Why The Embraer-Mahindra C-390 Millennium Could Be The Ideal Choice For The IAF's Medium Transport Aircraft Requirement

The Embraer-Mahindra C-390 Millennium has emerged as a strong contender for the Indian Air Force's Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) requirement, which aims to replace the ageing An-32 transport fleet. The aircraft combines high payload capacity, jet-powered performance and multi-role flexibility, making it one of the most capable medium-lift transport platforms currently available.

As part of its bid for the Indian Air Force requirement, Embraer and Mahindra have identified Nagpur as the proposed location for a final assembly line in India. The project remains subject to the C-390 being selected under the MTA program. The proposed facility would support aircraft assembly, systems integration, manufacturing engineering and the development of a domestic aerospace supply chain.

The partnership is working closely with the Maharashtra Government to establish the industrial infrastructure required for the programme. If approved, the project would support India's self-reliance objectives by integrating Indian aerospace firms into the global C-390 ecosystem and expanding local manufacturing capabilities.

India represents a strategically important market for Embraer. The company believes the Indian Air Force could ultimately require between 60 and 80 C-390 aircraft, making the programme one of the largest military transport aircraft opportunities in the world.

A major advantage of the C-390 is its 26-ton maximum payload capacity, allowing it to transport military equipment, vehicles, humanitarian supplies and operational cargo. Its large cargo hold offers 169 cubic metres of internal space, providing excellent flexibility for a wide range of missions.

The aircraft can carry up to 80 personnel in a troop transport configuration and up to 64 paratroopers for airborne assault operations. Its spacious cabin also enables the transport of military vehicles, with room for three to four light vehicles or one to two heavy vehicles depending on mission requirements.

The C-390 is additionally capable of transporting a Black Hawk-sized helicopter within its cargo hold, reducing deployment times and increasing operational flexibility across long distances.

Powered by two IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines, the aircraft can cruise at up to 470 knots, or approximately 870 km/h. This makes it significantly faster than many traditional turboprop military transports, enabling quicker response times during military and humanitarian missions.

When carrying a full 26-ton payload, the aircraft offers a range of 1,080 nautical miles. With a 23-ton payload, range increases to 1,470 nautical miles. Ferry range extends to 3,370 nautical miles and can reach 4,570 nautical miles when fitted with internal auxiliary fuel tanks.

The aircraft has been designed to operate from semi-prepared, austere and damaged runways, making it well suited to India's demanding operating environment, including remote border regions, island territories and forward locations.

Take-off performance is equally impressive. The aircraft requires approximately 1,524 metres of runway with a 23-ton payload and only 1,165 metres with a 16-ton payload. Landing distance is listed at around 1,000 metres with a 26-ton payload.

The C-390 can rapidly be converted for medical evacuation missions. Depending on the configuration, it can accommodate between 50 and 80 stretchers along with medical attendants and specialised equipment.

In its KC-390 tanker configuration, the aircraft can conduct aerial refuelling operations while also being capable of receiving fuel from another tanker aircraft. This dual-role capability provides additional operational flexibility and could reduce the need for separate refuelling platforms.

The aircraft is also suitable for search and rescue operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief missions and aerial firefighting. Its modular design allows rapid reconfiguration between different mission profiles.

Embraer has emphasised the aircraft's ability to operate in extreme climates, including hot desert environments, dusty conditions, high-altitude regions and very cold locations. Demonstrations have included operations from unpaved runways and challenging environments such as Antarctica.

The C-390 measures 35.20 metres in length, stands 11.84 metres high and has a wingspan of 35.05 metres. The aircraft can operate at altitudes up to 36,000 feet and carries up to 23.9 tons of usable fuel in its wing tanks. Avionics include the Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion suite and the Gabbiano T-20 tactical radar.

Beyond performance, the aircraft offers modern fly-by-wire controls, lower maintenance requirements, high mission availability rates and reduced lifecycle costs. It currently serves with multiple air forces worldwide and has secured orders from several NATO nations, highlighting growing international confidence in the platform.

Should the Indian Air Force select the C-390 Millennium, the proposed Nagpur facility would establish a major aerospace manufacturing hub in India while strengthening indigenous capability across production, maintenance, training and long-term support activities.

Key Specifications And Capabilities of The Embraer C-390 Millennium

Category	Specification / Capability
Aircraft Type	Twin-engine, jet-powered military transport aircraft
Maximum Payload	26 tonnes
Cargo Compartment Volume	169 cubic metres
Troop Capacity	Up to 80 troops
Paratrooper Capacity	Up to 64 paratroopers
Vehicle & Equipment Carriage	Multiple light or heavy military vehicles, or a Black Hawk-class helicopter
Maximum Cruise Speed	Up to 470 knots, approximately 870 km/h
Range with 26-ton Payload	1,080 nautical miles
Range with 23-ton Payload	1,470 nautical miles
Ferry Range	Up to 4,570 nautical miles with additional internal fuel tanks
Airfield Operations	Can operate from semi-prepared, austere and damaged runways
Take-Off Distance	1,524 metres with a 23-tons payload
Landing Distance	Approximately 1,000 metres with a 26-tons payload
Engines	Two IAE V2500-E5 turbofan engines
Engine Thrust	31,330 pounds of thrust per engine
Maximum Operating Altitude	36,000 feet
Usable Fuel Capacity	23.9 tonnes
Flight Controls	Advanced fly-by-wire flight-control system
Avionics Suite	Rockwell Collins Pro Line Fusion cockpit and Gabbiano T-20 tactical radar
Mission Reconfiguration	Rapid mission reconfiguration capability
Operational Advantages	Reduced maintenance requirements, high operational availability and lower lifecycle costs
Mission Roles	Cargo transport; troop movement; airborne assault operations; paratroops deployment; medical evacuation; aerial refuelling; search and rescue; humanitarian assistance; disaster relief; and aerial firefighting

Agencies

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Kusha Takes Flight: India’s Indigenous Long-Range Air Defence Shield Moves Closer To Deployment

India has crossed a major milestone in its quest for a wholly indigenous long-range air defence capability with the first successful flight-test of the Kusha missile system, also known as the Extended Range Air Defence System (ERADS) or XRSAM.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF), the project is intended to become a critical layer within India's future integrated air defence network.

The name Kusha is derived from the Sanskrit word “Kush”, meaning sacred grass. The system has been conceived as a mobile, truck-mounted and cannisterised air defence weapon capable of defending large areas against a wide spectrum of modern aerial threats.

