TEJAS MK-2 Nears Maiden Flight As Taxi Trials Set To Begin; Signals India’s Leap in Air Combat Modernisation

India’s indigenous TEJAS MK-2 fighter jet is entering a decisive phase as taxi trials and certification clearances progress ahead of its maiden flight expected in 2026, Zee News reported.

Developed jointly by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and the Aeronautical Development Agency, the medium-weight fighter is designed to replace ageing fleets in the Indian Air Force while enhancing strike range and payload capacity.

This milestone marks a significant step in India’s defence self-reliance and air combat modernisation.

The program has now moved from design maturity into advanced ground testing, with the first prototype preparing for low-speed taxi trials.

The Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification is expediting the First Flight Clearance by evaluating structural integrity, avionics, and safety systems.

This accelerated clearance process reflects improved coordination between regulators and developers, aiming to avoid the delays that plagued earlier indigenous defence projects.

The induction of the TEJAS MK-2 will help address the Indian Air Force’s fighter shortage while replacing ageing Mirage-2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29 aircraft.

With a combat range exceeding 1,500 kilometres and a ferry range of up to 3,500 kilometres, the aircraft can cover the entire Pakistani territory from Indian bases. Its ability to carry a diverse weapon suite, including BrahMos and SCALP missiles, significantly enhances India’s long-range precision strike capability.

Compared to the TEJAS MK-1A, the MK-2 represents a substantial leap in capability. It features a more powerful GE F414 engine, a larger airframe with canards, and 11 hard-points capable of supporting up to 6.5 tons of payload.

The aircraft is expected to carry up to eight beyond-visual-range missiles and sustain 120 minutes of combat endurance, nearly doubling mission time. This positions the MK-2 between light fighters and heavy jets such as the Rafale, bridging a critical capability gap for the Indian Air Force.

The program also underscores India’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers. Jointly developed by HAL and ADA, the TEJAS MK-2 integrates advanced indigenous systems such as the Uttam AESA radar.

If production begins as targeted by 2029, it could become the most capable home-grown fighter yet, strengthening India’s position in regional aerospace technology and contributing to long-term defence self-reliance.

Key Takeaways

HAL's TEJAS MK-2 prototype is nearing its first flight, with taxi trials underway to validate braking, steering, and control systems at varying speeds, alongside ongoing flight clearance efforts. This medium-weight fighter boasts an enlarged airframe, 11 hardpoints, a ~6.5-ton payload capacity, and cutting-edge avionics like the Uttam AESA radar, enabling extended range and versatile mission profiles. The Indian Air Force plans to induct 110-120 units to phase out aging Jaguar, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29 fleets, with limited production potentially ramping up by 2029 to bolster India's air combat strength.

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Defence Minister Rajnath's Focus Will Be Advancing Next-Gen Submarine Deal (Project 75I), Worth ₹90,000 Crores

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has embarked on a three-day official visit to Germany, commencing on 21 April 2026. The trip focuses on bolstering defence industrial collaboration, intensifying military-to-military engagements, and probing cooperation in emerging domains.

This visit holds particular importance as it marks Singh's first to Germany since assuming office in 2019. The previous such journey by an Indian defence minister was undertaken by Nirmala Sitharaman in February 2019.

On the German side, Defence Minister Boris Pistorius visited India in June 2023, during which both nations engaged in comprehensive discussions to broaden defence ties.

Singh is slated to confer with his German counterpart and other senior officials, aiming to deepen the strategic partnership further.

The timing of the visit aligns with advanced negotiations between India and Germany for a next-generation submarine deal under Project 75I, valued at approximately ₹90,000 crore.

The program centres on constructing six advanced AIP-equipped submarines in collaboration with ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). It is regarded as vital for modernising the Indian Navy's ageing fleet and countering the expanding maritime presence of China and Pakistan.

Sources indicate that while the visit may not directly finalise negotiations, it is poised to inject momentum into the strategic defence partnership. Cost discussions are already at an advanced stage, setting the stage for a landmark agreement.

Project 75I, or P-75I, represents a pivotal initiative to augment the Indian Navy’s conventional submarine fleet. It entails building six sophisticated diesel-electric attack submarines fitted with fuel cell-based Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, which confer superior stealth and endurance.

