Indian Defence News

Friday, May 1, 2026

During an interaction with Smita Prakash of ANI at the National Security Summit, Defence Research and Development Organisation Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat revealed that the Agni-6 missile programme has reached readiness but is awaiting final approval from the Centre.

He described this as a potential landmark in India’s long-range strategic missile capabilities, signalling a significant step forward in the nation’s deterrence posture.

Kamat explained that the Agni-6 represents the next generation of India’s strategic arsenal, designed to extend reach and enhance survivability. While earlier iterations of the Agni series have already established India’s credibility in long-range missile technology, the Agni-6 is expected to push the envelope further, offering greater range and payload flexibility.

He noted that the missile is technically complete and ready for induction, but the final decision rests with the government. Approval from the Centre would mark a decisive moment in India’s strategic trajectory, strengthening its ability to project power and maintain credible deterrence in a rapidly evolving security environment.

The disclosure underscores DRDO’s progress in advancing indigenous missile systems, reflecting years of sustained research and development. It also highlights the delicate balance between technological readiness and political authorisation in strategic weapons programs.

Kamat’s remarks at the summit have drawn attention to the broader context of India’s defence modernisation, where long-range missile capabilities are seen as critical to ensuring national security against both regional and global challenges.

The Agni-6, once cleared, would represent a major boost to India’s strategic arsenal, reinforcing its position as a responsible nuclear power with credible deterrence capabilities.

ANI

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India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has confirmed that its hypersonic glide missile programme is advancing rapidly, with initial trials expected soon. The glide variant is currently ahead of the hypersonic cruise missile in development, marking a significant step in India’s strategic arsenal.

The DRDO Chairman, Samir V Kamat, speaking at the ANI National Security Summit 2.0, revealed that India is simultaneously pursuing two hypersonic programmes: the Hypersonic Glide Missile and the Hypersonic Cruise Missile.

The glide missile, known as the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM) hypersonic glide vehicle, has reached an advanced stage. It uses a booster for initial acceleration before gliding unpowered to its target, making it distinct from the cruise missile, which relies on a scramjet engine throughout its flight. Kamat emphasised that the glide missile will be tested first, as it is ahead in development compared to the cruise system.

He explained that the hypersonic glide missile is designed to achieve extreme speeds and survivability, offering India a potent strike capability against adversaries equipped with advanced air defence networks.

The glide system’s reliance on unpowered flight after booster acceleration makes it harder to track and intercept, thereby enhancing its deterrent value. The upcoming trials are expected to validate its operational readiness and pave the way for induction.

Alongside hypersonic developments, Kamat also discussed the evolving framework for a conventional missile force. He noted that India is considering a diverse mix of systems, including short-, medium-, and long-range ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and hypersonic platforms.

This layered force structure would provide flexibility for both tactical and strategic missions. He highlighted that short-range systems such as the Pralay ballistic missile are in their final testing stages and nearing induction into the armed forces.

The DRDO’s readiness in hypersonic technology coincides with its preparedness for the Agni-VI ballistic missile project, which awaits government approval. Agni-VI is expected to be the most advanced missile in the Agni series, offering extended range and enhanced performance.

While the Agni-VI remains a policy decision, the hypersonic glide missile programme demonstrates India’s determination to push forward with next-generation capabilities.

India’s progress in hypersonic systems reflects a broader ambition to strengthen its deterrence posture and achieve technological self-reliance in advanced missile systems. The glide missile’s imminent trials will mark a milestone, positioning India among the select nations capable of fielding hypersonic strike platforms.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Vietnamese President To Lam is preparing to make New Delhi his first major foreign destination since assuming office, with a significant defence agreement expected to dominate the agenda. Central to the discussions is a proposed BrahMos missile package valued at approximately ₹5,800 Crores.

If concluded, this deal would mark one of Vietnam’s largest defence acquisitions in recent years and would considerably strengthen Hanoi’s coastal deterrence capabilities.

