US DEFENCE FORCES
UP defence corridor attracts Rs 25,000 crore in deals through 154 MoUs, propels industrial growth
Uttar Pradesh has signed more than 150 defence manufacturing deals worth ₹25,000 crore, focusing on boosting India's defence production and exports. The projects, part of the UP Defence Industrial Corridor, will create 40,000 jobs across six districts. With notable companies like Adani Defence and BrahMos Aerospace involved, the initiative aims to propel the state's industrial value chain and support India's self-reliance in defence. Significant milestones include the delivery of AK-203 rifles and the development of a BrahMos missile plant.
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.
Agniveer scheme brought after lot of thought: Rajnath Singh's rebuttal to Rahul Gandhi in Lok Sabha
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh defended the Agnipath military recruitment scheme, which was criticized by opposition leader Rahul Gandhi in the Lok Sabha. Singh argued that the scheme was rolled out after consultation with 158 organizations and that an Agniveer who commits suicide receives a compensation of Rs 1 crore. Gandhi claimed the government treats Agniveers as "use-and-throw labourers" and does not give them the status of a "shaheed (martyr)."
We oppose unilateral actions to change status quo by force: India on fresh tensions in South China Sea
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan spoke to his Filipino counterpart Eduardo M Ano this week following the fresh tensions in the South China Sea. Sullivan and Ano discussed shared concerns over China's "dangerous and escalatory actions against the Philippines' lawful maritime operations near Second Thomas Shoal in the South China Sea, a White House readout said.
Chinese Communist Party expels two ex-defence ministers on corruption charges
The Chinese Communist Party has expelled two former defense ministers, Li Shangfu and Wei Fenghe, in an anti-corruption crackdown. This move follows Li's disappearance last year and comes amid rising tensions between China and the United States over Taiwan.
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.
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US & India can achieve headway in defence, technologies & economic prosperity in Modi 3.0: Garcetti
US Envoy Eric Garcetti highlights Modi 3.0 as an opportunity for "ambitious India" and "ambitious America" to achieve progress in defense partnerships, critical technologies, and economic prosperity. Congratulating PM Modi on his third term, Garcetti emphasizes enhancing bilateral relations to benefit global democracies and the Indo-Pacific. Reflecting on past achievements, including over 150 agreements, Garcetti underscores resilience during elections, affirming continuous US-India collaboration. He praises India's development and global role, citing advancements in healthcare and global security efforts, and celebrates the country's transformative journey towards prosperity and international influence.
To navigate through 'turbulent times', India must invest in modernisation of armed forces: IAF chief
His remarks come amid the backdrop of evolving geopolitics with conflicts being seen in some of the regions of the world. This "multi-faceted landscape" requires such military personnel who are not only adept at combat but also possess a deep understanding of the broader implications of their actions, the air chief marshal said.
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.
US Senators and corporate world bat for stronger India-US relationship
Senator Dan Sullivan said a lot of these countries are motivated by historical grievances. "I think this... new era, it's really a return to the era of authoritarian aggression, is going to be with us for years and decades to come," he said. One needs to deepen, broaden and make more concrete relationships in the different areas of QUAD, he said, referring to the grouping of the US, India, Japan and Australia.
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.
Modern warfare no longer solely physical domain: IAF chief V R Chaudhari
Indian Air Foece Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari emphasised the evolving nature of modern warfare, influenced by cyber technologies, at the Combined Graduation Parade of the 213 Officers' Course. He stressed the importance of adapting, innovating, and leveraging technology for success in conflicts. He urged leaders to embody professionalism, aggressiveness, and initiative. Chaudhari highlighted the values of mission, integrity, and excellence, urging officers to prioritise reading and skills development to excel in their roles.
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.
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.
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.
US President Biden says not ruling out using military force to defend Taiwan
In an interview published on Tuesday in Time magazine, Biden said he has made clear to Chinese President Xi Jinping that the United States will not seek independence for Taiwan as Washington had agreed with Beijing, Focus Taiwan reported.
