In response to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, the Indian Army has resumed limited operations of its Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv fleet in Anantnag. These helicopters had been grounded since January following a crash caused by a fractured swashplate. Despite unresolved safety concerns, the Army has redeployed the Dhruv helicopters to support intensified counter-terrorism efforts in the region. The decision underscores the urgency of restoring aerial capabilities to bolster security operations in the aftermath of the attack. (Photo Credit: Akhila Easwaran)

India has successfully tested a laser-directed energy weapon system, marking its entry into an exclusive group of nations possessing such advanced armaments. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted the trial at Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh, where the vehicle-mounted Laser Directed Weapon (DEW) MK-II(A) effectively neutralized fixed-wing UAVs and swarm drones by causing structural damage and disabling surveillance sensors. This development signifies a significant advancement in India's defense capabilities, aligning with global powers like the US, China, and Russia. The Indian Air Force is actively working on integrating these systems into airborne platforms, reflecting the government's focus on enhancing defense prowess through directed energy and hypersonic weapons. (PC: The Tribune & The Federal)

India has approved a Rs 63,000-crore deal to procure 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets from France, aimed at strengthening its naval aviation capabilities. The aircraft will be deployed on aircraft carriers INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, replacing the ageing fleet of MiG-29K jets by 2031. The deal includes 22 single-seater and 4 twin-seater variants, along with weapons, simulators, spares, and training. Sources say this strategic move will significantly enhance India's maritime strike power. The agreement is expected to be signed during the visit of French officials later this year, marking a major step in Indo-French defence cooperation. (PC: India Today)

India is enhancing its special forces' covert warfare and counter-terrorism capabilities by integrating advanced technologies such as nano drones, loiter munitions, and sophisticated communication equipment. Despite the absence of a unified Special Operations Command, the establishment of the Armed Forces Special Operations Division (AFSOD) has improved joint operations among the Army's Para-Special Forces, the Air Force's Garud commandos, and the Navy's Marine Commandos (Marcos). These units are also being equipped with advanced weaponry, including Finnish Sako sniper rifles, American M4A1 carbines, and Israeli TAR-21 Tavor assault rifles, to enhance their operational effectiveness. (PC: Getty Images)

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) lost ₹55 lakh ($63,000) after falling for a cyber scam. The company was in talks with US-based PS Engineering Incorporated to buy fighter jet parts. “Somewhere in the middle, the proper email was replaced with a fake one,” said DCP Crime Anjali Vishwakarma. The fake email looked almost identical, missing just one letter. HAL unknowingly sent the payment to the wrong account. The fraud came to light when the real vendor said they had not received any money. The police are investigating whether the scam was run by a foreign or Indian entity.

India ranked as the world’s second-largest arms importer in 2020-24, following war-torn Ukraine, according to SIPRI. Indian arms imports fell 9.3% from 2015-19 levels, with Russia’s share dropping to 36% from 55%. France emerged as a key supplier, accounting for 28% of India’s imports. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s arms imports surged 61%, with China supplying 81%. Russia’s global arms exports fell 64%, while the U.S. increased its share to 43%. India continues major defense procurements, including Rafale jets and submarines. SIPRI’s report highlights shifting global arms trade trends amid geopolitical tensions.

India faces a critical decision in modernizing its air force. The US has offered F-35 fighter jets, but high costs and maintenance concerns make them challenging. Meanwhile, Russia’s Su-57 remains an option, despite past disagreements. India aims for self-reliance, prioritizing the homegrown Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and Tejas jets. The Indian Air Force struggles with delays, funding issues, and shrinking squadron strength. Experts suggest India will neither buy the F-35 nor the Su-57 but focus on domestic production to bridge the gap. The future of India’s airpower depends on timely execution of indigenous fighter jet programs.

The DRDO and Indian Navy have successfully conducted flight trials of the new NASM-SR, a 'Man-in-Loop' anti-ship missile, marking a significant milestone in defense technology. Launched from a naval helicopter, the missile demonstrated its in-flight retargeting capabilities using a high-bandwidth two-way datalink system that transmits live imagery to the pilot. The missile also utilizes an indigenous imaging infrared seeker for terminal guidance. The trial, conducted at the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, included targeting a small ship in sea-skimming mode, hitting it accurately. This achievement marks a leap in India’s defense missile technology and enhances its naval defense capabilities.

The Indian Air Force (IAF) requires 35-40 new fighter jets annually to strengthen its fleet. Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari emphasized the urgent need for these jets due to the changing defense landscape and to ensure optimal readiness against potential threats. He further stressed the importance of increasing indigenous production and boosting the private sector's role in defense manufacturing. Chaudhari called on domestic industries to contribute more actively, focusing on creating advanced aircraft. India’s defense sector has been undergoing significant reforms to meet modern requirements, and this push aims to improve self-reliance in defense production, alongside boosting the country’s global defense standing.

The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy successfully conducted flight trials of the NASM-SR naval anti-ship missile from an Indian Naval Seaking helicopter in Odisha’s Chandipur. The missile, featuring advanced "Man-in-Loop" in-flight retargeting and an indigenous Imaging Infra-Red (IIR) Seeker, directly hit a ship target using a sea-skimming mode. Equipped with high-bandwidth two-way datalink and advanced navigation systems, it enhances India's maritime strike capabilities. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the test, calling it a major step in India’s indigenous defence development. The missile is being developed in collaboration with MSMEs and startups.