Indian Navy Strengthens Fleet With New MH‑60R Seahawk Delivery

The Indian Navy has received another MH‑60R Seahawk helicopter, marking a significant step in its ongoing modernisation program and strengthening the India‑US defence partnership, India TV News reported.

The delivery took place in Kochi last week. Two more MH-60R Seahawks are en route to India, reinforcing the country’s growing fleet of advanced antisubmarine and multi-mission naval helicopters. These additional aircraft will enhance India’s maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, and over-the-horizon targeting capabilities, improving carrier and surface fleet protection across the Indian Ocean.

Their arrival underscores deepening defence cooperation with the United States, accelerates Indian Navy modernization with interoperable Western platforms, and provides a platform for further training, maintenance, and potential technology transfer partnerships.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described the development as “excellent news” and highlighted how it reflects the growing defence ties between the two democracies.

The US Embassy confirmed that the helicopter, developed by Lockheed Martin, had been handed over to the Indian Navy. Gor announced the news on X, noting that the arrival of the advanced platform demonstrates the deepening cooperation between Washington and New Delhi.

The MH‑60R Seahawk is a multi‑role maritime helicopter designed for a wide range of missions. It is capable of anti‑submarine warfare, anti‑surface operations, surveillance, search‑and‑rescue, and ship‑based tasks. Equipped with long‑range sensors and compatible weapons, it enhances India’s ability to detect submarines, protect sea lanes, support carrier groups, and respond to maritime threats.

Originally developed for the US Navy to replace older models, the Seahawk was built to operate effectively in both land and sea environments. Its versatility extends beyond combat roles, with capabilities in electronic communication jamming, medical evacuations, logistical support, and surveillance flights.

India purchased the helicopters under a Foreign Military Sales agreement in 2020. The first induction took place in 2021, with deliveries beginning soon after. The commissioning of the first squadron, INAS 334, at INS Garuda in Kochi marked a pivotal moment in India’s defence modernisation program.

In December 2025, following the commissioning of the second squadron, former Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi confirmed that MH‑60R helicopters were deployed during Operation Sindoor. He stated that the helicopters “did what they were supposed to do,” underscoring their operational effectiveness.

Admiral Tripathi also praised the platform and expressed satisfaction with the deal to procure 24 additional helicopters. He described the MH‑60R as a potent and well‑proven system, emphasising that the Indian Navy was pleased to have signed the contract for its induction.

The arrival of the latest helicopter strengthens India’s maritime capabilities at a time of increasing strategic challenges in the Indo‑Pacific. It also highlights the importance of the India‑US defence partnership, which continues to expand through joint exercises, technology transfers, and collaborative programs.

Agencies

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PTC Industries Secures Landmark BrahMos Subsystem Order, Marks Entry Into Systems Integration

PTC Industries has secured a landmark two‑year order from BrahMos Aerospace to develop, integrate and supply a mission‑critical missile subsystem, marking its first major step into systems‑level integration for advanced defence platforms.

This milestone expands PTC’s role beyond materials and components into complete assemblies and subsystems, strengthening India’s strategic defence manufacturing ecosystem.

PTC Industries announced through a stock exchange filing that the order involves a mission‑critical structural assembly forming part of a strategic missile subsystem for the BrahMos program. The company emphasised that this is not a routine component order but represents its entry into higher‑value systems and subsystems integration.

The assembly will be required to function under demanding structural, thermal and dynamic conditions associated with supersonic applications. Its development and integration will involve high‑precision manufacturing, specialised joining processes, control assemblies and rigorous inspection requirements to meet the stringent standards of the BrahMos program.

This order marks PTC Industries’ transition from supplying critical materials, precision castings and engineered components into developing and integrating complete systems and subsystems for defence and aerospace platforms.

Chairman and Managing Director Sachin Agarwal described it as a historic order and a defining milestone in the company’s journey, underscoring its movement into sophisticated systems and subsystems for strategic defence platforms.

The company highlighted that the order expands its addressable opportunity from materials and components to integrated assemblies and subsystems. It also strengthens its role in India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem, aligning with the national push for self‑reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Agarwal noted that the order validates PTC’s long‑term strategy of building an integrated enterprise capable of serving larger and more complex parts of the aerospace and defence value chain. He added that it reflects the trust placed in PTC by BrahMos Aerospace for one of India’s most important strategic programs.

PTC Industries manufactures high‑performance materials, precision‑engineered components and critical assemblies for the aerospace, defence, space and energy sectors. The company is also expanding its advanced manufacturing facilities at the Lucknow node of the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor, including capabilities for producing aerospace‑grade titanium and superalloy products.

This expansion will provide the upstream feedstock and alloy‑science backbone for such complex assemblies, reinforcing vertical integration from raw material to finished subsystem.

Industry observers view this development as a significant step in India’s defence modernisation journey. By achieving competence in systems‑level integration for the BrahMos missile, PTC Industries has positioned itself as a technological leader in advanced defence manufacturing.

The order is seen not merely as a commercial contract but as a strategic enabler for India’s missile and aerospace ambitions.

The BrahMos missile, jointly developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia, is one of the fastest supersonic cruise missiles in the world.

