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Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh Inaugurates Indo-Sri Lanka Friendship Reading Section at Sri Lanka Military Academy

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Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh inaugurated the Indo-Sri Lanka Friendship Reading Section at the Sri Lanka Military Academy (SLMA) in Diyatalawa on Friday, marking a significant step in India-Sri Lanka defence cooperation. The new reading section is designed to provide expanded academic resources to Sri Lankan military cadets, supporting their intellectual development alongside rigorous military training.

The inauguration ceremony reflected the close camaraderie between the two nations, with senior military officers from both India and Sri Lanka present. Shri Singh participated in a traditional lamp-lighting ceremony and signed the visitor’s book, with the Indian and Sri Lankan flags displayed prominently. A group photograph was taken on the steps of the academy, symbolizing the enduring partnership.

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Established in 1949, the Sri Lanka Military Academy is the country’s oldest military training institution. It offers a comprehensive 2-year-9-month Cadet Entry Degree Program combining leadership training, military tactics, law, and academic studies. Since 2011, the academy has been affiliated with General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, awarding bachelor’s degrees to graduating cadets. SLMA trains over 300 cadets at a time, preparing them for mandatory service in the Sri Lanka Army.

This initiative highlights India’s continued support for Sri Lanka’s military education and capacity-building efforts. The two countries share a strong defence partnership, conducting joint exercises such as Mitra Shakti, SLINEX, and the trilateral coastguard exercise Dosti with the Maldives. More than 60 percent of Sri Lankan military personnel undergo command courses in India, reflecting deep trust in Indian training capabilities.

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Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, who assumed office as Defence Secretary in November 2024, emphasized the importance of intellectual growth in military training during his address. He noted that the new reading section would equip cadets to become strategic thinkers and effective officers, strengthening the foundation of future leadership.

The inauguration also signifies India’s strategic interest in deepening defence ties with Sri Lanka amid regional geopolitical shifts and growing influence from other powers like China. Despite past challenges, including the Indian Peace Keeping Force operation in the late 1980s, both countries have reaffirmed their commitment to collaboration, even without a formal defence pact.

The establishment of the Indo-Sri Lanka Friendship Reading Section at SLMA is a milestone in blending military cooperation with academic enrichment. The event has been welcomed as a positive development that promises to enhance bilateral relations and foster closer defence partnership in the years ahead.

11 Years 11 Big Decisions: India Opens Space and Defence Sectors to Private Industry, Advancing Viksit Bharat 2047 Goals

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In a landmark move to accelerate innovation and self-reliance, the Indian government has expanded access for private players in the strategic space and defence sectors. The initiative is aligned with the broader national visions of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Viksit Bharat 2047, aimed at transforming India into a technologically advanced and economically robust nation.

The Department of Space, through Indian National Space Promotion and Authorization Centre (IN-SPACe) and NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), has now granted private industries access to Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)’s cutting-edge infrastructure and technological assets. This decision builds upon the space sector reforms launched in 2020, which opened the door to commercial and academic collaborations. The objective is to enhance India’s share in the global space economy by enabling homegrown enterprises to innovate, manufacture, and launch space technologies with government support.

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Minister of State for Space Dr. Jitendra Singh has previously highlighted the remarkable growth in private participation in the space sector, noting that multiple start-ups and companies have begun contributing to satellite development, launch services, and data analytics. With ISRO’s facilities now more accessible, the Indian space ecosystem is expected to see a surge in indigenous capabilities and export potential.

Simultaneously, the defence sector has undergone a significant transformation. As of 2025, nearly 92% of defence procurement contracts—worth ₹1.68 lakh crore—have been awarded to Indian firms. The capital procurement budget for domestic suppliers has increased from 40% in 2020 to 75% in 2023–24, totaling ₹99,223 crore. A quarter of this amount is dedicated to the private sector, reflecting the government’s strategy to empower non-governmental players in defence manufacturing and R&D.

Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), a government-backed platform launched in 2018, continues to be a key catalyst for bringing startups, MSMEs, and individual innovators into the fold. This has led to the development of indigenous drones, communication systems, and advanced defence platforms, further reducing India’s reliance on imports.

