India's Long-Range KUSHA Air Defence Missile System Passes Maiden Flight Test

India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation has achieved a major breakthrough with the maiden flight test of the indigenous long-range surface-to-air missile system, Kusha.

The test was conducted from APJ Abdul Kalam Island off the coast of Odisha, marking a critical milestone in India’s efforts to strengthen its air defence architecture.

The Kusha missile system is designed to neutralise a wide spectrum of aerial threats. It can engage fighter aircraft, cruise missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles and large enemy aircraft across extended ranges and varying altitudes. This versatility makes it a cornerstone of India’s future layered air defence network.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hailed the achievement, describing it as a landmark in India’s defence research and development. He emphasised that only a handful of nations possess the capability to develop such long-range surface-to-air missile systems. The successful trial, he noted, represents a giant leap in India’s air defence capability while simultaneously reducing dependency on imports.

The maiden test is expected to accelerate India’s indigenous air defence program. By reducing reliance on foreign systems, it strengthens the country’s strategic autonomy and aligns with the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which prioritises self-reliance in defence manufacturing. The program also reflects India’s determination to build advanced systems tailored to its unique operational requirements.

Kusha has been conceived as a multi-layered defence solution. It is designed to provide protection against diverse airborne threats over extended ranges and altitudes, ensuring flexibility in countering both conventional and emerging challenges. The successful flight test marks the beginning of a series of developmental trials that will validate its performance before induction into the armed forces.

The system is expected to complement existing platforms such as the Akash, Barak-8 and the imported S-400, forming part of a comprehensive shield against aerial threats. Its indigenous design and development will also contribute to India’s growing expertise in missile technologies, radar systems and command-and-control networks.

The trial underscores India’s progress in building advanced defence systems that match global standards. It demonstrates the country’s ability to integrate cutting-edge technologies into operational platforms and signals a new phase in the evolution of its air defence capabilities.

Agencies

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Adani Defence And DRDO To Develop Next-Generation AEW&C System For Indian Air Force

Adani Defence & Aerospace has entered into a landmark agreement with the Defence Research and Development Organisation to jointly develop India’s next-generation Airborne Early Warning & Control system, designated AEW&C MK-2, for the Indian Air Force.

This initiative represents a decisive step in advancing indigenous airborne surveillance capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision.

The agreement covers the development, manufacturing and integration of airborne mission systems on six modified Airbus A321 aircraft. These aircraft will be converted into advanced surveillance platforms, forming the backbone of India’s future airborne early warning capability.

The program also includes integrated logistics, maintenance, repair and overhaul, and technical support for a period extending up to thirty years, ensuring long-term sustainability and operational readiness.

The induction of AEW&C MK-2 is scheduled for 2032–33. This timeline reflects the scale and complexity of the undertaking, which involves not only advanced mission systems but also comprehensive lifecycle support.

The collaboration brings together DRDO’s expertise in defence research and mission systems with Adani Defence & Aerospace’s strengths in advanced manufacturing, systems integration and lifecycle management.

AEW&C aircraft are often described as the “eyes in the skies” due to their critical role in modern air warfare. They provide long-range surveillance, early threat detection and real-time command and control.

By enabling faster and better-informed operational decisions, they enhance situational awareness, force coordination and network-centric operations. The AEW&C MK-2 will significantly expand the Indian Air Force’s ability to monitor and respond to threats across extended ranges.

This program marks the first time a private Indian company has been entrusted with the development, integration and lifecycle support of an airborne mission platform of such scale and complexity. It underscores the growing role of private industry in India’s defence modernisation and highlights the confidence placed in Adani Defence & Aerospace to deliver mission-critical systems.

Globally, only five countries—the United States, France, Israel, China and Sweden—have successfully developed indigenous AEW&C capabilities. With AEW&C MK-2, India will join this select group, reinforcing its position as a major defence technology power. The achievement will also strengthen India’s strategic autonomy in airborne surveillance.

The platform will be integrated with the Indian Air Force’s Integrated Air Command & Control System, a nationwide command-and-control network that links surveillance, air defence and operational assets in real time.

This integration will enhance national air defence by enabling faster decision-making, seamless battlespace coordination and improved operational responsiveness.

The agreement represents a milestone in India’s defence industrial base, combining public-sector research with private-sector innovation. It is expected to deliver one of the most advanced indigenous airborne surveillance platforms in the world, tailored to India’s strategic requirements and operational environment.

ANI

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D-Propulse Achieves TRL-5 With Indigenous Rotating Detonation Engine Featuring Aerospike Nozzle

D-Propulse, an IIT-Madras-incubated start-up, has achieved a breakthrough by successfully demonstrating its Rotating Detonation Engine (RDE) with an aerospike nozzle at TRL-5, producing 5 kN thrust even under reduced air mass flow conditions. This marks a major step in India’s indigenous propulsion ecosystem, tested at a DRDO facility.

TRL-5 (Technology Readiness Level 5) means the Rotating Detonation Engine (RDE) has graduated from basic lab tests and is now validated as a prototype in a relevant operational environment, demonstrating that its combustion, wave stability, and thrust can handle realistic physical stresses.

