ADVANCED MEDIUM COMBAT AIRCRAFT AMCA
Self-reliance in aero-engines foundation of India's aerospace sovereignty: Rajnath Singh
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently celebrated the remarkable milestone of HAL's Koraput Division delivering its 2,000th aero-engine. This new Shakti engine line is set to manufacture up to 100 engines each year, reinforcing military readiness. He emphasized the necessity of developing indigenous capabilities for defense projects, notably the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, while calling for strengthened ties with MSMEs and educational institutions, highlighting Odisha's pivotal role in the aerospace industry.
Attack aircraft, military vehicles visible at new China-Laos base, satellite images show
China has moved light attack aircraft and military vehicles into a newly announced joint training facility in Laos, according to satellite images reviewed by Reuters. Analysts say the Ban Keun site could eventually become China’s most significant military foothold in Southeast Asia if it develops beyond training into a base with expanded air, surveillance and support capabilities.
Rajnath Singh to lay foundation stone for Shakti engine facility at HAL in Odisha's Sunabeda
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to lay the cornerstone for state-of-the-art Shakti engine facilities in Koraput on October 6. After a stop at Hindustan Shipyard in Visakhapatnam, Singh will emphasize enhancing India’s self-sufficiency in military engine production, cutting down on imports. HAL’s Koraput unit has been instrumental in crafting engines for modern fighter jets, with rigorous security protocols arranged for his arrival.
Lockheed Martin to expand production in India, if it wins transport aircraft bid
Lockheed Martin is planning to enhance its production capabilities in India based on a tender for 60 medium transport aircraft. This procurement is valued at USD 10.5 billion, attracting several Indian firms as partners. Lockheed Martin's proposal includes 12 flyaway aircraft and 48 to be manufactured in India. The company aims to upgrade the existing C-130J fleet of the Indian Air Force.
"We possess necessary capabilities": IAF Chief AP Singh on countering Chinese 5th-gen aircraft challenge, urges push for AMCA
Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh addressed concerns about Pakistan potentially acquiring Chinese fifth-generation aircraft. He emphasized that India possesses the capabilities to respond effectively to such threats. Historical context suggests that advanced platforms alone do not guarantee success for Pakistan against India.
India may finalise 114 Rafale fighter jet deal with France by current financial year: IAF chief
India is planning to finalize a significant multi-role fighter aircraft deal by the end of this financial year. The proposed acquisition involves purchasing 114 Rafale fighter jets to enhance the Indian Air Force's capabilities. Current negotiations are focused on price and other important issues related to the procurement. The Chief of Air Staff emphasized the need for increased air power and self-reliance in manufacturing capabilities.
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IAF chief hints at foreign fifth-gen fighter option if AMCA is delayed, cites Russia's Su-57 offer
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh has indicated that India could examine foreign fifth-generation fighter options if the indigenous AMCA programme is delayed. Russia has offered its Su-57 fighter, although Singh said no decision has been taken. The IAF is also seeking to expand its fighter fleet as squadron strength remains below the authorised level.
Indian Air Force to get separate drone force? IAF chief AP Singh reveals what the force plans
IAF chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has ruled out creating a separate drone force, saying unmanned systems and loitering munitions should remain integrated with the Indian Air Force’s existing weapons and platforms. He described drones as an “evolutionary” capability for the force and said their numbers, types and operational use are being expanded.
China widens military footprint with Laos air base
China recently opened its first overseas air force base in Laos to enhance military training and influence. The base will train Laotian air force pilots and potentially house Chinese military assets. This move reflects China's ambition to expand its military presence beyond its borders. The facility could serve as a training ground for Chinese personnel and equipment. Regional partners, especially the US, are monitoring the developments closely for potential implications.
