Israel’s Rafael Eyes India For Iron Dome Missile Production And Export Expansion

Israeli defence company Rafael Advanced Defence Systems is reportedly in advanced discussions with Indian defence firms to establish a production line for the Tamir interceptors used in the Iron Dome air defence system, Mathrubhumi reported.

If finalised, this would mark a major expansion of the India–Israel defence partnership, strengthening local manufacturing and positioning India as a hub for both domestic deployment and international exports of advanced missile defence systems.

The plan envisages manufacturing Iron Dome interceptors in India, making it only the second country after the United States to produce these missiles outside Israel. This aligns closely with India’s long-standing policy of encouraging foreign defence companies to manufacture locally through joint ventures, technology transfer and industrial collaboration.

The proposal is not limited to assembly but reflects deeper cooperation in defence production, technology sharing and supply-chain resilience.

Officials have suggested that the partnership could extend to joint production of other defence systems, collaboration on future military technologies and mechanisms for emergency procurement during heightened security situations. Though details remain unannounced, the discussions indicate a desire to institutionalise a relationship that has steadily expanded over the past two decades.

India’s importance to Rafael lies in its status as one of the world’s largest defence importers, coupled with its push for localisation. Establishing production in India would provide Rafael with lower manufacturing costs, access to India’s growing defence industrial base, a hub for exports, greater resilience by diversifying production beyond Israel and the United States, and compliance with India’s localisation requirements.

Rafael already operates production lines in Israel and the US through its partnership with Raytheon, and an Indian facility would further strengthen its global network.

For India, the project dovetails with its ambition to expand domestic defence production and reduce reliance on imports. Successive governments have promoted policies encouraging foreign manufacturers to set up facilities in India, aiming to strengthen supply chains, create skilled employment and boost defence exports. Tamir interceptor production would add another high-value missile programme to India’s growing defence ecosystem.

India and Israel’s defence ties have grown steadily, covering missiles, drones, radars, surveillance systems and electronic warfare. The jointly developed Barak 8 air defence system is a notable success, now deployed across India’s Army, Navy and Air Force.

Israeli firms have also partnered with Indian companies to manufacture UAVs and other equipment. The proposed Iron Dome interceptor production would be another step in this evolving industrial relationship rather than a one-off procurement.

The timing is significant as global demand for air defence systems has surged due to ongoing conflicts and evolving security threats. Governments worldwide are investing in missile defence to counter rockets, drones and cruise missiles. Expanding manufacturing capacity outside Israel would help Rafael meet this demand, reduce pressure on existing facilities and improve supply-chain flexibility during crises.

No official agreement has yet been announced, and the project would require decisions on technology transfer, production responsibilities, export arrangements and regulatory clearances.

Nonetheless, the proposal is important because it reflects a broader shift in global defence manufacturing, where companies increasingly build production partnerships in countries with industrial capacity, skilled workforces and growing markets.

For India, such partnerships strengthen its position as a defence manufacturing hub. For Rafael, expanding into India enhances flexibility, supports exports and deepens its presence in one of the world’s largest defence markets.

Agencies

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Bangladesh Replaces India And Hands Over Mongla Port Project To China

Bangladesh’s decision to replace India with China in the Mongla Port project marks a major strategic setback for New Delhi, as the Bay of Bengal increasingly becomes a contested arena in the India‑China rivalry.

Mongla’s proximity to India’s border and its role in regional trade corridors make it a critical node in South Asia’s maritime geopolitics.

Bangladesh has formally signed an agreement with China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation to develop the Mongla Port Economic Zone. This project was originally reserved for India under a 2015 bilateral initiative, but delays and failure to begin construction led Dhaka to delist the Indian plan in 2025. China quickly stepped in, securing the deal during Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s first state visit to Beijing.

Mongla is Bangladesh’s second‑largest seaport after Chattogram. It lies less than 200 kilometres from Kolkata and about 80 kilometres from the Indian border, positioned near the Sundarbans delta. Its location makes it strategically sensitive, as it provides access to the Bay of Bengal and serves as a potential gateway for India’s landlocked north-eastern states.

Since 2018, India has been allowed to use Mongla and Chattogram ports for cargo, reducing dependence on the narrow Siliguri Corridor. China’s entry now threatens to alter this balance.

The Bay of Bengal has emerged as a key theatre in the India‑China rivalry. For Beijing, Mongla is part of a broader strategy to expand its Belt and Road footprint across South Asia.

It complements Chinese investments in Chattogram and links to the proposed Bangladesh‑China‑Myanmar Economic Corridor, which would connect Yunnan province to the Bay of Bengal. This strengthens China’s “String of Pearls” strategy, building a chain of ports and facilities across the Indian Ocean.

For India, the development is alarming. New Delhi views Mongla’s shift to Chinese hands as a direct challenge to its “Neighbourhood First” policy and its maritime security interests. The port’s proximity to the Indian border raises concerns about surveillance, logistics, and potential dual‑use facilities. Strategically, it could tilt regional supply chains and cargo flows towards China‑centric networks, undermining India’s connectivity initiatives.

India is responding by reinforcing its broader maritime strategy. It has expanded naval exercises such as MILAN 2026, involving dozens of warships and aircraft, and strengthened cooperation with partners like the United States, Japan, and Australia under the Quad framework.

India is also investing in its own “Necklace of Diamonds” strategy, building alliances and port access agreements across the Indo‑Pacific to counter China’s influence. Initiatives through BIMSTEC, the Information Fusion Centre–Indian Ocean Region, and bilateral exercises like Bongosagar with Bangladesh reflect India’s determination to maintain a strong presence in the Bay of Bengal.

The Mongla development underscores the shifting dynamics of South Asia. Bangladesh, seeking rapid industrialisation and foreign investment, is recalibrating its partnerships.

China’s readiness to deliver infrastructure contrasts with India’s delays, giving Beijing an edge. For New Delhi, the challenge is not only strategic but also economic—ensuring that its neighbours see India as a reliable partner in development.