These submarines are to be constructed in India via a strategic partnership between MDL and TKMS. The project aspires to achieve 45–60 per cent indigenisation, aligning seamlessly with the government’s ‘Make in India’ drive.

Conceived nearly a decade ago, Project 75I progressed to formal discussions in 2020. Sources reveal that cost negotiations have now reached an advanced juncture, with MDL and TKMS nearing contract finalisation. Upon signing, it would rank among the largest defence deals between India and Germany.

The P-75I submarines will enhance the prowess of the existing Scorpene-class fleet by integrating cutting-edge technologies, sensors, and weapon systems.

Global conflicts in recent times, such as those in West Asia, have highlighted the imperative of maritime security and a strong naval footprint. The Indian Navy has been instrumental in protecting shipping lanes, exemplified by its escort of Indian vessels through critical passages like the Strait of Hormuz amid persistent regional tensions.

Project 75I is deemed essential for overhauling India’s ageing conventional submarine fleet. It directly addresses the intensifying maritime activities of China and Pakistan within the Indian Ocean Region.

The AIP technology will enable these submarines to stay submerged for extended periods, thereby amplifying stealth and efficacy in intricate maritime scenarios.

As of April 2026, India maintains a fleet of 20 submarines in total. Seventeen of these fall under the Indian Navy, while three nuclear submarines are managed by the Strategic Forces Command.

The latest addition to the nuclear fleet is INS Aridaman. On the conventional front, INS Vaghsheer, the most recent Scorpene-class submarine, was commissioned in January 2025 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai.

The active Scorpene-class submarines also encompass INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, INS Vela, and INS Vagir. Fabricated at MDL under the ‘Make in India’ banner, these vessels boast advanced stealth attributes, state-of-the-art sonar systems, and precision armaments.

Complementing these are older conventional submarines, including the Shishumar-class (German-origin Type 209 models) such as INS Shishumar, INS Shankush, INS Shalki, and INS Shankul. The fleet further includes Sindhughosh-class (Russian Kilo-class) submarines like INS Sindhughosh, INS Sindhuraj, INS Sindhuratna, and INS Sindhushastra.

Project 75I has encountered delays over the years. Nonetheless, sources suggest that post-contract finalisation, the inaugural new-generation submarine could be delivered in four to five years.

Agencies

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IAF’s Sirsa Unit Intercepted Pakistani Ballistic Missile, Prevents Potential Strike On Delhi During Ops Sindoor

The quick response of an Indian Air Force unit based in Haryana last May prevented what could have been a devastating strike on Delhi. During the height of the Indo-Pak conflict, a Pakistani ballistic missile, believed to be either a Fatah missile or a Shaheen-II variant, was intercepted and destroyed by the Barak-8 surface-to-air missile system operated by 45 Wing in Sirsa, citing a report from Times of India.

The missile was brought down over Sirsa airspace, and parts of it were later retrieved by security forces on 10 May, with videos of the debris circulating widely online.

The interception was led by Air Commodore Rohit Kapil, Air Officer Commanding of 45 Wing, whose team’s vigilance and swift action averted a major attack. Their success demonstrated the strength of India’s integrated air defence network, which the government is now expanding under the Sudarshan program.

This initiative aims to establish a multi-layered defence shield across India, integrating systems such as the Russian S-400s, Barak-8 MRSAM, and the indigenous Project Kusha interceptor system to protect cities, strategic assets, and infrastructure against drones, cruise missiles, and hypersonic threats.

Air Commodore Kapil’s role in the interception earned him the Yudh Seva Medal, awarded by President Droupadi Murmu on 14 August. Commissioned as a fighter pilot in 1998, Kapil is a Su-30MKI pilot, a Category ‘A’ qualified flying instructor, and has previously commanded an operational Su-30MKI squadron. His leadership during the crisis highlighted the professionalism and preparedness of the IAF.

On the eve of the first anniversary of the Pahalgam terrorist attack of 22 April 2025, which claimed 26 civilian lives and prompted India’s launch of Operation Sindoor against Pakistan, the Indian Army issued a stern warning to its neighbour.

Posting on X, the Army declared, “When boundaries of humanity are crossed, the response is decisive,” accompanied by a digital poster showing a silhouetted map of India with the caption, “Some Boundaries should Never Be Crossed.”

