Flying Wedge Tests 'India’s First Autonomous Swarm Interceptor' To Outmatch Drone Swarms In Aerial Defence

Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace has unveiled a ground breaking advancement in India's defence landscape with the successful testing of FWD YAMA, touted as the nation's first autonomous swarm interceptor tailored for counter-drone warfare, air defence, and Suppression of Enemy Air Defence missions.

This innovative platform addresses the escalating menace of low-cost drones, which have proven disruptive in recent global conflicts. By delivering precision aerial interception at a fraction of the expense of traditional missile systems, FWD YAMA promises to revolutionise threat neutralisation.

The company claims the interceptor operates at up to 100 times lower cost than conventional alternatives, with a projected per-unit price hovering around $10,000. This figure varies based on configuration and mission requirements, making it economically viable for large-scale deployments.

At its core, FWD YAMA harnesses artificial intelligence, swarm coordination algorithms, and precision-kill mechanisms to tackle a spectrum of aerial threats. These range from diminutive micro-drones to more substantial unmanned aerial systems, ensuring versatile application in modern battlefields.

The system's proprietary autonomy stack, developed in-house by Flying Wedge, underpins its operations. This software suite facilitates seamless integration across diverse aerial defence platforms, encompassing unmanned systems and precision-guided munitions.

Autonomous navigation, targeting, and engagement form the bedrock of FWD YAMA's architecture. Once radar or surveillance systems provide initial cueing, the interceptor takes over independently, detecting, classifying, prioritising, tracking, and neutralising threats without any human input.

Advanced sensor fusion drives its effectiveness. Radar-based cueing merges with multi-sensor data, electro-optical tracking, and vision-based terminal guidance to enable pinpoint interceptions, even amidst chaotic swarm scenarios.

Resilience defines FWD YAMA's design ethos. It thrives in GPS-denied environments and communication-contested zones, shrugging off electronic warfare tactics and signal jamming to maintain operational integrity.

Swarm capabilities elevate its strategic value. Multiple interceptors can deploy in coordinated fashion, distributing targets dynamically and executing cooperative engagements to overwhelm drone swarms efficiently.

Scalability extends to smaller threats, such as DJI Mini-class micro-drones, while accommodating larger UAVs. This adaptability positions FWD YAMA as a scalable bulwark against evolving aerial incursions.

Airborne integration further broadens its tactical footprint. Compatibility with Flying Wedge's Kaalabhairav UAV series allows ground-launched or air-launched operations, bolstering air-to-air defensive postures.

Suhas Tejaskanda, Founder and CEO of Flying Wedge, underscored the urgency of this innovation. Recent conflicts, he noted, reveal how inexpensive drones exact outsized tolls on legacy air defences, dictating that future victories hinge on superior anti-drone countermeasures.

FWD YAMA fills this critical void, Tejaskanda asserted. Engineered for scalability, economic sustainability, and robustness in hostile settings, it slashes interception costs dramatically—potentially 100-fold compared to missile systems—preserving high-value inventories during sustained drone assaults.

This development fortifies India's self-reliant defence posture. By countering proliferating aerial threats indigenously, it enhances sovereign capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions.

FWD YAMA forms a cornerstone of Flying Wedge's expansive ecosystem. This includes AI-powered combat platforms, unmanned combat aircraft, network-centric defence networks, and fully autonomous air combat technologies—all conceived, developed, and manufactured within India.

As drone warfare proliferates, such systems signal India's proactive pivot towards affordable, intelligent air defence solutions. Flying Wedge's milestone not only counters immediate threats but also lays groundwork for next-generation aerial dominance.

ET News

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Green Aero Successfully Tests Its Sub-kN Military Grade Dual-Fuel Jet Engine

Bangalore-based Green Aero has marked a significant milestone in India's indigenous defence aerospace sector with the successful test firing of its sub-kilonewton (sub-kN) jet engine, designed to military-grade specifications.

This compact propulsion system, developed entirely in-house, demonstrates remarkable versatility by operating seamlessly on both conventional jet fuel and diesel, opening avenues for dual-use applications in unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and loitering munitions.

The test firing, conducted at a secure facility near Bangalore, validated the engine's performance across a spectrum of thrust levels, with stable operation recorded for over 45 minutes under simulated high-altitude conditions.

Green Aero, a rising player in Karnataka's burgeoning aerospace ecosystem, leverages advanced materials like high-temperature ceramics and additive-manufactured components to achieve a power-to-weight ratio superior to many imported counterparts.

This achievement aligns with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reducing reliance on foreign suppliers for small jet engines critical to swarming drone tactics and precision strike capabilities.

Military-grade certification implies rigorous compliance with standards akin to those of DRDO and HAL, including vibration tolerance, thermal cycling endurance, and electromagnetic compatibility for integration with indigenous avionics.

The engine's dual-fuel capability addresses logistical challenges in extended operations, particularly for border deployments where diesel commonality with ground vehicles enhances sustainment.

Sources close to the development indicate peak thrust exceeding 200 N, with specific fuel consumption rates competitive against global benchmarks like the PBS TJ100 series.

Green Aero's engineers employed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and rapid prototyping to iterate designs, compressing development timelines to under 18 months.

This test paves the way for integration into next-generation loitering munitions, akin to the ALS-50 being indigenised by Solar Industries, bolstering India's asymmetric warfare posture against regional threats.

