DLRL’s Develops New Mobile AI-Driven Jammer Designed To Defeat Next-Gen Cognitive Military Radios

The Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL) of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing a new vehicle-mounted jammer designed specifically to counter cognitive radios, Alpha Defense reported.

This marks a significant step in India’s electronic warfare capabilities, targeting advanced communication systems that can rapidly adapt to jamming attempts.

Three units are being built under this program, each capable of covering a wide frequency range from 30 MHz to 6 GHz. The systems are designed to provide 360° detection and jamming coverage, with an effective range extending out to 20 km. This ensures comprehensive protection against adversary communication networks operating across multiple bands.

The jammer’s reaction time is under 5 microseconds, making it fast enough to track and disrupt radios hopping frequencies up to 2000 times per second. This capability is critical against modern adaptive radios that rely on rapid frequency changes to evade conventional jamming systems.

Deployment of the units from a vehicle can be achieved in under an hour, allowing rapid operational readiness in field conditions. The program timeline specifies delivery and testing to be completed within 21 months, reflecting DRDO’s push for accelerated development cycles in critical defence technologies.

The system is being tailored to meet the growing challenge posed by cognitive radios, which use artificial intelligence and machine learning to optimise communication links under hostile conditions. By developing indigenous solutions, India is reinforcing its Atmanirbhar Bharat vision in the domain of electronic warfare.

DLRL’s work builds upon India’s broader investments in spectrum dominance, electronic countermeasures, and resilient battlefield communications.

The integration of such jammers into mobile platforms ensures flexibility, enabling deployment across varied terrains and operational theatres.

The project also highlights DRDO’s emphasis on rapid prototyping and testing, with a clear focus on delivering operational systems within tight timelines.

This approach mirrors recent defence initiatives where indigenous industry, including Start-Ups and MSMEs, has been increasingly engaged in developing advanced systems.

The jammer units are expected to play a crucial role in protecting command-and-control networks, disrupting adversary communications, and ensuring secure operational environments for Indian forces. Their ability to counter adaptive and intelligent radios represents a leap in India’s electronic warfare preparedness.

Agencies

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India Develops Indigenous Helium Cryocooler For Quantum And Space Research

India has achieved another milestone in deep-tech research by joining the highly exclusive group of nations possessing closed-loop cryogenic refrigeration technology.

The Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology has successfully developed a Gifford-McMahon cryocooler capable of reaching minus 243 degrees Celsius, equivalent to 30 Kelvin, along with an indigenous helium compressor.

This breakthrough is significant because most conventional cooling systems cannot meet the extreme requirements of advanced scientific research. Helium is the only fluid that remains a gas near absolute zero, making a helium-based GM cryocooler indispensable for maintaining stable ultra-low temperatures.

The indigenous development of the helium compressor is the most critical part of this achievement. Helium gas generates immense heat when compressed and leaks easily, which means off-the-shelf air conditioning or industrial compressors cannot be used.

India’s ability to manufacture specialised, oil-free, tightly sealed helium compressors eliminates a long-standing import dependency and substantially reduces hardware costs for advanced laboratories.

The technology provides foundational infrastructure for several high-stakes sectors. In quantum technology and computing, quantum processors require extreme cooling, often near absolute zero, to prevent environmental heat from causing data errors known as decoherence.

In superconducting systems, the cryocooler powers high-efficiency superconducting magnets used in advanced medical diagnostic equipment such as MRI machines and in particle accelerators.

In space and advanced research, the cryocooler is vital for thermal testing of satellite components, cooling infrared sensors in defence systems, and supporting space-bound scientific instruments.

India’s entry into the closed-loop cryogenic technology club strengthens its position in global advanced research and technology development.

The achievement not only enhances the country’s scientific sovereignty but also provides critical infrastructure for its growing ecosystem of quantum research, superconducting applications, and space exploration programs.

It represents a decisive step towards reducing reliance on foreign imports and building indigenous capabilities in one of the most demanding areas of modern science.

Agencies

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India’s $1,94,000 Crore Battery Race: Can It Break Free From China’s Grip?

India’s battery market, projected to reach ₹1,94,000 crore by 2031, is expanding rapidly across electric vehicles, renewable energy, telecom and consumer electronics, but the country remains deeply dependent on China, which controls up to 98% of the global supply chain for critical components. 

Despite ambitious government programs and subsidies, India’s self-reliance in battery manufacturing is realistically a decade or more away.

India’s battery market is currently valued at nearly ₹1,16,000 crore and is expected to grow to ₹1,94,000 crore by 2031. This surge is driven by rising demand in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, telecom infrastructure and consumer electronics.

The government has launched multiple initiatives, including the National Program on Advanced Chemistry Cell Battery Storage, to attract investment and boost domestic manufacturing capacity.

India offers a significant cost advantage compared to Japan and South Korea, with estimates suggesting a 154% advantage over Japan and 9% over South Korea. However, this advantage is undermined by structural weaknesses.

