In a landmark development for military healthcare in India, a cutting-edge Femto-LASIK Suite was inaugurated at the Army Hospital (Research and Referral) in Delhi Cantonment. The new facility was unveiled by Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, Director General of Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS), and Lieutenant General Sadhna S Nair, Director General of Medical Services (Army), in the presence of senior military officials and dignitaries.
This state-of-the-art suite employs advanced femtosecond laser technology for vision correction, offering unparalleled precision and customization for the treatment of refractive errors and corneal diseases. The technology allows for a minimally invasive procedure, faster recovery times, and enhanced visual outcomes—ideal for young and middle-aged adults in the armed forces who require peak visual performance for operational readiness.
DG, Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin and DG, Medical Services (Army) Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair inaugurated a state-of-the-art Femto-LASIK Suite at Army Hospital (R&R), Delhi Cantt—AFMS’s apex centre. This cutting-edge laser tech offers customised… pic.twitter.com/Jq2JY49JWA
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) May 16, 2025
The inauguration ceremony blended tradition and technology, with the venue adorned with marigold garlands symbolizing auspicious beginnings. A guided tour of the facility followed, highlighting its transformative potential for eye care within the military health system.
Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin, the first woman to hold the post of DGAFMS, stressed the role of technological integration in supporting the well-being of soldiers and their families. Lt Gen Sadhna S Nair, also a trailblazer as the first woman DGMS (Army), emphasized the broader impact of such advancements in raising the standard of clinical infrastructure within the armed forces.
The Femto-LASIK Suite is part of a global trend in military medicine, aligning with initiatives like the U.S. Army’s Vision Research Program, which addresses vision injuries among service members. With this development, the Army Hospital (R&R) reinforces its position as a leader in military medical innovation, ensuring that India’s defense personnel receive world-class care tailored to their unique service needs.
India’s current air defence capabilities are a mix of advanced imported systems and indigenous technologies. Key among these are the Russian S-400 Triumf missile system, which India inducted starting in 2021 to counter aerial threats from Pakistan and China. Indigenous systems like the Akash missile, developed by DRDO, provide short-to-medium range surface-to-air defence, while the Israel-India joint venture Barak-8 missile system offers medium-range interception capabilities. Other systems such as the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) and the upcoming XRSAM reflect India’s push toward self-reliance in air defence.
The S-500 ‘Prometey’ system is Russia’s next-generation air defence missile system, designed to supersede the S-400. Originating from Russia’s Almaz-Antey defense company, the S-500 boasts enhanced capabilities including interception of hypersonic missiles, ballistic missiles, stealth aircraft, and even low-orbit satellites, indicating potential anti-satellite (ASAT) functionality. It has a longer range and faster response time than the S-400, with detection and engagement ranges up to 600 km for air targets and 500 km for ballistic missiles.
This question is particularly relevant now due to evolving regional security dynamics in Asia, including China’s rapid missile advancements (notably hypersonic weapons), ongoing tensions with Pakistan, and an intensifying arms race. India’s need to maintain technological edge and strategic deterrence amid these changing threat perceptions makes the consideration of acquiring the S-500 timely.
What is the S-500 System?
The S-500 Prometey is a highly advanced Russian surface-to-air missile system developed to counter next-generation aerial threats. It can intercept a wide spectrum of targets including ballistic missiles, hypersonic missiles traveling at speeds up to Mach 20, stealth aircraft, and satellites in low Earth orbit. The system can track and engage up to 100 targets simultaneously, surpassing the S-400’s capacity of 80 targets.
Key capabilities include:
Engagement range of approximately 600 km for air targets and 500 km for ballistic missiles.
Interceptors operate at altitudes exceeding 185 km, allowing destruction of high-altitude targets including satellites.
Response time of 3-4 seconds, significantly faster than the S-400’s 9-10 seconds.
Potential anti-satellite (ASAT) capability, making it a strategic asset in space warfare.
Ability to counter emerging hypersonic threats, which are difficult to intercept with older systems.
S-500 Air Defence System
India’s Existing Air Defence Infrastructure
India’s air defence network is layered and diverse with major equipments as:
S-400 Triumf: Acquired from Russia, deployed primarily in Punjab to counter threats from Pakistan and China. It can track over 100 targets and intercept missiles and aircraft up to 400 km away.
