On May 2, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct take-off and landing drills on the Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Advanced fighter jets, including Rafale and Jaguar, will participate in the exercise, assessing the expressway's viability as an alternative runway. This marks the first airstrip in India designed for both day and night fighter landings. High-level security measures are in place for the event. The exercise aims to enhance the IAF's operational readiness and flexibility in utilizing non-traditional airstrips during emergencies. The Ganga Expressway, upon completion, will be one of the longest expressways in India, further bolstering the country's defense infrastructure. (PC: Defence News India)

Following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed at least 26 tourists, the Indian Navy shared missile-firing videos asserting it stands “Combat-Ready,” just a day after the Indian Army reiterated it is “Always Prepared.” This show of strength comes as India weighs its response, blaming Pakistan-backed groups for the massacre. The Home Ministry has handed over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to pursue the perpetrators “to the ends of the earth,” reflecting the nation’s seething anger. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s army chief struck a hardline tone, amplifying tensions across the Line of Control.

The Indian Air Force launched "Exercise Aakraman" on Thursday, a major combat drill in the central sector, simulating long-range strikes and precision bombing missions amid rising India-Pakistan tensions post-Pahalgam attack. Led by cutting-edge Rafale jets, the exercise involves high-intensity combat simulations across mountain and ground terrains. Key assets were repositioned from the eastern sector, and top IAF pilots are executing complex sorties, including electronic warfare. The drill aims to boost readiness for deep-strike operations. Senior leadership is closely monitoring the exercise, with similar training planned. This show of strength comes as regional hostilities escalate. (PC: India Today)

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.