India's AMCA Vs China's J-35: The Battle for Next-Gen Asian Air Supremacy

India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) represents a major leap in indigenous stealth fighter technology, whereas China’s J-35 family is significantly further along in its flight testing and carrier-based operational testing.

Both fighters signify a critical realignment in Asian air power. India is engineering the AMCA as an indigenous fifth-generation stealth platform, while China is expanding its J-35 family into a versatile medium-sized stealth jet tailored for dual land-based and carrier-borne operations.

Any side-by-side comparison demands careful nuance. The land-based J-35A has already taken to the skies in public Air Shows, while the AMCA is progressing through prototype development, meaning AMCA specifications currently reflect planned capabilities rather than proven combat performance.

The development timelines for both stealth jets differ sharply. The Indian AMCA project gained major momentum in 2024 following a government outlay approval of approximately ₹15,000 crore.

By May 2025, India's Defence Ministry authorized an industry-partnership framework to build the initial prototypes, setting a target of five prototype aircraft prior to full series production. The AMCA is envisioned as a twin-engine, multi-role, highly stealthy fighter complete with internal weapon bays and top-tier avionics.

China's J-35 development has followed an expedited trajectory. The J-35A serves as the primary land-based variant for the People's Liberation Army Air Force, while the naval J-35 variant is tailored specifically for aircraft carrier deployments.

Official Chinese military sources describe the J-35A as a medium-class multi-role stealth platform equipped for severe high-threat environments and air-dominance missions.

Parameter	India: HAL AMCA	China: Shenyang J-35 Family
Development Status	In prototype development phase; government approval granted in 2024. First flight planned for 2028–2029.	Flight-tested and operationally mature; publicly flown at Air Show China 2024 and tested on carriers in 2025.
Aircraft Generation	5th / 5.5 Generation (Program classification)	5th Generation
Variants	AMCA MK-1: Initial version powered by GE F414 engines. AMCA MK-2: Advanced version with a higher-thrust indigenous/co-developed engine.	J-35A: Land-based variant (PLAAF). J-35: Carrier-capable variant (PLANAF). J-35AE: Export variant.
Role/Service Branch	Primary focus on land-based operations for the Indian Air Force (IAF).	Dual-role platform for both the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and Navy (PLANAF).
Length	~17.6 metres	~17.3 metres
Wingspan	~11.1 metres	~11.5 metres
Height	~4.5 metres	~4.8 metres
Max Take-off Weight	~25,000 kg (25 tons)	~28,000 kg (28 tons)
Propulsion/Engines	MK-1: 2 × GE F414-INS6 turbofans (~98 kN thrust each). MK-2: 2 × 110 kN co-developed engines (indigenous planned).	Interim: 2 × Guizhou WS-21 (WS-13X) turbofans (~93 kN thrust each). Planned Final: 2 × Guizhou WS-19 turbofans (~110–116 kN thrust each).
Maximum Speed	Mach 2.15 (Projected)	Mach 1.9 (Demonstrated/Estimated)
Combat Radius/Range	Combat Radius: ~1,620 km (Internal fuel) Ferry Range: ~3,000+ km	Combat Radius: ~1,250 km (Internal fuel) Operational Range: ~3,500 km
Weapons Storage & Payload	Internal weapons bay for stealth mode (up to ~1,500 kg). External hardpoints for non-stealth missions (Total payload ~6,500 kg).	Center Line internal weapons bay + potential side bays. External hardpoints on wings (Total payload ~8,000 kg).
Planned Air-to-Air Armament	Astra MK-1, MK-2, & MK-3 (SFDR) BVRAAMs, Rudram anti-radiation missiles, precision-guided munitions.	PL-10 short-range AAM, PL-15 long-range AAM, PL-17/PL-21 ultra-long-range AAMs, precision glide bombs.
Avionics & Sensors	Uttam AESA Radar (3D GaN-based). Infrared Search and Track (IRST). Integrated Electronic Warfare (EW) suite & Advanced Cockpit with Integrated Vehicle Health Management. Sensor Fusion & Network-Centric Architecture.	Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar. Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS) / Distributed Aperture System (DAS). Advanced Electronic Countermeasures (ECM). Integrated Battlefield Data Network Link.
Carrier Capability	No (Naval capability handled separately by India's TEDBF program).	Yes (J-35 naval variant features folding wings, launch bar, and tail-hook for CATOBAR operations on carriers like Fujian).

Stealth architecture remains the cornerstone of both designs. Both platforms rely heavily on internal weapon carriage to maintain a smooth, low-observable fuselage contour, preventing radar detection during high-risk penetration sorties.

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has engineered internal weapon bays into the AMCA while highlighting its sensor fusion, advanced avionics, and network-centric operational suite. Chinese sources similarly emphasize the low radar visibility and electronic integration of the J-35A.

Precise radar cross-section data for both fighters remains classified. Because verifiable numerical comparisons of their radar footprints are unavailable to the public, any absolute claims regarding stealth supremacy should be viewed with extreme caution.

Both combat aircraft rely on twin-engine configurations. Initial production models of the AMCA will fly using imported GE F414 engines, with subsequent batches planned to receive a more powerful, higher-thrust engine co-developed in India through foreign collaboration in a phased program.

The J-35A similarly utilizes two engines. During its public debut at Air Show China in November 2024, Chinese authorities confirmed the jet flew using a domestically manufactured engine, demonstrating notable agility throughout its flight displays.

Publicly available datasets do not provide sufficient technical parameters to directly compare thrust, acceleration, or combat agility between the current J-35A engines and the planned propulsion systems for the AMCA.

The AMCA program is an engine of self-reliance for India. Beyond adding a capable fighter to the inventory, it aims to foster local mastery over stealth composite materials, avionics suites, electronic warfare equipment, weapons integration, and high-tech manufacturing processes.

DRDO showcased a full-scale model of the AMCA at Aero India in February 2025, branding it as India’s first 5.5-generation fighter featuring sensor fusion and advanced mission processing. While 5.5-generation is an internal program label rather than an official global designation, it underscores the ambition of the project.

By leaning on domestic technology, India secures direct control over future software and hardware upgrades, though the AMCA must still clear prototype fabrication, initial flight tests, live-weapons trials, and military certification.

China’s J-35 program has undeniably achieved higher development maturity. Following its official flight display at Air Show China in November 2024, Xinhua and Chinese military representatives confirmed the J-35A's readiness as a operational medium stealth fighter.

