Larsen & Toubro (L&T) and General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) have formed a strategic partnership to produce Medium Altitude Long Endurance Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems in India. The collaboration aims to fulfill Indian armed forces’ needs, enhance self-reliance, and significantly reduce import reliance through technology transfer and indigenous manufacturing.
The Indian Army has signed a contract for its first indigenously designed Software Defined Radios (SDRs), developed by DRDO and manufactured by BEL. These advanced SDRs enhance secure communication and operational readiness in network-centric warfare. This initiative aligns with India’s goal of self-reliance in defense technology and lays the groundwork for future military innovations.
India has officially vacated the Ayni air base in Tajikistan following the expiration of its bilateral defense agreement in 2022. Despite discussions for renewal, no extension was made, leading to Tajik forces taking control. This exit is viewed as a significant setback for India amid growing geopolitical pressures in the region.
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has transferred 12 technology licensing agreements to industry partners during SAMANVAY 2025 in Bengaluru. This initiative, part of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ program, focuses on collaboration in defence technologies, enhancing India’s self-reliance in manufacturing and fostering innovation among industries and start-ups.
In today’s digital era, espionage tactics have evolved, with female operatives from China and Russia employing “sex warfare” to infiltrate America’s tech sector. A Times investigation reveals these spies seduce US professionals to extract trade secrets. This shifting strategy complicates detection and poses significant risks to national security and innovation.
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh introduced the Defence Procurement Manual (DPM) 2025 on Oct. 23, aimed at streamlining defence acquisition and enhancing self-reliance. Effective from Nov. 1, DPM 2025 introduces significant reforms, such as relaxed penalties for delays and assured orders for indigenous development, promoting efficiency and innovation in the defence sector.
The Defence Acquisition Council of India approved proposals worth INR 79,000 crore to enhance the military’s capabilities. Key acquisitions include advanced missile systems, electronic intelligence platforms for the Army, amphibious warships, and autonomous strike systems for the Air Force, emphasizing self-reliance in defense production and modernizing forces across all branches.
Between October 12 and 19, 2025, the Indian Army and Assam Rifles, in collaboration with Manipur Police, conducted intelligence-led operations in several Manipur districts, apprehending four insurgents and recovering 12 weapons. These efforts highlight the commitment to restoring peace and stability in the region through coordinated counter-insurgency measures.
The Indian Ministry of Defence has raised concerns about the Indian Air Force’s request for acquisition of 114 multi-role fighter aircraft, deeming it incomplete. Focused on self-reliance, the MoD demands most aircraft be made in India with higher indigenous content. Dassault must establish local facilities to secure the deal.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has signed a Transfer of Technology agreement with Sagar Defence Engineering for the production of the Unexploded Ordnance Handling Robot (UXOR). Designed for safety in ordnance neutralization, UXOR can handle explosives up to 1,000 kg and will support the Indian Air Force’s operational needs at strategic locations.
India is set to abandon plans for three additional French-origin Scorpene submarines as it focuses on the advanced Project-75I, which will involve the construction of six German-origin stealth submarines. This shift, influenced by technological advancements and production challenges, reflects India’s strategic military needs amid regional security threats.
India’s government is evaluating seven defense firms for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project, aiming to develop a homegrown sixth-generation fighter jet. With various industry collaborations, the process will conclude in a month, initiating subsequent contracts. The first prototype is expected to fly in 2029, enhancing India’s air superiority amid regional threats.
India’s HAL facility in Nashik has shifted focus to indigenous military aviation, modernizing to produce the LCA Mk1A and HTT-40 trainers. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh marked a historic milestone with the LCA’s first flight. While production capacity is set to increase, concerns remain over timely delivery and meeting IAF’s fighter requirements.
On October 18, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Titanium and Superalloy Materials Plant in Lucknow as a major step towards India’s technological sovereignty in defence. The facility enhances self-reliance in strategic materials and is expected to boost employment and attract industries, marking a significant advancement in India’s defence capabilities.
On October 18, 2025, India launched its first batch of BrahMos missiles from Lucknow, marking a key milestone in defense self-reliance. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath highlighted the project’s alignment with the ‘Make in India’ vision, enhancing national security and creating jobs in the Uttar Pradesh Defence Industrial Corridor.