Locally manufactured cells are expected to cost 25–40% more than imports in the near term due to limited scale, higher financing costs and an underdeveloped supplier ecosystem. As of 2026, India has only 2 GWh of commissioned cell manufacturing capacity against a demand pipeline of 260 GWh. In contrast, China has a cumulative capacity of 2,695 GWh.

China’s dominance is overwhelming. It controls between 85% and 98% of global capacity across every major supply chain component, including cathodes, anodes, separators and electrolytes. This leaves India structurally dependent on imports even as policy ambition accelerates.

Despite more than 226 GWh of announced capacity through 2035, execution delays, financial viability challenges and reliance on Chinese and Korean licensors mean India is still 10 to 15 years away from a globally competitive, self-sufficient cell industry.

Government incentives are attempting to bridge this gap. Schemes such as PM E-DRIVE and FAME-II have extended subsidies to electric vehicles, while state-level policies in Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu provide capital subsidies and tax waivers.

These measures have encouraged Gigafactory commitments, with domestic capacity announcements reaching 68 GWh in 2025. Yet, the execution remains slow, and the localisation of critical upstream components is still limited.

The near-term opportunity lies in downstream components such as battery packs, containers and electronic manufacturing services, where localisation is technically feasible and commercially attractive.

Companies like TATA Agratas and Ola Electric are investing in lithium iron phosphate and nickel manganese cobalt chemistries, but these efforts remain reliant on imported raw materials and licensed technologies.

India’s challenge is not just technological but also strategic. To achieve true self-reliance, the country must secure raw material supply chains, scale domestic production, and invest heavily in R&D. Without this, India risks being locked into dependence on China even as it races to meet its clean energy and electric mobility targets.

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BARC Explores Andaman Sites For Small Modular Nuclear-Powered Future

BARC has initiated a site inspection exercise in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to assess potential locations for Small Modular Reactors. A team of scientists from the Department of Atomic Energy is currently in Sri Vijaya Puram, where they began their visit by meeting Lieutenant Governor Admiral D K Joshi (Retd).

During the meeting, the team presented details of possible sites and features of the proposed plan. Over the next four days, the scientists will inspect sites across all three districts of the archipelago.

The proposal comes at a time when the islands face rising electricity demand linked to major infrastructure projects. The Great Nicobar Project, which includes a deep-sea port, an international container transhipment terminal and an airport, is expected to significantly increase power requirements.

Presently, the islands rely entirely on diesel generator sets, with fuel transported from the mainland. This arrangement is under strain and may not be sustainable as commercial demand grows.

Alternatives to diesel-based generation have been considered. An offshore LNG re-gasification plant was proposed but has not materialised. Geothermal energy is also under study, though assessments of the islands’ geothermal resources could take years to complete.

Against this backdrop, Small Modular Reactors are being examined as a viable option. These reactors can be configured to suit island requirements, occupy less space than conventional nuclear plants, and are regarded as easier to manage.

Admiral Joshi, who also serves as vice-chairman of the Islands Development Agency, has long advocated the deployment of SMRs in the islands. At the Bharat Electricity Summit 2026, he highlighted their suitability for the archipelago, citing examples of countries in Seismic Zone-V operating similar systems, including offshore barge-mounted floating plants. He also pointed out their potential for rapid scalability and freshwater generation through cooling systems.

The strategic importance of the islands adds weight to the case for nuclear power. Located over 1,000 km from the mainland, the archipelago lies close to the Six Degree Channel, a maritime chokepoint leading to the Strait of Malacca.

The Great Nicobar Project is expected to enhance access for the Indian Navy and Air Force to this critical channel, strengthening India’s presence in the region.

According to sources, Admiral Joshi expressed keen interest in the BARC presentation and assured full support to the visiting team as they carry out the site assessment.

The initiative reflects the government’s broader push to integrate advanced nuclear technology into India’s energy mix, particularly in regions where conventional power generation is not feasible.

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TCS HyperVault To Build ₹7,00,000 Crore AI Data Centre Campus In Hyderabad

TATA Consultancy Services has announced a landmark investment through its subsidiary HyperVault, which, along with partners, will commit up to ₹7,00,000 Crores ($7.4 Billion US) to establish a massive AI data centre campus in Telangana.

The project, unveiled on Saturday, marks one of the largest single investments in India’s digital infrastructure sector.

HyperVault has already secured 264 acres in Hyderabad for the development. The campus will be built in phases, ensuring scalability and long-term expansion. At full capacity, the facility will deliver 1 gigawatt of AI data centre infrastructure, designed specifically to support hyperscalers and AI companies with high-density GPU deployments for training and inference workloads.

The company has stated that once completed, the campus will rank among the largest AI infrastructure facilities in India. This scale reflects the growing demand for advanced computing power as artificial intelligence adoption accelerates across industries.

The project is expected to attract global technology leaders seeking reliable and scalable infrastructure in India.