The package under consideration is reported to include shore-based BrahMos batteries designed for coastal defence, alongside training, logistics support and an initial batch of missiles. Such a comprehensive arrangement underscores Vietnam’s determination to modernise its maritime security posture, particularly in the contested waters of the South China Sea.

The acquisition would also make Vietnam the third Southeast Asian nation to induct the Indo-Russian supersonic cruise missile, following the Philippines’ agreement in 2022 and Indonesia’s ongoing negotiations.

The BrahMos system, known for its high speed, extended range variants and sea-skimming trajectory, has already established itself as a preferred anti-ship platform in the region. Vietnam’s interest reflects its strategic need to develop long-range sea-denial capabilities in response to China’s expanding naval presence. With its long coastline and offshore interests, Hanoi views BrahMos as a fitting solution to bolster its maritime deterrence.

For India, the deal represents a major boost to its “Make in India” defence export initiative, highlighting the growing appeal of indigenous platforms in the Indo-Pacific. Moscow has already cleared the transfer, signalling continued trilateral cooperation between India, Russia and Vietnam despite global supply chain challenges. For Russia, the arrangement sustains the BrahMos program, while for India it demonstrates increasing strategic autonomy in defence diplomacy.

To Lam’s visit is therefore seen as more than ceremonial. It carries substantial geopolitical weight, reinforcing India’s emergence as a credible security partner in the Indo-Pacific.

Vietnam’s engagement with India in this sphere not only strengthens bilateral defence ties but also enhances the regional profile of Indian defence exports.

The outcome of this visit could set a precedent for further collaborations, positioning BrahMos as a cornerstone of Southeast Asia’s maritime deterrence architecture.

Agencies

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India is advancing a significant transformation in its approach to future air combat, moving beyond reliance on fighter jets and cruise missiles to embrace unmanned stealth aircraft capable of long-range strikes.

At the centre of this shift is the Ghatak stealth UCAV program, valued at approximately ₹39,000 crore, which has now been restructured under the Remote Piloted Strike Aircraft (RPSA) initiative.

No longer viewed as a mere technology demonstrator, the project is being developed into a full-scale combat platform designed for real operational scenarios. This development coincides with India’s parallel investments in next-generation air power systems, including the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

Historically, India’s air power has been defined by platforms such as the Rafale fighter jet, the BrahMos cruise missile and the Agni series of ballistic missiles. These systems have demonstrated their effectiveness in precision strikes and penetration of enemy air defence networks.

Building on these lessons, India is now focusing on stealth and unmanned technologies that can operate in contested airspace. The Ghatak program draws on earlier work with the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWIFT), which validated critical technologies such as flying-wing stealth design, autonomous flight control systems and internal weapon bays. These features enable reduced radar visibility while conducting missions deep inside enemy territory.

Under the RPSA phase, efforts are concentrated on scaling these technologies into a deployable system. Enhancements are being made in survivability, operational range and integration with other combat platforms, ensuring the UCAV can operate alongside both manned and unmanned systems.

The Defence Ministry’s procurement body has recommended approval for the acquisition of 60 Ghatak UCAVs developed by the DRDO, with the proposal awaiting final clearance from the Defence Acquisition Council.

The Ghatak has been conceived as a stealth, tailless flying-wing platform with a low radar signature and internal weapons carriage. It is designed for deep strike missions without a pilot onboard, capable of tackling high-risk operations such as disabling enemy air defence systems, striking strategic targets and supporting electronic warfare.

Its flexibility allows it to operate independently or in coordination with manned fighter aircraft, depending on mission requirements. The Indian Air Force has extended its support to the program, with Air Chief Marshal AP Singh emphasising that unmanned systems will play a major role in the Vision 2047 roadmap, though they will not fully replace fighter jets in the near future.

A notable milestone was achieved in December 2023 when the DRDO successfully tested an autonomous flying wing technology demonstrator at the Aeronautical Test Range in Chitradurga, Karnataka.

The aircraft completed automatic landing without pilot or ground radar intervention, showcasing full autonomous flight capability. Earlier tests began in 2022, with prototypes built using carbon composite materials and equipped with advanced onboard sensors for health monitoring.

