Atmanirbhar Bharat Heralds Growth in India's Ambitious Defence Industry - Asia's
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a magazine dedicated to aerospace & defence industry
www.aeromag.in July - August 2020 | Vol 14 | Issue 4
Atmanirbhar Bharat
Heralds Growth in India’s Ambitious Defence Industry
Survival of Aerospace
Industry: The path ahead
in association with
Society of Indian Aerospace
Technologies & Industries
AEROSPACE & DEFENCE DIRECTORY
(REvised 6TH edition)
The Largest Compendium on Aerospace & Defence Industries with
profile and Product details of more than 1500+ Industries.
Soft Copy Available
AEROSPACE
( PDF and Excel Format) DEFENCE
ition
6 Ed ed
th
Revis
DIRECTORY
A Compendium of Indian
Aerospace & Defence Industries
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2
PIPING & CONNECTION SOLUTIONS
FOR
DEFENCE
Fluid Controls has over 45 years of
experience delivering high quality, high
performance Make-in-India products
which delight customers. We offer
comprehensive solutions – from supply
of high-performance connectors, valves
and piping accessories to engineering
and installation services.
An MSME with R&D approval by the
Department of Scientific & Industrial
Research, Fluid Controls has successfully
supplied products for a variety of defence
applications, including air storage
vehicles, submarines and aerospace.
DESIGN & ENGINEERING • PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT • MANUFACTURING • INSTALLATION
+91-22-68238000 sales@fluidcontrols.com fluidcontrols.com 3
EDITORIAL
The Government should step in to
save Aviation & Defence Sector
T
he Indian aerospace & defence industries sector as
well as the airlines, and associated service provider
industries sector have suffered considerably due
to the worldwide coronavirus pandemic. All domestic as
Editorial Advisory Board well as international passenger flights were cancelled in
Dr. C.G. Krishnadas Nair India as part of the worldwide restrictions and lockdowns.
Air Chief Marshal S. Krishnaswamy (Rtd) With all avenues of revenue drying up, airlines, airports
and associated service providers have lost business
PVSM, AVSM, VM & Bar
for months and also lost jobs. Lockdown is being lifted
Air Marshal P. Rajkumar (Rtd)
gradually and steadily by the government. However, the domestic airlines and airports
PVSM, AVSM, VM
and allied industries are looking towards the government’s support to recover and revive
Air Marshal Ajit Bhavanani (Rtd) their operations. They have requested direct cash transfers, interest-free soft loans and a
PVSM, AVSM, VM two-year tax holiday, among other aid programmes. Our forward looking government is
Rear Admiral K. Mohanan (Rtd), AVSM expected to consider their legitimate demands favourably considering the crucial role they
Mr. Pushpindar Singh Chopra play in building the national economy and providing employment to millions of people.
Dr . K. Ram Chand The domestic air travel will pick-up quickly as soon as the lockdown is lifted fully and as
Mr. J.K.Sharma the nation get backs to the normal working and as industries and other organisations in
Mr. Arunakar Mishra all sectors get back to full operations. There will be great potential for growth of domestic
air travel and the government is expected to continue its commitment to develop regional
airports and regional air transport to enhance regional connectivity and growth of the
Berlin, Germany
nation.
Detlef Becker
The crisis has also made a tight grip on the activities of the aerospace manufacturing,
E : dw.becker@arcor.de
MRO and service industries. They have suffered considerable loss of work, loss of
T : +49 3375 5857590 production and the employees have also suffered financially, as many private industries
M : + 491 701626053 particularly MSMEs have had problems in supporting their employees financially. SIATI
along with other industries associations have taken up the matter with the central and state
Paris, France governments to allow the strategic sectors particularly aerospace and defense to reopen
Marie-Thérèse Bonfigli and start working. The government has already taken steps in relaxing the lockdown and
E : mt.bonfigli@indavia.com allowing the strategic sector industries to resume work, following the stipulated precautions
M : +33 (0)6 89 20 95 68 and continue the war against the virus. The government has already announced a
number of revival financial packages to industries particularly for SMEs. Our government
is committed to development and will go ahead with all national projects and programs
Moscow, Russia
for realising the ‘Make in India’ mission and proactive defense procurement policy. The
George Smirnov
commitment to national programs on aircraft, helicopter, UAVs, ships, submarines, military
E : gs1972@yandex.ru
land vehicles and other defense equipments and platforms for indigenous development and
M : +7 (906)711-03- production and in collaboration with OEM - Strategic partners will be re-energised.
51 / (495)644-17-33 SIATI and AEROMAG send our greetings and best wishes to all our estimated members in
the aviation, aerospace and defense sector for revival and steady growth working together
Sunny Jerome with co-operative mutually beneficial partnership and with trust and confidence in the
Managing Editor future.
Preethi M.
Associate Editor
David Barnabhas
Design
For Publishing Articles, Advertisements
Editor, Aeromag Asia Dr C G Krishnadas Nair
Aeronautical Society of India Building Honorary President, SIATI
Suranjandas Road, Off old Madras Road,
Bangalore 560075. Karnataka, INDIA
Call: +91 94490 61925 Printed and Published by Sunny Jerome, Managing Editor, Aeromag Asia, Aerosun Media,
Tel: +91 80 43747492 | 25284145 Aeronautical Society of India Building, Suranjandas Road,
Email: info@aeromag.in Off Old Madras Road,Bangalore 560075, Karnataka.
www.aeromag.in Printed at Rashtrotthana Mudranalaya, 19/1, K.G.Nagar, Bangalore-19.