Its operational deployment and export prospects have already enhanced India’s global defence profile. PTC’s entry into subsystem integration for BrahMos therefore represents a critical milestone in strengthening indigenous capability for one of India’s most strategic programs.

ANI

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Agnikul Cosmos Launches Mission‑02 To Recover India’s First Orbital Rocket Booster And Repurpose Upper Stage

Agnikul Cosmos has unveiled Mission‑02, its boldest project yet, aiming to recover India’s first orbital‑class rocket booster and repurpose the upper stage as an in‑orbit platform, India Today reported.

This would mark a historic leap for India’s private space sector, placing Agnikul alongside SpaceX, Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, and China in the global race for reusable launch technology.

Agnikul Cosmos announced Mission‑02 as a decisive step toward reusable launch vehicles and affordable access to space. The mission will attempt to recover an orbital‑class booster, a feat never before achieved in India. The recovery effort is designed to demonstrate controlled descent and retrieval, a capability that has transformed launch economics worldwide.

The announcement comes just days after China successfully recovered a reusable booster, breaking the US monopoly on orbital rocket reusability. This highlights the intensifying global competition in reusable launch systems, where mastery of the technology is now seen as a defining barrier for next‑generation launch providers.

Companies such as SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Rocket Lab have invested heavily in reusability. SpaceX’s Falcon 9 has flown recovered boosters more than 650 times, with some individual boosters completing up to 35 missions. This has dramatically lowered costs and increased launch frequency, setting the benchmark for the industry. Agnikul now hopes to replicate this success in India.

Mission‑02 will also attempt something unique: transforming the rocket’s upper stage into a functional in‑orbit platform. Instead of burning up as space debris, the spent stage could host experiments, test technologies, or support future space infrastructure. Agnikul holds patents in India, the US, and Europe covering this convertible upper‑stage architecture, underscoring its ambition to redefine how launch hardware is used.

Srinath Ravichandran, Co‑founder and CEO of Agnikul Cosmos, emphasised the philosophy behind the mission. He noted that one‑time‑use rockets were developed for one‑off goals, but economically viable missions now demand rapid reuse, flexibility, and modularity. Mission‑02 is intended to showcase this new approach.

The mission will fly a two‑stage Agnibaan configuration. The first‑stage booster will attempt a controlled descent and ocean recovery, while the upper stage will demonstrate extended in‑orbit capability.

This dual objective represents India’s first serious foray into rocket reusability, a technology that has already reshaped global launch economics.

Agnikul earlier announced that former ISRO Chairman S. Somanath has joined its board as an Observer. During his tenure at ISRO, Somanath oversaw major programs including LVM3, Chandrayaan‑3, Aditya‑L1, and critical Gaganyaan test missions. His guidance is expected to be invaluable for Agnikul’s strategy and execution.

The timing of Mission‑02 is significant. India’s private space sector is gaining momentum, with Skyroot Aerospace preparing the maiden orbital flight of Vikram‑1. Together, these efforts signal a shift where private companies are increasingly taking the lead in shaping the future of space transportation.

If successful, Mission‑02 would place Agnikul among a select group of companies worldwide attempting reusable orbital rocket technology. It would also bring India closer to developing launch systems capable of supporting commercial missions, space stations, and lunar exploration at substantially lower costs.

This mission represents not only a technical challenge but also a strategic opportunity. By proving reusability and upper‑stage conversion, Agnikul could establish India as a credible player in the next era of spaceflight, where sustainability, affordability, and innovation are paramount.

Agencies

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China’s J-20 Stealth Platform Surges To 500 Jets, Highlights India’s Squadron Crisis

China’s J-20 stealth fleet has now surpassed 500 aircraft, making it the most procured fighter type by any service since the Cold War, while India continues to struggle to reach its target of 42 squadrons, operating only 29 at present.

This widening gap underscores the urgency of India’s modernisation efforts as China accelerates production at industrial scale.

Defence analyst Thomas Newdick, writing for The War Zone, estimates that roughly 500 Chengdu J-20s have been delivered. His assessment, compiled from production serial numbers, satellite imagery, factory observations and reported operational deployments, compensates for the lack of an official Chinese disclosure on the aircraft’s fleet size.

China’s J-20 entered service in 2017 and has matured into a mass-produced fifth-generation platform. By mid-2025, the fleet had crossed 300 aircraft, and by July 2026, deliveries had expanded to at least 504 fighters across eighteen brigades, with additional units allocated for training.

Estimates suggest the total may already exceed 600. Production rates of 100–120 aircraft annually could see the fleet approach 1,000 by 2030. The J-20A variant, equipped with twin WS-15 engines, has enhanced thrust, range, and manoeuvrability, consolidating China’s position as the world’s second most powerful air force.

The United States Air Force, by comparison, has received around 430–450 F-35A fighters since 2011, but production has slowed to 24–40 per year. China’s scale of deliveries far outpaces Western expectations, with the J-20 fleet rivalling the F-35 in numbers but concentrated entirely within the PLA Air Force.

This concentration provides China with unmatched force density in the Indo-Pacific, enabling rapid sortie generation and sustained operations.

