SOURCE: IDRW.ORG
The recent strides made by Russia and China in developing their own civilian aircraft highlight a critical gap in India’s aviation strategy. As of April 17, 2025, India’s booming aviation sector, projected to need 2,200 new aircraft by 2040, remains heavily reliant on foreign giants Boeing and Airbus. This dependency mirrors the challenges faced by Russia and China, prompting both nations to pursue self-reliance in aircraft manufacturing.
For India, the need to develop its own Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA-90) in both turboprop and turbofan variants is urgent, not only to meet domestic short-haul flight demands but also to curb the market dominance of Western manufacturers.
Continue readingSOURCE: IDRW.ORG
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has taken a significant step toward revolutionizing its defense capabilities by planning to transfer the technology of its indigenously developed Mk-II(A) 30-kilowatt (kW) Laser Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) to private sector companies. This move, announced following successful trials on April 13, 2025, at the National Open Air Range in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, aims to accelerate mass production to meet growing interest from the Indian Army for additional orders.
The decision aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in defense manufacturing and positions the country among an elite group of nations with advanced DEW capabilities. This article explores the Mk-II(A) DEW, the technology transfer plan, the Army’s interest, and the strategic implications for India’s defense ecosystem.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In a significant boost to India’s defense research and development capabilities, Dr. Samir V. Kamat, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), inaugurated the Automotive Weapons System Testing Centre (AWTC) at the Combat Vehicles Research & Development Establishment (CVRDE) in Avadi, Chennai, on May 17, 2025. The cutting-edge facility, equipped with 26 specialized test tracks, is designed to rigorously evaluate the full spectrum of automotive performance parameters for tracked armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs). Alongside the AWTC, Dr. Kamat also unveiled a modern Engine Test Centre and a memorial to Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, reinforcing CVRDE’s pivotal role in advancing India’s indigenous defense technology.
The AWTC at CVRDE represents a leap forward in India’s ability to develop and validate tracked armoured vehicles, such as main battle tanks (MBTs) and infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). The facility boasts 26 distinct types of test tracks, meticulously engineered to assess critical performance metrics, including mobility, stability, endurance, and reliability across diverse terrains and conditions. These tracks simulate real-world battlefield environments, enabling comprehensive testing of suspension systems, powertrains, tracks, and other automotive components.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In a resounding testament to India’s military prowess and technological self-reliance, Operation Sindoor has emerged as a defining moment in modern warfare, decisively debunking the notion of drone supremacy. Launched on May 7, 2025, in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, the operation showcased the Indian Armed Forces’ ability to neutralize advanced aerial threats with unparalleled precision.
A senior Army Air Defence (AAD) officer encapsulated this triumph, stating, “The operation not only safeguarded vital military and civilian infrastructure but also shattered the myth of drone supremacy. It has shown that Indian boots on the ground, backed by indigenous technology and rigorous training, can defend the skies with unmatched precision.” This article explores how Operation Sindoor redefined air defense, leveraging India’s homegrown systems and rigorous training to counter Pakistan’s drone offensive.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In an intriguing and unexpected development, the Russian 2S7M Malka, a Soviet-era self-propelled 203 mm cannon renowned as one of the world’s largest mobile artillery systems, has reportedly been spotted with a Sanskrit inscription on its barrel. The inscription, identified as the powerful Narasimha Mantra—“? ????? ???? ?????????? ???????? ???????????? ??????? ????? ????? ????????????? ??????????”—has sparked widespread curiosity and debate.
This mantra, rooted in Hindu tradition and invoking the fierce avatar of Lord Vishnu, Narasimha, is an unusual sight on a Russian military weapon, raising questions about cultural exchange, symbolism, or possible misinformation in the context of modern warfare.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In a proud moment for India’s defense manufacturing sector, SSS Defence has introduced the T72 Squad Designated Marksman Rifle (SDMR), a cutting-edge firearm chambered for the 7.62×51 NATO caliber. Announced on May 17, 2025, this development marks another significant achievement for the Bengaluru-based private defense firm, reinforcing its commitment to the “Born in Bharat” ethos.
The T72 SDMR is designed to bridge the gap between standard infantry rifles and sniper systems, a role that has gained prominence in Western militaries and Special Forces over the past few years. With its 7.62×51 NATO chambering, the rifle offers superior stopping power and penetration compared to smaller calibers like the 5.56 NATO, making it ideal for engaging targets at intermediate ranges up to 800 meters. This capability aligns with global trends, where SDMRs are increasingly valued for their ability to deliver precision fire while maintaining the versatility to support squad movements in diverse combat scenarios.
