UPDATE: India Establishing 4 Specialised, Tri-Service Military Agencies—DGA, Data Force, Drone Force, And Cognitive Warfare Action Force

India is spearheading a transformative overhaul of its military structure through the establishment of four specialised tri-service agencies: the Defence Geo-Spatial Agency (DGA), Data Force, Drone Force, and Cognitive Warfare Action Force.

These units form a cornerstone of the Armed Forces Vision 2047, a comprehensive blueprint designed to propel the Indian military into a technologically dominant force by 2030.

Drawing on integrated capabilities from the Army, Navy, and Air Force, they address emerging domains of modern warfare, from geospatial intelligence to cognitive operations.

The Defence Geo-Spatial Agency (DGA) stands as the nerve centre for geospatial intelligence. It seamlessly integrates satellite imagery, advanced mapping technologies, and real-time geospatial data to bolster battlefield intelligence, navigation, and strategic planning.

In an era where precision targeting and terrain awareness can determine victory, the DGA will fuse inputs from indigenous satellites like those from ISRO with ground-based sensors, enabling commanders to visualise threats and opportunities in three dimensions.

This agency builds on existing foundations such as the Defence Intelligence Processing and Analysis Centre (DIPAC) but elevates them to tri-service integration. By 2030, the DGA aims to deliver predictive geospatial analytics, supporting operations ranging from border skirmishes along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) to maritime domain awareness in the Indian Ocean Region.

Its role in navigation will enhance precision-guided munitions and autonomous systems, reducing collateral damage and amplifying operational tempo.

Complementing the DGA, the Data Force emerges as a pivotal hub for military data stewardship. This unit centralises vast streams of data from sensors, platforms, and human intelligence, employing artificial intelligence (AI) for analytics, cyber-intelligence, and decision-support systems. In a data-saturated battlefield, it promises to convert raw information into actionable insights, mitigating information overload for decision-makers.

The Data Force will leverage machine learning algorithms to detect patterns in enemy movements, forecast logistics needs, and counter cyber threats proactively. Integrated with quantum-resistant encryption and edge computing, it aligns with India's push for Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence technologies.

By 2030, this force could enable real-time battle management systems akin to those used by advanced militaries, ensuring the Indian Armed Forces maintain superiority in the information domain.

The Drone Force represents a bold leap into unmanned aerial dominance. Dedicated to Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs), intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) drones, loitering munitions, and swarm warfare, it consolidates fragmented drone programmes under a unified tri-service command. This addresses the proliferation of drone threats witnessed in recent conflicts, such as those along India's northern borders.

Drawing from indigenous platforms like the DRDO's Rustom and Tapas UAVs, as well as loitering munitions like the Nagastra-1, the Drone Force will pioneer swarm tactics—deploying hundreds of low-cost drones to overwhelm adversaries. Swarm warfare, inspired by global trends but tailored to Indian terrain, could neutralise air defences or saturate enemy positions without risking pilots. Operational by 2030, it will integrate with the DGA for targeting and Data Force for command-and-control, forming a synergistic kill chain.

Finally, the Cognitive Warfare Action Force targets the human dimension of conflict. Specialising in information warfare, psychological operations (PSYOPS), influence campaigns, and counter-disinformation, it counters hybrid threats from state and non-state actors. In an age of social media amplification and deepfakes, this unit will craft narratives, disrupt enemy morale, and safeguard India's information ecosystem.

Employing AI-driven tools for sentiment analysis and meme warfare, the force will conduct operations across digital, cyber, and kinetic domains. It echoes NATO's cognitive warfare concepts but adapts them to South Asian geopolitics, countering narratives from adversarial neighbours. By 2030, it aims to integrate with the other agencies, enabling holistic operations where data feeds influence campaigns and drones amplify PSYOPS.

These agencies are embedded within the ambitious Armed Forces Vision 2047, a phased roadmap approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security. The initial phase targets full operational capability by 2030, coinciding with milestones like the induction of indigenous aircraft carriers and next-generation missiles. This aligns with broader reforms, including the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) structure and theatre commands, fostering jointness across services.

Financially, the initiative leverages the increased defence budget, which crossed INR 6 lakh crore in recent years, with allocations for AI, drones, and space rising sharply. Indigenous manufacturing under Make in India will drive procurement, involving firms like HAL, BEL, and private players such as Tata Advanced Systems—your likely professional ecosystem.

Geopolitically, these units respond to escalating threats from China and Pakistan. The DGA counters PLA's satellite constellations; Data Force thwarts cyber incursions; Drone Force matches Bayraktar-style incursions; and Cognitive Warfare neutralises propaganda. They position India as a net security provider in the Indo-Pacific, complementing Quad partnerships and space collaborations.

However, interoperability hurdles among services, talent shortages in AI and cyber domains, and supply chain dependencies persists. Yet, initiatives like the Agnipath scheme and iDEX could pipeline skilled personnel. International collaborations, such as with Israel on drones and the US on geospatial tech, will accelerate progress.

By 2047, these forces envision an India-centric military paradigm: predictive, autonomous, and cognitively resilient. The 2030 milestone marks not just technological upgrades but a doctrinal shift towards multi-domain operations, ensuring deterrence in a volatile neighbourhood.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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VTOL Aviation Unveils AARAV_ENX6S: Indigenous VTOL Drone Poised for Civil And Defence Roles

VTOL Aviation India Private Limited, based in Navi Mumbai, has pioneered the AARAV_ENX6S series drone, a fully indigenous unmanned aerial vehicle designed for both civil and defence applications.

This advanced surveillance UAV combines vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities with fixed-wing efficiency, enabling operations in confined spaces as small as a 10×10 metre area.

The drone operates autonomously, delivering day-and-night surveillance at altitudes up to 6 km above mean sea level (AMSL), with robust performance in temperatures ranging from –20°C to 55°C and up to 95% relative humidity.

Key specifications include a maximum take-off weight (MTOW) of 7 kg, which varies with payload, and an all-electric powerplant for sustainable and quiet operation.

It achieves endurance exceeding 120 minutes at 4.5 km AMSL, with cruise speeds up to 90 km/h and the ability to withstand wind gusts of 20 knots.

Take-off is feasible from 0 to 4500 m AMSL, while cruising occurs at a minimum of 1000 m above ground level (AGL), making it versatile for high-altitude missions. A standout feature is its low noise signature, below 40 dB at 300 metres, ideal for stealthy intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) tasks.

Developed under the Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured (IDDM) category as part of India's Make in India initiative, the AARAV_ENX6S underscores private sector innovation in defence technology.

The series includes civil variants tailored for applications like aerial mapping and GIS surveying, with models such as the AARAV_ENX6MC holding DGCA Type Certification—the first for a small-weight-class fixed-wing VTOL UAS in India.

Defence models, building on predecessors like the AARAV_ENX6D inducted by the Indian Army, feature modular airframes of glass and carbon fibre composites for durability in harsh terrains.

These drones support swappable payloads, including EO/IR cameras with 20x optical and thermal zoom offering 360° field of regard, enhancing precision targeting and monitoring.

The five-rotor configuration in related ENX6D variants ensures exceptional stability and manoeuvrability, with VTOL suiting operations in space-constrained environments.

Compact dimensions—approximately 1.5 m length, 2.4 m wingspan, and 0.424 m height—allow backpack portability, while dual battery chargers minimise downtime.

