Latest news with #IndianAirforce
India.com
29-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Rs 4700000000000: Enemy has 1650 fighter jets, India has only 522; India needs huge money for..., will IAF be able to...
(File) In an environment which is political tensed and tensions continue to simmer across India's borders with China and Pakistan, various questions are being asked about the Indian Air Force's preparedness vis-à-vis India's two neighbours, Pakistan and China. According to various reports, China has 66 squadrons of fighter jets with each squadron having 18 to 20 planes each, taking the total number to 1200, which is nearly double the number of aircrafts 600 fighter aircrafts. Here are all the details you need to know about Indian Airforce's current capacity. Indian Airforce vs China and Pakistan Apart from China, India's enemy Pakistan has 25 squadrons of fighter jets having around 450 fighter jets. Therefore, if India retires the two squadrons of Mig-21 planes which are expected to retire in the next few days, the capacity of the Indian Air Force is expected to decrease. What does Indian Air Force need? As per media reports, the cost of a single jet was estimated at around Rs 1,600 crore. Considering inflation and upgrades, the current price of a Rafale or its advanced variant is unlikely to be below Rs 2,000 crore per jet. Given that India requires 234 fighter jets, the total cost of the procurement deal is projected to be approximately Rs 4.70 lakh crore, as per a report by News 18 Hindi. India's 5th-generation stealth fighter jet gets key clearance In an important development for India's air superority, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the Execution Model for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme. As per a report by IANS news agency, the AMCA clearance marks a critical step towards realising India's goal of joining an elite club of nations in designing and producing its own fleet of next-generation combat aircraft. The IANS report also says that the project will be helmed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), said the Defence Ministry in a press release. The AMCA, widely seen as India's answer to fifth-generation air power, will give a major boost to achieving 'atmanirbharata' in the defence sector and will become a hallmark of India's growing defence capabilities. (With inputs from agencies)
Hindustan Times
25-06-2025
- Science
- Hindustan Times
Axiom-4 mission carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla to launch today
After multiple delays due to a variety of reasons, the much-anticipated Axiom 4 mission to the International Space Station (ISS) carrying Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla is scheduled to be launched on Wednesday, June 25 at 2.31 am EDT (around 12.00 noon IST). Indian Airforce (IAF) pilot Group Captain and ISRO astronaut Shubhanshu Shuklahas been named pilot for Axiom Mission 4, a private spaceflight for the International Space Station (ISS).(Axiom Space - X) The mission, if it goes ahead this time, will lift off from Launch Complex 39A at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The four astronauts set to go for the mission to the ISS will be carried aboard SpaceX's famous Falcon 9 rocket. SpaceX, in a post on X, said that all systems are looking good for today's launch and the weather is also 90 per cent favourable for liftoff. 'All systems are looking good for Wednesday's launch of @Axiom_Space 's Ax-4 mission to the @Space_Station and weather is 90% favorable for liftoff,' said SpaceX. Also read: Axiom launch: Shubhanshu Shukla to take part in these 7 experiments in space What is Axiom Mission 4? The Axiom-4 mission is a private astronaut mission to the International Space Station and will 'realize the return' to human spaceflight for India, Poland, and Hungary, with each nation's first government-sponsored flight in more than 40 years. According to Axiom, the mission will be these countries' second human spaceflight mission in history but it will be the first time all three nations will execute a mission on board the ISS. The mission aims to carry around 60 scientific studies and activities representing 31 countries, including India, the US, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe. Who are the crew? Four astronauts are set to go the ISS under Axiom Mission - Indian Space Research Organisation's astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla will serve as pilot, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space Peggy Whitson will command the mission, European Space Agency project astronaut Sławosz Uznański-Wiśniewski of Poland and Hungarian astronaut Tibor Kapu will both serve as mission specialists.
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
From Indian Airforce fighter jets to IPL to film sets: Meet Varlin Panwar, who defended Indian skies for 10 years
Rooted in Discipline: Early Life and Inspiration Wearing the Uniform and Earning the Rank Beyond the Air Force: Films and the IPL From defending the skies to consulting on blockbuster films for authentic portrayal of the armed forces and working behind the scenes in the IPL, Retired Sqn Ldr Varlin Panwar has seamlessly transitioned from decade long military service in the Indian Airforce to creative and security roles in civilian life. Her journey reflects dedication both in uniform and beyond, inspiring many through her continued service in diverse story, which recently gained widespread attention through a post shared by Humans of Bombay on Instagram, showcases how purpose and discipline can carry over into every phase of life. After 10 years in the Indian Air Force , she is now helping shape how India views its armed forces—both onscreen and childhood was shaped by the rhythm of army life, with her father's postings taking the family to new cities every few years. Despite the frequent moves, her parents created a supportive environment. One of her most cherished memories is running every Sunday with her father, who would speak passionately about his army days. These moments planted the seeds of ambition in ambition became conviction when, at 12, she witnessed a passing out parade in Dehradun. The pride on the cadets' faces left a lasting impression. Later, during her graduation, she joined the NCC as part of the 11th Girls Battalion. The training was grueling—marching in rain, attending camps, and balancing it all with academics—but she pushed through, eventually earning the title of Best Cadet at the national to serve, Panwar applied to both the Army and the Air Force and chose the latter after clearing the exams. She remembers the emotion of receiving her uniform and calling her father in tears. His response—'I'm proud of you, but don't just wear your rank, earn it'—became her guiding was commissioned as a Fighter Controller, a demanding position that required quick, decisive action. One of her most significant moments came in 2018, when she was stationed at a frontline IAF base and oversaw the Republic Day flypast. Moments before takeoff, she detected an unidentified aerial object crossing from the border. Responding swiftly, she scrambled jets, and the threat was neutralized—an incident that tested her composure and retiring in 2018, Panwar wasn't ready to slow down. She stepped into the world of tech security with the IPL and soon after began consulting for films like Fighter, Operation Valentine, and Skyforce. Her goal was clear: ensure the men and women in uniform were portrayed with accuracy and offering her military insight to directors and producers, she's helped bridge the gap between real-life service and cinematic storytelling. It's a role she takes seriously, understanding the power of media to influence public perception of the armed Panwar also serves as a mentor for young aspirants, especially girls who dream of joining the forces. She believes courage doesn't come from being fearless, but from believing in one's purpose and taking the first step despite the Humans of Bombay Instagram post, admirers referred to her as a 'real role model,' 'an inspiration,' and 'the pride of India.' Many recalled personal memories with her, while others from defense backgrounds expressed deep respect. Several users even asked for guidance on how to join the Air Force, reflecting the impact of her every chapter—whether in uniform or out—Sqn Ldr Varlin Panwar has shown that service to the nation doesn't end with retirement.
