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Good News

Gaurav Tested Successfully: India’s Glide Bomb Hits 100 KM Mark!

In a thunderous display of precision and power, India has once again etched its name in the skies of innovation. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted release trials of its indigenously developed Long-Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), aptly named Gaurav, a symbol of national pride and technological prowess.Between April 8 and 10, from the belly of the mighty Su-30 MKI, Gaurav soared into action, striking its land target on an island with an astonishing range of nearly 100 kilometers and pin-point accuracy. Not just a bomb, but a message,  India builds, India dares, India delivers.Gaurav: Born from Indian Soil, Designed for Precision Warfare! Gaurav is not merely a weapon, it's an engineering marvel sculpted by Indian intellect and ambition. Weighing in at 1,000 kilograms, this long-range glide bomb fuses brute force with brainy navigation, guided by a hybrid GPS system that dances through the skies toward its target with deadly precision. Designed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI), in synergy with the Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) and the Integrated Test Range (ITR), this bomb doesn’t just glide, it commands the air, turning distant threats into nothing more than coordinates. With this, India takes a formidable leap toward next-gen warfare, on its own terms.Forged in Collaboration, Powered by Indian Industry!What makes Gaurav a masterpiece isn't just its range or accuracy, it’s the spirit of unity that brought it to life. In a brilliant orchestration of public and private prowess, DRDO teamed up with defence titans like Adani Defence Systems & Technologies, Bharat Forge, and a network of visionary MSMEs. The Centre for Military Airworthiness & Certification (CEMILAC) and the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA) stitched together a safety net of quality and certification, ensuring Gaurav doesn’t just fly, it flies flawlessly. This is the face of Atmanirbhar Bharat, bold, brilliant, and building a legacy.Gaurav Lights the Path to India’s Aerial Dominance!With the successful release trials completed, Gaurav now stands on the edge of full induction into the Indian Air Force,  and with it, India’s skies have never looked more secure. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the triumph, declaring it a monumental step in strengthening India’s aerial supremacy.  First tested in August 2023, Gaurav now rises as a symbol of what India is truly capable of: creating cutting-edge, homegrown firepower that rewrites the rules of defence strategy. This is not just a bomb. This is Bharat’s roar, soaring, striking, and soaring again. 

12 Apr 2025
Good News

Tejas Jet Successfully Flies with India-Made Digital Flight Control System

The Tejas light combat jet, a home-grown single-engine multi-role fighter aircraft, has achieved a significant milestone with the successful integration and flight of an indigenous digital fly-by-wire flight control computer. This development marks a major step towards enhancing self-reliance in India's defense capabilities. Successful Integration of Indigenous Digital Flight Control System The defense ministry announced that the Tejas aircraft's prototype LSP7 successfully flew with the integration of the indigenously developed digital fly-by-wire flight control computer (DFCC) on February 19. The DFCC, developed by the Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, is a crucial component of the Tejas-Mk1A version. Implications for the Tejas Aircraft Program With the successful integration and flight of the digital flight control system, the Tejas-Mk1A program takes a significant leap forward. All critical parameters and performance of the flight controls were found satisfactory during the maiden flight, which was piloted by Wing Commander Siddarth Singh KMJ (Retd) of the National Flight Test Centre. Enhanced Features of Tejas MK1A The improved version of the Tejas aircraft, the Tejas MK1A, incorporates several advanced features, including an advanced mission computer, high-performance digital flight control computer (DFCC Mk1A), smart multi-function displays (SMFD), advanced electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, advanced self-protection jammer, and electronic warfare suit. These enhancements are aimed at further strengthening the capabilities of the Tejas fleet. Promoting Self-reliance and Reducing Imports Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the joint efforts of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Indian Air Force (IAF), the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), and the industries involved in the successful integration and flight test of the digital flight control system. He emphasized that this achievement is a significant step towards achieving self-reliance (atmanirbharata), reducing dependency on special imports, and promoting indigenous technological capabilities. Tejas as the Mainstay of the Indian Air Force The Tejas aircraft is poised to become the mainstay of the Indian Air Force (IAF). With the operationalization of Tejas LCA Mk1 and the ongoing development of the advanced Tejas MK1A, the IAF is strengthening its fleet with indigenous fighter aircraft. The procurement of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, along with the initial approval for an additional batch of 97 Tejas jets, further underscores the IAF's commitment to this home-grown aircraft. Future Prospects and Achieving Self-sufficiency The successful integration and flight of the indigenous digital flight control system on the Tejas aircraft pave the way for future advancements and technological innovations in India's defense sector. By reducing dependency on foreign imports and promoting indigenous research and development, India is taking significant strides towards achieving self-sufficiency in defense capabilities. This development not only enhances the capabilities of the Tejas aircraft but also showcases India's progress in developing advanced technology for its defense needs. With the Tejas program gaining momentum, India is moving closer to its vision of becoming self-reliant (atmanirbhar) in defense manufacturing and reducing its dependence on foreign imports.