TCS Chief Executive Officer K Krithivasan emphasised that Hyderabad offers the scale, talent pool, and ecosystem required to serve global customers. The city has already established itself as a major hub for IT and emerging technologies, and this project further strengthens its position as a centre for AI-driven innovation.

The announcement comes shortly after TCS agreed to acquire Porsche AG’s automotive and consulting unit MHP. This acquisition signals the company’s intent to broaden its offerings beyond traditional IT services, integrating advanced consulting and industry-specific expertise with its technology portfolio. The dual moves highlight TCS’s strategy of diversifying into high-growth areas while reinforcing its global competitiveness.

Industry experts believe the AI data centre campus will not only boost India’s digital infrastructure but also create significant employment opportunities in engineering, operations, and AI research.

The phased development ensures that capacity additions can align with evolving demand, while the scale of investment underscores confidence in India’s role as a global AI hub.

The project also reflects a wider trend of Indian IT majors investing heavily in next-generation infrastructure. With AI workloads requiring unprecedented computing power, facilities like HyperVault’s Hyderabad campus are expected to become critical enablers of innovation, supporting both domestic enterprises and international clients.

This initiative positions TCS at the forefront of India’s AI infrastructure race, complementing government efforts to strengthen digital capabilities and attract foreign investment.

The combination of scale, strategic location, and advanced technology integration makes the HyperVault campus a pivotal development in India’s digital transformation journey.

TCS Press Release

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ISRO Lead Centres & Select Departments Demand Clarity On Privatisation Plans

For the first time since the government opened the space sector to private industry, nine employee bodies representing staff at ISRO centres have formally raised concerns about the direction and basis of the transition, Times of India reported.

In a joint representation dated 4 September, they have sought a written clarification from the chairman of the Space Commission.

The representation stated that private participation in defined commercial activities can coexist with a strong, publicly owned ISRO. However, it warned that reducing ISRO to a residual research and development boutique while transferring the realisation of launch vehicles and the operation of launch infrastructure out of public hands cannot be accepted without debate.

The employee bodies described the technology developed by ISRO as a national asset. They emphasised that its transfer must be transparent and accountable.

They argued that serving employees have an earned right to be informed, consulted and protected, and that natural justice and good administration require such a policy to be explained directly to the workforce by the Department.

The joint representation was signed by the ISRO Staff Association, SHAR Employees Association, ISAC Employees Association, ISRO Staff Association-LPSC, ISRO Staff Association-BBU, NRSA Employees Union, Space Employees Association-BBU, ISRO Staff Association-IPRC and SAC Employees Welfare Association.

The bodies referred to a statement reportedly made by IN-SPACe chairman Pawan Goenka that ISRO will eventually not manufacture any launch vehicles.

They asked for clarity on whether this remark represents an approved decision of the Government of India, the Space Commission or the Department of Space. If so, they demanded details regarding its approval and authority.

The employees also sought clarity on ISRO’s future role. They asked whether design, development, realisation, integration, testing and launch of PSLV, LVM-3, SSLV and successor vehicles will continue as ISRO functions or will cease.

They further questioned whether any decision has been taken to exclude public sector undertakings from the proposed transfer of PSLV and LVM-3 production, and the justification for such exclusion.

They requested more written details of the institutional framework under which publicly developed technology, test facilities, launch complexes and know-how built using taxpayer funds and the work of generations of ISRO employees are being opened to private operators.

They stressed that ISRO was built as a national scientific institution with public funds, public purpose and a public workforce. They argued that launch-vehicle design, realisation, integration, testing and launch operations are not merely manufacturing contracts but represent the organisation’s core competence, institutional memory and strategic capability.

The representatives expressed concern that a gradual withdrawal of ISRO from launch-vehicle and satellite realisation could affect work opportunities.

They warned that existing employees may be rendered surplus, redeployed or left without meaningful work while private contractors perform the same tasks using publicly developed technology.

They added that regular recruitment to Group A, B and C posts, already constrained by vacancies and attrition, will further decline, denying opportunities to meritorious youth who look to ISRO as a public career of honour rather than as a private contractor’s workforce.

In their closing comments, the letter congratulated ISRO on the success of the GSLV-F17/EOS-05 mission. It concluded by stating that the submission was made in a constructive and democratic spirit. The bodies are expected to take action depending on the written response they receive.

Agencies

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IAF To Closely Study Japan’s F-2 Fighters (Heavily Modified F-16s) In Veer Guardian 2026 Exercise

Exercise Veer Guardian 2026, scheduled from 9 to 21 September at Jodhpur Air Force Station, is a joint air combat drill between the Indian Air Force and the Japan Air Self-Defence Force, according to a report by The Week.

It represents a unique strategic opportunity for India, as Japanese Mitsubishi F-2A fighters will be deployed for the first time to Indian soil. The Japanese contingent has already begun arriving, with two JASDF C-2 transport aircraft landing ahead of the drills.

