Safran To Assemble Rafale's M88 Engines In India, Turbocharging Atmanirbhar Bharat

To secure an order for 114 additional Rafale fighter jets, Safran has made a ground breaking concession: the assembly of the aircraft's M88 engine will now take place in India.

This marks a historic shift, as Paris had previously refused such arrangements with any partner nation.

The developments unfolding between Paris and New Delhi in Feb 2026 transcend a mere defence procurement deal. Safran's agreement to assemble the M88 engine alongside Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India represents a profound transfer of industrial know-how, breaching long-held barriers in high-technology sectors.

India's defence sector is witnessing a transformative phase with the push to localise the assembly and overhaul of Rafale fighter jet engines. The M88 engines, powering the Dassault Rafale, are at the heart of this initiative. Safran, the French manufacturer, has pledged to establish an engine assembly line within India, marking a significant step towards self-reliance in military aviation.

India has evolved from a passive purchaser into a assertive negotiator. With the prospective acquisition of 114 more Rafales—elevating the total fleet aspiration to 330 aircraft—New Delhi now mandates local manufacturing as a non-negotiable prerequisite. The "Make in India" initiative has matured from a domestic policy slogan into an ironclad condition for market access, compelling even entrenched suppliers to comply.

Safran recognised this paradigm shift ahead of many peers. The late November 2025 inauguration of its 45,000-square-metre Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in Hyderabad signalled an initial pivot. Yet MRO operations safeguard core secrets far less rigorously than full engine assembly, which demands exposure of proprietary processes.

Safran's strategic calculus is straightforward yet far-reaching. The company's 2025 financials were robust, boasting nearly 15 per cent revenue growth and record engine deliveries. However, the true imperative lies in future prospects: a targeted €3 billion in Indian revenue by 2030. Rejecting technology transfer risks permanent exclusion from this burgeoning market; embracing it fosters enduring interdependence that outlasts any contract.

This decision upends a longstanding, unspoken protocol in the sector: design at Safran's Villaroche facility in France, maintenance permissible abroad, but assembly strictly off-limits elsewhere. Geopolitical imperatives have overridden these traditions.

At its core, this industrial alignment reflects a broader strategic synergy between France and India, both driven by a quest for autonomy. For New Delhi, Paris offers a reliable counterweight to a reticent Washington—unwilling to share advanced propulsion technologies—and an increasingly adversarial Beijing, whose actions now underpin India's entire defence posture.

Accelerating talks surround the powerplant for India's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), the nation's forthcoming stealth fighter. France proposes collaborative design of a 110 kN-class engine, where the United States imposes stringent caveats. The gamble is evident: nurturing a potential rival. Yet, for French stakeholders, unlocking the world's most dynamic defence market over the next decades outweighs such perils.

A pivotal question lingers regarding India's capacity to assimilate these transfers without compromising quality. The ambition is audacious: by 2035, the Hyderabad facility aims to handle 300 engines annually, transforming India from a peripheral consumer into a pivotal hub within the global aeronautical supply chain.

Safran is not merely offshoring production; it is strategically duplicating capabilities in a region where geopolitical influence is realigning. In today's multipolar landscape, an industrial powerhouse's resilience hinges less on hoarding secrets and more on cultivating dense, reciprocal ties with ascending economies like India's.

This partnership could catalyse wider ripple effects. For HAL, it bolsters expertise in aero-engine manufacturing, a domain long dominated by foreign monopolies. Indian engineers will gain hands-on mastery of hot-section technologies, blade forging, and turbine integration—skills transferable to indigenous projects like the Kaveri engine revival.

From a procurement standpoint, the 114-Rafale deal aligns with India's multi-engine fleet strategy, diversifying beyond Su-30MKIs and TEJAS while enhancing interoperability with French naval assets. Local M88 assembly promises cost efficiencies, with offsets potentially exceeding 70 per cent of contract value, fuelling "Make in India" multipliers across MSMEs.

The Franco-Indian axis gains momentum amid Indo-Pacific tensions. France's Indian Ocean territories and joint exercises like Varuna underscore shared stakes against Chinese expansionism. Engine co-development for AMCA could pave the way for 5th-generation tech sharing, positioning India as a co-equal partner rather than a mere licensee.

Challenges persist, however. Technology absorption demands robust quality controls, skilled workforce upskilling, and safeguards against IP leakage. Safran's phased rollout—beginning with final assembly before progressing to module production—mitigates risks, but success hinges on HAL's execution amid its stretched order book.

Safran’s commitment extends to sourcing components from Indian suppliers. This includes critical parts like turbine blades and casings, potentially involving firms such as Tata Advanced Systems or Bharat Forge. Such partnerships could generate thousands of jobs and bolster India's aerospace supply chain.

The M88 engine, a twin-spool turbofan, delivers 75 kilonewtons of thrust with afterburner. Its reliability has been proven in combat by French and other air forces. Assembling it in India would allow for technology transfer, enabling local engineers to master advanced propulsion techniques.

Overhaul facilities are equally vital. Currently, engines require shipment to France for maintenance, causing delays. An Indian overhaul line would ensure faster turnaround, vital for the IAF's squadron strength amid border tensions with China and Pakistan.

Discussions gained momentum during French President Emmanuel Macron's 2023 visit to India. Bilateral talks under the Rafale Marine deal for the Navy further underscored engine localisation. Safran aims to operationalise the assembly line by 2028, pending government approvals.

High-precision manufacturing demands skilled labour and infrastructure. Safran must navigate intellectual property concerns while transferring know-how. Indian offsets under defence procurement rules mandate 30-50% localisation, which this project fulfils.

The venture promises substantial gains. Engine assembly could save India up to 20% on procurement costs long-term. Local sourcing might inject ₹5,000 crore annually into the economy, fostering a vibrant MRO (maintenance, repair, and overhaul) ecosystem.

This mirrors global trends where nations like the US and UK maintain domestic engine lines for fighters like the F-35 and Typhoon. For India, it positions the country as a regional hub for aerospace manufacturing, attracting investments from Boeing and Lockheed Martin.

Deeper Franco-Indian ties counterbalance China's J-20 fleet and Pakistan's J-10Cs. Reliable engine supply chains ensure the Rafale's edge in beyond-visual-range combat, with its Meteor missiles and Spectra suite.

Private sector involvement accelerates progress. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) could integrate M88 overhauls with its Rafale production role. DRDO's Kaveri engine program might benefit from Safran's expertise, bridging gaps in indigenous turbofan development.

Training programs form a cornerstone. Safran plans to skill 500 Indian technicians initially, expanding to 2,000. Institutes like IITs and the Indian Institute of Science will collaborate, building a talent pool for next-gen engines.

Critics highlight risks of over-reliance on one supplier. Diversification via GE's F414 for TEJAS MK-2 remains crucial. Yet, Safran's track record instils confidence. The M88 push exemplifies strategic indigenisation. It fortifies India's aerial defences while nurturing a world-class aerospace industry.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Public Sector's Persistent Shortcomings: Why India Relies On Foreign Partnerships For Precision Munitions Like HAMMER

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France's Safran Electronics & Defence have forged a 50:50 joint venture to manufacture guidance kits for the HAMMER precision-guided weapon system in India. This partnership, approved by BEL's board on 15 February 2026, establishes a Centre of Excellence in Pune for production, maintenance, and repair, primarily serving the Indian Air Force and Navy.

