DAC Clears ₹2.12 Lakh Crore Defence Modernisation Drive, 82% Procurement Earmarked for Indian Industry

In a major boost to military modernisation and indigenous manufacturing, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for capital acquisition proposals worth approximately ₹2.12 lakh crore for the armed forces, announced PIB.

The approvals represent one of the largest defence acquisition clearances in recent years and are aligned with the government's continued emphasis on strengthening domestic defence production and operational preparedness.

According to the Ministry of Defence, around 82% of the total procurement value will be sourced from Indian industry, providing substantial momentum to the country's self-reliance drive in the defence sector and reinforcing the indigenous defence industrial base.

The cleared proposals span a broad spectrum of platforms, weapons, surveillance assets and support systems for the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.

The acquisitions are intended to enhance capability across key operational domains, including mobility, surveillance, precision strike, air defence, counter-drone warfare, logistics support and maritime security.

For the Indian Army, the DAC approved the procurement of High Mobility Vehicles (HMVs), Self-Propelled Tracked Gun Systems, Gun Shot Response Systems (GSRS), Light Multi Role Helicopters (LMRH), Very Short-Range Air Defence Systems (VSHORADS) and Platform Based Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS).

The Army will also acquire long-range unmanned aerial systems, surveillance UAVs, an Integrated Surveillance and Strike System, and Long Range Kamikaze Drone Systems, reflecting the growing importance of unmanned and network-enabled warfare on the modern battlefield.

The HMVs are expected to significantly improve operational mobility, logistical support and deployment flexibility, particularly in challenging and difficult terrain.

The Self-Propelled Tracked Gun Systems will provide mechanised formations with a combination of mobility and firepower, strengthening battlefield responsiveness and long-range engagement capabilities.

The GSRS will act as a force multiplier by delivering real-time situational awareness, enabling troops to rapidly identify and respond to hostile firing positions during operations.

The LMRHs will undertake a wide range of missions, including reconnaissance, surveillance, combat operations, search and rescue tasks, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief activities.

The VSHORADS are intended to counter small-sized, next-generation aerial threats, an increasingly important requirement as low-cost airborne systems become more prevalent in contemporary conflicts.

The Platform Based C-UAS systems will improve the survivability of armoured formations by providing enhanced protection against hostile drone attacks.

The approved surveillance UAVs, long-range drone systems and integrated surveillance-strike assets are expected to strengthen the Army's intelligence, reconnaissance, target-acquisition and precision-engagement capabilities.

For the Indian Navy, the DAC approved the procurement of Active Offboard Decoy Systems (AODS) along with other major naval platforms. The AODS will strengthen naval anti-missile defences by providing additional protection against modern anti-ship missile threats, a capability of growing importance in increasingly contested maritime environments.

The other naval platforms approved by the council will be designed and constructed domestically and are intended to enhance the Navy's overall combat effectiveness through the incorporation of contemporary warfare technologies and systems.

For the Indian Air Force, the approvals include helicopters, air-defence systems, weapons and Mobile X-Band Doppler Weather Radar Systems. The cleared helicopter acquisition includes Special Utility Helicopters that will support a range of air-transport requirements and improve operational flexibility across diverse mission profiles.

The Mobile X-Band Doppler Weather Radar Systems will provide high-resolution, localised weather surveillance in forward areas, helping commanders and aircrew make more informed operational decisions in rapidly changing conditions.

The approved air-defence systems and weapons are expected to strengthen the Air Force's ability to protect critical assets, improve readiness and support future operational requirements.

The AoN granted by the DAC constitutes in-principle administrative approval for procurement and marks the beginning of the acquisition process. Subsequent phases will involve detailed procurement procedures, tendering activities, evaluation processes and contract finalisation before equipment induction can commence.

Collectively, the approvals underscore India's determination to modernise its armed forces while simultaneously expanding domestic manufacturing capabilities.

The package delivers enhanced capability across land, air and maritime domains, with particular emphasis on drones, surveillance, mobility, air defence and precision-strike systems, while ensuring that a substantial majority of expenditure remains within the Indian defence industry ecosystem.

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Indian Air Force Pilots Fly Russian Su-30SM During Indra 2026 Air Combat Drills

Indian Air Force and Russian Aerospace Forces crews have carried out joint flying operations involving the Russian Su-30SM multirole fighter during the Indra 2026 military exercise, providing Indian pilots with a rare opportunity to fly a close relative of the Su-30MKI that forms the backbone of India's combat aviation fleet, TASS reported.

The bilateral exercise focused on strengthening operational coordination and enhancing interoperability between the two air forces through realistic combat training scenarios.

According to Russia's Ministry of Defence, the air drills concentrated on engaging small, low-flying targets and intercepting aircraft carrying short- and medium-range air-launched weapons.

Flight crews also practised manoeuvring air combat at medium and low altitudes, sharpening skills relevant to modern aerial warfare and contested airspace operations.

The exercise marked an important milestone as Indian pilots gained first-hand experience operating the Russian Su-30SM, an aircraft that shares a common heritage with the Indian Air Force's Su-30MKI but incorporates a different suite of systems and technologies.

Both fighters are derived from the highly successful Su-27 Flanker family and are powered by twin engines. They are renowned for their exceptional manoeuvrability, aided by thrust-vectoring technology and advanced aerodynamic design, enabling them to perform demanding air combat manoeuvres.

Despite their common lineage, the Su-30SM and Su-30MKI differ significantly in several areas. India's Su-30MKI combines Russian airframe technology with equipment sourced from multiple international partners, creating a unique configuration tailored to Indian operational requirements.

The Su-30MKI is integrated with weapons such as the BrahMos-A air-launched cruise missile and the indigenous Astra air-to-air missile, giving it a broad range of strike and air-superiority capabilities.

By contrast, the Russian Su-30SM relies primarily on domestically developed avionics, communications systems and weaponry. It is compatible with key Russian air-to-air weapons including the R-73 and R-77 missile families.

Russia has further advanced the design through the upgraded Su-30SM2 standard, which incorporates improved avionics and more capable powerplants. The variant is increasingly viewed as a potential reference point for future enhancements to other Su-30 operators.

The joint flights come at a time when India is progressing with its ambitious Super Sukhoi modernisation effort, under which Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is expected to undertake extensive upgrades to the Indian Air Force's sizeable Su-30MKI fleet.

The modernisation initiative is expected to focus on improving mission systems, avionics, sensors, electronic warfare capabilities and weapons integration, ensuring that the aircraft remains a frontline combat platform for decades to come.

Reports surrounding the broader upgrade effort have also highlighted potential improvements inspired by developments seen on newer Russian variants, including advances in radar technology, mission computing systems and overall combat effectiveness.

For Indian pilots, operating the Su-30SM during Indra 2026 provided more than routine training. The experience offered a direct understanding of the aircraft's handling characteristics, cockpit environment, mission systems and operating procedures, while also allowing valuable comparisons with the Su-30MKI.

Such exposure could generate practical insights that support India's ongoing fighter modernisation plans and help inform decisions linked to the HAL-led Super Sukhoi effort.

At the same time, the exercise reinforced the long-standing defence relationship between India and Russia, which has included decades of cooperation in combat aircraft production, maintenance, upgrades and technological collaboration.