Mumbai airport plans Rs 2,000 crore revamp to handle 55 flights an hour
Mumbai International Airport Ltd is planning to invest Rs 2,000 crore in airside projects to enhance capacity. They aim to raise peak-hour capacity to as many as 55 aircraft movements, improving efficiency and reducing delays. Various upgrades will focus on constructing new taxiways and improving apron areas at the airport. The redevelopment of Terminal 1 is also set to begin in January 2027.
US Navy awards $24.4 billion to accelerate production of Standard Missile-6
The US Navy has secured a deal worth up to $24.4 billion with Raytheon to ramp up production of Standard Missile-6 interceptors over five years. The Pentagon says the agreement will increase SM-6 inventory, strengthen vulnerable supply chains and give defence contractors greater certainty to expand factories and workforce. The deal is part of Washington’s broader push to accelerate critical munition production.
Embraer, Mahindra choose Nagpur for potential C-390 assembly line in India
Embraer and Mahindra are considering establishing a final assembly line for the C-390 Millennium in Nagpur, India. This project is dependent on the selection of the aircraft for the Indian Air Force's Medium Transport Aircraft programme. The proposed facility would involve assembly, system integration, and development of a local supply chain. Embraer anticipates that India will place an order for 60 to 80 aircraft in the future.
Embraer C-390 Millennium explained: Key specifications and capabilities of the Brazilian military transport aircraft
Embraer-Mahindra C-390 Millennium: The military transport aircraft is being considered for India’s Medium Transport Aircraft programme, with Nagpur proposed as the site for a potential final assembly line. The aircraft can carry up to 26 tonnes of cargo and support troop transport, airborne operations, medical evacuation, aerial refuelling, search and rescue, firefighting and other missions.
Pentagon creates 'Autowarcom' to expand AI and drone capabilities
The command, which Hegseth said would be called "Autonomous Warfare Command," highlights the rapidly changing nature of warfare and the need to make progress on systems like drones and the use of artificial intelligence.
US creates new ‘Autonomous Warfare Command’ as Pentagon accelerates push for AI, drones
The US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced the establishment of the Autonomous Warfare Command, which will focus on robotic capabilities. This decision reflects the changing nature of warfare, especially with recent developments in Ukraine. The Pentagon aims to prioritize AI-driven systems over traditional weapons platforms moving forward. Experts warn of risks associated with unchecked AI advancements and technology rivalries with China.
Chinese researchers simulate lidar system that could detect US fifth-generation F-35 from over 60 km, here is how it works
Chinese researchers have used a computer simulation to examine whether a missile-mounted single-photon lidar could detect and track an F-35C stealth fighter. The model produced a maximum detection distance of 61.5 km at night and 27.7 km during the day. However, analysts questioned whether the narrow laser beam could practically locate a stealth aircraft across a wide area, while the study has not yet been validated through flight testing.
India's fighter jet engine efforts get a big boost: Desi Kaveri engine clears key step in Russia, ready for integration with stealth UCAV ‘Ghatak’
India's Kaveri dry engine has completed high-altitude and flight trials in Russia, recording 48.5 kN of peak dry thrust against its target of 46 kN. Developed by DRDO, the engine is intended for India's planned Ghatak stealth UCAV.
US Navy sets its eyes on F/A-XX 6th Gen fighter as Boeing wins the award: here’s a look at the other similar jets in the making and which country is ahead; cost, specifications and features
Boeing’s F/A-XX will replace the US Navy’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornets and operate alongside the F-35C. Here’s a look at its expected range, cost and design, and where China’s J-36, GCAP and FCAS stand in the sixth-generation fighter race.
US awards $21 billion missile contract to RTX’s Raytheon as it looks to replenish stocks amid ongoing conflict with Iran
The US has moved to significantly increase production of AMRAAM missiles after awarding Raytheon a multiyear agreement valued at $20.7 billion. The weapon is used by fighter jets for air-to-air engagements and by NASAMS for ground-based air defence. The planned expansion includes higher annual output, but the full contract value remains dependent on funding from Congress.
