Indian Army Shelves Stryker Deal, Backs Indigenous Amphibious WhAP For Future Combat Needs

The Indian Army abandoned plans to procure the US-made Stryker armoured vehicle because it failed to meet critical operational requirements, particularly amphibious capability, and instead shifted decisively towards indigenous solutions such as the Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP).

This move reflects India’s broader emphasis on defence self-reliance and tailoring equipment to local terrain and combat needs.

The Indian Army had been in discussions to acquire the American Stryker armoured vehicle, but these talks have now been completely shelved. Defence sources confirmed that the Stryker programme was deemed unsuitable for Indian operational conditions, leading to its cancellation.

The decision marks a significant pivot towards indigenous alternatives, aligning with India’s strategic push for self-reliance in defence procurement.

A crucial factor behind the rejection was the Indian Army’s strict requirement for amphibious capability. Wheeled Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) must be able to independently ford water bodies such as rivers and canals without relying on combat engineering support.

The Stryker, while proven in other theatres, does not meet this amphibious requirement, making it unsuitable for India’s diverse operational environments, particularly in regions like Ladakh where mobility across varied terrain is essential.

Operational limitations also played a role. The Army assessed that the Stryker’s design and performance did not align with Indian conditions, including high-altitude deployment and the need for versatile manoeuvrability. This lack of suitability reduced operational interest in the platform, further reinforcing the decision to abandon the deal.

Instead, military planners are now focusing on the indigenous Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP), developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Tata Motors. 

The WhAP is designed with amphibious capability and tailored to Indian terrain, making it a more practical choice for future ICV fleets. This move not only addresses operational requirements but also strengthens India’s defence industrial base by prioritising homegrown solutions.

The cancellation of the Stryker deal underscores India’s broader strategic emphasis on Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) in defence. By rejecting foreign platforms that do not meet specific operational needs, the Army is signalling its intent to invest in indigenous technologies that can be customised for local conditions.

This approach also reduces dependency on external suppliers and enhances long-term sustainability in defence capability development.

In summary, the Indian Army’s decision to abandon the Stryker programme was driven by operational unsuitability, particularly the absence of amphibious capability, and a strategic preference for indigenous solutions.

The WhAP now stands as the cornerstone of India’s future wheeled ICV fleet, reflecting both practical battlefield requirements and national defence priorities.

Agencies

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INS Taragiri And Maritime Spotter Drone Forge India’s Autonomous Sea–Sky Security Network

Integrated with the Indian Navy’s newest frontline frigate, INS Taragiri, the Maritime Spotter Drone is redefining the way naval forces perceive and respond to challenges at sea.

By transforming the vessel into a distributed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance node, the system extends situational awareness far beyond the ship’s immediate horizon.

This integration enhances decision-making at every level, ensuring commanders have the information they need to act swiftly and decisively. The operational reach of the vessel is thus magnified, creating a force multiplier effect that strengthens maritime security.

The Spotter Drone’s role is particularly critical in countering piracy, a persistent threat across key sea lanes. In operations such as MVRuen, the drone provides real-time intelligence that enables rapid interception and neutralisation of hostile actors.

Its ability to track and monitor suspicious activity ensures that illegal smuggling operations are intercepted before they can compromise national or regional security. By maintaining continuous vigilance, the drone supports the Navy’s mandate to secure India’s maritime interests against both conventional and asymmetric threats.

Beyond tactical engagements, the Spotter Drone also enables persistent surveillance operations, or ISR Operations, across complex maritime environments. This capability ensures that the Navy can maintain a constant watch over vast stretches of ocean, detecting anomalies and potential threats long before they reach critical stages.

The endurance and autonomy of the system allow for sustained monitoring without placing additional strain on human operators, thereby increasing efficiency and reducing operational fatigue.

Together, INS Taragiri and the Maritime Spotter Drone represent a seamless fusion of sea and sky. Both platforms are developed under the Indigenous Design, Development and Manufacture framework, underscoring India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence technology.

This synergy sets a new benchmark in autonomous maritime capability, where naval assets are not just platforms of power but interconnected nodes in a larger architecture of security. The vision is clear: an Atmarakshit Bharat, where every horizon is watched, every mission is future-ready, and every challenge is met with confidence.

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India’s Project 'Vishnu': DRDO’s Hypersonic Missile To Outpace Global Air Defences

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is working on an ambitious new hypersonic missile program known as Project Vishnu. This system is designed to achieve speeds of up to Mach‑8, equivalent to around 10,000 kilometres per hour, making it virtually impossible for even the most advanced air defence systems such as the American THAAD or the Russian S‑400 to track and intercept.

The missile is intended to provide India with a decisive edge in modern warfare, where speed and survivability against layered air defences are critical.

At the heart of Project Vishnu lies the Extended Trajectory Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile (ET‑LDHCM). This missile is regarded as the most vital component of the program, and DRDO has already begun manufacturing specialised jigs and fixtures for booster integration.