Signed on 24 November 2025 in New Delhi, this 50:50 partnership aims to localise production, supply, and maintenance of these air-to-ground weapons for the Indian Air Force and Navy, with indigenisation levels targeting up to 60 per cent over time.

India's pursuit of indigenous equivalents through DRDO and BEL highlights persistent gaps, despite decades of experience in missiles like Prithvi, Akash, and BrahMos. DRDO has developed glide bombs such as Gaurav (up to 100 km range, 1,000 kg) and TARA (INS/GPS with laser seeker, CEP under 3 m), alongside SAAW and others, yet none fully replicate HAMMER's modularity, propulsion, and multi-mode guidance versatility. These systems prioritise longer glides or specific seekers but lag in the agile, rocket-boosted precision bridging bombs and missiles.

The HAMMER system, known for its modular design and extended range, represents a leap in precision strike capabilities, yet India's public sector defence organisations, including DRDO and DPSUs like BEL, have struggled to independently develop analogous weapons despite decades of experience.

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This JV underscores a broader pattern where foreign collaboration fills critical gaps in indigenous design and production, raising questions about the efficacy of India's public sector in high-technology weaponry.

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India's public sector defence entities have amassed considerable experience since the 1950s, producing items from small arms to missiles like Akash and Prithvi, yet precision-guided munitions akin to HAMMER remain elusive without external aid.

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Projects such as the Multi-Calibre Individual Weapon System (MCAR) exemplify repeated failures, abandoned in favour of imported AK-203 rifles due to design inadequacies in accuracy and reliability.

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Similarly, the Kaveri aero-engine for the TEJAS fighter faced insurmountable hurdles in materials and expertise, forcing reliance on foreign engines and delaying timelines.

Systemic issues abound, starting with protectionism within DRDO, which has long monopolised development, resisting private sector or international integration until recent reforms. A 2023 committee recommended DRDO overhaul, but by 2025, implementation stalled amid internal opposition, perpetuating inefficiencies across nine Navratna DPSUs.

Technical complexities exacerbate these woes; integrating radar, seekers, and propulsion for precision weapons demands expertise that India's public sector labs often lack, as seen in Akash missile's modest range and reliability issues.

System integration remains a perennial challenge, with early Akash tests revealing radar inaccuracies and performance shortfalls against modern benchmarks like the S-400.

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Ballistic Missile Defence Phase-II struggles with hypersonic targets, highlighting deficiencies in advanced seekers and platform stability for sea-based systems. Import dependency compounds this; critical components like high-temperature alloys, avionics, and metallurgy-grade steels are sourced abroad, undermining self-reliance and exposing supply chains to disruptions.

India's metallurgy base remains weak, necessitating imports for military-spec materials, a bottleneck unchanged despite 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiatives.

Bureaucratic hurdles further impede progress, with protracted decision-making, funding delays, and frequent revisions to General Staff Qualitative Requirements (GSQR) misaligning projects with user needs. Armed forces' late involvement in design phases leads to ambitious specifications that exceed domestic technological maturity, resulting in cost overruns and timeline slippages.

Inadequate infrastructure plagues the sector, from insufficient testing ranges to a shortage of skilled manpower in niche areas like composite armour and aero-engines. DRDO's historical inward focus precluded meaningful foreign tie-ups, hampered by export controls and policy restrictions, even as private sector potential went untapped.

Reform efforts, including the 2024 committee report, face resistance from DRDO seniors, delaying structural changes needed for agility. Budgetary constraints allocate insufficient R&D funds relative to modernisation demands, with procurement delays averaging years due to procedural red tape.

Long gestation periods for defence projects—often decades—discourage innovation, as industry awaits uncertain outcomes amid shifting priorities.

Private sector exclusion until recent years stifled competition; firms like Tata and L&T now contribute, but public sector dominance lingers.

The HAMMER JV reflects strategic pragmatism, leveraging Safran's expertise in modular munitions while building BEL's assembly and testing capacities.

BEL assumes final integration responsibilities, phasing in local sub-assemblies, yet core design IP remains French, revealing public sector's developmental lag.

This mirrors past collaborations, like Rafale offsets, where technology transfer is partial, leaving full indigenous mastery elusive.

Critics argue that without radical restructuring—greater private involvement, streamlined procurement, and merit-based accountability—public sector will continue outsourcing high-end designs.

Reforms under 'Make in India' have boosted production to ₹1.27 lakh crore by FY2023, but value addition in complex systems lags.

Geopolitical pressures, including border tensions, necessitate rapid capability infusion, favouring JVs over protracted indigenous efforts. User preferences for indigenous products notwithstanding, practical realities demand hybrid models to bridge expertise gaps swiftly. Future success hinges on absorbing transferred know-how; BEL-Safran must prioritise skill-building to avoid perpetuating dependency.

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Parliamentary scrutiny and Vice President-led committees urge halving DRDO labs and empowering users in development, steps yet to materialise fully. While experience abounds, systemic inertia, technological deficits, and institutional rigidities hobble India's public sector from stand-alone innovation in precision weapons like HAMMER.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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CDS Gen Chauhan Bats For TEJAS Fighter, Bolsters Aatmanirbhar Bharat With HAL Visit, Urges Evidence-Based Defence Reforms

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan visited Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Bengaluru on Tuesday, reaffirming the Armed Forces' steadfast commitment to bolstering indigenous defence manufacturing.

This engagement underscores the deepening collaboration between India's military leadership and its burgeoning defence industry, aligning seamlessly with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

The visit to HAL's headquarters in Banglaore highlights a pivotal moment in India's push towards self-reliance in aerospace and defence technologies. General Chauhan's presence signals strong institutional support for public sector undertakings like HAL, which play a crucial role in producing advanced aircraft, helicopters, and aero-engines vital for national security.

In a statement shared on X by the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff, the CDS emphasised the growing synergy between the Armed Forces and India's defence industry. This partnership is seen as a catalyst for innovation and capability enhancement, ensuring the nation's aerospace sector remains robust and future-ready.

General Anil Chauhan #CDS visited Hindustan Aeronautics Limited @HALHQBLR, reaffirming the Armed Forces’ firm commitment to strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing.

The visit underscores the growing synergy between the Armed Forces and India’s defence industry, driving… pic.twitter.com/kHW6GRFAqf

— HQ IDS (@HQ_IDS_India) February 17, 2026

The post explicitly noted that such interactions drive progress in line with Aatmanirbhar Bharat's vision. By prioritising indigenous manufacturing, India aims to reduce dependency on foreign imports, foster technological sovereignty, and create a resilient supply chain for critical defence assets.

This development comes amid heightened focus on modernising India's defence infrastructure. HAL, a cornerstone of the ecosystem, has been instrumental in projects like the Tejas fighter jet, Light Combat Helicopter, and Su-30MKI overhauls, all of which exemplify the success of homegrown engineering prowess.

General Chauhan's reaffirmation arrives just days after his candid remarks at the JAI Se Vijay seminar in Pune on Saturday. There, he stressed the imperative of strengthening national security mechanisms, warning that a true sense of victory cannot rest on "dysfunctional air defence systems."

Reflecting on Operation Sindoor—a notable military success—Gen Chauhan urged a sober assessment of India's defence posture. He contrasted rhetorical declarations of victory, as seen in neighbouring entities, with tangible evidence of military effectiveness.

