DRDO’s Indigenous High-Altitude Airship Reaches 21 Km In Successful Test, Marks Major Stratospheric Breakthrough

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the flight trial of an indigenously developed High-Altitude Platform System (HAPS), marking a major advance in India's efforts to develop long-endurance stratospheric airship technology.

During the test flight, the lighter-than-air platform climbed to an altitude of 21 km above mean sea level and sustained operations at 20 km for more than 30 minutes before being instructed to return to the ground.

Following the descent, the airship was successfully recovered and mission data was analysed, with performance assessments indicating that the platform achieved its intended flight objectives.

Throughout the mission, real-time video feeds and vehicle performance data were continuously transmitted from the airborne platform to the Ground Control Station, enabling researchers to monitor the flight in real time.

The system carried a suite of instrumentation and control packages, including an inertial measurement unit, a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver, onboard cameras, altitude-control mechanisms and several supporting subsystems, all of which functioned as planned during the trial.

The flight was conducted in coordination with the Indian Air Force, the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and other civil authorities.

Developed by DRDO's Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) in Agra, the High-Altitude Platform is designed as a long-endurance stratospheric aerial system capable of remaining at extreme altitudes for extended periods.

Such platforms are considered valuable for persistent surveillance, communications support, reconnaissance, environmental monitoring and disaster-management operations, bridging the gap between conventional aircraft and satellites.

The successful demonstration strengthens India's indigenous aerospace capabilities and represents an important milestone in the country's drive towards self-reliance in advanced aerial systems and long-endurance stratospheric operations.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh congratulated DRDO, the Indian Air Force, public sector undertakings and industry partners, describing the achievement as a significant step in India's journey towards developing a long-endurance stratospheric airship under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Agencies

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MoD Signs ₹661.5-Crore BrahMos Deal, Advancing Indian Navy’s Drive For Near-Complete Warship Missile Integration By 2030

The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract worth ₹661.50 crore with BrahMos Aerospace Private Limited (BAPL) for the supply of advanced fire control systems and missile launchers for Indian Navy warships.

The agreement was concluded in New Delhi on 6 October 2026 under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) procurement category, Businessline reported.

Valued at ₹661.50 crore, the project mandates a minimum indigenous content level of 68%, reinforcing the Government’s emphasis on domestically designed, developed and manufactured military equipment. The programme is expected to drive participation from a broad network of Indian industries, including micro, small and medium enterprises.

The acquisition covers critical components of the BrahMos weapon ecosystem, namely fire control systems and launchers that enable warships to deploy the missile effectively during maritime strike missions. These systems form an essential part of the Navy’s surface-to-surface combat capability.

The BrahMos missile remains the Indian Navy’s principal surface-to-surface weapon for maritime strike operations and is already deployed aboard several frontline warships. Capable of engaging both sea-based and land-based targets at extended ranges with high accuracy and supersonic speed, it represents a key element of India's naval deterrence posture.

The latest procurement is expected to enhance fleet readiness and strengthen the strike capabilities of frontline naval combatants. It also supports the broader objective of equipping nearly all major Indian Navy warships with BrahMos-related capabilities by 2030.

Beyond operational gains, the contract is anticipated to generate employment over the next three years while advancing the indigenisation of advanced military technologies. The initiative is also expected to strengthen India’s maritime security architecture and further expand the domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem.

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Defence Minister To Launch Shakti Engine Expansion At HAL’s Sunabeda Hub To Boost Indigenous Aero-Engine Capability

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is scheduled to visit HAL’s Sunabeda facility in Odisha’s Koraput district on 6 October, where he will lay the foundation stone for new infrastructure associated with the Shakti engine project. The visit comes after engagements at Hindustan Shipyard Limited in Visakhapatnam, where he is due to inaugurate upgraded maritime facilities and take part in important shipbuilding events.

The new facilities are expected to strengthen India’s efforts to expand domestic aero-engine manufacturing capabilities and reduce reliance on imported technologies. The development is regarded as an important step in advancing self-reliance in critical defence aviation systems.

HAL’s Koraput division has remained a vital part of the country’s military engine manufacturing, maintenance and overhaul ecosystem for several decades. The unit has steadily evolved from supporting Soviet-origin aircraft engines to producing and servicing powerplants used in modern combat platforms.

The Shakti engine project is a joint Indo-French initiative involving HAL and Safran Helicopter Engines. The collaboration focuses on the development and manufacture of the Safran Ardiden 1H1 turboshaft engine to support India’s military aviation requirements.

The Koraput facility, established during the 1960s, is closely linked to the manufacture and overhaul of engines powering the Sukhoi-30MKI fighter fleet. Its long-standing expertise has made it one of the country’s key aero-engine centres.

Extensive security arrangements have been put in place ahead of the minister’s arrival. Authorities have tightened security across Sunabeda and along the routes connected to the visit, with sanitisation measures and other protocols implemented to ensure a secure programme.

The planned expansion is expected to reinforce HAL’s role in India’s aerospace and defence manufacturing landscape while supporting broader national efforts to enhance indigenous engine production and technological capability.