D-Propulse’s achievement represents a significant leap in propulsion technology. The Rotating Detonation Engine replaces conventional deflagration combustion with continuously rotating detonation waves.

Unlike traditional jet engines that rely on subsonic flame propagation, the RDE sustains supersonic detonation waves travelling around an annular combustion chamber. This pressure-gain combustion process offers higher thermodynamic efficiency, enabling greater thrust with reduced fuel consumption.

The integration of an aerospike nozzle further enhances the system’s performance. Conventional bell nozzles are optimised for specific altitude ranges, but aerospike nozzles maintain efficiency across varying atmospheric pressures.

This makes them particularly suitable for applications ranging from sea level to high altitudes, a feature critical for future aerospace platforms. Although aerospike designs are complex and have historically faced engineering challenges, their successful integration here demonstrates India’s growing capability in advanced propulsion engineering.

The engine generated 5 kN thrust despite operating with reduced air mass flow. This indicates that further optimisation could unlock even higher thrust levels in subsequent test campaigns. Achieving Technology Readiness Level-5 signifies that the technology has moved beyond laboratory research into validation in relevant operational environments. This milestone confirms that critical subsystems have been integrated and tested under realistic conditions, paving the way for higher TRL demonstrations.

Globally, Rotating Detonation Engines are considered one of the most promising propulsion technologies for next-generation aerospace applications. Their efficiency advantages make them attractive for missiles, unmanned aerial vehicles, high-speed aircraft, and reusable launch systems.

For India, this achievement strengthens indigenous propulsion development and reduces reliance on foreign technologies in critical defence and aerospace programs.

The successful test at a DRDO facility highlights institutional support for start-ups working on cutting-edge propulsion systems. It also reflects India’s broader strategy of fostering innovation through collaboration between academia, start-ups, and defence research establishments.

Such partnerships are crucial for accelerating the development of disruptive technologies that can transform national defence capabilities.

D-Propulse’s breakthrough aligns with India’s long-term vision of achieving self-reliance in advanced aerospace propulsion. With further optimisation and scaling, the RDE with aerospike nozzle could become a cornerstone technology for future hypersonic platforms, advanced UAVs, and next-generation missile systems. The demonstration underscores India’s growing presence in the global propulsion research landscape and signals readiness to compete with established aerospace powers.

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MKU To Supply Netro NW-3000 Night-Vision Sights To Indian Army

MKU Limited, headquartered in Kanpur, is preparing to deliver the first batch of its Netro NW-3000 night-vision weapon sights to the Indian Army by the end of 2026, Janes reported. 

This marks a significant step in strengthening the Army’s night-fighting capability with indigenously developed technology.

A company spokesperson confirmed on 20 July that approximately 4,000 NW-3000 units will be delivered in the initial phase. These deliveries form part of a larger ₹660 Crores contract signed in October 2025 for a total of 29,762 sights.

The contract underscores the Army’s commitment to equipping frontline soldiers with advanced optics for enhanced operational effectiveness.

The NW-3000 underwent nearly 12 months of rigorous trials under the Ministry of Defence. Testing was conducted in diverse environments including high-altitude terrain, extreme heat, and sub-zero conditions. The sight’s performance in these demanding trials was a key factor in its selection.

Developed under India’s Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured procurement category, the NW-3000 supports the Make in India initiative. This category prioritises locally built defence equipment, ensuring that the program strengthens domestic industry while meeting operational requirements.

The NW-3000 is compatible with assault rifles and integrates advanced night-vision sensor technology. It provides a wider field of view and includes a built-in infrared illuminator. The sight is designed to fit weapons equipped with MIL-STD-1913-compliant picatinny rails, ensuring modularity and ease of integration.

Performance specifications highlight its capability to detect personnel at 500 metres, recognise them at 300 metres, and identify them at 100 metres. Against platforms, the sight can detect at 600 metres, recognise at 400 metres, and identify at 150 metres. These ranges provide soldiers with a decisive advantage in low-light and night-time operations.

MKU has positioned the NW-3000 as a critical enabler for special task forces and infantry units engaged in night-time target engagement. The delivery of these sights will significantly enhance the Army’s ability to conduct precision operations in challenging environments.

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HAL And Safran Sign Long‑Term Contract For Leap Engine Turbine Forgings

HAL has signed a multi‑year contract with Safran Aircraft Engines to produce superalloy turbine ring forgings for the CFM LEAP engine program, marking a major boost to India’s role in the global civil aerospace supply chain.

The deal was formalised at the Farnborough International Air Show 2026, underscoring HAL’s growing credibility in advanced aero‑engine manufacturing.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited announced that it has entered into a long‑term agreement with Safran Aircraft Engines for the production and supply of turbine ring forgings in superalloys for the LEAP engine program.

The contract was signed at the Farnborough International Air Show in the United Kingdom, a premier global aerospace event that HAL attended as the nodal agency for the India Pavilion.

Under the agreement, HAL will manufacture near‑net shape ring forgings at its state‑of‑the‑art Ring Rolling facility located within the Foundry and Forge Division in Bengaluru. These components are designed for elevated‑temperature applications in the rotating section of the LEAP aero‑engine. Their role is critical to ensuring engine performance, operational reliability, and durability under extreme conditions.

