1. Dr. Ram Narain Agarwal, 'Father of Agni Missiles,' Passed away at 84
Tags: Person in news
Dr. Ram Narain Agarwal, known as the "Father of Agni Missiles," passed away at the age of 84 in Hyderabad, Telangana.
An Overview of the News
Born on 24 July 1941 in Jaipur, Rajasthan, Ram Narain Agarwal was a renowned missile scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Contributions to DRDO
Technology Demonstrator: Under his leadership, the first successful test of the Technology Demonstrator missile was conducted in May 1989.
Agni Missile Program: Appointed as the first Programme Director of Agni missiles in 1995, he was instrumental in its development and was known as 'Agni Man.'
Achievements
Missile Development: By 1999, he and his team developed a new version with a Road Mobile Launcher (RML) capability and enhanced strike distance beyond Agni-1.
ICBM Development: He led the development of various versions of Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles (ICBMs).
Advanced Systems Laboratory: Founded and directed the Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) in Hyderabad.
Awards and Honors
Padma Awards: Honored with the Padma Shri in 1990 and Padma Bhushan in 2000 for his contributions to science and engineering.
DRDO Awards: Received the DRDO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004, along with the DRDO Technology Leadership Award.
Other Honors: Awarded the Sri Chandrasekararendra Saraswati National Eminence Award and the Biren Roy Space Science Award.
Fellowships: Dr. Agarwal was a fellow of the Aeronautical Society of India and the National Academy of Engineering.
2. DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous GAURAV Glide Bomb from Su-30 MK-I
Tags: Defence Science and Technology
DRDO conducted a successful maiden flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), named GAURAV.
An Overview of the News
The test was carried out from an Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force (IAF) off the coast of Odisha.
Key Features of GAURAV
GAURAV is a1,000 kg class air-launched glide bomb capable of striking targets at long distances.
The bomb uses a hybrid navigation system, combining INS and GPS data, to steer towards the target with high accuracy.
Indigenous Development
GAURAV was designed and developed by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad.
The project involved collaboration with Adani Defence and Bharat Forge, serving as Development cum Production Partners.
Accurate Target Hit and Data Collection
The glide bomb hit its target with pinpoint accuracy during the test.
Complete flight data was captured using Telemetry and Electro Optical tracking systems along the coastline.
About DRDO
It serves as the Research and Development (R&D) arm of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Founded:- 1958
Chairman:- Dr. Samir Venkatpati Kamat
HQ:- New Delhi, Delhi
3. India Unveils Indigenous Light Tank Zorawar for High-Altitude Operations
Tags: Defence
On July 6, 2024, Indian Defence officials unveiled the prototype of the indigenous light tank Zorawar, marking a crucial advancement in India's defense capabilities.
An Overview of the News
This tank, named Zorawar, is designed to excel in high-altitude environments like Ladakh, focusing on enhanced mobility and operational efficiency.
Developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Indian firm Larsen & Toubro (L&T), with L&T as the primary integrator.
Design and Features
Layout: Driver compartment at the front, turret in the middle, powerpack at the rear for balanced weight distribution.
Engine: Powered by a 1,000 hp Cummins engine for superior maneuverability in high-altitude regions.
Armament: Features a COCKERILL-3105 105mm turret with modifications for Indian Army requirements.
Weapon Systems: Includes a local 12.7mm NSV remote-controlled weapon station and twin anti-tank guided missile launcher.
Protection: Advanced active protection system to counter anti-tank guided missiles and enhance survivability.
Amphibious Capability: Designed to operate in water bodies like Pangong Tso Lake for tactical versatility.
Strategic Significance
Deployment: Initial order for 59 tanks with plans for 355 to form seven light tank regiments.
Strategic Purpose: Enhances defensive and offensive capabilities in border regions, particularly against armored threats.
Technological Integration
AI and Drones: Integrated with AI-enabled systems for improved situational awareness and tactical drone deployment.
Modern Warfare Edge: Capable of deploying loitering munitions, providing a strategic advantage.
Production and Trials
Manufacturing: Part of 'Make in India' initiative to reduce reliance on foreign military imports.
Testing: Currently undergoing internal trials, with user trials by the Indian Army expected by mid-2024.
4. IITK and DRDO have collaboratively launched a Center of Excellence in Defense Technologies
Tags: Defence
IIT Kanpur and DRDO have jointly launched the DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA COE) at the IIT Kanpur campus, focusing on interdisciplinary research in advanced defense technologies.
