Geopolitics Magazine - April 2018

In this issue

Geopolitics' April 2018 issue focuses on DefExpo. In his interview DRDO Chairman, Dr S Christopher, highlights the importance of quality scientific and technological manpower for making the "Make in India" theme a success story. Does India have enough quality scientific/technological manpower to develop its industrial base? The fact is that we do not spend enough on R&D to retain or attract the best talent. The issue also looks at how countries either collaborate to build systems or include a range of components from other nations to produce weapons and how after after decades of importing the majority of its primary weapons - from jet fighters and tanks to rifles and warships - India is finally on the cusp of becoming a producer of big-ticket weapon systems.
The issue also has an insight into the defence acquisition process pointing out that while there are structural and procedural inadequacies in the acquisition process of defence items, it will be unrealistic to expect any structural improvements in the near future, especially if the ministry continues to follow the past practice of merely tinkering with the existing disjointed system built around the capital acquisition wing. Plus: All our regular features.

Global Arms Industry From Hi-Tech To Lo-Tech

The international arms industry is now globalised. Gone are the days when a country could engage in techno-nationalism and build a weapons system purely at home—with the exception of a few nations like the US, Russia, China, and France. Instead, countries either collaborate to build systems or include a range of components from other nations. Considering this phenomenon, Indian defence production has to be broken into three categories: that which cannot be imported, that which can be assembled and co-produced in India, and that which can realistically be made in India.

10+ mins

I Am Now Like A Bania; No More Mufth Things To The OFB

Having obtained his BE (Hons) in Electronics & Communication Engineering from University of Madras and M.Tech in Microwaves and Radar Engineering from IIT, Kharagpur and Ph.D in Antennae and Measurement Techniques from IIT, Madras, DR. S CHRISTOPHER has been one of the most distinguished scientists of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in the field of missiles and Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS). He was heading the Bengalurubased Centre for Airborne Systems before being appointed in May 2015 as the Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of DRDO. He spoke to PRAKASH NANDA about the changes in the work culture of the DRDO and its many success stories to dispel the common impression that the organisation was marked by lethargy and ineptitude. Excerpts from the interview:

9 mins

F/A-18 Super Hornet For India Multi-role, Combat Tested And Built For The Future

THOMAS (THOM) BRECKENRIDGE, Vice President, Global Sales India, Boeing Defense, Space & Security says, Boeing is committed to expanding its partnership by producing Super Hornets in India, further developing the country’s aerospace ecosystem. Boeing will work closely with Indian industry to ensure they have the very latest technologies, applying lessons learned from the current Super Hornet production line.

6 mins

Defence Acquisitions Wanted: A Paradigm Shift

While a recent internal report of the Ministry of Defence (MoD) points to the structural and procedural inadequacies in the acquisition process of defence items, it will be unrealistic to expect any structural improvements in the near future, especially if the ministry continues to follow the past practice of merely tinkering with the existing disjointed system built around the capital acquisition wing. This approach is unlikely to achieve much as this wing is not even in complete charge of the entire procurement process. This needs to change.

9 mins

A Fresh Start

The Saras light aircraft programme has received a fresh impetus.

3 mins

Remote Surveillance

India’s requirements for unmanned aerial vehicles and remotely piloted aircraft is growing at a rapid pace.

7 mins

Read all stories from Geopolitics

Geopolitics Magazine Description:

Geopolitics Magazine published by Newsline Publications Pvt. Ltd. is a monthly magazine that covers a wide range of topics related to geopolitics, international relations, and national security, with a focus on the Indian perspective. The magazine is known for its in-depth analysis, insightful commentary, and expert opinions.

Geopolitics Magazine features a variety of content, including:

* Geopolitical analysis and commentary: The magazine features articles by leading experts on geopolitical trends and developments, as well as their analysis of current events.
* National security issues: Geopolitics Magazine covers a wide range of national security issues, including defense policy, foreign policy, and internal security.
* International relations: The magazine also covers international relations topics, such as diplomacy, trade, and development.
* Interviews with experts: Geopolitics Magazine interviews leading experts on geopolitics, national security, and international relations to get their insights on the latest trends and developments.

Geopolitics Magazine is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in geopolitics, international relations, and national security. It is also a great way to understand the Indian perspective on these issues. Subscribe today and start your journey to a more informed and engaged global citizen.