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.

Vandana Suryavanshi, Returning Officer for Mumbai North West, rejected EVM hacking allegations, clarifying that Electronic Voting Machines are standalone systems with no communication capability. Accusations arose following claims that a mobile phone was used to unlock an EVM at a counting center. Suryavanshi emphasized that EVMs do not require OTPs for operation and labelled the hacking charges as false. An FIR was filed against a relative of MP Ravindra Waikar and a poll officer over phone misuse at the counting center, but officials assured robust safeguards and transparency during the election process.

Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi will assume the role of Chief of the Army Staff on June 30, succeeding Gen Manoj Pande. With a distinguished 40-year military career, Lt Gen Dwivedi has held key positions such as Vice Chief of Army Staff, Northern Command head, and Director General Infantry. A decorated officer, he received the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal. A graduate of Sainik School Rewa, the National Defence College, and the US Army War College, he brings extensive strategic and operational expertise to his new role.

The Indian government announced Lt General Upendra Dwivedi as the next Chief of the Army Staff, effective June 30. He will succeed General Manoj Pande, becoming the 30th Army Chief. Lt Gen Dwivedi, a National Defence Academy and Indian Military Academy alumnus, has held numerous key positions, including Vice Chief of Army Staff, Northern Army Commander, and Director General of Infantry. Commissioned in 1984 into the 18 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, he brings over 39 years of experience in the Northern and Western theatres to his new role.

The T4 rifle, developed by Jindal Defence in partnership with Brazil's Taurus Arms, has successfully completed rigorous trials conducted by the Indian Army. This significant achievement positions the T4 as a strong candidate in a major procurement process to supply 425,000 rifles to the armed forces. The rifle's robust design, modularity, and precision were key factors in its successful testing. The T4's potential selection aligns with India's 'Make in India' initiative, aiming to modernize military equipment while boosting indigenous production capabilities.

China has deployed six J-20 stealth fighter jets near the India border in Sikkim, according to satellite images. These advanced jets, stationed at a Tibetan airport, boast stealth technology, supersonic speed, and cutting-edge sensors. The Indian Air Force is aware of the deployment, which comes as India develops its own stealth fighter program. This move highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations. The J-20 is China's most advanced combat aircraft, and its presence near the border is a show of military strength.

A gunbattle broke out between terrorists and security forces in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, on Monday, a day before the Lok Sabha election vote count. The encounter began when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Nehama area, acting on a tip about a terror hideout. Terrorists fired upon the forces, triggering the gunfight. No casualties have been reported so far. The exchange of fire is ongoing, with police and security forces on the job. This comes after two terrorists were killed in a similar encounter in Kulgam on May 7.