26 Feb 2024
Good News

From Sudan to Mumbai: The Daring Woman Who Flew the Mighty C-17 in a Historic Mission

It was a thrilling moment for the Indian Air Force (IAF) as Flight Lieutenant Har Raj Kaur Boparai expertly landed the mighty C-17 aircraft in Mumbai on Thursday. What made this feat all the more incredible was that Boparai is the only woman officer in the entire squadron of the C-17. Her successful landing came after completing a daring evacuation mission from strife-torn Sudan, as part of the government's heroic #OperationKaveri initiative to bring back its citizens from the war-torn nation. The IAF aircraft brought 246 Indian nationals back home safely, and the images of the evacuees were shared by External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Twitter. The total number of Indians brought back from Sudan under this initiative stands at 606. Flt Lt H R K Boparai's accomplishment is noteworthy, as she is the only woman officer in the squadron of the C-17 aircraft. The Hindon Air Force Station-based squadron is responsible for carrying out critical missions and tasks assigned by the Indian government, such as transportation of troops, supplies, and equipment. Boparai's accomplishment is proof of the progress that women are making in traditionally male-dominated fields. The Indian Air Force has been actively working towards gender equality in recent years, with more and more women taking on combat roles. Boparai's achievement is a step in the right direction and serves as an inspiration for women across the country. As India continues to work towards bringing its citizens back from conflict-ridden areas, it is heartening to see women like Boparai breaking barriers and making history. The Indian Air Force and the country at large have much to be proud of in this regard.

28 Apr 2023
Good News

India Rushes to Aid: Relief Teams and Supplies Sent to Turkey and Syria

India has shown its solidarity and support for Turkey and Syria following a devastating earthquake that killed thousands and flattened buildings. On Monday, India immediately sent search and rescue teams, medical teams, and relief materials to Turkey at the instructions of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. India also sent six tonnes of relief material, including life-saving medicines and medical items, to Syria in a transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force. Two C-17 Globemaster military transport aircraft carrying search and rescue personnel, specialized dog squads, drilling machines, relief materials, and medicines landed in Adana, Turkey in the morning. A second IAF plane followed later in the day. A 99-member team from the Indian Army's field hospital has also been dispatched to set up a 30-bed field hospital equipped with medical specialists and necessary equipment. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar tweeted to express India's solidarity and conveyed the country's support to Syria. The Turkish ambassador Firat Sunel appreciated India's assistance and called it an example of good friendship. India's quick response to offering assistance to Turkey and Syria shows the country's commitment to helping those in need during difficult times. With the dispatch of rescue teams and equipment, India is hoping to aid in the rescue efforts and support the earthquake-hit countries in their hour of need.

9 Feb 2023
Good News

Indian Air Force Gets a Boost As DRDO Hands Over Netra (AEW&CS) System

The Defence Research Development Organisation (DRDO) on Wednesday, handed over the second Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEW&CS) system to the Indian Air Force. Termed as India’s eyes in the sky, Netra gives a boost to India’s airborne surveillance capability. Modern Warfare The AESA radar is indigenously developed by DRDO and is mounted on an Embraer 145 aircraft. It was handed over to the Western Air Command Chief at the Bhatinda airbase. In present times, when countries like Pakistan and China are strengthening their defence capabilities, this aircraft will help to address India’s capability asymmetry with these countries. In fact, it was the Netra system that earlier helped India plan and executes the Balakot airstrikes deep within Pakistani territory. Strengthening Defensive Capability India already has three Israeli Falcon AEWACS systems in the IAF fleet and this Netra aircraft will help to complement them. There are reports that India is planning to procure  2 more AWACS systems as it is estimated that India will need at least 20 of such surveillance systems to develop adequate defensive and offensive capability in the Eastern and Western fronts which are guarded by the IAF. Image Source: Rediff.com

