Lockheed Martin’s new variant of its successful F-16 fighter aircraft, the F-16V, will have upgraded capabilities that might remind readers of the configuration offered by them for the IAF contest for 126 MMRCA, designated the F-16IN.
This, first of a two-part analysis, examines the MMRCA process and invites you to draw your conclusions as to the veracity of the claims of transparency and adherence to the rule book.
MKU came into DefExpo on a high. They’ve just completed deliveries of 59,000 light weight bullet proof jackets to the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) under a Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) order worth INR 100 Crore. And now they plan to make Night Vision Devices.
Two-seater or four-seater, petrol or diesel, the vehicle’s most important USP is that the US Customs and Border Patrol, Israeli Defense Forces and the British Army in Afghanistan operate it. It’s para-droppable and has hardpoints for machine guns and launchers for grenades or ATGMs.
The frames are made of an extremely light-weight and strong composite weaved fiber. The fabric, too, is patented material and the shelter can be sealed, air-conditioned and is capable of maintaining a positive air pressure in an NBC (Nuclear Biological Chemical) environment.
Heat seeking, Russian officials say the launcher can fire two missiles simultaneously, which is uncommon, as otherwise the missiles would end up targeting each other.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the company said, “In all of its R&D and supply programs in India IMI has always acted legally, ethically, and in full compliance with its established corporate policy which mandates ethical business dealings.”
Speaking on the importance of Defexpo 2012 for Saab CEO Hakan Bushke says “Saab is growing outside Sweden and India is one of the market areas for Saab. In fact we believe India is a home market for the future, a market that has the potential to be larger than our European markets.”
The Italian defense major will be represented at DefExpo by its group companies AgustaWestland, Alenia Aermacchi, DRS Tactical Systems, Inc. (a division of DRS Technologies), SELEX Galileo, Oto Melara and WASS – in DEFEXPO 2012, exhibiting products, platforms and technological solutions in the field of helicopters, aeronautic, radar systems, naval and land armaments and underwater systems.
The CV90 Light Tank provides high tactical and strategic mobility, and survivability in any terrain or tactical environment. The BvS10 armored all-terrain vehicle provides an unbeatable combination of mobility, payload and protection. The world’s first 155mm Howitzer weighing under 10000lbs (4218kg), the highly mobile M777, on display at DefExpo this year is the subject of ongoing discussions between the Indian and US Governments in relation to a possible sale.
“India is a significant market for Boeing and we are committed to working closely with the defense ministry, armed forces and indigenous industry to meet India’s defense and security needs,” said Dennis Swanson, vice president, International Business Development, Boeing Defense, Space & Security in India.
Unsurprisingly, India’s two largest defense suppliers are also the biggest exhibitors at the show. Israel has taken up the most space at the show with 1,293 square meters and Russia brings the largest number of companies to the show, with the count at 37.
StratPost understands that four Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) have been selected for the trials which will take place in India for an initial order estimated to be worth INR 27,000 crore (USD 5.4 billion) for over 800 launchers and over 5,000 missiles.
Dean McCumiskey, Managing Director and Chief Executive of BAE Systems’ India operations told StratPost his company would be open to discussing any question of technical assistance the OFB might require, in its attempt to execute the designs and technology documentation transferred to it as part of the old Bofors howitzer procurement.
The Dreamliner is set to land at Begumpet Airport on the eve of the show and will be on static display from March 14 to 16.
