Vietnam is moving to evaluate integrating the BrahMos-A supersonic cruise missile on its Su-30-series fighters, paralleling Malaysia’s ongoing feasibility studies, amid reports that Hanoi is close to finalizing a roughly $700 million BrahMos package including coastal batteries and air-launched variants for Su-30 operations, as regional tensions persist in the South China Sea. The interest follows India’s operational deployment of BrahMos from Su-30MKI aircraft and recent Southeast Asian traction after deliveries to the Philippines, with technical …

Following Operation Sindoor in May 2025, the Indian Armed Forces are urging domestic manufacturers to enhance drones’ electronic components against enemy Electronic Warfare (EW), particularly after vulnerabilities were highlighted by effective Pakistani EW capabilities during the operation. With a focus on anti-jamming technologies and resilient navigation systems, the initiative underscores India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat campaign. The investment of over ₹2,000 crore by the Drone Federation of India in …

India’s ambitious Netra MK-II AEW&C program aims to convert six Airbus A321 aircraft into advanced airborne surveillance platforms, reflecting a significant investment of approximately 20,000 Crores (US$227 million). This upgrade addresses previous limitations of the EMB-145-based systems, enhancing range, endurance, and capacity for advanced radar and electronic warfare systems. The integration of a new-generation AESA radar will bolster India’s aerial surveillance capabilities, particularly in the Indian Ocean Region amid growing geopolitical challenges. With operational induction …

DRDO is seeking private-sector partnerships for developing a secure SATCOM data-link for the TEJAS MK-2 and AMCA aircraft, enabling enhanced operational capabilities such as secure BLOS communication, sensor fusion, and electronic warfare. With a focus on domestic innovation, DRDO has invited Indian firms with expertise in software-defined radios to collaborate, ensuring resilience against jamming and interoperability. This initiative aligns with India’s broader defense strategy of self-reliance and modernization, with potential expansion to other aviation platforms. …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to repurpose retiring MiG-21s into target drones to test next-generation surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) developed by the DRDO, offering a cost-effective solution to utilize aging airframes. This innovative approach supports India’s self-reliance in defense by leveraging the MiG-21’s capabilities for realistic SAM trials, such as the Akash-NG and QRSAM systems, expected to commence by 2027. The conversion process minimizes costs while maximizing operational utility, aligning with global practices. This strategy …

The Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) has commenced the indigenous development of an Engine Fuel Control System (EFCS) aimed at enhancing India’s aerospace propulsion capabilities and reducing reliance on foreign technologies. This initiative is vital for advanced military platforms like the AMCA and Tejas Mk2, focusing on precision fuel management and performance optimization through various integrated components. By collaborating with local industries and ensuring rigorous testing, GTRE seeks to address historical challenges in India’s aero …

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is expanding its order for General Electric F404 engines, with an additional 113 units to support the Indian Air Force’s Tejas Mk1 and Mk1A fleet, reflecting India’s commitment to self-reliance in aerospace. This order, part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, ensures a steady supply of engines for the Tejas program, which will include 180 aircraft by 2035. The F404s reliability and performance make it the optimal choice, despite future engine developments. …