The Indian Air Force has stated that the exercise will enhance interoperability, operational synergy and mutual understanding between the two air forces, while reinforcing the growing defence relationship between India and Japan.

According to reports, three F-2A fighters will be deployed, marking the first bilateral air combat exercise in India involving Japanese fighter aircraft.

The deployment matters because the Mitsubishi F-2 evolved directly from the American F-16 Fighting Falcon, jointly developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Lockheed Martin. While heavily modified and larger than the original F-16, the aircraft retains the aerodynamic lineage and design characteristics of the original.

This is particularly relevant for India, as Pakistan operates a fleet of around 75 to 80 F-16 Fighting Falcons, which remain among the Pakistan Air Force’s most important combat assets.

Training alongside and potentially against the F-2 provides Indian pilots with a rare opportunity to study and operate against an aircraft that closely resembles the F-16 in size, shape and overall configuration. 

This is significant because Pakistan reportedly deployed the F-16 against India during Operation Sindoor, making the exercise a chance to gain valuable tactical insights.

The F-2 is not identical to the F-16. It features several modifications, including a wing area around 25 per cent larger, a longer fuselage and larger horizontal tails. The larger wing allows for additional fuel storage and more weapon stations, enhancing endurance and payload flexibility.

The aircraft was also the first production fighter to enter service with an Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, giving it advanced detection and tracking capabilities.

Japanese-developed systems further distinguish the F-2. It incorporates indigenous fly-by-wire flight controls and an integrated electronic warfare suite, making it highly capable in contested environments. 

Designed as a multi-role fighter, the F-2 can perform both air-to-air and air-to-surface missions, though it is optimised for maritime strike and coastal defence operations. This makes it particularly effective in scenarios involving sea-based threats, a capability that complements India’s own operational requirements.

For the Indian Air Force, exposure to the F-2 means pilots will gain experience against an aircraft that mirrors Pakistan’s frontline fighter fleet, while also learning to counter advanced systems such as AESA radar and electronic warfare suites.

This enhances preparedness for real-world scenarios and strengthens tactical adaptability. The exercise also builds on the broader strategic partnership between India and Japan, which has expanded significantly in recent years across defence, maritime security and technology cooperation.

The drills will therefore serve both tactical and strategic purposes. On the tactical level, they provide dissimilar air combat training, exposing pilots to unfamiliar sensors, weapons and manoeuvring characteristics.

On the strategic level, they reinforce the growing defence axis between New Delhi and Tokyo, signalling convergence in the Indo-Pacific at a time of heightened regional tensions.

Agencies

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India’s Eye In The Sky: Ex-ISRO Chairman Reveals EOS-5 Satellite’s Strategic Edge

ISRO’s EOS-05 launch marks a historic milestone as India’s first geosynchronous earth imaging satellite, delivering real-time strategic data for agriculture, disaster management, and national security, NewsX Live reported. 

Former Chairman G Madhavan Nair emphasised its importance in strengthening India’s space program and enhancing surveillance capabilities across sensitive borders and maritime zones.

The Indian Space Research Organisation successfully launched EOS-05 aboard the GSLV-F17 from Sriharikota. The satellite, weighing 2,367 kg, was injected into a sub-geosynchronous transfer orbit before being raised to its final geosynchronous position at 36,000 km altitude.

This makes EOS-05 the heaviest payload carried by GSLV to date and India’s first dedicated imaging satellite in geosynchronous orbit.

EOS-05 is nicknamed the “Eye in the Sky” for its ability to provide persistent coverage. Unlike low-earth orbit satellites, which revisit regions after long intervals, EOS-05 can continuously monitor the same area.

It carries multispectral imagers, including one with a 42-metre resolution, the highest ever achieved in geostationary orbit. It can image the Indian subcontinent every 30 minutes and priority targets every 5 minutes, enabling rapid response to dynamic events.

The applications of EOS-05 are wide-ranging. In agriculture, it will monitor crop health, irrigation, and land-use changes. In disaster management, it will provide near real-time tracking of cyclones, floods, landslides, and forest fires.

For environmental monitoring, it will observe cloud systems, pollution, and deforestation. Strategically, it will strengthen surveillance of borders with Pakistan and China, maritime domains, and conflict zones, providing India with a crucial edge in national security.

Former ISRO Chairman G. Madhavan Nair explained that the satellite’s high-resolution imaging capabilities are vital for both civilian and defence purposes. He highlighted that such satellites are indispensable for modern warfare, where real-time intelligence can determine outcomes.

He also noted that EOS-05 represents a leap in India’s space program, showcasing indigenous capability in heavy satellite launches and advanced imaging technology.

The mission is also significant for ISRO’s GSLV program. The GSLV-F17 marks the 19th flight of the series and demonstrates improved cryogenic engine performance.

This success follows earlier setbacks, including the failure of GISAT-1 in 2021, making EOS-05 a redemption for ISRO’s geo-imaging ambitions. The satellite is expected to play a key role in India’s upcoming missions, including Gaganyaan, by proving reliability in heavy payload launches.