Akash Missile System: An indigenous short-to-medium-range surface-to-air missile system developed by DRDO with about 96% indigenous content. It is mobile and capable of engaging multiple aerial targets simultaneously, including drones and missiles.
QRSAM: Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile system developed indigenously for rapid deployment and defense against low-level aerial threats.
XRSAM: Under development, intended to provide long-range surface-to-air missile coverage with indigenous technology.
Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) Program: India has Phase I and II of its BMD program aimed at intercepting ballistic missiles at various altitudes.
Barak-8: A joint India-Israel medium-range surface-to-air missile system capable of intercepting fighter jets, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and UAVs. It has a range of 70-100 km and is deployed on naval and land platforms.
These systems collectively contribute to a multi-layered defence architecture that blends indigenous production with strategic imports, supporting India’s goal of defence autonomy under the Make in India initiative.
Difference between S-400 and S-500
Here are the key differences between the Russian S-400 and S-500 air defence missile systems:
Feature
S-400
S-500
Range
Up to 400 km for air targets
Up to 600 km for air targets; 500-600 km for ballistic missiles
Target Tracking & Engagement
Can track up to 80 targets simultaneously; engage 6 targets at once
Can track and engage up to 100 targets simultaneously; engage 10 hypersonic targets at once
Interception Speed
Intercepts targets up to Mach 14
Intercepts targets up to Mach 20
Missile Types
Uses 40N6, 48N6, 9M96E, 9M96E2 missiles
Uses advanced missiles including 40N6E and 77N6 kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors
Altitude Engagement
Effective against ballistic missiles and aircraft at lower altitudes (below ~30-40 km)
Can engage targets at altitudes up to 180-200 km (near space)
Hypersonic & Space Capabilities
Not specifically designed for hypersonic or space threats
Designed to intercept hypersonic missiles and low Earth orbit satellites; has anti-satellite (ASAT) capability
Response Time
Approximately 9-10 seconds
Faster response time of 3-4 seconds
Interception Method
Blast-fragmentation warheads
Kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors for higher precision and lethality
Radar & Detection
Advanced multi-frequency radar capable of tracking stealth aircraft
Jam-proof, multi-frequency radar capable of tracking stealth and near-space targets with longer detection range (up to 2000 km for ballistic targets)
In summary, the S-500 is a next-generation system that significantly extends the range, speed, and altitude envelope of the S-400. It adds advanced capabilities to counter hypersonic missiles and space-based threats such as satellites, which the S-400 cannot. The S-500 also features faster response times and more precise kinetic kill interceptors, making it a strategic game-changer for modern air and missile defence.
Strategic Arguments In Favour of Buying S-500
Enhanced Defence Against China and Pakistan: The S-500’s ability to counter hypersonic missiles and ballistic threats aligns with the need to neutralize advanced Chinese missile systems like the DF-17. It would add a critical upper layer to India’s air defence, complementing the S-400 and indigenous systems.
Deterrence Value: Possession of cutting-edge interception technology strengthens India’s deterrence posture by complicating adversaries’ attack plans.
Technology Access: Procuring the S-500 could open avenues for technology transfer or co-development with Russia, benefiting India’s own missile programs.
Future-Proofing: As space and hypersonic threats grow, the S-500’s ASAT and hypersonic interception capabilities prepare India for next-generation warfare challenges.
Arguments Against Buying S-500
High Cost: The S-500 is expected to be significantly more expensive than the S-400, potentially straining India’s defence budget.
Dependence on Russia: Continued reliance on Russian technology could be risky amid geopolitical uncertainties and sanctions regimes.
Impact on India-US Relations: Further Russian arms purchases risk triggering CAATSA sanctions from the US and may strain India’s strategic partnerships within the QUAD framework.
Redundancy/Overlap: India recently inducted the S-400 and is advancing indigenous BMD and missile systems, possibly reducing the immediate need for the S-500.
Setback to Indigenous Development: Buying the S-500 might slow down or overshadow indigenous projects like XRSAM, affecting long-term self-reliance goals.