12 Sep 2019
Good News

A Major Boost to Indian Air Force As It Inducts Eight World’s Most Advanced Attack Helicopters

The Indian AirForce got a major boost on Tuesday when it inducted eight Apache AH-64E Guardian attack helicopters into its fleet. Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa termed the Apache as the most fierce attack helicopter and said that it will replace the aging Mi-35 fleet of the Indian Air Force. Apache – A Deadly Platform The Apache AH-64E has a speed of 279 km/hour and can carry a payload of six tons. Its strength lies in the fact that it can integrate the cyber-centric warfare scenario with the dynamic situations on the battlefield making it very lethal. Its manufacturer Boeing Defense, Space &Security (US) stated that the Indian version is equipped with enhanced performance, joint digital operability, improved survivability and cognitive decision aiding. Modern technology The helicopter is built with modern technology which enables the pilot to control unmanned aerial platforms and fly them from their own aircraft. The Apache is equipped with sophisticated sensors that can spot enemies even at night. The advanced technology enables the pilot to respond to enemy positions on the ground and also to transmit information to ground soldiers so that they can attack the enemy positions. The Apaches inducted in the Indian fleet is custom made to suit Indian conditions and can be operated in mountainous regions. The Apaches are a boon to the Indian Air Force as they will facilitate operations in hostile airspace with ground threats.   

3 Sep 2019
Good News

Indian Defence Forces Gets A Boost

The indigenously-developed, lightweight 'glide bomb' was successfully test fired by India at Chandipur in Odisha on Friday. Earlier three tests of the weapon with different release conditions and ranges were conducted and all were successful, said a defence ministry statement. The glide bomb, also called  'smart anti-airfield weapon' (SAAW) will soon be inducted into the armed forces, said S Christopher, chairman of DRDO. Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman congratulated the DRDO scientists and the IAF for the successful tests. SAAW has been developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation's Research Centre Imarat (RCI), other labs and the Indian Air Force. According to a defence ministry statement, the guided bomb which was released from an Air Force aircraft and guided through precision navigation system, reached the targets at greater than 70 km range, with high accuracies. SAAW is a 120 kg smart weapon that is capable of hitting targets with high precision up to a range of 100 km. The long-range will allow the IAF to easily hit targets across the border without endangering the pilot’s life and putting the aircraft at risk. One advantage of this bomb is that it can be easily integrated into the varied types of fighter jets with the IAF. The weapon can be used to destroy bunkers, runways, aircraft hangers and other reinforced structures.   

5 Nov 2017
Good News

IAF showcases its wares and skills to inspire students

As part of the Independence Day celebrations, the Indian Air Force has set up its wares and skills for display at the Sulur Air Base in Coimbatore. Around 10, 000 students came to the Air Force base to witness the static and air display which was exhibited to inspire the students and the general public to join the forces. R Adarsh, a class 7 student who dreams of becoming an aircraft design engineer couldn’t take his eyes off the aircraft on display which aroused his curiosity. He and his friends bombarded the air squadron leaders and lieutenants with questions. Another student who is studying in class 5, Shivansh K, said that although his father works with the IAF, this is the first time he saw the helicopters and airplanes. He had earlier seen them only in movies, so to see them in real was a great experience for him. Another student, Bipin Chandru loved reading about aircrafts and wanted to know more.  He believes that every aircraft is purchased for a particular purpose and he enjoyed gathering information about the engineering behind each. He asked several questions regarding the weight, usage, purpose and engineering aspects to the administrators, pilots and engineers who were ready with all the answers. The MI-17 V-5 helicopter that was used during the Chennai floods for rescue operations was the star of the show. One of the squadrons gave information about another aircraft, Antonov – 32 and said that its main purpose was to deliver food and other necessary items to the forces and civilians in the Andaman and Nicobar islands. The students and visitors also attended interactive sessions with IAF officers who explained to them the various operations of the IAF.  