TOI

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QNu Labs to Deliver 1,000km+ Quantum Networks For India’s Defence Forces

QNu Labs, a Bangalore-based deeptech start-up, has successfully demonstrated a 1,000-km quantum communication network and is now preparing to supply even longer operational networks for the Indian Armed Forces, marking a major leap in India’s defence technology and secure communications.

QNu Labs has emerged as a pioneer in India’s quantum-security landscape, developing indigenous quantum key distribution (QKD) systems that secure encryption keys using the principles of quantum mechanics rather than mathematical complexity.

This approach ensures that any attempt to intercept communication leaves detectable traces, making hacking virtually impossible. The company’s flagship products, such as Armos (QKD system) and Tropos (quantum random number generator), provide unconditional security for data in transit and high-entropy seeds for cryptographic keys.

The milestone of achieving a 1,000-km secure quantum communication network was reached under India’s National Quantum Mission (NQM), which aims for a 2,000-km network within eight years. QNu Labs’ achievement has already surpassed halfway in record time, underscoring India’s rapid progress in quantum technology.

Unlike earlier intra-city pilots, this deployment connects multiple cities through fibre optic links integrated with quantum-secure nodes, enabling live defence applications.

CEO Sunil Gupta confirmed that defence deployments are already underway, with the Army and Navy expected to benefit from networks exceeding 1,000 km. He emphasised that the company is moving beyond demonstrations into live environments, with very large networks being deployed.

The architecture relies on QKD hardware placed across telecom infrastructure, enabling encrypted communication that can detect interception attempts in real time.

The appeal of quantum security lies in its fundamental physics. Classical encryption depends on mathematical complexity, which future quantum computers could break. Quantum communication, however, ensures that even if encrypted data is intercepted, the keys remain secure. This capability is vital for military-grade security against “harvest now, decrypt later” threats.

Beyond defence, banks and enterprises are showing rising interest in adopting quantum-safe networks, recognising the urgency of securing critical infrastructure against evolving cyber threats. QNu Labs has also expanded its reach globally, establishing a subsidiary in Massachusetts to serve international security needs.

This breakthrough positions India among the elite nations capable of long-distance quantum networking, reinforcing the “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative in deep-tech and strengthening the country’s strategic autonomy in secure communications.

Agencies

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Local HAMMER Production: A Game Changer For India’s Armed Forces

The local production of HAMMER  (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) precision-guided munitions through the joint venture between Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France’s Safran represents a significant milestone in India’s defence modernisation and self-reliance drive.

The agreement, formalised after discussions between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Emmanuel Macron, is designed to reinforce India’s domestic defence capabilities while reducing dependence on imported advanced weaponry. Both companies will hold equal equity in the venture, ensuring balanced decision-making and shared responsibility in the development and production process.

HAMMER, or Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range, is a combat-proven, precision-guided air-to-ground weapon system recognised for its high accuracy and modular design. Its adaptability allows integration across multiple platforms, including the Rafale fighter jets and India’s indigenous light combat aircraft TEJAS. By producing HAMMER locally, India will enhance its operational flexibility and ensure a steady supply of advanced munitions tailored to its specific requirements.

The HAMMER, also known as AASM, is a French precision-guided air-to-surface stand-off weapon developed by Safran Electronics & Defence. It transforms standard "dumb" bombs into smart munitions by adding modular guidance and propulsion kits, entering service in 2007 with the French Air Force.

HAMMER fits 125kg, 250kg, 500kg, or 1000kg bombs, with the 250kg variant (using MK82, BLU-111, or French CBEMS/BANG warheads) being most common at ~340kg launch weight. It achieves over 70km range via solid rocket motor and winglets, with 15-60km at low altitudes over rough terrain.

The baseline SBU-38 uses INS/GPS for all-weather 10m CEP accuracy. SBU-54 adds imaging infrared for 1m CEP against fixed targets day/night. SBU-64 incorporates laser guidance for 1m CEP on moving targets, enabling fire-and-forget, jamming resistance, and multi-target engagement.

Compatible with Rafale, Mirage-2000D, TEJAS, MiG-29, F-16, and others; India lists among users like France, Egypt, and Ukraine. It supports close air support and deep strikes from stand-off distances, minimizing aircraft exposure.

