HAL To Handover HTT-40, Dhruv NG And TEJAS MK-1 Trainer In Indigenous Defence Push

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited is preparing to hand over three indigenous aerospace platforms in a significant demonstration of India’s defence and civil aviation capabilities, India Today reported.

The HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft, the Dhruv NG civil helicopter and the LCA FOC (Full Operational Capability) trainer will be formally delivered to Pawan Hans Ltd and the Indian Air Force in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu and Air Chief Marshal AP Singh.

HAL will deliver the first batch of three HTT-40 basic trainer aircraft, with two built in Bangalore and one in Nashik. This delivery forms part of the ₹6,838 crore contract signed in March 2023 for 70 aircraft.

The HTT-40 has been designed to meet the basic training requirements of the Indian Armed Forces and will eventually replace the Swiss-origin Pilatus PC-7 MK-II used for Stage-I training. The aircraft is equipped with a glass cockpit, zero-zero ejection seats and has a maximum speed of 450 kmph. It is fully aerobatic and intended to provide cadets with a modern training environment.

Delays in delivery were caused by shortages of Honeywell TPE331-12B engines. Honeywell delivered the first batch of engines in June 2026 under a contract worth more than ₹830 crore for 88 engines.

Of these, 16 are supplied directly while the remainder are manufactured under technology transfer arrangements with HAL. With engine supplies stabilised, HAL has increased its production capacity to 20 HTT-40 aircraft annually across two production lines.

The Dhruv-NG civil helicopter is also part of the handover. This civil-certified version of HAL’s Advanced Light Helicopter Dhruv has received type certification from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation.

Its induction by Pawan Hans marks HAL’s re-entry into the civil helicopter market after years of focusing on military variants. The Dhruv-NG is designed for roles such as VVIP transport, offshore operations, air ambulance services and Heli-pilgrimage.

It features wheeled landing gear, a new glass cockpit and improved vibration control. Its induction is expected to support the government’s UDAN initiative and strengthen India’s civil helicopter ecosystem.

The third platform is the TEJAS FOC trainer, a two-seat operational trainer version of the TEJAS MK-1 FOC fighter aircraft. This aircraft is intended to support advanced fighter pilot training and reinforce India’s indigenous fighter aircraft ecosystem. Its delivery coincides with HAL ramping up production of the TEJAS MK-1A, supported by a third production line at Nashik.

Together, the three platforms represent different stages of India’s aerospace requirements, ranging from basic military pilot training to advanced fighter training and civil helicopter operations.

All three have been designed, developed and produced indigenously by HAL in collaboration with the Aeronautical Development Agency, Defence Research and Development Organisation and the Indian Air Force. The handover underscores the government’s commitment to Atmanirbhar Bharat in aerospace and defence.

Agencies

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Indian Navy Retrofitting Ten Warships With BEL’s Advanced ACCS For Network-Centric Operations

The Indian Navy has embarked on a significant tactical communications upgrade by retrofitting ten frontline warships with Bharat Electronics Limited’s Advanced Composite Communication System. 

This marks a transition from the older CCS MK-II and MK-III systems to a modern, fourth-generation, IP-based network architecture, ensuring these vessels remain operationally relevant in the era of network-centric warfare.

The contract covers a diverse mix of surface combatants, including frigates, destroyers, corvettes, and patrol vessels. Among the ships slated for the upgrade are the Talwar-class frigates INS Talwar, INS Tabar, INS Trishul, INS Teg, and INS Tarkash. The Rajput-class destroyer INS Ranvir is also included, alongside the Kora-class corvettes INS Kora, INS Kirch, and INS Khanjar.

Completing the list is the Saryu-class patrol vessel INS Sumitra. Together, these ten ships represent a cross-section of legacy and mid-generation platforms that will now benefit from advanced digital communications.

The Advanced ACCS serves as the central nervous system for a ship’s communications, replacing fragmented legacy systems with a unified digital architecture. It seamlessly integrates Very Low Frequency, Medium Frequency, High Frequency, Very and Ultra High Frequency, and Satellite Communications into a single IP-based network. This unified approach eliminates inefficiencies and ensures smooth interoperability across multiple communication domains.

Performance is a key highlight of the system. The ACCS delivers significantly higher bandwidth and low-latency networking, which are vital for real-time data sharing and cooperative engagement. In modern naval operations, where milliseconds can determine the outcome of engagements, such improvements are critical.

The system’s resilience against electronic warfare is another major advantage. With vastly improved anti-jamming capabilities, the ACCS ensures secure communications even in contested environments where adversaries attempt to disrupt or intercept signals.

Reliability has already been proven, as the system is operational on the Navy’s premier frontline assets, including the Kolkata-class stealth guided-missile destroyers and the Kamorta-class anti-submarine corvettes. This track record provides confidence that the retrofitted vessels will experience seamless integration and enhanced operational performance.

By modernising these ten warships, the Indian Navy ensures that older and mid-generation platforms can operate seamlessly alongside its newest flagship assets.

This upgrade enables highly digitalised cooperative engagement scenarios, where ships can share sensor data, targeting information, and tactical updates in real time. Such integration strengthens fleet-wide situational awareness and enhances the Navy’s ability to conduct coordinated operations across the Indian Ocean region.