11 Aug 2017
Good News

Star Citizens

Fearless & Flying High: Meet IAF’s First Woman Jaguar Pilot!

Tanushka Singh grew up surrounded by stories of courage—tales of valor shared at the dinner table, memories of service woven into her childhood. With her father and grandfather in the armed forces, duty and discipline were second nature to her. But even as she admired their dedication, she never imagined that one day, she would carve her own place in history.Today, Flying Officer Tanushka Singh is not just soaring through the skies—she’s breaking barriers. As the first woman pilot to be permanently inducted into the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Jaguar fighter jet squadron, she is redefining what’s possible, proving that no dream is too big and no sky too high for those who dare to chase it.Her grandfather, Captain D.B. Singh, a retired Army officer, and her father, retired Lt. Colonel Ajay Pratap Singh, instilled in her the values of discipline, perseverance, and commitment. She initially aspired to join the Indian Army, but fate had bigger plans. Upon learning about the opportunities available for women in the Indian Air Force, Tanushka shifted her focus to the skies, embracing a challenge that very few had undertaken before.The Making of a TrailblazerHer journey to the cockpit of one of IAF’s most formidable fighter jets was anything but easy. Tanushka trained rigorously at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Telangana, where she honed her skills and prepared for the demands of a combat pilot. She then underwent specialized training on the Hawk MK 132 aircraft, a crucial step before flying the Jaguar—a key tactical strike aircraft renowned for its precision attack capabilities.While other women have flown the Jaguar during training, Tanushka’s permanent induction into the squadron is a first. Her achievement marks a new dawn for aspiring women aviators in India.Tanushka’s family could not contain their pride as the news of her achievement spread. Her grandfather shared how the phone hasn’t stopped ringing with congratulatory calls from well-wishers. In a heartwarming video call, Tanushka expressed her gratitude, but due to security protocols, she could only share limited details. However, her grandfather couldn’t resist expressing his emotions, giving due credit to his wife, Urmila Singh, for her support and sacrifices that helped their family reach this milestone.A Symbol of Change and ProgressThe inclusion of women in combat roles within the Indian Air Force has been a gradual but steady process. Tanushka’s induction into the Jaguar squadron is a proof of the changing dynamics within the defense sector, emphasizing merit over gender. It serves as a symbol of hope for countless young girls who dream of defying stereotypes and pursuing careers in fields traditionally dominated by men.Women’s Day Week: Celebrating Boundless PotentialAs the world comes together to celebrate Women’s Day Week, Tanushka Singh’s journey is more than just a milestone—it’s a testament to how far women have come and how much further we can go. This week isn’t just about applause and recognition; it’s about pausing to reflect on the struggles, the battles fought in silence, and the glass ceilings that still need to be shattered.Tanushka’s story is a beacon of hope, proving that when women are given the right opportunities, they don’t just succeed—they soar. Her journey is a reminder to dream big, to challenge the norms, and to carve out spaces where none existed before. As we celebrate the achievements of women everywhere, let’s not just admire these stories—let us commit to fostering an environment where stories like Tanushka’s become the norm rather than the exception. 

7 Mar 2025
Star Citizens

India’s First Woman to Fly the Mighty LCA Tejas: Meet the Lady of the Skies!

