Category: Exclusive

Exclusive Interview With General Dwivedi: Indian Army War Playbook Involves ‘Future Soldier’ Fusing Intellect-Technology To Crush Enemies

In this interview in New Delhi ahead of Army Day 2026, India’s Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi tells Defence Capital editor N. C. Bipindra about the lessons learnt from global conflicts in Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Hamas, the continuing preparations to meet the growing challenges from China and Pakistan, the adoption of advanced technologies to increase firepower and combat potency, apart from his vision for a future-ready soldier and the army. Here are the excerpts:

Exclusive Interview: Zen Technologies Targets INR 6,000 Crore Defence Boom as Anti-Drone Systems Take 40% Share, Says CMD Ashok Atluri

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.

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 to Finish Massive Mauritius’ Agaléga Air Base and Naval Jetty by 2026, Without the “Debt Trap” Strings China Pulls

India plans to complete the construction of an air base and naval jetty on Agaléga Island in Mauritius by 2026, emphasizing a cooperative partnership without creating debt dependency. This strategic project aims to enhance regional security and maritime capabilities, contrasting with China’s controversial approach of entrapment through loans.

How Light Beam can be Weaponised: India Laser Startup Olee Space Shows the Way

Olee Space, a Pune-based startup founded in 2023, specializes in cutting-edge photonics, satellite communication, and defense-grade laser technologies. The company aims to create a global satellite mesh network with ultra-high bandwidth and quantum-secure capabilities. Recently securing $3 million in seed funding, it focuses on revolutionizing communication and defense sectors.

Indian Navy Aims to Sign P-75(I) Submarine-Building Deal by March 2026 as MDL–TKMS Negotiate Contract

The Indian Navy aims to finalize the P-75(I) contract for six advanced submarines by March 2026, focusing on local production under the Strategic Partnership model. The MDL-TKMS consortium is the sole contender following technical evaluations, with significant implications for India’s defense self-reliance and capability development in undersea deterrence.

India Loses Strategic Depth: Geopolitics Forces Shut Down of First Overseas ‘Ayni’ Air Base in Tajikistan

India has vacated the Ayni air base in Tajikistan, losing strategic foothold near Pakistan. Despite operating there for 25 years, geopolitical pressures from China and Russia resulted in this decision. India’s efforts to maintain military presence included offering Sukhoi jets, but Tajikistan showed little interest. Ayni was crucial for Indian military operations.

Drone warfare, large-calibre ammunition to fuel India’s defence firm SMPP future growth: Ashish Kansal

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.

Blinded by Precision: How Israel Outsmarted Iran’s Air Defenses in Operation Rising Lion

During Operation Rising Lion on June 13, 2025, Iran’s air defence systems demonstrated limited effectiveness against Israel’s multi-domain strikes. Key systems like Bavar-373 and S-300 performed variably, struggling against advanced munitions and electronic warfare tactics. The operation revealed significant vulnerabilities in Iran’s air defence coordination and technology, impacting critical infrastructures.