India procured HAMMER kits urgently in 2020 under emergency powers amid China tensions, prioritizing quick Rafale integration over Israeli Spice 2000 due to faster deployment, lower integration costs, and agility in Ladakh's mountains. Excluded from the 2016 Rafale deal for cost reasons, it equips existing Rafales using Litening pods for sensor commonality.

HAMMER enhances IAF/Navy Rafale fleets (including planned 114 more) for bunker-busting, hardened targets, and operations in high-altitude/Himalayan terrain like Ladakh, where its low-altitude launch and agility excel over rivals like Spice (100km range but slower integration). It supports Make in India, reduces import reliance, and bolsters precision strikes in South Asian conflicts.

The local manufacturing of HAMMER munitions is expected to be a game changer for the Indian Armed Forces. It will reduce reliance on imported precision weapons, ensure faster availability of advanced munitions, and strengthen India’s defence industrial base.

By scaling up indigenous production, the joint venture will not only enhance India’s combat readiness but also contribute to the country’s overall industrial growth. The partnership between BEL and Safran thus represents a strategic leap forward in India’s pursuit of technological self-reliance and defence modernisation.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Rajnath Singh Warns Hormuz Crisis Poses Direct Threat To India, Pitches Deeper Defence Ties With Germany

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday underlined that the ongoing conflict in West Asia, involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, has ceased to be a regional matter, given its wide-ranging implications for global energy security, food supplies, and economic stability, reported Hindustan Times.

Speaking in Berlin, he emphasised that for a developing country like India, which depends heavily on the West Asian region for its energy requirements, disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz are not distant events but stark realities with direct consequences for national security and economic stability.

Singh arrived in Berlin for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening the India–Germany bilateral military relationship, with a particular focus on defence industrial cooperation.

Addressing German parliamentarians, he invited German industry to co-create, co-develop, and co-innovate with India, highlighting the opportunities for enhanced collaboration in defence manufacturing.

He explained that India has adopted a proactive and coordinated strategy to address challenges arising from the conflict and mitigate their direct implications. A Group of Ministers on West Asia is continuously assessing the evolving situation and recommending timely measures to minimise its impact.

Singh noted that deliberations have centred on safeguarding energy supplies, ensuring the availability of essential commodities, containing inflationary pressures, and protecting citizens and industry from external disruptions. He stressed that this reflects India’s capacity to respond to global crises with calmness, foresight, and effective institutional coordination.

During his visit, India and Germany will sign a defence industrial cooperation roadmap. Discussions will also cover enhancing defence industrial collaboration, strengthening military-to-military engagements, and exploring opportunities in emerging domains such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and drones.

Singh underscored that Atmanirbhar Bharat is not merely a procurement programme but an invitation to co-create, co-develop, and co-innovate. He pointed out that India is undergoing an unprecedented transformation in the defence sector, and increased partnerships with German industry can yield significant mutual benefits.

He praised the established strengths of Germany’s leading industrial enterprises and the dynamism of the German Mittelstand, particularly in advanced and emerging technologies.

Singh observed that India’s start-ups and private companies are rapidly enhancing and complementing the capabilities of larger defence enterprises, making India and Germany natural partners in this domain.

Singh also emphasised the importance of coordinated responses and trusted strategic partnerships to tackle modern-day global challenges. He noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have placed strong emphasis on advancing the strategic partnership, with clear convergence of views at the European Union level, reflected in the growing momentum to engage with India, including through the India–EU Defence and Strategic Partnership.

This visit marks the first by an Indian defence minister to Germany in seven years, following Nirmala Sitharaman’s trip in February 2019. Singh travelled from Munich to Berlin aboard a special German Air Force aircraft, escorted by fighter jets.

The Indian embassy in Berlin described the visit as significant for promoting defence cooperation, with a focus on industrial collaboration, military activities, and new areas such as cybersecurity, AI, and drones.

Singh will hold bilateral talks with his German counterpart Boris Pistorius and other senior leaders. An “Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations Training” is also expected to be signed. His visit coincides with the imminent finalisation of the ₹70,000-crore Project 75I for building next-generation conventional submarines in India.

Under this project, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai and German yard Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems will construct six advanced submarines to bolster India’s naval capabilities. The first submarine will be delivered seven years after the contract is signed, with subsequent deliveries at the rate of one per year.

