India Eyes MRFA Completion This Financial Year As IAF Pushes Fighter Fleet Expansion: IAF Chief

India is aiming to conclude the long-awaited Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) acquisition by the end of the current financial year, provided negotiations continue to progress according to schedule, according to Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh, Chief of the Air Staff.

The development marks a significant milestone in what has become the Indian Air Force’s largest-ever fighter aircraft procurement initiative, designed to address the service’s declining combat squadron strength and enhance its operational capabilities.

Speaking ahead of Air Force Day, Air Chief Marshal Singh said discussions on pricing and other key aspects of the project are currently underway. The remarks come months after the government approved the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter aircraft from France through a government-to-government route, reviving a requirement that has been under consideration for nearly two decades.

The MRFA program is widely viewed as a critical element of the Indian Air Force’s modernisation strategy. The acquisition is intended not only to replenish fighter numbers but also to strengthen India's long-term air combat capability at a time of increasing regional security challenges.

Air Chief Marshal Singh indicated that if the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program experiences delays, the Indian Air Force may be compelled to consider the procurement of an additional fighter platform to prevent capability gaps from emerging in the future force structure.

Commenting on reports surrounding Russia’s fifth-generation fighter proposal, he confirmed that Moscow has offered the Su-57 to India. However, he clarified that no decision has been taken on the aircraft.

Addressing concerns over the shrinking number of frontline fighter squadrons, the Air Chief Marshal stressed that the Indian Air Force requires at least 36 to 40 aircraft every year over the coming years to maintain operational readiness and sustain force levels.

He emphasised that air power remains a decisive component of national military strength and noted that India must continue expanding and strengthening its aerial combat capabilities.

On future modernisation efforts, Air Chief Marshal Singh highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence across military operations.

He said the Indian Air Force is working towards becoming an AI-augmented force capable of leveraging advanced technologies to improve effectiveness, decision-making and combat performance.

The Air Chief Marshal also reiterated that self-reliance remains essential for maintaining overall combat readiness. He underscored the importance of expanding indigenous aerospace and defence manufacturing capabilities to support long-term strategic requirements.

Among the key priorities identified by the Air Force chief was the development of an indigenous fighter aircraft engine. He stated that India must acquire the capability to design and produce fighter jet engines domestically, a step regarded as crucial for achieving genuine strategic autonomy in military aviation.

The MRFA acquisition is expected to play a major role in stabilising the Indian Air Force's force structure over the next decade.

Alongside the induction of TEJAS variants, the development of the AMCA and efforts to expand indigenous aerospace manufacturing, the program is seen as a cornerstone of India's broader plan to modernise its combat aviation fleet while strengthening domestic industrial capability.

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ASTRA MK-2 Integration Advances As IAF Pushes Ahead With MK-3 Preparations

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has underlined that the service is pressing ahead with the integration of the indigenous ASTRA MK-2 beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile on larger combat platforms, while preparatory work associated with the next-generation ASTRA MK-3 missile is also moving forward.

His remarks highlight the Indian Air Force’s continued emphasis on building a layered and diversified air combat inventory that combines indigenous weapon systems with imported capabilities to address its full spectrum of operational requirements.

The ongoing effort to integrate the ASTRA MK-2 missile with additional aircraft platforms represents a major step in expanding the reach and effectiveness of India’s indigenous air-to-air missile ecosystem. 

The missile is expected to provide substantially greater engagement ranges than the currently operational ASTRA MK-1, enabling Indian fighter aircraft to engage hostile targets at significantly longer distances.

The Astra family of missiles has become one of the most important indigenous air combat projects undertaken by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. Developed to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers while strengthening domestic technological capability, the missile series is intended to equip multiple fighter aircraft serving with the Indian Air Force.

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh’s comments indicate that work is no longer focused solely on the missile itself, but increasingly on ensuring its compatibility across a wider range of operational platforms. Such integration is critical because a missile's effectiveness depends not only on its performance characteristics but also on how seamlessly it works with aircraft radars, avionics, mission computers and data links.

The ASTRA MK-2 is expected to deliver a significant improvement in beyond-visual-range combat capability. The missile has been designed with advanced guidance technologies, improved propulsion and enhanced resistance to electronic warfare measures.

Reports from defence circles have indicated that the missile incorporates a dual-pulse propulsion system intended to maintain energy during the terminal phase of engagement. This allows the weapon to retain manoeuvrability and lethality against highly agile targets.

The missile is also expected to feature advanced seeker technology and network-enabled capabilities that support mid-course updates, allowing targets to be tracked more effectively during long-range engagements.

The Indian Air Force views such capabilities as increasingly important in an operational environment where rival air forces are deploying longer-range air-to-air missiles and more sophisticated electronic warfare systems.

As integration progresses, larger platforms are expected to become a key part of the ASTRA MK-2 deployment strategy. Aircraft with greater payload capacities offer the ability to carry larger missile loads and extend operational flexibility during air superiority missions.

Alongside ASTRA MK-2, work is also progressing on the future ASTRA MK-3 project.

The ASTRA MK-3, officially named Gandiva, often associated with substantially greater engagement ranges, is expected to represent another leap in India's indigenous air-to-air combat capability.

Preparatory activities for the program suggest that the Indian Air Force and defence research agencies are already looking beyond current requirements and planning for future threats emerging across the region.

Long-range air combat has become an increasingly important element of modern aerial warfare. The ability to detect, track and engage hostile aircraft before entering visual range provides a significant tactical advantage and can influence the outcome of air operations long before opposing aircraft come into direct contact.

