INDO PACIFIC
US begins 'biggest ever' Philippines war games in thick of Mideast conflict
American, Philippine, and Japanese forces have commenced joint military exercises in the Philippines. The drills involve thousands of personnel and advanced weaponry. These war games are taking place with the Middle East conflict in the background. Tensions are also high in the South China Sea and near Taiwan.
US and allied forces kick off combat drills with Philippines despite Washington's focus on Iran
The United States and the Philippines have begun a major joint military exercise. This annual event, called Balikatan, involves over 17,000 personnel. This year, Japan, France, and Canada are also participating. The drills aim to strengthen deterrence against aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.
US warship passes through Malacca Strait, Indonesian Navy says
US-Iran war: A United States warship, the USS Miguel Keith, sailed through the vital Strait of Malacca over the weekend. Indonesian Navy officials confirmed the transit on Saturday, April 18. They stated the passage adhered to international law. The warship is based in Japan and was conducting routine operations. The Strait of Malacca is a crucial global shipping lane.
India, Korea can give new direction to multilateralism amid mounting challenges: South Korean Prez Lee
South Korean President Lee Jae Myung envisions a strengthened special strategic partnership with India, focusing on trade, technology, critical minerals, defence, and shipbuilding. He highlighted shared values and the need for close cooperation amidst geopolitical uncertainty, aiming to deepen comprehensive ties for mutual growth and innovation.
UK to host first official visit of CDS Gen Anil Chauhan, focus on defence cooperation
India's Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, is on a three-day visit to the UK, marking the first official visit of its kind. Discussions with UK counterparts will focus on enhancing cooperation in training, operations, and defence industry partnerships, including co-production opportunities. This visit underscores the strengthening defence ties and shared ambition for a secure Indo-Pacific.
JSW Steel and POSCO form joint venture for steel plant in Odisha amid South Korean President's India visit
JSW Steel and South Korea's POSCO Group are partnering to build a new steel plant in Odisha. This joint venture will have a production capacity of 6 million tonnes per annum. The deal signifies deepening strategic ties between the two major steel producers. This collaboration aligns with JSW Steel's expansion goals.
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India, Russia ink pact to station 3,000 troops, warships and aircraft in each other’s territory
India and Russia have entered into a reciprocal logistics agreement allowing up to 3,000 troops, naval ships, and aircraft to be stationed in each other's territories. This pact, effective January 12, 2025, aims to bolster long-term military cooperation, facilitate joint exercises, and enhance interoperability in the Indo-Pacific and Arctic regions.
A P Singh flies USAF F-15EX during Indian Air Force chief’s US visit
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh experienced a flight in a US F-15EX Eagle II fighter jet at Nellis Air Force Base. This visit aimed to enhance interoperability and collaboration between the Indian and US Air Forces. Discussions focused on joint exercises and modernization efforts. The F-15EX is a key platform for Indo-Pacific defense.
China weaponises Taiwan’s own voices in escalating information war
China is using social media platforms like Douyin to spread messages from Taiwanese opposition figures. These clips are then shared on platforms popular in Taiwan, aiming to discredit President Lai Ching-te's government. The campaign seeks to weaken Taiwan's resolve and discourage defense spending against China's military might.
Seoul to Delhi, Asia’s new economic axis
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's visit to India is a crucial moment. The two nations can build a strong strategic economic partnership. They can create a new axis of resilience in Asia. This partnership will focus on manufacturing, technology and defence. It aims to address global insecurity and fractured supply chains.
Seoul to Delhi, Asia’s new economic axis
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung's visit to India arrives at a critical juncture for global economic stability. The two Asian powers are poised to forge a strategic economic partnership, moving beyond traditional trade to co-build industrial capacity in semiconductors, green mobility, and advanced manufacturing.
Japan will provide support worth about $10 billion to help strengthen energy supply in Asia
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said attacks on merchant vessels are “completely unacceptable,” stressing India’s commitment to secure maritime routes at the AZEC Plus meeting hosted by Japan. Amid tensions over the Strait of Hormuz, Japan announced a $10 billion energy support package to strengthen Asia’s supply chains. Leaders emphasised safe shipping, stable oil access, and coordinated efforts to safeguard regional energy security and economic stability.
Australia to raise defence spending to 3% of GDP by 2033
Australia will significantly boost its defense spending to three percent of its gross domestic product by 2033. This move responds to the most challenging global security environment since World War Two. The government plans substantial investment over the next decade to enhance defense capabilities and self-reliance. This strategic shift aims to address rising geopolitical tensions and ensure national security.
Ghost Shark, Ghost Bat: Australia accelerates autonomous warfare amid rising tensions; check their features
Australia is fast-tracking its advanced military drone programs. The Ghost Shark underwater drone and the Ghost Bat aircraft are moving from development to production. These systems aim to boost Australia's strategic position in the Indo-Pacific. The Ghost Shark is expected to enter service this year. The Ghost Bat has successfully fired a missile, signaling combat readiness.
