India Scores 80% GE F414 Tech Transfer In Historic US Jet Engine Deal

General Electric Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited have reached a landmark technical agreement to co-produce F414 jet engines in India, with nearly 80 per cent of the manufacturing technology and intellectual property rights transferring to HAL.

A formal contract is expected before the end of the current financial year. This agreement covers the engine that will power the TEJAS MK-2, a heavier successor to the TEJAS MK-1A currently in service with the Indian Air Force.

India plans to produce 99 F414 engines domestically in the first tranche, against an IAF requirement of 120 to 130 TEJAS MK-2 fighters. The same engine is also slated to power the first two squadrons of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, India’s fifth-generation programme in development.

GE holds roughly 80 per cent of the F414’s intellectual property, with the remainder distributed among other American suppliers. Both portions are being transferred to India, marking the first time Washington has made such a deep fighter jet propulsion technology transfer to New Delhi.

Rita Flaherty, GE Aerospace’s Vice President for Sales and Business Development (Defence and Systems), emphasised the significance of this step, noting that only a handful of companies worldwide possess such capability, and India will now be able to develop it domestically.

India’s journey to this point has been long. In 1961, the HAL HF-24 Marut, India’s first indigenously designed jet fighter, made its maiden flight. Designed by German engineer Kurt Tank, the airframe was sound but underpowered, relying on the Bristol Siddeley Orpheus engine throughout its service life.

Attempts to source a more capable engine, including collaboration with Egypt and Austrian engineer Ferdinand Brandner, failed. The Marut fought in the 1971 war with the same engine and was retired in 1990, never achieving its full potential.

In 1989, India launched the Kaveri programme to build a domestic engine for the TEJAS Light Combat Aircraft. Despite decades of testing and modification, the Kaveri has never powered an operational fighter, leaving India reliant on GE’s F404 engines for the TEJAS.

This week’s agreement marks the first time the United States has transferred fighter jet engine technology to India at such depth.

The Soviet Union and later Russia had licensed MiG-series and Sukhoi-30MKI engine production to Indian facilities, but those were on Moscow’s terms. The F414 deal is structurally different, with a NATO-aligned power handing a non-NATO partner the intellectual property to manufacture one of the West’s frontline fighter engines domestically.

The groundwork was laid through years of cooperation, beginning with the Industrial Security Agreement in 2019 and a 2021 protocol for exchanging classified defence industry information.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2023 state visit to Washington produced the formal commitment, followed by three years of technical negotiations that have now concluded.

Commercial negotiations between GE and HAL will follow, with global component costs influencing pricing. Once the final contract is signed, HAL will establish a dedicated manufacturing facility with GE’s support, aiming for operational readiness within two years.

The urgency is underscored by the IAF’s current low fighter squadron strength amid a dual-front security environment involving China and Pakistan.

GE has also indicated openness to engaging on engines in the 120kN thrust category for future Indian platforms beyond the TEJAS and AMCA.

Separately, GE Aerospace has signed a contract with the IAF to establish an in-country depot for maintenance of F404-IN20 engines powering the 35 TEJAS jets in service and the 180 TEJAS MK-1A aircraft on order. The sixth F404-IN20 engine has already been delivered to HAL.

The depot will be owned and operated by the IAF, with GE providing technical expertise, training, spare parts, and specialised tooling. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri met US Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Mike Duffey in Washington the week before the announcement.

India has struggled for decades to build a jet engine powerful enough to match its aircraft designs. The Marut never received one, and the Kaveri has yet to power a single sortie.

With this agreement, GE and HAL have given India the technology to change that trajectory, ensuring that future Indian combat aircraft can be powered by engines manufactured within the country.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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India’s Military Calls For Private Sector Push To Build More Military Satellites; Says Can't Depend On ISRO Alone

India’s top military leadership has underlined the urgency of expanding the country’s satellite presence, stressing that space is no longer simply an enabler but a decisive domain in future warfare.

Speaking at the DefSpace Symposium 2026, organised by the Indian Space Association, senior commanders emphasised that India cannot depend on a single entity such as ISRO to meet the demands of modern conflict.

