India is advancing its maritime capabilities by integrating underwater drones into the operations of the Indian Coast Guard and Navy, enhancing surveillance in its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for monitoring illegal activities and protecting marine biodiversity. Concurrently, the Philippines is seeking to procure Indian underwater drones to strengthen its surveillance against Chinese assertiveness in the South China Sea, reflecting a deepening strategic partnership. Both nations recognize the potential of unmanned technologies for intelligence, surveillance, and …

India’s Ardiden 1-H Shakti turboshaft engine is on track to achieve 100% indigenous content by 2027-2028, driven by expanded technology transfer from Safran Helicopter Engines. Over 70% of its components are already produced locally by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and private firms, enhancing self-reliance in defense technologies amidst regional security challenges. The engine’s evolution significantly reduces dependence on foreign suppliers and lowers production costs by up to 30%. Full indigenization also enhances maintenance efficiency and operational …

The Indian Army is focusing on local procurement of an Enhanced Range Artillery Projectile (ERAP) capable of reaching 60-70 km with existing 155mm systems, aligning with its modernization efforts against evolving threats. This advanced projectile integrates rocket, mortar, and base bleed technologies to enhance range while being compatible with various calibers, including legacy and modern artillery. However, challenges in stability and performance must be addressed during development. The ERAP’s deployment would significantly bolster India’s artillery …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to procure 300-400 inflatable dummies to enhance its deception tactics amid escalating regional tensions with Pakistan and China. These dummies will mimic the thermal and radar signatures of IAF aircraft and air defense systems, serving as false targets to mislead enemy systems and protect actual assets, thus demonstrating a strategic shift towards cost-effective indigenous solutions. This initiative, part of the broader Make in India campaign, builds on the successful …

A landmark contract has been signed between GRADEONE, a subsidiary of EDGE Group, and Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, enabling the supply of large calibre 155mm howitzer barrels to the UAE. This agreement, the first of its kind between an Emirati and an Indian firm, enhances both countries’ defense capabilities and reaffirms their commitment to security and cooperation. It signifies a strategic move towards self-reliance and technological advancement in defense while opening avenues for regional and …

The Indian Army plans to acquire up to 70 stealth-enabled long-range drones as part of its defense modernization strategy, which includes procuring over 670 UAVs of various types. These remotely piloted aircraft will predominantly be high-altitude, long-endurance platforms designed to operate between 50,000 to 65,000 feet with a range of up to 1,500 kilometers, featuring advanced stealth capabilities to evade radar detection. The emphasis on low-radar cross-section technology reflects India’s commitment to enhancing its aerial …

The Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh, emphasized the need for enhanced collaboration among industry, academia, and research institutes to boost India’s defense capabilities during the STRIDE 2025 seminar. He highlighted the importance of projecting hard power alongside soft power amid rising global protectionism and nationalistic trends, particularly after Operation Sindoor, which revealed areas for improvement in India’s defense preparedness. Key gaps identified include electronic warfare and drone capabilities. Singh urged the private sector to invest …

Brightcom Group Limited has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with US-based Close Quarters Tactical (CQT) Weapon Systems to develop advanced AI-powered defence technologies. This collaboration aims to enhance business development across various regions, including India and allied markets, and involves the adaptation and local manufacturing of CQT’s tactical platforms in line with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. Additionally, the partnership will focus on integrating AI and machine learning into CQT’s systems for improved combat capabilities. This …

Russia has proposed co-developing a next-generation carrier-borne variant of the Su-57 fighter aircraft with India, aiming to revive the long-dormant FGFA program. While this collaboration leverages foundational technologies, Indian Naval sources express caution, emphasizing the complexities of retrofitting a land-based design and reaffirming commitment to the indigenous Twin Engine Deck Based Fighter (TEDBF) program, designed specifically for carrier operations. The TEDBF promises advanced capabilities with a focused timeline for its first flight in 2026, set …

The Indian Ministry of Defence has initiated the tailoring of the MSA Gallet LA 100 Flying Helmet for the indigenous LCA Tejas program, a significant step to enhance pilot safety and operational effectiveness. This helmet, used by advanced air forces like France’s, will be integrated with the Tejas fighter to meet sophisticated demands of modern air combat, ensuring compatibility with high-G maneuvers and networked warfare. The procurement specifies strict requirements for delivery, qualification, and performance …

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) is showcasing its indigenous Light Armoured Multi-Role Vehicle (LAMV) at DSEI UK 2025, emphasizing its versatility, survivability, and compliance with NATO standards. Designed for reconnaissance and convoy protection, the LAMV features a powerful 430hp engine, advanced ballistic protection, and modular architecture for various mission configurations. With over 70% local content, it supports India’s defense self-sufficiency and is poised to replace aging military vehicles, aligning with India’s strategic partnerships under the …

Bharat Forge Limited and Windracers Limited have signed a Memorandum of Understanding at DSEI UK 2025 to enhance Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) operations in India, supporting both military and civil sectors. This partnership aligns with the UK-India Free Trade Agreement and focuses on localizing advanced heavy-lift drone technologies, particularly the Windracers ULTRA, which boasts significant operational capabilities across naval, air, and land domains. The collaboration aims to address logistical needs for the Indian Navy, Army, …

