India Awaits Replies After Formal Overtures To GCAP And FCAS Sixth‑Generation Fighter Jet Programs

India has formally approached both the UK–Italy–Japan Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) and the France–Germany–Spain Future Combat Air System (FCAS), signalling its intent to join one of the two sixth‑generation fighter jet consortia

 Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh confirmed that New Delhi is awaiting responses, highlighting the strategic importance of international collaboration to meet the astronomical costs and technological demands of next‑generation air power.

India’s overtures mark a decisive step in its defence modernisation strategy. Speaking at the ANI National Security Summit 2.0, Singh emphasised that sixth‑generation fighters, with their advanced stealth, artificial intelligence integration, directed energy weapons, and sensor networking, require levels of investment and research that no single nation can realistically manage alone.

He explained that India has communicated its willingness to collaborate as a partner, stressing that partnership is not optional but essential in this domain.

The two programs India has reached out to are among the most ambitious in the world. GCAP, born from the merger of the UK’s Tempest and Japan’s F‑X projects, also includes Italy. It aims to deliver a demonstrator aircraft by 2027 and full service entry by 2035.

Its design features a manned stealth jet supported by autonomous loyal wingman drones, advanced propulsion systems, and high‑capacity data networks. GCAP is marketed as a non‑US alternative to the F‑35, appealing to nations seeking strategic autonomy.

However, its fixed industrial workshare among founding members may limit India’s role to off‑the‑shelf acquisition unless specific arrangements are negotiated.

By contrast, FCAS, led by France, Germany, and Spain, is structured around the Next Generation Weapon System, which includes a Next‑Generation Fighter, unmanned remote carriers, and an Air Combat Cloud.

FCAS has faced delays due to disputes between Dassault and Airbus over leadership of key technological pillars, leaving industrial participation more fluid. This could offer India greater scope for meaningful involvement, particularly in areas such as airframe design and flight controls. FCAS also plans a naval variant, directly relevant to India’s expanding aircraft carrier program.

India’s outreach aligns with recommendations from its Parliamentary Standing Committee, which urged the Air Force to partner with a global consortium to avoid falling behind in next‑generation aerospace technology. By joining either GCAP or FCAS, India hopes to share financial burdens, accelerate technology transfers, and embed its domestic aerospace industry into global supply chains.

At the same time, India continues to push forward with its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project.

A Request for Proposal is expected soon for shortlisted private sector firms, marking a strategic shift towards multiple fighter production lines and reducing reliance on a single public sector manufacturer.

This dual approach—pursuing indigenous development while seeking international collaboration—reflects India’s pragmatic balancing of self‑reliance with global integration.

Experts note that successful collaboration could open doors for co‑development of subsystems, joint manufacturing, and deeper defence industrial ties with partner nations. For India, the decision between GCAP and FCAS will hinge on industrial access, strategic alignment, and the scope for meaningful participation rather than mere procurement.

Agencies

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Sigma Advanced Systems Signs £300 Million Long-Term Aerospace Manufacturing Deal With Rolls-Royce

Sigma Advanced Systems has announced a landmark seven-year manufacturing agreement with Rolls-Royce worth £300 million, equivalent to approximately ₹3,800 crore, reported ScanX.

The deal involves the supply of high-precision aerospace components through Sigma’s integrated India-UK manufacturing network, marking a significant milestone in its global aerospace expansion.

This partnership strengthens Sigma’s position as a global manufacturing platform and provides long-term revenue visibility in the aerospace sector.

The contract delivers substantial value and business stability for Sigma Advanced Systems. With a duration of seven years, the agreement underscores Rolls-Royce’s confidence in Sigma’s capabilities. 

The manufacturing will be executed across Sigma’s dual-source network in India and the UK, reflecting its evolution from a location-specific supplier to a globally integrated platform.

The scope of the partnership includes supplying a wide portfolio of safety-critical, high-precision components and assemblies for Rolls-Royce’s aerospace programs.

This collaboration builds on an existing relationship and signals continued trust in Sigma’s ability to deliver at scale. The India-UK model combines cost-efficient manufacturing in India with proximity, engineering collaboration, and programme alignment in the UK.

This dual-source approach positions Sigma closer to the core of the aerospace supply chain, enabling it to take on larger and more complex work packages that demand both scale and precision.

Strategically, the agreement represents Sigma’s transition from a system player to a more integrated manufacturing partner. It enhances the company’s role in long-duration, high-value aerospace programmes and ensures multi-year revenue visibility through a robust order pipeline. The deal reinforces Sigma’s growth trajectory and its ambition to become a key player in global aerospace manufacturing.

Commenting on the partnership, Sunil Kumar Kalidindi, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director at Sigma Advanced Systems, stated that the agreement reflects the company’s strategic vision. 

He emphasised that the partnership validates Sigma’s investments in building a connected India-UK platform and highlights its focus on quality, reliability, and long-term collaboration.

He expressed gratitude to Rolls-Royce for placing trust in Sigma through this long-term agreement, noting that it provides an opportunity to deepen the company’s role in global aerospace programmes while scaling capabilities across both regions.

Sigma Advanced Systems, with more than three decades of manufacturing experience, operates as a globally integrated aerospace and defence company. Headquartered in India, with operations in the UK and expansion underway in the United States, Sigma is among the largest India-based manufacturers of aero-engine and Aerostructure components.