India-France review cooperation on economic security during talks in Paris
India and France held Foreign Office Consultations in Paris. Discussions covered economic security, innovation, and STEM talent. Defence, nuclear energy, space, and cyber cooperation were reviewed. Global issues like climate change and the Indo-Pacific were also discussed. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met French officials. He also visited the Swami Vivekananda Cultural Centre. This follows President Macron's India visit.
West Asia crisis, geopolitical upheaval to top agenda at 3-day naval commanders' conference
Indian Navy top brass are convening in New Delhi to address the West Asia crisis and its impact on India's energy security. The three-day conclave will also focus on enhancing operational readiness, capability development, and fostering international cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region and Indo-Pacific.
Iran war diverts US military and attention from Asia ahead of Trump's summit with China's leader
Fifteen years after a pivot to Asia was declared, the U.S. remains entangled in Middle East conflicts, diverting military assets and attention from China's growing influence. This distraction raises concerns about regional stability and the ability to counter Beijing's ambitions, particularly regarding Taiwan. The ongoing demands of Middle East engagements are impacting U.S.
IAF chief discusses defence ties with his US counterpart
Indian Air Force chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh met with US Air Force Chief of Staff Gen Ken Wilsbach in Washington. Discussions focused on strengthening the defence partnership and shared priorities. Singh visited key US Air Force bases, including Peterson Space Force Base and Nellis Air Force Base. The visit included briefings and a familiarisation flight.
Sergio Gor hosts Foreign Secretary Misri at Mar-a-Lago
Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met with top US officials in Washington. Discussions covered trade, defense, energy, and technology. Both nations are ready to work closely together in the coming months and years. Key engagements and regional developments were reviewed. The meetings highlighted a strong commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation.
Foreign secy Vikram Misri meets US officials to deepen defence & tech ties
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri convened with top US officials in Washington to deliberate on key areas of cooperation, including defense and trade. The summit emphasized the urgency of fortifying supply chains in light of global economic fluctuations. Additionally, both parties shared insights on the evolving geopolitical landscape in the Indo-Pacific and West Asia.
Rutte the 'Trump whisperer' faces a fresh test as Trump turns on NATO over Iran
NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte faces Donald Trump's frustration regarding the U.S.-Israel war on Iran. Trump criticises allies and questions NATO's relevance. Rutte, known as a 'Trump whisperer', works to maintain U.S. involvement in the alliance. The war itself is outside NATO's operational scope. Rutte emphasises NATO's defensive role and its focus on its own territory.
Nearly all European allies responding to Trump’s requests amid Iran crisis: NATO chief
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated US leadership remains vital for the alliance. He noted Europe is increasing its defense spending and taking on a fairer share of responsibilities. Rutte credited former President Donald Trump for revitalising NATO.
North Korea fires fresh ballistic missiles as war of words with Seoul intensifies
North Korea launched several short-range ballistic missiles on Wednesday. This marks the second such launch in two days. Tensions with South Korea are rising sharply. A senior North Korean official also issued strong insults towards Seoul. South Korea remains ready to respond to any provocation. The launches pose no immediate threat to US personnel or allies.
India-US ties under review as Vikram Misri heads to Washington
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri will visit the United States from April 8 to 10. The visit aims to review India-US bilateral relations. Discussions will cover trade, defense, and science and technology. Regional developments like the West Asia conflict and the Afghanistan-Pakistan situation will also be discussed. The Quad framework is expected to be reviewed during the engagements.
INS Aridhaman: India gets third nuclear submarine with 3,500 km missile range; here's what makes this underwater war machine special
India's naval strength is boosted with INS Aridhaman, a new nuclear-powered submarine. Commissioned on April 3, 2026, it enhances India's second-strike capability. The submarine is larger and carries double the missile payload of earlier vessels. This development reinforces India's position as a major maritime power in the Indo-Pacific region.
India seeks to step up engagement as Myanmar elects new president
Myanmar's military leader Min Aung Hlaing becomes president. India watches closely as ties are strategic. India supports Myanmar's development and conflict resolution. Dialogue is key for peace. Bilateral trade is growing, especially in pulses. Cooperation in mining is also a focus. India aims for stability and resolution through talks.
India-US defence ties pick up as Air Chief Marshal AP Singh visits US to strengthen partnership
Air Marshal Amar Preet Singh, Chief of the Indian Air Force, has landed in the United States with a purpose: to strengthen the defense alliance between India and the US. This visit comes on the heels of Admiral Samuel J Paparo's recent trip to India, showcasing a commitment to regional security and military cooperation.
India’s 3rd desi nuclear-powered submarine: How INS Aridhaman boosts Navy’s power & what it means for Indo-Pacific security
INS Aridhaman: India has significantly strengthened its naval capabilities with the commissioning of the nuclear-powered submarine INS Aridhaman and the induction of the stealth frigate Taragiri. These developments enhance India’s nuclear deterrence and maritime defence capabilities, reflecting a strong push towards indigenous shipbuilding and self-reliance in the Indo-Pacific region.
China warning for Donald Trump: Beijing unleashes dragon tactics against U.S. capitalizing Iran war
China views U.S. military bases in the Gulf and the Middle East as instruments of hegemony and monitors their impact on energy security.
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