"Actual Vijay (Victory) lies in demonstrated evidence rather than verifiable outcomes," the CDS asserted, referencing the demolition of terror infrastructure, damaged runways, and crippled airfields as insufficient without enduring systemic strength. His words serve as a clarion call for verifiable, sustainable defence capabilities.

Gen Chauhan highlighted the evolving strategic environment, advocating that India's defence strategy for the next decade must stem from a realistic evaluation of emerging threats. This includes two-front challenges, technological disruptions, and grey-zone warfare tactics prevalent in South Asia.

The HAL visit and seminar remarks together paint a picture of proactive leadership. By bridging operational needs with industrial capacity, the Armed Forces are accelerating indigenous programmes, from hypersonic technologies to next-generation UAVs and missile systems.

HAL's Bangalore facilities, where the visit occurred, are hubs for cutting-edge R&D and production. They support key initiatives like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Gaganyaan human spaceflight, reinforcing India's ambitions in both defence and space domains.

This synergy is particularly timely as India navigates complex geopolitics. With border tensions and maritime challenges in the Indian Ocean Region, indigenous manufacturing ensures agile responses and cost efficiencies, shielding against global supply disruptions.

Gen Chauhan's emphasis on evidence-based victories resonates with recent defence reforms. Initiatives like iDEX and partnerships with private firms complement HAL's efforts, creating a multi-layered ecosystem for innovation.

Critically, the CDS's visit reinforces policy continuity under Aatmanirbhar Bharat. Defence exports have surged, with HAL contributing significantly, positioning India as a reliable player in global defence markets.

Looking ahead, such high-level engagements are poised to expedite indigenisation targets. By 2027-28, the government aims for 70% domestic procurement, a goal Gen Chauhan's commitment actively propels.

In the broader context, these steps address vulnerabilities exposed in past conflicts. Robust air defence networks, integrated with indigenous sensors and interceptors, remain a priority to deter aggression.

The Pune seminar further illuminated gaps in current systems. Gen Chauhan's call for realism counters over-optimism, urging investments in AI-driven battle management and quantum-secure communications.

HAL's role extends to engine development, a historical bottleneck now being overcome through collaborations like the Kaveri derivative for future platforms. The CDS's visit likely reviewed progress in these areas.

Stakeholders view this as momentum-building for Atmanirbharta 2.0. Private sector integration, via firms like TATA Advanced Systems and Bharat Electronics, amplifies HAL's output, fostering competition and scale.

India's neighbourhood dynamics—marked by proxy threats and alliance shifts—necessitate this self-reliant pivot. Operation Sindoor's lessons underscore the need for layered, resilient defences. Gen Chauhan's leadership, as CDS, integrates tri-service perspectives, ensuring unified push towards jointness and indigenisation. His HAL interaction exemplifies theatre commands' reliance on domestic hardware.

Public discourse on X amplified the visit's significance, with defence enthusiasts praising the Armed Forces' industry alignment. It bolsters morale and investor confidence in defence PSUs. Gen Chauhan's actions and words chart a pragmatic path: from seminar critiques to factory-floor endorsements, fortifying India's defence edifice through indigenous might.

ANI

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DRDO Pact: France-India Defence R&D Pact Renewed Amid Tech Synergy Surge

India and France have renewed their defence cooperation pact, marking a significant step in bilateral strategic ties.

This development arrives just three months after the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) inked a comprehensive agreement with France’s Directorate General of Armaments. The renewed pact underscores a deepening commitment to joint innovation amid evolving global security challenges.

The original DRDO-France accord focuses on a broad spectrum of cutting-edge domains. These include aeronautical platforms, unmanned vehicles, advanced defence materials, cyber security, artificial intelligence, space technologies, navigation systems, advanced propulsion, advanced sensors, and underwater technologies. Such collaboration promises to harness synergies between two leading defence research establishments.

This renewal reflects India's push towards self-reliance in defence under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. France, a key strategic partner, brings expertise from its own advanced programmes like the Rafale fighter jets and Scorpene submarines, already integrated into Indian forces. The pact builds on deliveries of 36 Rafale aircraft and ongoing projects for naval variants.

Geopolitically, the timing aligns with heightened Indo-Pacific tensions. India faces threats from China's assertive postures along the Line of Actual Control and in the Indian Ocean. France, with its overseas territories in the region, shares mutual interests in countering such dynamics, fostering interoperability through joint exercises like Varuna.

Technologically, cooperation in unmanned vehicles could accelerate India's drone swarm capabilities and UCAV development, complementing indigenous projects like the Ghatak stealth UCAV. Advanced materials research might enhance stealth features and hypersonic structures, vital for next-generation platforms.

Artificial intelligence integration stands out as a priority. Both nations aim to embed AI in decision-making systems, predictive maintenance, and autonomous operations. This aligns with DRDO's pursuits in AI-driven missile guidance and France's work on cognitive warfare technologies.

Space and navigation domains hold immense potential. Joint efforts could bolster satellite-based intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), crucial for India's space programme under ISRO. Navigation advancements may refine GNSS alternatives to GPS, ensuring resilience in contested environments.

Advanced propulsion technologies promise breakthroughs in hypersonic engines and electric propulsion for submarines. India’s Hypersonic Technology Demonstrator Vehicle (HSTDV) could benefit from French scramjet expertise, while underwater propulsion aids the Project 75-Alpha submarine program.

Sensors and cyber security form the backbone of modern warfare. Collaborative R&D might yield next-gen electro-optical systems, quantum sensors, and robust cyber defences against state-sponsored threats. Underwater technologies could enhance anti-submarine warfare capabilities, addressing regional maritime challenges.

Economically, the pact supports technology transfer and co-development, reducing India's import dependence. It opens avenues for private sector involvement from firms like Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), fostering indigenous manufacturing ecosystems.

Looking ahead, this renewed pact positions India and France as pillars of a multipolar defence innovation landscape. It could spawn spin-offs in civilian sectors like civil aviation and renewable energy propulsion. As global alliances shift, such partnerships exemplify pragmatic diplomacy in action.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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China's Third-Gen Type 09V SSN Surfaces, Boasting X-Tail And Wider Hull In Sub Modernisation Push

Previous generation Type-09IIIB SSN (093B), image via Chinese state and social media

China's People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has marked a significant milestone with the emergence of its first Type-09V nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) at the Bohai Shipbuilding yard in Huludao, reported Alex Luck of Naval News.

Satellite imagery captured earlier this week reveals the vessel in the launch bay, signalling rapid progress in Beijing's submarine modernisation drive. An SSN designates a nuclear-powered general-purpose attack submarine—the US Navy hull classification symbol for such vessels. Per the NATO Standard Ship Designator System (STANAG 1166), "SS" means "Submarine, General," with "SSN" specifying a "Submarine Attack Nuclear" vessel.

Bohai Shipbuilding relocated the submarine into the flooded drydock, as evidenced by detailed satellite photos. Although high-resolution images remain classified by sources, graphics based on these observations highlight key features. An update on 13 February included a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) image from Umbra, provided via Imagery IQ, showing the boat poised for transfer to a fitting-out pier.

Initial low-resolution Sentinel-2 L2A imagery from 9 February hinted at another Type-09IIIB SSGN launch. Bohai has delivered an estimated seven or eight such guided-missile submarines since 2022. The Type-09IIIB evolves from the Type-09III series (also nomenclatured as 093B) with notable refinements, yet closer inspection confirms the new boat as a distinct Type-09V design.

