SOURCE: AFI

In a significant showcase of military technology, General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) of the Indian Army, was recently introduced to the Jaguar EBRC (Engin Blindé de Reconnaissance et de Combat), a state-of-the-art 6×6 armored reconnaissance and combat vehicle, during his visit to Paris. This impressive machine is a cornerstone of France’s ambitious Scorpion EBMR (Engin Blindé Multi-Rôles) program, reflecting the future of networked and versatile battlefield solutions.

The Jaguar EBRC, weighing 25 tonnes, is powered by a robust 500-horsepower engine, enabling it to reach speeds of up to 90 km/h and cover a remarkable range of 800 km. Designed for agility and firepower, the vehicle boasts a formidable arsenal. Its primary weapon is a 40mm cannon, complemented by a Hornet Remote Weapon System equipped with a 7.62mm machine gun. For enhanced combat capability, it also carries medium-range missiles and features the innovative Galix self-defense system, capable of deploying both lethal and non-lethal grenades to counter threats.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant step toward modernizing its capabilities, the Indian Army has signed a contract for the procurement of 223 units of the Automatic Chemical Agent Detection & Alarm (ACADA) System. This advanced technology, developed by the Defence Research and Development Establishment (DRDE), a Gwalior-based laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), will be produced by M/s Larsen & Toubro Ltd (L&T), a designated Technology Transfer (ToT) holder and production agency for the ACADA system. The deal marks a milestone in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in critical defense technologies.

The ACADA system is designed to detect and provide early warnings against chemical warfare (CW) agents and toxic industrial chemicals (TICs), bolstering the Indian Army’s preparedness in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) defense. Leveraging twin-tube Ion Mobility Spectrometry (IMS) technology, the system offers continuous monitoring and rapid detection capabilities, making it an essential tool for enhancing operational readiness in contested environments. Its induction is expected to strengthen the Army’s ability to respond to CBRN threats, as well as support disaster relief efforts where chemical hazards may be a concern.

SOURCE: AFI

In a move that has sent ripples through the global defense industry, the United States has signaled its intent to officially veto the sale of the General Electric F414-GE-39E engine, a critical component of the Saab Gripen E fighter jet, to the Fuerza Aeroespacial Colombiana (FAC), Colombia’s air force. This decision, aimed at nudging Colombia toward purchasing American-made Lockheed Martin F-16 jets instead, has sparked debate about its broader implications—particularly for India’s Tejas MkII, which relies on a variant of the same engine. With the U.S. wielding significant influence over the export of its technology, questions are mounting about whether this veto could cast a shadow over India’s ambitions to market the Tejas MkII internationally, especially to nations aligned with or contested by American interests.

The F414-GE-39E, a derivative of the widely used F414 family, powers the advanced Gripen E, a lightweight, multi-role fighter developed by Sweden’s Saab. Colombia had been considering the Gripen E as part of its effort to modernize its aging fleet, but the U.S. veto effectively scuttles that option by denying access to the engine, a move seen as leveraging American control over key aerospace components to secure a strategic sale.

SOURCE: AFI

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently announced a significant milestone in India’s journey toward self-reliance in defense manufacturing, revealing that the country has achieved an impressive 88 percent self-sufficiency in ammunition production. The statement, made during a recent address, underscores the strides made by India’s defense sector under the government’s ambitious “Make in India” initiative.

Looking ahead, the Defence Minister outlined an even bolder vision for the sector, stating that India aims to achieve a defense production target of ?50,000 crore by 2029. This ambitious goal signals the government’s intent to not only sustain but accelerate the momentum of indigenization. Singh’s announcement aligns with broader efforts to transform India into a global hub for defense manufacturing, with an emphasis on both meeting domestic needs and boosting exports.

SOURCE: AFI

A tweet from X handle Ammar Solangi, who goes by @fake_burster and identifies as a “Freelance Journalist” and “Social Media Activist,” has ignited a firestorm of speculation and rebuttals online. Solangi posted a sensational claim: “SU-57 of Indian Air Force, enroute to Moscow, made an unauthorized appearance in Iranian air space, that led to force landed by Iran’s Air defence / Air Force. He also claimed that Indian defence minister had to apologies to IRGC. The aircraft was allowed to fly after formal apology from Indian defense, ministry, and the crew.” The post, lacking any verifiable evidence, quickly drew attention—and skepticism—from Indian social media users.