Naval testing has progressed at a rapid pace. In September 2025, Chinese state media reported that the carrier-capable J-35, alongside J-15T fighters and KJ-600 airborne early warning aircraft, successfully executed electromagnetic catapult launches and arrested landings aboard China's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian.

The Fujian officially entered active service in November 2025. Its modern electromagnetic catapult systems provide China with an advanced platform designed to launch high-performance stealth aircraft like the J-35 family directly at sea.

Modern air combat relies on sensor capability as much as speed. On-board radar systems, passive infrared sensors, suite-wide electronic warfare platforms, and encrypted data links dictate how effectively a fighter spots targets and coordinates within a broader battle management system.

India's AMCA features a modern networked sensor architecture, while Chinese military reports point to a similar information-centric combat suite on the J-35 family. Both nations acknowledge that future stealth fighters must operate as data nodes within larger tactical networks.

Actual radar detection ranges, jammer performance, and sensor resolution for the J-35A remain guarded military secrets. Consequently, projected data points for both the J-35 and AMCA should be treated as estimations rather than factual performance metrics.

Internal weapons bays remain a vital design mandate for both jets. Stowing missiles, bombs, and precision-guided munitions inside the airframe eliminates external drag and preserves low radar signatures during covert strikes.

DRDO designed the AMCA to carry its primary load-out internally for stealth missions, while retaining the flexibility to mount external pylons on non-stealthy strike sorties where maximum payload capacity is required.

Specific missile load-outs, internal bay weight capacities, and operational weapons combinations for the J-35 family remain unverified by official Chinese military documentation. Naval capabilities mark the clearest operational divergence between the two programs. China is actively producing both land-based and sea-based variants of the J-35 family, with the carrier platform already completing real-world launching tests.

The AMCA, in contrast, is designed exclusively for land operations under the Indian Air Force. India is separately developing the Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter to fulfil its future carrier-borne aviation needs, keeping the two projects on distinct development tracks.

Because the J-35 family targets dual land and sea deployment while the AMCA serves solely land-based air power, they do not function as direct naval equivalents.

Time represents the primary obstacle facing the AMCA. Moving from blueprinted designs to operational squadron deployment requires rigorous manufacturing and testing timelines.

Following the May 2025 approval of the industry-partnership execution model led by the Aeronautical Development Agency, Indian aerospace companies gained access to project participation. India laid the foundation stone for a specialized Aircraft Integration and Flight Testing Centre at Puttaparthi in May 2026 to support the AMCA and future aerospace programs under its ₹15,000 crore budget.

Every fighter development program must endure demanding structural testing, flight trials, weapons envelope expansion, and final combat certification. Until the AMCA completes these rigorous phases, its theoretical capability cannot be compared to fully proven flight performance.

Evaluating which fighter holds the advantage depends on the criteria used. Based strictly on current operational maturity, the J-35 family holds the lead through demonstrated flight trials and active carrier integration.

Looking at long-term strategic aerospace independence, the AMCA offers India a distinct structural advantage. It lays the groundwork for fully sovereign stealth engineering, local sensor manufacturing, internal weapons technology, and independent future engine development.

Labelling the AMCA as superior before prototype flight testing begins would be premature. Its true stealth performance, engine output, sensor integration, electronic warfare effectiveness, and combat capabilities will only be verified once actual prototypes take to the skies.

Ultimately, the AMCA and J-35 illustrate two distinct approaches to stealth aviation. China's J-35 family enjoys a head start in flight testing and carrier readiness, whereas India's AMCA represents a strategic investment designed to build a self-reliant foundation for next-generation combat aviation.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

India Weighs 3 Scorpène Evolved Submarines To Sustain Industrial Base Before P-75(I)

India is considering ordering 3 additional Scorpène submarines to preserve its industrial capabilities until the P-75(I) program begins, ensuring continuity for Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited and Naval Group while bridging the gap between the completed Kalvari-class series and the upcoming air-independent propulsion class, reported France based defence portal Meta-Defence.

The decision is closely tied to India’s broader defence acquisitions, including the Rafale Marine order, and must be taken swiftly to avoid losing critical expertise and industrial momentum.

The construction of six Scorpène-class submarines under Project-75, with Naval Group as technology partner, enabled Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai to acquire advanced skills in pressure-hull welding, equipment integration and complex submarine testing.

INS Kalvari entered service in 2017, and the commissioning of INS Vaghsheer in January 2025 marked the completion of the series. Since then, these specialised capabilities have not been employed, leaving teams, equipment and subcontractors idle.

Without new orders, investments in sonar, onboard electronics and air-independent propulsion risk becoming unsustainable, while personnel departures could force costly rebuilding of expertise.

The proposal for three additional submarines would extend the activity of Project-75 until P-75(I) begins, retaining tooling and supplier bases already qualified. Repetition of operations would allow Indian shipyards to benefit from lessons learned from the six Kalvari-class vessels, offering more predictable construction than launching an entirely new model immediately. This transitional series would prevent a gap in production and sustain India’s submarine ecosystem.

Naval Group has meanwhile evolved its offer towards the Scorpène Evolved, featuring lithium-ion batteries instead of lead-acid, giving endurance of around 80 days with 78 submerged.

A hull extension to accommodate a vertical launch system for the BrahMos-NG supersonic cruise missile is also proposed, providing a vertical strike capability absent from the Kalvari class. If adopted, this would significantly enhance India’s undersea strike power.

Project-75(I) itself calls for six new-generation submarines with air-independent propulsion, to be built in India under the strategic partnership model. Construction is expected to span 15 to 20 years, ensuring sustained activity once underway but leaving workshops idle in the interim.

The three Scorpène Evolved submarines would thus play a distinct transitional role, linking Project-75 experience with the industrial requirements of P-75(I).

A late order, however, would require idle facilities to be reactivated, overlapping with P-75(I) rather than bridging the gap. This would dilute the intended industrial benefit, as capabilities meant to be preserved would already have dispersed.

The Indian Navy also faces the challenge of replacing ageing submarines while maintaining operational commitments in the Indian Ocean. New vessels do not automatically increase fleet strength if older units are withdrawn simultaneously.

The three Scorpène Evolved submarines would provide additional hulls and sustain domestic construction, but only if contracting is swift enough to avoid competing with P-75(I) resources.

Negotiations over India’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft program, covering 114 combat aircraft with Rafale as a contender, are nearing conclusion by year-end. Formalisation of the three Scorpène Evolved submarines could occur concurrently, following the Rafale Marine order already placed.

