Defence

Taufkirchen, 18th Feb 2025: Oliver Dorre, CEO of HENSOLDT AG and Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, signed a memorandum of understanding(MoU) on intended cooperation in the field of aircraft protection technologies at the Munich Security Conference. “Partnerships are a central element of our corporate strategy, especially in our commitment to deliver our products quickly and reliably to our customers. That’s why this MoU with Saab is another important step in our strategic development. This MoU with Saab is another important step in our strategic development. It is characterised by our positioning as a reliable partner for national and international security and defence programmes and our holistic, cross-domain range of integrated system solutions,” said Oliver Dorre at the signing of the MoU. “This MoU reflects the intensification of the successful cooperation already established in various projects. We are very much looking forward to working with the Saab team to exploit further potential for cutting-edge technologies in a targeted manner, thus contributing to the sustainable expansion of the capabilities of our military customers and partners, including opportunities for local value creation,” Dorre continued. “This agreement with HENSOLDT enables us to explore new opportunities and to leverage our combined expertise in aircraft protection technologies”, says Micael Johansson, Saab President and CEO. “Together, we will deliver innovative solutions that enhance the safety and effectiveness of our customers’ missions.”

Abu Dhabi,18th February 2025: EDGE, advanced technology and defence group and GM Defense announced an agreement to assess projects focusing on light tactical vehicles for customers in the Middle East, Africa, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Under terms of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), GM Defense, a General Motors subsidiary, would work with NIMR Automotive, an arm of EDGE, on potential opportunities. The MoU signing, which was also attended by U.S. Ambassador to United Arab Emirates Martina A. Strong and Abri du Plessis, NIMR CEO, occurred at the International Defense Exhibition & Conference 2025, taking place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Khaled Al Zaabi, President – Platforms & Systems, EDGE Group said,“This collaboration reflects a shared vision to unlock new possibilities in defence solutions. By uniting EDGE’s regional insight, operational excellence, and established infrastructure with GM Defense’s technical expertise and industry leadership, we aim to create a powerful synergy that will drive innovative projects and elevate operational capabilities across key markets.” “This strategic agreement marks a significant step towards localising GM Defense’s advanced capabilities and expanding GM’s transformational technologies and investments into new global defence markets,” said GM Defense President Steve duMont. “Together, we are poised to deliver advanced mobility solutions that offer exceptional performance, reliability and quality; enabling our customers to safely accomplish their mission.”

Gavião Peixoto, Brazil, February 16, 2025: Embraer has officially begun the structural assembly of the first C-390 Millennium for Austria. This major step took place during an official ceremony held at the Gavião Peixoto production facility in the presence of a delegation of representatives from the Austrian government. “We’re thrilled to start production of first aircraft for Austria and we look forward to delivering the first aircraft to the Austrian Air Force soon. The C-390 is setting new standards as a medium airlift, truly multi-mission aircraft. It offers an unbeatable combination of the latest technology, reliability, and low operational costs, with unmatched performance”, said Bosco da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. With a maximum payload of 26 tons, a top speed of 470 knots, and state-of-the-art systems, the C-390 is the best aircraft in its class. Its powerful engines, large cargo hold equipped with a rear ramp and robust landing gear enable it to carry out the most demanding missions, including unpaved runways. A true strategic asset for its end users, the C-390 Millennium can perform a wide range of military and civilian missions such as cargo transport, personnel and vehicles, peacekeeping operations, special operations, humanitarian support, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, air-to-air refueling, and disaster management. The aircraft configured with air-to-air refueling equipment, with the designation KC-390, can operate both as a tanker and as a receiver, in this case also by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings. Since entering service with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the Portuguese Air Force in 2023 and, most recently the Hungarian Air Force in 2024, the C-390 has proven its capability, reliability and performance. The current fleet of aircraft in operation has accumulated more than 16,300 flight hours, with a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%, demonstrating exceptional productivity in the category. In addition to Brazil, Portugal, and Hungary, the Netherlands announced their choice for the Millennium in 2022. In 2023, Austria, the Czech Republic and the Republic of Korea also selected the C-390, confirming the success of this game-changer platform. In 2024, Sweden, Slovakia and an Undisclosed Customer also opted for the C-390.

