DEFENCE CAPABILITY REPORT
Rs 300 crore allocated by Defence Ministry to foster Make in India defence tech innovations
The Indian Ministry of Defence has sanctioned over Rs 300 crore through its Technology Development Fund (TDF) to create an ecosystem for enhancing capabilities in cutting-edge technology and promoting 'Aatmanirbharta' in defence. The TDF scheme, executed by DRDO under the 'Make in India' initiative, provides grants-in-aid to Indian industries, including MSMEs and startups, as well as academic and scientific institutions, for the development of defence and dual-use technologies.
India expressed interest in co-production of Stryker combat vehicle: US
US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell emphasized the importance of frank dialogue with India regarding New Delhi's ties with Russia, particularly in the technology sector, including defense. Despite US concerns about potential technology leakage to Russia due to India's use of Russian defense equipment, Campbell expressed trust and confidence in India's capabilities. He noted that while there are disagreements, both countries maintain respectful discussions. Campbell also highlighted discussions on the Quad initiative during recent meetings between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and India's NSA Ajit Doval, affirming strong commitment to hold the Quad summit by year-end.
New Zealand will increase its military contribution to N. Korea sanctions monitoring
New Zealand will enhance its contribution to North Korea sanctions monitoring based in Japan, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on Tuesday. The government will deploy New Zealand Defence Force ships for the first time and increase aircraft deployments until September 2026. This decision underscores New Zealand's commitment to collective security in the Indo-Pacific region. Despite facing challenges like high attrition rates and aging equipment, New Zealand aims to boost military spending, with a new Defence Capability Report set for approval later this year, according to Defence Minister Judith Collins.
A study reveals how India can achieve $5 billion defence export goal
A recent study by Nexgen Exhibitions highlights the importance of streamlining foreign direct investment (FDI), enhancing Research & Development (R&D), and boosting manufacturing capabilities to help India achieve its USD 5 billion defence export goal by 2024-25. The study, involving over 130 national and international arms, ammunition, and security equipment manufacturers, emphasizes the need for strategic partnerships, advanced technologies, and a robust skill development ecosystem. The findings aim to propel India's homeland security and defence sector towards becoming a global manufacturing hub.
Amid rising terror attacks in J&K, government increases armed forces, but will it be enough?
Terrorism has resurfaced in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch and Rajouri, with highly trained Pakistani terrorists posing a significant challenge. Despite intensified patrolling, searching dense forests remains difficult. The government has responded with heightened security measures and a focus on securing communities. With concerns rising over infiltration and cross-border trafficking, innovative strategies are being employed to counter the threat and ensure the safety of the region.
Modi 3.0 takes aim: Blueprint to make the Indian armed forces future ready
India faces growing security challenges from China and Pakistan, prompting calls for a robust and integrated defence strategy. This includes bolstering nuclear deterrence, enhancing military capabilities, and pushing for systemic reforms in defence production and organization. The new government must prioritize these measures to ensure national security and strategic autonomy in the coming years.
Moving beyond Airbus & Boeing: What will it take for India to make its own commercial airliner?
India is already a growing sourcing hub for the global defence and aerospace industry. With government help, this ecosystem can, in time, be developed to support the development of a commercial plane. That is how we made our space programme, experts point out.
India's helicopters being flown with Maldives defence personnel onboard: media report
Weeks after India withdrew its military personnel from the Maldives, the two helicopters gifted by New Delhi are still operational, flown with a Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) soldier on board. President Mohamed Muizzu, who pledged to remove Indian military presence, saw the repatriation of the last personnel by May 10. India replaced its military staff with civilians to continue operating the donated helicopters and Dornier aircraft, used for medical evacuations and humanitarian missions, maintaining defense ties despite local political changes.
Pakistan does not adhere to 'no first use' of nuclear weapons policy: ex-Army official
Pakistan does not adhere to a "no first use" policy on nuclear weapons, clarified Lt Gen (retd) Khalid Ahmed Kidwai, Adviser to the National Command Authority, during a seminar commemorating the 26th anniversary of Pakistan's 1998 nuclear tests. Kidwai emphasized that Pakistan's nuclear deterrence capabilities are fully operational and ready to respond to any threats, underscoring that Pakistan maintains strategic ambiguity regarding its nuclear stance.