The Sukhoi Su-57, Russia’s fifth-generation stealth fighter, had recently made headlines at Aero India 2025, held from February 10-14 at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru. Following the airshow, reports confirmed that a Russian Su-57—identified as “Blue 054″—departed India for Russia, with a refueling stop at Iran’s 9th Tactical Fighter Base in Bandar Abbas on February 19. Satellite imagery and videos circulating online corroborated its presence there, aligning with the jet’s known range of approximately 3,500 kilometers, insufficient for a direct flight from Bengaluru to Russia’s Akhtubinsk Air Base without a layover. However, Solangi’s claim that the jet belonged to the Indian Air Force (IAF) and was forcibly intercepted by Iran has raised eyebrows, given that India does not operate the Su-57.

SOURCE: IANS

India on Wednesday marked the sixth anniversary of the Balakot airstrike, carried out by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in response to the deadly Pulwama terror attack.

The airstrike was part of India’s campaign against cross-border terrorism and manifested the country’s willingness to take decisive action against terror infrastructure in Pakistan. The airstrike carried out in the very early hours of February 26, 2019, was a ‘punitive strike’ on a Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) facility in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir (PoK) in which Balakot-based terror camp was destroyed.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s naval modernization has hit a rare snag—not from adversaries, but from within its own ranks. Vice Admiral (Retd) KN Sushil, a seasoned submariner and former Commander-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, has publicly challenged the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) lead in designing submarines under Project-76. Speaking to News9 Plus Editor Sandeep Unnithan Sushil asked a pointed question: why is DRDO crafting a new submarine when the Navy’s own Submarine Design Group (SDG), nestled within the Directorate of Naval Design (DND), is fully equipped to do the job? He further questioned the need for design approval if DRDO claims such capability, igniting a debate that cuts to the heart of India’s defense ecosystem.

Project-76 is DRDO’s bold bid to deliver six next-generation electric-conventional (diesel-electric) submarines, with Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) approval expected by April 2025. Touted as 90-95% indigenous, these 3,000-4,000-ton boats promise advanced features DRDO’s phosphoric acid-based Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP), lithium-ion batteries, pump-jet propulsion, and possibly vertical launch systems (VLS) for cruise missiles. The agency aims to finalize the design by 2028, with the first hull afloat by 2033-34—a timeline synced with the Navy’s urgent need to counter China’s 40-plus conventional subs and Pakistan’s growing fleet.

SOURCE: AFI

Cingularity Aerospace, based in Bangalore, has introduced an innovative solution for military training with their new Tow Body Haulers, dubbed “Pratyaksha.” Designed as a Slow Speed Soft Reusable Target, this system aims to provide realistic, safe, and cost-effective training for air-to-air engagements.

The tow body comprises a cylindrical chute, measuring 5 meters in length and 3 meters in diameter, painted in daylight orange for visibility, ensuring it can be easily spotted during training exercises.

SOURCE: AFI

The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) has ramped up the testing phase of its new J-35A stealth fighter, signaling a significant advancement in China’s aerial combat capabilities. This development has broader implications, particularly for the naval version, soon to be designated as the J-35C, and for international partners like the Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

The PLAAF’s decision to speed up trials of the J-35A indicates a strategic focus on integrating this new stealth fighter into its fleet. With the J-20 already in full-speed production, the urgency for the J-35A might be less about immediate operational needs and more about expanding the PLAAF’s stealth capabilities.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant advancement for tactical gear, Delhi-based ArmasenTactical has introduced its latest High Cut Ballistic Helmet Cover, featuring a unique detachable counterweight/battery pack system. This innovative accessory is set to redefine how tactical operators manage their gear for enhanced comfort and functionality.

Armasen Tactical’s new helmet cover is designed to integrate seamlessly with high-cut ballistic helmets, offering operators a blend of comfort, customization, and utility. Here’s what makes this product stand out.