Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the Joint Commanders' Conference in Lucknow, emphasizing the need for the Armed Forces to be "prepared for war to preserve peace". He commended their role in safeguarding national interests and promoting self-reliance, while urging vigilance amidst developments in neighboring countries. Singh's remarks come as India seeks to strengthen its military capabilities and enhance jointness among the three Services. The conference aimed to discuss strategic and operational issues, with a focus on furthering the vision of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' and advancing India's national security interests.

Air Marshal Tejinder Singh will assume the role of Deputy Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force (IAF) on September 1. Singh, with over 4,500 flight hours and extensive experience, will oversee the modernization and capital procurements of the IAF. His new role comes as the force advances key projects, including the LCA Mark-1A, LCA Mark-2, and the C-295 transport aircraft. Singh, previously the Senior Air Staff Officer of the Eastern Air Command, steps into this position at a pivotal time for the IAF's modernization efforts.

India plans to develop an Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), a 5.5 generation stealth fighter jet, with the first prototype expected by 2028. The AMCA will be designed to carry a substantial weapons load and feature enhanced stealth capabilities. The project, involving both public and private sector firms, aims for mass production by 2035. The Indian Air Force and Defence Research and Development Organisation are overseeing the development. Additionally, the timeline for the LCA Mark 2 program has been delayed, with the aircraft now expected in 2026 due to funding and engine issues.

India has commissioned its second nuclear submarine, INS Arighaat, in Visakhapatnam. This Arihant-class submarine will boost the nation's nuclear triad, enhancing its defense capabilities and ensuring strategic balance in the region. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the milestone as a major achievement, stating, "This is a testament to our government's unwavering resolve to achieve self-reliance in defense." The submarine features advanced technology and systems developed by Indian scientists and industry. With INS Arihant and INS Arighaat, India strengthens its deterrence and safeguards national security. The project also created jobs and boosted the Indian defense industry.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will commission India’s second nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, INS Arighat, today in Visakhapatnam. The commissioning ceremony will be attended by key figures such as Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh Tripathi and Vice Admiral Suraj Berry, who leads India's strategic command. INS Arighat, also known as S-3, will operate under India's strategic command, strengthening the nation’s nuclear deterrence capabilities. This submarine is a crucial addition to India's naval fleet, following the deployment of the first SSBN, INS Arihant, and represents a significant step in enhancing the country’s maritime defense strategy.

A second-year BCom student, Kirti Sharma, was arrested by Kolkata Police for an Instagram post inciting violence against West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The post read, "Shoot Mamata Banerjee like Indira Gandhi. If you can't do it, I wouldn't disappoint," prompting immediate backlash. Trinamool Congress supporters flagged the post, leading to Sharma's arrest. Kolkata Police stated, “The comments are provocative and may create social unrest.” Sharma also disclosed the identity of a trainee doctor recently murdered in Kolkata, further intensifying the situation.

India is set to test its new SAMAR 2 air defence system, with trials scheduled to begin by December 2024. The system, which boasts a range of nearly 30 km, is being developed with the assistance of two industry partners. It follows the SAMAR 1, which has been in use and has a range of 8 km. The SAMAR 2 will utilize Russian R-27 missiles, enhancing its capability to counter aerial threats. The system was showcased at the International Defence Aviation Exposition during the Tarang Shakti 2024 exercise. India is also working on the Project Kusha for long-range air defence.

India is set to test a prototype of the advanced Tejas Mark 2 fighter jet, despite delays in the deliveries of the existing Tejas Mark 1A. A high-level review meeting, led by DRDO Chairman Samir Kamat, focused on achieving the first fly-worthy prototype of the upgraded jet, which features a more powerful GE F414 engine and a wider array of weapons. The Tejas Mark 2, with a 17-tonne all-up weight, is part of the IAF's plan to acquire 180 jets. The testing timeline depends on securing F414 engines before finalizing the GE-HAL joint venture contract.

India is prepared to commission its second nuclear-powered submarine, INS Arighat, equipped with nuclear missiles, bolstering its strategic deterrence. Built at Vizag, the 6,000-tonne submarine will join INS Arihant, India's only other operational SSBN. This development comes as China expands its naval presence in the Indian Ocean. The project also includes constructing two nuclear-powered attack submarines with conventional weapons, awaiting final approval. India currently lags behind China, which has sixty submarines, including six Jin-class SSBNs. INS Arighat's commissioning strengthens India's nuclear triad, enhancing its deterrence posture.

Captain M R Harish of INS Tabar expressed immense pride after hundreds gathered to welcome the Indian warship as it sailed under London's Tower Bridge. The stealth frigate docked beside HMS Belfast, where the crew hosted the Indian community and dignitaries. Captain Harish described the sight as "surreal," with chants of "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" filling the air. The visit includes professional engagements with the Royal Navy and a friendly cricket match. INS Tabar, part of the Western Fleet, will next head to Sweden to celebrate Independence Day.