India Weighs Rolls-Royce Against Safran For AMCA Engine Sovereignty

Rolls-Royce offers India a cleaner-sheet sixth-generation turbofan design with adaptive cycle technology and full intellectual property transfer, while Safran proposes an upgraded M88 derivative with proven service but limited future scalability.

For the Indian Air Force’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft, Rolls-Royce’s proposal appears more future-proof, though Safran’s offer leverages existing Rafale experience and faster timelines.

India’s Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program requires a powerful 110–130kN class turbofan engine to enable supercruise, stealth, and integration with future systems such as drone swarms and directed-energy weapons.

Both Rolls-Royce and Safran have submitted proposals to co-develop this critical powerplant with India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation and Gas Turbine Research Establishment.

Safran’s proposal builds upon its M88 engine, currently powering the Rafale fighters in Indian service. The French company has offered an enhanced derivative with incremental improvements, including adaptive airflow modulation and variable geometry nozzles.

Safran has also pledged full technology transfer and intellectual property rights, a significant shift from earlier reluctance during the Kaveri revival program. Its advantage lies in proven reliability, existing offsets from the Rafale deal, and a major Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul facility in Hyderabad that could serve as a hub for Indian aerospace.

However, analysts caution that the M88 architecture, designed for lighter airframes, may struggle to meet fifth-generation benchmarks such as sustained supercruise and low infrared signature.

Rolls-Royce, by contrast, has proposed a clean-sheet sixth-generation engine design. This includes a Variable Cycle Engine capable of switching bypass ratios mid-flight, enhancing both combat performance and fuel efficiency.

The British firm has already bench-tested adaptive cycle components under the Global Combat Air Program with Japan and Italy, giving it a technological edge. Its offer also includes a modular core design scalable to engines delivering 140–280 kN thrust, suitable for heavy fighters, transport aircraft, and even civil aviation.

Crucially, Rolls-Royce has committed to 100% technology transfer and full intellectual property ownership for India, ensuring strategic autonomy. The company has also proposed establishing a domestic aero gas turbine complex, reducing long-term costs and embedding India in the global supply chain.

The choice between Safran and Rolls-Royce is therefore a strategic one. Safran offers speed, familiarity, and integration with India’s Rafale ecosystem, while Rolls-Royce promises a leap into sixth-generation propulsion with unmatched sovereignty.

India’s Ministry of Defence is expected to finalise its recommendation by the end of 2025, a decision that will shape the future of Indian aerospace for decades.

The Math

Parameter	Rolls-Royce-New 6th-Gen Design	Safran-Enhanced M88 Derivative
Powertrain/Engine	New 6th-gen design	Enhanced M88 derivative
Thrust	110–130 kN scalable to 280 kN	110–125 kN
Cycle Tech	Variable Cycle Engine	Adaptive airflow modulation
IPR & ToT	100% transfer, full ownership	Full transfer, revised from partial
Development Stage	Bench-tested adaptive components	Early demonstrator phase
Stealth Features	Low IR signature, supercruise	Limited supercruise capability
Domestic Ecosystem	Proposed aero gas turbine complex	Hyderabad MRO facility
Scalability	Modular core for multiple platforms	Primarily fighter-focused
Partnerships	GCAP with UK-Japan-Italy	FCAS with France-Germany-Spain

In conclusion, the most strategically advantageous option for India lies with Rolls-Royce. While Safran’s proposal offers familiarity, proven reliability, and faster integration due to its Rafale ecosystem, it remains constrained by the M88 architecture, which may not fully meet the long-term demands of fifth-generation and sixth-generation combat aircraft. 

Rolls-Royce, on the other hand, provides a clean-sheet sixth-generation turbofan design with adaptive cycle technology, scalability across thrust classes, and complete intellectual property transfer.

This ensures India’s sovereignty in engine development, embeds the country within the global supply chain, and future-proofs the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft program. Therefore, Rolls-Royce’s offer represents the more future-ready and strategically autonomous choice for the Indian Air Force.

IDN (With Agency Inputs)

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India Poised To Finalise $230 Million M777 Howitzer Support Deal With United States Say Ambassador Sergio Gor

India is set to finalise a $230 million sustainment package with the United States for its M777A2 ultra‑light howitzers, a move confirmed by U.S. Ambassador Sergio Gor. The deal will ensure long‑term maintenance of these artillery systems and deepen Indo‑U.S. defence cooperation.

The United States has announced that the package is ready to be concluded. Ambassador Sergio Gor emphasised that the agreement will help India retain a critical defence capability while advancing broader strategic ties. He noted that the defence partnership between the two nations continues to grow, with daily cooperation across multiple domains.

The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) issued a notification on 17 June confirming the proposed sale. According to the DSCA, the package is valued at $230 million and includes spares, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives, depot capability, ancillary equipment, and other logistics and program support elements.

These provisions are designed to ensure the Indian Army can maintain operational readiness of its M777A2 systems.

India inducted the M777A2 ultra‑light howitzers under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program in 2017. The artillery guns, supplied by BAE Systems under a $542 million contract, are particularly suited for deployment in mountainous and high‑altitude terrain. Their lightweight design allows rapid transport by air, land, or sea, making them a crucial asset for India’s border defence posture.

The proposed sustainment package follows earlier approvals by the U.S. State Department in May, which cleared potential sales worth over $428 million. These included long‑term support for India’s AH‑64E Apache attack helicopters and additional sustainment for the M777A2 systems. Together, these deals underscore Washington’s commitment to strengthening India’s defence capabilities and strategic role in the Indo‑Pacific.

