AIR DEFENSE
India's Rudram-1 Missile: How does it stack up against global competitors?
Rudram 1 Missile: India has successfully tested its first indigenous anti-radiation missile, the Rudram-1, developed by DRDO for the Indian Air Force. Integrated with Sukhoi-30MKI jets, it targets radiation sources with INS-GPS navigation and a Passive Homing Head, crucial for Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD). Compared globally, Rudram-1 enhances India's SEAD capabilities against adversaries like the US (AGM-88 HARM), Russia (Kh-58), UK (ALARM), China (FT-2000), Iran (Hormoz-2), and Brazil (MAR-1). This milestone strengthens India's defense against regional threats, showcasing its technological prowess and commitment to indigenous defense innovation.
Is China fueling Pakistan's nuclear ambitions against India?
A recent image from the 2023 Pakistan Day Parade reveals Pakistan’s JF-17 Thunder Block II aircraft equipped with a Ra’ad-I nuclear-capable missile, marking a significant strategic enhancement. The development, aided by China, aims to replace aging Mirage aircraft and bolster Pakistan’s nuclear deterrence. Amidst an intensifying nuclear arms race in South Asia, this advancement impacts regional stability and poses implications for India.
Rafale’s India operations get a strategic push; Dassault establishes maintenance facility near Jewar Airport
Dassault Aviation is advancing plans to establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility near Jewar International Airport for India’s Mirage 2000 and Rafale fighters. This move supports India's aspiration to locally manufacture the latest Rafale versions under the "Make in India" initiative. Engine maker Safran SA also intends to set up an MRO facility for Rafale engines in Hyderabad, aiming for operations by 2025 and potential local production of M-88 engines. These developments are crucial as India seeks to bolster its defense capabilities amidst regional security challenges, including from China's expanding military presence.
N. Korea fires two short-range ballistic missiles, one fails
North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles, with one launch failing, South Korea's military reported Monday. The launches followed North Korea's warning of "fatal consequences" after joint military exercises by South Korea, Japan, and the US. The first missile flew 600 km, while the second traveled 120 km and seemed to explode mid-air. The launches come amid tensions over accusations that North Korea supplied weapons to Russia for its war in Ukraine and ongoing military activities in both Koreas.
Zelenskyy appeals to West to relax targeting limits for Ukraine as glide bombs hammer front line
Recent drone footage released by Ukraine's military shows bodies in the civilian area of Toretsk amid heavy Russian bombardment. Ukrainian rescue services have scaled up evacuation efforts as Russian glide bombs devastate the town. President Zelenskyy reported over 800 glide bomb attacks in the past week and called for increased military aid to counter Russian aircraft. Russian bombs recently struck a postal warehouse in Kharkiv, killing one and injuring nine, while another attack in Vilniansk killed seven civilians and wounded dozens. Russian officials reported Ukrainian shelling injuries and downed drones in various regions.
Taiwan detects five Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels near its territory
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported that Chinese military aircraft and naval vessels conducted operations around Taiwan over the weekend. From Saturday 6 am to Sunday 6 am local time, five People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft entered Taiwan's Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) in various sectors. Additionally, seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels were active in the region. Taiwan's armed forces monitored these activities closely and responded appropriately. This incident is part of China's increasing military maneuvers near Taiwan amid ongoing tensions over sovereignty.
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As North Korean and Chinese threats rise, US looks to lock in defense partnerships with Asian allies
The United States concluded its inaugural multidomain exercise with Japan and South Korea in the East China Sea, marking a milestone in strengthening regional security alliances. Dubbed Freedom Edge, the exercise focused on enhancing joint capabilities in missile defense, anti-submarine warfare, and surveillance amid escalating threats from North Korea and China. Despite geopolitical tensions, the drills aimed to foster interoperability among allied forces, crucial for coordinated responses to regional challenges. The exercises underscore efforts by the Biden administration to solidify partnerships amidst growing military dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region.
Taiwan detects 35 Chinese military aircraft, seven naval vessels near its territory
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence reported detecting 35 Chinese military aircraft and seven naval vessels near Taiwan from Wednesday to Thursday morning. Among these, 33 aircraft crossed the median line, entering Taiwan's ADIZ. In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, naval ships, and coastal missile systems. This incident is part of a pattern of increased Chinese military activity around Taiwan, with 371 aircraft and 204 vessels detected so far in June. Additionally, Taiwan's Coast Guard monitored four Chinese vessels near the Kinmen Islands, reflecting ongoing tensions and China's assertive policies towards Taiwan.