These precision tools are essential for assembling the missile’s complex components, ensuring structural strength and performance. Hypersonic systems must withstand extreme temperatures and pressures, and the integration process is therefore a critical step in ensuring reliability.

The new missile is being described as deadlier than India’s battle‑tested BrahMos cruise missile, which demonstrated its effectiveness during Operation Sindoor last year by devastating Pakistan’s military infrastructure.

Unlike BrahMos, the hypersonic cruise missile’s sheer speed makes it nearly unstoppable, with radar systems unable to track it effectively. This leap in capability represents a significant escalation in India’s missile technology, positioning Project Vishnu as a strategic deterrent against adversaries equipped with advanced air defence networks.

A key innovation in Project Vishnu is its propulsion system. The missile will be powered by a state‑of‑the‑art scramjet engine, which distinguishes it from conventional rocket systems. Scramjet technology burns fuel by drawing oxygen directly from the atmosphere, eliminating the need for heavy oxidisers.

This makes the missile lighter, more efficient, and capable of flying long distances. In January 2026, DRDO successfully conducted a 12‑minute ground test of the scramjet engine, validating its durability and ability to maintain thrust under demanding conditions.

Early details suggest that the missile will be able to travel at speeds of up to 10,000 kilometres per hour, placing it among the fastest hypersonic cruise missiles in the world. The initial variant will have a range of up to 1,500 kilometres, with plans to extend this to 2,500 kilometres in future iterations.

It will be capable of carrying a payload of up to 2,000 kilograms, and can be equipped with either conventional or nuclear warheads, giving India a flexible and powerful strike option.

Project Vishnu represents a bold step forward in India’s missile development, combining cutting‑edge propulsion technology with extreme speed and long‑range capability. If successful, it will mark a significant milestone in India’s quest for strategic self‑reliance and deterrence in an increasingly contested security environment.

Below is a concise technical profile of the ET‑LDHCM (core system under Project Vishnu). Exact service‑level specifications are classified, so the table mixes officially reported figures with well‑substantiated public‑domain estimates.

Overview of Project Vishnu (ET‑LDHCM)

Parameter	Detail
Program Name	Project Vishnu (Hypersonic Cruise Missile Development Program)
Missile System	ET‑LDHCM – Extended Trajectory–Long Duration Hypersonic Cruise Missile
Type of Weapon	Scramjet‑powered hypersonic cruise missile (offensive, deep‑strike / SEAD‑oriented)
Role	Deep‑strike, Suppression of Enemy Air Defences (SEAD), strike against hardened / time‑critical targets
Operational Range	Approx. 1,500–2,000+ km (reported strike radius around 1,500 km)
Speed Regime	Mach 5–10, with reported peak around Mach 8 (~11,000 km/h)
Warhead Options	Conventional high‑explosive / penetration warheads; nuclear‑capable architecture (reported)
Typical Warhead Weight	Estimated 1,000–2,000 kg class for conventional variants
Launch Platforms	Land‑based mobile launchers; air‑ and sea‑based variants reportedly under development (multi‑platform interoperability)
Propulsion	Two‑stage concept: solid‑fuel booster followed by air‑breathing scramjet cruise stage
Duration of Sramjet Burn	Ground‑tested scramjet engine for up to 1,000 seconds; indicates long‑endurance hypersonic cruise
Flight Altitude	Low‑to‑medium altitude cruise (terrain‑hugging / low‑altitude dash) to reduce radar detection and interception ability
Guidance & Navigation	Advanced INS augmented with satellite‑based position updates (likely NavIC / GPS); mid‑course corrections and terminal‑phase seeker‑based guidance expected
Terminal Seeker	Likely multi‑mode radar / IR‑based seeker for precision target engagement; not fully disclosed in public sources
Maneuverability	High‑G, unpredictable trajectory and glide‑manoeuvres to evade current generation ABM / SAM interceptors (THAAD/S‑400‑class)
Target Set	SEAD of air‑defence radars, command centres, naval fleets, hardened bunkers, and strategic infrastructure in deep‑strike campaigns
Materials & Thermal Protection	High‑temperature alloys, ceramics, and thermal‑protection tiles capable of withstanding up to ~2,000 °C
Stealth & Survivability Features	Low radar cross‑section shaping, reduced IR signature, and erratic flight path to enhance penetration of modern air‑defence networks
Status (As of 2025–2026)	Scramjet‑engine maturity demonstrated; flight‑test phase of ET‑LDHCM / Project Vishnu underway; formal induction into Indian Armed Forces not yet publicly announced

Agencies

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Apollo Micro Systems Secures Licence To Manufacture Heavy-Calibre Arms And Advanced Munitions

Hyderabad-based Apollo Micro Systems has achieved a significant milestone by securing a licence to manufacture arms of calibre above 12.7 mm.

