SOURCE: AFI

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has recently provided insights into the delays surrounding the handover of the first Tejas Mk1A fighter jet to the Indian Air Force (IAF). Although the jet achieved its maiden flight in March 2025, HAL has yet to deliver it, citing complex integration and testing requirements for the ELTA ELM-2052 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar developed by Israel’s ELTA Systems. In addition, last-minute software configuration changes requested by the IAF have contributed to the delay, as rigorous testing is required to ensure the aircraft meets the IAF’s updated operational standards.

The ELM-2052 AESA radar is a pivotal upgrade for the Tejas Mk1A, offering enhanced target tracking, superior situational awareness, and better overall performance compared to the previous radar system. Integration of this advanced radar, however, has proven to be a meticulous and time-intensive process, particularly because it involves collaboration with a specialized team from Israel’s ELTA Systems, who are overseeing its implementation on the Tejas Mk1A.

SOURCE: AFI

China has officially introduced the J-35A, its latest fifth-generation fighter, at the Zhuhai Airshow 2024. This marks China’s second fifth-generation stealth platform after the Chengdu J-20, underscoring the nation’s accelerated advancements in next-generation fighter technology. The J-35A is the land-based, air force-oriented variant of the J-35, initially developed for the Chinese Navy. Designed to enhance China’s air combat capabilities, the J-35A boasts significant design upgrades aimed at making it an agile, highly survivable fighter, comparable to other fifth-generation jets worldwide.

The J-35’s origins trace back to its naval variant, which has been operationally flying for the past few years. Initially, this stealth platform was tailored for carrier operations with the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN). However, the latest unveiling shows how the aircraft has evolved to suit the needs of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) in a land-based configuration. Notable design enhancements reflect both operational adaptability and technological improvements that position the J-35A as a versatile addition to the PLAAF’s arsenal.

SOURCE: AFI

Pakistan’s missile program has long been viewed with suspicion by defense analysts, who have pointed out its heavy reliance on imported technology, particularly from China. Many of Pakistan’s missiles — ranging from man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS) like the Anza series to its medium-range ballistic missiles (MRBMs) — show signs of being repurposed or rebranded versions of Chinese missiles.

This arrangement allows Pakistan to bolster its missile capabilities without extensive domestic research and development, creating a perception of indigenous advancements while relying on Chinese technology.

SOURCE: AFI

The unveiling of China’s J-35A at Zhuhai 2024 has reignited a fiery debate among defense enthusiasts and nationalists on both sides, as comparisons with the U.S. F-35A have led to a spirited war of words. While both jets are fifth-generation fighters, each designed for stealth, agility, and multirole capability, their side-by-side comparison has sparked controversy, humor, and debate across social media.

Many Chinese netizens have praised the sleek design of the J-35A, with some saying it even surpasses the aesthetics of the F-35A. “I didn’t think the F-35 was so ugly before, but now it’s really ugly. The J-35 is currently the best-looking stealth fighter in the world,” commented a Chinese user, echoing the sentiment that the J-35A’s design surpasses the American F-35A in appearance. Others compared it to a “stealthier Mig-29,” nodding to its aesthetic similarity to Russia’s twin-engine jet, while maintaining that the aircraft has distinct Chinese engineering.

SOURCE: AFI

A recent attack by a violent Khalistani mob on Hindu devotees at a temple in Brampton, Canada, has ignited controversy due to the involvement of an off-duty Canadian police officer. Sgt. Harinder Sohi, an officer with Peel Regional Police, has been suspended following allegations of his presence during the mob assault. This incident has sparked a heated debate, with some calling it a “state-sponsored” attack on the Hindu community, given the involvement of a serving police officer in the violent mob.

The attack took place at a Hindu temple in Brampton, a city that has witnessed escalating tensions due to a rise in Khalistani activism. Witnesses describe a mob of Khalistani supporters storming the temple premises, threatening worshippers, vandalizing property, and creating an atmosphere of fear and intimidation. Videos and reports from the scene depict a chaotic situation, with temple devotees, including families with children, attempting to escape the violence.