Once operational, Kusha will complement existing capabilities provided by the Barak-8 MR-SAM, the Russian S-400 Triumf and India's Ballistic Missile Defence architecture. It is also expected to become a central component of Mission Sudarshan Chakra, India's emerging multi-layered national air defence shield.

The system is designed to engage fighter aircraft at ranges of up to 250 km, Airborne Warning and Control System aircraft at approximately 350 km, sea-skimming anti-ship missiles, stealth combat aircraft and ballistic missiles during their terminal phase. Advanced long-range surveillance and fire-control radars will support target detection, tracking and engagement.

A key feature of the program is its three-interceptor architecture. The M1 interceptor is designed for engagements out to 150 km, the M2 for around 250 km, and the M3 for ranges reaching 350-400 km. All three missiles share a common kill vehicle while employing different booster configurations to achieve their respective performance envelopes.

The project received Cabinet Committee on Security approval in May 2022. In September 2023, the Ministry of Defence granted Acceptance of Necessity for the procurement of five IAF squadrons at a projected cost of ₹21,700 crore. The system is intended to bridge the capability gap between the 80 km-range MR-SAM and the 400 km-range S-400.

A naval derivative is also under consideration and could eventually supplement the Indian Navy’s long-range surface-to-air missile inventory, further expanding the programme’s strategic significance.

Progress accelerated in August 2024 when DRDO initiated fabrication of the first M1 missiles. Orders were placed for airframes, rocket motors, kill vehicles and telemetry systems, signalling the transition from design work to hardware production.

In May 2025, Bharat Electronics Limited began manufacturing the system prototype. Development plans envisaged completion of the prototype within 18 months, followed by an extensive user evaluation phase.

The program achieved its most significant breakthrough on 23 July 2026 when DRDO successfully conducted the maiden flight-test from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. The missile intercepted an electronic target simulating a high-speed, high-altitude aerial threat, validating key elements of the system's design, radar integration and engagement chain.

Although the test marked a major achievement, it represents only the start of a lengthy qualification process. Additional M1 trials are expected before the more capable M2 and M3 interceptors enter testing. Given development timelines and earlier schedule slippages, phased induction of the complete system is likely towards the end of the decade.

The IAF's growing emphasis on indigenous solutions has reportedly intensified following recent operational experiences, leading to greater urgency in accelerating Kusha's development and deployment.

Strategically, Kusha is often compared with long-range air defence systems such as the American THAAD, Russian S-400 and Chinese HQ-9. While those systems benefit from decades of operational refinement, Kusha represents India's first attempt to field a domestically designed integrated area-defence architecture capable of engaging diverse airborne threats at extended ranges.

Beyond the interceptor missiles themselves, the program's importance lies in its networked architecture. Kusha batteries are expected to integrate with the IAF's Integrated Air Command and Control System, enabling real-time coordination with other sensors and air defence assets across the country.

As air warfare evolves towards stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, hypersonic weapons, unmanned systems and drone swarms, the success of Kusha will depend as much on its sensors, command networks and battle management systems as on missile performance.

The program therefore represents not merely the development of another interceptor, but a broader test of India's ability to design, integrate and field a world-class indigenous air defence ecosystem.

If development remains broadly on track, Kusha could emerge as the backbone of India's long-range air defence architecture throughout the 2030s, significantly reducing dependence on imported systems while strengthening the country's strategic self-reliance in advanced military technologies.

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NextLeap Achieves Major Milestone As Indigenous Stryker Strike UAV Jet Engine Clears Static Testing

NextLeap Aeronautics has successfully completed a static test of the indigenous jet engine developed for its Stryker unmanned aerial strike platform, marking an important milestone in the programme's development, announced NextLeap.

The achievement validates a critical component of the aircraft's propulsion system and supports progress towards the next stages of testing, integration and flight development.

Based on information available on the company’s LinkedIn website, Stryker is being developed as a high-speed jet-powered strike UAV designed to strengthen India's indigenous unmanned combat capabilities.

Both the aircraft and its propulsion system have been developed within India. The Stryker platform has been designed by NextLeap Aeronautics, while the jet engine was developed and tested in collaboration with Bangalore-based Dheya Engineering Technologies.

The successful static test provides valuable data on engine performance, reliability and integration parameters before more advanced testing phases. Such tests are a critical step in validating propulsion systems before they are integrated into operational airframes.

The collaboration between NextLeap Aeronautics and Dheya Engineering Technologies forms part of a broader effort to develop indigenous turbojet-powered UAVs for military applications. The partnership has previously focused on combining NextLeap's UAV expertise with Dheya's gas turbine propulsion capabilities to accelerate the development of advanced unmanned platforms.

The Stryker programme represents a growing trend within India's aerospace sector towards locally designed and manufactured UAV systems, reducing dependence on foreign technologies while supporting the country's self-reliance objectives in aerospace and defence.

The latest test milestone underscores the progress being made in indigenous UAV platforms, jet propulsion technologies and advanced aerospace engineering. With propulsion validation now achieved, the project can move forward towards further aircraft development, subsystem integration and future testing activities.

The achievement also highlights the increasing role of private-sector aerospace companies in developing advanced defence technologies within India, contributing to the growth of a stronger domestic aerospace ecosystem.

NextLeap Press Release

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BrahMos Exports Set To Cross $600 Million As Missile Emerges As Flagship of India's Defence Export Drive

BrahMos has emerged as one of the strongest symbols of India's growing defence manufacturing capability, with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh stating that exports of the supersonic cruise missile are expected to exceed $600 million.

Describing the weapon as a benchmark for India's evolving defence export success, Singh said New Delhi has secured contracts or agreements involving three Southeast Asian nations: the Philippines, Vietnam and Indonesia.

The Philippines remains the largest foreign customer to date, having already received BrahMos systems worth approximately $330 million, equivalent to around ₹2,750 crore.

Additional exports are expected to come from Vietnam, where initial deliveries are projected to be worth about $100 million, or roughly ₹830 crore, and Indonesia, where anticipated exports are estimated at around $200 million, or nearly ₹1,660 crore. Together, these deals will push the overall export value beyond the $600 million mark.

Singh said BrahMos represents one of the most advanced strategic systems India has successfully exported. He added that the missile's growing acceptance overseas demonstrates increasing international confidence in Indian-designed and Indian-manufactured military technology.

The Defence Secretary also highlighted the missile's operational performance during Operation Sindoor, noting that the system has now demonstrated its effectiveness in combat conditions. He further pointed to the air-launched variant integrated on Su-30MKI fighters, describing it as a major success and an important contributor to the missile's future export prospects.

