The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Thursday (March 5, 2025) lost two of its officers who were the crew on board an ill-fated Russian-origin Sukhoi Su-30MKI aircraft that crashed soon after take off in Assam. The IAF said in a tweet on Friday (March 6, 2026) that Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar sustained fatal injuries in the Su-30 crash in Assam.
By N. C. Bipindra New Delhi: In a major push to strengthen India’s air and maritime combat capabilities, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, on February 12, 2026, approved capital acquisition proposals worth approximately INR 360,000 crore. The high-value clearances include the procurement […]
India plans to purchase 114 Rafale fighter jets from France, valued over Rs 3 lakh crore, with the proposal cleared by a defence panel. A contract could be finalized next month.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the Indian Air Force’s successful execution of Operation Sindoor at the Air Force Commanders’ Conclave, highlighting its technological advancements and strategic confidence. He emphasized air power’s pivotal role in modern warfare, the need for innovative defence solutions, and the importance of joint operations among military branches.
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’s deployment of Su-30MKIs to France for Exercise Garuda-25 signifies a strategic initiative beyond routine drills, aimed at enhancing defense partnerships and interoperability amidst growing geopolitical tensions. This exercise with French Rafale fighters showcases India’s evolving air power and commitment to multilateral defense cooperation, indicating its pivotal role in global security.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested the parachutes for the Gaganyaan Crew Module on Nov. 3, 2025, at the Babina Field Firing Range. This critical test ensures astronaut safety during re-entry and landing, utilizing a complex system with ten parachutes that performed flawlessly under extreme conditions, marking a significant milestone in India’s human spaceflight efforts.
India’s USD 1 billion deal with General Electric for 113 F404 jet engines marks a significant milestone for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft program. It aims to enhance the Indian Air Force’s fleet amid declining numbers and supports India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing, signaling a strong shift towards domestic aerospace capabilities and broader military readiness.
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has signed a significant agreement with General Electric for 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines, enhancing India’s indigenous fighter jet program. This deal supports the production of 97 Light Combat Aircraft Tejas Mk1A for the Indian Air Force, reinforcing defense cooperation and advancing India’s aerospace manufacturing capabilities.
India is set to procure a new fleet of Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) for the Indian Air Force, estimated at INR 70,000 crore. This initiative aims to bridge the gap in airlift capabilities, bolster domestic manufacturing, and enhance defense partnerships, while ensuring technology transfer and local assembly to support ‘Make in India’.
Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh emphasized that India’s military restructuring will focus on national interests, advocating for a tailored joint command model. He stated ongoing discussions on theaterisation aim to enhance synergy among the armed forces, and highlighted the need for formalized structures to improve operational effectiveness. Singh also acknowledged the limitations of drone warfare.
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.
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.
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.
