'Very Happy', Philippines Hails India-Made BrahMos As ‘Unmatched’, Signals Scope For Deeper Defence Partnerships

The Philippines has expressed strong satisfaction with its acquisition of India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, with Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio describing Manila as “very, very happy”, delighted and proud to have become the first overseas customer for the advanced missile technology.

Speaking in New Delhi, Ignacio said the purchase represents a major milestone in the growing defence relationship between the two countries and has reinforced India’s standing as a credible source of advanced defence technology for the Philippines.

According to the Ambassador, the BrahMos acquisition has significantly strengthened Manila’s deterrence capabilities while creating opportunities for future high-technology defence procurement from India. He described the missile system as one of the Philippines’ most important defence purchases and said the country regards the technology as both advanced and highly effective.

“The Philippines, you know, is very, very happy and delighted and proud to have been the first country of export for India for the BrahMos technology,” Ignacio said.

While praising the system’s capabilities, he stressed that the Philippines remains committed to peace and views the missile primarily as a deterrent rather than a weapon intended for combat use.

“Of course, no one wants to see it put to use; you know, we are a peace-loving country after all. So, all of this is about deterrence, but credible deterrence,” he said.

Ignacio noted that the BrahMos program has elevated India into a select group of nations considered reliable suppliers of sophisticated defence technologies. He said the development is likely to encourage the Philippine military and defence establishment to explore additional procurement opportunities from India in the coming years.

“What it shows also is that for the Philippines, India has risen to join the ranks of countries that are credible sources of defence technology for us, and I'm sure that our defence ministry and our military will increasingly look to India for other possible procurement and purchases,” he said.

On the prospect of further BrahMos orders, the Ambassador said any decision would ultimately rest with the Philippine military and defence authorities. However, he made clear that Manila remains highly impressed by the system’s performance and technological sophistication.

“I feel that the kind of technology and defence deterrence that BrahMos accords us right now is unmatched. The technology as a supersonic cruise missile has yet to be matched. And so there remains an opportunity,” he said.

The Ambassador added that the Philippines has already sourced a range of defence equipment from India, including helmets, protective vests and military trucks, under existing defence cooperation arrangements. He argued that the BrahMos deal has effectively opened the door for the acquisition of more advanced technologies from Indian industry.

“What BrahMos does is that it opens the doors to purchases of more high-technology items,” Ignacio said.

The BrahMos partnership has become one of the most significant symbols of India’s expanding defence export ambitions. The original agreement, signed in 2022 and valued at approximately US$375 million, marked the first international export order for the missile system. Deliveries, operator training and deployment support have since deepened defence cooperation between New Delhi and Manila while strengthening maritime security collaboration across the Indo-Pacific.

Developed jointly by India and Russia, BrahMos is regarded as one of the world’s fastest operational supersonic cruise missiles. The system’s speed, precision and coastal defence capabilities have made it a central element of the Philippines’ military modernisation program and broader deterrence posture.

Ignacio’s remarks came during the 2026 Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue in New Delhi, a three-day forum themed around science, technology and academic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The event is focused on strengthening the foundations of maritime security and strategic collaboration across the region.

Concluding his remarks, the Ambassador indicated that the BrahMos purchase is unlikely to be the final chapter in bilateral defence cooperation, signalling that India is now firmly on the Philippines’ radar for future high-technology defence requirements.

“Now India is on the horizon, on our eyesight when it comes to these kinds of procurement. So BrahMos will not be the end of it.”

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First Rocket Launch From Tamil Nadu's Kulasekharapatnam Spaceport Set For March-April 2027, Says ISRO Chief

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) expects to conduct the first rocket launch from its new spaceport at Kulasekharapatnam in Tamil Nadu’s Thoothukudi district during March or April 2027, according to ISRO Chairman V. Narayanan.

Speaking to reporters at Chennai airport, Narayanan said construction and development work at the new launch facility is progressing steadily. “Work is underway to set up a new rocket launch site at Kulasekharapatnam in Thoothukudi district. The first rocket will be launched from this launch site next year in March or April,” he said.

The upcoming facility is being developed to expand India’s launch infrastructure and is expected to become a key centre for future small satellite missions. It will complement existing launch capabilities at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Narayanan also highlighted the recent success of the GSLV-F18 mission, which placed the NVS-03 navigation satellite into orbit from Sriharikota on 30 October at 11:51 pm. He noted that NVS-03 is the third satellite in India’s next-generation navigation satellite series and forms part of the country’s NavIC navigation constellation.

According to the ISRO chief, the satellite was initially injected into an orbit approximately 38,000 kilometres above Earth. Using its onboard propulsion system, the spacecraft has since raised its orbit by a further 5,500 kilometres, with additional manoeuvres continuing to place it in its designated operational position.

Narayanan stressed the importance of satellite navigation technology for tracking, precise timing and location-based services. He said at least four satellites are required to provide comprehensive navigation coverage.

“The technology will be used for various needs including public safety, aircraft landing and taking off at airports, and ship navigation,” he said.

The successful deployment of NVS-03 further strengthens the NavIC system, India’s indigenous navigation network designed to provide accurate positioning and timing services across the country and beyond. The system supports a wide range of civilian, commercial and strategic applications.

