SOURCE: AFI

The upcoming Aero India 2025 is set to be an extraordinary event in the world of aviation, with an exciting prospect of a Su-57 vs F-35 faceoff. The Su-57, Russia’s cutting-edge fifth-generation stealth fighter, has already confirmed its participation in the airshow. Meanwhile, the F-35, the U.S. stealth multirole fighter aircraft developed by Lockheed Martin, made a significant appearance at Aero India 2023. With these two advanced aircraft expected to meet again in 2025, it presents a rare opportunity to compare and contrast two of the most technologically advanced fighter jets in the world.

Aero India 2025 promises to be a landmark event, as the Su-57 and F-35 might meet face-to-face on the tarmac, marking a rare moment in aviation history. This presents an interesting opportunity for defense professionals, military planners, and aviation enthusiasts to closely examine the strengths and weaknesses of both aircraft, not only in terms of technology but also in real-world combat scenarios.

SOURCE: AFI

The year 2025 could herald a significant transformation in India’s defense procurement policy as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) mulls over a new reform that might ban the procurement of foreign license-manufactured weapons systems for the Indian Armed Forces unless local Indian firms hold the Intellectual Property (IP) rights of these systems. This move is part of an ongoing effort to further the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) initiative, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign defense equipment and bolster indigenous manufacturing.

Currently, under the existing procurement guidelines, foreign weapons systems are permitted for acquisition if they boast an indigenous content of over 60%. However, the practical implementation of this rule has been fraught with challenges, primarily due to difficulties in accurately assessing the level of local content in these systems. The complexity arises from the integrated nature of modern defense equipment, where components might be sourced globally, making it hard to distinguish between what is truly ‘indigenous’.

SOURCE: AFI

In a move that signifies a new era in drone technology cooperation, Avironix, a leading Indian innovator in drone manufacturing, has announced a significant partnership with Lumenier, a well-established USA-based drone Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), component developer, and e-commerce provider. This collaboration is set to enhance the technological and commercial landscape of drone usage in both India and the USA.

The primary goal of this partnership is to foster stronger bilateral ties by merging the unique strengths of both entities. Avironix, known for its pioneering work in drone solutions within India, will introduce Lumenier’s sophisticated drone technologies to the Indian defense sector. This is made possible through a technology transfer agreement that ensures these advanced systems are produced locally under the “Made in India” initiative, aligning with the Indian government’s push towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

SOURCE: AFI

Recent intelligence reports have highlighted a significant escalation in Pakistan’s military activities along certain sections of the Line of Control (LoC) that separates India and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Pakistan has been intensifying its defensive and offensive capabilities by strategically laying anti-personnel mines and deploying additional Special Service Group (SSG) commandos.

This bolstering of defenses coincides with the reactivation of terror training camps in the region, with groups like Hizbul Mujahideen stepping up operations. These camps are now seeing an influx of volunteers from former Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) factions, indicating a strategic shift in their approach. Instead of pushing for new infiltrations, there’s a focus on encouraging dormant Pakistan-origin militants within the valley to resume activities.

SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has reached a pivotal moment in its flagship Combat Air Teaming System (CATS) project with the successful engine ground run of the CATS-Warrior Full-Scale Demonstrator. This achievement underscores the collaborative synergy among HAL’s various Research and Development (R&D) centers, highlighting the integration of aircraft design by the Aircraft Research and Design Centre (ARDC), an indigenous Mission Computer from the Systems and Laboratory Research and Development Centre (SLRDC), and an indigenous power plant from the Aero Engine Research and Development Centre (AERDC).

The CATS-Warrior, a key component of the air teaming concept, is designed to operate in concert with manned aircraft to enhance combat capabilities through a mix of manned and unmanned aerial vehicles. This successful ground run signifies that the project is advancing towards operational readiness, with the prototype aircraft scheduled to be unveiled at the upcoming Aero India 2025 exhibition.

SOURCE: AFI

In a move to reinforce its military capabilities along the tense border with India, Chinese troops stationed on the Tibetan plateau are now equipped with enhanced oxygen supplies. This initiative comes as part of broader efforts to improve equipment, training, and logistics in the region, according to a report by the PLA Daily, the official newspaper of the People’s Liberation Army.

The military has established a 20-kilometer (12.4 miles) supply zone aimed at boosting operational efficiency at high-altitude border outposts. Liu Hao, who commands a border regiment in the Hotan military subdistrict at an elevation of 5,380 meters (17,700 feet), highlighted the significance of this development. “Faster and more reliable oxygen access is critical for our soldiers’ health and combat readiness,” Liu told the PLA Daily.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant move to bolster military preparedness along the volatile border with China, the Environment Ministry of India has recently approved the establishment of multiple Formation Ammunition Storage Facilities (FASF) in Eastern Ladakh. This decision aims to enhance operational readiness and significantly reduce the time required for ammunition withdrawal, thereby strengthening the strategic position in the region.

Eastern Ladakh has been a focal point of military tension since the standoff in 2020, where both India and China have increased their military presence along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). The region’s harsh terrain and high-altitude conditions make logistics and ammunition management particularly challenging. The new FASFs are set to address these issues by providing storage closer to potential conflict zones.