PTI

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Asim Munir Deploys Fishing Nets in Bid To Stop TTP Drone Attacks Over Pak Army Posts

Facing an intensifying wave of drone attacks along its western frontier, Pakistan has adopted an unconventional and inexpensive method to protect military and police positions near the Afghanistan border: fishing nets suspended above checkpoints and security outposts, India Today reported.

The measure has been introduced across parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as security forces struggle to counter an increasingly sophisticated drone campaign waged by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), also known as the Pakistani Taliban.

The security challenge has grown alongside renewed tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan, with Islamabad continuing to accuse Kabul of providing sanctuary to TTP militants, an allegation Afghanistan rejects.

The decision to deploy the netting followed a deadly assault on 16 April at the Sarki Piyala police checkpost in Hangu district, roughly 30 kilometres from the Afghan border. During that attack, drones carrying explosives struck the position before TTP fighters launched a coordinated ground assault.

The attack left one security personnel dead and dozens injured, highlighting the growing threat posed by commercially available drones modified for combat use. Hangu has emerged as one of the most vulnerable districts in Pakistan's counter-insurgency campaign. Located close to the Afghan frontier, it has reportedly suffered 16 militant attacks this year alone.

The security situation has become severe enough that many personnel reportedly avoid leaving their barracks without armed protection. Rather than relying solely on expensive electronic counter-drone systems, Pakistani authorities have opted for overhead fishing nets stretched between rooftops and perimeter walls.

The objective is straightforward: disrupt or entangle a drone before it can release its payload or strike its intended target. Officials also believe that even if a drone detonates above the netting, the barrier could help reduce casualties by dispersing fragments and shrapnel before they reach personnel below.

The approach is attractive largely because of its cost.

Covering a standard security post with netting costs around ₹1.30 lakh, while dedicated anti-drone systems can range from approximately ₹4.65 lakh to more than ₹46 crore depending on capability and sophistication. Over recent months, similar netting systems have been introduced at military and police positions in Kohat, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat and Dera Ismail Khan, all districts facing persistent militant activity.

The concept is not entirely unique.

Variants of overhead mesh protection have appeared in other conflict zones, including Ukraine, where forces have experimented with physical barriers to counter low-flying drones and loitering munitions. Pakistani officials view the nets as an additional protective layer rather than a replacement for dedicated counter-UAV systems. Security personnel acknowledge that the measure offers only limited protection and cannot guarantee immunity from attack.

Defence analysts have been more critical.

Some experts argue that the nets risk creating a false sense of security because militant groups can redirect attacks towards other vulnerable targets rather than striking heavily protected checkpoints. Analysts have also stressed that the real requirement is the ability to detect, track and neutralise hostile drones shortly after launch rather than relying on passive defences at the point of impact.

Pakistan currently employs a mix of Chinese- and Turkish-origin counter-drone technologies, but concerns over effectiveness have intensified following vulnerabilities exposed during last year's Operation Sindoor.

Seeking to strengthen its capabilities, Islamabad has reportedly explored additional anti-drone solutions from foreign suppliers, including the US-based firm Powerus. The growing concern stems from the TTP's increasingly organised drone program. In December 2025, the group established a dedicated drone unit under Maulvi Saleem Haqqani, accelerating the integration of unmanned systems into its operations.

The organisation relies heavily on inexpensive commercial quadcopters that can be modified for surveillance, reconnaissance and explosive attacks. Research into the group's tactics indicates that the TTP has improved endurance and operational range by adapting readily available components, including motorcycle batteries, for drone power systems. The scale of the challenge is significant.

Pakistan has stated that it thwarted 341 drone attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during the first half of 2026. A further 100 attacks reportedly resulted in around 30 security personnel being killed and 90 wounded.

The figures underscore how rapidly drones have become a central element of militant warfare in Pakistan's north-west. For now, the fishing nets represent a pragmatic, low-cost attempt to reduce losses while more advanced counter-drone capabilities are developed.

Whether they ultimately prove effective or merely symbolic, their deployment reflects the growing pressure on Pakistan's security forces as they adapt to a battlefield increasingly shaped by cheap, accessible and difficult-to-detect unmanned aircraft.

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Bharat Forge Lands Long-Term Pratt & Whitney Canada Deal To Boost India’s Aerospace Manufacturing Capabilities

Bharat Forge Ltd has secured a long-term contract from Pratt & Whitney Canada to supply mission-critical aerospace engine components, strengthening its position within the global aerospace supply chain.

Under the agreement, the components will be manufactured at Bharat Forge’s advanced aerospace facility in India, which has been developed to produce high-performance, high-value aero-engine products that meet stringent international aerospace standards.

The contract marks a significant endorsement of Bharat Forge’s engineering expertise and precision manufacturing capabilities, further enhancing India’s role as a key destination for aerospace production.

Amit Kalyani, Vice-Chairman and Joint Managing Director of Bharat Forge, said the company looks forward to supporting Pratt & Whitney Canada’s programs while contributing to the continued development of India’s aerospace manufacturing expertise.

