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Indian Air Force to Boost Combat Capabilities with New AWACS and Mid-Air Refuellers

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In a major push to enhance air combat and surveillance capabilities, the Indian Ministry of Defence is set to acquire six Embraer aircraft from Brazil for conversion into Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) systems equipped with DRDO-developed Netra Mark 1A AESA radars. This strategic move comes in the wake of Operation Sindoor and is aimed at strengthening India’s conventional deterrence through high-altitude battlefield awareness and rapid response capabilities.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, will soon review the proposal. The upgraded AEW&C platforms will augment India’s current fleet and address the disparity with Pakistan’s airborne surveillance systems, which include SAAB-2000 Erieye, Chinese ZDK-03, and Falcon DA-20 aircraft.

In parallel, India has approved the wet lease of one KC-135 mid-air refueller from US-based Metrea and accelerated the procurement of six additional refuellers. These aircraft will support sustained air operations over extended distances. Currently, India operates six Russian IL-78 refuellers, the same model as Pakistan’s fleet.

A key motivator for the accelerated procurement is the success of the Indian Air Force during the May 7–10 Operation Sindoor, where it conducted precision strikes on terror camps and Pakistani military installations across 13 airbases, stretching from Peshawar to Hyderabad. India’s targeting capabilities were significantly enabled by drones and real-time data sharing, underscoring the need for more robust airborne warning systems and refuelling platforms.

Operation Sindoor also yielded a rare intelligence windfall. Indian forces recovered Chinese and Turkish weapons, including the PL-15 air-to-air missile, SH-15 howitzers, Fatah rockets, and the Turkish-built YIHA drone. These systems are now being analyzed by Indian defence scientists, making India the only country with war-tested data on key Chinese platforms such as the J-10 and JF-17 fighters, HQ-9 air defence systems, and performance of its own Rafale jets in live combat conditions.

India’s defence planners, during a high-level meeting on June 7, concluded that Pakistan is likely to further expand its capabilities with Chinese and Turkish assistance. China is supplying Yuan-class submarines, armed drones, and frigates, while Turkey is building naval corvettes and upgrading Pakistani submarines and F-16 fighters.

Defence experts warn that Pakistan, having suffered significant losses in Operation Sindoor, may prepare for a more coordinated military and terrorist response in the future. India’s assessment does not rule out the possibility of mass casualty attacks by Pakistan-based jihadist groups. Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, Pakistan’s failed counteroffensive, collapsed within eight hours despite ambitious aims to cripple India within 48 hours, according to Chief of Defence Staff Gen Anil Chauhan.

The latest developments highlight India’s resolve to preempt future threats through technology-driven preparedness and strategic force multipliers.

2,000 Agniveers Inducted into Indian Army at Secunderabad Passing Out Parade

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Over 2,000 newly trained Agniveers were formally inducted into the Indian Army during impressive Passing Out Parades held at the Army Ordnance Corps (AOC) Centre and the 1 EME Centre in Secunderabad. The ceremonies marked the successful completion of 34 weeks of rigorous military training and drew large gatherings of proud families and relatives.

At the AOC Centre, the recruits completed their training in critical battlefield support roles, focusing on logistics, field craft, physical endurance, weapons handling, and military drills. Major General Rakesh Manocha, Commandant of the AOC Centre, reviewed the parade and encouraged the soldiers to embody the principles of “Duty, Honour, and Courage.” Recruit Manish Kumar was presented the GOC-in-C Southern Command rolling trophy for being the best recruit of the batch.

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Simultaneously, at the 1 EME Centre, 1,024 Agniveers of Batch-05/24 were inducted into the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers after completing their basic and advanced training. The EME plays a pivotal role in the upkeep and operation of cutting-edge military equipment, preparing soldiers for technologically advanced combat environments.

Brigadier Prashant Bajpai, Commandant of the 1 EME Centre, reviewed the parade and lauded the Agniveers for their discipline and resilience. He urged them to serve the nation with unwavering dedication, while upholding integrity and honour. Agniveer Vishnu Soni was awarded best in drill and appointed parade commander, and Agniveer Prithvijeet Kumar received the award for best overall performance.

The events underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to grooming a new generation of soldiers through the Agnipath scheme, focusing on youthful energy, technical skill, and patriotism.

