US DEFENCE
Reforms in armed forces should be continuous to maintain supremacy during wars: President Murmu
President Droupadi Murmu highlighted the government's efforts to boost domestic defence production. She claimed that nearly 70 per cent of defence procurement was sourced from Indian manufacturers in the last year, and reforms resulting in India manufacturing over Rs one lakh crore of defence equipment. She emphasised upon modernisation of the armed forces, the importance of continuous reforms for military supremacy, and India's increasing defence exports, including the BrahMos missile deal with the Philippines.
Big Boost to Rudra and Prachand helicopters: Adani Defence and Thales Group to manufacture 70mm rockets in India
Adani Defence & Aerospace has partnered with Thales Group to produce 70mm rockets in India, supporting the "Make in India" initiative. This collaboration aims to enhance India's defence capabilities with locally produced rockets for HAL Rudra and Prachand helicopters, while also boosting the country's defence manufacturing sector and creating employment opportunities.
US-India held frank talks on Delhi's defence tech ties with Russia, says US Dy Secy of State Campbell
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.
US has 'some concerns' over India-Russia military engagement: Kurt Campbell
US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell has expressed concerns over India's military and technology engagement with Russia, but also has confidence in New Delhi to advance partnership in key areas. The US is seeking to develop a deeper and stronger technological relationship with India, despite the ongoing relationship between India and Russia. Campbell emphasized that while there are areas of alignment between the US and India, there may be differences in perspectives and historical ties.
Israel defence chief to discuss Gaza, Lebanon on U.S. trip
Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant is heading to Washington to discuss the next phase of the Gaza war and escalating hostilities on the border with Lebanon. Hezbollah began attacking Israel shortly after Hamas' October 7 assault sparked the war in Gaza, and the sides have been trading blows in the months since then. Hezbollah has said it will not stop until there is a ceasefire in Gaza.
INDUS-X defence initiative between US & India marks 1st anniversary
The India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem has marked the first anniversary of its initiative to build a defence innovation bridge under the Critical and Emerging Technology Initiative (iCET). Launched on June 21, 2023, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington, DC, INDUS-X enhances the strategic and defence partnership between India and the US. This initiative has bolstered private sector cooperation and facilitated partnerships among defence technology companies, investors, and researchers. The upcoming INDUS-X Summit in September 2024 will focus on leveraging private capital for defence innovation, further strengthening the India-US defence ties.
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Philippines rules out invoking defence treaty with US after South China Sea clash with the Dragon
The Philippines announced on Friday that it has no intention of invoking its mutual defense treaty with the United States following a violent confrontation with Chinese coast guard at Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea. The incident involved the ramming, boarding, and damage of Philippine navy boats, as well as the seizure of rifles. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s advisers clarified in a news conference that Manila does not consider the incident an armed attack, a prerequisite for invoking the treaty.
Taiwan to receive 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles from US by year-end
Taiwan is set to receive all 1,700 TOW 2B anti-tank missiles and 100 launchers from the US by the end of this year, following a two-year delay. The delay was due to the weapons initially failing to meet US Army standards. However, after passing all required tests, delivery is now expected before year-end. These missiles are part of three major arms packages purchased from the US, including F-16V fighter jets and AGM-154 air-to-ground missile systems. The TOW 2B missiles target the tops of armored vehicles, enhancing Taiwan's defensive capabilities.
iCET Meet: Doval, Sullivan focus on co-production, co-development, R&D
NSA Ajit Doval and US counterpart Jake Sullivan met for the second iCET meeting, focusing on co-production, co-development, and R&D. They emphasized staying at the forefront of innovation and coordinating with allies for secure technology solutions. They highlighted the need to safeguard sensitive technologies from leaks to countries of concern, without naming China.
India-US advance talks on joint production of Stryker armoured combat vehicles
India and the US are in advanced negotiations to co-produce the latest generation of Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). This three-phase project includes initial purchases, joint production in India, and co-development of future versions, supporting India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" mission. Customization for Indian terrain, high-altitude areas, and significant technology transfer are key aspects. This collaboration, promoted by the US as part of their strategic defence partnership, aims to modernize India's mechanized infantry, replacing over 2,000 outdated BMP-II vehicles. The Stryker offers advanced capabilities, enhancing India's defence industry and military readiness.
NATO to take greater role in coordination of military aid for Kyiv, says Stoltenberg
During a visit by Stoltenberg to Budapest, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his country would not block NATO decisions on providing support for Ukraine but had agreed that it would not be involved.
US to send another patriot missile system to Ukraine after repeated demands
US President Joe Biden has authorised the deployment of a second Patriot missile system to Ukraine in response to escalating conflict with Russia. The decision comes following high-level meetings and internal debate over bolstering Ukraine's air defenses. The system, considered one of the best in the US arsenal, will be sent from Poland to assist Ukraine in defending against Russian attacks on its cities and infrastructure.
South Korea, US work on joint strategy over North nuclear threat
Senior South Korean and U.S. defense officials met in Seoul to discuss new guidelines for coordinating their response to potential nuclear threats from North Korea. The guidelines focus on maintaining a "credible and effective" nuclear deterrence policy and posture. The meeting follows last year's summit where the U.S. promised to share more nuclear planning information with South Korea. The next meeting will be held in Washington later this year.
US and India strengthen military ties, eye deeper collaboration
Top American and Indian defense officials have highlighted the growing importance of the US-India military partnership, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. At the 'Partners in Progress' symposium in Bengaluru, Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna of the Indian Navy praised the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. He emphasized their joint commitment to ensuring peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through enhanced information sharing and maritime awareness. US Defense Attaché to India Rear Admiral Michael Baker also stressed the significant role of the US-India defense partnership in global peace and security.