The contract was signed by Praveen B, General Manager of HAL’s Foundry and Forge Division, and Dominique Dupuy, Senior Vice President of Purchasing at Safran Aircraft Engines. The ceremony was witnessed by Ravi K, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, and Jayakrishnan S, CEO of HAL’s Bangalore Complex. The signing at Farnborough highlighted the international recognition of HAL’s manufacturing capabilities.

Speaking on the occasion, Ravi K emphasised that HAL and Safran share a longstanding and trusted partnership that has evolved over several decades. He noted that the signing of this long‑term contract reflects the growing confidence of global aerospace original equipment manufacturers in HAL’s technological expertise and manufacturing excellence.

He added that by contributing to the LEAP engine program, HAL is expanding its footprint in the international civil aerospace market and demonstrating its ability to manufacture complex aero‑engine components to global standards.

Ravi further stated that the partnership represents not only a significant business opportunity but also an important step towards developing advanced manufacturing technologies and capabilities that will support future aero‑engine programs in India.

This aligns with HAL’s broader strategy of strengthening India’s aerospace ecosystem and enhancing its role in the global supply chain.

Dominique Dupuy expressed Safran’s enthusiasm for continuing the partnership with HAL. He explained that the cooperation is fully aligned with Safran’s strategy to develop a supply chain that is locally integrated, as the company ramps up LEAP engine production to meet growing demand worldwide. The collaboration is expected to strengthen resilience and diversity in Safran’s global supply chain while supporting the rapid expansion of LEAP engine deliveries.

The LEAP engine, developed by CFM International, a joint venture between Safran Aircraft Engines and GE Aerospace, powers some of the world’s most advanced single‑aisle commercial aircraft. It is widely recognised for its fuel efficiency, performance, and durability. HAL’s contribution through the supply of turbine ring forgings will play a crucial role in sustaining the engine’s high standards.

This multi‑year contract marks a significant milestone in the partnership between HAL and Safran Aircraft Engines. It reinforces India’s growing importance in advanced aerospace manufacturing and highlights HAL’s ability to deliver high‑precision components that meet stringent international standards.

The agreement also demonstrates India’s expanding role in the global civil aviation sector, with HAL positioned as a trusted supplier to one of the most critical engine programs in modern aviation.

PTI

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Paras Defence Arm To Establish ₹6,200 Crore Semiconductor Packaging Facility In Madhya Pradesh

Paras Defence’s semiconductor arm, Paras Semiconductors Private Limited, has signed an MoU with the Madhya Pradesh government to establish a ₹6,200 crore advanced semiconductor packaging facility on the Ujjain–Indore Corridor, marking a major expansion of India’s chip ecosystem.

The project will focus on cutting-edge OSAT technologies and is expected to generate significant employment while strengthening India’s strategic semiconductor capabilities.

Paras Defence and Space Technologies announced that its subsidiary will set up a greenfield Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test facility in Madhya Pradesh. The agreement was signed with the Department of Science and Technology through the MP State Electronics Development Corporation. 

The state has allotted fifty acres of land on the Ujjain–Indore Corridor for the project, which is strategically located to support advanced manufacturing and next-generation technologies.

The proposed facility will undertake advanced packaging operations including 3D heterogeneous integration, 2.5D and 3D advanced packaging, hybrid bonding, ultra-high-density fan-out packaging, chip-let integration, wafer bumping, flip-chip assembly, testing and reliability services.

These capabilities are intended to strengthen India’s semiconductor packaging ecosystem and reduce reliance on imports.

Paras Semiconductors has been established to build advanced semiconductor capabilities for strategic and high-performance sensor applications. Leveraging its parent company’s expertise in optics and optronics, the facility will produce semiconductor devices for sensor technologies, optical and optronic systems, and other strategic applications.

The company has also indicated potential expansion into AI chips and other advanced semiconductor technologies as market opportunities evolve.

The announcement initially saw Paras Defence shares fall 0.7% to an intraday low of ₹1,214, but later reports confirmed that the stock surged by 11% following the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Korea’s Green Optics, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s semiconductor ambitions.

The project aligns with Madhya Pradesh’s Semiconductor Policy 2025 and broader vision of developing an integrated ecosystem for semiconductors, electronics manufacturing, artificial intelligence, and data centres.

The Ujjain–Indore Corridor is emerging as a key technology and manufacturing hub, supported by progressive policy initiatives, infrastructure, industry-academia collaboration, research, and skill development programs. The facility is expected to catalyse ancillary industries, encourage MSME growth, and create opportunities for highly skilled talent.

Earlier this week, Spain-based Submer Group announced plans to invest $2 billion (around ₹19,000 crore) in Madhya Pradesh’s semiconductor ecosystem, expected to create nearly 5,000 direct jobs. Submer intends to establish a manufacturing facility in India for advanced liquid cooling systems for data centres, positioning the country as a production and export hub for Asia.

The state also exchanged an MoU with Google Play India and MPSeDC at the MP Tech Growth Conclave 3.0, reinforcing its ambitions in AI and digital infrastructure.