Reliance and Diehl Sign ₹10,000 Crore Pact to Manufacture Vulcano Precision Ammunition in India

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In a significant boost to India’s defence manufacturing ambitions, Reliance Defence has signed a ₹10,000 crore strategic cooperation agreement with Germany’s Diehl Defence to locally produce the Vulcano 155mm precision-guided ammunition system. The advanced artillery munitions will be manufactured at a new facility in Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, aligning with the government’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives.

The Vulcano system is a next-generation long-range munition, using GPS and laser-guided targeting for enhanced strike accuracy. This capability is critical in modern battlefields where precision reduces collateral damage and improves mission effectiveness. The new manufacturing unit will be part of the Dhirubhai Ambani Defence City and will involve over 50% indigenous value addition.

Reliance Defence will serve as the prime integrator for the programme, while Diehl Defence will transfer the core technologies and provide technical expertise. With projected revenues touching ₹10,000 crore, the project is expected to bolster India’s defence exports and reduce dependence on foreign ammunition systems.

This collaboration is Reliance Group’s fourth major defence tie-up, following partnerships with Dassault Aviation, Thales Group, and Rheinmetall. Diehl Defence, a German company with over €2 billion in annual sales, is known globally for its advanced missile and ammunition solutions.

However, the deal comes amid reports that Diehl Defence is also promoting its IRIS-T air defence system to Pakistan. The IRIS-T system, currently deployed in Ukraine, is capable of intercepting supersonic threats like Russia’s Oniks missile and is considered technologically comparable to India’s BrahMos.

Strategic analysts in India have expressed concern over Germany’s dual-track defence diplomacy in South Asia, questioning the long-term implications of its simultaneous engagements with rivals in the region. Despite this, the stock market reacted positively to the deal, with shares of Reliance Infrastructure rising 3.5% to close at ₹404.40 on the BSE.

The agreement signifies a critical step forward in India’s journey toward defence self-reliance while also stirring a renewed debate over global arms trade ethics and regional strategic balance.

National Symposium on Flood Relief Showcases Civil-Military Synergy in Disaster Management Held at Central Command Headquarters

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The National Military-Civil Symposium on Floods and Flood-Related Disaster Management was convened today at Headquarters Central Command in Lucknow, bringing together key stakeholders from the armed forces, state governments, and technical agencies. The symposium aimed to strengthen preparedness and foster collaboration to address recurring flood challenges across India’s most vulnerable regions.

Senior representatives from the states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh participated, along with officials from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and State Disaster Management Authorities (SDMAs). Technical experts from the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), Central Water Commission (CWC), and National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) contributed valuable insights into early warning systems and data-driven flood mitigation strategies.

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Delivering the keynote address, Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Surya Command, stressed the importance of a unified approach. He said, “Our goal is to reduce disaster risk through collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. Civil-military coordination is essential for swift and resilient flood responses.”

An equipment display at the venue highlighted recent advancements in flood response technologies, including real-time monitoring tools, inflatable rescue boats, and communication systems. Participants also shared successful models and lessons learned from past flood relief operations, encouraging cross-state learning and preparedness.

This symposium is a step forward in institutionalizing civil-military cooperation for disaster management and sets the stage for a more robust, technology-integrated response framework. It reflects India’s evolving disaster management priorities, emphasizing inter-agency coordination, proactive planning, and community resilience.

Meet 411 Parachute Field Company Lt Col Mohammad Illiyas Khan, Who Developed STRIKE Drone to Safely Neutralize Bomb Threats

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In a landmark innovation for defence technology, Lieutenant Colonel Mohammad Illiyas Khan of the Indian Army has developed the STRIKE drone—a state-of-the-art wireless detonation system that promises to revolutionize bomb disposal operations. The system combines an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), a remote transmitter, and a relay mechanism to safely neutralize explosives from a distance.

The STRIKE (Smart Tactical Remote-Integrated Kill Engagement) drone minimizes human exposure to hazardous conditions, allowing bomb disposal teams to carry out high-risk operations with greater safety and precision. By enabling remote detonation, it significantly lowers the chances of casualties, marking a major leap forward in counter-IED (Improvised Explosive Device) capabilities.

This innovation comes at a time when the Indian Army is actively modernizing its arsenal with indigenous, tech-driven solutions. The STRIKE drone aligns with the global shift toward unmanned systems for tasks traditionally carried out by personnel on the ground. Drones have already proven their worth in surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeted operations; Lt Col Khan’s contribution extends this utility to life-saving defensive operations.