Former Trump defence official warns against Chinese surprise attack on Taiwan
Former US President Donald Trump's administration official Elbridge Colby has served as deputy assistant secretary of defence for strategy and force development in 2017-2018. In an interview with Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun conducted in Washington DC, Colby said that the military needed to be strengthened so it could deliver any immediate response against Chinese aggression.
China strongly opposes U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, urges withdrawal
China has demanded the immediate withdrawal of U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, expressing strong opposition and lodging a formal complaint. The U.S. approved an $80 million sale of F-16 fighter jet parts to Taiwan, aiming to bolster its security and maintain regional stability. China vowed to enhance its military training to protect its sovereignty. Taiwan welcomed the deal, set to be finalized in July, as a boost to its air force's combat capabilities.
Taiwan says US arms sale shows 'commitment to defence' against China
Taiwan has expressed gratitude to the US for approving two military sales worth approximately $300 million to Taiwan, mainly of spare and repair parts for its F-16 fighter jets. The US has remained Taiwan's most important partner and biggest arms supplier, sparking repeated condemnations from China. Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude for the approval and called on the Chinese Communist Party to stop irrational behaviours against Taiwan.
MoD inks MoUs with 4 banks to onboard them as SPARSH service centres across 1,128 branches
The Defence Accounts Department (DAD) of the Ministry of Defence has signed MoUs with Bank of India, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank to onboard 1,128 branches as SPARSH service centres. SPARSH (System for Pension Administration (RAKSHA)) is a web-based system for direct pension processing. These centres will assist pensioners in remote areas with services like profile updates, grievance registration, and digital identification. SPARSH services are now accessible at over 26,000 branches of 15 banks, enhancing pension management efficiency and transparency.
US, South Korea conduct joint bombing drills
The United States flew a B-1B bomber over the Korean Peninsula for the first joint bombing drills with South Korea in seven years, amidst heightened tensions from North Korea's provocations. The US bomber, escorted by South Korean F-15K jets, dropped Joint Direct Attack Munitions during the exercise. South Korea suspended a 2018 inter-Korean military pact and resumed military activities along the demarcation line. The drills aim to reinforce the US extended deterrence commitment and combined defense posture against North Korea's threats.
US trying to build Asia-Pacific version of NATO: Chinese defence official
A Chinese defense official criticizes the US' attempt to build an Asia-Pacific version of NATO through its Indo-Pacific strategy, calling it doomed to fail due to selfish geopolitical interests.
China defence chief says Beijing ready to 'forcefully' stop Taiwan independence
The remarks at an annual security forum in Singapore followed the first substantive face-to-face talks in 18 months between the two countries' defence chiefs.
Very strong relations with India; co-producing armored vehicles: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at Shangri La Dialogue
At the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin praised the strong US-India relationship. He talked about advancements in co-producing armoured vehicles and fighter jet engines. He emphasised the shared values between the two nations and predicted continued progress and momentum in the partnership. The strong ties are important for the two countries amid trouble in the Indo-Pacific region.
NATO chief dismisses Russian warnings after arms restrictions lifted
NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Friday dismissed warnings by Russian President Vladimir Putin that allowing Ukraine to use Western weapons to strike inside Russian territory might lead to an escalation. Speaking on the sidelines of a NATO foreign ministers' meeting in Prague, Stoltenberg said the alliance had heard such warnings many times before and self-defence was not escalation.
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.
Yemen's Houthis say they launched missile attack on US aircraft carrier Eisenhower in Red Sea
Yemen's Houthis launched a missile at the U.S. aircraft carrier Eisenhower in the Red Sea, retaliating against U.S. and British strikes on Yemen. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree reported that these strikes killed 16 and injured 41, including civilians. The U.S. and British forces targeted Houthi-controlled areas to prevent further disruptions in the Red Sea. Iran condemned the strikes, calling them violations of Yemen's sovereignty. The Houthis have been attacking international shipping since November in solidarity with Palestinians, prompting retaliatory strikes.
US defence secretary Lloyd Austin raises concerns about China's military activity
U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin expressed concerns over China's military actions near Taiwan during a meeting with his Chinese counterpart in Singapore. The meeting marked the first direct contact since 2022. Major General Patrick Ryder emphasised that China should not exploit Taiwan's democratic process for coercive measures. He highlighted the importance of respecting Taiwan's political transition as a routine democratic practice.
US, Chinese defence chiefs meet in Singapore
US and Chinese defence chiefs held talks in Singapore at the Shangri-La Dialogue. Lloyd Austin and Dong Jun met to discuss military dialogue and tensions over Taiwan and other issues.
US to provide Ukraine with USD275mn more in military aid amid Russian advances
Amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the United States is set to provide Ukraine with an additional USD 275 million in military aid, marking the fourth installment since a foreign aid bill was passed last month. The aid package includes weaponry and munitions vital for Ukraine's defence, such as rocket systems, artillery rounds, anti-tank systems, tactical vehicles, and small arms. The move underscores America's commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, with nearly USD 1.7 billion already dispatched and more aid expected in the future.
Concerned about China providing inputs to Russia's defence industrial base: US
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressed concerns about China's support to Russia's defense industry, emphasizing the Biden administration's concerted efforts with allies to address this issue. Responding to the UK Defence Minister's claim that China is providing lethal aid to Russia, Sullivan clarified that the US has not observed direct weapon transfers but is worried about China's contributions to Russia's defense production. British Defence Minister Grant Shapps accused China of supplying combat equipment to Russia, noting increased trade between the two nations.
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