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China Says It Has Honoured Border Agreements, Urges Joint Efforts With India To Maintain Peace Along LAC

China has stated that it has consistently adhered to the agreements and understandings reached with India regarding the management of the disputed border, following reports of fresh face-offs between the two sides in Arunachal Pradesh.

Responding to questions over the reported incidents, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing had “consistently and strictly abided by the relevant agreements and important understandings between the two countries”, while carrying out what he described as routine patrols and management activities in border regions.

According to Guo, these activities are conducted to safeguard China’s territorial sovereignty and maintain stability in the border areas.

He further stated that China and India remain in contact through established diplomatic and military channels, adding that Beijing hopes New Delhi will work in the same direction to implement the understandings reached by both countries.

“China has consistently and strictly abided by the relevant agreements and important understandings between the two countries, conducting routine patrols and management activities in the border areas to safeguard territorial sovereignty and border stability,” Guo said.

He added that China hopes India will “jointly implement the understandings reached by both sides and take concrete steps to maintain peace and tranquillity in the border areas”.

The remarks came after India’s Ministry of External Affairs addressed reports regarding continued People’s Liberation Army face-offs in Arunachal Pradesh during a media briefing on Friday.

The Ministry of External Affairs said that disturbances along the India-China frontier arise periodically when Chinese forces deviate from established patrolling patterns.

“Insofar as the specifics are concerned, I would refer you to the Ministry of Defence,” the Ministry stated.

The Ministry also reiterated India’s long-standing position that both countries continue to utilise existing diplomatic and military mechanisms to resolve outstanding issues and avoid misunderstandings or miscalculations along the Line of Actual Control.

It noted that the two sides have additionally agreed to explore methods of improving mutual understanding of the Line of Actual Control in selected areas to strengthen border management.

The Ministry stressed that maintaining peace and tranquillity in border regions remains essential for the broader development of bilateral relations between Asia’s two largest countries.

The latest exchange of statements comes against the backdrop of an ongoing diplomatic effort to stabilise border ties following years of tensions along the Line of Actual Control.

A significant milestone in those efforts occurred on 25 August, when the 25th Round of Talks between the Special Representatives of India and China on the boundary question was held in Beijing.

During those discussions, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to following the guidance provided by their national leaders, preserving peace and tranquillity along the frontier, and creating conditions for the healthy and steady development of bilateral relations.

The two countries also underlined their determination to continue negotiations on a framework for resolving the longstanding boundary dispute.

Those negotiations are being conducted under the provisions of the 2005 Agreement on Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question, as well as understandings reached during subsequent rounds of Special Representative talks.

Both governments reiterated their objective of pursuing a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution to one of Asia’s most complex territorial disputes.

The talks further highlighted the importance of existing confidence-building and crisis-management mechanisms, which remain central to efforts aimed at preventing escalation on the ground. India and China agreed that any situation arising in border areas should be addressed promptly through established diplomatic and military channels.

These mechanisms include the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on India-China Border Affairs, local commander-level meetings and other agreed formats designed to resolve issues quickly and prevent misunderstandings.

Officials from both countries have repeatedly emphasised that sustained communication between military and diplomatic authorities remains critical for maintaining stability while broader boundary negotiations continue.

Despite periodic friction along the Line of Actual Control, both sides have maintained that dialogue and established confidence-building arrangements remain the preferred means of managing differences and preserving peace in the border regions.

ANI

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Indian Navy Orders Indigenous Underwater Vision System From Bangalore-Based Ci4 Under iDEX Initiative

In a significant boost to India’s indigenous maritime technology ecosystem, the Indian Navy has awarded a contract to Bangalore-based defence technology Start-Up Ci4 for the development and deployment of an advanced Underwater Vision System (UVS) and multi-modal observation tools.

The project has been undertaken through the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) framework, a flagship initiative designed to accelerate innovation and strengthen self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

The new capability is intended to enhance the Navy’s underwater surveillance, reconnaissance, intelligence-gathering and situational awareness capabilities. Developed with a strong focus on operational requirements, the system is expected to support specialised naval missions, including those undertaken by elite units such as the Marine Commandos (MARCOS), which frequently operate in complex and challenging underwater environments.

Ci4, a Bangalore-based defence Start-Up co-founded by Anirudh Dubey, has emerged as one of the country’s notable innovators in autonomous maritime systems. The company specialises in developing advanced underwater and autonomous platforms that combine artificial intelligence, sensor fusion and autonomous operation to support defence and security missions.

At the heart of the Underwater Vision System is a sophisticated multi-modal sensor suite that combines high-fidelity underwater imaging with sonar and bathymetric sensing technologies. This integrated approach is designed to provide operators with a clearer and more comprehensive understanding of underwater environments, improving the detection, identification and assessment of potential threats, obstacles and points of interest beneath the surface.

The system is being developed to overcome the challenges traditionally associated with underwater operations, where poor visibility, environmental conditions and limited situational awareness can significantly affect mission effectiveness.

By bringing together advanced imaging and sonar technologies in a unified platform, the system aims to deliver enhanced underwater intelligence and operational awareness in real time.

Ci4’s expertise extends beyond handheld and diver-carried systems. The company has previously worked on a range of maritime technologies, including autonomous underwater vehicles and drones. 

Among these is the Echo underwater drone, an agile unmanned platform equipped with eight thrusters that provide complete six-degrees-of-freedom manoeuvrability, enabling precise movement and control in demanding underwater environments.

The company’s broader maritime portfolio includes diver-operated observation systems, autonomous underwater vehicles and modular unmanned platforms designed for surveillance, reconnaissance and inspection tasks. These developments reflect a growing emphasis on autonomous and intelligent systems that can reduce risk to personnel while expanding operational reach.

Additional information indicates that Ci4 has been developing advanced underwater observation technologies featuring integrated imaging, sonar and artificial intelligence-enabled processing capabilities. Such solutions are intended to improve underwater target detection, classification and assessment while providing persistent situational awareness during naval missions.

The project also aligns closely with the objectives of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which seeks to reduce dependence on imported defence equipment by encouraging domestic innovation and manufacturing.

Through the iDEX framework, the Ministry of Defence has increasingly sought to leverage the capabilities of emerging Start-Ups and technology firms to address operational challenges faced by the armed forces.

For the Indian Navy, the induction of indigenous underwater sensing and observation technologies represents an important step towards strengthening maritime security and enhancing awareness of the underwater domain. As underwater threats and strategic competition continue to evolve, the ability to monitor and understand activity beneath the sea surface is becoming an increasingly critical element of naval operations.

The order awarded to Ci4 highlights the growing role of Indian Start-Ups in delivering advanced defence technologies and demonstrates how collaboration between the armed forces and private industry is helping to accelerate the development of next-generation capabilities for the country’s maritime forces.

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India's Plan To Rebuild Ageing T-72 And T-90 Tanks Gains Pace As Engineers Decode Soviet-Era Russian Drawings

India is moving ahead with an ambitious effort to strengthen the long-term sustainment of its armoured fleet by creating a major new battle tank overhaul capability at Vehicle Factory Jabalpur (VFJ), where engineers are painstakingly decoding decades-old Soviet-era technical drawings, many of them written in Russian, Economic Times reported.