Its model combines customer proximity in Western markets with India’s cost-efficient, talent-rich base to deliver high-complexity, safety-critical components, assemblies, and systems across aerospace, defence, and emerging technologies.

Agencies

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Lyte Aviation Secures €500m Conditional Order For SkyClinic ‘Flying Hospital’ Aircraft From Mumbai-Based Vman Aviation

Lyte Aviation, a UK-based aerospace start-up, has announced a significant milestone with a €500 million conditional order for its proposed “flying hospital” aircraft.

The London-registered developer of hybrid hydrogen-electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft confirmed that Mumbai-India based leasing firm Vman Aviation has signed a conditional purchase agreement for 10 of its SkyClinic aircraft, intended for deployment in India.

The SkyClinic is designed to deliver surgical care in remote or disaster-affected regions without the need for traditional infrastructure. This order, structured around milestone-linked deposits totalling €10 million, contributes to Lyte’s stated €1.42 billion in pre-orders across its portfolio.

However, the company clarified that these remain conditional, with further details on conversion to firm contracts yet to be disclosed.

Lyte Aviation’s CEO, Freshta Farzam, explained that details of the agreement will be published progressively. She noted that the next step for the company is the development of a subscale prototype, following the completion of its preliminary design review last year.

The SkyClinic is positioned alongside Lyte’s SkyBus passenger aircraft and SkyTruck cargo variant, all of which are based on a shared platform architecture.

Founded in 2023, Lyte has consistently emphasised ambitions to scale hybrid hydrogen-electric aviation for regional transport, focusing on larger aircraft and proven configurations rather than smaller battery-electric air taxis.

Farzam acknowledged the lengthy certification pathway ahead, stating that the UK Civil Aviation Authority would act as the lead regulator, while the company also draws on expertise from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency and the Federal Aviation Administration.

She suggested that Lyte assumes around three years to assemble its full-scale prototype, followed by another three to four years ideally for certification, pointing to potential entry into service in the early 2030s.

The company also highlighted ongoing design refinements. Farzam revealed that the technical team has reduced weight and simplified the propulsion system, cutting the number of wing-mounted engines from eight to four.

She added that a further announcement is expected on a new powertrain integrating hydrogen fuel cells and electric propulsion, alongside conventional elements.

Agencies

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India–UK Strategic Dialogue Strengthens Security And Technology Ties Amid Hormuz Crisis

India and the United Kingdom have stepped up their security cooperation at a time of heightened tensions in West Asia, with the Strait of Hormuz crisis dominating discussions.

At the annual India–UK Strategic Dialogue in New Delhi, National Security Advisers Ajit Doval and Jonathan Powell agreed to intensify collaboration against terrorism, extremism, and pro-Khalistan elements.

Maritime security was a central theme, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to the India–UK Vision 2035 framework, which encompasses defence, technology, and broader security goals.

The talks underscored the urgency of the situation, as Iran’s actions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten global energy flows and directly impact India’s oil and gas imports. The seizure of two ships, including one bound for Gujarat, has effectively halted traffic through the critical waterway, which carries 20 per cent of global oil exports.

This disruption has driven Brent crude prices above $103 per barrel and unsettled India’s energy security, given that half of its LPG and crude imports originate from the Persian Gulf. While diversification of energy sources and a shift towards alternative fuels are being pursued, volatility in the markets is expected to continue.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that ten Indian ships have successfully crossed the Strait of Hormuz, though fourteen remain in the Persian Gulf under close monitoring. Indian nationals aboard two foreign-owned vessels recently fired upon are reported safe, with New Delhi maintaining close contact with Iranian authorities to secure further safe passages.

The Indian Navy has played a pivotal role, escorting the crude tanker Desh Garima to Mumbai. Domestically, the government has sought to stabilise fuel prices through excise duty cuts, cushioning the impact of global turbulence.

Beyond immediate maritime concerns, the dialogue also advanced defence and technology cooperation. Both nations reviewed progress under the Technology Security Initiative, highlighting achievements in telecom, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence.

A landmark joint project is the Silicon Carbide-based semiconductor facility in Odisha, which will support sectors ranging from electric vehicles to defence applications.

The two sides also agreed to expand collaboration in quantum computing, biotechnology, advanced materials, and cybersecurity, aligning with India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

These efforts signal a deepening of strategic ties, with both countries positioning themselves to address not only current crises but also long-term technological and security challenges.

Agencies

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Afghanistan: From Landlocked, Luck-Locked To An Important South Asian Influencer

by Shaumik Samar Ghosh

The contentious Durand Line which separates Afghanistan and Pakistan runs 2,640-kilometre, with the western end touching Iran and the eastern end to China.

Named after British diplomat Mortimer Durand, the line was drawn with an intent to measure the limit of the countries’ respective scope of influence and make a fair demarcation to facilitate diplomatic relations and trade.

Back then, Britain deemed Afghanistan as an autonomous state, but had control over its foreign affairs and diplomatic relations.

Both Afghanistan and Pakistan have cultural histories shaped by a number of civilizations from the east and also the west. Afghan culture and ethos comprise of Pashtun, Uzbek, Hazara, Uzbek, and other ethnic groups; whereas Pakistani culture has the Punjabi, Sindhi, Baloch & Pashtun traditions, rooted in Islamic practices.