The Bay of Bengal is now firmly established as a contested maritime space. Its offshore energy reserves, shipping lanes, and strategic geography make it central to the Indo‑Pacific balance.

The Mongla Port project is more than an economic zone; it is a symbol of how infrastructure and geopolitics intersect in shaping the future of South Asia.

Agencies

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India’s Bharatiya Antariksha Station To Challenge China’s Space Supremacy By 2035

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement in Australia that India will build its own space station has placed the spotlight firmly on one of ISRO’s most ambitious undertakings, Zee News reported.

The Bharatiya Antariksha Station, or BAS, is designed to elevate India into the select league of nations with permanent human presence in orbit, countering China’s dominance and filling the gap left by the eventual retirement of the International Space Station.

At present, only two space stations are operational worldwide. The ISS, a multinational collaboration involving the United States, Russia, Europe, Japan and Canada, is nearing the end of its service life around 2030.

China’s Tiangong, operated solely by Beijing, has already become a symbol of its growing space power. Earlier Soviet and American stations from the 1970s are long defunct. India’s entry with BAS is intended to ensure it does not remain dependent on others for long-duration space missions.

ISRO has confirmed that the Bharatiya Antariksha Station will be modular, built in phases rather than as a single monolithic structure. The first module, BAS‑01, has already been unveiled. It resembles a cylindrical capsule with a docking port, enabling spacecraft and future modules to connect in orbit. Scheduled for launch in 2028 aboard the Launch Vehicle Mark‑3, BAS‑01 will serve as the foundation for the entire station.

The first module will weigh 10 tonnes and cost ₹1,763 crore. It will carry a life support system to provide oxygen, recycle water, and store food. Solar panels will generate electricity, while advanced thermal management systems will protect astronauts and equipment from extreme temperatures ranging from 120 degrees Celsius in sunlight to minus 150 degrees Celsius in shadow.

Between 2029 and 2031, ISRO will add BAS‑02 and BAS‑03. BAS‑02 will be the habitation module, fitted with beds, a kitchen, gym and bathroom, allowing astronauts to stay for three to six months. BAS‑03 will be the research laboratory, enabling experiments in medicine, materials science and biology. Between 2032 and 2035, BAS‑04 will be launched as the logistics module, storing food, water, fuel and spare parts. BAS‑05 will serve as an additional module, either expanding laboratory capacity or boosting power generation.

By 2035, the complete five‑module station will weigh 52 tonnes and host three to six astronauts at a time. It will be India’s first permanent orbital outpost, designed to support long‑term scientific research and strategic applications.

Australia has emerged as a key partner in this endeavour. During Modi’s visit, both nations agreed to cooperate on Gaganyaan and BAS missions. Australia’s Cocos Island will play a vital role in tracking launches, while its navy will assist in rescue operations in case of emergency ocean landings. Joint work on space debris monitoring and tracking has also been confirmed by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Other nations have reaped immense benefits from their space stations. Russia maintained continuous human presence through Mir and the ISS, strengthening its long‑duration mission expertise.

The United States leveraged the ISS to expand cooperation with over 15 countries, catalysing the rise of private companies like SpaceX and fuelling a $200 billion space economy. China has used Tiangong to conduct experiments with 17 nations and is preparing for a 2030 lunar mission.

The ISS alone has produced over 3,000 experiments, leading to new drugs, stronger alloys, and technologies like water recycling and air purification now used on Earth. It has created more than 400,000 jobs and generated economic benefits exceeding $100 billion.

India stands to gain significantly from BAS. The station will accelerate high‑tech job creation, boost startups and strengthen the domestic space industry. As a global pharmaceutical hub, India will be able to conduct research into medicines for tuberculosis, diabetes and other diseases under unique space conditions.

It will also enhance monitoring of agriculture, weather, climate and disasters, directly aiding farmers and administrators. Beyond science and economics, the project will inspire young Indians to pursue careers in science and engineering, reinforcing national self‑reliance.

The strategic dimension is equally critical. Modern warfare depends heavily on satellites for navigation, communication, missile warning and drone operations. The United States, Russia and China are already developing anti‑satellite weapons and space defence technologies. China demonstrated its capability in 2007 by destroying a weather satellite. India, surrounded by neighbours increasing their space cooperation, must keep pace.

Technologies developed for BAS, such as docking systems, robotic arms, in‑orbit satellite repair and long‑duration human spaceflight, will strengthen India’s space security. India has already shown its capability by destroying a low‑orbit microsatellite in 2019. Achieving parity in space will be vital for future security, technological independence and global power balance.

Agencies

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Can Astrobase Pull Off India's First Full‑Flow Staged‑Combustion Engine—And Orbit By 2029?

Astrobase Space Technologies is attempting one of the most ambitious propulsion challenges in modern rocketry: India’s first privately developed Full‑Flow Staged Combustion (FFSC) methane engine, India Today reported.

While the company has credible infrastructure and regulatory backing, the FFSC cycle remains the most complex engine architecture ever attempted, and success is far from guaranteed.

Only one FFSC engine has ever flown in history, SpaceX’s Raptor. Globally, just seven engines of this type have ever been run on a test stand. ISRO itself has never attempted the cycle, underscoring the difficulty of the technology. Astrobase, founded in 2024, is now aiming to join this elite group with its own 800 kN LOX‑methane FFSC engine.

The company’s plan is to cluster seven of these engines under a reusable medium‑lift rocket, with a maiden orbital launch targeted for 2029. The FFSC cycle is often described as the Everest of propulsion systems.

Unlike conventional staged combustion, it requires two pre‑burners instead of one, with all propellant converted into hot gas before entering the combustion chamber. The rewards are immense: extreme chamber pressures exceeding 300 bar, top‑tier efficiency, and engines capable of hundreds of reuses.

