India’s defence production has reached an unprecedented high of Rs 1,50,590 crore in the Financial Year (FY) 2024-25, marking an impressive 18% growth from the previous year and a remarkable 90% increase since FY 2019-20. This achievement has been attributed to the collective efforts of the Department of Defence Production, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), and private industry stakeholders, with the latter now contributing 23% to total production, up from 21% last fiscal. The commendable …

India is accelerating the development of a lightweight, air-launched sub-sonic cruise missile designed for deployment from various Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft. Powered by the indigenous Manik turbofan engine, this missile features a shorter airframe with improved aerodynamics, confirmed through wind tunnel testing, enabling a reduced weight of about 1.2 tons and a range of approximately 600 kilometers. It offers a cost-effective and stealthy complement to the faster, supersonic BrahMos-NG missile, providing greater fuel efficiency, …

India’s upcoming Project 18-class destroyers, currently in design, will enhance the Indian Navy’s capabilities with sea-based ballistic missile defense (BMD) systems and advanced weaponry, including hypersonic missiles. Designed to support maritime operations, these destroyers will integrate interceptors derived from India’s land-based BMD program, significantly improving defense against long-range threats. With a displacement of over 10,000 tons, the destroyers will feature advanced radar systems, larger Vertical Launch Systems, and next-gen propulsion, making them pivotal in safeguarding …

The Armament Research and Development Establishment (ARDE) has unveiled plans to base India’s future Mounted Gun System (MGS) on the Advanced Light Towed Gun System (ALTGS), enhancing mobility and deployability for rapid-response operations. The ALTGS, a lighter variant of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), features advanced materials and an all-electric drive system, significantly improving setup time and airlift capability. The initiative aligns with the Indian Army’s Field Artillery Rationalization Plan to induct 3,000 …

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is advancing its air defence with Project Kusha, an indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile system designed to complement existing capabilities like the S-400. The project comprises four interceptor variants, with Phase-I aimed for completion by 2028-2030, and a Phase-II set to develop missiles exceeding 600 km in range, enhancing defences against emerging threats, particularly from China. The initiative emphasizes India’s commitment to strategic autonomy, integrating advanced technologies for effective …

Lokesh Machines Limited has secured a ₹17.68 crore contract from the Indian Army for modification kits of the 7.62mm Medium Machine Gun (MMG) MAG, announced on August 6, 2025. The kits include key components such as Receiver Assembly, Top Cover Assembly, Feed Tray Assembly, Cocking Handle Assembly, and Mounting Tripod Assembly. These upgrades aim to enhance reliability, functionality, and combat readiness, reinforcing the Indian Army’s push for modernisation and domestic defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar …

The successful static test of the KALAM 1200 solid motor marks a significant milestone for the Vikram 1 Launch Vehicle developed by Skyroot Aerospace. Conducted at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, the 11-meter-long motor is a testament to India’s growing capabilities in the private space sector, aligning with the 2023 Space Policy aimed at fostering private investment and innovation. The motor’s successful test underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its space infrastructure and supporting private players …

India’s Ghatak Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) program is poised for a critical phase, pending government approval for funding between 3,000 to 5,000 crore to develop operational prototypes. Spearheaded by the DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency, the Ghatak’s success hinges on the Kaveri engine and synergies with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This 12 to 13-tonne stealth drone aims to enhance India’s military capabilities with its ability to execute high-risk missions without pilot involvement, reinforcing …

India and Russia are set to potentially finalize the BrahMos-II hypersonic missile program during President Putin’s upcoming visit, marking a significant advancement in their strategic partnership. This missile, designed to reach speeds between Mach 7 and Mach 8, aims to enhance India’s deterrence capabilities and conduct precision strikes over 1,500 kilometers. Despite previous delays due to technology sharing and cost concerns, recent geopolitical changes have reignited momentum. The program will blend Russian technology with India’s …

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to enhance its standoff strike capability by acquiring 110 BrahMos-A supersonic cruise missiles, following their successful debut during “Operation Sindoor,” where they effectively targeted Pakistan Air Force infrastructure. This acquisition, valued at $7.64 billion, also includes 87 advanced drones, marking a significant step in modernizing India’s military. The BrahMos-A, with a range exceeding 450 km and a top speed of Mach 3, provides IAF pilots with the ability …

The DRDO has received a budget of ₹23,855.61 crore for 2024-25, focusing on eight niche technology areas such as Artificial Intelligence and Quantum Technology to enhance India’s defense capabilities and self-reliance. By integrating private sector involvement through initiatives like the Technology Development Fund and Development-Cum-Production Partner model, DRDO aims to harness industry expertise while retaining high-risk projects internally. The emphasis on collaboration with MSMEs and academia is expected to drive innovation in critical defense domains, …

The Indian Army has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for upgraded Ponton Modular System (PMS) Assault Bridges, which are vital for enhancing the mobility of mechanised and infantry forces in overcoming obstacles during operations. These advanced bridges are expected to feature improvements in span length, speed of deployment, and ruggedness, thereby aligning with India’s defense modernization and self-reliance initiatives. The procurement reflects a strategic emphasis on developing technologically advanced, mobile engineering solutions to support …

Amber Wings has achieved DGCA certification for its ATVA-1 hybrid cargo drone, marking it as the first in India cleared for commercial operations, including night deliveries. This innovation is set to enhance logistics across sectors like e-commerce and healthcare by providing faster, cost-effective solutions, particularly in challenging terrains. The drone aligns with the Indian government’s Make in India initiative, bolstering local manufacturing and technological advancement. With plans for immediate deployment and further developments like the …