The Indian Army is set to revolutionize its armored warfare capabilities by integrating over 3,000 Main Battle Tanks, including T-90 Bhishma and indigenous Arjun, with dedicated ISR drones starting in 2028. This initiative aims to create “hunter-killer” teams where drones provide real-time intelligence, enhancing tactical mobility and combat effectiveness against adversaries like Pakistan and China. The drones are expected to stream high-definition video, detect enemy positions, and potentially carry micro-munitions for standoff engagement. This strategic …

A U.S. delegation is set to visit India from September 16-19 to finalize a $4 billion deal for six additional P-8I maritime aircraft, enhancing India’s maritime surveillance and anti-submarine capabilities amidst rising regional security threats from China and Pakistan. The acquisition reflects India’s commitment to modernizing its defense infrastructure and achieving greater self-reliance in defense technology, with the deal anticipated to include training and maintenance support. This negotiation could signify a pivotal moment in U.S.-India …

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is on track to deliver two TEJAS MK-1A jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in October 2025, contingent on successful weapon trials and consistent engine supply from General Electric (GE). With HAL receiving the third GE F404-IN20 engine and anticipating six more by year-end, it plans to deliver a total of 10 aircraft by March 2026. The arrival of these jets is crucial as the IAF retires its MiG-21 fleet, …

Apollo Micro Systems has signed a significant MoU with US-based DED Inc. to produce rocket motors for the BM-21 Grad rocket system, aligning with India’s Make in India initiative aimed at enhancing self-reliance in defense technologies. This collaboration will facilitate technology transfer and domestic production of crucial rocket components, expected to begin trials soon and achieve full-scale production by mid-2026. By reducing import dependency and enhancing operational capabilities, this move is a strategic boost to …

Ukrainian defense startup Falcons has secured funding from US-based Green Flag Ventures to enhance its electronic warfare system, particularly its ETER radio frequency direction-finding device, which has already proven effective in combat against Russian systems. This investment aims to scale production and develop a NATO market-entry strategy, highlighting a growing trend of Western interest in agile and cost-effective defense solutions amid ongoing warfare. The ETER system, designed for GPS-denied environments, offers a significant financial advantage …

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders (MDL) has officially begun contract negotiations with the Indian Navy for the P75(I) project, involving the construction of six advanced conventional submarines utilizing Air Independent Propulsion systems with support from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems. This initiative not only marks a milestone in enhancing India’s indigenous naval capabilities but also strengthens India-Germany defense ties, aligning with India’s ambitions to become a significant maritime power and global shipbuilding hub. The project reflects India’s commitment to …

Army Chief General Dwivedi emphasized the necessity for India to maintain a technological edge to counter evolving adversarial capabilities, highlighting the importance of self-reliance through initiatives like Atmanirbharta. He discussed recent operational successes, including the use of advanced systems such as UAVs and the indigenously developed secure mobile platform SAMBHAV during Operation Sindoor, which facilitated real-time secure communications. Looking ahead, he noted the need to enhance missile ranges and integrate cutting-edge technologies like AI and …

The Indian government, led by Union Minister Shantanu Thakur, is committed to transforming India into a global shipbuilding hub, with initiatives like the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund aimed at enhancing domestic capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign shipping. This includes the introduction of financial assistance policies, infrastructural improvements, and support for green shipping technologies, promoting environmentally friendly vessels and alternative fuels. Additionally, Maharashtra’s pioneering Shipbuilding, Ship Repair, and Ship Recycling Policy 2025 seeks to …

The Indian Army has been granted a patent in September 2025 for an indigenously developed “Automatic Target Classifying System based on Artificial Intelligence,” an innovation led by Colonel Kuldeep Yadav that uses AI to analyse radar signatures and autonomously detect, identify and categorise targets without human intervention. Announced in mid-September 2025, the system is described by Army sources and defence-media reports as capable of distinguishing classes such as aircraft, vehicles and personnel from real-time radar …

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA) capabilities with the commissioning of INS Aravali in Gurugram on September 12, 2025, under the leadership of Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi. Named after the resilient Aravali range, INS Aravali will bolster various information and communication centers crucial for the Navy’s command and control framework. Its motto, “Maritime Security through Collaboration,” emphasizes a cooperative approach with naval units and allied stakeholders. The base’s crest …

The Indian Army successfully conducted Exercise Siyom Prahar from September 8 to 10, demonstrating the effective integration of drone technology in tactical operations under realistic battlefield conditions. This exercise focused on continuous surveillance, target acquisition, and precision strikes, validating new Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures for future conflicts. The Army’s commitment to embracing cutting-edge technologies emphasizes its adaptability and readiness to meet evolving challenges, enhancing overall combat effectiveness. By integrating unmanned aerial systems with traditional combat …

The Indian Army, under the leadership of Colonel Kuldeep Yadav, has secured a patent for an innovative AI-Based Automatic Target Classifying System, marking a significant advancement in military technology. This system autonomously identifies and classifies radar targets, enhancing precision and operational efficiency while reducing human error and response times. Its adaptability for various radar platforms positions the Indian Army to effectively address both conventional and unconventional threats. This development underscores India’s commitment to technological self-reliance …

Pune-based Astrophel Aerospace has achieved a significant milestone by developing an indigenous cryogenic pump, currently undergoing testing at ISRO facilities. This advanced propulsion technology, crucial for rocket engines, will help position India as a self-reliant player in the global space economy. The startup’s innovative design utilizes a traditional gas generator cycle, enhancing efficiency and sustainability while reducing costs. Astrophel’s efforts align with India’s Space Policy 2023, aiming to lower launch expenses for small satellite missions …