CHIEF OF WESTERN AIR COMMAND
NASA's Crew-12 undocks from ISS, set to splash down off California after nearly eight months in space
NASA's SpaceX Crew-12 has undocked from the International Space Station and is on its way home. The mission included significant scientific investigations aimed at future Moon and Mars missions. Crew members participated in critical spacewalks, with Jessica Meir and Sophie Adenot completing important tasks outside the station. NASA is targeting a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean off the California coast on Thursday.
Moving in right direction, but pace can be improved: Air chief marshal on eve of IAF anniversary
During the 94th anniversary celebrations, Air Chief Marshal A P Singh of the Indian Air Force addressed his air warriors, emphasizing the need for a quicker pace in improvements. He noted the transition from a platform-centric model to a focus on overall capabilities. Singh pointed out specific delays in crucial projects like the LCA Mk-1A, while also acknowledging the IAF's diverse partnerships through various operations and humanitarian missions.
Rahul Gandhi takes centre stage as Opposition takes SIR fight to Delhi's streets
Opposition MPs, led by Rahul Gandhi, protested near the Election Commission office against the CEC's alleged hand in the SIR events. Gandhi sought to meet CEC Gyanesh Kumar to address allegations of vote rigging. The protest resulted in several leaders being detained by police. BJP slammed the opposition's actions.
US, Indian military leadership meet in New Delhi to boost defence ties
US and Indian military leadership gathered at Roosevelt House in New Delhi, highlighting the strengthening of the India-US Major Defence Partnership. During his six-day official visit, USPACOM Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo held talks with Indian defence officials, including Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
Air India, Singapore Airlines expand partnership from October 15, offer more India-Singapore flight options
Air India and Singapore Airlines will expand their commercial cooperation starting October 15. This expansion includes 126 weekly flights connecting Singapore and eight Indian cities. Eligible flights operated by either airline can be booked through both carriers’ platforms. Frequent flyer members will gain enhanced benefits such as priority check-in and boarding from 2027. The collaboration aims to improve customer experience by offering greater choice and convenience.
Grand maritime reception for Indian Naval sailing vessel Neelkanth
Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Neelkanth successfully arrived at Sri Vijaya Puram after a challenging journey. The voyage was part of the 25th anniversary celebrations of Andaman and Nicobar Command. Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty led a ceremonial reception at sea to honor the crew’s achievement. The event showcased joint maritime operations between the Indian Navy and Coast Guard.
- Go To Page 1
Indian pilot Smit Machchhar recovering after flydubai cockpit attack, embassy says
Captain Smit Machchhar was seriously injured during an attempted cockpit takeover by his co-pilot on September 30. The flydubai flight was diverted to Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, where he received initial medical treatment. Following stabilisation, he was transferred to Abu Dhabi for further care and recovery. The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi is providing assistance and staying in contact with his family.
Russia conducting nuclear drill near Cold War-era ‘Doomsday’ bunker recently upgraded with 24,000 tons of steel and 62,000 tons of cement
Russia is currently conducting a major nuclear disaster drill involving over 1,000 participants in the Sverdlovsk region. The exercise tests emergency services' responses to a nuclear catastrophe with multiple crises happening simultaneously. Associated with the Dead Hand system, a significant Cold War-era bunker is also being upgraded for renewed operations. Reports indicate extensive construction and procurement activities around the facility suggest improvements in its infrastructure.
DRDO carries out flight trial of indigenously-developed high-altitude airship platform
The Defence Research and Development Organisation marked a significant achievement with its successful flight trial of a cutting-edge airship platform. Designed for extended aerial surveillance, the airship reached an impressive altitude of 21 kilometers and sustained a height of 20 kilometers for more than thirty minutes. Throughout the flight, real-time data was collected, illustrating the platform's effectiveness.
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit appointed new Chief of Air Force, replacing Amar Preet Singh
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has been appointed as the new Chief of the Indian Air Force. He succeeds Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh after a long and distinguished career. Dixit has flown various aircraft and logged over 3,500 hours of flying. He is recognized for promoting indigenous aircraft projects, particularly the LCA Tejas. Air Marshal Dixit is expected to further advance the government's Aatmanirbharta initiative.
Nigeria air force lowers plane crash toll to 25, civilians among victims
The Nigerian Air Force reported that its plane crash had 25 fatalities, with no survivors found. This incident occurred during a routine mission from Benin city to Lagos and affected several civilian family members. President Bola Tinubu declared a three-day mourning period for the victims. Investigations have been ordered by military officials into the tragic event. It marks one of Nigeria's deadliest air disasters in recent history.
