Antonov presents a new version of AN-74 in India
For the first time the programme of AN-74 new multi-role maritime patrol aircraft will be represented to a wide aviation community. At present, this version of the aircraft is being studied by experts of MoD of India within the frame of tender on delivery of 6 aircraft of such a class for Navy and Coast Guard of the country. The new AN-74 is prepared to fulfill with a high efficiency a wide spectrum of military tasks including: aerial and maritime patrolling, support of military ships with the possibility to counteract to an enemy, carrying out search and rescue operations; electronic and radio reconnaissance; determination of pollution of the sea surface.If necessary it may be re-equipped easily for transportation people, evacuation of sick and wounded persons. Cargo cabin with volume of 26 m³, highly-mechanized hatch-ramp and airborne loading/unloading equipment allow to perform autonomous loading-unloading and transportation of wide spectrum of cargoes as well as its paradropping. Due to its unique design AN-74 can be operated from poor equipped runways (including ground, pebble, snowy and icy ones). In STOL mode it can transport up to 6 t of cargoes. Simplicity in service, availability of airborne loading equipment provide long-term operation of the airplane far from airdromes. It took the best characteristics of the previous airplanes of the family, which are operated successfully in military divisions of different countries. A new version of AN-74 differs from its predecessors with a number of considerable improvements. It made possible realization of conception of a radical modernization of the AN-74, developed by ANTONOV specialists in cooperation with the partners including those from France, Germany and Sweden. It includes mounting the glass cockpit, the newest instruments of piloting, navigation and communication. Besides, power plant and APU, aircraft and engine control systems, fuel, hydraulic systems and many others. The most modern technologies will be used for aftersale support of the airplane, its maintenance and repair.
13/02/09 defpro.news
Abhinav Bindra zooms to a new high
Bangalore: After touching Olympic heights in Beijing just a few months ago, Abhinav Bindra soared to a new high in a fighter aircraft to join the select list of Indians, including Ratan Tata, who have flown the F-16.
Abhinav touched 20,000 feet in a F-16 IN Super Viper, a fourth-generation fighter from the workshop of American company Lockheed Martin. He was thrilled after an hour-long flight.
The ash-coloured single-engine fighter, which the company got here on lease from the UAE Air Force, rolled off the tarmac at 4.51 pm. In six minutes, it soared above with India's pride on the navigator's seat.
"I've never felt like this before. After Olympics, this was the most exhilarating experience. It was a fantastic feeling,'' said Bindra, who wore a dark-blue flying suit. Piloting Bindra's joyride was Lockheed's test-pilot Paul Randall, who has clocked 4,500 hours of flying time on various F-16 models.
"We went away from the airfield, pulled off a lot of Gs, up to 6.5 Gs. We did some manoeuvres like turns and rolls. And we flew past the clouds at 20,000 feet and almost hit the speed of sound,'' Randall said, giving 10/10 to the gold medalist.
Bindra also had the privilege of manning the flight for a few minutes.
"He made me comfortable. I got extensive briefing ahead of the flight. I attended the medicals in New Delhi on Tuesday and today I was on the simulator for 45 minutes,'' Bindra said.
The Super Viper, called the Ferrari of fighters, can reach 50,000 feet and is capable of flying at speeds just over two machs — twice the speed of sound.
13/02/09 Times of India
Abhinav touched 20,000 feet in a F-16 IN Super Viper, a fourth-generation fighter from the workshop of American company Lockheed Martin. He was thrilled after an hour-long flight.
The ash-coloured single-engine fighter, which the company got here on lease from the UAE Air Force, rolled off the tarmac at 4.51 pm. In six minutes, it soared above with India's pride on the navigator's seat.
"I've never felt like this before. After Olympics, this was the most exhilarating experience. It was a fantastic feeling,'' said Bindra, who wore a dark-blue flying suit. Piloting Bindra's joyride was Lockheed's test-pilot Paul Randall, who has clocked 4,500 hours of flying time on various F-16 models.
"We went away from the airfield, pulled off a lot of Gs, up to 6.5 Gs. We did some manoeuvres like turns and rolls. And we flew past the clouds at 20,000 feet and almost hit the speed of sound,'' Randall said, giving 10/10 to the gold medalist.
Bindra also had the privilege of manning the flight for a few minutes.
"He made me comfortable. I got extensive briefing ahead of the flight. I attended the medicals in New Delhi on Tuesday and today I was on the simulator for 45 minutes,'' Bindra said.
The Super Viper, called the Ferrari of fighters, can reach 50,000 feet and is capable of flying at speeds just over two machs — twice the speed of sound.
13/02/09 Times of India
Russia to deliver first AWACS plane to India 'soon'
Bangalore: Russia will deliver the first A-50 AWACS aircraft developed on the basis of Il-76MD military transport plane in the near future, a Russian aircraft industry official said on Thursday.
India ordered three A-50EI variants fitted with the Israeli-made Phalcon radar system in 2001. The first aircraft was scheduled to arrive in 2007-08 but has been delayed.
"The AWACS version of Il-76 will be soon delivered to India," Viktor Livanov, vice-president of Russia's United Aircraft Corporation, said at a news conference on the sidelines of the Aero India 2009 air show in India.
In many aspects, the A-50 is comparable to the E-3 Sentry of the U.S. Air Force. It is fitted with an aerial refueling system and electronic warfare equipment, and can detect targets up to 400 km (250 miles) away.
The existing Russian-Indian military-technical cooperation program until 2010 includes up to 200 projects worth about $18 billion.
In addition to the Russian A-50 aircraft, India has recently purchased eight Boeing P-81 long-range maritime reconnaissance (LRMR) aircraft from the United States, and signed a deal with Brazil to jointly integrate domestically developed AWACS systems onto three Brazilian-made Embraer-145 aircraft to be later commissioned with the Indian air force.
