SOURCE: AFI

India’s aspiration to solidify its position as a global power rests on acquiring cutting-edge defense technologies, with fifth-generation fighter jets playing a pivotal role. As per defense analyst Vladimir Karnozov, Russia’s Su-57E offers a compelling opportunity for India to enhance its air dominance and strategic capabilities.

Fifth-generation fighter jets represent the pinnacle of aviation technology, combining stealth, advanced avionics, and superior combat capabilities. For India, the induction of such aircraft is not just about maintaining parity but about ensuring operational superiority in an increasingly contested geopolitical landscape.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s defense modernization is crucial to maintaining strategic autonomy and bolstering national security. However, a significant gap remains in the domestic development of propulsion systems for the Army, Air Force, and Navy. Currently, India imports most of its engines for tanks, fighter jets, and naval vessels, leading to dependency on foreign suppliers. Developing local engines is vital for achieving self-reliance in defense, enhancing operational flexibility, and supporting the country’s growing defense industry.

Relying on foreign suppliers can leave India vulnerable to supply chain disruptions, geopolitical pressures, and delays. Indigenous engines would provide complete control over the design, production, and maintenance processes, ensuring the uninterrupted availability of critical defense assets.

SOURCE: AFI

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), a pioneer in India’s defense manufacturing sector, recently hosted a high-level delegation from Morocco at its state-of-the-art facility in Pune. The delegation included the Ambassador of His Majesty the King of Morocco and the Defence Attaché of Morocco to India, reflecting the strengthening defense ties between the two nations.

The visit comes on the heels of Morocco’s significant order for 150 Wheeled Armoured Amphibious Platforms (WHAP), a testament to TASL’s prowess in delivering cutting-edge defense solutions. Developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the WHAP is a highly versatile and robust 8×8 vehicle capable of amphibious operations. Its modular design allows it to be customized for various roles, including troop transport, reconnaissance, and combat support, making it an invaluable asset for modern armed forces.

SOURCE: AFI

In a strategic move to strengthen defense ties and expand exports, leading Indian private sector defense companies presented their products and weapon systems to the Saudi military in a special program organized by the Indian Embassy in Riyadh. The event highlighted India’s growing defense manufacturing capabilities and its commitment to fostering international defense collaborations under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.

The program, facilitated by the Indian Embassy, is part of a broader initiative to bolster defense cooperation between India and Saudi Arabia. It reflects the deepening strategic partnership between the two nations, which extends beyond trade and energy into defense and security.

SOURCE: AFI

As global aerospace powers race to define the future of air combat, India must strategically position itself to develop a 6th-generation fighter jet by 2040. These aircraft promise revolutionary capabilities, including full-spectrum stealth, advanced artificial intelligence (AI), hypersonic performance, and network-centric warfare systems. For India, the development of such a fighter would not only fulfill national security imperatives but also cement its position as a global defense technology leader.

The 6th-generation fighter jet represents a paradigm shift from its predecessors. Core features include Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) an ability to control multiple unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs) from a single platform. AI-Driven Systems that offers Enhanced autonomy in decision-making for targeting, navigation, and threat analysis. Adaptive stealth coatings and designs to evade modern radar systems. Integration of high-energy lasers or microwave weapons for air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.

SOURCE: AFI

As the Indian Air Force (IAF) prepares for the future, the Tejas Mk2—a 4.5-generation multirole fighter jet—emerges as a centerpiece in India’s defense modernization strategy. Building on the foundation of the Tejas Mk1, the Mk2 brings significant upgrades, positioning it as a viable alternative to global competitors like the JF-17 Block III, Gripen E, and F-16 Viper. But can it truly dominate the skies? Let’s explore.

The Tejas Mk2, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), is designed to fill the gap between lightweight Tejas Mk1 fighters and heavier platforms like the Rafale.

SOURCE: AFI

The Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL) has developed a cutting-edge Low-Density Ablative Material (LDAM) tailored for critical applications in missile systems. This innovative material serves as both an internal and external thermal protection solution, offering a significant improvement over conventional insulation systems such as PC-10, TPP/TPI, EPDM, and ROCASIN.

LDAM’s versatility allows it to be used in putty applications and for sealing joints, addressing key thermal and structural challenges in missile systems. Its unique properties ensure superior performance in areas requiring high thermal stability, making it suitable for metallic and composite sections alike.

SOURCE: AFI

The Islamic State’s Khorasan Province (ISKP) has escalated its anti-Taliban rhetoric by publishing a photo of Indian diplomat J.P. Singh alongside the Taliban’s Defense Minister. The image, featured in the ISKP’s propaganda magazine Voice of Khorasan, condemns the Taliban for collaborating with non-Muslims.