4
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Content
Tejas FOC Aircraft Airbus signs
inducted to IAF 10 contract for
integration
of 115 new
Eurofighter ESCAN
radars
33
Naval Ship Repair WFEL receives US Defense Contract
36
Yard, Kochi comes
to the aid of
Philippine Navy ship
12
Atmanirbhar Bharat
15
52
UK MoD Boxer MIV Programme
for £2.3bn awarded to WFEL
Rafale’s Game-Changing Weapons
to give IAF a Big Advantage 18
Nec and Sita Announces Partnership for Digital
Identity at Airports
68
A One-Stop Solution
for Instrumentation
Needs
For over 43 years, Fluid Controls Private Limited has
been offering product customization and solutions to
suit specific applications and client requirements and now
the focus shifts to thrive amid the government’s push for
Atmanirbhar Bharat. “We are a “Vocal for Local” MSME
and we whole-heartedly support the Atmanirbhar Bharat
initiative. Domestic manufacturers have the capability – be
it in manufacturing, quality, and R&D – to cater to domestic
requirements across sectors. In the past, legacy international
vendors and lack of firm procurement policies constrained
the effective implementation of “Make in India”. Atmanirbhar
Bharat, which clearly outlines procurement policies, will go a
long way to boost domestic manufacturers, especially in the
MSME sector. With our enhanced manufacturing and R&D
capabilities, Fluid Controls® can contribute immensely to provide
high quality, high-performance products to all sectors in the
move to localize supplies,” said Sophie Moochhala, Managing
Sophie Moochhala Director, Fluid Controls Private Limited. Speaking to Aeromag
Managing Director in an interview, she talks about the company’s future plans.
Over the last four and a the Department of Scientific at PPA Meet 2020. the existing Air Storage
half decades, Fluid Controls & Industrial Research (Govt. Vehicle (ASV) and delivered
has made its footprints in the of India); and the set-up of a The defence manufacturing a prototype to R&D. The
industry as a leading provider state-of-the-art manufacturing in India is thriving now more system was installed on the
of instrumentation products facility at Chakan, Pune with than ever and you have been ASV and successfully tested
and services for a wide variety an advanced R&D center focusing on defence sector for 600 bar hydrostatic and
of industrial applications and testing laboratory. with a wide-range of supplies 400 bar pneumatic pressure.
including the defence. What As a testimonial of our to critical defence machinery. We have been supplying
are the major milestones in success, Fluid Controls® has How strong is the company’s to Defence Machinery
this journey of success? been awarded CII Industrial defence business and who Development Establishment
Since its inception in 1974, Innovation Award for all are the major clients? (DMDE) the valves for
the Mumbai-headquartered medium scale manufacturing Since 2000, Fluid Controls® compressed air systems in
Fluid Controls® ethos has been organizations and has been has been a supplier for many submarines. Fluid Controls®
of research and development recognised as one of the Top Indian defence projects has supplied Kirloskar Brothers
offering ‘Make in India’ 25 Innovative Companies of including the redesign of the Limited a range of specially
products and solutions. The the Year at the Indian R&D Akash Air Storage Vehicle designed Low Pressure Loss
major milestones we have Ecosystem Conclave 2019. (ASV) under the auspices of Throttle Valves and Non-
achieved in our journey Other recognitions include Research & Development Return Valves for the Water
include approvals of our critical the “Top 10 Urban Infra Establishment (Engrs). Mist System in submarines.
applications in nuclear, oil/ Solution Provider of Year” by The Akash Weapons
gas, thermal power, defence Urban Transport News and System employs sub systems Fluids Controls offers
and railway brake piping the award for “Excellence which need high pressure customized solutions to
industries; recognition as an in Technical Innovation” by compressed air up to 400 bar. clients based on analytical
“In-House R&D Center” by ISA Maharashtra Section Fluid Controls® re-designed formulations, 2D and 3D
8
Modelling & Finite Element Fluid Controls® is a premier focused approach, we have sectors. In the past, legacy
Analysis and you have a state- supplier to onshore and off- restructured our operations international vendors and
of-the-art R&D facility in Pune. shore oil & gas installations, and have put in place detailed lack of firm procurement
Could you elaborate on this? process and thermal power guidelines for operations policies constrained the
At Fluid Controls, we have plants, critical applications and conducted extensive effective implementation of
four and a half decades for nuclear plants, and brake training of our employees. “Make in India”. Atmanirbhar
of focus on design for piping applications for rail The core of our EPRP Bharat, which clearly outlines
customer needs and product and metro. We are approved Protocol is the “Fluid Controls procurement policies, will
performance. The Fluid by all major Indian OEMs Focus Five” to ensure safe go a long way to boost
Controls® objective has been such as ONGC, IOCL, BPCL, working (https://fluidcontrols. domestic manufacturers,
to design, develop and deliver HPCL, NTPC, BHEL, NPCIL com/pdf/FC-Covid-Response- especially in the MSME sector.
high quality, high-performance and railway OEMs and have Manual.pdf). We have also With our manufacturing
connectors, valves and a demonstrated capability for re-structured our facilities and and R&D capabilities, Fluid
instrumentation products that executing large project orders. offices to ensure compliance Controls® can contribute
could cater to the needs of our With our composite expertise with government’s COVID-19 immensely to provide high
customers. Adopting a “Design of manufacturing connectors, guidelines and have modified quality, high-performance
for Six Sigma” approach, all our understanding of tube and our manufacturing processes products to all sectors in the
products designed by Fluid end connector performance to ensure safe production and move to localise supplies.
Controls Private Limited are and our decades of experience inward and outward material
developed from First Principles. of swaging and accurate tube handling. In addition, all our What is the roadmap ahead
Each design is 2D and 3D bending, Fluid Controls® now employees are provided with for Fluid Controls and what are
modeled and validated using offers customers complete individual PPE kits which are the objectives for the next five
the latest software and FEA. end-to-end engineered tailor made for their area of years? Also, how competitive
Our innovation and process- supply and installation operation and have been is the Indian market compared
focused team constantly solutions for piping – both provided with adequate to that of international one?
challenges our existing on-site and prefabricated. insurance. As a responsible The Indian market
product portfolio and provides citizen, Fluid Controls® undoubtedly offers a
customized solutions for clients. The COVID-19 has affected has also reached out to the competitive environment. We
In keeping with this vision, the industrial production largely wider community and have move towards focusing on
we have focused on investing and many players in the market extended support to NGOs quality, price and performance,
in R&D talent, equipment and are struggling for the recovery. such as UnLtd India, OSCAR companies who invest
modelling software. Today, we How has the pandemic Foundation, Masoom and in people, infrastructure
have a DSIR approved R&D affected your company Goonj who are involved and our R&D have a clear
Center at Pune, INDIA which and what arrangement with COVID Relief Work. competitive edge.
houses a design laboratory have you taken to function The roadmap for Fluid
with over 25 designers and smoothly amid COVID-19? After Make in India, Controls® is that we will
product specialists, the Given the project nature the central government is continue to enhance our
latest design software and of our business, we continue now pushing the idea of manufacturing, R&D and
a state-of-the-art testing to receive orders as there is Atmanirbhar Bharat for service capabilities. Last
and metrology laboratory. activity in the infrastructure boosting domestic production month, we set up two new
Our R&D capabilities enable segment which constitutes our to reduce imports. What areas within our plant for tube
us to constantly upgrade business. At Fluid Controls®, role could Fluid Controls forming and hose crimping
existing products and also we “Engineer Connections play in this regard? and testing. We have also
offer customers customized Everyday”. During the Fluid Controls® is a recently won big contracts
product solutions. COVID-19 situation we are “Vocal for Local” MSME for site installation of brake
in today, we are committed organization and we whole- pipe lines for railway coaches.