India, meanwhile, faces a persistent shortfall. The Indian Air Force operates only 29 fighter squadrons against a sanctioned strength of 42. Losses during the May 2025 Kashmir skirmishes highlighted vulnerabilities, with reports of Rafale and MiG-29 losses to Pakistan’s J-10C armed with PL-15 missiles.

Pakistan’s integrated Chinese-origin ecosystem of HQ-9P air defence, PL-15 missiles, and ZDK-03 AWACS contrasts with India’s mixed fleet of Russian, Western, and indigenous systems, which suffer from integration challenges.

India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program is unlikely to be operational before 2035, leaving a capability gap. Russia’s renewed offer of Su-57 joint production could provide a faster path to fifth-generation capability, but doubts remain over Russia’s production capacity and India’s strategic shift towards diversification.

Russia has only 32 Su-57s as of January 2026, far short of its target of 76 by 2027–28, with production disrupted by sanctions and Ukrainian strikes.

China’s broader air force expansion compounds India’s challenge. The PLA Air Force now fields between 2,000 and 2,500 combat aircraft, including hundreds of J-20s and nearly 500 J-16s.

This industrial-scale modernisation has allowed China to surpass Russia numerically and qualitatively, reshaping the Indo-Pacific balance. Deployments of J-20s at Shigatse Air Base in Tibet, less than 160 kilometres from India’s border, directly threaten India’s Siliguri Corridor.

India’s reliance on Russian arms is declining, with imports from Russia falling from 46% in 2017–21 to 40% in 2021–25. New orders with France, Israel, and the United States reflect diversification, but the pace of domestic production remains slow. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited awaits Russia’s financial quotation for Su-57s, yet the risk of undermining indigenous development complicates the decision.

The disparity is stark: China’s J-20 fleet already exceeds 500 aircraft, while India struggles to maintain squadron strength. Unless India accelerates both indigenous programs and external acquisitions, the regional air balance will continue to tilt decisively in China’s favour.

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Type-076 'Sichuan' Close‑Up: How China Built the First True Drone Carrier

China’s newly revealed Type-076 amphibious assault ship Sichuan has been confirmed as the world’s first drone carrier, equipped with electromagnetic catapults and arresting gear to operate fixed‑wing unmanned stealth fighters.

The footage marks a major leap in naval warfare, positioning the vessel between a traditional amphibious platform and a light aircraft carrier.

The latest footage of the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s Type-076 Sichuan provides the clearest view yet of its design features. The ship has been developed specifically to operate fixed‑wing unmanned aircraft, reinforcing assessments that China is pioneering a new class of warship.

This follows its first deployment to the South China Sea in April and the appearance of unmanned flying wing stealth fighters on its deck in February.

The footage highlights several distinctive features. Most notable is the electromagnetic aircraft launch system visible on the flight deck. Satellite imagery had previously confirmed the presence of such a catapult, but the new images provide stronger evidence that the launch‑and‑recovery system is intended primarily for fixed‑wing aircraft. Arresting gear at the stern and completed deck markings further confirm this capability.

One of the most telling details is the absence of flight‑deck markings normally associated with helicopter operations, such as tail‑clearance lines. This suggests that while helicopters will remain part of the aviation complement, the primary emphasis will be on catapult‑launched and arrested‑recovery unmanned aircraft. The core of the air wing is expected to be GJ‑11 unmanned stealth fighters, capable of air‑to‑air combat and cruise missile strike missions, already in service with the People’s Liberation Army Air Force.

The Sichuan displaces an estimated 50,000 tons and measures at least 250 metres in length. It combines a full‑length flight deck with a floodable well deck for launching landing craft, allowing it to transport marines while supporting advanced air operations.

This makes it the world’s first amphibious assault ship equipped with both an electromagnetic catapult and arrested‑recovery system. It is also only the third ship globally with EMALS, after the U.S. Navy’s USS Gerald Ford and China’s supercarrier Fujian.

The integration of electromagnetic catapults significantly expands the range of aircraft that can operate from the ship. It allows the launch of heavier aircraft with larger fuel loads, sensors, electronic warfare equipment, and munitions.

The system imparts considerable energy upon launch, compensating for the relatively short runway length. This capability enables reconnaissance, strike, and electronic warfare aircraft to be deployed from a single carrier, extending surveillance and strike reach far beyond what helicopters alone can achieve.

Experts note that the Sichuan represents a hybrid design, combining the functions of a drone carrier, amphibious assault ship, and light aircraft carrier. Its twin‑island superstructure, advanced aviation systems, and rapid construction progress reflect China’s accumulated expertise from the Type-075 amphibious assault ships and the EMALS technology aboard the Fujian. Delivery to the PLAN is expected soon, marking a technological breakthrough in naval warfare.

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Nuclear Body Downplays Kudankulam Data Breach Amid Rising Cybersecurity Concerns

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited has sought to downplay concerns over a reported data breach at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant, India’s largest reactor complex, NDTV reported.

A senior atomic scientist emphasised that the incident has no bearing on nuclear safety or security, stressing that the compromised files relate only to common service balance of plant systems.

NPCIL’s acting Chairman and Managing Director Rajesh V told NDTV that the leaked material has no connection with nuclear safety. He underlined that the government-owned corporation remains the sole authority responsible for constructing and operating commercial nuclear power plants in India, and that reactor operations remain unaffected.