The move reflects India’s broader naval modernisation program, which emphasises indigenous technology, electronic warfare resilience, and multi-domain integration. By equipping legacy vessels with advanced communications, the Navy is bridging generational gaps in its fleet and ensuring that every platform contributes effectively to the overall combat network.

This upgrade is not merely a technical enhancement but a strategic step towards future-ready naval operations. It underscores the Navy’s commitment to maintaining a robust, secure, and digitally empowered fleet capable of meeting emerging challenges in contested maritime environments.

Agencies

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Netanyahu Lauds Modi’s Leadership To PM Modi's Jewish New Year Wishes As India-Israel Ties Reach Unprecedented Partnership

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday for extending warm wishes on the occasion of the Jewish New Year.

He highlighted that the ties between India and Israel have been transformed into what he described as an unprecedented partnership. Netanyahu praised Modi’s leadership and reiterated the strong bond shared by both democratic nations.

In his message on X, Netanyahu thanked Modi for his greetings to the people of Israel and to him personally. He noted that the Jewish New Year provided an occasion to once again acknowledge Modi’s leadership and enduring friendship.

He added that together, India and Israel had elevated the relationship between their ancient civilizations into a partnership of historic significance. Netanyahu concluded by saying that he and his wife Sara looked forward to meeting Modi again soon.

Netanyahu’s message came in response to Modi’s earlier post on X, where the Indian Prime Minister extended greetings to the Israeli leadership and Jewish communities worldwide. Modi wished for a year filled with peace, hope, good health, and continued progress for all.

His message read, “Shana Tova! Wishing a very happy Rosh Hashanah to Prime Minister Netanyahu, the people of Israel and Jewish communities across the globe. May the new year be filled with peace, hope, good health and continued progress for all.”

Modi conveyed his greetings while addressing the opening day of the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, which was held under India’s chairship. On the same day, Modi announced the unanimous adoption of the New Delhi Declaration 2026 at the summit in the national capital. The declaration reflected the collective concerns of the BRICS bloc regarding escalating tensions in West Asia.

The declaration called for maximum restraint and avoidance of actions that could further aggravate the situation. It urged the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter, including respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The leaders encouraged dialogue and diplomacy to achieve long-term peace, security, and stability in the region. They also emphasised the importance of maintaining smooth global trade, supply chains, and energy flows in accordance with international law.

The declaration expressed serious concern over deliberate attacks on civilian infrastructure and peaceful nuclear facilities under full IAEA safeguards. It stressed that nuclear safeguards, safety, and security must always be upheld, even during armed conflicts, to protect people and the environment from harm. 

The resolution underscored the need to preserve international norms and prevent violations of established safeguards.

The BRICS bloc also urged the implementation of relevant UNGA and UNSC resolutions. It called on all parties to maintain the ceasefire and ensure full and unhindered humanitarian access in the Gaza Strip.

The declaration expressed deep concern over continued violence in Gaza despite the ceasefire agreement of October 2025. It called for halting policies aimed at forced displacement of Palestinians and warned against arrangements that could prejudice their inalienable rights or prolong occupation.

The leaders reaffirmed that a just and lasting solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict could only be achieved through peaceful means.

They emphasised that such a solution depended on the fulfilment of the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, including self-determination and the right of return. The declaration highlighted the need for global action to strengthen international peace and security in the face of growing polarisation and distrust.

The joint statement also expressed concern about the increasing risks of nuclear danger and conflict. It reiterated the importance of invigorating the system of disarmament, arms control, and non-proliferation.

The leaders stressed the need to preserve the integrity and effectiveness of these mechanisms to achieve global stability and international peace and security.

ANI

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Pakistan’s Hollow Bid To Evade FATF Grey List By Naming Masood Azhar In Most Wanted Roster

Pakistan’s Federal Investigative Agency has released its updated Red Book of most wanted terrorists for 2026, prominently featuring Jaish-e-Mohammed Chief Masood Azhar.

The bounty on Azhar has been increased by ₹70 Lakh, up from the earlier ₹50 Lakh announced in 2021. This move is widely viewed as a smokescreen designed to appease the Financial Action Task Force ahead of its October plenary, as Pakistan attempts to avoid being placed back on the grey list.

In 2021, Pakistan began claiming that Azhar had fled to Afghanistan, even as it placed a ₹50 Lakh reward on him. Five years later, the bounty has been raised, but Indian intelligence assessments over the past six months confirm that Azhar is actively hiding in Nawabshah city in Sindh province. He remains the mastermind behind several terror strikes in India, including the Pulwama attack.

The FIA’s updated Red Book also includes 19 terrorists linked to the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. These individuals were involved in assisting, financing, or managing boats for the attackers. Seventeen of them are listed with photographs and specific roles, but Pakistan has covertly removed the photographs, Lashkar-e-Taiba affiliations, and operational details of two terrorists, retaining only their names.

Muhammad Khan from Turbat, who provided the boat Al-Hussaini, and Abdul Rehman from Bahawalnagar, had their full roles and photos published in the 2021 list, but these details have now been excised.