Drawing on a rich tradition of UAV deployment—tracing back to Israel’s pioneering use of drones in the late 1970s—India’s STRIKE system adds to the growing body of tactical applications for drones in modern warfare. It is expected to be integrated into Indian Army bomb disposal units and possibly adapted for use by paramilitary forces and disaster response teams.

Lt Col Khan’s creation stands as a testament to the innovation and dedication of India’s military personnel, combining operational necessity with technological ingenuity to safeguard lives in high-threat environments.

Defence Ministry to Reportedly Launch ‘Ran Samvad’—India’s Own Military Dialogue on Global Warfare

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As per The Print, In a major push to elevate India’s voice on the global military stage, the Ministry of Defence is set to launch its own strategic conference—‘Ran Samvad’—focused exclusively on warfare and defence cooperation. Modelled after renowned international events like the Raisina Dialogue and Singapore’s Shangri-La Dialogue, Ran Samvad aims to emerge as a premier forum on military affairs, conducted by each armed service in rotation.

Sources said the inaugural edition will be hosted by the Indian Army at Mhow, Madhya Pradesh, from August 26 to 27, 2025. The event will feature defence attachés posted in India and serve as a foundational step towards establishing India as a leading voice on warfighting and global security dynamics.

The conference will be organised in partnership with the Centre for Joint Warfare Studies (CENJOWS), a tri-services think tank that will serve as a permanent institutional fixture for the dialogue. Future editions will rotate among the Indian Navy and Air Force, with a long-term vision of attracting prominent foreign dignitaries such as the US Secretary of Defence and senior global military leaders.

While the Raisina Dialogue, run by the Ministry of External Affairs and Observer Research Foundation, includes a defence component, Ran Samvad is envisioned as a focused military dialogue that addresses operational, strategic, and doctrinal challenges in warfare. Unlike Raisina, which covers a wide range of geopolitical issues, Ran Samvad will be dedicated to the armed forces and security strategy.

The Defence Ministry’s initiative also aims to position India as a leader in the Global South, advocating for a cooperative and inclusive approach to global security. By institutionalising such a platform, India hopes to fill the strategic void in multilateral military dialogue from the perspective of developing nations.

The Shangri-La Dialogue, held annually in Singapore by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), has long been a prominent forum on Asia-Pacific security issues. Ran Samvad is intended to complement, and eventually rival, such platforms by offering a distinct and India-led perspective on emerging global military trends.

10 Para SF Brigadier Rajesh Shivrain Passes Away at Delhi’s Army Hospital

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The Indian Armed Forces and the nation are grieving the loss of Brigadier Rajesh Shivrain, a decorated officer from the elite 10 Para (Special Forces), who passed away earlier today at the Army Hospital (Research and Referral) in Delhi Cantonment. Fondly known as “Sherkhan” among his comrades, Brigadier Shivrain was celebrated for his bravery, mentorship, and decades of selfless service to the nation.

A legendary figure within the special forces community, Brigadier Shivrain played a key role in several high-stakes operations and was widely respected for his leadership and field expertise. He was particularly admired in the 10 Para (SF), one of India’s most daring military units, noted for missions such as the 1988 intervention in the Maldives.

His moniker “Sherkhan” resonated deeply within military circles, evoking a spirit of courage similar to Pakistani Captain Karnal Sher Khan, the only Nishan-e-Haider recipient of the Kargil conflict. The comparison, originally drawn by Indian Brigadier M.P.S. Bajwa, reflects an acknowledgment of valor that transcends borders.

Brigadier Shivrain’s passing is being mourned as a monumental loss by his colleagues and juniors, many of whom regarded him as a guiding force and elder brother. The Army Hospital (R&R), where he breathed his last, is a premier medical institution that serves India’s top military leadership and symbolizes his stature within the armed forces.

His service follows the proud tradition of the 10 Para (SF), whose valor was also exemplified by martyrs like Havaldar Gajender Singh Bisht, who laid down his life during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Brigadier Shivrain’s death leaves behind a void in a regiment that has long stood at the forefront of India’s most challenging operations.

As tributes pour in from across the nation, a formal statement from the Indian Army is awaited. The overwhelming response from serving personnel, veterans, and citizens reflects the deep impact of Brigadier Shivrain’s life and legacy. His name will endure as a symbol of sacrifice, service, and unwavering courage.

Jai Hind.