This licence covers a wide spectrum of advanced weaponry, including missiles, anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM), torpedoes, underwater mines, aerial bombs, rockets, and loitering munitions. The development marks a major step forward for the company, which has steadily expanded its footprint in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The licence grants Apollo Micro Systems the authority to produce heavy-calibre weapon systems that are critical for modern warfare. Missiles and ATGMs form the backbone of precision strike capabilities, while torpedoes and underwater mines are essential for naval combat and maritime security.

The inclusion of aerial bombs and rockets further broadens the company’s portfolio, enabling it to support airpower requirements. Loitering munitions, often referred to as “suicide drones,” represent a cutting-edge addition, combining surveillance and strike capabilities in a single platform.

This development aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence production under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. By enabling indigenous companies to manufacture complex weapon systems, the government aims to reduce dependence on imports and strengthen domestic capabilities. Apollo Micro Systems, headquartered in Hyderabad, is now positioned to play a pivotal role in this transformation, contributing to both strategic autonomy and industrial growth.

The licence also signals confidence in the company’s technical expertise and manufacturing infrastructure. Producing arms of calibre above 12.7 mm requires advanced engineering, stringent quality control, and compliance with international standards. The ability to manufacture such diverse systems—from underwater mines to aerial bombs—demonstrates Apollo’s versatility and readiness to meet the evolving demands of India’s armed forces.

In addition to bolstering national defence, this move is expected to open new opportunities for exports. Countries seeking cost-effective and reliable weapon systems may find Apollo’s offerings attractive, particularly in regions where asymmetric threats such as drones and armoured vehicles dominate the battlefield. The inclusion of loitering munitions further enhances export potential, given their rising demand globally.

Apollo Micro Systems’ entry into the heavy-calibre arms segment underscores the growing role of private industry in India’s defence sector. Traditionally dominated by state-owned enterprises, the sector is now witnessing greater participation from private firms, which bring agility, innovation, and competitiveness. This licence is therefore not only a boost for Apollo but also a reflection of India’s evolving defence industrial landscape.

Agencies

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Intel-Backed 3D Glass Semiconductor Packaging Unit To Transform Odisha Into Global Tech Hub

The ground-breaking of India’s first Advanced 3D Glass Semiconductor Packaging Unit, backed by Intel, is scheduled to take place on 19 April 2026 in Bhubaneswar. This marks a significant milestone in India’s semiconductor journey, positioning Odisha as a global hub for cutting-edge advanced packaging technologies.

The establishment of this facility represents a strategic leap in India’s ambition to achieve self-reliance in semiconductor manufacturing, while simultaneously attracting global investment and expertise into the country’s growing technology ecosystem.

The Advanced 3D Glass Semiconductor Packaging Unit will focus on next-generation packaging solutions, which are critical for enhancing performance, reducing energy consumption, and enabling miniaturisation in semiconductor devices.

Unlike conventional packaging methods, 3D glass-based packaging offers superior thermal management and improved electrical performance, making it indispensable for applications in artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and next-generation communication systems.

Intel’s backing underscores the international confidence in India’s semiconductor roadmap and highlights Odisha’s emergence as a centre for advanced technology.

Bhubaneswar’s selection as the site for this pioneering facility is a deliberate move to decentralise India’s semiconductor ecosystem and expand beyond traditional technology hubs.

The project is expected to catalyse regional development, create high-skilled employment opportunities, and foster collaboration between industry, academia, and government institutions.

The presence of such a facility will also encourage ancillary industries and start-ups to flourish in Odisha, thereby strengthening the state’s role in India’s broader technology supply chain.

The ground-breaking ceremony will symbolise more than just the start of construction; it will reflect India’s determination to secure its place in the global semiconductor value chain. With advanced packaging increasingly recognised as the bottleneck in semiconductor innovation, India’s investment in this domain is both timely and strategically significant.

The Bhubaneswar unit will not only serve domestic needs but also position India as a competitive player in the international semiconductor market.

By combining Intel’s technological expertise with India’s policy push for semiconductor self-reliance, the Advanced 3D Glass Semiconductor Packaging Unit is poised to become a cornerstone of India’s future in electronics manufacturing.

Odisha’s transformation into a global hub for advanced packaging will reinforce India’s standing as a credible and capable partner in the global technology landscape, while ensuring that the nation remains at the forefront of innovation in semiconductor manufacturing.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Indian Navy To Establish LM2500 Gas Turbine Maintenance Hub At INS Eksila With Qualified Industry Partners

The Indian Navy is advancing towards establishing an Intermediate Level Maintenance (ILM) facility dedicated to LM2500 gas turbines at INS Eksila.

This initiative marks a significant step in strengthening the Navy’s self-reliance in maintaining critical propulsion systems that power its frontline warships, reported Alpha Defense.

The LM2500 gas turbine, widely used across naval fleets globally, is a core component of India’s modern naval platforms, and the creation of an ILM facility will ensure that maintenance and overhaul capabilities are available domestically rather than relying on external support.