Without an announcement in this window, prospects for the submarine tranche will diminish as the P-75(I) deadline approaches, depriving the order of its primary role of continuity between two generations of Indian submarines.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

Defence Ministry Fixes TEJAS MK-1A Delivery Timeline For 97-Aircraft Order

The delivery schedule for the Indian Air Force’s second major order of 97 Light Combat Aircraft TEJAS MK-1A fighters has now been firmly defined, The Week reported.

A defence ministry document confirms that deliveries will commence in September 2027 and conclude by September 2033. This provides a clear timeline for the induction of the aircraft into service.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited signed the contract on 25 September 2025 for the supply of 97 aircraft and associated equipment. The order comprises 68 fighter variants and 29 twin-seat trainers.

At the time of signing, the ministry had indicated that deliveries would begin during 2027–28 and be completed over six years. The latest document refines this projection, specifying September 2027 as the start and September 2033 as the end date.

The contract was valued at more than ₹62,370 crore, excluding taxes. This acquisition is being undertaken under the Buy (India-IDDM) category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, ensuring a strong emphasis on indigenous design, development and manufacture.

The order will feature indigenous content exceeding 64 per cent, with 67 additional items incorporated compared with the earlier MK-1A contract signed in January 2021.

To meet the expanded demand, HAL has established a third production line at its Nashik facility. This line has the capacity to manufacture eight aircraft annually, raising HAL’s overall production capability to 24 aircraft per year. The expansion of production capacity was highlighted in the defence ministry document as a significant achievement.

The TEJAS MK-1A is the most advanced variant of the indigenously designed fighter aircraft. It integrates several indigenous systems including the UTTAM Active Electronically Scanned Array Radar, the Swayam Raksha Kavach electronic warfare suite, and indigenous control surface actuators. 

These additions enhance the aircraft’s combat effectiveness and survivability while reducing dependence on imported systems.

The MK-1A is intended to meet the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force, replacing older aircraft and strengthening squadron numbers.

Its induction will mark a major step in India’s efforts to modernise its air combat fleet with indigenous technology. The clear delivery schedule now provides certainty for planning and deployment over the next decade.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

As America Deploys Space Weapons Sparking Global Race, India Steps Up Orbit Defence

The United States has openly admitted to deploying space-based weapons in orbit, marking a historic shift in military doctrine. Russia and China are already fielding counter-space systems, while India, though behind in scale, has demonstrated anti-satellite capabilities and is steadily expanding its military space infrastructure.

This disclosure signals that the race for dominance in Earth’s orbit has entered a new and dangerous phase.

America’s announcement came from Air Force Secretary Troy Meink, who confirmed that the US now possesses on-orbit space control weapons. He deliberately avoided revealing details about the type, number, or deployment timeline of these systems.

The vagueness is strategic, intended to deter adversaries while preventing technical exposure. This marks a departure from Washington’s earlier reluctance to describe space as a war-fighting domain. Senior officials now openly acknowledge space as a contested battlefield.

Russia and China reacted sharply. Moscow called for complete demilitarisation of space, while Beijing warned against turning orbit into a battlefield. Yet both nations are themselves advancing counter-space technologies.

Russia has moved from testing co-orbital anti-satellite systems to deploying operational Nivelir satellites capable of threatening US intelligence spacecraft.

Like India, China has tested kinetic anti-satellite missiles, fielded jammers, and invested in directed-energy systems. Both countries are accused by Washington of developing capabilities to track and disrupt American forces.

India’s position is more modest but significant. In 2019, New Delhi demonstrated kinetic anti-satellite capability under Mission Shakti, destroying a satellite in low Earth orbit. Since then, India has expanded its military space infrastructure.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on directed-energy weapons, electronic warfare systems, and space situational awareness programs.

ISRO has strengthened its NETRA surveillance network in Bangalore, designed to track orbital debris and hostile manoeuvres. India also practised satellite dogfighting in 2025, showcasing manoeuvring skills at orbital speeds of 28,800 kilometres per hour.

India’s Space-Based Surveillance-III (SBS-III) program is a ₹26,968 crore national security initiative approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security. It will deploy a constellation of 52 advanced military surveillance satellites in low Earth orbit to provide round-the-clock, all-weather intelligence over land borders and maritime zones.

ISRO will manufacture 21 satellites, while private Indian companies will build 31, marking a major step in integrating industry into defence space. These satellites will carry synthetic-aperture radar, infrared sensors for night-time imaging, and electro-optical cameras for real-time tracking.

The constellation will be operated under the Defence Space Agency and Mission Sudarshan Chakra, directly linking with air defence assets to strengthen operational capabilities.

While early project timelines anticipated the first batch of satellites to launch as early as April 2026, the deployment timeline has shifted. Recent updates from the September 2026 International Space Summit in Paris indicate that the physical rollout and deployment of the 52-satellite constellation is now officially scheduled to take place between 2027 and 2030.

The US Space Force, created in 2019, now plays a central role in this architecture. Its doctrine of “space control” emphasises superiority—operating freely while denying adversaries the same. This includes both kinetic and non-kinetic means, ranging from lasers to blind satellites, to cyber and electromagnetic jamming. Experts believe the US may have deployed non-kinetic systems such as jammers, which avoid creating dangerous debris but can cripple communications, GPS, and surveillance networks globally.

The implications are profound. Satellites underpin military command, missile guidance, surveillance, and civilian infrastructure from aviation to financial networks.

A strike on orbital assets could cascade into global disruption. The greatest fear remains Kessler Syndrome, where debris from destroyed satellites triggers uncontrollable collisions, rendering entire orbital regions unusable.

India’s challenge is balancing deterrence with restraint. While it has proven offensive capability, its focus remains on defensive preparedness and situational awareness. Partnerships with the US, including data-sharing agreements, enhance India’s monitoring capacity. Yet New Delhi must accelerate indigenous programs to ensure its growing constellation of satellites remains secure in an increasingly hostile domain.

The disclosure by Washington has effectively normalised the weaponisation of space. The taboo is broken, and the race is now overt. For India, the task is clear: strengthen indigenous technology, expand surveillance networks, and prepare for a future where space is no longer a sanctuary but the decisive high ground of warfare.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

Comments

Continue Reading

US House Set To Vote On Russia Sanctions Bill That Could Target India With Up To 100% Tariffs

US Senate lawmakers have introduced a new amendment to the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026, mandating secondary tariffs of up to 100 per cent on goods imported from the top five largest buyers of Russian crude oil and natural gas.

This measure directly exposes major importers such as India and China to sweeping trade levies. The amendment is designed to intensify economic restrictions on Moscow by targeting nations that continue to purchase Russian energy, thereby sustaining Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.