Instead, they called for a broader mobilisation of private industry, start-ups, and technology innovators to strengthen the nation’s defence and space ecosystems.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan stated that future space capability will not be built by government agencies alone. He argued that space must be treated as a continuous operational asset rather than a programme, and that strategic partnerships must be pursued without compromising strategic autonomy.

He outlined the need for a resilient space architecture that is artificial intelligence-enabled, quantum secure, cyber hardened, rapidly replenishable, and unquestionably sovereign. Anything less, he warned, would leave India in a reactive posture.

DRDO Chairman Dr Samir V Kamat reinforced this view, describing space as a domain that will determine the outcome of future battles.

He highlighted the importance of collaboration to meet the challenges ahead, noting that while some technologies can be sourced externally, sovereign capabilities are essential in critical areas. He stressed that DRDO is focusing on these domains, but success will only be possible through a whole-of-nation approach.

Lt. Gen. Zubin A. Minwalla, Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations), added that India’s new path must be defined by speed, agility, and intelligent integration of private industry.

He cautioned that reliance on a sole agency is suboptimal, and that the country must embrace a diversified and dynamic model to build credible space power.

Together, these voices reflect a clear shift in India’s strategic thinking: space is no longer peripheral but central to national defence, and its future strength will depend on collective effort across government, industry, and academia.

Agencies

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India’s Third Aircraft Carrier Stalled As Government Stays Silent On INS Vishal Plans

India’s third aircraft carrier remains an elusive project, despite decades of advocacy from the Navy and repeated references in defence planning documents. At present, the fleet is limited to two carriers—INS Vikramaditya and INS Vikrant.

The operational reality is that one of these is often under maintenance, leaving only a single carrier available for deployment at sea. This creates a strategic gap, as experts argue that a third carrier is essential to ensure at least two remain active at any given time, enabling simultaneous deployments in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.

The absence of visible progress has drawn political attention. AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi recently raised the issue in Parliament, questioning the government on the lack of adequate submarines and carriers to counter threats from China and Pakistan.

He highlighted that the Indian Air Force is operating with only 29 fighter squadrons, far below the sanctioned strength of 42, while Pakistan fields 25 squadrons and China 66. His remarks underscored the broader concern about India’s ability to project power and maintain readiness in a contested regional environment.

Reports in 2025 suggested that India had shelved plans for a third carrier. However, subsequent developments hinted at renewed interest, particularly in a nuclear-powered design tentatively named INS Vishal.

The Defence Ministry’s 2025 roadmap explicitly recognised the need for a third carrier, describing it as imperative for India’s future responsibilities. The document proposed a nuclear-powered vessel of over 65,000 tons, capable of longer reach and stealthier operations.

It also envisaged at least ten nuclear propulsion systems to support the carrier and other warships, alongside procurement of two electromagnetic aircraft launch systems—technology already fielded by the US and China.

Despite these ambitious plans, the government has remained silent. The Defence Acquisition Council recently cleared proposals worth ₹2.38 lakh crore to bolster preparedness, yet the carrier was conspicuously absent. Instead, the Navy has focused on inducting more warships and submarines, reflecting a prioritisation of distributed assets over a single capital-intensive platform.

The sheer scale of investment required for a nuclear-powered carrier, coupled with competing demands across the services, appears to have delayed concrete commitments.

Meanwhile, India has moved ahead with carrier aviation capability by signing a deal with Dassault Aviation in April 2025 for 26 Rafale Marine jets, valued at around ₹63,000 crore. The package includes 22 single-seat fighters and four twin-seat trainers.

There are unconfirmed reports of an additional 31 Rafale-M being considered, which would raise the total to 57. These acquisitions are intended to strengthen the air wing of INS Vikrant and INS Vikramaditya, bridging capability gaps while the carrier debate continues.

Strategically, the case for a third carrier remains strong. Beyond balancing China’s growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean, carriers serve as mobile airbases to protect trade routes and energy supplies through chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz.

For India, the issue is not just about numbers but about readiness, reach, and long-term influence at sea. Yet, the government’s silence suggests that fiscal constraints, technological challenges, and shifting priorities have pushed the project into the background, even as defence experts continue to stress its necessity.

