Latest World News: Rafale will become deadlier as IAF asks Dassault to integrate
The Indian Air Force has asked Rafale fighter jet manufacturer Dassault Aviation to integrate Indian-made weapons like the Astra air-to-air missile on the fighter jet. The move, if implemented, could prove to be a big step for the Make in India initiative, in which locally made weapons would be integrated into the globally popular fighter jet.
French-made Rafale fighter jets are used by many countries, including India, France, Egypt, Qatar and many others, as well as Greece, Croatia, United Arab Emirates and Indonesia, have placed orders for these planes.
The IAF has been using the Astra Air since 2020. Indian weapon systems are already integrated into the Su-30 MKI fighter jet with the native LCA Tejas.
The IAF has asked original equipment manufacturer Dassault Aviation to integrate Indian-made weapons like the Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW) and the Astra air-to-air missile with the Rafale which has been in service with the IAF since 2020,” defense officials told the news agency. YEARS.
Along with these missiles and bombs developed by the DRDO, the IAF also plans to integrate several weapons designed locally by private sector companies in the near future, including long-range glider bombs with the aircraft, they said.
India operates 36 Rafale fighter jets and has already expressed its intention to purchase 26 Rafale marine jets for use by its navy.
Indian Air Force senior brass pushed for indigenous solutions to be self-sustaining, especially in times of conflict.
Many weapon systems forcibly acquired in the ongoing clash with China have also been put on the indigenization path.
Astra air-to-air missiles are capable of hitting targets up to 100 km away, but very soon this will be extended to 160 km in the Astra Mark 2, while the upgraded version would be one with a 300 km strike range.
The SAAW can also hit targets over 100 km away and its advanced versions are also under development.
“Private sector companies have also developed missiles and bombs that can hit long-range targets and can be equipped on the Rafale,” the officials said.
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Updated: July 23, 2023, 3:58 PM IST
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An Overview of Global Events in 2023
In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.
Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.
Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.
Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.
Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.
Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.
Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.
In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.