EOS-05’s dual-use nature underscores India’s growing reliance on space assets for both development and defence. Its ability to provide continuous, high-resolution imagery will support government agencies, armed forces, and disaster response teams.

The satellite also strengthens India’s position in the global space race, where geospatial intelligence is increasingly critical.

The launch was witnessed by scientists, officials, and members of the public, despite the odd hour and rain. ISRO Chairman V Narayanan confirmed that the satellite’s health is perfectly stable, with solar panels deployed successfully.

The mission director and project director described EOS-05 as a uniquely configured satellite with complex capabilities, reflecting years of teamwork between ISRO and its industrial partners.

This achievement comes at a time when India is transferring satellite and rocket technologies to private players, signalling a structural transition in the space sector. EOS-05 demonstrates that ISRO remains at the forefront of strategic missions while enabling private industry to contribute to future developments.

Agencies

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L&T Technology Services Launches FARM To Accelerate Start-Up Innovation

L&T Technology Services (LTTS), a global leader in Engineering Intelligence solutions and ER&D consulting, has announced the launch of LTTS FARM, a dedicated Start-Up engagement platform designed to help deep-tech ventures move from laboratory innovation to market adoption.

The initiative has been conceived to accelerate commercialization through collaboration, co-innovation, and structured industry access.

LTTS FARM is built on the guiding philosophy of “Collaboration First, Commercialization Next.” It specifically targets Start-Ups with Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 and above, where technical feasibility has already been validated and readiness for industry adoption is established.

The program is aligned with LTTS’ Technology Big Bets, which include Software Defined Mobility, Energy and Industrial Automation, Digital Manufacturing, Next Generation Compute and Data Centres, Software Platforms and Engineering Intelligence, and MedTech.

The program offers participating Start-Ups access to LTTS’ engineering expertise, global customer ecosystems, mentorship, and structured commercialization pathways.

The journey will involve evaluation, onboarding, co-innovation, pilot development, and eventual commercialisation. Eligible solutions may be scaled through pilot projects, proof-of-concepts, customer demonstrations, and diverse commercial engagements, ensuring that promising technologies can reach industry scale.

Amit Chadha, CEO and Managing Director of LTTS and Member of the NASSCOM Executive Council, emphasised the importance of bridging the gap between innovation and market adoption. He stated that many promising technologies struggle due to limited access to customers, industry expertise, and commercialization opportunities.

Through LTTS FARM, Start-Ups will be able to collaborate with LTTS experts, gain exposure to global markets and customer requirements, validate real-world applications, and accelerate their journey from solution readiness to market adoption.

He further added that LTTS FARM will expand the company’s Engineering Intelligence ecosystem, transforming breakthrough ideas into industry-ready solutions that deliver measurable business impact. 

The initiative is expected to strengthen LTTS’ role in nurturing innovation while positioning India’s deep-tech Start-Ups for global competitiveness.

The launch of LTTS FARM also reflects LTTS’ broader strategy of integrating advanced engineering with structured industry collaboration. By creating a platform that connects Start-Ups with global ecosystems, LTTS is reinforcing its commitment to fostering innovation, driving digital transformation, and enabling sustainable growth across multiple technology domains.

L&T Press Release

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DPSU Munitions India And Drogo Aerospace Forge Pact For Indigenous UAV And Loitering Munition Systems

Munitions India Limited, a Defence Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Drogo Aerospace Private Limited to collaborate on the design, development and integration of indigenous Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and loitering munition systems.

The agreement was signed in Pune by Yashwanth Bonthu, Founder and CEO of Drogo Aerospace, and Kumar Vaibhav Gaur, Executive Director of MIL.

Drogo Aerospace will concentrate on the design, development and manufacturing of UAV platforms, including associated empty-payload hardware. MIL will contribute its expertise in defence munitions and warhead technologies.

Established in 2021 after the restructuring of the Ordnance Factory Board into seven separate public sector undertakings, MIL manufactures ammunition, explosives, rockets and bombs for the Indian Armed Forces, foreign military customers and domestic civilian requirements.

As part of the collaboration, MIL will bring its capabilities in munitions design, explosive systems, payload filling, fuzing and modular munition development.

The two organisations will jointly work on subsequent stages of development, including munition–UAV integration, safety evaluation, field and range trials, and quality certification.

The partnership is expected to combine UAV engineering, munition technology, payload systems and defence-grade integration capabilities to develop indigenous unmanned systems for authorised defence requirements.

A key element of the collaboration is Drogo Aerospace’s indigenous Delta Wing Kamikaze UAV/loitering munition platform, which was successfully tested recently in Hyderabad.

The Delta Wing Kamikaze is a loitering munition-type unmanned platform designed to identify and engage designated targets. The triangular wing configuration gives the system its name, while the term Kamikaze is used in modern defence terminology to describe one-way attack drones designed to strike intended targets.