The roster names 11 LeT operatives responsible for facilitating the sea voyage of the attackers aboard Al-Hussaini and Al-Fauz. These include Muhammad Amjad Khan from Multan, Shahid Gafoor from Bahawalpur, Mohammad Usman from Sahiwal, Ateeq-ur-Rehman from Lahore, Riaz Ahmad from Hafizabad, Muhammad Mushtaq from Gujranwala, Muhammad Naeem from Dera Ghazi Khan, Abdul Shakoor from Karachi, Muhammad Sabir Salfi from Multan, Muhammad Usman from Lodhran, and Shakeel Ahmed from Rahim Yar Khan.

Six terrorists who provided financial backing for the 26/11 attacks are also listed. Muhammad Iftikhar Ali from Faisalabad spent ₹0.70 Lakh to set up VOIP connections enabling communication between attackers and handlers. Mohammad Zia from Rawalpindi contributed ₹0.80 Lakh. Mohammad Abbas Nasir from Khanewal gave ₹2.53 Lakh. Javed Iqbal from Kasur supplied ₹1.86 Lakh. Mukhtar Ahmad from Mandi Bahauddin donated ₹2.98 Lakh. Ahmed Saeed from Battagram provided ₹21 Lakh for the operation. According to the FIA, all 17 terrorists involved in the 26/11 attacks have been absconding for 18 years, though Indian intelligence sources confirm they remain inside Pakistan. Their inclusion in the list is seen as eyewash to misdirect international scrutiny.

Over the past five years, the total count of most wanted terrorists in Pakistan has surged by 35%, rising from 1,330 in 2021 to 1,804 in the latest release. This increase underscores the scale of Pakistan’s internal and cross-border terror infrastructure.

The Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters in Bahawalpur, known as Markaz Subhan Allah, was among the hardest hit in India’s precision strikes under Operation Sindoor. Located 100 km inside Pakistan, the facility was destroyed by the Indian Armed Forces. Operational since 2015, Markaz Subhan Allah served as the main centre for JeM training and indoctrination, and functioned as its operational headquarters. It was directly associated with terrorist planning, including the Pulwama attack of February 14, 2019.

The Markaz housed the residences of Masood Azhar, de facto JeM Chief Mufti Abdul Rauf Asghar, Maulana Ammar, and other family members. Azhar frequently addressed gatherings from this facility, delivering anti-India rhetoric and urging youth to join jihad. JeM conducted regular arms, physical, and religious training for its cadres at this centre, reinforcing its role as a hub of militant activity.

ANI

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BRICS Summit Hailed As A Major Bharat Achievement For PM Modi

The New Delhi BRICS Summit has been described as a major Bharat achievement for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscoring India’s growing role in shaping a multipolar world order.

The gathering highlighted both a possible new phase in India-China relations and a strengthening of strategic convergence between India and Brazil.

Writing in Brasil 247, Leonardo Attuch linked India’s economic rise with its expanding diplomatic influence, noting that the summit reflected Bharat’s civilizational identity.

The term Bharat, deeply rooted in historical traditions, was presented as a vision that combines modernization, technological progress and national sovereignty with cultural continuity.

Since 2014, India has sustained strong economic growth despite global disruptions, including the pandemic. This economic resilience is increasingly being translated into diplomatic weight. The Viksit Bharat 2047 vision, which aims to transform India into a developed nation by the centenary of independence, was positioned as a central ambition in this trajectory.

At the summit, Prime Minister Modi emphasised the role of the Global South as an active force in international affairs. He argued that developing nations must move beyond being rule takers and instead become rule shapers. BRICS was portrayed as a critical platform for demanding greater representation in global institutions.

One of the most significant developments was the meeting between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi’s first visit to India in seven years carried symbolic importance, particularly after the 2020 border clashes. His statement that China and India should be partners, not rivals, suggested a potential shift in bilateral dynamics.

The rapprochement does not erase competition or unresolved disputes, but it may encourage a model of competitive coexistence. Together, India and China represent nearly one-third of humanity, making their relationship pivotal for the wider international system.

Brasil 247 also highlighted India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy. New Delhi continues to engage with the United States, maintain ties with Russia, and seek constructive relations with China, deliberately avoiding alignment with any single geopolitical bloc.

Brazil emerged as another crucial pillar of this multipolar framework. India and Brazil, both founding members of BRICS, share common interests in sovereignty, institutional reform and greater representation for developing nations. The relationship between PM Modi and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has reinforced this convergence.

Former Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff, now heading the New Development Bank, added an institutional dimension to this partnership. The NDB provides financing for infrastructure and sustainable development, strengthening South-South cooperation and reducing reliance on traditional financial institutions.

The New Delhi Summit demonstrated that multipolarity is advancing beyond political declarations into concrete institutions and partnerships.

For Prime Minister Modi, the summit represents a significant achievement, as India increasingly converts economic strength into diplomatic influence. Bharat’s message is not merely about securing a place in the existing world order, but about actively shaping the next one.

Agencies

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PM Modi’s India Showcases Convening Power As BRICS Summit Achieves Consensus Lauds EAM Jaishankar

EAM S Jaishankar on Monday hailed the successful conclusion of the BRICS India Summit 2026, describing it as a demonstration of the strong convening power of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s India. He emphasised that the gathering showed consensus could be achieved even in a deeply polarised world.

