World
Over the weekend, Gaza City descended into violence as fierce clashes erupted between Hamas security forces and the Doghmush clan, one of the most powerful and heavily armed families in the Gaza Strip. The confrontation, which left several people dead and many more wounded, highlights a deeper struggle for power and control within the besieged enclave—beyond the familiar conflict with Israel. According to reports from multiple sources, including eyewitnesses and Gaza-based officials, the violence began late last week, shortly after a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas took effect. What started as localized tension between the two sides quickly escalated into open gunfights in several neighborhoods, particularly the Sabra district of Gaza City, a densely populated area long known as a stronghold of the Doghmush family. By Sunday evening, witnesses described scenes of chaos as around 200 Hamas security officers stormed the area, engaging in prolonged firefights until the clan members were "completely subdued." Residents reported that both sides suffered casualties, with fatalities and injuries among Doghmush members and Hamas fighters alike. Calm reportedly returned only around 9:30 p.m., following hours of intense gunfire. A source in Hamas’ Interior Ministry later confirmed that there had been fatalities on both sides and that approximately 60 Doghmush family members were arrested. The ministry accused the clan of collaborating with Israeli forces and being responsible for multiple murders and criminal acts within Gaza. Officials further alleged that the Doghmush clan had been operating as a “criminal gang”, undermining Hamas’ authority during and after the recent war. The Doghmush family, however, rejected these accusations. In a public statement, clan representatives denied any collaboration with Israel but acknowledged that some family members might have committed “transgressions,” without elaborating on what they were. They also accused Hamas of carrying out a campaign of collective punishment, claiming that the security forces were indiscriminately targeting anyone linked to their family. “In recent days, it was enough to belong to the Doghmush family to be shot in the legs, killed, arrested, or have your house burned down,”wrote Abu al-Hassan Doghmush, one of the clan’s senior figures, on Facebook. Who Are the Doghmush Clan? The Doghmush clan is one of Gaza’s most influential and well-armed families, known for maintaining its own militia-style armed groups. Historically, the family has had a complex relationship with various factions, including Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and al-Qaeda-linked elements. During the 2000s, Doghmush fighters were accused of kidnapping foreign journalists and aid workers, including the 2007 abduction of BBC reporter Alan Johnston, who was later released following negotiations involving Hamas. The clan’s stronghold lies in Gaza City’s Sabra and al-Zaitoun neighborhoods, where it maintains significant local influence, often acting independently of Hamas authorities. While Hamas has attempted to integrate or dismantle such power structures since taking control of Gaza in 2007, families like the Doghmush have continued to resist full subordination, occasionally clashing with Hamas police and internal security forces. Why the Conflict Erupted The latest violence appears to have been triggered by renewed efforts by Hamas to assert control over Gaza’s armed clans after the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. With the truce halting Israeli airstrikes, Hamas turned inward, focusing on consolidating power and cracking down on what it calls “criminal elements” operating under the cover of war chaos. The Interior Ministry’s announcement on Sunday of a “general amnesty” for “members of criminal gangs” who had not committed murder during the conflict is widely seen as part of this campaign. However, in practice, the operation in Sabra suggests Hamas is using force to stamp out dissent and enforce its monopoly over security and arms in the territory. Analysts say the Doghmush clan may have resisted Hamas’ attempts to disarm or arrest its members, viewing such actions as an attack on their autonomy. The resulting firefights underscore the fragile internal dynamics of Gaza’s governance, where Hamas faces not only external threats from Israel but also domestic challenges from powerful families and militias that wield local loyalty and weaponry. Broader Implications These clashes reveal the growing tension within post-war Gaza, where the balance between law enforcement, clan power, and militant authority remains unstable. Hamas’ need to maintain internal control is more critical than ever, especially as it seeks to demonstrate governance stability following months of devastating conflict. Yet, the bloody confrontation with the Doghmush clan may also expose Hamas’ vulnerability—its struggle to control all armed factions under its rule. Such internal conflicts risk undermining public trust, worsening humanitarian suffering, and potentially inviting renewed chaos at a time when Gaza’s recovery is already precarious. As the ceasefire holds externally, Gaza faces a different kind of war within its walls—a war for dominance, loyalty, and control among those who claim to defend it.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-14 13:18:17
World
A sudden wave of reports has flooded social media claiming that Afghan forces launched an airstrike on Pakistan’s city of Lahore, killing at least 15+ Pakistani soldiers. The attack, allegedly carried out using U.S.-made A-29 Super Tucano aircraft, has stirred up regional tension and confusion. While official confirmations remain limited, this event—if proven—marks an unprecedented escalation in South Asia’s volatile security environment. What Happened and the Claims According to emerging reports and social media footage, Afghan Air Force pilots, believed to be operating A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft, allegedly crossed into Pakistani airspace and conducted precision strikes on military positions near Lahore, Pakistan’s cultural and strategic hub. Some Afghan sources claim the operation targeted “terror infrastructure” allegedly linked to cross-border attacks inside Afghanistan. Afghan channels have described the strike as retaliation for recent Pakistani air operations inside Afghan territory, which, according to Kabul, killed several civilians and militants. Islamabad, however, has denied striking Afghan territory and called the Lahore strike report “fabricated propaganda.” So far, no major international news agency has independently verified the Lahore airstrike. The evidence—videos and satellite images circulating online—remains unconfirmed, though several independent analysts acknowledge that intense clashes have indeed erupted along the Durand Line, with both sides suffering casualties. The Aircraft Used – A-29 Super Tucano The Embraer A-29 Super Tucano is a turboprop light-attack aircraft designed for counter-insurgency and border patrol operations. The U.S. supplied dozens of these aircraft to Afghanistan before 2021, training Afghan pilots to operate them in high-altitude environments. The A-29 can carry machine guns, rockets, and precision-guided bombs, with a range of over 500 km—enough to theoretically reach Lahore from advanced Afghan bases near Khost or Jalalabad. However, executing such a deep strike mission would require precise coordination, refueling logistics, and evasion of Pakistani radar coverage. How Could Afghanistan Strike Lahore? While the A-29 is capable of reaching Pakistani airspace, conducting a strike as far east as Lahore is both bold and risky. Sources suggest that Afghan pilots may have exploited gaps in Pakistan’s western air defense radar coverage, taking advantage of low-altitude terrain and outdated detection systems along the Afghan frontier. This opportunity emerged due to a key military reality: Pakistan’s air defense network has been severely weakened since the May 2025 conflict with India. During that brief but intense confrontation, India’s precision air campaigns—especially using standoff weapons, decoys, and electronic warfare systems—reportedly destroyed or disabled a large part of Pakistan’s surface-to-air missile (SAM) sites, radar stations, and command centers. As a result, Pakistan today faces a shortage of operational air defense systems, especially modern long-range interceptors. Following the 2025 conflict, Islamabad shifted most of its remaining radar and SAM assets to its eastern border with India, leaving western regions such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa exposed. When the alleged Afghan strike occurred, Pakistan’s defensive coverage over Punjab’s western flank was reportedly thin, enabling limited penetration by low-flying aircraft. Why Pakistan Didn’t Expect an Attack from Afghanistan Historically, Pakistan’s military doctrine has focused overwhelmingly on India as the primary threat axis. While tensions with Afghanistan have existed for decades, Islamabad largely discounted the possibility of an air attack from the west—believing the Taliban-led Afghan regime lacked both intent and capability for such operations. Moreover, many in Pakistan’s defense establishment assumed that most Afghan Air Force assets, including the A-29s, were destroyed, abandoned, or flown out of the country in 2021 when the Taliban took power. That assumption may have been misplaced, as evidence shows a few serviceable aircraft remained in Afghanistan or were reactivated using local expertise and parts sourced via informal channels. What Afghanistan Claims Afghan government officials (and some Taliban-linked media) have stated that the strike was a defensive response to repeated Pakistani incursions, alleging that Pakistan conducted air raids inside Afghan territory earlier this week targeting Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) hideouts. Afghanistan’s claim is that this was “a message of deterrence,” aimed at preventing further Pakistani violations of its sovereignty. They also emphasized that Afghan forces did not target civilians, asserting the operation was directed only at Pakistani military positions near a “forward logistics site.” Pakistan’s Response and Military Losses Pakistani military sources have not confirmed any Afghan aircraft penetration or losses in Lahore. However, unofficial military-linked channels acknowledge that border installations and troop positions were hit near the Punjab–Khyber region, with around 15 soldiers reportedly killed and several vehicles destroyed. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistan’s defense media wing, has remained mostly silent, likely to avoid public panic or acknowledgment of airspace vulnerability so close to Lahore—Pakistan’s second-largest city and a symbol of national pride. Broader Regional Implications If verified, the strike—conducted by Afghanistan’s own air assets—would mark the first instance of a Taliban-led force conducting a conventional aerial attack against Pakistan. This would fundamentally alter regional security equations, showing that Kabul is capable of limited but precise military operations beyond its borders. It also highlights Pakistan’s defensive fragility post-2025, with much of its anti-aircraft network destroyed or redeployed. Islamabad’s once formidable low-to-medium altitude defense grid—built around Chinese LY-80, HQ-9P, and U.S.-era radars—remains partially functional but overstretched. Strategically, this situation leaves Pakistan sandwiched between two fronts—India in the east and Afghanistan in the west—without sufficient layered protection. The May 2025 conflict drastically shifted Pakistan’s air doctrine from offensive deterrence to reactive survival, limiting its ability to counter simultaneous threats. While the alleged Afghan airstrike on Lahore remains unverified, the episode underscores serious vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s defense architecture. Years of attrition, economic strain, and the 2025 conflict with India have left its air defense systems fragmented and its radar network stretched thin. Even if this incident turns out to be exaggerated or misreported, the message is clear: Pakistan’s western skies are no longer immune. The idea that Afghanistan could launch any form of air raid on Pakistan—real or rumored—reflects how dramatically the regional balance has shifted in just a few years.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-14 12:23:30
World
Since the start of the Russia–Ukraine war in 2022 and the Israel–Hamas conflict in 2023, the U.S. defense industry has witnessed an extraordinary surge in demand for weapons, ammunition, and military equipment. The boom is not just from direct orders by Ukraine or Israel, but also from massive U.S. government-funded aid packages, replenishment contracts, and record foreign military sales to NATO allies who are preparing for potential escalation with Russia. Estimating exactly how much the U.S. defense industry has received in orders due to these wars is difficult because the money comes through multiple channels — direct U.S. aid, foreign government purchases, and Pentagon restocking contracts. Yet, by examining official figures and verified budget data, it is possible to form a reliable picture of the scale of this wartime windfall. The Ukraine War and Direct U.S. Military Aid The U.S. State Department and Department of Defense have reported that the United States has provided around $66.9 billion in military assistance to Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022. Almost all of that amount translates into work for American defense manufacturers. This includes the production of HIMARS rocket systems, Javelin anti-tank missiles, Patriot air-defense systems, artillery ammunition, armored vehicles, and drones — all supplied from U.S. inventories or produced domestically. When the Pentagon sends weapons from its own stockpiles, it later issues replenishment contracts to rebuild those inventories. These contracts, often worth billions, are placed with American firms such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics, creating a long-term production pipeline that stretches across several fiscal years. The Israel–Hamas Conflict and U.S. Support Since the October 2023 Hamas attack and the resulting conflict in Gaza, the United States has become Israel’s main military supplier. Independent budget trackers and defense policy institutes estimate that the U.S. has committed between $17.9 billion and $21.7 billion in military aid and arms sales to Israel since the war began. This includes missile interceptors for the Iron Dome, precision-guided bombs, tank ammunition, aircraft spare parts, and emergency resupply of artillery shells and rockets. U.S. companies have been the direct beneficiaries of these orders, as nearly all of Israel’s imports from these aid packages are manufactured by U.S. defense contractors. In several cases, Washington authorized emergency arms transfers bypassing the usual congressional review process, accelerating production lines already running at maximum capacity. NATO and Allied Purchases Driven by the War Beyond direct U.S. aid, the fear of Russian expansion has driven a surge in arms orders from European and NATO allies. Since 2022, countries such as Poland, Finland, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Baltic States have placed record orders for U.S.-made systems including F-35 fighter jets, Patriot missiles, HIMARS rocket launchers, Abrams tanks, and a wide range of munitions. According to official export data, the value of U.S. arms exports surged to about $200.8 billion in fiscal year 2024, up from about $157.5 billion in 2023. While not all of that increase can be directly linked to the Ukraine and Israel conflicts, analysts estimate that at least $60–120 billion of that total reflects orders motivated by those wars and the resulting security environment. In many cases, European governments are replacing old Soviet-era weapons systems they donated to Ukraine with newer American ones, locking in long-term contracts with U.S. defense firms. Pentagon Restocking and Ammunition Expansion The Pentagon has also had to rebuild its own inventories after sending thousands of missiles and millions of artillery shells overseas. Congress has approved multiple supplemental defense budgets totaling more than $100 billion in recent years, a significant portion of which has gone toward replenishment and industrial capacity building. Within that, about $30–60 billion in new procurement and manufacturing contracts can be directly linked to these wars. This includes major funding for 155mm shell production lines, guided missile manufacturing, explosives plants, and supply-chain expansion. The Department of Defense has repeatedly emphasized that the United States is investing in long-term ammunition production to sustain future conflicts, which effectively guarantees years of steady orders for the industry. Calculating the Total Impact By combining these three channels — direct U.S. aid, foreign purchases, and replenishment — the scale of the wartime boost becomes clear. Using conservative figures: U.S. aid to Ukraine: $66.9 billion U.S. aid to Israel: $17.9 billion War-driven foreign purchases (NATO and others): $60 billion U.S. restocking and industrial contracts: $30 billion That totals roughly $175 billion in direct and indirect orders tied to the Ukraine and Israel wars. If broader estimates are used — including the higher end of Israel aid, a larger share of the $200.8 billion in export authorizations, and more generous accounting for DoD replenishment — the total could rise to around $270 billion. This upper bound represents a wider attribution of contracts influenced by these conflicts, including multi-year programs now in progress across the U.S. defense sector. Understanding What the Numbers Represent These figures measure the scale of business generated for the U.S. defense industry due to these two wars. They do not represent total U.S. military spending or overall global defense budgets. The $175–270 billion range reflects contracts and orders linked specifically to war-related demand — weapons sent to allies, restocking, and new purchases prompted by the fear of future conflicts. It is important to note that some aid to Ukraine and Israel came in the form of existing equipment from U.S. stockpiles, which means the real industrial impact shows up later when those inventories are rebuilt. Additionally, large foreign arms sales are often multi-year projects, meaning that while orders are placed now, revenue for U.S. defense firms will be realized over several years. Even with these caveats, the overall picture is unmistakable. The twin wars have supercharged American defense production, revitalized ammunition manufacturing lines that had been dormant since the Cold War, and prompted record-breaking export deals. Firms such as Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, Boeing Defense, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics have all reported substantial increases in their backlogs and new contracts since 2022. The Broader Implication The surge in demand from Ukraine, Israel, and NATO allies has not only generated tens of billions in direct sales but also reshaped U.S. defense policy. Washington is now treating industrial capacity as a key pillar of deterrence — reopening ammunition plants, expanding subcontractor networks, and streamlining export approvals for allies. The result is a defense economy that has entered a new, high-tempo production phase reminiscent of the early Cold War years. In simple terms, since 2022 the U.S. defense industry has received between $175 billion and $270 billion worth of additional orders that can be traced directly or indirectly to the Russia–Ukraine and Israel–Hamas wars. The lower figure is a conservative estimate based on verified aid and contract data; the higher figure includes expanded exports, industrial expansion, and multi-year foreign orders driven by the same conflicts. Either way, these wars have triggered one of the largest surges in U.S. defense manufacturing since the early 2000s — transforming geopolitical crises abroad into an economic boom for America’s military-industrial complex.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-14 11:23:14