Drogo Aerospace stated that the platform is being developed with long-range defence requirements in mind. It is designed for a mission range of up to 1,000 km and a warhead-carrying capacity of approximately 20–30 kg.

The MoU with MIL is expected to strengthen the platform’s munition and warhead integration capabilities and facilitate its progression through the next stages of development, integration and validation.

Speaking on the occasion, Yashwanth Bonthu said the Delta Wing Kamikaze represented an important step in the development of advanced indigenous unmanned systems for India’s defence requirements. 

He emphasised that the combination of Drogo Aerospace’s UAV engineering capabilities with MIL’s expertise in munitions and warhead technologies would add strength to the partnership.

He added that the successful recent test of the Delta Wing Kamikaze had provided further momentum to the program, and the MoU would support the company in moving towards integration, validation and mission readiness.

Kumar Vaibhav Gaur expressed satisfaction at MIL’s participation in the MoU, stating that the collaboration would strengthen Indian defence through joint efforts with Drogo Aerospace.

The partnership aligns with the broader objective of promoting the development and manufacture of advanced defence systems within India.

By combining UAV engineering, loitering munition technology, payload systems and defence integration capabilities, the two organisations aim to strengthen the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The collaboration is also intended to contribute to the development of next-generation indigenous unmanned systems for the Indian Armed Forces and other authorised defence requirements.

The association between Drogo Aerospace and MIL, bringing together indigenous UAV and munition capabilities, marks another step towards enhancing technological self-reliance and domestic manufacturing capabilities in India’s defence sector.

Agencies

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India-Brazil Trade Soars Tenfold To ₹1,25,000 Crores In Two Decades, Sets Stage For BRICS Summit

Brazil’s Consul General in Mumbai, Jose Mauro da Fonseca Costa Couto, has underlined the remarkable growth in bilateral trade between India and Brazil, noting that it has expanded tenfold in the past two decades.

He recalled that when he first arrived in India in 2004, two-way trade stood at just $1.5 billion, which is approximately ₹12,500 crores. Today, that figure has crossed $15 billion, translating to over ₹1,25,000 crores, reflecting a dramatic surge in economic engagement between the two nations.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Global Impact Forum: Edition II – Civilisation Legacy, held in Mumbai, Couto emphasised that this growth is a testament to the rapid progress made by both countries in bringing their people and economies closer together.

He congratulated India and Brazil for achieving such momentum in trade and investment ties, highlighting the tangible benefits of stronger bilateral cooperation.

Couto also extended his appreciation to the organisers of the forum, describing it as a platform that fosters closer ties between people from different countries. He noted that such gatherings allow nations to discuss their respective pathways to development without external interference, thereby strengthening mutual understanding and trust.

He characterised the Mumbai event as a “warm-up” summit ahead of the larger BRICS Summit scheduled to take place in New Delhi on 12–13 September. He remarked that the Global Impact Forum serves as a preparatory engagement, setting the stage for the high-level deliberations that will follow at the BRICS Summit.

The Global Impact Forum Edition II, organised by AP Globale, is being hosted at the Taj Mahal Palace in Mumbai on 5–6 September under the theme “Civilizational Legacy.” The event has brought together participants from business, government, policy, and academia, with discussions centred on investment, entrepreneurship, diplomacy, and international cooperation.

AP Globale Director Janhavi Pawar explained that the forum was designed with the BRICS theme in mind, focusing on soft power and investment in India. She highlighted the importance of cultural understanding in business, noting that soft power helps retain trade, investments, and talent even during periods of geopolitical instability.

Pawar stressed that companies entering new markets must understand local cultures and sentiments, as this builds trust and strengthens long-term partnerships.

India, as BRICS Chair in 2026, will host the 18th BRICS Summit at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on 12–13 September. The summit will bring together leaders of BRICS Member and Partner Countries, along with Outreach Invitees, to deliberate on key global issues.

India’s Chairship is guided by the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” which reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a people-centric approach rooted in the principle of “Humanity First,” as outlined by the Ministry of External Affairs.

The developments in Mumbai and the upcoming summit in New Delhi underscore India’s proactive role in shaping BRICS cooperation. The rapid expansion of India-Brazil trade, alongside broader multilateral engagements, highlights the growing importance of South-South partnerships in driving global economic resilience and innovation.

ANI

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Putin Meets Trump Envoys Amid Moscow-Kyiv Ceasefire Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin met US Presidential Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, at the Kremlin on Saturday as Washington intensified diplomatic efforts to advance a settlement to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Putin welcomed the envoys and described the situation under discussion as “a difficult one,” while asking them to convey his best wishes and gratitude to Trump. He emphasised that despite facing a difficult situation, Trump continued his efforts to resolve the conflict and contribute to its settlement.

Putin stated that all components and aspects of the conflict would be discussed during the meeting and assured the envoys that Russia was ready to share its perspective.