Measuring approximately 110-115 metres in length, the Type-09V aligns closely with prior Type-09III SSNs in overall size. It stands out with a wider beam of 12-13 metres, yielding a submerged displacement of 9,000-10,000 tonnes. This exceeds the roughly 7,000 tonnes of the slimmer Type-09III family.

A standout feature is the prominent X-form rudder at the stern, incorporating large control surfaces. This marks the first such configuration on Chinese nuclear submarines. It echoes the arrangement seen on the smaller "Type 041" or "Zhou-class" vessel at Wuchang Shipbuilding in Wuhan in 2024.

An open compartment aft of the sail suggests a vertical launch system (VLS) for anti-ship and land-attack missiles, mirroring the Type-09IIIB's setup. That boat reportedly houses 18 launchers in a three-abreast array. Uncertainty persists due to the unfinished state; alternatively, it could relate to reactor compartment work.

Forward dive planes remain obscured in available imagery, with no surfaces visible on the conventional sail shape. Analysts anticipate retractable hull-mounted planes, diverging from the fairwater-mounted ones on most Chinese nuclear and conventional submarines—except Russian Kilo-class imports.

Propulsion details are hidden, but a pump-jet propulsor seems certain, aligning with Type-09IIIB trends and next-generation expectations. This contrasts with traditional skewback propellers. A Chinese Type-032 test submarine at Xiaopingdao, overhauled with a pump-jet years ago, underscores developmental testing for both Type-09IIIB and 09V.

The high waterline, marked by red paint on the lower hull, indicates reduced reserve buoyancy versus earlier designs. This points to a possible single-hull structure, a departure from the double-hull norm across all prior PLAN submarines, nuclear or diesel-electric.

Single-hull designs optimise internal volume but demand superior hydrodynamic shaping. Whether fully single-hulled, double-hulled, or hybrid, the broader beam positions the Type-09V as a potential baseline for the forthcoming Type-09VI (096) ballistic missile submarine (SSBN).

Speculation surrounds torpedo tubes, sonar arrays, and missile armament specifics. Nonetheless, the Type-09V's debut affirms China's accelerating nuclear submarine expansion at Bohai, a yard primed for high-volume SSN and SSBN output.

This advancement compels regional responses. Australia advances its SSN fleet via AUKUS. Japan and South Korea have debated nuclear options, with Seoul eyeing US collaboration. Non-nuclear powers may bolster conventional submarines, while anti-submarine warfare (ASW) assets see heightened investment across navies.

Naval News

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China's New SSN Leap Leaves India Lagging In Nuclear Submarine Race

China has unveiled its third-generation nuclear attack submarine, the Type-09V, highlighting a stark contrast with India's submarine ambitions. While Beijing advances its undersea fleet, India remains in the nascent design phase for its first indigenous SSN. This disparity underscores broader challenges in India's naval nuclear propulsion program.

India's pursuit of nuclear submarines is not a recent endeavour. The nation has leased Russian submarines since the late 1980s to gain operational experience. The Soviet Navy's Charlie-class SSGN served as INS Chakra from 1988 to 1991, providing invaluable insights into nuclear-powered operations.

A second lease followed with an Akula-class SSN, commissioned as INS Chakra-II in 2012 and decommissioned in 2021. These vessels allowed the Indian Navy to hone tactics for nuclear submarine employment. A third Akula-class boat, under a 10-year lease signed in 2019, faces delays and is now slated for delivery around 2028.

On the ballistic missile submarine front, India has achieved notable success. The Arihant-class SSBNs, born from the secretive Advanced Technology Vessel program, represent a credible sea-based deterrent. INS Arihant entered service in 2016, followed by INS Arighaat in August 2024; both are now conducting deterrent patrols.

Progress continues with INS Aridhaman, which completed sea trials in late 2025 and awaits commissioning in early 2026. A fourth Arihant-class boat began sea trials in December 2025, with induction expected by 2027. These platforms bolster India's nuclear triad.

India's S5-class submarines represent a monumental leap in the nation's nuclear deterrence posture, poised to redefine its strategic maritime capabilities. Speculation abounds that these vessels will displace between 16,500 and 17,000 tons submerged—figures rivalling the behemoths of the US Ohio class and Britain's Vanguard class—far exceeding the 13,500 tons often cited in preliminary reports.

Much like the INS Arihant, where official disclosures understated true potential, the government is likely to downplay the S5's prowess to maintain strategic ambiguity, projecting an image of measured power rather than overt dominance.

At the heart of the S5's formidable arsenal lie 16 vertical launch tubes for next-generation ballistic missiles, either the K-5 or K-6 variants. The K-5, still under development, promises a 6,500 km range with 3-4 multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs), enabling precise strikes across vast theatres. 

Should the more advanced K-6 materialise, its 8,000-9,000 km reach paired with 6-8 MIRVs would extend India's nuclear umbrella to cover the entirety of China's heartland, instilling profound unease in Beijing's military planners.

This capability is not intended for lesser contingencies; deploying such firepower against Pakistan would indeed dishonour the platform's strategic gravitas. The S5 is unequivocally engineered for peer-level threats, particularly China's expanding naval reach in the Indian Ocean. Its missile suite ensures a survivable second-strike option, capable of inflicting unacceptable damage even if India faces a disarming first strike.

Yet SSBNs serve a distinct role from SSNs. Ballistic missile submarines prioritise stealth for second-strike capability in retaliation scenarios. Attack submarines, by contrast, are designed for proactive combat, including anti-submarine warfare, escort duties, and strike missions.

India's absence of indigenous SSNs creates critical gaps. The fleet lacks persistent nuclear-powered escorts for SSBNs, limiting protection in contested waters. Adversary submarines in the Indian Ocean cannot be effectively hunted without the endurance of nuclear propulsion.

Conventional diesel-electric submarines, while capable, suffer from limited underwater endurance due to battery constraints. Nuclear attack submarines offer superior speed, sustained submerged operations, and global reach—essentials for power projection.

The indigenous SSN program, designated Project-77, received Cabinet Committee on Security approval in October 2024. It authorises construction of two boats at an estimated ₹40,000 crores. The project aims to rectify longstanding deficiencies in undersea strike capabilities.

Leadership falls to the Advanced Technology Vessel headquarters in Visakhapatnam, which manages Arihant and S5 programs. The Navy's Submarine Design Group, under the Directorate of Naval Design, handles detailed engineering, with DRDO providing technical support.

The Indian Navy envisions a force of six SSNs ultimately. The first boat targets delivery in 2036-37, the second in 2038-39—an ambitious timeline given design complexities. These vessels will feature advanced sensors, stealth enhancements, and vertical launch systems.

Powering these submarines will be a step up from the Arihant-class's 83 MW reactor. Bhabha Atomic Research Centre is developing a 190-200 MWe unit, promising greater speed and endurance. Weaponry may include DRDO's hypersonic missiles and upgraded BrahMos variants.

This timeline means India's debut SSN will emerge nearly three decades after China's second-generation Shang-class entered service. China's fleet now includes multiple generations, enabling blue-water operations across the Indo-Pacific.

India's delays stem from technological hurdles, not intent. Indigenous reactor development demands precision in miniaturisation and safety. Budget constraints and integration of advanced systems further complicate progress.

Leased Russian submarines have bridged gaps but cannot substitute for owned assets. They offer training but limit doctrinal evolution and integration with indigenous weapons. Persistent delays in the third lease exacerbate interim vulnerabilities.