Jaishankar highlighted that 32 delegations participated in the summit. These included representatives from 11 member states, 10 partner countries, four regional organisations and seven international organisations.

He noted that most participating countries were represented at the highest level. Among the prominent attendees were Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

He stressed that the first point to note was the strong convening power of Modi’s India, with most delegations represented at the head of state or head of government level.

Jaishankar also underlined the participation of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres and other international organisation heads. He said the summit provided an opportunity for leaders to engage in very open and comfortable conversations.

He pointed out that the summit was held against the backdrop of a very polarised world marked by major conflicts and deep divisions. Despite this, India succeeded in facilitating consensus on some of the most difficult issues.

He explained that even in the midst of polarisation, consensus was forged, particularly in relation to the West Asia conflict.

Jaishankar said BRICS leaders agreed on the need for peace, security, stability and long-term understanding. They emphasised the smooth flow of global trade, supply chains and energy, along with the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure.

He stated that the summit’s agenda remained focused on economy, development and technology, with a strong emphasis on standing up for the Global South.

He reiterated that the agenda was focused on the economy, development and technology, and that standing up for the Global South was a very strong message that emerged.

Jaishankar said the two key sessions of the summit — focused on reform and resilience — acted as uniting themes that helped countries come together despite differences.

He also highlighted the consensus achieved on terrorism. He said BRICS made clear that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations was unacceptable.

He referred to the New Delhi Declaration’s strong condemnation of the April 22, 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. The declaration called for zero tolerance towards terrorism and rejected double standards in countering the menace.

Jaishankar stressed that BRICS was very clear that any act of terrorism is criminal. He noted that the declaration explicitly recognised the unacceptability of the Pahalgam attack of 22 April 2025.

He added that the declaration condemned terrorism, including cross-border terrorism, and called for accountability of those involved in terrorist activities and their supporters.

Concluding his remarks, Jaishankar said the summit reflected Prime Minister Modi’s message of dialogue, diplomacy and development.

He remarked that many people had said it would not happen, but it did happen. It happened in New Delhi, and it happened under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership.

ANI

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Industry Stalwarts Rally Behind WOWSemi To Build India’s Semiconductor Talent Ecosystem

On Teachers’ Day, an occasion that celebrates the power of education and mentorship, industry leaders and semiconductor experts came together to extend strong support to WOWSemi Foundation’s vision of building a skilled, industry-ready semiconductor workforce for India.

Industry Stalwarts including PVG Menon, Suraj Rengarajan, Hanish Kumar, Arvind Ragunathan, Venkatesh Kumar Pandurengan and several other industry leaders and experts appreciated the initiative, recognising its potential to bridge one of the biggest challenges facing India’s semiconductor ambitions—the gap between classroom learning and real-world industry experience.

“India’s semiconductor opportunity is not just about building fabs; it is about building the people who will run them, innovate in them and take the ecosystem forward. The time to act is now,” said Venkatesh Pandurengan, emphasising the importance of creating meaningful industry exposure for young talent.

The message resonated strongly with the spirit of Teachers’ Day. As India rapidly expands its semiconductor design and manufacturing capabilities, educators and industry must work together to prepare the next generation for a sector expected to play a significant role in the country’s economic growth.

WOWSemi’s philosophy—“Experience Before Expertise”—addresses this need by taking semiconductor learning beyond textbooks. Through initiatives such as Fab On Wheels, WOW Academy, WOW Semuseum, WOW Bot, Semipreneur and Green Fab City, students and aspiring engineers can gain exposure to wafers, semiconductor packages, equipment, manufacturing processes, virtual fabs, AI-enabled learning and industry-relevant skills.

The initiative has received appreciation from industry leaders who believe that India cannot afford to create another generation of engineers who understand semiconductor theory but have never experienced the environment of a fab.

“India has the infrastructure ambition, the talent and the market. What we need now is a connected ecosystem where industry, academia and young minds work together,” was the collective sentiment expressed by participating leaders.

WOWSemi aims to reach 5 lakh citizens across 11 states, 60 districts and 3,000 institutions by 2031, with 1 lakh certifications, creating a broad-based talent pipeline for India’s semiconductor future.

The larger message emerging from the gathering was clear: It is now or never to build a complete semiconductor manufacturing ecosystem.

The chip may be tiny, but its impact on India’s economy could be enormous. Building that future will require more than technology—it will require experience, skills, collaboration and a generation prepared to lead.

WOWSemi Press Release

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Indian And New Zealand Navies To Launch First Bilateral Exercise In 2027

Indian Navy Chief Admiral Krishna Swaminathan held substantive discussions in Auckland with New Zealand’s Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Garin Golding, on Monday. The talks centred on strategic issues, including the plan to conduct the maiden bilateral naval exercise between the two countries in 2027.

The Indian Navy confirmed that the discussions focused on expanding cooperation under the bilateral maritime security framework. Both sides emphasised boosting operational ties and improving maritime information-sharing mechanisms to strengthen collaboration between the two forces.

