SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is setting its sights on a groundbreaking leap in underwater warfare with the development of a next-generation Heavy Weight Torpedo (HWT) that promises to triple the range of existing torpedoes. According to sources cited by idrw.org, the advanced HWT could extend its operational range from the current 40-50 km to an impressive 120-150 km, revolutionizing India’s naval capabilities.

Unlike the current generation of torpedoes, which rely on electric motors powered by internal batteries, the new HWT aims to overcome these limitations by incorporating innovative propulsion technologies. DRDO is exploring hybrid propulsion systems or an entirely new propulsion mechanism to enhance the torpedo’s range and endurance, enabling it to remain operational for extended durations. While specifics about the propulsion system remain undisclosed, the focus is on achieving higher speeds and sustained performance to engage targets at unprecedented distances.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Tejas MkII, India’s advanced light combat aircraft, continues to rely on a traditional splitter plate design for its air intake system rather than adopting the Diverterless Supersonic Inlet (DSI) seen in modern stealth fighters like the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Twin-Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF). A former employee of the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA), speaking anonymously to idrw.org, revealed key reasons behind this design choice and its implications for the aircraft’s performance.

The primary function of an air intake system in a fighter jet is to deliver clean, stable airflow to the engine, ensuring optimal performance and preventing issues like unstarts, surges, or even engine damage. The Tejas MkII employs a splitter plate—a physical barrier that separates turbulent boundary layer air, which forms along the fuselage or wing, from the clean airflow entering the engine. This ensures the engine receives air in good condition, critical for smooth combustion and sustained performance.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is set to significantly enhance the electronic warfare (EW) capabilities of its Su-30MKI fleet by integrating ELTA Systems’ advanced Scorpius Escort Jammer (EJ). This move builds on the IAF’s existing deployment of the Scorpius-SP (ELL-8222SB) self-protection jammer, already integrated on the Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). The decision, reported by defense sources close to idrw.org, reflects India’s strategic push to counter sophisticated air defense systems in contested regions, particularly along its borders with Pakistan and China, while bolstering its indigenous fighter fleet with cutting-edge technology.

The Scorpius Escort Jammer (EJ), developed by Israel’s ELTA Systems, a subsidiary of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), is designed to suppress a wide range of air surveillance and fire control radars, creating a “safe corridor” for aircraft along their mission flight path. Unlike the Scorpius-SP, which focuses on individual aircraft protection, the Scorpius EJ is tailored for escort missions, disrupting enemy radar systems to protect entire formations of aircraft. Its flexible design allows installation as a pod on the centerline station of fighter jets like the Su-30MKI or as an external mount on transport and support aircraft. A version configured for internal installation is also available, offering versatility across platforms.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant step towards bolstering India’s indigenous fighter jet capabilities, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is making steady progress on the Tejas Mk2, the next-generation variant of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). Speaking to Flightglobal, HAL Chairman and Managing Director DK Sunil revealed that the production of key components for the Tejas Mk2 is well underway, with sub-assemblies such as wings and fuselage currently in progress. The state-owned airframer is targeting a rollout of the first prototype in the first quarter of 2026, marking a pivotal milestone in India’s quest for self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

“[Tejas Mk2] parts are being manufactured, and we are now into sub-assemblies, with [production of] the wings and fuselage going on,” Sunil told Flightglobal. The first Tejas Mk2 is expected to be rolled out between January and March 2026, at which point the aircraft will be powered on, and ground checks will commence. HAL anticipates the aircraft’s maiden flight later in 2026, a critical step towards validating its design and performance.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), a leading Indian aerospace and defence company, made a strong impression at the DEFEA 2025 exhibition in Athens, Greece, with its flagship Wheeled Armoured Platform (WhAP) 8×8 and advanced loitering munitions, including the ALS-50 and the newly developed ALS-250. Seshadri Srinivasan, Head of Land Mobility at TASL, confirmed that the Greek military has expressed keen interest in the WhAP 8×8 Armoured Personnel Carrier (APC), which was prominently showcased at the event.