Narayanan said India currently operates 56 satellites in orbit. However, he noted that thousands more satellites will ultimately be required to meet the nation’s growing needs for communication, navigation, monitoring and data collection.

Providing an update on the Gaganyaan human spaceflight effort, the ISRO Chairman said the mission continues to make strong progress. “So far, about 8,000 experiments have been conducted for the project. There are plans to send unmanned spacecraft to conduct tests before sending humans into space,” he said.

He added that the first phase of launch preparations is already under way. The planned uncrewed missions will validate critical systems and safety measures before astronauts are sent into orbit.

Narayanan also confirmed that work is continuing on both Chandrayaan-4 and Chandrayaan-5. Chandrayaan-4 is currently targeted for launch in 2028 as India seeks to advance lunar exploration and scientific research on the Moon.

He further revealed that ISRO’s scientific studies involving space and solar observations have generated around 37 terabytes of data so far. The information has been made available through public platforms to support researchers, scientists and wider public access to space-related knowledge.

The updates underscore ISRO’s broadening ambitions across launch infrastructure, satellite navigation, human spaceflight and lunar exploration, with the Kulasekharapatnam spaceport expected to become an important addition to India’s expanding space ecosystem.

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Pakistan Tests Turkish GÖKTUĞ Fa'az Air-To-Air Missile, Strengthening Indigenous Air Combat Capability

Pakistan has announced the successful flight test of the Fa'az air-to-air missile, a weapon derived from Türkiye's GÖKTUĞ missile family and intended to enhance the Pakistan Air Force's beyond-visual-range air combat capability.

The missile was launched from a JF-17 fighter aircraft during a test conducted on 3 November 2026. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the trial marked an important step forward in Pakistan's aerospace and defence development efforts.

Fa'az is equipped with terminal guidance system designed to engage aerial targets at extended ranges. The guidance technology improves the missile's ability to track and intercept manoeuvring aircraft during the final phase of flight, increasing effectiveness in modern air combat scenarios.

The successful launch is expected to provide the Pakistan Air Force with greater operational flexibility while strengthening the country's overall air-defence posture. The programme also reflects Pakistan's broader efforts to expand domestic defence manufacturing capabilities and reduce dependence on imported weapons systems.

Senior military officers, scientists and engineers involved in the missile's development witnessed the trial. The achievement was described by the ISPR as evidence of the technical maturity, innovation and self-reliance achieved by Pakistan's defence industry.

President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Chief of Defence Forces and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, along with the service chiefs, congratulated the scientists, engineers and development teams responsible for the project.

The Fa'az test comes amid a wider push by Pakistan to advance missile technology. In recent weeks, the country has also carried out tests of extended-range variants of the Fatah missile family, demonstrating continuing investment in locally developed precision-strike and aerospace capabilities.

The development highlights the growing defence relationship between Pakistan and Türkiye, particularly in aerospace technologies and advanced weapons integration. For the Pakistan Air Force, the successful integration of the missile onto the JF-17 platform could provide an additional air-to-air combat option for future operations.

One of the statements issued following the test noted that the missile would "significantly enhance the operational flexibility" of the Pakistan Air Force, while the successful trial underscored the "technical maturity, innovation and self-reliance" of Pakistan's defence industry.

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'They Don't Need It': Trump To End US $4 Billion Annual Aid To Israel As Golan Warns of Security Fallout

US President Donald Trump has announced that Washington will end roughly $4 billion in annual assistance to Israel by the end of 2026, arguing that the country has become sufficiently prosperous to fund its own defence requirements and purchase military equipment without relying on American support.

Speaking during an interview with Fox News, Trump said the long-running financial assistance arrangement would come to an end this year.

“We were giving them $4 billion -- we are --, but it gets cut off at the end of the year,” Trump stated.

Explaining the decision, Trump argued that Israel no longer requires direct American funding, describing the country as economically strong and capable of sustaining its own military needs.

“They don't need it,” Trump said, adding, “Israel is a very thriving country.”

The announcement marks a potentially significant shift in US-Israel relations, although Washington is expected to continue military sales to Israel even after the financial assistance is halted. Trump also indicated that the issue had been discussed with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over an extended period.

The move comes despite the current US-Israel security assistance framework, established under a long-term memorandum of understanding that provides approximately USD 3.8 billion annually through 2028. The future implementation of Trump's proposal could face political and legislative scrutiny given the existing agreement.

Reacting sharply to the announcement, Israeli Democratic Party Chairman Yair Golan accused Prime Minister Netanyahu of presiding over another major strategic failure at a time when Israel's military spending remains elevated following an extended period of conflict.

In a post on X, Golan said, “Precisely at a time when Israel's defence expenditures have reached enormous proportions, when Israel needs to replenish its offensive weapons stockpiles, and when its air defence capabilities have eroded after such a prolonged war - Netanyahu chalks up yet another colossal failure on his record.”

Golan warned that the withdrawal of American assistance would place additional pressure on Israel's finances and security establishment.

“The halt in American aid is a severe blow to Israel's security and to the quality of life in the country, because funding security needs at such a critical juncture will fall solely on the Israeli public,” he said.

Escalating his criticism, Golan argued that a responsible government would seek to secure greater American backing rather than allow it to be reduced.