Building upon the India–New Zealand Maritime Security Cooperation Arrangement, the two Chiefs exchanged views on enhancing the partnership between the navies. They discussed advancing operational engagement, including the inaugural bilateral naval exercise in 2027, and explored ways to ensure more effective maritime information exchange.

Upon his arrival in Auckland, Admiral Swaminathan was accorded a traditional Maori Powhiri welcome at Te Taua Moana Marae, located at the HMNZS Philomel naval base. The Indian Navy described the ceremony as a powerful expression of Manaakitanga, respect and welcome, deeply woven into the identity of the New Zealand Navy. It was highlighted as a uniquely New Zealand beginning to a visit anchored in enduring bonds, mutual respect and shared maritime traditions.

During his official itinerary, Admiral Swaminathan also held consultations with the Indian High Commissioner to New Zealand, Muanpuii Saiawi, and Consul General Madan Mohan Sethi. The Indian High Commission in New Zealand noted that the visit comes at a time when India and New Zealand have elevated their bilateral relationship and strengthened maritime cooperation.

Admiral Swaminathan’s engagements in New Zealand followed a series of official meetings in Australia, underscoring India’s broader Indo-Pacific outreach and commitment to deepening defence and maritime partnerships in the region.

ANI

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France Awards First Industrial Contracts For Rafale-F5 Standard

France has officially awarded initial contracts to Dassault Aviation, MBDA, Safran and Thales ahead of the planned launch of the Rafale F5 development phase in late 2026.

The work covers new navigation, radar, communications, electronic warfare and propulsion technologies for the combat aircraft. This marks a major milestone in the aircraft’s modernisation program.

The F5 program represents a major mid-life modernisation of the Rafale fleet. The new standard is expected to qualify around 2033 before entering service with the French Air and Space Force and later the French Navy.

The upgrade will support the renewal of France’s airborne nuclear deterrent through the integration of the future ASN4G missile. It will also prepare the Rafale for first-entry missions in contested operational environments.

A more open aircraft architecture will allow France to adapt the Rafale more quickly as missions and threats change. The redesign will focus particularly on the mission system and give the armed forces greater operational autonomy.

Dassault Aviation will oversee work on a very-low-drift inertial navigation unit using hemispherical resonator gyroscope technology. The system is among several components ordered by the French Defence Procurement Agency, known as the DGA, to reduce risk before the main development phase.

Thales will develop the Inter-Vehicle Data Link, or IVDL, following several years of DGA-funded research. The stealthy and resilient communications system will use a high-bandwidth waveform designed to resist jamming and maintain exchanges between aircraft in hostile airspace.

The F5 will also receive Thales’ RBE2-XG electronically scanned radar, an evolution of the RBE2 AESA system now in service. The new radar will offer higher power, longer detection range and improved identification of targets with extremely low radar cross-sections.

Greater computing capacity will support increased use of artificial intelligence within the radar system. Its sensors will be able to work collaboratively without direct pilot intervention, while retaining the dimensions of the current RBE2 and providing stronger resilience against cyber threats.

Thales and MBDA France will modernise the Rafale’s SPECTRA self-protection suite for the F5 standard. The fully digital system will improve threat detection and jamming across a broader and more congested electromagnetic spectrum.

Safran Aircraft Engines has received a contract for the preliminary design phase of the M88 T-REX engine. The upgrade is intended to raise maximum thrust by 20%, from 7.5 tons to 9 tons. In Rupee terms, this increase in thrust capacity represents a significant investment valued at approximately ₹6,000 crores in research, development and industrial support.

The T-REX will retain the M88-2’s modular architecture, basic structure and low fuel consumption. Changes to selected modules will allow components to be replaced without removing the entire engine, reducing aircraft downtime and supporting higher operational availability.

The contracts form part of France’s policy of modernising the Rafale through successive standards while preserving its operational performance and export appeal. More than 400 companies support the program, which accounts for over 7,000 direct and indirect jobs across France. This equates to nearly ₹5,250 crores in annual economic activity tied to the Rafale ecosystem.

Eight foreign customers have ordered 299 newly built Rafales and 24 second-hand aircraft. The F5 investment is intended to keep the platform aligned with French operational requirements for 2035 and beyond. The export orders alone represent a value exceeding ₹2,25,000 crores, underscoring the Rafale’s enduring global demand.

Agencies

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Baloch Liberation Army And Baloch Republican Guard Claim Deadly Convoy And Lithium Site Attack

Balochistan witnessed a fresh escalation of violence as both the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) and the Baloch Republican Guards (BRG) claimed responsibility for a series of coordinated operations across Lasbela, Jiwani, Mashkel and Kachhi.

The reported incidents included a deadly attack on a Pakistani military convoy, the killing of four individuals allegedly linked to Military Intelligence, the destruction of equipment at a lithium exploration site, and road blockades in Kachhi district.

The BLA stated that its Fateh Squad targeted a convoy belonging to the Pakistani military’s 15 FF Bomb Disposal Party in the Kashari area of Wallapat, Lasbela. The attack began with an improvised explosive device blast against a military vehicle, followed by direct firing.

The group claimed that two vehicles were completely destroyed and two others severely damaged. According to the BLA, nine military personnel were killed and more than eleven wounded, including members of the Light Engineering Battalion and 15 FF.