13/02/09 RIAN.ru
India ordered three A-50EI variants fitted with the Israeli-made Phalcon radar system in 2001. The first aircraft was scheduled to arrive in 2007-08 but has been delayed.
"The AWACS version of Il-76 will be soon delivered to India," Viktor Livanov, vice-president of Russia's United Aircraft Corporation, said at a news conference on the sidelines of the Aero India 2009 air show in India.
In many aspects, the A-50 is comparable to the E-3 Sentry of the U.S. Air Force. It is fitted with an aerial refueling system and electronic warfare equipment, and can detect targets up to 400 km (250 miles) away.
The existing Russian-Indian military-technical cooperation program until 2010 includes up to 200 projects worth about $18 billion.
In addition to the Russian A-50 aircraft, India has recently purchased eight Boeing P-81 long-range maritime reconnaissance (LRMR) aircraft from the United States, and signed a deal with Brazil to jointly integrate domestically developed AWACS systems onto three Brazilian-made Embraer-145 aircraft to be later commissioned with the Indian air force.
13/02/09 RIAN.ru
Disaster mgt team on standby
A customized Russian Anton 32 aircraft, two advanced light helicopters (ALH) and a highly trained crew are ready to jump into action and launch rescue and relief operations during any mishaps during the Aero India at Air Force Station, Yelahanka. A32 is equipped with basic firstaid and 24 stretchers. In case of a disaster, while the ambulances on the ground will bring in casualties, the ALHs will perform search and rescue operations.
The Medical Control Centre will alert the team stationed at the northern end of the runway which will ready the aircraft within minutes after a briefing. The road leading to 24-designated hospitals including command hospitals will be cleared. Feeder ambulances will bring casualties to the aircraft and they will be given first aid and flown to HAL airport. Casualties will be taken to nearby hospitals from there.
The crew of the special team spoke to The New Indian Express and said that they were prepared for any kind of disaster.
“Our reaction time is 30 minutes. Our aircraft can land in all weather and on all surfaces. We have already obtained clearances and have priority landing at any place,” said Wing Commander Saravanan, who is the Chief Navigation Instructor of the team.
Wing Commander Sreekanth who has a flying experience of more than 4,000 hours will pilot A32 and Squadron Leader Anita Apte will co-pilot. Flight
Engineer, Sergeant Moond, will co-ordinate operations between the crew and others.
13/02/09 Hemanth C S and Jayadevan P K/ExpressBuzz
The Medical Control Centre will alert the team stationed at the northern end of the runway which will ready the aircraft within minutes after a briefing. The road leading to 24-designated hospitals including command hospitals will be cleared. Feeder ambulances will bring casualties to the aircraft and they will be given first aid and flown to HAL airport. Casualties will be taken to nearby hospitals from there.
The crew of the special team spoke to The New Indian Express and said that they were prepared for any kind of disaster.
“Our reaction time is 30 minutes. Our aircraft can land in all weather and on all surfaces. We have already obtained clearances and have priority landing at any place,” said Wing Commander Saravanan, who is the Chief Navigation Instructor of the team.
Wing Commander Sreekanth who has a flying experience of more than 4,000 hours will pilot A32 and Squadron Leader Anita Apte will co-pilot. Flight
Engineer, Sergeant Moond, will co-ordinate operations between the crew and others.
13/02/09 Hemanth C S and Jayadevan P K/ExpressBuzz
Israel overtakes Russia as Defence's top supplier
Bangalore: In a shift that has Russia and Europe worried, Israel may have overtaken Russia as the biggest beneficiary of India's defence budget in the last two years, officials in the know said. Also worrying the Russians and the Europeans is the growing importance of the US for the Indian military.
Requesting anonymity, a senior official in the defence ministry said that Russia has been the biggest supplier to India's defence sector for decades.
But it may have lost out to Israel, which seems to have cornered a larger share of India's defence spend recently. "I don't have country-wise data but it may be due to differences over Gorshkov and other Russian programmes," the official said.
The Americans, too, have grabbed significant Indian deals. Worried over the developments, Europeans are hoping that India brings in more transparency and balance to its procurement process. Several European firms at the Aero India expressed concerns over the influence that politics has on the country's defence purchases. Of particular concern to them is the trend of purchases without a multi-tender process.
Over the past few years, India has entered into joint development of several missile systems with Israel as also procurement of top-end technologies without a tender process. After the November 2008 terror attacks on Mumbai, the two countries decided on the joint development of medium-range surface-to-air missiles (MRSAM) for the Air Force.
Another European executive said that some of the biggest deals India has signed with the US, too, have been without an open tendering process. Among them are the purchase of USS Trenton for the Navy and the purchase of C-130 J Hercules transport planes. These were done through the FMS route, meaning a government-to-government deal.
13/02/09 Josy Joseph/Daily News & Analysis
Requesting anonymity, a senior official in the defence ministry said that Russia has been the biggest supplier to India's defence sector for decades.
But it may have lost out to Israel, which seems to have cornered a larger share of India's defence spend recently. "I don't have country-wise data but it may be due to differences over Gorshkov and other Russian programmes," the official said.
The Americans, too, have grabbed significant Indian deals. Worried over the developments, Europeans are hoping that India brings in more transparency and balance to its procurement process. Several European firms at the Aero India expressed concerns over the influence that politics has on the country's defence purchases. Of particular concern to them is the trend of purchases without a multi-tender process.
Over the past few years, India has entered into joint development of several missile systems with Israel as also procurement of top-end technologies without a tender process. After the November 2008 terror attacks on Mumbai, the two countries decided on the joint development of medium-range surface-to-air missiles (MRSAM) for the Air Force.