'Strengthening coordination, readiness': US embassy hails F-35 debut at Tarang Shakti 2026 in India
The second edition of multinational air exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 is underway in Jodhpur, featuring advanced fighter jets like the US F-35A. Running until October 12, the drill promotes interoperability, joint training, and strategic defence cooperation among participating global air forces.
LCA Mk2, AMCA first flight dates confirmed: Defence Secretary reveals timeline for India’s next-gen fighter jets
India's LCA Mk2 medium weight fighter prototype is expected to fly by September 2027. The country's Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, or AMCA, is targeted for its first flight in September 2028. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh provided clear timelines for these military aircraft programs. Test flights are set to occur between June and September next year. These developments are crucial for enhancing India's air combat capabilities against regional threats.
F-35s, Rafales and F-16s descend on Jodhpur as 40+ countries join India’s Tarang Shakti
Kicking off its second edition, the multinational air exercise 'Tarang Shakti' has commenced in Jodhpur, with over 40 countries, including France, the UAE, and Australia, marking a significant show of global military unity. From September 26 to October 12, India will demonstrate its Rafale and Sukhoi-30 fighter jets, building on the momentum from a previous tactical air combat exercise held nearby.
US F-35 stealth fighters to join IAF’s Tarang Shakti exercise in India for first time
The Tarang Shakti 2026 exercise in India will feature six US F-35 stealth fighter jets, a landmark event as they engage in their first multinational combat exercise with the Indian Air Force. Approximately 40 countries will be involved as participants or observers, showcasing various high-tech aircraft. Meanwhile, the Indian Air Force remains focused on resolving delays related to the Tejas Mk1A fighter jet deliveries.
LCA Mark 1A induction expected in 1-2 months as engine issues resolved, testing underway: IAF Vice Chief Ashutosh Dixit
Earlier, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Chairman and Managing Director Ravi Kumar said that deliveries of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A to the Indian Air Force (IAF) are facing setbacks due to software integration challenges.
India, Japan Air Force Chiefs fly the Tejas during Exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026' in Jodhpur
Indian Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and Japan Air Self-Defence Force Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita flew Tejas aircraft from Air Force Station Jodhpur during Exercise Veer Guardian-2026 on Sunday. The bilateral drill features frontline fighter aircraft from both countries, including Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale jets from India and F-2A fighters from Japan, with the exercise aimed at strengthening interoperability and defence cooperation.
India, Japan air chiefs attend 'Exercise Veer Guardian-2026' at Jodhpur Air Force Station
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh and JASDF Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita visited Jodhpur's Air Force Station on Sunday to witness the ongoing Veer Guardian-2026 drills. India fields Tejas, Su-30MKI and Rafale jets, while Japan brings F-2As, marking its first fighter deployment to India. Running through September 22, the exercise aims to boost interoperability and deepen Indo-Japan defence ties.
HAL shares rise 2% as firm hands over 3 aerospace platforms to IAF. What is Goldman Sachs saying?
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) shares rose on Monday after the company handed over three indigenously developed platforms to the IAF and Pawan Hans. The deliveries included the Dhruv-NG helicopter, LCA Tejas Trainer jets and HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft.
IAF chief led ‘Eagle One’ Tejas formation flight as Japan air chief flew twin-seater during Veer Guardian 2026
In a significant demonstration of military collaboration, the Indian Air Force Chief led a Tejas formation flight with Japan Air Self-Defense Force Chief Masahiro Morita as a passenger. This sortie underscored the increasing interoperability and professionalism between the two nations' air forces, showcasing India's indigenous defense aviation capabilities and reinforcing defense ties through operational understanding.
Japan Air Force chief flies LCA Tejas during Veer Guardian 2026, calls it symbol of India’s technological innovation
Japan Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) Chief General Takehiro Morita on Sunday described India's indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas as a symbol of the country's technological innovation and the 'Make in India' initiative after flying the fighter aircraft during the ongoing Indo-Japan bilateral air exercise 'Veer Guardian-2026'.
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