Astrobase has already demonstrated progress. In September 2025, it conducted a sub‑scale hot‑fire test, reportedly successful on the first attempt.

The company operates a 21.5‑acre test facility in Anantapur, Andhra Pradesh, equipped with a 200‑ton thrust stand, India’s first private high‑thrust LOX‑methane site. Alongside this, a 46,000 sq ft assembly and integration facility in Bangalore provides end‑to‑end design and manufacturing capability.

The team’s credibility was reinforced in June 2026 when Astrobase was selected under IN‑SPACe’s ₹500‑crore Technology Adoption Fund. Out of 43 applicants, only three firms were chosen, with Astrobase receiving support capped at ₹25 crore.

This backing is tied to technical milestones, ensuring accountability. Importantly, the company is pursuing its own design rather than relying on ISRO blueprints, signalling genuine innovation.

Methane fuel is central to the design philosophy. Its cleaner combustion reduces soot and thermal stress, making engines more suitable for reusability. Astrobase also employs 3D‑printed core components, enabling rapid iteration, faster production cycles, and cost‑effective scaling. These choices align with global trends in reusable launch technology.

Yet the challenges remain formidable. The FFSC cycle demands precise synchronisation of dual pre‑burners and turbopumps, with failure modes that are unforgiving. Even SpaceX took years of iteration to stabilise the Raptor.

Astrobase’s funding, while significant, is modest compared to the billions invested by global players. Scaling from sub‑scale tests to full‑scale orbital readiness within three years is an ambitious timeline.

The question of feasibility is therefore open. The infrastructure, regulatory support, and technical roadmap are real. The team has demonstrated credible early results. But whether they can achieve orbital flight by 2029 depends on sustained funding, flawless engineering execution, and resilience through inevitable setbacks. It is too early to declare success, but not too early to recognise the seriousness of the attempt.

Astrobase’s effort represents a bold leap for India’s private space sector. If successful, it would place the country among the very few capable of fielding reusable FFSC propulsion, expanding sovereign access to space and complementing ISRO’s achievements. The next three years will determine whether this vision can be translated into reality.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Countering Drone Swarms: How India Is Reinventing The T‑90 Bhishma MBTs

The T‑90 Bhishma has long been the backbone of the Indian Army’s armoured corps, but the rise of drone warfare is forcing a fundamental rethink of how the tank fights and survives, TOI reported.

The proliferation of inexpensive FPV drones and precision‑guided weapons, as seen in Ukraine, has reshaped the battlefield and compelled India to pursue new technologies to protect its most important main battle tank.

The T‑90 Bhishma forms the backbone of India’s armoured corps, with more than 1,000 tanks in service. Originally acquired from Russia under a 2001 agreement, the fleet has increasingly been produced domestically through technology transfer.

In May 2026, the Heavy Vehicles Factory in Avadi delivered the 1,000th indigenously manufactured T‑90 Bhishma to the Army, marking a major milestone in India’s defence industrial base.

Designed for high‑intensity conventional warfare, the 46.5‑tonne tank is powered by an Indian‑built 1,000‑horsepower V‑92S2 diesel engine. This enables speeds of up to 60 km/h while maintaining mobility across deserts, plains and semi‑mountainous terrain. Its primary weapon is a 125 mm 2A46M smoothbore gun capable of firing armour‑piercing, high‑explosive anti‑tank and fragmentation rounds. 

It is also equipped with a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun and a 12.7 mm anti‑aircraft machine gun. An autoloader allows the tank to operate with a three‑member crew comprising the commander, gunner and driver.

While the T‑90’s firepower remains formidable, military planners increasingly view survivability as the greater challenge. The tank is protected by composite armour and Kontakt‑5 Explosive Reactive Armour, along with nuclear, biological and chemical protection systems. However, recent conflicts—particularly the Russia‑Ukraine war—have demonstrated that armour alone offers limited protection against FPV drones and loitering munitions that strike vulnerable areas such as the turret roof, engine deck and external sensors.

Unlike several newer Western and Israeli tanks, the Indian Army’s T‑90 fleet does not currently field a hard‑kill Active Protection System capable of intercepting incoming anti‑tank guided missiles, rocket‑propelled grenades or attack drones before they hit the vehicle.

Recognising the evolving threat, the Army issued a Request for Information in February 2025 for a modular indigenous APS for its T‑90 fleet. The proposed system is expected to combine soft‑kill measures—including laser warning receivers, electronic jammers and smoke grenade launchers—with hard‑kill interceptors that destroy incoming threats before impact.

The Army has also specified that the system should include counter‑unmanned aircraft system capabilities to defeat FPV drones, loitering munitions and top‑attack weapons, while integrating seamlessly with the existing tank and preferably being manufactured in India.

Alongside the Army’s procurement efforts, the Defence Research and Development Organisation is developing an indigenous hard‑kill APS. First showcased at Aero India 2025, the system features four X‑band radar panels providing 360‑degree coverage and turret‑mounted interceptors designed to neutralise incoming anti‑tank threats.

The T‑90 itself is also undergoing broader upgrades. The latest T‑90 Bhishma Mk III unveiled by the Heavy Vehicles Factory incorporates several indigenous improvements, including a mid‑wave thermal imaging commander sight with an 8 km detection range developed by DRDO and Bharat Electronics Limited, an automatic target tracker and a digital ballistic computer derived from the Arjun main battle tank to improve first‑round hit probability.

The Defence Acquisition Council has also approved the procurement of more powerful 1,350‑horsepower engines to improve mobility, particularly in high‑altitude regions where the current 1,000‑horsepower engine experiences reduced performance.

Despite the changing character of warfare, the T‑90 Bhishma remains one of the Indian Army’s most capable and battle‑proven tanks.

But as drones become an increasingly dominant feature of modern battlefields, its future effectiveness will depend not only on the power of its gun or the thickness of its armour, but on its ability to detect, disrupt and destroy threats before they reach the vehicle.