India
India is reportedly preparing to shelve its plan to acquire three additional French Scorpene-class submarines worth ₹36,000 crore, opting instead to focus on a new ₹70,000 crore deal with Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) under Project 75-India (P-75I). According to The Times of India, the decision has not been officially finalized, but sources indicate that the proposal for more Scorpenes “is not being pursued now.” The shift reflects India’s growing emphasis on acquiring more advanced submarines with greater endurance and technology transfer potential. The German partnership with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) aims to produce six new-generation conventional submarines with Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems, enhanced stealth, and land-attack capability. Why the French Scorpene Deal May Be Dropped Government sources cited three main reasons for reconsidering the French proposal. First, the German submarines are considered technologically superior, offering longer underwater endurance and improved stealth compared to the Scorpene design. Second, it would be challenging for MDL to manage two separate submarine construction lines simultaneously—one for the German vessels and another for the French. Third, the German deal offers deeper technology transfer and higher indigenisation, which aligns more closely with India’s “Make in India” defence manufacturing strategy. The original follow-on Scorpene plan involved adding three boats to the six already built under Project 75, signed in 2005 with France’s Naval Group. These submarines—INS Kalvari, Khanderi, Karanj, Vela, Vagir, and Vagsheer—were built at MDL, with the last commissioned in early 2025. Each Scorpene submarine cost around ₹4,000–₹5,000 crore, and all six are scheduled to be upgraded with the DRDO-developed AIP system to extend underwater endurance. Although cost negotiations for the additional three Scorpenes were completed last fiscal year, the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) withheld final clearance, opting instead to prioritise the German offer under Project 75I. The Indo-German Project 75I Deal Under Project 75I, India plans to construct six advanced conventional submarines at MDL in collaboration with Germany’s TKMS. The contract—valued at approximately ₹70,000 crore—will include full design transfer, a high degree of localisation (targeting 60% indigenisation), and integration of advanced combat systems. The submarines will be based on an improved version of the Type 214 design, incorporating cutting-edge AIP systems that enable the vessels to stay submerged for two to three weeks without surfacing. They will also carry advanced sonar, land-attack cruise missiles, and next-generation lithium-ion battery systems for longer endurance and faster charging. The P-75I deal marks India’s largest “Make in India” defence contract in the naval domain. Official negotiations began in September 2025 after clearance from the Defence Acquisition Council and the Cabinet Committee on Security. The TKMS-MDL consortium is the only qualified bidder after Spain’s Navantia was reportedly ruled out for not meeting technical criteria. Strategic Rationale for Choosing the German Option The Indian Navy currently operates 16 submarines—six Scorpenes, four aging German HDW Type-209s, and six Russian Kilo-class boats. Two nuclear-powered submarines also serve in the fleet. Most of the conventional boats are approaching the end of their operational life, prompting urgent need for replacement and modernisation. Choosing the German submarine offers several strategic and operational advantages: Enhanced stealth and survivability: The German Type 214 uses advanced noise-reduction coatings and hull design. Longer underwater endurance: The AIP system allows operations underwater for up to three weeks, compared to 3–4 days for conventional diesel-electric subs. Land-attack capability: Integration of cruise missiles allows strategic strikes from sea, extending the Navy’s offensive reach. Technology transfer and local production: A higher share of Indian-built components strengthens domestic defence manufacturing capability. Bridge to future indigenous design: The P-75I project is expected to lead directly to the future P-76 programme, under which submarines will be fully designed and built in India. French Partnership Still Important Despite the likely cancellation of the Scorpene follow-on order, India’s strategic and defence relationship with France remains strong. France is involved in other major Indian defence projects, including the planned acquisition of additional Rafale fighter jets and the co-development of a ₹61,000 crore jet engine with Safran for India’s fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). Officials note that while the additional Scorpene plan may be on hold, it could still be revisited if industrial or strategic considerations change. A Measured Shift The decision to move from French to German submarines signals India’s focus on long-term capability and technological self-reliance over short-term fleet expansion. It also aligns with the Navy’s plan to modernise its underwater fleet amid rising Chinese activity in the Indian Ocean and Pakistan’s induction of eight Yuan-class submarines with AIP. If the German deal proceeds on schedule, construction of the first P-75I submarine at MDL could begin by 2026, with delivery expected in the early 2030s.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-14 11:01:30
India
The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has been developing a Motorized Universal Weapon Loading Trolley (MUWLT) to support weapons loading and unloading for the LCA-Mk1 and the LCA-Mk1A. DRDO/ADA intend to hand the design to Indian private manufacturers so the trolley can be produced to the exact technical specifications supplied by the agency. What the MUWLT is meant to do A MUWLT is ground-support equipment designed to assemble, transport, precisely position and load various stores (bombs, missiles, external fuel tanks, pylons, etc.) onto aircraft weapon stations. The “motorized” and “universal” parts of the name indicate two linked goals: Powered mobility and lifting to reduce manual handling and speed up sorties Adaptability to different store types and station geometries so a single trolley can support multiple aircraft and multiple hardpoints. The ADA/DRDO effort frames the MUWLT for the LCA family but with an eye to reusability and standardization across ground fleets. Why India is developing MUWLT now India is increasing deliveries of Tejas (LCA) variants and modernizing ground-support infrastructure. Having a locally designed MUWLT supports faster turnarounds, improves safety, and aligns with the “make in India” objective by moving from imported/third-party equipment toward indigenously produced GSE built to the airframe’s exact needs. DRDO’s plan to transfer the design to private manufacturers aims to create suppliers who can deliver MUWLTs exactly to ADA’s drawings and quality requirements. Main advantages of a motorized universal loader Reduced manpower and time per sortie. A powered loader cuts the number of personnel and the time required to move, lift and align heavy stores compared with manually manoeuvred trolleys. This improves sortie generation and reduces personnel fatigue. Improved safety and repeatability. Motor drive, hydraulic or electric lifting and fine positional controls reduce the risk of accidental drops or misalignment during mating to aircraft suspension lugs and pylons. Built-in brakes, interlocks and ground-ing/earthing features further lower risk. Universal fit and quick reconfiguration. Adjustable saddles, modular adapters and height/tilt/rotation capability allow one MUWLT to handle multiple store types and aircraft stations, simplifying logistics and inventory. Human factors and ergonomics. Motorized steering, remote or joystick control and powered lift reduce operator strain and help in operations in extreme weather/airfield conditions. Compatibility with modern aircraft workflows. As aircraft integrate more advanced weapons and require faster turnaround, powered loaders that can precisely position heavy, awkward stores become operationally necessary. Problems with current (older/manual) weapon loading trolleys Manual handling and slow turnaround. Many legacy trolleys rely on manual pushing, scissor-lift hand pumps, or limited powered features; these are slower and require more crew. Limited precision. Manual or basic hydraulic systems can lack the fine control needed for sensitive weapon-to-pylon mating, increasing the chance of damage to expensive stores or aircraft fittings. Poor universal adaptability. Older trolleys are often specific to a store type or aircraft family; multiple different trolleys are needed on a busy flight line, complicating logistics. Safety and maintenance burden. Manual systems place more physical stress on crews and may lack modern safety interlocks, while aging mechanicals need increased maintenance and can be liability points. Do other countries use motorized weapon loading trolleys? Yes. Ground-support equipment (GSE) manufacturers worldwide produce powered weapon loaders and automated loading systems used by air forces in the US, Europe, Turkey and elsewhere. Companies offer electrically-driven or hydraulic weapon loaders, linkless ammunition loaders, and automated handling systems tailored to aircraft like fighters and transport aircraft. The global suppliers and catalogues show that motorized/automated weapon loaders are an established class of GSE; ADA’s MUWLT represents an indigenous design targeted to LCA