Another European executive said that some of the biggest deals India has signed with the US, too, have been without an open tendering process. Among them are the purchase of USS Trenton for the Navy and the purchase of C-130 J Hercules transport planes. These were done through the FMS route, meaning a government-to-government deal.
13/02/09 Josy Joseph/Daily News & Analysis
America's 'Best' on display at Aero India 2009
New York: The US-India Business Council (USIBC) launched a historic 4-day Executive Defense Mission to Aero India 2009. The Mission is led by Dr. Vicki Panhuise, Honeywell; General (Ret) Chuck Wald, L-3 Communications; and General (Ret) Bruce Scott, ITT Defense International. Lt Gen (Ret) Jeffrey Kohler, The Boeing Company, and a senior advisor to the USIBC Board of Directors, is a special military advisor to the delegation.
US defense companies under the USIBC banner have participated in nine consecutive Executive Missions to India advocating for robust defense cooperation between the United States and India, including transfer of high-end defense technology.The mission leaders expressed optimism on this 'jumbo' mission, saying military-to-military contacts and joint exercises have steadily increased, paving the way for increased defense trade.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is the host and organizer for Aero India 2009 in Bangalore, February 10-14 and USIBC's partner on the ground.America's top defense companies, including Honeywell, L-3 Communications, ITT, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Bell Helicopter (Textron), Raytheon, Sikorsky, Goodrich, Rockwell Collins, Stonebridge International, The Cohen Group, EP Team and The Fremont Group, among others, participated in Aero India 2009.
The US also demonstrated flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet and C-17 Globemaster-III strategic air lift aircraft by Boeing and the F-16 and C-130J by Lockheed Martin.
12/02/09 Indiapost, USA
US defense companies under the USIBC banner have participated in nine consecutive Executive Missions to India advocating for robust defense cooperation between the United States and India, including transfer of high-end defense technology.The mission leaders expressed optimism on this 'jumbo' mission, saying military-to-military contacts and joint exercises have steadily increased, paving the way for increased defense trade.
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is the host and organizer for Aero India 2009 in Bangalore, February 10-14 and USIBC's partner on the ground.America's top defense companies, including Honeywell, L-3 Communications, ITT, General Dynamics, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman, BAE Systems, Bell Helicopter (Textron), Raytheon, Sikorsky, Goodrich, Rockwell Collins, Stonebridge International, The Cohen Group, EP Team and The Fremont Group, among others, participated in Aero India 2009.
The US also demonstrated flying the F/A-18F Super Hornet and C-17 Globemaster-III strategic air lift aircraft by Boeing and the F-16 and C-130J by Lockheed Martin.
12/02/09 Indiapost, USA
Fight for Combat aircraft contract
Day two of Aero India 2009 held here saw the contenders for India’s multi-role combat aircraft (MRCA) contract pitching hard to sell their aircraft.
Representatives from the European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS) comprising Bernhard Genwert, CEO, EADS, Chiefs of Air Forces from UK, Spain, Italy and Germany, and various ambassadors joined the fray to bid for the multi-billion dollar contract from India.
“The European company, which is competing with five other companies including the United States and Russia which are military allies of India, stands a fighting chance as it has a proven track record,” said Genwert at a press conference.
Joining the pitch, Aloysius Rauen, president and CEO of EADS Military Aircraft said, “The company is a heavyweight in terms of economics as well as reliability.” About 156 Eurofighter Typhoons are in service in five nations including the air forces of Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom. The German Air Force Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Klaus Peter Stieglitz, speaking at the conference, said that in the coming years, the Eurofighters will be the backbone of the Luftwaffe.
The Swedish aerospace company SAAB is also in the race with its next generation fighter aircraft Gripen IN. SAAB executives at a press conference here said that it is waiting for the call from India for flying evaluation. It already has aircraft operational in Hungary and the Czech Republic and is looking at bagging deals in various countries including Switzerland, Romania, Croatia, Bulgaria and Slovenia.
Experts opine that while Russia’s long standing military alliance with India may give an edge to the Russian MiG 35s, improved relations between the US and India may also help American companies.
Six aircraft are competing for the order - the Saab Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, Mikoyan MiG 35 and the American F-16 IN and F/A 18 IN . So far, Mikoyan and Dassault have been regular suppliers of aircraft for the Indian Air Force and in terms of transfers of technology, licensed production in India, personnel training, supply of spare parts, maintenance and upgrading.
13/02/09 ExpressBuzz
Representatives from the European Aeronautic Defence and Space (EADS) comprising Bernhard Genwert, CEO, EADS, Chiefs of Air Forces from UK, Spain, Italy and Germany, and various ambassadors joined the fray to bid for the multi-billion dollar contract from India.
“The European company, which is competing with five other companies including the United States and Russia which are military allies of India, stands a fighting chance as it has a proven track record,” said Genwert at a press conference.
Joining the pitch, Aloysius Rauen, president and CEO of EADS Military Aircraft said, “The company is a heavyweight in terms of economics as well as reliability.” About 156 Eurofighter Typhoons are in service in five nations including the air forces of Spain, Germany and the United Kingdom. The German Air Force Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Klaus Peter Stieglitz, speaking at the conference, said that in the coming years, the Eurofighters will be the backbone of the Luftwaffe.
The Swedish aerospace company SAAB is also in the race with its next generation fighter aircraft Gripen IN. SAAB executives at a press conference here said that it is waiting for the call from India for flying evaluation. It already has aircraft operational in Hungary and the Czech Republic and is looking at bagging deals in various countries including Switzerland, Romania, Croatia, Bulgaria and Slovenia.