Pakistani officials confirmed the incident but reported lower casualties, stating that four security personnel, including a Naib Subedar and two Levies personnel, were killed, while seven others, including a civilian, were injured. Authorities withheld further details.

The BLA further claimed responsibility for what it described as an intelligence-based operation in Jiwani. During this action, four individuals allegedly associated with the Pakistani military and Military Intelligence were killed.

The group also announced that its fighters seized control of a lithium exploration site in Mashkel. During the raid, four drilling machines and five vehicles were set ablaze. Employees of the company were reportedly detained but later released after being warned.

The BLA reiterated its opposition to lithium exploration and mining projects in Balochistan, warning both local and international companies against involvement. It declared that lithium extraction and exploration would be treated as legitimate targets under its strategy of “economic blockade”.

Meanwhile, the BRG confirmed that its fighters carried out road blockades and snap-checking operations at several points in Kachhi district. Vehicles were stopped and checked, while patrols were conducted in the area.

The BRG stated that no state personnel were encountered during the operations but claimed responsibility for the activities. Both organisations emphasised that such actions would continue until what they described as the liberation of Balochistan.

The targeting of lithium exploration sites highlights the growing intersection between insurgency and resource politics in the region. Lithium, considered a critical mineral for global energy transition, has drawn increasing interest from international companies.

The BLA’s explicit opposition to such projects signals a strategy to disrupt economic initiatives that it perceives as exploitative. This adds a new dimension to the insurgency, linking armed resistance with resource nationalism.

The Pakistani authorities have yet to release comprehensive details of the convoy attack or the lithium site incident. However, the claims by both groups underscore the persistence of insurgent activity across Balochistan, with operations ranging from direct military engagements to economic sabotage.

The emphasis on road blockades and snap-checking also reflects attempts to assert control over local mobility and logistics.

The BLA and BRG’s statements reaffirm their commitment to continuing armed operations until their stated objective of an independent Balochistan is achieved. The incidents further illustrate the complexity of the conflict, where military, economic and political dimensions are increasingly intertwined.

ANI

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India And MERCOSUR Launch Talks To Expand Trade Pact And Digitise Customs

India and the South American trade bloc MERCOSUR have formally announced the commencement of negotiations to expand their existing trade agreement.

The Commerce Ministry confirmed the development on Monday, highlighting New Delhi’s continued efforts to diversify export markets and strengthen commercial ties amid global economic volatility.

The current pact, which has been in force since June 2009, provides India tariff concessions across 450 product categories, while MERCOSUR offers reductions on 452 lines. Bilateral trade between India and the grouping reached $21 billion in 2025, equivalent to approximately ₹1,75,000 crores. This figure underscores the growing importance of South America in India’s trade strategy.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal and Uruguay’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Mario Lubetkin jointly declared the launch of negotiations. According to the Commerce Ministry, both sides are finalising the terms of reference, which will define the scope and structure of the expanded agreement. MERCOSUR currently comprises Brazil, Argentina, Bolivia, Uruguay, and Paraguay, making it one of the most significant regional trade blocs in Latin America.

The announcement comes at a time when India is actively seeking to broaden its shipment portfolio. With India’s robust growth outlook standing out amid international uncertainty, countries and trading coalitions are increasingly keen to deepen economic cooperation with New Delhi. The move reflects India’s strategic intent to reduce reliance on traditional markets and secure new opportunities in emerging regions.

In addition to the negotiations, India and MERCOSUR signed a protocol on Monday aimed at streamlining paperless commerce and modernising customs procedures. The Commerce Ministry explained that the initiative would facilitate the transition towards digital and paperless trade documentation, reduce transaction costs, and cut processing time associated with the issuance and verification of Certificates of Origin. This step is expected to enhance the efficiency of preferential trade under the existing India-MERCOSUR Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

The protocol builds on discussions within the Joint Administrative Committee of the India-MERCOSUR PTA. During a session in November last year, both delegations supported updating the pact to permit digital certificates of origin. This proposal was subsequently endorsed during the fifth Joint Administrative Committee meeting held on April 9, paving the way for Monday’s formal agreement.

India’s engagement with MERCOSUR is part of a wider strategy to strengthen South-South cooperation and expand its footprint in Latin America. The region offers significant opportunities in sectors such as agriculture, energy, and minerals, which align with India’s long-term economic priorities.

The expanded trade pact is expected to cover a broader range of goods and services, potentially opening new avenues for Indian exporters in pharmaceuticals, engineering products, and IT services.

The negotiations also reflect MERCOSUR’s interest in tapping into India’s fast-growing market. With India projected to remain the world’s fastest-growing major economy, the bloc sees expanded trade ties as a way to diversify its own export destinations and reduce dependence on traditional partners such as China and the United States.

The combination of tariff expansion and digital trade facilitation is likely to mark a new phase in India-MERCOSUR relations. Both sides are expected to push for a balanced agreement that delivers reciprocal benefits, while also addressing modern trade challenges such as supply chain resilience and digital integration.

ANI

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IAF Sarang Helicopter Team Bids Farewell To Egypt After Spectacular Displays

The Indian Air Force’s Sarang Helicopter Display Team has bid farewell to Egypt after a highly successful deployment that captivated audiences at the El Alamein International Air and Space Exhibition.