These strategic policy shifts come during the ongoing “11 Years of Yuva Shakti” campaign, celebrating over a decade of youth-led progress under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. PM Modi has consistently emphasized the role of India’s youth in propelling the nation toward becoming a global innovation powerhouse. By focusing on empowering young entrepreneurs through opportunities in high-impact sectors like space and defence, the government aims to foster long-term growth, employment, and technological leadership.

Together, these reforms not only bolster India’s national security and space exploration efforts but also position the private sector as a key stakeholder in the nation’s march towards self-reliance and technological sovereignty.

Lt Gen Manjinder Singh Motivates Agniveers at Madras Regimental Centre, Highlights Role of Technology in Modern Warfare

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Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, AVSM, YSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the South Western Command and Colonel of the Madras Regiment, visited the Madras Regimental Centre (MRC) in Wellington to engage with Agniveers and reaffirm the Army’s commitment to modernizing military training and warfare strategies.

During a Sainik Sammelan, Lt Gen Singh addressed the newly inducted Agniveers—recruits under the Indian Army’s Agnipath scheme—and urged them to rigorously train and embrace professional excellence. He highlighted the changing face of warfare and the growing relevance of cutting-edge technologies, such as drones and digital combat systems, in shaping future battlefields. His address echoed the Indian Army’s wider transformation agenda as laid out by Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande in 2024.

The visit also spotlighted the historic significance of the Madras Regiment, one of the oldest infantry regiments of the Indian Army, with roots dating back to the 1750s under the British East India Company. The MRC, located in Wellington since 1947, remains the nerve center of regimental training, situated in the iconic Shrinagesh Barracks built in the mid-19th century.

Lt Gen Singh toured key training areas and was briefed on the centre’s initiatives to modernize infrastructure and integrate new technologies. He interacted with Agniveers during a live demonstration of equipment, including drones and surveillance devices, signaling the Army’s push toward familiarizing its personnel with advanced systems at the foundational stage.

This outreach forms part of the Agnipath scheme’s vision to create a younger, agile, and tech-savvy military force, despite initial resistance to the program’s short-term service model. The emphasis on early exposure to modern warfare tools underlines the shift in Army doctrine toward speed, adaptability, and innovation.

In his closing remarks, Lt Gen Singh encouraged the troops to uphold the values and legacy of the Madras Regiment while adapting to new strategic realities. He urged them to keep the National Flag and Regimental Flag flying high, a call that resonated with the soldiers, affectionately known as “Thambis” within the regiment, symbolizing deep-rooted unity and esprit de corps.

This visit follows Lt Gen Singh’s interaction with the 16 MADRAS battalion earlier in February during its 206th Raising Day, reinforcing his ongoing efforts to inspire and guide regimental troops. His presence at the MRC today underscores the regiment’s dual commitment to heritage and progress, aligning tradition with the operational needs of a dynamic and increasingly complex regional security environment.

Pakistan Offered Stealth Jets By China & Seals Defense Export Deal with Azerbaijan

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In a series of major diplomatic and defense developments, Pakistan has reinforced its strategic partnerships with China and Azerbaijan, signaling a shift in its foreign policy and a push to boost its military and economic capabilities. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, these moves are being seen as an attempt to stabilize the country’s economy while enhancing its defense readiness amid regional tensions.

In a key military advancement, China has agreed to supply Pakistan with 40 next-generation J-35A stealth fighter jets, HQ-19 air defense systems, and KJ-500 Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS). According to a Defence Security Asia report dated May 18, 2025, the first batch of J-35A jets is expected to be delivered by early 2026. Analysts view this as part of a broader Chinese strategy to support Pakistan’s airpower capabilities in response to increasing military competition in South Asia.

Further easing Pakistan’s economic burden, China has also approved a deferral of $3.7 billion in debt repayments, providing much-needed relief as the country grapples with financial challenges. In another forward-looking initiative, a memorandum of understanding has been signed with Chinese technology giant Huawei to train 100,000 Pakistanis in artificial intelligence (AI) and information technology. While the program aims to strengthen Pakistan’s tech ecosystem and digital workforce, experts caution that the country’s existing educational infrastructure may need significant upgrades to support such an ambitious scale.

