The Indian Coast Guard successfully dismantled a sophisticated oil smuggling syndicate in a coordinated sea-air operation, intercepting three vessels off Mumbai and highlighting India’s enhanced maritime security capabilities against international crime.
The Indian Ministry of Defence is procuring 30 advanced Low-Level Light-Weight Radars to enhance low-altitude air defense against aerial threats, improving surveillance capabilities along sensitive borders while promoting indigenous manufacturing.
India’s Air Force demands a review of the Tejas Mk1A jets before accepting their delivery, causing concern for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, which faces setbacks in aircraft projects and potential share price impacts.
India’s HAL will not produce AMCA prototypes; the contract goes to one of three qualified private bidders. HAL maintains a robust order book but faces challenges with strict EOI criteria.
India’s DRDO successfully tested the Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology, enhancing its air combat capabilities by enabling longer-range, powerful air-to-air missiles, marking a significant advancement in defense technology.
The Indian Air Force expects to receive five Tejas Mk1A Light Combat Aircraft by March 2026, with delays attributed to supply chain issues. HAL has overcome engine delivery challenges to meet this timeline.
The Indian Army has chosen Shield AI’s V-BAT unmanned aerial systems and Hivemind software for operations along its borders, enhancing military capabilities with autonomous technology for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.
The Indian Navy and Bharat Electronics Limited developed the Advanced Autonomous Navigation & Control Software, enabling fully autonomous operations of warships, enhancing indigenous defense capabilities and supporting unmanned warfare at sea.
The Indian Army plans to create a ‘Rocket-cum-Missile’ Force to address strategic threats from China and Pakistan. Army chief General Upendra Dwivedi emphasizes modernization and integrated structures for enhanced combat capabilities.
India and France are advancing towards a significant deal for Rafale fighter jets to enhance the Indian Air Force, with a focus on local manufacturing under ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
India’s Defence Research & Development Laboratory achieved a breakthrough in hypersonic warfare with a successful scramjet combustor test, enhancing the country’s capabilities for Hypersonic Cruise Missiles and self-reliance in defense technology.
On November 28, 2025, the Indian Navy received Taragiri, the fourth Nilgiri-class frigate, as part of Project 17A, promoting self-reliance in shipbuilding. Designed for advanced combat capabilities, Taragiri reflects efficient construction practices, achieving shorter build times, and contributing to India’s defense industrial growth, creating numerous job opportunities.
Rosatom plans to develop a new nuclear power plant in India featuring VVER-1200 reactors, enhancing Indo-Russian nuclear cooperation. This move supports India’s goal of 100 GW nuclear capacity, promotes local manufacturing, and aligns with the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The introduction of Small Modular Reactors could revolutionize energy access and bolster clean energy efforts.
India’s naval modernization is advancing rapidly, with a new indigenous warship or submarine joining the fleet every 40 days. Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi outlined plans for over 200 domestically built vessels by 2035, emphasizing self-reliance, strategic partnerships, and technological integration in defense manufacturing.
Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) plans to acquire a controlling stake in Sri Lanka’s Colombo Dockyard PLC for US$52.96 million, marking India’s first major international acquisition in maritime. This strategic move enhances India’s presence in the Indian Ocean, addresses financial challenges at Colombo Dockyard, and counters China’s influence in the region.