The breach was attributed to World Leaks, a ransomware group notorious for posting stolen corporate data online when ransom demands are not met. Reuters reported that the group had uploaded files linked to Kudankulam on the dark web, including purported blueprints of plant facilities and supplier details. The authenticity of these documents has not been independently verified.

Kudankulam, located in Tamil Nadu, is India’s largest nuclear installation with a designated total capacity of 6,000 MW. The site is a cornerstone of India’s nuclear power program, developed in collaboration with Russia’s ROSATOM, which supplied the reactor core systems. The leaked documents reportedly do not pertain to these critical reactor systems.

One of the plant’s contractors admitted that there had been a partial breach of server data hosted by a third-party data centre in India. However, the contractor did not specify the nature of the compromised data. The leaked files allegedly include blueprints, supplier details, inspection records, and equipment reviews, though none appear to be linked to the reactor’s core safety systems.

Nikolas Roth, a senior director at the Nuclear Threat Initiative, warned that the breach could pose a serious risk to the plant’s safety. His assessment contrasts with NPCIL’s reassurance, highlighting the broader concern that cyber intrusions into nuclear facilities, even if peripheral, can undermine confidence in nuclear security.

World Leaks operates a website accessible only through specialised browsers, where it publishes stolen data from companies that refuse to pay ransom. Its activities have targeted multiple sectors globally, raising alarms about the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to cyberattacks.

This incident marks the second reported cyberattack at Kudankulam. In 2019, NPCIL confirmed that malware had been detected in one of its computers, though it stressed that plant systems were not affected.

The recurrence of cyber incidents underscores the growing challenge of protecting nuclear facilities against digital threats.

The latest breach highlights the importance of strengthening cybersecurity measures across India’s nuclear program. While NPCIL has sought to reassure the public, experts argue that even non-core system breaches can expose sensitive operational details, potentially aiding malicious actors.

The episode reinforces the need for robust cyber defences, transparent communication, and international cooperation to safeguard nuclear infrastructure.

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NPCIL Clarifies KKNPP Leak Involves Only Conventional Balance of Plant (BoP) Facilities, Not Nuclear Safety Systems

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited has issued a clarification regarding reports of a data leak linked to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project Units 3 and 4.

The corporation stated that the drawings reportedly leaked through a breach at Reliance Infrastructure Ltd. pertain only to conventional Balance of Plant facilities and not to any nuclear safety or security systems.

The clarification was made in response to media reports suggesting that sensitive information may have been compromised. NPCIL emphasised that the Engineering, Procurement and Construction contract for the Common Services-Balance of Plant package was awarded to Reliance Infrastructure Ltd. in 2018 through a public tender process.

This contract covered engineering, procurement and supply, construction, and commissioning of common service facilities.

NPCIL explained that the facilities under this contract are conventional in nature, similar to those used in thermal power plants and other process industries. They are not connected to nuclear safety or nuclear security systems. The corporation highlighted that indicative drawings and technical specifications were shared with bidders during the tendering process to facilitate competitive participation.

Based on these inputs and the requirements of the project, Reliance Infrastructure Ltd. prepared detailed engineering drawings in consultation with the respective Original Equipment Manufacturers. These designs were subsequently reviewed and accepted by NPCIL after thorough technical evaluation. The corporation reiterated that the information claimed to be available in the public domain pertains only to conventional Balance of Plant common service facilities.

NPCIL stressed that none of the leaked material relates to nuclear safety or nuclear security systems. This distinction is crucial, as nuclear safety systems include reactor protection mechanisms, containment structures, and emergency core cooling systems, while nuclear security systems involve physical protection, access control, and cyber security measures.

The leaked drawings, by contrast, cover auxiliary facilities such as water treatment plants, cooling towers, and electrical substations, which are standard in large industrial complexes.

The corporation’s statement aims to reassure stakeholders and the public that India’s nuclear program remains secure and uncompromised. It also underscores the importance of differentiating between conventional industrial infrastructure and sensitive nuclear systems when assessing potential breaches. NPCIL’s clarification reflects its commitment to transparency and its responsibility in safeguarding nuclear assets.

ANI

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PM Modi Flags Off India’s First Hydrogen Train In Haryana Under Hydrogen For Heritage Program

India has formally entered a new chapter in clean rail transport with the launch of its first hydrogen-powered train. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the train in Haryana, linking the project to India’s long-term energy security and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.

This initiative is part of the Hydrogen for Heritage program, which aims to introduce sustainable trains on heritage and scenic routes. The train will initially operate between Jind and Sonipat, making India one of the few countries worldwide to deploy hydrogen rail technology.

Unlike diesel locomotives, hydrogen trains emit no carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, or particulate matter. The only direct emission is water. This makes them a zero tailpipe-emission technology, offering a green alternative for non-electrified routes where overhead electric lines are not economically viable. The train carries its own power plant on board, eliminating the need for wires or diesel fuel.

The train uses Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cells. Hydrogen stored in high-pressure cylinders reacts with oxygen from the atmosphere inside the fuel cell. A catalyst splits hydrogen into protons and electrons.