Cruise speeds reach 16 m/s (about 57 km/h), with maxima of 25 m/s, covering operational radii up to 20 km and service ceilings of 6,000 m AMSL.

For civil uses, the platform excels in precision mapping, covering 4.5 to 10 square km per flight with 24 or 42 MP sensors and autonomous waypoint navigation.

In defence contexts, it bolsters tactical missions, from border surveillance to threat detection, aligning with India's self-reliance in UAV technology amid growing geopolitical demands.

VTOL Aviation's contributions, including Army inductions, highlight Navi Mumbai's emergence as a hub for aerospace innovation, reducing import dependency.

Future iterations may integrate advanced AI for swarm operations or GPS-denied navigation, complementing broader Indian advancements like IIT Bombay's bearing-only VTOL tech.

This development positions the AARAV_ENX6S as a game-changer, fostering indigenous manufacturing and export potential in the global drone market.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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India’s ARYA Tactical UAV: Bhopal Start-Up’s Long-Endurance Platform Poised For Loitering Strike Role

Bhopal-based Aryavart Technologies Development Pvt Ltd has emerged as one of India’s most promising private players in the unmanned systems domain with its long-endurance ARYA family of tactical unmanned aerial vehicles, now being evolved into a loitering strike–capable platform.

The company’s work on ARYA reflects a broader shift in India’s defence ecosystem, where regional innovation hubs and start-ups are taking on roles traditionally dominated by large public sector enterprises, particularly in domains such as surveillance drones, loitering munitions, and autonomous systems.

Founded in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Aryavart Technologies has steadily built a niche in indigenous UAV design, development, and manufacturing, aligning closely with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision of reducing external dependence in critical defence technologies.

Rather than remaining a generic drone manufacturer, the firm has chosen to focus on tactically relevant, mission-ready systems tailored to Indian operational conditions, including high-altitude regions, contested electromagnetic environments, and austere forward bases.

The ARYA platform, represented in its current fielded configuration as the ARYA-5001 tactical UAV, has already crossed an important credibility threshold with induction by the Indian Air Force (IAF). 

Delivery of the first lot of ARYA UAVs to the IAF marks a rare achievement for a relatively young private company from outside the traditional defence-industrial centres of Bengaluru and Hyderabad, and signals growing trust in start-up-driven air systems within frontline combat and surveillance roles.

In its present form, the ARYA UAV is positioned as a high-performance, multi-role tactical system capable of supporting a range of missions from intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) to specialist payload carriage.

Publicly available performance data indicates an endurance of up to four hours, a cruise speed of around 180 km/h, and a payload capacity of up to 20 kg, giving it enough span to support electro‑optical/infrared (EO/IR) turrets, communications relays, electronic support payloads, or modular effects for strike roles.

A defining design feature of ARYA is its ability to operate effectively in GPS‑denied and electronic warfare (EW) environments, an increasingly critical requirement as regional adversaries invest in jamming and spoofing capabilities.

By emphasising robust navigation, resilient datalinks, and fail‑safe autonomous modes, Aryavart is clearly targeting the higher end of the tactical UAV spectrum, where survivability in contested domains is as important as raw performance figures.

The evolution of ARYA towards a long-endurance loitering strike platform builds naturally on these core strengths. While the currently fielded ARYA-5001 is optimised around ISR and tactical support, the same airframe class, endurance band, and payload architecture are well suited to hosting loitering munitions, warhead modules, or dispensers for smaller effectors.

As India’s armed forces induct systems such as Nagastra-1 loitering munitions and explore larger, longer‑range loitering UAVs, the availability of an indigenous, airworthy, already‑operational tactical UAV like ARYA provides a ready platform for iterative weaponisation and strike integration.

Conceptually, a long-endurance loitering strike variant of ARYA would combine the persistence of a tactical UAV with the terminal effects of a precision munition, allowing it to remain on station, build situational awareness, and then prosecute targets of opportunity.

This is particularly relevant in a South Asian context where high‑value targets may be fleeting, mobile, and located in complex terrain ranging from mountains to dense urban environments. In such scenarios, a loitering ARYA system could function as both sensor and shooter, shrinking the sensor-to-shooter loop and reducing dependence on manned aviation or large, satellite‑dependent UAVs.

The operational value of a loiter-capable ARYA becomes even more apparent when examined against India’s evolving doctrine on unmanned and autonomous systems. Indian services are moving from viewing drones merely as ISR assets to treating them as integral components of distributed, networked kill‑chains that blend surveillance, electronic attack, and precision engagement.

A Bhopal‑designed platform capable of operating in EW‑rich environments, while delivering both persistent surveillance and precision effects, fits neatly into this doctrinal trajectory and helps diversify the supplier base beyond a handful of state-linked entities.

From an industrial standpoint, Aryavart Technologies’ rise underlines the maturation of India’s private UAV ecosystem. The successful design, development and delivery of ARYA-5001 to the IAF demonstrate that regional companies can meet stringent airworthiness, safety, and reliability benchmarks expected by frontline services.

This also reflects improvements in the wider supply chain, including structures, avionics, propulsion, ground control systems, and software, which are increasingly sourced domestically rather than being imported as complete foreign solutions.

Leadership has played a key role in shaping ARYA as a mission-focused platform. The programme is led by Sqn Ldr Mahesh Kumar Pundhir (Retd.), who combines over a decade of helicopter flying experience, including with the Sarang helicopter display team, with a strong engineering background. 

This blend of operational understanding and technical competence helps ensure that the UAV’s design decisions – from payload integration to human–machine interface of the ground control station – are tightly aligned with real-world battlefield requirements rather than purely theoretical specifications.

Looking ahead, there is significant scope for ARYA’s further evolution into a sophisticated loitering strike system. Global trends in unmanned warfare point towards greater integration of AI‑driven autonomy, collaborative swarm behaviour, and multi‑domain networking, including seamless links with ground forces, artillery, and manned aircraft.

The ARYA family, already positioned as an indigenous tactical platform with robust endurance and payload margins, offers a natural testbed for such enhancements, including AI‑assisted target recognition, autonomous route planning, and coordinated multi‑UAV operations in support of deep‑strike and suppression missions.

In the broader strategic context, systems like ARYA help strengthen India’s asymmetric warfare posture by providing persistent eyes and precision reach at relatively low cost compared with manned aircraft or large strategic UAVs.

Their indigenous origin also reduces vulnerability to sanctions, export controls, and foreign supply chain disruptions, while enabling secure customisation of datalinks, encryption, and mission software according to national security requirements.

For a country that must plan for protracted, high‑intensity contingencies along two active land borders and an expansive maritime domain, such assets are increasingly central to maintaining credible deterrence and rapid response options.

Ultimately, Bhopal-based Aryavart Technologies and its ARYA UAV line illustrate how India’s drone revolution is no longer confined to a few metropolitan hubs or technology giants.

By combining indigenous engineering, operationally informed design, and a clear trajectory towards loitering strike capabilities, the company is positioning ARYA not just as another surveillance drone, but as a versatile tactical tool for the next generation of Indian air operations across land and maritime theatres.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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OrbitAID's Orbital Lifeline: Chennai Firm Bags MoS&T Funds For Satellite Refuelling Tech

The Centre's Ministry of Space and Technology has announced significant financial support to Chennai-based OrbitAID Aerospace, earmarking funds for the development of cutting-edge docking and refuelling systems.