In spite of being an independent state Afghanistan could never break out of the shackles of subordination until 2021, while Pakistan continues to remain caught in a vortex of quasi military dictatorship, indecisive politics and internal imbroglios.

The Afghan Jihad against former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) was a time when both Afghanistan and Pakistan had good relations, even though the former had a pro-USSR and anti-Pakistan government in Kabul.

Then came the US led attack on Afghanistan and the prolonged presence of foreign occupation forces which saw friends become foes, and seems that the same is happening even now. Another reason of Pakistan getting irked is Afghanistan’s new found alliances in South Asia, especially India.

For a landlocked country, Afghanistan has been unfortunate in limitless regards. After September 11, 2001, in attacks on New York City and Washington that left thousands dead, the terrorists were Al-Qaeda members, a militant Islamist network that was believed to have been supported by Afghanistan’s de facto rulers.

The Taliban could not trace and handover the leaders of al-Qaeda, especially Osama Bin Laden who was later traced in Pakistan. The United States then invaded Afghanistan to support the Northern Alliance in overthrowing the Taliban and to dislodge Al-Qaeda, but maybe it was looking for the right people in the wrong place. This could have been a mere pretext to capture Afghanistan. The Taliban was removed from power and a new government was set up.

Peace was still a distant dream as the new Afghan government struggled to bring stability to the country. Fighting continued between the NATO powers the Taliban, and civilian casualties were high. In February 2009, while Barack Obama was US president, it hiked the presence of troops in Afghanistan. 

In 2010 around 1,50,000 NATO troops were on the ground in Afghanistan, but the situation worsened as there were even higher casualties. This happened even in 1839, during the First Anglo-Afghan War, when British-led forces invaded Afghanistan and started a war with Afghan rulers, and two years later, the British were defeated.

The 1880 ‘Treaty of Gandamak’ did see Afghanistan giving control of various frontier areas to British ruled India, but it ended in a stalemate as a pro- British head could not be appointed in Kabul. After more than a decade Mortimer Durand was sent to Kabul to sign an agreement with the then supreme leader Amir Abdur Rahman Khan as an agreement of borders were mandatory for many reasons and the most important one was to keep the country afar from communist influence.

The political identity of Afghanistan has always been manipulated through indirect and clandestine formulations. This particular conflict of interest between the people of Afghanistan and foreign installed Afghan governments is the cause of mass resentment leading to armed resistance, a resistance that is always prepared for the worst.

Many who don’t want to live under clouds of mayhem and uncertainty are convinced by certain groups to move to Pakistan in the form of inflow of unarmed refugees, which also encourages drug and human trafficking. In recent times, the Afghan government has not accepted a number of border management proposals from Pakistan.

Bitten million times and shy a billion, Afghanistan continues to deal with serious distrust, blame games, a refugee crisis and cross border violations that is a result of centuries of tug of war. The international interest in Afghanistan stems from the fact that it is the inevitable ‘Boxing Ring of Asia” which is not just strategically, but also psychologically, culturally, geographically and politically the quintessential underdog who has been always carrying the bone with it.

With the world order headed towards multi-polarity, Afghanistan may face many more challenges because it was left behind when rest of the world was moving at a fast pace. For the country to grow it must to open to different philosophies, policies and sustainable trade models.

As it has seen with Pakistan that even though both practice the same religion—majorly the Sunni version or Deobandi form of Islam, it still won’t be enough to emerge as a robust independent power.

With rising trade tensions amongst major economies, not to forget the US- Iran War, South Asia remains at the centre of routing, sending and receiving problems, Afghanistan can play an important catalyst in the emerging new world order.

While China wants Afghanistan to join the former’s ambitious CPEC corridor program, it could be yet another cause of worry for Afghans as they may once more end up as proxy void of any equal say.

But it proved it can as many reports suggest that it is reducing its dependence on Pakistani corridors for access to other markets, and has been using more of the Chabahar port—a positive augmentation of its trade doctrine, backed by India.

At a diplomatic level, Afghanistan is evolving and experimenting with forging new relations. This becomes even more important for a country that does not have an Independence Day - as it was always a free nation on paper, but freedom eluded it for way too long.

Shaumik Samar Ghosh is a writer and keen political and geopolitical analyst

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General Anil Chauhan’s Landmark UK Visit To Strengthen Defence Cooperation And Industry Partnerships

The United Kingdom is hosting Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan for a three-day visit beginning on 19 April, marking the first official visit by an Indian CDS to the UK. General Chauhan was received by his counterpart, UK Chief of Defence Staff Air Chief Marshal Richard Knighton, with discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in training, operations and defence industry partnerships.

During the visit, General Chauhan is scheduled to meet senior UK civil and military leaders, as well as representatives of the British defence industry, to advance talks on co-production. He will also visit the Royal College of Defence Studies, where he will interact with a multinational cohort of students, further underlining the educational and strategic dimension of the engagement.

The visit highlights the growing defence ties between India and the United Kingdom and follows a series of high-level military exchanges earlier this year, including the visit of UK Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Harv Smyth to India in March.

British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron described the visit as a landmark moment, emphasising the trust and ambition driving the UK-India defence partnership. She noted that both nations are stepping up cooperation to strengthen interoperability, spur innovation and support a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific.

