The Indian Navy plans to retire its Shishumar-class submarines starting in 2030, transitioning to a modern fleet with the induction of advanced vessels under Project 75I and Project 75. This move addresses critical maritime deterrence gaps in light of China’s expanding submarine capabilities. The Shishumar submarines, operational since the 1980s, will initially be repurposed for training before full decommissioning. Upcoming projects include six AIP-equipped submarines under Project 75I, with significant indigenous participation and advanced features, …

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 …

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) has initiated negotiations with the Indian Navy for the pivotal Project 75(I), aiming to build six advanced diesel-electric submarines in collaboration with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, with a deal valued at Rs 70,000 crore. This project is crucial for modernizing India’s underwater fleet and enhancing its strategic capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region amid rising regional tensions. MDL, a debt-free company and a Navratna entity, has a rich history in …

Thales, in partnership with UK-based Autonomous Devices, is developing a drone-based electronic warfare solution, the EW-UAS1, aimed at enhancing naval and land forces’ capabilities. This system integrates Thales’ electronic warfare payloads with a next-generation drone, focusing on high maneuverability and endurance to detect threats and deploy countermeasures. The collaboration promises a technological leap in electronic warfare, providing critical protection for strategic assets against modern threats through capabilities like jamming and radar deception. This advancement not …

The Lanza-N 3D Air Surveillance Radar system was successfully delivered and commissioned aboard an Indian Navy warship by Indra, in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). This marks the first deployment of this advanced naval radar outside Spain. The radar, seamlessly integrated with the ship’s combat and surveillance systems, underwent rigorous sea trials successfully detecting a range of aerial and naval threats including drones, supersonic aircraft, and anti-radiation missiles. Capable of long-range, three-dimensional tactical …

Scientists at Graphic Era Deemed University in Dehradun have developed an innovative Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Shielding Film that significantly enhances aircraft stealth by absorbing radar signals in the critical Ku-band frequency (12-18 GHz). This breakthrough, which has received a 20-year patent from the Indian government, promises to bolster national defense by allowing aircraft to evade detection and improve electronic warfare capabilities. Co-inventors Wariz Panwar and Vikas Rathi emphasized the technology’s potential for transforming both military …

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has partnered with the Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory (DMRL) to manufacture Fused Silica Radar Domes, a critical component for India’s missile programs, under a License Agreement for Transfer of Technology. This collaboration, part of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, aims to reduce import reliance from 60-70% to near-zero, enhancing supply chain security and potentially saving $50-100 million annually. The indigenous production of these radomes will support key missile systems like BrahMos …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is prioritizing the indigenous development of a Common Launcher to enhance weapon integration and operational efficiency. The proposed versatile launcher aims to address existing limitations by allowing compatibility across a wide array of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, reducing aircraft downtime and improving mission flexibility. Key requirements include support for various missile types, ease of maintenance, and future upgrade potential for reconnaissance and refueling pods. While this initiative is poised to …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is actively seeking local industrial support to develop an indigenous Flight Data Recorder (FDR) analysis tool for its Rafale fleet, which currently relies on a complex and slow software system from Dassault Aviation. This initiative aims to streamline maintenance, enhance operational readiness, and support rapid turnaround by reducing analysis time significantly. The new tool will allow for multi-user access, enabling real-time troubleshooting and data sharing beyond the existing limitations tied …

India is set to enhance its defense capabilities by replacing the imported Data Link Transmitter in the Astra missile series with an indigenous alternative by December 2027, as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. This collaboration between DRDO and BDL aims to increase operational autonomy and reduce supply chain vulnerabilities. The new DLT will improve the missile’s accuracy and effectiveness during combat, particularly in Beyond Visual Range engagements, while potentially incorporating advanced Software-Defined Radio features …

ISRO signed a landmark technology transfer agreement with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on September 10, 2025, marking the 100th such agreement in India’s space sector. This pact, facilitated by IN-SPACe and involving NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), enables HAL to independently produce the Small Satellite Launch Vehicle (SSLV), a three-stage solid vehicle designed to launch satellites up to 500 kg into Low Earth Orbit. Over the next 24 months, ISRO will provide HAL with comprehensive training, …

India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has unveiled a new afterburner-equipped Kaveri engine variant, aiming for 80 kN thrust to potentially replace the F404 engine in Tejas jets. This advancement marks a significant step towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat policy. The Kaveri Derivative Engine (KDE) shows promise with its thrust capabilities matching the F404, but it requires further flight trials and overcoming industrial challenges for mass production. Collaborations, notably with France’s …

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has received its third GE-404 engine for the TEJAS MK-1A program, with a total of 12 engines expected by the fiscal year-end. This delivery is pivotal for HAL’s ambition to ramp up production to 30 aircraft annually by 2026-27 and meet the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) order of 352 fighters. Despite previous supply chain delays, the successful delivery signals a recovery in engine supplies, essential for operational stability as legacy MiG-21s …