The underlying legislation was passed by the Senate on 7 August with an overwhelming 86-11 vote. The House Committee on Rules, one of the oldest standing committees in the US House of Representatives, is currently processing the newly introduced Senate amendments.

While the bill does not explicitly name Russia’s trading partners, it specifically targets the five largest importers of Russian oil and gas by volume.

Section 113 of the statutory text outlines mandatory ad valorem trade duties. It stipulates that within 30 days of enactment, the US President must increase the rate of duty for all goods imported from countries identified under subsection (c) to a rate of up to 100 per cent ad valorem. Subsection (c) defines a covered country as any nation that knowingly made new purchases of Russian crude oil or natural gas after enactment and ranks among the top five importers by volume during the preceding 12 months, or is among the top five countries facilitating Russian oil sanctions evasion.

India, as one of the largest buyers of Russian seaborne crude alongside China, falls directly under this volume-based trigger. Section 113(f) clarifies that any duty imposed under this section will be in addition to existing duties, fees, taxes, or charges applicable to the goods.

The amendment also grants the United States Trade Representative statutory authority under Section 113(b) to adjust duty rates between zero and 100 per cent if a country takes significant steps to either increase or decrease its imports of Russian energy.

Section 113(d) provides a specific exception for natural gas imports, exempting countries whose Russian natural gas imports constitute less than 15 per cent of Russia’s total annual exports, provided they are actively reducing reliance. However, no such exception exists for crude oil buyers, leaving India and China particularly vulnerable to tariff impositions.

Section 115(a) provides executive authority for waivers, allowing the US President to waive sanctions or duties if deemed in the national interest. Such waivers require written certification to Congress.

Beyond tariffs, the Act institutes sweeping measures against Russian leadership, financial institutions, and maritime networks.

Blocking sanctions and visa revocations will apply to Russia’s top leadership, including the President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, and senior military commanders. Foreign entities supplying critical items such as CNC tools, lubricant additives, chemical coatings, advanced sensors, and fibre optic cables to Russia’s defence industrial base will also face sanctions.

The legislation further targets Russia’s “shadow fleet” by blocking foreign vessels and sanctioning individuals or companies transporting Russian energy without adequate maritime insurance or those evading price caps established by the Price Cap Coalition.

Severe financial prohibitions are also mandated, including blocking all property and restricting correspondent accounts for the Central Bank of Russia, Sberbank, VTB Bank, and Gazprombank. Foreign financial institutions engaging in significant transactions with these entities will face penalties.

This amendment represents a significant escalation in Washington’s economic campaign against Moscow, while simultaneously placing India’s energy security and trade relations with the US under considerable strain.

The outcome will depend on how New Delhi balances its national energy requirements with the mounting pressure from Washington.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Unlocking Unlimited Energy: India's Artificial Sun Breakthrough and the Global Fusion Race

India has taken a major step forward in its nuclear fusion ambitions with a key technological breakthrough at the Institute for Plasma Research (IPR) in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Engineers have successfully commissioned and integrated an advanced 82.6 GHz, 400-kilowatt Gyrotron system into the nation’s flagship Steady State Superconducting Tokamak-1 (SST-1).

This upgrade significantly boosts India’s capacity to heat and maintain ultra-hot plasma at temperatures surpassing 100 million degrees Celsius, reaching the extreme thermal conditions required to force hydrogen atomic nuclei to fuse.

Nuclear fusion is often colloquially called an "artificial sun" because it aims to replicate the fundamental process powering the stars, offering a path to virtually limitless, safe, and zero-carbon energy. India has strategically positioned itself as a critical global player in this field through both its domestic experimental facilities and its vital participation in international megaprojects.

The new 82.6 GHz system serves as a high-power microwave generator, operating as an industrial-scale super-heater for atomic particles to tackle one of fusion's hardest obstacles: heating fuel particles efficiently. The system delivers up to 400 kilowatts of radio-frequency power through a custom 20-metre transmission line straight into the SST-1 tokamak core.

By utilising Electron Cyclotron Resonance Heating (ECRH), the system directs microwave energy precisely at electrons inside the magnetic field, transferring kinetic energy to raise plasma temperatures rapidly. Unlike its 42 GHz predecessor, the new 82.6 GHz gyrotron can operate at both fundamental and second-harmonic wave frequencies.

This flexibility enables Indian scientists to achieve breakdown pre-ionisation at higher magnetic fields of around 2.8 Tesla while sustaining stable plasma profiles over extended operational durations.

India’s primary experimental tokamak, SST-1, operates in tandem with ADITYA-U, a medium-sized conventional air-core tokamak designed to test plasma diagnostic tools, impurity control strategies, and magnetic pulse scenarios.

Together, these machines form the experimental core of India’s Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), serving as training grounds for plasma physicists and testing platforms for hardware before scaling up to power-producing reactors.

Inside the actual Sun, gravitational pressure compresses hydrogen atoms at temperatures of roughly 15 million degrees Celsius, forcing protons to overcome electrostatic repulsion and fuse into helium while releasing massive energy. Because Earth lacks a star’s immense gravitational mass, terrestrial reactors must compensate by reaching far higher temperatures, typically between 100 million and 200 million degrees Celsius.

At these extreme temperatures, matter enters a plasma state made of free-roaming positive ions and negative electrons. Since no physical vessel on Earth can touch a 100-million-degree plasma without instantly vaporising and cooling the reaction, scientists use a doughnut-shaped vacuum chamber wrapped in powerful electromagnets, known as a tokamak, which was originally invented by Soviet physicists in the 1950s.

Inside a tokamak, superconducting magnetic coils generate toroidal and poloidal magnetic fields. This combined magnetic field traps charged plasma particles, forcing them to spirally orbit invisible field lines without touching the metal vessel walls.

Because standard Ohmic heating from electrical currents loses effectiveness as plasma resistance drops at high temperatures, reactors rely on auxiliary heating like Neutral Beam Injection (NBI), Lower Hybrid Current Drive (LHCD), and Electron or Ion Cyclotron Resonance Heating via gyrotrons.

Most fusion reactors run on two heavy isotopes of hydrogen: Deuterium, which is easily extracted from ocean water, and Tritium, which can be bred inside reactor walls using lithium. The resulting fusion reaction yields high-energy alpha particles and fast neutrons, carrying kinetic energy that can ultimately be converted into steam to drive electricity turbines.

India’s journey into nuclear fusion started in the late 1980s with the construction of ADITYA, its first indigenously designed tokamak. By the late 1990s, the Institute for Plasma Research conceptualised SST-1 to join an elite group of international research facilities exploring steady-state superconducting technology.