The facility is being set up with the involvement of technically qualified bidders, among whom HMT Machine Tools Ltd and RR Manpower & Placement Services have emerged as key contenders.

Their qualification underscores the importance of leveraging both established industrial expertise and specialised manpower services to meet the demanding technical requirements of turbine maintenance. 

By engaging these firms, the Navy is ensuring that the project benefits from a blend of engineering precision and skilled workforce support.

INS Eksila, located in Hyderabad, has long been recognised as a hub for naval engineering and maintenance activities. The addition of an ILM facility for LM2500 turbines will further enhance its role as a centre of excellence in sustaining India’s naval assets.

The move aligns with the broader vision of indigenisation and capability development within the Indian defence sector, reducing dependence on foreign vendors and ensuring quicker turnaround times for critical maintenance tasks.

The LM2500 turbine itself is a proven and reliable system, powering a wide range of vessels including destroyers, frigates, and aircraft carriers. Its intermediate-level maintenance involves complex procedures such as inspection, repair, and replacement of key modules, which demand high levels of technical expertise and precision.

Establishing this capability within India will not only improve operational readiness but also contribute to cost efficiency and long-term sustainability of the fleet.

The qualification of HMT Machine Tools Ltd highlights the role of India’s public sector enterprises in supporting defence infrastructure. Known for its engineering capabilities, HMT brings to the table decades of experience in precision manufacturing and maintenance solutions.

Meanwhile, RR Manpower & Placement Services adds value by ensuring that the specialised human resources required for such a technically demanding project are available and effectively deployed.

This development reflects the Navy’s proactive approach to modernisation and self-reliance. By setting up the ILM facility, the Navy is not only addressing immediate maintenance needs but also laying the foundation for future expansion of indigenous support systems for advanced propulsion technologies.

It is a strategic move that dovetails with India’s broader defence industrial policy, which emphasises domestic capability building and reduced reliance on imports.

The progress towards establishing the ILM facility at INS Eksila is therefore a milestone in India’s naval engineering journey. It demonstrates a clear commitment to operational autonomy, technical excellence, and industrial collaboration, ensuring that the Navy remains well-prepared to meet the challenges of modern maritime operations.

Agencies

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Loyal Wingman UCAVs Poised To Redefine The Future of Aerial Warfare

Conversations about aerial combat have long centred on fifth and sixth generation aircraft, stand‑off weapons and advanced air‑to‑air missiles. Yet a discernible shift is underway as Collaborative Combat Aircraft, more commonly referred to as loyal wingman, emerge as the next transformative element in aerial warfare.

These unmanned aircraft are designed to fly alongside or ahead of manned fighters, mapping or clearing the battlespace before the pilot enters it.

Equipped with Artificial Intelligence, these Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles can operate autonomously or semi‑autonomously, their purpose being to enhance the combat effectiveness of fighters while simultaneously improving pilot survivability.

Their roles are varied: clearing airspace, conducting electronic warfare, acting as decoys, or striking targets. In practice, they can be deployed as a team, with different UCAVs configured for specific missions. Some may take on air‑to‑air tasks, others electronic warfare or suppression of enemy air defences, while additional platforms execute strike missions.

The advantage is clear: such operations can be conducted without risking the life of a single pilot. Their AI‑enabled systems allow missions to continue even under heavy jamming, with pre‑programmed plans executed if communications are disrupted.

Their relatively low cost compared to manned fighters makes them more expendable, giving air strategists greater flexibility in high‑risk scenarios.

Stealth is a universal design feature. Low‑observable profiles enable these aircraft to penetrate contested airspace, while manned fighters remain in safer zones. This reduces risk to pilots while ensuring sufficient numbers of airframes are available in the battlespace.

India is among the countries investing heavily in this concept. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is developing the Combat Air Teaming System, designed to operate alongside current fighters such as the TEJAS MK‑1A, Su‑30MKI and Jaguar, as well as future aircraft including the TEJAS MK‑2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft. The AMCA, a twin‑engine fifth‑generation fighter, will be powered by the domestically developed PTAE‑7 engine according to reports.

Globally, the race is well underway. The United States is advancing the XQ‑58 Valkyrie under Project Skyborg, China is developing the AVIC Dark Sword, France is pursuing the Neuron project, Germany is working on the Airbus Wingman, Russia has the Okhotnik, Australia is fielding the MQ‑28 Ghost Bat, Turkey is progressing with the Anka‑3, while Sweden and South Korea are pursuing their own independent programs.

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India’s Role In Su-57 Export Push: Russia Signals Expanding Global Demand

Russia’s fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, the Su-57, is experiencing a surge in demand, according to Rosoboronexport, the country’s defence export company, as stated in a report by Zee News.

While specific buyers have not been disclosed, the firm confirmed that multiple export orders have already been received and that negotiations are expanding across different regions. Several partner countries are said to have signed contracts, with interest continuing to grow.