Pratt & Whitney Canada stated that the collaboration aligns with its strategy of building a resilient, high-performing global supply chain capable of supporting customer requirements and long-term growth ambitions.

Nathalie Rivet, Vice President, Supply Chain, Pratt & Whitney Canada, highlighted the importance of strengthening sourcing capabilities while maintaining high standards of quality and operational performance across its global supplier network.

The partnership also reflects growing confidence among leading aerospace original equipment manufacturers in India’s ability to manufacture highly specialised and safety-critical aerospace components.

Pune-headquartered Bharat Forge is a global leader in high-performance, safety-critical components and solutions across sectors including automotive, power, oil and gas, construction and mining, rail, marine, defence and aerospace.

Pratt & Whitney Canada is one of the world’s leading aerospace engine manufacturers and plays a major role in supplying propulsion systems for a wide range of aircraft globally.

The agreement is expected to deepen industrial cooperation between the two companies and reinforce Bharat Forge’s expanding footprint in the international aerospace sector.

PTI

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48 Million Chips A Day: TATA Electronics' Assam Chip Hub Nears Commercial Launch After Pilot Production Milestone

TATA Electronics has entered a crucial new phase at its semiconductor packaging facility in Jagiroad, Assam, with pilot chip production now under way as the company prepares for full commercial operations between December 2026 and January 2027.

The project, backed by an investment of ₹27,000 crore, spans 592 acres and is regarded as one of India's most significant semiconductor manufacturing initiatives. The facility is currently conducting pilot runs at partial capacity following the completion of its first clean room, marking the transition from construction to live manufacturing operations.

Located in Jagiroad, the plant has been developed as an Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility. Unlike a wafer fabrication plant that manufactures semiconductor wafers from raw silicon, the Assam unit focuses on the assembly, packaging and testing stages of semiconductor production.

Once fully ramped up, the facility is expected to produce up to 48 million semiconductor chips daily. Production will utilise advanced packaging technologies including Wire Bond, Flip Chip and Integrated System in Package (ISIP), enabling chips to be integrated into increasingly sophisticated electronic systems.

The plant is expected to serve a broad range of high-growth industries. Key target sectors include automotive, electric vehicles, telecommunications, consumer electronics, Internet of Things applications and artificial intelligence.

Automotive applications are expected to play a particularly important role in the facility's output. TATA Electronics has already announced plans to manufacture Qualcomm Automotive Modules at the site, supporting both domestic and international vehicle manufacturers. These modules are designed for applications such as digital cockpits, infotainment systems, connectivity solutions and intelligent vehicle technologies.

The Assam facility is also becoming a central element of TATA Electronics' broader semiconductor strategy. The company has been actively creating a geographically diversified supply chain aimed at reducing dependence on China for semiconductor assembly equipment, materials and components.

Following partnerships announced during SEMICON India 2026, TATA Electronics secured more than 16 collaborations with companies across Europe, Japan, Malaysia and Singapore. These partnerships include industry players such as ASMPT, Nexperia, Fujifilm, Besi, Sumitomo and Sojitz, helping to strengthen access to machinery, raw materials and specialised semiconductor technologies.

The diversification strategy is intended to improve resilience against global supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions and trade-related bottlenecks while supporting greater localisation of semiconductor manufacturing inputs.

Although pilot production has begun, the facility is not expected to achieve full output immediately. Industry and government officials anticipate that scaling operations, qualifying products with global customers and establishing a mature supporting ecosystem could require an additional one to two years after commercial production begins.

Workforce development is also progressing alongside manufacturing preparations. Hundreds of women have been trained across TATA Electronics facilities, with several already deployed at Jagiroad and many more expected to join ahead of commissioning.

The project is projected to generate around 27,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities across engineering, clean-room operations, semiconductor testing, research and development, technical support and allied services.

To support the growing industrial ecosystem, infrastructure development is continuing around the facility. State authorities have already provided dedicated power and water connectivity, while accommodation and hospitality projects are being developed to serve employees, suppliers and visiting industry partners.

The Assam government is also seeking to attract ancillary industries and additional semiconductor-related investments around Jagiroad, with the longer-term objective of creating a broader semiconductor manufacturing cluster in the region.

The commencement of pilot production represents a major milestone not only for TATA Electronics but also for India's ambition to strengthen domestic semiconductor capabilities. The success of the Jagiroad facility will be closely watched as the country seeks to establish a stronger position in global electronics and semiconductor supply chains.

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DRDO’s New High-Altitude Parachute In Successful Test Proves Its Worth In Landmark Ladakh Jump

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully completed the maiden live operational trial of its Advanced High-Altitude Parachute (AHAP) system at Nyoma in Ladakh, marking a significant step forward in India's airborne insertion capabilities in extreme mountain terrain.

The trial was conducted at Nyoma’s Mudh drop zone, one of the world's highest military parachute drop zones. During the exercise, a paratrooper exited an aircraft at an altitude of 16,000 feet above mean sea level (AMSL).

The AHAP system deployed successfully at 15,500 feet AMSL before the soldier descended safely to the landing zone at Nyoma, which itself is situated at approximately 13,700 feet above sea level. The successful jump validated the parachute’s handling characteristics and operational reliability under rarefied atmospheric conditions.

Developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), Agra, the AHAP has been specifically designed for mass deployment of paratroopers in high-altitude operational environments. The system incorporates multiple deployment configurations, providing greater flexibility for military missions in challenging terrain.

According to DRDO, the trial demonstrated the parachute’s tactical employability and effectiveness in extremely high-altitude conditions, where airborne operations are considerably more demanding than at lower elevations.

The AHAP is a static-line parachute system capable of operating at altitudes of up to 18,000 feet. It has been engineered to provide a controlled and safe descent rate that aligns with the operational requirements of Indian armed forces deployed in mountainous regions.

High-altitude static-line jumps present unique challenges owing to lower air density, harsher weather conditions, increased opening shock and faster descent rates. These factors make parachute operations more complex and inherently riskier, highlighting the importance of the successful demonstration.

The parachute system has been manufactured by Ordnance Parachute Factory, Kanpur. Quality assurance inspections were carried out by the Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), while certification was granted by the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) and RCMA Kanpur.

The successful trial strengthens India’s indigenous airborne capability and supports ongoing efforts to equip defence forces with specialised equipment tailored for operations in the demanding high-altitude regions along the country's northern frontiers.

Such capabilities are particularly important for rapid troop insertion, reinforcement missions and maintaining operational readiness in remote mountain sectors.

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Israel Was Prepared To Shoot Down Flydubai Jet After Mid-Air Cockpit Attack Threatened Tel Aviv

Israel was prepared to take the extraordinary step of shooting down a Flydubai passenger aircraft carrying more than 150 Israeli citizens after a violent cockpit attack raised fears of a potential hijacking and a possible strike against targets in Israel.

The crisis unfolded on September 30 aboard Flydubai Flight 1073, which was travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv when co-pilot Hamam al-Hammami allegedly stabbed Captain Smit Machchhar and attempted to seize control of the aircraft.

As the struggle erupted in the cockpit, the aircraft entered a dramatic descent, reportedly losing around 16,000 feet in little more than 30 seconds. The sudden plunge triggered alarm within Israel's security establishment, which feared the aircraft could be heading towards a 9/11-style attack scenario.

Efforts by the Israeli Air Force to establish radio contact with the cockpit received no response. In response, emergency protocols were immediately activated.

Israeli authorities established a command centre, closed national airspace and scrambled fighter aircraft to assess the developing threat. The incident was treated as a possible hijacking involving an aircraft approaching Israeli territory.

According to reports, Israeli fighter pilots were prepared to intercept the aircraft and conduct close visual inspections of both the cockpit and passenger cabin if the jet had continued towards Tel Aviv.

Their objective would have been to determine whether the aircraft had been successfully hijacked and whether passengers appeared to be under duress.

Had a hijacking been confirmed and the attackers remained silent, the matter would have been escalated to Israel's top political leadership, including the Defence Minister and Prime Minister.

Under Israeli procedures, the authority to order the destruction of a civilian aircraft rests solely with the Prime Minister.

Israeli officials reportedly believed that, if necessary, the aircraft could have been intercepted before reaching major national targets such as Ben Gurion Airport or Tel Aviv's Azrieli Centre.

The situation changed when authorities determined that the aircraft had diverted away from Israel and was heading towards Saudi Arabia.

Israeli fighter jets were subsequently recalled, while Saudi Arabia scrambled its own aircraft as the emergency unfolded within the region's airspace.

The crisis was ultimately resolved through the actions of Captain Machchhar, who continued fighting despite suffering severe injuries after being attacked with a cockpit crash axe. The injured captain succeeded in unlocking the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew members to intervene.

Passengers then overpowered al-Hammami, ending the immediate threat inside the cockpit.

Two off-duty pilots travelling aboard the flight subsequently took control of the aircraft and safely diverted it to Tabuk in Saudi Arabia, bringing one of the most serious aviation security incidents in recent years to a close.

ANI

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Suryakiran Set To Dazzle Jodhpur Skies As Air Force Day Celebrations Take Centre Stage During Tarang Shakti 2026

The Indian Air Force’s celebrated Suryakiran Aerobatic Team is set to stage a major aerial display at Air Force Station Jodhpur on 8 October as part of the official Air Force Day celebrations, bringing a spectacular showcase of precision flying to Rajasthan's skies.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is expected to attend the event, which is also likely to be witnessed by National Cadet Corps cadets and children from special schools. The air display will take place during Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026, the Indian Air Force’s flagship multinational air exercise, which commenced on 26 September and will continue until 12 October.

Flying nine Hawk advanced jet trainers, the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team will perform a series of intricate formations and synchronised manoeuvres. The team is among the few nine-aircraft aerobatic formations in the world and remains the only active team of its kind in Asia.

The display is expected to last around 25 to 30 minutes and will be accompanied by live commentary for spectators.

Established in 1996, the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team comprises some of the Indian Air Force’s most experienced pilots. Over the past three decades, it has performed extensively across India and represented the country at numerous international air shows.