The Indian Ocean's growing submarine traffic—from Chinese Xia-class SSBNs to Pakistani plans—heightens urgency. India's SSBNs require SSN escorts to counter threats, particularly in chokepoints like the Malacca Strait.

Project 77's success hinges on parallel advancements. DRDO's missile integrations and private-sector involvement in hull fabrication could accelerate timelines. Mazagon Dock and Larsen & Toubro are pivotal in scaling production.

International partnerships may aid progress. Russia's technical assistance in ATV programs persists, while potential collaborations with allies like the US or France could infuse expertise. The Quad framework underscores shared maritime concerns.

Ultimately, India's SSN program is vital for strategic autonomy. It will enable persistent presence in distant theatres, deter aggression, and secure sea lines of communication. Closing the gap with China demands sustained investment and resolve.

Even on optimistic projections, parity remains distant. China continues iterating on Type-09V and beyond, integrating AI-driven autonomy and quieting technologies. India must prioritise to match this pace.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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India-France Upgrade To ‘Special Global Strategic Partnership’ Ushers In Year of Innovation Across Defence, AI, And Beyond

India and France have elevated their bilateral relations to a 'Special Global Strategic Partnership', marking a significant enhancement in their longstanding alliance. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron made this announcement during a joint press conference on 17 February, underscoring a deepened commitment across multiple domains.

The leaders launched the India-France Year of Innovation for 2026, focusing on collaboration in technology, defence, clean energy, and culture. This initiative aims to harness the combined strengths of both nations to drive global progress.

Modi emphasised the shared values of innovation, trust, and creativity that define the partnership. He stated that the partnership would foster prosperity not just for India and France but for the world at large.

Accompanying the announcements were 21 agreements and declarations, covering diverse areas such as helicopter manufacturing, missile production, artificial intelligence in healthcare, critical minerals, double taxation relief, and aeronautics skilling. These outcomes highlight the comprehensive nature of the alliance.

To ensure sustained momentum, the two countries established an annual Foreign Ministers' Dialogue. This mechanism will review the implementation of the elevated partnership and progress towards their shared Horizon 2047 Roadmap.

In a key defence milestone, Modi and Macron virtually inaugurated the final assembly line for H125 helicopters in Vemagal, Karnataka. Modi noted that India will now produce the world's only helicopter capable of operating at Mount Everest altitudes, with export potential worldwide.

The defence partnership was further strengthened through a renewed cooperation agreement. Bharat Electronics Limited and French firm Safran formalised a joint venture to manufacture HAMMER missiles in India.

Additional defence initiatives include reciprocal officer deployments between the Indian Army and French Land Forces. The leaders also constituted a Joint Advanced Technology Development Group for critical and emerging technologies.

Macron reaffirmed France's steadfast support for India's Make in India initiative in defence. He described the alliance as more than mere contracts, calling it a sovereign partnership across land, sea, and sky, driven by conviction rather than necessity.

The French President highlighted space as a vital frontier for future collaboration. This reflects the broadening scope of Indo-French ties beyond traditional defence procurement. Macron positioned India as a global leader in innovation, from Silicon Valley to the Champs-Élysées. He praised India's role in advancing technology and culture on the world stage.

The Year of Innovation will be supported by the new India-France Innovation Network. This platform will connect researchers, entrepreneurs, students, and investors to foster collaborative breakthroughs.

Modi stressed that innovation thrives through partnership, announcing joint innovation centres, enhanced startup and MSME networks, and expanded exchanges for students and researchers.

Macron outlined three ambitions for 2026: streamlining talent mobility, launching high-impact projects in climate, health, food security, and clean mobility, and sustaining the momentum long-term.

The partnership extends to critical minerals and metals cooperation, alongside advancements in metabolic health sciences and infectious disease research. A new National Centre of Excellence will focus on aeronautics skilling.

Economic ties were bolstered by an amending protocol to the Double Tax Avoidance Agreement. T-Hub and Nord France also formalised cooperation on start-up ecosystems and innovation.

Modi highlighted the synergy of France's expertise and India's scale as a force for global stability amid uncertainty. He pointed to joint investments in human development through initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.

Agencies

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India And France Forge Pact On Critical Minerals To Secure Green Tech Supply Chains

India and France have unveiled a significant Joint Declaration of Intent to foster cooperation in critical minerals, marking a pivotal step in their strategic partnership. The announcement came from Indian Ambassador to France, Sanjeev Kumar Singla, during a media briefing on Tuesday.

This development underscores the growing emphasis on securing supply chains for minerals essential to green technologies and advanced manufacturing. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron endorsed the initiative during bilateral talks in Mumbai.

The leaders agreed to deepen collaboration across exploration, extraction, processing, and recycling of critical minerals and rare earths. Their aim is to build diversified, sustainable, responsible, and resilient supply chains amid global demands for these resources.

Critical minerals play a vital role in powering the green and digital economies, as well as emerging technologies. Both nations recognise their importance in supporting advanced manufacturing sectors, including defence and aerospace applications.

In parallel, a Letter of Intent was signed to establish a Centre on Advanced Materials. This joint venture links India's Department of Science and Technology with France's prestigious CNRS, one of the world's largest institutions dedicated to basic research.

The agreement also includes forming a Joint Advanced Technology Development Group focused on critical and emerging technologies. This builds on existing ties in industrial, defence, clean energy, space, and innovation domains.

An amendment to the double tax avoidance agreement between India and France was likewise signed, easing fiscal barriers for bilateral investments and trade. These measures aim to enhance economic interoperability.

The bilateral discussions occurred against the backdrop of President Macron's fourth visit to India. The Mumbai leg featured the joint inauguration of the India-France Year of Innovation 2026 at the iconic Gateway of India.

Prime Minister Modi highlighted that India-France relations contribute to global stability and progress. The talks covered multifaceted cooperation, reflecting the comprehensive nature of their partnership.

Following Mumbai, President Macron is scheduled to proceed to New Delhi. There, he will participate in the AI Impact Summit at Bharat Mandapam, further emphasising technological synergies.

This declaration aligns with India's push for self-reliance in critical minerals through initiatives like the Critical Minerals Mission. France, with its expertise in mining and recycling, complements these efforts effectively.

For India, securing rare earths and minerals reduces dependence on traditional suppliers like China. The partnership could bolster domestic processing capabilities, vital for electric vehicles, renewables, and semiconductors.

France benefits from access to India's vast market and geological potential. Joint ventures may target third-country projects, enhancing Europe's supply security under its Critical Raw Materials Act.

In defence contexts, critical minerals underpin hypersonic systems, batteries for UAVs, and advanced composites—areas of mutual interest given ongoing India-France collaborations like Rafale and Scorpene deals.

The Year of Innovation 2026 signals sustained momentum. Expect follow-up mechanisms, such as working groups, to translate intent into projects, potentially including R&D hubs and pilot extractions. This pact exemplifies strategic autonomy in a multipolar world, blending economic resilience with technological advancement.

ANI

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Adani Ports & SEZ and Port of Marseille Fos Sign Strategic IMEC Partnership To Strengthen India–Europe Trade Connectivity

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), the world’s fastest growing integrated transport utility, and the Port of Marseille Fos, France’s leading port and the Mediterranean’s premier gateway, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deepen cooperation on trade facilitation, port innovation, and energy transition.