The next-generation missile is expected to enhance India's ability to compete with advanced foreign missile systems fielded by other major air powers.

However, Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh also made it clear that indigenous programs alone will not form the entirety of the Indian Air Force's weapons inventory. Instead, the service intends to meet its overall operational requirements through a combination of indigenous and imported capabilities.

This approach reflects the realities of maintaining a modern air force, where different missions require different weapon systems and where operational readiness cannot depend on a single source of equipment.

The Indian Air Force has traditionally operated a mix of domestically developed and foreign-origin weapons, allowing it to maintain flexibility while supporting indigenous defence industrial growth. The continued development of Astra missiles demonstrates India's determination to strengthen strategic self-reliance in critical defence technologies.

At the same time, retaining access to proven imported systems ensures that capability gaps can be addressed whenever necessary and that operational requirements remain fully covered.

The parallel pursuit of ASTRA MK-2 integration, ASTRA MK-3 development and imported weapon acquisitions reflects a balanced force modernisation strategy. Such an approach aims to provide the Indian Air Force with a broad portfolio of air-to-air combat options capable of addressing evolving threats across multiple operational scenarios.

By advancing indigenous missile programs while continuing to incorporate selected foreign systems, the Indian Air Force hopes to maintain operational effectiveness, improve long-range engagement capability and strengthen its overall combat readiness for future conflicts.

The latest update from Air Chief Marshal AP Singh therefore signals not only progress in India's indigenous missile development journey but also a wider commitment to building a resilient and flexible air combat force capable of meeting present and future security challenges.

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IAF Chief Says India Can Counter Emerging Chinese Stealth Fighter Threat, Calls For Faster AMCA Induction

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has asserted that India retains the capability to counter the growing challenge posed by fifth-generation fighter aircraft being developed by China, even as reports suggest that neighbouring Pakistan could soon acquire such platforms.

Speaking during the Indian Air Force's annual press conference in New Delhi ahead of Air Force Day, the Air Chief acknowledged that developments relating to Chinese stealth fighter technology and its possible transfer to Pakistan are being closely monitored by the IAF.

According to Air Chief Marshal Singh, reports indicate that Pakistan could induct Chinese fifth-generation fighter aircraft in the near future. There are also indications that Pakistani pilots may already be undergoing training in China in preparation for operating such advanced platforms.

While describing these developments as a matter of concern, the Air Chief stressed that they do not fundamentally alter the strategic balance or place India in a position where it cannot respond effectively.

He emphasised that the effectiveness of a modern combat aircraft cannot be judged solely by the capabilities of the platform itself. Instead, success in contemporary air warfare depends on how effectively an aircraft is integrated into a broader network of sensors, command-and-control systems, airborne warning assets, electronic warfare capabilities, data links, air-defence systems and supporting combat infrastructure.

Air Chief Marshal Singh noted that possessing an advanced fighter aircraft does not automatically translate into operational superiority. He argued that military effectiveness is determined by the integration of platforms across the entire defence ecosystem rather than by any single aircraft operating independently.

The Air Chief drew attention to previous instances in which Pakistan operated advanced military platforms but was unable to translate those capabilities into meaningful strategic outcomes against India.

Referring to Operation Sindoor, he observed that Pakistan had access to sophisticated systems in the past but was unable to achieve significant results despite possessing those assets. He suggested that technology alone has never been sufficient to guarantee battlefield success.

According to Singh, India can similarly offset emerging threats through effective integration of the aircraft and systems currently being inducted into the IAF. He maintained that such integration would enable India to respond successfully to any near-term challenges associated with the introduction of fifth-generation aircraft into Pakistan's inventory.

He further pointed out that any new platform requires considerable time before it can be fully integrated into a country's operational doctrine, training ecosystem, maintenance structure and combat network. As a result, even if Pakistan acquires such aircraft, the full operational benefits would not be realised immediately.

At the same time, the Air Chief made it clear that India cannot afford complacency. He stressed the importance of inducting aircraft of the same technological generation at the earliest opportunity to preserve India's long-term air-power advantage.

Air Chief Marshal Singh urged a stronger push for the indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program, which is expected to become India's first domestically developed fifth-generation stealth fighter.

The AMCA project is regarded as one of India's most important future aerospace initiatives. The aircraft is intended to incorporate stealth features, advanced sensors, internal weapons carriage, network-centric combat capabilities, artificial intelligence-assisted systems and next-generation avionics designed to meet future operational requirements.

The program occupies a central place in India's plans to modernise its combat aviation fleet and reduce long-term dependence on foreign suppliers for advanced fighter aircraft. Singh stressed that the AMCA program must move forward rapidly if India is to maintain an effective technological edge in the coming decades.

He also signalled that alternative decisions may have to be considered should the AMCA program experience significant delays. His remarks reflected the urgency felt within the IAF regarding the timely induction of next-generation combat aircraft amid evolving regional security dynamics.

The comments come at a time when the Indian Air Force is simultaneously pursuing efforts to strengthen squadron strength, accelerate indigenous defence manufacturing and modernise its operational capabilities across multiple domains.

The IAF has repeatedly highlighted the importance of transitioning towards network-centric warfare, where information dominance, sensor fusion, long-range engagement capabilities and integrated air operations are increasingly critical to combat effectiveness.