Jointly developed by India and Russia, BrahMos is capable of being launched from land, sea and air platforms. Its combination of supersonic speed, precision guidance and long-range strike capability has made it one of the world's most sought-after missile systems for coastal and maritime defence.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has previously characterised BrahMos as more than a weapon system, calling it a reflection of India's expanding indigenous technological capabilities and its progress towards self-reliance in strategic defence production.

The missile's export success comes amid a broader surge in India's defence exports. The country recorded a new all-time high of ₹38,424 crore in defence exports during FY 2025-26, an increase of ₹14,802 crore, or 62.66%, over the previous year's ₹23,622 crore.

Defence Public Sector Undertakings accounted for 54.84% of total exports, while private-sector companies contributed 45.16%. DPSU exports rose by an impressive 151% year-on-year, while private-sector exports increased by 14%.

In value terms, DPSUs exported defence products worth ₹21,071 crore, whereas private companies contributed ₹17,353 crore. During the previous financial year, the respective figures stood at ₹8,389 crore and ₹15,233 crore.

Indian defence equipment is now exported to more than 80 countries, reflecting the country's growing role in global defence supply chains and the increasing acceptance of Indian-made military systems in international markets.

With BrahMos leading the way and other indigenous systems such as Akash also securing overseas customers, India is steadily moving beyond exporting components and smaller equipment towards becoming a supplier of complete high-end strategic weapon systems.

ANI

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Centre Formalises 28 Strategic Ladakh Locations On Official Map, Including Key LAC Friction Points

In a significant cartographic and strategic move, the Government of India has formally incorporated 28 places and geographical features in Ladakh into the official Survey of India map following consultations with the Union Territory administration.

The exercise is intended to standardise place names, improve the accuracy of official records and enhance public awareness of important locations across the sensitive Himalayan frontier.

Among the newly identified sites are Gogra and Hot Spring, two areas that gained prominence during the 2020 India-China military standoff in eastern Ladakh. Both locations remain strategically important because of their proximity to Indian patrol routes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).

The decision places these features within India's official mapping framework, ensuring consistent references across government records, surveys and administrative documents.

The 2020 border crisis began on 5 May that year following confrontations around Pangong Tso, eventually expanding to multiple friction points across eastern Ladakh. Gogra and Hot Spring subsequently became central locations in negotiations between Indian and Chinese military commanders.

After prolonged diplomatic and military talks, disengagement measures at several friction points commenced in 2022, reducing immediate tensions while broader boundary issues remained unresolved.

The newly recognised features encompass a wide range of terrain, including peaks, mountains, passes, glaciers, valleys, rivers, lakes and land areas, reflecting the geographical diversity of Ladakh's high-altitude landscape.

The list includes Atisha Giri, Kanishka Peak, Martand Giri, Zorawar Peak, Rinchen Zangpo, Sakyasri Giri, Marpa Lotsava Ri, Milarepa Kangri, Shiva Ri and Maheshwara Ri.

Other designated features include Karun Pir, Drak Karpo and Jolmori, along with Chapchingal Pass and Shachmirik Pass.

The government has also formally identified Parpik Glacier, Skamri Glacier and Shkorga Valley, while Yangpa River and Guru Rinpoche Lake have been included among the recognised natural features.

Several land areas have likewise been standardised on official maps, including Brangsa, Kuksel, Dehra Compass, Kumarayana Point, Panglung and Shamal Lungpa. The latter historically served as a patrol and staging route during the 1950s.

The inclusion of these names is part of a broader effort to maintain accurate national cartographic records and provide uniform geographical references for administrative, developmental and strategic purposes.

The move also carries geopolitical significance as India continues to reinforce its official representation of border regions through authoritative mapping and standardised nomenclature.

With the update, all 28 locations now form part of the official Survey of India record, providing recognised references for one of the country's most strategically sensitive frontier regions.

PTI

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Akash Air Defence Exports Expand As India Delivers Missile System To Three Nations

India’s indigenous Akash air defence system has emerged as one of the country’s most significant defence export successes, with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh confirming that the missile system has now been exported to Armenia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan.

According to Singh, Armenia became the first overseas customer and acquired multiple Akash batteries. India subsequently extended exports to Tajikistan and Turkmenistan, marking a further expansion of New Delhi’s defence footprint in Central Asia.

He stated that production of the missile system has now stabilised and that additional orders continue to be placed by the Indian armed forces. Singh also expressed confidence that further international orders are likely as interest in Indian defence equipment continues to grow.

Describing Akash as a major achievement for India's indigenous defence industry, Singh said the system demonstrates the maturity of the country's missile design and production ecosystem. He added that the missile is highly effective against high-velocity aerial threats.

Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation and manufactured by Bharat Dynamics Limited and Bharat Electronics Limited, Akash is a short-range surface-to-air missile system designed to engage multiple aerial targets simultaneously.

Depending on the variant, the system can intercept hostile aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and guided munitions at ranges of roughly 25 to 30 kilometres, while newer versions extend that reach further.

The system received considerable attention during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, when India employed a layered air-defence architecture to counter drone and missile threats from Pakistan. The Defence Ministry highlighted the strong performance of indigenous systems, including Akash, during the operation.

Its capabilities have since been enhanced through the Akash Prime variant. In July 2025, Akash Prime successfully destroyed two high-speed unmanned aerial targets during trials in Ladakh at altitudes exceeding 4,500 metres, validating its effectiveness in demanding high-altitude conditions.

The growing export success of Akash is strategically important because it demonstrates increasing international confidence in Indian-developed military technology.

The addition of Tajikistan and Turkmenistan as customers also expands India's presence in a region historically dominated by Russian defence suppliers.

The missile system is expected to play a larger role in India's export portfolio alongside products such as the BrahMos missile, artillery systems and mounted gun platforms.

Defence officials have repeatedly highlighted the competitive pricing of Indian equipment as a major advantage in global markets.

Earlier, Singh said India expects defence exports to reach ₹50,000 crore within the next two years, driven by rising international demand for indigenous military systems.

He noted that India's ability to offer advanced missile systems at significantly lower costs than many foreign competitors has strengthened the country's position in the global defence market.

As domestic production capacity expands and operational performance continues to attract attention, the Akash family of missile systems is increasingly being viewed as one of the flagship products of India's defence-industrial transformation.