Besides defence, Fluid Control to staying safe every day and heartedly support the We are also focusing on
has been a premier supplier has been ensuring business Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. the defence sector and on
to onshore and off-shore oil continuity as well as the health Domestic manufacturers expanding our international
and gas installations, process and safety of our employees, have the capability – be it supplies – for example we
and power plants and railways their families, our customers, in manufacturing, quality, have a ToT and manufacturing
in India. Please shed some and our business partners. and R&D – to cater to agreement for Saudi Arabia.
light onto these businesses? With a systems and process domestic requirements across
9
Tejas FOC Aircraft
inducted to IAF
T
he Indian Air Force
(IAF) on Wednesday
inducted Tejas Mk-1
FOC aircraft into the recently
resurrected No 18 Sqn, the
“Flying Bullets” at Air Force
Station Sulur, marking yet
another important step
towards enhancing the
operational capability of
the Air Force. The Squadron
is the first in the IAF to
induct this platform. This
is an important milestone
in the country’s indigenous
fighter aircraft program and
a significant boost to the
‘Make In India’ initiative. Tejas
Mk-1 FOC is a single engine,
light weight, highly agile, all
weather multi role fighter
Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria preparing to fly a sortie in the Tejas
aircraft capable of air-to-air
Mk I fighter with 45 Sqn during the induction ceremony held at Air Force Station Sulur.
refueling thus making it a
truly versatile platform. and Director, Aeronautical involved in the production unit. The event commenced
The Squadron was Development Agency were of LCA for achievement of with a fly past comprising
operationalised by Chief of present during the ceremony. this historic milestone. of a helicopter formation of
the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Chief of the Air Staff The occasion was marked the Mi 17 V5 and the ALH,
Marshal RKS Bhadauria. congratulated the team and by the presentation of aircraft An-32 transport aircraft
Air Officer Commanding lauded the efforts put in by documents of the Tejas FOC and Tejas Mk-1 fighters.
in Chief of the Southern Air Southern Air Command and version by the HAL CMD to No 18 Sqn was raised at
Command, Air Marshal Amit AF Station Sulur towards the CAS. The CAS further Ambala on 15 Apr 1965 with
Tiwari, and the Commodore the induction of the new handed these over to the the Folland Gnat Aircraft.
Commandant of 18 Sqn, airborne platform. He Commanding Officer of 18 Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh
Air Marshal TD Joseph, R complimented Chairman HAL, Squadron Group Captain Sekhon, the only Param
Madhavan CMD HAL, Dr ADA, DRDO labs, DPSUs, Manish Tolani, along with Vir Chakra recipient of the
Girish S Deodhare, PGD (CA) MSMEs and all agencies the ceremonial keys to the Indian Air Force was a part
10Military Mobile Shelterised Systems,
MIL Grade Air Conditioning Units, Military Mast System
Ascentech Engineering Solutions Pvt Ltd is a Defence MSME specialized in Design,
Manufacture, Supply of fully integrated Military Mobile Shelters conforming to MIL
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terrain & saline application is also our special product. MIL Grade Air Conditioning Unit are
produced by us indigenously against a TOT from Elbit (Kinetics) Israel. The list also includes
a Light weight compact Military Hexagonal Mast System. Ascentech has exported Military
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Highlights :
• Aluminum ISO EMI Shelter 40ft, 20ft, S280
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• Military Air Conditioning Unit
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Email: info@ascentechengineering.com | Website: www.ascentechengineering.com
Tele : 040 2988 3881/ 82, Mobile : +91 9849102420
R Madhavan CMD HAL presenting the aircraft documents Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria handing
of the Tejas FOC version to the Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief over the ceremonial keys of the unit to the Commanding Officer
Marshal RKS Bhadauria during the induction ceremony held at Air of 18 Squadron Group Captain Manish Tolani, during the
Force Station Sulur. induction ceremony.
of the Squadron during the also operated from the same The Squadron falls under Before the induction
1971 Indo-Pak War. The station. Over the years it also the operational control of ceremony, the Chief of the Air
Squadron also has the unique operated MiG-27 ML aircraft Southern Air Command which Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal
distinction of having operated from various bases across the is responsible for integrating RKS Bhadauria PVSM AVSM
two HAL made aircraft, the country. The Squadron was the Squadron into the IAF VM ADC flew a sortie in the
Tejas and the Ajeet which it number plated in Apr 2016. Concept of Operations. Tejas Mk I fighter with 45 Sqn.
11Naval Ship Repair Yard, Kochi comes
to the aid of Philippine Navy ship
When the Philippine Navy
vessel, BRP Ramon Alcaraz,
was damaged in a fire off
Kochi, the Indian Navy
carried out a rescue mission.
While the Philippine Navy
ship was repaired at Indian
Navy’s ship repair yard
in Kochi, two personnel
who were injured in the
incident were evacuated
in a helicopter to INHS
Sanjivani, the Indian Navy’s
hospital in the coastal city.
T
he Indian Navy’s ship repair Philippine Navy personnel injured. had the fire incident on board and
yard in Kochi attracted media Ramon Alcaraz, along with another the ship re-entered Kochi for repairs.
attention recently when a ship of the Philippine Navy had visited Meanwhile, the injured Philippine
ship of the Philippine Navy was given Kochi for the repatriation of stranded Navy personnel were evacuated in
urgent repairs at the facility recently. Philippine nationals from India following a helicopter to INHS Sanjivani, the
The Philippine Navy vessel, BRP the lockdown imposed in view of the Indian Navy’s hospital in Kochi.