Cameron added that the partnership is advancing across joint training, defence industry cooperation and strategic dialogue, with momentum building rapidly because of India’s role as a key defence partner for the UK. Commodore Chris Saunders, Defence Adviser at the British High Commission, echoed this sentiment, stating that it was an honour to accompany General Chauhan and that the visit reflects significant progress achieved across all areas of defence.

Saunders explained that the visit provides an opportunity to deepen military-to-military engagement, expand cooperative training ambitions and explore greater defence industrial collaboration. He highlighted the shared vision of using defence as an “Engine for Growth” and supporting India’s path to self-reliance, describing the moment as an exciting time for UK-India defence cooperation.

ANI

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UK And France To Unite Over 40 Nations In Paris Talks On Strait of Hormuz Navigation Crisis

France and the United Kingdom are preparing to host a joint conference that will bring together more than 40 countries to address the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

The meeting, scheduled for Friday in Paris, will take place via videoconference and aims to establish a multilateral and defensive mission to restore freedom of navigation in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.

French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed the initiative in a post on X, stating that the conference will involve non-belligerent nations willing to contribute to a purely defensive mission. He emphasised that the effort is designed to reopen the strait once security conditions allow, ensuring that global shipping can resume without restrictions.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer also highlighted the importance of the summit, noting that over 40 nations had been convened to advance work on a coordinated plan. He stressed that the closure of the Strait of Hormuz is severely damaging, with global shipping disruption fuelling cost-of-living pressures. 

The UK and France intend to lead efforts towards an independent, multinational plan to safeguard international shipping once the conflict subsides.

Macron further revealed that he had spoken with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and US President Donald Trump, urging both sides to resume negotiations, clarify misunderstandings, and avoid further escalation.

He underlined the necessity of respecting the ceasefire, including in Lebanon, and insisted that the strait must be reopened unconditionally, without controls or tolls, to enable negotiations to restart swiftly with the backing of key stakeholders.

These developments follow faltering peace talks in Pakistan, where a marathon 21-hour negotiation between Washington and Tehran failed to produce a breakthrough. The Franco-British proposal is now seen as a potential means of breaking the Islamabad deadlock.

The situation has been exacerbated by US-Israeli strikes against Iran, which began on 28 February and have triggered repercussions across West Asia and the Gulf region. The Strait of Hormuz, through which nearly one-fifth of global oil shipments passed before the conflict, has become a flashpoint, with its closure driving up energy prices worldwide.

The Paris conference represents a significant attempt to rally international consensus around restoring freedom of navigation in the strait, a step viewed as essential for stabilising global trade and easing economic pressures.

ANI

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India–UK Partnership Launches Hybrid Propulsion BE-JTO Project To Transform Unmanned Aviation

The Technology Development Board (TDB) under India’s Department of Science & Technology has signed an agreement with Gurugram-based Casey Aviation to develop a hybrid propulsion-based Jump Take-Off system called “Boost Electric Jump Take-Off (BE-JTO)” in collaboration with UK-based ARC Aero Systems.

This initiative is part of the India–UK Collaborative R&D Program for Industrial Sustainability and aims to enhance unmanned and light aircraft capabilities.

The agreement marks a significant step in advancing hybrid propulsion technologies for aviation. The project, sanctioned with a conditional grant from TDB, is designed to support the development of the BE-JTO system, which combines electric and conventional propulsion to enable efficient Jump Take-Off operations.

This technology is expected to improve the operational flexibility of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and light aircraft, particularly in environments where conventional runway infrastructure is limited.

Casey Aviation, headquartered in Gurugram, will lead the Indian side of the project, while ARC Aero Systems from the United Kingdom will provide international expertise and collaboration. The partnership underscores the growing emphasis on cross-border cooperation in sustainable aviation technologies, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and enhance energy efficiency in aerospace applications.

The BE-JTO project is part of the broader India–UK Collaborative R&D Program for Industrial Sustainability, which encourages joint innovation between Indian and British firms.

By focusing on hybrid propulsion, the initiative aims to address both environmental concerns and operational challenges in aviation. Hybrid systems such as BE-JTO are seen as critical in bridging the gap between fully electric propulsion and traditional fuel-based systems, offering a practical pathway towards greener aviation.

The Technology Development Board’s support reflects the Government of India’s commitment to fostering innovation in aerospace and defence technologies. By investing in hybrid propulsion research, the DST is positioning India as a contributor to next-generation aviation solutions.

The project also highlights the role of private enterprises like Casey Aviation in driving technological advancements with global relevance.

The collaboration will involve the establishment of a hybrid propulsion test facility in North India, which will serve as a hub for research, testing, and validation of the BE-JTO system. This facility is expected to accelerate the development timeline and provide a platform for future innovations in unmanned and regional air mobility.

The BE-JTO system is envisioned to enhance operational capabilities by enabling aircraft to perform vertical or near-vertical take-offs, reducing dependency on long runways. This feature is particularly valuable for UAVs deployed in defence, disaster management, and remote area operations.

The hybrid propulsion design will also contribute to improved energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and greater reliability in diverse operating conditions.