Agencies

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Indian Navy Charts Historic Expansion With 18 New Warships To Strengthen Indian Navy's Blue-Water Ambitions

The Indian Navy is preparing for the largest single-year fleet expansion in its history, with plans to induct or commission 18 warships in 2026.

The milestone, highlighted during the Naval Commanders' Conference at Nausena Bhawan in New Delhi, reflects the rapid growth and maturity of India's indigenous naval shipbuilding sector.

The incoming vessels will include frontline combat platforms and specialised support ships built at Indian shipyards, reinforcing the government's drive towards greater self-reliance in naval capability. Several of these warships are expected to feature advanced stealth characteristics and multi-role capabilities covering surface warfare, air defence and anti-submarine operations.

The expansion comes as the Navy pursues a long-term objective of developing a force of more than 200 ships by 2035, while simultaneously increasing indigenous content across its platforms and systems. 

Recent warships commissioned by the service already contain more than 75% indigenous content, demonstrating the progress of India's domestic defence-industrial base.

Senior naval leadership used the conference to assess operational preparedness and address the increasingly complex maritime environment in the Indian Ocean Region. Growing levels of maritime congestion, deceptive operational practices and grey-zone activities are placing new demands on naval monitoring and response systems.

As a result, a major upgrade of India's maritime surveillance architecture has emerged as a priority. The Navy believes enhanced monitoring, data analysis and domain awareness capabilities will be essential as maritime traffic continues to expand across strategic sea lanes.

India's maritime responsibilities have expanded well beyond its immediate neighbourhood. Indian warships are now routinely deployed in the South China Sea, Mediterranean Sea and Atlantic Ocean, demonstrating the country's increasing blue-water capabilities and ability to sustain long-range naval operations.

These deployments reinforce India's position as a first responder and preferred security partner across the Indian Ocean Region. The Navy is increasingly viewed as a key instrument of strategic influence, regional stability and maritime security amid rising geopolitical competition.

The service's role is also becoming more closely linked with the national vision of Viksit Bharat 2047. Beyond traditional defence responsibilities, the Navy is expected to protect critical economic interests, secure maritime trade routes and contribute to broader regional stability.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Navy's performance during the recent West Asia crisis, particularly its efforts under Operation Urja Suraksha. Indian naval deployments helped ensure the safe transit of Indian-flagged merchant vessels, including LPG tankers, through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.

The importance of these efforts is underscored by India's dependence on sea-borne energy imports. Approximately 85-90% of the country's crude oil imports and around half of its natural gas requirements move through maritime routes, making the security of key shipping corridors essential for both economic and energy security.

Minister of State for Electronics and IT Jitin Prasada also addressed naval commanders, highlighting the strategic importance of technological sovereignty, semiconductor manufacturing and resilient domestic supply chains.

He was briefed on naval initiatives related to innovation, indigenisation and technology absorption, while stressing the growing relevance of artificial intelligence, quantum technologies and other emerging technologies for future military capability.

Prasada noted that bottlenecks in critical technologies and defence supply chains increasingly influence national security. He reiterated the government's commitment to accelerating technology adoption as part of a technology-enabled and self-reliant defence ecosystem.

The conference also emphasised India's ambition to transition from being solely a domestic naval shipbuilder to becoming an exporter of advanced warships to friendly foreign nations. With indigenous shipbuilding standards increasingly matching international benchmarks, exports are now viewed as the next stage of growth.

Progress on gender inclusion was another focus area. Under the Navy's "all ranks, all roles" approach, women officers are serving aboard frontline warships and aircraft while participating in major maritime expeditions, including the Navika Sagar Parikrama circumnavigation initiative.

India's assumption of command of Combined Task Force-154 under the Combined Maritime Forces was highlighted as a significant contribution to multinational maritime security cooperation.

The Navy also showcased its growing international engagement through Operation Southern Readiness in Kochi, which brought together 276 personnel from 27 countries, alongside international facilitators and subject-matter experts participating in collaborative maritime activities.

Meanwhile, INS Sudarshini's deployment under Lokayan-26 strengthened maritime diplomacy, expanded outreach to the Indian diaspora and enhanced engagement across the United States, Atlantic and Mediterranean regions.

Held from 29 September to 1 October, the three-day Commanders' Conference brought together the Navy's senior leadership to review combat readiness, future capability development, maritime security challenges and the force's evolving strategic role in an increasingly contested maritime environment.

Agencies

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D-Propulse Targets 500-km Rotating Detonation Engine-Powered Missile That Could Fit Tejas And Rafale Missile Loads

India’s deep-tech defence Start-Up D-Propulse is charting a path towards a 500-km air-launched supersonic cruise missile driven by its home-grown rotating detonation engine, a system it believes can be slung under the wings of the TEJAS and Rafale fighters.

According to CEO Saurav Jha, the envisioned missile would cruise at speeds between Mach 1.5 and Mach 3, with loadouts of two missiles per TEJAS and three per Rafale, leveraging the compactness and efficiency of the RDE architecture.

The technological foundation for this ambition was laid in July 2026, when D-Propulse successfully hot-fired a 5-kN air-breathing RDE integrated with an aerospike nozzle at DRDO’s DRDL facility in Hyderabad.

The test delivered stable 5 kN thrust under reduced air mass flow and secured TRL-5 validation, confirming that the core engine design is robust enough for flight-capable development rather than remaining a bench-top experiment.

Central to the RDE’s appeal is its use of pressure-gain combustion, which sustains a continuous detonation wave around an annular chamber, extracting more energy from the same quantity of fuel. D-Propulse estimates this can translate into about 25 per cent better fuel efficiency and a 30 to 35 per cent increase in range for a given airframe, making it attractive for long-endurance drones, target systems and, crucially, compact cruise missiles.

The company’s roadmap targets a first flight test of an RDE-powered system by December 2027, followed by military user trials by December 2029.

Alongside the 500-km missile concept, D-Propulse is working on affordable, indigenously manufactured RDE-powered mass munitions and drones, aiming to plug into India’s push for self-reliance in advanced propulsion and high-speed aerospace systems.

Even as the DRDL demonstration signals a major step forward, D-Propulse concedes that full operational maturity will take time, with significant engineering work still required to transition from validated core technology to a flight-tested, mission-ready weapon system.

The effort nonetheless underscores India’s growing capabilities in detonation-based propulsion, aerospike nozzles and next-generation missile and UAV technologies.