“A responsible prime minister would fight to increase American aid, not dismantle it. Netanyahu is deepening the security and economic crisis and endangering Israel's future,” he added.

The development comes as Israel continues to address heightened security challenges following a prolonged regional conflict and amid ongoing debate over the country's long-term military and economic dependence on the United States.

Netanyahu has previously indicated that he would like Israel to gradually reduce its reliance on American military assistance over the coming decade, reflecting a broader push towards greater strategic self-sufficiency.

The announcement also arrives during a politically sensitive period. Reports indicate that Netanyahu recently urged Trump to consider renewed military action against Iran after the US midterm elections, amid Israeli concerns that Washington remains committed to pursuing diplomatic engagement with Tehran.

At the same time, Israel's domestic political landscape remains in flux. Leaders of the opposition's “Change and Repair” bloc have united behind former military chief Gadi Eisenkot as their preferred candidate for prime minister, agreeing to recommend him to President Isaac Herzog in an effort to facilitate the formation of Israel's 38th government and accelerate a transfer of power.

Trump's decision has therefore added a new layer of uncertainty to both US-Israel relations and Israel's increasingly contested political environment, with supporters viewing the move as recognition of Israel's economic strength and critics warning of serious consequences for the country's security posture and public finances.

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CSIR-NAL's Gas-Dynamic Resonance Ignitor Success Marks Major Step Towards Methane-Fuelled Space Propulsion

More than a year ago, CSIR-NAL initiated the development of an advanced ignition technology aimed at supporting the next generation of in-space propulsion systems using environmentally friendly propellants such as methane.

Known as the Unique Resonance Jet Assisted (URJA) ignition device, the technology has been conceived as a futuristic ignition solution capable of enabling multiple, and potentially unlimited, engine re-ignitions during a mission.

Such a capability is critical for modern spacecraft operations, including orbital transfers, attitude control manoeuvres, space station operations and deep-space exploration missions.

CSIR-NAL has now achieved a significant milestone by successfully demonstrating auto-ignition using hydrogen through the application of gas-dynamic resonance principles. The achievement validates the core operating concept of the URJA ignition device and represents an important step towards its planned utilisation with methane fuel.

The successful harnessing of gas-dynamic resonance for ignition eliminates the need for carrying separate ignitor propellants, a factor that can simplify spacecraft propulsion architectures while improving operational flexibility.

Repeated and reliable reignition capability is increasingly regarded as an essential requirement for future space missions that demand extended operational lifetimes and complex mission profiles.

Methane is widely viewed as a promising next-generation rocket propellant because of its high performance, cleaner combustion characteristics and suitability for long-duration space missions. As a result, the successful maturation of the URJA ignition system could provide an important technological boost to ISRO’s future methane engine development efforts.

By demonstrating hydrogen auto-ignition and progressing towards methane-based operation, CSIR-NAL has moved significantly closer to achieving the original objective of developing a practical and reusable ignition solution for advanced space propulsion applications.

The development has been led by the CSIR-NAL team comprising Dr Shashi Bhushan Verma, Raghu Kumar (Technical Officer), Shamboo Yadav and Fakruddin Agadi, whose efforts have culminated in this important breakthrough in indigenous space propulsion technology.

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Adani Defence Eyes Narrow-Body Aircraft Engine MRO As India’s Aviation Market Accelerates

Adani Defence and Aerospace is preparing to expand its presence in India’s fast-growing aviation ecosystem, with plans to finalise a Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility for narrow-body commercial aircraft engines within the next 18 months.

The proposed facility would mark a significant step in the company’s ambitions beyond aerospace manufacturing and into aviation support services, at a time when India is emerging as one of the world’s fastest-growing civil aviation markets.

Speaking at the Aviation India and South Asia 2026 conference in New Delhi, Adani Defence and Aerospace Chief Executive Officer Ashish Rajvanshi said plans for the engine MRO facility would be firmed up during the next 18 months.

“Once that MRO is set up, a Final Assembly Line (FAL) for the engines can also be looked at,” Rajvanshi said.

The planned facility is expected to focus on engines powering narrow-body aircraft, which account for the majority of commercial fleets operated by Indian carriers. As airlines continue to expand capacity and induct new aircraft, demand for advanced engine maintenance capabilities within the country is expected to rise sharply.

India’s commercial aircraft fleet is projected to triple to around 2,250 aircraft over the coming decade, creating substantial opportunities for domestic MRO providers. Industry observers also expect the country to strengthen its position as a regional hub for maintenance, repair and overhaul activities, reducing dependence on overseas facilities and supporting faster turnaround times for airlines.

The opportunity extends well beyond engine servicing. According to an Airbus assessment released earlier this year, the Indian market for airframes, engines and aerospace components is forecast to triple in value to approximately $9.5 billion by 2035.

That growth is expected to drive investment across the wider aerospace supply chain, including maintenance infrastructure, technical expertise and specialised engineering services.

Adani Defence already has an established foothold in the sector through Adani Defence Systems & Technologies Ltd (ADSTL), which acquired private-sector MRO specialist Air Works last year. The acquisition provided the group with an existing maintenance platform and strengthened its position within India’s aviation services market.

While details such as the location, investment outlay, engine platforms and potential technology partnerships for the proposed facility have yet to be disclosed, the initiative signals Adani Defence’s intention to play a larger role in supporting India’s expanding commercial aviation sector.