These submarines, based on the HDW Class 214 design, will feature air independent propulsion systems, significantly enhancing underwater endurance and reducing detection risks. As part of the contract, tkMS will transfer design and technology to India, reinforcing self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

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India’s Naval Diplomacy Expands Training And Partnerships Across The Indian Ocean

The Indian Navy is steadily expanding its training and outreach across the Indian Ocean Region, positioning itself as a stabilising force through a blend of operational deployments, multinational cooperation, and cultural diplomacy.

Its recent initiatives underscore India’s intent to reinforce its role as a preferred security partner amid intensifying strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific.

Training programs under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation and Self Aided Programme have allocated hundreds of naval training slots to regional neighbours for 2024–25. Mauritius received 78 slots, while Sri Lanka was offered 311, reflecting the sustained demand for Indian maritime expertise.

Over the past nine years, India has trained 516 officers of the Mauritius National Coast Guard, highlighting the long-term nature of this capacity-building effort and its contribution to regional resilience.

Operational diplomacy has also been advanced through port calls. INS Sunayna’s arrival in Jakarta marked the third stop in its current deployment under the IOS SAGAR initiative, carrying a multinational crew from 16 countries.

The visit included professional exchanges, joint yoga sessions, and a planned Passage Exercise with the Indonesian Navy to enhance tactical coordination. These engagements blend readiness with relationship-building, strengthening India’s operational footprint across the Indian Ocean.

India’s naval outreach has extended from Mauritius to Morocco, reflecting a wide geographical spread of engagements. In Mauritius, Indian naval personnel participated in training drills during the country’s Independence Day celebrations, reinforcing bilateral ties.

Meanwhile, INS Sudarshini’s visit to Casablanca under Lokayan 26 featured joint training with Moroccan cadets, sports fixtures, and diplomatic receptions. Such activities illustrate a broader pattern of naval diplomacy that combines skill-sharing with cultural goodwill, projecting India’s soft power alongside its maritime capabilities.

Strategically, India’s training-led outreach offers a non-coercive alternative to the transactional engagements of external powers. This reinforces its image as a ‘force for good’ in the region.

Looking ahead, two plausible futures emerge: one where India consolidates a leadership role in Indian Ocean maritime security through sustained multilateral cooperation, and another where external pressures and competing influences compel it into more competitive posturing.

Both trajectories will significantly shape the balance of power and maritime governance in the Indo-Pacific.

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ePlane Company To Unveil Full-Scale e200X Prototype In 2026

Chennai-based ePlane Company is preparing to launch its first full-scale prototype of the e200X this year, marking a significant milestone in India’s emerging electric aviation sector. 

The e200X is designed as a compact electric aircraft aimed at revolutionising urban air mobility by offering short-haul flights within cities and across nearby regions.

This development represents a major step forward for the company, which has been working on scaling up its technology from smaller demonstrators to a commercially viable aircraft.

The e200X prototype is expected to showcase the company’s vision of combining the efficiency of electric propulsion with the practicality of a small aircraft tailored for urban environments.

The aircraft is being developed to address challenges such as traffic congestion and limited ground infrastructure, offering a faster and more sustainable alternative to road transport. By focusing on short-range connectivity, the e200X aims to bridge gaps between cities and towns, potentially transforming regional travel in India.

The company’s progress reflects the growing interest in electric aviation worldwide, with India positioning itself as a player in this innovative field. The launch of the full-scale prototype will allow ePlane to validate its design, test operational capabilities, and move closer to certification and eventual commercial deployment.

This milestone also underscores the increasing role of start-ups in advancing indigenous aerospace technologies, aligning with India’s broader goals of self-reliance and sustainable development.

The e200X project highlights the potential of electric aircraft to reshape mobility by reducing carbon emissions and offering cost-effective solutions for short-distance travel.

With the prototype launch scheduled for this year, ePlane Company is set to demonstrate its readiness to contribute to the future of aviation, combining technological innovation with practical applications for India’s growing urban and regional transport needs.

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NavPrakriti To Establish ₹100 Crore Critical Minerals Refining Facility In Odisha, Boosting India’s Circular Economy

NavPrakriti, a lithium-ion battery recycling and refurbishment firm, has announced plans to invest over ₹100 crore in establishing a critical minerals refining facility in Odisha. According to the company, the state-of-the-art facility is expected to become operational by FY 2028–29.

