India’s Ministry of Defence has signed two significant agreements with the US for long-term support of the Navy’s MH-60R helicopters, worth INR 7,995 crore. Over five years, the package enhances sustainment with spares, training, and local repair facilities, promoting self-reliance and operational readiness for anti-submarine and other critical missions.
Boeing’s delay in delivering three Apache AH-64E helicopters to India reveals geopolitical tensions involving India, Türkiye, and Pakistan. Türkiye’s blocking of airspace for the cargo highlights vulnerabilities in India’s defense logistics, emphasizing the intersection of military acquisitions and international relations amid India’s efforts to modernize its armed forces and maintain strategic autonomy.
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.
The introduction of the Buy (Indian–IDDM) category aimed to promote self-reliance in India’s defense sector. However, a decade later, urgency in procurement, spurred by mechanisms like Emergency Procurement, has diluted original intentions, favoring imports over innovation. Reforms are necessary to ensure genuine support for indigenous defense firms and maintain strategic autonomy.
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.
India’s Ministry of Defence has contracted Hindustan Aeronautics Limited to produce 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft for USD 7 billion. The order includes 68 fighters and 29 trainers, with deliveries commencing in 2027-28. The aircraft will feature advanced indigenous systems and generate significant local employment, enhancing indigenisation in defence.
India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully test-fired the Agni-Prime intermediate-range missile from a rail-based platform, capable of striking targets in Pakistan and parts of China. The launch, conducted on September 24, 2025, demonstrates advanced features and mobility, enhancing the Indian military’s capabilities with cutting-edge technology.
Former Indian Air Force officer Air Vice Marshal Rajiva Ranjan has joined olee.space as a strategic defence advisor. With extensive experience in fighter operations and defence technology, he aims to enhance India’s defence systems, particularly in photonics and laser technologies. olee.space seeks to innovate in defence communication and technology.
India’s SMPP Limited has signed an MoU with the Philippines’ Asia Defence and Firepower Corporation to establish a joint venture for manufacturing defence products aimed at the Philippine armed forces. This partnership supports the Philippines’ Self-Reliant Defence Posture, promotes Indian defence technology, and boosts local manufacturing capabilities.
On August 5, the Defence Acquisition Council of India approved proposals worth ₹67,000 crore to enhance the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force and bolster indigenous manufacturing. Key acquisitions include advanced night combat systems, unmanned maritime platforms, mountain radars, and Medium Altitude Long Endurance drones, targeting improved surveillance and strike capabilities.