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Five Years After OFB Restructuring, Seven Defence DPSUs Drive Growth, Exports and Indigenous Manufacturing Surge

Five years after the dissolution of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), India's defence manufacturing landscape has undergone one of the most significant structural transformations in its history according to an interesting article by Defence Watch. The government's decision to corporatize the OFB and transfer its 41 production units into seven specialised Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) on 1 October 2021 was aimed at improving efficiency, accountability, innovation and competitiveness across the defence industrial base.

The reform ended a decades-old departmental structure and replaced it with commercially managed enterprises focused on specific product segments. The move was also intended to provide greater financial and operational autonomy, enabling these entities to modernise production, pursue exports and respond more effectively to the evolving requirements of the armed forces.

The seven successor companies comprise Munitions India Limited (MIL), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited (AWEIL), Troop Comforts Limited (TCL), Yantra India Limited (YIL), India Optel Limited (IOL) and Gliders India Limited (GIL). Collectively, they now form a major pillar of India's expanding defence manufacturing ecosystem and contribute significantly to the country's self-reliance objectives.

Among the seven entities, Munitions India Limited has emerged as the largest ammunition-focused company. Since corporatisation, MIL has substantially scaled up production, broadened its product range and significantly expanded exports. According to industry data, the company achieved record revenue of approximately ₹10,954 crore during FY2025-26, reflecting annual growth of around 33%.

MIL manufactures a wide spectrum of military products, including small, medium and large calibre ammunition, explosives, rockets, mortars and grenades. The company has also become one of the strongest export performers among the former OFB entities. In FY2024-25, MIL recorded sales of ₹8,282 crore, while exports reached ₹3,081 crore, highlighting growing international demand for Indian-manufactured ammunition and ordnance products.

Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited has similarly emerged as a critical contributor to India's armoured warfare capabilities. The company oversees production and support for some of the Indian Army's most important combat platforms, including T-72 and T-90 main battle tanks, BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, mine-protected vehicles and various logistics platforms. The company has simultaneously intensified efforts to localise production and reduce foreign dependence on key components.

Its indigenisation program has delivered substantial results across major platforms. Indigenous content levels have reportedly reached 96% for the T-72 fleet, 80% for T-90 tanks and 98.5% for BMP-II infantry combat vehicles. These figures illustrate the broader shift towards domestic sourcing that has become central to India's defence industrial strategy.

Advanced Weapons and Equipment India Limited remains a crucial element of the country's weapons manufacturing infrastructure. Headquartered in Kanpur, the company operates eight production facilities alongside a specialised weapons technology academy.

AWEIL manufactures a range of defence products, including rifles, artillery systems and other weapon platforms. One of its most notable products is the indigenous 155 mm Dhanush artillery gun, which represents a key component of the Indian Army's artillery modernisation effort.

The company's facilities include major manufacturing centres such as Gun Carriage Factory Jabalpur and Gun and Shell Factory, both of which continue to play an important role in domestic defence production.

The committee called for improvements in procurement practices, cost controls, quality assurance mechanisms and research and development investments. Its findings underscore that while corporatisation has improved operational flexibility, structural issues in portions of the defence manufacturing sector have not disappeared entirely.

Yantra India Limited has recorded one of the most striking financial turnarounds among the seven successor companies. The enterprise has successfully leveraged its engineering and industrial manufacturing capabilities to expand both domestic and export business.

The company has established a strong export presence. Export order bookings during FY2025-26 reached ₹1,719 crore, while its total order book stood at ₹4,671 crore as of 31 March 2026. Export contracts accounted for approximately ₹2,395 crore of this total.

The firm's progress was recognised through the award of Miniratna Category-I status during 2026. This made YIL the fourth corporatized OFB successor to secure the classification after MIL, AVNL and India Optel Limited.

Beyond financial performance, Yantra India has invested heavily in advanced industrial capabilities. Its ongoing initiatives include the establishment of a radial forging plant, a 3,000-ton heavy-duty open-die forging press and a 10,000-ton aluminium extrusion press facility at Ambajhari. These projects are expected to strengthen domestic production of critical defence-grade metal components and specialised engineering products.

India Optel Limited has become a key player in the electro-optics segment, one of the fastest-growing domains within modern defence manufacturing. The company's technologies support armoured vehicles, artillery systems, naval weapon platforms and surveillance systems.

Its portfolio includes opto-electronic equipment and advanced vision systems used on T-72 and T-90 tanks, BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, artillery guns and naval platforms.

The company's growth since corporatisation has been particularly notable. Revenue increased from ₹562.12 crore during the second half of FY2021-22, when the enterprise first became operational, to ₹1,541.38 crore in FY2024-25. This expansion reflects increasing demand for indigenous electro-optical equipment across the services.

Troop Comforts Limited has moved beyond its traditional role as a supplier of military clothing and basic equipment. The company has sought to modernise its offerings and integrate commercial expertise into defence manufacturing.

A major example came in January 2026 when TCL signed a memorandum of understanding with Adidas India to develop advanced physical-training footwear for the Indian Navy and potentially other military and security organisations.

The partnership combines TCL's manufacturing infrastructure with Adidas' expertise in footwear design and performance engineering. In addition to footwear development, TCL continues to manufacture combat clothing, protective gear and personal equipment for military personnel.

Gliders India Limited remains India's primary specialist in parachute and aerial delivery systems. Since corporatisation, the company has concentrated on expanding indigenous capabilities in airborne logistics and specialised parachute technologies.

During 2026, GIL successfully produced and tested the indigenous Air Droppable Container ADC-150 in partnership with DRDO. The system is capable of delivering payloads weighing up to 150 kilograms and represents another step towards self-reliance in airborne logistics systems.

The company also completed successful live jumps involving an advanced parachute system developed jointly with the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), demonstrating continued progress in indigenous parachute technology.

The broader corporatisation initiative has delivered measurable improvements beyond individual company performance. Defence manufacturing entities that once operated under a single bureaucratic framework now function as specialised organisations focused on distinct product segments, market opportunities and technological priorities. The reforms have supported stronger export activity, greater managerial accountability and enhanced industrial specialisation. They have also aligned with wider national objectives aimed at strengthening domestic manufacturing, reducing import dependence and increasing India's presence in global defence markets.

The progress achieved since October 2021 suggests that corporatisation has fundamentally altered the trajectory of the former ordnance factory network. The coming years will determine whether that transformation can be translated into long-term global competitiveness and a stronger position for India within the international defence manufacturing industry.

Agencies

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BSF Foils Infiltration Bid, Neutralises Two Pakistani Intruders In Punjab's Tarn Taran

Two suspected Pakistani terrorists were killed by Border Security Force personnel after an alleged attempt to illegally enter India through the International Border in Punjab's Tarn Taran district on Friday.