The firm's Bangalore roots tap into the city's talent pool from IISc and surrounding PSUs, fostering a cluster effect similar to HAL's rotary-wing hub.

Future scaling could extend to micro-turbojets for high-speed target drones, supporting missile trials for systems like Akash-NG. Environmental considerations influenced the design, with diesel mode enabling lower-emission profiles for training sorties.

Defence analysts view this as a game-changer for private sector participation, potentially attracting offsets from global OEMs like Safran or Honeywell under Make-II procedures.

Green Aero's parent entity, backed by venture funding from Indian deep-tech investors, plans certification flights by mid-2026.

This sub-kN engine complements larger efforts like GTRE's Kaveri derivative, forming a full-spectrum indigenous propulsion pipeline. Export potential looms large, with interest from South Asian allies seeking cost-effective UAV powerplants amid rising Indo-Pacific tensions.

The test data, corroborated by independent telemetry, showed no hotspots or thrust asymmetry, underscoring design maturity.

Green Aero now eyes MoD qualification, positioning for RFPs in swarm drone constellations under the iDEX framework.

This breakthrough reinforces Bangalore's status as India's Silicon Valley for aerospace, rivalling Hyderabad's contributions.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Blue Sparrow's Lethal Reach: Israel's Strike On Khamenei Spurs India's Missile Modernisation With ROCKS And Golden Horizon

Israel's Blue Sparrow missile has emerged as a game-changer in modern warfare, reportedly used to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei during Operation Epic Fury on 28 February 2026, reports Zee News.

Launched from Israeli F-15 or F-35 jets around 7:30 AM Iran time, the missile struck Khamenei's fortified compound in Tehran by 9:40 AM, following a quasi-ballistic trajectory that propelled it to near-space altitudes before hypersonic re-entry at over Mach 5.

This path renders it nearly impossible for conventional air defences to intercept, enabling precision strikes on high-value targets from over 1,000 km away using GPS and inertial navigation.

Crystal Maze 2: Indian Air Force's Latest Endeavour in Aerial Superiority

On April 23rd, 2024, the #IndianAirForce (@IAF_MCC) successfully tested the Medium-Range Ballistic Missile #CrystalMaze2, also known as #ROCKS, with a range of over 250 km. pic.twitter.com/PXCCtv2u94

— The GEOSTRATA (@TheGeostrata) April 28, 2024

Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, the Blue Sparrow belongs to the Sparrow family, initially designed to simulate enemy ballistic missiles like Scuds for testing Israel's Arrow defence system.

Measuring 6.5 metres and weighing about 1.9 tons, it was adapted for offensive air-to-surface roles due to its speed and manoeuvrability. Debris resembling elongated grey cylinders was found in western Iraq, confirming its trajectory during the strike.

The operation, codenamed Epic Fury by the US Pentagon and Roaring Lion by Israel, involved coordinated US-Israeli strikes that also eliminated several senior Iranian officials, including IRGC commander Mohammad Pakpour and others.

Israeli intelligence from Unit 820 had monitored Khamenei's movements for years, adjusting the timeline when he attended a surface-level meeting. By 1 March, Iranian state media confirmed his death, triggering 40 days of mourning amid reports of over 1,100 fatalities in Iran.

India is actively integrating similar Israeli missile technologies to bolster its deep-strike capabilities, particularly through the ROCKS missile and the proposed Golden Horizon system. The ROCKS, an operational variant of the Crystal Maze-2 and linked to the Sparrow/Anchor family, was successfully test-fired by the Indian Air Force (IAF) from a Sukhoi Su-30MKI in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in April 2024.

With a range exceeding 250-300 km, it targets high-value sites in GPS-denied environments using electro-optical seekers, allowing strikes without entering enemy airspace.

This test demonstrated India's ability to hit deep targets from stand-off distances, enhancing Su-30MKI versatility against threats from Pakistan or China. Under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, larger orders are planned with India-sourced components and potential DRDO technology transfers.

In February 2026, Israel offered the Golden Horizon air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM) for integration on upgraded Su-30MKIs, with an estimated range of 1,500-2,000 km. Tailored for hardened, deeply buried targets like bunkers, it promises transformative stand-off strikes without border crossings. Linked to the Sparrow family, it shifts India's arsenal towards harder-to-intercept ballistic profiles over cruise missiles.

This collaboration builds on proven Israeli tech used in India's Operation Sindoor in 2025 against Pakistan, where SPICE kits, HARPY/Harop drones, Barak-8 missiles, Heron UAVs, SkyStriker loitering munitions, and Rampage missiles excelled. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed their "battle-proven" performance, including HAROPs destroying radars in Lahore. SkyStriker, made in Bangalore via Alpha Design-Elbit JV, highlighted local manufacturing.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visits to Israel, including in February 2026, have deepened ties, potentially yielding Golden Horizon as a key outcome. These integrations align with IAF modernisation, blending imported precision with indigenous efforts for strategic deterrence in South Asia.

As tensions persist in the Middle East, with ongoing US-Israeli strikes causing heavy casualties, India's adoption of Sparrow-derived tech positions it at the forefront of air-launched ballistic capabilities. Future DRDO co-development could yield fully indigenous variants, ensuring self-reliance in hypersonic deep-strike warfare.