Munjal Sharad Shah, Managing Director of Paras Defence & Space Technologies, described the MoU as a significant milestone in building indigenous semiconductor capabilities.

He emphasised the confidence and support extended by the Madhya Pradesh government and highlighted the state’s progressive vision and industry-friendly policies. Santosh Kumar, CEO of Paras Semiconductors, noted that the next phase of India’s semiconductor journey will be defined not just by manufacturing capacity but by the strength of ecosystems built around it.

The Paras Defence project is expected to contribute significantly to Madhya Pradesh’s industrial landscape, foster innovation-led manufacturing, and reinforce India’s long-term semiconductor ambitions. It will also strengthen India’s position in the global semiconductor supply chain by creating advanced packaging capabilities and supporting strategic applications.

Agencies

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India’s Jet Engine Dream: How Policy And Infrastructure Killed Kaveri

The Kaveri jet engine was not killed by technology alone but by a mix of policy decisions, lack of infrastructure, and institutional impatience. Vice Admiral Raman Puri reveals that the absence of domestic testing facilities, withdrawal of funding, and reliance on foreign suppliers ultimately derailed India’s indigenous jet engine ambitions.

This was highlighted in "The Sandeep Unnithan Show" episode titled "Who Killed The Kaveri Jet Engine", featuring Vice Admiral Raman Puri. In this discussion, the program explores the rise and fall of India’s indigenous jet engine project, the Kaveri, which was originally intended to power the TEJAS jet.

The conversation highlights whether the engine’s failure was purely technological or whether policy decisions, infrastructure gaps, and institutional choices played a decisive role.

Vice Admiral Puri provides insider insights into why India still depends on foreign propulsion systems and outlines the roadmap for building a sustainable indigenous fighter jet engine ecosystem.

The Kaveri jet engine was conceived in the 1980s to power India’s TEJAS. It symbolised India’s aerospace aspirations but soon became one of its most visible setbacks. Despite decades of research, the engine consistently fell short of thrust requirements and reliability benchmarks. Yet, according to Vice Admiral Raman Puri, the real failure lay not in engineering but in systemic gaps.

India lacked a high-altitude test facility and a dedicated flying testbed aircraft. Every trial had to be conducted in Russia, requiring months of logistics, customs clearance, and waiting for test slots. This slowed development drastically.

Even minor modifications meant shipping the engine back and forth, wasting years in the process. Promised offsets, such as Boeing’s commitment to help establish a test facility in India, never materialised, leaving the program dependent on foreign infrastructure.

By the mid-2000s, the Kaveri engine had shown promise in dry thrust performance, but its afterburner remained below target. GTRE scientists believed the issues could be resolved with continued refinement.

However, institutional impatience led to a shift in focus. A committee decided to adopt the GE F404 engine as the sole powerplant for TEJAS, effectively side-lining Kaveri. Funding was withdrawn, and India lost decades of potential progress in aero-engine technology.

Vice Admiral Puri emphasises that this was India’s biggest mistake. Instead of pursuing parallel development—continuing Kaveri while evaluating foreign options—the indigenous program was abandoned.

This left India dependent on imported propulsion systems, creating long-term vulnerabilities. Recent delays in F404 deliveries to HAL highlight the risks of relying on overseas suppliers for critical defence technology.

The episode underscores the importance of ecosystem support. Fighter jet engines are among the most complex technologies in aerospace, requiring advanced metallurgy, turbine blade expertise, and digital engine controls. Without domestic facilities and sustained funding, even promising projects falter. The Kaveri case illustrates how infrastructure gaps and policy choices can be as decisive as technical challenges.

Today, the revival of Kaveri 2.0 reflects lessons learned from this failure. The new program incorporates modern materials, FADEC systems, and international collaboration. It is being positioned not as a TEJAS replacement but as a long-term solution for future combat aircraft such as the AMCA and advanced drones. If successful, it could finally deliver the indigenous engine ecosystem India has long sought.

The story of the Kaveri engine is thus not just about missed thrust targets but about missed opportunities. It highlights how strategic impatience and lack of infrastructure can derail national ambitions, and why sustained investment in indigenous technology is essential for true defence self-reliance.

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IAF Advances With Over 60 Indigenous Defence Programs In Partnership With DRDO And Private Sector

The Indian Air Force is currently engaged in more than 60 indigenous defence programs in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian private sector, marking a decisive shift towards self-reliance in aerospace and combat systems.

Recent milestones include the operational clearance of the Netra AEW&C system and the launch of the AEW&C-MK-2 program with Adani Defence, placing India among a select group of nations with advanced airborne surveillance capabilities.

The IAF’s indigenous drive spans a wide spectrum of projects, ranging from combat aircraft and airborne surveillance platforms to radars, avionics, and advanced weapon systems. This effort is closely aligned with the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, ensuring that India reduces dependence on foreign suppliers while strengthening its domestic industrial base.

One of the most significant achievements has been the Final Operational Clearance of the Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system, developed jointly by DRDO and the IAF. Netra has already proven its operational utility during missions such as the Balakot strikes, offering enhanced airborne surveillance, situational awareness, and battle management capabilities. The system represents a landmark in India’s journey towards advanced aerospace self-reliance.

