Latest news with #XGuard
Time of India
5 days ago
- Time of India
Decoy system for Rafale: India looks to expedite deliveries of X Guard for IAF fighter jets; here's how it works
During Operation Sindoor's initial phase, the Rafales executed missile strikes on Pakistani air installations. (File photo) India is looking to enhance the capabilities of its Rafale fighter jet fleet. India aims to accelerate the procurement of a decoy mechanism designed to enhance the defensive capabilities of its Rafale fighter aircraft against hostile missiles. During Operation Sindoor 's initial phase, the Rafales executed missile strikes on Pakistani air installations as a counter-response to their actions against Indian military objectives. The SCALP long-range missiles launched from these aircraft achieved precise hits on crucial Pakistani targets, successfully engaging early warning aircraft shelters, unmanned aerial vehicle facilities, command centres and airfields. X Guard : How The Decoy System For Rafale Jets Works The X Guard fibre optic towed decoy system, the order for which has been placed by Indian Air Force to upgrade the Rafale fighter jets' capabilities, enables operations in disputed airspace, according to an ET report. According to sources quoted by the financial daily, whilst the system, produced by Israel's Rafael, has been successfully integrated and tested on the aircraft, delivery schedules have been affected by supply chain disruptions and ongoing conflicts in West Asia. The authorities are working to speed up deliveries, recognising the system's importance in improving the Rafale fighter jet's missile defence capabilities. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 21st Century Skills Start with Confident Communication Planet Spark Learn More Undo The Israeli Air Force frequently uses the X Guard, a sophisticated reusable decoy mechanism that works in conjunction with fighter aircraft's electronic warfare systems. This device, which reproduces a fighter jet's signature characteristics, is housed within a pod attached to a hard point and used during high-stakes operations. When deployed in flight, the device maintains connection with the fighter jet via a fibre-optic cable. Its primary function is to serve as a target for incoming air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles, effectively drawing them away from the actual aircraft by presenting itself as a viable target. Upon mission completion, the system allows for mid-flight retraction and secure storage within its designated pod. The Indian Rafale combat aircraft demonstrated exceptional accuracy during Operation Sindoor whilst targeting terrorist facilities in Bahawalpur and Muridke. These aircraft have specific modifications designed for Indian requirements, including a helmet-mounted display system, an Infra Red Search and Track sensor, and capabilities to function effectively from high-altitude bases. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
Time of India
5 days ago
- Politics
- Time of India
India to fast-track Israeli decoy system for Rafale jets amid West Asia turmoil
India is looking to expedite deliveries of a decoy system that would strengthen the Rafale fighter jet fleet and provide it additional protection against enemy missiles. The X Guard fibre optic towed decoy system had been ordered by the Air Force as an enhancement to the fighter jets and enables them to operate in contested airspace. Sources said that the system -- manufactured by Israel's Rafael -- has been integrated and demonstrated on the fighter jets but deliveries have been impacted due to supply chain issues and the current turmoil in West Asia. Efforts are on to press for expedited deliveries as the system strengthens the fighter's ability to ward off enemy missiles. The Air Force did not respond to queries sent by ET on the issue. Israel's Rafael also did not respond to a questionnaire. Used extensively by the Israeli Air Force, the X Guard is a reusable decoy system that is integrated with the electronic warfare suite of fighter jets. The system, which mimics the signature of a fighter jet, is carried on a pod at a hard point and is deployed during high-risk missions. During the mission, the device is deployed and is towed by the fighter jet and remains connected to it through a fibre-optic line. It is designed to attract air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles fired at the aircraft, which mistake the decoy for the fighter jet and miss their target. After the mission ends, the system can be retracted during flight and gets stowed inside the pod. The Indian Rafale fighter jets , which performed with precision during Operation Sindoor, striking terror hubs at Bahawalpur and Muridke with pinpoint accuracy, have several enhancements tailored to Indian needs. This includes a helmet mounted display, an Infra Red Search and Track sensor and the ability to operate from high altitude airfields. Besides strike missions on the first day of Operation Sindoor, the Rafales were also used to conduct missile strikes on Pakistani airbases as a response to its actions towards Indian military targets. The SCALP long-range missile fired from the Rafales recorded several precision hits on high value targets in Pakistan, including hangars housing early warning aircraft and UAVs, command centres and airfields.
