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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.

Meet AVSM 2025, Lt Gen Sadhna Nair: India’s First Woman DGMS (Army)

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Lieutenant General Sadhna Saxena Nair, a name now etched in Indian military history, was awarded the Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in 2025 for her distinguished service and revolutionary impact on military healthcare. As the first woman Director General Medical Services (Army), she has redefined leadership in the armed forces, combining decades of frontline experience, strategic medical command, and a passion for innovation.

Also Read: President Droupadi Murmu Conferred 92 Distinguished Service Decorations at Defence Investiture Ceremony 2025 (Phase 2)

Early Life and Medical Education

Born in September 1964 at the Army Base Hospital, New Delhi, Lt Gen Nair belongs to a proud lineage of military doctors. Her academic journey began in schools across Prayagraj and Lucknow before she earned her MBBS degree from the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Pune, in December 1985.

Her commitment to lifelong learning led her to acquire:

  • A postgraduate degree in Family Medicine
  • Diplomas in Maternal & Child Health and Health Care Management
  • Advanced training in Medical Informatics (AIIMS Delhi)
  • Global exposure through CBRN warfare training with Israeli Defence Forces
  • A course in Military Medical Ethics with the Swiss Armed Forces
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Pioneering Military Career

Commissioned into the Army Medical Corps in 1985, Lt Gen Nair has served with distinction across multiple commands, becoming the first woman to lead various high-profile positions:

  • Principal Medical Officer of Western and Training Command, Indian Air Force
  • Director General Hospital Services (Armed Forces) with the rank of Air Marshal
  • Director General Medical Services (Army) from August 1, 2024

Her career includes key medical leadership during major operations like Operation Brass-tacks (1987), Operation Vijay (Kargil, 1999), and Operation Parakram (2002). She also played a central role in managing the armed forces’ medical response during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Key Achievements and National Honors

Lt Gen Nair has received numerous prestigious awards, including:

  • Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM)
  • Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM)
  • Commendations from the Chief of the Air Staff and Western Air Command
  • Multiple operation and long service medals

Her work has also extended to national policymaking—contributing to the Kasturirangan Committee for the National Education Policy in the area of medical education.

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Modernizing Military Medicine

Under her leadership, the Indian Army Medical Corps has achieved several key milestones:

  • Digital health initiatives in remote areas
  • Use of AI and telemedicine for real-time diagnostics
  • Enhanced focus on mental health and wellness centers
  • Expansion of women-specific healthcare programs
  • Improvements in field hospitals and logistics networks

Her vision focuses on inclusive, responsive, and future-ready medical services—crucial in today’s hybrid warfare era.

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Legacy, Leadership, and Inspiration

Lt Gen Sadhna Nair’s leadership style is marked by discipline, empathy, innovation, and a deep commitment to soldier welfare. She continues to mentor young officers and medical professionals, especially women, inspiring them to break barriers and serve with integrity.

She is widely respected for transforming the perception of women in uniform—not just as officers, but as strategic leaders and innovators.

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Conclusion

Lt Gen Sadhna Nair is more than a decorated officer; she is a symbol of progress and purpose in India’s armed forces. Her AVSM in 2025 not only honors a stellar career but also marks a historic chapter in the journey of women in the Indian military.

As India advances into an era of integrated and technology-driven defense, leaders like Lt Gen Nair will continue to inspire generations to come—with their courage, competence, and conviction.

PM Modi Flags Off First Vande Bharat to Kashmir, Cutting Travel Time from Katra to Srinagar to Just 3 Hours

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday flagged off the first-ever Vande Bharat Express connecting Jammu and Kashmir, marking a historic moment in India’s railway history. The train service, which is part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project, now enables travel from Katra to Srinagar in just 3 hours, significantly reducing the previous travel time of 6–7 hours by road.

The new Vande Bharat Express service is set to begin commercial operations from Saturday, establishing the first rail link between the Kashmir Valley and the rest of India. The development is a major milestone in overcoming the region’s tough terrain and challenging geography, which had long hindered direct rail connectivity.

Flagged off amid chants of “Jai Shera Wali Da” and “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” the Vande Bharat train symbolizes not only a leap in connectivity but also a renewed push towards normalcy and tourism revival in Kashmir following the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed 26 lives.

The fare for the Katra-Srinagar route is fixed at Rs 715 for the chair car and Rs 1,350 for the executive class.

“This is not just a train but a testament to the transformation of Kashmir’s infrastructure over the last 11 years,” said Railway spokesperson Dilip Kumar. “It’s an all-weather marvel built using cutting-edge technology.”

For the first time, two Vande Bharat trains have been flagged off simultaneously—one from Katra and another from Srinagar—both launched by Prime Minister Modi, underlining the government’s commitment to regional integration.

In addition to the train launch, PM Modi inaugurated two major engineering achievements—

  • The Chenab Rail Bridge, the world’s highest railway arch bridge, standing 359 metres above the riverbed, making it taller than the Eiffel Tower. Spanning 1,315 metres, the bridge is part of the USBRL and is engineered to endure high wind speeds (up to 260 km/h) and seismic activity.
  • The Anji Khad Bridge, India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, located about 80 km from Jammu, constructed by Hindustan Construction Company, which connects a vital stretch over the Anji River.

The entire 271-km-long USBRL project features 36 tunnels and 943 bridges and has been completed at a cost of Rs 43,780 crore. Trial runs over the Chenab Bridge included participation by army and security personnel to ensure stability, safety, and resistance to environmental stressors.

With this new railway line, Kashmir is now fully connected by rail to the Indian mainland for the first time, a move expected to boost tourism, economic activity, and national integration. Locals and business owners in Srinagar are hopeful that the new connectivity will bring back tourists and revitalize the region’s economy.

The launch of the Vande Bharat Express to Kashmir stands as a transformative step in India’s infrastructure journey, redefining travel, connectivity, and development in the region.

Indian Army Eliminates 2 NSCN(K-YA) Militants in Arunachal’s Longding District Near Myanmar Border

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In a significant counter-insurgency operation, the Indian Army eliminated two suspected militants belonging to the National Socialist Council of Nagaland (K-YA) faction near the Indo-Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh’s Longding district on June 5. The encounter underscores the ongoing challenges in securing India’s northeastern borders against cross-border insurgent activity.

According to Army officials, the firefight began when a patrol team, acting on credible intelligence inputs, came under attack by insurgents believed to have crossed over from Myanmar. The area, known for its dense forests and porous terrain, provided cover for the attackers. After several hours of intense engagement, the militants were neutralized while others managed to flee across the border.

The two deceased insurgents were later identified as Sgt Major Nyaklung and Lance Corporal Neyung Aung, both active members of the NSCN(K-YA) faction. Despite ongoing peace talks with several Naga groups, the NSCN(K-YA) has continued to engage in cross-border militant operations, posing a persistent threat to security forces and local populations in the region.

Army sources confirmed that no casualties were reported among Indian personnel during the operation. Search and combing efforts remain ongoing in the region to track down fleeing militants and prevent any further infiltration attempts.

The encounter highlights the broader issue of insurgent groups exploiting the Indo-Myanmar border to launch attacks and retreat into safe havens across the border. In response, the Indian Army has increased surveillance, improved coordination with border security forces, and stepped up joint efforts with Myanmar authorities to curb militant movement.

As border infrastructure development continues under the government’s Act East Policy, such operations reflect India’s determination to safeguard its territorial integrity and restore peace in the insurgency-hit northeast.