By combining Indian innovation with British aerospace expertise, the project represents a milestone in international collaboration for sustainable aviation. It is expected to pave the way for future advancements in hybrid propulsion systems, reinforcing India’s role in the global aerospace ecosystem.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Landmark India-UK Comprehensive FTA Agreement Set For May Implementation

The bilateral economic relationship between India and the United Kingdom is poised for a transformative shift as the recently signed free trade pact nears its official activation. According to a senior official, the agreement is expected to come into force during the second week of May.

This follows the formal signing of the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) on 24 July 2025, marking a significant milestone in the diplomatic and commercial history of both nations.

Under the provisions of the CETA, Indian exporters are set to receive a substantial boost, with 99 per cent of Indian goods entering the British market at zero duty. Conversely, the Indian market will become significantly more accessible for British manufacturers and producers.

Notable British exports, including automobiles and spirits, will benefit from a structured reduction in tariffs, facilitating a more competitive environment for UK products within the subcontinent.

The implementation of the trade pact is being coordinated alongside another critical bilateral agreement known as the Double Contributions Convention (DCC). This pact is designed to provide financial relief to temporary workers by ensuring they are no longer required to pay duplicate social levies in both jurisdictions. Officials indicate that both the CETA and the DCC are likely to be implemented in parallel, providing a comprehensive framework for both trade and labour mobility.

The overarching objective of the CETA is to foster rapid economic growth, with an ambitious target to double the current USD 56 billion trade volume between the two economies by the year 2030. This growth is expected to be driven by increased market access across various sectors. India has agreed to open its doors to a wide range of British consumer goods, including confectionery such as chocolates and biscuits, as well as cosmetic products.

In exchange for opening its consumer markets, India will secure enhanced access to the United Kingdom for its core export sectors. This includes significant opportunities for the textiles and footwear industries, as well as the gems, jewellery, sports goods, and toy sectors. These industries are expected to benefit from the removal of trade barriers, allowing Indian craftsmanship and manufacturing to reach British consumers more efficiently.

Specific provisions have been made for the Scotch whisky industry, which has long sought lower barriers to the Indian market.

The agreement stipulates that the current 150 per cent tariff on Scotch whisky will be reduced to 75 per cent immediately upon implementation. Furthermore, this duty is scheduled to be progressively lowered until it reaches 40 per cent by the year 2035, representing a major win for British distillers.

The automotive sector will also see a dramatic shift in trade dynamics. India has committed to reducing import duties on British cars to 10 per cent over a five-year period, a sharp decline from the current rates which can reach as high as 110 per cent. This liberalisation will occur under a managed quota system.

Reciprocally, Indian automotive manufacturers will gain dedicated access to the UK market for electric and hybrid vehicles, also within a defined quota framework, aligning the trade deal with global shifts towards sustainable transport.

PTI

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Trump Intervention Forces UK U-Turn On Strategic Chagos Islands Sovereignty Deal

The British government has placed a significant pause on the deal to transfer sovereignty of the Chagos Islands to Mauritius, following a sharp intervention from the United States.

President Donald Trump has vocally condemned the agreement, describing the move as an act of ‘great stupidity’ and a ‘show of weakness’ that could embolden adversaries such as China and Russia.

The White House has made it clear that the land should remain under British control, warning that its loss would be a ‘blight’ on the United Kingdom as a key ally.

This diplomatic friction centres on the strategic military base at Diego Garcia, which is located within the Chagos Archipelago. Although the original plan proposed by Prime Minister Keir Starmer involved a 99-year lease to secure the base’s future, the Trump administration has expressed deep concerns over the long-term security implications.

Critics within the US suggest that the Prime Minister’s approach was naive, potentially allowing Chinese influence to grow in a region where Mauritius maintains close ties with Beijing.

The decision to shelf the deal marks a dramatic shift from the previous stance of the US State Department, which had initially backed the agreement.

However, following a review of the facts and the change in American leadership, Washington withdrew its support, prompting London to halt proceedings.

This pause has been described as a necessary step to protect the special relationship between the two nations and to ensure that American military projection in the Indian Ocean is not compromised.

Internal pressure within the UK has also mounted, with Conservative figures and transatlantic security experts urging the government to ‘sink the deal’ entirely.

They argue that surrendering the territory would not only damage British interests but could also set a dangerous precedent for other overseas territories, such as the Falkland Islands and Gibraltar.

There are also concerns that the transfer would bind the US to African nuclear inspections under the Pelindaba Treaty, which could force the disarming of nuclear capabilities at Diego Garcia.

Meanwhile, the legal landscape surrounding the islands remains complex, with recent court rulings in London suggesting that displaced Chagossians may have a right to return to the islands. This adds a further layer of difficulty for the government, which had hoped the deal with Mauritius would resolve decades of international lawfare.

For now, the agreement remains in a state of limbo as talks continue between London and Washington to find a path forward that satisfies the security demands of the new American administration.

Agencies

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India Joins UK-Led Coalition To Break Strait of Hormuz Standoff Amid Trump Retraction

India has officially joined a high-level diplomatic initiative alongside 60 other nations to address the escalating crisis in the Strait of Hormuz. Following an invitation from the United Kingdom, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri represented New Delhi in a virtual summit aimed at reopening the strategic waterway.

The passage remains a vital artery for global commerce, currently blocked following a series of military exchanges involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.

During the proceedings, the Ministry of External Affairs highlighted the severe risks posed to India’s national interests. Foreign Secretary Misri noted that India holds the sombre distinction of being the only nation to have suffered the loss of mariners during recent maritime attacks in the Gulf.