This marks a significant expansion of its operations, with the new plant dedicated to the extraction of cobalt, nickel, and lithium, thereby strengthening domestic supply chains and advancing India’s recycling sector.

The company has recently been deemed eligible under the National Critical Mineral Mission, which supports initiatives in the extraction of key minerals.

The Odisha facility will process up to 5,000 metric tons per annum of end-of-life batteries, focusing on the recovery of critical minerals to bolster India’s circular economy and reduce reliance on imports.

NavPrakriti is also building a robust R&D ecosystem through collaborations with institutions of national and global eminence, advancing technology for chemical recovery and battery refurbishment.

Founded in 2024 by Akhilesh and Avnish Bagaria, NavPrakriti’s first unit in Serampore, West Bengal, is already operational. It has established itself as eastern India’s large-scale lithium-ion battery recycling plant, with an annual capacity of 12,000 tons, scalable to 24,000 tons.

The upcoming Odisha plant will be the company’s second unit dedicated to critical mineral extraction, further strengthening India’s supply chain resilience and sustainability goals.

Akhilesh Bagaria stated that the planned ₹100 crore investment goes beyond scale, setting a new benchmark for responsible battery recycling and advanced mineral recovery in India. He added that the project aims to create over 500 direct and indirect jobs, delivering significant socio-economic impact. 

The company is targeting high-purity recovery of lithium, cobalt, nickel, and other rare earth minerals from spent batteries.

Avnish Bagaria emphasised that with eligibility under the National Critical Mineral Mission, NavPrakriti is accelerating its ambitious goal of partnering with over 150 battery OEMs and leading manufacturers within the next three years.

This initiative underscores the company’s commitment to building a circular battery economy and contributing to India’s strategic self-reliance in critical minerals.

PTI

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Rajnath Singh Urges Deeper Indo-German Defence Industrial Ties Amid Global Security Challenges

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has made a strong pitch for enhanced collaboration between the defence industrial ecosystems of India and Germany, emphasising that the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative is an open invitation to co-create, co-develop, and co-innovate.

Speaking before the German Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence and Security on the first day of his three-day visit to Germany, he underlined that the world is confronted with new security threats, and rapid technological transformation has rendered the global environment highly complex and intricately connected.

He stressed that a new approach, marked by adaptability and readiness to embrace change, is urgently required. Singh highlighted that India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, is undergoing an unprecedented transformation in its defence sector.

He argued that deeper partnerships with German industry could deliver significant mutual benefits, particularly in the context of evolving global challenges.

The Defence Minister reiterated that India and Germany are not only strategic partners but also consequential voices in shaping the global discourse of the present era. His remarks underscored the importance of aligning industrial cooperation with broader strategic objectives, positioning both nations as key players in addressing emerging threats and opportunities.

During the course of his visit, Singh is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with his German counterpart, Boris Pistorius, as well as other senior leaders of the German government. These discussions are aimed at further strengthening the strategic defence partnership between the two countries.

A Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap and an Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations Training are expected to be signed in the presence of both Defence Ministers, signalling a concrete step forward in institutionalising collaboration.

This visit marks a significant moment in Indo-German defence relations, with Singh’s emphasis on industrial collaboration reflecting India’s broader push for self-reliance while simultaneously seeking to integrate with advanced global defence ecosystems.

Agencies

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IAF Gears Up With Purvanchal Highway Landing Drills for Peak Preparedness

The Indian Air Force is set to conduct a highway landing drill on 22 April, activating the Purvanchal Highway’s Karwal Kheri stretch in Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh. The exercise will feature Sukhoi-30, Jaguar, and Mirage fighters, Mi-17 helicopters, and transport aircraft such as the C-295 and AN-32.

The 3.2 km reinforced strip, built by the National Highways Authority of India in collaboration with the IAF, serves as a road in peacetime but can be converted into an airstrip during conflict or disaster. India has identified 28 such emergency landing fields across 11 states, with about 15 already operational, mainly on national highways.

This drill comes in the wake of a hard landing incident involving a Sukhoi Su-30MKI at Pune airport. The aircraft suffered an undercarriage failure and became immobilised on the runway, leading to a near 10-hour shutdown of the civil-military airfield.