Experts opine that while Russia’s long standing military alliance with India may give an edge to the Russian MiG 35s, improved relations between the US and India may also help American companies.
Six aircraft are competing for the order - the Saab Gripen, Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, Mikoyan MiG 35 and the American F-16 IN and F/A 18 IN . So far, Mikoyan and Dassault have been regular suppliers of aircraft for the Indian Air Force and in terms of transfers of technology, licensed production in India, personnel training, supply of spare parts, maintenance and upgrading.
13/02/09 ExpressBuzz
Bangalore, India - Featuring twin Ardiden 1-H1 turboshaft engines
The "Aero India 2009" trade show in Bangalore is the occasion for Turbomeca to report the successful maiden flight of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Dhruv helicopter. Featuring two Ardiden 1-H1 series production engines, this flight took place on January 12 at the HAL Helicopter Division, Bangalore, India.
The Ardiden 1H1 engine, to be certified in India under the name "Shakti", demonstrated excellent aeromechanical behavior during this maiden flight, confirming its performance capabilities in demanding flight conditions at altitude on the Leh base in north India. The Ardiden 1H1 has been designed to carry out the most demanding missions at altitude and in hot and cold weather. Developed in cooperation with HAL as part of an industrial partnership agreement signed in February 2003, this engine combines simplicity, state-of-the-art technology, robustness and modernity, and all for a significantly lower cost of ownership in comparison to its competitors.
The Dhruv has a take-off weight of 5,500 kg and will initially equip the Indian Armed forces. Under the February 2003 agreement, several hundred engines are to be produced over the next 10 years.
The Indian Ministry of Defence has ordered 159 Dhruv helicopters to date.
13/02/09 World Aeronautical Press Agency/Avionews
The Ardiden 1H1 engine, to be certified in India under the name "Shakti", demonstrated excellent aeromechanical behavior during this maiden flight, confirming its performance capabilities in demanding flight conditions at altitude on the Leh base in north India. The Ardiden 1H1 has been designed to carry out the most demanding missions at altitude and in hot and cold weather. Developed in cooperation with HAL as part of an industrial partnership agreement signed in February 2003, this engine combines simplicity, state-of-the-art technology, robustness and modernity, and all for a significantly lower cost of ownership in comparison to its competitors.
The Dhruv has a take-off weight of 5,500 kg and will initially equip the Indian Armed forces. Under the February 2003 agreement, several hundred engines are to be produced over the next 10 years.
The Indian Ministry of Defence has ordered 159 Dhruv helicopters to date.
13/02/09 World Aeronautical Press Agency/Avionews
Boeing pitches C-17 to India, following request for information
Boeing is offering the C-17 Globemaster to India, following the country's request for information for strategic lift transport aircraft.
The C-17, which is on flying and static display at the Aero India 2009 show in Bangalore this week, has been in India's radar for some time. Boeing briefed the country's air force in October 2007. However, New Delhi had not been expected to move ahead with the requirement, as it had concluded a deal for six Lockheed Martin C-130Js in early 2008.
"We received the RFI in 2008 and have now responded," says Boeing Military Aircraft president Chris Chadwick. "We expect to engage in further discussions with India and believe that a request for proposals would come out soon."
The C-17 has been ordered by Australia, Canada, the UK, Qatar and a consortium of NATO members, as well as the USAF.
12/02/09 Siva Govindasamy/Flight International
The C-17, which is on flying and static display at the Aero India 2009 show in Bangalore this week, has been in India's radar for some time. Boeing briefed the country's air force in October 2007. However, New Delhi had not been expected to move ahead with the requirement, as it had concluded a deal for six Lockheed Martin C-130Js in early 2008.
"We received the RFI in 2008 and have now responded," says Boeing Military Aircraft president Chris Chadwick. "We expect to engage in further discussions with India and believe that a request for proposals would come out soon."
The C-17 has been ordered by Australia, Canada, the UK, Qatar and a consortium of NATO members, as well as the USAF.
12/02/09 Siva Govindasamy/Flight International
Indian Aerospace Industry Among the Fastest Growing in the world
Bangalore: Minister of State for Defence Mr M M Pallam Raju, released a report titled " Changing Dynamics – India's Aerospace Industry" on the second day of "Aero India 2009" organised by Defence Exhibition Organisation of Ministry of Defence in association with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).This is the first such report on the industry. It gives a snapshot of the current scenario, opportunities, challenges and the direction for the future. The report was prepared with the joint efforts of CII and PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC). Lack of any credible benchmarks and authenticated figures on the Aerospace Industry in Indiaare the main drivers for CII to initiate and bring out the report. The report documents the capabilities of Aerospace manufacturing and Maintenance Repair Overhaul (MRO) industry.
The report clearly states that the process of transformation has begun and Indian Aerospace industry players can look forward to take advantage of the new opportunities emerging from global scenario.
Releasing the report Mr M M Pallam Raju said, though Aero India in Bangaloreand Def Expo in Delhishowcase the capabilities and provide leads to emerging opportunities, there has been no comprehensive data till now which can be used by an entrepreneur to make their investment plans in the sector. "This report has not only filled that gap but also has given the directions to approach the market," he said.
Indian Aerospace Industry consists of Civil and Defence segments. The former is driven by general industrial growth and the increase in air travelers whereas the latter is driven by threats around the country and the need to modernize the armed forces.
Though currently the Indian Aerospace Industry is primarily driven by Government and PSUs, there are opportunities in public as well as private sectors in the entire life cycle from designing to building. Indian Aerospace Industry is one of the fastest growing aerospace markets in the world and has been attracting major global aerospace companies across the globe. OEMs are moving from vertically integrated manufacturing to design and systems integration.