Located in Gandhinagar, SST-1 has a major radius of 1.1 metres and a minor radius of 0.2 metres, featuring a magnet system that made it one of the first medium-sized tokamaks to use superconducting toroidal field coils cooled by two-phase liquid helium.

Indian industrial partners, including Godrej & Boyce, played a central role in fabricating these complex superconducting coils. SST-1 is designed as a long-pulse research platform aimed at sustaining plasma discharges for up to 1,000 seconds, studying plasma-wall interactions, and refining radio-frequency current drive mechanisms.

Meanwhile, its upgraded counterpart ADITYA-U operates with a major radius of 0.75 metres, serving as a nimble testbed for fundamental plasma physics, edge-plasma turbulence, disruption prediction, and diagnostic sensor validation.

Building on SST-1 data and engineering experience from international projects, India is preparing for its next major leap with SST-2. Conceptualised as a prototype demonstration reactor (DEMO-class facility), SST-2 is envisioned as a reactor-scale device with advanced plasma shaping, higher magnetic fields, and a tritium-breeding test blanket module.

Alongside state-funded infrastructure, India's deep-tech start-up ecosystem is entering the fusion space. Start-Ups like PranosFusion are exploring compact tokamak configurations, such as their 'Pragya' prototype, signalling a broader shift toward public-private collaborations similar to trends in the United States and Europe.

While domestic research facilities provide valuable hands-on experience, India’s primary strategic vector in fusion energy remains its full partnership in ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor). Located in Cadarache in southern France, ITER is a massive ₹2,18,000 crore megaproject built by a coalition of seven primary partners: India, China, the European Union, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States.

As an equal partner, India is responsible for delivering 9 per cent of ITER’s physical, in-kind hardware contributions along with financial and scientific backing. Managed by the ITER-India division within IPR, Indian industry has manufactured and delivered critical core components for the project.

The single largest component delivered to ITER is its cryostat, a massive stainless steel pressure chamber measuring nearly 30 metres in height and diameter, weighing over 3,850 tons. Fabricated by Indian engineering giant Larsen & Toubro (L&T) at its Hazira facility in Gujarat, the cryostat encapsulates the entire tokamak and its superconducting magnets, insulating them at near absolute zero (-269°C). The precision required to assemble these thousand-ton segments to sub-millimetre tolerances demonstrated India's high-end manufacturing capabilities.

India has also delivered over 900 custom-designed In-Wall Shielding (IWS) neutron-absorbing block assemblies installed inside the double-walled vacuum vessel to protect outer magnets from high-energy neutrons.

Additionally, Indian engineers supplied the heat rejection cooling water system to clear hundreds of megawatts of thermal energy, along with high-power Ion Cyclotron RF heating sources, Diagnostic Neutral Beam lines, and megawatt-scale high-voltage power conversion systems.

In return for its 9 per cent in-kind hardware delivery, India gains 100 per cent access to all intellectual property, operational data, and technological breakthroughs generated by ITER.

When comparing India's progress to other global fusion efforts, China's EAST (Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak) in Hefei is frequently cited as a frontrunner in long-pulse magnetic fusion. EAST is significantly larger than SST-1, featuring a major radius of 1.85 metres and operating with fully superconducting toroidal and poloidal niobium-titanium magnet coils that allow flexible plasma shaping.

EAST holds remarkable performance records, including maintaining a continuous high-confinement steady-state plasma pulse for 1,056 seconds (over 17 minutes). It has also sustained electron temperatures exceeding 120 million degrees Celsius for over 100 seconds, peaking at 160 million degrees Celsius for shorter runs.

By contrast, India’s SST-1 has focused on overcoming initial magnet commissioning challenges and liquid helium cooling protocols, maintaining pulse durations in shorter multi-second to sub-minute bursts as heating tools like the new gyrotron are integrated.

China’s national roadmap is focused on aggressive deployment, constructing the HL-3 tokamak in Chengdu and developing CFETR (China Fusion Engineering Test Reactor), a next-generation device aimed at generating up to 1 gigawatt of fusion power in the 2030s.

India's roadmap uses a two-pronged strategy: leveraging ITER to acquire large-scale reactor technology while steadily building domestic self-reliance through SST-1, ADITYA-U, and SST-2.

Other global actors hold significant milestones as well. South Korea’s KSTAR facility holds the world record for sustaining plasma ion temperatures at 100 million degrees Celsius for 48 seconds, assisted by an advanced tungsten divertor. KSTAR aims to reach 300 seconds of 100-million-degree operation in the near future.

In late 2023, Japan and the European Union inaugurated JT-60SA in Naka, Japan, which currently stands as the world's largest operational superconducting tokamak prior to ITER, featuring a plasma volume of 135 cubic metres. In the United Kingdom, the historical JET facility achieved a record 69 megajoules of fusion energy during a 5-second pulse using a true deuterium-tritium fuel mix before concluding its experimental operations.

The United States pursues both magnetic and inertial confinement options alongside private venture capital. At the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, the National Ignition Facility (NIF) uses Inertial Confinement Fusion, focusing 192 ultra-powerful lasers onto a tiny fuel capsule.

NIF made history by achieving "scientific breakeven" ($Q > 1$), releasing more energy than the laser delivered and reaching energy gain ratios above 4. Meanwhile, private start-ups like Commonwealth Fusion Systems are building SPARC, a compact tokamak using High-Temperature Superconducting magnets to generate powerful magnetic fields in a smaller footprint.

Despite global progress, transitioning artificial sun experiments into commercial power plants presents major engineering obstacles. Reactor inner walls and divertors must withstand extreme heat loads of 10 to 20 megawatts per square metre, while 14-MeV neutrons degrade metals over time. Developing advanced tungsten alloys, liquid-metal divertors, and low-activation steels remains critical.

Plasma is also inherently prone to edge instabilities and sudden thermal disruptions that can damage walls within milliseconds, requiring real-time magnetic feedback systems and AI monitoring. Furthermore, because global supplies of natural Tritium are under 30 kilogrammes, reactors must successfully breed their own fuel using lithium interior blankets—a technology India and its partners plan to test extensively through ITER's Test Blanket Modules.

Finally, commercial power plants must progress past scientific breakeven ($Q = 1$) to achieve high net engineering power gains ($Q > 10 \text{ to } 22$) while accounting for total plant energy consumption.

Agencies

Comments

Continue Reading

'Important Pillar of Partnership': India And Russia Deepen Energy Collaboration As Talks Expand Strategic Partnership

India and Russia continue to regard energy cooperation as a central pillar of their bilateral relationship. 