Agencies

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INS Aridhaman Commissioning Secures India’s Continuous Nuclear Deterrent At Sea

The commissioning of INS Aridhaman on 3 April at the Ship Building Centre in Visakhapatnam marks a decisive milestone in India’s nuclear deterrence posture. With this third nuclear ballistic missile submarine now operational, India has achieved the critical threshold required to sustain a continuous at-sea deterrent.

The event was conducted without formal announcement, though Defence Minister Rajnath Singh posted a message in Hindi that Carnegie India translates as “Not words but power, Aridhaman.” Singh was in Visakhapatnam at the time for the commissioning of a separate naval vessel, the fourth frigate under the Project-17A program.

India’s nuclear doctrine, announced in 2003, is founded on a no-first-use policy and an assured retaliatory second-strike capability. Maintaining a continuous deployment at sea requires at least three SSBNs: one on patrol, with the others undergoing maintenance or transit.

With INS Aridhaman joining INS Arihant and INS Arighaat, India has now reached this strategic threshold. The Arihant, developed under the Advanced Technology Vessel programme, was launched in 2009 and commissioned in 2016, later completing its first deterrence patrol in 2018.

The Arighaat followed in August 2024, and the Aridhaman, with further classified technological enhancements, completes the triad’s sea leg.

India’s nuclear arsenal includes the Prithvi and Agni series of ballistic missiles. The Agni-5, with a range exceeding 5,000 km, is cannisterised for mobility and storage, and was tested in 2024 with multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles.

Air-delivered nuclear capability is provided by Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30MKI and Rafale aircraft. Among the triad, SSBNs remain the most survivable platform for second-strike capability, a fact underscored by the practices of all five recognised nuclear powers, each of which operates SSBNs armed with intercontinental submarine-launched ballistic missiles.

India, however, faces a capability gap in this area. Its current SSBNs are armed with the K-15 missile, with a limited range of 750 km, necessitating deployment close to adversary coastlines for effective retaliation.

The Arighaat and Aridhaman are capable of carrying the K-4 missile, with a range of 3,500 km, though this system is not yet fully operational. Once deployed, the K-4 is expected to form the backbone of India’s underwater deterrent until the K-5, with a planned range of 5,000 km, enters service.

A fourth submarine, designated S4*, was launched in 2024 and is expected to be commissioned next year. Future platforms include the larger S5 class, projected at around 13,500 tonnes and powered by more advanced reactors.

Attention is also turning to nuclear-powered attack submarines (SSNs), seen as vital for long-range endurance operations in the Indian Ocean. India currently operates 17 conventional submarines, most nearing the end of their service lives. In 2024, the Cabinet Committee on Security approved the design and construction of two SSNs, though the first is not expected to enter service until 2036–37.

The strategic context is shaped by China’s naval expansion. Beijing operates more than 60 submarines, including at least 12 nuclear-powered vessels.

According to the US Office of Naval Intelligence, by 2035 half of China’s projected fleet of around 80 attack submarines could be nuclear-powered. This trajectory underscores the long-term challenge India faces in sustaining credible deterrence and countering regional imbalances in undersea warfare capabilities.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Drone401: India’s Tactical Multi-Role UAV for Scalable Precision Operations

Drone401, developed under the Bharat Supply & Support Alliance, represents a significant stride in India’s tactical unmanned aerial systems.

It is a reverse-engineered multi-role UAV designed to fulfil diverse operational requirements, ranging from intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to first-person-view situational awareness and precision payload deployment.

The platform is conceived to deliver versatility across mission profiles, ensuring that it can adapt to both battlefield and specialised tactical environments.

The system is autonomous, enabling independent mission execution without continuous operator input, which reduces manpower requirements and enhances operational efficiency.

Its encrypted communication architecture ensures secure data links, protecting mission-critical information against interception or disruption. This secure framework is essential for modern combat scenarios where electronic warfare and cyber threats are prevalent.

Drone401 is modular in design, allowing rapid reconfiguration for different mission sets. Payloads can be swapped or integrated depending on operational needs, whether for ISR tasks, precision strikes, or specialised deployments.

This modularity makes the UAV scalable, capable of supporting small-unit tactical operations as well as larger coordinated missions. The emphasis on precision payload delivery underscores its role in targeted engagements, minimising collateral damage while maximising mission effectiveness.

