An idea can be familiar, elegant, and even simple. But that does not make it simple to achieve! Military leaders have prized aerial surveillance for decades, and its value has long been clear in terms of delivering the intelligence needed to answer fundamental questions in battlespace planning: Where are the forces opposing us, in what strength, and with what intentions? From 19th century balloons to the transonic, high-altitude surveillance and intelligence flights of the mid-20th century, commanders and their governments have sought these answers with the best capabilities that technology could offer.
But always, there were limits. Reconnaissance flights over disputed or hostile terrain risked precious human pilots and crews, and if crews were shot down, the vital intelligence they were sent to collect was completely lost. Attempts to reduce this risk led to other compromises as exemplified by high-altitude aircraft that lost the race to out-range enemy anti-aircraft systems, and then later by ever-faster, higher-speed aircraft that required astronomical cost to acquire and operate.
Which led to the idea and the question: What could enable the United States to see what was happening all the time, in real time? By the 1980s, elements in the US government recognised the appeal of unpiloted, long-endurance surveillance aircraft. But although the hopes of these visionaries were simple to articulate effectively nonstop, rich-quality aerial surveillance they required years of dedicated and innovative work to realise.
That is the story of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI)- a company that met a moment in history at a time when long-cherished ideas about new forms of aerial surveillance had become practically attainable. And it was all thanks to the work of engineers, researchers, specialists, government sponsors, and others whose efforts made the dream real and, in the process, changed the world.
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NEW MANTRA FOR DISPUTE RESOLUTION
AMIT COWSHISH explains why the Ministry of Defence (MOD), which is one of the biggest spenders, needs to watch out for the latest mediation rules.
NEW WAVE TERRORISM IN JAMMU & KASHMIR
KARAN KHARB argues that Pakistan's continued use of proxy war tactics against India, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, poses a severe threat to national security. He advocates for a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach in counter-terrorism efforts, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive review of military strategies and a coordinated national policy to address both external and internal security challenges effectively.
INDIAN NAVY'S PROJECT-751 - GERMAN TKMS LEADS SPANISH NAVANTIA AFTER FIELD TRIALS FOR AIP-SUBMARINE DEAL
German submarine-builder ThyssenKrupp (TKMS) and India's Mazagaon Dockyard Limited (MDL) have emerged as leaders in the Indian Navy's Project-751, which aims to build six submarines with Fuel Cell Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and Lithium-ion batteries. Following successful field trials, TKMS and MDL have gained an edge over competitors by demonstrating their proven AIP technology and advanced submarine design tailored to the Indian Navy's needs.
VIKSIT BHARAT FROM A DREAM TO REALITY
The article explores India's ascent as a global influencer, emphasising its strategic advancements in foreign policy, defence, and economic growth. It also highlights India's challenges in achieving sustainable development and strengthening internal security. Adopting a forward-looking approach, the article envisions India's rise as a major economic power and a key player in global stability, as outlined by LT. GEN. A.B. SHIVANE (RETD.).
WILL MODI APPLY THE LESSON LEARNT FROM KOREA IN UKRAINE?
Speculation around Prime Minister Narendra Modi's possible visit to Ukraine raises questions about India's role in mediating peace between Russia and Ukraine. Drawing from its experience during the Korean War, India may seek to leverage its strategic neutrality to foster dialogue in a conflict where China and Turkey have also shown interest, opines PRAKASH NANDA.
UGVS: THE NEXT DIMENSION OF WARFARE
With the rest of the world developing unmanned ground vehicles at a breakneck speed, it is time for India to join the bandwagon at the earliest.
SUPERSONIC DESTROYER
The BrahMos programme has filled a critical gap in the Indian armed forces' missile inventory and continues to attract strong export interest, writes ATUL CHANDRA.
POLICE MODERNISATION: AN URGENT NEED OF THE HOUR
India is facing many internal security threats, and it is time to reshape the strategic dynamics by modernising the police forces.
FUTURE FIGHTER
FIA 24 provided important insights into the Global Combat Air Programme, which will redefine the future of air combat, reports MIKE RAJKUMAR.
FILLING THE GAP
A new Medium Transport Aircraft is essential for the IAF, but it will have to compete with other pressing programmes fighting for limited budgetary resources, analyses ATUL CHANDRA.