Ramon Alcaraz, was damaged in a fire, COVID-19 pandemic and collection of Soon, repairs of the Philippine Navy
which had broken out in the engine materials such as masks. It was during ship were carried out free of cost at
room and the incident had left two the return trip that Ramon Alcaraz the Naval Ship Repair Yard in Kochi
12and the vessel was made aircraft carriers INS Viraat
seaworthy again in ten days. and INS Vikramaditya.t
The Chief of Philippine
Navy Vice Admiral Giovanni
Carlo J Bacordo thanked the
Indian Navy for its gesture.
Writing to Chief of Indian
Navy Admiral Karambir
Singh, he said: “Your support
in this unfortunate accident is
way beyond our expectations
and it is a testament of your
sincerity in deepening our
Navy-to-Navy partnership.”
The Philippine Navy chief
further said: “We hope to
expand this relationship
as we seek better ways to
make our seas safer and
more secure for everyone.”
The Naval Ship Repair Yard,
Kochi, which was set up as
a Base Repair Organisation
in 1948, has grown in its
capabilities and is sufficiently
equipped to undertake
repairs of all ships. It provides
support to visiting ships, ships
undergoing work up and all
training schools and other
establishments in addition to
the repair of ships based at
Southern Naval Command.
To meet the increasing
demand, the Yard is carrying
out various projects for
infrastructural development.
Moreover, the weapons
test facilities have been
upgraded. A large number
of equipment have also been
installed for hull fabrication
shop, pipe-fitting shop,
welding shop, shipwright
shop and boat repair shop.
Along with the Naval Ship
Repair Yard, Kochi, the
Cochin Shipyard Limited
(CSL) in Kochi also offers ship
repairing services since 1982
and it undertakes upgrades,
repairs and scheduled
maintenance of all types
of ships, including those
of Indian Navy and Indian
Coast Guard. The repair yard
of CSL has also performed
major overhauls for the
13VARSITY: Offering World-class Wire
Harnesses for Defence Industry
The list of
prestigious
customers served
by VARSITY reflects
the company’s track
record as a zero-
defect facility that
delivers build-to-spec
and build-to-print
cable harnesses.
W
ith an excellent & cable assemblies complying deliver it without any flaws. commensurate warehousing
track record of with stringent standards facility. Another capability
over 52 years as of Aerospace & Defence. Applications of VARSITY is automated
India’s fastest-growing Wire VARSITY is AS9100D VARSITY is geared up to testing. The company
Harness (WH) manufacturer, certified and has in-house provide cable harnesses or is equipped with MK
VARSITY produces top capability, right from integration or design services Automated Test systems
quality ‘Make in India’ scoping of a requirement at in any applications in Ground, with a capacity to test
cable harnesses for reputed a concept stage to designing Aerospace, Space, Military 5,400 points at a time.
customers such as the DRDO, and delivering prototypes & Defence ranging from Moreover, VARSITY enjoys
PSUs and private industries before manufacturing Weapon systems, Antenna, ‘Seamless Monitoring of
in the Defence sector. The custom solutions on a Radars, Seekers, Warheads, Production’, whereby it has
list of prestigious customers large scale. VARSITY has a Avionics, Unmanned an online real-time viewing
served by VARSITY reflects large team of highly skilled Aerial Vehicles, Aircraft system for customers
their successful partnership operators with a wealth of wiring, Flight controls, anywhere in the world.
with the company and experience and knowledge Landing gear, Shipboard Yet another advanced
highlights VARSITY as a zero- who can even manufacture hull, Power distribution, facility is ‘Seamless
defect facility that delivers environmentally-sealed cable Actuation & Motion Interaction’. VARSITY’s
build-to-spec and build- harness as per IPC / WHMA controls and Battle Tanks. Training Centre and
to-print cable harnesses. 620-C Standard. conference halls are
VARSITY owes its State-of-the-art equipped with Video Walls.
success to deep product Build to Specification infrastructure In addition, the company
knowledge, its ability to VARSITY’s engineers work The company is equipped has a High Speed 100MBPS
adapt to new technologies, closely with customers to with state-of-the-art dedicated Internet line
and to its familiarity with understand the requirements infrastructure and the to support video/voice
the industry built over and suggest cost-effective facilities include a capacity interactions as well as 100
the past five decades. design using software of 600,000 man hours per cent power backup for
like Zuken E3, HarnWare, per annum along with uninterrupted production.
VARSITY Cable Solid-Edge and Auto CAD.
Harness offerings
Founded in 1968, VARSITY Build to Print
has a proven track record of The company’s engineers,
delivering cable harnesses for with their deep knowledge
mission-critical programmes of the industry, work with
of DRDO for over a decade, the documents provided by
whether they are small, the customer to realize the
medium or large wire harness product as specified and
14Atmanirbhar Bharat
Heralds Growth in India’s Ambitious Defence Industry
Even though the Prime
Minister Narendra Modi has
announced his vision of Atmanirbhar
Bharat with much importance in his
address to nation during the COVID-19
pandemic, it was considered by many as a
refurbished version of Make in India. But no
one has any doubt about the fact that India
needs to make a sincere attempt to ramp up
its defence manufacturing. The hollowness of
indigenous defence manufacturing was visible
from the fact that the forces have to depend on
foreign suppliers to shore up their fire power
and operational capability when tensions have
risen with China at the Line of Actual Control
(LAC). So Atmanirbarta should not be another
political slogan and the government will have
to walk the talk overcoming many challenges.
Here Aeromag analyses the defence policies
under Atmanirbhar Bharat with focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the challenges, steps to be taken
and defence projects that need
V
alidating the superiority in self-reliance in all immediate push for completion.
military might is an inevitable sectors. And on May
quality for a country to become 16, Finance Minister
a superpower and global leader. And Nirmala Sitharaman, while elaborating
attaining self-reliance in defence further on Atmanirbhar Bharat in
manufacturing is a crucial component Defence, has made three specific
of effective defence capability, as it will announcements to make the PM’s vision
ensure strategic independence, national getting implemented faster and promote
sovereignty, cost-effective defence domestic defence industry -- a list of
equipment and decreased defence weapons/platforms for ‘ban on import’,
imports. India has been in pursuit of the corporatisation of Ordnance Factory
attaining these validations over the Board (OFB) and finally raising the FDI
past two decades and ever since the limits in defence manufacturing under
Narendra Modi led BJP government the automatic route from 49% to 74%.