Building on this foundation, DRDO and Adani Defence have signed a landmark agreement to develop AEW&C-MK-2, India’s next-generation airborne surveillance platform.

Six modified Airbus A321 aircraft will be equipped with advanced mission systems, with induction planned for 2032–33. This program makes Adani Defence the first private Indian company entrusted with such a complex airborne mission platform, underscoring the growing role of private industry in defence innovation.

AEW&C-MK-2 will be integrated with the Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS), India’s nationwide command-and-control network. This will enable seamless battlespace coordination, faster decision-making, and enhanced operational responsiveness. With only five countries—the United States, France, Israel, China, and Sweden—having developed indigenous AEW&C capabilities, India’s entry into this elite group is strategically significant.

Beyond airborne surveillance, the IAF is pursuing indigenous programs in fighter aircraft development, unmanned aerial systems, advanced radars, electronic warfare suites, and precision-guided munitions. The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project remains a flagship initiative, aiming to deliver a fifth-generation stealth fighter designed and built in India. Parallel efforts include the integration of indigenous weapons onto imported platforms such as the Rafale, ensuring interoperability with India’s defence ecosystem.

The synergy between DRDO, the IAF, and private industry has been repeatedly emphasised by senior officials. They highlight that indigenous technologies offer flexibility to adapt systems to evolving war scenarios, while also embedding India’s aerospace industry into global supply chains. Lifecycle support, maintenance, and upgrades are being structured to ensure sustainability and long-term operational readiness.

Recognition has also been extended to organisations and individuals who contributed to these successes, reflecting the collaborative nature of India’s defence innovation. The emphasis on system engineering, rigorous flight testing, and industrial participation has been central to achieving operationally capable platforms.

India’s pursuit of over 60 indigenous programs demonstrates a pragmatic balance between self-reliance and global collaboration. While international partnerships remain important for technology transfer and industrial cooperation, the domestic push ensures that India retains strategic autonomy in critical defence capabilities.

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India Targets Five Small Modular Reactors By 2033 To Boost Nuclear Capacity

India has accelerated its nuclear ambitions, confirming plans to commission at least five indigenous small modular reactors (SMRs) by 2033, with Tarapur in Maharashtra designated as the first site, according to a report by Reuters.

The initiative is backed by a ₹20,000 crore allocation under the Nuclear Energy Mission and aims to expand nuclear capacity to 100 GW by 2047, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

India has formally advanced its program for small modular reactors, targeting the commissioning of five units by 2033. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre is leading the development of three designs: the 220 MW Bharat Small Modular Reactor, a 55 MW reactor, and a high‑temperature gas‑cooled reactor intended for hydrogen production.

These projects have received in‑principle approval from the Atomic Energy Commission, with Tarapur in Maharashtra selected as the site for both the 220 MW and 55 MW reactors.

The government has set ambitious nuclear expansion goals, aiming to raise installed capacity from the current 8.8 GW to 22 GW by 2031‑32. By 2047, the target is 100 GW, with small modular reactors expected to play a crucial role in this trajectory.

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited, the country’s sole nuclear operator, plans to contribute 50 GW, while NTPC, India’s largest coal‑based power producer, is preparing to add 30 GW of nuclear capacity. Private conglomerates such as Adani Group, Tata Power, and Reliance Industries have also expressed interest in investing in the sector, signalling a significant shift towards public‑private collaboration.

Globally, small modular reactors are being pursued by countries including the United States, Russia, and South Korea. They are seen as a viable option for clean energy supply to industries, particularly where decentralised and captive power generation is required. India’s approach benefits from indigenous design capabilities and domestic manufacturing capacity.

Advanced materials such as the “Advanced Purified Reactor Vessel Alloy” have already been developed locally, and critical components like control rod drive mechanisms have been engineered in‑house. This ensures that the majority of equipment can be produced by Indian industries with technical support from BARC.

The financial outlay for these projects is substantial. The BSMR‑200 is estimated at ₹5,960 crore, while two SMR‑55 units are budgeted at ₹7,000 crore. The high‑temperature gas‑cooled reactor, designed for hydrogen generation, carries a cost of ₹320 crore.

Additional allocations cover civil infrastructure and new reactor design work. These investments reflect the government’s commitment to diversifying the energy mix and positioning nuclear power as a cornerstone of India’s clean energy transition.

The roadmap also envisages 32 GW of additional nuclear capacity beyond 2032, primarily through indigenous Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors and Light Water Reactors. By 2047, NPCIL is expected to deliver 54 GW, with the remaining 46 GW contributed by other public sector enterprises, state governments, private firms, and joint ventures. This diversified model underscores the importance of SMRs as both demonstration projects and scalable solutions for industrial and grid‑level deployment.

India’s nuclear expansion is not only about electricity generation but also about strategic energy security.

The inclusion of hydrogen‑producing reactors highlights the alignment with broader decarbonisation goals, particularly in sectors such as steel and chemicals. The modular approach is expected to shorten construction timelines, reduce costs, and enable replication across multiple sites, thereby accelerating deployment.

