The deadline for private sector bids to co-develop India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) has been extended from August 31 to September 30, 2025, due to a lack of responses. This ambitious project, vital for enhancing the Indian Air Force’s capabilities and achieving strategic autonomy, aims to produce a state-of-the-art fifth-generation stealth fighter. The absence of bids may reflect concerns over the significant financial and technological commitments required. The government hopes the extension will encourage …

The Indian Navy is set to integrate its first indigenous air-independent propulsion (AIP) system into the INS Khanderi by July 2026, marking a significant step in indigenisation. Developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) with industry partners L&T and Thermax, the prototype is expected to be ready by December 2023. The integration process will conclude by July 2027, with initial sailing trials commencing in March-April 2027. This development positions India among a select …

The BrahMos-A missile has been upgraded to reduce its weight from 2,900 kg to 2,200 kg using advanced composite materials and removing the booster stage, enhancing its performance and extending its operational range from 450 km to a target of 800 km. This development, confirmed by former BrahMos Aerospace CEO Sudhir Kumar Mishra, significantly bolsters the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) strategic capabilities, enabling it to strike high-value targets deeper within enemy territory. The integration with …

IIT Hyderabad has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Indian Army’s Simulator Development Division to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) named VIGRAHA, focusing on Augmented Reality, Virtual Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and other advanced technologies for military applications. This collaboration aims to enhance research and development capabilities that will benefit the Indian Armed Forces by integrating cutting-edge technologies into training and operational frameworks. The formation of VIGRAHA represents a significant step towards modernizing the …

The Indian Aeronautical Development Agency has extended the bid deadline for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program to September 30, 2025, due to a lack of interest from private vendors. Concerns over stringent terms, inadequate profit margins, and the dominance of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) deter firms from committing to the Full-Scale Engineering Development phase. Despite the AMCA’s strategic importance in enhancing India’s air combat capabilities against regional threats, private companies prefer lower-risk tier-supplier …

The Indian Navy is set to enhance its air defense capabilities with the development of an Indigenous Stabilized Launcher for Man-Portable Air Defense Systems (MANPADS), following the Ministry of Defence’s Approval in Principle on July 28, 2025. This initiative addresses the limitations of existing shoulder-fired systems, particularly in maritime conditions, by integrating advanced gyroscopic stabilization technology for improved targeting. The project, under the MAKE-II category, encourages collaboration between the Indian Navy, DRDO, and private firms, …

Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. has ordered 14 high-speed 16V175D-MM engines from Everllence to power Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs) for the Indian Coast Guard, scheduled for delivery between December 2025 and December 2027. These FPVs will enhance India’s maritime capabilities with speeds over 33 knots for coastal surveillance and search-and-rescue missions. This deal underscores the growing collaboration between Indian defense forces and global suppliers in bolstering national security. The partnership reflects a strategic commitment to modernizing …

The Indian Army successfully conducted the Converge Capsule-II, a Military-Civil Fusion initiative aimed at strengthening national security by integrating military and civilian efforts. Held from August 25 to 29, 2025, in Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, the event involved collaboration with civil administrative services, academic institutions, and industry leaders to address contemporary defense challenges. Key discussions focused on technological advancements, including AI and sustainable resource management, fostering a unified approach to defense innovation. This initiative underlines India’s …

India’s defense electronics exporters are reporting a flurry of overseas wins in 2025 amid rising global demand and a push for indigenized, network‑centric systems. Public sector major Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) highlighted growing export momentum alongside a 21 August 2025 MoU with Centum Electronics to co-develop electronic warfare, radar, and secure communications for allied markets, aiming at international programs beyond India’s services pipeline. Private firms notched material export orders: Apollo Micro Systems disclosed its first …

The Indian Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh, announced that the first two Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets are set to be delivered to the Indian Air Force by the end of September, emphasizing the significance of this project in enhancing India’s self-reliance in defense. With approximately 38 Tejas jets already in service and an additional 97 on order, the Tejas program aims to replace the aging MiG-21 fleet, making a substantial contribution to the ‘Make …

India and Saudi Arabia are exploring joint production of advanced military hardware, highlighting their strengthening defense and strategic ties. At a recent meeting in New Delhi, discussions included training, industrial partnerships, maritime cooperation, and military exercises. India proposed to train Saudi armed forces while also delving into cooperation in cyberspace, information technology, disaster management, and tactical communication. This collaboration is emblematic of their deepening defense partnership, underscored by the establishment of a ministerial committee on …

BEML Ltd has initiated the assembly of its indigenous Light Armoured Multipurpose Vehicle (LAMV) at its Kolar Gold Fields facility, aligning with the Indian Army’s modernization efforts. The Defence Acquisition Council recently approved the procurement of approximately 800 LAMVs, promoting self-reliance in defense manufacturing. The LAMV features enhanced survivability, adaptability, and advanced surveillance capabilities, with trials set to begin in diverse challenging environments, including high-altitude areas. This initiative underpins the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and is …

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has gained export clearance for its NETRA Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, allowing for international collaborations. The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to enhance its NETRA fleet with six additional NETRA Mk1A and six advanced MkII systems, featuring cutting-edge GaN-based AESA radars for superior detection capabilities. This initiative aligns with India’s strategy to promote indigenous defense technologies and strengthen its position as a reliable defense supplier. …