This partnership proposes the creation of an IMEC Ports Club to strengthen coordination among key ports along the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) route, reinforcing connectivity between India and the European Union.

This completes the IMEC pathway for India-EU trade, that has been boosted by the FTA between India and the EU, termed as ‘the mother of all deals’ by the Hon’ble Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi.

The MoU was signed during the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron, underscoring the expanding India–France strategic partnership and aligning it with the broader IMEC and India–EU trade vision. Launched at the 2023 G20 Summit in New Delhi, the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) is a 6,000-km multimodal connectivity initiative linking India and Europe through integrated maritime routes, rail networks, digital systems and clean energy pathways.

On the eastern gateway of IMEC, APSEZ’s ports at Mundra and Hazira form a multimodal logistics hub connecting South Asia to West Asia. Through this MoU, Marseille Fos strengthens the western European gateway of the corridor, adding approximately 70 million tons of capacity and extending IMEC’s reach deeper into Europe.

Marseille Fos is one of Europe’s largest integrated multi modal port ecosystems. This partnership establishes a more structured and coordinated pathway to facilitate India–EU trade flows.

The partnership will focus on:

Promoting the IMEC route as a sustainable, secure, and competitive alternative for Eurasian trade flows, including joint campaigns, participation in international trade fairs and roadshows, and targeted B2B engagements.

Technical exchange and capacity building in port digitalisation, smart port platforms, data interoperability, cybersecurity, alternative fuels, shore power supply and low carbon bunkering.

Developing the Mundra–Marseille Fos Green Maritime Corridor.

Co founding an IMEC Ports Club to institutionalise dialogue among corridor ports and coordinate inputs for policy discussions and investment frameworks supporting IMEC infrastructure.

“India has already taken a leadership role in advancing this corridor, and with the conclusion of the India–EU Free Trade Agreement, trade between the participating countries is expected to grow manifold,” said Mr. Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director & CEO, APSEZ. “At APSEZ, our ports in Hazira and Mundra on India’s western coast have already established a seamless pathway across the first and middle legs of the corridor. With this MoU with the Port of Marseille Fos in France, we have now successfully connected the final leg to Europe. This partnership will significantly accelerate the exchange of information and materials among all participating nations, further strengthening economic cooperation and supply-chain resilience.”

Mr Hervé Martel, CEO of the Port of Marseille Fos, added: “We are pleased to strengthen our partnership with APSEZ at a moment when the IMEC corridor is entering a decisive phase. India and Marseille stand at the two extremities of this future trade backbone, giving both ports a major responsibility in structuring and energizing this new route. Together, we intend to mobilize and federate the ports involved, and to act as strong advocates of a more efficient, resilient and sustainable connection between our regions.”

About the Port of Marseille Fos

A major player in international trade, the Port of Marseille Fos, France’s leading maritime gateway and a strategic hub on the Mediterranean, handles 74 million tons of cargo annually and welcomes nearly 10,000 vessel calls each year. Its 10,400 hectare industrial and logistics zone – one of Europe’s largest – hosts major global players and supports a complete range of activities including liquid and dry bulk, containers, Ro Ro, energy, industry, and ship repair, notably Dry Dock 10, the third largest dry dock in the world.

As a multimodal hub connected by rail, river, road and pipelines, Marseille Fos offers direct access to the French and European hinterland, with robust services linking the Mediterranean to Northern Europe. It serves more than 15 million consumers in Southern France and reaches over 70 million inhabitants across the Rhône–Saône corridor and Western Europe.

The port also benefits from the MeRs axis (Marseille–Rhône–Saône), the natural extension of its industrial ecosystem, which gathers hundreds of companies and Europe’s leading inland logistics clusters. Marseille Fos is actively involved in several inland port authorities and multimodal platforms, supporting coordinated logistics and greener supply chains along the corridor.

Environmental excellence is at the heart of its strategy, with over 1 billion euros invested in the 2025–2029 plan to accelerate decarbonisation, expand shore power capabilities and support the emergence of green industrial ecosystems, including renewable hydrogen, circular economy and low carbon manufacturing clusters.

Adani Media Release

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Pixxel And Exotrail Forge Strategic Alliance For Advanced Satellite Electric Thrusters

Bangalore-based Pixxel, a leading Indian space technology start-up, has announced a pivotal partnership with French firm Exotrail to integrate cutting-edge electric propulsion systems into its forthcoming Earth Observation (EO) satellites.

This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing the performance and longevity of Pixxel's satellite constellation, which is poised to revolutionise commercial remote sensing.

Pixxel, founded in 2019 by space veterans including Awais Ahmed and Kshitij Khandelwal, has rapidly emerged as a frontrunner in hyperspectral imaging.

The company specialises in compact satellites equipped with advanced multispectral and hyperspectral sensors, capable of capturing data across hundreds of narrow spectral bands. This technology enables unprecedented applications in agriculture, defence, urban planning, and environmental monitoring.

Exotrail, headquartered in Toulouse, France, brings expertise in space mobility solutions. Renowned for its Hall-effect thrusters, particularly the space-qualified 'spaceHunch' series, the company offers electric propulsion systems that deliver high efficiency and precision manoeuvring. These systems drastically reduce propellant mass compared to traditional chemical thrusters, extending satellite operational life and lowering launch costs.

Under the agreement, Exotrail's propulsion technology will be integrated into Pixxel's next-generation EO satellites, scheduled for launch in the coming years. This move aligns with Pixxel's ambitious 'Firefly' constellation plan, aiming to deploy over 100 small satellites into low Earth orbit (LEO) for global hyperspectral coverage.

Electric propulsion offers several key advantages for EO missions. By using ionised gases accelerated via electric fields, these systems achieve specific impulses up to ten times higher than chemical alternatives. For Pixxel's satellites, orbiting at around 500 km altitude, this translates to prolonged station-keeping, rapid constellation reconfiguration, and resistance to atmospheric drag-induced decay.

The partnership addresses critical challenges in the small satellite sector. Pixxel's earlier satellites, such as those launched via ISRO's PSLV in 2022 and 2023, relied on simpler propulsion. Integrating Exotrail's tech will enable orbit-raising from deployment altitudes, collision avoidance, and formation flying—essential for dense constellations.

From a strategic perspective, this collaboration bolsters India's burgeoning private space ecosystem. Pixxel, backed by investors like Google Ventures and Lightspeed, has already secured contracts with the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and international clients. The tie-up with Exotrail enhances its technological edge amid growing competition from global players like Planet Labs and Maxar.

Exotrail's selection underscores its proven track record. The company's thrusters power missions for the European Space Agency (ESA) and commercial operators, with over 1,000 firings demonstrated in orbit. 'spaceHunch', a 75 mm diameter thruster delivering 100 mN thrust, is particularly suited to Pixxel's 50-kg class satellites, offering a thrust-to-power ratio ideal for agile EO platforms.

Financial and timeline details remain under wraps, but sources indicate initial integration tests could commence later this year at Pixxel's Bengaluru facility. The first propelled satellites are eyed for 2027 launches, potentially via ISRO's Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV) or NewSpace India Limited's commercial rideshares.

This development resonates with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in space. While Pixxel champions indigenous hyperspectral payloads—often developed with DRDO collaboration—partnering with Exotrail fills a gap in high-performance propulsion, where domestic options like Bellatrix Aerospace are still scaling.