Taiwan detects 15 Chinese military aircraft, 6 naval ships around nation
The Ministry of National Defense reported 15 Chinese military aircraft and six naval vessels near Taiwan over the weekend. Eight aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line into Taiwan's air defense identification zone. Taiwan responded by deploying aircraft, naval ships, and coastal missile systems to monitor the activity. This adds to a pattern of increased Chinese military presence around Taiwan, with 301 aircraft and 183 naval/coast guard vessels tracked this month alone. China's actions are part of its strategy to assert sovereignty over Taiwan.
Russia obliterates front-line Ukraine towns by retrofitting bombs and expanding its air base network
A devastating Russian bombing of Kharkiv's Epicenter store left 19 dead and unleashed shockwaves across Ukraine. Using retrofitted Soviet-era bombs, Russia's attacks have intensified, targeting cities like Avdiivka, Chasiv Yar, and Vovchansk. Investigators hope an unexploded bomb will trace the supply chain for these destructive weapons. Despite restrictions on hitting Russian airfields, Ukraine remains determined to defend its cities. Survivors, like salesperson Nina Korsunova, vow to stay in their hometowns, refusing to be driven away by terror.
Indian Navy's indigenous stealth frigate INS Shivalik arrives in Japan to take part in 'JIMEX 24'
INS Shivalik and J S Yugiri are actively participating in the eighth edition of the bilateral Japan-India maritime exercise, JIMEX 24, showcasing mutual cooperation and commitment to maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Ukraine says it struck one of Russia's most advanced warplanes
Ukraine hit a modern Russian warplane at an air base far from the front lines, using Western-supplied weapons. Satellite photos confirm the strike on a Su-57 fighter plane at the Akhtubinsk base.
Attacks in Russian-occupied Ukrainian regions leave 27 dead, Moscow-backed officials say
In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, attacks and drone strikes continue to escalate in the partially occupied regions of Kherson and Luhansk. Ukrainian assaults have resulted in at least 27 deaths, with casualties caused by guided bombs and missiles. Both sides have engaged in drone attacks, with multiple drones being shot down over various regions. The situation remains tense and volatile as the violence persists.
Chinese fighter jets approached Dutch ship 'unsafely', Netherlands says
Chinese air force jets circled a Dutch frigate and approached a Dutch helicopter in the East China Sea in a potentially unsafe situation, according to the Netherlands' Defense Ministry.
Zelenskyy visits Philippines to invite counterpart for peace summit
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited the Philippines to invite President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to a global peace summit on the Ukraine-Russia conflict. He accused Russia and China of disrupting the talks. Zelenskyy criticised China's role in supporting Russia and urged countries to attend the summit for peace. Meanwhile, tensions between the U.S. and China were evident at the defense forum in Singapore.
Sweden, Norway ink long-term security deals with Ukraine
Zelenskyy visited Stockholm as Western nations discuss whether to let Kyiv use weapons provided by them to strike targets inside Russia. The security deals with Sweden and Norway bring to 15 the number of agreements Kyiv has signed with Western nations.
France's Macron urges a green light for Ukraine to strike targets inside Russia with Western weapons
French President Emmanuel Macron urged Western allies to allow Ukraine to strike Russian military bases using long-range weapons provided by the West. Macron's call, echoed by NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg, comes amid Ukraine's struggles due to delayed military aid and shortages. While Western leaders have been cautious, fearing escalation, Macron emphasized targeting only Russian bases launching attacks on Ukraine. The U.S. remains hesitant, maintaining restrictions on using its weapons to strike inside Russia. Recent European pledges include significant military support from Belgium, Spain, and Sweden.
India's Make-in-India defence projects, include K-9 Vajra Howitzers and fighter jet engines, await post-election approval
India's defence agenda post-elections includes crucial projects like acquiring K-9 Vajra howitzers and Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft engines. These projects, initially scheduled for approval in March, were postponed. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will produce the engines, worth approximately Rs 20,000 crore, aiding in indigenisation efforts. Additionally, the proposal to purchase 100 more K-9 Vajra SP howitzers is under consideration, reflecting the Indian Army's evolving needs. Various defence research and development programs await government clearance, signaling significant advancements in indigenous defence capabilities.