Zee News

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IG Defence Scales Up UAV Production With Multi-Site Expansion Amid Rising Demands

In a significant boost to India's indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem, IG Defence has unveiled ambitious plans to establish a ₹300 crore unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) facility in Ganjam district, Odisha, reported FlapOne.

Announced in February 2026, this investment underscores the company's commitment to ramping up production of advanced unmanned systems amid evolving security challenges.

IG Defence specialises in designing and developing a diverse range of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), counter-UAS (C-UAS) solutions, and cutting-edge simulation and training platforms. The new Odisha facility will focus on manufacturing tactical and mission-specific UAVs, positioning the firm as a key player in India's push for self-reliance in drone technology.

The company's impressive portfolio encompasses strike-capable unmanned platforms, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, logistic UAV swarms, and sophisticated training simulators. These offerings cater to a broad spectrum of military and strategic needs, from precision strikes to real-time battlefield intelligence.

Speaking to Janes in February, Major General R C Padhi (Retd), senior vice-president at IG Defence, highlighted the strategic importance of the Odisha project alongside a new facility in Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. These developments, he noted, will substantially enhance the company's overall manufacturing prowess.

IG Defence has already commissioned a state-of-the-art facility in Noida, Uttar Pradesh, in December 2025. Padhi revealed that construction and UAV production occurred simultaneously at this site, enabling rapid scaling 'on a war footing' to meet urgent operational demands.

This accelerated expansion draws direct lessons from Operation Sindoor, India's military action against Pakistan in May 2025. 'We had very limited capability during Operation Sindoor,' Padhi candidly admitted, emphasising how the experience exposed critical gaps that prompted a surge in production capacity.

Post-operation, IG Defence has substantially increased its manufacturing output. The Noida plant now serves as a cornerstone of this growth, with UAVs rolling off production lines to bolster national stockpiles.

The forthcoming Jhansi facility has secured all necessary approvals from relevant authorities, paving the way for swift implementation. Meanwhile, the Odisha plant is poised to become a hub for high-volume tactical UAV assembly.

Both new sites are slated for commissioning by 2028, addressing persistent bottlenecks in IG Defence's current capabilities. Padhi stressed that these facilities will enable the production of next-generation systems at scale, including FPV Striker UAVs capable of carrying up to 500 g payloads with endurance exceeding 45 minutes.

This multi-pronged expansion aligns seamlessly with India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative in defence. By localising UAV manufacturing, IG Defence reduces import dependencies and fortifies supply chains against geopolitical disruptions.

The firm's growth trajectory reflects broader trends in India's defence sector, where private players are increasingly partnering with entities like DRDO and HAL to deliver indigenous solutions. IG Defence's focus on swarms and counter-UAS systems positions it ideally for future conflicts dominated by drone warfare.

Operation Sindoor served as a stark reminder of the need for rapid deployability. Lessons from that campaign have directly informed IG Defence's 'war footing' approach, ensuring platforms like the FPV Striker are ready for high-intensity scenarios.

With facilities spanning Noida, Jhansi, and Odisha, IG Defence is building a robust pan-India manufacturing footprint. This network will support not only domestic armed forces but also potential exports, enhancing India's stature in the global UAV market.

Padhi's insights reveal a company transforming constraints into opportunities. By 2028, these investments promise to elevate IG Defence from a niche innovator to a cornerstone of India's aerial defence architecture.

As India navigates complex regional threats from neighbours like Pakistan and China, such advancements in UAV capabilities could prove decisive. IG Defence's story exemplifies how private sector agility is reshaping the nation's military-industrial landscape.

FlapOne

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Government Rejects 'Baseless And Preposterous' Claims of Indian Navy Providing Intelligence In IRIS Dena Sinking

India's government has vehemently dismissed allegations that its Navy shared intelligence with the United States regarding the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena, which was sunk by a US military submarine. Senior sources in New Delhi labelled the claims as "baseless and preposterous" on Friday, insisting there was no involvement whatsoever.

The incident unfolded on Wednesday off the coast of Sri Lanka, where the US submarine struck the IRIS Dena, resulting in the deaths of at least 87 Iranian sailors. Sri Lankan authorities swiftly mounted a rescue operation, saving survivors from the wreckage amid choppy waters.

The IRIS Dena had been en route home following its participation in the Milan multilateral naval exercise, hosted by India in the Indian Ocean region. This annual event brings together navies from multiple nations to foster maritime cooperation and security.

Iran has reacted with fury, condemning the attack as a provocative escalation in its long-standing tensions with the United States. The sinking represents the first major naval confrontation between the two powers outside the Persian Gulf, raising fears of broader regional instability.

Government sources emphasised that India maintains strict neutrality in such matters, with no provision of intelligence or operational support to the US. They described the narrative as fabricated, potentially aimed at straining India's diplomatic ties with Iran.

The timing of the strike is particularly sensitive, coming just days after the conclusion of the Milan exercise. IRIS Dena, a modern Mowj-class frigate equipped with advanced radar and missile systems, was a key participant alongside Indian and other allied vessels.

Eyewitness accounts from Sri Lankan fishermen and naval patrols reported explosions and fire engulfing the Iranian ship around midday on Wednesday. Debris fields stretched over several nautical miles, complicating rescue efforts.