He reinforced the necessity of maintaining the freedom of navigation and ensuring that international waters remain unimpeded by regional conflicts.

The economic implications for India are particularly acute given its heavy reliance on energy imports through the region. Approximately 40 per cent of the nation's oil, half of its liquefied natural gas, and a staggering 80 per cent of its liquefied petroleum gas are transported through this narrow corridor. Consequently, any prolonged closure threatens not only price stability but the fundamental energy security of the country.

Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that India is maintaining active communication channels with Tehran and other regional stakeholders. These diplomatic efforts have already yielded some success, with six Indian vessels carrying critical fuel supplies permitted to transit the strait safely over recent days. The ministry maintains that de-escalation and a return to traditional dialogue are the only sustainable paths out of the current impasse.

The international effort faces a complicated geopolitical landscape, exacerbated by a significant shift in American foreign policy. US President Donald Trump recently utilised his Truth Social platform to issue a sharp rebuke to traditional allies, including the United Kingdom.

In a characteristic reversal of previous priorities, he urged allied nations to secure their own energy interests and suggested they use military force to "take" the strait without American assistance.

The President’s comments underscored a transactional approach to the alliance, mocking the UK for its perceived lack of involvement in previous military actions against Iran. Trump’s directive for allies to buy American energy supplies rather than rely on Middle Eastern routes has added a layer of unpredictability to the coalition's planning. This "America First" stance has essentially left the UK and its partners to manage the maritime security of the Gulf independently.

In response, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has moved to consolidate a "Broad Coalition" of 35 core signatories, including G7 members such as France, Germany, Canada, and Japan, alongside regional partners like the UAE.

The Prime Minister clarified that the current focus is on assessing diplomatic and political levers to guarantee the safety of trapped seafarers and the resumption of essential commodity movements.

Following the initial talks chaired by UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, the coalition intends to transition into technical "working-level" meetings. These sessions will eventually involve military planners to determine how to marshal collective naval capabilities.

The ultimate goal is to ensure the strait is rendered accessible and safe for commercial shipping once the immediate hostilities in the region have concluded.

Agencies

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UK PM Starmer Calls For Calm Leadership And Maritime Security Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis

The remarks by Prime Minister Keir Starmer come at a moment of heightened tension in West Asia, with the Strait of Hormuz effectively closed due to the ongoing war in Iran.

Starmer emphasised that while the conflict will inevitably affect the United Kingdom, it is not Britain’s war, and the government will not be drawn into direct involvement. His focus was on de-escalation and ensuring the reopening of the Strait, a vital artery for global energy supplies.

He outlined that Britain has rallied 35 nations around a statement of intent to strengthen maritime security in the Gulf. Plans are underway to host a meeting of these nations, alongside consultations with military planners, to assess how the strait can be secured.

Starmer acknowledged the difficulty of this task, stressing that the real challenge lies not in insurance but in guaranteeing the safety and security of passage through the chokepoint.

The Prime Minister underscored the importance of calm and clear leadership, guided by British national interest. He recognised public anxiety over the crisis, noting that families are worried about rising energy bills and the broader impact on daily life. He pledged that the government would meet these concerns head-on, presenting itself as prepared to lead with composure and resolve.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump issued a blunt message to allies such as the UK and France, criticising their reluctance to join American military action against Iran. In his statement, Trump urged these nations to either purchase fuel from the United States or muster the courage to secure oil supplies themselves, declaring that the US would no longer intervene on their behalf.

His remarks highlight a widening transatlantic divide over strategy in the Gulf, with Washington pressing for assertive action while London insists on restraint and collective security.

The crisis underscores the fragility of global energy flows and the geopolitical risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz. Britain’s approach seeks to balance national interest with international cooperation, aiming to avoid escalation while safeguarding vital maritime routes.

The coming weeks will test whether this multilateral effort can succeed in stabilising one of the world’s most strategically significant waterways.

ANI

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Iran's Diego Garcia Failed Strike Exposes Tehran’s Hollow Military Capabilities

Iran's recent ballistic missile strike against the joint United Kingdom-United States military installation on Diego Garcia has starkly revealed the discrepancies between Tehran's proclaimed military prowess and its actual capabilities.

On 20 March 2026, Iranian forces launched what they intended as a precision assault on the base, situated approximately 4,000 kilometres south of Iran in the Chagos Archipelago. However, the operation faltered dramatically, with United States defences intercepting one projectile while the other disintegrated mid-flight, scattering harmlessly far short of the target.

Official sources, including reports from The New York Times, confirmed that no damage was inflicted, and no casualties occurred. A spokesperson for the UK Defence Ministry swiftly denounced the incident as a "reckless attack," underscoring the provocative nature of Iran's actions amid escalating regional tensions.

This event marks one of the most audacious long-range demonstrations by Iran in the ongoing conflict, which ignited in late February following extensive airstrikes by Israel and the United States against Iranian targets.

Just weeks prior, in late February 2026, Iranian officials had publicly asserted a self-imposed 2,000-kilometre range restriction on their ballistic missiles, framing the arsenal purely as a deterrent against aggression.