The system is capable of autonomous take-off and landing based on programmed instructions, adding to its operational versatility.

The program is being pursued under a development-cum-production partner model, encouraging private sector participation in areas such as avionics, artificial intelligence and advanced materials. This approach is expected to strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and reduce reliance on external suppliers.

Militarily, the Ghatak is seen as a force multiplier, intended for suppression of enemy air defences, precision strikes and electronic warfare. Its autonomous capability reduces risks to pilots and enables more aggressive mission planning.

The UCAV is also being developed under a manned-unmanned teaming concept, where platforms such as the Su-30MKI and future AMCA jets can control multiple drones. These UCAVs can serve as strike units, decoys or sensor platforms, complicating enemy targeting and enhancing mission flexibility.

With artificial intelligence and sensor fusion integrated into the system, the Ghatak is expected to process threats in real time, select optimal routes and prioritise targets during missions.

This program represents a major step in India’s transition towards autonomous combat systems, with unmanned aerial warfare set to play a pivotal role in future defence strategy.

Agencies

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Hyderabad-based deep-tech start-up EON Space Labs has unveiled Lumira_E40I50, India’s first germanium-free thermal drone camera capable of detecting humans from two kilometres and vehicles from eight kilometres using onboard artificial intelligence, reported India Today.

The payload has been designed for aerial intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, and the company asserts that it performs on par with germanium-dependent rivals. Its arrival is significant given India’s complete reliance on imported germanium, a rare and costly metal whose supply chain has been destabilised by geopolitical tensions and export restrictions.

Prices have tripled since mid-2023, leaving India’s defence sector exposed to volatility. Lumira’s development marks a strategic step towards self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

The breakthrough lies in the use of chalcogenide glass, which transmits infrared radiation unlike ordinary glass that blocks it. Germanium has traditionally been the default material for thermal lenses due to its transparency to long-wave infrared light, the band where human body heat resides.

EON Space Labs has replaced germanium with chalcogenide glass, composed of elements such as sulphur, selenium, or tellurium, which can be manufactured domestically.

Sanjay Kumar, co-founder of EON Space Labs, explained that their lenses achieve high transmission in the long-wave infrared spectrum, ensuring performance without dependence on imported germanium.

The system incorporates an a-thermalized design to counter temperature-driven distortion. Surveillance cameras mounted on drones face extreme conditions, from minus 20°C in the Himalayas to 55°C in Rajasthan.

Even minor expansion or contraction of optical materials can throw lenses out of focus. EON Space Labs has engineered a self-correcting design combining mechanical housing compensations with optical coatings to maintain clarity across such ranges. This ensures the camera remains sharp whether deployed over snowfields or desert runways.

Lumira’s onboard AI enhances detection accuracy by analysing biological motion patterns and pixel-level shape data rather than relying solely on heat intensity. At long distances, a Sun-warmed rock and a crouching soldier may appear similar on a thermal sensor.

The AI distinguishes between them by studying spatial characteristics and temporal changes. Humans exhibit rhythmic limb movements and shifting postures, while rocks remain static and engines radiate concentrated mechanical heat.

Proprietary datasets collected by EON Space Labs across varied environments trained the edge compute model, enabling real-time classification directly on the device without reliance on remote servers. This eliminates communication delays and reduces vulnerability to signal jamming.

The shift away from germanium also reduces payload weight. Chalcogenide glass has lower density, allowing Lumira to remain within the 800g to 2.2kg range without compromising lens size or aperture. This lighter design reduces drone motor power consumption, extending flight times.

The payload integrates a thermal sensor, a 40X optical zoom camera, and a gimbal stabilisation system, ensuring steady imaging even when the drone tilts or shakes. Its compatibility with compact drones, aerostats, and eVTOLs makes it versatile for platforms that cannot carry heavy payloads. The system meets MIL-STD-810H standards, proving resilience against extreme environmental stresses.

Beyond Lumira, EON Space Labs is developing Raven, a ground-based surveillance system expected by mid-2026 to detect and track suicide drones, a growing battlefield threat.