The Su-57E export version will be showcased at the international aviation exhibition in Kuala Lumpur from 20 to 23 April. It will appear alongside other fifth-generation fighters such as the American F-22 and F-35, and China’s J-20 and J-35.

Analysts frequently compare the Su-57 with these aircraft, noting its strong long-range strike capability, advanced missile integration, and reports suggesting that its operational range exceeds some Western counterparts, particularly in missions involving long-range air-to-air missiles. The aircraft has also been deployed in limited combat roles during the Ukraine war.

Algeria became the first confirmed operator of the Su-57 in November 2025, with reports indicating that the aircraft had entered active service with its air force. North Korea has also shown interest, with officials visiting Russian production facilities in September 2023 to examine the cockpit design. 

Analysts believe this engagement is linked to broader military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang during the Ukraine conflict.

In February 2026, Russia’s Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov announced that contracts had been signed for Su-57 exports in the Middle East, though he did not specify which countries were involved. Iran is often mentioned as a potential buyer due to its defence cooperation with Russia and previous discussions about fighter jet acquisitions.

India has long been part of the Su-57 conversation. Russian officials have offered cooperation that includes licensed production and deeper industrial participation. Reports from India’s Ministry of Defence confirmed that talks on licensed manufacturing had reached an advanced stage, with Russia offering access to the aircraft’s source code, enabling greater control over integration and customisation. 

In late 2025, Moscow hinted at the possibility of a joint development programme for an upgraded Su-57 variant with India, potentially granting New Delhi ownership of key technologies. Defence publications have suggested that India may evaluate the procurement of around 40 Su-57 jets in the future, though no official decision has been announced.

With fresh export contracts, expanding international interest, and ongoing negotiations involving India, the Su-57 remains central to discussions on international defence procurement.

Upcoming air shows and defence meetings are expected to provide further clarity on how widely Russia’s fifth-generation fighter will be adopted across regions.

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Arctus Aerospace’s AX1 UAV Redefines High-Altitude Earth Intelligence With Persistent, Cost-Efficient Observation

Tejasvi Surya BJP's MP from Bangalore South visited Arctus unit and reviewed their operations

Bangalore-based Arctus Aerospace has unveiled its AX1 unmanned aerial vehicle, a platform designed to operate at a flight ceiling of 20,000 feet with an endurance of up to 10 hours.

The launch of this high-altitude UAV marks a significant step in transforming real-time Earth observation, offering persistent monitoring without the need for costly infrastructure.

Founded around 2023–2024 by IITian Shreepoorna S Rao, Arctus Aerospace has positioned itself as a deep-tech start-up with a strong engineering-first ethos. Much of its aircraft systems are built in-house, reflecting its commitment to innovation and technical precision.

The company’s vision stems from a critical limitation in current Earth observation systems. Satellites, while powerful, are expensive and constrained by low revisit frequencies, making continuous monitoring of specific locations difficult. Conventional drones, meanwhile, lack the endurance and altitude required for large-scale observation.

Arctus seeks to bridge this gap by developing UAVs capable of delivering “zero-infrastructure Earth intelligence” for continuous monitoring without reliance on ground installations.

The AX1 is part of a broader initiative to build high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft. These systems are engineered to operate at altitudes approaching 45,000 feet and remain airborne for nearly 24 hours. 

his capability places the AX1 in a unique niche, far above commercial drones yet more flexible and cost-effective than satellites. A defining characteristic of the AX1 is its payload capacity, reportedly up to 250 kilograms.

This allows the UAV to host advanced sensing technologies, including multispectral, hyperspectral, electro-optical, infrared, and synthetic aperture radar systems. Such versatility enables applications across energy, infrastructure monitoring, climate analysis, agriculture, and national security.

The AX1 UAV incorporates several innovative features. Its long endurance and high-altitude capability allow persistent coverage of target areas, improving revisit times compared to satellites.

High-resolution imaging makes it suitable for precision agriculture, urban planning, and disaster response, enabling analysts to detect small-scale changes with accuracy.

A core innovation is its ability to deliver Earth observation data without requiring extensive ground infrastructure, making deployment faster and more flexible, particularly in remote or underserved regions.

Cost efficiency is another advantage, as UAV-based observation systems significantly reduce operational costs compared to satellite imaging, opening access to high-quality geospatial intelligence for a wider range of industries.

Continuous temporal coverage further enhances its utility, enabling time-series analysis of locations over extended periods, valuable for tracking environmental changes, construction progress, and disaster evolution.

Arctus Aerospace gained significant attention in 2025 when it secured approximately $2.6 million in pre-seed funding from global investors. This milestone accelerated the development and testing of its UAV platforms, including the AX1.

The company has conducted multiple test flights and is scaling its manufacturing and engineering capabilities. Its long-term ambition is to deploy fleets of such aircraft globally, enabling on-demand Earth observation services that combine the persistence of satellites with the flexibility of UAVs.