Alongside the WhAP, TASL highlighted its cutting-edge loitering munitions, including the battle-tested ALS-50 and the long-range ALS-250, designed for surveillance and precision strikes in challenging terrains like the Line of Actual Control (LAC). This display underscores India’s growing prowess in defence manufacturing and its ambition to expand into the European market under the Make in India initiative.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for defense cooperation between Armenia and India, talks have commenced for the potential integration of India’s indigenous Astra Mk1 Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) into the Armenian Air Force’s fleet of four Su-30SM multirole fighters. According to a report by the Indian Defence Research Wing (idrw.org), this move would see the Astra Mk1, with a range of 110 km, replace the Russian-made R-77 BVRAAM, which has a maximum range of 80 km, enhancing the Armenian Air Force’s air combat capabilities.

The discussions also hint at Armenia’s interest in the yet-to-be-produced Astra MkII, though it remains unclear whether Armenia will opt for both variants or settle for one, given the MkII’s production is slated to begin next year.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, renowned for its precision and lethality, is set to be integrated with the Indian Navy’s upcoming Project 75-India (P-75I) submarines through a Vertical Launch System (VLS).

Dr. Sudhir Mishra, former CEO and Managing Director of BrahMos Aerospace, revealed that discussions with key stakeholders of the P-75I program have confirmed plans to equip these next-generation submarines with at least eight VLS modules, enabling them to carry BrahMos-Extended Range (ER) missiles with a strike range of 800 kilometers. This advancement will position the P-75I submarines as formidable platforms for long-range attacks against both land-based and sea-based targets, significantly enhancing India’s maritime deterrence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

India’s pursuit of advanced fighter jet propulsion systems has sparked interest in two cutting-edge engine programs: the French T-Rex engine, an evolution of the Safran M88, and the indigenous 120kN engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). While both engines hold promise for powering next-generation Indian Air Force (IAF) platforms, including the Tejas Mk1A and Mk2, their developmental timelines and strategic priorities present significant hurdles, according to sources cited by idrw.org. T

The French T-Rex engine, a derivative of the Safran M88 that powers the Rafale, is being developed to deliver a 20% thrust increase, achieving 90kN of wet thrust (with afterburner) compared to the M88’s current 75kN. Proposed for the Rafale F5 variant, expected to enter service from 2033, the T-Rex aims to enhance the Rafale’s performance with improved fuel efficiency, supercruise capability, and compatibility with advanced payloads. The engine incorporates cutting-edge technologies like additive manufacturing, advanced composites, and enhanced cooling systems, positioning it as a cornerstone for France’s next-generation air combat capabilities.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant boost to India’s maritime security capabilities, India and the United States are on the verge of finalizing a deal for the procurement of six additional Boeing P-8I Poseidon Maritime Patrol Aircraft (MPA) for the Indian Navy. This acquisition will augment the Navy’s existing fleet of 12 P-8I aircraft, bringing the total to 18, and further strengthen India’s maritime domain awareness in the strategically vital Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The deal, driven by operational necessities and diplomatic engagements, reflects the deepening defense ties between New Delhi and Washington, particularly in countering the growing naval presence of China in the Indo-Pacific.

The P-8I Poseidon, a variant of the US Navy’s P-8A Poseidon, is a long-range, multi-mission maritime patrol aircraft renowned for its advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW), and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Equipped with cutting-edge sensors such as the Raytheon APY-10 surveillance radar, Telephonics APS-143 OceanEye aft radar, and a magnetic anomaly detector (MAD), the P-8I is a critical asset for detecting, tracking, and engaging submarines and surface vessels. Its ability to operate at altitudes up to 41,000 feet and cover 8,300 kilometers in a single sortie makes it ideal for monitoring the vast IOR.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a high-stakes race to power India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), both France’s Safran and the UK’s Rolls-Royce have sweetened their proposals by offering to incorporate Variable Cycle Engine (VCE) technology into a 110–130 kN thrust engine, co-developed with India’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE). Responding to the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) demand for cutting-edge technology to future-proof the engine for both 5.5-generation and 6th-generation platforms, the two aerospace giants have also committed to 100% Transfer of Technology (ToT) and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) ownership for India, ensuring no restrictions on exports or modifications, according to sources close to idrw.org.