specifics and Indian production. Typical technical specifications The ADA/DRDO specification and related procurement SOWs set out technical and functional requirements for MUWLTs; while manufacturers will implement the detailed design, the key specification items listed or commonly required are: Load capacity: sized to safely lift and position typical fighter stores — industry documents commonly specify capacities in the 500–1,000 kg class for single-store trolleys (exact capacity in the DRDO specification should be followed). Lifting mechanism: hydraulic scissor or linear actuator with fine control and zero-drift holding; rated stroke to match aircraft hardpoint height with safety margins. Mobility: battery-powered electric drive for airfield use, with manual tow option and parking brakes; suitable tyre/wheel assembly for apron surfaces. Positioning: powered rotation, tilt and lateral adjustment; micrometer or encoder feedback for repeatable alignment. Adapters: modular saddles, pylon adapters and soft supports to accept different store geometries (bombs, missiles, tanks, pylons). Controls & safety: joystick/remote control, emergency stop, overload protection, interlocks, earthing/anti-static provision and clear operator interface. Environmental & maintenance standards: corrosion protection, IP rating for electronics, simple maintenance access and spares support per the DRDO SOW. (Manufacturers contracted by DRDO/ADA must deliver MUWLT units exactly to the supplied design and tolerance levels; the procurement documentation spells out tests, trials and acceptance criteria.) What to expect next With the design transfer model, private Indian manufacturers will be expected to produce MUWLTs to DRDO/ADA drawings and pass acceptance trials. Adoption across squadrons will depend on production rate, training for GSE crews, and induction into maintenance cycles. If produced at scale, MUWLTs can standardize weapons-handling on Tejas squadrons and reduce reliance on imported or ad-hoc GSE.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 17:37:21
World
Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin company, has developed the S-70UAS U-Hawk, an unmanned aerial system (UAS) based on the UH-60L Black Hawk helicopter. This conversion eliminates the cockpit and crew stations, resulting in a fully autonomous platform designed for logistics, support, and air-ground teaming missions. Design and Features The U-Hawk can carry up to 3,175 kg internally and 4,082 kg externally via sling load. Equipped with Sikorsky’s MATRIX™ autonomy suite and a fly-by-wire control system, it can self-deploy over 1,600 nautical miles and loiter for up to 14 hours without refueling. The aircraft features front clamshell doors and a rear cargo ramp for easy loading, supporting modular mission kits for cargo transport, unmanned vehicle deployment, or precision strike payloads. Designed for operation by a single operator through a tablet interface, the U-Hawk transforms the legacy Black Hawk into a high-endurance, multi-mission autonomous platform. Its hinged clamshell nose and rear-lowering cargo ramp allow forward loading of oversized payloads, providing 25% more internal cargo space compared to the UH-60L Black Hawk. The aircraft can transport up to four Joint Modular Intermodal Containers (JMICs), accommodate larger items such as missiles and uncrewed ground vehicles, and carry internal fuel tanks for extended range operations. Autonomy and Control The U-Hawk utilizes Sikorsky's MATRIX autonomy technology, allowing operators to control the aircraft via a tablet. Operators input mission goals, and the system automatically generates and navigates the flight plan using cameras, sensors, and algorithms to ensure safe navigation to the destination. Specifications Cargo Capacity: 25% more internal cargo space than the UH-60L Black Hawk Payload: Up to four Joint Modular Intermodal Containers, missiles, uncrewed ground vehicles, and internal fuel tanks Autonomy: Fully autonomous flight from startup to shutdown using MATRIX technology Control Interface: Tablet-based mission planning and control Production and Development Sikorsky developed the U-Hawk in less than a year, transforming a UH-60L Black Hawk from concept to prototype in just 10 months. The aircraft was unveiled at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) annual conference in Washington, D.C., in October 2025. Project Budget The project budget is estimated at $43 million, secured under a contract with the U.S. Army to fund modernization engineering efforts for the Black Hawk helicopter. This contract focuses on airframe enhancements and the development of a digital backbone to enable rapid integration of unmanned aerial systems and other advanced technologies. The Sikorsky S-70UAS U-Hawk represents a significant advancement in unmanned aerial systems, offering enhanced cargo capacity and autonomous capabilities for military logistics and support missions. Its design and features position it as a versatile platform for future air-ground operations.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 16:36:46
India
European missile manufacturer MBDA has extended an invitation to India to participate in its new STRATUS missile programme, which builds upon the earlier Future Cruise/Anti-Ship Weapon (FC/ASW) initiative jointly led by France and the United Kingdom. The STRATUS family will include two advanced missiles — a subsonic low-observable deep-strike missile and a supersonic rapid-strike missile — designed for land-attack and anti-ship missions. Programme Overview The STRATUS programme aims to replace existing European long-range cruise and anti-ship weapons such as the Storm Shadow/SCALP and Exocet. MBDA is the prime contractor, with national subsidiaries and industrial partners contributing to development and production. STRATUS Low Observable (LO):This subsonic variant uses turbojet propulsion and features a low radar cross-section for deep-penetration missions. It is designed primarily for precision land-attack operations with secondary anti-ship capability. STRATUS Rapid Strike (RS):This variant employs ramjet propulsion for sustained supersonic speeds and is intended for fast-response anti-ship and suppression missions. It focuses on high manoeuvrability and resistance to modern air defences. Technical Characteristics While MBDA has not officially disclosed performance figures, several defence sources report that the STRATUS LO may have a range of around 1,500 km, while the STRATUS RS may reach up to 800 km. These figures, however, remain unconfirmed and could vary depending on payload and mission profile. Both missiles are expected to use advanced seekers — imaging infrared for STRATUS LO and radio-frequency guidance for STRATUS RS — for precise targeting in contested environments. Budget and Industrial Participation The initial development phase of the programme is supported by a funding envelope of approximately €150 million, covering the 2023–2028 period. Italy has formally joined the initiative with a contribution of €10 million. France and the United Kingdom remain the lead partners, while MBDA has expressed interest in expanding industrial collaboration with India and other countries. Manufacturing and Workshare MBDA will oversee system integration and production across its European facilities: MBDA UK is leading the STRATUS LO development, with participation from Rolls-Royce and Safran in propulsion work. MBDA France leads the STRATUS RS development, supported by Thales for seeker and guidance systems. MBDA Italy contributes to system design and will share in future production responsibilities. No final production line allocation or annual capacity figures have been publicly disclosed, but MBDA has confirmed it is increasing its overall missile production capabilities across its European plants. Indian Collaboration MBDA has signalled interest in Indian participation through joint development or component manufacturing under the STRATUS programme. Industry discussions have taken place, although no formal agreement or government-to-government framework has been announced. Collaboration could include technology sharing, co-development of subsystems, or integration with Indian platforms. The STRATUS programme is expected to enter advanced development in the late 2020s, with operational induction projected for the early 2030s among European users. If India joins the programme, it could gain access to a next-generation missile ecosystem offering both deep-strike and high-speed strike capabilities, complementing indigenous long-range missile projects.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 16:27:34
World