The electrons travel through an external circuit, generating electricity that powers the traction motors. Meanwhile, hydrogen ions combine with oxygen to produce water vapour, which is released harmlessly. This electrochemical process ensures quiet, clean, and efficient operation.

Hydrogen trains are essentially electric trains that generate their own electricity while moving. They can be thought of as mobile power stations. The train’s design incorporates advanced fire, heat, and smoke detection systems, CCTV surveillance, modern passenger amenities, and regenerative braking. Regenerative braking recovers energy during deceleration, storing it in onboard batteries. These batteries act as an energy buffer, supporting acceleration and reducing hydrogen consumption.

The train has a design speed of around 110 kilometres per hour, though operational speeds will depend on route conditions. Fifty school students were selected to travel on the inaugural journey from Jind to Sonipat, symbolising the educational and inspirational value of the project.

Maintenance facilities have been established at Shakur Basti in Delhi, and the trainsets are authorised to operate in idle mode on the Jind–Shakur Basti–Jind route.

Globally, hydrogen trains remain rare. Countries such as Germany, France, Italy, China, and the United Kingdom have either introduced or are testing hydrogen trains as alternatives to diesel locomotives on non-electrified routes. India’s adoption places it within this select group, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable transport and innovation in clean energy.

The environmental benefits of hydrogen trains depend on how the hydrogen is produced. Green hydrogen, made using renewable electricity, has a far lower carbon footprint than hydrogen derived from natural gas.

India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission seeks to expand domestic production of green hydrogen, aligning the rail project with broader national energy goals.

India’s railways are among the largest in the world, yet many routes still rely on diesel locomotives. Hydrogen-powered trains provide a cleaner alternative where electrification is difficult or costly. By embracing hydrogen fuel cell technology, India is modernising its railways, reducing dependence on fossil fuels, and contributing to global climate change mitigation efforts.

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India Launches Giga-Scale Battery Manufacturing Program With Subsidies To Boost Grid Energy Storage

India has launched a giga-scale battery manufacturing plan under the National Program on Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) Battery Storage, offering subsidies to companies that set up large-scale domestic facilities, News18 reported.

The scheme is designed to reduce import dependence, strengthen energy security, and support the rapid expansion of renewable energy by mandating localisation milestones and capacity targets.

The Centre has invited bids from Indian and global companies, public sector entities, LLPs, and investment funds to establish giga-scale ACC manufacturing facilities for grid-scale energy storage.

The Ministry of Heavy Industries has floated a Request for Proposal (RFP) under this program, with subsidies linked to the creation of manufacturing capacity and localisation of production.

The initiative comes as India prepares for a rapid expansion of renewable energy capacity. Large-scale battery storage is expected to play a crucial role in balancing the electricity grid, particularly as demand rises for clean energy and backup solutions.

Officials emphasise that domestic manufacturing is essential to reduce reliance on imported battery cells, especially from Asian suppliers, and to ensure long-term energy security.

The scheme requires successful bidders to establish advanced battery manufacturing facilities with at least 25 per cent domestic value addition within two years of project commencement. Within five years, companies must achieve a minimum manufacturing capacity of one gigawatt-hour (GWh) while increasing domestic value addition to at least 40 per cent. These localisation requirements are intended to build a robust domestic supply chain and attract large-scale investment.

Companies may adopt either integrated manufacturing units or a hub-and-spoke model, where different components of the battery ecosystem are produced by indigenous manufacturers while meeting localisation requirements. Financial support will be available only to those meeting these milestones, under a Programme Agreement signed with the Government of India.

State governments are expected to play a significant role in attracting investment. Each selected company will sign a tripartite agreement with the Centre and the respective state government. States may offer additional incentives such as land, infrastructure support, tax concessions, or other facilitation measures. However, the Centre retains the authority to seek modifications to these agreements before finalisation.

This plan builds on India’s broader energy storage policy framework. In May 2026, the Union Cabinet approved a ₹5,400 crore Viability Gap Funding scheme to support 30 GWh of new grid-scale battery energy storage capacity.

Industry estimates suggest India will require over 411 GWh of energy storage by 2031–32, split between battery systems and pumped hydro. Current pipeline projects already exceed 90 GWh, highlighting the urgency of scaling domestic manufacturing.

By encouraging local production of advanced battery cells, India aims to cut import dependence, attract global investment, and position itself as a manufacturing hub for next-generation energy storage technologies.

This aligns with the country’s clean energy ambitions and its net zero emissions target for 2070. The program is expected to accelerate renewable energy deployment, stabilise the grid, and strengthen India’s role in the global battery ecosystem.

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Reliance Jio’s 1,600-LEO Satellite Program Secures IN-SPACe Approval For India’s First Homegrown Constellation

Reliance Jio’s ambitious plan to deploy a constellation of about 1,600 low earth orbit satellites has received a significant boost with the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre declaring the proposal technically sound, The Economic Times reported.

The evaluation was carried out jointly by IN-SPACe, the Indian Space Research Organisation and the Wireless Planning and Coordination wing of the Department of Telecommunications.