Air Chief Marshal Singh's remarks underline the belief within the Indian Air Force that future aerial superiority will depend not merely on acquiring advanced fighter aircraft, but on creating a fully integrated combat ecosystem capable of maximising the effectiveness of every platform in service.

While acknowledging the significance of China's fifth-generation aircraft developments and the possibility of Pakistan benefiting from them, the Air Chief reiterated that India possesses the necessary capabilities to address the challenge in the near term.

However, he emphasised that maintaining long-term air dominance will require the rapid induction of fifth-generation aircraft and sustained momentum behind the AMCA program, ensuring that India's air power remains prepared for emerging threats across the region.

The AMCA received major governmental approval for full-scale development and is expected to form the backbone of India's future stealth fighter capability. The project is intended to complement existing platforms such as the Rafale, Su-30MKI and Tejas, while positioning India among the limited number of nations capable of designing and producing advanced stealth combat aircraft domestically.

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ShepHertz Unveils India-Built Offline AI Models For Defence, Space And Edge Devices

ShepHertz Technologies has introduced three new India-developed artificial intelligence model families, Tatva, Sanjaya and Drashta, designed to operate entirely offline on constrained hardware ranging from satellites and drones to wearable devices such as smart rings, PTI reported.

The models were unveiled at Drone Expo 2026 as part of the company's AgentAnywhere sovereign AI platform, which focuses on enabling AI deployment within secure, customer-controlled infrastructure rather than relying on external cloud services.

Tatva has been developed for on-device command execution, allowing machines to interpret and process authorised instructions locally. Sanjaya is designed for fleet management and telemetry intelligence, helping analyse operational data from critical systems.

Drashta focuses on machine vision applications, enabling the identification and analysis of objects and structures from imagery and sensor inputs.

A key aspect of the new model family is the ability to function on resource-constrained hardware without any cloud connectivity. This approach is intended to support operations in environments where communication links may be limited, unreliable or deliberately restricted, including defence, aerospace, industrial and remote-field deployments.

The launch reflects a growing demand for sovereign AI capabilities, particularly in sectors that prioritise data security, operational resilience and low-latency decision support. By processing information directly on devices, the models can reduce dependence on external infrastructure while maintaining control over sensitive data.

Alongside the AI models, ShepHertz announced that it will open its trust toolchain under the Apache 2.0 licence. The initiative begins with Shuddhi, a data factory designed to provide every AI training corpus with a signed and verifiable receipt, enhancing transparency and traceability across the AI development process.

According to the company, this emphasis on verifiable AI is intended to ensure that trust mechanisms remain transparent rather than hidden within proprietary systems.

Commenting on the launch, Siddhartha Chandurkar, Founder and CEO of ShepHertz Technologies, said that Tatva, Sanjaya and Drashta were created specifically for environments that require reliable offline intelligence, adding that trust should not remain a black box and that the company is opening the tools needed to make verification accessible to developers in India and globally.

ShepHertz, which has been building enterprise technology platforms since 2010 and deploying AI solutions in production environments since 2012, is positioning the new models as part of a broader push towards sovereign, air-gapped and edge-based artificial intelligence systems capable of supporting critical national and industrial applications.

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Lockheed Martin Signals Major India Manufacturing Boost Through ₹87,150 Crore Airlifter Bid

Lockheed Martin has indicated that it is prepared to significantly expand its manufacturing footprint in India if its proposal is selected for the Indian Air Force's medium transport aircraft acquisition program, a competition valued at approximately ₹87,150 crore, PTI reported.

The American aerospace giant is competing for India's requirement for 60 medium transport aircraft, for which a formal tender was issued in August.

Five Indian firms are participating in the contest and are expected to partner with overseas aircraft manufacturers. These include TATA Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), Mahindra Group, Adani Defence & Aerospace, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Reliance Defence.

Lockheed Martin is pursuing the opportunity alongside TASL, building on an established industrial partnership that already produces components and empennages for the C-130J Super Hercules in India.

Dan Tenney, Senior Vice President for Global Business Development and Strategy at Lockheed Martin, said the company intends to build upon the existing capability developed with Tata if its bid is successful.

According to Tenney, the long-standing collaboration has created a strong manufacturing base for C-130J components and assemblies, and the company plans to broaden that capability through additional production activities within India.

He noted that India has played an important role in supporting advanced capabilities associated with the aircraft and said Lockheed Martin is enthusiastic about expanding that relationship further.

If the Lockheed Martin-TASL proposal is selected, the company expects its industrial network in India to grow substantially, reinforcing local aerospace manufacturing under the country's drive for greater indigenous defence production.

As part of its offer, Lockheed Martin has proposed supplying 12 aircraft in flyaway condition while manufacturing the remaining 48 aircraft in India.

The proposal also includes upgrading the Indian Air Force's existing fleet of 12 C-130J aircraft to the same advanced configuration as the newly offered platforms.

That approach could eventually provide the service with a common fleet of 72 C-130J aircraft, simplifying training, maintenance and logistics while enhancing operational flexibility.

The Indian Air Force's current fleet of 12 C-130Js has accumulated more than 58,000 flying hours and has been employed extensively in demanding operational environments.

The aircraft have supported high-altitude missions in Ladakh, humanitarian assistance operations during floods in Nepal, and the evacuation of Indian nationals from Sudan in 2023.

The transport aircraft competition is emerging as one of India's most significant military aviation procurements, with contenders expected to offer extensive manufacturing, maintenance and technology-transfer commitments alongside their aircraft platforms.