US officials have remained tight-lipped, neither confirming nor denying the submarine's involvement. However, defence analysts speculate it could be a Virginia-class vessel operating in the Indo-Pacific, underscoring America's forward naval posture.

For India, the episode underscores the delicate balance of its strategic partnerships. New Delhi enjoys close defence ties with the US through frameworks like the Quad, while nurturing economic and energy relations with Iran.

Sri Lanka's navy coordinated the search and rescue, airlifting injured personnel to Colombo hospitals. Iranian diplomats have arrived to oversee the repatriation of remains and investigate the circumstances.

The IRIS Dena's loss is a blow to Iran's naval capabilities, which have been expanding to project power beyond the Gulf. Commissioned in 2018, the frigate boasted stealth features and anti-ship missiles, making it a prized asset.

Indian Navy spokespersons reiterated full compliance with international maritime norms during Milan, with no post-exercise intelligence sharing. This stance aligns with India's policy of strategic autonomy.

Geopolitical observers note the incident could ripple through South Asian waters, where freedom of navigation remains contested. Pakistan and China, Iran's allies, have voiced concerns over escalating naval activities.

Iran's foreign ministry summoned the US chargé d'affaires in Tehran, demanding accountability. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's office hinted at retaliatory measures, potentially targeting US assets in the Middle East.

As investigations continue, the event highlights vulnerabilities in international naval exercises. India, as host of Milan, faces scrutiny to ensure participant safety in future iterations. The controversy also revives debates on intelligence-sharing pacts like COMCASA between India and the US. Critics argue such claims exploit these arrangements to sow discord.

With tensions simmering, maritime traffic in the western Indian Ocean has increased patrols from regional navies, including India's INS Vikrant carrier group.

PTI

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India Targets Semiconductor Choke Points With Strategic Eindhoven Diplomacy

India’s recent delegation to Eindhoven marks a significant shift in how the country is approaching its semiconductor ambitions.

Rather than sending bureaucrats for symbolic visits, the team was composed of senior officials from the India Semiconductor Mission, including technology director Manish Hooda, alongside representatives from the Indian embassy and Indo-Dutch trade and innovation networks. 

These are the individuals directly responsible for converting policy into tangible projects, which signals a serious intent to move beyond rhetoric.

The choice of Eindhoven is deliberate and strategic. It is home to ASML, the world’s only supplier of extreme ultraviolet lithography machines, as well as NXP and a dense ecosystem of Tier-1 and Tier-2 suppliers.

By engaging directly with these choke points in the semiconductor value chain, India is targeting the most critical nodes rather than chasing foundries alone. This demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of where leverage lies in the global industry.

India’s pitch is equally pragmatic. The government is offering up to 50 per cent central subsidies, with an additional 20–25 per cent support from state governments. Eight projects are already underway, and TATA’s multi-billion-dollar fab serves as proof of seriousness. This combination of incentives and demonstrable progress makes India’s offer more credible than mere promises.

Geopolitics adds another layer of opportunity. Dutch firms, constrained by US–China export controls, are actively seeking “China plus one” alternatives. India is positioning itself as that alternative, offering scale, talent, and a rule-of-law environment that appeals to companies wary of overdependence on China. This alignment of global pressures with India’s industrial ambitions is a shrewd move.

Timing is also carefully considered. The Eindhoven trip is not just about immediate deals but about laying the groundwork for deeper strategic partnerships. By initiating deal-origination ahead of major political announcements, India ensures that diplomacy and industrial policy move in tandem, reinforcing each other.

This approach exemplifies effective industrial policy: targeted diplomacy, hard incentives, and a clear sectoral focus. It avoids the trap of slogans and instead builds credibility through concrete actions. In doing so, India is signalling that it intends to be a serious player in the semiconductor ecosystem, not just a hopeful aspirant.

Agencies

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The Digital Vanguard: India’s Charge Into The AI Era

A recent study by Lenovo has positioned Indian enterprises at the forefront of the technological landscape in the Asia-Pacific region, revealing that they are poised for the highest growth in Artificial Intelligence investment.

While the broader region anticipates a 15% average increase in AI spending, Indian organisations are significantly outpacing their peers with a projected 19% boost in their budgets.

This surge reflects a strategic shift from mere experimentation to the active execution of AI-driven business models.

The primary catalyst behind this aggressive expansion is India’s robust talent pool, which is increasingly focused on the development of the AI application layer.

Industry leaders note that the country’s unique position as a hub for global technology providers and Global Systems Integrators (GSIs) allows for the creation of specialised AI agents tailored for specific sectors like marketing, finance, and legal services. This transition marks a move from the initial training phases of large models to real-world inferencing and practical use cases.

A defining characteristic of the Indian approach is a distinct emphasis on immediate returns. Chief Information Officers (CIOs) in India are known for a frugal yet result-oriented mindset, demanding faster ROI and quicker payback periods compared to global averages.

Despite the enthusiasm, these leaders face significant hurdles, particularly concerning legacy infrastructure which may take over a year to modernise. Nevertheless, the pressure to deliver tangible business outcomes remains a driving force for investment.

Architectural preferences among Indian firms are also becoming increasingly clear, with 90% of organisations favouring hybrid AI models. These frameworks balance on-premise and edge environments, ensuring that performance and security are maintained while meeting strict regulatory requirements.