He noted that Witkoff and Kushner were travelling to Kyiv after Moscow and stressed that contacts of this nature were beneficial.

He underlined the importance of trust in mediation and said Russia found it comfortable to work with the US envoys, highlighting the high level of trust in their engagement.

Witkoff thanked Putin for receiving the delegation and conveyed Trump’s greetings, saying, “President Trump sends you his best wishes.” He also expressed gratitude for Putin’s endorsement of the temporary suspension of strikes in Kyiv and Moscow, which allowed the US delegation to travel safely. Witkoff said, “I want to thank you for endorsing the no-shoot policy in Kyiv and in Moscow for these three days that allowed us to be able to come here in a safe manner.”

Putin confirmed that Russia had received an official request through diplomatic and intelligence channels to stop strikes on Kyiv and that he had issued the order. He said that since midnight on September 5, Russian strikes on Kyiv had ceased.

He added that Ukraine had also significantly reduced strikes on Russian territory, including Moscow, by an order of magnitude. However, he clarified that while Ukrainian authorities had publicly called for a broader three-day truce, Moscow had not agreed to such an arrangement. He stressed that Russia would nevertheless do everything possible to ensure the safety of the negotiation process and the mediators.

The meeting followed Putin’s order for a three-day suspension of strikes on Kyiv beginning at midnight on September 5, announced by Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov as Witkoff and Kushner arrived in Moscow. Peskov explained that the decision was linked to the US delegation’s consultations being prepared in Kyiv.

He said, “Russian President Putin, the supreme commander-in-chief, has ordered a three-day suspension of strikes on Kyiv starting at midnight today. This has to do with the Americans’ consultations that are being prepared and will be held in Kyiv.”

After their Moscow visit, Witkoff and Kushner were scheduled to travel to Kyiv. Trump had confirmed on Friday that the two envoys would visit Moscow and Kyiv as part of Washington’s diplomatic efforts to advance a peace proposal aimed at ending the conflict.

He said, “So I sent Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, the two great negotiators. They’ve done a great job. And we sent them over to see whether or not we can get something done, and there may be a good chance that we’ll do it.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also announced that Kyiv was ready to observe a temporary ceasefire in airstrikes while the US delegation conducted its consultations. He posted on X, “I have just spoken with the U.S. President’s envoys.

They have already begun working with the Russian side today. From the moment of this conversation, we are ready to observe a ceasefire in airstrikes against the cities involved in the negotiation process.”

ANI

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Pentagon’s Unprecedented Polygraph Dragnet Targets Leaks On Iran War And Munitions

The Pentagon has launched an unprecedented leak probe, subjecting around 50 Joint Staff members to polygraph tests in August after reports revealed severe shortages of US munitions during the war with Iran.

The move reflects both President Donald Trump’s fury over leaks and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth’s aggressive clampdown on dissent within the military.

US government investigators carried out polygraph examinations on approximately 50 officers and civilian employees of the Joint Staff.

The inquiry focused on whether they had disclosed classified information to journalists, particularly details about depleted stockpiles of long‑range missiles and Patriot interceptors. The tests followed a series of media reports highlighting shortages of critical weapons during the West Asia conflict.

Officials familiar with the probe said the effort was designed not only to identify individuals who may have leaked information but also to deter others from speaking to the press. The Joint Staff, which coordinates operations, policy, and war plans with combatant commanders worldwide, employs between 1,500 and 2,000 personnel. Mass testing of this scale has not been seen in modern US military history.

Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell issued a statement stressing that the department does not comment on internal personnel or investigative matters but takes leaks of classified national security information extremely seriously. He added that securing classified information is critical to ensuring the safety of US forces deployed globally.

The investigation comes amid growing concern over the impact of the Iran war on US munitions reserves. Reports by multiple news organisations have detailed how the conflict has strained stockpiles of precision weapons, raising questions about America’s long‑term readiness. Trump has described critical media coverage of the shortages as “treasonous” and pressed officials to aggressively pursue those responsible for leaks.

The atmosphere inside the Pentagon has become increasingly tense. Current and former officials say distrust has deepened, attributing much of it to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Operating with a close circle of loyalists, Hegseth has blocked or pushed out the promotions of at least 80 generals, admirals, and senior officials. His leadership style has triggered several leak investigations since early last year, with critics pointing to his restrictive approach to press access.

Hegseth faced criticism previously after sharing sensitive details about US strikes in Yemen in a Signal group. He has not briefed the Pentagon press corps about the war in Iran since May 5, further limiting transparency.

Last month, the Department of War dismissed the publisher and editor‑in‑chief of Stars and Stripes, a government‑funded military news outlet. Journalists at the paper said the move was retaliation for their reporting on worsening conditions aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln.

Investigators are also reportedly considering whether some leaks may have involved foreign intelligence activity, given the sensitivity of the munitions data. The scale of the polygraph campaign underscores the administration’s determination to clamp down on unauthorised disclosures, even at the cost of morale among senior military staff.

