Category: Aerospace

ISRO’s Space Blitz: Gaganyaan Test Flight, Electric Propulsion Breakthrough, and Seven Rocket Launches Set to Redefine India’s Space Ambitions

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) plans seven missions by March 2026, including the Gaganyaan human spaceflight’s first uncrewed test and technology demonstrations for electric propulsion and quantum communication. The LVM3 rocket will facilitate both commercial and national missions, reflecting ISRO’s growing role in global space launch services and its collaboration with private industry.

Photo: Tata Advanced Systems chief executive officer and managing director, Sukaran Singh, and Lockheed Martin chief operating officer Frank St. John at the groundbreaking ceremony for the C-130J MRO facility on December 8, 2025. Credit: TASL.

Tata, Lockheed Break Ground on India’s First Major C-130J MRO Hub to Be Ready by 2026, Operations in 2027

Tata Advanced Systems Ltd and Lockheed Martin have begun construction on a cutting-edge MRO facility for the C-130J Super Hercules fleet in Bengaluru. Set to enhance the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness, it will offer comprehensive maintenance services and boost India’s aerospace capabilities. The facility signifies significant US-India defense collaboration and innovation opportunities.

Underdog Aeroplane-Parts Maker Set to Soar: Why Investors Are Betting Big on Aequs INR 922 Crore Maiden IPO

Aequs Limited, a precision-engineering firm based in Karnataka, launched its INR 921.81-crore IPO on December 3, 2025. The funds will support manufacturing expansion and debt repayment. With strong pre-issue demand due to growing aerospace needs, Aequs aims to emerge as a key player in India’s aerospace manufacturing sector.

JSW Defence Starts Building USD 90-Million V-BAT Manufacturing Hub Through Major Indo-American Tech Transfer

JSW Defence has initiated the construction of a next-generation Unmanned Aerial Systems facility in Telangana, backed by a $90 million investment and a technology transfer from Shield AI. This project aims to manufacture the V-BAT drone, enhancing India’s defence capabilities and establishing a significant UAV production hub by 2026.

CoreEL Makes Game-Changing Defence Push: Acquires Lekha Wireless Aerospace & Defence Division in Major Boost to Indian Military Communication Ecosystem

CoreEL Technologies announced the acquisition of Lekha Wireless’s Aerospace & Defence Systems division, enhancing its position in India’s military communication market. This strategic move supports the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision by integrating advanced wireless technologies and engineering talent, boosting CoreEL’s capabilities in secure, indigenous communication solutions for various defence applications.

India Bets Big on Indigenous Wankel Engines as CSIR-NAL and SDAL Team Up for Long-Range Loitering Munition UAV Project

India is shifting towards self-reliance in unmanned warfare by developing advanced drones and a 150-kg loitering munition powered by an indigenous Wankel rotary engine. This initiative aims to eliminate dependence on foreign propulsion systems, enhancing surveillance and engagement capabilities, while fostering collaboration between public and private sectors for national security projects.

ICEYE Launches Five New SAR Satellites, Accelerating Global Demand for High-Resolution Space Intelligence

ICEYE has launched five new Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellites, enhancing its position as the leading operator in the field. The November 28, 2025 launch supports various national missions and increases monitoring capabilities. These additions expand ICEYE’s commercial constellation to 62 satellites, including advanced Gen4 with improved imaging and operational efficiency.

India, US Sign INR 7,995-Crore Deal to Boost MH-60R Helicopter Fleet Support

India’s Ministry of Defence has signed two significant agreements with the US for long-term support of the Navy’s MH-60R helicopters, worth INR 7,995 crore. Over five years, the package enhances sustainment with spares, training, and local repair facilities, promoting self-reliance and operational readiness for anti-submarine and other critical missions.

Exclusive Interview: GA Global Chief Dr. Vivek Lall on India’s MQ-9B Deal, Make-in-India Push, L&T Partnership, and Future of Unmanned Warfare

In an interview, Dr. Vivek Lall of General Atomics discussed India’s MQ-9B programme, highlighting its role in enhancing ISR operations and industrial partnerships amid defense modernization. The USD 3-billion deal is underway, emphasizing “Make in India.” Opportunities in AI and cybersecurity signal deepening US-India defense collaboration, driven by technological advancements and local integration.

India Unveils First Anti-Drone Patrol Vehicle ‘Indrajaal Ranger’ to Combat Border Smuggling and Aerial Threats

India has enhanced its drone defense capabilities with the launch of the Indrajaal Ranger, the first Anti-Drone Patrol Vehicle (ADPV). Developed by Indrajaal Drone Defence, it can detect and neutralize hostile drones in motion, addressing the rising narcotics and weapons smuggling from Pakistan. The mobile system aims to secure borders and urban areas effectively.

Dassault Aviation, Thales Join Hands to Build Next-Gen ‘Trusted AI’ for Defence Aeronautics

European defence firms Dassault Aviation and Thales have formed a strategic partnership to develop supervised artificial intelligence for military aviation systems, announced on November 26, 2025. This collaboration aims to create mission-critical AI for manned and unmanned aircraft, supporting operations while adhering to ethical frameworks and regulations within the EU.

Modi Inaugurates Safran’s INR 1,300-Crore Aircraft Engine MRO Hub, Calls It a “New Flight” for India Aviation Growth

On November 26, 2025, Prime Minister Modi inaugurated Safran Aircraft Engine Services India (SAESI) in Hyderabad, a significant MRO facility for LEAP engines, aiming to enhance India’s aviation sector. The facility will employ over 1,000 engineers by 2035, reduce outsourcing, and bolster aerospace self-reliance aligning with India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat strategy.

India Helicopter Revolution Is Stuck on the Ground: Can the Airbus–Tata Bet Finally Lift the Sector?

India’s helicopter industry is gaining momentum with the launch of its first private assembly line by Airbus and Tata Advanced Systems in Karnataka. This milestone could transform the market, enabling domestic production and reducing import reliance. However, regulatory obstacles and policy fragmentation hinder progress. Enhanced infrastructure and streamlined regulations are essential for realizing the sector’s true potential.

ISRO Races Ahead: 80,000 Tests Completed as India Nears First Human Spaceflight, Sets Ambitious Sector Targets

India’s human spaceflight ambitions are advancing rapidly, with ISRO set for its Gaganyaan mission’s uncrewed flight by December 2025 and crewed mission in early 2027. By 2035, India’s first space station is planned, alongside significant lunar exploration missions. ISRO aims to boost its global market share and capabilities significantly by 2062.