The event forms part of the Indian Air Force’s broader “Power in Partnership” theme under Tarang Shakti 2026, highlighting cooperation, trust and operational coordination among participating air forces.

Throughout the exercise, aircraft and aircrew from participating nations have conducted joint flying activities designed to strengthen interoperability and improve coordination in complex operational scenarios.

Tarang Shakti 2026 has brought together eight foreign countries deploying air assets alongside India, while 32 nations are taking part as observers, making it one of the largest multinational air exercises ever hosted by the Indian Air Force.

Among the most closely watched participants is the US Air Force’s F-35 Lightning-II, whose presence marks the first appearance of the fifth-generation stealth fighter in an Indian military exercise.

France has deployed Rafale fighter aircraft, while the United Arab Emirates is participating with F-16 fighters. The exercise also features India’s indigenous Tejas combat aircraft, underscoring the growing prominence of domestically developed aerospace platforms.

In addition to fighter aircraft, the exercise includes complex mission profiles involving air defence, counter-air operations, reconnaissance, airlift missions and aerial refuelling, allowing participating nations to exchange operational experience and tactics.

The multinational deployment provides Indian and foreign air forces with an opportunity to operate alongside a diverse mix of Western, indigenous and advanced combat platforms in a realistic training environment.

Jodhpur has previously hosted displays by the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team as well as the Indian Air Force’s Sarang helicopter display team, making the city a familiar venue for major aviation events. With the Suryakiran formation expected to paint the skies above the Blue City, the Air Force Day celebrations will serve as both a public spectacle and a demonstration of the growing cooperation between air forces participating in Tarang Shakti 2026.

The exercise is increasingly being viewed as a key platform for strengthening international military partnerships, enhancing operational interoperability and showcasing India's expanding role in multinational air power engagements.

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Defence Minister Launches 43,500-Ton ‘Surya’ as HSL Expands Capacity For Next-Generation Navy Support Ships

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has launched the Indian Navy’s first Fleet Support Ship, FSS-1 ‘Surya’, at Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL) in Visakhapatnam, while also laying the keel for the fifth vessel in the class and inaugurating major shipbuilding infrastructure upgrades at the yard.

The developments mark a significant milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and enhance naval endurance across the Indian Ocean Region.

The launch of ‘Surya’, the first of five Fleet Support Ships being constructed for the Indian Navy, represents a major advance in the country’s maritime modernisation drive. Displacing approximately 43,500 tons, the vessel is designed to provide critical at-sea replenishment support, enabling frontline warships to remain deployed for extended periods without returning to port.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the vessel will enter the waters of the Bay of Bengal just 18 months after steel cutting, highlighting the rapid pace of construction under the project. The keel laying of FSS-5 during the same ceremony underscored the program’s progress towards serial production.

Alongside the naval milestones, Rajnath Singh inaugurated the upgraded Slipway-4 and a new 300-ton Goliath crane at HSL. The enhanced infrastructure, featuring greater length and load-bearing capacity, will enable the shipyard to build and launch vessels of up to 45,000 DWT while significantly expanding its ability to handle larger and more sophisticated naval platforms.

The upgraded slipway measures 235 metres in length and 37.5 metres in width, while the improvements increase HSL’s covered dock capacity to 80,000 DWT. These investments are expected to strengthen the shipyard’s long-term role in India’s naval construction plans.

Addressing the gathering, Singh described the launch of FSS-1 as a symbol of achievement, the keel laying of FSS-5 as a symbol of resolve, and the new slipway as a symbol of India’s growing capability. He said the simultaneous progress on shipbuilding and infrastructure was helping lay the foundations of the country’s future maritime power.

The Defence Minister linked the modernisation of shipbuilding infrastructure to India’s broader maritime security objectives and the national push towards greater self-reliance in defence manufacturing. He emphasised that stronger domestic shipbuilding capacity would be essential to supporting the Indian Navy’s expanding operational commitments.

Singh also highlighted India’s historical maritime heritage, describing the country’s quest to become a leading maritime power as both a revival and strengthening of its long-standing connection with the seas. He praised HSL’s contribution to national maritime capability and noted the shipyard’s transformation in recent years.

HSL attained Miniratna Category-I status in 2025, a development Singh cited as evidence of the shipyard’s turnaround and growing importance within India’s defence-industrial ecosystem.

The five Fleet Support Ships are being built with approximately 82 per cent indigenous content under a single contract, reflecting the increasing maturity of India’s naval shipbuilding sector. The project is expected to significantly reduce reliance on foreign suppliers for key support vessels.

Beyond refuelling warships at sea, the new vessels are designed to transport fuel, aviation fuel, water, ammunition, spare parts and other supplies. They will also possess onboard maintenance facilities capable of conducting first-line repairs and supporting extended fleet operations far from Indian shores.

The Fleet Support Ship class will eventually supplement and succeed portions of the Navy’s existing replenishment capability provided by vessels such as INS Shakti, INS Jyoti, INS Deepak and INS Aditya.

Their introduction is expected to substantially improve operational reach, endurance and sustainability during long-duration deployments across the Indian Ocean Region.