Geopolitical and Diplomatic Considerations
India’s historic defence ties with Russia remain strong but Russia’s technological edge is perceived as declining compared to Western systems. India must balance its strategic autonomy with maintaining good relations with the West, especially the US, which provides advanced technology and supports India’s regional ambitions. Procuring the S-500 could complicate this balancing act, affecting India’s global image and defence diplomacy. The potential US pushback over CAATSA sanctions remains a key diplomatic risk.
Integrating the S-500 with India’s existing radar networks, command-and-control systems, and space tracking infrastructure poses challenges. The system’s advanced capabilities require sophisticated radar and space surveillance assets to fully utilize its long-range and ASAT features. Additionally, logistics, maintenance, training, and lifecycle support for such a complex system would demand significant investment and coordination.
Alternatives to Buying S-500
Enhance Indigenous Programs: Accelerate development and deployment of XRSAM and Phase II BMD to build a self-reliant layered defence.
Western Cooperation: Increase collaboration with Western countries for integrated air defence technologies and space-based capabilities like THAAD.
Invest in Space and Electronic Warfare: Develop space surveillance, electronic warfare, and cyber capabilities to complement missile defence.
S-500 vs THAAD
Feature
S-500 (Russia)
THAAD (USA)
Primary Role
Multi-role air defense and anti-ballistic missile system capable of intercepting aircraft, cruise missiles, hypersonic missiles, ballistic missiles, and low Earth orbit satellites (ASAT capability).
Terminal-phase ballistic missile defense system designed specifically to intercept medium- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles during their terminal descent.
Interception Range
Up to 400-600 km against air and ballistic missile targets (varies by source); approx. 500 km for air targets, 400 km for ballistic missiles.
Approx. 200-250 km interception range against ballistic missiles.
Detection Range
Radar detection up to 800 km for targets; can track stealth and hypersonic threats.
Radar detection up to 1000 km; superior in early detection of subtle targets (700 km detection for stealth targets).
Altitude Engagement
Can engage targets at altitudes up to 180-200 km (near-space and low Earth orbit).
Intercepts targets up to 150-200 km altitude in the terminal phase of ballistic missile flight.
Interception Speed
Extremely high interceptor speed (~7200 m/s).
Interceptor speed around 5400 m/s.
Interception Method
Uses conventional warheads with blast-fragmentation effect (explodes near target to disable it).
Kinetic hit-to-kill interceptor that destroys targets by direct collision using kinetic energy.
Simultaneous Target Engagement
Can engage up to 10 ballistic or hypersonic targets simultaneously.
Can engage multiple targets but generally fewer simultaneous engagements compared to S-500.
Mobility
Road-mobile system with transporter-erector-launchers (10×10 chassis).
Mobile, truck-mounted launcher system.
Versatility
Multi-domain: capable of intercepting hypersonic missiles, stealth aircraft, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and satellites.
Specialized for ballistic missile defense; limited capability against maneuverable or aerodynamic targets like aircraft.
Operational Status
Recently tested and deployed in limited numbers; cutting-edge system with some capabilities still classified.
Fully operational and deployed by the US and allied countries since early 2010s.
Cost & Development
Newer system with potentially high acquisition and maintenance costs; developed from scratch with new radars and missiles.
Expensive system with over $15 billion R&D investment; well-established technology.
S-500 is a next-generation, multi-role air and missile defence system with extended range, higher altitude engagement, and broader target spectrum including hypersonic missiles and satellites. It uses conventional warheads and emphasizes versatility and rapid response.
THAAD is a specialized terminal-phase ballistic missile defense system with superior detection range and kinetic hit-to-kill interceptors, optimized to destroy incoming ballistic missiles at high altitudes during their descent. It excels in early detection and precise interception but is less versatile against other aerial threats.
While both systems serve missile defense roles, the S-500 offers a more comprehensive air defense umbrella including space and hypersonic threats, whereas THAAD is focused on high-altitude terminal interception of ballistic missiles with kinetic kill technology.