This approval places Jio’s program on par with global systems such as Starlink and clears the way for the government to extend regulatory support at the international level. The company had sought assistance for International Telecommunications Union filings and orbital rights, which require coordination with other operators to avoid interference.

Neither IN-SPACe nor Reliance Jio responded to queries on the matter. However, officials confirmed that the move paves the way for India’s first homegrown LEO constellation, a development with major implications for national security and strategic defence. The LEO segment is currently dominated by Starlink, which has more than 10,000 satellites in orbit, but geopolitical tensions are driving nations to reduce reliance on foreign operators.

The capacity proposed by Jio is unprecedented in India. The company has outlined plans to deliver between 4.5 and 5 terabit per second throughput across the country. This figure far exceeds Starlink’s approved 600 gigabit per second and Amazon Leo’s planned 3 terabit per second capacity, though Amazon has yet to secure authorisation from IN-SPACe.

The orbital parameters and technical architecture of Jio’s constellation have been designed to allow coexistence with another Indian constellation in the future. This ensures flexibility for the country’s satellite communications sector as more domestic players enter the field.

Jio intends to provide fixed satellite services including broadband and cellular backhaul, as well as mobile satellite services such as direct-to-device connectivity. To support these operations, the company plans to establish 20 to 22 ground stations across India.

The regulator has highlighted the merits of the proposal, noting that it meets strategic defence requirements and reduces dependence on overseas companies. It has recommended that regulatory and policy support be extended to Jio so that India can establish its first non-geostationary constellation.

In addition to the technical evaluation, discussions have already taken place at senior levels of government regarding the possibility of hosting defence payloads on some of the satellites. This would further enhance the strategic value of the constellation and integrate it into India’s broader defence infrastructure.

The approval marks a decisive step forward for Reliance Jio’s satellite program, positioning India to join the select group of nations with indigenous LEO systems. It also underscores the government’s determination to strengthen national security and technological self-reliance in the face of growing global competition.

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ISRO Faces Crisis As PSLV Failures, NAVIC Stagnation, And Talent Exodus Threaten Future

India’s space program is facing a critical juncture: repeated PSLV failures, a stalled NAVIC system, delayed Gaganyaan missions, and a worrying exodus of talent have cast doubt on ISRO’s trajectory. 

Despite 13 launches listed for the current financial year, not a single one has flown, raising questions about the future of India’s space ambitions.

The Navigation with Indian Constellation (NAVIC), once hailed as India’s indigenous GPS alternative, has been described as effectively dead. The system has struggled with limited adoption, outdated satellites, and delays in upgrading to dual-frequency capabilities. Without urgent revitalisation, NAVIC risks irrelevance in both civilian and strategic domains.

The Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), long considered ISRO’s most reliable workhorse, has suffered consecutive failures in strategic missions. These failures occurred during the third stage, preventing satellites from reaching their intended orbits.

The reasons have been kept secret, with officials only admitting to component issues linked to external vendors. This lack of transparency has eroded confidence in ISRO’s most trusted launcher.

For the ongoing financial year, ISRO had listed 13 launches. Yet, not one has flown. The suspension of PSLV operations following the January failure has created a bottleneck, leaving satellites grounded and India’s space calendar in disarray. This stagnation undermines both commercial contracts and national security objectives.

The Gaganyaan-G1 mission, India’s first crewed spaceflight, has been delayed by many years. Originally targeted for 2022, it has slipped repeatedly due to technical setbacks, COVID-19 disruptions, and now workforce attrition. Test flights remain incomplete, and the timeline for an actual crewed mission is uncertain. The program, once a symbol of India’s ambition, now risks becoming a cautionary tale of overreach.

Talent is quitting ISRO in unprecedented numbers. Reports confirm that more than 100 scientists have resigned in recent months, with the UR Rao Satellite Centre in Bangalore and the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre in Keralam hardest hit.

These centres are critical for satellite development and launch vehicle design. The Department of Space has responded by tightening resignation rules, forbidding routine acceptance of voluntary retirements from personnel tied to Gaganyaan and other flagship missions. Yet such administrative restrictions cannot mask declining morale or the lure of private space start-ups offering better opportunities.

The future of ISRO is now in question. If repeated failures, secrecy, delays, and talent drain continue unchecked, India’s space program risks losing its edge. The government must urgently address systemic issues, restore confidence in launch vehicles, revitalise NAVIC, and ensure that Gaganyaan does not become indefinitely postponed. Without decisive action, India’s journey to the stars may falter at the launchpad.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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NTPC-NPCIL Joint Venture Issues ₹28,000 Crore Tender For Rajasthan Nuclear Island Project

India’s NTPC-NPCIL joint venture ASHVINI has floated a record ₹28,000 crore tender for the 2,800 MW Mahi Banswara Nuclear Power Plant in Rajasthan, marking the country’s largest-ever Nuclear Island EPC package under its indigenous PHWR program.

This milestone project will feature four 700 MW reactors and is the first nuclear plant not wholly owned by NPCIL.

Anushakti Vidhyut Nigam Ltd (ASHVINI), the joint venture between NTPC and NPCIL, has formally invited bids for the construction of the nuclear island section of the Mahi Banswara project. The tender, issued on Thursday, is valued at over ₹28,000 crore and covers the Nuclear Island Mega EPC Package. 

