IAF VICE CHIEF
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.
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.
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.
Satellite images show China building new class of submarine, India’s submarine plans compared
Fresh satellite imagery of a Chinese submarine under construction has highlighted developments in Beijing’s nuclear-powered attack submarine designs, including a possible pumpjet propulsion system and X-shaped stern. At the same time, India is pursuing several submarine programmes to expand and modernise its underwater fleet. Recent submarine construction data also points to different fleet sizes and development timelines for China and India.
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.
US stealth fighter F-35 among global air assets to headline Exercise Tarang Shakti in Jodhpur
The Indian Air Force announced that seven foreign nations—including the US, France, Germany, Australia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and the UAE—will participate in the second edition of Exercise Tarang Shakti at Jodhpur Air Force Station from September 26 to October 12. Marking its first participation in the multilateral air exercise, the US multi-role stealth fighter F-35 will feature alongside India's Rafale, Su-30 MKI, and Tejas aircraft in joint tactical maneuvers aimed at enhancing global interoperability.
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Bimal Jalan, ex-IAF chief NAK Browne receive notices over Delhi SIR discrepancies
Notices have been issued to prominent Delhi voters regarding electoral roll discrepancies. Former RBI governor Bimal Jalan and ex-IAF chief NAK Browne are among those notified. These notices are part of an ongoing exercise covering over 97 lakh registered voters. The electoral authorities are examining submitted documents for verification purposes. Final electoral rolls are scheduled for publication on November 4.
US F-35 jets likely to join India’s Tarang Shakti air exercise in Jodhpur
India’s second edition of Tarang Shakti, its premier multinational air exercise, will be held at Jodhpur’s Air Force Station from September 26 to October 12. The US Air Force’s fifth-generation F-35 fighter is likely to participate, which would mark its debut in Tarang Shakti, though the IAF has not officially confirmed the aircraft’s participation. The exercise will bring multiple foreign air forces together for joint tactical manoeuvres, with India’s frontline platforms also expected to take part.
Dronathon 2026: IAF demonstrates multi-mode system designed to facilitate drones' management in airspace
The Indian Air Force recently showcased the Vayu UTtaM drone management system at Pokhran. This innovative system provides crucial support in managing drones and detecting rogue aircraft within congested airspace. At Dronathon 2026, various domestic unmanned aerial systems and counter-drone technologies were highlighted, alongside the unveiling of the IAF UAS Roadmap aimed at guiding the industry towards achieving self-reliance in unmanned systems.
IAF's mega drone event kicks off at Pokharan range in Rajasthan
The Dronathon 2026, hosted by the Indian Air Force, kicked off in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. This innovative three-day event showcases state-of-the-art unmanned aerial systems and counter-drone technologies, where local manufacturers present their cutting-edge advancements. The initiative aims to bolster the Air Force's capabilities in the unmanned arena and foster collaboration with industry players for homegrown solutions.
Who is Jeetendra Mishra? Retired Air Marshal, Kargil veteran & Operation Sindoor hero selected as Ram temple trust’s CEO
Retired Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra will lead the Ram Mandir trust as its first chief executive officer (CEO). He was awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal for his distinguished service during Operation Sindoor. Mishra brings decades of military experience in strategic planning, operations and coordination to his new administrative role. The trust also appointed three new trustees at a recent meeting in Ayodhya.
Govt unveils strategic blueprint on defence diplomacy that outlines India's vision for next decade
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh released India's strategic blueprint for defence diplomacy. This document outlines a comprehensive framework for global partnerships over the next decade. Key pillars include strategic partnerships, capacity building, indigenous exports, and maritime security. India aims to deepen security cooperation and enhance joint military exercises with friendly nations. The blueprint promotes Make-in-India defence platforms and strengthens India's regional security role.
Who is Shakti Sharma? First woman non-medical officer in IAF who rose to Air Vice Marshal rank after 32 years of service
Who is Shakti Sharma: Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma has become the first woman non-medical officer in India's defence forces to attain the Air Vice Marshal rank. Commissioned into the IAF Education Branch in 1994, she has served for about 32 years across diverse postings and has also led Sainik School, Kapurthala.
Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma scripts history with AVM-rank appointment
Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma achieved a historic milestone for the Indian Air Force. She is the first woman officer to reach the rank of Air Vice Marshal. Sharma assumed her new role as assistant chief of the air staff on September 1. She brings extensive experience from diverse postings and training establishments. Her career includes spearheading key institutional initiatives and commanding a Sainik School.
Air Marshal A K Bharti, face of Operation Sindoor briefings, retires from IAF
Air Marshal A K Bharti retired from the Indian Air Force after a distinguished career. He served as Director General Air Operations during Operation Sindoor last year. Air Marshal Bharti paid homage to fallen heroes at the National War Memorial. He was part of tri-service media briefings for Operation Sindoor. The operation involved airstrikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
Future wars cannot be fought by individual services: Air Chief Marshal A P Singh
To navigate the complexities of future conflicts, military services must work cohesively for the nation to thrive. The Indian Air Force's commitment to self-reliance in aviation is key to its effectiveness and progress. Maintaining secure maritime routes is indispensable for India's trade and growth. The advancement in indigenous shipbuilding highlights important developments in self-sufficiency, and it's crucial to advance technology to stay competitive in contemporary warfare.
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit takes charge as new Vice Chief of Indian Air Force
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit has assumed the role of Vice Chief of the Air Staff, succeeding Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor. A distinguished officer with extensive experience, including a pivotal role in Operation Sindoor, Air Marshal Dixit previously served as Chief of Integrated Defence Staff. His tenure at HQ IDS was marked by significant contributions to integrated defence strategies and the formulation of future military roadmaps.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor takes charge as Vice Chief of Air Staff
In a significant reshuffle within the Indian Air Force, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor steps into the role of Vice Chief of the Air Staff, succeeding in his new duties after a successful command of the South Western Air Command.
Fewer than 50 weapons can bring adversary to talking table: VCAS on Operation Sindoor
Air Marshal Narmadeshwar Tiwari highlighted India's Operation Sindoor as a prime example of air power's cost-benefit, demonstrating how a limited number of weapons can compel an adversary to negotiate. He emphasized the operation's success in bringing Pakistan to the talking table, suggesting it warrants further study. Tiwari also asserted the continued advantage of manned over unmanned systems in military operations.
Air Marshal SP Dharkar to be the next IAF Vice Chief
Air Marshal SP Dharkar has been appointed as the next Vice Chief of Air Staff, succeeding Air Marshal AP Singh, who will become the Chief of Air Staff. Dharkar, an experienced fighter pilot with over 3600 flying hours, has held various significant positions throughout his career and will assume his new role after the new Chief takes over.
US sanctions on Russia won't affect IAF significantly: IAF Vice Chief
Russia started its military offensive against Ukraine on February 24. Western nations including the US have imposed major economic and other sanctions on Russia following the offensive. Three aircraft have departed to evacuate stranded citizens, the Indian Air Force vice chief said.
Lack of military-civil cooperation framework impeding innovation in space tech: IAF Vice Chief Vivek Ram Chaudhari
The lack of robust "military-civil fusion"-like framework is preventing us from innovating and manufacturing next-generation space technologies on a large scale, he said, adding there is a need for a concerted focus on this regard.
Air Marshal H S Arora takes charge as Vice Chief of Air Staff
Air Marshal Arora was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force in December 1981.
RKS Bhadauria, man who led Rafale talks, is IAF Chief
Commissioned in the fighter stream of IAF on June 1980, ACM Bhadauria had won the coveted ‘Sword of Honour’ for standing first in the overall order of merit.
IAF vice chief accidentally shoots himself in the thigh
Air Marshal Deo, who was commissioned as a fighter pilot in the IAF on June 15, 1979, is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.
We are just waiting for Rafale to come, says IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal
At the sidelines of an event held here, IAF Vice Chief Air Marshal S B Deo on the Rafale controversy said, “...We are just waiting for this aircraft to come. Its a beautiful aircraft. Very capable aircraft and its a capability that we need very quickly.”
Air Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa is IAF's new Vice Chief
He is an alumnus of Rashtriya Indian Military College, the National Defence Academy and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.
Indian Air Force concerned over delays in product delivery
The IAF Vice Chief also urged the private sector industry to invest more in research and development for making itself globally competitive.
IAF vice-chief says politics hampering defence purchases
Air Vice-Marshal PK Barbora, who on Thursday advocated opening doors wider for FDI in the defence sector, said politics was coming in the way of defence purchases.
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