It is reliably learnt that Airbus, which had initially offered its A400M, is likely to sit it out since its aircraft outweighs requirements with payload capacity of 37 tonnes.
Airbus will carry out major structural modifications on the six A321s before DRDO & its partners integrate the indigenous mission systems, with first aircraft expected by 2031-32.
The French government is expected to send in their response to India’s Letter of Request in September, the time by which they are obligated to respond.
The primary task of the over 100 AN-32s with the IAF is to deliver all that is needed for sustenance of soldiers across the country, from high altitude and mountainous terrain to the island chains.
Defence minister helmed a review meeting of HAL projects which was attended by CDS Gen N S Raja Subramani, IAF chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, CMD of HAL Ravi Kota and others.
The failures to replace the fleet have left a massive capability gap, forcing the military to continue operating sub-optimal, high-risk assets in the world’s most hostile flying terrains.
Lockheed Martin’s C-130J Hercules at lower end of requirement with payload of about 19 tonnes, KC-390 near upper limit with 26 tonnes, while Airbus A 400M can lift 37 tonnes.
Asim Munir's biggest gripe since the conflict with India in 2025 is that while he has made geo-political gains, there is no comfort for the general at home.
Federal think tank in its latest report maps India’s workforce and learners across five segments, reveals that fewer than one in 12 secondary schools currently offer vocational subjects.
Maritime security agreement opens avenues for joint development of naval ships and design, greater use of Indian shipbuilding and repair facilities by Japan.
Forty years ago this week, ‘Khalistan Commando Force’ assassins were closing in on Gen Vaidya. So callous was the security of the just-retired Army chief that he was given a solitary police gunman
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