Denmark has reversed export restrictions on a critical propulsion system for the TEJAS MK-1A jets, following India’s diplomatic efforts, enabling the resumption of deliveries of the essential charge amplifier. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) faced production risks due to limited stocks but is now also pursuing local production to enhance self-reliance. The Indian Air Force’s order of 83 TEJAS MK-1A fighters is crucial, with deliveries now expected to commence in October 2025. Additionally, the Indian government …

India’s Navy plans to expand its fleet to over 200 warships and submarines by 2035, significantly enhancing its maritime capabilities amid growing challenges from China and Pakistan. This strategy emphasizes indigenous shipbuilding, with 55 vessels currently under construction and another 74 platforms approved, aligning with the Make in India initiative. Key elements include advanced diesel-electric submarines, stealth frigates, and a fully networked naval force for integrated operations. This expansion not only aims to bolster national …

Denmark has lifted its export ban on a crucial component for India’s Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, facilitating the resumption of deliveries of the engine charge amplifier essential for the aircraft’s performance. This reversal, attributed to India’s diplomatic efforts, alleviates delays impacting the Indian Air Force’s modernization and the induction of 83 jets by 2029. Concurrently, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is expediting indigenization to mitigate future import dependencies. The development underscores India’s strategic partnerships and highlights its …

DATA Patterns, an Indian defense electronics firm, has developed the Talon Shield Jammer Pod for the IAF’s Su-30MKI aircraft, promoting self-reliance in defense technology. This advanced jammer enhances electronic warfare capabilities by leveraging AESA technology to disrupt enemy radar signals, effectively addressing the need to modernize outdated systems like the Russian SAP-518 pods. The IAF has shown interest in conducting no-cost flight trials, highlighting the strategic importance of indigenous solutions to reduce reliance on foreign …

The Indian Navy is set to secure Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for four Next Generation Destroyers (P-18), part of a plan for up to ten ships to enhance its naval capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions. These 10,000-13,000 tonne vessels will incorporate advanced weaponry, including up to 144 Vertical Launch System cells, and state-of-the-art radar and stealth features, emphasizing indigenous development aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat. With a focus on increasing its fleet to 170-175 ships by …

Thales has appointed Ankur Kanaglekar as vice president for its India operations, aiming to enhance industrial collaboration and innovation in defense, aerospace, and digital sectors, aligning with India’s ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. With a wealth of experience from Boeing, Kanaglekar emphasizes strengthening local partnerships and driving technological advancements crucial for India’s self-reliance. Thales’ commitment to India underscores its strategic importance in the global defense landscape, supporting national objectives and fostering enduring collaborations. This development reflects the …

Jharkhand will host its inaugural defense expo, ‘EastTech 2025’, in Ranchi from September 19 to 21, aimed at establishing the state as a defense manufacturing hub. The event will showcase cutting-edge technologies, including those from startups, and is aligned with India’s self-reliance vision. It will be inaugurated by Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar with high-ranking military officials in attendance, highlighting the collaboration between the army, industry, and local entrepreneurs. This initiative is crucial for bolstering Jharkhand’s …

Premier Explosives has secured a Rs 7.83 crore order from the Ministry of Defence for the supply of Counter Measures, to be completed in 12 months. The company specializes in both commercial and defence explosives, including solid propellants for tactical missiles like Astra and Akash. With a reported revenue increase from Rs 271 crore to Rs 417 crore in FY25, Premier’s stock has risen significantly over the past six months. This order not only strengthens …

Indra, in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited, has successfully delivered and commissioned the first Lanza-N 3D Air Surveillance Radar system for the Indian Navy, demonstrating significant Indian-Spanish defense collaboration. The radar has been integrated into an Indian warship following extensive sea trials, ensuring its effectiveness across various naval platforms. A radar assembly and testing facility established in Karnataka will boost production capabilities. This partnership reflects a commitment to enhancing radar manufacturing in India, leveraging …

Australia is enhancing its naval capabilities with a US$1.1 billion program to deploy the “Ghost Shark,” a fleet of advanced underwater attack drones, set to enter service by 2026. These drones will significantly bolster the Royal Australian Navy’s intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and long-range strike capabilities amid a complex security environment. In response to growing investments in unmanned underwater vehicles by countries like China, Australia aims to lead in undersea drone warfare, improving deterrence and operational …

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing its air defense with the M2 and M3 interceptor missiles under Project Kusha, aimed at developing a long-range surface-to-air missile system. These interceptors, with ranges of 250 km and 350-400 km, feature advanced Altitude Control Motors for precise course corrections and hit-to-kill capabilities, enhancing India’s ability to neutralize complex aerial threats. Project Kusha, part of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, will bridge gaps in existing air defense …