This initiative targets the in-space life extension of satellites, a critical advancement for India's burgeoning space programme.

OrbitAID Aerospace, a dynamic start-up nestled in the vibrant tech hub of Chennai, specialises in innovative aerospace solutions. Founded by a team of seasoned engineers with roots in India's premier space institutions, the company has rapidly gained recognition for its work on satellite servicing technologies. This latest project underscores their growing prowess in orbital mechanics and robotics.

Satellite life extension represents a paradigm shift in space operations. Traditionally, satellites have fixed lifespans dictated by onboard propellant and power reserves.

Once depleted, they become space debris or are deorbited. Docking and refuelling systems promise to change this by enabling on-orbit replenishment, effectively granting satellites a second lease on life.

The technology involves autonomous docking mechanisms that allow a servicing spacecraft—often termed a 'chaser'—to rendezvous with a target satellite in low Earth orbit or geostationary orbit. Precision thrusters, computer vision, and AI-driven guidance systems ensure millimetre-level accuracy amid the vacuum of space. Once docked, propellant transfer occurs via flexible conduits, extending operational life by years.

Refuelling extends beyond mere fuel top-ups. Advanced iterations could include battery recharging, sensor replacements, or even software upgrades. For India, with its fleet of INSAT communication satellites and RISAT Earth observation platforms, this means maximising return on investment amid rising launch costs and spectrum demands.

Financial assistance from MoS&T, channelled through schemes like the New Space India Limited (NSIL) innovation fund or IN-SPACe grants, typically covers 50-75% of development costs. OrbitAID's project, valued at an estimated ₹150-200 crore over three years, will fund prototype testing, ground simulations, and eventual orbital demonstrations. This aligns with the Atmanirbhar Bharat push for indigenous space tech.

Chennai's emergence as a space innovation corridor bolsters this endeavour. Home to ISRO's UR Rao Satellite Centre collaborators and a cluster of private firms like Agnikul Cosmos, the city offers robust testing facilities. OrbitAID leverages local talent pools from IIT Madras and Anna University, fostering a self-reliant ecosystem.

Microgravity refuelling demands leak-proof interfaces resistant to cryogenic fuels like hydrazine. Thermal expansions, vibration damping, and collision avoidance during docking pose engineering hurdles. OrbitAID plans to address these through iterative testing at facilities like the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre.

Internationally, precedents exist. Northrop Grumman's Mission Robotic Vehicle has demonstrated proximity operations for the US Space Force, while DARPA's RSGS programme eyes refuelling for spy satellites. Europe’s ClearSpace-1 mission focuses on debris removal with docking tech. India enters this arena strategically, eyeing partnerships via the Quad or bilateral ties with France's ArianeGroup.

Strategic implications for India's defence and strategic sectors are profound. Extended satellite lifespans enhance persistent surveillance via GSAT-series military birds, bolstering border monitoring amid tensions with China and Pakistan. In a hypersonic missile era, real-time ISR becomes indispensable, and refuelling ensures uninterrupted coverage.

Economically, the ripple effects are substantial. Successful deployment could slash replacement costs by 40-60%, freeing budgets for new constellations like the 36-satellite NavIC expansion. Private sector involvement accelerates commercial viability, positioning Indian firms for global servicing contracts in the $10 billion in-orbit servicing market by 2030.

ISRO's Gaganyaan human spaceflight and Shukrayaan Venus mission amplify the need for such tech. Refuelling depots in orbit could support deep-space probes, mirroring NASA's Artemis Gateway concepts. OrbitAID's work dovetails with these ambitions, potentially enabling modular satellite architectures.

Environmental benefits cannot be overstated. Fewer launches mean reduced space debris, critical as India's orbital population swells. The UN's space sustainability guidelines applaud such innovations, and India's leadership here enhances its diplomatic heft in global forums like COPUOS.

Milestones for OrbitAID include a 2027 ground demonstrator, followed by a 2029 Pathfinder mission aboard a PSLV. Success hinges on inter-agency collaboration with DRDO for dual-use tech and NSIL for commercialisation. Government backing signals strong commitment to India's 2047 space superpower vision.

This funding exemplifies MoS&T's pivot towards public-private synergy. By nurturing start-ups like OrbitAID, India leapfrogs legacy space powers, blending frugal engineering with bold innovation. The stars, it seems, are aligning for Chennai's space pioneers.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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BITS-Pilani's CRENS: Forging Academic Firepower For India's Defence Imperative

The recent engagement at Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani underscores a pivotal moment in India's defence innovation landscape, where academic prowess intersects with national security imperatives.

As global defence systems recalibrate amid escalating geopolitical tensions, technology emerges as the paramount force multiplier, reshaping power dynamics on the world stage.

At the heart of this synergy stands CRENS, the Centre for Research Excellence in National Security, BITS Pilani's flagship initiative dedicated to bridging the chasm between scholarly inquiry and the armed forces' operational exigencies. This centre embodies a strategic fusion, transforming theoretical curiosity into tangible solutions that address India's defence challenges head-on.

CRENS thrives on a unique ecosystem that pairs academic researchers with Professors of Practice—seasoned veterans from India's defence establishment. These luminaries, drawing from decades of frontline experience, dissect real-world operational hurdles, converting them into pioneering breakthroughs that bolster national resilience.

The week's high-profile visit to the Pilani Campus exemplifies this collaborative ethos. Senior officials from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian armed forces engaged in substantive dialogues, fostering deeper integration between academia and military R&D.

Key figures steering these discussions included Prof. V Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor of BITS Pilani, whose visionary leadership has propelled the institute's ascent in technology-driven domains. His insights into defence technology trajectories undoubtedly enriched the proceedings.

Complementing him was Prof. Sudhirkumar V Barai, Director of the Pilani Campus, renowned for advancing interdisciplinary research in engineering and materials science—fields critical to next-generation defence hardware. His stewardship ensures that BITS Pilani remains at the vanguard of innovation aligned with national priorities.

Col. Soumyabrata Chakraborty, Registrar of BITS Pilani, brought invaluable military perspective to the table. A distinguished officer with combat and administrative expertise, his presence highlighted the institute's commitment to infusing operational realism into academic pursuits.

Senior faculty and associate professors rounded out the delegation, representing specialised domains such as aerospace engineering, cybersecurity, and advanced materials—areas where BITS Pilani excels and which hold direct relevance to DRDO's missile systems, UAVs, and hypersonic technologies.

This interaction signals a broader renaissance in India's self-reliance drive under the Atmanirbhar Bharat banner. By embedding defence needs within university curricula and research agendas, institutions like BITS Pilani accelerate indigenous manufacturing, reducing dependency on foreign imports for critical systems.

The implications extend to workforce development, with CRENS poised to nurture a cadre of defence technologists equipped for roles in DRDO labs, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and private sector giants like Tata Advanced Systems. Such talent pipelines are vital amid India's military modernisation.

Moreover, these partnerships amplify India's strategic posture in South Asia and beyond, where threats from adversarial neighbours demand agile, tech-centric responses. CRENS's focus on areas like AI-integrated munitions and quantum-secure communications positions India as a formidable player in the global defence innovation race.

Expect CRENS to spawn spin-offs: joint patents, technology transfer agreements, and even start-up incubators tailored to defence tech. This model could inspire sister institutions, creating a nationwide network of academic-defence nexuses.

