RAFALE FIGHTER JET DEAL
Israel was prepared to shoot down FlyDubai plane after attack on captain: Report
Israel was prepared to shoot down a FlyDubai passenger jet carrying more than 150 Israelis after the captain was attacked in the cockpit and the aircraft plunged 14,000 feet, CBS News reported. Israeli fighter jets were scrambled as authorities assessed whether the plane had been hijacked before it turned towards Saudi Arabia.
Israel would have shot down FlyDubai plane if... Report reveals how it would have responded to a 9/11-like situation
FlyDubai flight FZ1073 faced a serious incident when the co-pilot attacked the captain with a crash axe. The aircraft plunged rapidly before passengers intervened to subdue the attacker and land safely. Israel activated its emergency protocols during the event, scrambling fighter jets in case of a hijacking threat. The alleged attacker, Hammam al-Hammami, had a history of radicalization concerns before joining FlyDubai.
Germany's Merz arrives in Kyiv to finalize drone deal, release aid
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz arrived in Kyiv with defence industry executives as Russian attacks on Ukrainian cities intensified. Germany is set to announce €1 billion in military aid and €350 million for energy repairs, while Berlin and Kyiv are expected to finalise agreements on joint drone production and deeper weapons cooperation.
Ukraine will hit Russian refineries in response to Moscow's 'new doctrine' of airstrikes
Ukraine is set to enhance its attacks on Russian oil refineries in response to recent changes in military tactics. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy emphasized that civilian infrastructure would not be targeted during these operations. Ongoing Ukrainian counteroffensives have recaptured significant territory in the eastern Donbas region.
"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.
- Go To Page 1
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.
Smit Machchhar: Indian national and former SpiceJet pilot who saved Flydubai passengers
An Indian national and former SpiceJet pilot was captain of the flydubai flight that made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after a reported cockpit confrontation. Smit Machchhar, who joined flydubai in 2022, was injured but reportedly regained control of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 before it landed safely in Tabuk with around 174 passengers onboard.
Taiwan bolsters defences against China as first batch of F-16V fighter jets to arrive
Taiwan is set to receive its first two F-16V fighter jets from a delayed US order for 66 aircraft, strengthening its air force amid rising Chinese military pressure. The $8 billion Lockheed Martin deal, approved in 2019, will expand Taiwan’s F-16 fleet beyond 200 jets. Delivery has faced software and other production-related delays, raising concerns over US arms commitments.
Flydubai pilot called ‘terrorist’ after attempting to crash Israel-bound plane; what we know so far
One of the pilots of an Israel-bound flydubai flight tried to kill his co-pilot before the plane made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, a passenger's mother told AFP. Yasmin Abukasis, whose daughter Miryam was on the flight to attend a service for her brother killed in the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack, said her daughter told her by telephone after landing that everyone "thought they were going to die". "She said one pilot tried to kill the other pilot with a knife.
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.
Screams, panic and a sudden plunge to 14,000 feet in seconds: Inside Flydubai flight FZ1073’s terrifying video
The Boeing 737 left Dubai International Airport for Ben Gurion Airport on September 30. About two and a half hours into the flight, something went wrong. Flight-tracking data showed the aircraft suddenly losing altitude.
Flydubai incident: Pilot stabbed, plane plunged thousands of feet, fighter jets scrambled. What happened on Dubai-Tel Aviv flight?
Flydubai hijacking video: A flydubai flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv made an emergency landing in Saudi Arabia after a reported confrontation between the pilots. Passengers described screams, blood in the cockpit and an alleged stabbing, while the aircraft briefly transmitted a hijacking code and plunged thousands of feet. Israeli authorities scrambled fighter jets as the incident unfolded.
'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.
India working towards developing sixth-generation fighter jets: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh announced that India is developing sixth-generation fighter jets. He said modern warfare encompasses multiple domains and is not restricted to soldier versus soldier. The minister also said that India successfully conducted a flight trial of a long-range hypersonic missile as well as testing a long-duration scramjet engine.
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.
China in possession of US F-35 stealth technology as Australia and UPS blunder gifts Beijing a treasure trove of one of America’s most advanced defense tech
China has reportedly acquired advanced stealth capabilities from components of the American F-35 fighter jet, which were mistakenly sent to Hong Kong. This incident has raised alarm bells regarding national security. While Australian officials acknowledged the mishap, they downplayed the potential risks. The Pentagon is now investigating how these components were redirected, highlighting the escalating tensions surrounding military technology espionage between the U.S. and China.
Pentagon investigates after China obtains parts from F-35 stealth fighter jet
The Pentagon is looking into how F-35 components ended up in Hong Kong, which raises security concerns. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles confirmed that the components were not sensitive equipment. Reports indicate that the shipment was diverted while on its way to the U.S. for repair or disposal. Politicians are worried about potential access for China to advanced technology amidst tight control over Hong Kong.
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.
From fabrics to fighter jets: Raymond moves into fighter aircraft assembly
Raymond Ltd has announced an expansion into aircraft structures with its subsidiary JK Maini Global Aerospace. The subsidiary won a tender to assemble wing and centre-fuselage structures for a fighter aircraft programme. This strategic move aims to enhance the company's capabilities without substantial investments in new infrastructure. The programme will enable the subsidiary to establish credentials for larger aerospace projects.
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.
Why Trump's $24.3 billion F-35 deal with Saudi Arabia is giving sleepless nights to Israel and US
Trump administration has approved a possible $24.3 billion sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, a deal that still needs congressional review. If it goes through, Saudi Arabia would become only the second country in the Middle East after Israel to operate the F-35, and that possibility has revived old anxieties in Israel about losing its military edge, alongside fresh US concerns over Saudi Arabia's growing ties with China.
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.
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'.
Apatsu Mitram: IAF Chief hails deepening India-Japan defence ties as Japanese Fighters fly from Indian soil in Ex 'Veer Guardian-2026'
"There is a Sanskrit expression which says 'Apatsu Mitram'-a friend in time of need. I think the spirit reflected in the relationship between the Indian Air Force and Koku-Jieitai [JASDF] is exactly the same," Singh said. "It is a partnership built on mutual respect, professional trust, and shared commitment to peace and stability."
Load More