If the project proceeds as envisaged, the proposed engine MRO could serve as a foundation for broader aerospace industrial capabilities in India, including the possibility of future engine assembly operations through a Final Assembly Line.

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'Thorium Links India’s Natural Resources With Its Long-Term Nuclear Energy Vision' Says IGCAR Chief

A view of the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, near Chennai

India’s vast thorium reserves could play a transformative role in the country’s energy future, according to Sreekumar G Pillai, Director of the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research (IGCAR), Kalpakkam. 

Speaking at a national symposium in Thiruvananthapuram, he highlighted how thorium connects India’s natural resources with its carefully planned three-stage nuclear program.

Addressing the symposium Monazite to Megawatt: Emerging Frontiers in Nuclear Science and Technology, organised by the Atomic Energy Retirees Association (AERI) at Mar Ivanios College, Mr. Pillai emphasised that thorium-rich mineral sand deposits found along the coasts of States such as Kerala represent a strategic energy asset for the nation.

“If a grain of sand from the coast is able to meet the electricity requirement of a city, it will be a great thing,” he said, underscoring the enormous energy potential contained within thorium-bearing coastal resources.

Pillai noted that India possesses around 25% of the world’s known thorium reserves, a factor that formed the foundation of the country’s three-stage nuclear program conceived in the 1950s by visionary nuclear scientists. The program was specifically designed to maximise the utilisation of India’s limited uranium resources while ultimately unlocking the energy potential of thorium.

He explained that thorium is a fertile material rather than a fissile one and therefore cannot directly sustain a nuclear chain reaction. Instead, it must first be converted into Uranium-233 within a reactor. This forms the final stage of India’s nuclear strategy, which progresses from uranium-based reactors to plutonium-fuelled fast reactors and ultimately to thorium utilisation.

Fast breeder reactors occupy a crucial position within this framework. The Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at Kalpakkam, developed as part of India’s advanced nuclear programme, is expected to support the transition towards a sustainable thorium-based fuel cycle in the future.

Speaking at the inauguration of the event, AK Balasubrahmanian, Chairperson of the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB), stressed the growing importance of nuclear energy as India seeks to increase electricity generation while simultaneously reducing carbon emissions.

He described nuclear power as a clean energy source capable of delivering dependable 24/7 baseload electricity, a key advantage as the nation pursues energy security alongside climate commitments. Unlike intermittent renewable sources, nuclear plants can provide continuous power irrespective of weather conditions.

Highlighting safety as the sector’s highest priority, Balasubrahmanian emphasised the need for reliability and quality across systems, structures and components. He also pointed to the importance of rigorous standards throughout the design, construction and operational phases of nuclear facilities.

The AERB chief further stressed that competent and highly skilled personnel remain essential for maintaining safety, reliability and operational excellence across India’s nuclear infrastructure.

The two-day national symposium examines a wide range of subjects, including applications of nuclear radiation, thorium utilisation, reactor safety, the role of nuclear energy in addressing climate change, and career opportunities in nuclear science and technology. An exhibition showcasing developments across India’s nuclear energy sector is also being held alongside the event.

As India works to expand low-carbon electricity generation, the successful integration of thorium into the country’s three-stage nuclear program could provide a long-term pathway towards greater energy independence, enhanced fuel security and cleaner power production.

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India's Daring Airborne Commando Rescue Wins Iran's Gratitude After 48-Hour Anti-Piracy Mission

Iran has expressed its appreciation to India, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force following the successful rescue of 20 Iranian crew members from the hijacked fishing vessel Azini in the Arabian Sea.

In a statement issued by the Iranian Embassy in New Delhi, Tehran praised the professionalism, courage and coordination displayed by the Indian armed forces during the complex operation, which culminated in the safe recovery of all crew members after a 48-hour mission.

The embassy said the rescue highlighted India's commitment to humanitarian assistance and its readiness to save lives beyond its own borders. It also described the operation as a powerful example of friendship, solidarity and cooperation between India and Iran, while conveying gratitude to all personnel involved in bringing the sailors safely home.

The Azini had been seized by armed pirates off the north-eastern coast of Somalia, an area that has long been vulnerable to maritime crime despite international anti-piracy efforts. Indian authorities assessed that the vessel could potentially be used as a mother ship to support further attacks against commercial shipping in the region, increasing the urgency of the response.

The Indian Navy launched a coordinated operation involving a frontline warship and maritime reconnaissance aircraft to locate, monitor and intercept the hijacked vessel. Continuous surveillance enabled forces to track the ship's movements across the Arabian Sea.

In a high-risk phase of the mission, Indian Navy Marine Commandos were inserted onto the vessel through a precision airdrop conducted with the support of an Indian Air Force C-17 transport aircraft. The commandos subsequently secured the fishing vessel, neutralised the pirate threat and ensured the safe release of all 20 crew members.

The operation was completed on 2 November, more than 3,000 kilometres from Mumbai, demonstrating India's ability to project maritime security capabilities across a vast area of the Indian Ocean Region.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated the Indian Navy on the successful execution of the mission, stating that it had demonstrated the service's capability to locate and intercept a hijacked vessel and secure the release of its crew from heavily armed pirates.