The AMCA, India’s flagship 5.5-generation stealth fighter project, is a cornerstone of the nation’s defense modernization, aiming for a first flight by 2029–30 and induction by 2035. The engine, a critical component, requires advanced capabilities like supercruise, stealth optimization, and adaptability for next-generation systems such as AI-driven swarm drones and directed-energy weapons. The inclusion of VCE technology—a hallmark of 6th-generation engines—marks a significant leap, enabling the engine to dynamically adjust its bypass ratio for optimal fuel efficiency, thrust, and thermal management across diverse flight regimes. This ensures the AMCA remains competitive against regional adversaries like China’s J-20 and future 6th-generation platforms.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a strategic bid to deepen its defense partnership with India and address the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) critical squadron shortfall, Russia has offered a dual proposal involving the Sukhoi Su-57E fifth-generation stealth fighter and the Su-35M 4.5-generation air superiority fighter. The offer, presented by Russia’s state-run Rostec and Sukhoi at Aero India 2025, includes full Transfer of Technology (ToT) for local manufacturing of the Su-57E at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Nashik facility, where over 220 Su-30MKI jets have been produced, and direct supply of Su-35M jets under the IAF’s Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) tender for 114 jets. The proposal also extends advanced Saturn AL-41F1S and Izdeliye 177S engines for both platforms and upgrades to the IAF’s Su-30MKI fleet, according to sources close to idrw.org.

The Su-57E, the export variant of Russia’s premier stealth fighter, is being pitched with full source code access and 40–60% localization at HAL’s Nashik plant, enabling integration of indigenous systems like the Astra BVR missile, Rudram anti-radiation missile, and Virupaksha AESA radar. This aligns with India’s “Make in India” and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives, offering a pathway to produce a fifth-generation fighter domestically while supporting the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program with technology transfers in engines, stealth systems, and avionics. Rostec has proposed delivering 20–30 Su-57E jets off-the-shelf to address immediate IAF needs, with localized production to follow within 3–4 years, potentially delivering 60–70 jets by the early 2030s.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a subsidiary of Bharat Forge under the Kalyani Group, has expressed interest in developing a 155mm/52-caliber tracked self-propelled howitzer (SPH) based on the indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). This move follows the company’s successful development of a truck-mounted 155mm/52-caliber gun system, the Multi-terrain Artillery Gun (MArG), and signals its ambition to expand its artillery portfolio for both the Indian Army and the global export market.

The ATAGS, a 155mm/52-caliber towed howitzer, is a flagship project of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), developed in collaboration with KSSL and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL). Known for its world-class range of 48 km, advanced automation, and high rate of fire, the ATAGS has already secured a ?7,000 crore (US$830 million) contract for 307 units to equip 15 Indian Army artillery regiments, with KSSL manufacturing 60% of the order. The system’s advanced features, including a fully digital control system, auto-loading mechanism, and compatibility with NavIC-guided smart ammunition, make it an ideal foundation for a tracked SPH variant.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a significant development for India’s naval capabilities, Russia is set to deliver a leased Akula-class nuclear attack submarine to the Indian Navy by 2028, according to a report by veteran journalist Sandeep Unnithan for ChakranewZ. The delivery, originally scheduled for 2025, has been delayed due to logistical and technical challenges. This submarine, part of a $3 billion deal signed between India and Russia in 2019, will bolster India’s underwater warfare capabilities in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region, where security challenges are intensifying.

The Akula-class submarine, tentatively referred to as a successor to the INS Chakra, is intended to replace the previous nuclear-powered submarine leased from Russia between 2012 and 2022. The INS Chakra, also an Akula-class vessel, served as a critical asset for the Indian Navy, enhancing its operational expertise in handling nuclear-powered submarines.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has decided against equipping the 41st and subsequent Tejas Mk1A jets with the indigenously developed Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Fire Control Radar (FCR), opting instead for the Israeli ELM-2052 FCR, according to a report by India Today.

Sources within HAL, speaking to idrw.org, revealed that the decision was made to prevent further delays in delivering the jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF).The move stems from concerns that integrating the Uttam AESA FCR, despite being cleared for inflight operations, could add 12-18 months to the timeline.

SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

In a major development aimed at bolstering India’s underwater strike capabilities, Russia has reportedly offered the Indian Navy six refurbished Kilo-class submarines, according to a report by veteran defence journalist Sandeep Unnithan for ChakraNews. These submarines, which are pre-owned, will undergo complete refurbishment before delivery and will come equipped with the latest long-range Novator Kalibr cruise missiles.

The offer represents a significant enhancement over India’s existing fleet of Kilo-class submarines, officially known as the Sindhughosh-class in Indian service. The Indian Navy currently operates seven such submarines from the original fleet of ten acquired between the late 1980s and early 2000s. These existing vessels are currently armed with 300km-range Klub-S (Club-S) cruise missiles, which are submarine-launched variants developed for export.