The integration of APS and counter‑drone technologies will therefore be decisive in ensuring the Bhishma’s survivability and relevance in the decades ahead.

Agencies

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India's Chargé d’Affaires-designate To Pakistan Meets Army Chief To Review Regional Security And Strategic Developments

In a significant and far-reaching development, Dr. Satyanjal Pandey, India’s Charge d’Affaires-designate to Pakistan, held a high-level meeting in New Delhi with Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth to discuss regional security and strategic affairs.

The meeting underscored India’s focus on synchronising diplomatic and military perspectives to address evolving challenges in West Asia and its western neighbourhood.

Dr. Satyanjal Pandey’s call on General Dhiraj Seth marked a significant diplomatic-military engagement at a time when regional dynamics remain fluid.

The two leaders reviewed the prevailing security environment, with particular emphasis on developments in West Asia and their implications for India’s western neighbourhood. This included an assessment of shifting alliances, ongoing conflicts, and the broader strategic recalibration taking place across the region.

The discussions also covered a wide spectrum of issues directly related to India’s national security. Both sides examined emerging regional challenges, including cross-border terrorism, instability in Afghanistan, and the potential spill-over effects of tensions in the Gulf. The dialogue highlighted how these factors could impact India’s security interests and necessitate proactive measures to safeguard national priorities.

The meeting reinforced the importance of close coordination between India’s diplomatic and defence establishments. By aligning perspectives, the two institutions aim to ensure that India remains prepared to respond effectively to evolving geopolitical and security dynamics. This collaborative approach reflects India’s broader strategy of integrating military readiness with diplomatic outreach to strengthen its position in a complex regional environment.

The engagement also demonstrated India’s commitment to maintaining open channels of communication on sensitive security matters. Such dialogues are essential in fostering understanding and cooperation, particularly when navigating the challenges posed by Pakistan’s internal political flux, cross-border infiltration attempts, and the shifting balance of power in West Asia.

India’s proactive stance in convening such high-level discussions underscores its determination to safeguard strategic interests while adapting to the rapidly changing geopolitical climate. The meeting between Dr. Pandey and General Seth is part of a wider pattern of India’s diplomatic and defence leadership working in tandem to anticipate and address regional threats.

This interaction further reflects India’s recognition that the western neighbourhood, encompassing Pakistan and Afghanistan, remains a critical theatre for its security calculus.

The evolving situation in West Asia, including the impact of energy politics, maritime security in the Arabian Sea, and the role of external powers, was also assessed as part of the broader strategic dialogue.

By bringing together diplomatic insight and military expertise, the meeting highlighted India’s multi-dimensional approach to national security. It reinforced the principle that safeguarding strategic interests requires not only military preparedness but also diplomatic foresight and coordination.

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India Commissions Indigenous Stealth Frigate INS Mahendragiri Armed With BrahMos Missiles

India has formally commissioned INS Mahendragiri, a 6,670-ton indigenous stealth frigate capable of carrying the supersonic BrahMos missile, into the Eastern Fleet at Visakhapatnam today.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted its advanced weapons, sensors, and over 75% indigenous content, calling it a major boost to India’s maritime power projection.

The commissioning ceremony took place at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, with senior naval officials and dignitaries present. The frigate is the sixth vessel of the Nilgiri-class under Project 17A, designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai.

The warship can be fitted with BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, recognised as among the fastest and most lethal in the world. It also carries a 32-cell vertical launch system for Barak-8 medium-range surface-to-air missiles, providing fleet air defence against aerial threats.

Its weapons package includes indigenous rocket launchers, torpedo tubes, an integrated anti-submarine defence system, an electronic warfare suite, and a close-in weapon system.

INS Mahendragiri is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, enabling speeds of up to 28 knots and long endurance for sustained deployments. With advanced stealth features, reduced radar signature, and high automation, the frigate is optimised for survivability and efficiency in modern naval warfare.

The vessel is also equipped with a multi-role helicopter, enhancing its anti-submarine and surveillance capabilities. Its integrated combat management system allows seamless coordination across anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine missions, as well as humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and search-and-rescue operations.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasised that while emerging technologies such as drones, artificial intelligence, cyber warfare, hypersonic weapons, and space-based systems are reshaping conflicts, conventional military strength remains the foundation of defence.

He stated, “Future wars may be fought with Artificial Intelligence, but they will still be won by national resolve, trained soldiers and credible military power.”

The frigate’s induction marks the sixth stealth frigate commissioned in just 18 months, reflecting accelerated shipbuilding timelines. Earlier vessels of the class include INS Nilgiri, Udaygiri, Himgiri, Taragiri, and Dunagiri. The final ship, Vindhyagiri, is expected to complete the ₹45,000 crore Project 17A programme.

With its motto “Mighty–Majestic–Matchless,” INS Mahendragiri embodies India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, showcasing the capabilities of domestic defence industries and MSMEs. Its crest features a goshawk perched atop the Mahendragiri mountain, symbolising sharp vision, patience, and decisive action.

The frigate strengthens India’s role as a blue-water navy, capable of safeguarding maritime interests not only along the coastline but also across the Indian Ocean Region and beyond. It is expected to serve as a formidable force multiplier, enhancing deterrence against regional threats and contributing to a secure Indo-Pacific.

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PM Modi Praises New Zealand’s Role In Chandrayaan Success, Highlights Shared Indigenous Traditions And India’s Global Achievements

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the Indian community in Auckland, hailed New Zealand’s contribution to India’s Chandrayaan lunar mission and emphasised the growing collaboration in the space sector, while also celebrating shared indigenous traditions and India’s economic achievements.

He noted that New Zealand’s technology supported Chandrayaan’s success and called for deeper cooperation in advanced technologies and trade.

At the community event in Auckland, Prime Minister Modi declared that when India’s Chandrayaan landed on the Moon’s south pole, all of New Zealand rejoiced. He stressed that New Zealand’s technology had contributed to this success and highlighted that New Zealand’s space companies have collaborated with India on several occasions.