Geopolitically, the India-France space nexus is strengthening. Recent pacts, including joint satellite missions and the Varuna naval exercises, pave the way for such tech transfers. Exotrail's European pedigree ensures compliance with ITAR-free exports, smoothing Indo-French cooperation.

For end-users, the benefits are tangible. Defence analysts, including those tracking South Asian border dynamics, will gain access to persistent, high-resolution hyperspectral data for real-time intelligence. Pixxel's ability to detect subtle material signatures—such as camouflage or crop stress—could prove invaluable in strategic contexts.

Environmentally, electric propulsion minimises space debris risks. Lower propellant needs reduce launch mass, cutting carbon footprints from rocket ascents. Pixxel's constellation, powered efficiently, supports sustainable mega-constellations amid mounting orbital congestion concerns.

Challenges persist, however. Electric thrusters demand robust power systems, straining Pixxel's solar arrays and batteries. Integration requires meticulous vibration and thermal testing, likely at ISRO's facilities in Sriharikota. Radiation hardening for LEO operations adds complexity.

Yet, the upside outweighs hurdles. Analysts project Pixxel's revenue to surpass $50 million by 2027, fuelled by data-as-a-service models. Exotrail gains a foothold in Asia's fastest-growing space market, projected to hit $14 billion by 2030 per IN-SPACe estimates.

This partnership exemplifies global supply chain evolution in NewSpace. Indian start-ups like Pixxel are no longer mere payload providers but system integrators, sourcing best-in-class components worldwide while advancing local R&D.

As Pixxel eyes expansion into SAR and infrared imaging, Exotrail's propulsion could underpin multi-sensor fleets. Future iterations might incorporate Exotrail's orbit transfer vehicles for rapid constellation replenishment.

This alliance positions Pixxel at the vanguard of commercial EO, blending Indian innovation with French engineering prowess. It signals a maturing Indian space sector ready to compete on the world stage.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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GalaxEye Pioneers India’s First Private Satellite Data Pact With ISRO’s NSIL, Boosting Aatmanirbhar Space Ambitions

GalaxEye, a Bangalore-based space-tech start-up, has forged a landmark partnership with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).

This agreement marks a significant milestone, positioning GalaxEye as the first private Indian company to secure a data reseller deal for advanced satellite imagery with a state-owned entity.

The collaboration centres on GalaxEye's innovative SyncFused OptoSAR data, a cutting-edge fusion of radar and optical technologies. This proprietary solution delivers high-resolution Earth observation imagery that functions effectively in all weather conditions and around the clock, overcoming limitations posed by cloud cover or darkness.

Under the terms of the partnership, NSIL will serve as an extended sales channel for GalaxEye's data products. It will market these offerings both domestically and on the international stage, broadening access to sectors such as agriculture, disaster management, urban planning, and defence surveillance.

This deal underscores GalaxEye's pioneering status among private satellite operators in India. No other domestic firm has previously entered such a reseller agreement with NSIL, highlighting the startup's technological edge and strategic alignment with national priorities.

GalaxEye is poised to launch its inaugural satellite, named Drishti, on 25 February 2026. This mission represents a critical step towards building a robust 10-satellite constellation by 2030, which will enhance data reliability and coverage through redundancy and frequent revisits.

The SyncFused OptoSAR technology stands out for its ability to integrate synthetic aperture radar (SAR) with optical sensors. SAR provides detailed imaging through clouds and at night, while optical data adds colour and texture, resulting in comprehensive datasets ideal for real-time applications.

In agriculture, this imagery can monitor crop health, predict yields, and detect pest infestations with precision, even during monsoons. For disaster management, it enables rapid assessment of flood extents, earthquake damage, or wildfire spread, facilitating quicker response times.

Defence and security sectors will benefit from persistent surveillance capabilities, supporting border monitoring and infrastructure protection. The all-weather reliability ensures uninterrupted intelligence gathering, a vital asset in India's diverse climatic zones.

This partnership aligns seamlessly with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which promotes self-reliance in space technologies. By empowering private players like GalaxEye, India aims to reduce dependence on foreign satellite data and capture a larger share of the global space economy, projected to reach trillions by decade's end.

NSIL's involvement as a marketing partner leverages its established networks and credibility. As ISRO's commercial wing, it brings expertise in international deals and government contracts, accelerating GalaxEye's market penetration without the start-up bearing the full commercial burden.

From Bangalore's thriving space ecosystem, GalaxEye emerges as a key innovator. The city, home to ISRO facilities and numerous start-ups, fosters synergies that have propelled this deal, reinforcing Karnataka's role as India's space-tech hub.

Challenges remain, including scaling satellite production and ensuring data processing infrastructure keeps pace. However, GalaxEye's progress signals maturing capabilities in India's private space sector, backed by government policies like IN-SPACe reforms.

Internationally, this positions India competitively against players like Planet Labs or ICEYE, which offer similar SAR-optical fused data. NSIL's global outreach could secure contracts in Asia, Africa, and beyond, where demand for affordable, reliable imagery surges.

The deal promises revenue streams for reinvestment in R&D. It also creates jobs in data analytics, satellite manufacturing, and sales, contributing to India's ambition of a $44 billion space economy by 2033.

Looking ahead, successful Drishti launches and constellation deployment will validate the model. Future expansions might include hyperspectral imaging or AI-driven analytics, further diversifying GalaxEye's portfolio under NSIL's umbrella.

This collaboration exemplifies public-private synergy, blending ISRO's legacy with entrepreneurial agility. It paves the way for more such tie-ups, democratising space data and bolstering India's strategic autonomy in an era of intensifying space competition.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Indo-French Space Leap: India's XDLINX Orders 16 Exotrail Propulsion Units For Key Satellite Missions

Hyderabad-based XDLINX Space Labs has placed a significant order with France's Exotrail for 16 micro-class spaceware™ electric propulsion systems, marking the second collaboration between the two firms.

This recent deal, announced amid French President Emmanuel Macron's visit to India in February 2026, underscores deepening Indo-French ties in the space domain.

XDLINX, a provider of end-to-end small satellite missions, first partnered with Exotrail in January 2024, procuring one spaceware™-micro unit for the GalaxEye Drishti mission—the world's inaugural multi-sensor SAR and optical Earth observation satellite.

That initial contract highlighted Exotrail's Hall-Effect thrusters as ideal for satellites from 10 to 1,000 kg, with the micro variant delivering over 7 mN thrust at 150W, supporting missions up to 60 kNs.

The new order for 16 units targets sovereign intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and Earth observation missions, bolstering XDLINX's capabilities in these critical areas.

Exotrail's spaceware™ portfolio, including nano, micro, mini, and cluster configurations, excels in orbit raising, station-keeping, and debris mitigation, reducing space pollution while enhancing satellite longevity.

For XDLINX customers, this means reliable propulsion for platforms from 12U CubeSats to 300 kg satellites, enabling agile deployments and superior mission performance. The timing aligns with India's booming private space sector, where firms like XDLINX support ISRO and commercial ventures in NewSpace initiatives.

XDLINX Space Labs, founded to offer mission-as-a-service, handles everything from design and integration to operations, positioning it as a key enabler for India's satellite ambitions.

Exotrail, established in 2017, has raised over €70 million and serves more than 30 clients across continents, with a workforce exceeding 140 in France and the US.

Its mobilityhub™ suite—spacestudio™ for analysis, spaceware™ for propulsion, spacedrop™ for services, and spacetower™ for operations—provides comprehensive in-orbit solutions.