The ceremony was attended by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, Defence Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar and other senior civil and military officials, underscoring the strategic significance attached to the program.

With ‘Surya’ now launched, construction progressing across the remaining ships in the class, and major new infrastructure operational at HSL, India has taken another important step towards building a larger, more self-reliant and globally competitive maritime industrial base capable of supporting the Indian Navy’s future requirements.

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India Sizes Up US F-35 Stealth Jets In Landmark First On Home Turf: Chinese Media

The arrival of US Air Force F-35 Lightning-II stealth fighters at Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 has marked a significant milestone in India-US military cooperation, with America’s most advanced fifth-generation combat aircraft participating in air drills on Indian soil for the first time, SCMP reported.

The multinational exercise, taking place at Jodhpur Air Force Station in Rajasthan, around 200km from the Pakistan border, runs from 26 September until 12 October and has brought together air forces from more than 40 nations, including active participants from the United States, Australia, France, Germany, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.

Six F-35 fighters and more than 200 US Air Force personnel have been deployed for the exercise, highlighting the growing operational engagement between New Delhi and Washington.

For India, the presence of the F-35 provides a rare opportunity to observe a frontline fifth-generation combat aircraft in a realistic operational environment as it continues work on its indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) stealth fighter project.

Indian Air Force personnel are expected to closely study how the F-35 integrates sensors, networking and battlefield data-sharing into combat operations, capabilities regarded as central to modern air warfare.

Analysts believe the exercise will also allow India to compare Western network-centric air power concepts with a fleet that currently combines Russian-origin Su-30MKI fighters, French Rafales and indigenous TEJAS aircraft.

The Indian Air Force is expected to pay particular attention to the F-35’s performance when operating alongside the Su-30MKI, which remains the backbone of India's combat aviation fleet.

Military observers note that the exercise offers a practical opportunity to assess how aircraft from different generations and technological backgrounds can operate together during complex missions.

The drills also provide valuable insights into interoperability, command-and-control integration and cross-platform coordination, all of which are increasingly important in high-intensity conflict scenarios.

However, experts caution that the United States is unlikely to expose the F-35’s most sensitive capabilities during the exercise.

The aircraft are widely believed to be flying with radar-enhancing reflectors that conceal their true stealth profile, preventing foreign militaries from accurately measuring their low-observable characteristics.

Similarly, Washington is not expected to reveal the fighter’s full electronic warfare and countermeasure capabilities, which remain among the aircraft’s most closely guarded operational secrets.

Even so, Indian pilots and planners are likely to gain a clearer understanding of the aircraft’s flight performance, manoeuvrability, mission planning processes and operational concepts.

The exercise is equally valuable for the United States, whose pilots will gain experience operating alongside and against Indian aircraft, particularly the highly manoeuvrable Su-30MKI, as well as observing an air force that employs a diverse mix of Western, Russian and indigenous platforms.

The deployment comes despite continuing differences between Washington and New Delhi over issues including US tariff measures, India's imports of Russian oil and differing approaches towards regional security and Pakistan.

Nevertheless, defence cooperation has shown remarkable resilience, with recent acquisitions such as the US-made FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank guided missile system indicating that military ties continue to expand.

Strategically, both countries remain aligned on many Indo-Pacific security concerns, creating strong incentives to deepen defence engagement despite periodic political disagreements.

US strategic documents have also identified India as a key partner in maintaining stability and security across the Indo-Pacific region. The exercise therefore serves not only as a military training event but also as a visible demonstration of the growing strategic partnership between the two democracies.

For India, exposure to the world's most widely deployed fifth-generation fighter could provide valuable lessons for the AMCA program, particularly in areas such as stealth integration, sensor fusion and collaborative combat operations.

For Washington, the deployment reinforces its commitment to strengthening security partnerships in the Indo-Pacific while showcasing the depth of bilateral military cooperation.

Ultimately, the presence of the F-35 at Tarang Shakti 2026 represents both a practical learning opportunity and a powerful signal of strategic confidence, underlining the increasingly important role of India-US defence ties amid a rapidly evolving regional security environment.

South China Post

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Hormuz Shipping Attack Injures 11 Indian Sailors, Crew Evacuated To Oman

Eleven Indian sailors were among 12 crew members injured after the Panama-flagged commercial vessel MT On Peace was struck by a projectile while transiting the Strait of Hormuz off the coast of Oman on Tuesday. The vessel was carrying 19 crew members, including 17 Indian nationals.

The injured sailors were evacuated with the assistance of Omani authorities and are now undergoing medical treatment in Khasab, Oman. India thanked Oman for its support in the rescue and evacuation effort.

New Delhi strongly condemned the attack, describing the continuing assault on commercial shipping in the region as a matter of serious concern. The Ministry of External Affairs called for an immediate halt to attacks on merchant vessels, seafarers and civilian infrastructure, stressing the need to restore safe navigation and commercial activity through international waterways.

The latest incident comes amid a worsening maritime security environment around the Strait of Hormuz, where attacks on commercial vessels have increased significantly following the collapse of Iran-US peace talks and the continuation of the US-led blockade.