He also praised the Indian Air Force for its timely support, noting that the seamless coordination between the two services reflected a high level of operational preparedness and the ability to respond rapidly to maritime security challenges.

Commending the personnel involved, Singh said the operation underscored India's determination to protect lives, uphold maritime security and contribute to stability across the Indian Ocean Region.

Reaffirming New Delhi's broader commitment to regional security, the Defence Minister stated that India would continue its efforts to ensure safe seas and maintain a free, open and secure Indian Ocean Region.

Retaining the key sentiment of the mission, Iran specifically commended the Indian forces for their “professionalism, courage and coordination”, while Rajnath Singh said the operation demonstrated the Navy's operational readiness and its capacity to counter maritime threats across the region.

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EAM Jaishankar Showcases India’s Digital Public Infrastructure And Trade Agenda At CHOGM 2026

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar represented India at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026 in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda, where he highlighted the transformative impact of India’s digital public infrastructure (DPI) model and underscored the importance of free trade agreements in strengthening global economic resilience.

Addressing the Commonwealth Heads of Government Executive Session, Jaishankar emphasised how digital public infrastructure has become a powerful tool for good governance, financial responsibility and wider economic participation.

He noted that India’s experience demonstrates how technology can expand opportunities for citizens while helping to democratise economies through greater access to services and financial inclusion.

In remarks shared on X, Jaishankar said: “Honoured to represent India at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Executive Session. Highlighted the value of digital public infrastructure for good governance and financial responsibility. Has helped democratize our economies by expanding opportunities.

The Indian example is instructive. Also spoke about India’s recent FTAs and other negotiations underway in that regard. Such understandings will contribute to predictable trade and resilient supply chains.”

The minister also highlighted India’s recent free trade agreements and ongoing trade negotiations, stressing that such arrangements play an important role in creating predictable trading environments and strengthening resilient supply chains. His comments reflected New Delhi’s broader push to expand economic partnerships and improve market access through mutually beneficial trade frameworks.

Jaishankar arrived in Antigua and Barbuda ahead of the summit and was received at the airport by Foreign Affairs Minister Everly Chet Greene and Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Charles Fernandes.

In a separate social media post, he said: “Delighted to arrive in Antigua and Barbuda for #CHOGM2026. Touched by the gesture of FM Everly Chet Greene and Tourism & Civil Aviation Minister Charles Fernandes, receiving me at the airport. Look forward to engagements here.”

CHOGM 2026 was held in St John’s from 1 to 4 November under the theme, “Accelerating Partnerships and Investment for a Prosperous Commonwealth”. The summit brought together leaders and representatives from Commonwealth member states to discuss shared priorities including economic growth, investment, trade, climate action, sustainable development and international cooperation.

Ahead of the leaders’ summit, Secretary (West) Sibi George addressed the Pre-CHOGM Commonwealth Foreign Ministers Meeting. He stressed the need for the Commonwealth to focus on practical, people-centred outcomes, including democratising technology for development, strengthening climate action and disaster resilience, and advancing reformed multilateralism in support of the organisation’s collective interests and values.

India’s emphasis on digital public infrastructure aligns with its growing international outreach around technology-enabled governance systems. Over recent years, platforms supporting digital identity, payments and public service delivery have become central to India’s efforts to promote financial inclusion, improve service accessibility and drive inclusive economic growth, with several countries exploring similar models through cooperation with New Delhi.

Jaishankar’s participation in CHOGM followed a high-level diplomatic visit to the United States, where he attended the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta on 30 and 31 October. During the visit, he also took part in a QUAD Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and conducted bilateral discussions with international counterparts, underscoring India’s continued engagement across major multilateral and strategic forums.

The Antigua and Barbuda visit highlighted India’s parallel focus on digital innovation, economic connectivity and international cooperation, positioning these priorities as key contributors to sustainable growth and development across the Commonwealth.

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China's Mysterious '18-Missile Submarine' Could Give The U.S. Navy A Pacific Nightmare

China is reportedly testing an unusual uncrewed submarine that could significantly expand its anti-ship warfare options in the Indo-Pacific, Times of India reported.

The vessel was identified through satellite imagery near Huludao, one of China's key submarine construction centres, and has attracted attention because of its highly unconventional configuration.

Unlike traditional submarines, the platform appears to feature a trimaran-style arrangement, with a central hull flanked by two smaller outrigger hulls. This distinctive design has led analysts to speculate that the vessel may have been developed for a specialised missile-strike role rather than conventional underwater operations.

Reports suggest the submarine could be capable of carrying as many as 18 anti-ship missiles. Satellite imagery appears to show dedicated weapons compartments fitted with vertically raised missile tubes, indicating that the platform may need to surface before launching its weapons.

Although several details remain uncertain, the configuration points towards a vessel designed to deliver concentrated missile salvos against high-value naval targets.

One weapon potentially associated with the platform is the YJ-20 hypersonic anti-ship missile. However, neither the missile fit nor the submarine's full operational capabilities have been officially confirmed. As a result, assessments of its performance and intended mission remain largely speculative.

If the vessel enters operational service, it could present a new challenge for the U.S. Navy, particularly for aircraft carrier strike groups operating close to China's maritime approaches. An uncrewed missile carrier would offer Beijing an additional means of extending its anti-access and area-denial network while reducing risks to personnel.

