Notes:
India is developing an advanced Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar system called ‘Virupaaksha’ to upgrade its fleet of Su-30MKI fighter jets. Being manufactured indigenously it would be the most capable radar equipping any Sukhoi variant globally. This airborne radar uses electronic instead of mechanical scanning allowing versatile detection and tracking exceeding capabilities of current radars on IAF’s MKI jets.

Notes:
The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian is distinguished from its predecessors by its Electro-magnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS). This advanced system enables the Fujian to launch a broader range of aircraft from its deck, marking a significant technological advancement over the previous carriers Shandong and Liaoning. The EMALS is noted for being more reliable and energy-efficient, and it represents a milestone in the modernization of the Chinese military. This feature places the Fujian alongside the Ford-class aircraft carriers of the US Navy, which are also equipped with the latest version of the EMALS, highlighting its significance in global naval capabilities. The development and implementation of the EMALS on the Fujian align with President Xi Jinping’s calls for increased combat-readiness and technological advances in the Chinese military.

Notes:
The defence ministry signed a contract with Jupiter Wagons Ltd for the procurement of 697 ‘bogie open military (BOM)’ railway wagons for the Indian Army. The deal, worth Rs 473 crore, is aimed at enhancing the Army’s logistical capabilities, particularly for the transportation of infantry combat vehicles. These wagons are essential for the speedy and simultaneous induction of Army units and equipment into operational areas during conflict situations, as well as facilitating their peacetime movement for military exercises and inter-station transfers. Jupiter Wagons Ltd’s involvement in providing this critical rolling stock underscores the company’s role in supporting the Indian defence sector’s logistical needs.

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Mitsubishi Heavy Industries achieved a milestone by launching the 48th H-IIA rocket, carrying Japan’s Information-Gathering Satellite “Optical-8.” The successful launch, announced on social media X, underscores the reliability of the H-IIA, with a commendable success rate of 97.92% since its inception in 2001 under the development of the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA). Japan is set to retire the H-IIA after two more launches, paving the way for the H3 as its successor. However, the transition has faced challenges, notably with JAXA’s first test launch of the H3 experiencing failure in March the previous year.

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a milestone with the successful flight-test of the New Generation AKASH (AKASH-NG) missile at the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur. This surface-to-air missile intercepted a high-speed unmanned aerial vehicle at a low altitude, affirming the complete weapon system’s efficacy. Equipped with an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker, the AKASH-NG enhances the Indian Air Force’s capabilities, defending against agile aerial threats. Notably, it can engage up to 10 targets simultaneously within a range of 40 km, showcasing superior performance compared to its predecessors.

Notes:
Two South American countries express interest in the Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, designed by India’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE). The Pinaka MBRL, utilized in the Kargil War, effectively neutralized Pakistan Army positions. It delivers lethal fire against various targets, boasting a range of 60 to 75 kilometers. The system includes a multi-tube launcher vehicle, replenishment-cum-loader vehicle, replenishment vehicle, and a command post vehicle. With two pods of six rockets each, it can cover a 700 × 500 square meter area in 48 seconds.

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Iran’s Revolutionary Guards achieved a milestone by launching the Soraya satellite into a record-high orbit of 750 km using the Ghaem-100 carrier. Despite U.S. warnings on the dual-use nature of such technology, Iran claims this as a success for its aerospace program. The satellite, weighing around 50 kg, marks Iran’s first placement in orbits higher than 500 km, raising concerns about potential dual-use capabilities for ballistic missiles, including those with nuclear warheads.

Notes:
The 2nd edition of Exercise CYCLONE, a joint special forces drill between India and Egypt, is taking place in Anshas, Egypt, from January 22 to February 1, 2024. The Indian Army contingent, comprising 25 personnel from The Parachute Regiment (Special Forces), is participating. The exercise focuses on enhancing bilateral military cooperation and understanding operating procedures in desert terrain under UN Charter Chapter VII. It involves three phases, including Military Exhibitions, IED training, and Joint Tactical Exercises, fostering stronger ties between the two friendly nations.

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted Exercise Desert Knight with the French Air and Space Force (FASF) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Air Force on January 23–24, 2024. The exercise took place over the Arabian Sea, with the IAF operating from its west coast bases and the UAE and France operating from Al Dhafra airbase. The exercise’s main focus was to improve synergy and interoperability between the three air forces. The IAF said that such exercises demonstrate the growing diplomatic and military interactions in the region, as well as the IAF’s capabilities.

Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has completed crucial tests on the Insat-3DS satellite, a collaborative effort with the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Part of a climate observatory satellite series, it aims to enhance climate services. The satellite, along with INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR already in orbit, will be launched using the more advanced Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F14), featuring cryogenic liquid propellants. INSAT-3DR boasts improvements like imaging in the Middle Infrared band for night-time cloud and fog pictures and enhanced accuracy in Sea Surface Temperature estimation.