THAAD Air Defence System
Conclusion
The S-500 represents a leap forward in air and missile defence technology with capabilities well-suited to counter emerging threats from hypersonic and space-based weapons. Strategically, it would enhance India’s deterrence and future-proof its air defence. However, the high cost, geopolitical risks, potential impact on indigenous development, and integration challenges warrant careful consideration.
Given India’s recent S-400 induction and ongoing indigenous efforts, a balanced approach emphasizing long-term self-reliance and strategic autonomy may be preferable. India could consider waiting for the S-500 to mature further while investing in Make in India initiatives and diversifying defence partnerships to maintain a robust, future-ready air defence posture.
A fresh twist has emerged in the ongoing counter-terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir as Pakistan-backed terrorist outfit Hizbul Mujahideen has claimed responsibility for three militants killed in an encounter earlier today in Tral, Pulwama district. The claim was made via a propaganda poster released by the group, prominently displaying the Pakistani flag alongside their emblem, once again underscoring the group’s deep ties to Islamabad.
The encounter occurred in the Nadir village of Tral in South Kashmir after Indian security forces launched a cordon and search operation based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of two to three terrorists. The ensuing gunfight led to the elimination of three individuals, whom officials initially confirmed as active militants.
However, the situation took a complicated turn as conflicting claims emerged regarding the affiliations of the slain terrorists. While Hizbul Mujahideen has publicly identified them as its operatives, multiple credible sources, have reported that the deceased were linked to another Pakistan-based terror outfit — Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Among the deceased were Aamir Nazir Wani (20) and Yawar Ahmed Bhat, both reportedly active since 2024 under JeM’s banner in the Pulwama region.
This contradiction points to the increasingly blurred lines between militant outfits operating in the Kashmir Valley. Analysts suggest the overlap could be due to dual or shifting allegiances among cadres, or perhaps internal competition and propaganda strategies aimed at asserting dominance and relevance.
Hizbul Mujahideen, formed in 1989 under the guidance of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Jamaat-e-Islami, has historically sought Kashmir’s merger with Pakistan. It has been designated a Foreign Terrorist Organization by the U.S. Department of State and remains a key actor in the valley’s insurgency. Yet, recent reports indicate that the group has been losing support locally, particularly due to its opposition to pro-independence and Sufi ideological strains, unlike more flexible groups like TRF (The Resistance Front), which comprises members from both Hizbul and Lashkar-e-Taiba.
JeM, on the other hand, founded in 2000 by UN-designated terrorist Masood Azhar, has been responsible for multiple high-casualty attacks, including the 2001 suicide bombing of the J&K legislative assembly. The group has maintained close operational ties with Pakistani intelligence and military establishments.
The propaganda war, as seen in today’s Hizbul poster, is part of a broader effort by terror groups to assert narrative control over the insurgency amid changing ground realities. Security experts highlight this as a renewed indication of Pakistan’s direct sponsorship of cross-border terrorism, with Indian authorities calling for stronger global pressure to dismantle terror infrastructure on Pakistani soil.
As investigations into the identities and affiliations of the slain militants continue, the region remains on high alert. Authorities have increased surveillance and appealed to citizens to stay vigilant as counter-terror operations intensify across South Kashmir.
This incident, once again, reflects the evolving and complex nature of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir — a landscape where propaganda, proxy warfare, and political interests intersect dangerously.
In a significant development following a week of heightened military tensions, the Indian Army has announced the continuation of confidence-building measures (CBMs) with Pakistan. The announcement follows a mutual understanding reached during a meeting between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both countries on May 10, 2025. According to an official Army statement, the CBMs are aimed at reducing troop alertness levels in forward areas and preventing further escalation along the Line of Control (LoC).
The renewed commitment to CBMs comes on the heels of Operation Sindoor, launched by India on May 7, in response to a deadly terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. The operation, involving missile strikes on targets across the border, resulted in significant casualties—26 dead and 46 injured, according to Pakistani officials—prompting Islamabad to label the strikes as an “act of war.”
Tensions were already high following Pakistan’s May 3 test of the Abdali Weapon System, a ballistic missile with a 450 km range. The launch, interpreted by Indian defence analysts as a signal of aggression, had set the stage for the confrontation that ensued.
