India’s Prithvi Delivery Vehicle Mark-II (PDV Mk-II), originally tested as an anti-satellite (ASAT) weapon during Operation Mission Shakti in 2019, is set to be integrated into the Sudarshan Chakra Sky Shield, enhancing India’s offensive space capabilities. The missile, capable of disrupting adversary surveillance and offering a second-strike option under India’s no-first-use doctrine, reflects a strategic response to growing satellite constellations from China and Pakistan. With potential upgrades for various orbital targets, the PDV Mk-II positions …

The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has proposed its indigenous Manik engine to power Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) CATS Warrior UCAV, enhancing India’s unmanned combat capabilities. This transition from the existing PTAE-7W turbojet to the more efficient Small Turbofan Engine (STFE) aims to meet the UCAV’s growing operational demands, offering higher thrust and better fuel efficiency. The Manik engine’s advancements will support multi-mission operations and bolster self-reliance in defense technologies. Additionally, the STFE is set …

India’s indigenous Kaveri engine is set for testing on the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, marking a significant milestone in India’s aerospace capabilities, as confirmed by K. Rajalakshmi Menon of DRDO. This initiative aims to validate the engine’s performance and enhance India’s strategic autonomy in defense manufacturing, reducing reliance on foreign engines. Successful integration could lead to lower lifecycle costs and establish India as an advanced aerospace technology exporter. The collaborative effort involving HAL, the …

The Indian Army is set to upgrade its T-90 main battle tanks (MBTs) to enhance their battlefield effectiveness against modern armoured threats. The current 125 mm gun will be strengthened to accommodate next-generation ammunition capable of penetrating 800-1000 mm, thereby improving lethality against advanced composite and reactive armour systems. This upgrade aims to ensure the T-90 fleet, comprising over 1,100 tanks, remains operationally relevant and effective in both offensive and defensive roles. The initiative aligns …

The Indian Army plans to deploy 5,000 tethered drones to enhance border surveillance across challenging terrains, as announced in a recent Request for Information by the Ministry of Defence. These drones, capable of both tethered and non-tethered operations, will provide advanced, beyond-line-of-sight surveillance, ensuring continuous operational capability in diverse conditions, including extreme weather. Designed for significant endurance, they will enhance situational awareness for tactical commanders at critical borders with Pakistan and China. This initiative underscores …

The Indian Army is enhancing its drone defense capabilities along the northern and western borders following incursions during Operation Sindoor, by procuring advanced radar systems. Plans include acquiring up to 45 Low Level Light Weight Radars (Enhanced) and 48 Air Defence Fire Control Radar-Drone Detectors, which will integrate into the existing Akashteer air defense network. These radars will improve detection and tracking of low radar cross-section drones, ensuring faster and more effective responses against aerial …

India’s armed forces are set to modernize their strategic capabilities with a projected 500 hypersonic missiles post-2030, addressing the dual threats from China and Pakistan, while also showcasing successful defense operations like Operation Sindoor. The hypersonic arsenal, developed by DRDO, will enhance India’s deterrence with speeds exceeding Mach 6, and will be versatile for tri-service deployment. In parallel, the BrahMos and Akashteer systems demonstrated their effectiveness in recent conflicts, boosting India’s reputation as an arms …

The Indian Navy has expressed significant concerns regarding TKMS’s proposal for the Project-75I submarine program, primarily due to its untested angular hull design aimed at enhancing stealth. Despite TKMS’s established reputation with proven submarine models, this new design poses risks of developmental delays and reliability issues, with a possible delivery timeline for the first submarine extending to 2034. Given the declining numbers of India’s aging submarine fleet, timely implementation of Project-75I is crucial for maintaining …

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) emphasized the importance of maintenance for the Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopters (DHRUV) following a tail drive shaft defect that prompted inspections by the Indian Army. The issue arose after a flight incident, leading to safety checks across all military branches. Despite logging over 450,000 flying hours in varied missions, the DHRUV’s safety record has faced scrutiny, with several accidents reported recently. HAL has initiated design reviews and retrofitting to enhance safety, …

India’s recent conflict with Pakistan showcased its advanced defense capabilities, including the use of domestically developed missile systems like the BrahMos and AI-powered technologies, leading to a surge in defense exports, which reached $2.8 billion in 2024-25. This conflict acted as a market demonstration of India’s military prowess, enhancing its credibility as a defense supplier amid rising global interest. With a strategic focus on self-reliance and modernization, India is balancing ties with traditional partners like …