In a parallel development, Pakistan’s defense collaboration with Azerbaijan has also deepened. On September 26, 2024, Reuters reported a landmark $4.6 billion deal under which Azerbaijan will acquire 40 JF-17 Thunder fighter jets co-developed by Pakistan and China. Additionally, Azerbaijan is set to invest $2 billion in Pakistan, further cementing their bilateral defense and economic ties. The partnership is expected to boost military cooperation among Pakistan, Azerbaijan, and Turkey, especially amid shifting power dynamics in the South Caucasus region.

Economic cooperation with Iran is also showing potential. Trade between the two countries, currently valued at approximately $3 billion, is projected to grow to $10 billion in the coming years. However, no concrete timelines or actionable framework have been disclosed to support this projection.

These developments come as Pakistan continues to recover from long-standing economic difficulties. While the country faced a daunting public debt of Rs. 8,160 billion as of March 2010 and a debt-to-GDP ratio of 56%, recent years have seen signs of revival. The Pakistan Stock Exchange’s PSE-100 Index grew by 40% in FY 2021, buoyed by post-COVID reforms and government stimulus. The services sector, particularly in IT and telecommunications, has been a major driver of growth, with companies like PTCL crossing $1 billion in annual revenue.

Despite the momentum, economic experts warn of potential risks. The reliance on deferred loans, foreign military aid, and ambitious training programs without domestic infrastructure improvements could challenge long-term sustainability. Concerns have also been raised over the implications of increased foreign military cooperation on Pakistan’s strategic autonomy.

Nevertheless, Pakistan’s strengthened ties with China and Azerbaijan, its growing role as a defense exporter, and emerging economic and technological initiatives highlight a deliberate shift toward global integration and regional influence. These multi-faceted engagements position the country as a key player in the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape of Asia.

Army’s Apache Helicopter Makes Emergency Landing in Saharanpur, Both Pilots Safe

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An Indian Army Apache helicopter made an emergency landing on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district after encountering a technical fault during a routine training flight. Both pilots on board are reported safe, and there was no damage to property or injury at the landing site.

The helicopter had taken off from the Sarsawa Air Force Station when the technical issue was detected mid-air. Responding swiftly, the pilots executed a controlled landing in an open field in Jodhebans village, located in the Chilkana police station area near the river.

Local villagers rushed to the site upon hearing of the incident, but Army and police personnel quickly secured the area to ensure safety and allow for technical assessment. Videos and photographs taken by onlookers were later deleted by the authorities as part of standard protocol.

A technical team from the Army arrived at the site and initiated a detailed investigation to identify the cause of the malfunction. After the issue was diagnosed and resolved on the spot, the Apache helicopter was cleared for takeoff and successfully returned to the Sarsawa airbase.

According to Superintendent of Police (Rural) Sagar Jain, the prompt actions by the pilots prevented any escalation, and the helicopter remained intact throughout the incident. The safe landing and technical response have been praised as a testament to the professionalism and preparedness of the Army’s aviation wing.

The Apache, known for its advanced combat capabilities and precision targeting, is a vital asset in the Indian military’s airborne fleet, often deployed for both frontline operations and deep strike missions. This incident, though minor, drew significant public attention in the area and underscored the importance of readiness and technical competence in military aviation.

GOC Rising Star Corps Reviews Operational Readiness of Air Defence Brigade in Jammu

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The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Rising Star Corps, Lieutenant General Rajan Sharawat conducted a comprehensive review of the Air Defence Brigade’s operational preparedness, highlighting the Indian Army’s continued focus on countering aerial threats with precision and efficiency. The visit reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to maintaining high levels of readiness and professionalism across its specialized units.

During the review, the GOC inspected a range of advanced air defense systems and interacted with the personnel on ground to assess their operational capabilities and response mechanisms. The troops were lauded for their recent successful missions and unwavering commitment to national defense. The inspection comes at a time when the Indian Army is actively enhancing its strategic posture, including the integration of air defense units into Integrated Battle Groups (IBGs) to ensure faster and more coordinated battlefield responses by 2025.

The Air Defence Brigade under review belongs to the Corps of Army Air Defence (AAD), a vital arm of the Indian Army tasked with protecting the country’s airspace from hostile aircraft, drones, and missiles. The AAD, established as an independent corps in 1994, traces its roots back to World War II when it was formed to counter Axis aerial operations. Today, it plays a crucial role in India’s multi-layered air defense strategy, especially following recent precision strike missions like Operation Sindoor that demonstrated India’s advanced aerial capabilities.

