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 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’s Navy chief, Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi, announced the imminent commissioning of the indigenously built nuclear submarine INS Aridhaman during a press conference on December 2, 2025. He also highlighted ongoing projects, including 51 warships under construction and the signing of key procurement contracts, underscoring India’s push for self-reliance in defense capabilities.
Russia has ratified the Reciprocal Exchange of Logistic Support (RELOS) pact with India, enhancing military cooperation ahead of President Putin’s New Delhi visit. This agreement facilitates mutual access to military bases, streamlining logistics for operations. It strengthens India’s naval capabilities while offering Russia strategic access in the Indian Ocean, amidst geopolitical tensions.
On December 1, 2025, the Indian Army successfully launched the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from the Bay of Bengal during Exercise Rudrakrosh. This test showcased India’s advanced capabilities and operational readiness, emphasizing long-range precision and self-reliance in defense technology. The launch strengthens India’s combat posture amidst rising regional challenges.
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.
Zen Technologies’ chairman Ashok Atluri outlined a strategic roadmap focused on indigenous innovation, targeting INR 6,000 crore in revenue over three years, primarily from anti-drone technologies. The company’s acquisition of TISA Aerospace aims to enhance its unmanned systems capabilities. With a robust IP portfolio, Zen plans to boost exports significantly, leveraging user-driven innovation to meet modern battlefield demands.
At the BWC 50th anniversary conference, India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar warned of evolving biological threats outpacing governance, especially for the vulnerable Global South. He emphasized the need to modernize the BWC and called for global cooperation to enhance biosecurity, highlighting India’s strong public health capacity and commitment to support developing nations.
In 2024, global arms sales hit USD 679 billion, but India and China’s defense industries diverged significantly. India saw its defense revenue rise 8.2% due to domestic orders, while China experienced a 10% decline due to corruption issues. This shift indicates India’s potential for greater global defense influence amidst China’s challenges.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India on December 4-5, 2025, is significant amid shifting geopolitics and India’s strategic recalibration. The focus will be on defence cooperation, particularly concerning the S-400 air defence system. Both nations seek to adapt their partnership while addressing new challenges and pressures from the West.
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.
India and Indonesia reinforced their defence and strategic partnership on November 27, 2025, focusing on Indo-Pacific security. Both nations pledged to enhance military collaboration, technology transfer, and maritime security. The dialogue, influenced by recent high-level visits, aims to address regional tensions and promote stability while deepening bilateral cooperation in various domains, including Scorpene submarine building.
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.
On November 26, 2025, India approved a INR 7,280-crore scheme to establish an integrated manufacturing ecosystem for sintered Rare Earth Permanent Magnets (REPM). This initiative aims to enhance domestic production, reduce import reliance, and support the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, aligning with India’s Net Zero 2070 commitments while creating skilled jobs and boosting advanced manufacturing.
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.