The incident occurred around midday when BSF troops monitoring the sensitive frontier observed suspicious activity near the border fence. Security personnel challenged the individuals and issued multiple warnings, but officials stated that the suspects continued moving towards the Indian side.

With the situation escalating and a possible security threat perceived, BSF troops opened fire, resulting in the deaths of both men at the scene.

The identities of the deceased remain unknown, and authorities are working to confirm their nationality and background. The bodies have been transferred to Punjab Police for post-mortem examinations.

The BSF and Punjab Police are jointly investigating the episode, focusing on the motives behind the attempted crossing and whether any broader infiltration plan was involved.

Officials also indicated that a flag meeting between the BSF and Pakistan Rangers is likely to be held to discuss the incident. The India-Pakistan border in Punjab remains a highly sensitive security zone, with border forces maintaining constant surveillance to prevent infiltration, smuggling and other cross-border activities.

ANI

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Google's Project Suncatcher Takes Flight As SpaceX Launches Falcon-9 To Test AI Computing In Orbit

SpaceX has successfully launched its Falcon 9 rocket carrying 130 payloads to low-Earth orbit on its dedicated Transporter-18 small satellite rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California.

Following stage separation, the Falcon-9 first-stage booster completed a successful landing at Landing Zone 4, marking its 25th flight. The booster had previously supported several high-profile missions, including USSF-62, NROL-145, OneWeb Launch 20 and 21 Starlink missions.

Transporter-18 carried a broad mix of commercial and government spacecraft, including CubeSats, microsats, hosted payloads, two spacecraft equipped with re-entry vehicles and four orbital transfer vehicles that will deploy a further 41 payloads later in the mission.

The launch also highlighted the continuing growth of SpaceX's rideshare business, which has now delivered more than 1,800 payloads to orbit across the program.

Among the mission's most closely watched payloads was Google's Project Suncatcher, a prototype satellite created to determine whether the company's Tensor Processing Units (TPUs), specialised AI accelerators used to power machine learning systems, can successfully operate in the harsh conditions of space.

Google Chief Executive Sundar Pichai announced the mission last week, describing it as an opportunity to answer a fundamental question: whether Google's AI hardware can survive launch stresses and function reliably in orbit.

The satellite was developed in partnership with Earth observation company Planet and represents the first in-orbit demonstration of Google's ambitious plan to explore space-based artificial intelligence infrastructure.

According to Google, Project Suncatcher is a long-term moon-shot designed to assess whether large-scale machine learning systems could eventually be hosted in space rather than on Earth.

The concept is driven largely by energy availability. Satellites operating in low-Earth orbit can receive near-continuous sunlight and may generate up to eight times more solar energy than comparable systems on the ground.

Google believes future generations of satellites could be linked into networked constellations capable of sharing computing workloads, effectively creating distributed AI processing systems in orbit.

The company argues that such an approach could one day help meet the rapidly expanding power requirements of advanced artificial intelligence systems while supporting applications ranging from healthcare and scientific research to large-scale data analysis.

This initial mission, however, is focused solely on validation and engineering lessons rather than operational AI computing.

Engineers will use the satellite to examine how TPUs cope with launch vibration, radiation exposure, thermal extremes and vacuum conditions that cannot be fully replicated on Earth. Industry reports indicate the spacecraft carries four of Google's latest-generation TPUs and will gather critical data on hardware durability and cooling performance in space.

Google has emphasised that developing scalable orbital AI infrastructure will require years of incremental testing and technological refinement.

The company stated that this first mission is intended to identify both successes and weaknesses, enabling engineers to improve future systems before progressing towards larger and more capable space-based computing networks.

The launch represents another sign of growing interest across the technology industry in orbital computing and space-based data infrastructure, as AI workloads continue to drive demand for energy-intensive computing resources.

For Google, Project Suncatcher marks the beginning of what could become one of the company's most ambitious research initiatives, combining artificial intelligence, satellite engineering and advanced space technologies in an effort to explore whether the next generation of computing infrastructure could ultimately extend beyond Earth.

To learn about Google Suncatcher project click here.

ANI

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Lt Gen Akhilesh Kumar Assumes Command of Army's Strike One Corps At Mathura

Lt Gen Akhilesh Kumar has assumed charge as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army's 1 Corps, headquartered at Mathura, succeeding Lt Gen V Hariharan. He formally took over command on 1 October.

A highly experienced officer with more than 34 years of service, Lt Gen Kumar brings extensive operational expertise gained across diverse terrains and challenging environments. His career has included service along the Line of Control as well as key counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

An alumnus of Sainik School, Tilaiya, and the National Defence Academy in Pune, he was commissioned into the 4th Battalion of the Rajputana Rifles on 13 June 1992.

Lt Gen Kumar holds a Master of Science degree from Madras University and a Master's in Management Studies from Osmania University, reflecting a strong blend of military and academic credentials.

During his distinguished career, he has commanded his parent battalion, 4 Rajputana Rifles, and later led a Rashtriya Rifles Sector in Jammu and Kashmir. He also served as General Officer Commanding of an Infantry Division under a Strike Corps, giving him significant experience in both operational and conventional military roles.

His staff appointments have included several crucial positions. These include Colonel General Staff of a Reorganised Army Plains Infantry Division (RAPID), Colonel Military Secretary in the Military Secretary's Branch, and Brigadier Discipline and Vigilance in the Adjutant General's Branch.

Before assuming command of 1 Corps, he was serving as Additional Director General, Discipline and Vigilance in the Adjutant General's Branch.

In recognition of his distinguished service and commitment to the nation, Lt Gen Kumar has been awarded the Sena Medal (Distinguished) and the Vishisht Seva Medal. He has also received a General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Commendation Card from the South Western Command.

His appointment comes at a significant time for 1 Corps, also known as Strike One Corps, one of the Indian Army's principal offensive formations.

Headquartered at Mathura, the formation has historically played a key role in India's conventional warfighting doctrine and has participated in major operations since its raising in 1965.

In recent years, the Corps has increasingly focused on maintaining high levels of operational readiness while adapting to evolving security requirements along India's northern frontiers.

Lt Gen Kumar's extensive experience in field operations, staff appointments and discipline management is expected to strengthen the Corps' preparedness and professional standards.

With a career spanning frontline command, counter-insurgency operations and senior headquarters appointments, Lt Gen Kumar takes over one of the Army's most prominent formations with a wealth of operational and leadership experience.