BITS Pilani's endeavours through CRENS herald a new era where India's intellectual capital fortifies its sovereign security, ensuring that technological supremacy underpins strategic autonomy.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Kerala AI Pioneer Genrobotics Bags ₹80 Crore Singapore Water Robot Deal, Outshines 600 Global Rivals

Genrobotics Innovation, a Kerala-based AI start-up pioneering physical AI solutions in sanitation and medical fields, has clinched a landmark contract from Singapore's Public Utilities Board (PUB), the nation's water agency.

This deal marks a significant achievement for India's start-up ecosystem, positioning the Thiruvananthapuram firm as a global contender in advanced robotics.

The contract, valued at approximately ₹80 crore, involves deploying nearly 44 robots to upgrade Singapore's water infrastructure. These robots, primarily the Wilboar model—an advanced rover designed for cleaning hazardous, confined spaces such as sewer wells, storm water drains, and industrial tanks—will be rolled out over the next two financial years.

Each project under the agreement carries a value of ₹2 to 2.5 crore, with implementation targeted within 18 months. Vimal Govindan MK, co-founder and CEO of Genrobotics, highlighted that the rollout will begin with a pilot phase, followed by scaling up, including the addition of unique features tailored to PUB's needs.

Securing this long-term contract was no small feat. Genrobotics emerged victorious after an intense 18-month evaluation process against over 600 global competitors, underscoring the firm's technological edge in integrating robotics with AI for complex sanitation challenges.

The company attributes its success to proprietary intellectual property and unmatched advancements in robotic technology. With 14 patents already filed, Genrobotics claims few global players match its scale and sophistication in the sanitation robotics segment, where seamless AI-robotics integration is paramount.

Financially, Genrobotics reported ₹32 crore in revenue for FY25 and anticipates 30 per cent growth this year. Looking ahead, the firm aims to transform into a ₹500 crore organisation within two years, bolstered by this deal and future expansions.

In a bold strategic move, Genrobotics plans an initial public offering (IPO) by FY28 or FY29, signalling confidence in sustained growth. This milestone aligns with Kerala's burgeoning start-up scene, elevating the state's profile in high-tech exports.

Diversifying beyond sanitation, the company is venturing into semi-humanoid robots for the defence sector. These fast, heavy-lifting devices are envisioned to assist armed forces with automation tasks like inventory movement and weapon handling, tapping into India's push for indigenous defence tech.

Genrobotics is also negotiating with a private Singaporean player for robot deployments in post-construction sewage works, including painting and coating. This could further solidify its foothold in Southeast Asia's infrastructure market.

Operationally, the start-up boasts two manufacturing facilities: a 10,000 sq metre R&D hub in Thiruvananthapuram, employing around 100 people—including talent from ISRO—and a larger 50,000 sq metre plant in Palakkad's Kanjikode, capable of producing up to 100 robots annually.

With a total workforce of 300, Genrobotics blends cutting-edge innovation with scalable production. Its Wilboar robots, already proven in hazardous cleaning, exemplify how Indian engineering is addressing global challenges in urban sanitation and beyond.

This PUB contract not only validates Genrobotics' prowess but also highlights India's rising influence in AI-driven robotics, potentially paving the way for more international deals in defence and infrastructure.

Agencies

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Afghanistan Destroys Pakistan's Kohat Military Base in Bold Retaliation After Nur Khan Assault

Afghanistan has claimed responsibility for a series of retaliatory drone strikes on Pakistani military targets, escalating the already tense border conflict between the two nations.

Kabul asserts that it successfully destroyed Pakistan's Kohat military base, described as a key command centre near the disputed Durand Line. This follows hot on the heels of an earlier Afghan attack on the strategically vital Nur Khan airbase in Rawalpindi, reported ET News.

The Afghan defence ministry announced the Kohat strikes via a statement on X, detailing damage to military installations, ammunition depots, and soldiers' residential quarters. Officials portrayed the operation as a precise aerial assault, underscoring Kabul's capability to project power across the border in response to perceived aggressions.

Tensions ignited further after Pakistani artillery shelled the Alisher-Terezai district in Afghanistan's Khost province. Local reports indicate at least four civilians from one family perished, with three others wounded, fuelling outrage in Kabul and prompting the immediate counteroffensive.

Afghan authorities have also levelled accusations against the Pakistan Air Force for striking fuel depots of the private carrier Kam Air near Kandahar Airport. Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid highlighted that these facilities provided essential aviation fuel to domestic flights and even United Nations-operated aircraft, branding the attack as an infringement on civilian infrastructure.

The Nur Khan airbase strike earlier marked a significant escalation. This Pakistan Air Force hub, situated near Rawalpindi, handles critical transport logistics, aerial refuelling, and command coordination. Its proximity to Pakistan's Strategic Plans Division—which manages the nation's nuclear arsenal—amplifies the strike's strategic weight.

Analysts draw parallels to India's Operation Sindoor last year, when an Indian missile reportedly crippled a command-and-control centre at Nur Khan. Subsequent satellite imagery verified the destruction, positioning the event as a pivotal moment in Indo-Pak hostilities and demonstrating the base's vulnerability to precision strikes.

Cross-border hostilities have surged since February, with reports of Pakistani airstrikes on Kabul and other Afghan urban centres. This pattern of tit-for-tat aggression reflects deeper structural frictions rooted in the Durand Line dispute, a colonial-era boundary rejected by Kabul.

Since the Taliban's 2021 takeover, Islamabad has repeatedly urged Afghanistan to curb militant groups like the Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which Kabul allegedly shelters. The TTP, ideologically aligned with the Afghan Taliban yet operating autonomously, has intensified attacks on Pakistani soil.

Insurgent violence has proliferated in Pakistan's frontier regions of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan. Groups such as the TTP and the Balochistan Liberation Army have orchestrated frequent ambushes and bombings, often spilling over from Afghan territory and exacerbating bilateral distrust.

These developments signal a dangerous spiral, where border skirmishes risk broader conflagration. Both sides possess asymmetric capabilities—Pakistan's conventional airpower versus Afghanistan's drone prowess—potentially drawing in regional powers like India, Iran, or China.

International observers warn that unchecked escalation could destabilise South Asia's volatile security landscape. Diplomatic channels, including backchannel talks via Qatar or Saudi Arabia, may offer the only viable de-escalation path amid mounting civilian tolls and infrastructure losses.

The Kohat claim, if verified, would represent Afghanistan's boldest cross-border operation to date, challenging Pakistan's military dominance and testing the resolve of its leadership in Islamabad.

ET News

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CE-20's Significant Sea-Level Milestone: Unlocking Gaganyaan's Orbital Ambitions

On 10 March 2026, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved a quiet yet monumental milestone at its testing facility in Mahendragiri, Tamil Nadu. Engineers successfully conducted a full-power test of the CE20 cryogenic rocket engine, running it continuously for 165 seconds at sea level. 

This duration—nearly three minutes—marked a flawless performance under extreme conditions, pushing the engine to its upgraded 22-tons thrust level.

The CE20 serves as the powerhouse for the upper stage of India's heaviest launch vehicle, the Launch Vehicle Mark-3 (LVM-3). Often likened to a robust lorry hauling vital cargo into orbit, the LVM-3 relies on this engine for the final, precise thrust that places satellites and spacecraft into their intended paths. Previously limited to 19 tons of thrust, the engine's enhancement to 22 tons expands its capacity for heavier payloads, a necessity for ambitious missions ahead.