This hybridity allows firms to keep sensitive data close to the source while leveraging the power of distributed computing to manage the high costs associated with AI operations.

The study further highlights that the financial burden of AI is shifting; inferencing costs—the process of a trained model making predictions—can be up to 15 times higher than the initial training phase. Consequently, 75% of AI compute is expected to be dedicated to inferencing in the near future.

To manage this, 80% of enterprises are projected to rely on distributed edge infrastructure by 2030, ensuring that processing happens closer to the consumer and the device, where the most immediate impact is felt.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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ISRO Goes All-Terrain: Four-Legged Robots To Lead Next Phase of Lunar And Martian Exploration

Illustrative: Tuvie Images      

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is setting its sights on a significant leap in planetary exploration by moving beyond traditional wheeled rovers.

Through a newly issued tender, the agency is seeking to procure three advanced quadruped robotic systems designed to tackle the formidable landscapes of the Moon and Mars.

These four-legged machines are engineered to mimic animal locomotion, providing a level of agility and adaptability that is often difficult for current exploration vehicles to achieve on uneven, rocky, or cratered surfaces.

Efficiency and portability are at the core of the design requirements for these mechanical explorers. Each unit must maintain a lightweight profile, weighing no more than 30 kg, while remaining robust enough to support a 5 kg scientific payload.

This balance ensures that the robots can be integrated into future mission payloads without exceeding strict launch mass constraints, yet still carry the necessary instruments to conduct meaningful on-site research.

Performance specifications for the quadruped systems highlight a focus on both speed and ruggedness. ISRO has stipulated a top speed of 1.5 m/s, allowing for rapid traversal of the lunar or Martian Regolith. 

Furthermore, the robots are required to navigate steep inclines with a climbing angle of up to 25°, a capability that will prove vital when exploring the rims of impact craters or the base of volcanic features where traditional wheels might slip or become stuck.

Autonomous navigation is a critical component of the procurement, as the communication delay between Earth and deep-space destinations necessitates a high degree of independence. To achieve this, the robots will be equipped with a suite of high-tech sensors, including multi-line LiDAR for precise mapping and depth cameras for real-time obstacle detection.

These systems will allow the robots to build internal maps and make split-second decisions regarding the safest and most efficient paths to their objectives.

The tender also extends beyond the physical hardware of the robots themselves, encompassing the sophisticated computing power required to operate them. ISRO is calling for high-end workstations and laptops specifically configured to handle reinforcement learning training.

This suggests a long-term strategy of using machine learning to improve the robots' walking gaits and responses to unpredictable terrain over time, ensuring they become more proficient as their mission progresses.

Finally, the procurement includes specialised systems for telecommand based on the Robot Operating System (ROS) framework. This standardized approach will allow engineers to maintain a reliable link with the machines, facilitating complex commands and data retrieval.

By integrating these cutting-edge quadruped systems into their exploration roadmap, ISRO is positioning itself at the forefront of robotic mobility, ensuring that no terrain is too challenging for India’s future space missions.

ISRO

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Islamabad Expresses 'Concern' Over Canada Supplying Uranium To India After Operation Sindoor

The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally registered its deep concern over a landmark C$2.6 billion uranium supply agreement recently signed between Canada and India. Islamabad argues that this long-term arrangement, which secures nuclear fuel for India's civilian reactors through 2035, represents a "selective exception" to global non-proliferation norms.

Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi stated that such preferential treatment diminishes the credibility of the international framework designed to control the spread of nuclear materials.

Tensions are particularly high as this deal follows the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, the significant military engagement in May 2025 initiated by India in response to terror attacks in Pahalgam.

Pakistan maintains that the timing of this nuclear cooperation is provocative, especially given the established military asymmetry in the region.

Officials in Islamabad contend that by providing India with a guaranteed external supply of uranium for its civilian fleet, Canada is inadvertently allowing India to divert its limited domestic uranium reserves toward its military program.

The Pakistani government has highlighted what it describes as a "troubling irony" in the renewed partnership. It pointed out that the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) was originally established in response to India's 1974 nuclear test, which utilised plutonium produced in a Canadian-supplied reactor meant for peaceful purposes.

By granting New Delhi further "preferential access" now, Islamabad argues that Canada is undermining the very export controls that India’s past actions necessitated.

Furthermore, Pakistan raised alarms regarding the lack of comprehensive safeguards, noting that India has not placed all its civilian nuclear facilities under International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspections.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that the expansion of India’s fissile material stockpiles could accelerate an arms race and deepen strategic imbalances across South Asia.

Pakistan has reiterated its call for a "criteria-based" and non-discriminatory approach to civil nuclear cooperation that applies equally to all states that are not parties to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.

Agencies

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Urges GRSE To Pioneer Cutting-Edge Warships For India's Maritime Ascendancy

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has urged Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) Limited to forge ahead with state-of-the-art naval platforms attuned to the rapidly evolving technology-driven landscape.

Speaking to GRSE personnel in Kolkata on Thursday, Singh positioned the shipyard as a beacon of shipbuilding prowess, both in India and globally.

He emphasised GRSE's vital role in advancing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of Viksit Bharat@2047—a developed India by 2047—through indigenous innovation and maritime self-reliance.

Singh lauded GRSE's century-and-a-half legacy in equipping the Indian Navy and Coast Guard with formidable warships and frigates.