The IAF has ordered a court of inquiry to investigate the incident, focusing on factors such as vertical speed at touchdown, pilot response, and the oleo-pneumatic system. The investigation aims to determine the precise cause of the failure and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Analysts have pointed out that Pune’s dual-use airfield status means defence operations take precedence, which can halt commercial flights during emergencies.

The airport’s single runway and restricted operating hours increase the risk of disruptions. Aviation experts have emphasised the need for infrastructure expansion, highlighting the proposed Purandar airport as a critical project to meet growing demand and reduce vulnerabilities in the current system.

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FedEx And IIT-Madras Pioneer India’s First Urban Drone Logistics Trials

FedEx and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras have successfully completed India’s first intra-city drone delivery flight trials in Bangalore, marking a landmark achievement in the evolution of urban logistics, announced IIT-Madras in a press release.

The initiative underscores FedEx’s commitment to advancing next-generation, technology-enabled supply chains in India and highlights the growing role of academia-industry partnerships in shaping future logistics ecosystems.

The trials validated a mid-mile aerial logistics service connecting Electronic City Phase II with a site near Bangalore International Airport Limited. Conducted under the research framework of the FedEx SMART Centre at IIT-Madras, the exercise tested high-speed drone operations in complex urban airspace and assessed their potential to enhance network efficiency while reducing reliance on congested road infrastructure.

This effort forms part of FedEx’s broader global strategy to explore innovative, safe, and scalable logistics solutions.

Nitin Navneet Tatiwala, vice president of marketing, customer experience, and air network for FedEx in the Middle East, Indian Subcontinent, and Africa, emphasised that innovation is central to FedEx’s role in enabling global commerce.

He noted that the milestone reflects the SMART Centre’s wider research agenda, which spans air cargo optimisation, electric vehicle integration, and advanced demand forecasting. Together, these initiatives aim to build resilient and sustainable supply chain ecosystems in collaboration with academia, industry, and policymakers.

Through detailed analysis of aerial corridors, the SMART Centre demonstrated that a 53 km road journey, typically taking over 60 minutes, could be replaced by an aerial route of approximately 39–42 km. During the trials, this reduced one-way transit time to nearly 21 minutes, showcasing the potential for transformative improvements in time-critical logistics. The flight path involved coordinated navigation through Airport Yellow and Red Zones, with all necessary permissions secured from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

Prof. Satyanarayanan R Chakravarthy, core faculty member at the FedEx SMART Centre, explained that the trials represent a significant leap in the mission to create sustainable and progressive supply chain models.

By integrating advanced aerial robotics into urban logistics, the initiative moves beyond theoretical research to prove the efficacy of high-impact, future-ready solutions capable of redefining the global logistics landscape.

Prof. Arshinder Kaur, professor in-charge of the SMART Centre, highlighted the long-term impact of the trials for Indian logistics. She described the high-speed drone delivery demonstration as a strong testament to the centre’s commitment to driving innovation across modern supply chains and accelerating the adoption of cutting-edge technologies.

Operations were conducted at an altitude of 120 metres in line with regulatory guidelines. Safety systems included an autonomous flight termination mechanism, return-to-home capability, and anti-collision strobe lighting. The implementation partner for this landmark trial was Amber Wings, a pioneering deep-tech start-up incubated at IIT Madras and founded by Prof. Satyanarayanan R. Chakravarthy.

IIT-Madras

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Trump Extends Ceasefire, Blocks Iran Talks As Vance’s Visit Stands Cancelled

US President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that he has decided to extend the ceasefire with Iran, citing the need to give its leadership more time to present a unified proposal for negotiations.

The decision, made in Washington, followed requests from Pakistan’s Army Chief Asim Munir and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who urged the United States to allow Tehran additional space to consolidate its position. Trump stated that Iran’s government appears “seriously fractured” and requires time to formulate a clear stance.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump explained that the US military would maintain its blockade and remain fully prepared, while the ceasefire would continue until Iran submits its proposal and discussions are concluded.

He emphasised that the extension was conditional, noting that the ceasefire would last only until Iran’s leaders deliver a unified plan and negotiations reach a definitive outcome.

The ceasefire, brokered earlier this month to facilitate diplomatic engagement, has been fragile, with both Washington and Tehran expressing doubts about its implementation.

Trump’s directive underscores the precarious balance between military readiness and diplomatic patience, as the US continues to exert pressure while leaving the door open for talks.