The Ministry of External Affairs emphasised that both sides are actively engaged in discussions to strengthen and expand collaboration in this sector.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted the longstanding partnership between the two countries in energy, particularly nuclear energy. He cited the Kudankulam nuclear power project as a successful example of India-Russia cooperation, noting its importance in India’s energy security framework.

He stated that India is keen to broaden this cooperation further, with technical teams from both sides holding consultations on multiple aspects of the partnership. These discussions are aimed at identifying new opportunities and enhancing existing projects.

The remarks come at a time when India is placing strong emphasis on diversifying its energy cooperation with key partners to bolster national energy security. Russia remains a significant partner in this endeavour, given its expertise and ongoing projects in India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Russian President Vladimir Putin on 11 September on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral ties and held wide-ranging discussions covering trade, energy, defence, space and people-to-people exchanges.

Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the Special and Privileged Strategic Partnership between India and Russia, which has continued to grow despite global geopolitical uncertainties.

President Putin extended an invitation to Prime Minister Modi to visit Russia for the 24th India-Russia Annual Summit. Prime Minister Modi accepted the invitation, with dates to be finalised through diplomatic channels.

This renewed emphasis on energy cooperation reflects the broader trajectory of India-Russia relations, where nuclear energy projects, oil and gas collaboration, and diversification into new energy technologies are expected to play a defining role in the coming years.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

PM Modi And President Xi Reaffirm Partnership, Vow To Handle Disputes And Boost BRICS Cooperation

Chinese Ambassador to India Xu Feihong has underlined the renewed momentum in bilateral ties following the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping in New Delhi on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit.

He emphasised that this was the third meeting between the two leaders in three years and described the most important consensus reached as the understanding that India and China should be partners.

Ambassador Xu stated in a post on X that the two leaders agreed to properly handle disputes and disagreements to jointly safeguard peace and tranquillity along the border. He noted that both sides also agreed to address economic and trade concerns in a balanced manner and to promote the sound and steady development of economic and trade relations.

He further highlighted that China will work with India to implement the common understandings reached, extend the cooperation list, deepen people-to-people exchanges, enhance collaboration in multilateral forums, and render firm support to each other’s development and revitalisation. He stressed that these efforts would contribute to peace and prosperity in the region and beyond.

Xu pointed out that the leaders reaffirmed the growth of China-India ties, guiding the relationship from starting afresh in Kazan to further improvements in Tianjin. He reiterated that the most important consensus was the recognition that India and China should be partners.

He added that as the most populous countries in the world and major members of the Global South, India and China should focus on development as the biggest common denominator. He said the leaders agreed to strengthen friendly exchanges, mutually beneficial cooperation, and improve public perception of bilateral relations.

The envoy also mentioned that both sides agreed to support each other in chairing BRICS, promote cooperation in the Global South, help build a multipolar world, and serve as forces for progress and stability in a volatile international environment. He repeated that the leaders agreed to properly handle disputes to safeguard peace and tranquillity along the border.

Earlier in the day, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal responded to queries regarding the five-point initiative proposed by President Xi during the 18th BRICS Summit. He clarified that member countries would evaluate the proposals to determine their future course, noting that the initiatives were outlined in Beijing’s national statement during the summit proceedings.

President Xi, speaking on the second day of the summit, outlined a five-point action plan to expand greater BRICS cooperation across artificial intelligence, trade facilitation, digital infrastructure, smart manufacturing, and human resource development.

He urged member nations to utilise their deep connections with emerging markets and the Global South to achieve structural progress.

Xi emphasised the importance of maintaining open and mutually beneficial frameworks, protecting global supply chains, and constructing an integrated regional market. He called for building incubators for innovation, upgrading traditional industries, developing emerging industries, and deploying future industries.

According to Xinhua, under the five-pillar plan, China aims to lead an open-source AI community to develop large language models, establish a special economic zone partnership to streamline trade policies, and build a digital ecosystem cloud platform to foster technical alignment.

Beijing also offered assistance in constructing smart factories and proposed an engineer cultivation alliance alongside a youth exchange program to strengthen scientific talent development across member nations.

Comments

Continue Reading

India–US Yudh Abhyas 2026 Begins To Strengthen Trust And Expertise

The 22nd edition of the India–US joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas has officially commenced, marking another significant milestone in bilateral defence cooperation. The exercise brings together troops from both armies with the objective of bolstering interoperability and tackling emerging military challenges.

The opening ceremony was held at the Auli Foreign Training Node in Uttarakhand. Simultaneously, training activities are being conducted at the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, reflecting the scale and importance of the engagement.

The Ministry of Defence stated that the exercise is designed to enhance the joint military capability of both armies for the employment of Integrated Battle Groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain. Infantry-led operations form the core of the training, ensuring that both sides refine their ability to operate in challenging environments.

Major General Amaresh Gunjan, General Officer Commanding, 14 Infantry Division, and Colonel Benjamin Jackman, Commander, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division of the US Army, addressed the contingents. Each side has deployed 600 personnel, underscoring the seriousness and scale of the exercise.

Technology infusion has been identified as a key focus area. Training modules will incorporate drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance. Demonstrations of contemporary weapon systems are scheduled at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, showcasing the evolving technological dimension of modern warfare.

Subject Matter Experts from both armies will exchange views on emerging technologies and developments in multi-domain warfare. This exchange is expected to provide valuable insights into operational concepts and future battlefield requirements.

The exercise also provides an opportunity for both armies to share tactics, techniques and procedures. It will enhance their ability to undertake coordinated military operations across varied terrain and operational environments.

The US Embassy in India highlighted the commencement of the exercise in a post on X, noting that over the next two weeks, soldiers from both nations will train together, share skills, build readiness and improve collaboration. Field training, live-fire exercises and exchanges of expertise will form the backbone of the program.

US Ambassador Sergio Gor echoed these sentiments, emphasising that the exercise will deepen synchronisation between the two forces. His remarks underline the strategic depth of the India–US defence partnership and the shared commitment to regional stability.

By combining traditional infantry operations with advanced technological applications, Yudh Abhyas 2026 reflects the evolving nature of military cooperation between the two nations. It highlights the enduring trust, shared expertise and readiness that define the partnership.

PTI

Comments

Continue Reading

'Train Together, Share Skills, Build Readiness': Say Ambassador Gor As India–US Yudh Abhyas 2026 Commences

The 22nd edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas has commenced, marking another milestone in India–US defence cooperation. US Ambassador to India, Sergio Gor, emphasised that the exercise will deepen synchronisation between the two forces.