He underlined that both nations are working to expand this cooperation further, with the recently concluded trade agreement expected to accelerate India’s journey towards becoming a developed nation while boosting businesses in both countries.

He drew attention to the cultural similarities between India and New Zealand, particularly in the celebration and preservation of indigenous traditions. Modi paid tribute to the Maori community, explaining that he did not view the Haka merely as a performance but as the soul of a community, embodying courage, self-respect, reverence for ancestors, and collective strength.

He referred to the Maori concept of ‘Manaakitanga’, meaning respect, belonging, and wholehearted care, and compared it to India’s ethos of ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’, noting that while words and settings may differ, the sentiment remains the same.

The Prime Minister recounted India’s major achievements, stressing that India is today the world’s fastest-growing major economy. He listed India’s global rankings: the largest vaccine producer, among the leading nations in mobile data consumption, the second-largest mobile manufacturer, the second-largest telecom market, the second-largest wheat producer, the largest milk producer, the second-largest fish producer, and the third-largest automobile market. He emphasised that India has also joined the ranks of leading nations in solar energy capacity.

Modi further highlighted that India has become the world’s third-largest startup ecosystem and is soon to become the third-largest renewable energy producer. He noted that India’s achievements in solar energy capacity and digital public infrastructure are attracting global interest, with dozens of countries showing keen interest in India’s innovative models of development.

He stressed that India is offering new models of growth to the world, reflecting its transformation into a hub of innovation and sustainability.

He also pointed out that India’s space economy, currently valued at around $8–9 billion, is projected to grow to $40–45 billion over the next decade, driven by policy reforms, private sector participation, and innovation.

He mentioned that India’s achievements through ISRO, including Chandrayaan and the upcoming Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, have positioned the country among the world’s leading space powers.

He explained that space-based technologies are increasingly being used for infrastructure development, project monitoring, and public service delivery, making space innovation a key pillar of India’s future growth.

In his remarks, Modi expressed gratitude to New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon for joining the community programme, describing his presence as a reflection of the warmth he holds for India and the Indian community.

PM Modi praised the Indian diaspora in New Zealand, calling them one of the strongest pillars of friendship between the two nations. He described addressing them in Auckland as a memorable experience, with an unforgettable atmosphere at the community programme.

ANI

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15 Indian Tourists Killed As Boat Overturns In Vietnam Speedboat Tragedy, PM Modi Condoles Loss

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday expressed deep grief over the tragic speedboat accident near Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island that claimed the lives of at least fifteen Indian tourists. He assured that the Indian mission in Vietnam was extending all possible assistance to those affected.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said he was extremely saddened by the incident, offered condolences to the bereaved families, and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. He emphasised that the Indian Embassy and Consulate in Vietnam were in close contact with local authorities as rescue and relief efforts continued.

The accident involved thirty-two Indian tourists and four crew members. According to authorities in the Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone, the speedboat operated by Ocean Pear Island Company was ferrying tourists from Hon May Rut to An Thoi Port when it capsized around 1 pm, approximately four hundred metres off Hon May Rut Ngoai.

Everyone on board was thrown into the sea. Nearby tourist boats rushed to the scene and joined rescue efforts, but rough sea conditions and passengers trapped inside the overturned vessel made the operation extremely difficult.

The Indian Embassy in Vietnam has set up control rooms in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to provide information and assistance to the families of those affected. The mission confirmed it was closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with Vietnamese authorities as rescue and relief operations continued.

Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh also took cognisance of the incident and directed officials to extend all possible assistance. After reviewing the situation with senior officials at Andhra Pradesh Bhavan in New Delhi and state government officials, Lokesh was informed that tourists from Andhra Pradesh were believed to be among those involved. He instructed officials to remain in touch with the Indian Embassy in Vietnam, coordinate with the Centre, and ensure all possible support was provided to the affected tourists and their families.

Authorities noted that sea conditions off An Thoi were rough at the time of the accident, although there was no rainfall and tourist boats were continuing to operate in the area. A representative of Ocean Pear Island Company said the vessel was operating an island-hopping tour and that the captain, who is in his fifties, had several years of experience operating passenger boats.

The speedboat was headed to May Rut Islet, comprising May Rut Trong and May Rut Ngoai, a popular tourist destination located around ten to twelve kilometres south of An Thoi. Known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, the islets attract visitors for snorkelling and diving and are typically reached by boat or speedboat from An Thoi in twenty to forty minutes.

Additional reports from Vietnamese maritime authorities indicated that strong winds were likely the primary cause of the capsizing.

Rescue divers confirmed that several passengers had been trapped inside the vessel, complicating the recovery process. Emergency medical teams were deployed to An Thoi Port to treat survivors, while the bodies of the deceased were transferred to local hospitals for identification.

Indian officials have also coordinated with Vietnamese counterparts to arrange for the repatriation of the deceased and medical evacuation of the injured. The Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi is expected to issue a detailed statement once the situation stabilises.

Agencies

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PM Modi Concludes Three-Nation Tour With Landmark Strategic Partnership In New Zealand

Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his three-nation tour of Indonesia, Australia and New Zealand on Saturday, departing from Auckland after a landmark visit that elevated India-New Zealand ties to a Strategic Partnership.

The Ministry of External Affairs described the journey as one that deepened bonds, strengthened partnerships and shaped a shared future. In a special gesture, New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon personally came to the airport to see off his Indian counterpart.

The two-day official visit to New Zealand, held on 10–11 July, marked the first by an Indian Prime Minister in four decades. Modi was accorded a traditional Maori welcome at Government House in Auckland, complete with ceremonial rituals symbolising peace and respect, followed by an inspection of the Guard of Honour.

Extensive bilateral discussions were held in restricted and delegation-level formats, covering trade, investment, defence, maritime cooperation, agriculture, education, sports, tourism, culture, innovation and people-to-people ties.