Squadron Leader Mohana Singh has made history by becoming the first woman fighter pilot to join the Indian Air Force’s prestigious 18 'Flying Bullets' squadron. She now flies India’s indigenous LCA Tejas fighter jets, stationed at the Naliya air base near the Pakistan border. Her trailblazing career symbolizes not only her personal triumph but also the broader strides being made in integrating women into roles once reserved for men in India’s military.Women Pilots in the IAF: A Journey Through TimeThough women have been serving as pilots in the Indian Air Force (IAF) since 1991, their roles were restricted to flying helicopters and transport aircraft. It was only in 2016, with a significant policy change, that women were granted permission to pilot fighter jets. In June 2016, Mohana Singh, along with her colleagues Squadron Leader Bhawna Kanth and Squadron Leader Avni Chaturvedi, became part of this historic first batch of women fighter pilots in the IAF. This was a powerful move in the fight for gender equality in a highly male-dominated field, challenging stereotypes and demonstrating the increasing opportunities available to women in defense.The ‘Flying Bullets’ and the LCA TejasMohana Singh’s posting to the Flying Bullets squadron is particularly significant because of the squadron’s association with the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, an indigenously developed fighter jet under India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. The LCA Tejas, a product of the country’s defense manufacturing capabilities, is considered one of the finest examples of India’s military self-reliance.Stationed in the Gujarat sector near Pakistan’s border, the Flying Bullets squadron plays a crucial role in the defense of the nation.Source: Google ImagesMohana Singh's Military RootsBorn in Jhunjhunu district, Rajasthan, Mohana Singh comes from a proud military family. Her grandfather served as a flight gunner in the Aviation Research Centre, and her father is a warrant officer in the Indian Air Force. This legacy of service runs deep in her blood and has undoubtedly shaped her career path, driving her towards the skies.After flying MiG-21s early in her career, Mohana was recently posted to the LCA Tejas squadron. Known for its speed and agility, the MiG-21 Bison has a long and storied history in the IAF, but Mohana’s transition to the LCA Tejas marks her entry into a new phase of advanced combat flying. Recently, Mohana Singh participated in ‘Tarang Shakti,’ a military exercise in Jodhpur aimed at showcasing the synergy between India’s defense forces and promoting indigenous defense production. During this exercise, she was seen instructing the vice chiefs of the Indian Army and Navy on flying the LCA Tejas.The joint participation of the three branches of India’s military in Tarang Shakti was viewed as a bold statement supporting the ‘Make in India’ initiative. It demonstrated the nation’s commitment to self-reliance in defense manufacturing.Together with her fellow trailblazers, Squadron Leaders Bhawna Kanth and Avni Chaturvedi, Mohana Singh has paved the way for future generations of women to soar in roles that were once considered out of reach. Both Bhawna and Avni now fly the Su-30 MKI fighter jets, another cutting-edge aircraft in the Indian Air Force’s arsenal, marking the growing presence of women in critical defense positions.Mohana stands as a symbol of courage, determination, and the changing face of India’s defense forces.

19 Sep 2024
Star Citizens

Positive Reads

From Music To Service: Ashok Kumar Has Been Participating in the Republic Day Parade for the Past 26 Years!

Warrant Officer Ashok Kumar couldn’t be more excited. He has been participating in the Republic Day Parade for 26 years, leading the Indian Air Force Band contingent for 16 of those years. He is proud that his two younger brothers are also serving in the armed forces.  Ashok Kumar fondly recounted how he had good memories of playing some of his favorite tunes, such as 'Kadam Kadam Badhaye Ja' and 'Ae Mere Watan Ke Logon', as he marched past the saluting dais.  He explained that it was a tough selection process to join the band, as members had to be mentally and physically fit, and had to have a certain playing capacity. The music was written by qualified personnel from the Indian Air Force. The martial music played this year as the troops passed the saluting dais was composed by Flight Lieutenant L S Rupachandra and Master Warrant Officer J A George, VSM. Kumar also shared that the band had performed abroad, in places such as Finland, Germany, Malaysia, Singapore, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, and that he had led the Indian Air Force Band in the Beating Retreat Ceremony at Vijay Chowk to mark the end of the four-day Republic Day celebrations.  His daughter Rakhi Nagar shared her family's experience, saying that they kept a phone in hand to take pictures or record a video of him as he marched past the saluting dais. The family also loves to listen to him play the trumpet when he is home.  Ashok Kumar who has completed a course on drum majoring plays the bass drum, side drum, trumpet, and bugle. He revealed that earlier they marched to Western music, but today Indian marching tunes are employed instead. Warrant Officer Ashok Kumar's dream of joining the Defence Forces had come true and he was proud that his brothers have also joined him in this noble service to the Nation.

2 Feb 2023
Positive Reads

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