Editor’s Note

The changing nature of warfare, rising conflicts and the never-ending great-power competition has given rise to complex geometries in global geopolitical positioning. The world's future is filled with eternal uncertainty. The advances in technology such as quantum computing. artificial intelligence and digital surveillance have transformed the military worldwide. As a driving force, technology has embedded itself in the power showbiz and has initiated an unprecedented competition between global powers including the emerging middle power. Acquiring innovative power, capacity to invent and adapting fast to new technologies is now a key determinant for all involved in the ongoing power game in the emerging new world order.

Raksha Anirveda’s latest web feature attempts to evaluate and understand the impact of technology in reshaping India's power aspiration through its Indian Armed Forces’ modernisation programme. The featured articles have been diligently curated. These articles analyse Indian Armed Forces’ adoption of innovation and technology. procurement of critical technology to become Aatmanirbhar, adaptability to disruptive and emerging technologies, and its digitisation efforts to emerge as a strong future-ready force. Raksha Anirveda invites esteemed readers - the driving force behind its evolving benchmark to indulge, explore and evaluate the feature presentation. Happy Reading!

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Ahead of Schedule HAL Hands Over 3 ALHs to Indian Army

Aero India, Aero India 2019

BENGALURU. State-owned aerospace and defence company Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over first three Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) as part of the 22 ALH MK III contract to the Indian Army at the ongoing Aero India 2019 in Bengaluru on February 22.

HAL had entered into a contract with the Indian Army for 40 ALH (22 ALH Mk III and 18 Mk IV Rudra) in August 2017. Of the 22 helicopters, 19 helicopters have already been produced and would be progressively delivered.

The documents were handed over to Director General Army Aviation Lt Gen Kanwal Kumar by Chief Executive Officer, Helicopter Division GVS Bhaskar in the presence of Chairman and Managing Director, HAL R Madhavan. Officials from the Army, HAL, DGAQA and RCMA were also present on the occasion.

The Advanced Light Helicopter (Dhruv) is a multi-role, new generation helicopter in the 5.5-ton weight class, indigenously designed and developed by HAL. Powered by two Shakti engines, it provides superlative performance throughout its flight envelope.

It is suited for a high-speed cruise for rapid deployment and to maximise the area of operations. The basic helicopter is produced in skid version and wheeled version. In the wheeled version, options for fixed and retractable undercarriages are available.