The leaders agreed to elevate relations to a Strategic Partnership and adopted the India-New Zealand Strategic Partnership: Roadmap to 2030, a comprehensive framework guiding cooperation across ministries and stakeholders.

PM Modi emphasised that 2026 had already been a landmark year, with the conclusion of a Free Trade Agreement earlier in record time and now the elevation of ties. He declared India’s ambition to double bilateral trade by 2030.

Eighteen key outcomes were announced. Defence and maritime security featured prominently, with a Memorandum of Arrangement on Maritime Cooperation between India’s Ministry of Defence and the New Zealand Defence Force, an Implementation Arrangement on Hydrography and Nautical Cartography, and an Arrangement on Mutual Logistics Support between the Indian Navy and the New Zealand Defence Force. A Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism was also established.

Disaster management cooperation was strengthened through a Memorandum of Cooperation between India’s National Disaster Management Authority and New Zealand’s National Emergency Management Agency, focusing on earthquake resilience, tsunami preparedness and coastal hazard mitigation. Agriculture and livestock collaboration was advanced through a Memorandum of Cooperation on Animal Husbandry and Dairying.

Tourism ties were boosted with a Memorandum of Arrangement encouraging direct non-stop flights between the two countries. A Joint Action Plan on Sport was unveiled, while cultural and heritage cooperation was expanded through agreements between India’s National Maritime Heritage Complex and the New Zealand Maritime Museum, and a broader Arrangement on Cultural Cooperation.

The Strategic Partnership also included commitments to double bilateral trade to NZD 7 billion by 2030, ensure effective implementation of the Free Trade Agreement, and establish a Maritime Security Dialogue.

New Zealand joined the maritime security pillar of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative to combat illegal fishing. In clean energy, New Zealand joined the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Agricultural innovation was advanced through a Kiwifruit Action Plan and Centres of Excellence in Nagaland and Uttarakhand. Scientific cooperation was strengthened through an MoU between India’s National Centre for Polar and Ocean Research and the University of Canterbury, focusing on Antarctic research. Food technology collaboration was enhanced through an agreement between NIFTEM-Kundli and Massey University.

The Joint Statement reflected an ambitious long-term vision, aiming to strengthen cooperation mechanisms, explore new opportunities across sectors and enhance coordination on regional and multilateral issues.

PM Modi’s visit to Indonesia earlier in the week reaffirmed the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with President Prabowo Subianto, with wide-ranging talks on political ties, defence, trade, technology and maritime cooperation. A highlight was the joint inauguration of the restoration project of the 1,000-year-old Prambanan Temple, underscoring shared civilizational links.

In Australia, Modi participated in the third Australia-India Annual Leaders’ Summit with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. The summit produced a Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation, expanded collaboration in Indo-Pacific security and military interoperability, and finalised arrangements for the export of Australian uranium to India under IAEA safeguards.

Albanese also announced that the Big Bash League 2026–27 season would begin in India, with Chennai hosting the opening fixture in December, marking the first BBL match outside Australia. Cooperation in critical minerals, clean energy, trade and investment was also expanded.

The three-nation tour thus delivered significant outcomes across trade, technology, security, education, innovation and cultural exchanges, reinforcing India’s role as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

ANI

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Government To Appoint New DRDO Chief After PM Modi’s Return

The Defence Research and Development Organisation is poised to receive a full‑time Chairman within days, with the government’s selection process now in its final phase after more than a month of vacancy at the top. The post has remained unoccupied since the retirement of Dr Samir V. Kamat on 31 May, with Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh holding additional charge as interim Chairman.

Senior Defence Ministry sources have confirmed that the recommendation of the Search‑cum‑Selection Committee has already been forwarded to the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet, headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for final approval. The appointment is expected to be announced after the Prime Minister returns from his three‑nation visit on 12 July.

Officials emphasised that the government is carefully evaluating leadership requirements for DRDO’s next phase of technological transformation, particularly in domains such as missiles, artificial intelligence, autonomous systems and advanced weapon technologies.

The high‑powered Search‑cum‑Selection Committee, chaired by Cabinet Secretary Dr T.V. Somanathan and comprising Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and a former ISRO Chairman, interviewed five distinguished scientists on 3 July.

These were shortlisted from a pool of 15 Distinguished Scientists recommended by the Defence Ministry. The committee retains the authority to recommend candidates beyond those interviewed if deemed appropriate.

The five scientists interviewed included B.K. Das, Director General of the Electronics and Communication Systems Cluster; Prateek Kishore, Director General of the Armament and Combat Engineering Cluster; Dr Jagannath Nayak, Director General of Missiles and Strategic Systems; Dr Anupam Sharma, head of the Systems and Platforms Segment; and Dr Anindya Biswas, Director of Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad. Officials indicated that B.K. Das and Prateek Kishore have emerged as the leading contenders, though no final decision has yet been conveyed.

B.K. Das, the senior‑most scientist among the contenders, is currently serving on a one‑year extension granted on 30 April. He has spent over three decades in DRDO, leading institutions such as the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur and the Instruments Research and Development Establishment in Dehradun.

Under his leadership, the Electronics and Communication Systems Cluster has expanded work on indigenous electronic warfare systems, AI‑enabled defence technologies and long‑term collaboration with industry and start‑ups.

Prateek Kishore heads the Armament and Combat Engineering Cluster in Pune, which has spearheaded several flagship indigenous weapon programmes.

These include the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System, the Pinaka multi‑barrel rocket launcher, the Project Zorawar light tank and next‑generation armoured combat platforms. His longer remaining service tenure is also seen as a factor that the government may weigh in its decision.

The race narrowed earlier this month after directed‑energy weapons expert Dr Jagannath Nayak assumed charge as Director General of Missiles and Strategic Systems on 1 July. Widely regarded as one of the architects of DRDO’s fibre‑optic gyro guidance technology and anti‑drone directed‑energy weapon programme, Nayak had been considered a strong contender before his elevation to the strategic systems portfolio.