Abu Dhabi 16 February 2025: Abu Dhabi has welcomed warships from around the world at the ADNEC Marina in preparation for the eighth edition of the Naval Defence and Maritime Security Exhibition (NAVDEX) 2025, taking place from 17 to 21 February 2025. Held alongside the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX), NAVDEX 2025 is organised by ADNEC Group in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE. This year’s event will feature an exceptional display of naval fleets from eight nations, including the United Arab Emirates, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Hellenic Republic (Greece), the Republic of Korea (South Korea), and the Republic of India. Commodore Rashed Ibrahim Rashed Al-Muhaisni, Chairman of the Maritime Committee of NAVDEX, said: “We take great pride in being the global focal point for thousands of high-profile figures and decision-makers from around the world, all gathering to participate in IDEX and NAVDEX.” He further explained that this edition of NAVDEX will be the largest and most distinguished since its inception. The event will witness the launch of several warships for the UAE Armed Forces, with the participation of 21 vessels from allied and friendly nations, including newly manufactured ships that proudly showcase the advanced technologies of the Emirati defence industry. He added that participants will have the opportunity to display a variety of vessels of different sizes and demonstrate their capabilities at the NAVDEX live demonstration area a dedicated marine platform, as well as at Mina Zayed, which will host larger ships. This edition marks a transformative leap in both international and local participation, showcasing cutting-edge defence and security technologies. Saeed Al Mansoori, Defence Events Advisor at ADNEC Group, commented: “The current edition of NAVDEX has become a leading platform for showcasing the latest innovations in naval defence and security. ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi has welcomed decision-makers, industry leaders, and innovators to explore new horizons in the future of maritime defence and security.” He also emphasised that the expansion of exhibition space, the notable increase in participating companies, and the display of advanced technologies by various nations reaffirm Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for the defence industry. The event organisers have welcomed the first batch of naval vessels as they passed through the waterway towards the ADNEC Marina, featuring a diverse range of ships in terms of size and purpose. Additionally, Mina Zayed has received several other naval vessels participating in NAVDEX 2025, further expanding the global presence of this significant event. NAVDEX serves as a dedicated platform for the maritime defence and security sector, providing participants with opportunities for strategic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and showcasing the latest maritime technologies. The eighth edition of NAVDEX will also feature NAVDEX Talks, a series of lectures and panel discussions where experts and specialists will explore emerging trends, present real-world case studies, and highlight the latest advancements in naval defence technology. The event offers exhibitors a unique opportunity to display their vessels in a dedicated waterborne exhibition area, where ships can be moored at the temporary marina equipped with floating docks. NAVDEX 2025 will present a carefully curated daily schedule of live demonstrations, many of which will be led by exhibitors themselves, providing an engaging experience for visitors. Guests at the grandstand overlooking the waterfront and adjacent to the exhibition area will have a front-row view of the latest maritime technologies and capabilities in action. NAVDEX 2025 will bring together a distinguished gathering of global industry leaders, decision-makers, influencers, and maritime defence experts, shaping the future of the vital naval defence sector.

Bengaluru, 12 February 2025 : SAMTEL Avionics (SA), a key player in India’s defence technology sector and part of the 50-year-old SAMTEL Group, and HENSOLDT Avionics – a company engaged in the defence and security industry with specific experience in the field of airborne and sensor solutions have signed an MOU today to explore possibilities of establishing a co-production facility in India through an Industrial partnership for the HENSOLDT’s Products – LCR 100, Cavi Sight and Cavi Connect. CAVI SIGHT: HENSOLDT’s Cavi Sight Visual Landing Aid and Video Switching System is a groundbreaking Navigation System for SAR, Police, Firefighter and Military in India. It aims to set new standards for precise and safe landings—particularly for helicopters and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). The system allows for highly precise landings at remote or hard-to-reach locations—such as in dense forests or urban areas, where narrow landing zones can present a challenge. CAVI CONNECT: Airborne missions and other aircraft operations need a way to exchange two-way data securely with personnel and resources on the ground. With up to four simultaneous data connections, CaviConnect by HENSOLDT enables operators to exchange data between the ground and active aircraft using the LTE (4G) network.     LCR 100: The SferiRec LCR 100 combined lightweight ED-155 flight recorder combines the recording of voice, data and video. It packs into one single box all the acquisition and recording functions that previously had to be spread across different devices. Commenting on the collaboration, Mr. Puneet Kaura, MD and CEO, SAMTEL Avionics said, “We are elated to announce this partnership with HENSOLDT Avionics. We look forward to a long-term relationship in the field of innovative avionics solutions which are specifically designed to improve the efficiency and safety of aerial operations.” Mr Eugen Maier, Head of Sales Airborne Solutions, HENSOLDT Avionics commented, “We are confident that these indigenized products tailored for Indian requirements in partnership with SAMTEL has huge potential in both civil and military domain of aviation in India and will increase the safety factors of the platforms manifold. We look forward to a long journey together with SAMTEL.”

