420: WHAT NEXT AFTER SIXTH-GENERATION AERIAL PLATFORMS

 

Pic Courtesy: Internet

Predicting the specific features of future aerial platforms involves speculation, but based on current trends and technological advancements, several potential features could be considered for future aircraft and drones.

 

    • They would be made of Nano-tech with adaptive and morphing structures, allowing for dynamic changes in shape and aerodynamics.

 

    • They would be able to morph between many aerodynamic forms depending on the manoeuvre being attempted. This could improve overall efficiency and manoeuvrability.

 

    • They would be made using lightweight and strong materials, such as advanced composites and nanomaterial, for increased durability and performance.

 

    • They would be able to fly up to and in outer space (upper Stratosphere or lower Mesosphere).

 

    • They would be highly responsive with hypersonic speed capability.

 

    • They would have a VR cockpit concept, letting the pilot see what the targeting pod sees.

 

    • They would have Advanced Sensor Technologies, such as improved imaging systems, sensors for environmental monitoring, and enhanced data fusion capabilities for better situational awareness.

 

    • They will present a 360-degree spherical view with no blind spots.

 

    • They will be armed with Directed Energy Weapons.

 

    • They would have energy shields/cloaking devices for self-protection.

 

    • They would have advanced voice-activated controls.

 

    • “Dog fighting” will be replaced by terms like “Archerfish combat” or “Bombardier Beetle Combat”.

 

    • They would be remotely piloted or AI-controlled. They would be highly autonomous with improved decision-making capabilities.

 

    • They would be highly energy efficient with the use of alternative fuels, improved propulsion systems, or even the integration of renewable energy sources.

 

    • They may use high energy-to-weight ratio fuels (e.g. liquid methane).

 

    • They would be fully stealthy with low radar, visual, noise, and electromagnetic signatures.

 

    • They would be capable of operating individually or collaboratively as a swarm.

 

Actual features of future aerial platforms will depend on a variety of factors, including technological breakthroughs, military and strategic priorities, and budget considerations. Continuous advancements in fields like materials science, artificial intelligence, and aerospace engineering are likely to play a crucial role in shaping the capabilities of future aerial platforms.

 

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419: INDIA’s PREPAREDNESS FOR DRONE WARFARE

 

The most important, current, and discussed topic related to the contemporary application of Air Power.

 

To read the article, please click on the link below:-

INDIA’s PREPAREDNESS FOR DRONE WARFARE

 

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416: INPUTS TO JOURNALIST: RECENT DEFENCE PROCUREMENT

 

NEWS

The defence ministry has cleared acquisition proposals worth ₹2.23 lakh crore for the armed forces, including:-

97 additional light combat aircraft from HAL.

156 light combat helicopters from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL).

A ₹65,000-crore plan to upgrade the mainstay Su 30MKI fighter jet fleet in service with the air force.

 

Q.  A multi-billion dollar acquisition was approved by DAC. But what is absent is the AoN for MRFA. Do you think the government sees the indigenous LCA Mk2 as a viable option instead of 114 MRFAs??

COMMENTS

  • Over the years the IAF capabilities have enhanced manifold.
  • It is the capacity (war endurance) that needs attention, strength of fighter and combat support platforms.
  • Overall the deterrence capability has not kept pace with the existing threat perception.
  • This aspect needs to be addressed urgently.
  • The government is aware of it and trying to address it.
  • Air platforms of the Air Force are technology-intensive, costly, and take time to procure.
  • While building up the capability and capacity, the most important thing to be kept in mind is that the required minimum deterrence value is to be maintained at all times (either by domestic production or by outside procurement.
  • The lesson from all the recent wars is that self-reliance in defence production is essential.
  • Another major factor to be considered is that a balance is to be maintained between the quality and quantity of platforms.
  • IAF has a drawdown mitigation plan, which is reviewed periodically.
  • The amount of money for defence spending is limited and the wish list is long.
  • The government must have taken a decision keeping all the above factors in mind.
  • They have given preference to the domestic defence industry to build up the numbers.

My recommendations are:-

  • While the domestic production of Tejas would cater to the numbers, there is a requirement for newer-generation multi-role aircraft to maintain a balanced force (till the domestic Tejas MkII and AMCA come up).
  • MRFA aircraft needs to be procured (maybe in the next instalment of defence spending).
  • These should be procured in phases (maybe two to three squadrons at a time.
  • This would spread the expenditure over some time and we would get later and better technology and features.
  • Keeping the diverse inventory of the IAF and the associated challenges it would be prudent to go in for more Rafael aircraft.

 

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