The emergence of such a platform would also reflect China's broader investment in autonomous naval systems, long-range precision weapons and asymmetric maritime capabilities. Combined with existing surface ships, submarines and missile forces, an uncrewed missile submarine could complicate operational planning for rival navies in the Western Pacific.

Despite growing interest in the vessel, much about it remains unknown. Its actual armament, endurance, operational doctrine and level of autonomy have yet to be verified.

What is clear is that the unusual design and reported missile capacity have raised fresh questions about how future naval confrontations in the Indo-Pacific could evolve.

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India Among Four Global Superpowers As Jeffrey Sachs Declares End of Western Dominance

Renowned American economist and foreign policy analyst Jeffrey Sachs has argued that the era of Western dominance has come to an end, asserting that the international system is now transitioning towards a multipolar order shaped by four major powers: India, the United States, China and Russia.

Speaking in Varanasi, Sachs said the world has yet to develop a common understanding of this emerging geopolitical reality. According to him, a significant challenge stems from what he described as the continued belief within Washington that the United States remains the sole dominant global power.

Sachs warned that this mindset is both outdated and dangerous, claiming it encourages unilateral actions that can undermine global stability. Referring to American military policy, he argued that decisions such as military action against Iran have consequences that extend far beyond the countries directly involved and affect the wider international community.

"Yes, the era of Western dominance has ended, but we don't yet have a good, shared understanding in the world of the new multipolar world," Sachs said. "The United States still thinks that it's the dominant power. This is out of date and dangerous because it leads the United States to do very reckless and stupid things like going to war with Iran, and that creates damage for the whole world."

He further called on influential leaders of the emerging multipolar order, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin, to challenge unilateral military actions and encourage greater international responsibility.

"I think the other major powers, the leaders, like Prime Minister Modi, President Xi, President Putin, need to explain to the American president, 'You can't do that. You have to stop. This is not your choice whether to bomb Iran or not. It's not your right. It's not your interest, and also the whole world opposes it. So, stop. You have to be responsible to the world, not just to your own whim,'" Sachs asserted.

Turning to economic policy, Sachs criticised US President Donald Trump's approach to international trade and global affairs. He rejected suggestions that recent American policies had strengthened the global economy, arguing instead that a combination of tariffs, geopolitical tensions and military conflicts had increased uncertainty across international markets.

"Trump has destabilised the world economy by too many wars, too much conflict, and by his tariff policy. It's been awful. I've said so from the very beginning," Sachs noted. "I told my friends in India, this man, Trump, doesn't know what he's doing, and the policies are harmful. So, be careful."

Sachs maintained that long-term stability will depend on constructive engagement among the world's leading powers rather than strategic rivalry. He identified India, the United States, China and Russia as the four principal superpowers and urged them to pursue cooperation based on mutual respect, non-interference and adherence to international law.

"India is one of the four superpowers of the world. The United States, India, China, Russia are the four superpowers," Sachs stated. "They should cooperate with each other. They should not gang up one or the other. They should respect each other.

They should not meddle in the internal affairs of each other. They should not put their militaries next to each other. They should not make alliances with each other. Just cooperate peacefully, and not to say, 'Oh, side with me against the other one.' That kind of thinking is the destructive thinking."

The economist also argued against the formation of military blocs directed either against China or against Western nations, contending that such arrangements risk deepening divisions in an already complex international environment. Instead, he advocated stronger multilateral institutions and greater reliance on established international frameworks.

Emphasising the role of the United Nations, Sachs said the organisation should serve as the foundation for global cooperation but acknowledged that its influence has weakened in recent years. As part of broader institutional reform, he reiterated his support for India becoming a permanent member of the UN Security Council, arguing that such a move would improve the body's representativeness and effectiveness.

"Global harmony means that we are having mutual respect. We are not making alliances. I don't believe in alliances; I believe in cooperation," Sachs said. "We have the UN Charter. This should be our basis for global cooperation.

But the UN is very weak right now; it needs to be strengthened. One way to strengthen the UN is to have India as the sixth member of the UN Security Council as a permanent member. I advocate that to China and others: welcome India in because that will help to make the UN a stronger institution."

His remarks reflect a broader debate among international relations scholars regarding the shift from a largely Western-led post-Cold War order towards a more multipolar world in which emerging powers, particularly India and China, play an increasingly influential role in global economic governance, diplomacy and security affairs. Sachs argued that successful management of this transition will depend on cooperation rather than confrontation among the world's most powerful states.

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West Asia Conflict Claims 23 Indian Lives As MEA Reports Maritime Casualties And Missing Nationals

Indian Navy sailors rescuing Indian seamen during a rescue operation

India has lost 23 nationals amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia, with 15 of those fatalities involving Indian seafarers, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The figures were disclosed by MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal during the ministry's bi-weekly media briefing in New Delhi.

Jaiswal also provided details on Indian casualties linked to attacks on commercial shipping in the Black Sea region. He said that five Indian nationals had been killed in such incidents, while two others remain missing.

The update highlights the growing human cost of regional instability for Indian citizens, particularly those employed in the maritime sector. Indian seafarers continue to operate on commercial vessels passing through areas affected by conflict, heightened security risks and disruptions to international shipping routes.