Bangalore, 12th Feb 2025: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) with an endeavour to integrate various stakeholders of defence R&D ecosystem in the country, is participating in the 15th edition of Aero India during February 10-14, 2025 at the Air Force Station Yelahanka, Bengaluru. It will feature indigenously developed state-of-the-art technologies and systems, working models and innovations in all formats, i.e., Indoor Pavilion, Outdoor Displays, India Pavilion and Flying display. DRDO for the first time is showcasing a full-scale model of India’s first 5.5 Gen stealth aircraft Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) equipped with cutting-edge features at the India Pavilion. This Pavilion at Aero India 2025 will showcase India’s commitment to its Make-in-India initiative by displaying indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities and cutting-edge technologies ready for the global stage. The pavilion exemplifies the combined strength of India’s private industries, Defence PSUs, start-ups, and DRDO. Apart from this, visitors to this Pavilion will gain insight from 16 other DRDO developed products and technologies being displayed such as Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF); LCA Mk-2 Model; Air Droppable Container (ADC) -150; Advanced Light Weight Torpedo; Kaveri Derivate Aero Engine without afterburner , Naval Anti-ship missile – Medium Range and various other missiles. DRDO indoor pavilion at Hall-D at Aero India is meticulously divided into 9 themes, encompassing core areas of defence innovation. The themes are: ‘Airborne Surveillance Solutions’, ‘Naval Warfare’, ‘Next-Generation Missile Systems’, ‘Supremacy in the Skies – ADA’s 5th Gen Leap’, ‘Unmanned Aerial Systems’, ‘RadarScape: Mapping the Invisible’, ‘Maritime Sentinel: A New Era of Surveillance & Safety’, ‘Sensors Suite for Fighter Aircraft’ and ‘Rakshak’. The Pavilion is displaying over 330 products which are categorised into 14 technology zones. It will provide an in-depth exploration of key defence areas, namely Advanced Materials & Composites; Surveillance & Reconnaissance Technology; Antenna & Microwave Technology; Soldier Support Systems; Combat Aircraft Technology; Corporate Directorates; Micro Electronic Devices, Computational Systems and Cyber Security; Land Systems & Munitions; Missile Technology; Next-Gen Combat Vehicles & Tactical Mobility; Photonics, Laser and Quantum Technology; Electronic Warfare & Communication; Simulation & Training Technology; and Aero Propulsion Technology. The indoor pavilion is also displaying the products developed under Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme being executed by DRDO. The outdoor segment of DRDO pavilion is designed to demonstrate the real-world application of cutting-edge defence technologies featuring full-scale model of QRSAM Mobile Launcher Vehicle, Akash NG Launcher; Archer UAV 1:1 (Rustom-1); Air Droppable Survival and Rescue Kit (SARK); Emergency Escape Parachute System for Air Crew (EEPSA); Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS); Vehicle Mounted Jammer; Anti UAV (JAU) Entity of Project DHARASHAKTI, and VHF Radar. The demonstration of Dornier aircraft’s midlife upgrade is one of the main highlights of DRDO’s participation at the Aero Show. The upgraded Dornier is showcasing enhanced avionics, better fuel efficiency, advanced radar systems, enhanced manoeuvrability, integrated surveillance systems, and improved electronic warfare capabilities, reinforcing its role as a dependable asset of the Indian Air Force. DRDO will conduct a seminar with the theme ‘DRDO Industry Synergy towards Viksit Bharat: Make in India – Make for World’ at Hall No. 2 on February 11, 2025. The seminar will foster industry engagement, promote self-reliance in defence and provide a boost to defence exports. Members of Academia, Indian Private Industry, StartUps, PSUs, and DRDO will participate in this seminar. Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth will inaugurate the event and will release the Revised Policy for ToT, DRDO Policy for Harnessing Innovative Startups in Defence R&D and Compendium of DRDO Products for Export. During the seminar, Handing Over of Licensing Agreement for Transfer of Technology (LATOT) to Industries will also take place. At the event, Secretary DDR&D and Chairman DRDO Dr. Samir V Kamat will chair a panel discussion on Opportunities for Industries in Defence Export to foster a collaborative environment for enhancing defence exports. Under the banner of Aero India 2025, an Indigenisation & Valedictory event themed as ‘SAMARTHYA’ will be organised on February 12 by Department of Defence Production (DDP), to recognise and felicitate the contributors of Indigenously developed cutting edge technologies. Five DRDO developed products have been recognised to be showcased and Team leader of these products will be felicitated by the Raksha Mantri. The details are: Shri Y Dilip, Director ADE Bengaluru for Computerised Pilot Selection System (CPSS) Dr MSY Siva Prasad, PD RudraM II, RCI Hyderabad Ms M Backialakshmi, CABS Bengaluru for Automatic Dependent Surveillance Broadcast (ADS-B) Receiver Smt T Sirisha, RCI, for Naval Anti-Ship Missile–Short Range Shri Vishal Dwivedi, CFEES Delhi for Fire Wire for Integrated Fire Detection and Suppression System for BMP, T-72 and T-90. As a prelude to Aero India, DRDO also organised the 15th edition of the Biennial Aero India International Seminar in association with the Aeronautical Society of India (AeSI) during February 8-9, 2025 in Bengaluru. The theme of the seminar was ‘Futuristic Aerospace Technologies: Challenges in Design Validation’, covering emerging trends in futuristic aerospace technologies and military airworthiness & certification: challenges in design and testing. This seminar provided valuable insights about cutting-edge technologies, a platform to explore collaborative research opportunities and forge strategic partnerships, while advancing the future of aerospace and defence technologies. DRDO’s exhibition at Aero India 2025 is an excellent opportunity for the Indian aerospace community to foster the cause of indigenous development of military systems and technologies with the spirit of self-reliance & national pride. Working towards the vision of Samarth and Shashakt Bharat, DRDO is developing the indigenous capabilities of the country by equipping the Armed Forces with state-of-the-art technologies/equipment, and bolstering the defence sector through collaboration with the private sector.