These vessels have steadfastly safeguarded India's maritime interests amid shifting geopolitical tides in the Indian Ocean Region.

"A modern warship crafted by you is far more than steel and machinery," Singh remarked. "It embodies the toil of thousands of workers, the ingenuity of engineers, the precision of technicians, and the shipyard's unwavering devotion to the nation."

He hailed every GRSE employee not merely as a worker, but as an integral cog in the grand machinery of nation-building.

Singh recounted how GRSE's grit, expertise, and resolve have turned the improbable into reality, from complex warship designs to timely deliveries under stringent deadlines.

The shipyard's portfolio boasts advanced frigates like the Nilgiri-class, stealth-guided missile vessels, and next-generation offshore patrol vessels, underscoring its pivot towards modularity and AI integration.

In recent years, GRSE has accelerated indigenous content, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, reducing import dependency from over 50 per cent to below 30 per cent in key projects.

Singh exhorted the workforce to sustain this momentum amid emerging challenges: hypersonic threats, unmanned surface vessels, and cyber-resilient systems.

"New technologies will emerge, competition will intensify, but with your hard work and commitment, GRSE shall shine as a global emblem of excellence," he affirmed.

This call resonates deeply as India eyes a 200-warship Navy by 2050, with GRSE tasked to deliver 16 next-generation warships under a landmark ₹25,000 crore order.

The Minister's visit coincides with GRSE's record turnover of ₹9,500 crore in FY2025, buoyed by export orders to Mauritius and the Philippines. GRSE's contributions extend to the Blue Economy, fostering coastal security, deep-sea exploration, and sustainable fisheries through specialised craft.

Singh praised the shipyard's role in bolstering India's strategic deterrence, particularly along critical sea lanes vulnerable to adversarial navies. The event featured a vibrant cultural extravaganza by GRSE staff and families, blending traditional dances and music.

Singh described it as "excellent," a vivid tapestry reflecting India's diversity, unity, and cultural richness.

Attendees included GRSE Chairman and Managing Director Commodore PR Hari (Retd), alongside senior Ministry of Defence officials and shipyard leaders.

This address reinforces the government's push for public-sector undertakings like GRSE to lead in dual-use technologies, blending defence with commercial shipbuilding.

As India navigates a multipolar world, GRSE stands poised to propel the nation towards maritime superpower status, embodying the spirit of self-reliance.

ANI

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US HELIOS Laser Weapon Challenges Iran’s Drone Warfare

The deployment of the HELIOS laser weapon system by the United States Navy marks a significant moment in modern warfare.

Mounted on a destroyer operating off the coast of Iran, HELIOS has already demonstrated its capability in live tests, successfully neutralising multiple drones before the outbreak of the current conflict.

While confirmed combat kills during the war have not yet been publicly verified, its presence in the battlespace is undeniable and strategically important.

The economic implications of this technology are profound. Traditional missile defence systems such as Patriot and THAAD interceptors come with staggering costs, ranging from several million to tens of millions of dollars per shot.

With Gulf states intercepting hundreds of drones and missiles in mere days, the financial burden of defence has reached billions. Iran’s doctrine of saturating defences with cheap drones has been effective precisely because it forces adversaries to spend disproportionately on countermeasures.

HELIOS changes this equation. Unlike missile interceptors, the laser weapon relies on electricity generated by the ship itself. The marginal cost of firing is virtually zero, making each engagement orders of magnitude cheaper than conventional interceptors.

Against drones costing tens of thousands of dollars, the laser’s cost per shot is negligible, potentially reducing the economic strain of sustained defence.

This shift undermines the strategic foundation of Iran’s drone warfare doctrine. For years, Iran has relied on cost asymmetry to impose financial pressure on its adversaries. By deploying directed energy weapons, the United States introduces a countermeasure that could absorb large-scale drone attacks without exhausting resources. Even partial success in intercepting drone swarms would begin to invert the economic balance that has favoured Iran.

The war now serves as the first real combat test of whether directed energy weapons can deliver on their promise.

If HELIOS proves effective in operational conditions, it may signal the beginning of a new era in air defence, where lasers replace missiles as the frontline response to massed aerial threats. The implications extend beyond this conflict, potentially reshaping military doctrines worldwide.

Agencies

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Strategic Resilience of India’s Energy Sector: Oil Reserves Hold Firm Amid Hormuz Strait Tensions

India has affirmed that its crude oil and fuel reserves remain robust amid escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, linked to the ongoing Iran-Israel conflict. Government sources, cited by ANI, emphasise that the nation is in a "comfortable position" with ample stocks of crude oil, refined products, and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

This assurance comes as global markets watch closely for potential supply disruptions in the vital Gulf shipping lane.

As the conflict between Iran and Israel threatens to disrupt maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy trade, authorities in New Delhi have confirmed that current inventories are sufficient to withstand potential supply shocks.

Sources within the government have described India’s present standing as a "comfortable position," noting that the country now possesses a more diverse array of energy sources than those currently at risk in the Gulf region.

Refiners across the country are reported to have maintained substantial inventories, and the state remains vigilant in monitoring global developments to ensure that fuel availability for the domestic market remains entirely uninterrupted.

To mitigate the risks associated with the Strait of Hormuz, officials have indicated a readiness to pivot toward alternative geographical supply routes.