The DSCA highlighted that the package will enhance India’s ability to meet current and emerging security challenges, strengthen homeland defence, and deter regional threats. It also stressed that the sale will not alter the basic military balance in the region and will have no adverse impact on U.S. defence readiness. The principal contractor for the M777 support program will be BAE Systems, based in Cumbria, UK.

India’s M777A2 howitzers have already proven their worth in operational scenarios, particularly in high‑altitude regions where mobility and rapid deployment are essential. The sustainment package will ensure that these artillery systems remain combat‑ready, with adequate spares, technical support, and training for personnel. This will significantly bolster India’s long‑range firepower and readiness along sensitive borders.

The announcement also reflects the broader trajectory of Indo‑U.S. defence cooperation. Beyond artillery and helicopters, both nations are working on joint initiatives in unmanned systems, maritime security, and advanced technology transfers. The sustainment deal is therefore not just about equipment maintenance but also about reinforcing strategic trust and interoperability between the two militaries.

Agencies

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Exicom Successfully Demonstrates IP Mesh Networking With Indian Army

Mumbai-based Exicom has successfully demonstrated its advanced IP Mesh Networking system with the Indian Army, achieving reliable communication over distances of 5 to 15 kilometres in varied terrains. This marks a significant step in India’s defence modernisation drive, enhancing secure battlefield connectivity and situational awareness.

Exicom’s trials with the Indian Army validated the robustness of its IP Mesh radios, which maintained seamless communication across diverse environments including dense forests, hilly regions, and open fields. The system proved effective in both line-of-sight and non-line-of-sight conditions, ensuring uninterrupted voice, video, and data transmission.

The IP Mesh technology is designed to be infrastructure-less and host-less, making it suitable for deployment across land, air, and sea platforms. During the trials, soldiers equipped with Exicom radios were able to share critical information in real time, coordinate operations, and maintain situational awareness even while on the move.

The network’s self-healing and adaptive capabilities ensured that connectivity was sustained despite dynamic battlefield conditions.

Exicom’s solution integrates seamlessly with existing Indian Army networks such as the Army Data Network (ADN) and AWAN, providing interoperability with both legacy and modern systems. The radios are secured with AES 256-bit encryption, offering protection against interception and ensuring confidentiality of communications. Features such as Low Probability of Intercept (LPI), Low Probability of Detection (LPD), and Low Probability of Exploitation (LPE) further enhance operational security.

The trials also highlighted the system’s scalability, enabling convoy commanders and tactical units to maintain fluid communication along extended routes. This capability is vital for modern battlefield operations where mobility and rapid response are critical. The technology supports integration with unmanned systems, drones, and autonomous vehicles, thereby extending its utility beyond conventional troop communication.

Exicom has been actively contributing to India’s defence modernisation under the Make in India initiative. Its collaboration with Domo Tactical Communications (DTC) has enabled the development of indigenous IP Mesh radios tailored to the needs of Indian forces.

These radios are versatile, available in handheld, body-worn, vehicle-mounted, and drone-based repeater configurations, ensuring adaptability across tactical levels.

The successful trials underscore the importance of advanced communication systems in digitising the battlefield. Reliable mesh networking enhances command and control, logistics, intelligence preparation, and medical support within tactical battle areas. By ensuring secure and scalable connectivity, Exicom’s technology strengthens India’s defensive posture and supports the operational effectiveness of its armed forces.

The achievement also reflects India’s growing emphasis on indigenous defence technologies that reduce reliance on foreign systems. Exicom’s IP Mesh Networking solution represents a critical step towards building a self-reliant and technologically advanced military communication infrastructure.

Agencies

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Kaiga Nuclear Power Plant's Units 5 And 6 Achieve Milestone With Successful End Shield Unloading

The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited has achieved a major milestone at Kaiga Units 5 and 6 with the flawless unloading of the first End Shield, a massive 107‑ton reactor component manufactured by Larsen & Toubro at Hazira, reported NPCIL on its X handle.

This marks the first major equipment installation for the reactor core of India’s indigenous 700 MWe Pressurised Heavy Water Reactors, advancing the project towards commissioning.

The End Shield, measuring approximately 9.3 metres in both height and width with a thickness of 0.920 metres, is a critical component of the PHWR design. It provides structural support to coolant channel assemblies, facilitates on‑power refuelling, and forms an integral part of the Calandria Vault enclosure. 

Its successful arrival and unloading represent a defining step in the construction sequence of Kaiga Units 5 and 6.

The unloading operation was executed with meticulous planning and seamless coordination. A 500‑ton crane, a 70‑ton crane, and a 10‑ton chain pulley block were employed to handle the complex manoeuvre. The flawless execution of this task highlights the engineering expertise and precision of NPCIL and its partners, ensuring that the massive component was safely positioned without incident.

This achievement follows the First Pour of Concrete for Kaiga Units 5 and 6, which took place on 1 March 2026, formally marking the start of construction activities. The project is being executed by MEIL Group for NPCIL under the Make in India initiative, using domestically developed reactor technology.

These 700 MWe PHWRs are part of India’s broader nuclear expansion program aimed at boosting low‑carbon electricity generation and strengthening long‑term energy security.

The End Shield is the first major reactor core equipment to be installed, symbolising the transition from civil works to critical nuclear engineering. Its role in ensuring reactor safety and operational efficiency underscores its importance in the overall design.

The PHWR technology, which forms the backbone of India’s indigenous nuclear program, is already deployed across several NPCIL reactors nationwide, and Kaiga Units 5 and 6 will further consolidate this capability.