The platform’s engineering reflects a focus on tactical scalability. It is built to operate seamlessly in distributed formations, supporting both independent sorties and coordinated swarm operations.

Its adaptability ensures that it can be deployed across varied terrains and mission theatres, from high-intensity conflict zones to specialised reconnaissance environments.

By combining autonomy, encryption, modularity, and precision, Drone401 positions itself as a mission-ready solution aligned with India’s evolving defence requirements.

Agencies

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Another Targeted Assassination Shake Lashkar‑e‑Taiba Terror Group As Senior Commander Sheikh Yousuf Afridi Shot Dead In Pakistan

Sheikh Yousuf Afridi, a senior commander of the Pakistan‑based terror group Lashkar‑e‑Taiba, has been shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Security sources have described the incident as a targeted assassination, noting that the attackers fired multiple rounds at Afridi, leaving him no chance to escape. Afridi was a close associate of imprisoned LeT founder Hafiz Saeed and was considered a key operational link for the group in the region.

His role reportedly extended to planning, finance, and recruitment networks, making him a significant figure in the organisation’s structure. Investigators in Pakistan are treating the killing as a precision strike, suggesting that the attackers had detailed intelligence about his movements.

The killing adds to a growing list of high‑profile attacks on prominent terrorists in Pakistan in recent months. Last month, Amir Hamza, a founding member and senior LeT figure, was targeted outside a TV station in Lahore.

Though Hamza survived, he was injured, prompting a security clampdown in the city. Earlier, Muhammad Tahir Anwar, elder brother of Jaish‑e‑Mohammed chief Maulana Masood Azhar, died under mysterious circumstances.

Anwar was regarded as a senior ideologue and facilitator within the outfit, with direct involvement in cross‑border operations and recruitment. In March last year, Abu Qatal, also known as Qatal Sindhi, another close aide of Hafiz Saeed, was killed by unidentified gunmen in Jhelum, Sindh. He was alleged to be the mastermind behind the 2024 Reasi attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which left nine people dead and 33 injured.

Security analysts point to a clear pattern of targeted killings since 2023, when at least seven prominent terrorists linked to Lashkar‑e‑Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen were eliminated over seven months. Many of these operations took place in major cities such as Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi, often in residential or semi‑urban areas.

In 2026 alone, open‑source defence and intelligence assessments suggest that at least 30 terrorists and mid‑level operatives associated with LeT, Hizbul Mujahideen, and other Pakistan‑based outfits have been targeted by unidentified gunmen. Those eliminated ranged from senior planners and financiers to facilitators and trainers, several of whom had links to past attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and the 26/11 Mumbai assault.

Analysts argue that the string of killings indicates internal fractures, rivalries among militant factions, or the involvement of rival state or non‑state actors targeting elements that Pakistan finds difficult to prosecute openly.

Some experts speculate that parts of Pakistan’s own security‑intelligence apparatus may be indirectly enabling or ignoring these eliminations, while the state maintains a formal stance of cracking down on terrorism.

The repeated targeting of LeT figures has raised questions about the long‑term stability of the group’s command structure and whether such assassinations will disrupt cross‑border attacks or drive the organisation further underground.

For Indian security agencies, the spree of killings inside Pakistan is being closely monitored as a possible indicator of shifting power dynamics among terror networks.

Officials, however, caution that the elimination of a few commanders does not necessarily reduce the risk of terror attacks, as successor networks and ideology can quickly fill the vacuum.

Agencies

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India’s Amphibious Leap: DRDO Has Just Built India’s Deadliest Infantry Combat Vehicle

The Defence Research and Development Organisation has unveiled the Vikram VT-21 Advanced Armoured Platform as a next-generation solution for the Indian Army.

Conceived to meet the evolving demands of mechanised infantry, the system is available in both tracked and wheeled variants, ensuring superior mobility across diverse terrains, including riverine and marshy areas.

This versatility directly addresses operational challenges that have long constrained the deployment of armoured vehicles in complex environments.

At the heart of the Vikram VT-21 lies a 30 mm crewless turret, integrated with the NAG MK-2 anti-tank guided missile system. This combination delivers enhanced firepower while simultaneously reducing crew exposure, thereby improving survivability in high-threat scenarios. The turret’s design reflects a modern approach to armoured warfare, balancing offensive capability with protection.