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EAM Jaishankar Reaffirms Border Peace As Prerequisite While Pushing Trade Balance In Talks With Wang Yi

External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar’s meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Manila reaffirmed India’s firm stance that peace and tranquillity along the border remain the absolute prerequisite for normal ties, while also highlighting progress in normalisation and unresolved structural issues in trade and supply chains.

India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on the sidelines of ASEAN and East Asia Summit events in Manila.

The meeting reviewed the gradual normalisation of India-China relations since the October 2024 Kazan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping.

Jaishankar reiterated that peace and tranquillity in the border areas is the absolute prerequisite for normal ties. He stressed that despite progress in disengagement and de-escalation since 2024, the issue continues to require constant attention and robust support for mechanisms that safeguard stability along the Line of Actual Control.

The minister highlighted several concrete steps taken toward normalisation in recent months. These included the resumption of direct flights between India and China, the restarting of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, the recommencement of bilateral border trade, and the updating of the visa regime. These measures were described as important signals of progress in restoring institutional exchanges and people-to-people connectivity.

Despite these positive developments, Jaishankar outlined the structural issues that India expects to be addressed. He emphasised the need for fair market access for Indian goods, correction of the ongoing trade imbalance, and predictability in supply chains.

India’s trade deficit with China remains above $100 billion, with imports from China reaching over $132 billion in 2025–26, making Beijing India’s largest trading partner. New Delhi continues to press for greater access for Indian exports and reliable supply of critical inputs for manufacturing.

Jaishankar also underscored that bilateral ties must be anchored in the “three mutuals” — mutual respect, mutual interest and mutual sensitivity. He noted that such a framework would contribute to a multipolar Asia and a multipolar world, aligning with India’s broader strategic vision.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Communist Party of China’s Politburo, responded by calling for consolidation of the positive momentum in bilateral ties. He said China is ready to work with India to implement common understandings reached by the leaders of both nations. 

Wang urged closer high-level exchanges, stronger cooperation in economy and trade, media, and cultural exchanges, while properly handling sensitive issues. He also expressed support for India’s presidency of the upcoming BRICS summit, signalling Beijing’s willingness to coordinate on multilateral platforms.

Both sides acknowledged that differences should not become disputes and that diplomacy must manage them responsibly. The meeting was seen as part of a continuing effort to stabilise relations after years of strain following the 2020 border clash in Ladakh, which had severely disrupted ties.

The Manila dialogue thus reaffirmed India’s dual approach: welcoming steps toward normalisation while firmly insisting that unresolved structural issues in trade and border stability must be addressed before relations can be considered fully normal.

Agencies

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Indian Envoy Kwatra Meets Senator Sheehy To Strengthen Defence And Trade Ties

Indian envoy to the United States Vinay Mohan Kwatra met U.S. Senator Tim Sheehy in Washington on Wednesday, 22 July 2026.

The meeting focused on the defence partnership between India and the United States, underscoring the growing importance of bilateral security cooperation.

Senator Sheehy, a former Navy SEAL and combat veteran, brought a unique operational perspective to the discussion. His background in military service was highlighted by Kwatra as invaluable in addressing shared national security challenges. Kwatra expressed appreciation for Sheehy’s steadfast support for the India–U.S. partnership, noting that their dialogue centred on strengthening defence ties between the two nations.

In a post on X, Kwatra described the meeting as a productive engagement. He emphasised that the conversation with Sheehy reinforced the strategic alignment between New Delhi and Washington, particularly in the defence domain. The envoy’s remarks reflected confidence in the trajectory of the partnership, which continues to expand across military, industrial, and technological spheres.

Earlier the same day, Kwatra also held discussions with senior officials from the U.S. Department of Commerce. He welcomed Under Secretary Jeffery Kessler and Under Secretary William Kimmitt to India House. These meetings focused on deepening trade and commercial ties between the two countries, with particular emphasis on building resilient and secure supply chain partnerships.

Kwatra noted that the discussions with Kessler and Kimmitt were geared towards strengthening cooperation in high‑technology domains. Both sides explored ways to enhance industrial collaboration, ensuring that supply chains remain robust and secure amid global challenges. The emphasis on resilience reflects the broader strategic effort to align economic and technological cooperation with defence and security priorities.

The engagements on 22 July illustrate the multi‑dimensional nature of India’s partnership with the United States. Defence cooperation remains a cornerstone, but trade and technology are increasingly shaping the bilateral agenda. Kwatra’s meetings with Senator Sheehy and the Commerce Under Secretaries together highlight India’s determination to consolidate ties across strategic, industrial, and innovation domains.

These dialogues also come against the backdrop of evolving geopolitical challenges in the Indo‑Pacific region. Both nations have sought to strengthen military coordination, expand defence‑industrial collaboration, and build secure supply chains. The meetings reaffirmed the shared commitment to advancing a comprehensive partnership that integrates defence, trade, and technology.

Kwatra’s remarks following the engagements conveyed confidence in the trajectory of the India–U.S. relationship. He reiterated India’s commitment to advancing cooperation across all domains, ensuring that the partnership continues to evolve as a global strategic alliance.