To commemorate the occasion, a group photograph was taken with the brigade’s personnel, symbolizing the unity, discipline, and strength that define the Indian Army. The event not only showcased the operational efficiency of the Air Defence Brigade but also underscored the Army’s larger objective of ensuring national security through preparedness and modernization.

As India continues to face conventional and emerging threats across multiple domains, the operational readiness of its air defense units remains a top priority in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.

Defence MoS Sanjay Seth Visits College of Defence Management, Emphasizes Strategic Leadership and Sustainability

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Shri Sanjay Seth, Minister of State for Defence, visited the College of Defence Management (CDM) in Secunderabad today, highlighting the institution’s vital contribution to shaping strategic leadership and advancing defence education in India. The visit marked a reaffirmation of CDM’s pivotal role in preparing senior military officers for modern, multi-domain warfare and complex operational decision-making.

Shri Sanjay Seth, who has held the post of Raksha Rajya Mantri since June 11, 2024, received detailed briefings on the college’s academic and training programmes. Among them was “Raksha Yojna,” an advanced simulation-based exercise focused on strategic planning, logistics, and optimal resource utilization—key areas for enhancing operational efficiency across the armed forces.

Established in 1970, the College of Defence Management stands out as the only institution in Asia solely dedicated to the field of defence management. For over five decades, CDM has contributed to strengthening India’s national security apparatus through professional military education, fostering leadership that adapts to evolving defence challenges.

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During his visit, Seth planted a tree on campus, reinforcing India’s commitment to environmental sustainability. This symbolic act aligns with the nation’s climate goals set during the COP26 summit, including the target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2070 and installing 500 GW of non-fossil energy capacity by 2030. His gesture reflected the growing synergy between national security and sustainable development.

The minister praised the faculty and leadership of CDM for their dedication, innovation, and service over the past 50 years. He acknowledged the institution’s continuous efforts in integrating strategic thinking with environmental consciousness, ensuring that India’s future defence leaders are equipped not only with military acumen but also a broader vision for sustainable national development.

As India modernizes its military capabilities, the College of Defence Management remains a cornerstone of strategic education, blending traditional values with contemporary insights to produce leaders capable of navigating the complexities of 21st-century warfare.

Satellite Imagery Reveals Ongoing Repairs at Jacobabad Airbase Following Indian Airstrikes

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New satellite imagery from Jacobabad Airbase in Pakistan’s Sindh province reveals ongoing repair activity at a hangar damaged in the Indian Air Force’s recent cross-border strikes. Images captured on May 12 and again on June 1 show the previously exposed hangar now concealed under what appears to be tarpaulin or similar materials, indicating possible restoration efforts or an attempt to shield the site from further surveillance.

Also Read: India Becomes The First Country to Strike 11 Air Bases of a Nuclear Powered Country

The damage stems from Operation Sindoor, India’s largest aerial campaign since the 1971 war, carried out in retaliation for cross-border provocations. Multiple Pakistani airbases, including Jacobabad, Nur Khan, Rafiqui, and Bholari, were struck during the operation. Intelligence reports suggest the strikes caused substantial destruction, neutralizing nearly 20 percent of the Pakistan Air Force’s infrastructure, destroying aircraft, and resulting in high casualties.

Jacobabad Airbase, formally known as PAF Base Shahbaz, holds strategic importance for Pakistan. The base has previously served NATO operations during the war in Afghanistan and currently houses elite squadrons, including those operating American-built F-16 fighter jets. The use of tarpaulin to conceal damage is consistent with tactics previously observed in past conflicts, including during the 1999 Kargil War, where Pakistan similarly attempted to obscure military losses from foreign observation and internal scrutiny.

Parallel repairs have also been observed at other targeted installations. At Bholari Airbase, a hangar suspected of housing a Saab 2000 Airborne Early Warning and Control System aircraft was similarly covered following Indian airstrikes. The pattern indicates a broader campaign by Pakistan to restore functionality and prevent additional exposure of its weakened air capabilities.