A defining feature of the platform is its amphibious hydro-jet propulsion system, which enables seamless water crossings without external support.

This innovation provides mechanised infantry with unprecedented operational flexibility, allowing rapid manoeuvres across rivers and aquatic obstacles. It represents a significant leap in capability, solving a long-standing limitation in armoured mobility.

The Vikram VT-21 has been developed with approximately 65 percent indigenous content, underscoring India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Collaboration with TATA Advanced Systems and Bharat Forge has ensured that critical components and systems are sourced domestically, strengthening the nation’s industrial base and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers.

Designed primarily for Infantry Combat Vehicle and Armoured Personnel Carrier roles, the Vikram VT-21 delivers high survivability through STANAG Level 4 and 5 protection.

This modular blast and ballistic protection ensures resilience against a wide spectrum of battlefield threats, safeguarding personnel in hostile environments. The integration of advanced protection with mobility and firepower makes the platform a comprehensive solution for modern combat.

The Vikram VT-21 thus represents a major boost to Indian Army capabilities in contemporary battlefield scenarios. Its rapid development, indigenous content, amphibious design, and integrated missile systems highlight India’s progress in mechanised warfare and reinforce the strategic objective of achieving self-reliance under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

RW

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Jaipur Commanders’ Conference To Shape India’s Theatre Command Future

India’s top military leadership is set to convene in Jaipur on 7–8 May for the Joint Commanders’ Conference, a gathering that will bring together senior commanders from the Army, Navy and Air Force.

The meeting will focus on integration, procurement priorities and operational challenges, reflecting the armed forces’ ongoing push to strengthen coordination across the three services. While such conferences have been held before, this year’s event carries added weight as it coincides with the final stages of approval for integrated theatre commands.

Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan recently confirmed at the Ran Samvad seminar in Bengaluru that the internal process for theatre commands is nearly complete. He stated that the proposal is ready to move to the Defence Minister and subsequently to the Cabinet Committee on Security. 

According to him, consultations among the services have been conducted through a structured mechanism to resolve inter-service issues before the proposal advances further. He acknowledged that while there is broad agreement on the concept, differences remain over how the structure should be executed.

The proposal under consideration recommends appointing four-star theatre commanders, placing them on par with the service chiefs. Initially, three primary theatre commands are expected to be established. The western theatre command, focused on Pakistan, is likely to be led by an Air Force officer.

The northern theatre command, centred on China and the Line of Actual Control, is expected to be headed by an Army officer. The maritime theatre command, overseeing operations in the Indian Ocean Region, is likely to be commanded by a Navy officer. The plan also includes the creation of a Vice Chief of Defence Staff and deputy commanders for each theatre.

At present, India operates through 17 single-service commands—seven each under the Army and Air Force, and three under the Navy. The theatre command concept aims to replace this fragmented structure with integrated commands capable of fighting as a unified force.

The idea was first strongly advocated by India’s inaugural CDS, General Bipin Rawat, who described theatre commands as essential for future warfare.

Progress slowed due to inter-service concerns, particularly regarding air power and command authority, but under General Chauhan momentum has returned, with consensus-building efforts underway before final political approval.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, recently noted that work on joint structures and theatre commands is “more than 90 percent complete.” Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to examine the proposal and conduct further consultations before forwarding it to the Cabinet Committee on Security.

If approved, the reform would represent the most significant restructuring of India’s armed forces since Independence, with four-star theatre commanders functioning alongside the service chiefs under a more integrated command system.

Against this backdrop, the upcoming Joint Commanders’ Conference in Jaipur will be closely watched. It is expected to serve as a critical platform for the armed forces as they prepare for the next phase of military integration, marking a decisive step towards reshaping India’s defence architecture.

Agencies

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India Seeks Legal Safeguards For Chabahar As US Waiver Nears Expiry

India is engaged in negotiations with Iran to secure its position in the strategically vital Chabahar Port as the United States sanctions waiver approaches expiry.

The discussions are aimed at finalising an arrangement that ensures India’s commercial and strategic interests are protected, even if the waiver is not extended beyond Sunday.

New Delhi is exploring an interim mechanism under which a local Iranian ports authority would manage operations, with a legal guarantee that rights would revert to India once sanctions are lifted.

