Category: Defence

Ladakh|  India today marked a significant milestone in border infrastructure as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh virtually dedicated 125 strategic projects to the nation from Ladakh. Among them was the long-awaited Galwan War Memorial, inaugurated without a single direct reference to China, even as the memorial honours the 20 Indian soldiers who were killed in the 2020 clash in eastern Ladakh. The ceremony was held near the newly built Shyok Tunnel, where the Defence Minister addressed the nation through a video link. During the event, he paid homage to the fallen…

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New Delhi: The Indian Air Force (IAF) will continue operating its aging Jaguar fighter fleet for a few more years, thanks to a major support initiative from Oman, which has decided to provide India with over 20 retired Jaguar jets. These aircraft will serve as a critical source of spare parts, helping the IAF maintain operational readiness amid a global shortage of components. Background and Strategic NeedThe Jaguars, also known as ‘Shamsher’, were first inducted into India in 1979 and remain active across six squadrons. Over time, maintaining the fleet…

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Bikaner: The Indian Army and local communities in Bikaner now have improved connectivity following the completion of multiple Border Roads Organisation (BRO) projects, inaugurated virtually by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Part of a larger initiative, the 125 critical road projects were executed at a cost of nearly ₹4,796 crore, benefiting border and remote areas while strengthening national security and local development. Key Roads UpgradedAmong the newly inaugurated roads, the Birdhawal-Puggal-Bajju stretch, approximately 49 km long, has been upgraded to National Highway standards. This development facilitates smoother travel for civilians and…

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 New Delhi: India’s infantry firepower is set for a major boost as Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) has confirmed that it will deliver the first batch of 40,000 Light Machine Guns (LMGs) to the Indian Army early next year. The consignment is part of a multi‑year contract signed last year, and according to the company, all tests, trials and evaluations for the weapon system have been completed. Production licences have also been approved. The complete delivery is targeted for five years, though IWI has indicated it could accelerate the process if…

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New Delhi: The Government of India has lifted the long-standing ban on several foreign defence companies, including Italy’s Leonardo, allowing them to participate in new defence projects. The move comes as part of a broader policy review aimed at enhancing transparency, expanding procurement options, and strengthening defence cooperation. Background of the BanLeonardo had been barred from India since 2013–14 over alleged corruption in the VVIP helicopter deal. While the company faced accusations of bribery, India had cancelled all contracts with it at the time. The recent decision does not allow…

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New Delhi: The Indian Navy has extended the timeline for its Maritime Capability Perspective Plan (MCPP) to 2032, citing budgetary constraints and operational challenges in meeting original targets despite significant improvements in shipbuilding efficiency. Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Naval Command, described the MCPP as an aspirational blueprint developed over a year to project India’s naval force structure needs a decade ahead. He highlighted that shipbuilding has accelerated substantially, with new vessels emerging every 40 days, driven by initiatives like Atmanirbhar Bharat, MSME support, and…

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New Delhi: Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff, has affirmed that the Indian Navy closely monitors all activity across the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), dismissing concerns regarding Chinese research vessels operating in international waters. Admiral Tripathi emphasized that the Navy’s vigilance is comprehensive and extends to all nations, not just China. He noted that the Navy responds to developments according to government directives, maintaining a posture of strategic awareness rather than alarm. He highlighted that in international waters beyond 200 nautical miles, freedom of navigation prevails, and such…

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New Delhi: India has shown strong interest in acquiring Russia’s S-500 Triumfator-M (Prometheus) air defence system, although no formal purchase decision has been finalized as of early December 2025. Following the S-400’s proven effectiveness during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, India is exploring ways to expand its air defence capabilities. This includes both additional S-400 squadrons and the more advanced S-500 system, which provides extended range, hypersonic interception, and the ability to engage near-space threats. Formal discussions on this potential acquisition are expected during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to…

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