However, a breakthrough was achieved on May 10 with the announcement of a U.S.-mediated ceasefire, confirmed by President Donald Trump. The ceasefire was followed by DGMO-level talks on May 12, during which both sides pledged to scale back their military deployments and work toward stabilizing the border.
Despite this diplomatic progress, India reported ceasefire violations shortly after the agreement, leading to a swift and stern retaliatory response by Indian forces. The Ministry of External Affairs condemned Pakistan’s actions and reiterated that peace cannot be sustained without complete cessation of cross-border terrorism.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized that while India remains committed to peace and dialogue, it will not tolerate any acts of aggression or terrorism sponsored from across the border. He reaffirmed the nation’s readiness to respond decisively to any provocation.
Concerns over new technological threats have also emerged, with Indian Army officials highlighting the deployment of Turkish-made drones by Pakistani forces. Unidentified drones were spotted over Jammu’s Samba and Punjab’s Jalandhar districts on May 13, though officials later stated that the situation had stabilized.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian cost of the recent conflict remains evident. Residents in three border districts of Kashmir have been relocated due to earlier shelling by Pakistani forces. The Indian Army has provided support to affected civilians, and efforts are ongoing to ensure their safety.
Security analysts caution that while the extension of CBMs is a welcome move, past experiences show that trust between India and Pakistan remains fragile. Previous agreements have frequently broken down amid accusations and violations.
The coming days and weeks will be crucial in assessing whether this latest effort to de-escalate can endure, or whether the region is once again on the brink of renewed confrontation.
The Ministry of Defence, Government of India, today announced the commencement of the fourth round of registrations for setting up new Sainik Schools nationwide. This step is part of the government’s broader vision to expand the network of Sainik Schools through collaboration with State Governments, NGOs, and private sector partners.
The registration window opened on May 15 and will remain open until June 14, 2025. The ambitious plan to establish 100 additional Sainik Schools seeks to merge the traditional board curriculum with the unique “Academic-Plus” model that the Sainik Schools follow. This model emphasizes discipline, leadership, and national pride, aiming to nurture students not only as future defense personnel but also as responsible citizens.
Ministry of Defence has opened the 4th round of registration of new #SainikSchools through the portal https://t.co/Ea9304esvy. Interested schools are invited to join the Govt’s initiative of setting up 100 New Sainik Schools in partnership with State Govts/NGOs/Private sector.…
— Ministry of Defence, Government of India (@SpokespersonMoD) May 15, 2025
Since their inception in 1961, Sainik Schools have played a crucial role in training over 7,000 officers for India’s defense forces, feeding into premier institutions such as the National Defence Academy (NDA) and the Indian Naval Academy. Currently, 33 Sainik Schools operate across the country, offering CBSE-affiliated residential programs known for their rigorous academics and military-oriented training.
The expansion of these schools aligns with the vision articulated in the 2021 Union Budget by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, which proposed establishing 100 new Sainik Schools under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This initiative also addresses increasing demand for military education and seeks to maintain regional balance in defense recruitment, taking inspiration from longstanding schools such as Sainik School Purulia, founded in 1962.
Interested institutions can register via the official Ministry of Defence portal, with more information available on the Sainik Schools Society website. The Ministry has urged all eligible entities to participate actively in this initiative to extend the values of discipline, leadership, and patriotism to a broader section of India’s youth.
In collaboration with private industry and DRDO, new bridging equipment strengthens operational mobility and self-reliance
The Indian Army has formally inducted three sets of 10-metre short span bridges, manufactured and handed over at Larsen & Toubro’s Talegaon facility on December 29, 2020. This significant achievement marks a step forward in enhancing the mobility of Indian forces by enabling rapid bridging of gaps during military operations.
The bridges, designed and developed indigenously in close coordination with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and private industry partners, fulfill a crucial operational requirement for swift and reliable mobility on the battlefield. Their timely delivery reflects the concerted efforts of all stakeholders to overcome development challenges while supporting the Government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
These short span bridges are engineered to be quickly deployable by troops to cross rivers, ravines, and other obstacles that can hinder the movement of troops and military vehicles. The ability to establish temporary yet sturdy crossings is vital during both offensive and defensive operations, enabling forces to maintain momentum and logistical support.