China stages mock missile strikes on Taiwan, jets with live missiles used in drills
China staged two-day military exercises involving mock missile strikes and bomber formations targeting Taiwan. These drills, launched after Taiwan's new president, Lai Ching-te, took office, are seen as punishment for his pro-independence stance. The exercises included naval and air operations, testing China's ability to control key areas of Taiwan. Taiwan condemned the actions, mobilizing its forces in response. The U.S. Navy monitored the situation, emphasizing its commitment to regional stability. Despite the tension, life in Taiwan remained unaffected.
IAF successfully conducts night vision goggles-aided landing in Eastern sector
The Indian Air Force (IAF) achieved a significant milestone by successfully landing an aircraft using night vision goggles (NVG) for the first time on an advanced landing ground in the Eastern sector. This advancement enhances the IAF's operational capabilities, allowing for safer and more effective operations in low-light conditions.
Taiwan detects Chinese incursion with military vessels around nation
Taiwan's Ministry of Defence has detected Chinese military vessels near the nation, including seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels and four China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels. The Taiwan Armed Forces (ROCArmedForces) have monitored the situation and responded accordingly. This development marks a concerning escalation in tensions between Taiwan and China, which has long claimed sovereignty over the island.
Taiwan detects 6 Chinese aircraft, 7 vessels around its vicinity
Taiwan's Ministry of Defence reported the detection of six Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and seven People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) vessels around its territory on Monday. Notably, six aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern and southwestern Air Defense Identification Zones (ADIZ). Taiwan's Armed Forces monitored and responded to these incursions.
Taiwan detects seven Chinese military aircrafts and vessels across its vicinity
Taiwan's Ministry of Defense detected Chinese military aircraft and People's Liberation Army Navy vessels near Taiwan. ROCArmedForces and Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence responded to the escalating tensions with China. Saturday, a significant presence of People's Liberation Army aircraft and vessels were identified in Taiwan's Air Defence Identification Zones. The tensions highlight China's ambitions to reunify Taiwan with the mainland.
New star wars plan: US rushes to counter Chinese and Russian threats in orbit
US Defense Department is looking to acquire a new generation of ground- and space-based tools that will allow it to defend its satellite network from attack and, if necessary, to disrupt or disable enemy spacecraft in orbit, Pentagon officials have said in a series of interviews, speeches and recent statements.
Ukrainian troops pull out of some areas and Zelenskyy postpones foreign trips amid Russian offensive
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced a $2 billion arms package for Ukraine during a visit to Kyiv, aimed at supporting Ukraine in its defense against a new Russian offensive. The package includes funds for medium- and long-term foreign military financing, with most of the money coming from a package approved last month by Congress. Blinken's visit comes as Ukrainian forces face increased pressure from Russian troops in the east. President Zelenskyy has postponed all his upcoming foreign trips in response to the escalating conflict.
Forty-five Chinese aircraft, 6 vessels detected near Taiwan, tensions rise
According to official statements released on Wednesday, a total of 45 PLA aircraft and 6 vessels from China's People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) were detected operating near Taiwan as of 6 am local time. Of particular concern was the intrusion into Taiwan's Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ) by 26 aircraft, which crossed the median line, venturing into the northern and southwestern sectors of Taiwan's airspace.
Ukraine's Zelenskiy calls for air defense systems as allies meet
"This year, Russian jets (have) already used more than 9000 guided aerial bombs against Ukraine and we need the ability to shoot down the air combat aircraft so that they do not approach our positions and borders," Zelenskiy said at the start of a virtual meeting led by the United States on helping arm Ukraine.
European nations with Patriot missiles hesitate to give the air defense systems to Ukraine
EU countries with Patriot air defense systems did not give a clear indication on Monday whether they would supply them to Ukraine, which is seeking at least seven of the missile batteries to defend against Russian air attacks. Germany is the only country that has offered a single Patriot missile battery in response to Ukraine's request. Other countries are exploring options, such as financial support for Ukraine's air defenses and purchasing drones. NATO has identified existing capabilities across the alliance that could be made available to Ukraine but did not specify the countries that possess Patriots.
European Union official urges G7 to step up air defence for Ukraine and expand Iran sanctions
EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell was speaking on the sidelines of a G7 foreign ministers meeting on the Italian resort island of Capri, where Russia's war in Ukraine and surging tensions in the Middle East over Iran's unprecedented attack on Israel were topping the agenda.
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