The Wall Street Journal highlighted these statements, which now appear as deliberate misrepresentations in light of the Diego Garcia attempt. Analysts contend that this strike exposes Iran's intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) limitations, as the projectiles represented the farthest firings attempted to date in the hostilities.

Dr Mauro Gilli, a professor of military strategy and technology at Germany's Hertie School, observed to Stars and Stripes that Iran's accuracy at such distances proved woefully inadequate. IRBMs typically boast ranges between 3,000 and 5,500 kilometres, demanding sophisticated guidance systems, robust propulsion, and precise re-entry technologies. The failure suggests that Iran's modifications to existing designs fell short of operational reliability.

Tehran's missile programme has long benefited from external partnerships, particularly with North Korea, Russia, and increasingly China. Recent intelligence indicates China's deepened involvement, including dual-use technology transfers and shipments of critical materials for solid rocket motors.

The US Treasury Department has documented thousands of metric tons of rocket fuel chemicals—specialised propellants—exported by Chinese firms to Iranian state enterprises over the past two years, routed through evasive supply chains to bypass sanctions.

These transfers encompass ammonium perchlorate and other oxidisers essential for high-performance solid fuels, enabling Iran to enhance missile endurance and payload capacities. North Korean collaborations have supplied design blueprints for liquid-fuelled engines, while Russian expertise aids in warhead miniaturisation.

Yet, despite this assistance, Iran has not unveiled a novel IRBM class capable of consistent long-range strikes.

Professor Iain Boyd, director of the Center for National Security Initiatives and an aerospace engineering expert at the University of Colorado, argues in an analysis for The Conversation that the Diego Garcia missiles were likely adaptations of pre-existing models, such as the Sejjil or Khorramshahr variants.

Extending range necessitates larger fuel loads, reinforced airframes, and refined aerodynamics, all of which amplify costs and technical complexities. Iran probably maintains only a modest stockpile of such upgraded weapons.

The mid-flight disintegration points to potential flaws in structural integrity or thermal protection during re-entry, exacerbated by the unprecedented distance. Boyd posits that operating these systems beyond validated parameters risks catastrophic failure, as evidenced here. This incident may signal Iran's desperation to project power amid battlefield setbacks, prioritising propaganda over tactical efficacy.

Psychologically, the launch aimed to rally domestic support and deter adversaries by simulating reach into the Indian Ocean theatre. Diego Garcia, with its strategic runways, prepositioned munitions, and surveillance assets, symbolises Western power projection in the Indo-Pacific. A successful hit would have disrupted operations pivotal to containing Iranian proxies and monitoring maritime chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz.

However, the abject failure undermines Tehran's narrative of invincibility. It echoes prior debacles, such as the imprecise barrages against Israel in 2024, where most projectiles were neutralised by multi-layered defences like Israel's Arrow system and US THAAD batteries. Overreliance on quantity rather than quality has consistently betrayed Iran's quantitative edge.

From a technical standpoint, IRBM development hinges on mastering hypersonic glide vehicles or manoeuvring re-entry bodies to evade interception. Iran's attempts, like the Fattah series, remain unproven at scale. Solid-fuel motors offer rapid launch advantages but demand stringent quality control; impurities in Chinese-sourced chemicals could precipitate the observed structural compromises.

This misadventure invites heightened scrutiny on proliferation networks. The US and allies may intensify sanctions on implicated Chinese entities, potentially straining Sino-Iranian ties. Russia, preoccupied with Ukraine, offers limited tangible aid beyond rhetoric. North Korea's contributions, while innovative, suffer from scalability issues due to Pyongyang's own resource constraints.

For the UK and US, the episode validates Diego Garcia's fortifications, including Patriot PAC-3 batteries and Aegis-equipped naval assets. No immediate retaliation was announced, suggesting a calibrated response to avoid broader escalation while exposing Iran's frailties. Regional partners, including India, view this with concern, given shared interests in securing Indian Ocean sea lanes.

India's own missile advancements, via Agni-V and beyond, contrast sharply with Iran's struggles, highlighting the value of indigenous R&D over sanctioned dependencies. New Delhi's Quad alignments further position it to counterbalance Iranian disruptions alongside Diego Garcia's role.

Iran's Diego Garcia gambit not only failed militarily but demolished its credibility on missile restraint and capability. Future salvos may follow, yet persistent inaccuracies and interception vulnerabilities limit their menace. Western forces retain decided superiority in precision and defence.

Indo-Pacific Defence Forum

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India And UK Deepen Defence Ties With Focus On Indo-Pacific Security And Joint Military Cooperation

India and the United Kingdom have taken another step towards strengthening their defence partnership, with a series of high-level engagements in New Delhi underscoring the importance of jointness and interoperability in addressing evolving maritime and aerospace security challenges.

Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, met Air Chief Marshal Harvey Smyth, Chief of the Air Staff of the Royal Air Force, for discussions that highlighted operational cooperation, training exchanges, and capacity building as key pillars of future collaboration.

The meeting placed particular emphasis on integrated approaches to security across the Indo-Pacific and beyond, reflecting both nations’ shared interest in ensuring stability in a region increasingly defined by strategic competition.

The Indian Navy’s spokesperson noted that the interaction reaffirmed the commitment to deepen strategic ties and foster enduring defence partnerships, signalling a clear intent to move beyond symbolic gestures towards practical cooperation.