The initiative is intended to give the Indian Army a second major tank overhaul hub alongside the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) at Avadi in Tamil Nadu, significantly expanding the country's ability to keep its large fleet of T-72 Ajeya and T-90 Bhishma main battle tanks combat-ready.

At the heart of the project is a complex engineering challenge. Rather than simply translating Russian documents, Indian engineers must reconstruct the technical knowledge embedded in ageing blueprints and determine how specialised fixtures, machinery and equipment originally designed in the Soviet era were intended to be used during the dismantling and rebuilding of battle tanks.

Working closely with HVF Avadi, VFJ has already succeeded in deciphering nearly 70 per cent of the original drawings associated with specialised overhaul fixtures. In cases where original documentation is unavailable, engineers are developing indigenous alternatives, reducing reliance on foreign designs and strengthening domestic technical expertise.

The objective is to establish a facility capable of overhauling 80 tanks annually from April 2028. Once operational, Jabalpur will become only the second major centre in India dedicated to comprehensive overhauls of T-series tanks.

The project builds upon decades of experience accumulated through India's armoured vehicle manufacturing ecosystem. In 2001, India signed an agreement for licensed production of 1,000 T-90 tanks at HVF Avadi following an earlier procurement of 310 tanks that included technology transfer provisions. Russian specialists helped establish production processes, while Indian engineers underwent training in Russia to acquire the expertise required for local manufacture.

However, creating a dedicated overhaul capability presents a different challenge from manufacturing. Engineers must recreate specialised equipment and procedures required to completely strip down, inspect, repair and rebuild tanks that have accumulated years of operational service.

VFJ secured the responsibility for the overhaul project after successfully completing a pilot effort involving two T-72 tanks, demonstrating its ability to undertake such work. Both VFJ and HVF operate under Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL), a defence public sector undertaking established to oversee India's armoured vehicle manufacturing infrastructure.

According to Harsh Bhatnagar, Deputy General Manager at VFJ, engineers have undertaken extensive studies of specialised fixtures, machinery, equipment requirements and facility layouts necessary for the project.

"Many of the original designs and blueprints are decades old and in Russian. We have carried out detailed studies of specialised fixtures, equipment, machinery and facility layouts required for the project."

Training has become a critical component of the programme. Personnel from multiple engineering disciplines have been regularly sent to Avadi to learn established overhaul processes, while experts from both facilities are collaborating to create the required industrial ecosystem in Jabalpur.

Bhatnagar acknowledged the scale of the undertaking, stating:

"It is a complex and time-consuming process, but work is progressing in line with the detailed project report (DPR) timelines."

Unlike routine maintenance, a complete tank overhaul involves dismantling the vehicle almost entirely. Engineers inspect major systems, repair or replace worn components, restore damaged assemblies, reassemble the vehicle and then subject it to rigorous testing before returning it to military service.

The process can take approximately four months for a single tank, highlighting the industrial effort required to maintain large armoured fleets.

Around 80 personnel are currently engaged in the project at Jabalpur. Initial activities are concentrating on the hull and turret sections of the tanks, while work related to internal systems and subsystems is scheduled to begin during the next stage of development.

Training activities have already been underway for roughly two years, reflecting the specialised skills needed for overhaul work. As the facility expands towards full operational capability, manpower requirements are expected to increase substantially.

VFJ estimates that around 650 trained personnel will ultimately be needed to sustain the planned overhaul rate of 80 tanks every year.

The project carries an estimated cost of ₹462 crore and represents a significant enhancement of India's armoured vehicle maintenance infrastructure. Beyond creating additional overhaul capacity, the initiative is helping preserve technical knowledge relating to Soviet-origin military platforms while simultaneously generating new indigenous expertise.

The strategic importance of the facility becomes more apparent when viewed against the scale of the Army's armoured fleet. India continues to operate one of the world's largest inventories of T-72 and T-90 tanks, and maintaining their operational availability remains essential to combat readiness.

Industry assessments indicate that the Army requires around 230 T-72 and T-90 tanks to undergo overhaul annually, while Avadi has historically handled approximately 150 tanks per year. The planned Jabalpur facility is intended to bridge much of that gap and strengthen long-term sustainment capacity.

The effort also aligns with India's broader push towards defence self-reliance. By recreating technical know-how from ageing Soviet documentation, developing indigenous replacement designs where necessary and training a new generation of specialists, the project is transforming historical dependence on foreign expertise into a domestically controlled industrial capability.

As engineers continue decoding the remaining drawings and establishing the required infrastructure, the Jabalpur facility is steadily evolving into a key pillar of India's armoured vehicle sustainment network, ensuring that the Army's existing tank fleet can remain operational for years to come.

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VEDA Aeronautics Advances ‘SAVITR’ Airship-Based HAPS Platform For Superior Stratospheric Reconnaissance

VEDA Aeronautics is actively preparing a technical bid for the development of an airship-based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) platform known as ‘SAVITR’, a project intended to enhance the reconnaissance and persistent surveillance capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces, announced VEDA Aeronautics on its X handle.

The company stated that its team is currently engaged in developing the advanced concept and design for the platform, with the objective of delivering “superior” reconnaissance capabilities at stratospheric altitudes.

According to VEDA Aeronautics, SAVITR is being conceived as an airship-based HAPS system capable of operating in the stratosphere, where such platforms can remain on station for extended periods while providing continuous intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance coverage over large geographical areas.

The company highlighted that the program reflects the dedication and technical efforts of its engineering team as it seeks to position itself within India’s rapidly emerging high-altitude platform ecosystem.

“VEDA Aeronautics team is actively working on the technical bid for the development of Air-Ship Based HAPS (High Altitude Pseudo Satellite) platform - we are calling ‘SAVITR’,” the company stated.

It further noted that, “The advanced design and concept would give the Indian Armed Forces ‘superior’ reconnaissance capabilities at stratosphere level!”

The development comes at a time when India is placing increasing emphasis on High Altitude Pseudo Satellite technologies as a means of bridging the gap between conventional unmanned aerial systems and satellites.

Unlike traditional drones, HAPS platforms operate in the lower stratosphere, generally between 18 and 25 kilometres above the Earth. From these altitudes, they can provide persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance coverage while remaining above commercial air traffic and most weather disturbances.

Airship-based HAPS systems are expected to support a broad spectrum of military missions, including border monitoring, maritime domain awareness, communications relay, electronic intelligence, disaster-response support and long-duration surveillance operations.

One of the key advantages of such platforms is their ability to remain stationed over a specific area for prolonged periods, delivering uninterrupted situational awareness and real-time data to military commanders. This capability can offer significant operational advantages compared with satellites, which are constrained by orbital paths and observation windows.

The SAVITR initiative also aligns with the broader momentum gathering within India’s indigenous HAPS sector, where government agencies, research organisations and private industry are exploring both airship-based and fixed-wing solutions to meet future defence requirements.

VEDA Aeronautics has already demonstrated interest in advanced HAPS development through previous collaborations and technology initiatives. The company has been involved in efforts aimed at creating indigenous high-altitude platforms capable of supporting long-endurance surveillance missions and persistent monitoring requirements.