The timing of Lumira’s launch is critical, as Israel—responsible for nearly 15 per cent of India’s defence imports—has paused exports of sensors and electro-optics amid ongoing conflict in West Asia.

By manufacturing domestically at scale, co-founders Sanjay Kumar and Punit Badeka aim to reduce India’s dependence on imported defence electronics and strengthen supply chain resilience. Lumira represents not just a technological innovation but a strategic necessity, positioning India to secure its defence capabilities against external shocks.

India Today

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Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has formally delivered the fourth stealth frigate ‘Mahendragiri’ under Project-17A to the Indian Navy on 30 April 2026, announced PIB.

The vessel will be commissioned as INS Mahendragiri, marking the culmination of MDL’s contribution to this advanced class of warships.

The Acceptance Document was signed by Capt Jagmohan (Retd), Chairman and Managing Director of MDL, and Rear Admiral Gautam Marwaha, VSM, Chief Staff Officer (Technical), Eastern Naval Command. The ceremony was attended by MDL Directors and senior officers of the Indian Navy, underscoring the significance of the milestone.

The delivery of Mahendragiri represents a major achievement, as it is the final ship of the Project-17A class constructed at MDL. This milestone highlights India’s growing expertise in indigenous warship design and construction, aligning with the Government of India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Make in India’ initiatives. It reflects the country’s determination to strengthen its defence industrial base and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.

Speaking on the occasion, Capt Jagmohan (Retd.), CMD of MDL, described the delivery as a proud moment in India’s shipbuilding journey. He emphasised that the achievement was the result of collective dedication and synergy between MDL, the Warship Design Bureau, the Warship Overseeing Team (Mumbai), and various arms of the Indian Navy. His remarks highlighted the collaborative effort that has driven the success of Project-17A.

He further noted that Mahendragiri is a state-of-the-art warship equipped with advanced combat capabilities. The vessel stands as a strong symbol of India’s indigenous defence manufacturing strength, embodying innovation, resilience, and self-reliance. Capt Jagmohan expressed confidence that the frigate will serve the nation with distinction, contributing to the Navy’s operational readiness and strategic deterrence.

The addition of Mahendragiri is expected to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy. As part of India’s maritime security architecture, the frigate will bolster the Navy’s ability to safeguard national interests in increasingly contested waters. Its induction will reinforce India’s position as a rising maritime power with growing indigenous capabilities.

PIB

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The United States Embassy in India has highlighted remarks by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, underscoring the depth and breadth of the India-US partnership.

Sharing a picture of Rubio with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the Embassy recalled his statement from India’s Republic Day on 26 January 2026.

Rubio had emphasised that cooperation between the two nations spans defence, energy, critical minerals and emerging technologies, while their multi-layered engagement through the Quad delivers tangible results for both countries and the wider Indo-Pacific region. The Embassy described this as a powerful moment of shared vision and collaboration.

Earlier in April, India and the United States held constructive discussions on the proposed Bilateral Trade Agreement. An Indian trade delegation visited Washington DC from 20 to 23 April, engaging in forward-looking talks across a wide range of areas.

These included market access, non-tariff measures, technical barriers to trade, customs and trade facilitation, investment promotion, economic security alignment, and digital trade

The Commerce and Industry Ministry noted that the meetings were conducted in a positive spirit, enabling progress on several key matters. Both sides agreed to remain engaged to sustain momentum as negotiations advance.

This round of talks followed the Joint Statement issued on 7 February 2026, in which India and the United States agreed on a framework for an Interim Agreement.

That framework was designed to be reciprocal and mutually beneficial, laying the groundwork for a broader Bilateral Trade Agreement. The Embassy’s post and the recent trade discussions together reflect the strengthening of ties across strategic, economic and technological domains, reinforcing the trajectory of the partnership.

ANI

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, speaking at the ANI National Security Summit 2.0, underscored the growing dual-use dilemma of Artificial Intelligence in the defence sector.