The milestone also reflects India’s growing confidence in indigenous nuclear engineering and infrastructure. By successfully manufacturing and handling such a massive and complex component domestically, India demonstrates its ability to advance nuclear technology without reliance on foreign suppliers. This strengthens the nation’s clean energy future and reinforces its commitment to sustainable development.

When fully commissioned, Kaiga Units 5 and 6 will add significant capacity to India’s nuclear power fleet, contributing to the country’s goal of expanding reliable, low‑carbon energy sources. The achievement of this milestone is therefore not only a technical success but also a strategic step in India’s energy transition.

NPCIL X Handle

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China's Foreign Minister Wang Urges India, China To Honour Each Other’s Core Interests

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s meeting with Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval in New Delhi underscored the urgency of respecting each other’s core interests and advancing leader-level consensus.

Both sides agreed that India and China are partners, not rivals, and should accelerate cooperation to stabilise ties and contribute to the modernisation of the Global South.

Wang Yi emphasised that bilateral relations have returned to the track of recovery and improvement. He noted that the leaders of both countries had reached a strategic consensus that India and China are partners, which serves as a vital guarantee for the healthy and stable development of relations.

He urged both sides to take concrete steps to implement this consensus, stressing that cooperation should be viewed not only from a bilateral perspective but also from a global one.

During the meeting, Wang highlighted that it is imperative to respect each other’s core interests and properly handle sensitive issues. He specifically mentioned the need to place the border issue in its appropriate position so that it does not overshadow the broader relationship.

He called for accelerating the resumption of stalled dialogue mechanisms and promoting exchanges in trade, finance, law enforcement, and media. He also underlined the importance of guiding public opinion to foster a correct understanding and build a solid social foundation for improved ties.

Ajit Doval, for his part, reiterated that stable, predictable, and constructive bilateral relations are essential for building trust and mutual understanding. The Ministry of External Affairs described the discussions as constructive and forward-looking, noting progress towards gradual normalisation.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the BRICS National Security Advisers’ conference in New Delhi, where India currently holds the chair.

This engagement comes after years of strained relations following the Galwan Valley clashes in 2020, which triggered a prolonged military standoff.

Over the past year, both nations have rolled out measures to rebuild ties, including the Special Representatives dialogue in August last year that produced outcomes aimed at maintaining peace along the border.

Wang Yi also stressed that India and China, as the two largest developing economies with the world’s largest populations, should accelerate cooperation to promote their respective development and revitalisation. He linked this to the broader modernisation process of the Global South, positioning India-China cooperation as a cornerstone for multipolarity in Asia and beyond.

The meeting also set the stage for the upcoming 25th round of boundary negotiations later this year, which will further address mechanisms for border management and cooperation.

This reflects a deliberate effort by both sides to move away from confrontation and towards structured dialogue, signalling cautious optimism in the trajectory of bilateral relations.

PTI

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Indian Air Force Document Confirms All 36 Rafales Operational, Pakistan’s Loss Claims Busted Again

Pakistan’s claims of Rafale losses during Operation Sindoor have been decisively refuted once again, with an official Indian Air Force document confirming that all 36 Rafale jets acquired under the 2016 deal remain in service, according to a report by India Today.

The June 2026 Request for Proposal for bridge support covers the entire fleet, leaving no room for speculation about combat losses. IDN had reported this development on 23-June-2026.

The Indian Air Force has issued a Request for Proposal in June 2026 seeking a five‑month bridge support package for all 36 Rafale fighter aircraft. This package includes maintenance, logistics and technical support, ensuring uninterrupted operations until a long‑term support contract is finalised.

The proposal anticipates around 2,250 flying hours during this period, underscoring the operational readiness of the fleet.

The inclusion of all 36 aircraft in the tender directly undermines Pakistan’s repeated assertions that several Rafales were destroyed during Operation Sindoor. Had any aircraft been lost, the fleet strength reflected in the maintenance proposal would have been lower. This official record therefore provides clear evidence that the Rafale fleet remains intact.

Pakistan had attempted to bolster its narrative through official statements and coordinated social media campaigns, claiming that its forces shot down multiple Rafales during India’s retaliatory strikes following the Pahalgam terrorist attack. India consistently dismissed these claims as disinformation, accusing Pakistan of running a propaganda campaign to undermine the success of the operation.

Further evidence had already weakened Islamabad’s assertions. Several Rafale aircraft bearing tail numbers that Pakistani accounts had claimed were “destroyed” were later photographed and recorded participating in operational flying. This visual proof reinforced India’s position that no Rafale was lost in combat.

The Rafale fleet played a central role during Operation Sindoor, executing precision strikes against targets inside Pakistan. Defence officials have maintained that the aircraft performed exactly as intended, delivering accurate results and sustaining no losses. The June 2026 tender now adds another layer of official confirmation to this narrative.

Meanwhile, India is pressing ahead with its ambitious Multi‑Role Fighter Aircraft (MRFA) program, under which it plans to procure 114 additional Rafale jets from Dassault Aviation. Discussions on this acquisition were held recently between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron.

The framework emphasises Make in India principles, with co‑development, co‑design and co‑production forming the backbone of future defence cooperation.

Under the MRFA program, 18 Rafales will be delivered in flyaway condition, while the remaining aircraft will be manufactured in India with approximately 50 per cent indigenous content. This arrangement marks a significant step towards self‑reliance in defence production and strengthens India’s strategic partnership with France.

The latest developments therefore deliver a decisive rebuttal to Pakistan’s claims, reaffirming both the operational readiness of India’s Rafale fleet and the country’s long‑term commitment to expanding its air combat capabilities through indigenous production and international collaboration.