The project underscores a growing trend within the Indian defence ecosystem towards indigenization, which is a key pillar of national security. By reducing reliance on imported military hardware, India aims to bolster its defence preparedness while promoting domestic innovation and manufacturing capabilities.
This accomplishment is the result of close collaboration between the Indian Army, DRDO, and Larsen & Toubro, a leading private sector company with significant expertise in defence production. The partnership highlights the increasing role of private industry in supporting India’s defence modernization and self-sufficiency goals.
With the successful induction of these bridges, the Indian Army moves closer to meeting its strategic objective of operational readiness with domestically sourced equipment. This initiative not only contributes to enhancing tactical mobility but also strengthens India’s position as a growing hub for defence manufacturing.
The Ministry of Defence has lauded the efforts behind the project and reaffirmed its commitment to further promoting indigenous defence development. The success of the 10-metre short span bridge program sets a precedent for future projects aimed at equipping India’s armed forces with cutting-edge, homegrown technology.
In a swift and decisive operation early Thursday morning, security forces gunned down three Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists hiding in an under-construction building in Tral, Pulwama district, Jammu and Kashmir. Dramatic drone footage captured the militants moments before the encounter, showing them armed and taking shelter inside their hideout.
The terrorists were identified as Asif Ahmed Sheikh, Amir Nazir Wani, and Yawar Ahmed Bhat, all linked to the Pakistan-based terror group JeM, sources confirmed. Authorities are investigating their possible involvement in the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians.
Inspector General of Police VK Birdi stated the encounter began following actionable intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the area. This was the second such operation in Jammu and Kashmir within three days, highlighting ongoing security challenges despite a recent ceasefire understanding between India and Pakistan.
The May 10 ceasefire understanding, initiated after outreach between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMO) of both countries, came with a stern warning from India that any further terrorist activities would be deemed an “Act of War,” prompting robust responses.
This encounter follows closely on the heels of Operation Sindoor, launched by India on May 7 to avenge the Pahalgam terror attack. The operation successfully eliminated over 100 terrorists and dismantled multiple terrorist training camps deep inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
In retaliation, Pakistan escalated tensions by launching drone and missile attacks targeting Indian cities and military installations. However, India’s advanced air defence systems effectively thwarted these assaults. Subsequently, India carried out precision strikes on Pakistani military bases, destroying 11 airbases and delivering a significant blow to Pakistan’s strategic capabilities.
The Pulwama encounter and the successful defense against Pakistan’s provocations underscore India’s firm commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and national security.
Pakistan on Thursday strongly rejected Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s suggestion that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) should oversee Pakistan’s nuclear weapons, calling the statement “irresponsible” and demonstrating a “sheer ignorance” of the IAEA’s mandate.
The Pakistani Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a sharp statement condemning Singh’s remarks, accusing him of revealing “profound insecurity and frustration” over Pakistan’s conventional defence capabilities. “Pakistan’s conventional forces are adequate to deter India without resorting to the so-called ‘nuclear blackmail’ that New Delhi complains about,” the statement added.
Rajnath Singh had made the comments during his first visit to Jammu after Operation Sindoor, addressing Indian troops at Srinagar’s Badami Bagh Cantonment. He questioned the safety of Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal, calling Pakistan “irresponsible and rogue,” and urged the global nuclear watchdog to bring Islamabad’s nuclear weapons under its supervision.
“The whole world has seen how irresponsibly Pakistan has threatened India,” Singh said. He also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership and the success of Operation Sindoor, as well as the people of Jammu and Kashmir for standing against terrorism and Pakistan’s provocations.
The IAEA responded by confirming there have been no radiation leaks or nuclear incidents reported from any Pakistani facilities. However, the agency has not officially commented on Singh’s call for oversight of Pakistan’s nuclear program.
The International Atomic Energy Agency, based in Vienna, serves as the leading intergovernmental organization promoting safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology worldwide. Its mandate includes scientific cooperation and monitoring, but it does not traditionally exercise direct control over sovereign states’ nuclear arsenals without specific agreements.