He warned that deep fakes, cyber warfare, and autonomous weapon systems are emerging as challenges that will intensify rather than diminish in the future.

To illustrate the risks, he drew a parallel with the mythological figure Bhasmasur, noting that a powerful general-purpose AI model capable of strengthening banking systems, hospitals, and power grids could equally be used to destroy them if misused. He likened this to Lord Shiva’s boon to Bhasmasur, which ultimately became a threat.

Singh stressed that deterrence cannot be viewed through a purely optimistic lens when it comes to AI. He explained that his role as Defence Minister has given him deep insight into the country’s security system, and he sees significant concerns in the rise of AI-driven threats.

He emphasised that every technology has two aspects, and in the case of AI, this dual-use dilemma is particularly acute. He highlighted that deep fakes, cyber warfare, and autonomous weapon systems are already posing serious challenges, which will only grow in scale and complexity.

On the integration of AI with the Indian armed forces, Singh pointed to its application during Operation Sindoor and in enhancing the precision of BrahMos missile systems. He cited the Sudarshan Air Defence missile system as a major example of AI use in defence, describing it as a huge and ambitious project that demonstrates the best application of Artificial Intelligence.

He added that the armed forces have developed a roadmap to strengthen their capabilities against emerging AI-based challenges by leveraging AI, machine learning, and big data science, which will make them more competitive in the future.

Singh further remarked that emerging technologies such as AI will not only make India more secure but also more empowered and prosperous. He explained that during Operation Sindoor, AI was effectively utilised across multiple platforms, from BrahMos missile systems to surveillance assets, enhancing precision and elevating strike capabilities.

He also highlighted the development of an AI-enabled check board to simplify pension procedures for retired officers, noting that AI is not limited to warfare but is also improving working culture, soldier welfare, and standards of living.

He expressed satisfaction that pension-related processes have been made easier through this initiative, alongside the creation of a dedicated portal for pensioners and veterans.

ANI

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China and Pakistan’s military partnership has reached a new strategic milestone with the commissioning of Pakistan’s first Hangor-class submarine in Sanya.

President Asif Ali Zardari attended the ceremony as chief guest, underscoring the political weight of the event. Pakistan’s military described the induction as a continuation of close bilateral ties, calling it another chapter in the time-tested friendship between the two nations.

The submarine is based on China’s Type 039A/039B Yuan-class design and is the lead vessel of an eight-boat programme. Four submarines are being built in China, while the remaining four will be constructed in Pakistan under a technology transfer arrangement.

Equipped with air-independent propulsion systems, the Hangor-class can remain submerged for extended periods with reduced detection risk, significantly enhancing Pakistan’s sea-denial capability in the Arabian Sea.

This marks a major boost to Pakistan’s conventional submarine arm, which has until now relied on French-origin Agosta-90B and older Agosta-70 boats.

For Pakistan, submarines have long been the principal asymmetric tool to offset its smaller surface fleet against India’s larger naval force. Analysts note that in a contingency in the Arabian Sea, a larger AIP-backed Pakistani submarine fleet could complicate India’s anti-submarine warfare environment.

The induction comes at a time when India’s own conventional submarine modernisation remains incomplete. None of India’s submarines currently has operational AIP capability, though the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s indigenous fuel-cell based AIP system is expected to be ready for integration later this year.

INS Khanderi is slated to be the first Kalvari-class submarine to undergo retrofit, with trials projected before operational deployment around early 2028.

India presently operates six Kalvari-class Scorpene submarines alongside ageing Sindhughosh (Kilo-class) and Shishumar-class boats. Concerns over force levels have been repeatedly flagged amid delays in replacement and capability upgrades.

The long-delayed Project-75I, under which Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd and Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems are to jointly build six next-generation AIP-equipped submarines, still awaits final Cabinet Committee on Security clearance. Even if approved soon, the first submarine is unlikely before the early to mid-2030s.

Beyond fleet numbers, the Hangor induction reflects China’s expanding strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean Region, supported by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, Gwadar port and broader Arabian Sea access.