According to reports, at least seven tanker attacks were recorded during the first week of October alone. Among the vessels targeted were the Kuwait-flagged MT Kazimah III and the Liberia-flagged Lipsi. The attacks have persisted despite crude oil movements through the waterway recovering to levels close to those seen before the conflict.

Escalation in the region intensified after Iran announced on 9 September that it had attacked 10 ships near the strategic chokepoint in response to the sinking of five Iranian oil tankers by the United States. The incidents represented the largest publicly declared wave of reciprocal maritime attacks since the conflict began.

Indian seafarers have increasingly found themselves caught in the crossfire. In July, Iranian cruise missiles struck the UAE-linked tankers MT Mombasa and MT Al Bahiyah in Omani waters, killing Indian crew member Rohan Kumar and injuring 10 other Indians.

More recently, Indian sailor Suraj Yadav lost his life when the Antigua and Barbuda-flagged cargo vessel MV Cape Dao came under attack in the Strait of Hormuz on 23 September.

The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important maritime routes, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and the Arabian Sea. Before the outbreak of hostilities, roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments moved through the narrow waterway, making it a vital artery for international energy markets.

Any disruption to traffic through the strait can delay energy deliveries, increase freight and insurance costs, and place upward pressure on global oil prices. India is especially vulnerable given that it imports more than 85 per cent of its crude oil requirements.

While India has diversified its energy procurement strategy to reduce dependence on suppliers whose exports transit the Strait of Hormuz, exposure to global energy price fluctuations and elevated shipping costs remains significant. Imports from suppliers using the route reportedly accounted for only 2 per cent of India's LNG purchases in May, compared with 61 per cent in 2025.

The attack on MT On Peace underscores the growing risks facing international shipping in one of the world's most strategically important maritime corridors and highlights the continued danger confronting Indian seafarers operating in the region.

Agencies

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German A400M Takes Centre Stage At Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 As Multinational Air Operations Expand In Jodhpur

Amid the vast expanses of Rajasthan, the skies above Jodhpur Air Force Station have become a focal point for one of the largest multinational air exercises hosted by India, with the German Air Force deploying its Airbus A400M transport aircraft for Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026.

The aircraft's participation highlights the increasing emphasis on interoperability and complex joint air operations between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and partner nations.

German Air Force First Officer Captain Maurice Berns, who is flying the A400M during the exercise, described the deployment as a valuable learning opportunity for transport crews.

He said the exercise has enabled German personnel to work closely with the IAF while gaining fresh operational insights through participation in large-scale multinational missions.

According to Berns, the 2026 edition is larger than the previous exercise and sees Germany integrating its A400M into large force engagements, allowing the transport aircraft to operate alongside fighter formations in complex mission scenarios.

He characterised the A400M as the backbone of the German Air Force's transport fleet, noting that the aircraft performs both tactical and logistics missions. The four-engine turboprop platform is designed for strategic and tactical airlift operations, capable of transporting personnel, heavy equipment and humanitarian cargo while also supporting aerial refuelling and medical evacuation roles.

German crews have also used the exercise to study IAF planning processes and operational methods. Berns said the deployment has strengthened interoperability between Indian and German fighter and transport aircraft while improving understanding of how large multinational air operations are executed.

The multinational nature of Tarang Shakti 2026 was further underscored by the arrival of United States Air Force F-35A Lightning-II stealth fighters. The aircraft, assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron at Misawa Air Base in Japan, have been conducting joint training missions alongside Indian and international participants from Jodhpur Air Force Station.

Operating under the theme "Power in Partnership", the exercise has brought together seven Friendly Foreign Countries: Australia, the United States, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Participating aircraft include the F-35 Lightning-II, Rafale, F-16, A400M, MRTT, C-130, C-130J and KC-30A, creating a diverse mix of combat, transport and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.

The operational phase commenced at Air Force Station Jodhpur following the inaugural ceremony and is focused on advanced joint training, operational coordination and professional interaction among aircrew, mission planners and support personnel.

Particular emphasis has been placed on interoperability, mutual learning, aerospace safety and a deeper understanding of each participant's operational philosophy.

Visuals released during the exercise have shown F-35A fighters conducting joint sorties while US Air Force maintenance personnel from the 13th Aircraft Maintenance Unit carry out routine servicing activities on deployed aircraft, highlighting the extensive support infrastructure required for modern coalition air operations.

Tarang Shakti 2026 builds upon the inaugural edition conducted in 2024 and reflects India's ambition to establish the exercise as a major multinational air power event. Alongside flying activities, the programme includes professional seminars, industrial visits, the Sekhon Marathon, heritage tours and yoga sessions, fostering military-to-military engagement beyond the operational environment.

For the IAF, the exercise provides an opportunity to showcase its operational capabilities, professional standards and institutional ethos while highlighting India's growing indigenous aerospace and defence ecosystem.

At the same time, the participation of advanced platforms such as the F-35A and Germany's A400M demonstrates the expanding international profile of Tarang Shakti and its role in strengthening regional security cooperation and multinational air combat interoperability.