Rafah border crossing can't reopen unless Israeli forces quit Gaza side, Egypt says
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry stated that the Rafah border crossing, crucial for aid deliveries into Gaza, cannot operate without Palestinian control. Israel seized the crossing last month during its offensive against Hamas in Rafah. Shoukry emphasized the importance of the 1979 Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty for regional stability. He also mentioned a positive meeting with U.S., Egyptian, and Israeli officials, although no agreement was reached on reopening the crossing. Israel's Defense Minister Yoav Gallant stated Israeli forces were targeting tunnels between Gaza and Egypt, which Egypt denies exist.
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.
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.
NSA Doval suggests jointness among central armed police forces
India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval has said that the country's economic progress would have been faster if its borders had been more secure and defined. Doval highlighted that the country's power has grown immensely in the last decade, and that border guarding forces must remain on alert 24/7 to protect national interests and the country. He also highlighted the importance of borders as they define sovereignty.
China criticises US in military unit's call with US defence official, says China ministry
China criticized the US during a video call between the Office for International Military Cooperation of the China Central Military Commission and the US Assistant Defense Secretary. The Chinese defense ministry stated that military "collusion" between the US and Taiwan, along with Taiwan pro-independence forces' "separatist" acts, are the main sources of chaos in the Taiwan Strait. Additionally, China accused the US of "meddling" in and "instigating" disputes in the South China Sea through proxies.
China says its military took necessary steps to warn Australia in jet incident
China stated that its military took measures to warn and alert an Australian aircraft after Australia accused a Chinese fighter jet of endangering one of its military helicopters in an "unsafe" confrontation over the Yellow Sea. The incident occurred during an operation to enforce sanctions against North Korea and could strain the nations' attempts to mend ties after tensions in 2020 over COVID-19 origins. Australia demanded an explanation from China and made strong representations, while China urged Australia to stop provocations and hype to prevent misunderstandings.
Vladimir Putin orders tactical nuclear weapons drills amid Western 'threats'
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered Russian forces to conduct exercises involving tactical nuclear weapons in response to perceived "threats" from the West, according to CNN. This marks the first public announcement of such drills by Russia, following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The exercises will focus on preparations and deployment scenarios for non-strategic nuclear weapons, which are designed for battlefield use with lower destructive capabilities than strategic nuclear weapons.
Australian PM Albanese says China military air incident unacceptable
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese criticized Beijing's actions as "unacceptable" after a Chinese fighter jet reportedly fired flares near an Australian navy helicopter in the Yellow Sea. The helicopter was enforcing UN sanctions on North Korea when the incident occurred. Canberra has expressed its concerns to China through diplomatic channels, but Beijing has yet to respond. This incident adds to existing tensions, especially regarding security, as Australia strengthens ties with the US to counter China's influence in the region.
US aid could buy Kyiv time, but Ukraine needs many more troops
Ukrainian artillery gunners near Kupiansk are hopeful about the imminent U.S. aid package, seen as a crucial lifeline in their battle against Russian forces. The $61 billion aid is expected to replenish Ukraine's low stocks of artillery shells and air defenses. While the aid is anticipated to boost Ukraine's defense capabilities, challenges remain, including manpower shortages and questions about fortifications. The aid's impact may take time, with analysts suggesting a possible improvement in Ukraine's situation from autumn onwards.
'Complete madness': Israel rebukes US over reported sanctions plan against IDF unit
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other officials have strongly criticized the United States for reportedly planning to impose sanctions on the Israel Defense Forces' (IDF) Netzah Yehuda battalion over alleged human rights violations. They describe it as a "dangerous precedent" and a "height of absurdity" during a time of conflict. The US decision, if implemented, would be the first time such action is taken against an Israeli military unit. Israeli leaders have emphasized the battalion's adherence to military and international law and expressed concern over the implications of the sanctions.
US Defence Secretary holds talks with Chinese counterpart, first since 2022
It is the first time since November 2022 that Austin has held talks with his Chinese counterpart when he spoke with the then defence minister of China Wei Fenghe in Cambodia. Dong was appointed China's Defence minister in December. China then named General Li Shangfu as its defence minister.
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