Former Indian Air Force officer Air Vice Marshal Rajiva Ranjan has joined olee.space as a strategic defence advisor. With extensive experience in fighter operations and defence technology, he aims to enhance India’s defence systems, particularly in photonics and laser technologies. olee.space seeks to innovate in defence communication and technology.
India’s aerospace sector secured a significant milestone with Godrej Enterprises Group obtaining a five-year contract from Safran Aircraft Engines to produce components for the LEAP engine program. This partnership enhances India’s manufacturing capabilities, positions it strategically in the global supply chain, and supports aspirations for indigenous aircraft engine development.
In an interview, Ashish Kansal, CEO of SMPP Limited, discusses the company’s strategic growth in the defence sector, highlighting recent contracts with the Indian Army and international clients. SMPP leads in ballistic protection, utilizing Boron Carbide technology. The company aims to expand its global presence and innovate in defence solutions over the next few years.
While Pakistan and its leaders’ statements might be all smoke and no fire, India chooses to act rather than engage in verbal exchanges. Days after Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir issued a nuclear threat to half of the world from the US soil, India has tested its nuclear-capable ballistic missile Agni-V.
India has approved the acquisition of 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk1A fighter jets to enhance its defense capabilities under the Make in India initiative. Produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, these jets will replace the aging MiG-21 fleet, featuring advanced technology and over 65% indigenous content, boosting self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
ICEYE has unveiled its new imaging mode, Scan Wide, allowing customers to capture scenes up to 60,000 km² with a single image, and 120,000 km² through multi-frame tasking. This mode enhances maritime monitoring and supports various applications like oil spill detection. ICEYE operates the largest SAR satellite constellation, ensuring unmatched global access.
India’s SMPP Limited has signed an MoU with the Philippines’ Asia Defence and Firepower Corporation to establish a joint venture for manufacturing defence products aimed at the Philippine armed forces. This partnership supports the Philippines’ Self-Reliant Defence Posture, promotes Indian defence technology, and boosts local manufacturing capabilities.
On August 5, the Defence Acquisition Council of India approved proposals worth ₹67,000 crore to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force and bolster indigenous manufacturing. Key acquisitions include advanced night combat systems, unmanned maritime platforms, mountain radars, and Medium Altitude Long Endurance drones, targeting improved surveillance and strike capabilities.
NASA has successfully demonstrated Dynamic Targeting, an onboard AI system for satellites that autonomously analyzes conditions and makes quick decisions without human help. Tested on the CogniSAT-6 CubeSat, this innovation allows for real-time cloud identification and optimization of data collection, potentially transforming Earth observation and paving the way for advanced deep space missions.
The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) satellite, set to launch on July 30, 2025, marks a significant milestone in India-US space cooperation and investment in climate science. Valued at $1.5 billion, NISAR enhances capabilities for tracking environmental changes while solidifying bilateral strategic ties in science and technology.
Zen Technologies Limited is advancing in India’s defence ecosystem, shifting from training simulators to a comprehensive defence tech innovator. With strategic acquisitions and an aggressive patenting approach, it aims to build proprietary technology and enhance its market stance, aligning with government initiatives like ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ to bolster indigenous defence capabilities.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has completed the development of the Service Module Propulsion System (SMPS) for its Gaganyaan human spaceflight mission, validating its functionality through extensive testing. This advancement is crucial for astronaut safety and aims to position India as the fourth nation capable of independent human spaceflight.
In response to strategic shifts post-Operation Sindoor, India’s Defence Acquisition Council approved over INR 1 lakh crore in procurements for the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Key initiatives include the induction of Surface-to-Air Missiles, Electronic Warfare Systems, Armoured Recovery Vehicles, and undersea warfare enhancements such as Mine Counter Measure Vessels, aiming to strengthen national defence capabilities.
India’s Defence Ministry caused confusion by removing references to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism from a statement about Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s call with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. The call emphasised India’s commitment to counter terrorism and cooperation in defence, but the omission raised concerns over the ministry’s communication effectiveness.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited delivered Udaygiri, India’s second Project 17A stealth frigate, to the Navy on July 1, 2025, enhancing maritime capabilities. Constructed with contributions from over 200 MSMEs in just 37 months, it embodies self-reliant defense manufacturing. The frigate features advanced weaponry and technology for modern naval operations.