The DRDO’s Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) is developing a naval variant of the Pinaka Mk-IV, a 300km-range guided rocket aimed at enhancing India’s coastal defense capabilities against sea-based threats. This advanced system, leveraging technologies from the Pralay missile, allows precision strikes on small and medium vessels, thereby strengthening the Indian Navy’s maritime strike potential. The Pinaka Mk-IV’s rapid launch capabilities and cost-effectiveness position it as a viable alternative to more expensive missile systems. …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is pushing for a fast-tracked government-to-government deal with France for 90 Rafale F4 jets to address its dwindling fighter squadron numbers, highlighted during Operation Sindoor. With current squadrons projected to drop to 29 by 2025, this acquisition aims to counter the military threats from China and Pakistan, particularly in light of Pakistan’s new advanced aircraft. The deal would bolster India’s defense manufacturing through the Make in India initiative, featuring local …

In a significant advancement for India’s defense capabilities, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully developed and handed over the indigenous Signal Star Naval Flare, specifically designed for the Kalvari-class submarines. This dual-colour signaling device enhances operational readiness by enabling reliable non-verbal communication for distress signaling and coordination during submarine missions. The flares can emit red for emergencies and green for operational status, crucial in maintaining stealth and ensuring crew safety in submarine …

Gallantry Award recipient Sergeant Bhale Singh, recently retired, revealed his critical role in repairing an S-400 air defence system under fire during a high-stakes operation against the Pakistan Air Force. On May 10, his team faced a technical malfunction while the system was targeted, yet Singh expertly led urgent repairs within 15 minutes, allowing the launcher to engage and neutralize an air-launched missile. This incident highlights the resilience and skill of India’s air defence operators …

SMPP Limited has introduced a specialized ballistic helmet designed for Sikh soldiers, allowing comfortable wear over traditional turbans, marking a significant step in India’s defense sector under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. With 12,000 units already delivered to the Indian Army, this helmet enhances protection while respecting cultural sensitivities, addressing long-standing challenges in personal protective gear. Competing with MKU Limited’s earlier designs, SMPP’s helmet features advanced materials and technology, improving soldier safety amid ongoing border tensions. …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to receive its first-ever wet-leased Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker from Metrea Management by October 2025, addressing critical air-to-air refueling needs amid challenges with its aging fleet of Ilyushin Il-78MKI tankers. This initiative enhances mission readiness for both IAF and the Indian Navy while providing an interim solution for aerial refueling capabilities during heightened regional tensions. The KC-135’s proven platform and Metrea’s extensive experience in aerial refueling will bolster operational …

The SWITCH UAV by ideaForge Technology Limited has achieved the DGCA Type Certification, highlighting its reliability and versatility in both civil and military applications. This accolade, presented at Aero India 2025, follows its NATO Stock Number assignment and military certification, underscoring compliance with rigorous international standards. The hybrid VTOL drone is designed for ISR missions with advanced features, enhancing its operational capabilities. This recognition not only solidifies India’s position in the burgeoning drone ecosystem but …

The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has extended the deadline for bids on the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project to 30th September 2025, following a lack of submissions from private vendor consortia. This extension aims to enhance participation in a crucial initiative designed to bolster India’s indigenous combat aircraft capabilities. By fostering collaboration with private vendors, ADA demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the project moves forward effectively. The absence of initial bids underscores the need …

The Samarth Incubation Program – Cohort II has been launched by C-DOT in collaboration with STPI and TiE Delhi-NCR, inviting DeepTech startups across AI, UAVs, Cybersecurity, LiFi, and Blockchain to apply by September 1, 2025, with selected ventures receiving up to Rs 5 lakh, access to advanced R&D labs in Delhi and Bengaluru, structured mentorship, accelerator support, and investor connects to move from prototypes to pilots and commercialization. Announced in late August 2025 following a …

The Samarth Incubation Program – Cohort II, launched by C-DOT, STPI, and TiE Delhi-NCR, invites DeepTech startups to innovate in areas such as AI, UAVs, and cybersecurity, with applications open until September 1, 2025. Selected startups will receive grants up to Rs 5 lakh and access to advanced R&D labs, along with expert mentorship. This initiative aims to tackle critical technology needs in India, including an AI-powered Offline Indic Translator and an Autonomous Drone Payload …

The Department of Defence Production is actively engaging with Karnataka officials to enhance India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem. Key discussions revolved around initiatives to support the Make in India vision, including increased budget allocations, streamlined acquisition procedures, and the establishment of a Defence and Aerospace Park in Devanahalli. Karnataka’s commitment to fostering innovation and attracting investment through state-level policy reforms was emphasized, highlighting its significant role in the defense and aerospace sector. This collaboration aims to …

Airbus has awarded Mahindra Aerostructures a significant contract to manufacture the main fuselage for the H125 helicopters, enhancing India’s role in the global aerospace value chain and supporting the Make in India initiative. This follows a similar contract for the H130 helicopters, with production set to begin immediately in Bengaluru and first deliveries expected by 2027. Airbus aims to establish two Final Assembly Lines for the H125 and C295 military aircraft in collaboration with Tata …