India has used Operation Sindoor to demonstrate the technological edge and strategic precision of its armed forces. According to official sources, foreign diplomats were briefed on the success of the campaign, which included the use of indigenous kinetic weapon systems and long-range strike capabilities.

Pakistan, however, has not officially acknowledged the extent of the damage or the ongoing repair work. Still, visual documentation and independent analysis confirm significant restoration activity, particularly at Jacobabad. The United States reportedly intervened in late May to mediate a ceasefire, following Pakistan’s willingness to de-escalate hostilities.

With Jacobabad’s role as a hub for multinational military coordination and high-value assets, its rapid restoration remains a top priority for the Pakistan Air Force. Yet the visible damage and need for repairs reflect the broader strain on Pakistan’s defense readiness in the wake of India’s assertive aerial campaign. As military tension lingers along the Line of Control, the evolving situation continues to attract global attention.

Passing Out Parade Celebrates Graduation of 1634 Agniveervayu Trainees at Belagavi

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A proud milestone unfolded at the Airmen Training School (ATS) in Belagavi as 1,634 Agniveervayu trainees passed out in a grand ceremony, marking the successful completion of their 22-week foundational training under the Indian Air Force’s Agnipath scheme.

The Passing Out Parade, held on a bright and ceremonial morning, showcased the precision, discipline, and commitment of the new recruits—comprising both men and women. The event was reviewed by Air Vice Marshal PCP Anand, Senior Officer-in-Charge-Administration at Headquarters Training Command, who lauded the trainees for their dedication and presented awards to outstanding performers in various categories.

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Set against a ceremonial backdrop reading “Passing Out Parade Agniveervayu Intake 01/2025,” the event reflected the IAF’s evolving focus on inclusivity and modernization. This batch stands out for its gender diversity, reinforcing the Air Force’s intent to integrate capable women into its combat and support roles.

The Agniveervayu program is a part of the larger Agnipath scheme launched by the Government of India in June 2022. Designed to induct youth between the ages of 17.5 and 23 for a four-year service period, the scheme aims to build a leaner, tech-savvy force. Training at ATS covers an intensive blend of physical endurance, military discipline, and technical skills necessary for air operations.

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Established during World War II by the Royal Air Force in 1942, the Airmen Training School at Sambra, Belagavi, carries a rich legacy. Since its designation as a Joint Basic Phase Training centre in 2001, it has continued to shape future-ready air warriors for the Indian Air Force.

As families and dignitaries looked on with pride, the event concluded with a group photograph of the award-winning trainees, capturing a moment of accomplishment and anticipation for their future roles in defending the nation’s skies. The IAF reiterated its commitment to maintaining high training standards for Agniveers, on par with regular personnel, as it forges a dynamic and youthful military force.

Taiwan Eyes India’s D4 Anti-Drone System to Counter Escalating Chinese UAV Threat

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Taiwan has officially shown interest in acquiring India’s state-of-the-art D4 anti-drone system, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). The move comes in response to a surge in Chinese drone activity near Taiwan’s borders and strategic facilities.

India’s D4 system has emerged as a reliable and battle-tested counter-drone solution. It gained global attention following its deployment during high-stakes border tensions, where it successfully neutralized various classes of drones, including those used for surveillance and armed incursions. The system combines electronic jamming and hard-kill capabilities, offering a layered defense mechanism.

Taiwanese defense sources have highlighted the increasing frequency of Chinese unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) incursions, which pose a serious threat to national security. The D4’s modular architecture, quick deployment, and ability to adapt to both urban and remote environments make it an attractive option for Taiwan’s military modernization efforts.

If the procurement proceeds, it would mark a significant step in India-Taiwan defense cooperation—an area traditionally approached with caution due to geopolitical sensitivities. It could also establish India as a reliable exporter of cutting-edge defense technology in the Indo-Pacific region.

Discussions between technical teams from both countries are expected to begin soon, focusing on system customization, integration, and export logistics. While India’s Ministry of Defence has not released an official statement yet, sources confirm that preliminary talks are underway.

Taiwan’s interest in the D4 system reflects a broader regional trend where nations are prioritizing anti-drone capabilities as part of their national defense strategies. As drone warfare becomes more prevalent, India’s growing expertise in this sector is opening new avenues for strategic partnerships.