This includes the reactor building, nuclear structures, heavy water upgrading plant, water systems, and waste management facilities. The nuclear island is the critical core of a nuclear power plant, housing the reactor and essential systems for safe operation.

The tender document specifies that the selected contractor will be responsible for engineering, design, supply, civil construction, installation, testing, commissioning, and operation and maintenance of the package.

The project will deploy four indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors (PHWRs) of 700 MW each, bringing the total installed capacity to 2.8 GW. This is significant because it represents the first nuclear power plant in India not fully owned by NPCIL, which currently operates the country’s entire nuclear capacity of 8.8 GW.

NPCIL has described this as the largest Nuclear Island EPC package floated under India’s PHWR program. The package encompasses all major works required for the four reactors, making it a comprehensive contract that will test the capabilities of India’s nuclear supply chain and engineering ecosystem.

The Centre has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of nuclear power capacity by 2047, and this project is a major step towards that goal.

In the financial year 2024-25, nuclear plants generated 56,681 million units of electricity, accounting for 3.1% of India’s total power generation. The Mahi Banswara project is part of India’s fleet mode initiative, under which ten identical 700 MW reactors are being built across the country to achieve economies of scale and faster deployment. Excavation work at the site has already commenced, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi having laid the foundation stone in September 2025.

The project is expected to create substantial opportunities for Indian companies engaged in nuclear equipment manufacturing, heavy engineering, and infrastructure development. It will also strengthen India’s indigenous nuclear manufacturing ecosystem, promote advanced engineering capabilities, and accelerate the clean energy transition.

The collaboration between NTPC and NPCIL reflects a new model of joint venture ownership in India’s nuclear sector, opening the door for greater private participation in future projects.

Additionally, NTPC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Électricité de France (EDF) to explore nuclear power projects in India. This international collaboration signals India’s intent to integrate global expertise with domestic capabilities, further reinforcing its nuclear expansion strategy.

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IAF Rafales Touches Down For Exercise Pitch Black 2026 In Australia

The Indian Air Force has deployed four Rafale fighter jets, two C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft and over 120 personnel to Darwin, Australia, for Exercise Pitch Black 2026, joining 19 other nations in one of the world’s largest multinational air combat training programs.

The exercise runs from 20 July to 7 August and will involve up to 100 aircraft and 2,500 personnel across RAAF Bases Darwin, Tindal and Amberley.

The Indian Air Force contingent’s arrival marks a significant milestone in Indo-Australian defence cooperation. The High Commission of India in Canberra announced the deployment, highlighting India’s commitment to strengthening military partnerships and enhancing operational coordination with friendly nations.

Exercise Pitch Black is the Royal Australian Air Force’s premier international air combat program. First held in 1981 and hosted in Darwin since 1983, it has grown into one of the Indo-Pacific’s largest and most complex air combat drills. The 2026 edition will feature advanced missions designed to improve interoperability, sharpen combat flying skills and strengthen coalition ties.

India’s Rafales will fly alongside aircraft from the United States, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore, France, Germany, Spain, South Korea, Thailand, the Philippines and Papua New Guinea. Embedded personnel from New Zealand, Canada, Malaysia, Brunei, Fiji, Finland and Sweden will also participate, ensuring a truly global representation.

This year’s exercise will see the debut of Japan’s F-35 Lightning II fighters and Indonesia’s T-50I Golden Eagle aircraft. Finland and Sweden are joining with embedded personnel for the first time, reflecting the expanding scope of international cooperation.

Air Commodore Matthew McCormack, Exercise Commander, emphasised that Pitch Black 2026 is the RAAF’s largest collective training activity with partners and allies. He noted that the exercise provides realistic and complex combat scenarios, building on lessons from 2024 and remaining highly sought after due to Australia’s vast military training airspace.

The Indian Air Force’s participation underscores New Delhi’s growing defence partnership with Canberra under their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In recent years, India and Australia have expanded military cooperation through bilateral and multilateral exercises, information sharing and defence collaboration in the Indo-Pacific.

The exercise also supports the objectives of Australia’s National Defence Strategy by improving operational integration and reinforcing a shared commitment to regional peace and stability. It marks the conclusion of a high-tempo flying period in northern Australia, which has also included Exercises Diamond Storm and Southern Cross.

Community engagement is an important part of Pitch Black. The Royal Australian Air Force will thank the Darwin community with the Mindil Beach Flying Display on 23 July and the RAAF Base Darwin Open Day on 1 August, giving the public an opportunity to view participating aircraft and interact with personnel.

The deployment of IAF Rafales to Australia demonstrates India’s operational readiness and its intent to strengthen multilateral defence ties. It provides an opportunity for Indian pilots to engage in complex air combat scenarios, exchange operational expertise and reinforce India’s role in regional security.

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Sundarbans Border To Be Fenced For First Time As BSF Expedites Security Program

The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has, for the first time, approved fencing in the marshy Sundarbans region along the India–Bangladesh border in West Bengal.

The project will cover nearly 90 kilometres of terrain that is notoriously difficult, marked by mangrove forests, tidal swamps, embankments and countless creeks. This initiative is expected to significantly strengthen border security in one of the most challenging landscapes in the country.