As India explores next-generation airborne surveillance networks, projects such as SAVITR are expected to contribute towards strengthening indigenous aerospace capabilities while supporting the Armed Forces’ requirement for continuous monitoring across vast and strategically important regions.

The company expressed pride in the efforts and dedication of its team as work progresses on the technical bid, underscoring its commitment to advancing high-altitude aerospace technologies for national defence applications.

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OmSpace Completes Nose Cone Structure For Reusable Infinity One Rocket

Ahmedabad-based OmSpace Rocket & Exploration has successfully completed the nose cone structure for its reusable rocket, Infinity One, marking another significant step forward in the company's long-term Vision 2030 goals.

The achievement represents an important milestone in the development of the reusable launch vehicle, which is being designed to provide dedicated access to Low Earth Orbit for small and nano satellites. The completion of the nose cone highlights the company's continued progress in transforming engineering concepts into operational rocket hardware.

Positioned at the forward section of the rocket, the nose cone serves a critical function during flight. It is specifically engineered to protect the payload and internal systems while the vehicle travels through the atmosphere. Its aerodynamic design also helps manage airflow around the rocket and minimise drag, contributing to overall flight efficiency and performance.

By reducing aerodynamic resistance, the structure plays a central role in ensuring stable ascent conditions for both the launch vehicle and the satellite payload it carries. The component is therefore considered one of the most important structural elements of the rocket.

The latest development adds to a series of hardware milestones achieved by OmSpace as it advances the Infinity One program. The company has been steadily progressing through various stages of design, engineering, manufacturing, integration and testing as it works towards building a fully reusable launch system in India.

Infinity One is being developed as a reusable launch vehicle for the growing small-satellite market. According to the company's publicly disclosed plans, the rocket is designed to carry payloads of up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit while incorporating a reusable first stage intended for recovery and rapid turnaround operations.

The vehicle forms a key part of OmSpace's broader ambition to develop cost-effective and high-frequency launch capabilities. Reusability is expected to help reduce launch costs by allowing major rocket components to be recovered, inspected and prepared for future missions rather than being discarded after a single flight.

Recent developments associated with Infinity One have also included work on critical recovery systems, including landing-leg technology, as the company continues to build the infrastructure required for reusable spaceflight. The rocket is ultimately intended to support quicker mission turnaround times and enhanced operational flexibility.

OmSpace has stated that Vision 2030 remains the guiding framework behind its reusable rocket ambitions. With the successful completion of the nose cone structure, the company has taken another tangible step towards advancing indigenous launch vehicle technology and strengthening India's expanding private space sector.

As development continues, the completion of the nose cone further demonstrates OmSpace's growing in-house aerospace engineering and manufacturing capabilities, bringing Infinity One closer to future integration, validation and flight-testing activities.

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UN Must Lead, Not Watch: EAM Jaishankar Renews Call For Reformed Multilateralism On UN Day

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has called on the United Nations to move beyond what he described as institutional passivity and undertake long-pending structural reforms, arguing that the organisation must demonstrate leadership rather than remain a spectator to global crises.

Speaking at the Chinmaya Amrit Mahotsav Global Sammelan on ‘Non-Dualism for World Understanding’ at Bharat Mandapam on the occasion of UN Day, Jaishankar said the international community cannot afford to remain helpless while conflicts in Ukraine and West Asia continue to inflict economic and social costs on countries and populations far removed from the battlefields.

Highlighting the original purpose of the United Nations, he noted that the global governance architecture established eight decades ago under Article 1 of the UN Charter was intended to serve as a centre for harmonising international action. However, he argued that institutional paralysis now leaves nations with no role in triggering conflicts bearing significant consequences from them.

Jaishankar said the world has long wrestled with a fundamental debate between competition and cooperation. While competition reflects nations acting primarily in their own interests, cooperation embodies collective efforts to address shared challenges.

According to him, the creation of the United Nations after the Second World War represented a conscious global choice in favour of cooperation, making UN Day a reminder of that spirit of collective responsibility.

He observed that the concept of oneness is particularly relevant at a time when many of the challenges confronting humanity transcend national borders and require collaborative solutions. He stressed that the most effective responses to global opportunities and crises emerge through collective action rather than unilateral approaches.

“Humankind has witnessed perpetual arguments between those who stress competitiveness and others who see a virtue in cooperation. These may be individual or even societal predicaments, but on the global stage, they translate into how nations behave with one another. The collective and cooperative instincts of the world were articulated, were expressed eight decades ago in the founding of the United Nations.

It is fitting, therefore, that we gather to advance a sense of oneness as we celebrate the UN Day. After all, whether it is the challenges or the opportunities that confront the world, these can be best, most effectively addressed collectively,” Jaishankar said.

Drawing attention to the wars in Ukraine and West Asia, the External Affairs Minister underscored how the impact of such conflicts extends far beyond the countries directly involved. Rising fuel costs, food insecurity, supply chain disruptions and broader economic instability have affected societies and economies around the world, including those with little influence over the conflicts themselves.

“There are today two major conflicts going on in the world: in Ukraine and in West Asia or the Middle East. Societies and economies, peoples far away, who have little say in the matter, are actually paying the cost. We cannot remain helpless spectators,” he said.

Jaishankar reiterated India’s view that dialogue and diplomacy remain the only viable path to resolving ongoing conflicts. He said India’s position reflects a broader global sentiment that wars cannot deliver sustainable solutions and confirmed that New Delhi remains willing to work with partners to advance peace efforts.

“India expresses global sentiment when we urge that dialogue and diplomacy are the only solution. We are making efforts ourselves and are open to working with other partners to that end,” he added.

A central theme of his address was the growing urgency of reforming global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council. Jaishankar argued that contemporary geopolitical realities are not reflected in current decision-making structures and that large sections of the developing world, especially countries of the Global South, continue to be underrepresented in global governance mechanisms.

Calling for reformed multilateralism, he said the case for change becomes stronger with each passing day as emerging powers and developing nations seek a greater voice in decisions that affect international peace, security and economic stability.

“We live in an imperfect world, but we all continuously strive towards greater perfection. Where the UN is concerned, that means recognising its shortcomings and limitations, and seeking its improvement. The case for reformed multilateralism gets stronger by the day. Large parts of the world cannot be left out of decision-making,” Jaishankar stated.

He further emphasised that the United Nations must actively shape responses to international crises rather than merely observe events as they unfold.

“On this occasion, even as we recognise the need for such long-awaited changes, let us renew our commitment to work together. We are common, we are shared, we are united,” he said.

UN Day, observed annually on 24 October, commemorates the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945. The organisation formally came into existence after the charter was ratified by the majority of its signatories, including the five permanent members of the Security Council.

Yet the anniversary arrives amid growing scrutiny of the institution’s effectiveness. The United Nations was established with the pledge to “save succeeding generations from the scourge of war”, but many observers argue that its post-war structure has struggled to adapt to twenty-first century realities.

Critics point out that the Security Council continues to reflect the power distribution of 1945, with the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Russia and China retaining permanent membership and veto authority.

Meanwhile, major contemporary powers such as India, Brazil, Japan and South Africa remain outside the permanent decision-making framework despite representing a substantial proportion of the world’s population and economic influence.