Mahindra has already aligned with Brazilian aerospace manufacturer Embraer for the programme, setting up a closely watched contest that will not only determine the Indian Air Force's future transport fleet but also influence the development of India's aerospace industrial base.

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DRDO Seeks Industry Support For Omnilight Photonic Transceiver Chip To Power Next-Generation Radar Networks

DRDO has issued a Request for Information (RFI) for the development of an indigenous Omnilight Photonic Integrated Circuit (PIC), a microwave photonics transceiver chip intended for advanced radar applications.

The program aims to replace conventional radio frequency copper interconnects with Radio Frequency-over-Fibre (RFoF) technology, enabling radar systems to transmit signals using optical fibre rather than traditional electrical cabling.

The proposed solution converts radar frequency signals into optical signals for transmission across fibre networks. This approach significantly reduces cable weight while improving system resilience against electronic attack and electromagnetic disturbances.

At the heart of the initiative is an eight-channel Photonic Transceiver (PTR) chip integrating high-speed electro-optic and opto-electronic converters, optical multiplexing and de-multiplexing functions, alongside digital communication links on a single platform.

The system is being designed to operate across an ultra-wide frequency range from 0.5 GHz to 40 GHz. Such coverage enables native support for X, Ku, K and Ka band radar applications, making the technology suitable for a broad spectrum of military sensing and surveillance missions.

According to the project requirements, the transceiver will allow radar antenna arrays positioned at remote locations to communicate with central processing stations through kilometre-scale fibre connections without significant signal degradation.

The photonic architecture also offers substantial electronic warfare advantages. Optical transmission is inherently immune to electromagnetic interference, while channel isolation greater than 40 dB helps minimise cross-channel interference and improves operational reliability in contested environments.

Beyond enhancing radar performance, the initiative seeks to establish a domestic ecosystem for microwave photonics chip design, packaging and manufacturing. The technology is expected to support future radar systems requiring reduced Size, Weight, Power and Cost while delivering higher bandwidth and greater signal fidelity.

The indigenous chip is expected to integrate optical modulators, photodiodes and wavelength multiplexing components within a compact package, supporting the long-term development of advanced photonic radar and sensor systems for India's defence sector.

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Yali Aerospace Unveils Pralaya-K4, Pralaya X4 And ISTAR-S1 To Strengthen India’s Indigenous Tactical Drone Capability

Yali Aerospace has expanded its unmanned systems portfolio with the launch of three new platforms, the Pralaya K4 kamikaze tactical drone, the Pralaya X4 and the ISTAR S1, demonstrating the company's growing focus on military and security-oriented drone technologies, announced YALI Aersopace.

The new systems are intended to support a range of battlefield tasks, including tactical operations, persistent surveillance and intelligence collection, areas that have become increasingly important in modern conflicts.

Yali Aerospace has introduced three new unmanned aerial platforms, the Yali Pralaya K4 kamikaze tactical drone, Yali Pralaya X4 and Yali ISTAR-S1, marking its latest entry into India’s rapidly evolving military drone sector.

YALI Pralaya-K4 & Pralaya-K4 tactical drones

The newly unveiled systems have been developed to address a broad spectrum of modern battlefield requirements, ranging from tactical combat missions to intelligence gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance operations.

Among the new platforms, the Pralaya K4 has been positioned as a loitering or Kamikaze drone designed for precision tactical engagements, while the Pralaya X4 expands the company’s capabilities in multi-role unmanned operations.

The ISTAR S1 has been introduced to support intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance missions that are becoming increasingly important in contemporary military environments.

The launch reflects the growing emphasis on indigenous unmanned technologies as India seeks to enhance self-reliance in critical defence capabilities and reduce dependence on imported systems.

Yali Aerospace joins a steadily expanding ecosystem of Indian drone developers that are investing in advanced UAVs, loitering munitions and autonomous battlefield platforms for the armed forces and security agencies.

The unveiling also highlights the increasing role of domestic industry in supporting evolving operational requirements, particularly in areas such as real-time surveillance, target acquisition, force protection and tactical strike missions.

Industry trends indicate rising demand for drones capable of operating in contested environments, with Indian companies increasingly incorporating features such as autonomous navigation, electronic warfare resilience and mission-specific payload integration into their platforms.

The introduction of the Pralaya K4, Pralaya X4 and ISTAR S1 underscores the growing maturity of India's defence-drone industry and reinforces the momentum behind indigenous innovation in tactical unmanned systems.

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Pakistan’s J-35 Ambitions Add Pressure Says Air Chief Marshal AP Singh

Indian Air Force Chief Air Chief Marshal AP Singh has warned that delays in fighter aircraft inductions are adversely affecting the service at a time when its combat strength continues to decline. 

Speaking ahead of the 94th Air Force Day, he said the IAF requires the induction of between 36 and 40 fighter aircraft every year over the coming years to halt the erosion of squadron numbers.

The IAF currently operates around 30 fighter squadrons, significantly below its authorised strength of 42 squadrons. According to Singh, the force needs to add approximately two fighter squadrons annually if it is to recover its numbers and maintain readiness against the possibility of a coordinated two-front challenge involving Pakistan and China.

He acknowledged that delays in the arrival of new aircraft were causing increasing concern. Singh stated that the reduction in fleet strength was already being felt operationally and that timely induction of replacement platforms was becoming critical.

A major factor behind the shortfall is the delayed delivery of the TEJAS MK-1A fighter. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) was awarded a contract in February 2021 worth approximately ₹48,000 Crores for the supply of 83 TEJAS MK-1A aircraft.

