years ago for £500 and have no regrets." Paul isn't alone in his views on used cars, with other mechanics and car experts also sharing their thoughts in recent months, reports the Express. With the cost of living on the rise, more people are turning to the used car market for their latest motor purchase instead of buying new. Some have even opted for second-hand electric cars, although many remain hesitant. Jeff Wong, a used car controller at Porsche Centre Bristol, told the Express that customers were still cautious due to concerns over battery health. He explained: "People are now starting to ask the question. But now we have devices in all our Porsche centres where we can actually test the battery life of an electric vehicle. Our cars are around the five-year mark, 2020 is when they were first launched, so they are about five years old. "We are getting more and more people asking the questions, and we can quite simply plug in the batteries and tell the customers exactly what kind of life is left on these cars. Hopefully, with that we can give them good news and give them more confidence buying these cars." Meanwhile, other motoring experts have been providing advice on the prime time to flog a second-hand motor as well as the best time to snap one up. A spokesperson for the car selling service told the Express that the optimal period for offloading a used vehicle might have already gone by. They said: "April is the sweet spot for selling a used car. Dealers need stock to replenish their forecourts after the surge in new car sales in March, and many buyers are looking for a more affordable alternative to a brand-new model."