The veto system has become a particular source of criticism. Because any permanent member can block a resolution, action involving a major power or one of its close partners often becomes impossible. This has repeatedly exposed divisions within the Security Council and limited the organisation’s ability to respond decisively to major international crises.

Recent conflicts have intensified concerns over the UN’s effectiveness. The Russia-Ukraine war highlighted sharp divisions within the Security Council, while disagreements among permanent members over the conflict in Gaza repeatedly prevented consensus on resolutions. As diplomatic deadlock persisted, fighting continued on the ground.

Beyond these high-profile conflicts, the organisation has also faced criticism for its limited ability to influence developments in Sudan, Myanmar and Afghanistan, where instability, conflict and political upheaval have continued despite international concern.

As confidence in multilateral institutions has weakened, countries have increasingly pursued alternative security arrangements and regional groupings such as the Quad, AUKUS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. These mechanisms are often viewed as more agile and responsive, although they operate outside the United Nations framework.

The challenges facing the UN are not only geopolitical. Observers note that renewed great-power rivalry has created conditions reminiscent of Cold War-era competition, making consensus increasingly difficult. The role of the Secretary-General has also come under pressure, with many arguing that the office lacks the authority needed to compel action from powerful states.

At the same time, adherence to international humanitarian law has come under growing strain. Incidents involving UN-linked facilities and personnel in conflict zones have raised wider concerns about respect for international norms and the protection of humanitarian operations.

Financial pressures further complicate the organisation’s work. The UN relies heavily on contributions from member states, and delays or withholding of funds by major contributors can affect peacekeeping operations, humanitarian missions and development activities.

Against this backdrop, Jaishankar’s remarks reflected a broader international debate about the future of global governance. His call for reformed multilateralism underscored India’s longstanding position that the United Nations must evolve to remain credible, representative and effective in addressing contemporary challenges.

Eighty years after the founding of the organisation, the question increasingly being asked by governments and analysts alike is whether the United Nations can successfully reform itself to meet modern realities, or whether it risks becoming what Jaishankar warned against: a spectator to the very crises it was created to prevent.

ANI

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Super Sukhoi Overhaul: India Tests Advanced Su-30SM2 As Massive Su-30MKI Upgrade Moves Closer

India is showing no intention of retiring its Su-30MKI fleet, which remains the backbone of the Indian Air Force. Instead, the aircraft is being prepared for an extensive modernisation effort designed to keep it combat-effective for decades to come.

The latest indication of that strategy emerged during the Indra 2026 military exercises in Russia's Chelyabinsk region, where Indian and Russian aircrew jointly operated the upgraded Su-30SM2 fighter. 

The drills focused on intercepting small, low-flying targets, engaging aircraft carrying air-launched weapons, and conducting manoeuvrable air combat at low and medium altitudes.

The exercise highlighted the growing relevance of the Su-30SM2, a significantly enhanced derivative of the aircraft family from which India's Su-30MKI originated. For New Delhi, the deployment offered a useful glimpse into technologies that could influence the future direction of the Super Sukhoi upgrade project.

At the centre of that effort is a comprehensive plan to transform India's large Su-30MKI inventory through improved propulsion, enhanced sensors, greater combat reach and more capable weaponry. The modernisation is intended to strengthen the aircraft's effectiveness in increasingly demanding operational environments.

Current discussions indicate that the first phase could involve 84 aircraft, while more than 200 additional fighters may eventually undergo similar enhancements. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is expected to play a leading role in implementing the ambitious programme.

One of the most closely watched aspects of the project is the proposed engine upgrade. Estimates suggest the aircraft could receive a powerplant generating around 142 kilonewtons of thrust, a notable increase over the approximately 123 kilonewtons produced by the existing AL-31FP engines.

The additional thrust would not only improve acceleration and climb performance but could also enhance payload capacity, range and overall operational flexibility. Improved fuel efficiency and reduced maintenance requirements are also among the potential benefits being examined.

However, replacing the engine is far more complicated than simply installing a more powerful unit. Engineers must ensure compatibility with the aircraft's structure, flight-control systems, avionics, software architecture, power generation systems and maintenance infrastructure.

This is why specialists frequently describe such a modification as anything but "plug-and-play". Integrating a different engine requires substantial testing, certification work and system-level adjustments before it can enter operational service.

The Su-30SM2 itself incorporates a number of improvements over earlier variants. In Russian service, the aircraft has benefited from upgraded avionics, enhanced radar capabilities and a more advanced propulsion package, resulting in better performance and survivability.

The Super Sukhoi initiative is also expected to focus heavily on radar and mission systems. Industry discussions have long centred on the introduction of a modern Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, improved mission computers, upgraded cockpit displays and enhanced electronic warfare equipment.

Weapons integration represents another major objective. Future aircraft could be equipped with more capable air-to-air and stand-off precision weapons, significantly expanding their engagement envelope and battlefield effectiveness.

The program is also expected to increase the proportion of indigenous systems incorporated into the fleet. Indian-developed avionics, sensors, displays and mission equipment are widely viewed as essential components of the long-term upgrade roadmap.

This approach aligns with broader efforts to strengthen domestic aerospace capabilities while reducing long-term dependence on imported subsystems. It would also allow future upgrades to be implemented more efficiently throughout the aircraft's service life.

India's partnership with Russia remains important to the programme, particularly in areas involving the aircraft's original design architecture and flight-control systems. Even so, the planned upgrade is expected to contain a substantial Indian technological contribution.

The Su-30MKI has served as the Indian Air Force's principal air-superiority and multirole fighter for years, and the fleet continues to represent one of the country's most valuable military aviation assets. Extending its relevance is therefore a strategic priority.

The joint flights conducted during Indra 2026 were more than a routine training activity. They provided Indian personnel with direct exposure to an advanced member of the Sukhoi family while reinforcing operational cooperation between the two countries.

Whether viewed as a standard bilateral exercise or as a preview of a major fighter modernisation effort, the message is clear. India is not preparing to phase out the Su-30MKI. Instead, it is laying the groundwork for what could become one of the most significant combat aircraft upgrade projects in its history, combining greater thrust, improved radar performance, enhanced weapons capability, longer range and sharper overall combat effectiveness.

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Army Signal Regiment Powers Seamless Communications For IAF’s Varanasi Aerial Display

The Indian Army’s 4 Air Formation Signal Regiment played a vital role in supporting the Indian Air Force’s Air Force Day Aerial Display 2026 at Namo Ghat in Varanasi. The aerial spectacle, staged on 22, 24 and 25 October as part of the IAF’s 94th anniversary celebrations, showcased the close coordination required to conduct a major military aviation event over one of India’s most iconic historic locations.

Held under the theme “Wings Over Ganges”, the display combined advanced military aviation with the unique backdrop of Kashi, drawing large numbers of spectators to the banks of the Ganga. Behind the scenes, the Regiment was responsible for establishing and maintaining a dependable communications network that enabled seamless coordination among aircrew, ground controllers and the various agencies involved in organising and executing the event.

According to an official release, the Regiment created multiple layers of connectivity to ensure uninterrupted communication throughout the aerial display. Alternative communication arrangements were also put in place, providing redundancy and helping maintain the continuous flow of operational information during the high-profile event.

