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.
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.
Zen Technologies Limited has secured a INR 108-crore contract from India’s Ministry of Defence for advanced Tank Crew Gunnery Training Simulators, signaling a commitment to indigenous defence technology. This agreement highlights the shift towards simulation-based training, boosting military preparedness and cost-effectiveness while supporting local R&D and innovation in defense solutions.
Bharat Electronics Limited and Safran Electronics & Defense have signed a Joint Venture Cooperation Agreement to manufacture the HAMMER precision-guided weapon system in India, enhancing the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The 50:50 joint venture will focus on indigenization, with BEL leading assembly and support, boosting India’s strategic autonomy in advanced munitions.
India’s shipbuilding industry marked a significant milestone on November 24, 2025, with the commissioning of INS Mahe, the first Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft. Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited, it features over 80% indigenous content and enhances India’s naval capabilities amid regional tensions, symbolizing the nation’s shift toward self-reliance in defense.
India’s SMPP has partnered with European firm KNDS to introduce KATANA precision-guided artillery ammunition, enhancing its 155mm munitions capabilities. The collaboration, announced at Milipol 2025, aims to address the Indian Army’s need for advanced artillery systems. KATANA features innovative guidance technology and variants for diverse combat scenarios, supporting indigenisation efforts.
A Tejas Light Combat Aircraft from India crashed during a flying dispaly at the Dubai Air Show 2025 on November 21, 2025. The crash on an international stage has dealt a huge blow to the Tejas’ export potential.
The Indian Navy expresses concerns over China’s naval expansion and submarine deliveries to Pakistan, viewing it as a challenge to regional stability. Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan emphasizes readiness and monitors developments. India’s response includes plans for advanced guided-missile destroyers and continued naval modernization amidst growing regional tensions.
On November 19, 2025, the US approved military deals worth over USD 92 million for India, including Excalibur artillery shells and Javelin anti-tank missiles, enhancing India’s precision-strike capability amid US-India tensions. These acquisitions aim to improve India’s military readiness along its borders with Pakistan and China, reinforcing defense collaboration despite ongoing tariff disputes.
Controlled Flight into Terrain (CFIT) remains a critical risk for India’s helicopters, exemplified by the tragic 2021 crash involving General Bipin Rawat. A landmark partnership between Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and HENSOLDT aims to develop an advanced LiDAR-based obstacle avoidance system, enhancing operational safety and autonomy for Indian helicopters in challenging environments.
China’s disinformation campaign post-Operation Sindoor aimed to undermine India’s Rafale jets while promoting its J-35 aircraft, according to a US report. Beijing employed social media tactics to distort the India-Pakistan clash narrative, reinforcing military ties with Pakistan and attempting to influence regional defense procurement dynamics amid rising tensions with India.
India has signed a contract with Larsen & Toubro to procure BvS10 ‘Sindhu’ armoured vehicles, enhancing its high-altitude mobility and combat capabilities. Produced in partnership with BAE Systems at L&T’s Hazira facility, these vehicles will support operations in extreme terrains, bolstering the Indian Army’s readiness in strategic regions.
India and Germany are enhancing their defence partnership through a High Defence Committee meeting, focusing on co-development of advanced military systems. The two nations aim to strengthen collaboration on military technologies, including submarines, and confirm participation in joint exercises, highlighting their commitment to mutual security and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
India’s Solar Industries India Limited has secured INR 1,400 crore in export orders for defence products, marking a significant long-term contract. This reinforces its role in global defence manufacturing, with the defence segment growing 57% year-on-year. The company aims to achieve its FY26 revenue target of INR 3,000 crore.
Adani Defence and Aerospace is significantly expanding its operations in India’s defence sector, aiming for 100% indigenous military supplies. The company plans to triple its investment, increasing ammunition production and developing advanced systems like drones and electronic warfare technologies. By 2028, it seeks to eliminate reliance on imports for key materials.