According to SIPRI data, China now accounts for over 80 percent of Pakistan’s arms imports, ranging from JF-17 and J-10C fighters armed with PL-15 missiles to HQ-9/P air defence systems, Type 054A/P frigates, armed drones, missile systems and now submarines.

The partnership has also moved beyond platform transfers. During Operation Sindoor last year, China provided Pakistan with satellite-based intelligence on Indian deployments, with Pakistan acting as the front face of these operations.

This development highlights the deepening China-Pakistan military axis and raises fresh challenges for India’s maritime security environment, particularly in the Arabian Sea and wider Indian Ocean Region.

Agencies

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Hindustan Aeronautics Limited has announced that Dr D K Sunil has stepped down as Chairman and Managing Director upon his superannuation on 30 April 2026. He had assumed these leadership roles in September 2024, and the company confirmed his departure through a regulatory filing on Friday.

Shares of HAL closed at ₹4,336.70 per scrip on Thursday, reflecting a decline of ₹15.40 or 0.35 per cent.

Dr Sunil’s association with HAL began in 1987 when he joined as a Management Trainee. Over the course of 37 years, he contributed extensively to design, production, quality enhancement, and customer support before rising to the top leadership position.

Prior to becoming Chairman and Managing Director, he served as Director (Engineering and R&D) from September 2022.

During his tenure, HAL advanced several new technologies, including the High Power Radar Power Supply, Voice Activated Control System, and Combined Interrogator Transponder, which have emerged as growth areas.

He also spearheaded collaborations with institutions such as IIT-Kanpur for datalinks and IIIT-Hyderabad for voice recognition technologies. His leadership extended to critical projects like the Active ESA Radar, Automatic Flight Control System for the Light Combat Helicopter, and Mission Computers for helicopter and fighter platforms.

His period in office was also marked by challenges, notably the crash of a TEJAS aircraft during a low-level aerobatic display at Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai, which tragically claimed the life of the pilot. Another TEJAS crash occurred earlier in Jaisalmer, where the pilot ejected safely.

Dr Sunil’s academic journey began with a degree in Electronics and Communication Engineering from Osmania University, Hyderabad. He went on to pursue an M.Tech in Aircraft Production Engineering from IIT-Madras and later completed his Ph.D in Electronics Science from the University of Hyderabad in 2019.

Agencies

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The Indian Space Research Organisation has begun assembling the Human-Rated Launch Vehicle Mark-3 at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota. This marks a crucial step towards the first uncrewed Gaganyaan flight, scheduled as part of India’s ambitious human spaceflight program.

The assembly commenced on 18 December 2025, underscoring ISRO’s steady progress despite the absence of firm launch dates for missions originally planned for this year.

April witnessed another milestone with the successful execution of the second Integrated Air Drop Test (IADT-02). Conducted at Sriharikota, the test involved lifting a simulated crew module weighing 5.7 tonnes—matching the mass of the actual module for the first uncrewed mission—by an Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter.

Released from an altitude of approximately 3 km over a designated sea drop zone near the coast, the module’s descent validated critical systems. This achievement represents a significant stride towards readiness for the G1 mission.

Parallel to these technical preparations, astronaut training continues in demanding environments. At an altitude of around 3,500 metres above sea level, the four astronauts selected for the mission, accompanied by scientists, engineers, and medical teams, underwent a week-long behavioural study.

These exercises are designed to test psychological resilience and adaptability under extreme conditions, ensuring that the crew is prepared for the challenges of spaceflight.

Together, these developments highlight the multi-pronged approach ISRO is taking—combining hardware validation with human endurance studies—to ensure the success of Gaganyaan. The mission is not only a technological endeavour but also a human one, requiring precision engineering and rigorous preparation.

Agencies

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Defence minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with his Italian counterpart Guido Crosetto at the Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi on Thursday. The two leaders emphasised that the India-Italy strategic partnership rests on shared values of peace, stability, freedom, and mutual respect.

A bilateral military cooperation plan for 2026–27 was formally exchanged during the meeting, setting out the framework for future military engagements between the armed forces of both nations.