On September 25, 2025, Naval Group’s Cherbourg shipyard commenced welding of the first steel plate for the nuclear confinement enclosures of the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Génération (PA-NG), marking the official start of physical construction for France’s next-generation nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. This milestone follows a series of preliminary design and planning phases, including the completion of nuclear reactor studies in 2023. The PA-NG is designed to replace the current French aircraft carrier, Charles de Gaulle, which is expected to remain in service until the late 2030s. The new carrier aims to enhance France’s naval capabilities with advanced technologies and increased operational flexibility. Budget and Funding The estimated cost for the PA-NG project is between €8 billion and €10 billion. This budget includes design, construction, and integration of advanced systems, including the nuclear propulsion units and aviation facilities. The project represents a significant investment in France’s naval defense infrastructure. Design and Specifications Length: Approximately 310 meters Beam: 85 meters Displacement: Approximately 78,000 tonnes Speed: 27 knots Air Wing Capacity: Designed to accommodate up to 30 aircraft, including fighters, unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), and helicopters Flight Deck Area: Approximately 17,200 square meters Nuclear Propulsion: Equipped with two K22 nuclear reactors, each providing 220 MW, ensuring extended operational range and reduced logistical dependencies Construction and Manufacturing The PA-NG is a collaborative program involving multiple organizations: Naval Group: Responsible for overall warship architecture, including aviation facilities and combat systems TechnicAtome: Tasked with design and integration of nuclear propulsion systems Chantiers de l’Atlantique: Handles platform production and ship assembly MO Porte-Avions: A joint venture between Naval Group (65%) and Chantiers de l’Atlantique (35%), overseeing program management Production Timeline While the initial steel cutting has begun, the main construction phase is scheduled to start around 2031, with sea trials projected for 2035. The PA-NG is expected to enter service around 2038, coinciding with the planned retirement of the Charles de Gaulle. Strategic Importance The PA-NG represents a significant advancement in France’s naval capabilities, providing enhanced power projection and operational flexibility. Its nuclear propulsion system offers extended operational range, while its advanced flight deck and aviation facilities support a diverse air wing. The carrier’s design and construction are integral to maintaining France’s strategic presence on the global stage. As the project progresses, further details on the PA-NG’s systems and capabilities are expected to be released, providing a clearer picture of its role in the future of the French Navy.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 16:14:01
World
Baykar Technologies has announced that Türkiye’s first unmanned fighter jet, the Bayraktar Kızılelma, has successfully completed its first live-fire test. The test was conducted by the third prototype, PT-3, at the AKINCI Flight Training and Test Center in Çorlu, Tekirdağ. During two separate flights, the aircraft deployed ASELSAN's TOLUN precision munition and ROKETSAN's TEBER-82 winged guidance kit, achieving direct hits on designated targets. Specifications of Bayraktar Kızılelma The Bayraktar Kızılelma is a single-engine, jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) developed under Türkiye's MIUS (Mücadele İnsansız Hava Aracı Sistemi) program. It features a low radar cross-section design, making it suitable for both land-based and carrier operations. Key specifications include: Wingspan: 10 meters Length: 14.5 meters Height: 3.5 meters Maximum Takeoff Weight: 8,500 kg Payload Capacity: 1,500 kg Cruising Speed: 0.6 Mach Maximum Speed: 0.9 Mach Combat Radius: 500 nautical miles (approximately 926 km) Operational Altitude: Up to 25,000 feet (7,620 meters) Service Ceiling: Up to 45,000 feet (13,716 meters) The aircraft is powered by a turbofan engine developed through a Turkish-Ukrainian collaboration. It is equipped with advanced avionics, including AESA radar, electro-optical targeting systems, and infrared search and track (IRST) capabilities. The Kızılelma is designed to operate autonomously or in coordination with manned aircraft, serving as a "loyal wingman" in combat scenarios. Production and Development Timeline The Kızılelma project was initiated in 2021, with the first prototype completing its maiden flight in December 2022. The PT-3 prototype, which conducted the recent live-fire tests, is considered the production prototype, featuring significant upgrades in airframe design, engine performance, and avionics. Baykar Technologies began mass production of the Kızılelma in October 2024, with plans to produce over 10 units by 2026. The successful live-fire test marks a significant milestone in the development of Türkiye's indigenous unmanned combat capabilities. With its advanced specifications and production plans, the Bayraktar Kızılelma is poised to enhance Türkiye's defense capabilities in the coming years.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 15:54:18
World
On 7 October 2025, the Organisation for Joint Armament Co-operation (OCCAR) announced the successful completion of the Critical Design Review (CDR) for the Lithium Battery System (LBS) of the U212 Near Future Submarine (NFS) Programme. This review confirmed that the LBS meets all design and mission requirements, allowing the programme to proceed to manufacturing, system integration, and qualification. The U212 NFS is a collaborative programme led by OCCAR in coordination with Italy’s Ministry of Defence and Fincantieri, the prime contractor. The programme focuses on developing a class of submarines for the Italian Navy with improved stealth, endurance, and operational flexibility. The first submarine in this class is expected for delivery in early 2029. The U212 NFS will be the first Western submarine designed specifically for a lithium-based battery system, representing an advance in submarine propulsion technology. The Lithium Battery System provides higher energy density, lower maintenance requirements, and improved safety compared with traditional lead-acid batteries. Developed entirely by Italian industry, the LBS will be produced in Italy at one of Europe’s largest gigafactories, built specifically for this purpose. The system uses lithium iron phosphate (LFP) chemistry, known for reliability and stability, and has undergone testing and certification to meet the required safety standards for submerged operations. Integration with the submarine’s Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) fuel cell system will enhance autonomy and energy efficiency. From a contractual perspective, the programme has been supported by significant investment. In February 2021, OCCAR and Fincantieri signed the first-phase contract for the U212 NFS Programme, valued at €1.35 billion. The agreement covers the development of the submarine class, procurement of two units, construction of a training centre, and ten years of technical-logistic support. Subsequent contract amendments included upgrades such as periscope improvements and studies for a Special Operations Submarine variant. The latest amendment in July 2025 further supports the enhancement of the U212 NFS capabilities. The CDR for the LBS was endorsed by representatives from the Naval Armament Directorate, the Italian Navy General Staff, Fincantieri, and OCCAR, confirming alignment among all stakeholders and allowing the next steps in the programme. OCCAR emphasized its role in coordinating institutional, industrial, and governmental actors to support European defence cooperation through programme management and long-term capability development. The milestone also highlights the technical expertise of Fincantieri, which is central to delivering this propulsion system for the Italian Navy. As the programme moves forward with production and integration, the U212 Near Future Submarines will provide the Italian Navy with improved performance, endurance, and stealth, reflecting Italy’s role in defence technology and energy innovation for underwater platforms.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 15:00:18
World
Rheinmetall has begun full-speed series production of UVision’s HERO loitering munitions at two RWM Italia plants in Sardinia, with assembly and electronics in Musei and warhead manufacture and integration in Domusnovas. This production increase supports a European order backlog exceeding €200 million and is part of Rheinmetall’s broader uncrewed and counter-UAS portfolio, marketed as a sensor-to-effector ecosystem. The work in Sardinia is organized to separate airframe assembly and electronics from warhead integration. Musei handles the assembly of airframes and electronics, while Domusnovas focuses on warhead manufacture and integration. This separation improves workflow efficiency and safety while ensuring that the production lines can meet European demand. The HERO family includes several variants designed for different operational requirements. The HERO 30 is a short-range, man-portable system weighing approximately 7.8 kg, with a 0.5 kg warhead, a maximum range of 20 km, and a 30-minute endurance. The HERO 120 is a medium-range system intended for precision strikes against armored vehicles and fixed positions, with higher endurance and warhead capacity. Larger variants, such as the HERO 400, HERO 900, and HERO 1250, provide extended range and endurance for engaging fortified or strategic targets, with the HERO 1250 able to operate up to 200 km and loiter for 6 hours. On production capacity, the Sardinian facilities have increased output compared with previous months. Current reporting indicates the combined lines are capable of producing several hundred units per month depending on the variant mix. The ramp-up ensures that Rheinmetall can fulfill existing European contracts efficiently while remaining flexible to adapt production according to customer requirements and specific HERO models. The integration of HERO into Rheinmetall’s defense portfolio emphasizes interoperability within a sensor-to-effector framework. Detection, command and control, and the munitions themselves are designed to work together within a broader uncrewed and counter-UAS ecosystem, allowing operators to coordinate surveillance and strike operations more efficiently. Practical considerations for this production include skilled labor, quality control for energetic components, and secure facilities for testing and acceptance. Full-speed production in Musei and Domusnovas allows Rheinmetall to meet current European demand while maintaining safety and workflow standards.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 14:32:27
World