In his remarks on X, he noted that over the next two weeks, soldiers from both nations will train together, share skills, build readiness and improve collaboration.

The US Embassy in India also highlighted the commencement of the exercise, underlining its significance in strengthening interoperability and addressing emerging challenges. It stated that Yudh Abhyas 2026 will further consolidate the US–India defence partnership through field training, live-fire exercises and exchanges of expertise.

The exercise formally began at the Auli Foreign Training Node in Uttarakhand. Major General Amaresh Gunjan, General Officer Commanding, 14 Infantry Division, and Colonel Benjamin Jackman, Commander, 1st Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, US Army, addressed the contingents. Each side has deployed 600 personnel, reflecting the scale and seriousness of the engagement.

The Ministry of Defence confirmed that the exercise is being conducted simultaneously at Auli and the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. The focus is on enhancing joint military capability for the employment of Integrated Battle Groups in mountainous and semi-mountainous terrain, with particular emphasis on infantry-dominated operations. The exercise is designed to strengthen interoperability, facilitate exchanges of best operational practices and improve joint planning and execution.

Technology infusion has been identified as a key focus area. Training modules will include the employment of drones and autonomous systems for surveillance and reconnaissance. Demonstrations of contemporary weapon systems are scheduled at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges, showcasing the evolving technological dimension of modern warfare.

Subject Matter Experts from both armies will exchange views on emerging technologies and developments in multi-domain warfare. This exchange is expected to provide valuable insights into operational concepts and future battlefield requirements, ensuring that both forces remain prepared for complex scenarios.

The exercise underscores the strategic depth of India–US defence ties. By combining traditional infantry operations with advanced technological applications, Yudh Abhyas 2026 reflects the evolving nature of military cooperation between the two nations. It also highlights the shared commitment to regional stability and readiness in the Indo-Pacific.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Tremendous Success: India’s BRICS Chairship Delivers Over 50 Breakthrough Outcomes Amid Global Consensus MEA Announces

India’s Ministry of External Affairs has hailed the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi as a major success, underscoring the country’s diplomatic ability to forge consensus among diverse member nations on critical global issues.

The MEA announced that the summit produced over 50 action-oriented outcomes spanning innovation, trade, and development, all consolidated in the New Delhi Declaration.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal emphasised that the declaration reflects a shared commitment among BRICS members to champion the Global South and reform multilateral institutions. He noted that consensus was achieved on contentious issues, with all member states highlighting the importance of strengthening multilateralism and amplifying the voice of developing nations.

The spokesperson pointed out that the declaration contained strong language condemning terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. He highlighted the robust participation at the summit, which saw 32 delegations, including 11 member states, 10 partner countries, 4 regional organisations, and 7 international organisations. Several delegations were led by Heads of State and Heads of Government, reflecting the summit’s global significance.

India’s convening strength was evident as New Delhi successfully brought together countries with differing positions, paving the way for future opportunities. Jaiswal stressed that the outcomes were development-focused and practical, aimed at creating opportunities for youth, women, and broader populations across BRICS nations.

On the operationalisation of initiatives, the spokesperson explained that member nations would move into specialised working groups to implement agreements. The declaration covered political, international, trade, investment, innovation, and Start-Up related issues.

He noted that collaborative exercises would be advanced through working group formats, ensuring the over 50 outcomes are effectively pursued.

Regarding partner countries, the MEA clarified that the current declaration remains centred on full BRICS members, as the bloc is prioritising internal consolidation following its recent expansion. Decisions on partner country involvement will be taken in future editions of the summit.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s diplomatic calendar was packed during the summit, with 15 bilateral meetings held with Heads of State and Government from Russia, China, Iran, and African nations, among others. These meetings covered bilateral ties, regional conflicts, maritime security, border peace, and the priorities of the Global South.

The New Delhi Declaration also expressed concern over escalating tensions in West Asia, calling for maximum restraint, protection of civilians, respect for sovereignty, and renewed efforts through dialogue and diplomacy to achieve lasting peace and stability. It further stressed the importance of maintaining smooth global trade, supply chains, and energy flows in accordance with international law.

India’s chairship of BRICS has thus been marked by a strong diplomatic push, yielding tangible outcomes and reinforcing its role as a convening power in global governance reform and development-focused cooperation.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

India, Myanmar Strengthen Defence Ties With Naval Port Call And Bilateral Army Exercise

India and Myanmar are reinforcing their maritime cooperation as Indian Navy ships INS Karmuk and LCU 51 made a port call at Yangon. The Andaman and Nicobar Command confirmed the development on Tuesday, noting that the visit was part of India’s broader vision to strengthen maritime cooperation and mutual understanding with neighbouring countries.

The port call is aligned with India’s efforts to contribute to a safe and secure maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region. The Command highlighted that such interactions are crucial in realising the Indian Navy’s vision of being the preferred security partner in the region.

The engagement underscores India’s focus on enhancing maritime partnerships with countries in its extended neighbourhood. It also reflects a growing emphasis on promoting coordination to address common maritime security challenges in the Indian Ocean Region.

Alongside naval cooperation, India and Myanmar commenced the fifth edition of the India-Myanmar Bilateral Army Exercise IMBAX at the Joint Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya. The exercise began on Tuesday and will continue until 28 September.

The Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) shared that the 14-day exercise aims to enhance interoperability and synergy for operations under the United Nations mandate. Joint training between both armies is expected to strengthen operational coordination and mutual trust.

The exercise also provides an opportunity to exchange operational experiences and best practices. It is designed to foster camaraderie and deepen military-to-military cooperation between the two nations.

Exercise IMBAX will showcase a variety of indigenous weapons and equipment used by the Indian Army. This aligns with the vision of #JAIseVIJAY, highlighting India’s commitment to indigenous defence capabilities.

The exercise reaffirms the commitment of both nations towards promoting peace, stability, and security in the region. It reflects the steady expansion of defence cooperation across multiple domains, including maritime and land forces.

India’s engagement with Myanmar remains strategically significant, given the latter’s location at the crossroads of South and Southeast Asia. The port call and joint exercise together highlight the multifaceted nature of India-Myanmar defence ties, which continue to evolve in response to regional security dynamics.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

MEA Confirms Bangladesh PM Tarique Rahman Received Two Invitations From India For Bilateral Visit And BRICS Summit

India has confirmed that Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman has received two separate invitations from New Delhi. The Ministry of External Affairs clarified that one invitation was extended for a bilateral visit, while the other was for participation in the BRICS Summit in his capacity as the Chair of BIMSTEC.