This procurement follows Exotrail's parallel deals with Indian peers: 14 systems for Dhruva Space's modular platforms and units for Pixxel’s high-resolution imaging constellation.

These contracts collectively expand electric propulsion adoption in India, vital for efficient smallsat constellations amid growing EO and ISR demands.

Rupesh Gandupalli, CEO of XDLINX, previously hailed Exotrail as a strategic partner for unique missions like Drishti.

Exotrail's Jean-Luc Maria praised XDLINX as emblematic of India's space prowess, anticipating further Earth observation projects.

The partnership builds on 2024's Republic Day announcement, when Exotrail joined France's delegation to India's celebrations, signalling space as a cooperation pillar. With India's space economy projected to surge, such tech transfers and joint ventures accelerate indigenous capabilities while leveraging global expertise.

Exotrail's systems, flight-proven on Indian launchers, promise to optimise satellite manoeuvres, cut costs, and align with sustainable space norms. For XDLINX, integrating 16 units scales its sovereign mission portfolio, supporting defence and commercial clients in precise orbital control.

This deal reinforces Hyderabad's emergence as a NewSpace hub, alongside Bangalore, fostering innovation in aerospace manufacturing. The XDLINX-Exotrail accord propels India's satellite tech forward, blending French propulsion finesse with local mission design for strategic edge.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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External Panel Formed To Probe PSLV-C62 Setback On PMO Directives

The PSLV-C62 mission, a pivotal endeavour in India's space program, has encountered a significant setback, prompting the formation of a high-level committee to investigate its failure. This development marks a historic shift in ISRO's approach to mission anomalies, as the committee is led by an external figure for the first time.

Professor K Vijayaraghavan, former science advisor to the Prime Minister, has been appointed as the chairman of this new panel. S. Somnath, the former ISRO chairman, serves as vice-chairman, bringing a blend of external oversight and institutional expertise to the inquiry.

The committee's establishment stems directly from instructions issued by the Prime Minister's Office, underscoring the gravity with which the government views the mission's failure. This intervention highlights the mission's strategic importance amid India's ambitions in space exploration and defence-related satellite deployments.

Prior to this, an internal committee headed by K. Sivan, another former ISRO chairman, had been tasked with analysing the failure. Details remain unclear on whether Sivan's panel has submitted its report, raising questions about the completeness of preliminary findings and the need for fresh scrutiny.

ISRO traditionally conducts rigorous internal investigations following mission failures, drawing on its in-house engineers and scientists at centres like the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC). These probes meticulously dissect telemetry data, structural integrity, and propulsion performance to pinpoint root causes.

What sets this instance apart is the appointment of Professor Vijayaraghavan, an outsider to ISRO's organisational structure. This unprecedented step signals a desire for impartiality, possibly to address perceived gaps in internal processes or to infuse broader scientific perspectives into the analysis.

The committee has already convened its first meeting, indicating swift action to commence deliberations. Members are likely reviewing mission logs, failure timelines, and preliminary data from the PSLV-C62 launch attempt, which involved critical payloads for earth observation and communication.

This sequence of events gained momentum following a visit by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to VSSC. Doval's inspection of the facility, coupled with his interactions with ISRO leadership, appears to have catalysed the PMO's directive for the new committee.

Doval's involvement underscores the national security implications of the PSLV-C62 failure. The PSLV series often carries satellites vital for military surveillance, border monitoring, and strategic communications, making reliability paramount in India's geopolitical context.

The mission's collapse could delay key deployments, affecting timelines for indigenous navigation systems like NavIC enhancements or remote sensing capabilities essential for defence and disaster management. ISRO now faces pressure to restore confidence in its workhorse PSLV platform.

Historically, ISRO has demonstrated remarkable resilience post-failures, such as the PSLV-C61 mishap or earlier cryogenic engine setbacks. Lessons from those incidents refined solid-fuel boosters and heat shield mechanisms, propelling successes like Chandrayaan-3.

Yet, the external chairmanship introduces a new dynamic. Professor Vijayaraghavan's background in advanced materials and nanotechnology may probe material fatigue or sensor anomalies not fully explored internally. S. Somnath's experience with GSLV Mk-III could offer insights into upper-stage performance.

Stakeholders await the committee's recommendations, which may recommend procedural reforms, enhanced failure simulations, or accelerated R&D in redundant systems. This could influence upcoming missions like PSLV-C63 or Gaganyaan preparations.

The episode also spotlights ISRO's evolving relationship with government oversight. While autonomous, the space agency increasingly aligns with national priorities, as seen in private sector integrations via IN-SPACe and defence-space synergies.

Critics might view the external probe as a sign of eroding internal trust, but proponents argue it fosters accountability. Either way, it sets a precedent for future high-stakes missions, potentially standardising hybrid investigation models.

As India pushes towards self-reliance in space under Atmanirbhar Bharat, the PSLV-C62 inquiry could yield innovations in launch vehicle robustness. Timely resolution will be crucial to maintain momentum ahead of 2026's ambitious launch manifest.

This committee represents a watershed moment, blending ISRO's expertise with external rigour to dissect and overcome the PSLV-C62 enigma.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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TTP Suicide Bombing Kills 11 Pakistani Security Personnel In Pakistan's Bajaur District

Rebels launched a devastating suicide attack on a Pakistani army checkpoint in Bajaur district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, on 16 February 2026, killing 11 security personnel and one child, according to the Pakistani military.

The assault occurred near the volatile Afghan border, where rebels rammed an explosives-laden vehicle into the checkpoint after security forces blocked their entry into a nearby residential compound housing soldiers.

Seven others were wounded, including women and children, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the violence in this restive region.

The military reported that 12 attackers were killed during a subsequent clash as they attempted to flee the scene, underscoring the intensity of the firefight that followed the initial blast.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), the Islamist militant group also known as the Pakistani Taliban, swiftly claimed responsibility for the attack.

The TTP has been locked in a protracted insurgency against the Pakistani state since 2007, seeking to impose its rigid interpretation of Islamic law across the country.

Violence has surged since the group abandoned a ceasefire with Islamabad in late 2022, with attacks becoming more frequent and audacious.

Pakistan accuses the Taliban regime in Afghanistan of harbouring TTP fighters across the porous border, a claim repeatedly rejected by Kabul.

This incident in Bajaur fits into a broader pattern of escalating militancy, exacerbated by regional instability following the Afghan Taliban's 2021 takeover.

Just weeks earlier, a rare bombing at a mosque in Islamabad during Friday prayers claimed over 30 lives, with Islamic State rebels taking credit and stoking fears of a multi-front militant resurgence.

Bajaur, part of the former Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) merged into Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in 2018, remains a hotbed for TTP operations due to its rugged terrain and proximity to Afghanistan's Kunar and Nangarhar provinces.

The attack exposes ongoing vulnerabilities in Pakistan's border security, despite military operations like Zarb-e-Azb and Radd-ul-Fasad aimed at dismantling militant networks.

Internationally, the incident draws attention to Pakistan's fragile security landscape, with implications for regional powers like India monitoring cross-border terrorism dynamics. Pakistan's military vowed a robust response, but sustaining operations amid resource constraints and political pressures poses challenges.

Civil society in Peshawar and beyond condemned the attack, calling for enhanced intelligence and community engagement to counter radicalisation.

As the death toll underscores, Pakistan grapples with a militant threat that shows no signs of abating, testing the resolve of its security apparatus.

Agencies

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