The Royal Navy's sixth Astute-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, HMS Agamemnon (S123), has successfully completed a three-day trim dive at Devonshire Dock in Barrow-in-Furness. This milestone is critical to testing the submarine’s stability, internal weight distribution, watertight integrity, and sensor systems, marking a key step ahead of her departure to join the fleet at His Majesty’s Naval Base Clyde. The event follows the submarine's official commissioning by King Charles III on September 22, 2025. Trim Dive and Commissioning Commander David 'Bing' Crosby, HMS Agamemnon’s commanding officer, explained:"The trim and basin dive is a key step in the commissioning of HMS Agamemnon. This period enables us to set the boat’s internal weight, prove her watertight integrity, test sensors and put some of our systems through their paces ahead of sailing for the first time." Pete Tumelty, Astute Programme Director at BAE Systems’ Submarines business, added:"This trim dive is the culmination of months of hard work. I’d like to thank all teams involved for their commitment and professionalism. We’re incredibly proud of the contribution we’re making to the nation’s security and Barrow’s long and distinguished heritage as the home of UK submarine design and build." Henry Musgrave, Head of the Astute Delivery Team at the Submarine Delivery Agency, noted:"The successful completion of HMS Agamemnon’s trim dive marks a pivotal milestone in our mission to safely deliver available and capable submarines to the Royal Navy in defence of our nation. This achievement reflects the exceptional collaboration between the SDA and our partners across the Defence Nuclear Enterprise." Specifications and Capabilities Length: 97 metres Displacement: 7,400 tonnes Propulsion: Rolls-Royce PWR2 nuclear reactor, providing essentially unlimited range, limited only by crew provisions Crew: 98 personnel Armament: 6 x 533 mm torpedo tubes, up to 38 weapons, including Tomahawk Land Attack Cruise Missiles (range ~1,000 miles) and Spearfish heavyweight torpedoes The submarine can operate across a variety of roles, including strategic deterrence, intelligence gathering, and supporting carrier strike groups. Construction and Program Details HMS Agamemnon is the sixth of seven Astute-class submarines being constructed by BAE Systems under a £1.4 billion contract. Alongside Astute-class builds, BAE Systems is constructing four Dreadnought-class submarines, the future replacements for the Vanguard-class boats that currently deliver the Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD). The Dreadnought-class is expected to enter service in the early 2030s. Design work is also underway on future AUKUS nuclear-powered attack submarines in partnership with the UK, US, and Australia. BAE Systems Workforce Growth To support the busy submarine program and growing order book, BAE Systems’ submarines workforce has expanded from 10,700 employees in 2023 to 15,000 today. This is projected to reach 17,000 in the coming years, reflecting the company’s long-term commitment to UK submarine capabilities. Strategic Importance HMS Agamemnon’s commissioning strengthens the Royal Navy’s operational readiness and nuclear deterrent capabilities, ensuring at least one submarine is deployed continuously at sea, safeguarding the nation’s security. The successful trim dive confirms that the submarine is ready to progress toward sea trials and eventual full operational deployment.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 13:57:33
Russia Upgrades Gerbera Decoy Drones with Automatic Evasion Systems Against Ukraine FPV Interceptors
World
Russia has started equipping its Gerbera decoy drones with automatic evasion systems to counter Ukrainian FPV interceptors. This development represents a tactical adaptation, as operators are adding sensor suites and programmed flight responses to low-cost Gerbera loitering drones so they can detect and react to small, fast interceptors flown by operators using first-person-view (FPV) systems. The Gerbera began as a low-cost, fixed-wing loitering UAV often used as a decoy. Launched in groups to force defenders to reveal radar coverage or expend interceptors, it is inexpensive compared with larger attack drones. Ukrainian FPV interceptors—small multirotor or winged drones piloted by a live video feed—have proven effective at colliding with or destroying these decoys. To reduce losses, some Gerberas have been fitted with what are being called automatic evasion systems. An automatic evasion system on a Gerbera is not a single device but an integrated package of sensors and software. These typically include small auxiliary cameras or optical sensors, sometimes supplemented by radio-frequency (RF) or infrared (IR) detectors, all linked to the drone’s autopilot through a microcontroller running a short set of evasive routines. The sensors monitor approaching objects; when a likely interceptor is detected—based on relative motion, size, or bearing—the autopilot performs a pre-programmed maneuver such as a sharp turn, dive, or climb to break the interceptor’s pursuit path. In practice, this is effective because many FPV interceptors rely on a straight pursuit path guided by video tracking. A sudden, automated change of direction by the target can cause the interceptor to miss or lose lock. Since the reaction is automatic and near-instant, it can outperform a human operator’s response time. Most systems appear to use simple detection logic rather than complex AI—based on motion thresholds and predefined flight scripts—which ensures quick reactions and minimal processing load. Equipping Gerberas with these kits changes the operational trade-off. A drone fitted with cameras, processors, and detectors costs more per unit, but each surviving decoy maintains the saturation effect of a mass strike and forces defenders to expend additional interceptors. The main capability gained is higher survivability against low-cost pursuit drones while keeping the Gerbera’s basic navigation and flight functions intact. Typical specifications of the Gerbera remain consistent across batches. It is a lightweight, fixed-wing airframe with an approximate wingspan of 2 to 2.5 meters, powered by a small gasoline engine with a pusher propeller. The drone’s maximum speed is around 120–160 km/h, and its payload capacity allows the addition of light sensors and electronics. The evasion module itself generally includes rear- and top-mounted cameras, a miniature autopilot board, and basic processing software to execute maneuvers. These components fit within the Gerbera’s payload limit and can be swapped or updated quickly in field conditions. Limitations remain. Optical sensors can register false positives from birds or debris and lose effectiveness in low light or fog. Aggressive evasive maneuvers risk loss of stability or navigation errors, while mild reactions may still allow impacts. Ukrainian FPV interceptors now face these new challenges in targeting automated-evasion Gerberas. In response, interceptor teams are updating their systems with improved pursuit algorithms and refined pilot techniques—adding features like predictive tracking, rapid reacquisition routines, and coordinated multi-drone attack profiles to regain engagement success. These updates restore some effectiveness, but practical difficulties—sensor blind spots, environmental conditions, and the continual need for tactical adaptation—mean the challenge is reduced, not eliminated.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 12:55:49
World
In October 2025, leaked Russian military documents revealed plans to produce over 1,000 units of the T-90M2 Ryvok-1 main battle tank by 2029. This initiative aims to bolster Russia's armored capabilities, particularly in response to losses incurred during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. T-90M2 Ryvok-1: Specifications The T-90M2 Ryvok-1, also known as Object 188M2, is an advanced variant of the T-90M main battle tank. Key specifications include: Engine: V-92S2F multi-fuel diesel engine producing 1,130 horsepower, providing a power-to-weight ratio of approximately 23.5 hp/ton. Armament: 125mm 2A46M-5 smoothbore gun capable of firing a variety of munitions, including guided missiles. Armor: Composite and reactive armor enhancements for improved protection against modern anti-tank threats. Active Protection System: Arena-M system to intercept incoming projectiles. Crew Compartment: Redesigned for enhanced ergonomics and situational awareness, featuring larger video-observation displays. Transmission: Upgraded to address mechanical issues and include a reverse gear. Production Plans and Timeline According to the leaked documents, Uralvagonzavod, Russia's primary tank manufacturer, plans to initiate limited production of the T-90M2 Ryvok-1 in 2026, starting with 10 units. Production is expected to increase significantly, with a total of 1,118 units of both T-90M and T-90M2 tanks planned for completion between 2027 and 2029. The broader program, covering 2026–2036, aims to produce, modernize, or overhaul a total of 1,783 T-90M and T-90M2 tanks. Current Fleet and Operational Context As of late 2025, Russia's T-90 fleet has experienced significant attrition in the conflict with Ukraine. Estimates suggest that between 540 and 630 T-90M tanks have been produced since the war's onset, with over 130 destroyed in combat. This leaves approximately 410 to 500 units in service, constituting about 15% of the tanks deployed on the front lines. The T-90M2 Ryvok-1 is intended to replace these losses and enhance Russia's armored forces. Strategic Implications The accelerated production of the T-90M2 Ryvok-1 reflects Russia's strategic emphasis on rebuilding its armored capabilities. The integration of advanced technologies and design improvements aims to enhance the tank's effectiveness in modern warfare scenarios. However, challenges such as production bottlenecks and the need for skilled personnel may impact the timely delivery of these tanks. The T-90M2 Ryvok-1 represents a significant advancement in Russia's main battle tank fleet, combining lessons learned from ongoing conflicts with technological enhancements. Its successful integration into service will depend on the resolution of production and logistical challenges.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 12:20:44
India