PTI

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Golden Arrows At 75: IAF’s First Rafale Squadron Marks Platinum Jubilee At Ambala

The Indian Air Force’s No. 17 Squadron, the famed Golden Arrows and the service’s first Rafale-equipped unit, celebrated its Platinum Jubilee at Ambala on 1 October, marking 75 years since its raising at the same air base.

The commemorative events included a static aircraft display, the release of a special first-day cover, a barakhana for squadron personnel and a social gathering attended by serving and retired air warriors.

Raised on 1 October 1951, the squadron's first commanding officer was Flight Lieutenant Doughlas Llewellyn Springett of the 27 Pilot Course, which received its wings in February 1945. Over the decades, the unit has participated in every major conflict and operation involving the Indian Air Force, most recently Operation Sindoor in May 2025.

The Golden Arrows emerged during a period of rapid force expansion when the IAF raised four fighter squadrons, Nos. 14, 15, 16 and 17, within just eight weeks between August and October 1951. Collectively, these formations became known as the “Emergency Teens”.

The squadron initially operated 12 Harvard-IIB aircraft in a tactical reconnaissance role before transitioning to the de Havilland Vampire jet in 1955. It later converted to the Hawker Hunter, an aircraft that would carry it through some of the most significant campaigns in its early history.

Flying Hunters, the squadron took part in the 1961 Goa liberation operation and subsequently served in both the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pakistani wars.

During the Goa campaign, No. 17 Squadron was one of only two Hunter-equipped units committed to operations. Under Squadron Leader Jayawant Singh, six Hunters struck targets at Bambolim, contributing to the swift liberation of Goa.

In the 1965 war, the squadron was tasked with providing air defence cover for New Delhi, reflecting the strategic importance attached to its capabilities.

The 1971 conflict saw the Golden Arrows deployed to the eastern theatre from Hasimara in support of the Army’s 20 Mountain Division. Led by Wing Commander Narinder Chatrath, later an Air Commodore, the squadron executed a major attack against Kurmitola air base near Dhaka.

During that mission, Chatrath engaged two Pakistani F-86 Sabres in aerial combat and shot down one aircraft, earning the Vir Chakra. Another squadron officer, V.K. Nebb, was also awarded the Vir Chakra for gallantry.

A major transformation followed in 1975 when the squadron entered the supersonic age by converting to the MiG-21 and relocating to Bhisiana near Bathinda.

The unit's most celebrated modern combat chapter came during the 1999 Kargil conflict. Under Wing Commander B.S. Dhanoa, who later became Chief of the Air Staff, the squadron moved to Srinagar as part of Operation Safed Sagar.

Initially tasked with reconnaissance missions along the Line of Control, the Golden Arrows later pioneered low-level night bombing operations in mountainous terrain. Working alongside No. 108 Squadron, pilots developed tactics that had never before been employed on MiG-21s in such conditions.

Training sorties were conducted in valleys north of Srinagar during moonlit periods. Aircraft descended to approximately 1,000 metres above the ground to deliver bombs accurately against difficult targets. Success depended upon precise timing, altitude, speed and navigation.

Another challenge involved reconciling differing map systems used by the Army and the Air Force. Procedures were subsequently devised to ensure accurate target identification and strike planning.

Despite successful operations, the squadron suffered a significant loss when Squadron Leader Ajay Ahuja was shot down by an enemy missile while attempting to locate the wreckage of a MiG-27 flown by Flight Lieutenant K. Nachiketa after an engine failure.

As ageing MiG-21 aircraft approached retirement, No. 17 Squadron was number-plated in 2016. However, its distinguished history ensured it would not remain dormant for long.

The squadron was re-raised at Ambala in September 2019 and became the first Indian Air Force unit to receive the French-built Dassault Rafale. The first Rafales joined the squadron in 2020, ushering in a new era of multi-role air combat capability.

Former Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa has stated that the Golden Arrows were selected to operate the Rafale because they were the most highly decorated squadron of the Kargil War. The second Rafale squadron, No. 101 Squadron at Hasimara, holds the distinction of being among the most decorated units from the 1971 war.

The Rafale's induction significantly strengthened India's air power, providing advanced sensors, long-range precision-strike capabilities and enhanced network-centric warfare features. Ambala's location further gives the squadron a critical role in safeguarding India's northern and western sectors.

When Operation Sindoor unfolded in 2025, warfare had evolved dramatically from the era of Kargil. Operating Rafales, the Golden Arrows undertook air defence and precision-strike missions, earning two Vir Chakras, four Vayu Sena Medals and ten Mentions-in-Despatches.

Seventy-five years after its formation, the Golden Arrows remain one of the Indian Air Force’s most distinguished combat units, having progressed from Harvard trainers and Vampire jets to Hunters, MiG-21s and now Rafales while maintaining an unbroken record of operational service across generations of aerial warfare.

Agencies

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‘A Terror Attack, Not A Dispute’: Israel Envoy Hails Captain Smit Machchhar’s Heroics In Flydubai Mid-Air Crisis

Israel’s Consul General in Mumbai, Yaniv Revach, has strongly backed Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar, describing the Flydubai cockpit attack as an unequivocal act of terrorism rather than a dispute between flight crew members.

Speaking amid growing international attention on the incident, Revach said there was no ambiguity surrounding the nature of the attack and praised Machchhar’s actions as instrumental in preventing what he described as a potentially catastrophic terrorist assault aboard the Dubai-Tel Aviv flight.

The Israeli diplomat announced plans for a public awareness campaign to honour the Indian captain, including large billboards expressing gratitude for his actions. He said Israel wished to publicly recognise Machchhar’s courage and sacrifice.

Revach criticised sections of the international media, particularly Al Jazeera and outlets he claimed had mischaracterised the incident as a conflict between an Indian captain and an Omani co-pilot. He argued that such portrayals ignored the gravity of the attack and obscured what he believes was an act of terrorism.

According to Revach, Machchhar sustained severe injuries to his hands and neck during the struggle. He noted that the captain has already been transferred to a hospital in the UAE and expressed confidence in his medical care while wishing him a rapid recovery.

The envoy also suggested that Machchhar deserves formal recognition from the Israeli state, including potential honours from the Israeli President and government once he has recovered.

Revach further argued that the captain’s actions may have prevented a major geopolitical crisis. He said the incident highlighted the strength of India-Israel relations, pointing to the cooperation between the injured Indian pilot, crew members and Israeli passengers who helped regain control of the aircraft and ensure a safe landing.