Agencies

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Japan’s Proterial To Invest ₹2,250 Crore In Rare Earth Magnet Facility In Andhra Pradesh

Japan’s Proterial, a global leader in advanced materials, is set to establish a rare earth permanent magnet manufacturing facility in Andhra Pradesh. The investment, valued at ₹2,250 crore, represents a significant milestone in India’s efforts to build a local rare earth value chain and reduce dependence on Chinese sources.

The facility will be located at Achutapuram in Anakapalli district. It is designed to produce 1.2 kilo tonnes per annum of sintered neodymium‑iron‑boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets. These magnets are among the most critical components used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, industrial motors, electronics, aerospace, and defence systems.

The State Investment Promotion Committee approved the project at its meeting last week. This approval underscores the strategic importance of the initiative, which aligns with India’s broader push to strengthen indigenous manufacturing capabilities in sectors vital to national security and economic growth.

The timing of the investment is particularly significant. India has been actively seeking to reduce reliance on imported rare earth magnets, especially given the global supply chain vulnerabilities exposed by China’s dominance in the sector. By hosting a Japanese facility, India is diversifying its sources while simultaneously building domestic expertise.

The central government has recently sanctioned a dedicated incentive programme to encourage domestic production of sintered rare earth permanent magnets. This policy highlights the national importance of the sector and provides a supportive framework for projects such as Proterial’s.

The magnets to be produced in Andhra Pradesh will play a crucial role in India’s electric mobility mission, renewable energy expansion, and defence modernisation.

With demand for NdFeB magnets expected to rise sharply in the coming decade, the facility will help India secure critical supply chains while fostering technology transfer and industrial collaboration.

This development also reflects the strengthening of Indo‑Japanese industrial cooperation. Japan’s expertise in advanced materials and India’s growing market potential create a mutually beneficial partnership. The project is expected to generate employment, enhance local skills, and contribute to Andhra Pradesh’s industrial growth.

Agencies

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EAM Jaishankar Reviews Progress of Landmark India-Mongolia Refinery Project

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the Mongol Refinery Project in Dornogobi aimag on 23 June 2026, reviewing its progress alongside Mongolian leaders.

The refinery, funded by India’s USD 1.7 billion Line of Credit, has reached major milestones including the arrival of its 58.4-metre distillation tower and near-completion of a 520 km crude oil pipeline.

Jaishankar toured the construction site with Mongolian Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh and Industry and Mining Minister Gongor Damdinnyam. He interacted with both Indian and Mongolian workers, thanking them for their dedication under challenging conditions. He emphasised that the project symbolises the enduring friendship between India and Mongolia and is steadily advancing towards completion.

The refinery project is being implemented by Mongol Oil Refinery LLC, with Executive Director D Altantsetseg briefing Jaishankar on the latest developments. Equipment, steel structures, and refinery components have already arrived at the site, with assembly work underway.

The distillation tower, weighing 245 tonnes, is a critical unit for separating crude oil into essential products such as petrol, diesel, and kerosene. Its installation marks a decisive step towards operational readiness.

The crude oil pipeline, stretching over 520 kilometres, is reported to be nearly 90 per cent complete. Once operational, the refinery will significantly reduce Mongolia’s reliance on imported petroleum products, strengthen its energy security, and stabilise domestic fuel prices. It is also expected to generate skilled employment and stimulate regional development in Dornogobi aimag.

Earlier, Jaishankar held high-level meetings in Ulaanbaatar. He met the Speaker of the State Great Khural, Sandag Byambatsogt, who expressed strong support for India-Mongolia parliamentary exchanges. Jaishankar reiterated India’s commitment to deepening people-centric development partnerships. He also engaged with Education Minister L Enkh-Amgalan and former President N Enkhbayar, describing these interactions as vital for strengthening bilateral ties.

On arrival in Mongolia on 22 June, Jaishankar called on President Khurelsukh Ukhnaa, conveying greetings from President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He noted the shared vision between the two leaders, highlighting that the greatest friendship is spiritual friendship.

He also visited the Gandan Monastery, meeting Chief Abbot Khamba Nomun Khan Geshe Lharampa D Javzandorj, underscoring the cultural and spiritual bonds between the two nations.

Jaishankar’s discussions with Foreign Minister Battsetseg Batmunkh focused on transforming cordial ties into tangible economic outcomes. Key areas included mining, clean energy, agricultural processing, education, security, and cooperation in multilateral forums. His engagements reflect India’s broader diplomatic outreach in Asia, consolidating partnerships with like-minded nations.

The refinery visit forms part of Jaishankar’s four-day diplomatic tour covering Mongolia and South Korea from 22 to 25 June. In South Korea, he is scheduled to meet Foreign Minister Cho Hyun and deliver the keynote speech at the Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity.

ANI

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Japan PM Sanae Takaichi To Visit India, Likely To Hold Summit Talks With PM Modi In Delhi From July 1–3

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is expected to make her first official visit to India from 1–3 July 2026, with the summit now most likely to be held in New Delhi due to logistical constraints, despite earlier discussions about Guwahati.

The visit will feature high-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, accompanied by a large Japanese business delegation, and will focus on strengthening economic, technological, and security cooperation.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is scheduled to arrive in India next month for her inaugural official visit since assuming office in late 2025. The visit is planned between 1 and 3 July. Initially, Guwahati in Assam was considered as a possible venue, but sources have confirmed that logistical challenges and her tight domestic schedule make New Delhi the more feasible location.