Testing such an engine at sea level presents unique engineering hurdles. Cryogenic engines like the CE20 are optimised for the near-vacuum of space, where their extended nozzles ensure efficient exhaust expansion.

On Earth, however, ambient air pressure disrupts this flow, causing a phenomenon known as flow separation. Exhaust gases detach prematurely from the nozzle walls, generating violent vibrations and localised overheating that threaten structural integrity.

ISRO overcame this challenge through its innovative Nozzle Protection System, a bespoke shielding mechanism that safeguards the nozzle from thermal and mechanical stresses during ground tests. Prior trials had validated it at 19 tons, but this test elevated it to the full 22-ton regime—a world-first accomplishment. The system's success confirms its reliability for future flight acceptance tests, the rigorous pre-launch validations essential for crewed flights.

Enhancing reliability further, the test incorporated a multi-element igniter. This advanced ignition setup features multiple ignition points, ensuring a smooth and uniform combustion of the cryogenic propellants—liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen. Unlike single-point systems prone to failure, this design minimises risks, a non-negotiable requirement for human spaceflight where precision equates to safety.

For the Gaganyaan program—India's flagship initiative to send three astronauts into low Earth orbit—this test is transformative. Gaganyaan demands the LVM-3's utmost performance, including the CE20's upgraded thrust, to deliver the human-rated orbital module safely. The sea-level qualification now paves the way for final certifications, proving that ISRO's infrastructure, from test stands to protective technologies, can handle the rigours of crewed operations.

This particular CE20 engine has now endured a record 20 hot-fire tests, each involving real cryogenic propellants. These cumulative runs have validated critical indigenous components, such as high-speed turbopump bearings that pressurise fuel into the combustion chamber under extreme conditions. Homegrown sensors, monitoring parameters like temperature, pressure, and vibration in real time, also passed muster, reducing reliance on foreign technology.

A standout feature demonstrated was the engine's bootstrap start mode, enabling in-space restarts without auxiliary systems. This capability is indispensable for missions requiring multiple firings, such as precise orbital insertions or manoeuvres. By proving restart reliability, ISRO bolsters confidence in the LVM-3's versatility for Gaganyaan and beyond.

The broader implications extend to India's self-reliance in space propulsion. Cryogenic technology, with its complex handling of supercooled fuels, once eluded Indian engineers due to international sanctions in the 1990s. The CE20's evolution—from initial development to this matured, uprated version—symbolises decades of perseverance, now yielding engines that rival global standards.

Gaganyaan's timeline hinges on such advancements. Scheduled for uncrewed tests in 2026 followed by crewed flights by 2027, the program requires every system to be flight-proven. This test de-risks the upper stage, ensuring the human-rated LVM-3 can loft the 5.5-tons crew module to 400 km altitude, complete with escape systems and life support.

Moreover, the CE20's upgrades align with ISRO's push for heavier geostationary transfers and multi-satellite deployments. Future LVM-3 variants could support 8-tons payloads to geosynchronous orbit, opening doors to advanced communication satellites, Earth observation platforms, and even interplanetary probes.

ISRO's Mahendragiri facility itself deserves recognition. Upgraded with sea-level test stands capable of simulating vacuum conditions indirectly, it now matches the prowess of global counterparts like NASA's Stennis Space Center. This infrastructure investment underscores India's commitment to a sovereign space program.

Space analyst Girish Linganna aptly summarises: the CE20 is not merely an engine but the 'heart' of LVM-3, pulsing with innovations vital for human spaceflight. Its 165-second roar at sea level echoes India's rising stature in astronautics.

As Gaganyaan inches closer, this test reaffirms ISRO's technical maturity. India stands on the cusp of joining an elite club of nations capable of independent human spaceflight, blending indigenous ingenuity with unyielding precision.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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Indian Army Erases Colonial Shadows: 246 Sites Honoured With Desi Heroes' Names

The Indian Army has undertaken a significant decolonisation effort by renaming 246 roads, buildings, residential colonies, and other facilities across military stations nationwide.

These sites previously bore names of pre-Independence British officials, reflecting a colonial legacy now being systematically erased.

This move aligns with the government's broader campaign to purge British influences from India's cultural and institutional fabric. The rechristening honours Indian gallantry awardees, battle heroes, and distinguished leaders, embodying values of courage, sacrifice, and leadership.

Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth highlighted the initiative's importance during a parliamentary response to MP Dr Ganapathy Rajkumar P on 13 March. He emphasised its role in syncing Army spaces with India's military heritage and national ethos.

In a significant step towards discontinuing colonial legacy and strengthening an institutional identity rooted in India’s own history and ethos, the Indian Army has undertaken the renaming of 246 roads, buildings and other facilities across its establishments. The initiative aims… pic.twitter.com/o0r9x9isOw

— ANI (@ANI) February 5, 2026

The Central Command, headquartered in Lucknow, leads with 74 renamed facilities, followed by Western Command in Chandimandir with 67. Southern Command accounts for 55, Eastern Command 33, and South Western Command 17.

State-wise, Uttar Pradesh tops the list with 51 re-namings, while Haryana follows with 40. Punjab saw eight changes, and Himachal Pradesh—once home to British India's summer capital—had three.

In the Western Command zone, spanning parts of Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu, the effort included 34 roads, 32 residential colonies, and one building. Haryana dominated with 23 roads and 17 complexes, Punjab had two roads and six colonies, and Himachal Pradesh two roads and two colonies.

Overall, the re-namings encompass 124 roads, 77 residential colonies, 27 office complexes and buildings, and 17 miscellaneous facilities like training areas, sports grounds, helipads, parks, and entry gates.

This initiative addresses a deep historical context. Many Indian Army regiments trace their lineage to units raised or led by British officers, with cantonment landmarks similarly named after colonial figures.

The push gained momentum at the 2021 Combined Commanders’ Conference, where Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged the armed forces to discard outdated colonial customs and infuse indigenous elements.

Recent examples underscore the symbolic weight. In Delhi Cantonment, Mall Road and Proby Road are now Lieutenant Arun Khetrapal Marg and Major Shaitan Singh Marg, honouring Param Vir Chakra recipients.

Patterson Road Quarters in Ambala Cantonment, among the oldest and largest, has become Dhan Singh Thapa Enclave. New Horn Lines in Mathura is now Abdul Hamid Lines, and Malcolm Lines in Mhow is Piru Singh Lines—all named after Param Vir Chakra heroes.

Kitchener House, once commemorating Field Marshal Horatio Herbert Kitchener—who modernised the British Indian Army in the early 1900s—now bears the name Manekshaw House, after Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, India's revered post-Independence Army Chief.

Beyond re-namings, the armed forces have reformed customs, mess uniforms, and traditions rooted in British times, fostering a distinctly Indian military identity.

This exercise not only honours native heroes but also instils pride among serving personnel and their families, reinforcing the Army's evolution from colonial inheritance to sovereign symbol.

ANI

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Iranian Retaliation Inflicts Widespread Damage On 17 US Assets In Middle East Conflict

Analysis reveals that Iran has damaged at least 17 American sites across the Middle East in response to a US-Israeli assault on its territory.