The Border Security Force has already begun feasibility and technical studies to determine how best to erect the fence along the land border. At present, there are no physical barriers in this stretch, and the BSF relies on Floating Border Outposts in riverine areas to monitor and secure the frontier. Plans are also underway to expand marine patrolling to complement the fencing effort.

BSF Director-General Praveen Kumar visited the Sundarbans between 11 and 14 July to review progress. He emphasised that no fencing work has ever been attempted in this region before. Local communities have been counselled about the necessity of fencing, with officials stressing its importance for national security. A joint inspection involving the BSF and the Department of Irrigation is expected to commence shortly.

As part of outreach, the BSF chief met residents and government officials stationed in the area. However, almost 71 kilometres of the border runs contiguous with the Sundarbans Wildlife Sanctuary, where construction is prohibited due to its protected status. This restriction will shape the scope of the fencing project.

The three-day review led by the BSF chief focused on ensuring time-bound completion of the fencing. Discussions also highlighted the need for additional searchlights and surveillance cameras to enhance marine domination and monitoring capabilities.

Officials acknowledged concerns among locals about land acquisition, with fears of losing homes and livelihoods. Several mid-scale hotels and lodges in the region also expressed apprehension about relocation. Authorities have assured compensation and rehabilitation for affected parties.

The project has gained momentum following the change of government in West Bengal. Officials noted that the previous administration had resisted joint land surveys in the Sundarbans. Since then, the pace of work has accelerated, with greater cooperation between departments.

The BSF has also intensified patrolling after the ouster of Sheikh Hasina’s government in Bangladesh in August 2024, a development that raised concerns about infiltration and trans-border crimes. Although the Sundarbans is not a preferred route for infiltrators, it has been used for smuggling and other illegal activities, prompting additional security measures.

The Indo–Bangladesh border in West Bengal stretches 2,216.7 kilometres, making it one of the longest and most complex international boundaries in the region. The fencing of the Sundarbans marks a significant milestone in India’s broader program to secure its frontier with Bangladesh.

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Axl Drone Demonstrates UAV Anti-Jamming Technology After Delivering 30 Peregrine Drones To Indian Army

Eranakulam-based Axl Drone has achieved a significant breakthrough by demonstrating its UAV anti-jamming technology to the Indian Army, reinforcing its position as a rising force in India’s indigenous defence sector.

This follows the delivery of 30 “Axl Peregrine” surveillance drones, showcasing Kerala’s growing role in military innovation.

Axl Drone, headquartered in Ernakulam, has recently showcased its anti-jamming and secure-frequency technology to the Indian Army. This capability is designed to maintain control of unmanned aerial vehicles in GPS-denied environments and electronically jammed battlefields.

Such resilience is critical in modern warfare, where adversaries increasingly deploy electronic countermeasures to disrupt drone operations. The demonstration highlights India’s progress in developing indigenous solutions to counter sophisticated threats.

The company had earlier delivered 30 “Axl Peregrine” drones to the Army from its Kalamassery facility near Kochi. These UAVs are tailored for long-range surveillance missions, offering endurance and advanced imaging capabilities. Each drone is equipped with infrared thermal cameras and 4K resolution sensors, enabling effective reconnaissance even in low-light conditions.

With a top speed of 54 km/h and a hovering capacity of up to 50 minutes, the Peregrine provides versatile operational flexibility. Operators can control the drones within a secure line-of-sight range of 10 kilometres, ensuring reliable performance across diverse terrains.

Axl Drone’s emphasis on indigenisation is evident in its hardware, software, and power systems. The company has developed its own control applications and integrated platforms, alongside specialised lithium polymer (LiPo) batteries such as the Axl Everfly 35,000mAh packs.

These are available in multiple configurations, including 6S, 12S, and 16S variants, supporting mission-critical endurance for both defence and industrial applications. By manufacturing airframes, batteries, and software entirely within Kerala, Axl Drone aligns closely with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reducing reliance on imports and strengthening domestic supply chains.

The firm operates through a distributed ecosystem across Kerala, with research and development at Kalamassery Infopark, manufacturing in Palakkad, and software development at U L Cyberpark in Kozhikode.

This networked approach fosters innovation and scalability, ensuring rapid deployment of advanced UAV systems. Leadership under CEO Jo Kuncheriyan, an IT entrepreneur with international experience, and managing director Robin Zacharias has provided strategic direction, positioning Axl Drone as a key contributor to India’s defence modernisation.

The demonstration of anti-jamming technology represents a critical milestone. In contested environments where GPS signals are blocked or manipulated, drones equipped with secure-frequency systems can continue to operate effectively.

This capability enhances battlefield survivability and ensures uninterrupted reconnaissance, logistics, and tactical missions. It also complements India’s broader drone modernisation programs, which include UAV-launched guided munitions, kamikaze drones, and counter-drone technologies.

By integrating indigenous hardware, advanced imaging, secure communications, and resilient power systems, Axl Drone is carving out a niche in India’s defence technology landscape.

Its achievements underscore Kerala’s emergence as a hub for aerospace innovation and highlight the growing role of private enterprises in strengthening national security.

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