While some theories regarding the attacker’s motives continue to circulate, Revach said investigators should await the conclusions of the UAE-led inquiry. He expressed confidence that Emirati and Israeli authorities would work closely to establish the full facts.

On the aviation impact, he expressed hope that the suspension of Flydubai services to Israel would not significantly disrupt air links, noting that more than 23 daily flights continue to operate between Israel and the UAE through other carriers.

The diplomat also warned about the influence of online radicalisation, claiming extremist narratives on social media and certain media platforms could encourage individuals to commit acts of violence. He said Israel remains accustomed to operating under constant security threats and sees common cause with India in confronting terrorism and extremism.

Revach additionally criticised Pakistan, accusing it of pursuing contradictory policies and contributing to regional instability through radicalisation. He also referred to Houthi attacks targeting Saudi Arabia and argued that global reactions to such incidents often reveal double standards.

The envoy said shared security challenges would continue to deepen strategic ties between India and Israel. He highlighted the potential of combining Israeli technology with India’s industrial scale and workforce to expand defence manufacturing and technological cooperation.

Drawing a historical parallel, Revach recalled the actions of Sandra Samuel during the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, when she rescued a Jewish child from the Chabad House siege. He said both Samuel’s actions and Machchhar’s heroism reflected a longstanding bond between the Indian and Israeli peoples.

Meanwhile, international investigations into the Flydubai incident continue. Israeli broadcaster i24 News reported that investigators discovered pro-Palestinian literature and material linked to “Free Palestine” groups among the belongings of the Omani co-pilot. Reports also indicate that the co-pilot had previously expressed support for Palestinians and hostility towards Israel.

The Jerusalem Post reported that the co-pilot held only Omani nationality, prompting scrutiny over how an individual from a country without diplomatic relations with Israel was assigned to operate the route. Investigators are examining whether ideological radicalisation or external influences played a role in the attack.

The incident occurred on 30 September aboard a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv. According to accounts emerging from the investigation, the Omani co-pilot allegedly stabbed Captain Machchhar in an apparent attempt to bring down the aircraft.

The struggle triggered a dramatic loss of altitude, with reports indicating the Boeing 737 MAX descended roughly 14,000 to 16,000 feet within seconds before emergency and unlawful interference signals were transmitted. Reports state the aircraft was carrying between 174 and 182 people, including dozens of children.

Despite suffering serious injuries, Machchhar reportedly fought back and managed to unlock or release the cockpit door. This enabled flight attendants, passengers and off-duty aviators travelling onboard to enter the flight deck and restrain the attacker.

Two qualified pilots travelling as passengers subsequently helped stabilise the aircraft and guide it to a safe emergency landing in Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. All passengers and crew survived the ordeal. The co-pilot was arrested following the landing and later transferred to the UAE as investigations expanded. Israeli investigators have joined Emirati authorities in examining the attack, while officials continue to assess whether the incident was an isolated act or part of a broader extremist plot.

As details continue to emerge, Captain Smit Machchhar has become a symbol of resilience and courage, earning praise from leaders in India, Israel and other countries for actions widely credited with preventing a major aviation disaster and saving the lives of everyone aboard the flight.

ANI

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Taiwan Receives First F-16V Fighters As Air Force Strengthens Against Growing China Threat

Taiwan has taken delivery of the first two of 66 new F-16V Block 70 fighter jets ordered from the United States, marking a significant milestone in the island’s military modernisation effort as it faces increasing pressure from China, Reuters reporterd.

The aircraft arrived at Chihhang Air Base in Taitung on Taiwan’s mountainous eastern coast after months of delays that had frustrated Taipei and raised concerns about the pace of American arms deliveries.

The fighters are part of a 2019 deal valued at approximately ₹68,800 crore, approved by Washington to strengthen Taiwan’s air combat capabilities. Once all 66 aircraft are delivered, Taiwan’s F-16 fleet will exceed 200 aircraft, making it one of the largest and most capable F-16 fleets in the Asia-Pacific region.

Taiwan’s military continues to scramble aircraft almost daily in response to Chinese air operations around the island. Beijing regards Taiwan as part of its territory and has steadily increased military activity in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas in recent years.

The arrival of the new fighters comes at a politically sensitive moment. Concerns have grown in Taipei regarding the Trump administration’s commitment to supplying arms to Taiwan, although Washington has repeatedly stated that its policy towards the island remains unchanged.

Defence Minister Wellington Koo confirmed that additional F-16Vs are expected to arrive before the end of the year, indicating that the latest delivery is only the beginning of a broader rollout.

Delivery of the aircraft had been delayed by a combination of production challenges and software integration issues. Previous reports indicated that flight-control software development had slowed progress, while wider supply-chain pressures also affected the schedule.

The first two aircraft arrived roughly a week after a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The timing has drawn attention given ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan.

Trump stated earlier this year that a proposed military assistance package for Taiwan worth around ₹1.20 lakh crore had been placed on hold, although an earlier package valued at roughly ₹94,600 crore received approval in December 2025.

The F-16V is the most advanced variant of the Fighting Falcon currently in production. Equipped with modern avionics, enhanced mission computers, advanced electronic warfare systems and the AN/APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, the aircraft offers substantially improved situational awareness and combat performance.

These enhancements are particularly important for Taiwan as it seeks to counter increasingly sophisticated Chinese aircraft, including the stealth-capable J-20 fighter.

Taiwan has already completed a major modernisation effort that upgraded its existing F-16 fleet to the F-16V standard in 2023, significantly improving interoperability and combat effectiveness across its air force.

Under the Taiwan Relations Act, the United States is obligated to provide Taiwan with the means to defend itself, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between the two sides.

Beijing has consistently opposed US arms sales to Taiwan and has repeatedly urged Washington to halt such transfers, arguing that they undermine Chinese sovereignty claims.

A US State Department spokesperson reaffirmed Washington’s support for Taiwan, stating that the United States would continue working with friends and allies across the Indo-Pacific to advance shared security and prosperity.

Few countries are willing to supply advanced weapons to Taiwan because of concerns over damaging relations with China. Even the United States has refrained from offering its most advanced stealth fighters, including the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning-II.

As a result, while the arrival of the F-16Vs represents a major boost to Taiwan’s air power, the island still lacks a direct stealth-fighter counterpart to match China’s newest generation combat aircraft. 

Nonetheless, the new fighters are expected to play a central role in maintaining Taiwan’s deterrence posture and enhancing its ability to respond to growing military pressure in the region.

Agencies

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