Despite the passage of several years since the agreement was signed, the IAF has yet to receive a single aircraft under the order.

Singh described the delay as substantial and admitted it would negatively affect the force's combat strength. He nevertheless pointed to HAL’s commitment to manufacture 24 aircraft annually in the coming year. He also proposed greater involvement of private industry, suggesting that additional production lines could potentially contribute another 12 to 18 aircraft every year and help accelerate inductions.

The Air Chief also highlighted Pakistan’s reported efforts to acquire fifth-generation combat aircraft through cooperation with China. While he characterised the development as a matter of concern, he stopped short of describing it as a major threat.

Recent reports have indicated that Pakistan has approved the acquisition of 40 Chinese J-35 stealth fighters, with deliveries expected within the next two years. If completed, the deal would mark the first export of China’s fifth-generation fighter aircraft and significantly enhance Pakistan’s access to advanced stealth capabilities.

Against this backdrop, Singh stressed the importance of ensuring that India’s indigenous Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program progresses without further delays. The AMCA is intended to become India’s first domestically developed fifth-generation fighter and is viewed as a central pillar of the country’s future air combat strategy.

However, Singh acknowledged that prolonged delays in the AMCA timetable could compel the IAF to consider overseas alternatives. He noted that Russia has offered its Su-57 fifth-generation fighter to India, although no decision has been taken regarding the proposal.

The Air Chief emphasised that Pakistan has previously operated capable aircraft fleets and cautioned against assessing combat effectiveness solely through platform comparisons. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he argued that the outcome demonstrated how integrated capabilities, training, weapons, sensors and operational planning ultimately determine battlefield success rather than the presence of advanced aircraft alone.

The challenge facing the IAF is expected to become more acute towards the end of the decade. Defence officials have identified the 2029-30 period as a critical phase when several ageing fighter fleets are scheduled for retirement.

The Jaguar, MiG-29 and Mirage-2000 aircraft, many of which have undergone life-extension upgrades, are expected to be gradually phased out during that period. Together, these fleets account for roughly 250 aircraft, creating the prospect of a further reduction in squadron strength unless replacement programmes stay on schedule.

To address the looming gap, the IAF is counting on the timely arrival of TEJAS MK-1A fighters, future TEJAS MK-2 aircraft, the Multi-Role Fighter Aircraft acquisition program, additional Su-30MKI orders and the long-term induction of the AMCA. Air Chief Marshal Singh’s remarks underline growing concern within the service that delays in any of these initiatives could have a direct impact on India’s future air power and force structure.

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Karnataka Youth Arrested Over Alleged Links With Pakistan-Based Terror Operatives

A 24-year-old man from Yenkoor village in Bhalki Taluk of Karnataka's Bidar district has been arrested on terror-related charges after investigators allegedly uncovered links with Pakistan-based designated terrorist Shahzad Bhatti and other individuals suspected of involvement in extremist and illegal arms networks, PTI reported.

The accused, identified as Vishal Kumar Metre, was taken into custody after police found evidence suggesting he had been communicating with Bhatti through WhatsApp and Instagram. According to investigators, the conversations included discussions related to illegal firearms.

Police alleged that Metre had also maintained contact with other Pakistan-based individuals, including Rana Hunain and Nomi Khan. In addition, he was reportedly in communication with Ashu Sharma from Mainpuri in Uttar Pradesh and Raj Bhai, also known as Lucky Singh, from Khargone in Madhya Pradesh. Authorities claim these individuals were linked to illegal arms smuggling and firearm sales networks.

During questioning, Metre initially denied having any association with terrorist organisations or unlawful firearms activities. Investigators said he was also reluctant to surrender his mobile phone before eventually complying with the request.

A preliminary examination of the device allegedly revealed chats and online interactions with Shahzad Bhatti and Rana Hunain through social media and messaging platforms. The findings formed a key part of the investigation that led to his arrest.

Police further alleged that Metre communicated with Nomi Khan regarding the illicit smuggling and sale of firearms. Investigators are examining the nature and extent of these exchanges as part of the ongoing probe.

According to the First Information Report, Hunain allegedly shared links to WhatsApp channels known as "Rahe Haq" and "RANA BHAI 333", which Metre subsequently joined. Authorities claim he viewed content, including posts and videos, that they described as anti-national and detrimental to India's unity, integrity and sovereignty.

The investigation also found alleged communications between Metre and Ashu Sharma as well as Raj Bhai through WhatsApp and Instagram. Police contend that he had been involved in activities considered prejudicial to national interests since December 2025.

The case has been registered at Khatak Chincholi Police Station under multiple provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. These include Section 18 relating to conspiracy for terrorist acts, Section 20 concerning membership of a terrorist organisation, and Section 39 pertaining to support for terrorist activities.

He has also been booked under Sections 61(2) and 3(5) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, which deal with criminal conspiracy and offences committed with common intent.

The arrest comes amid continued efforts by Indian security and intelligence agencies to monitor online radicalisation, cross-border extremist networks and the use of encrypted communications platforms for recruitment, propaganda and illicit arms-related activities.

Investigators are expected to conduct a detailed forensic examination of the accused's digital devices to determine the full extent of the alleged network and communications.