The strikes, involving drones and missiles, have targeted embassies, military bases, and air defence infrastructure, resulting in the deaths of US soldiers.

The New York Times conducted this assessment using high-resolution commercial satellite imagery, corroborated social media videos, and official statements from both US authorities and Iranian state media. These attacks underscore Iran's greater preparedness for war than many in the Trump administration had foreseen, according to US military officials.

Iran has unleashed thousands of missiles and drones against US and allied military installations throughout the region. While the US and its partners claim to have intercepted the majority, at least 11 American bases or facilities—nearly half of all such sites in the area—have sustained damage.

The conflict erupted on 28 February, when Iran struck several key US facilities on the first day. Targets included Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia, Ali Al Salem Air Base and Camp Buehring in Kuwait, and Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US outpost in the Middle East.

A video from 1 March captures an Iranian drone exploding at Camp Buehring, though no casualties occurred in that incident. Quantifying the total damage remains challenging due to the scale of operations.

A Pentagon evaluation, shared with Congress last week, estimates the cost of a single strike on the US Navy's 5th Fleet headquarters in Bahrain at around $200 million. This highlights the financial toll even from isolated hits.

On 1 March, an Iranian drone hit a personnel structure at Kuwait's Shuaiba port, killing six US service members. Another soldier died the same day in a strike on a US base in Saudi Arabia, raising the confirmed death toll to seven, as reported by the Pentagon.

Although the frequency of Iranian attacks has diminished since the initial barrage, strikes persist. Bases such as Al Udeid, Ali Al Salem, Al Dhafra, Camp Buehring, and the 5th Fleet headquarters have been hit multiple times.

Iranian missiles have reached as far as Turkey. On 4 March, NATO forces intercepted a ballistic missile aimed at Incirlik Air Base, which houses a significant US Air Force presence. Iran's military denied responsibility.

A second Iranian missile breached Turkish airspace on Monday and was downed by NATO, per a Turkish defence ministry statement. These incidents illustrate the broadening geographic scope of the retaliation.

Among the most expensive losses are those to US air defence systems safeguarding interests across the Middle East. Iran has methodically attacked radar and communications assets, including elements of the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, which relies on radar for tracking and intercepting threats.

Satellite imagery from Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan—a vital US Air Force hub—shows intact radar equipment on the base's southern edge before the war. Two days later, severe damage is evident to what appears to be an air defence sensor.

Military procurement records suggest a single such radar unit costs up to $500 million. On 28 February, a drone strike on the 5th Fleet headquarters in Manama, Bahrain, damaged a radome, the protective dome for radar and communications gear, as shown in video footage.

Gulf states have acquired US-made air defence systems, deploying them near vital assets like oil refineries. These radars integrate with US networks, creating an extensive sensor grid for American forces.

Iran has struck sites with recently observed equipment, such as one near Al Ruwais in the UAE. Pre-war imagery reveals a mobile THAAD unit beside storage buildings; post-strike photos show heavy damage to the structures, though it is unconfirmed if the THAAD was present.

Near Umm Dahal in Qatar, the AN/FPS-132 long-range radar—costing $1.1 billion and covering a 3,000-mile radius for early warnings—appears to have suffered structural harm to its primary array, per satellite analysis.

The precise impact on US air defence and communications remains uncertain. Michael Eisenstadt of the Washington Institute for Near East Policy notes that repairing or replacing these radars will prove arduous.

Seth G Jones, president of the Center for Strategic and International Studies, argues the damage is unlikely to cripple US operations significantly. He points to redundancies in intelligence gathering, from land radars and aircraft to space-based systems.

Iran has also hit diplomatic targets, including the US consulate in Dubai, UAE, and embassies in Kuwait City and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, prompting temporary shutdowns. No injuries were reported from these assaults.

On Saturday, rockets targeted the US Embassy in Baghdad, though responsibility and damage levels are unclear, excluding it from the Times' count of 17 sites.

Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, reported on Saturday that Iranian ballistic missile launches have fallen 90 per cent and drone attacks 83 per cent since day one. Even so, strikes on American targets continue unabated across the region.

Agencies

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Japan Commits To Joint Trump's Golden Dome Shield

Japan has signalled its intent to join the United States' ambitious "Golden Dome" missile defence initiative, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi set to confirm this during a leaders' summit in Washington D.C. on 19 March.

Two government sources, speaking anonymously due to the matter's sensitivity, revealed that Tokyo will formally notify Washington next week.

The announcement comes amid heightened global tensions, including the ongoing U.S.-Israeli air war against Iran and Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Japan anticipates that President Donald Trump may request assistance in missile production to replenish depleted U.S. stockpiles.

Trump unveiled the Golden Dome project last year, targeting a 2028 completion date. It aims to enhance existing ground-based interceptors with experimental space-based sensors capable of detecting, tracking, and potentially neutralising threats from orbit.

Progress on the project has been limited so far, with few concrete developments visible. Details of Japan's precise role remain unclear, though Tokyo views it as a bulwark against hypersonic glide vehicles under development by China and Russia, according to the Yomiuri newspaper's initial reporting.

The Yomiuri first broke the story on Friday, highlighting Japan's strategic motivations. Hypersonic weapons, which travel at speeds exceeding Mach 5 and manoeuvre unpredictably, pose significant challenges to traditional missile defences.

Japan's participation aligns with its recent policy shifts. Late last year, it exported a batch of licence-built Patriot surface-to-air missiles to the U.S., marking a historic departure from its long-standing prohibition on lethal weapons exports.

This move reflects Tokyo's evolving security posture. Facing an assertive China and nuclear-armed North Korea, Japan is bolstering its own munitions reserves while deepening alliance ties with the U.S.

The Trump administration has urged defence contractors to ramp up production of missiles and munitions strained by recent conflicts. U.S. stocks have dwindled due to support for Ukraine and operations in the Middle East.

Patriot interceptors have proven vital in these theatres. They have downed hundreds of Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeting Gulf states since the U.S.-Israeli campaign against Iran began earlier this month.

In Ukraine, Patriots have safeguarded energy infrastructure and military assets since Russia's 2022 invasion. Demand for these systems has surged, prompting calls for allies like Japan to contribute.

Japan is weighing its response to any U.S. request for missile co-development or production. Sources indicate Tokyo is still deliberating, balancing domestic capabilities with strategic imperatives.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, a key player in Japan's defence sector, already produces Patriot missiles under licence. This positions Japan well to scale up output if needed.

The Golden Dome's space-based elements represent a technological leap. Unlike ground systems, orbital sensors could provide persistent global coverage, revolutionising threat detection.

Challenges abound, however. Space-based interceptors demand breakthroughs in miniaturisation, propulsion, and cost-effectiveness. Critics question the 2028 timeline as overly optimistic.

Japan's involvement could irk Beijing and Moscow. Both nations have criticised U.S. missile defences as destabilising, potentially spurring an arms race.

For India, a Quad partner of Japan, this development carries implications. Shared concerns over Chinese hypersonics could foster trilateral defence cooperation, though New Delhi prioritises indigenous systems like BrahMos and Agni.

Japan's export policy relaxation dovetails with its 2022 national security strategy, which pledges to acquire counterstrike capabilities. This includes long-range missiles to deter aggression.

The U.S.-Iran conflict has accelerated munitions depletion. Israel's strikes on Iranian facilities, backed by American logistics, have consumed vast interceptor stocks.