"Indian aerospace is one of the fastest-growing aerospace markets in the world driven by continued economic growth resulting in growing passenger traffic and domestic aircraft demand. Indiais poised to become a manufacturing destination. The key drivers include liberal investment policies in civil aviation and defence, a proactive defence offset policy, a strong manufacturing base, cost advantages, a well educated talent pool, global competitiveness in IT and an attractive special economic zones law. It also has the potential to become a MRO destination due to labour cost competitiveness, availability of specialist capabilities and its locational advantages," says the report.
12/02/09 PRESS RELEASE/Aero India
The report clearly states that the process of transformation has begun and Indian Aerospace industry players can look forward to take advantage of the new opportunities emerging from global scenario.
Releasing the report Mr M M Pallam Raju said, though Aero India in Bangaloreand Def Expo in Delhishowcase the capabilities and provide leads to emerging opportunities, there has been no comprehensive data till now which can be used by an entrepreneur to make their investment plans in the sector. "This report has not only filled that gap but also has given the directions to approach the market," he said.
Indian Aerospace Industry consists of Civil and Defence segments. The former is driven by general industrial growth and the increase in air travelers whereas the latter is driven by threats around the country and the need to modernize the armed forces.
Though currently the Indian Aerospace Industry is primarily driven by Government and PSUs, there are opportunities in public as well as private sectors in the entire life cycle from designing to building. Indian Aerospace Industry is one of the fastest growing aerospace markets in the world and has been attracting major global aerospace companies across the globe. OEMs are moving from vertically integrated manufacturing to design and systems integration.
"Indian aerospace is one of the fastest-growing aerospace markets in the world driven by continued economic growth resulting in growing passenger traffic and domestic aircraft demand. Indiais poised to become a manufacturing destination. The key drivers include liberal investment policies in civil aviation and defence, a proactive defence offset policy, a strong manufacturing base, cost advantages, a well educated talent pool, global competitiveness in IT and an attractive special economic zones law. It also has the potential to become a MRO destination due to labour cost competitiveness, availability of specialist capabilities and its locational advantages," says the report.
12/02/09 PRESS RELEASE/Aero India
Unused airstrips a security threat, says Air Chief
Bangalore: Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal F H Major on Thursday said unused airstrips in the country posed a serious security threat and appealed to the state government to provide them adequate security.
Major told reporters at Aero India that these airstrips, which number upto 500, could be used by terrorists to operate small aircraft.
“The unused airstrips can be used for not so honest purposes and being a state subject, the Home Ministry has asked the state governments to secure them,” he said.
With India’s air defence surveillance a bit weak and IAF having a few glitches at low-level radar coverage, threat perception should be viewed seriously.
Admitting that IAF squadron strength was below sanctioned strength, he said at the moment, the squadron strength is 34 as against sanctioned strength of thirty-nine-and-half.
He also said IAF would like fewer types of aircraft instead of a diversified fleet as in the case now.
13/02/09 ExpressBuzz
Major told reporters at Aero India that these airstrips, which number upto 500, could be used by terrorists to operate small aircraft.
“The unused airstrips can be used for not so honest purposes and being a state subject, the Home Ministry has asked the state governments to secure them,” he said.
With India’s air defence surveillance a bit weak and IAF having a few glitches at low-level radar coverage, threat perception should be viewed seriously.
Admitting that IAF squadron strength was below sanctioned strength, he said at the moment, the squadron strength is 34 as against sanctioned strength of thirty-nine-and-half.
He also said IAF would like fewer types of aircraft instead of a diversified fleet as in the case now.
13/02/09 ExpressBuzz
When I flew a combat aircraft
Bangalore: On Day 2 of Aero India 2009, I flew a Gripen combat aircraft. It wasn't too tough with pilot Jonas Jeppsson explaining the basics.
Once in the cockpit, it’s just a matter of pulling the joystick and I make the sky my destination. What do I know about flying? Nothing. But once in the SAAB Gripen cockpit simulator, it is about a few buttons here and a series of mysterious numbers all around showing the position, altitude, route, target, speed and other incomprehensible things.
As I hop into the cockpit and settle down, Jeppsson begins to explain the flight details but half of it is beyond me. But soon, I position the fighter for take-off and it begins to cruise down the runway. As I pick up speed, somewhere from behind I hear the roar of an aircraft. Maybe, it was just one of the real ones outside, making a sortie. The pilot releases a lever and I pull up the joystick and the GS 39 CD flies away, not too straight, but at high speed nevertheless. I am soon experiencing a 7G force. In real life at this pressure, without the required training, I would've heard my bones getting crushed.
I see the green fields below me, some indistinct piece of land far below. As I get a grip of things, Jeppsson makes me turn a loop and I am soon flying the wrong-side up. Then, I begin to cruise over a water body and just then, a wrong move and as I am about to crash, a red line shows up. The pilot steadies the aircraft and it's back on track.
As this simulator is of a combat aircraft, on the left panel is the electronic warfare system, the altitude, speed meters and the route with position on the middle screen and radar details on the other side. Another pilot explains if a target has to be followed, it would show up on one of the screens.
13/02/09 Deepa Bhasthi/Times of India
Once in the cockpit, it’s just a matter of pulling the joystick and I make the sky my destination. What do I know about flying? Nothing. But once in the SAAB Gripen cockpit simulator, it is about a few buttons here and a series of mysterious numbers all around showing the position, altitude, route, target, speed and other incomprehensible things.
As I hop into the cockpit and settle down, Jeppsson begins to explain the flight details but half of it is beyond me. But soon, I position the fighter for take-off and it begins to cruise down the runway. As I pick up speed, somewhere from behind I hear the roar of an aircraft. Maybe, it was just one of the real ones outside, making a sortie. The pilot releases a lever and I pull up the joystick and the GS 39 CD flies away, not too straight, but at high speed nevertheless. I am soon experiencing a 7G force. In real life at this pressure, without the required training, I would've heard my bones getting crushed.