By ramping up procurement from other regions, the government aims to compensate for any potential volume deficits. This proactive strategy is designed to decouple India’s energy stability from the immediate volatility of West Asian geopolitics.

A significant component of this resilience is the strategic shift in India’s import profile over the last few years. Recent data reveals a dramatic increase in the procurement of Russian crude oil, which currently accounts for approximately 20 per cent of India’s total imports, compared to a negligible 0.2 per cent in early 2022. Government sources emphasised that Indian refiners have strictly adhered to international guidelines by purchasing only Russian crude that does not fall under current sanctions.

The focus on energy security extends to liquefied natural gas (LNG), with state-owned enterprises actively securing spot cargoes to bolster national reserves. Furthermore, the government has moved to dispel recent rumours regarding the operational status of the Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL). Officials clarified that the refinery is fully operational and possesses more than adequate stock levels to meet ongoing demand.

In the domestic sector, the government has issued directives to all liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) refineries to maximise their production output.

This move is intended to ensure that household fuel supplies remain steady. In an additional effort to ease consumption pressures, authorities have indicated that petrochemical resources may be redirected for domestic use if the situation warrants such intervention.

Diversification efforts for LPG have also expanded beyond traditional suppliers. Following a significant agreement signed in late 2025, Indian public sector oil firms have begun receiving large-scale shipments from the United States Gulf Coast.

This contract, which covers the import of approximately 2.2 million tonnes per annum, marks a milestone in India’s effort to broaden its energy partnership base and reduce its historical over-reliance on Middle Eastern supply chains.

Agencies

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EAM Jaishankar Envisions Multipolar World As Power Diffuses Beyond Any Single Hegemon

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar delivered a compelling address at the Raisina Dialogue 2026 in New Delhi, challenging the notion of a static global order rooted in mid-20th-century constructs.

He dismissed as unrealistic the expectation that arrangements from 1945 or 1989 could endure indefinitely, emphasising that such frameworks represent merely a fleeting moment in history.

Jaishankar contextualised his argument by invoking India's vast historical timeline, noting that the past seven decades equate to just 1 per cent of the nation's history. "Why would 1 per cent of Indian history last? Life moves on," he remarked, underscoring the inevitability of change in international relations.

This perspective, he argued, stems from an undue attachment to the past that overlooks the dynamic forces reshaping the world. Jaishankar highlighted two pivotal drivers of transformation this decade: technological advancements and demographic shifts, which are redefining power structures beyond traditional geopolitical fault lines.

Much contemporary analysis fixates on fluctuations within the United States, yet Jaishankar contended that the true story lies in the broader diffusion of influence. "No country today is an overall hegemon," he asserted, painting a picture of a future where dominance eludes any single power across multiple domains.

Power, in this emerging paradigm, transcends simplistic measures like GDP or military prowess. Instead, it manifests through specialised regional capabilities, with different parts of the world excelling in distinct spheres, leading to a more fragmented yet balanced global landscape.

Jaishankar's remarks resonate amid ongoing tensions, such as those in the Indo-Pacific and Europe, where alliances are tested and new partnerships form. His emphasis on multipolarity aligns with India's strategic autonomy, evident in its deepening ties with the Quad nations while maintaining robust relations with Russia.

Demographically, the minister pointed to youth bulges in Africa and Asia as counterweights to ageing populations in the West, potentially shifting economic and innovative capacities. India itself, with its burgeoning workforce, stands poised to leverage this trend through initiatives like Make in India and digital infrastructure expansion.

Technologically, breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and renewables are democratising capabilities, allowing middle powers to challenge established hierarchies. Jaishankar's worldview cautions against nostalgia for unipolarity, urging adaptive governance in forums like the UN and G20.

For India, this multipolar shift offers opportunities in defence manufacturing and space exploration, areas where indigenous programmes such as Gaganyaan and hypersonic missile development signal rising prowess. Yet it also demands vigilance against domain-specific vulnerabilities, from cyber threats to supply chain disruptions.

Globally, Jaishankar's analysis implies a need for flexible diplomacy, where countries navigate influence blocs rather than binary camps. This could foster cooperation on transnational issues like climate change, even as competition intensifies in strategic domains.

His speech at the Raisina Dialogue, a premier platform for geopolitical discourse, reinforces India's role as a thought leader in the Global South, advocating for reformed institutions that reflect contemporary realities.

In essence, Jaishankar's vision heralds an era of distributed power, compelling nations to cultivate niche strengths while embracing interdependence in an inherently fluid world order.

ANI

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'Regime Change In Tehran Is Israel’s Endgame' Says Israel's Foreign Minister Gideon Saar

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar has declared that the ultimate aim of Israel’s ongoing military campaign against Iran is to bring about regime change in Tehran.

Speaking via video link at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi, Saar emphasised that while Israel and the United States are working to create the conditions for such a transformation, the actual change must be driven by the Iranian people themselves.

He described Iran’s current leadership as oppressive and repressive, arguing that despite widespread public sentiment for change, the regime’s brutality has prevented meaningful political shifts. Saar insisted that Israel’s strategic objective is to eliminate existential threats posed by Iran, including its nuclear programme, ballistic missile development, and support for proxy groups such as Hezbollah, Hamas, and the Houthis.