assumed power in 2014, the idea of With the policies having publicised
defence indigenisation and self-reliant and promises being made for its
defence industry has received the implementations, the next three years
most tremendous push ever. Speedy of the NDA 2.0 will be focusing on the
clearances of long-pending modernisation expansion of domestic defence industrial
demands of the tri-forces and setting up base, nourishment of private sector
the nurturing ground for local defence participation, defence modernisation
production have been the hallmarks of and increased thrust on defence R&D.
the Modi government over these years. And the road ahead is more challenging
On May 12, amid the country’s than ever mainly for two reasons - the
resilient fight against the COVID-19 nation’s economy struggles not to
pandemic, PM Modi unveiled major surrender before the Coronavirus and
policy advancement in fulfilling India’s the northern frontiers settling scores
indigenisation dreams through his vision with two adversaries China and Pakistan.
of Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan (Self- Here Aeromag analyses the defence
Rajnath Singh
Reliant India) to propel the country to policies under Atmanirbhar Bharat with
Defence Minister
15focus on the challenges, steps machine guns through manufacturing under the assurance that items required
to be taken and defence ‘fast track procedure’ for automatic route from 49 per will be procured within the
projects that need immediate operational urgencies while cent to 74 per cent, which was given timeframe will boost the
push for completion. ordnance factories are already a part of the Draft confidence of companies to
making rifles for Central Defence Production Policy securely invest in the industry.
Why Atmanirbhar Armed Police Forces. 2018, is a promising step Moreover such an initiative
Bharat is important? While the induction of for the growth of domestic will help attract FDI also.
There are mainly three 155 mm Dhanush Artillery manufacturing. FDI worth Besides these, keeping
reasons that make Atmanirbhar guns, manufactured by OFB Rs.1812 crores has been MSMEs, which are considered
Bharat important for India. is underway, the import reported in the defence sector the backbone of Indian
Firstly, India is undergoing procurement of 155mm over the last five year and economy strong should be a
its most ambitious military towed guns with different that is a very small figure priority of the government.
modernisation programme specifications (GSQR) is in when compared to the annual There are more than 8,000
ever. Secondly, the regional the pipeline. Similar examples average of Rs 31,000 crores MSMEs as tiered partners of
security environment around are many hence consolidating worth of capital procurement many of defence organisations
the country remains risky, the requirements in a time- being done directly ex- - Ordnance factories, DPSUs
especially the borders with bound manner and creating import. So the procurement etc. and they contribute
China and Pakistan, and the list are essential to meet strategy must help to drive more than 20 per cent of
thirdly the Modi government emergency requirements. more FDI in defence. the total production of these
has decided to undergird Besides weapon systems/ Above all, the industry organisations. Hence focus on
India’s international profile platforms, the self-reliance needs to be apprised in MSMEs should be steady.
on economic diplomacy objectives for critical advance about armed forces
in which defence business components and materials requirements, including C) Corporatisation of OFB
plays a critical part. should also be a priority. numbers, specifications, and The corporatization of the
India has been one of the For example, engine of timeline. A “Defence Industrial Ordnance Factory Board
world’s largest arms importers an aircraft accounts for a Planning’ document giving the (OFB) has been a long
(accounting for about 12% of substantial portion of
global arms imports). But the the overall cost and
high import-dependence in the government needs
defence, mainly for weapons, to make attractive
spares and ammunition is a business propositions
drawback and weakness in for joint ventures,
the long run, especially during technology transfer
military crises. And it will take and R&D by with
a herculean task for India to the combined
shed its image of defence military and
importer. So the political civil aviation
willingness to cut imports by requirements.
creating a domestic defence
industrial base is very positive. B) Raising
FDI Limits
Reforms under The decision
Atmanirbhar Abhiyan to raise FDI
A) Negative List for Import limits in
The core point of creating defence
a ‘negative list for import’
is critical to ensure that the
domestic defence industry and
its products will have buyers.
But the challenge here will be
determining the ‘negative list’
for ban on import as there are
multiple import and domestic
procurements are all being
done in parallel. For example,
the Indian Army is in the
process of importing
rifles, carbines and light
16overdue decision. The OFB in India. Pushing the project
is a strategic asset with 41 under Atmanibhar Bharat
factories, 13 ordnance R&D will be an ideal motivation
centres and 9 ordnance for domestic industry.
Institutes of Learning. But the
issues of quality, reliability, B) LCA Tejas
timeliness etc have always The indigenously designed
be demotivating reasons and manufactured Light
of getting business. So the Combat Aircraft (LCA) is the
corporatisation of OFB will smallest and lightest Multi-
enable more professional Role Supersonic Fighter
oversight, functional and Aircraft of its class. A $5.2
financial autonomy. It could billion contract for around 83
introduce staffing structure light combat aircraft (LCA)
similar to manufacturing Tejas Mark 1A variant is likely
entities instead of to be awarded to Hindustan
government departments. Aeronautics Limited (HAL)
The manpower and output by December this year. The
issues will get addressed government is also considering
easier after corporatisation. a proposal to manufacture
18 LCA Mark 1 FOC trainer
Projects that need prime aircraft to keep the Tejas
focus in Atmanirbhar assembly lines up and
A) Naval Utility running till the deal for 83 for the bulk of the domestic of Defence Staff (CDS)
Helicopter (NUH) Mark 1A variants is signed. armament demand. could examine the defence
The nearly $3 billion deal for The fourth generation light The privilege given to acquisitions from a tri-
Naval Utility Helicopter (NUH) combat aircraft (LCA) has been PSUs and private players service angle, to avoid delays
will be the first challenge inducted into the number 18 need to be balanced. and speed up the defence
for the government under squadron, “Flying Bullets” of The relationship between procurement process.
the Atmanirbhar Bharat in the Indian Air Force. Tejas is the R&D establishments, • The new Defence
defence. Though the HAL expected to be the backbone production agencies (public Procurement Procedure
has pushed for its inclusion of the IAF in the near future or private) and the end- should formulate guidelines to
in the programme, Navy and keeping in line with PM Modi’s user are extremely weak at promote strategic partnerships
other private players have also Atma Nirbhar Bharat initiative. present and this needs to between Indian and foreign
objected it citing delay in the be sorted out. There is an companies, with a view to
completion. The MoD is yet Challenges ahead in urgent need of improving achieving indigenisation over a
to clear the file for issuance Indigenisation India’s design capability in period of time for even critical
of Request for Proposal (RFP) Even though nearly 200 critical technologies and technologies and platforms.