Meanwhile, US Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Pakistan for a second round of negotiations with Iran has been put on hold. According to a US official cited by The New York Times, Tehran has yet to respond to Washington’s proposals, prompting the postponement. Iran has indicated that it has not yet decided whether to resume dialogue with the United States, leaving the future of the diplomatic track uncertain.

ANI

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US Pauses Islamabad Talks As JD Vance’s Visit Put On Hold Amid Iran’s Silence

US Vice President JD Vance’s planned visit to Pakistan has been put on hold, with just hours remaining before the two‑week ceasefire with Iran was due to expire.

According to the New York Times, the trip has been deferred because Tehran has failed to respond to Washington’s negotiating position ahead of the proposed talks.

A US official told the publication that while the talks are not cancelled, the “diplomatic process is in effect paused” due to Iran’s lack of engagement.

Vance had been expected to travel to Islamabad this week to lead discussions with Iranian representatives. The White House had earlier confirmed that he would be joined by special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.

However, Iran has not committed to participating in the fresh round of negotiations, leaving the process in limbo. Reports now suggest that the delegation will not be travelling to Islamabad as planned.

On Wednesday, President Donald Trump announced an extension of the ceasefire with Iran, a move intended to give Tehran more time to present a “unified proposal.” Shortly afterwards, reports indicated that the White House had confirmed Vance and his team would remain in Washington.

AFP quoted a White House official as saying that additional policy meetings were taking place in Washington, underscoring the uncertainty surrounding the diplomatic track.

The talks in Islamabad were seen as crucial, given the fragile state of the ceasefire and the looming risk of renewed hostilities. Yet Iran’s noncommittal stance has cast doubt on whether negotiations will proceed at all.

While the New York Times reported that Vance’s trip is on hold, it also noted that the visit could be reinstated “at a moment’s notice” if Iran issues a response deemed acceptable by Trump. For now, however, the diplomatic process remains stalled, with the future of the Islamabad talks hanging in the balance.

Agencies

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French Rafales Lead NATO Interception of Russian Bombers Over Baltic Sea

NATO fighter jets intercepted Russian military aircraft over the Baltic Sea on Monday, 20 April, in a coordinated air-policing mission. The operation involved multiple allied jets deployed to monitor and track the Russian formation.

According to the Associated Press, French Dassault Rafale fighters were scrambled from Šiauliai Air Base in Lithuania as part of NATO’s long-running Baltic Air Policing mission.

The French detachment confirmed that Rafales armed with air-to-air missiles joined aircraft from Sweden, Finland, Poland, Denmark, and Romania. Together, they took to the skies to inspect and keep watch on the Russian flight.

The Russian mission included two supersonic Tu-22M3 bombers, accompanied by around ten fighters, including Sukhoi Su-30s and Su-35s. These fighters took turns escorting the larger strategic bombers during the flight.

The Russian Defence Ministry stated that the long-range bombers’ flight was scheduled and took place over neutral waters of the Baltic Sea. The mission lasted more than four hours, according to the ministry’s Telegram channel.

“At certain stages of the route, the long-range bombers were accompanied by fighters of foreign states,” the ministry said, as quoted by AP. It added that crews of long-range aviation regularly conduct flights over neutral waters of the Arctic, North Atlantic, Pacific Ocean, as well as the Baltic and Black Seas. The statement emphasised that all flights of Russian Aerospace Forces aircraft are carried out in strict compliance with international rules for the use of airspace.

The Baltic Air Policing mission has been in place since 2004, when Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania joined NATO. It has intensified significantly since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, reflecting heightened tensions in the region.

This latest interception also comes amid renewed strains between Washington and its NATO allies under President Donald Trump. He has repeatedly criticised the alliance over burden-sharing and questioned its value.

Trump has pressed European members to sharply increase defence spending and has at times suggested that the United States could reconsider its commitment to NATO. These remarks have unsettled allies already grappling with Russia’s war in Ukraine.

At the same time, NATO members including Britain and France refused to take part in the US plan to blockade Iranian ports, after declining to support Washington’s military initiatives in the Middle East.

Earlier in March this year, NATO fighter jets also intercepted and escorted two Russian Air Force Su-24D aircraft flying in international airspace near NATO borders. NATO Air Command confirmed the interception on 12 March, underscoring the frequency of such encounters.

AP

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