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Ukraine’s Security Chief In Delhi: India Reaffirms Call For Peace Through Dialogue

Ukraine’s National Security and Defence Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, a close aide to President Volodymyr Zelensky, held separate meetings in New Delhi on Friday with India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval.

The discussions centred on the prospects of achieving a lasting peace in Ukraine, with both sides emphasising dialogue and diplomacy as the way forward.

During his meeting with Ajit Doval, Umerov provided a detailed briefing on the current situation along the frontline. The two sides reviewed bilateral relations and assessed the broader security environment. 

The Indian side reiterated its principled position, stressing the importance of a peaceful settlement through dialogue and diplomacy. Umerov expressed gratitude for the shared understanding and highlighted the need to find solutions that would ensure lasting peace.

In his talks with S Jaishankar, Umerov discussed the ongoing negotiations and the prospects for a just, sustainable peace in Ukraine. He noted that the two sides also deliberated on strengthening bilateral cooperation and implementing agreements outlined in the joint statement issued after President Zelensky’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Kyiv in August 2024. Jaishankar, in a social media post, confirmed that they had exchanged views on the Ukraine conflict and discussed bilateral cooperation.

Umerov, reflecting on the engagements, said he was grateful for the open and substantive dialogue with Indian officials. He emphasised that Ukraine looked forward to further strengthening bilateral cooperation with India.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal also shared details of the meeting with NSA Doval, reaffirming India’s consistent position on the need for peaceful resolution through dialogue and diplomacy.

The meetings underscored India’s balanced approach to the Ukraine conflict, maintaining its principled stance while engaging in substantive discussions with Ukrainian leadership. Umerov’s visit to India highlighted Kyiv’s efforts to build international support for its vision of a just and lasting peace.

PTI

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India’s Growth Resilience Backed By IMF As Indus Water Pressures Deepen Pakistan’s Crisis

NDTV’s Gaurie Dwivedi, reporting in the India Ascends series, emphasised how India’s economic resilience is being recognised globally even as it tactically leverages regional treaties to strengthen its strategic position.

The juxtaposition of India’s growth story with Pakistan’s brewing crisis underscores the shifting balance in South Asia’s economic and geopolitical landscape.

India’s economy has been singled out by the IMF as a rare bright spot amid a global slowdown and the ongoing Gulf war, with growth projected at a resilient 6.5%. At the same time, India is leveraging the Indus Water Treaty to exert pressure on Pakistan, where a deepening water and energy crisis is brewing.

The International Monetary Fund has reaffirmed India’s position as the fastest-growing major economy, projecting growth to hold steady at 6.5% through FY27 despite escalating geopolitical tensions and energy market disruptions.

This resilience is attributed to strong macroeconomic fundamentals, policy credibility, and momentum from FY26. IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva highlighted India’s ability to withstand shocks even as global growth moderates due to the ongoing US–Iran conflict.

India’s growth forecast was upgraded from 6.4% to 6.5% in the IMF’s April 2026 World Economic Outlook, making it one of the few large economies to receive an upward revision. The report, titled Global Economy in the Shadow of War, underscores India’s resilience in contrast to a global growth outlook cut to 3.1% for 2026, with inflation and energy prices expected to rise.

While India’s economic trajectory remains strong, the episode also highlights its strategic use of the Indus Water Treaty as leverage against Pakistan. The treaty, signed in 1960, governs water-sharing arrangements between the two countries.

India’s recalibration of its stance has coincided with Pakistan’s mounting challenges in water management and energy supply. Pakistan is facing a worsening water and energy crisis, exacerbated by climate stress, poor infrastructure, and rising demand. This crisis has significant implications for Pakistan’s domestic stability and its ability to sustain economic growth.

NDTV

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IAF Sukhoi’s Hard Landing At Pune Airport Halts Runway Operations, Disrupts Over 60 Flights

Flight operations at Pune airport came to a sudden halt late on Friday night after an incident involving an Indian Air Force aircraft forced the closure of the runway, reported TOI.

The disruption began around 11pm, bringing landings and take-offs to a standstill and causing widespread inconvenience to passengers.

At least 32 incoming flights from different cities were either diverted or cancelled, while a similar number of departures were cancelled or delayed.

The IAF confirmed in an official statement on X that the 2,535-metre-long and 45-metre-wide runway was temporarily unavailable following the incident. The statement assured that the aircrew were safe and that no civil property had been damaged.

It added that efforts were underway to operationalise the runway and restore normal operations as quickly as possible. Defence sources indicated that the aircraft involved was a Sukhoi Su-30MKI, though the IAF did not officially confirm the type.

Pune airport director Santosh Dhoke explained that the fighter jet had suffered an undercarriage failure after a hard landing at around 10.25pm, leaving it stranded in the middle of the runway.