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India's Peace Plan Emerges as Leading Ukraine Truce Proposal, Says Kyiv

Ukraine has described India's peace initiative as the most comprehensive of four international proposals currently being examined as efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict gather renewed momentum.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha revealed that Kyiv is assessing four separate diplomatic frameworks, submitted by India, Türkiye, Egypt and the United States, aimed at creating conditions for a ceasefire and eventually a broader settlement.

According to Sybiha, India's proposal stands apart because it reflects New Delhi's willingness to take a more active role in facilitating peace between Moscow and Kyiv.

He stated that, among the four initiatives under consideration, the Indian proposal is the most detailed and comprehensive. He also noted that this is the first time India has clearly signalled a readiness to become directly involved in peace efforts.

The remaining proposals continue to be evaluated alongside India's submission as Ukraine considers various pathways towards reducing hostilities.

Turkey and Egypt have jointly proposed a Black Sea grain and agricultural truce. The initiative is particularly significant for Egypt, which relies heavily on Ukrainian grain supplies and has a strong interest in restoring stable maritime exports from the region.

The United States has meanwhile put forward a framework centred on an energy truce. The issue has previously featured in discussions between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and US President Donald Trump.

Sybiha indicated that Ukraine remains open to both an energy-related ceasefire and a Black Sea agricultural truce. Kyiv is also examining the possibility of an unconditional ceasefire along the current line of contact.

The diplomatic developments come as Russian President Vladimir Putin publicly praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's efforts to help bring an end to the conflict.

Speaking on Thursday, Putin said that Modi has consistently raised the issue of ending the war and has repeatedly sought ways to encourage a peaceful resolution.

President Putin described the Indian Prime Minister as a world leader who maintains a neutral position while remaining genuinely interested in seeing the conflict concluded.

He further stated that Modi has advanced constructive ideas aimed at finding mutually acceptable solutions and expressed appreciation for India's approach to encouraging dialogue between the two sides.

The Russian leader also thanked Modi for his continued efforts to promote peace and for advocating an end to the conflict through negotiations as quickly as possible.

Prime Minister Modi has repeatedly maintained that India supports peace, dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable route towards ending the war.

During an interview with Japanese newspaper The Yomiuri Shimbun in August, Modi reiterated that India has adopted a principled and humanitarian position throughout the conflict, a stance he said is respected by both Putin and Zelenskyy.

He noted that both leaders have personally shared their perspectives with him and said India has consistently encouraged diplomatic engagement to achieve a peaceful settlement.

PM Modi also reaffirmed India's readiness to support meaningful efforts directed towards ending the conflict, adding that New Delhi's constructive relations with both countries and other key stakeholders could help strengthen initiatives aimed at securing an early, durable and lasting peace in Ukraine.

The latest remarks from Kyiv and Moscow highlight India's increasingly visible diplomatic role in one of the world's most consequential conflicts, with both sides acknowledging New Delhi's efforts to encourage negotiations and identify practical pathways towards peace.

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Kashi Prepares For Spectacular Three-Day IAF Air Show As PM Modi Expected To Attend

The spiritual city of Kashi is preparing to host a major Indian Air Force (IAF) air show from 24 to 26 October, bringing together military aviation displays and the cultural backdrop of Varanasi’s famed riverfront, PTI reported.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are expected to attend the main event on 25 October.

Ahead of the event, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath chaired a high-level review meeting to assess preparations for the air show, which is scheduled to take place at Namo Ghat. Senior IAF officials, along with district administration and police officials, briefed the Chief Minister on operational planning and venue arrangements.

Officials outlined plans for spectator galleries, grandstands, designated enclosures for distinguished guests, media facilities, entry and exit routes, and security screening points.

Authorities have also developed a sector-wise management strategy to handle the large crowds expected along Namo Ghat and other stretches of the Ganga riverfront.

With substantial public interest anticipated, the Chief Minister directed officials to ensure robust crowd-control measures, smooth traffic circulation, adequate parking facilities and clear zone identification throughout the venue. He stressed that visitor movement must remain organised and convenient at all times.

Adityanath also instructed authorities to provide sufficient drinking water, first-aid services and sanitation facilities for spectators attending the aerial display. Trained police personnel and magistrates are expected to be deployed across designated sectors to support public safety and event management.

Given the likelihood of large numbers of visitors gathering not only at Namo Ghat but also at other prominent Ghats across Kashi, the state government has called for an integrated action plan covering crowd regulation, traffic management, parking operations and movement through both road and water routes.

The Chief Minister emphasised that emergency-response and security drills should be conducted well in advance to ensure all agencies can react swiftly and in coordination if required. He also called for close cooperation among district magistrates across the Varanasi division throughout the three-day event.

The forthcoming air show is expected to create a striking blend of India’s aerial military capabilities and Kashi’s historic heritage, with the Ganga riverfront providing a dramatic setting for the displays. 

Authorities have been instructed to complete all preparations within the prescribed timeframe to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for devotees, tourists and local residents alike.

Additional reports indicate that the event is expected to attract exceptionally large crowds and could feature a range of IAF aircraft in aerial demonstrations over the Ganga, further enhancing Varanasi’s growing profile as a venue for major national events.

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Indian Envoy Says Sheikh Hasina's Arrival In India Was Unforeseen, Rules Out Any Military Involvement

Indian High Commissioner to Bangladesh Dinesh Trivedi has stated that former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina's arrival in New Delhi in 2024 was an unexpected development, stressing that neither the Indian Air Force nor the Indian Army played any role in bringing her to India.