The remarks come in the wake of a dramatic escalation in West Asia. On 28 February, a joint US-Israel strike killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other senior figures, provoking fierce retaliation from Tehran. Iran launched waves of drone and missile attacks across multiple Arab states, targeting American bases and Israeli assets, while Israel expanded its strikes to Lebanon, focusing on Hezbollah positions.

Saar acknowledged that it was too early to fully assess the impact of the operation, noting that only five days had passed since the escalation began. He stressed Israel’s patience and determination, saying that the campaign would continue until its strategic goals were achieved. He added that while Israel cannot impose regime change alone, external support may be necessary to enable the Iranian people to act.

The Israeli minister also dismissed the idea of a fixed timeline for the conflict, pointing out that the duration would depend on achieving Israel’s objectives rather than arbitrary deadlines. He referred to US President Donald Trump’s suggestion that the war could last several weeks, but reiterated that Israel’s focus was on long-term security rather than short-term gains.

Saar concluded by underlining Israel’s resolve to prevent recurring wars with Iran, insisting that the current operation is aimed at removing existential threats once and for all. He maintained that the endgame would be written by the Iranian people, but only if the international community helps create the conditions for change.

ANI

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Around 50 Israeli Jets Obliterated Khamenei's Underground Military Bunker In Massive Aerial Operation

The Israel Defence Forces (IDF) announced on Friday that approximately 50 Israeli Air Force fighter jets executed a precision strike on an underground military bunker situated beneath a leadership compound in Tehran.

This facility, once associated with the late Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, had reportedly been repurposed by surviving senior officials in the wake of his death and that of other key figures last week.

In an official statement posted on X, the IDF confirmed the bunker's complete dismantlement. Accompanying visuals released by the military showcased the operation's scale, highlighting the jets' ingress into Iranian airspace and the subsequent impact on the fortified target.

The post succinctly declared: "~50 Israeli Air Force fighter jets dismantled Ali Khamenei's underground military bunker beneath the Iranian regime's leadership compound in Tehran."

This audacious raid forms part of a rapidly intensifying cycle of retaliation in West Asia, triggered by a joint US-Israel military operation on 28 February. That strike, conducted on Iranian soil, eliminated Khamenei alongside several high-ranking commanders, shattering the upper echelons of Iran's leadership and prompting vows of vengeance from Tehran.

Iran's response was swift and multifaceted. Waves of drones and ballistic missiles were unleashed across multiple Arab states, zeroing in on American military installations and Israeli strategic assets. Targets included forward bases housing US troops, with reports of intercepted salvos raining down on key regional hubs.

Israel, undeterred, has pressed its offensive. Continuous airstrikes have hammered Tehran, while operations have expanded into Lebanon, where Hezbollah positions—long a proxy spearhead for Iranian influence—face relentless pressure. This broadening front risks drawing in additional actors, further destabilising the volatile Levant.

Earlier on Friday, Qatar's Ministry of Defence revealed that its Emiri Air Defence Forces successfully neutralised a drone aimed at Al-Udeid Air Base. This sprawling facility serves as the nerve centre for US Central Command (CENTCOM), hosting thousands of personnel and advanced surveillance assets critical to regional operations.

The interception underscores the rippling threat of Iran's retaliatory campaign, which has spilled beyond direct adversaries into neutral Gulf territories. Qatari forces reported no casualties or damage, affirming the drone's failure to breach perimeter defences.

Compounding the human tragedy, Reuters cited US military investigators probing a devastating strike last Saturday on Minab Girls' Primary School in Iran's Hormozgan province. The attack claimed over 160 young lives and wounded another 100, sparking outrage across the Islamic Republic.

Preliminary assessments by two US officials suggest American munitions may have been responsible, though the inquiry remains inconclusive. Details on the ordnance type, strike origin, and any errant targeting remain under wraps, with investigators urging caution against premature judgements.

This potential friendly-fire incident—if confirmed—could erode US credibility among allies and intensify anti-Western sentiment in Iran. It arrives amid broader scrutiny of coalition airstrikes, where collateral damage has already fuelled propaganda narratives from Tehran.

The Tehran bunker strike represents Israel's most direct challenge yet to Iran's command-and-control infrastructure. By neutralising a hardened shelter beneath the regime's political heart, the IDF signals its reach extends even to the most protected sanctums, potentially disrupting residual leadership coordination.

Iranian state media has yet to confirm the bunker's fate, but unverified reports speak of seismic activity and emergency evacuations near the compound. The loss of this asset exacerbates Tehran's post-Khamenei disarray, where succession struggles and decapitated chains of command hinder effective counter strikes.

Regionally, the conflict's expansion alarms Gulf monarchies and Sunni powers. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, historically wary of Iranian adventurism, have bolstered air defences while quietly supporting anti-Hezbollah efforts. Egypt and Jordan, meanwhile, brace for spill over refugee flows and terror risks.

For the US, the stakes are existential. With CENTCOM's Al-Udeid under threat and possible school strike blowback, Washington faces pressure to recalibrate its Israel-backed posture. President Biden's administration has reaffirmed ironclad commitments but hinted at diplomatic off-ramps via Oman and Qatar.

As night falls over West Asia, the skies remain contested. Iranian missile batteries reload, Israeli F-35s prowl, and US carriers steam closer. Without swift de-escalation, this shadow war threatens full conflagration, redrawing maps and alliances in fire.

ANI

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