Bengaluru, February 11, 2025: Flying Wedge Defence and Aerospace (FWDA), a defence tech company secures India’s first global export order for its FWD 100 ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) autonomous aircraft from a Sub-Saharan nation. This momentous deal is said to place India among the elite league of global defence exporters, alongside the USA, China, Turkey, Iran and Israel. The deal was announced today at the Aero India 2025, Bengaluru, where the company also displayed the upgraded unmanned bomber with laser-graded weaponry and a 24-hour endurance capability, as shown in the image. According to the information, the FWD 100 ISR is a sub-variant of the FWD 200B and is said to be the first made in India autonomous aircraft to receive a global order. While the value of the deal remains undisclosed, the agreement includes an initial delivery of 35 autonomous aircrafts. The aircraft is entirely developed and manufactured in India at FWDA’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Electronic City, Bengaluru. This achievement not only highlights India’s growing manufacturing capabilities but also underscores its shift from being the world’s largest arms importer from last five years to entering into the top 5 exporter of advanced military technology. While speaking on the achievement, Suhas Tejaskanda, Founder and CEO of FWDA, said, “India has long been the world’s largest importer of arms, often paying ten times the cost for military technology from countries like the US and Israel. This export order marks a pivotal turning point in our nation’s history, elevating us into the exclusive league of the world’s top five defence exporters.” “This deal is not just an achievement for FWDA but a monumental step for India’s defence ecosystem. It’s a proof that we are shaping the future of global defence,” he further added. Setting a new standard in autonomous defence technology, FWD 100 ISR features, Advanced Optical Payload, for precise surveillance and intelligence gathering; impressive Specifications of 6-meter wingspan, 3.8-meter length, and 90 kg maximum takeoff weight; paired with unmatched endurance of 24-hour operational capability, ideal for critical reconnaissance missions.

Bengaluru, 10th feb 2025: Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the India, iDEX and Karnataka Pavilions at Aero India 2025 in Bengaluru, Karnataka on February 10, 2025. The India Pavilion is showcasing the design, development, innovation and manufacturing capabilities of the domestic defence industries through state-of-the-art products and technologies. It signifies the ‘Flight of Self-Reliance’ which encapsulates synergy among the three Services and the space sector and India’s journey towards becoming a global aerospace and defence powerhouse. After the inauguration, Raksha Mantri visited various stalls set-up in the pavilion and interacted with the representatives of the companies, inspecting their products. At the India Pavilion, more than 275 exhibits are being displayed through various mediums, represented by complete defence ecosystem of the country including Defence PSUs, design houses and private companies including MSMEs and start-ups. The exhibits at the Central Area include a striking display of marquee platforms including Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, Combat Air Teaming System and Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter. At the iDEX Pavilion, leading innovators are displaying indigenously-developed products spanning a wide range of advanced domains including Aerospace, DefSpace, Aero Structures, Anti-drone systems, Autonomous Systems, Robotics, Communication, Cybersecurity, Surveillance & Tracking, Unmanned Ground Vehicles etc. The Pavilion is also featuring a dedicated section highlighting the winners of the ADITI (Acing Development of Innovative Technologies with iDEX) scheme, showcasing their ground-breaking works in critical and niche technologies. Raksha Mantri unveiled three publications – iDEX Report 2024, iDEX Coffee Table Book and iDEX Finance Manual on the occasion. The iDEX Report and Coffee Table Book highlight the key milestones of the defence innovation ecosystem, celebrating the contributions of innovators & stakeholders. The iDEX Finance Manual simplifies the existing finance procedures to enhance the pace of projects, and facilitate ease of doing innovation for the iDEX winners. The Karnataka Pavilion is showcasing cutting-edge technologies from the defence and aerospace industries from the state. These innovations highlight Karnataka’s robust ecosystem in defence and aerospace, supported by over 2,000 SMEs. Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka Shri DK Shiva Kumar was present on the occasion.