Ukraine's reliance on Western aid underscores the strain. Patriot batteries there have intercepted Kinzhal hypersonics, but resupply lags behind attrition rates.

Trump's push for allied production shares echoes "friendshoring" in semiconductors. By leveraging Japan's manufacturing prowess, the U.S. aims to diversify supply chains away from vulnerable nodes.

Economic factors play a role. Japan's defence budget, doubled to 2% of GDP by 2027, funds these ambitions. Participation in Golden Dome could yield technology transfers and joint R&D. Yet risks persist. Exporting lethal weapons invites scrutiny from pacifist constituencies and regional neighbours. South Korea, another U.S. ally, watches closely amid its own missile advancements.

The 19 March summit will clarify commitments. Takaichi, a hawkish figure, seeks to cement Japan's indispensable role in Indo-Pacific security.

Japan's Golden Dome entry signals a proactive stance in an era of multiplying threats. It underscores the U.S.-Japan alliance's resilience amid global flux.

Reuters

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IAF Hammers 200 Iranian Targets In Bold Deep Strikes As Netanyahu Issues Stark Warning To Khamenei Heir

The Israeli Air Force has executed a sweeping operation, striking over 200 targets across western and central Iran in the past 24 hours alone.

Dozens of fighter jets, guided by precise Military Intelligence, unleashed munitions on ballistic missile launchers, defence systems, and production sites tied to the Iranian regime.

This barrage forms part of Operation "Roar of the Lion," under which the IAF has conducted hundreds of strike sorties. The campaign targets a wide array of Iranian infrastructures, explicitly aimed at curtailing the regime's capacity to launch fire towards Israeli territory.

A key success was the destruction of the 'Taleghan' compound, which the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) identified as a critical site for Iran's covert nuclear weapons program. Dating back to the 2000s 'AMAD' project, the facility reportedly housed advanced explosives development and sensitive experiments.

On the Lebanese front against Hezbollah, IDF forces eliminated Abu Dharr Mohammadi, operations commander of the IRGC's missile unit embedded within Hezbollah in Beirut. Mohammadi served as a pivotal coordinator between Hezbollah and Tehran, driving the rehabilitation of Hezbollah's missile arsenal post-Operation Northern Arrows.

Further strikes took out Ali Muslim Tabaja, a senior commander in Iran's Imam Hossein Division. This unit, deployed by the Quds Force, bolsters the Iranian axis against Israeli interests. Tabaja's extensive roles in both Hezbollah and the division underscored his strategic importance.

IDF operations also neutralised Abu Ali Riyan, commander of Hezbollah's Radwan Force in southern Lebanon. Riyan orchestrated operations, recruitment, and weapons logistics. Concurrently, over 100 Radwan fighters were killed, with more than 60 command-and-control centres dismantled.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a veiled but ominous warning to Iran's new Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Mojtaba Khamenei. Responding to queries on targeting the younger Khamenei—successor to his late father—Netanyahu declined to offer assurances.

"I wouldn't issue life insurance policies on any of the leaders of the terrorist organisations," Netanyahu stated. He branded Mojtaba a "puppet" of the Revolutionary Guard Corps, noting the heir's reluctance to appear publicly.

Netanyahu emphasised a seismic shift in regional strategic dynamics, positioning Israel advantageously against Iran and its proxies. His remarks hint at escalating actions against entities Israel deems terrorist threats.

These developments unfold amid heightened tensions, including US involvement with laser-based countermeasures against Iranian attacks. The IAF's deep-penetration strikes signal Israel's resolve to degrade Iran's offensive capabilities at source.

Operation "Roar of the Lion" underscores a doctrine of pre-emptive, long-range precision warfare. By neutralising missile infrastructure and nuclear-adjacent sites, Israel seeks to reshape the aerial threat landscape in its favour.

Hezbollah's leadership decapitation—spanning missile, divisional, and elite force commanders—disrupts proxy coordination with Iran. This multi-front approach amplifies pressure on Tehran's "axis of resistance."

Netanyahu's rhetoric elevates psychological warfare, portraying Iran's leadership as vulnerable. References to Mojtaba Khamenei's guarded profile amplify perceptions of regime fragility post his father's demise.

The strikes' scope—200 targets in a single day—demonstrates IAF supremacy in contested airspace, evading Iranian air defences. This operational tempo could presage sustained attrition against Tehran's military-industrial base.

Broader implications ripple across the Middle East. Allies like the US bolster Israel with advanced defences, while Iran's proxies face cascading losses. A recalibrated balance of power emerges, tilting towards deterrence of further aggression.

ANI

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Sri Lanka Prepares Solemn Repatriation of 84 IRIS Dena Dead Sailors

Colombo has finalised arrangements to repatriate the bodies of 84 Iranian sailors killed in a US submarine attack on the Iranian warship IRIS Dena off its southern coast.

The incident occurred on 4 March, as the frigate returned from a joint naval exercise with India. Local media and a source from the Iranian embassy in Colombo confirmed the development on Friday.

A Sri Lankan court issued an order earlier this week directing the handover of the bodies, which have been stored in the morgue at Galle's National Hospital. Defence ministry officials cited by local outlets stated that the remains would depart via a special flight from Mattala International Airport in the island's south. Reuters images captured police-escorted trucks transporting the coffins through crowded streets, underscoring the solemnity of the operation.

The IRIS Dena, a Moudge-class frigate commissioned in 2018, was struck by a torpedo from an unidentified US submarine. The vessel was navigating international waters approximately 200 nautical miles southeast of Sri Lanka when the attack unfolded.

Iranian officials have condemned it as an act of aggression amid escalating hostilities in the ongoing US-Israeli war against Iran, which began in late 2025 and has disrupted global energy markets and trade routes.

This conflict has seen intensified naval posturing in the Indian Ocean, with US forces bolstering submarine patrols to counter Iranian naval deployments. The IRIS Dena had participated in Exercise Varuna-inspired drills with the Indian Navy near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, highlighting Iran's outreach to regional partners amid Western sanctions. The attack marks one of the first direct submarine strikes in open waters since the war's outset.

Of the IRIS Dena's crew, 32 survivors received medical treatment in Sri Lanka; 22 have since been discharged from Galle Hospital. Separately, 208 crew from the accompanying IRIS Booshehr remain ashore after their vessel suffered engine failure in the same vicinity. Sri Lanka's government granted them 30-day visas, with the foreign ministry coordinating with Tehran's embassy.

An Iranian embassy source in Colombo noted that logistics are underway to move the bodies from the hospital to Mattala Airport, though exact departure times remain unconfirmed. Sri Lanka's health, foreign, and defence ministries declined to comment when approached by Reuters. The navy clarified it has no role in the repatriation process.

Tensions simmer as Washington reportedly urged Colombo last week not to repatriate survivors from both ships, citing intelligence concerns over potential Iranian naval threats. This places neutral Sri Lanka in a delicate position, balancing ties with key partners: the US absorbs about 40 per cent of its apparel exports, while Iran ranks among its top tea buyers, importing over 50,000 tonnes annually.

The incident has ripple effects across South Asia's defence landscape. India, a close Sri Lankan ally, has ramped up maritime surveillance in the region, deploying P-8I aircraft and INS Vikrant carrier groups. Analysts link the attack to broader US efforts to interdict Iranian supply lines supporting proxies in the Middle East, amid fears of escalation in the Arabian Sea.