Officials explained that the narrow window between her arrival and departure, combined with the complexities of arranging a summit outside the capital, led to the decision to hold the meetings in Delhi. This arrangement also allows both sides to incorporate programming elements designed to strengthen bilateral ties.

Last week, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had publicly stated that there was a possibility of the Japanese Prime Minister visiting Guwahati on 1 July to hold summit-level talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

He reiterated this possibility in a post on X, highlighting Guwahati’s potential role in hosting the summit. Japanese media, including Nikkei, had also reported that Takaichi might travel to Assam, accompanied by representatives from more than 50 Japanese companies and organisations.

Reports from NHK indicate that during her meeting with Prime Minister Modi, the two leaders are expected to discuss concrete measures for cooperation in diverse fields, including security and the economy.

These discussions will build upon the Japan-India joint vision for the next decade, which was announced during Modi’s visit to Japan last year.

The agenda is likely to include collaboration in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, automobiles, defence, and supply-chain resilience, reflecting shared concerns over Indo-Pacific stability.

The visit comes shortly after Modi and Takaichi met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France earlier this month. Modi emphasised that India and Japan will continue to deepen ties across multiple sectors, with trade and investment remaining priority areas. Japan remains one of India’s most significant development partners, with investments in high-speed rail, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

Sanae Takaichi, a protégé of the late Shinzo Abe, is Japan’s first woman Prime Minister. Her leadership carries symbolic continuity, as Abe himself was scheduled to visit Guwahati in December 2019 for summit talks with Modi, but his trip was postponed. Takaichi’s visit thus represents both a strategic and symbolic milestone in India-Japan relations.

ANI

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India And China Note Progress Towards Normalisation As Ajit Doval Meets Wang Yi In Delhi

India and China have taken another step towards stabilising their strained relationship, with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi meeting in New Delhi on 22 June 2026 on the sidelines of the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting.

Both sides noted progress towards gradual normalisation, emphasising the importance of structured dialogue and constructive engagement.

Ajit Doval met Wang Yi in the national capital during the BRICS NSAs’ Meeting. The Ministry of External Affairs confirmed that the two leaders reviewed recent developments in bilateral relations and acknowledged progress towards gradual normalisation.

Doval stressed that stable, predictable and constructive bilateral relations are essential for building trust and deeper understanding between the two countries. The discussions were described as constructive and forward-looking.

Earlier in May, India and China held the 35th Meeting of the Working Mechanism for Consultation and Coordination on Border Affairs in Beijing. Both sides agreed to work together to make substantive preparations for the next round of talks between the Special Representatives, which will be the 25th round of boundary negotiations later this year.

The Chinese readout of the meeting highlighted Wang Yi’s call for accelerating the resumption of stalled dialogue mechanisms, including those related to trade, finance and cultural exchanges. He emphasised the need to respect each other’s core interests, properly handle sensitive issues, and ensure that the boundary question does not overshadow the broader relationship.

Wang Yi also underscored that India is an important neighbour of China and expressed Beijing’s support for India’s role as chair of BRICS. He noted that both countries, as major economies of the Global South, should strengthen cooperation not only bilaterally but also from a global perspective.

The meeting comes against the backdrop of cautious rebuilding of ties following the Galwan Valley clash in 2020, which severely strained relations. Since 2024, both nations have pursued phased disengagement and resumed structured dialogue.

High-level meetings, including those between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Xi Jinping at international summits, have reinforced the view that India and China are development partners, not rivals, and that differences should not escalate into disputes.

The thaw has been gradual, with even basic measures such as resumption of direct flights taking months of negotiation. Nevertheless, the latest engagement between Doval and Wang Yi signals a shared commitment to dialogue and stability, even as sensitive issues remain unresolved.

The BRICS NSAs’ Meeting, chaired by India, also provided a platform for Doval to engage with counterparts from Iran and Brazil, reflecting India’s broader diplomatic outreach under its leadership of the grouping. The conclave focused on non-traditional security challenges, regional stability, and cooperation among emerging economies.

The Ministry of External Affairs reiterated that stable cooperation between India and China, representing 2.8 billion people, is vital for the growth of both nations and for shaping a multipolar world and Asia in the 21st century.

Agencies

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India Welcomes US‑Iran Peace Deal, NSA Doval Sees Boost To Energy Security And Trade

NSA Ajit Doval with his counterparts from BRICS countries

India has formally welcomed the US‑Iran peace deal, with NSA Ajit Doval emphasising that the agreement brings “cautious optimism” for energy security, trade stability, and freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.

His remarks at the BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting underline India’s strategic interest in uninterrupted maritime access and secure supply chains.

India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval stated that the Memorandum of Understanding between Washington and Tehran is a positive step that could ease global supply chain bottlenecks. He noted that shortages in fertilisers, chemicals, and other essential commodities may now be alleviated, which is critical for India’s agricultural and industrial sectors.

Speaking at the 16th BRICS National Security Advisers’ Meeting, Doval explained that the opening of the Strait of Hormuz is a welcome development. He stressed that freedom of navigation in this strategic waterway will enhance regional and global economic prosperity, benefiting countries far beyond West Asia.

Negotiators from the United States and Iran met in Switzerland, to conduct technical talks on the peace deal. US Vice President JD Vance described progress on multiple fronts, including mechanisms to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open and efforts to address fighting between Israel and Hezbollah in southern Lebanon, where a ceasefire appeared to be holding.

Doval highlighted that India must remain aware of new security threats and challenges. He pointed to disruptive technologies, cyber threats, and unconventional terrorism as emerging risks that transcend national borders. He urged BRICS nations to collectively address these non‑traditional challenges.