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EAM Jaishankar Strengthens Strategic Partnerships With Oman, UK, Netherlands And Philippines On ASEAN Sidelines

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held a series of bilateral meetings in Manila on Thursday on the sidelines of the ASEAN-related Foreign Ministers’ Meetings.

His engagements included discussions with representatives from Oman, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the Philippines and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.

He met Oman's Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi, where both leaders exchanged views on recent developments in the Gulf region. Jaishankar expressed appreciation for the meeting and confirmed that they agreed to remain in touch.

In his first meeting with the newly appointed UK Foreign Secretary Edward Miliband, Jaishankar congratulated him on his appointment. The two leaders discussed advancing India-UK ties following the implementation of the recently concluded Free Trade Agreement. They agreed to build on the positive momentum generated by the FTA and strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Jaishankar also met Christian Saunders, Commissioner-General ad interim and Acting Commissioner-General of UNRWA. Their discussions focused on India’s humanitarian support, including contributions and commitments made at the recent Donors Conference in health and capacity building.

During his meeting with Dutch Foreign Minister Tom Berendsen, Jaishankar reviewed the outcomes of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the Netherlands in May. They discussed implementing the newly elevated Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Jaishankar highlighted that the elevation of ties has opened new avenues of cooperation in semiconductors, water resources, green hydrogen, health and culture.

The External Affairs Minister also called on Philippine President Bongbong Marcos Jr. He conveyed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s greetings and reaffirmed India’s support for the Philippines’ ASEAN chairship. He emphasised that India-Philippines cooperation under the Strategic Partnership continues to diversify through the implementation of the India-Philippines Plan of Action 2025-2029.

Jaishankar’s two-day visit to Manila included participation in several foreign minister-level meetings. These comprised the ASEAN-India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and the ASEAN Regional Forum meetings. He also attended the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, where India, the United States, Japan and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and expressed support for ASEAN centrality.

His engagements in Manila underscored India’s active diplomatic outreach, strengthening bilateral partnerships, supporting humanitarian initiatives and reinforcing multilateral cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

ANI

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TakeMe2Space Builds India’s First Orbital AI Lab And Data Centre

Hyderabad-based start-up TakeMe2Space is positioning itself at the forefront of India’s private space sector by developing the country’s first “thinking” satellites and orbital data centres.

The company’s flagship initiative, OrbitLab, is designed as an orbital AI laboratory that allows schools, researchers, and businesses to rent on-orbit compute power.

This capability enables direct processing of satellite data in space, significantly reducing bandwidth costs and turnaround time for critical applications.

The company has already achieved a major milestone with the successful demonstration of its orbital technology and the launch of the MOI-1A node. This mission validated the feasibility of running AI-driven experiments in orbit, marking a crucial step towards establishing scalable orbital computing infrastructure.

The demonstration also underscored the resilience of the start-up, which had earlier faced setbacks with the loss of its maiden satellite MOI-1 during ISRO’s PSLV-C62 mission.

TakeMe2Space has raised $5 million to build orbital compute platforms capable of executing real-time AI inference. The company now aims to raise an additional $55 million to establish a 50-kilowatt orbital data centre.

Such a facility would represent a significant leap in India’s space technology capabilities, providing advanced computational resources for defence, scientific research, and commercial services directly in orbit.

The start-up has also introduced Orbit Vault, a service that allows organisations to securely store mission-critical data on satellites in low Earth orbit. This innovation addresses growing concerns about cybersecurity and data sovereignty by offering a secure, space-based storage solution that is resilient to terrestrial disruptions.

Another key initiative is StarTracker, where TakeMe2Space is backed by IN-SPACe to develop “StarSense,” India’s first AI-powered star tracker. This technology is expected to enhance satellite navigation and orientation capabilities, providing greater precision and autonomy for future missions. It represents a significant contribution to India’s indigenous satellite technology ecosystem.

The company’s AI-driven space lab also enables remote access, allowing users from anywhere in the world to operate and execute space experiments. This democratises access to orbital infrastructure, opening opportunities for educational institutions, start-ups, and research organisations that previously lacked the means to participate in advanced space programs.

TakeMe2Space’s initiatives reflect a broader trend in India’s private space sector, where start-ups are increasingly focusing on high-value technologies such as AI, orbital computing, and secure data services. By combining innovation with practical applications, the company is positioning itself as a pioneer in orbital AI infrastructure, with the potential to transform how data is processed, stored, and utilised in space.

Agencies

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India Reaffirms Zero Tolerance On Terrorism At ASEAN Regional Forum, Highlights Maritime Security And AI Cooperation

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reiterated NewIndia’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaffirmed New Delhi’s uncompromising stance against terrorism during the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum Ministerial Meeting in Manila.

He declared that there must be zero tolerance for terrorism and warned that acts of terror will have consequences. His remarks underscored India’s determination to choke financial resources that sustain terrorist organisations and highlighted ongoing initiatives under the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus framework, where India co‑chairs the Experts’ Working Group with Malaysia to prepare a compendium of best practices.

Jaishankar emphasised that the ARF remains a vital platform for addressing political and security challenges in the Indo‑Pacific, particularly in the current complex global environment. He welcomed the Manila Plan of Action, noting that its five pillars align closely with India’s own Indo‑Pacific approach.