The Embassy of India in Egypt marked the departure with a message of gratitude and warmth, stating, ‘Ma’a Salama, Egypt!’ and emphasising the memories of friendship and cheers from the Egyptian people that the team will carry with them.

The aerial routines were performed against the majestic backdrop of the Pyramids of Giza, merging India’s aviation excellence with Egypt’s timeless heritage. The Indian Air Force noted that the four-helicopter formation of the indigenously designed Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv showcased precision, discipline and skill, while symbolising the enduring bonds of friendship between the two nations.

The deployment also included a visit by Air Marshal Yalla Umesh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Maintenance Command, who travelled to Egypt to meet the personnel and review the contingent’s operations. His interaction with the team was marked by camaraderie, the exchange of mementoes and discussions on the significance of representing India on the global stage.

The Sarang team had arrived in Egypt to participate in the second edition of the El Alamein International Air Show, hosted at El Alamein International Airport from 8 to 10 September. Their participation was highlighted by the Ministry of Defence as another milestone in the Indian Air Force’s international engagements, reflecting the growing defence and diplomatic ties between India and Egypt.

The Ministry of Defence underscored the unique status of the Sarang squadron, describing it as the world’s only five-helicopter display team. It emphasised the team’s professionalism, precision and flying skills, demonstrated through meticulously choreographed displays.

Flying the indigenously designed and manufactured ALH Dhruv, the Sarang team is renowned for demanding formation manoeuvres, close-proximity flying and synchronised aerial sequences.

The Ministry further noted that the displays not only highlighted the exceptional discipline and expertise of the pilots but also showcased the strength of India’s indigenous aviation technology. The Sarang team’s presence at El Alamein added a distinctive dimension to the Air Show, reinforcing India’s commitment to international cooperation and its growing stature in the global defence sector.

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India And Vietnam To Celebrate 'Friendship Year' In 2027, Strengthen Strategic Partnership At 19th Joint Commission Meeting

India and Vietnam have agreed to designate 2027 as the 'Year of India-Vietnam Friendship' to commemorate the 55th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

This decision was formalised during the 19th Joint Commission Meeting on Trade, Economic, Scientific and Technological Cooperation held in New Delhi between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Vietnam’s Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung.

Le Hoai Trung arrived in the capital on Saturday while attending the 18th BRICS Summit under India’s chairship. The Ministry of External Affairs recalled that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s discussions with Vietnamese President and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam during his state visit in May 2025 had provided renewed impetus to the bilateral relationship.

The Joint Commission Meeting was described as productive and outcome-oriented, with both sides reviewing the full spectrum of engagement under the Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Defence and security cooperation was a central theme, with ministers identifying pathways for deeper collaboration, including co-production of Indian defence equipment.

On the economic front, talks focused on expanding trade, investments, and resilient supply chains. Vietnam agreed to address market access issues for Indian pharmaceuticals, marine products, and agricultural goods. Both countries also committed to strengthening financial, port, and air connectivity while exploring new opportunities in space exploration and nuclear energy.

Cultural and people-to-people ties were emphasised, with both delegations noting the growing popularity of Yoga in Vietnam. They pledged joint heritage conservation efforts, agreed on cooperation regarding standards for seafarers, and welcomed Vietnam’s active role in India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

The ministers also exchanged views on regional and global developments, reaffirming their commitment to close coordination in multilateral forums. Vietnam’s role as a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy was highlighted, with satisfaction expressed over the growing trajectory of the partnership anchored in civilisational links.

The two sides agreed to convene the next Joint Commission Meeting at a mutually convenient date. During the meeting, Le Hoai Trung praised India’s leadership at the BRICS Summit, attributing its successful outcome to New Delhi’s proactive diplomacy. He congratulated India for guiding the summit to a meaningful consensus and a substantive declaration.

EAM Jaishankar noted that bilateral ties had progressed significantly since the last Joint Commission Meeting three years ago. He highlighted two important state visits from Vietnam, including the most recent by President To Lam, which elevated ties to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. He stressed that the 19th JCM provided an opportunity to translate political momentum into tangible outcomes for the people.

EAM Jaishankar further underlined Vietnam’s importance in India’s Act East Policy and its role in the broader ASEAN framework. He thanked Prime Minister Le Minh Hung for his participation in the BRICS Summit, which was held under India’s chairship.

Prime Minister Modi also met Prime Minister Hung on the sidelines of the summit, reviewing progress in bilateral ties. Modi welcomed Vietnam’s participation as a Partner Country in BRICS and reaffirmed the elevation of ties during To Lam’s state visit.

India and Vietnam’s friendship was described as time-tested, rooted in civilizational heritage, mutual trust, and understanding. Vietnam remains a key pillar of India’s Act East Policy and an important partner in its wider Southeast Asian engagement.

India’s chairship of BRICS in 2026 came amid global economic fragmentation, technological disruption, geopolitical uncertainty, climate change, and resource pressures. India focused on translating expanded representation into meaningful cooperation and tangible outcomes while building consensus among diverse members.

The BRICS grouping now comprises 11 countries: Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, and the UAE. Alongside them, 10 partner countries including Nigeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam participated in the summit.