Speaking during the Bay of Bengal Conversation in Dhaka, organised by the Centre for Governance Studies, Trivedi addressed questions surrounding Hasina's legal status in India and continuing demands from Bangladesh seeking her extradition.

Rejecting suggestions of Indian military involvement, Trivedi said Hasina was not transported to India by Indian armed forces. He attributed her arrival to the exceptional political and security circumstances prevailing in Bangladesh at the time, describing the situation as a tragedy in which innocent lives were lost.

According to the Indian envoy, New Delhi was taken by surprise as events unfolded. He recalled that reports initially suggested Hasina was heading to another destination and noted that Indian authorities had not been prepared for her arrival.

Trivedi pointed out that when the aircraft landed in India, Sheikh Hasina was still the serving Prime Minister of Bangladesh. Given the rapidly developing crisis, India had limited options and acted in accordance with what it considered its responsibility as a neighbouring country confronted with an unforeseen humanitarian and political situation.

Questioning what alternative India realistically had, the High Commissioner argued that refusing landing clearance could have significantly altered the course of events at a particularly sensitive moment. He maintained that India responded to circumstances as they existed at that time rather than through any pre-planned arrangement.

The envoy further observed that both India and Bangladesh are democratic nations with functioning legal institutions. He said that issues relating to extradition and other bilateral legal matters are currently being examined through established legal processes in both countries.

The remarks come amid continuing efforts by Bangladesh to secure Hasina's return. The first formal extradition request was submitted by Bangladesh's interim administration in December 2024.

Subsequently, the government led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, which assumed office following the February 2026 general election, has repeatedly renewed the demand.

Bangladesh Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman also raised the issue during discussions with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar earlier this year. The matter was again brought up when Prime Minister Rahman met High Commissioner Trivedi during a courtesy call in August.

Hasina has remained in India since leaving Bangladesh following the political upheaval and unrest that led to the collapse of her government in August 2024.

Her continued presence in India has remained a sensitive issue in India-Bangladesh relations, even as both sides seek to maintain broader diplomatic engagement and cooperation.

Trivedi's latest remarks appear aimed at clarifying India's position, emphasising that New Delhi did not orchestrate Hasina's arrival and instead reacted to rapidly changing circumstances that left little room for alternative decisions at the time.

ANI

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India Lodges Strong Protest And Summons Pakistan's Envoy Over Ferozepur Infiltration And Cross-Border Drug Networks

India has formally summoned the Chargé d’Affaires of the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi and lodged a strong diplomatic protest over what it described as the continued facilitation of illegal cross-border infiltration and the activities of Pakistan-based narcotics networks.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also firmly rejected Pakistan’s allegations relating to a security incident along the International Border in Punjab’s Ferozepur sector on 2 October, describing the claims as “baseless and motivated”.

According to the Indian government, three individuals crossed into Indian territory from Pakistan during the incident. Border Security Force (BSF) personnel repeatedly warned them to turn back and return across the border.

Indian authorities stated that the intruders ignored the warnings and continued advancing towards the border fence. The BSF subsequently engaged them after assessing that they posed an imminent security threat.

During the diplomatic exchange, India informed the Pakistani side that the incident reflected a recurring pattern of cross-border movement by armed narcotics syndicates allegedly operating from Pakistani territory.

New Delhi urged Islamabad to investigate infiltration attempts, drug-smuggling operations and what it termed the possible complicity of Pakistani border-guarding forces in such activities. India called for immediate remedial measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

The MEA further pressed Pakistan to uphold the sanctity of the International Border, strictly adhere to existing bilateral arrangements and ensure effective control measures to stop unauthorised cross-border movement from its side.

India also requested that Pakistan direct its security forces to take definitive action aimed at preventing a recurrence of such incidents, underscoring New Delhi’s concerns about infiltration routes that have frequently been linked to narcotics trafficking networks operating along the Punjab frontier.

The diplomatic protest came amid a fresh exchange between the two neighbours over the border incident, with both sides presenting sharply different accounts of the events.

However, India maintained that the actions taken by the BSF were a direct response to an immediate security threat arising from the illegal entry and continued advance of the individuals involved.

ANI

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Indian Navy To Commission INS Samarthak And INS Mangrol To Strengthen Undersea Warfare And Weapons Testing Capability

The Indian Navy is preparing to commission two new vessels this month, INS Samarthak and INS Mangrol, in a move aimed at strengthening indigenous weapons testing capabilities and enhancing anti-submarine operations close to India's coastline, The New Indian Express reported.

The induction comes at a time of growing underwater military activity in the Indian Ocean region and follows Pakistan's continued expansion of its submarine arm through the acquisition of eight Chinese-origin Hangor-class submarines.

Pakistan recently conducted an anti-ship cruise missile firing from PNS Hangor, underlining its long-standing reliance on submarines as a key sea-denial capability against India.

Against this backdrop, the Indian Navy is accelerating efforts to enhance anti-submarine warfare and broader undersea combat capabilities. Former Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi had previously highlighted anti-submarine and undersea warfare as a major operational priority, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently stressed that India's military preparedness must be achieved before any crisis materialises.

INS Samarthak, built by Larsen & Toubro, is the Navy's first Multi-Purpose Vessel and the lead ship of a two-vessel class. The vessel has been designed primarily as a dedicated trials and evaluation platform, enabling the Navy to test indigenous weapons, sensors and anti-submarine warfare systems without diverting frontline combatants from operational duties.