for selected vendors and defence acquisition proposals ability to manufacture major • A transparent policy
may take a fresh look at the with ToT provision, valued subsystems and components, should be formulated to
proposal to include HAL. around Rs.4 trillion were which otherwise would promote exports and it
The Navy has been desperate approved in the last five hamper the indigenous will attract investment in
to replace its Chetak of 1960s years, most of them yet to manufacturing. Overlapping defence manufacturing.
vintage with NUH, which be processed. This delay in jurisdiction of the Ministry • The role of DRDO needs
could be utilised for multiple completion of procedures will of Defence and Ministry to be revised to give private
roles, including search and be the real challenge. The of Industrial Promotion industry a level playing field
rescue, casualty evacuation Indian defence industry is impair India’s capability of for developing defence
and low-intensity maritime public sector driven despite the defence manufacturing. technologies.
operations, besides torpedo push for private participation.
drops. Hence the project PSUs like OFB, Hindustan Solutions
needs to be finalised and Aeronautics Limited (HAL), • The newly
manufacturing should be Bharat Electronics Limited appointed
started. The partnership (BEL) and Bharat Dynamics Chief
between HAL and a private Limited (BDL)) are among
player, which should entail the top 100 biggest arms
100 per cent transfer of producers of the world
technology, will be helpful to and they together
kickstart the helicopter hub account
17Rafale’s Game-Changing Weapons
to give IAF a Big Advantage
combat. The Meteor is powered by a
unique rocket-ramjet motor that gives
the missile far more engine power, for
much longer than any other missile. This
means it can fly faster, fly longer, and
manoeuvre more than any other missile,
giving Meteor the ability to chase down
and destroy agile hostile fighters at
even the furthest of ranges. As a result,
Meteor, which weighs 190 kg and is 3.7
m long, has a no-escape zone many times
greater than any other air-to-air missile.
SCALP
India’s Rafales will also be equipped
with the SCALP deep-strike cruise missile
from MBDA. This stealthy weapon
has proven repeatedly in combat its
unerring ability to strike hardened and
protected targets deep inside hostile
T
he new Rafale fighter jets India territory – without the need for the
is receiving from France are Rafale to enter hostile airspace. SCALP’s
The final induction operational effectiveness is the result of
armed with game-changing
ceremony of the weapons, including Meteor, SCALP three key factors: its high survivability
and Mica. The jets will provide the thanks to its long stand-off range, low
first batch of five Indian Air Force (IAF) not just with a observability and sophisticated mission
Indian Air Force fast and agile modern fighter but one planning system; its pinpoint terminal
that comes armed with a highly potent accuracy through its highly accurate
(IAF) Rafale fighter set of weapons from MBDA that are seeker and target recognition system; and
unrivalled by any of India’s neighbours. its terminal effectiveness provide by its
aircraft arriving in
Meanwhile, the Press Information powerful tandem warhead and multiple
India from France Bureau (Defence Wing) of Government detonation modes. The missile weighs
of India said the first batch of five Indian 1,300 kg and has a length of 5.1 m.
is scheduled to Air Force (IAF) Rafale is arriving in India
take place at Air by end of July 2020. The aircraft will be MICA
inducted at Air Force Station Ambala. The IAF’s Rafales will also be equipped
Force Station, The final induction ceremony is scheduled with MICA, a missile the IAF is familiar
Ambala. IAF aircrew in second half of August 2020. with, as it is also part of the upgrade
IAF aircrew and ground crew have package for the IAF’s Mirage 2000
and ground crew undergone comprehensive training on aircraft. MICA is the only missile in the
the aircraft, including its highly advanced world featuring two interoperable seekers
have undergone weapons systems and are fully operational (active radar and imaging infrared)
comprehensive now. Post arrival, efforts will focus to cover the spectrum from close-in
on operationalisation of the aircraft dogfight to long beyond visual range.
training on the at the earliest, said the PIB release. Its ability to fly out to BVR in passive
aircraft, including mode before the seeker locks on in
Meteor the final stages of the end game has
its highly advanced The most notable of the weapons earned it the nickname “silent killer” as
on Rafale is the Meteor beyond visual the target has little time to react or to
weapons systems.
range air-to-air missile, which is widely deploy effective countermeasures. The
recognised as a game changer for air missile weighs 112 kg and is 3.1 m long.
18Flying Colours continues taking on the Challengers
with trio of heavy maintenance checks
F
lying Colours Corp.
continues to satisfy
market demand for
192-month inspections as
heavy maintenance checks
on a trio of Bombardier
Challenger-family aircraft
continue at its St. Louis,
MO. facility. The work
highlights the North
American MRO’s expertise
in supporting the ongoing
maintenance requirements
of the international
Bombardier Challenger fleet.
The latest series of heavy
inspections began in April 604, which checked into the restoration. With more than capabilities to complete
when an early model St. Louis hangars in July, and 100 heavy maintenance these intense checks as
Bombardier Challenger is currently undergoing the inspections on Bombardier they become due. With our
300 began the full gamut rigorous maintenance review. Challenger aircraft under dedicated interiors facility,
of heavy maintenance The Flying Colours Corp. its belt the Flying Colours external paint shops and
inspections, service bulletins maintenance team are no Corp. maintenance team avionics expertise we can also
and full landing gear strangers to the intensity applies all its accumulated support customers looking
restoration. A second early of these heavy inspections hours of knowledge and to upgrade and refurbish
production Bombardier which require full exposure experience to complete these aircraft at the same time,”
Challenger 300 began its of the airframe to allow for critical safety inspections says Eric Gillespie, Executive
192-maintenance check in a comprehensive structural on time and on budget. VP of Flying Colours Corp.
May and will subsequently review to assess for cracks, “The Challenger models Flying Colours is also
have an interior upgrade corrosion or other potential are exceptional aircraft with busy with heavy checks
and new external paint work weaknesses. A number of the the Challenger 300 being the on other aircraft types
completed by Flying Colours, aircraft components including world’s most popular super including Hawker Beechcraft,
before being redelivered to flaps, doors and windshields mid-size model. With more Falcon and Bombardier
the customer. Joining the are also removed for close than a thousand original Global Express models
archetypal Challenger 300s inspection and landing Challengers still in operation at both its St. Louis and
is a Bombardier Challenger gear undergoes complete we have the tried and tested Peterborough facilities.