India, US discuss stronger defence ties, maritime security as Admiral Paparo visits New Delhi
India and the United States are enhancing their defence and strategic partnership under the leadership of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Admiral Samuel Paparo's visit to India included discussions on regional security challenges and technology cooperation. High-level meetings were held with senior Indian defence officials, including Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani. The discussions emphasized shared security priorities and maritime coordination in the Indo-Pacific region.
"Indian Navy among most powerful in world": Rajnath Singh hails force, flags future challenges
The Defence Minister cautioned naval personnel about the challenges they may face in the future. Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan and Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Naval Command Sanjay Bhalla were also present on the occasion.
Ontario air ambulance Atlantic search: ‘Roger, you said you’re coming in blind?’ Pilot’s final warning before jet vanished while flying from Bermuda to Boston
The Ontario air ambulance Atlantic search has ended after a medical transport jet carrying six people disappeared off Nantucket. Air traffic control audio captured a chilling exchange in which a controller asked the pilot, “Roger, you said you’re coming in blind?” after the pilot reported electrical problems and declared an emergency. The US Coast Guard searched for about 66 hours before suspending active search operations.
Akash air defence system reaches Turkmenistan: Check its capabilities as it joins Chinese systems to protect the Central Asian country
India has exported its indigenous Akash air defence missile system to Turkmenistan, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has confirmed, expanding the weapon’s presence in Central Asia after Armenia and Tajikistan. Turkmenistan already operates Chinese-made air defence systems, including the FK-2000, FD-2000, KS-1A and FM-90. Here is a look at Akash’s range, capabilities and evolving variants.
India, US discuss advancing security partnership, maritime cooperation in Indo-Pacific
EAM S Jaishankar met Admiral Samuel J. Paparo to advance security partnerships and maritime cooperation. They discussed shared security priorities and digital transformation focusing on regional stability. Paparo's visit reinforces the Major Defense Partnership between the US and India. Earlier, General Dhiraj Seth also engaged with Lieutenant General Joel B. Vowell regarding the Indo-Pacific security landscape. Both meetings emphasized enhancing military collaboration through joint training and military exercises.
IAF Chief Marshal A P Singh hails Smit Machchha's bravery
IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Saturday praised Captain Smit Machchhar for his bravery after the flydubai pilot was stabbed and seriously injured by his co-pilot during a flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. Machchhar helped save the aircraft carrying 174 people, which made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia.
"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.
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.
Kashi all set to host 3-day IAF air show; PM Modi may come
Kashi is preparing to host an Indian Air Force air show from October 24 to 26 this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are expected to attend the event. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has reviewed preparations and arrangements for spectators. Officials are focused on ensuring crowd management and emergency arrangements across Varanasi.
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.
Saudi Arabia plans assault on Houthis to break Red Sea chokehold
Saudi Arabia is preparing for an offensive against Houthi militants in Yemen, focusing on securing the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. The operation is expected to include coordinated attacks from multiple fronts alongside Yemeni ground forces. Over 100,000 Yemeni troops could potentially participate in the planned military action. U.S. intelligence support and military aid from other nations will assist the Saudi campaign in Yemen.
Tamil Nadu bypolls 2026: Vijay, Stalin and Palaniswami launch campaign in Madurantakam, Dharapuram
The Tamil Nadu bypoll campaign is heating up ahead of the October 6 elections in Madurantakam and Dharapuram, with Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, DMK president M K Stalin and AIADMK chief Edappadi K Palaniswami set to campaign. The contests have drawn attention after former AIADMK MLAs Maragatham Kumaravel and P Sathyabama quit their seats and joined Vijay’s TVK, turning the two constituencies into a closely watched political contest.
Lt Gen Akhilesh Kumar takes charge as general officer commanding of 1 Corps
Lt Gen Akhilesh Kumar assumed command of 1 Corps in Mathura on October 1. He brings extensive experience from various operational environments, particularly the Line of Control. Prior to this, he held crucial appointments, including additional director general of discipline and vigilance. Gen Kumar has been honored with the Sena Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal for his dedicated service.
Congress decides to replace Amrinder Warring after Sachin Pilot got organisational feedback
After taking feedback from party leaders and workers in Punjab, state in-charge Sachin Pilot is pushing for a change at the helm. The party leadership is considering replacing state chief Amrinder Singh Raja Warring as it looks to ease factional tensions and bring rival camps onto a common platform ahead of the 2027 Assembly elections.
Bloodshed at 34,000 feet: Indian pilot braves stabbing to help Dubai flight land safely
An Indian pilot helped thwart an alleged hijacking attempt aboard a Flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv after the co-pilot reportedly attacked him in the cockpit. The Boeing 737 MAX 8, carrying around 174 passengers, diverted to Saudi Arabia and landed safely after passengers and other pilots intervened.
Load More