The talks have been slowed by regional conflict, but officials remain focused on safeguarding India’s long-term access to the port. In October 2025, India obtained a six-month waiver from US sanctions, which is now set to lapse.

A parliamentary panel of the Ministry of External Affairs recently acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding Chabahar’s future, while commending the government’s continued engagement with stakeholders to mitigate risks.

India Ports Global Limited (IPGL), which has managed the port since 2024 under a 10-year agreement with Iran, is considering routing operations through a local entity. This arrangement would include a clause ensuring that operational rights are eventually transferred back to India. New Delhi is pressing Tehran for legal guarantees to ensure any interim arrangement is binding and respected.

Analysts caution that China could attempt to expand its role in Chabahar if India’s presence weakens, a scenario viewed as detrimental to India’s strategic interests.

The port is a critical gateway for Afghanistan and Central Asian nations to access the Indian Ocean and Indian markets, while also offering connectivity to Russia through Central Asia. It has been central to India’s humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan and is expected to integrate with the International North-South Transport Corridor.

India signed a landmark 10-year contract on 13 May 2024 to operate Chabahar, marking its first overseas port management deal. The country has invested approximately $120 million in the project and extended a $250 million credit window for related infrastructure.

Central Asian states such as Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan are keen to use Chabahar to expand trade with India and secure access to the Indian Ocean. The port is also expected to play a pivotal role in India’s pursuit of an early harvest trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union, strengthening its role as a hub for regional connectivity.

Agencies

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Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw Inaugurates Indigenous Bullet Train Manufacturing Plant

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw has inaugurated BEML’s Aditya Plant in Bangalore, marking a significant step forward in India’s indigenous bullet train programme.

He announced that the Atmanirbhar version B-28 is now being designed domestically through collaboration between the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) and BEML.

Manufacturing will take place at the newly launched Aditya facility, which is equipped with advanced, high-precision machinery, including robotic laser welding systems. This initiative is expected to enable the indigenous production of bullet trains under the Atmanirbhar Bharat framework.

During the inauguration, Vaishnaw emphasised that the Aditya Plant will play a crucial role in India’s high-speed rail ambitions.

He also highlighted progress on semi-high-speed rail connectivity, noting that the Vande Bharat service to Mangalore and onwards to Madgaon is being planned.

Electrification between Hassan and Mangalore has been completed, with testing and trials currently underway. Operations are expected to commence within the next few months, extending Vande Bharat services across coastal Karnataka.

The minister further announced new train services connecting Bengaluru and Mumbai. One will be a superfast service via Hubli Dharwad, while the other will be a Vande Bharat sleeper service directly linking Bengaluru to Mumbai. Both services are scheduled to begin within a couple of months, enhancing connectivity between the two major cities.

On urban rail infrastructure, Vaishnaw stated that the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project has gained momentum following key administrative changes.

He noted that with a strong technical hand now leading the project as managing director, progress has improved significantly. He added that land acquisition is advancing well, ensuring steady development of the suburban rail system.

ANI

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India Diversifies Oil Imports, Leans On Russia And Africa As Middle East Flows Falter

India has intensified efforts to secure crude oil supplies as Middle Eastern flows have dwindled following the crisis triggered by US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Traditionally reliant on the Strait of Hormuz for nearly half of its imports, India has faced a sharp disruption in traffic through the waterway since late February.

Analysts have warned that India’s modest reserves, compared with larger consumers such as China, leave it exposed to sudden price shocks. Yet, despite difficulties with cooking gas supplies, the country has avoided the petrol shortages that have affected some neighbours.

Ship‑tracking data indicates that India has turned to a mix of old allies and previously dormant suppliers to fill the gap. Russian crude has emerged as the most significant backstop. Imports surged to an average of 1.98 million barrels per day in March, nearly double the levels of January and February.

This increase was facilitated by a temporary US waiver granted in March, covering Russian oil already at sea. Analysts suggest India contracted an additional 60 million barrels for delivery through April, with refiners moving swiftly to secure volumes before the waiver’s May 16 deadline.

The extension of the waiver by President Donald Trump has provided Indian refiners crucial breathing space, though it has drawn criticism from Ukraine, which argues that such exemptions undermine efforts to restrict Russia’s revenues.