OneWeb has introduced a man-portable Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite communication terminal designed for use by the Indian Army. The system provides field units with high-speed, low-latency communication links in locations where ground-based networks are unavailable or unreliable. The development is part of India’s ongoing efforts to expand modern satellite-based communication options for its defence forces. The terminal has been developed through OneWeb’s Indian operations in cooperation with Eutelsat, Intellian, and domestic technology partners. Weighing around 9 kilograms, the unit is compact enough to be carried in a backpack and deployed by a single soldier. It enables troops, patrols, and forward-deployed teams to maintain communication with command centres without depending on vehicles or fixed infrastructure. The device connects directly to OneWeb’s LEO satellite constellation, which operates at about 1,200 kilometres above Earth. Compared to traditional geostationary (GEO) satellites orbiting at 36,000 kilometres, LEO satellites provide much lower signal delay, improving the quality of voice, video, and data transmission. This allows personnel to exchange information in near real time, which is essential for situational awareness and coordination in field operations. According to available data, the terminal supports download speeds of up to 195 Mbps and upload speeds of around 32 Mbps. Its electronically steered flat-panel antenna automatically tracks satellites, removing the need for manual adjustment. The setup process takes only a few minutes, allowing quick network establishment during operations. The equipment is ruggedized for field conditions and built to tolerate dust, moisture, and temperature extremes. It supports encrypted communication, although specific details about security protocols are not publicly disclosed. The terminal can integrate with existing military radio and data systems, enabling voice, video, and command data to flow securely between forward units and higher headquarters. For the Indian Army, this terminal provides an alternative to traditional line-of-sight radios and limited terrestrial networks. It can establish a broadband link in any terrain, including high-altitude areas and isolated regions. Its low power consumption allows operation using portable batteries, supporting longer missions without the need for additional infrastructure. The system is also expected to be useful for other government agencies, including disaster response units and research teams working in remote locations. OneWeb’s partnership with Nelco, a Tata Group company, ensures compliance with Indian regulatory standards and facilitates the creation of local gateway infrastructure to handle traffic securely within the country. This initiative reflects a broader trend within India’s defence communications strategy, which aims to blend LEO and GEO satellite systems to improve resilience and coverage. LEO networks offer faster connections and lower latency, while GEO satellites provide greater reach and redundancy. Integrating both will help the Indian military maintain stable communications during complex operations. Once fully introduced, the OneWeb terminal will enable units in remote areas to exchange live imagery, receive updated mission data, and stay connected with central command networks. With the OneWeb constellation of 648 satellites now operational worldwide and Indian ground gateways under development, the country is moving toward stronger, independent satellite-based communication capabilities for defence and emergency use.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 12:03:08
World
Hamas on Monday released the last 20 surviving Israeli hostages under a ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump, marking a major step toward ending the Gaza conflict. The handover took place as Trump arrived in Israel for a brief visit ahead of a regional peace summit in Egypt, declaring that the “war is over.” According to the Israeli military and the Shin Bet security service, seven hostages were first transferred to the custody of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) inside Gaza and were being brought to Israeli forces. Later in the day, Israeli officials confirmed that a total of 20 living hostages had been freed. The exchange forms part of a broader ceasefire agreement that also includes Israel’s release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees, among them individuals convicted of attacks against Israelis. The mood in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square turned emotional as news of the releases spread. Families of those freed and others still missing gathered in large numbers, celebrating through tears and song. Many expressed mixed emotions — relief for those returning home and sorrow for those who did not survive captivity. Israeli officials have said that not all of the deceased hostages’ remains are expected to be returned immediately. Under the terms of the agreement, Hamas is also expected to hand over the bodies of 27 captives who died in Gaza, along with the remains of a soldier killed in 2014 during a previous conflict. In return, Israel will free about 250 long-term prisoners as part of the initial exchange, while an additional 1,700 Palestinians detained during the recent fighting will be released gradually. The deal follows nearly two years of conflict that began with Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, when 251 people were taken hostage and more than 1,200 were killed, most of them civilians. Since then, multiple short truces and partial exchanges have taken place, but this is the first agreement to include all remaining living hostages. According to figures from Gaza’s health ministry, considered credible by the United Nations, more than 67,000 people have been killed during Israel’s subsequent military campaign, with over half believed to be women and children. In Gaza, the ceasefire brought a rare moment of calm. Displaced residents began returning to their devastated neighborhoods. “My eyes kept searching for landmarks I had lost — nothing looked the same,” said Fatima Salem, a resident of Gaza City’s Sheikh Radwan district. “We will pitch a tent next to the rubble of our home and wait for reconstruction.” President Trump’s visit to Israel was aimed at consolidating the ceasefire and preparing for an international summit in Egypt, where more than 20 world leaders are expected to discuss Gaza’s future governance and reconstruction. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump expressed confidence that the truce would hold. “I think it’s going to hold. People are tired of it. The war is over,” he said. In Jerusalem, Trump met with families of the freed hostages and addressed the Israeli parliament, calling the ceasefire “the start of a new era for the Middle East.” He outlined his 20-point plan for Gaza, which envisions a gradual Israeli withdrawal from parts of the territory and the creation of a multinational stabilization force coordinated through a US-led command center in Israel. The plan also includes establishing a new governing body for Gaza to oversee reconstruction and humanitarian relief. Negotiations over the final details of the exchange continued until late Sunday night, with Hamas insisting that several senior Palestinian leaders be included among those released. Israeli officials have reportedly resisted some of those names, leaving further phases of the prisoner exchange uncertain. Following his visit to Israel, Trump will travel to Cairo for the peace summit, co-hosted with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The meeting is expected to focus on post-war arrangements, Gaza’s reconstruction, and long-term regional security guarantees. Trump said he holds firm commitments from both Israel and Hamas, as well as from regional partners, regarding the next stages of the agreement. He added that he would be “proud” to visit Gaza himself once security conditions permit.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-13 12:00:55
Space & Technology
India is set to begin fuel loading at its first Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor (PFBR) at the Kalpakkam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu next week. This step marks a critical milestone in the country’s nuclear energy program, which aims to harness advanced reactor technology and utilize a closed fuel cycle for sustainable energy production. The PFBR is a sodium-cooled, pool-type fast breeder reactor with an electrical output of 500 MWe and a thermal output of 1,253 MWt. It uses Mixed Oxide (MOX) fuel, composed of uranium and plutonium, and is cooled by liquid sodium. The reactor is designed with a two-loop system and a steam reheat setup to optimize energy conversion. Its core has a diameter of 1,900 mm and a height of 1,000 mm, with each fuel subassembly containing 217 fuel pins of 6.6 mm outer diameter. The reactor operates with steam parameters of 763 K temperature and 16.6 MPa pressure. Once operational, the PFBR will be only the second sodium-cooled fast breeder reactor in the world. Russia operates the BN-800 fast breeder reactor at the Beloyarsk Nuclear Power Station, which has a net electrical capacity of 789 MWe. Both reactors aim to demonstrate the viability of a closed fuel cycle, where spent fuel can be reprocessed and reused, enhancing resource efficiency and reducing nuclear waste. Construction of the PFBR began in 2004, with an original commissioning target set for 2010. However, the project faced multiple delays due to technical and regulatory challenges, pushing the expected operational date to December 2024. The project’s estimated cost also nearly doubled from ₹3,500 crore to ₹7,700 crore. Despite these delays, authorities have confirmed that technical issues have been resolved, and fuel loading is now scheduled to proceed as planned. The successful operation of the PFBR is expected to pave the way for the third stage of India’s nuclear program, which focuses on utilizing thorium-plutonium fuels in advanced heavy water reactors. This stage is central to India’s long-term strategy of achieving energy security through a sustainable and closed nuclear fuel cycle. Fuel loading at the PFBR is a significant achievement for India, demonstrating the country’s growing capabilities in advanced nuclear technology and positioning it among the few nations operating fast breeder reactors.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-12 16:58:06
