Aviation

Airlines are on high alert for cyber attacks targeting onboard flight tracking.

Airlines are on high alert for cyber attacks targeting onboard flight computers.

Airlines are now facing a serious risk from new GPS spoofing technology, which can mess up an aircraft’s location. This type of cyber attack can make planes go off course and even affect onboard clocks.

Cybersecurity experts have warned that these attacks use fake GPS signals from the ground to mislead aircraft, potentially causing confusion for drones or missiles. A British cybersecurity firm, speaking at the DEF CON hacking conference in Las Vegas, noted that GPS is not just for positioning but also for timing, and spoofing can cause onboard clocks to act strangely.

GPS has replaced expensive ground-based systems for guiding planes, but it can be easily disrupted with cheap equipment. Airlines use satellite-based systems for real-time tracking, which can also be manipulated.

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Aircraft rely on satellite-based aviation technology for real-time location tracking, as ground-based transmitters are too costly for airlines. Unfortunately, this technology is also susceptible to manipulation, which can lead to false location data being sent to aircraft.

Such falsified information can cause airlines to veer off course and become disoriented in the sky. There is a risk that aircraft could inadvertently enter conflict zones, such as Ukraine-Russia or Israel-Iran, endangering passengers and crew.

Cybersecurity experts are actively working to address these vulnerabilities and enhance safety measures to protect passengers during their flights.

Aviation

India Launches Its Medium-Lift Class Helicopter Program, chooses New Engine

India’s longstanding need for a Medium Helicopter may soon become a reality as the country has fully ramped up its engine development efforts. This new helicopter is set to replace the Russian-built models currently in service and will play a crucial role across various scenarios for the Indian Armed Forces.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and SAFHAL Helicopter Engines Pvt. Ltd. (SAFHAL) have launched a groundbreaking partnership to develop a state-of-the-art high-power engine named Aravalli.

This new engine will power the upcoming 13-ton Medium Lift Helicopter (IMRH) and the Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH), both of which are being designed and developed by HAL.

Named after the majestic Aravalli mountain range in India, the Aravalli engine symbolizes the country’s drive for self-reliance, or Aatmanirbharta, in critical engine technologies. This cutting-edge engine will be instrumental for the IMRH, a versatile 13-ton multi-role helicopter designed to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces, and the DBMRH, a 12.5-ton naval variant tailored for the Indian Navy.

The IMRH is poised to become a cornerstone of the Indian armed forces over the next decade. With its first flight expected in 3 to 4 years, the IMRH is anticipated to begin induction by 2030, with plans to integrate between 300 to 400 units, and potentially more in the future.

The IMRH is envisioned as a highly versatile multi-role helicopter that will enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian military. The DBMRH, designed for naval operations, will also face the challenges of high-altitude environments in regions such as Ladakh, Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh—areas of strategic importance due to their proximity to the China border.

In addition to its military applications, the Aravalli engine is projected to enter the civil market, serving roles in offshore operations, utility services, and VVIP transport. The long-term vision includes Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) activities to further extend the engine’s utility and support the aviation industry.

This collaboration between HAL and SAFHAL builds on their successful history of working together on the Shakti engine, which powers several HAL helicopters, including the Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the Light Utility Helicopter. The proven success of this partnership lays a strong foundation for the development of the Aravalli engine, setting the stage for a new era in India’s helicopter capabilities.