This move by the ISKP highlights the growing tensions between the two militant groups. The Taliban has accused the ISKP of finding refuge in Pakistan, further intensifying the rivalry.

SOURCE: AFI

India: Astr Defence, a leading Indian firearms manufacturer, has recently introduced the highly anticipated President 18. In response to popular demand, this new variant of the iconic President pistol now boasts an impressive 18-round capacity, delivering unmatched firepower and confidence to its users.

The President 18, chambered in .32 ACP, features a 102mm barrel and an extended magazine base. This combination results in enhanced accuracy, power, and a commanding presence. Designed and engineered in India, this pistol embodies the perfect blend of precision and authority, making it more than just a firearm—it’s a statement.

SOURCE: AFI

India’s second Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC-2) is set to mark a significant leap in naval propulsion technology by incorporating an Integrated Electric Propulsion System (IEPS) powered by Rolls-Royce MT-30 gas turbines. This next-generation propulsion system aligns with global advancements and represents a shift from the four US-supplied LM2500 engines currently powering the IAC-1, INS Vikrant, which delivers 88 MW for a top speed of 28 knots.

The Rolls-Royce MT-30, regarded as one of the world’s most power-dense marine gas turbines, will serve as the backbone of the IAC-2’s IEPS. The MT-30’s exceptional power output has already been proven on advanced platforms such as the Royal Navy’s HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. These aircraft carriers utilize the MT-30 in conjunction with electric propulsion systems, enabling operational flexibility, reduced noise, and enhanced efficiency.

SOURCE: AFI

Abdul Basit, a former Pakistani diplomat who served as the High Commissioner of Pakistan to India, has called for the Pakistan Navy to include nuclear-powered submarines in its fleet. Speaking to ABN News, Basit emphasized the strategic necessity of such acquisitions, particularly in the context of India’s growing capabilities, including its successful test of the K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) from the nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant, which completes India’s nuclear triad.

Basit underscored the importance of establishing parity with India’s naval and nuclear capabilities, suggesting that the Pakistan Navy’s current fleet lacks the deterrence power necessary to counterbalance India’s advancements. He argued that the induction of nuclear-powered submarines would not only strengthen Pakistan’s naval posture but also enhance its second-strike capability, which is a critical component of maintaining strategic stability in the region.

SOURCE: AFI

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has begun deploying the Wheeled Armoured Amphibious Platform (WhAP) in the Naxal-affected regions of eastern India. Developed jointly by Tata Advanced Systems Limited and the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the WhAP represents a significant enhancement in mobility, protection, and operational capability for forces operating in some of India’s most challenging environments.

he WhAP is an 8×8 armoured vehicle designed to perform in diverse terrains, including unpaved roads and dense jungles. It can carry up to 12 soldiers, including the driver, and is equipped with advanced features to ensure survivability and operational efficiency.

SOURCE: AFI

The prestigious High Altitude Warfare School (HAWS) in Gulmarg recently hosted the Argentina Defense Attache on November 27th. The visit aimed to delve into the intricacies of mountain warfare and tactical operations in high-altitude terrain, exploring potential avenues for future collaboration between the Indian and Argentinian armies.

The Argentinian Defense Attache, a seasoned expert in high-altitude warfare, engaged in insightful discussions with HAWS instructors. The conversation centered around modern warfare in mountainous regions, including the nuances of training and tactical operations in such demanding environments.

SOURCE: IDRW.ORG.

Former DRDO Chief, Dr. G. Satheesh Reddy, speaking at the Emerging Technologies in Defence event hosted by the Madras Management Association in Chennai, confirmed that the rollout of the Tejas MkII fighter jet is progressing as planned. According to Dr. Reddy, the rollout is scheduled to take place between September and October 2025, marking a major milestone in India’s indigenous defense aviation program.

The Tejas MkII is the next-generation iteration of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program, designed to bridge the gap between the existing Tejas MkI/MkIA variants and India’s fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA).

SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan has reportedly cleared the procurement of the advanced J-35 fighter jet, with deliveries expected to commence within the next 24 months. This significant development, reported by 24 News HD, underscores a major modernization effort by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). The move is seen as a critical step in bolstering Pakistan’s air combat capabilities, with PAF pilots already undergoing training on the platform.

The J-35 is China’s latest 5th-generation stealth fighter, designed as a carrier-based aircraft but adaptable for land-based operations. It incorporates advanced stealth features, modern avionics, and a robust sensor suite, positioning it as a formidable opponent in the skies. Equipped with AESA radar, internal weapons bays, and high maneuverability, the J-35 is expected to enhance the PAF’s ability to conduct a wide range of missions, from air superiority to deep-strike operations.