African suppliers have also played a role. Imports from Angola averaged 327,000 barrels per day in March, nearly triple February’s levels. Officials at state‑run refiners noted that these purchases were initiated before the Iran strikes and have proven valuable as shipments from Iraq and other Middle Eastern producers declined.

Nigeria and Angola have both contributed to this diversification. Meanwhile, crude from Iran and Venezuela has begun arriving again, with imports averaging 276,000 barrels per day from Iran and 137,000 barrels per day from Venezuela in mid‑April. These flows represent a reversal of earlier caution, when refiners avoided both suppliers to sidestep US sanctions.

Despite these efforts, India’s overall crude imports fell to 4.5 million barrels per day in March, down from 5.2 million in February. Analysts caution that African crudes cannot fully substitute Middle Eastern grades due to refinery configuration mismatches.

Prices have also risen, with April barrels secured at $5 to $15 above the Brent benchmark. State‑run retailers have not yet raised pump prices, with the government cutting excise duties to shield consumers. However, some analysts warn that prices could rise by as much as 28 rupees per litre once state elections conclude later this month.

The oil ministry has acknowledged that government‑owned fuel companies are incurring losses but insists that no immediate hike is planned, stressing that India remains the only country where petrol and diesel prices have not increased in the past four years.

India’s strategy of reviving ties with Russia, Africa, Iran, and Venezuela has so far preserved access to crude, even if at higher costs.

The government continues to emphasise its commitment to insulating citizens from steep international price rises, underscoring the balancing act between geopolitical constraints, economic resilience, and domestic political considerations.

AFP

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New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon Hails India FTA Pact As Historic Boost For Kiwi Exporters

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced that his country will sign a Free Trade Agreement with India on Monday, describing it as a “once-in-a-generation agreement” that will open access to one of the world’s largest markets for Kiwi exporters.

He made the announcement in a social media post, sharing a video message that outlined the expected benefits of the deal.

In his message, Luxon emphasised the scale of the opportunity, noting that the agreement would give New Zealand exporters unprecedented access to India’s vast consumer base and rapidly growing economy.

He highlighted that India, with its 1.4 billion people, is set to become the third largest economy in the world, making this deal a transformative step for New Zealand’s trade ambitions.

Luxon stressed that the agreement would improve New Zealand’s competitive position globally, placing its exporters on an equal or better footing compared to international rivals. He pointed to India’s expanding middle class as a key driver of demand that New Zealand businesses could now tap into more effectively.

He underlined the importance of trade to New Zealand’s economy, reminding citizens that one in four jobs in the country are already linked to trade. According to him, the new FTA will mean more jobs on farms and orchards, boosting incomes and economic activity across the nation.

He added that this would translate into more money flowing into local communities and greater opportunities for families to prosper.

Luxon also linked the agreement to wider national benefits, stating that a stronger economy would enable greater public investment in essential services such as roads, schools, hospitals, and policing. He described the deal as a “big win” for New Zealand, making it easier for exporters to sell more of their renowned products to the world.

He listed examples of sectors expected to benefit, including kiwifruit from the Bay of Plenty, wine from Central Otago, seafood, meat, and honey.

Luxon reiterated that exports underpin New Zealand’s economy, and enabling these sectors to compete globally would support jobs, higher wages, and sustained economic growth.

Summing up the benefits for citizens, he said the agreement would ultimately mean “more money for Kiwis’ back pockets.”

ANI

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China Launches Pakistani Satellite; Expands Space Alliance With Pakistan Through Astronaut Training

China has successfully launched Pakistan’s PRSC‑EO3 satellite from the Taiyuan Satellite Launch Centre in Shanxi Province on Saturday night.

The launch took place at 8:15 p.m. Beijing time, with the satellite carried into orbit by a Long March‑6 rocket. According to China’s state‑run Xinhua news agency, the satellite entered its planned orbit without issue.

This marks the fourth Pakistani satellite placed into orbit by China since last year, underscoring the deepening of their space cooperation. Three Pakistani satellites were launched in 2025, and the latest addition further broadens the scope of the all‑weather alliance between the two countries into the space domain.