In a post on X, Rajnath Singh expressed satisfaction at welcoming Guido Crosetto and noted that the talks covered a wide range of regional and global issues, including the ongoing situation in West Asia. He highlighted discussions on expanding defence industrial cooperation, aligning India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative with Italy’s defence cooperation programme to create mutually beneficial opportunities.

The Indian Coast Guard also hosted an Italian delegation, which included senior representatives from Fincantieri, at its headquarters in Delhi. The dialogue focused on collaboration with Indian shipyards for upcoming projects.

Key areas of discussion included advanced design features such as resilient hulls capable of withstanding higher sea states, enhanced bollard pull, integrated fire-fighting systems, and hybrid or electric propulsion technologies.

The talks also explored modular ship design to enable versatile, multi-role platforms with rapid adaptability to operational requirements.

Both sides underscored the convergence between the two ancient sea-faring nations on critical maritime issues. This included strengthening information exchange through the Information Fusion Center–Indian Ocean Region, which plays a vital role in maritime domain awareness and cooperative security.

Prior to the bilateral meeting, Guido Crosetto laid a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, paying homage to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in service of the nation.

This solemn gesture underscored the respect and solidarity between the two countries as they seek to deepen defence and maritime cooperation.

ANI

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US lawmakers have announced a joint investigation into the security risks posed by Chinese-developed artificial intelligence models. The probe, led by House Select Committee on China Chairman John Moolenaar and House Committee on Homeland Security Chairman Andrew R. Garbarino, will examine the national security and cybersecurity implications of American companies adopting AI systems created by Chinese firms such as DeepSeek, Alibaba, Moonshot AI and MiniMax.

According to the Select Committee on the CCP, these models are low-cost, open-weight and API-accessible, making them attractive to US businesses but potentially dangerous due to their origin.

The committees highlighted that companies like Airbnb and Anysphere have built products using Chinese AI models, raising concerns about hidden vulnerabilities and data exposure. They warned that these systems are trained under China’s censorship regime and could be compelled to share data with the Chinese government under Chinese law.

Chairman Moolenaar stressed that such reliance on Chinese AI threatens critical infrastructure and risks placing sensitive American data in adversary hands. He emphasised that the committees will question Airbnb and Anysphere to understand their decisions and ensure protection against CCP-linked threats.

Chairman Garbarino underscored that the Chinese Communist Party is attempting to leverage America’s AI breakthroughs for Beijing’s strategic advantage. He pointed to adversarial model distillation and the rapid global spread of PRC-developed models as methods to weaken US leadership, undermine trusted American alternatives, and embed CCP-aligned technology across vital software supply chains.

He cautioned that American firms cannot afford to treat Chinese AI as a convenient option when the consequences may include compromised systems, exposed data and long-term dependence on adversary-controlled technology.

The investigation comes amid growing concerns that Chinese AI companies may be using unauthorised model distillation and other unlawful techniques to extract capabilities from advanced American frontier models.

These capabilities are then repackaged into cheaper systems that lack the safety protections of the original US models. Such systems are subsequently marketed to American businesses, developers and consumers, raising alarms about intellectual property theft, cybersecurity risks and supply-chain vulnerabilities.

While model distillation can be a legitimate AI development method, the committees noted that when it is carried out through fraudulent accounts, proxy networks, or violations of US companies’ terms of service, it poses serious threats to national security and innovation.

ANI

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The Ministry of External Affairs has announced that the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra for 2026 will be conducted between June and August. The pilgrimage will be organised through two routes, the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand and the Nathu La in Sikkim, in coordination with the Chinese government. A total of 20 batches are scheduled, with ten batches comprising 50 yatris each.

The ministry confirmed that the official website, kmy.gov.in, has been opened for online applications. The registration and selection process has been made fully digital, requiring applicants to register and submit their forms online. Physical letters or faxes are no longer necessary, as all communication and feedback will be handled through the portal.

Pilgrim selection will be conducted through a fair, computer-generated, random and gender-balanced process. Applicants may apply for both routes with a priority preference or choose only one. The last date for registration has been set as 19 May.