I see the green fields below me, some indistinct piece of land far below. As I get a grip of things, Jeppsson makes me turn a loop and I am soon flying the wrong-side up. Then, I begin to cruise over a water body and just then, a wrong move and as I am about to crash, a red line shows up. The pilot steadies the aircraft and it's back on track.
As this simulator is of a combat aircraft, on the left panel is the electronic warfare system, the altitude, speed meters and the route with position on the middle screen and radar details on the other side. Another pilot explains if a target has to be followed, it would show up on one of the screens.
13/02/09 Deepa Bhasthi/Times of India
Phoren delegates are head-turners in Indian togs
Bangalore: A splash of local flavour. Perhaps that was the subtle agenda. Or maybe the “phoren” women just wanted a taste of the Indian fashion curry. At the Aero India, several delegates were seen walking around in stilettos and Indian clothes, from the traditional salwar kameez to the sari draped in the most innovative fashion.
A tall Russian delegate with flaming orange hair and gold-embroidered sky blue saree that she draped around like a shawl, was an interesting sight among the crowd, the MiGs, the Mantis and the Sukhois.
In killer high heels, the Russian says `no' to a `Do you speak English?' query. Moments later, a group of young men approach her for a picture. This prompts others and soon, there is a line of people wanting to be photographed with her. The Russian prances about and eyes turn.
There were several others in salwar kameez. A major company was also playing a video of foreigners in Indian clothes performing to a Hindi movie song. Most aviation companies that are participating in the show have their female employees at the stalls, and many visitors were seen taking pictures with them. And they had no qualms obliging.
Pilots were there in uniform, getting pictures of themselves taken and also with visitors. From mobile phone cameras to high-end camera models, many at the show were shutter-bug happy, posing with the aircraft and the men who ruled them on the skies. Taking to the skies has been one of human civilization's `out there' fantasies. In a little way, the show at Yelahanka was fulfilling for everyone, in their own different ways.
13/02/09 Times of India
A tall Russian delegate with flaming orange hair and gold-embroidered sky blue saree that she draped around like a shawl, was an interesting sight among the crowd, the MiGs, the Mantis and the Sukhois.
In killer high heels, the Russian says `no' to a `Do you speak English?' query. Moments later, a group of young men approach her for a picture. This prompts others and soon, there is a line of people wanting to be photographed with her. The Russian prances about and eyes turn.
There were several others in salwar kameez. A major company was also playing a video of foreigners in Indian clothes performing to a Hindi movie song. Most aviation companies that are participating in the show have their female employees at the stalls, and many visitors were seen taking pictures with them. And they had no qualms obliging.
Pilots were there in uniform, getting pictures of themselves taken and also with visitors. From mobile phone cameras to high-end camera models, many at the show were shutter-bug happy, posing with the aircraft and the men who ruled them on the skies. Taking to the skies has been one of human civilization's `out there' fantasies. In a little way, the show at Yelahanka was fulfilling for everyone, in their own different ways.
13/02/09 Times of India
HAL gets back 450 of its former employees
Bangalore: Recession seems to be working positively in a way for the State-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, which says it has got back 450 of its former employees after it advertised jobs for them.
Also, some 50,000 candidates flocked for 250 vacancies at the defence major recently. “If you want to work with us, you have a 1-in-250 chance,” the HAL Chairman, Mr Ashok Baweja, said at a news briefing at Aero India here on Thursday.
“We were desperate for people with more experience and when we advertised, we got 450 people back. You can find them manning our joint ventures with Edgewood, Samtel and Elbit Systems,” he said.
The second PSU pay committee’s recommendations did the trick, according to Mr Sanjiv Sahi, Director, HR. The committee late last year recommended 30-40 per cent upward revision of pay scales for PSU staff.
HAL has 34,000 staff and will keep it at that level. People requirements for its large and emerging jobs can anyway be met by outsourcing, Mr Baweja said.
13/02/09 Business Line
Also, some 50,000 candidates flocked for 250 vacancies at the defence major recently. “If you want to work with us, you have a 1-in-250 chance,” the HAL Chairman, Mr Ashok Baweja, said at a news briefing at Aero India here on Thursday.
“We were desperate for people with more experience and when we advertised, we got 450 people back. You can find them manning our joint ventures with Edgewood, Samtel and Elbit Systems,” he said.
The second PSU pay committee’s recommendations did the trick, according to Mr Sanjiv Sahi, Director, HR. The committee late last year recommended 30-40 per cent upward revision of pay scales for PSU staff.
HAL has 34,000 staff and will keep it at that level. People requirements for its large and emerging jobs can anyway be met by outsourcing, Mr Baweja said.
13/02/09 Business Line
USIBC leads large mission to Aero India
Bangalore: Several top U.S. defense companies are taking part in a U.S.-India Business Council delegation at the Aero India 2009 defense conference.
The USIBC is an organization working to strengthen ties between the United States and India on defense technologies. The USIBC executive defense mission to Aero India 2009, taking place in Bangalore through Sunday, marks the ninth year for the growing collaboration between India and U.S. defense companies.
Officials say the executive defense mission is being led by Vicki Panhuise of Honeywell, retired Gen. Chuck Wald from L-3 Communications and retired Gen. Bruce Scott from ITT Defense International, along with retired Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kohler from Boeing.
"The impressive turnout of U.S. companies on this executive mission speaks volumes as to our member companies' commitment to partner with India," Ron Somers, USIBC president, said in a statement.