He said cranes and heavy machinery had been deployed to move the aircraft to the taxiway, estimating that it would take four to five hours to clear the runway. Defence PRO Ankush Chavan echoed this assessment, stating that civil aircraft movements would not be possible for five to six hours.

IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Jaideep Singh did not respond to calls, while another senior officer noted that the exact cause of the incident would only be determined after a formal court of inquiry.

Dhoke added that the runway surface was under IAF control and that details of any damage were not yet available. Civil flight operations, he stressed, would resume only after clearance was given.

Union minister of state for civil aviation and Pune MP Murlidhar Mohol confirmed the disruption and said he was in constant touch with both airport and Air Force authorities to ensure an early resolution. 

Meanwhile, passengers faced considerable confusion and frustration at the airport. Agha Meesam Hyder, scheduled to fly to Bhopal on an IndiGo flight at 1am, described the situation as chaotic.

He said airlines were advising passengers either to cancel their journeys and take full refunds or to wait until 1.30am. According to Hyder, IndiGo officially informed passengers around 11.45pm that the runway was not operational due to a problem involving an aircraft.

TOI

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Rafale Tests New Anti-Drone Rockets Against Shahed UAVs

A French Rafale fighter jet has been observed at BA 125 Istres airbase in southern France carrying a new counter-drone configuration.

The system fitted is the Thales JF12 pod, a launcher capable of firing both unguided and guided 68 mm rockets, including the SNEB and ACULEUS variants, as well as similar munitions.

Reports from Voennoye Obozrenie confirm that this marks a significant step in adapting frontline fighters to deal with unmanned aerial threats.

The French Air Force regards this rocket “quiver,” which can hold up to 24 rounds with laser-guidance options, as a practical solution against Shahed-type drones. Two Rafale jets equipped with such pods are believed to be able to cover wide areas, ranging from major military installations to mid-sized urban centres.

This configuration is seen as a way to provide layered protection without relying solely on expensive missile systems.

Paris is reportedly preparing to deploy these systems to safeguard French military bases in the Middle East, where Iranian missile and drone threats remain a pressing concern. The move reflects a broader push to adapt to evolving aerial challenges in high-intensity conflict zones.

French forces have long sought cost-effective methods to intercept drones, a problem that has grown more urgent in recent years. Conventional air-to-air missiles such as the MICA, priced at around €1–1.5 million per unit, are considered economically inefficient when used against low-cost drones. This has driven interest in alternatives that balance affordability with effectiveness.

Laser-guided 68 mm ACULEUS-LG rockets are now being evaluated as a cheaper option. Costing tens of thousands of euros per unit, they represent a fraction of the expense of traditional missiles. Already in service on Tiger helicopters, these rockets are undergoing trials on Rafale fighters to assess their operational viability in fast-jet environments.

A comparable approach is being pursued by the United States, where 70 mm APKWS rockets are deployed from F-15 and F-16 fighters to engage drones. However, assessments of their effectiveness have produced mixed results, highlighting the challenges of adapting precision-guided rockets to counter small, agile aerial targets.

Against this backdrop, French media suggest that the campaign to counter Shahed-type drones has now entered an active phase. The integration of the Thales JF12 pod on Rafale fighters signals a deliberate effort to combine affordability with operational flexibility, ensuring that French forces can respond to drone threats without incurring prohibitive costs.

Agencies

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Rafale’s Evolution: How France’s 4.5 Generation Fighter Defies Stealth Trends And Dominates Global Demand

Dassault Aviation has long been regarded as the most prominent name in French military aviation, with its Rafale fighter series standing as the company’s flagship product. While the firm has also produced civilian aircraft, it is overshadowed in that domain by Airbus, wrote Christian D. Orr on 19FortyFive.

The Rafale, meaning “gust of wind,” is a 4.5 Generation fighter jet, lacking true stealth capability, yet it continues to remain highly relevant in an era dominated by fifth-generation stealth aircraft such as the F-35.

Its origins lie in the 1970s, when both the French Navy and Air Force sought a new multirole fighter capable of handling diverse missions, including carrier-based operations. Dassault, with its proven record through the Mirage series, was the natural choice to lead the programme.

By 1983, the French government had formally approved the initiative, naming it the “Future European Fighter Aircraft” (FEFA). This multinational effort brought together France, Italy, Spain, West Germany, and Great Britain, though each nation had slightly different requirements.

France wanted a lightweight aircraft suitable for both naval and air force roles, while Britain demanded a long-range interceptor. In 1985, Dassault withdrew from FEFA, hastening its collapse, though France still collaborated on the Eurofighter project.

Dassault instead pursued the Rafale independently, with the Rafale A making its maiden flight on 4 July 1986. Extensive testing delayed its operational entry until 2004 with the French Navy and 2006 with the French Air Force, well after the Cold War had ended.

The Rafale has retained its relevance through continuous upgrades. The F4 and F5 standards represent the latest advancements. The F4 standard, attaining full operational status in 2024, significantly improved connectivity and targeting precision.