The NSA’s remarks follow Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s earlier statement welcoming the peace negotiations. Modi had emphasised that the conflict in West Asia caused serious economic disruptions and loss of life, and expressed hope that the agreement would restore peace and stability while ensuring freedom of navigation and commerce.

The Ministry of External Affairs has consistently advocated dialogue and diplomacy as the only path to lasting peace in West Asia. India has stressed that de‑escalation and sustained negotiations are essential to secure uninterrupted trade flows through the Strait of Hormuz, which is vital for India’s energy imports and global commerce.

The MoU signed by US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on 17 June ended nearly four months of conflict and established a 60‑day negotiation period to resolve outstanding issues, including Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement has already had significant economic impacts, with oil prices stabilising and global markets responding positively.

India’s cautious optimism reflects both opportunity and prudence. While the deal promises improved energy security and trade stability, unresolved issues such as nuclear oversight and regional militancy remain potential flashpoints. Doval’s balanced tone signals India’s readiness to benefit from the peace process while remaining vigilant against future instability.

Agencies

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CISF Expands Mandate To Counter Cyber And Drone Threats As Security Risks Evolve

The Central Industrial Security Force is intensifying its preparedness against modern hybrid threats. Director General Praveer Ranjan underscored the force’s readiness to counter cyber attacks, digital sabotage, and drone incursions, reflecting the evolving nature of national security challenges.

His remarks came during the foundation stone laying ceremony of the new CISF headquarters at the CGO complex on Lodhi Road, officiated by Minister of State Bandi Sanjay Kumar.

Ranjan highlighted that the CISF has been entrusted with new responsibilities by the Ministry of Home Affairs. Among the most significant is its designation as a Recognised Security Organisation under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code.

This authorisation allows the CISF to conduct security audits and assessments of major ports, thereby strengthening India’s maritime security architecture and contributing to the protection of the Blue Economy.

The DG also noted that the CISF has assumed responsibility for managing high-security correctional facilities in Jammu & Kashmir. This expansion of its mandate underscores the force’s growing role in internal security management, extending beyond its traditional remit of industrial and aviation security.

The CISF’s evolving responsibilities reflect the broader transformation of India’s security landscape. With cyber warfare, drone technology, and digital sabotage emerging as critical threats, the force is adapting its operational doctrine to meet these challenges. The integration of advanced surveillance systems, cyber defence protocols, and counter-drone technologies is becoming central to its strategy.

India’s Blue Economy, which encompasses maritime trade, port infrastructure, and offshore energy, is increasingly vulnerable to cyber and drone-related risks. By taking on the role of a Recognised Security Organisation, the CISF is positioned to safeguard critical maritime assets, ensuring resilience against both conventional and asymmetric threats.

The force’s involvement in correctional facility management in Jammu & Kashmir also signals a strategic shift. These facilities are often targeted by hostile elements, and CISF’s deployment ensures robust security measures, combining physical fortification with advanced monitoring systems.

The laying of the foundation stone for the new CISF headquarters symbolises not only infrastructural expansion but also institutional modernisation. It represents the force’s commitment to evolving in tandem with the complex security environment of the 21st century.

Agencies

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India Seeks Tariff Edge In Final Push For US Trade Deal

India is pressing for a tariff advantage over rivals like Vietnam and Bangladesh as it moves to finalise a trade deal with the United States, with talks led by USTR Jamieson Greer in New Delhi this week. 

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has emphasised that India wants comparative benefits to ensure its exporters gain, while also seeking assurances against future US tariff actions.

India is determined to secure better trade terms than other Asian economies. The visit of US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer on Tuesday for two days of negotiations comes at a critical juncture, as both sides aim to conclude a deal before Washington’s temporary 10 percent tariff expires on 24 July. 

New Delhi insists that its exporters must enjoy a competitive edge, particularly against ASEAN peers such as Vietnam, to safeguard long-term market access.

The talks follow the first meeting in over a year between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, held on 17 June on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France. Both leaders expressed optimism about the deal, with Trump calling India “very close” to finalising the agreement and praising Modi as a “tough negotiator.” This political momentum has added urgency to the technical negotiations now underway.

Diplomatic tensions have complicated the atmosphere, with the death of three Indian sailors in attacks on commercial ships by the US Navy in the Gulf casting a shadow over bilateral relations. Despite this, both governments are keen to demonstrate progress in trade as a stabilising factor in ties.

An initial understanding was reached in February, with both sides agreeing in principle to 18 percent tariffs on Indian goods in exchange for New Delhi lowering barriers and purchasing more American products.

At the time, this rate was lower than those imposed on competitors such as Bangladesh and Vietnam. However, the US Supreme Court’s invalidation of Trump’s sweeping global tariffs disrupted the process, forcing negotiators to revisit the framework.

India is also wary of the ongoing Section 301 investigations by Washington into alleged overcapacity and forced labour. These probes could lead to punitive measures, and New Delhi is pressing for guarantees that no fresh tariffs will be imposed once the deal is signed. Officials stress that India’s exporters must not be disadvantaged by future unilateral US actions.

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has underlined that the priority is to secure comparative advantage. “We are trying to work out with the US how they will ensure that we will get a comparative advantage, so that our exporters can benefit,” he said on Monday. He added that he would be “happy” if the deal is concluded before 24 July, noting, “The faster, the better.”

Greer’s office has stated that the talks are aimed at achieving “fair, balanced, and reciprocal trade.” Analysts believe that if India succeeds in securing tariff terms better than its regional rivals, it will significantly boost competitiveness in sectors such as textiles, leather, gems, jewellery, and agriculture. 