Air Force Chief Applauds NCC’s Third Successful Mount Everest Expedition

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The Indian Air Force (IAF) along with Air Force Chief Air Marshal A.P. Singh has celebrated the third successful Mount Everest expedition by the National Cadet Corps (NCC), completed on May 18, 2025. The feat saw ten young cadets—five boys and five girls—reach the 8,848-meter summit with a flawless 100 per cent success rate, winning admiration from seasoned Sherpas and international mountaineers alike.

Flagged off by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on April 3, 2025, the expedition represents a major achievement in youth-led high-altitude exploration. The cadets, aged between 16 and 19, underwent rigorous training at the Army Mountaineering Institute, including advanced acclimatization and resilience-building programs based on the latest high-altitude physiology research.

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Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, who assumed command of the IAF on September 30, 2024, personally felicitated the cadets and supporting team members. He lauded their courage and perseverance, calling them an inspiration to the nation and a symbol of India’s adventurous spirit.

This is the NCC’s third successful ascent of Everest, following earlier expeditions in 2013 and 2016. The current team was supported by four officers, two junior commissioned officers, one girl cadet instructor, and ten non-commissioned officers, forming a well-coordinated unit that ensured safety and success in one of the world’s most challenging environments.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the mission as a demonstration of national resolve and youth empowerment. He emphasized that such achievements elevate India’s global image in adventure sports and inspire young citizens to embrace discipline, endurance, and leadership.

The success has sparked a nationwide sense of pride, with plans in motion to expand similar initiatives as part of national youth development and adventure training programs.

Indian Army to Join Multinational Military Exercise Khaan Quest 2025 in Mongolia from June 14 to June 28

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The Indian Army will participate in the 22nd edition of the multinational military exercise “Khaan Quest 2025,” scheduled to be held in Mongolia from June 14 to 28, 2025. The exercise brings together armed forces from multiple countries to improve interoperability and cooperation in peacekeeping operations under United Nations mandates.

Khaan Quest is recognised globally for its focus on sharing best practices in joint tactics, operational procedures, and techniques for multinational missions. The platform also serves as a United Nations peacekeeper training and certification opportunity, making it especially relevant for countries with a strong peacekeeping tradition.

India’s involvement in Khaan Quest 2025 reflects its commitment to strengthening international military partnerships and contributing to global peace and security. As of December 31, 2023, India has deployed the highest number of military personnel to UN peacekeeping operations, underlining its leadership in global peace support initiatives.

Participation in this year’s exercise further reinforces India’s active role in multilateral security cooperation. The drills are expected to build on previous collaborations in the Indo-Pacific and Central Asian regions, while also enhancing the Indian Army’s preparedness for complex multinational missions.

Pakistan Hikes Defence Budget by 20% Post Operation Sindoor, Slashes Overall Spending

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In a significant move following heightened military tensions with India in May, Pakistan on Tuesday increased its defence budget by 20 per cent for the fiscal year 2025–26. Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced a defence outlay of PKR 2.55 trillion (approximately $9 billion), up from PKR 2.1 trillion the previous year.

The announcement came as part of Pakistan’s federal budget for 2025–26, which has a total outlay of PKR 17.573 trillion ($62 billion), reflecting a 6.9 per cent decrease from the previous year. The cut in overall government spending contrasts sharply with the increase in defence allocation, underscoring the country’s shifting fiscal priorities in the wake of Operation Sindoor, India’s recent anti-terror military action.

Aurangzeb referred to the current period as a “historic moment” for Pakistan, highlighting national unity in difficult times. “This budget is being presented at a historic time when the nation showed unity and determination,” he said, linking the budget’s defence focus to recent cross-border conflict.

The revised defence figures do not include military pensions, which are separately budgeted at PKR 563 billion ($1.99 billion). Last year, defence spending also included $2 billion earmarked for new equipment and strategic assets.

On the economic front, Pakistan has projected a growth rate of 4.2 per cent for 2025–26. This follows a modest expected growth of 2.7 per cent for the current fiscal year—below the previous target of 3.6 per cent and trailing behind the regional average. According to the Asian Development Bank, South Asia’s average growth stood at 5.8 per cent in 2024 and is expected to hit 6 per cent in 2025.

Aurangzeb also claimed a 100 per cent rise in the taxpayer base and announced an upcoming tariff reform package aimed at boosting exports. The budget aligns with ongoing IMF recommendations urging Pakistan to expand its tax net, including sectors like agriculture, retail, and real estate.