The appointment comes at a crucial juncture for DRDO as it accelerates indigenous development of next‑generation missile systems, hypersonic technologies, combat aircraft, electronic warfare capabilities and autonomous military platforms.

The government’s push for defence self‑reliance has placed DRDO at the centre of India’s strategic modernisation, with the new Chairman expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s trajectory in partnership with industry, MSMEs and start‑ups under initiatives such as the Technology Development Fund and Defence Innovation Organisation.

Agencies

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New Zealand PM Christopher Luxon Hails India’s Transformation Under Modi, Calls Progress Inspiring

New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has praised India’s transformation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, describing the country’s progress as “incredible” and emphasising his long-standing admiration for India.

Speaking at the India–New Zealand Business and Sports Engagement event in Auckland, Luxon reflected on his first visit to India in the 1990s while working for Unilever, recalling how daily wages were paid in coins.

He contrasted that memory with the present reality, noting that under Modi’s leadership 250 million people have been lifted out of poverty and India’s middle class has expanded to 440 million, with projections to reach 750 million by the end of the decade.

Luxon said he had witnessed India’s journey from low-income to middle-income and now towards high-income status, calling it inspiring and exciting. He extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Modi and thanked him for bringing a delegation of Indian business leaders to New Zealand to strengthen commercial ties.

Luxon recalled his first meeting with Modi in Laos, when the Indian leader had outlined the scale of India’s infrastructure expansion, including the construction of 147 airports, the need for 2,000 additional aircraft to manage domestic tourism, and the rapid establishment of universities and polytechnics.

Highlighting opportunities for cooperation, Luxon pointed to agriculture, food, tourism, education and technology as areas where India and New Zealand could expand collaboration. He noted that as India’s 1.4 billion citizens grow wealthier, New Zealand could supply food and produce, offer tourism experiences, and share expertise in education and technology.

He reminded Modi that New Zealand, traditionally known as an agricultural nation, is now the third-largest launcher of rockets in the world, underscoring the potential for collaboration in advanced technology.

Luxon praised the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement signed earlier this year, saying it would create the conditions for stronger economic growth. He stressed that while governments can establish frameworks, it is businesses that ultimately generate growth and wealth, lifting living standards in both countries.

He urged business leaders to take responsibility for deepening engagement and translating opportunities into tangible outcomes.

Drawing on the ideas of Austrian psychiatrist Viktor Frankl, Luxon said meaningful progress requires governments, businesses and communities to work together. He explained that governments provide the operating system, businesses deliver speed and scale, and communities identify needs and challenges. He argued that all three actors must collaborate to realise the vast opportunities between India and New Zealand.

Luxon encouraged New Zealand businesses to better understand the Indian market, describing Indian consumers as among the most discerning in the world. He urged them to travel to India, learn about the markets, find the right partners, and tailor products and services to meet local needs.

He concluded by thanking participants for their commitment to advancing the bilateral relationship and expressed optimism about the future of India–New Zealand ties, ending his remarks with “Dhanyavaad.”

ANI

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Mojtaba Khamenei Vows Retribution For Father Ali Khamenei’s Assassination

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei has vowed to avenge the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed in US-Israeli strikes earlier this year.

He described the pursuit of retribution as a responsibility of the nation and emphasised that justice would inevitably be delivered to those responsible.

In a message issued during the funeral and burial ceremonies of the late leader, Mojtaba Khamenei pledged that the perpetrators would not escape punishment. He declared, “We pledge to avenge your pure blood and that of all the martyrs of these two wars from the criminal and dishonourable murderers. This revenge is the will of our nation and must be carried out without fail.”

He further warned that those responsible would never enjoy a peaceful death, stressing that the mission of revenge was not dependent on his presence or that of other officials. He asserted that the task would be accomplished regardless, and that free people across the world would contribute to fulfilling this divine mission.

Mojtaba Khamenei expressed gratitude for the unprecedented turnout during the six-day funeral ceremonies held across Iran and Iraq. He described the participation of tens of millions in cities such as Tehran, Qom, Najaf, Karbala, and Mashhad as historic, astonishing, and enemy-breaking.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was laid to rest at the Holy Shrine of Imam Reza in Mashhad late Thursday night. His coffin was carried around the shrine as part of the funeral rites before being buried at the Dar al-Dhikr prayer hall. The funeral prayers were led by his eldest son, Mostafa Khamenei, who performed the ritual prayers over the body.

In his message, Mojtaba Khamenei invoked the symbolism of Imam Hosayn, noting that the Iranian nation had long sacrificed in his cause and remained committed to that legacy. He said, “Our nation is the bloodthirsty one for Hosayn. This great nation sacrificed its children for many years in the cause of Hosayn and in the war against the enemies of Hosayn and the Hosayni cause. And now it is the bloodthirsty one for him and the Hosayni people of the time.”

Paying tribute to his father, Mojtaba Khamenei pledged to continue his path, vowing to uphold his school of thought and persevere despite difficulties. He promised to take heart in the promises of God, just as his father had done.

In the concluding part of his message, he offered prayers for his father and those killed alongside him in the strikes, describing them as martyrs who had attained divine honour. He said, “O martyr father of the nation, may you be blessed with the nectar of martyrdom that you have been longing for all your life... And you, his oppressed companions, who were unexpectedly attacked by the enemy and martyred, are blessed to be the guests of that Master... his safe neighbourhood has become your home.”

Ali Khamenei’s assassination on 28 February triggered widespread conflict across West Asia. Following his death, Mojtaba Khamenei was appointed as the new Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic, inheriting both the mantle of leadership and the responsibility of guiding the nation through a turbulent period.

ANI

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PM Modi Lauds Maori Leaders, Calls For Inclusive And Sustainable Trade Model

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address at the Business and Sports Engagement event in Auckland, underscored the cultural synergy between India and the indigenous Maori community of New Zealand.