The deal could also unlock preferential access to the vast US market, estimated at $30 trillion, while strengthening supply chains and investor confidence.

The negotiations thus represent both an economic and strategic milestone. India’s insistence on tariff advantage reflects its broader ambition to consolidate its position as a leading exporter in Asia, while balancing domestic sensitivities and external pressures. The coming weeks will be decisive in determining whether the interim pact can be signed before the July deadline.

Agencies

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GRSE Achieves ‘Navratna’ Recognition, Marking Major Milestone In Defence Sector

Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Ltd (GRSE) has been officially conferred ‘Navratna’ status by the Government of India, marking a defining milestone in its journey as one of the country’s premier defence shipyards.

This recognition enhances its financial and operational autonomy, enabling larger investments and strategic expansion.

The Department of Public Enterprises under the Ministry of Finance accorded GRSE the coveted ‘Navratna’ status on 19 June 2026. This recognition was granted in view of the shipyard’s consistent financial and physical performance over recent years, underscoring its role in bolstering India’s maritime capabilities and defence manufacturing.

The conferment comes at a time when GRSE has demonstrated extraordinary growth. Its revenue from operations surged from ₹1,754 crore in FY 2021–22 to ₹7,002 crore in FY 2025–26, reflecting a nearly 300 per cent increase. During the same period, profit after tax rose from ₹190 crore to ₹748 crore, registering growth of approximately 294 per cent. These figures highlight the company’s robust financial trajectory and operational efficiency.

GRSE has also showcased its production capacity by delivering eight warships in FY26, including three vessels on a single day, 30 March 2026. These included the Project 17A guided-missile frigate INS Dunagiri, the survey vessel INS Sanshodhak, and the anti-submarine warfare shallow water craft INS Agray. Such achievements underline the shipyard’s ability to execute complex naval projects within demanding timelines.

Chairman and Managing Director Commodore P. R. Hari (Retd.) described the conferment of Navratna status as a defining moment in GRSE’s journey. He emphasised that this elevation will empower the shipyard to pursue strategic opportunities, enhance self-reliance in defence manufacturing, strengthen global competitiveness, and contribute meaningfully towards India’s emergence as a leading maritime power by 2047.

The recognition also aligns with India’s broader Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives, reinforcing GRSE’s role as a key contributor to indigenous defence production.

The shipyard has delivered the largest number of warships to the Indian Navy, Coast Guard, and friendly foreign nations. Out of the 118 warships delivered by GRSE, 80 have been inducted into the Indian Navy, underscoring its central role in India’s naval modernisation.

Beyond defence, GRSE is expanding its footprint in commercial shipbuilding. It is currently constructing 12 multi-purpose vessels for a German client and has ventured into the development of green and autonomous vessels. The company is also the only Indian shipyard specialising in research vessels, further diversifying its portfolio.

The conferment of Navratna status provides GRSE with greater autonomy to undertake larger investments and expansion projects without extensive government approvals. This will support its ongoing capacity expansion through both brownfield and greenfield projects, positioning the shipyard to meet rising demand in both defence and commercial sectors.

The milestone reflects GRSE’s transformation from its origins in 1884 to its current stature as a global competitor in shipbuilding. Taken over by the Government of India in 1960, GRSE delivered India’s first indigenous warship, INS Ajay, in 1961.

Since then, it has built over 800 marine platforms, cementing its reputation as a cornerstone of India’s maritime industrial base.

PTI

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Islamic State-Khorasan Province: Rawalpindi’s Latest Proxy

by Nilesh Kunwar

Kabul’s “Airstrike”

Kabul’s confirmation on ‘X’ that it had conducted a series of airstrikes against ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) hideouts in Pakistan's Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) provinces went largely unnoticed for two reasons. One, the Taliban didn't didn’t provide any further details of the attacks or casualty assessment details, and two, Islamabad not only maintained a stoic silence on the violation of its air space by Afghan “air force,” but didn’t even deny the existence of ISIS hideouts on its soil.

As Pakistan hasn’t yet officially retracted its unilateral declaration of “open war” against Afghanistan, Islamabad’s silence on this incident, though inexplicable, doesn’t come as a surprise. Presence of ISIS affiliate Islamic State-Khorasan Province (ISPK) in Pakistan has been in the news for quite some time but this menacing development somehow doesn’t seem to have caught the attention of those who claim to be waging a global war on terror or express concern on the proliferation of this fundamentalist terrorist group.

While one had expected that denying ISKP presence on its soil would be the least Islamabad would do, probably the mandarins in Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) reckoned that any statement on this issue would draw global attention to ISKP sanctuaries in Balochistan and KP provinces and cause national embarrassment. And with almost no discussion or debate on the Afghan “air strike” targeting ISKP hideouts inside Pakistan, it’s apparent that the FO’s stratagem of maintaining silence has worked.

Pakistan Army’s ISKP Paradox

ISKP is a proscribed terrorist group in Pakistan and Islamabad has handed over some allegedly very high-profile ISKP terrorists to Washington. One such person is Mohammad Sharifullah whom US President Donald Trump described as “the top terrorist responsible” for the 2021 suicide bombing outside the Hamid Karzai International Airport in Kabul. Pakistan supporters cite this as proof that the Pakistan army has no truck with this terrorist group.

Furthermore, former CENTCOM chief Gen Michael Kurilla had told the US Senate Committee that Pakistan was America’s “phenomenal partner in the counter-terrorism world,” and recounted how “Field Marshal Asim Munir had called me to tell me that had captured one of the Daesh-K (ISKP) guys. Current US CENTCOM chief Admiral Charles Bradford Cooper has also told the US Senate Committee recently that “Pakistan is a key counterterrorism partner that plays a central role in the fight against ISIS-K (ISKP) in the region.”