China enhances military support to Pakistan along LoC in Kashmir
This move is seen as part of efforts to strengthen China's ties with Pakistan and safeguard Chinese investments in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, particularly related to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
India's defence capabilities boosted under Modi government, relying on imports only for immediate needs: NITI Aayog member VK Saraswat
India has significantly enhanced its defense capabilities over the past decade, with a focus on indigenous manufacturing and reducing reliance on arms imports. VK Saraswat, a member of NITI Aayog and former chief of the DRDO, highlighted that 60% of India's arms and ammunition are now domestically produced, with major corporations like Adani, Tata, and L&T contributing to radar systems and gun manufacturing. Saraswat also assured that India's power capacity is sufficient to meet its needs, minimizing the risk of significant power cuts. Companies like Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) and Bharat Electronics are poised to benefit from these trends.
Indian defence capabilities in last 10 years gone up substantially: NITI Aayog member Saraswat
India's defence capabilities have significantly improved in the past decade under the Modi government. NITI Aayog member VK Saraswat highlighted the country's reliance on arms import only for immediate needs, with major corporate houses now manufacturing indigenous radar systems and guns.
Despite $125 billion debt, why is Pakistan increasing its defence budget to 18000 crore rupees
Pakistan faces economic strain with a $124.5 billion foreign debt, 42% of its GDP. It boosts military capabilities through major arms imports, mainly from China, accounting for 82% from 2019 to 2023. Despite economic woes, it increases defense spending by 15.4% in the national budget, totaling 18000 crore Pak rupees. This military expansion includes submarines from China. Reports suggest Pakistan may have secretly supplied arms to Ukraine, contradicting its neutrality stance. Public discontent grows due to economic hardships and perceived military dominance in resource allocation.
Our troops not capable of operating Dornier aircraft given by India: Maldives Defence Minister
Maldives Minister Comment: The training of Maldivians was the main reason for the arrival of Indian soldiers with the helicopters donated during former Presidents Mohamed Nasheed and Abdulla Yameen's governments and the Dornier aircraft brought during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government. The removal of Indian troops from Maldives was the main election campaign of Muizzu's party.
Former Chinese Defence Minister emerges in public after prolonged absence
China's former Defence Minister Gen. Wei Fenghe has made a public appearance, suggesting that he is politically safe amid speculation about his fate. Wei paid tribute at the funeral of a senior Chinese legislator, indicating his status. However, there is no news about the fate of his successor, Gen. Li Shangfu, who disappeared from the public and was later sacked. Former Foreign Minister Qin Gang also has not been seen in public. Wei's appearance at the funeral indicates he may have escaped a purge of top military brass that followed Li's dismissal last year.
Biden will send Ukraine air defence weapons, artillery once Senate approves, Zelenskyy says
President Joe Biden assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the US will send air defense weaponry and other crucial military aid once the Senate approves a $61 billion national security aid package for Ukraine. This aid includes long-range and artillery capabilities, addressing Ukraine's urgent need for firepower against Russia's escalated attacks. The House has already approved the package, and the Senate is expected to vote on it this week. Biden also discussed Russia's air attacks with Zelenskyy, highlighting the need for urgent support to defend against Russia's aggression.
A look at Iran's military capabilities as it threatens Israel
Iran's military faces regional tensions with Israel, retaliating against attacks. Possessing drones, missiles, and air defenses, it lags behind global powers in air force and sophisticated weaponry. The conflict between Iran and Israel remains a focus of international concern.
What is the new 'Akashteer Command and Control Systems' and how will it enhance India's air defences
The Indian Army has initiated the induction of control and reporting systems under 'Project Akashteer' to enhance its air defense capabilities. Developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) as part of the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, this project aims to deliver an unprecedented level of situational awareness and control. The deployment of 'Akashteer' marks a significant move towards enhancing India's defense capabilities and technology absorption.
Indian Army boosts air defence capabilities with 'Akashteer Control and Reporting Systems'
India's Corps of Army Air Defence has begun the induction of 'Akashteer Command and Control Systems', a project developed by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The deployment of Akashteer, aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and integration of the Army's air defence mechanisms, began with the flagging off of the first batch of Control Centres from BEL Ghaziabad on April 4, 2024. The project, designed to automate Air Defence Control and Reporting processes, will provide a unified network for radar and communication systems, enhancing situational awareness and control in air defence operations.
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