The Goa Shipyard Limited has launched the Indian Navy's first advanced frigate, 'Trikut', built with Russian technology. The ship was launched on Wednesday in a ceremony attended by Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai. 'Trikut' is the first of four frigates contracted from Russia in 2016, with two to be built in India and two in Russia. The frigate is expected to enhance the Navy's capabilities. The launch marks a significant milestone in the Navy's modernization efforts. The ship's construction is a result of collaboration between India and Russia under the 'Make in India' initiative.

A former US State Department adviser claims the BrahMos supersonic missile is less effective for the Philippines without C4ISR capabilities, crucial for advanced targeting and situational awareness. Despite this, Commander Milind Kulshreshtha (retired) of the Indian Navy argues that BrahMos remains a potent weapon, even in standalone mode. The Philippines, the first buyer of BrahMos, is setting up a missile base facing the South China Sea to counter Chinese aggression. Enhanced C4ISR integration, potentially supported by allies, could further bolster its operational effectiveness.

The Indian Ministry of Defence is preparing to approve a substantial Rs 70,000 crore contract for the construction of new stealth warships, advancing the capabilities of the Indian Navy. The Project 17B contract will likely be split between Mazagon Dockyards Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). These state-of-the-art frigates will feature indigenous systems, including Brahmos missiles and electronic warfare systems, enhancing local defense manufacturing. This move is expected to bolster India’s naval strength and significantly benefit numerous sub-suppliers and vendors involved in the project.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is working to deliver the first LCA Mark 1A fighter jet to the Indian Air Force (IAF) by August 15, amid concerns over delays. Software-related issues had hindered integration, but HAL is addressing these issues. The delivery schedule has been shifting since the initial February-March timeline. However, American engine maker GE has assured supply of GE-404 engines by September-October, likely to address delays. Defence sources confirmed the new timeline, stating that HAL is working to deliver the first plane before August 15.

The Indian Navy concluded field evaluations for submarines offered by Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Spain’s Navantia under the ₹43,000-crore Project 75I. Navantia showcased its S80 class submarine in Cartagena, demonstrating its air independent propulsion (AIP) capabilities. TKMS, partnered with India’s Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, had its submarine evaluated earlier in Germany. Both bids emphasize indigenization goals, aiming for 45% to 60% local content. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Spanish President Pedro Sanchez will discuss these deals during their upcoming visits to India, highlighting enhanced defence cooperation efforts.

India and France have reached an agreement on the base price for 26 Rafale M fighters, tailored to meet the Indian Navy's specific requirements. The aircraft will feature enhancements such as helmet-mounted displays, low-band frequency jammers, and advanced radio altimeters. The Navy has sought software changes for air-to-sea mode, electromagnetic interference and compatibility adjustments, and upgrades for carrier landings. The first round of cost negotiations has concluded, with further talks aimed at finalizing a contract by year-end. The Rafale M will be capable of operating from both Indian and Russian-origin aircraft carriers.

The United States has advocated for the Boeing F-15EX fighter jet to the Indian Air Force (IAF) as part of India's ongoing Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) procurement, which remains in flux. With the IAF facing squadron shortages and impending retirements of aging fleets, the F-15EX is pitched as a powerful addition despite its higher cost. The MRFA selection, initially for 114 aircraft, includes contenders like Rafale, Eurofighter Typhoon, and others. India's push for self-reliance through programs like LCA and AMCA contrasts with the need for immediate squadron bolstering.

The Royal Navy has initiated a search for a Long Range Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon (LRAW) resembling India's SMART system, utilizing Mk41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS). Designed by DRDO, India's SMART integrates a lightweight torpedo with a two-stage propulsion for extended range. This mirrors the Royal Navy's interest in missile-based delivery systems for ASW operations. The alignment in technological approach hints at potential collaboration between the two nations, fostering advancements in anti-submarine warfare capabilities and maritime security.

In a significant development, India's nuclear weapons stockpile has exceeded Pakistan's for the first time in 25 years, according to a report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). India is estimated to have 172 warheads, compared to Pakistan's 170. The report also notes that China has put its nuclear weapons on high operational alert, mating warheads with delivery platforms. India is also believed to be moving in a similar direction, potentially mating some warheads with launchers in peacetime. This development comes as global nuclear arsenals are being strengthened and modernized amid rising geopolitical tensions.

A new report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reveals that India now possesses 172 stored nuclear warheads, surpassing Pakistan's count by two. China's arsenal grew significantly from 410 to 500 warheads within a year, indicating a rapid expansion. The report highlights ongoing modernization of nuclear arsenals by nine nations, including India, Pakistan, and China. For the first time, China has placed some warheads on high operational alert. Despite the focus on each other, India and Pakistan are also developing longer-range weapons, reflecting a broader strategic shift towards regional deterrence.