An Overview of the News
Sanjay Tandon, previously serving as the director of the Institute of Technology Management (ITM) in Mussoorie, Uttarakhand, has assumed the role of director at the center of excellence located at IIT Kanpur.
Research Focus:
The center aims to lead focused research in various defense verticals.
These include advanced nanomaterials, accelerated material design, high-energy materials, and bioengineering.
Funding and Infrastructure:
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) will fund the projects and establish key technical facilities.
Modern infrastructure will be set up to enable and boost Research and Development (R&D) programs.
Establishment Timeline:
The establishment of DIA COE at IIT Kanpur commenced in 2022.
It was initiated through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed during Def-Expo-2022 at Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
Background:
DefExpo 2022 was a flagship event of the Ministry of Defence.
It aimed to achieve Atma Nirbharta in defense and reach the USD 5 billion defense exports target by 2024.
About DRDO
It serves as the Research and Development (R&D) arm of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Founded:- 1958
Chairman:- Dr. Samir Venkatpati Kamat
HQ:- New Delhi, Delhi
5. DRDO Successfully Flight-Tests RudraM-II Missile from Su-30 MK-I Platform
Tags: Defence Science and Technology
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile.
An Overview of the News
The test was conducted from the Su-30 MK-I platform of the Indian Air Force in Odisha.
The Defence Ministry announced that the flight test met all the trial objectives.
RudraM-II Missile System
RudraM-II is an indigenously developed, solid-propelled, air-launched missile system.
The missile system incorporates a number of state-of-the-art indigenous technologies developed by various DRDO laboratories.
About DRDO
It is an agency under the Department of Defense Research and Development.
It works under the Ministry of Defense of the Government of India.
DRDO is responsible for military research and development.
Established:- 1958
Chairman:- Sameer V. Kamat
Headquarters:- DRDO Bhawan, New Delhi
Aircraft Design:- DRDO Nishant, DRDO Lakshya, Avatar
6. Kadet Defence Systems Introduces India's First Indigenous Loitering Aerial Munitions (LAM)
Tags: Science and Technology
Kadet Defence Systems (P) Limited (KDS) introduces India's first Loitering Aerial Munitions (LAM) for the Indian Armed Forces.
An Overview of the News
Developed under a unique Development cum Production Partner (DCPP) model with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
Reflects KDS commitment to fostering indigenous innovation and self-reliance in defence production.
Features of India's 1st LAM:
The indigenous LAMs are entirely designed and manufactured in India.
Over 90% of components domestically sourced.
Incorporates cutting-edge technologies, including Canister Aerial Loitering Munition (CALM), Combat Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) with stand-off capabilities, and Tactical Vertical Takeoff & Landing (VTOL) UAVs.
Adaptability to various terrains and altitudes, from deserts to plains, and even high-altitude regions surpassing 5000 meters.
Capabilities include serving as combat UAVs capable of precision strikes and Kamikaze drones for targeted engagements, reminiscent of cruise missiles.
Additional Information:
Secured a contract to deliver 50 LAM systems by the end of 2024, meeting the operational requirements of the Indian armed forces.
Aims to increase LAMs production and deliver an estimated 5000 systems in the next 2 to 3 years.
About KDS:
It is a privately owned company specializing in the production of aerospace products, with a primary focus on Unmanned Systems.
Avdesh Khaitan serves as the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the company.
The headquarters of KDS is located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The company was established in the year 2011.
7. DRDO Successfully Tests Indigenous Cruise Missile at Odisha
Tags: Defence Science and Technology
On April 18, 2024, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted a successful flight-test of the Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM) from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Chandipur, Odisha.
An Overview of the News
Features of Indigenous Technology Cruise Missile (ITCM):
Advanced Avionics: Equipped with advanced avionics and software to ensure enhanced and reliable performance.
Development: Developed by DRDO's Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) in Bengaluru, Karnataka, with contributions from other Indian laboratories and industries.
Propulsion System: The missile features an indigenous propulsion system developed by the Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
Key Observations during the Test:
Range Sensors: Various Range Sensors including Radar, Electro Optical Tracking System (ETOS), and Telemetry deployed by ITR at different locations to ensure comprehensive coverage of the flight path.
Monitoring from Aircraft: The flight of the missile was monitored from the Su-30-Mk-I aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
About ADE:
Responsibility: A laboratory of DRDO entrusted with conducting research and development in military aviation.