Working closely with local civil authorities, the Regiment further enhanced communications infrastructure by arranging dedicated optical fibre connectivity to key locations along the Ganga where event activities were centred. These measures increased both network capacity and reliability in an area experiencing exceptionally large public attendance during the celebrations.

The Regiment’s detailed planning, technical proficiency and coordinated teamwork ensured the smooth transmission of both voice and data communications. This support proved essential to the safe and successful conduct of the flying display, enabling efficient coordination between airborne and ground-based elements throughout the programme.

The operation also reflected the Indian Army’s growing emphasis on networking and data-centric operations. The Regiment’s contribution underscored the importance of robust communications systems and demonstrated the close cooperation between the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force and the civil administration in delivering a complex event of national significance.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Air Force Day Aerial Display 2026 at Namo Ghat on Sunday to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force. The event was organised under the theme “Wings Over Ganges” and highlighted the capabilities of India’s military aviation assets before a large public audience.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were also present during the event, reflecting the importance attached to the celebrations by both national and state leadership.

Earlier in the day, the Prime Minister inaugurated Arvind Limited’s new garment manufacturing facility in Varanasi. The project was presented as an important step towards strengthening the region’s industrial base while supporting manufacturing-led growth and expanding Uttar Pradesh’s position as an attractive destination for industrial investment.

The new facility is expected to contribute to the continued growth of the state’s textile and apparel manufacturing sector. It also aligns with broader efforts to stimulate economic development in the region through increased industrial activity and employment generation.

Notably, the initiative is predominantly women-led, highlighting a strong focus on expanding women’s participation in the workforce and advancing women-led development. The facility is expected to create new opportunities in garment manufacturing while supporting long-term industrial growth in and around Varanasi.

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Sol.One Launches Indian Drone Manufacturing Venture With DG Sol.One

European drone manufacturer Sol.One has formally entered the Indian market through the establishment of DG Sol.One Drone Technologies Private Limited, a new joint venture created in partnership with DGVK Enterprises Private Limited.

Based in New Delhi, the company has been established as an Indian-owned and Indian-led enterprise, reflecting both partners’ long-term commitment to supporting India's rapidly expanding drone ecosystem.

The move marks a significant milestone for Sol.One, which regards India as one of its most strategically important markets. The company intends to introduce its complete portfolio of unmanned aerial systems to the country, covering a wide spectrum of operational requirements ranging from border surveillance and homeland security to specialised high-altitude missions and support for naval operations.

India presents some of the world's most challenging defence environments, including vast desert regions, extensive coastlines and the highest mountain ranges on the planet.

Sol.One believes these demanding conditions make India an ideal market for advanced drone technologies designed for operational reliability in difficult terrain and extreme weather conditions.

All drones supplied through the partnership will be manufactured in India by DG Sol.One. The company plans to apply Sol.One's automotive-scale production expertise to local manufacturing, aligning closely with India's drive towards self-reliance in defence production and indigenous capability development.

The venture is designed not only to strengthen India's drone manufacturing base but also to support employment and industrial activity in Belgium. According to Sol.One, every drone produced in India will generate associated work at its facilities in Bruges and Ghent, reinforcing economic links between the two countries.

India's ambition to significantly expand domestic drone production has created substantial opportunities for manufacturers. The country's defence budget for the 2026-27 financial year stands at approximately €71 billion, with around €20 billion allocated to capital acquisitions and new equipment. A substantial majority of this investment is earmarked for Indian industry, reflecting the government's focus on local manufacturing and technology development.

Drones occupy a central position within these modernisation efforts. India is preparing what is expected to be the largest drone procurement programme in its history, valued at more than €1.5 billion and directed towards domestic manufacturers.

Deliveries are anticipated to continue through 2027, while additional procurement initiatives are already under development. Through DG Sol.One, the Belgian manufacturer positions itself within this market as an Indian company operating under Indian ownership and leadership.

The establishment of DG Sol.One follows Sol.One's participation in the Belgian defence mission to New Delhi between 1 and 4 September 2026. During the visit, Sol.One and DGVK Enterprises signed a memorandum of understanding on 3 September in the presence of the Defence Ministers of India and Belgium, Rajnath Singh and Theo Francken. That agreement has now evolved into the formation of the joint venture.

DG Sol.One will be led by Dipankar Ganguly as Managing Director and Chairman of the Board. A businessman with more than four decades of international experience across Europe, Asia and the Middle East, he previously transformed a garment manufacturing business in Istanbul into one of Türkiye's largest exporters, employing approximately 2,000 people. He currently heads DGVK Enterprises, which has established relationships with government bodies at both state and national levels in India

Joining him in the leadership team is Pankaj Kaushal, who brings extensive military and aviation experience. A former Indian Army officer with 21 years of service, he accumulated more than 6,000 flight hours on unmanned aircraft. During his career, he operated the Indian Army's largest strategic unmanned aircraft, served as a test pilot for indigenous DRDO programs and qualified as a flying instructor. He has trained more than 200 UAV operators.

Explaining the strategic importance of the expansion, Filip Verhaeghe, Managing Director of Sol.One, stated: “The future of drones is being written today on Europe’s eastern flank, and Sol.One remains fully committed to the defence of Europe. India is the other place where drones will be built and flown at a scale the world has rarely seen.

We come to India to stay: to build here, to fly here and to serve those who protect this country, from the border posts in the high Himalaya to the ships of the Indian Navy. Sol.One stands for Safety of Life and One world. Few places give those words more meaning than India.”

Highlighting the venture's alignment with national priorities, Dipankar Ganguly, Managing Director and Chairman of DG Sol.One, said: “India has decided to build the drones its forces need at home. DG Sol.One brings the technology and the production know-how of one of Europe’s leading drone makers into an Indian company, run by Indians. We begin on the eve of Vijayadashami, the festival of victory. We could ask for no better omen.”

The company was formally established on the eve of Vijayadashami, one of India's most significant festivals and a traditional symbol of the triumph of good over evil. Widely regarded as an auspicious occasion for commencing new ventures, the timing carries particular significance for both partners and underscores their belief in the long-term success of the enterprise.

For Sol.One and DGVK Enterprises, DG Sol.One represents more than a commercial partnership. It is a strategic effort to combine European drone technology, manufacturing expertise and operational experience with India's growing industrial capabilities and defence modernisation plans.

As India accelerates investment in domestically produced unmanned systems, the new venture aims to become a significant participant in one of the world's fastest-growing drone markets while strengthening industrial cooperation between India and Belgium.

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Indian Army Exposes Deepfake Video Falsely Claiming Chinese Control Over Arunachal Pradesh Areas

The Indian Army has issued a strong warning against a digitally manipulated deepfake video circulating on social media that falsely claims China has taken control of parts of Arunachal Pradesh.

The video also wrongly alleges that Indian Army personnel deployed in the region have been denied essential supplies.

The fabricated clip falsely attributes remarks to Lieutenant General Girish Kalia (AVSM, VSM), General Officer Commanding of the Spear Corps (3 Corps). The content was presented as a supposed "leaked admission" by the senior officer, claiming that China had occupied Asaphila, Longjou and the Taksing Circle in Arunachal Pradesh.