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal explained during a biweekly press briefing that the first invitation was for a bilateral engagement between the two countries. The second invitation was specifically linked to Rahman’s role as BIMSTEC Chair, thereby granting him a place in the BRICS outreach session. This dual invitation underscores India’s intent to strengthen both bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Bangladesh.

Bangladesh’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Humaiun Kobir, also addressed the matter, noting that the visit would take place once discussions between the two sides lead to a mutually acceptable timeframe. He emphasised that the relationship remains a work in progress, with both nations positively engaged in resetting ties and advancing cooperation.

Kobir further highlighted Bangladesh’s multilateral responsibilities, pointing out that Dhaka currently holds the rotating chairmanship of BIMSTEC. He confirmed that Bangladesh intends to host a BIMSTEC Summit in 2027, which will mark a significant milestone in regional collaboration.

The diplomatic exchanges come against the backdrop of political transitions in Bangladesh in August 2024, which have shaped the trajectory of bilateral relations. Despite these shifts, India has consistently prioritised regional stability, economic collaboration, and enduring people-to-people connections across South Asia.

The dual invitations extended to Prime Minister Rahman reflect India’s broader strategy of engaging Bangladesh both bilaterally and within regional frameworks. This approach signals New Delhi’s commitment to fostering long-term stability and economic partnership while reinforcing its role as a central actor in South Asian diplomacy.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Canada Vows To Emerge Stronger And More Independent From US Trade War

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney declared in Toronto that Canada intends to emerge stronger and more self-reliant from its ongoing trade war with the United States.

Addressing international investors at the Canada Investment Summit, he emphasised that while Canada and the US will always remain neighbours, the relationship can only thrive when both nations act as true partners respecting each other’s traditions and sovereignty.

Carney stated that when opportunities return, Canada will be an even better partner, more resilient and independent. He outlined Ottawa’s plan to attract private investment through long-term concessions for the operation of Canada’s four major airports, while retaining public ownership of the land and assets. 

This initiative, he explained, could generate tens of billions of rupees for reinvestment in transportation and wider infrastructure sectors.

Without naming President Donald Trump directly, Carney criticised what he described as an increasingly transactional and zero-sum approach to international economic relations. He remarked that Canada’s reputation as a reliable and predictable partner has become more valuable in a world where transactions are replacing relationships and win-win outcomes are being replaced by zero-sum calculations.

He further observed that economic integration and national sovereignty are facing growing friction, stressing that nations determined to safeguard their independence must deepen cooperation with like-minded allies. Carney is scheduled to depart for Europe later in the day to address the European Parliament, where he is expected to reinforce these themes.

Trump has repeatedly used tariffs to pressure trade partners, encouraging manufacturers to shift production and investment south of the border. His remarks about incorporating Canada as the 51st US state have added to the strain between the two allies. Despite these tensions, Carney highlighted that approximately 80 per cent of cross-border trade with the US remains tariff-free.

During a fireside chat following his speech, Carney said that a mutually beneficial arrangement is possible and that Canada will be ready to strike a deal when the time is right. He reminded the audience that bilateral trade negotiations collapsed last month, after Washington imposed 50 per cent tariffs on Canadian goods worth about $20 billion, equivalent to nearly ₹1,66,000 crores. Ottawa responded with retaliatory measures, and the US has since introduced further restrictions on Canadian merchandise.

Carney insisted that Canada cannot base its future strategy on nostalgia, declaring that “nostalgia is not a strategy.” He lightened the mood by sharing an anecdote comparing a ceremonial key gifted to him by his hometown of Fort Smith in the Northwest Territories with a box of gold keys to the White House once presented by Trump. Carney recalled Trump joking that if he brought the key, “They’ll let you in,” before adding, “Maybe they’ll shoot you.” Carney concluded, “That sort of sums up the relationship. In Canada, you get the key. In the US, they might shoot you.”

Carney’s remarks underscored Ottawa’s determination to chart a new course, focusing on resilience, independence, and strategic partnerships beyond the United States. His message to investors was clear: Canada is positioning itself as a stronger, more reliable partner in global economic relations, even as it weathers the turbulence of its trade war with Washington.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading

Secret Military Summit In Germany Brings US, Israel And Arab Commanders Together On Iran War

Top military commanders from the United States, Israel, and seven Arab nations convened in Germany last week for a private and unannounced meeting to deliberate on the ongoing war with Iran and wider Middle Eastern security escalations.

The report, first detailed by Axios citing Israeli officials, confirmed that this was the inaugural summit of its kind since the United States and Israel formally entered a state of war with Iran more than six months ago.

The meeting was organised by Admiral Brad Cooper, the chief of United States Central Command. Senior military figures from Israel, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Jordan, and Egypt participated. The alignment carried particular weight as several of these Arab states do not maintain formal diplomatic relations with Israel, yet chose to engage in direct military coordination under the current circumstances.

United States Central Command later confirmed that it hosted senior military leaders from eight nations during a scheduled conference in Germany. The stated aim was to enhance regional security cooperation across the Middle East.

Admiral Cooper reportedly assured the assembled commanders that the United States had no plans to withdraw its forces from the region despite sustained Iranian attacks on American bases. He also briefed delegates on Washington’s strategies to strengthen maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.

Israel Defence Forces Chief of Staff General Eyal Zamir delivered a comprehensive update on Israeli military operations across multiple fronts. His briefing underscored the scale of Israel’s involvement in both defensive and offensive manoeuvres, particularly in coordination with the United States and the United Arab Emirates. Israeli officials revealed that Israel had deployed its Iron Dome system within the UAE and provided critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support to bolster joint operations.

Military collaboration between Israel and Arab states has steadily expanded since the signing of the Abraham Accords in 2020. Air and missile defence cooperation has been especially pronounced, with Israel and the United States working closely alongside Gulf partners. This cooperation has intensified during the war, reflecting a new level of strategic alignment in the region.

The discussions also took place against the backdrop of escalating Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and the expansion of Houthi territorial control around the Bab al-Mandeb Strait. According to Axios, Israel and Saudi Arabia, with active involvement from United States Central Command, are engaged in dialogues over potential Israeli assistance for Saudi military operations targeting the Houthis. This assistance could include intelligence and surveillance support, further deepening the operational partnership between Israel and Arab states.

The private summit highlighted the unprecedented convergence of military leadership from nations that historically maintained divergent positions. It underscored the urgency of collective security planning in the face of Iranian aggression and regional instability, while also signalling a shift in the strategic landscape of the Middle East.

ANI

Comments

Continue Reading