Director: Y Dilip
Headquarters: Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
8. Successful MPATGM Warhead Flight Trials Conducted by Indian Army and DRDO
Tags: Science and Technology
The Indian Army and DRDO recently conducted successful warhead flight trials of the Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) Weapon System on April 13, 2024, at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.
An Overview of the News
Components of the MPATGM Weapon system include the MPATGM itself, Launcher, Target Acquisition System (TAS), and Fire Control Unit (FCU).
MPATGM was developed domestically by DRDO in collaboration with VEM Technologies Private Limited, based in Hyderabad, Telangana.
The trials aimed at meeting the operational requirements specified in the General Staff Qualitative Requirements (Infantry, Indian Army), covering the complete operational envelope.
Successful penetration trials of the Tandem Warhead System of MPATGM were also conducted during these trials.
Key Features of MPATGM:
The missile is approximately 1.3 meters long with a diameter of around 0.12 meters.
It has a strike range of 2.5 kilometers and weighs about 14.5 kilograms.
Equipped with a modern Infrared Imaging Seeker and advanced avionics.
Manufacturing Location:
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) in Bhanoor, Telangana, is designated for its manufacturing.
About DRDO
It serves as the Research and Development (R&D) arm of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Chairman - Dr. Samir Venkatpati Kamat
HQ - New Delhi, Delhi
Founded - 1958
9. Successful flight test of Agni-Prime missile
Tags: Science and Technology National News
Agni-Prime missile successfully flight tested in Odisha.
An Overview of the News
The test was conducted jointly by the Strategic Force Command (SFC) and Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island.
The Defense Ministry said that the Agni-Prime missile met all the test objectives, demonstrating its reliable performance.
Introduction of Agni-P (Agni-Prime):
Agni-P, also known as Agni-Prime, is a medium-range ballistic missile under development by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
It is the sixth missile in the Agni series and is designed to be a two-stage, surface-to-surface, canister-launched, and road-mobile system.
Purpose and Deployment:
Agni-P is intended to be deployed within the Strategic Forces Command for operational use.
Its development aims to enhance India's ballistic missile capabilities, particularly in the medium-range segment.
Key Features and Upgrades:
The missile incorporates significant upgrades compared to its predecessors.
These upgrades include advancements in the composite motor casing, navigation systems, and guidance systems.
Maneuverable Reentry Vehicle (MaRV):
Agni-P is equipped with a maneuverable reentry vehicle (MaRV), enhancing its effectiveness in penetrating enemy defenses and accurately hitting targets.
Solid-Fueled Design:
Agni-P utilizes solid fuel propulsion, ensuring reliability, mobility, and ease of deployment.
Canister Launch Capability:
Its canister-launch system adds to its mobility and readiness, allowing for rapid deployment and launch from various platforms.
Strategic Significance:
The development and deployment of Agni-P mark a significant advancement in India's strategic missile program.
It strengthens India's deterrence capability and provides a credible response to evolving security challenges in the region.
10. DAC gave its approval to the indigenous missile Dhruvastra
Tags: Defence
The Indian Defense Acquisition Council (DAC) gave its approval to the indigenous short-range air-to-surface missile Dhruvastra.
An Overview of the News
The Dhruvastra missile is designed to enhance India's combat capabilities against enemy tanks and armored vehicles and will be deployed on DHRUV MK-IV helicopters.
DAC's approval of the Dhruvastra missile represents a significant enhancement to India's military capabilities.
Developed by the Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) as part of the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP), it is a valuable addition to India's military assets.
Dhruvastra Missile:-
It is a third-generation, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system known for its versatility and advanced features.
Dual Engagement Mode: Dhruvastra can operate in direct hit and top attack modes, increasing its adaptability to various combat scenarios.
Effective Range: Its range ranges from 500 meters to an impressive 7 kilometers, allowing it to engage targets across a wide spectrum.
High altitude launch: Dhruvastra can be launched from altitudes up to 4 kilometers, providing a strategic advantage in mountainous terrain.
Effective Target Tracking: Equipped with an Imaging Infrared-Seeker (IIS), it can track and guide the missile to its target based on the heat signature of the target, ensuring accuracy even in challenging conditions.
Penetrating Warhead: The Dhruvastra's specialized warhead is designed to penetrate various types of armor, including reactive armor found on modern tanks.