The online system also allows applicants to submit feedback, suggestions and queries directly through the portal, with the aim of making the pilgrimage process more transparent and accessible.

The Kailash Manasarovar Yatra is renowned for its religious and cultural significance. It is undertaken by hundreds of people annually and holds deep importance for Hindus as the abode of Lord Shiva, while also being significant for Jains and Buddhists.

Earlier in March, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath distributed financial assistance of ₹1 lakh each to 555 pilgrims undertaking the Yatra at Lok Bhavan. He highlighted that the Kailash Mansarovar Bhawan in Ghaziabad, constructed in 2017–18, was intended to ensure that devotees from Uttar Pradesh face no difficulties. He emphasised that the government’s efforts have been directed towards providing good facilities at pilgrimage sites.

The Chief Minister noted that in 2025, more than 164 crore devotees visited various religious sites across Uttar Pradesh, with approximately 66 crore participating in the Prayagraj Mahakumbh alone.

He further stressed that the double-engine government is focused on advancing the tourism sector, accelerating development in Uttar Pradesh, and creating new employment opportunities through these initiatives.

ANI

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United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has issued a stark warning that the continued disruption of maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz could trigger a global recession.

Speaking in New York, he urged the reopening of the strategic waterway, stressing that the longer it remains blocked, the higher the cost to humanity. His message was unequivocal: the strait must be opened to allow ships to pass freely and to let the global economy breathe again.

Guterres cautioned that if freedom of navigation is not restored by the end of the year, the world could face severe economic consequences. He outlined a scenario in which persistent disruptions would drive inflation above six per cent, reduce global growth to two per cent, and inflict immense suffering, particularly on vulnerable populations.

He warned that such conditions would bring about a global recession with dramatic impacts on economies, societies, and political stability worldwide.

He explained that even in the best-case scenario, where restrictions are lifted immediately, supply chains would take months to recover. Global growth would fall from 3.4 to 3.1 per cent, inflation would rise to 4.4 per cent, and trade would slow sharply. He noted that a world already reeling from the pandemic and the war in Ukraine would endure further economic distress under these conditions.

The UN chief highlighted that the Middle East crisis has now entered its third month. Despite a fragile ceasefire, the consequences of the disruption are worsening by the hour. He expressed deep concern about the curtailment of navigational rights and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz, warning that it is impeding the delivery of oil, gas, fertiliser, and other critical commodities, thereby strangling the global economy.

He stressed that humanity as a whole is paying the price, even as a few actors reap huge profits, and that the pain will be felt for years to come.

Guterres outlined a second scenario in which disruption drags on through midyear. This would push 32 million people into poverty, cause fertiliser shortages, reduce crop yields, and leave 45 million more people facing extreme hunger. With Brent crude oil prices hovering around $118, the prospect of fuel and gas shortages has heightened urgency in capitals across the world to find solutions quickly.

Dario Liguti of the UN Economic Commission for Europe warned that Southeast Asia and South Asia were the first to be hit by the most severe energy crisis in a generation.

He added that the crisis is unfolding globally, with European motorists already bracing themselves for rising costs at the pump. Guterres pointed to diplomatic efforts underway, including a UN Task Force led by the head of UN Project Services to establish a humanitarian corridor. The International Maritime Organization is also developing a framework to evacuate ships and seafarers if safe passage can be guaranteed.

The International Monetary Fund, in a report published last month, warned that prolonged conflict, worsening geopolitical fragmentation, and renewed trade tensions could significantly weaken growth and destabilise financial markets.

It noted that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and damage to critical facilities in a region central to global hydrocarbon supply raised the prospect of a major energy crisis if hostilities continue.

The crisis stems from US and Israeli attacks launched on 28 February, followed by Iranian retaliation against energy facilities across West Asia. Israel also struck energy sites in Iran. Although Washington and Tehran agreed to a two-week ceasefire that temporarily halted military attacks, traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains restricted, prolonging the economic and humanitarian fallout.

ANI

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