India
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded a contract to Hyderabad-based Zen Technologies Limited for the supply of indigenous anti-drone systems equipped with hard-kill capability. While some reports suggest the deal value is around ₹37 crore, no official filing confirms that figure. In recent years, Zen Technologies has signed several larger orders with the MoD for counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS), including a ₹227.65 crore contract in September 2023 and another ₹155 crore order from the Indian Air Force in 2021. The new agreement continues the government’s effort to strengthen India’s domestic defence manufacturing base and to enhance counter-drone preparedness across the armed forces. Zen Technologies has developed its anti-drone systems entirely in-house, building on more than three decades of experience in defence simulation and sensor technologies. The system, known as the Zen Anti-Drone System (ZADS) or Zen ADS-HK, is designed to detect, track, and neutralize hostile drones using both electronic and kinetic methods. It integrates multiple sensors, including radio frequency (RF) detectors, radars, and electro-optical/infrared cameras, to identify aerial threats in real time. The information from these sensors is processed through a centralized Data Fusion and Command Centre, which classifies the target and determines the most effective response. The soft-kill component of the system uses radio frequency jammers to disrupt drone communication links and navigation signals. These jammers can simultaneously target multiple frequency bands, including ISM, GNSS, and mobile signals, effectively grounding or redirecting hostile drones. For cases where electronic jamming is insufficient, the system includes a hard-kill option. This capability allows the use of a kinetic weapon—typically a gun integrated with the targeting system—to physically destroy the drone. In certain configurations, the system can also deploy a drone catcher that uses a net to capture and neutralize the target safely. The Army Air Defence College in Gopalpur received the Zen ADS-HK variant in mid-2024, marking the beginning of its operational fielding. According to available technical information, Zen’s anti-drone system can detect drones at a range of about five kilometres and jam them up to four kilometres, depending on their size and flight altitude. The system’s electro-optical tracking unit combines a day camera, thermal imager, and laser rangefinder for precise target tracking under all weather conditions. The modular architecture allows the system to be mounted on vehicles or fixed sites, making it suitable for deployment at airbases, border locations, or high-security installations. The procurement of indigenous counter-drone systems reflects the growing importance of defending against small and swarm UAV threats. Incidents such as the drone attack on the Jammu Air Force Station in 2021 demonstrated the vulnerability of critical military sites to low-cost aerial threats. The inclusion of hard-kill features makes the Zen system more effective against drones that are resistant to jamming or operate autonomously without a live communication link. Zen Technologies’ success in this field underscores India’s progress toward self-reliance in advanced defence technology under the “Make in India” initiative. The anti-drone system project also supports the broader objective of equipping the armed forces with layered, modular, and scalable defence solutions to counter evolving aerial threats. Even though the precise value of the latest MoD contract remains unverified, its implementation marks another step toward strengthening India’s domestic capability to safeguard military and strategic infrastructure against emerging drone-based threats.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-12 16:46:54
World
Japan’s Maritime Staff Office (MSO) announced that the naming and launching ceremony for the fiscal year 2022 submarine will take place on 14 October 2025 at Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ Kobe Shipyard. The submarine is expected to be SS-518, part of the Taigei-class series operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The launch continues Japan’s program to modernize its diesel-electric submarine fleet using lithium-ion battery technology. The Taigei-class is the latest generation of Japanese conventional submarines, developed after the Sōryū-class. These submarines are designed for longer underwater operation, with reduced need to surface or use snorkels. The use of lithium-ion batteries provides faster recharging, higher underwater speed, and quieter performance compared to older models. Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries share responsibility for building these submarines. The launch of SS-518 adds another lithium-ion battery-powered submarine to the JMSDF fleet, following the lead boat JS Taigei (SS-513), commissioned in 2022. The Taigei-class has a displacement of about 3,000 tons, a length of approximately 84 meters, beam of 9.1 meters, and draught of 10.4 meters. It carries about 70 crew members and uses a diesel-electric propulsion system with large-capacity lithium-ion batteries. The submarine can reach submerged speeds of around 20 knots. The submarine is armed with six 533 mm torpedo tubes capable of launching Type 18 heavy torpedoes and UGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles. It includes design improvements such as a “floating floor” structure and sound-absorbing coatings to reduce noise. The sonar system, identified as the ZQQ-8, offers improved detection of surface and underwater targets. The submarine has an “X”-shaped stern rudder for better maneuvering in coastal waters and an updated combat management system for coordination with other JMSDF assets. The addition of SS-518 will strengthen Japan’s submarine operations, particularly in monitoring nearby waters where Chinese and Russian naval activities are common. The Taigei-class emphasizes longer underwater endurance, reduced detection risk, and improved operational reliability for Japan’s undersea fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-12 15:57:18
India
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved a proposal worth about ₹5,150 crore for the procurement of the ‘Dharashakti’ Integrated Electronic Warfare (EW) System for the Indian Armed Forces. The approval, granted in October 2025, falls under the Buy (Indian – Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category to support domestic defence production. The Dharashakti system is intended to strengthen electronic warfare capabilities across communication (COM) and non-communication (Non-COM) domains. In the communication segment, it will intercept, monitor, and protect radio-frequency signals, while also maintaining secure links under electronic interference. In the non-communication segment, it will detect and counter radar and electromagnetic emissions through jamming and electronic counter-measures. The system is being developed for deployment in desert and plain terrain, where it will be used to monitor and manage the electromagnetic spectrum in field conditions. It will include an electro-optical suite for observation and target detection, along with long-range communication systems that can resist interference and jamming. Officials have indicated that the project will help improve coordination and situational awareness for field units. Once inducted, Dharashakti will add to the existing network of electronic warfare systems operated by the armed forces and enhance overall spectrum management capability. The approval is part of ongoing defence modernisation efforts. In recent months, the DAC has cleared several procurement proposals for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, covering areas such as radars, unmanned systems, and air defence equipment. The Dharashakti system will move to the next stage of production and trials before being integrated into service.
Read More → Posted on 2025-10-12 14:54:23Search
Top Trending
-
Agneepath Scheme replaced with Sainik Samman Scheme 2024, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Relaunched Agniveer Scheme
-
Key Differences Between 5th vs. 6th Generation Fighter Jets
-
Pakistan Air Force to Unveil Stealth-Enhanced JF-17 Block 4 Fighter Jet by 2028
-
Pakistan Announces 15% Increase in Defence Budget for 2024-25 Amid Economic Crisis
-
India's TEDBF Program Takes Shape First Flight by 2028: Aiming for Naval Supremacy with Advanced Stealth and Technology
-
India’s AMCA Engine Decision: Safran vs. Rolls-Royce Final Expected by 2025
-
What Would Happen if the USA Left NATO? A Comprehensive Analysis
-
China Unveils the 6th-Generation “Baidi B-Type” Aerospace Fighter Concept
Top Trending in 4 Days
-
Ukraine’s VAMPIRE Anti-Drone System Shoots Down Russian Kh-69 Cruise Missile with Low-Cost APKWS Rocket
-
Ukraine Claim Patriot Missile Interception Rate Falls from 42% to 6% After Russian Missile Advanced Upgrades
-
France Begins Welding First Steel Plates for Europe’s Largest Aircraft Carrier " PA-NG " with Two Nuclear Reactors
-
Turkey’s MKE Showcase " KZ-350 " Twin‑Jet Kamikaze UAV with 300+ km Range
-
Japan to Launch New Taigei-Class Submarine SS-518 at Kobe Shipyard on October 14
-
Indian Railways Surpasses USA and Russia to Become World’s 2nd Largest Rail Freight Carrier in FY 2024–25
-
Sikorsky Converts Black Hawk into Unmanned U-Hawk " S-70UAS U-Hawk " with 25% Extra Cargo Capacity
-
U.S. Intelligence Supports Ukraine's Long-Range Strikes on Russian Energy Infrastructure