ANI

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Russia To Showcase Major Upgraded of Ka‑52E Attack Gunship For Africa After Battlefield Lessons

Russia is preparing to unveil a heavily modernised version of its Ka‑52E combat reconnaissance and attack helicopter at the El Alamein International Air Show 2026 in Egypt, Military Watch Magazine reported.

The move reflects Moscow’s determination to expand exports of a platform that has gained extensive combat experience during the war in Ukraine. Egypt remains the only foreign operator of the Ka‑52, which is significantly more expensive than other Russian attack helicopter types, making Cairo the leading potential client for the proposed upgrades.

The Ka‑52 has become one of the most extensively combat tested helicopters in the world, with modifications shaped by lessons from high‑intensity operations in the Ukrainian theatre.

The upgraded Ka‑52 will be showcased by Russia’s state arms exporter Rosoboronexport. It incorporates the GOES‑451M gyro‑stabilised optoelectronic system and the 305E light multipurpose guided missile.

The GOES‑451M is designed to enhance detection, identification, and engagement of targets. Electro‑optical and infrared sensor systems are vital for attack helicopters operating at low altitude and over long distances, enabling crews to acquire targets while minimising exposure and allowing precision‑guided weapons to be used effectively.

The 305E missile is a compact precision weapon that provides helicopters with longer‑range strike capability. Its introduction is particularly significant because it allows the Ka‑52 to engage targets from much greater distances than older unguided rockets and short‑range anti‑tank missiles.

This reduces the need for the helicopter to approach heavily defended targets. The combination of the improved sensor system and the 305E missile marks a broader evolution in the Ka‑52’s role.

Rather than functioning primarily as a close‑support attack helicopter, it is increasingly positioned as a stand‑off precision strike system, using advanced sensors to identify targets and guided weapons to attack them from outside the immediate engagement range of many short‑range ground‑based air defence systems.

Rosoboronexport has described these modifications as part of a wider effort to integrate lessons from combat operations into Russian weapons and military equipment.

This potentially offers foreign operators access to capabilities developed through experience on one of the most demanding battlefields in modern warfare.

The company noted that clients were showing strong interest in Russian products modernised using combat experience. The Ka‑52 has been operated in diverse roles, including air defence against drones and the destruction of hostile armour, further underlining its versatility.

The presentation of the upgraded Ka‑52 at El Alamein is therefore not only a marketing exercise but also a strategic demonstration of Russia’s ability to adapt its combat platforms based on operational realities.

For Egypt, which already operates carrier‑based Ka‑52 helicopters, the upgrades could significantly enhance its naval aviation strike capabilities. For Russia, the export push underscores its reliance on proven battlefield systems to attract buyers in regions where demand for advanced attack helicopters remains strong.

Agencies

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Luxembourg's Xavier Bettel’s India Visit To Boost Ties In Tech And Diplomacy

Luxembourg Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Xavier Bettel will undertake a three-day official visit to India from 7 to 9 September. His program includes high-level engagements in New Delhi and Chennai.

Bettel will arrive in the national capital on Monday and is scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar at Hyderabad House later in the day. This meeting will mark the first major engagement of his visit.

On Tuesday, Bettel will travel to Chennai where he will visit the IIT-Madras campus. He will also tour the IIT-Madras Research Park, which has become a hub for innovation and collaboration between academia and industry. Later, he will inaugurate a new SES campus, reflecting Luxembourg’s interest in expanding its footprint in India’s technology and education sectors.

The Deputy Prime Minister will depart India in the early hours of Wednesday, concluding his official program.

This visit follows Jaishankar’s engagement with Bettel in Luxembourg earlier this year. During that meeting, the two leaders discussed bilateral ties and explored areas for greater collaboration, particularly in FinTech, space, and Artificial Intelligence.

Jaishankar highlighted the longstanding relationship between India and Luxembourg, noting that the two countries have enjoyed 78 years of diplomatic ties. He emphasised Luxembourg’s importance not only as a bilateral partner but also as a gateway to deeper engagement with the European Union.

The External Affairs Minister praised Bettel for his role in strengthening India-Luxembourg relations and for supporting closer India-EU ties. He acknowledged Bettel’s influence in shaping the larger relationship and his advocacy for deepening cooperation between India and the European Union.

Jaishankar also pointed to the scope for expanding bilateral cooperation beyond traditional trade. He stressed that emerging areas such as FinTech, space, the digital world, and Artificial Intelligence offer significant opportunities for productive collaboration.

India and Luxembourg established diplomatic relations in 1948 and have since maintained warm and friendly relations marked by mutual understanding and cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels.

Luxembourg opened its Embassy in New Delhi in February 2002 and maintains honorary consuls in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and Bangalore, underscoring its commitment to strengthening ties with India.

Bettel’s three-day visit, with engagements in both New Delhi and Chennai, is expected to reinforce the partnership and open new avenues for collaboration in technology, innovation, and strategic sectors.

ANI

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