He emphasised that the shared values of respect for nature, community, and sustainability between India and the Maori people could form the foundation of a new model for inclusive and sustainable global trade.

He expressed special gratitude to Maori business leaders, noting that the newly concluded India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA) had carved out special provisions for Maori enterprises, thereby recognising their unique role in the bilateral economic partnership.

The Prime Minister highlighted that both Indian and Kiwi business communities were being elevated to a strategic partnership. He praised the Maori business sector, which operates across a wide spectrum of commercial and export markets. Traditionally strong in agribusiness, fisheries, and forestry, Maori enterprises have expanded into tourism, real estate, professional services, and green energy.

Their economy is distinct for being intergenerational, sustainability-focused, and community-driven. Maori businesses deal extensively in dairy, sheep, beef, and kiwifruit, with major entities such as Moana New Zealand playing a central role. These enterprises rely heavily on international exports, with Asia being a key trading partner.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Modi was accorded a traditional Maori ‘powhiri’ ceremonial welcome at the Government House in Auckland. He described the experience as deeply moving and shared his sentiments on social media, calling it a reflection of New Zealand’s rich heritage and traditions.

This ceremonial welcome symbolised the depth of cultural respect and mutual admiration between the two nations.

During delegation-level talks with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, Modi hailed the swift conclusion of the India–New Zealand FTA, describing it as a remarkable achievement and a global first in terms of speed.

He noted the historic significance of his visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to New Zealand in four decades, and expressed gratitude for Luxon’s leadership in fast-tracking the trade pact. Modi recalled Luxon’s visit to India during the Holi festival last year, which he said had added “new colours” to the bilateral relationship, and now both nations were binding their ties through a Strategic Partnership.

The Prime Minister stressed that India and New Zealand are natural partners, bound by shared democratic values and common interests as maritime nations in the Indo-Pacific.

He expressed confidence that the enhanced partnership would contribute meaningfully to global peace, stability, and security. He described the relationship as one that could act as a catalyst for peace and global well-being.

Reflecting the strong people-to-people ties, Modi is scheduled to address a massive gathering of the Indian diaspora in Auckland later in the day. His visit, undertaken at the invitation of Prime Minister Luxon, began on Friday when he was warmly received by the New Zealand leader. This visit, coupled with the FTA, is expected to generate fresh momentum in trade, cultural exchange, and strategic cooperation between the two nations.

Agencies

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Air India Ranked Fourth Globally For Punctuality, Ahead of Emirates And Singapore Airlines

Air India has been ranked the world’s fourth most punctual airline in June 2026, achieving an on-time arrival rate of 86.85% across 15,135 flights, a departure punctuality of 86.23%, and a completion factor of 99.7%.

This milestone underscores both the airline’s transformation under the TATA Group and India’s growing aviation strength, placing Air India ahead of global giants such as Emirates and Singapore Airlines.

Air India’s achievement comes at a time when Indian carriers are increasingly competing with the world’s best airlines. For decades, punctuality rankings were dominated by carriers from the Middle East, Europe, and East Asia.

Now, Indian airlines are steadily reshaping that narrative. Air India’s latest ranking reflects the rapid transformation underway in India’s aviation sector, driven by large-scale investments in fleet modernisation, operational efficiency, and network expansion.

The Cirium June 2026 On-Time Performance report places Saudi Arabia’s Saudia at the top with a 92.38% on-time arrival rate, followed by Korean Air at 88.56% and Aeromexico at 86.94%. Air India’s 86.85% narrowly secured fourth place, ahead of Singapore Airlines at 86.74%. This tight competition highlights how closely contested punctuality has become among global carriers.

Unlike many airlines operating from less congested hubs, Air India manages one of the most complex route networks in the region. Its hub-and-spoke system connects domestic and international destinations primarily through Delhi and Mumbai, both of which are among the busiest airports in Asia. Congestion and air traffic restrictions at these hubs often pose challenges, yet Air India has steadily improved its punctuality through operational reforms.

The airline has introduced measures to improve departure punctuality, reduce aircraft turnaround times, strengthen real-time operational monitoring, and enable faster decision-making across its network. It has also invested in contingency planning and cross-functional coordination to mitigate disruptions caused by adverse weather, airspace restrictions, or technical issues. These efforts have delivered a more reliable travel experience for passengers and enhanced overall operational consistency.

Air India’s punctuality improvements are part of a broader transformation programme. Since joining the TATA Group, the airline has invested heavily in modernising its fleet, enhancing customer experience, introducing digital innovations, and strengthening global connectivity.

Fleet renewal is central to this transformation, with Air India placing orders for 600 new Airbus and Boeing aircraft, one of the largest procurement programmes in aviation history. Over the past six months, three new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners have joined the fleet, with additional Boeing 787-9s and Airbus A350-1000s scheduled for induction later this year.

Alongside new deliveries, Air India is refurbishing its existing widebody fleet. Two of its legacy Boeing 787-8 aircraft have already returned to service with redesigned cabins, while three more are undergoing interior upgrades in the United States. By the end of 2026, more than half of its widebody fleet will feature new or upgraded interiors, significantly enhancing the onboard experience for long-haul passengers.

Industry observers note that operational reliability is now as important as fleet upgrades. For passengers, consistent on-time performance translates into smoother connections, fewer delays, and greater confidence in choosing an airline for long-haul travel.

Air India’s strong showing in Cirium’s rankings signals that its transformation strategy is delivering measurable results, while also reinforcing India’s ambition to establish itself as one of the world’s leading aviation markets.

With passenger demand rising and international connectivity expanding, operational reliability will remain a critical factor in strengthening India’s position as one of the fastest-growing aviation markets. Air India’s recognition for punctuality demonstrates that Indian airlines are no longer merely expanding in size but are increasingly earning global recognition for operational excellence.

Agencies

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