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.
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.
Pakistan hands over to India a list of missing defence personnel from 1965 and 1971 wars
Pakistan handed over a list of missing defence personnel to India from the wars of 1965 and 1971 while exchanging lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen. The Foreign Office reported that Pakistan provided a list of 254 Indian prisoners in Pakistani jails, while India shared a list of 452 Pakistani prisoners in Indian jails. Both countries exchanged these lists through diplomatic channels as per the bilateral Agreement on Consular Access 2008.
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.
From Classmates to Commanders: Sainik School graduates Dwivedi and Tripathi now command India's Armed Forces
Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi and Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, once classmates at Sainik School Rewa, now lead the Indian Army and Navy. Their unique bond, formed in the early 1970s, has strengthened inter-service ties. With Admiral Tripathi already at the helm and Lieutenant General Dwivedi stepping in as Army Chief, their careers highlight the influence of early connections in military leadership.
- Go To Page 1
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.
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.
North Korea says it tested a new multiwarhead missile. South Korea says it's covering up a failure
North Korea announced a successful test of a multiwarhead missile aimed at enhancing its capability to overcome US and South Korean defenses. However, South Korea disputed this claim, asserting the missile launch had actually failed. North Korea's state media reported the test involved separating and guiding warheads accurately, showcasing progress in its missile development despite technical challenges. Analysts anticipate further tests to refine this technology, which includes decoys to evade missile defenses. The test coincides with heightened regional tensions, including North Korea's objections to US military presence and provocative actions toward South Korea.
Israel-Hamas War: Defense minister says Israel doesn't want war but warns Hezbollah
Israel-Hamas War: Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, during a visit to Washington, emphasized Israel's reluctance for war with Lebanon but warned of severe consequences for Hezbollah if diplomacy fails. He stated Israel's readiness for all scenarios amidst escalating tensions, following clashes sparked by Hamas' October 7 attack. Gallant reported over 400 Hezbollah fighters killed recently, highlighting ongoing hostilities along the border.
North Korea says it tested a multiwarhead missile. Kim Jong Un covets the weapon to overwhelm US defenses
North Korea announced it successfully tested a multiwarhead missile, aiming to enhance its capability to overwhelm U.S. missile defenses. The launch tested separation and guidance control of individual warheads, which were accurately directed to targets and verified by radar. This test, North Korea's first known attempt at developing a multiwarhead missile, was seen as a significant step in Kim Jong Un's weapons modernization program. While South Korea initially assessed the launch as a failed hypersonic missile test, analysts suggest it was a preliminary evaluation of key MIRV subsystems. This development intensifies regional security concerns.
US urges Israel's defense minister to avoid Lebanon escalation
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken urged Israel to avoid escalating tensions in Lebanon during a meeting with Defense Minister Yoav Gallant. They discussed efforts to free hostages in Gaza, emphasizing the importance of a diplomatic resolution. Tensions have risen with Hezbollah in Lebanon. Meanwhile, Israel is winding down the Gaza conflict, redeploying forces to the northern border. President Joe Biden proposed a ceasefire and hostage release plan on May 31, but Hamas has its own demands. Gallant also met with CIA chief Bill Burns to discuss hostage negotiations.
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.
India boosts defense ties with Bangladesh as it tries to become a counterweight to China
India and Bangladesh strengthened defense ties, signing agreements to enhance cooperation in maritime security, ocean economy, space, and telecommunication sectors. Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed Bangladesh's inclusion in the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, underscoring India's commitment to regional collaboration. Amidst close ties with China, Bangladesh seeks to balance relationships with India and the US. Both countries aim to boost river water sharing, energy cooperation, and infrastructure development through Indian investments. Bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh reached $15.9 billion in the financial year 2022-23, with India exporting cotton, vehicles, and electronics, and importing cereals and cement.
Russia-North Korea pact could dent China's influence, but Beijing still holds sway over both
China appears concerned as Russia and North Korea strengthen ties through a new defence pact, potentially challenging China's influence over North Korea. Experts suggest China is struggling to respond due to conflicting goals of maintaining peace in Korea while countering the US. China's weak public response may indicate uncertainty on how to proceed. Concerns include Russia aiding North Korea's weapons program and the potential for a new Cold War alliance.
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.
G7 draft confronts China's 'unfair' business competition
The G7 nations are set to pledge action against Chinese financial institutions that aided Russia in obtaining weaponry for its war in Ukraine, according to a draft summit communique seen by Reuters. The draft, involving leaders from the UK, Canada, France, Italy, Germany, Japan, and the US, also promises sanctions against entities helping Russia evade oil sanctions through fraudulent transportation. The G7 leaders emphasized that entities supporting Russia's defense industry undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and pledged to restrict financial system access for individuals and entities in third countries, including Chinese ones, engaged in such activities.
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.
Third term for Modi likely to see closer defense ties with US as India's rivalry with China grows
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasizes on boosting India's military preparedness and clout, focusing on expanding defense production and exports to counter China's influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
US Pentagon chief visits Cambodia to boost ties with China ally
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin visited Cambodia to reset ties with China ally, addressing concerns over China's influence in the region.
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.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin says US 'can be secure only if Asia is'
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of the Indo-Pacific region for US security at a security 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.
Top US and Chinese defence officials seek to restore communications as tensions rise in Indo-Pacific
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun for the first time in person since 2022. The two discussed tensions in the Indo-Pacific region at the Shangri-La defence forum. The US emphasised freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. China accused the US of inflaming regional security. Both countries are restoring defence contacts and plan to resume military-to-military communications.
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.
Load More
