Let’s simplify the nuance
Solar Defence & Aerospace has emerged as the L1 bidder for the design and development of an experimental airframe (Solarised Tapas UAV) using high-performance prepreg composites under the IUAS programme. The company secured the top position with a bid of ~₹15 crore. It outbid Raphe mPhibr and BAe-HAL Software Ltd. in a competitive development contract.…
Understanding the Rafale Debate Clearly India has witnessed an intense debate over the acquisition of Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Air Force. Supporters and critics often argue from opposite extremes. However, real strategic clarity always lies between these two ends. To understand the issue properly, both positions must be examined carefully. Extreme One: Rafale…
The Growing Question of Israel Dependence India’s defence ecosystem increasingly raises a critical question about long-term strategic dependence on Israel, especially in the missile domain. This concern becomes more relevant because many observers still believe missile development requires decades of sustained effort. However, India’s own experience clearly disproves this assumption and shows that capability development…
Indian defence enthusiasts have waited years for two critical combat aircraft programs. These programs are the LCA Tejas Mk2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, or AMCA. Both platforms represent India’s ambition to achieve genuine air power autonomy. However, the delays surrounding Tejas Mk2 often confuse observers and fuel frustration. The real reasons rarely enter…
As India approaches 2026, defence aviation faces a decisive moment shaped by unresolved structural weaknesses. One central question now dominates strategic planning. What should stand as India’s single most important defence aviation priority, and why does the Indian Jet Engine sit at its core? More importantly, how much progress exists today, and what remains realistically…
The need of DRDO HALE comes from Indian armed forces, who operate across a wide range of terrains, where altitude often defines operational success. From high mountains to vast maritime zones, persistent surveillance becomes critical. These conditions make turboprop-powered High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) UAVs essential for modern military operations. India currently operates two US-origin…
– By Raflanker Do 114 Rafales or Su-57s fit into the current Indian fleet? Current Fleet: ●13 Sqdns Su-30 MKI ● 2 Sqdns Rafale ● 3 Sqdns Mirage 2000 ● 3 Sqdns MiG-29 ● 2 Sqdns Tejas Mk1 ● 6 Sqdns Jaguar Total: 29 Squadrons Currently on Order: ● 10 Sqdns Tejas Mk1A ● 1…