Key additions included the Thales RBE2 XG AESA radar, enhanced helmet-mounted displays, and improved data fusion for seamless interoperability with French and allied forces. The integration of the 1000 kg AASM-guided bomb further expanded its precision strike capabilities.

The F4.1 subvariant, slated for delivery from 2027, will add a new helmet sight, improved fire control for the Meteor missile, expanded passive threat detection, and enhanced datalink exchange.

The F5 standard, scheduled for introduction after 2033, will redefine the Rafale’s role by incorporating collaborative drone operations. This includes an Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV), likely based on the nEUROn stealth demonstrator, acting as a loyal wingman to perform reconnaissance and electronic warfare. Such capabilities will allow the Rafale to penetrate heavily defended areas indirectly, enhancing survivability and precision.

The F5 will also accommodate the ASN4G hypersonic missile, France’s next-generation nuclear deterrent, replacing the ASMPA. This underscores France’s commitment to maintaining a credible nuclear strike capability. Despite the expected arrival of sixth-generation fighters like the F-47 NGAD by 2033, Dassault remains confident in the Rafale’s future.

The Rafale’s upgrades have translated into strong foreign military sales. In 2024, Dassault delivered 21 Rafales, compared to 13 in 2023. Of these, 14 were for domestic use and seven for export, a sharp rise from the 11 domestic and two export deliveries in 2023. This represented a 350 percent increase in foreign sales.

Current customers include Croatia, Egypt, Greece, India, Indonesia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. The Rafale’s combination of versatility, advanced upgrades, and cost-effective performance has ensured its continued demand, even in a competitive global market dominated by stealth aircraft.

10FortyFive

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Russia Begins 2026 Fighter Deliveries: Su-35S Strengthens VKS Operational Backbone

Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation (UAC), part of the state-owned ROSTEC conglomerate, has delivered the first batch of Su-35S multirole fighters for 2026 to the Ministry of Defence, marking the beginning of this year’s supply cycle for the Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS).

The announcement underscores the continuity of industrial output and the sustained demand for advanced tactical aviation platforms within Russia’s defence order framework.

The Su-35S aircraft underwent a full cycle of factory testing, including evaluations across diverse flight regimes by both UAC test pilots and Ministry of Defence crews.

Following successful trials and formal acceptance, the fighters were ferried to their designated bases and entered operational service. This process reflects the established practice of rigorous validation before frontline deployment.

Neither UAC nor ROSTEC disclosed the number of aircraft delivered in this initial batch, maintaining the customary opacity surrounding State Defence Order fulfilment. However, the precedent set in 2025—seven staggered deliveries across the year—suggests that modular production in small but steady increments will continue. This approach allows for consistent integration into operational units while sustaining industrial tempo.

ROSTEC First Deputy CEO Vladimir Artyakov highlighted the Su-35S’s proven performance in service, describing it as one of Russia’s most effective combat platforms. He noted that the aircraft has demonstrated excellent operational results and is highly valued by aircrews

 UAC CEO Vadim Badekha reinforced that fulfilling the State Defence Order, particularly in tactical aviation, remains the corporation’s top priority. He emphasised ongoing industrial optimisation as a critical factor in sustaining production rates under current strategic conditions.

The delivery comes amid high-intensity operations where Russian combat aviation continues to play a central role in air superiority, long-range interception, escort missions, and stand-off strike operations. Ensuring the availability of advanced platforms such as the Su-35S is therefore essential from both operational and industrial perspectives.

The Su-35S represents the most advanced evolution of the Flanker family currently in active service with the VKS. Designed for both air superiority and strike missions, it combines high manoeuvrability—enabled by AL-41F1S thrust-vectoring engines—with a powerful suite of sensors and systems optimised for contested environments.

Its Irbis-E passive electronically scanned array radar, OLS-35 infrared search and track system, and integrated electronic warfare package provide advanced detection, tracking, and engagement capabilities against multiple targets. These features position the Su-35S as a dominant platform in beyond-visual-range combat within Russia’s air combat order of battle.

In terms of armament, the Su-35S can employ R-77-1 and R-77M medium-range air-to-air missiles, short-range R-73 missiles, and air-to-surface and anti-radiation weapons such as the Kh-31P/PM. The integration of UMPK glide bomb kits has further expanded its stand-off strike capabilities, enabling engagements from outside the reach of short- and medium-range air defence systems.

Russia has also showcased the R-77M missile in operational use, reinforcing the aircraft’s advanced BVR combat profile.

Looking ahead, the start of 2026 deliveries confirms the continuity of Russia’s industrial effort in high-end fighter production, alongside parallel programmes such as the Su-57.

While official figures have not been disclosed, the production cadence observed in 2025—estimated at 17 to 20 aircraft—combined with sustained operational demand, suggests a similar output is expected this year. This reinforces the Su-35S’s role as a backbone of Russian tactical aviation and a key platform in maintaining air combat readiness.

Agencies

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