India.com
18-05-2025
- India.com
Bad news for Pakistan, China, Bangladesh as India developing Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warriors, they are dangerous because...
HAL Cats Warrior Drone Bad news for Pakistan, China, Bangladesh: The recent tensions between India and Pakistan witnessed an unprecedented level of air combat that the two countries have ever seen. The air combat was not only limited to long or short range missiles but also drones. Moreover, if reports are to be believed, the future will have more air struggles where targeting the enemies in air would be the most significant part of the conflict. With the development of Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior by HAL, the Indian Airforce has taken a step forward in the direction of air superiority. Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior is a futuristic unmanned wingman drone which can perform multiple tasks, such as scouting, absorbing enemy fire, and attacking targets. Demonstrated by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the drone is intended to be similar to the Boeing Ghost Bat and other 'loyal wingman' drones. One of the most useful features of the HAL developed drone is that it can be controlled by a mothership aircraft. In addition to this, it is also capable of returning to base after missions, which makes it multi-usable. About HAL Cats Warrior Also, in high-risk scenarios, the drone can also be directed to crash into critical targets. The drone features stealth capabilities, internal weapon bays, and advanced avionics. HAL Cats Warrior will be a non-human-crewed aircraft. The autonomous wing will make the warrior capable of taking off and landing from Earth and in the sea from an aircraft carrier. The Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) Warrior is expected to join with the existing combat platforms of the IAF, such as Texas, Su-30 MKI, and Jaguar very soon. HAL to deliver 12 LCA Mk1A fighter jets to IAF In another significant update, public sector military aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd announced that it expects to deliver as many as 12 LCA Mk1A fighter jets to the Indian Air Force this year, following the commencement of delivery of engines from US tech giant GE, as per a report carried by IANS news agency. (With inputs from agencies)
Time of India
13-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
'Ghar mein ghuske maarenge', says PM Modi in his address to IAF personnel at Adampur base
Live Events (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, in his address to Indian Airforce personnel at Adampur base, said, India will strike them (terror groups) inside their own territory and won't leave even a single chance for escape.'We have dusted them off. The Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy have defeated the Pakistani army. We gave them a message that there is no place in Pakistan where the terrorists could live peacefully. 'Hum Ghar Mein Ghus Ke Marenge."The Indian Prime Minister said, the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy have defeated the Pakistani Army on which these terrorists were said, Pakistan's 'naapak' intentions have been defeated every single time by our armed again a terror attack happens from Pakistan, we will respond back, the Indian PM Indian Airforce targeted terror bases deep inside Pakistan with speed and precision that left enemy stunned, said Modi his asserted that "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" is not just a slogan but a pledge by the country's soldiers to dedicate their lives for the nation and tales of their valour are etched in history forever after Operation Sindoor. PM Modi travelled to the Adampur air base in Punjab on Tuesday morning and interacted with air force personnel, who have been in the thick of action during the recent conflict with Pakistan. India is eternally grateful to its armed forces for everything they do for our nation, he said on X following the said, "Earlier this morning, I went to AFS Adampur and met our brave air warriors and soldiers. It was a very special experience to be with those who epitomise courage, determination and fearlessness. India is eternally grateful to our armed forces for everything they do for our nation."The prime minister's visit comes after days of intense conflict between India and Pakistan following Indian strikes on terror sites in the neighbouring country on May 7 under Operation Adampur base is the second largest air base in the Modi's choice of visiting the Adampur base of the India Air Force also sends out a message following Pakistani claim of destroying the prized S-400 air defence system in the station, which is home to India's key military defence forces, in a briefing during the conflict, had unequivocally rejected Pakistan's "false narratives".India and Pakistan agreed on May 10 to stop military actions. India has, however, made it clear it has merely paused its operation and its future actions will be guided by Pakistan's his first address to the nation after Operation Sindoor, Modi had on Monday sternly warned Pakistan that India will not succumb to nuclear blackmail and sent a clear message to the world: terror and trade, terror and talks cannot go together."Operation Sindoor is India's new policy against terrorism and our unwavering pledge for justice. It is the new normal. We have only kept in abeyance our operations against Pakistan and the future will depend on their behaviour," Modi said in a 22-minute Indian Air Force on Monday said all its military bases and systems continue to remain fully operational, and ready to undertake any further missions if the need General of Air Operations Air Marshal AK RBharti said the Indian military's fight was with terrorists and their support infrastructure, but it was a "pity" that the Pakistani military chose to bat for the terrorists.