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US Intensifies Crackdown, Sanction Russia’s VTB Bank Over Iran Links

The United States has announced fresh sanctions against Russia’s VTB Bank, alleging that the institution played a central role in helping Tehran bypass American restrictions and transfer billions of dollars in Iranian funds.

VTB, already subjected to comprehensive blocking measures in 2022 following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict, now faces additional penalties specifically targeting its operational links with Iran.

The US Treasury Department stated that the new measures focus on VTB’s correspondent relationships with sanctioned Iranian banks. Washington has also issued a stern advisory to global banking institutions, urging them to cut all ties with the Russian financial entity to avoid exposure to American restrictions.

The State Department revealed that VTB had established physical branches inside Iran and forged financial connections with penalised Iranian entities. Officials accused the bank of actively working to move billions of dollars in Iranian assets, thereby sustaining Tehran’s ability to fund terrorism, destabilise the region, and threaten US economic security.

American officials emphasised that any effort to help Iran evade sanctions would carry serious consequences. The announcement serves as a warning to states and financial organisations considering similar partnerships, reinforcing Washington’s determination to isolate Tehran’s financial networks.

The timing of the sanctions coincides with heightened financial pressure on Iran amid the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Hostilities intensified after joint American and Israeli military actions against Iran in late February, which prompted Tehran to restrict maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global energy transit.

VTB was among the major Russian financial organisations penalised in 2022, when the Treasury Department imposed full blocking sanctions.

These measures froze assets within US jurisdiction and denied the Kremlin access to American financial systems. At the time, VTB was described as one of the largest financial institutions ever blocked by the Treasury.

The latest sanctions are part of a broader American campaign to tighten economic constraints on Iran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent characterised the initiative as an “economic D-Day”, underscoring Washington’s intent to dismantle Tehran’s financial lifelines.

The campaign has also targeted external entities such as Turkey’s Golden Global Bank, reflecting a wider strategy to pressure Iran through its international partners.

The State Department reiterated that the US will continue to deploy diplomatic and economic instruments to isolate Tehran. Washington has called upon international partners to assist in severing the financial channels that sustain the Iranian administration, reinforcing its commitment to curbing Iran’s regional influence.

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EAM Jaishankar Hails BRICS Consensus On Terrorism, As Pahalgam Attack Condemned

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday hailed the successful conclusion of the BRICS Summit in New Delhi, emphasising that the member nations achieved a landmark consensus on counter-terrorism, particularly denouncing the Pahalgam terror attack.

He underlined that despite global polarisation, the BRICS grouping, through the New Delhi Declaration, adopted an unequivocal stance against cross-border terrorism and explicitly condemned the April 22, 2025 attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

EAM Jaishankar stated that the consensus on terrorism was very noteworthy. He stressed that BRICS was clear in recognising that any act of terrorism is criminal and highlighted the explicit acknowledgement of the unacceptability of the Pahalgam attack.

He added that the grouping condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism, emphasised zero tolerance for terrorism, and rejected double standards in countering it.

He further noted that the summit reflected the global resonance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s approach of dialogue, diplomacy, and development in international relations. According to him, the summit demonstrated that multilateral consensus remains possible under strong leadership. He remarked that the PM’s message of dialogue, diplomacy, and development resonated worldwide, as seen in the participation of global leaders at the BRICS Summit.

Jaishankar concluded by stressing that many had doubted such consensus would be achieved, but it did happen in New Delhi under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership. He described the outcome as a significant diplomatic success.

On April 22, 2025, terrorists attacked tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 people and injuring several others. Indian agencies traced the attack to Pakistan-backed operatives. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, 2025, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The BRICS condemnation of the attack thus carried strong symbolic weight for India.

The New Delhi Declaration 2026, adopted by BRICS countries on September 12, strongly condemned the April 2025 terror attack and called for zero tolerance towards terrorism. It reaffirmed BRICS’ commitment to combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including the cross-border movement of terrorists, terrorism financing and safe havens. It also rejected double standards in countering the menace.

The declaration urged the expeditious finalisation and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the UN framework. It called for concerted action against all UN-designated terrorists and terrorist entities. Concerns were also flagged over illicit financial flows, money laundering, cyber fraud and cross-border scam networks used to fund extremist activities.

China joining the consensus on India-centric terror language, even without naming Pakistan, was seen as significant. This development came ahead of talks between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping.

Unlike the recent SCO meetings where consensus on Pahalgam could not be reached, BRICS managed to adopt a joint condemnation. The stance aligned with similar condemnations earlier made by groupings such as the Quad.

The declaration, adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, also noted that China and Russia, as permanent members of the UN Security Council, reiterated their support for the aspirations of Brazil and India to play a greater role in the UN, including its Security Council.

The BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to reforming the UN Security Council to make it more democratic, representative, effective and efficient, with greater representation for developing countries.

India hosted the 18th BRICS Summit under its 2026 Chairmanship on September 12-13, with the New Delhi Declaration unanimously adopted by BRICS leaders. The outcome was seen as a major diplomatic achievement for India, particularly in securing consensus on terrorism and advancing its aspirations for greater global representation.

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