First ALSIM AL42 simulator
to be sold in New Zealand
A
lsim announced its suite. It also comes with communication and the quality for our student cadet training.”
first sale in New latest generation visual of the equipment. The visuals “It is always a pleasure to
Zealand. Ardmore system, GFC 700 autopilot provided allow for excellent see Alsim’s family expanding.
Flying School, based in and PBN/LPV capabilities. handling training as well as the It’s even more exciting to
Auckland, has acquired an Ardmore Flying School IFR procedures and combined welcome Ardmore Flying
AL42 simulator, the exact and Ian Calvert, CEO are with the full IOS gives scope School as they become our
replica of the Diamond excited about introducing to challenge trainee pilots to first customer in New Zealand.
DA42, built using genuine the Alsim AL42 FNPTII into extend their capabilities and Thanks again to Stephen
aircraft parts and equipped the operation: “Alsim was skills. The AL42 best represents and Ian for their confidence”
with the latest real-world chosen for their attention to the aircraft flown and will says Audrey Jeffroy, Alsim’s
Garmin G1000 avionics detail, fantastic and open provide an excellent platform Marketing and Sales Director.
19Survival of Aerospace
Industry: The path ahead
In 2019, airlines stick to environmental norms. tonnes of freight, and supported another 37 million
around the world However, the COVID-19 supported 65.5 million jobs. jobs. But now air travel is
carried 4.3 billion pandemic changed everything The tourism sector, which is down 90 per cent and every
passengers, 58 million and the data presents a clear interconnected with aviation, day there are announcements
picture. In 2019, airlines of airlines around the world
tonnes of freight and
around the world carried 4.3 cancelling orders for new
supported 65.5 million
billion passengers, aircraft. There are also
jobs. Though the 58 million big cuts to
COVID-19 pandemic
changed everything,
a resilient aerospace
and defence industry
is exploring ways
for a rebound.
A
few months ago,
the aerospace and
defence sector was
upbeat. In fact, when the
year 2020 began, some of
the most crucial challenges
faced by the industry were
how to meet the demand for
aviation professionals and
achieve the targets set for
reducing emission in order to
20aircraft
delivery
rates and major
redundancy plans. All
these have prepared the
aerospace to face the largest
market meltdown in its history. always
Early in 2020, some experts been
had predicted that difficult impacted by
times might be ahead after downturns in the
years of uninterrupted growth economy. The industry
in the aerospace industry. reported losses in the early
During the favourable times, 1990s due to the recession; in challenges
Airbus and Boeing had 2001 after the 9/11 attacks; like the 737
doubled aircraft output to in 2003 following the SARS Max accidents
meet the needs of the world’s epidemic, and in 2008 as part in 2018 and 2019, the
airlines. The revenues and of the financial crisis. Each of Ukraine Airlines Flight 752
productivity of aerospace these downturns was followed shot down in Iran, and the
companies and related by economic recovery. emergence of “flygskam” pandemic
industries also grew alongside. Despite this cyclical nature, flight shaming air travel is testing the
However, some problems aerospace industry has due to its emissions. aviation sector in
emerged in 2019, when maintained profitability for the new ways. The entire
Boeing experienced severe past 10 years, with a profit of New challenges industry is being stretched to
issues with the design of US Dollars 25.9 billion in 2019 However, the COVID-19 a breaking point and without
its new 737 MAX aircraft despite some
and was forced to suspend tragedies
production. Soon, in 2020, and
the effects of COVID-19
began to be felt.
Now, not just the airlines
and well-known aircraft and
aero-engine makers are in
crisis but also the aerospace
supply chain which provides
hundreds of thousands of
jobs directly and indirectly.
In January this year,
international aviation
had been on a growth
trajectory and traffic
was projected
to double in
the coming
15 years.
However,
aviation
has
21today
will be
closer to
600 within the
next three years
because of closures
and consolidation.
To offset the collapse of
revenue, airlines are resorting
Government to the quickest fix to cut
interventions, it among operating costs — they’re
cannot survive the crisis. other taking aircraft out of service.
According to the areas. At some point in 2020, close
International Air Transport during the Ironically, to 18,000 planes may be
Association (IATA), the crisis in order to before the pandemic parked or put in storage and
sector would suffer a loss create a strong future. struck, industry active was many are unlikely to return.
US Dollars 252 billion in The most pressing need for so much that there were Retirements of aircraft will
2020. Meanwhile, airports aviation is financial support fears that there would not be also increase. While for the
alone are projected to lose through the pandemic. enough pilots or mechanics last five years somewhere
US Dollars 46 billion in Everyone involved is optimistic to handle what seemed between 550 and 750 planes
2020, according to Airport that the challenge would be insatiable air travel demand. have been retired annually,
Council International (ACI). overcome and a better future But COVID-19 burst the the number may see a surge
This has led to several critical built. Key priorities during this bubble that was fuelled by to more than 2,600 over
questions about the future time should explore how to air traffic, global economic the next 12 months. Planes
of international aviation. mobilize aerospace innovation growth, and business and only 20 years old could
One is regarding the impacts and research infrastructure leisure trends, triggering be retired rather than the
on society when COVID-19 towards aviation challenges. massive cutbacks in capacity, typical 25-year-old aircraft.
subsides. Another is about Research is needed into layoffs, and order cancellations Thousands of planes sitting
the time it would take for aspects such as sustainability, all along the supply chain. around will have a ripple
people to have the funds and cognitive science and But now it is expected that effect
confidence to begin flying engineering, material science, the 900-plus carriers
again. Yet another question is machine learning, automation, operating
what specifically can be done cybersecurity, and artificial
to ensure the industry survives intelligence
the crisis how the sector can
innovate
22through the entire aviation governmental restrictions planes eventually picked apart Government support
industry. It could mean airlines and hesitancy among for components and other Finally, government
will hesitate to order new passengers to travel far reusable materials. This sort of intervention may be the
aircraft. During pre-COVID from their own countries. ‘cannibalization’ could reduce deciding factor on which
days, 1,066 new planes were Piling up of aerospace demand for MRO services enterprises will be winners
expected to be delivered inventory will also trickle from the previously forecast and losers in the COVID-19
in 2020. But that forecast down to the spare parts and US Dollar 91.2 billion and crisis. However, governments
has fallen sharply 522. maintenance, repair, and threaten the survival of many are likely to place conditions
In turn, this is prompting overhaul (MRO) aftermarket, of the smaller, more vulnerable for the money. For instance,
a reduction in production. with many of the parked aftermarket suppliers. asking companies to maintain
At present, there are in
production somewhere
between 100 and 200 aircraft
without buyers. While those
planes will be among the
first to be sold off once
the market begins to come
back, they will inevitably be
bought at discounted prices.