Debunking the claims, the Indian Army's official fact-checking unit, Indian Army Fact Check (@MythbusterXX), confirmed that the video had been digitally altered using Synthetic Generated Information technologies, including AI-based lip-syncing and voice cloning.

According to the Army, genuine archival footage was manipulated and overlaid with fabricated audio in an attempt to spread military disinformation and trigger unnecessary public alarm.

In its statement, the fact-checking team said: "A digitally altered video is being circulated with fabricated remarks attributed to Lt Gen Girish Kalia, claiming that China has taken control of Asaphila, Longjou and Taksing Circle in Arunachal Pradesh and that the Indian Army has been denied essential supplies."

It further stated: "The misleading video attempts to portray fabricated statements as a leaked admission by a senior Indian Army officer. The video uses #SyntheticGeneratedInformation to falsely attribute remarks to Lt Gen Girish Kalia."

The Army traced the source of the footage and established that the original video was recorded on 27 October 2023 in Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir. At the time, Girish Kalia was serving as a Major General and General Officer Commanding of the 28 Infantry Division.

The briefing in question was related exclusively to counter-terrorist operations and security developments along the Line of Control. During that media interaction, the officer discussed infiltration attempts originating across the border and highlighted the Army's operational successes in the sector.

According to the original briefing, security forces had foiled 10 infiltration attempts and eliminated 27 terrorists. Large quantities of warlike stores, weapons and narcotics were also recovered during the operations.

The Army emphasised that at no point during the 2023 briefing did the officer mention China, Arunachal Pradesh, territorial control issues, border incursions, or any shortage of supplies for Indian troops.

Officials described the viral clip as part of a broader disinformation effort that combines authentic footage with synthetic audio and false context to create misleading narratives. The Army outlined the formula behind the campaign as: Old Military Briefing + Digitally Manipulated Remarks + False Attribution + Fabricated Territorial Claims = Misleading Military Disinformation.

Independent fact-checkers examining the viral content also found no credible evidence supporting the claims made in the altered video. Their analysis confirmed that the original footage dealt solely with counter-infiltration operations in Jammu and Kashmir and contained no references to developments along the India-China border.

The incident highlights the growing use of artificial intelligence tools to create convincing deepfakes capable of distorting public discourse, particularly on sensitive national security issues.

Security experts have increasingly warned that manipulated audio and video content can be exploited to spread misinformation, undermine trust in institutions and create confusion during periods of heightened geopolitical sensitivity.

Urging vigilance, the Indian Army advised citizens to scrutinise unverified videos carefully and verify information through official sources before sharing content online. The force reiterated that manipulated media designed to imitate genuine military communications should not be amplified without proper authentication.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi Looks To Deepen India-Brazil Ties As Lula Secures Re-Election Victory

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election victory, expressing confidence that India and Brazil will further strengthen their already broad strategic partnership in the years ahead.

In a message posted on X, Modi described Lula’s victory as a remarkable achievement and reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the Brazilian leader on issues of mutual interest.

“Heartiest congratulations to my dear friend, President Lula, on his remarkable re-election victory,” Modi said.

The Prime Minister added, “I look forward to working closely with him to further deepen and expand the multifaceted India-Brazil Strategic Partnership.”

Modi emphasised that New Delhi and Brasília would continue to enhance cooperation across a wide range of sectors while pursuing common objectives on the international stage.

“Together, we will continue to strengthen our cooperation across diverse sectors, advance the shared priorities of the Global South and work towards a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable world,” he stated.

The message reflects the growing importance of India-Brazil relations, with both countries playing influential roles in BRICS and frequently advocating greater representation for developing nations in global governance institutions.

Lula’s return to office is expected to provide continuity in Brazil’s engagement with major emerging economies, particularly India, as both nations seek to promote a more multipolar international order and strengthen the voice of the Global South.

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said Lula’s victory carries significance far beyond Brazil’s domestic political landscape and could have important geopolitical consequences.

In a post on X, Tharoor argued that Lula’s leadership would reinforce Brazil’s commitment to multipolarity and strengthen BRICS as an influential platform for developing countries.

“It also has implications for geopolitics, not least for BRICS. Lula’s leadership supercharges Brazil's commitment to multipolarity, strengthening the BRICS bloc as a vital voice of the Global South in reshaping international trade and governance,” Tharoor said.

He noted that the implications of the election extend to international trade, global governance and Brazil’s future relations with the United States.

Tharoor also highlighted Lula’s long-standing reputation as a champion of workers and economically disadvantaged communities, arguing that his return to power would revive efforts aimed at social inclusion and poverty reduction.

“From the factory floor to the global stage: @LulaOficial’s historic victory is a powerful reminder that the heartbeat of Brazil belongs to its people. As a steadfast champion of the working class and the poor, his return to leadership breathes new life into social inclusion, economic justice, and the fight against poverty in Brazil,” he said.

At the same time, Tharoor suggested that Lula’s victory may create challenges in Brazil’s dealings with Washington because the United States had openly supported his rival during the campaign.

“It’s also a challenge for ties with Washington, which had openly backed his rival. While economic and diplomatic friction (such as recent trade and tariff tussles) is likely to persist, Lula’s fiercely independent foreign policy will continue to prioritise national sovereignty over subservience,” he said.

According to Tharoor, the result represents a broader endorsement of democratic resilience, international cooperation and social progress at a time when several Latin American countries have witnessed a resurgence of right-wing political movements.

“Brazil has chosen a path of social progress, democratic resilience, and global cooperation. A historic and, for most, unexpected result amid the waves of rising right-wing assertion in Latin America,” he added.

Lula, the 80-year-old former factory worker and veteran leader of the Partido dos Trabalhadores (PT), secured re-election after defeating far-right candidate Flavio Bolsonaro in a closely fought presidential run-off. The victory followed a first round in which the contest remained extremely competitive.

Following the result, Lula thanked Brazilian voters for placing their trust in him and for defending democratic values throughout the election campaign.

“My eternal gratitude to the Brazilian people, to the youth who took to the streets in defence of democracy, and to every person who made an immense effort to vote and defend the future of our country. You all move me and renew my hope. This victory belongs to a people who believe, who fight, and who never give up on building a more just, sovereign, and democratic Brazil,” he said.

In remarks after his victory, Lula stressed the importance of democratic participation and national sovereignty, while pledging a more inclusive style of governance.

“We managed to convince people that voting was extremely important to safeguard democracy in Brazil. We defeated foreign intervention through digital platforms. Brazil is no one's backyard. We will change the way we run this country; we will make people participate more in the decision-making process,” Lula said.

His re-election is expected to have implications for Brazil’s role within BRICS, its partnerships with major global powers, and its engagement with developing nations seeking a greater voice in international affairs. Observers believe Lula’s emphasis on multilateralism, social justice and strategic autonomy could further shape discussions on global governance, trade and cooperation among emerging economies.

For India, Lula’s return is likely to reinforce collaboration in areas ranging from trade and investment to technology, energy, agriculture, climate initiatives and multilateral diplomacy, while strengthening coordination on issues affecting the Global South.