It may therefore appear that Rawalpindi has no links with ISPK, but there’s credible evidence to the contrary that suggests otherwise. There’s no doubt that the Pakistan army has been apprehending and handing over ISKP terrorists to Washington, and Gen Kurilla even revealed that the Pakistan army had “gone after Daesh Khorasan (ISKP) killing dozens of them” after Washington had provided specific intelligence regarding their location inside Pakistan.

So, while Gen Kurilla and Admiral Cooper may have be smitten by Rawalpindi’s actions against ISKP, the moot point is that once US intelligence shared confirmed details regarding the location of ISKP terrorists, what other option but to act on this information was Rawalpindi left with? And the then US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director John Ratcliff’s disclosure is particularly revealing. Speaking to Fox News, Ratcliff revealed sharing information regarding Sharifullah’s location with DGISI Lt Gen Asim Malik, and telling him bluntly that if Pakistan wanted to work with President Trump and “have good relations with our country,” it needed to accord “a high priority” to the capture of this accused.

The rest is history.

Evidence of Nexus

The Pakistan army’s close links with ISKP is no secret. It has been mentioned by the Afghan Taliban, former US special representative to Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad, ex-TTP spokesperson Ehsanullah Ehsan and many others closely monitoring ISKP activities. In 2024, while speaking at the UN sponsored side event on “Human Rights Violation in Pakistan,” Baloch National Movement chairman Dr Naseem Baloch had also raised this issue. Sheikh Abdul Rahim Muslim Dost, a former ISKP founding member who subsequently defected to the Afghan Taliban disclosed that in 2015, Pakistan army sponsored terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) had given Rupees 50 lacs to the then fledgling ISKP.

Even if one dismisses these claims of a Pakistan army-ISKP nexus on the grounds that these are unsubstantiated allegations made by people with vested interests, there’s no dearth of irrefutable evidence to confirm this well founded apprehension.

In May 2025, ISPK released a 36 minutes long video in Pashto language formally declaring war against armed Baloch groups, citing an alleged attack carried out earlier by Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) fighters on its camp in Mustang district of Balochistan. The Balochistan Post reported that in its video, “ISKP has warned civilians, especially the relatives of missing persons that they should not participate in the protests and rallies for Baloch rights because such gatherings have now become an important target for ISKP.”

As this warning parrots Rawalpindi’s language, it merits deliberation. Moreover, since this warning to family members of disappeared Baloch people has nothing to do with this terrorist group’s stated objective of establishing a caliphate and its condemnation of the Baloch armed struggle as un-Islamic as it is “secular, nationalist and pro-democracy “is irrefutable evident that ISKP is acting as Rawalpindi’s mouthpiece.

Most importantly, more than half of the ISKP video is devoted to denying that it's a proxy of the Pakistan army. Furthermore, ISKP's puerile attempt to convince the world that it was able to establish camps in Mustang due to lack/absence of government control and not under some covert arrangement facilitated by the Pakistan army has let the cat out of the bag and leaves no room for doubt that ISKP is indeed serving as Rawalpindi’s proxy in Balochistan.

Then there’s clinching evidence of a LeT-ISKP nexus. In October last year, a photo of ISKP’s Balochistan coordinator Mir Shafiq Mengal presenting a pistol to the LeT Nazim-e-Ala (supreme leader) Rana Mohammad Ashfaq appeared on social media. Since LeT seeks incorporation of J&K into Pakistan while ISKP harbours the global ambition of establishing a caliphate with Pakistan being a part of it, there’s no convergence of ideologies and so it’s obvious that this 'transactional' union has been orchestrated by Rawalpindi.

Rawalpindi’s Game Plan

Taliban is content having imposed sharia in Afghanistan while ISKP wants to establish a caliphate in the region and this creates a conflict of ideologies that makes both natural enemies which Rawalpindi seeks to exploit. The Pakistan army's logic is simple- if Kabul can use Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) against Pakistan, Rawalpindi can pay the Taliban back in the same coin through ISKP. Moreover, since the Pakistan army has long been using terrorist groups to wage proxy wars against its neighbours, getting ISKP into its fold is no big deal.

With a long history of running with the hare and hunting with the hounds, Rawalpindi is handling ISKP just as it had handled the Afghan Taliban before it seized power in 2021. Accordingly, ISKP leaders who toe the Pakistan army’s line and direct their operations against armed Baloch groups, as well Indian security forces in J&K and across the Durand Line would continue enjoying sponsorship of the ‘establishment’.

Conversely, those ISKP terrorists whom Washington perceives as a threat or those who refuse to cooperate with the Pakistan army would be either neutralised or handed over to the US to keep Uncle Sam happy and appreciative of Pakistan’s counter terrorism efforts. Though perverse, this stratagem is working well as Pakistan has now become a “great” country in the eyes of Trump and Asim Munir his “most favourite Field Marshal.”

The annoyance expressed by Trump in his 2018 tweet calling out Islamabad’s duplicity by stating that “they (Pakistan’s government and military) have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools” and specifying that “They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan,” is a closed chapter, thanks to Field Marshal Munir’s display of unconditional servility to POTUS.

And this is what’s called killing two birds with one stone!

Nilesh Kunwar is a retired Indian Army Officer who has served in Jammu & Kashmir, Assam, Nagaland and Manipur. He is a keen ‘Kashmir-Watcher,’ and after retirement is pursuing his favourite hobby of writing for newspapers, journals and think-tanks. Views expressed above are the author's own

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