The MEA's remarks came as India renewed its appeal for dialogue and diplomacy to ease tensions in West Asia and restore the safety of maritime navigation. The call followed the death of an Indian crew member after an attack on a commercial vessel operating off the coast of Oman.

The deceased seafarer was identified as Gandhar Nahim Ajij from Gujarat. He was among 14 Indian crew members aboard the Indian-flagged vessel MSV AL JUSUFI when the incident occurred near Limah, Oman.

Providing an update on the crew, Jaiswal said the government was working to ensure the swift return of the surviving sailors to India. “On that ship, we had 14 Indian crew members. Of them, tragically, unfortunately, one of them has died. We are now in the process of ensuring that the 13 Indian nationals who are there are repatriated back to India. We also are working when we can have the mortal remains of the Indian national to be transported back to India.”

He also expressed appreciation for the response of the Omani authorities, stating, “I must say that we thank the Omani authorities for their swift action.”

Reiterating India's position on the regional crisis, Jaiswal stressed the need for an immediate reduction in tensions and a diplomatic resolution. “We once again call upon parties to take dialogue and diplomacy forward so that there can be an early return of peace to the region, and that freedom of navigation through international waters and waterways must be restored and must be guaranteed.”

Earlier in the day, Union Minister for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal confirmed the death of the Indian seafarer in the attack near the Omani coast.

The latest incident adds to a series of attacks involving commercial vessels and maritime personnel in the Persian Gulf and the wider West Asian region, where ongoing hostilities have intensified risks to international shipping and the movement of seafarers.

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Germany Sees Renewable Energy Partnership With India As Key To Strengthening Atmanirbhar Bharat

Germany views the next stage of its energy collaboration with India as a strategic opportunity to reinforce the country’s self-reliance ambitions, with a particular emphasis on building domestic manufacturing capabilities across the renewable energy sector.

Speaking on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the Indo-German Energy Forum (IGF), German Ambassador to India Jasper Wieck said the partnership had already delivered substantial progress in expanding renewable energy deployment across India, but the focus must now move towards developing indigenous industrial capacity and reducing external dependencies.

“The most exciting chapters of this energy partnership are still ahead of us,” Wieck said, stressing that India should avoid replacing one form of energy dependence with another. According to him, strengthening domestic production capabilities in renewable energy technologies would support the broader vision of Atmanirbhar Bharat while enhancing long-term energy security.

A major area of future cooperation is expected to be green hydrogen. Wieck said India has the potential to become a leading global producer and exporter of the clean fuel, creating new economic opportunities while supporting international decarbonisation efforts.

“This will benefit a lot your economy. It will benefit your people because you will earn money by then selling green hydrogen to countries like Germany,” he said.

The Ambassador noted that renewable energy cooperation between the two countries began well before climate action became a mainstream global priority. He recalled that the Indo-German Energy Forum was established in 2006 through the efforts of former German Chancellor Angela Merkel and former Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, reflecting a shared commitment to clean energy years before the Paris Climate Agreement was concluded in 2015.

Over the past two decades, the forum has evolved into a key platform bringing together governments, industry, financial institutions and research organisations from both countries to advance energy transition initiatives. Its work has expanded beyond renewable energy deployment to include energy efficiency, grid integration, financing mechanisms and, more recently, green hydrogen cooperation.

Wieck highlighted India’s rapid renewable energy growth, noting that installed capacity had risen from roughly 2-3 gigawatts in 2006 to around 300 gigawatts today. He described this expansion as one of the most significant achievements of India’s energy transition journey.

The growing partnership is also being shaped by concerns over energy security, dependence on imported energy resources and vulnerabilities associated with critical maritime trade routes. In this context, renewable energy and green hydrogen are increasingly being viewed as tools for enhancing strategic and economic resilience.

Green hydrogen has emerged as a particularly important pillar of Indo-German cooperation. Both countries have already developed an Indo-German Green Hydrogen Roadmap, aimed at supporting future production, trade and utilisation of the fuel, while encouraging industrial collaboration and investment across the value chain.

Looking ahead, Germany sees the partnership extending beyond clean energy generation towards the creation of a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem in India. The objective is not only to accelerate the energy transition but also to ensure that India develops the technological and industrial foundations needed for long-term self-sufficiency.

As the Indo-German Energy Forum completes two decades of cooperation, both nations appear committed to deepening collaboration in renewable energy, green hydrogen, industrial development and energy security, positioning the relationship as an increasingly important component of India’s clean energy future.

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India-EU Trade Deal Set To Be A Big Game Changer, Says Lithuanian Ambassador Diana Mickevičienė

The forthcoming India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) is poised to become a transformative development for economic ties between India and Europe, according to Lithuanian Ambassador to India Diana Mickevičienė.

She described the agreement as a significant achievement that will unlock new opportunities for trade, technology collaboration and resilient supply chains between the two partners.

Speaking ahead of the anticipated signing of the agreement in December, Mickevičienė expressed confidence that the FTA would come into force while Lithuania holds the Presidency of the Council of the European Union from January to June. She said, "Yes, it's definitely a very big achievement. We look forward to signing it, having it signed in December, so it's next month." She added that Lithuania is prepared to actively promote the agreement and ensure that its provisions are fully utilised once implemented.