ANI

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US, Canada And Eight Regional Nations Unite To Counter Alleged Iranian Activities Across Western Hemisphere

The United States, Canada and eight Latin American and Caribbean nations have jointly accused Iran and its proxy networks of conducting terrorist activities and other destabilising operations across the Western Hemisphere, marking a significant expansion of regional cooperation aimed at countering what participating governments describe as a growing security threat.

The declaration was issued on 5 October following the Countering Transnational Terrorism Forum, which was co-hosted by the United States and Paraguay last month.

According to the US State Department, the forum was convened to strengthen law enforcement cooperation and improve coordination among regional partners in disrupting alleged Iranian-linked terrorist activity.

The governments of the United States, Argentina, Canada, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Guyana, Paraguay, Peru, and Trinidad and Tobago endorsed the joint statement, giving the initiative a broad hemispheric character that extends beyond Washington's traditional security partnerships.

In their declaration, the signatories alleged that Iran and its proxies have been involved in a range of activities across the region, including lethal plotting, illicit fundraising, political interference and foreign influence operations.

The participating governments stated that such activities are intended to strengthen terrorist networks, intimidate perceived opponents, compromise legal and administrative institutions, and undermine regional security.

The countries reaffirmed their commitment to protecting their citizens and territories from what they described as terrorism-related threats and malign influence campaigns.

They also called on Iran and its proxies to immediately cease such activities, whilst pledging to increase coordination and cooperation among their respective security and law enforcement agencies.

Although the declaration contained strong accusations, it did not identify specific incidents, organisations or alleged plots that prompted the collective response.

The signatories nevertheless welcomed efforts already undertaken by governments in the region to counter suspected Iranian-linked activities and indicated that additional measures would be pursued in the future.

The initiative reflects a broader US effort to build a regional coalition focused on confronting alleged Iranian operations beyond the Middle East. Washington has long accused Tehran of supporting armed groups and facilitating activities overseas through Iranian state institutions and affiliated organisations.

The issue has attracted heightened attention in recent years as US officials have repeatedly highlighted concerns regarding Iranian influence networks, fundraising activities and proxy-linked operations in parts of Latin America and the Caribbean.

US officials describe expanded intelligence sharing, law enforcement cooperation and cross-border coordination as essential tools for countering transnational threats operating across multiple jurisdictions.

The State Department characterised the latest declaration as part of the Trump administration's wider strategy to strengthen security cooperation throughout the hemisphere and reinforce collective responses to terrorism-related challenges.

By bringing together North American, Latin American and Caribbean partners under a common declaration, Washington has sought to demonstrate a united regional front against what it considers Iranian-backed activities.

Iran, however, has consistently rejected US accusations regarding its international conduct and regional activities. Tehran has repeatedly argued that Washington uses sanctions, diplomatic pressure and military measures to advance its geopolitical objectives against the Islamic Republic.

The latest declaration therefore underscores both the continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran and the growing emphasis being placed by several Western Hemisphere governments on collaborative approaches to counter-terrorism and regional security.

ANI

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Nepal Home Minister Sudan Gurung Set For First Overseas Visit As New Delhi Hosts Landmark BIMSTEC Security Meeting

Nepal Home Minister Sudan Gurung is scheduled to travel to New Delhi next week to participate in the inaugural BIMSTEC Home Ministers' Meeting, marking his first overseas visit since assuming office.

According to officials familiar with the preparations, Gurung will depart Kathmandu on 12 October and attend the ministerial gathering on 13 October in the Indian capital.

The invitation was conveyed to Nepal through diplomatic channels last week, reflecting the growing importance being attached to regional security cooperation within the Bay of Bengal region.

The meeting will bring together Home Ministers from all seven BIMSTEC member states: Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.

Significantly, this will be the first-ever meeting of Home Ministers from the grouping since BIMSTEC was established in 1997, underscoring the organisation's increasing focus on security and internal affairs cooperation alongside its traditional economic and technical agenda.

Nepali officials have indicated that Gurung is also expected to hold discussions with his Indian counterpart on the sidelines of the event, providing an opportunity to review bilateral security cooperation and issues of mutual interest.

The ministerial meeting traces its origins to decisions taken during the Fourth BIMSTEC Summit in Kathmandu in 2018, when regional leaders agreed to institutionalise cooperation among interior and security agencies across member countries.

The summit had emphasised greater coordination between law-enforcement bodies, intelligence organisations and security institutions in response to evolving regional challenges.

Counter-terrorism collaboration and efforts to combat transnational crime are expected to remain central themes of the discussions, in line with previous BIMSTEC commitments.

Member states have also supported the continuation of meetings among national security chiefs to strengthen information-sharing mechanisms and improve collective responses to cross-border threats.

The New Delhi meeting is therefore expected to represent a significant step in advancing BIMSTEC's security architecture, while reinforcing cooperation among countries surrounding the Bay of Bengal on matters ranging from organised crime to regional stability.

For Nepal, the visit carries added diplomatic significance as Gurung embarks on his first foreign engagement as Home Minister while participating in a gathering designed to deepen security coordination among some of South Asia and Southeast Asia's most closely connected neighbours.

ANI

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