Economically, the war has hammered Sri Lanka's recovery from its 2022 crisis. Fuel prices have surged 25 per cent since January, tea exports to Iran face delays, and US apparel orders dipped amid global shipping disruptions. Colombo's neutral stance—evident in its visa grants and court order—signals reluctance to alienate either superpower.

Iran's ambassador in Colombo expressed gratitude to Sri Lankan authorities for their handling of the aftermath, vowing to pursue justice through international channels. Tehran has accused the US of violating UNCLOS by targeting a warship in international waters, demanding a Security Council probe.

As the special flight prepares to lift off, the repatriation serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of great-power rivalries spilling into the Indian Ocean. With 240 Iranian crew still in Sri Lanka, diplomatic manoeuvres continue behind closed doors, potentially shaping Colombo's role in future regional flashpoints.

Reuters

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Shashi Tharoor-Benjamin Haddad Dialogue Signals Expanding India-France Bilateral Horizons Amid West Asia Turmoil

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor engaged in a productive meeting with Benjamin Haddad, France's Minister Delegate for European Affairs, in New Delhi on 13 March 2026.

The discussion highlighted the steadily deepening partnership between India and France, focusing on untapped potential in education, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people ties.

Tharoor shared insights from the conversation via a post on X, describing it as an "engaging" exchange. He emphasised the broadening scope for collaboration, noting encouraging signs of a maturing relationship across multiple domains. This interaction underscores New Delhi's proactive diplomacy with Paris.

Haddad reciprocated positively, thanking Tharoor for the wide-ranging dialogue. He affirmed that France and India can forge an independent path in world affairs, reflecting shared strategic autonomy amid global uncertainties. Such sentiments align with longstanding bilateral commitments.

This meeting follows closely on External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's conversation with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, earlier on Wednesday. Their talks centred on the volatile situation in West Asia, where tensions have surged dramatically.

A French Foreign Ministry statement detailed the Jaishankar-Barrot exchange, noting agreement to sustain dialogue. The leaders aim to collaborate on de-escalation, especially ahead of the Foreign Affairs Council in Brussels on 16 March, which Jaishankar will attend to bolster EU-India ties, including a new Security and Defence Partnership.

The West Asia crisis escalated on 28 February following joint US-Israeli military operations that killed Iran's former Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. This audacious strike has ignited retaliatory actions, with Iran targeting Israeli and US assets across Gulf states.

As the conflict enters its 14th day, exchanges of fire persist unabated. Iran has threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for global oil shipments, potentially disrupting energy supplies for India and other major importers.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres voiced grave concern on Thursday via X. He warned that the unfolding crisis threatens global peace and security, citing immense civilian suffering and the urgent need for de-escalation.

Guterres urged all parties to halt hostilities, uphold international law, protect civilians, and resume negotiations immediately. "De-escalation and dialogue are the only way out," he stressed, positioning diplomacy as the sole viable path.

India's diplomatic engagements with France occur against this backdrop, blending bilateral warmth with multilateral crisis management. The timing reflects New Delhi's balancing act: nurturing strategic ties while addressing regional instability that impacts its energy security.

France, as a key EU player and P5 nation, brings nuclear expertise and defence prowess to the table. Past collaborations, such as Rafale jet deals and joint military exercises, exemplify the partnership's defence pillar, now extending to softer domains like education.

Cultural exchanges could amplify this momentum. Initiatives in student mobility, language programmes, and arts festivals might foster long-term goodwill, mirroring successful models like the Franco-Indian Alliance Française network.

People-to-people ties hold particular promise. With growing Indian diaspora in France and French expatriates in India, enhanced visa regimes and youth exchanges could drive innovation in technology and sustainability sectors.

Geopolitically, both nations prioritise multipolarity. Haddad's nod to an "independent path" echoes India's non-alignment and France's Gaullist traditions, offering a counterweight to US-dominated narratives in West Asia.

The Brussels FAC attendance by Jaishankar signals deepening EU-India security cooperation. The Security and Defence Partnership could encompass intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism, and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific.

For India, West Asia's volatility poses risks. As the world's third-largest oil importer, disruptions in the Gulf could spike prices, fuelling inflation and straining the economy amid post-pandemic recovery.

Iran's Hormuz threat amplifies these concerns. Closure of the strait, through which 20% of global oil flows, would hit Indian refineries hard, prompting diversification towards Russian and African sources.

France shares energy vulnerabilities as a net importer, despite its nuclear base. Joint advocacy for de-escalation aligns their interests, potentially yielding coordinated UN efforts or G20 interventions.

Tharoor's role, as a vocal parliamentarian and foreign affairs expert, bridges official and track-II diplomacy. His meetings often preview broader governmental agendas, influencing policy discourse.

Broader India-France ties span defence, space, and climate. Recent milestones include ISRO-CNES collaborations and green hydrogen pacts, with cultural diplomacy adding a humanising layer.

As West Asia simmers, these interactions reaffirm bilateral resilience. By expanding into education and culture, India and France cultivate ties resilient to geopolitical shocks, ensuring mutual prosperity.

The coming days, including Jaishankar's Brussels visit, will test this synergy. Success could model how middle powers navigate crises through dialogue and diversification.

ANI

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Beijing Pledges $200,000 Aid To Iran Amid Strait of Hormuz Crisis And Calls For Regional Ceasefire

China has announced a humanitarian aid package worth $2,00,000 for the Iranian Red Crescent Society amid escalating tensions in West Asia.

Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun confirmed the contribution on Friday, as reported by China Daily.

This aid comes at a critical juncture, with Beijing also issuing a strong condemnation of indiscriminate attacks on civilians and non-military targets in the region.

Earlier statements from Jiakun underscored China's commitment to engaging all parties in the West Asia conflict to facilitate de-escalation. He affirmed that Beijing would maintain communication with those directly involved.

China aims to play a constructive role in easing tensions and restoring peace in the Middle East, according to the spokesperson.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi has separately criticised the United States and Israel for alleged violations of international law, even as China pursues peace talks with Iran.

Prior to this, China voiced deep concerns over the functional blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, a chokepoint for global energy supplies amid the ongoing conflict.

The Strait and surrounding waters serve as a vital artery for international trade in goods and energy, making regional stability essential for the global community.

Guo Jiakun emphasised that safeguarding these routes aligns with shared international interests.

He called on all involved parties—particularly the US, Israel, and Iran—to prioritise de-escalation and halt military operations immediately.

Such actions, he warned, are necessary to shield the global economy from the fallout of regional turmoil. Beijing reiterated that the foremost priority must be ending hostilities to prevent tensions from spreading further.

This development highlights China's balancing act: offering aid to Iran while advocating for broader restraint in the conflict.

The USD 2,00,000 package targets immediate humanitarian needs through the Iranian Red Crescent Society, a key relief organisation.

As the West Asia crisis intensifies, China's diplomatic overtures signal its intent to position itself as a mediator.

Observers note that Beijing's stance critiques Western powers while maintaining channels open to Tehran.

The aid announcement follows heightened disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening oil shipments worldwide.

Global markets remain vigilant, with potential ripple effects on energy prices and supply chains.

China's repeated calls for ceasefires underscore its economic stakes in the region's stability.

ANI

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