The ambassador highlighted the complementary strengths of India and Lithuania, particularly in advanced technology sectors. She described Lithuania as a "small technology superpower" and India as a "big technology superpower" with a vast domestic market capable of scaling innovative technologies developed in smaller economies. According to Mickevičienė, this combination could prove to be a major catalyst for future growth.

Rather than identifying a single area of cooperation, she pointed to a range of high-technology sectors with strong potential, including telematics, laser technologies, artificial intelligence, biometrics and fintech. She noted that Lithuanian laser technologies could contribute to India's ambitions in smart manufacturing, stating, "Our lasers can be part of India's success story in smart manufacturing."

Mickevičienė also stressed that deeper India-EU cooperation could strengthen trusted and resilient supply chains across critical technologies. She argued that the combined scale of the European and Indian markets creates a powerful platform for reducing vulnerabilities and enhancing economic security.

"We need the scale, we need the demand, we need a partnership with a trusted partner, and then we can definitely draw our own supply chains," she said. While acknowledging Lithuania's relatively small size, she emphasised that the country benefits from being part of the European Union's single market, one of the world's largest economic blocs.

On international affairs, the ambassador welcomed India's recent diplomatic initiative concerning the Black Sea region, describing it as a constructive step towards addressing issues arising from the Russia-Ukraine conflict. She noted the strategic importance of the Black Sea as a critical hub for trade routes and regional stakeholders and said India's proposals could help improve stability if pursued through a balanced and practical approach.

Mickevičienė further stated that Lithuania supports all efforts that could contribute to peace in Ukraine. While welcoming India's active engagement, she urged New Delhi to use its relationship with Moscow to encourage an end to the conflict.

"We can only support anything that contributes to or brings peace closer," she said, adding, "We look at India as a friendly partner, but also as friends with Russia to somehow influence them to basically stop taking what's never been theirs."

Her remarks underscore the growing strategic convergence between India and Europe, where economic cooperation, advanced technologies and supply-chain resilience are becoming increasingly important alongside broader geopolitical engagement.

The proposed FTA is widely expected to deepen commercial ties, boost investment flows and provide fresh momentum to collaboration across a range of emerging industries.

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Indian-American Voters Say Democrats Back Their Community More Strongly Than Republicans

Indian-American voters across Northern Virginia turned out in significant numbers on Election Day, describing the 2026 US midterm elections as a crucial test of political representation, immigrant acceptance and community security.

Many voters cited concerns over anti-immigrant sentiment, immigration rights and rising household expenses as key factors influencing their decisions at the ballot box. Several members of the community encouraged support for Democratic candidates, including Suhas Subramanyam and Senator Mark Warner, arguing that they better represent the interests and concerns of Indian-Americans.

Speaking after casting a ballot in Ashburn, one voter pointed to what they described as increasing hostility towards Indians in parts of the United States and said the election carried major implications for how immigrant communities would be treated in the future.

"This election, you have seen the attacks that they have put on Indians across the country... We need to be thinking about what is going to put us in a good position in this country, what is going to put us in a position where we will be accepted as Americans," the voter said.

The voter added: "Do we trust the group that has consistently hated us? Or do we trust the group that has given us opportunities? I think the choice here is very easy. I think if you look at who supports us, who believes that we should be Americans, I think the answer is very clear. It's the Democrats."

Another voter, Sridhar Nagareddy, emphasised the importance of the election for immigrant communities, highlighting concerns about discrimination, immigration rights and the overall cost of living.

"Today, the elections are more important for immigrants especially. The hate is going on, immigration rights, high gas prices - come, vote and support Suhas and Mark Warner," Nagareddy said. "They are the right people to support our community and our voices."

Earlier in the day, Congressman Suhas Subramanyam met supporters at a polling station in Sterling as Virginians participated in the nationwide midterm elections.

Virginia voters are deciding a number of closely watched federal contests that will influence the state's voice in Washington and potentially affect the balance of power in Congress.

Democratic Senator Mark Warner is seeking a fourth term in the US Senate and faces Republican challenger Bert Mizusawa, a retired US Army Major General. The Senate race has focused on competing approaches to fiscal policy, anti-corruption efforts and national security.

Meanwhile, in Virginia's 10th Congressional District, incumbent Democrat Suhas Subramanyam is campaigning for re-election to the House of Representatives. Subramanyam, the first Indian-American elected to represent the district and a former policy adviser in the Obama White House, is facing Republican candidate Dave Beckwith, a veteran of the US Air Force with three decades of service.

The district encompasses Loudoun, Fauquier and Rappahannock counties, where issues such as immigration policy, political representation and rising living costs have emerged as major concerns among voters.

The Virginia contests are taking place as more than 230 million eligible Americans head to the polls in the 2026 midterm elections, widely viewed as a referendum on the second half of President Donald Trump's term in office.

With all 435 seats in the House of Representatives and 35 Senate seats being contested, the elections will determine which party controls Congress for the remainder of the presidential term.

Recent polling and election forecasts have indicated potential Democratic gains, with Democrats seeking the narrow majorities required to retake control of both the House and Senate. Pre-election surveys conducted by The New York Times and Siena University have also suggested Democratic advantages in most of the key battleground states expected to determine control of the Senate.

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