12/02/09 UPI
The USIBC is an organization working to strengthen ties between the United States and India on defense technologies. The USIBC executive defense mission to Aero India 2009, taking place in Bangalore through Sunday, marks the ninth year for the growing collaboration between India and U.S. defense companies.
Officials say the executive defense mission is being led by Vicki Panhuise of Honeywell, retired Gen. Chuck Wald from L-3 Communications and retired Gen. Bruce Scott from ITT Defense International, along with retired Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kohler from Boeing.
"The impressive turnout of U.S. companies on this executive mission speaks volumes as to our member companies' commitment to partner with India," Ron Somers, USIBC president, said in a statement.
12/02/09 UPI
Falcon to carry corporate honchos
Mumbai: Pune figures in the list of six cities from where orders have been placed for Dassault Falcon 7Xm, one of the best selling business jets. The plane would be displayed at Aero India-2009 and six aircrafts would be delivered within the next three months in Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, Hyderabad and Pune.
Dassault has the highest market share in the premium business, large cabin jet segment in India. To support this growing fleet, Falcon Customer Service recently relocated Falcon's Customer Service Manager for India, Aadil Goulamaly, to Mumbai, following the opening of a new spares distribution centre in Mumbai in mid 2008.
2008 was a strong year for Falcon sales despite the global economic downturn. The order totalled 500 aircrafts, almost half of them for the Falcon 7X.
12/02/09 Sakaaltimes
Dassault has the highest market share in the premium business, large cabin jet segment in India. To support this growing fleet, Falcon Customer Service recently relocated Falcon's Customer Service Manager for India, Aadil Goulamaly, to Mumbai, following the opening of a new spares distribution centre in Mumbai in mid 2008.
2008 was a strong year for Falcon sales despite the global economic downturn. The order totalled 500 aircrafts, almost half of them for the Falcon 7X.
12/02/09 Sakaaltimes
India, Russia to jointly develop multi-role transport aircraft
New Delhi: India and Russia have decided to set up a 50:50 joint venture (JV) in the next few months to develop a multi-role transport aircraft at an estimated cost of USD 600 million.
Announcing this Thursday in India's southern city of Bangalore, President and Chairman of United Aircraft Corporation (of Russia) Alexey I. Fedorov said his country will soon identify the firm which would work along with Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to develop the aircraft.
"Within a few months, the joint venture will be in place," Indian wire agency United News of India (UNI) quoted him as saying.
The jointly developed transport aircraft would be inducted into the Russian and Indian Air Force, he said on the sidelines of the ongoing South Asia's biggest airshow in Bangalore "Aero India 2009."
12/02/09 Khabrein
Announcing this Thursday in India's southern city of Bangalore, President and Chairman of United Aircraft Corporation (of Russia) Alexey I. Fedorov said his country will soon identify the firm which would work along with Bangalore-based Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to develop the aircraft.
"Within a few months, the joint venture will be in place," Indian wire agency United News of India (UNI) quoted him as saying.
The jointly developed transport aircraft would be inducted into the Russian and Indian Air Force, he said on the sidelines of the ongoing South Asia's biggest airshow in Bangalore "Aero India 2009."
12/02/09 Khabrein
Nishant UAV to be handed over to Indian Army soon
The country’s premier agency in the aviation sector, Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) will be handing over NISHANT, it’s first indigenously made Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to Indian Army very soon. NISHANT, which means ‘end of darkness’ is a tactical UAV and can be employed in tactical areas in a local domain. “The limited series production is specially prepared for Indian Army as per their requirements. The confirmatory trials of NISHANT are planned and it is ready for delivery”, Project Director, ADE, Shri G Srinivasa Murthy said.
ADE has also embarked upon an ambitious programme to build another UAV with Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) that has multi-mission capability. RUSTOM, named after Rustom Damania, who was instrumental in conceptualizing the idea, will have 300 km range with 200 kg payload. According to Shri Murthy, RUSTOM will be in a flying stage in about 3 years. With an endurance level of more than 24 hours, this UAV can be used by all three armed forces. RUSTOM can be useful in reconnaissance and surveillance, target acquisition and designation, communications relay and signal intelligence. ADE has acquired about 4200 acres of land in Chitragurga district in Karnataka which is being developed for test range only for UAV.
The tactical highlights of NISHANT include multi-mission day/night capability using advance payloads, jam resistant command link and digital down link.
Prototypes of both UAVs are displayed at the ongoing Aero India 2009 at Yelahanka air base in Bangaluru.
12/02/09 Web News Wire
ADE has also embarked upon an ambitious programme to build another UAV with Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) that has multi-mission capability. RUSTOM, named after Rustom Damania, who was instrumental in conceptualizing the idea, will have 300 km range with 200 kg payload. According to Shri Murthy, RUSTOM will be in a flying stage in about 3 years. With an endurance level of more than 24 hours, this UAV can be used by all three armed forces. RUSTOM can be useful in reconnaissance and surveillance, target acquisition and designation, communications relay and signal intelligence. ADE has acquired about 4200 acres of land in Chitragurga district in Karnataka which is being developed for test range only for UAV.
The tactical highlights of NISHANT include multi-mission day/night capability using advance payloads, jam resistant command link and digital down link.
Prototypes of both UAVs are displayed at the ongoing Aero India 2009 at Yelahanka air base in Bangaluru.
12/02/09 Web News Wire
Indian air force to receive BrahMos cruise missiles in 2012
Bangalore: The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile will be commissioned by the Indian air force in 2012, the head of the BrahMos Aerospace company said on Thursday.
Established in 1998, BrahMos Aerospace, a joint Indian-Russian venture, produces and markets BrahMos supersonic missiles, whose sea-based and land-based versions have been successfully tested and put into service with the Indian army and navy.
