India Modi Launches BEL Advanced Night Vision Products Factory in Andhra Pradesh

On October 16, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated an Advanced Night Vision products factory in Nimmaluru, Andhra Pradesh, with an investment of INR 360 crore. This facility aims to enhance India’s defense production capabilities, create skilled employment, and solidify self-reliance by manufacturing vital electro-optical systems for the armed forces.

Navy Chief Warns of ‘Weaponisation of Everything’, Calls for Cyber Resilience in India’s Maritime Sector

Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi emphasized the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity in India’s maritime operations at a seminar on October 16, 2025. He highlighted the vulnerabilities posed by digital systems and cited recent cyberattacks affecting global shipping. Tripathi urged that cybersecurity must be integral from the design stage to ensure national and economic security.

India Sets ₹3 Lakh Crore Defence Production, ₹50,000 Crore Export Target by 2029

On October 16, 2025, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the nation’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities, setting ambitious targets for production and exports by 2029. He emphasized the importance of youth, innovation, and technology, particularly AI, in achieving these goals, and inaugurated the School of Defence and Aerospace Technology for advanced skill development.

India Army Signs Contract with Thales UK for Light Weight Modular Missile System to Bolster Air Defence

The Indian Army has contracted Thales, UK, for the Light Weight Modular Missile (LMM) System, enhancing air defense capabilities. This advanced, lightweight missile targets aerial threats, including drones, with high accuracy and an operational range exceeding six kilometers, crucial for challenging terrains. The acquisition reflects India’s focus on modernizing military capabilities.

India Signs INR 659.47 Crore Contract for Indigenous Night Sights for SIG 716 Assault Rifle to Enhance Army’s Firepower

India’s Ministry of Defence has signed a INR 659.47 crore contract for advanced Night Sights for SIG 716 assault rifles, enhancing soldiers’ effectiveness in low-light conditions. This initiative promotes indigenisation, supports local industries, and aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, strengthening India’s defence capabilities and operational readiness.

India Reverses Tax Exemption on Missile Parts Amid Probe Into Adani Defence’s Alleged $9 Million Duty Evasion

India has revoked a tax exemption for missile parts, reverting to prior duties on small-range missile components amid an investigation involving Adani Defence, which allegedly evaded USD 9 million in import taxes. This policy shift creates uncertainty in the defense sector, highlighting the government’s need for stricter oversight and clearer regulations.

India DRDO Military Combat Parachute System Successfully Tested for 32,000-Feet Combat Freefall

India’s DRDO has successfully tested the Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) through a jump from 32,000 feet, marking a significant advancement in high-altitude aerial delivery systems. Designed for elite forces, the MCPS ensures operational independence with advanced features, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defense technology.

US Arrests Indian-Origin Ashley Tellis for Alleged China Link, Holding Classified Documents

Ashley J. Tellis, a renowned Indian-origin foreign policy expert, was arrested for unlawfully retaining classified national defense information. Tellis, 64, allegedly removed sensitive materials and faces serious charges that could lead to a decade in prison. The case raises significant concerns about security and foreign influence within U.S. national security.

India Defence Minister Rajnath Releases CDS’s Book on Building Future-Ready Indian Military

On October 14, 2025, India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched General Anil Chauhan’s book ‘Ready, Relevant and Resurgent II,’ which outlines a strategy for transforming India’s military to address 21st-century challenges. It emphasizes innovation, adaptive leadership, and emerging domains like cyberspace, aiming for a robust and future-ready armed force.

Airbus Streamlines Tactical Uncrewed Aerial System Offering Under Helicopters Business

Airbus has merged its small and medium tactical drones into a unified portfolio under Airbus Helicopters to enhance market focus for defense clients. The consolidation aims to foster product synergies and collaboration between drones and helicopters. The diverse lineup enhances modern defense capabilities with advanced surveillance and operational flexibility for varied missions.

BEL Ex-CMD Gowtama Joins India Photonics & Defence Startup Olee.Space as Strategic Production Advisor

Olee.Space appointed M. V. Gowtama as its Strategic Production Advisor, leveraging his decades of experience in India’s defense electronics sector to enhance indigenous capabilities in defense technologies. His leadership aims to align Olee.Space’s innovations with India’s vision for technological self-reliance and strengthen international defense partnerships.

Rolls-Royce Offers to Partner with Indian Navy to Design Nation’s First Electric Warship

Rolls-Royce plans to collaborate with the Indian Navy to design India’s first electric warship, aligning with the country’s goal for sustainable naval power. The company aims to provide advanced propulsion technologies, contributing to India’s defense modernization. This partnership is further highlighted by Rolls-Royce’s presence in India’s defense sector for nine decades.

Indian Army Secures Patent for ‘Vidyut Rakshak’: Major Rajprasad’s Innovation Powers Aatmanirbhar Defence Tech

India has patented the ‘Vidyut Rakshak,’ an innovative generator monitoring and control system created by Major Rajprasad RS, enhancing the Army’s technological self-reliance. This system optimizes resources for diverse generators, ensuring reliability, especially in remote areas. The patent, effective for 20 years, reflects India’s commitment to indigenous defense innovation.