In parallel with satellite cooperation, Pakistan has also taken steps towards human spaceflight collaboration with China. Two Pakistani astronauts arrived in Beijing on 24 April to begin astronaut training.

They joined the Astronaut Centre of China on Friday to train alongside their Chinese counterparts. The China Manned Space Agency confirmed that upon completing the required training and passing assessments, one of the two will participate in a space mission as a payload specialist.

This individual will become the first foreign astronaut to board China’s Tiangong space station, which is currently in orbit.

These developments highlight the expanding partnership between China and Pakistan, extending beyond trade, finance, and security into advanced space exploration and human spaceflight.

The launch of PRSC‑EO3 and the training of Pakistani astronauts represent significant milestones in the bilateral relationship, signalling a new phase of cooperation in high‑technology domains.

PTI

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Iranian President Pezeshkian Rejects US Talks, Demands End To Blockade Before Dialogue

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has firmly rejected direct negotiations with the United States, declaring that Tehran will not enter talks under the shadow of pressure, threats, or blockades.

In a significant telephone conversation with Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Pezeshkian stressed that the naval blockade and hostile American actions remain the primary obstacles to peace.

He urged Washington to demonstrate seriousness by removing military and economic barriers before dialogue could resume.

Press TV reported that Pezeshkian emphasised Iran’s refusal to be coerced into a deal, noting that rebuilding trust and progress in diplomacy would remain difficult as long as hostile actions continued. 

He advised the United States to first lift the blockade in order to create a platform for resolving issues. His remarks come at a critical juncture in the eight‑week conflict, following the collapse of high‑level peace talks in Islamabad and the imposition of a U.S. naval blockade on Iranian ports since 13 April.

The President’s comments followed a weekend of diplomatic friction, with Pakistan’s mediation efforts breaking down. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump defended his decision to cancel a planned trip by envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff to Pakistan, dismissing it as too costly and too long for meetings with what he described as “unrecognised officials.”

Speaking at Palm Beach International Airport, Trump said Tehran’s proposal “offered a lot but not enough,” particularly in response to Washington’s demand for a 20‑year suspension of enriched uranium.

Trump explained that he would not authorise a 15‑16 hour journey to meet people “nobody ever heard of before,” describing himself as a “cost‑conscious person.” Despite cancelling the visit, he claimed Iran quickly submitted a revised and “much better” proposal, though he reiterated that America’s core demand remained unchanged: Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons. He also downplayed concerns about the ceasefire, saying he “hasn’t even thought about it.”

Earlier, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had shared a “workable framework” with Pakistani leadership to permanently end the conflict, while questioning Washington’s commitment to diplomacy.

The Iranian delegation later departed Islamabad after submitting an official list of demands, leaving Pakistan’s mediation efforts uncertain. Araghchi is expected to return to Pakistan on Sunday after concluding his trip to Oman, underscoring the fluidity of the situation as tensions persist.

ANI

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Caltech Graduate Cole Tomas Allen Identified As Suspect In White House Dinner Shooting

Cole Tomas Allen, aged thirty-one and hailing from Torrance, California, has been identified by law enforcement as the armed man subdued near the White House press dinner attended by President Trump and senior officials.

According to sources, Allen was apprehended after triggering chaos at the high-profile event, where swift intervention by security forces prevented further harm.

Public records and online profiles suggest that Allen had worked as a part-time teacher at C2 Education, a test preparation and tutoring company. Company social media posts reveal that he was named “Teacher of the Month” in December 2024, highlighting his professional recognition within the organisation.

His academic background is notable, having graduated from the California Institute of Technology in 2017 with a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, followed by a master’s degree in computer science at California State University-Dominguez Hills in 2018.

Federal Election Commission filings indicate that Allen made a modest political donation of $25 to Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign in October 2024. This detail has been cited in reports as part of his public record, though no broader political affiliations have yet been established. His professional and academic achievements stand in stark contrast to the violent incident that has now placed him under intense scrutiny.

The identification of Allen as the suspect has raised questions about his motivations and background, with investigations continuing to determine how he came to be involved in such a serious breach of security. Authorities are expected to probe both his personal history and potential connections as they seek to establish a clearer picture of the circumstances surrounding the attack.

Agencies

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