Air Chief Marshal Smyth’s visit to India has been marked by a series of engagements across the services. Earlier in the day, he met General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, to deliberate on the current geostrategic situation and explore avenues for strengthening bilateral defence cooperation.

The Indian Army highlighted the focus on joint initiatives to bolster peace and security, demonstrating that the dialogue extended well beyond air power into broader military collaboration.

The UK Air Chief also visited the Air Force Station in Gwalior, where he gained first-hand insight into Indian Air Force fighter base operations and interacted with personnel. This visit reinforced mutual understanding and opened avenues for enhanced convergence between the two air forces, particularly in areas of interoperability and shared operational practices.

His reception by Air Marshal B Manikantan, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Central Air Command, underscored the importance India attaches to such exchanges.

In addition, Smyth held talks with General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, focusing on training exchanges, intelligence collaboration, and integrated military engagement.

The Headquarters of Integrated Defence Staff emphasised the importance of instructor exchanges and defence intelligence cooperation, noting that these remain central to the bilateral cooperation matrix.

The successful conduct of the 17th Military Sub Group Meeting was also commended, with confidence expressed in advancing a deeper and more future-ready defence engagement.

Smyth’s meeting with Air Chief Marshal A P Singh, Chief of the Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, further reinforced the emphasis on strengthening bilateral air power ties. Discussions centred on enhancing operational cooperation and interoperability, reflecting the shared recognition that air power remains a decisive factor in modern warfare and deterrence.

The visit began with a solemn tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, where Smyth paid homage to the fallen heroes of the Indian Armed Forces. This gesture set the tone for a visit that combined respect for India’s military traditions with a forward-looking agenda aimed at building stronger defence ties.

Taken together, these engagements highlight the growing momentum in India–UK defence relations. The focus on maritime and aerospace security challenges reflects the evolving strategic environment, while the emphasis on jointness and interoperability signals a pragmatic approach to cooperation.

With both nations committed to deepening their partnership, the visit of Air Chief Marshal Smyth marks a significant step towards a more integrated and resilient defence relationship.

IANS

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UK Budget Woes Fuel Japanese Frustrations In Trilateral Fighter Pact

Japan harbours growing doubts about the UK's commitment to the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), a trilateral effort with Italy to develop next-generation fighters by 2035 and challenge US dominance, amid stalled design contracts due to UK budgetary foot-dragging and a postponed £28bn defence investment plan.

Tokyo prioritises a mid-2030s timeline for the jet, contrasting London and Rome's focus on a flexible "system of systems" with drones, fuelling frustration despite UK PM Keir Starmer's reassurances to Japan's Sanae Takaichi.

While BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries continue work on national funds at risk of depletion, Japan eyes export deals like with Canada to ease UK burdens but resists new development partners such as Saudi Arabia. Officials from all sides insist momentum persists, with contract negotiations nearing completion.

This ambitious initiative seeks to counterbalance American supremacy in military aviation technology, uniting the defence industries of Japan, the UK, and Italy.

Crucial design and development efforts have ground to a halt, however, due to protracted delays in Britain's defence investment blueprint, stalling a key contract with Edgewing—the commercial consortium formed by the nations' premier defence firms.

One insider described the impasse as "a terrible situation," pinning the blame squarely on UK budgetary hesitancy.

A second source revealed palpable "growing frustration" emanating from Tokyo.

Beyond fiscal hurdles, divergences in strategic vision plague the partners: Japan prioritises a mid-2030s operational fighter, while London and Rome emphasise a sophisticated "system of systems"—a manned jet synergising with drone swarms—on a more flexible timeline.

This mismatch might entice the UK to decelerate the schedule for short-term affordability, one observer cautioned.

Tensions escalate amid global instability, including the Middle East conflict and a volatile US under President Trump, who has pressed NATO allies to bolster their own defences.

UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer sought to assuage Japanese counterpart Sanae Takaichi's concerns during a recent Japan visit, affirming Britain's dedication—yet without committed funds, his words rang hollow.

GCAP aspires to supplant ageing fleets across the three nations, curtailing dependence on US F-35s that dominate NATO skies.

Britain's 10-year defence plan, slated for autumn 2025 release, has faced repeated postponements amid a £28 billion decadal funding shortfall, officials note.

Italy recently pegged its design-phase contribution at €18.6 billion—threefold prior estimates—and sanctioned an €8.8 billion instalment last month.

Japan's ministerial disquiet over UK delays and GCAP's funding safeguards has intensified.

Industry heavyweights BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries persist with engineering under domestic budgets, but UK funds could evaporate imminently, sources warn.

In response, Tokyo now entertains export deals to ease UK's burden, eyeing Canada as a prime prospect.

Japan remains wary of fresh development partners, rebuffing last year's UK-Italy overture for Saudi involvement—though Riyadh lingers in discussions for a lesser role.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey has vowed to sustain GCAP's impetus, informing MPs of frantic work on the investment plan, sans a firm publication date.

A Ministry of Defence spokesperson highlighted trilateral strides, such as the Reading headquarters and Edgewing's launch, prioritising swift contract inking.

Japan's Defence Ministry insists Edgewing talks near completion, foreseeing no delays, and welcomes export interest if it bolsters the program alongside UK and Italian input.

Edgewing affirms the project adheres to timetable, with engineering advancing apace and operations scaling per plan.

Agencies

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