However, aerospace players
cannot completely turn off
production if they are to
preserve their supply chains.
The production that does
happen will support a different
mix of aircraft models.
Narrow-body aircraft with
single aisles will represent
an even larger percentage
of production while the
portion of widebody jets
that predominantly serve
international routes would
shrink. International travel
could be the last segment to
recover because of ongoing
23certain employment levels or
agree to specified reductions
in carbon dioxide emissions.
As companies fight for
subsidies, airlines, original
equipment manufacturers
(OEMs), suppliers, and
MRO providers will begin
to consolidate. Aerospace
manufacturers may also
intervene to protect their
supply chain through direct
and indirect aid, joint
ventures, and acquisitions
and by becoming much more
involved in supplier operations.
OEMs could reduce the
complexity of their networks
and number of suppliers.
Moreover, new business
models are also likely to
evolve following financial
pressure. For instance, airlines
may find it too expensive to
buy aircraft and aerospace to operate, it’s important Cash flow is essential for of specialist companies and
manufacturers could feel it is that workplaces are safe and the survival of aerospace need to be more resilient than
better to engage in leasing and employees feel they have suppliers. Suppliers must be ever. To enable this, suppliers
asset management services. trust in their environment. paid on time for products need much better visibility of
The concept of a ‘workplace’ and services that have been future requirements so that
Recovery plans is also changing. Companies agreed. Some companies may they can forecast and plan
Meanwhile, several rescue need to be creative and also require direct financial their operations effectively.
and recovery plans have been resourceful in order to remain support to see them through All aerospace customers
proposed to overcome the productive, considering the downturn, possibly need to work hand-in-hand
crisis and enable recovery. flexible working, retraining and through long-term loans that with their suppliers to plan
The first step relates to the redeploying talented people are repayable based on sales. the careful scaling down of
people, for whom, safe and in particular. Quick learning Aerospace supply chains are operations, when necessary,
productive workplaces have also would a key factor. yet another factor. They are to leave them well prepared
to be ensured. For businesses Another aspect is finance. made up of tight networks for ramping back up when the
time comes. The best solutions
are developed together and so
communication must be two-
way. It’s also vital that the best
practice and opportunities are
shared quickly across networks
so that supply chain companies
can support each other.
Creating new opportunities
come next in line. Companies
may have to look closely at
diversification and unlocking
opportunities in new markets.
Innovation is also a crucial
aspect in overcoming any
crisis. Entrepreneurs need
to unleash the innovative
potential of companies and
keep investing in technologies.
24Rafael and Mesko to co-produce
SPIKE SR ATGM for Poland
characteristics that enable does not require special
a high level of operational training, infrastructure, or a
readiness. It can be carried designated gunner, SPIKE SR
easily by a solider without enables operational flexibility.
affecting maneuverability, SPIKE SR is an effective,
enabling simple, intuitive powerful munition which does
and quick operation, with not require a central command
only a few seconds from and allows to decentralize
“cold-start” to launch, in a and disperse the operators to
variety of operational and cover more terrain, a relevant
environmental scenarios. concept of operation for
The missile’s lethality is territorial defense forces.
achieved by a tandem HEAT Gal Papier, director of
warhead with a precursor marketing & business
charge that defeats Explosive development, Precision
Reactive Armor (ERA), Tactical Weapon Systems
I
sraeli company Rafael with over 34,000 missiles allowing the main warhead directorate at Rafael: “A
Advanced Defense already supplied and to achieve its full penetration future decision to equip the
Systems Ltd. and Polish more than 6,000 fired of Rolled Homogeneous Polish Army with the SPIKE SR
company Mesko, a PGZ in tests and combat. Armor (RHA). With a high-hit offers not only an operational
company, have agreed to The SPIKE LR is the missile probability in all scenarios advantage, exceeding the
co-produce the shoulder- variant that has been in use and ranges, the missile can specification requirements
launched SPIKE SR (Short- by the Polish Defense Forces operate in severe weather of the Pustelnik program,
Range) ATGM, as part of for some 15 years now, with conditions (from -35˚C to but also an economic benefit
Poland’s Pustelnik Program. local production of the missile 55˚C) and in complex combat to the local economy, as it
Led by the Polish MOD parts and final assembly scenarios, such as engagement further deepens industrial
Armament Inspectorate, the taking place in Poland by of fast-moving targets. cooperation between Mesko
Pustelnik Program is aimed Mesko since 2003. This The missile’s standoff range and Rafael, making Mesko
at choosing an anti-tank provides the infrastructure for ensures a higher degree part of the SPIKE SR global
weapon for Poland’s Territorial the future Polish production of force survivability, as it supply chain, as components
Defense Forces (WOT). of the SPIKE SR missile. does not rely on any means of the missile will be produced
The SPIKE SR is an advanced One of Rafael’s strengths of designation (e.g. laser), in Poland, not only for
Fire & Forget missile, for lies in its ability to create enabling the force to stay the local market, but also
ranges exceeding 2000 partnerships, transfer hidden. Since its operation for export customers.”
meters. The missile is simple- production, knowledge and
to-use and requires very technology, to create local
short training. SPIKE SR is employment. Rafael also
man-portable, weighing only conducts a wide array of
(10kg), for day and night offset activities globally. Rafael
use, capable of defeating has over 15 years of successful
any type of armored vehicle experience in production
or MBT. SPIKE SR is totally and technology transfer
disposable, a feature programs, implemented
that enables the soldier a at more than 50 overseas
higher level of mobility and companies located in the U.S,
maneuverability after firing. Europe and other countries.
SPIKE SR is the smallest The SPIKE SR missile
member of the well- is designed for different
established, globally known ground combat scenarios,
and combat-proven SPIKE for the tactical maneuvering
ATGM Family. SPIKE is in forces, platoon-level and
service in 34 countries, for special forces. The SPIKE
including 19 NATO nations, SR has unique operational
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