Continue readingSOURCE: AFI
In a significant milestone for India’s defense and maritime security, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited’s (HAL) Transport Aircraft Division in Kanpur has successfully completed the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) of 17 Dornier Do-228 aircraft operated by the Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Announced on May 18, 2025, this upgrade program has significantly enhanced the operational capabilities of the ICG, strengthening its ability to conduct maritime surveillance, search and rescue, and security operations across India’s vast coastline and exclusive economic zone (EEZ).
The upgraded Do-228 fleet is poised to play a pivotal role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests, aligning with the nation’s push for indigenous defense solutions and self-reliance.
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
Adani Defence and Aerospace on Sunday said it has signed a collaboration agreement with Sparton (DeLeon Springs LLC), a group company of Elbit Systems and a leading provider of advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems. This marks a significant step toward localising the assembly of complex electronic systems and advanced ASW solutions for the Indian and global markets.
With this collaboration, Adani Defence and Aerospace becomes the first private sector company in India to offer indigenised sonobuoy solutions, underscoring its commitment to bolstering the nation’s self-reliance.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
ISRO on Sunday could not accomplish the launch of an Earth observation satellite onboard a PSLV-C61 rocket after it encountered some anomaly in its third stage, the space agency’s Chairman V Narayanan said.
ISRO’s trusted Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) is a 4-stage rocket and the first two stages were normal, he said. “Today we targeted the 101st launch from Sriharikota, the PSLVC61 EOS-09 mission. The PSLV is a four-stage vehicle and up to the second stage, the performance was normal. The third stage motor started perfectly but during the functioning of the third stage we are seeing an observation and the mission could not be accomplished,” Mr Narayanan said.
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi expressed his gratitude to the brilliant scientists and researchers whose dedication made India’s first nuclear test, Operation Smiling Buddha, a success 51 years ago at Pokhran, Rajasthan.
In a post on his Facebook account, he wrote: “Under the visionary and decisive leadership of Smt. Indira Gandhi, India conducted its first nuclear test, Operation Smiling Buddha, 51 years ago at Pokhran, Rajasthan. My sincere gratitude goes out to the brilliant scientists and researchers whose hard work made this possible.”
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has slapped 11 new conditions on Pakistan for the $ 7 billion lifeline that it has extended and also flagged the rising tensions with India as a huge risk for the cash-strapped country.
The new conditions that have been imposed include approval of a new Rs 17.6 lakh crore budget, increasing debt servicing surcharge on electricity bills and lifting restrictions on the import of more than three-year-old used cars, according to a report in Pakistani newspaper Express Tribune.
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
The Indian Army said on Sunday that no meeting of the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) of India and Pakistan was scheduled for Sunday, adding that the ceasefire between the two countries continues.
A defence ministry statement said, “Some media houses are reporting that the Ceasefire between India and Pakistan is ending today. In addition, queries are also being received if a DGMO-level talk is scheduled today? The response is as under:- No DGMO talks are scheduled today. As far as continuation of a break in hostilities, as decided in DGMOs interaction of 12 May is concerned, there is no expiry date to it.”
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
The Indian Army’s western command said on Sunday that ‘Operation Sindoor’ was planned, trained and executed to deliver Justice. The Western Command posted a video on X with narration showing soldiers buzzing with confidence about the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’.
The post read: “Planned, trained & executed. Justice served”. “It started with the Pahalgam terror attack. The country had no anger, but a desire to avenge the innocent killings. Pakistan was taught a lesson that its future generations won’t be able to forget. Pakistani pickets from where fire was opened at our positions were completely destroyed. It was not revenge, but justice which had to be delivered. Soldiers of the enemy deserted their posts and ran for their lives. Operation Sindoor was such a lesson that Pakistan had not learnt for decades,” the narration supporting the videos showing targeting of Pakistani pickets on the border, said.
Continue readingSOURCE: IANS
Odia YouTuber Priyanka Senapati has issued a public clarification after her name surfaced in connection with Jyoti Malhotra, a YouTuber recently arrested on charges of spying for Pakistan. Reports claimed that Senapati had visited Pakistan a few days ago and shared videos and posts on Instagram. Photographs of her with Jyoti Malhotra have also circulated on social media, raising questions about their association.
In response, Senapati took to her social media stories to clarify her position. “Many people are asking me to clarify the matter. Jyoti was only a friend, and I came into contact with her through YouTube. I was completely unaware of the serious charges against her. Had I known she was spying for an enemy country, I would have never maintained any contact with her,” she wrote.
Continue readingSOURCE: PTI
Ashoka University associate professor Ali Khan Mahmudabad has been arrested for his social media post on Operation Sindoor, police said here on Sunday. The action was taken on a complaint by a BJP Yuva Morcha leader.
“Ali Khan Mahmudabad has been arrested from Delhi,” Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Ajeet Singh said over the phone. He has been arrested in connection with some comments connected with Operation Sindoor, he said.
Continue reading