He stressed that India’s contributions to disaster management and humanitarian assistance are extensive, involving the sharing of best practices, developing common Standard Operating Procedures, and conducting real‑time and table‑top exercises.

He pointed to India’s initiatives such as the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, alongside deployments of field hospitals, search and rescue teams, and relief materials. India has also undertaken rehabilitation efforts following disasters across multiple regions, including cyclones in Sri Lanka, the Philippines and Jamaica, as well as earthquakes in Myanmar, Venezuela and Afghanistan. These efforts, he said, demonstrate India’s commitment to collaborative disaster response.

On maritime security, Jaishankar highlighted India’s role through the Information Fusion Centre, the Indo‑Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness initiative, and the deployment of Indian forces from the North Arabian Sea to the Western Pacific.

These measures contribute to countering piracy, trafficking and narcotics trade, while securing maritime commerce. He stressed that attacks on commercial shipping and civilian infrastructure are unacceptable, and that international waterways must remain safe and uninterrupted.

He also underlined the importance of vigilance against actors undermining non‑proliferation and disarmament efforts. On the South China Sea, he reiterated India’s support for a substantive, effective and legally binding Code of Conduct that complies fully with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 and safeguards the legitimate rights of all users.

Turning to emerging challenges, Jaishankar advocated a responsible and human‑centric approach to artificial intelligence. He called for deeper cooperation on cybercrime, stressing that technological advances must be harnessed responsibly to avoid risks to peace and security. His remarks reflected India’s broader vision of balancing innovation with accountability in the digital domain.

Jaishankar’s visit to Manila included participation in several high‑level meetings, such as the ASEAN‑India Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting. In the Quad discussions, India, the United States, Japan and Australia reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo‑Pacific and reiterated support for ASEAN centrality.

India’s message at the ARF was clear: terrorism will not be tolerated, maritime commerce must remain secure, disaster resilience requires collective effort, and emerging technologies must be governed responsibly. The stance reflects New Delhi’s ambition to play a proactive role in shaping regional and global security frameworks.

ANI

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US And Saudi Arabia Seal Historic Civil Nuclear Deal

The United States and Saudi Arabia have concluded a landmark civil nuclear power agreement that permits the kingdom to construct reactors using American technology and enrich uranium.

The deal, announced by the U.S. Energy Department, represents the culmination of years of negotiations spanning both President Donald Trump’s first administration and that of former President Joe Biden. Previous attempts had faltered due to concerns raised by nonproliferation groups, who warned that such an arrangement could provide Saudi Arabia with a pathway to developing nuclear weapons.

Unlike the earlier Biden proposal, the current pact does not include the Additional Protocol that would have allowed the International Atomic Energy Agency to conduct intrusive snap inspections.

The agreement enables Saudi Arabia to enrich uranium and reprocess nuclear waste, both of which are considered potential routes to nuclear weapons development. By contrast, the United Arab Emirates agreed to forgo these capabilities when it signed a similar deal with Washington in 2009.

The agreement was signed by U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman. It is structured as a 123 Agreement, accompanied by a bilateral safeguards arrangement.

The U.S. administration emphasised that the deal complies with the non-proliferation provisions of the Atomic Energy Act, which are regarded as among the world’s strongest. Saudi Arabia has long argued that if it could not partner with the United States, it might turn to China or Russia, whose proliferation standards differ significantly.

The deal now moves to Congress for review. Lawmakers have 90 session days to object, and any attempt to override a presidential veto would require a two‑thirds majority. Critics, including Kelsey Davenport of the Arms Control Association, urged Congress to reject or amend the agreement, warning that it risks widening the door to nuclear proliferation in the Middle East.

The pact, which spans approximately 30 years, involves the construction of AP1000 reactors worth tens of billions of dollars, a project that would benefit Westinghouse, jointly owned by Cameco of Canada and Brookfield Asset Management.

Industry sources noted that the agreement requires a feasibility study on deploying U.S. technology in Saudi Arabia. Given the slow pace of nuclear plant construction and uranium enrichment, it could take many years before the necessary infrastructure is established.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has repeatedly stated that Saudi Arabia does not seek nuclear weapons, but he has also warned that the kingdom would pursue them if Iran did, fuelling fears of a regional arms race. Democratic lawmakers have voiced concern that the deal could exacerbate tensions as the U.S.‑Israeli conflict with Iran continues.

Senator Edward Markey criticised the agreement, arguing that it empowers Saudi Arabia, which he described as authoritarian and belligerent, to develop nuclear weapons technologies while simultaneously engaging in conflict with Iran. He warned that the deal would make the world less safe. 

Conversely, Senator Jim Risch, a Republican, expressed support, aligning with the Crown Prince’s view that the agreement benefits both nations.

The deal’s implications are profound, not only for U.S.‑Saudi relations but also for the broader Middle East. While it promises economic and technological cooperation, it raises serious questions about proliferation risks and regional stability.

The balance between energy development and security concerns will be closely scrutinised as Congress deliberates on the agreement.

Agencies

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