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Swavlamban 2026 To Accelerate Indian Navy Self-Reliance Through Indigenous Innovation

Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan has underlined the need for a technologically empowered, self-reliant and future-ready Indian Navy, stressing that indigenous solutions and next-generation technologies will play a decisive role in strengthening India's maritime defence capabilities.

Speaking about the Navy's growing drive towards self-reliance, the Admiral highlighted the importance of Swavlamban, the service's flagship initiative focused on innovation, indigenisation and Aatmanirbharta. Since its launch in July 2022, the event has evolved into a major national platform linking operational military requirements with India's technological and industrial ecosystem.

"Swavlamban is the Indian Navy's flagship event for innovation, indigenisation, and self-reliance," he said.

The initiative has expanded rapidly in a relatively short period. Participation has increased from around 800 attendees during the inaugural edition to nearly 3,000 participants by 2025, reflecting rising interest from industry, academia, innovators, investors and the wider defence technology community.

Admiral Swaminathan emphasised that technological superiority will increasingly define success in future conflicts and that many of the innovations likely to shape tomorrow's battlefield are already being developed across India.

"The technologies that will shape tomorrow's battlefield are being created today in laboratories, universities, and Start-Ups across the country," he said.

He explained that Swavlamban serves as a bridge between the Indian Navy's operational needs and the capabilities of India's scientific and entrepreneurial community.

"At its heart, Swavlamban has a simple purpose: to connect the Indian Navy's operational requirements with the ingenuity, creativity, enterprise, and excellence of India's scientists, engineers, innovators, and entrepreneurs," he said.

According to the Navy chief, the initiative has become an important mechanism for transforming indigenous ideas into deployable capabilities, helping ensure that maritime security requirements can increasingly be met through domestic innovation rather than overseas dependence.

He added that Swavlamban 2026 would deepen collaboration between the Navy and India's innovation ecosystem, creating additional opportunities for local innovators to directly contribute to future naval capabilities and the broader national objective of self-reliance.

"Swavlamban 2026 will take this partnership even further, creating more opportunities for Indian innovators to contribute directly to the Indian Navy's future capabilities and to India's larger journey towards Atmanirbharta.

The event is a reaffirmation of our national resolve to build a stronger, more secure, and technologically empowered Bharat, whose defence preparedness rests firmly on its own strength," Swaminathan said.

Swavlamban 2026, carrying the theme Ideas to Impact, is scheduled to be held in New Delhi on 26 and 27 October. The event is expected to bring together the armed forces, industry, Start-Ups, MSMEs, academia and investors to explore technological solutions that can strengthen India's maritime preparedness and defence self-reliance.

The seminar is also expected to focus on emerging and disruptive technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, autonomous systems and hypersonic technologies, with discussions centred on their potential military and naval applications.

A thematic exhibition will showcase indigenous innovations spanning maritime surveillance, counter-unmanned aerial systems, artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, safety solutions and operational efficiency enhancements. The exhibition will also highlight successful examples of Indian-developed products progressing from concept stage to operational use.

The broader objective remains aligned with the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, with the Indian Navy seeking to accelerate the transition from home-grown innovation to operational capability while strengthening domestic supply chains, encouraging academic entrepreneurship and supporting the growth of promising Indian Start-Ups.

Through Swavlamban 2026, the Navy aims not only to enhance future combat readiness but also to reinforce India's long-term ambition of becoming a technologically advanced maritime power whose defence preparedness is increasingly built upon indigenous expertise, innovation and industrial strength.

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Riyadh Airport Restarts, Houthis Strike Again: Saudi Oil Lifeline In Crosshairs

Saudi Arabia and Yemen’s Houthi movement exchanged fresh attacks over the weekend, signalling a significant escalation in a conflict that is once again threatening regional security, energy infrastructure and air travel across the Gulf.

The Iran-aligned Houthis claimed responsibility for missile and drone strikes targeting Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport as well as key crude oil pumping stations linked to Saudi Arabia’s strategic East-West pipeline network. The group said the operations formed part of a wider campaign against critical Saudi infrastructure.

According to Houthi statements, the attacks were aimed at Riyadh airport, crude oil pumping stations, the East-West pipeline, an Aramco facility in Yanbu and the Rabigh refinery. The movement also claimed to have conducted multiple operations against what it described as vital Saudi installations.

The latest claims emerged shortly after Saudi authorities resumed operations at two terminals of King Khalid International Airport. Earlier this month, an attack claimed by the Houthis reportedly killed 13 people, making it one of the deadliest assaults on Saudi territory in more than a decade.

Saudi officials said coalition forces operating in Yemen had earlier destroyed two ballistic missile launchers in Sanaa. According to the coalition, one of the launchers had been used to fire a missile towards Riyadh, which Saudi air defences successfully intercepted.

The coalition also announced additional operations against Houthi military infrastructure, stating that several missile-storage facilities, launch sites and tunnels used to support ballistic missile operations had been destroyed during strikes inside Yemen.

While the Houthis maintained that their attacks struck strategic Saudi targets, there was no immediate Saudi confirmation that the reported oil facilities or airport infrastructure had been directly hit.

The group has increasingly relied on ballistic missiles and long-range drones to target Saudi airports, ports and energy installations. Such attacks have placed pressure on one of the world’s largest oil exporters and raised concerns over the security of critical energy supplies.

Particular attention has focused on the East-West pipeline, a major energy corridor stretching approximately 1,200 kilometres across Saudi Arabia. The route has become especially important because it allows oil exports to bypass the Strait of Hormuz, a maritime chokepoint whose security has been repeatedly challenged amid wider regional tensions.

Saudi Arabia had previously taken precautionary measures involving the pipeline after earlier drone attacks raised concerns about the vulnerability of key energy infrastructure.

Renewed threats against pumping stations and associated facilities have once again highlighted risks to global oil flows.

The Houthis also renewed warnings to airlines and travellers, cautioning against the use of Saudi airports and airspace. The warning forms part of a broader pressure campaign aimed at disrupting transportation links and increasing the economic cost of the conflict for the Kingdom.

At the same time, the group accused Saudi forces of carrying out strikes on locations inside Yemen, including sites in and around the capital, Sanaa. Houthi officials said Saudi military operations had caused casualties and damage, allegations that emerged alongside reports of intensified aerial bombardment.

The latest exchanges underscore the collapse of the relative calm that followed the 2022 UN-brokered truce. Cross-border attacks, once significantly reduced, have increased sharply as both sides pursue military objectives and respond to escalating regional tensions.

Diplomatic efforts are also gathering pace. Turkey has stepped up engagement with regional stakeholders and is hosting discussions focused on the deteriorating security situation. Turkish officials are also preparing talks with Yemen’s foreign minister as concerns grow over the risk of a broader regional confrontation.

Meanwhile, senior officials from Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan are expected to engage with Iranian counterparts in discussions aimed at improving regional coordination. The planned contacts reflect growing international concern that continued escalation could further destabilise the Middle East and threaten both energy markets and commercial aviation.

As missile launches, drone attacks and retaliatory air strikes continue, the conflict is increasingly extending beyond the battlefield in Yemen. Critical oil infrastructure, international airports and regional diplomatic relations are now becoming central fronts in a confrontation that shows few signs of easing.

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