The vessel will support the testing of torpedoes and other under-development underwater weapons, recover and deploy targets during anti-submarine exercises, and facilitate trials involving unmanned systems. By assuming these responsibilities, Samarthak will allow operational warships to remain focused on deterrence and mission readiness.

Beyond its trials role, Samarthak will undertake maritime surveillance, offshore patrols, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, pollution-response missions and support activities across India's maritime domain.

The vessel is also part of India's drive towards greater self-reliance in naval capability development and indigenous defence manufacturing. Publicly available information indicates the ship was built with a high level of indigenous content and was conceived as a versatile support asset capable of serving multiple naval requirements.

INS Mangrol, meanwhile, is the third vessel of the Mahe-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft series built by Cochin Shipyard Limited. Once commissioned, it will become the seventh vessel from the planned fleet of 16 shallow-water anti-submarine platforms entering service.

Designed specifically to detect, track and engage hostile submarines operating in coastal and littoral waters, Mangrol is equipped with indigenous underwater sensors, lightweight torpedoes, anti-submarine rocket systems and torpedo decoy launchers. The vessel also possesses mine-laying capability, further expanding its operational utility.

The addition of Mangrol is expected to strengthen the protection of high-value naval and commercial assets operating along India's coastline. Its induction also reflects increasing concern regarding the growing submarine presence in the region, particularly as China continues to supply advanced underwater platforms to several countries in India's neighbourhood.

A significant capability gap nevertheless remains. While Pakistan's Hangor-class submarines feature Air Independent Propulsion technology that allows extended underwater endurance and reduced detectability, India has yet to field an operational submarine equipped with indigenous AIP capability.

This is expected to change through a combination of future acquisitions and upgrades. The six submarines planned under Project-75I, which are slated to be constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders in partnership with Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems, are intended to incorporate AIP systems from the outset. However, the program is still awaiting approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security, and the first submarine is not expected to enter service until several years after contract signature.

In the interim, INS Khanderi, the second Kalvari-class submarine, is scheduled to become the first Indian Navy submarine fitted with DRDO's indigenous fuel-cell-based AIP system. Following integration and trials, the upgraded submarine is expected to enter operational service around the middle of 2028.

The commissioning of Samarthak and Mangrol forms part of a much broader naval modernisation effort. The Navy is working towards the induction of 18 warships during the year, a figure that would represent one of the largest annual fleet expansions in its history.

The Defence Acquisition Council has also granted in-principle approval for 74 additional naval platforms, including nine submarines, signalling sustained investment in maritime capability growth.

At the same time, the Navy continues to closely monitor Chinese research vessels operating across the Indian Ocean Region. Such ships routinely collect hydrographic, oceanographic and seabed-mapping data that could potentially support future submarine operations and underwater military activities.

India currently operates a fleet of roughly 145 warships and aims to expand that force to around 200 vessels over the coming decade. Under Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, who assumed command in May, the service remains focused on modernisation, indigenous capability development and strengthening readiness across all domains of maritime warfare.

Agencies

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Yemeni Forces Hammer Houthi Strongholds After Rebels Claim Strike On Riyadh Aramco Facilities

Yemen's internationally recognised government has announced a fresh wave of military strikes against Houthi-controlled positions in Sanaa and Saada, signalling another significant escalation in the country's long-running conflict.

The operation was confirmed by the media centre of Yemen's Armed Forces, which stated that government-aligned forces were targeting what they described as key Houthi military assets and infrastructure.

According to the official military spokesperson, Yemeni forces are conducting what were described as "painful strikes" against vital Houthi targets in both Sanaa and Saada, areas that have long served as major centres of Houthi influence and operations.

The spokesperson also warned that the campaign would continue, insisting that Houthi military capabilities would remain under sustained attack until they were neutralised.

The announcement came shortly after the Houthi movement claimed responsibility for a missile and drone operation against Saudi Aramco facilities in Riyadh, the Saudi capital.

Houthi military spokesperson Brigadier General Yahya Saree said the operation was carried out using ballistic missiles and drones, describing it as retaliation for recent Saudi military actions targeting Sanaa and other Houthi-held territories.

The group alleged that Saudi-led strikes had intensified sharply over the previous 24 hours, claiming that around 60 air and missile attacks had been conducted during that period. The Houthis further asserted that the cumulative number of attacks since the latest phase of escalation had reached 1,410.

The rebel group characterised its operation against Aramco as a "qualitative military operation" and claimed that the strikes successfully hit their intended objectives.

According to the Houthi statement, the attacks were precise and direct, resulting in fires breaking out at the targeted facilities in Riyadh. Saudi authorities had not publicly confirmed the extent of the claimed damage at the time of the statements.

The Houthis also issued warnings of further military action, arguing that continued attacks on Yemeni territory would trigger additional retaliatory measures.

The group stated that it would pursue what it called an approach of "escalation for escalation" and "a siege for a siege", while continuing to target Saudi military concentrations until military operations against Yemen cease and restrictions imposed on the country are lifted.

The latest exchange reflects the rapidly deteriorating security situation between the Houthis, Yemen's internationally recognised government and Saudi Arabia.

The conflict, which had witnessed periods of reduced hostilities following the 2022 truce, has seen renewed tensions in recent months.

The Houthis continue to control large parts of north-western Yemen, including Sanaa, while the internationally recognised government maintains control over significant areas in the south and east.

Both sides are now accusing each other of intensifying military operations, raising concerns that the confrontation could further destabilise Yemen and heighten regional security risks across the Arabian Peninsula and key Red Sea maritime corridors.

ANI

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