SOURCE: AFI

On January 9, 2025, India took a significant step towards strengthening its defense relations with Kazakhstan during a highly anticipated Defence Industry Seminar held in Astana. The event, organized by the Embassy of India in Kazakhstan, in collaboration with Kazakhstan Engineering and the Ministry of Defence of Kazakhstan, was a key moment for both nations to explore deeper cooperation in the defence sector.

The seminar, which focused on the promotion and potential of Indian-made weapons and defense technology, served as a platform to brief Kazakhstan about India’s growing defense capabilities. His Excellency Dr. TV Nagendra Prasad, India’s Ambassador to Kazakhstan, played a central role in the seminar, underscoring the importance of enhancing defense ties between the two countries.

SOURCE: AFI

In a significant shift towards bolstering its coastal defense capabilities, the Indian Navy is reportedly considering the procurement of more advanced 155mm Howitzer guns. This move aims at enhancing low-cost anti-ship and coastal defense operations, particularly for engaging near-shore targets, marking a departure from the currently deployed 105mm Light Field Guns.

The Indian Navy’s current setup for coastal artillery includes the 105mm Light Field Gun, which has served its purpose but lacks the range and firepower necessary in modern naval warfare scenarios. These guns, while effective in their time, do not match the extended reach or the punch required to counter contemporary threats from surface ships or to provide robust defense along India’s extensive coastline.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s strategic defense community is expressing caution regarding the recent French offer to co-develop an engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This skepticism stems from past experiences with French aerospace giant Safran, previously known as Snecma, in a collaboration that proved largely unproductive.

In the late 2010s, India embarked on a journey to upgrade its indigenous Kaveri engine through a partnership with Snecma. The aim was to enhance the engine’s performance, particularly for use in the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). However, after four years of discussions, the collaboration was mired in challenges, primarily due to Snecma’s reluctance to share pivotal technologies.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has been a prominent player in the development of indigenous defense technologies, including the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, which has gained significant recognition. HAL’s proposed new aircraft, the HLFT-42 (Hindustan Lead-in Fighter Trainer), is designed to serve as a supersonic trainer and light fighter aircraft. While the aircraft is still in its conceptual phase, it is expected to play a pivotal role in providing advanced training to pilots before transitioning to more complex fighter jets.

However, the HLFT-42 could face substantial challenges in the global defense export market. The emergence of cheaper, more advanced supersonic fighter trainers, such as the T-7 Red Hawk from Boeing and Hurjet from Turkey, presents a formidable threat to the HLFT-42’s success in international markets.

SOURCE: AFI

The Deck-Based Multi-Role Helicopter (DBMRH) is set to revolutionize India’s naval aviation capabilities as a specialized naval variant of the Indian Multi-Role Helicopter (IMRH). Designed to meet the diverse operational requirements of the Indian Navy, the DBMRH will incorporate advanced technology, including a planned Airborne Early Warning (AEW) variant equipped with a state-of-the-art radar system. This radar system’s technical specifications promise to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency.

The DBMRH’s AEW variant, equipped with this advanced radar, will serve as a force multiplier for the Indian Navy. It will enable the detection and tracking of airborne and surface threats, support maritime domain awareness, and provide early warning of potential adversarial activity. These capabilities will significantly enhance fleet protection, maritime surveillance, and network-centric warfare.

SOURCE: AFI

In an intriguing blend of traditional ingenuity and modern warfare, the Indian Army has introduced tractor-mounted Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGMs), igniting debates on platforms like X about whether this is a case of resourceful ‘Jugaad’ or a strategic move to evade drone detection in potential border conflicts.

The term ‘Jugaad’—Hindi for an innovative fix or a makeshift solution—has often been used to describe India’s knack for improvisation, particularly in challenging scenarios with limited resources. The use of farm tractors to mount ATGMs is seen by some as a reflection of this philosophy. With the Indian military facing budget constraints and delays in procuring state-of-the-art armored vehicles, the tractor-based system represents a cost-effective, quick-to-deploy solution. This approach allows the army to enhance its anti-tank capabilities without the need for extensive investment in new military hardware.

SOURCE: AFI

South Korea has embarked on an ambitious journey to develop its own jet engine technology for the KF-21 Boramae fighter jet, marking it as a national mission. This initiative is not only a testament to their commitment to technological self-reliance but also includes significant governmental support through tax exemptions for the project. This strategic move is aimed at reducing dependency on foreign technology, particularly from the United States, where South Korea currently sources engines like the GE F414 for its aircraft.

The decision to develop indigenous jet engines has been bolstered by a substantial investment of approximately $2.2 billion, highlighting the nation’s resolve to become a key player in aerospace technology. By designating the engine development as a strategic project, South Korea ensures that the project receives financial incentives, thereby fostering innovation and local industry growth.

SOURCE: AFI

In a forthright interview with ANI, retired Air Marshal Dilip Kumar Patnaik has sharply criticized the acquisition of Predator Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) by India, labeling them as “costly toys” unsuitable for operations in contested airspace. His comments bring to light significant concerns regarding the strategic and tactical utility of these drones in light of India’s regional security challenges.

Patnaik, who has a distinguished career including command over major military operations, argued that the Predator UAVs are not designed for environments where adversaries like China and Pakistan might challenge air superiority. “These drones can only be used effectively in un-contested airspace,” he stated, suggesting that their operational limitations make them vulnerable in scenarios where air defense systems are active.