"The [BrahMos] missile will be put in service in 2012," the company's CEO, Sivathanu Pillai said, presenting the airborne version of the missile at the Aero India-2009 air show in India.
The BrahMos missile has a range of 290 km (180 miles) and can carry a conventional warhead of up to 300 kg (660 pounds). It can effectively engage ground targets from an altitude as low as 10 meters (30 feet) and has a top speed of Mach 2.8, which is about three times faster than the U.S.-made subsonic Tomahawk cruise missile.
"For the airborne version...we had to reduce the mass of the missile and to ensure aerodynamic stability after its separation from the aircraft. The air-launched platform has its own initial speed during the launch of the missile, so we have reduced the size of the booster. Now the missile is ready," Pillai told RIA Novosti in an exclusive interview last year.
The Indian Air Force had chosen Russian-made SU-30 MKI Flanker-H multirole fighter as a trial platform for the missile, but it will take up to four years to complete the upgrade of the aircraft so that it can carry and launch BrahMos missiles, the official added.
12/02/09 RIAN.ru
Established in 1998, BrahMos Aerospace, a joint Indian-Russian venture, produces and markets BrahMos supersonic missiles, whose sea-based and land-based versions have been successfully tested and put into service with the Indian army and navy.
"The [BrahMos] missile will be put in service in 2012," the company's CEO, Sivathanu Pillai said, presenting the airborne version of the missile at the Aero India-2009 air show in India.
The BrahMos missile has a range of 290 km (180 miles) and can carry a conventional warhead of up to 300 kg (660 pounds). It can effectively engage ground targets from an altitude as low as 10 meters (30 feet) and has a top speed of Mach 2.8, which is about three times faster than the U.S.-made subsonic Tomahawk cruise missile.
"For the airborne version...we had to reduce the mass of the missile and to ensure aerodynamic stability after its separation from the aircraft. The air-launched platform has its own initial speed during the launch of the missile, so we have reduced the size of the booster. Now the missile is ready," Pillai told RIA Novosti in an exclusive interview last year.
The Indian Air Force had chosen Russian-made SU-30 MKI Flanker-H multirole fighter as a trial platform for the missile, but it will take up to four years to complete the upgrade of the aircraft so that it can carry and launch BrahMos missiles, the official added.
12/02/09 RIAN.ru
BEML targets Rs 100cr orders from offset business
The company has set up a new business division, Aerospace Manufacturing Division, to manufacture a host of components and aggregates.
According to V Mohan, director (defence business), BEML, the company is looking at a business worth Rs 100 crore in the next two years from the offset business opportunities.
"We are already in the business of making ground support equipment like aircraft towing tractors, automatic weapon loaders and crash fire tenders. We want to enlarge the product base in this sector by getting into the manufacture of various aerospace components and aggregates as we have a necessary machine shop and equipment ready at KGF and Mysore units," he said
Talking to Business Standard on the sidelines of Aero India 2009, here today, he said the company is currently in talks with several aerospace companies and is likely to enter into memorandum of understanding with them shortly.
"There is a big opportunity available as part of the offset business and we want to explore them as part of our diversification plans," he said.
BEML wants to manufacture a wide range of ground support equipment, small structures, gear and transmission aggregates among others. "The location for setting up a new manufacturing complex for aerospace components will be decided based on what type of components will be awarded to us by the customers," he said.
The company has recently exported 5 units of aircraft towing tractors to Honduras worth Rs 1.5 crore and is expecting more export orders.
12/02/09 Mahesh Kulkarni/Business Standard
According to V Mohan, director (defence business), BEML, the company is looking at a business worth Rs 100 crore in the next two years from the offset business opportunities.
"We are already in the business of making ground support equipment like aircraft towing tractors, automatic weapon loaders and crash fire tenders. We want to enlarge the product base in this sector by getting into the manufacture of various aerospace components and aggregates as we have a necessary machine shop and equipment ready at KGF and Mysore units," he said
Talking to Business Standard on the sidelines of Aero India 2009, here today, he said the company is currently in talks with several aerospace companies and is likely to enter into memorandum of understanding with them shortly.
"There is a big opportunity available as part of the offset business and we want to explore them as part of our diversification plans," he said.
BEML wants to manufacture a wide range of ground support equipment, small structures, gear and transmission aggregates among others. "The location for setting up a new manufacturing complex for aerospace components will be decided based on what type of components will be awarded to us by the customers," he said.
The company has recently exported 5 units of aircraft towing tractors to Honduras worth Rs 1.5 crore and is expecting more export orders.
12/02/09 Mahesh Kulkarni/Business Standard
India unveils plans for LCA 'Mark 2'
"The LCA Mark 2 will have a bigger and more powerful engine, the fuselage will be changed, it will have bigger wings, and the aircraft will be more aerodynamic," says Hindustan Aeronautics chairman Ashok Baweja, whose company manufactures the fighter. "There are upgrades down the line in every global fighter programme and that is the case with the Tejas as well."
He adds that HAL will deliver 40 LCAs to the Indian Air Force in the Mark I configuration - 20 in the fighter configuration and 20 in the trainer configuration. The IAF is expected to eventually order up to 220 LCAs and the Indian navy another 20, and the remaining aircraft will be in the Mark II configuration.
A naval version of the LCA will fly within a year, although this version of the aircraft still faces numerous challenges, says Baweja.
The Tejas, which was developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency, has been in the works for more than a decade. It has faced several delays due to problems with the aircraft's design and the development of an indigenous engine. The IAF refused to commit to the LCA until 2003, and has only ordered 20 due to worries about the aircraft's capabilities.
12/02/09 Flight International
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