The exchange comes amid heightened tensions following Operation Sindoor and ongoing security challenges along the India-Pakistan border. Pakistan’s leadership, including Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, continues to emphasize conventional deterrence as a cornerstone of its defence posture, rejecting Indian accusations regarding nuclear security.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is set to launch the Earth Observation Satellite RISAT-1B, also known as EOS-09, aboard the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C61) on May 18, 2025. The launch is scheduled for 6:59 am IST from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.
The mission underscores the enduring significance of the PSLV, widely recognized as ISRO’s most reliable and versatile launch vehicle. Since its first flight in 1993, the PSLV has successfully completed more than 60 missions, placing satellites into a wide range of orbits, including sun-synchronous, geostationary transfer, and sub-geosynchronous transfer orbits.
PSLV’s success lies in its innovative four-stage design, which alternates between solid and liquid propulsion stages. This unique configuration allows for precision payload deployment and has made the rocket ISRO’s workhorse over the decades.
The upcoming PSLV-C61 mission will carry the 1,710 kg EOS-09 satellite into a sun-synchronous orbit. Designed for all-weather, round-the-clock surveillance, the satellite is equipped with a C-band synthetic aperture radar (SAR), enabling it to capture high-resolution images regardless of time or weather conditions.
EOS-09 will serve a broad range of applications including national security, border and coastal monitoring, disaster response, flood mapping, agriculture assessment, and forest management. Its advanced radar system offers five distinct imaging modes, capable of switching between ultra-high-resolution imaging for detailed observation and wide-area coverage for broader surveillance.
The PSLV-C61 configuration has been specifically tailored for this heavy payload, showcasing the vehicle’s adaptability to evolving mission requirements. With a proven track record of reliability and cost-effectiveness, the PSLV continues to play a vital role in advancing India’s space capabilities.
As India enhances its space-based infrastructure to address strategic and civilian needs, the EOS-09 mission marks another milestone in ISRO’s efforts to strengthen national security and disaster preparedness through cutting-edge satellite technology.
The BrahMos missile, India’s fastest and most advanced cruise missile, has witnessed a surge in international interest following its successful deployment in Operation Sindoor. The operation, which targeted terror camps in Pakistan in retaliation for the Pahalgam attack, showcased the missile’s pinpoint accuracy and rapid deployment capability, reaffirming India’s prowess in precision-strike warfare.
Developed jointly by India and Russia, the BrahMos missile is a supersonic weapon system capable of being launched from land, sea, and air platforms. It can reach speeds of Mach 3 and typically has a range of 290 km, with upgraded versions extending up to 500 km and even 800 km. The missile’s versatility, combined with its stealth, high accuracy, and powerful warhead capacity of up to 300 kilograms, has made it one of the most sought-after systems in the global arms market.
The Philippines remains the only confirmed buyer to date, having signed a $375 million agreement in January 2022 for three coastal defense batteries. The first was delivered in April 2024, with the second scheduled for delivery in April 2025. However, the recent success of Operation Sindoor has further elevated the system’s reputation and broadened its global appeal.
Currently, 17 countries are in various stages of negotiation for the BrahMos missile system:
Indonesia is pursuing a $200–$350 million deal for an advanced version.
Vietnam is planning a $700 million acquisition for its Army and Navy.
Malaysia is evaluating BrahMos integration into its Sukhoi Su-30MKM fighters and naval vessels.
Thailand, Singapore, and Brunei are exploring purchases to enhance their regional defense capabilities.
Brazil, Chile, Argentina, and Venezuela have expressed interest in coastal and naval defense variants.
Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Oman are in advanced talks, eyeing the missile for regional deterrence.
South Africa and Bulgaria are also in discussions to acquire the system for strategic use.
First tested on June 12, 2001, the BrahMos missile has undergone continuous improvements. Its ability to fly at altitudes from 10 meters to 15 kilometers and to strike targets with remarkable precision has made it a critical component of India’s strike arsenal. The missile’s performance in Operation Sindoor has further cemented its status as a top-tier cruise missile on the international stage.
With rising interest from Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, and Eastern Europe, BrahMos has not only reinforced India’s defense capability but also emerged as a key export weapon, positioning India as a significant player in the global arms trade.
