From Heavy Engineering to High-Altitude Warfare: PM Modi Shines Spotlight on L&T’s Strategic Self-Reliance Hub
HAZIRA, GUJARAT — In a major push to showcase India’s growing military-industrial autonomy, Prime Minister…
HAZIRA, GUJARAT — In a major push to showcase India’s growing military-industrial autonomy, Prime Minister…
India selects three private entities for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) prototype manufacture: ANEW DELHI — In a move that fundamentally rewrites the playbook of India’s military-industrial complex, the Ministry of Defence has formally bypassed the state-owned monopoly Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to hand the keys of its most ambitious military project to the private sector.
India’s Suryastra Multi-Rocket Launcher System (MRLS): SHIRDI — In a move that signals a decisive shift in India’s military-industrial complex, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh declared on Saturday that “a nation that manufactures its own weaponry writes its own destiny.”
The Hague/New Delhi, May 17, 2026 — India and the Netherlands have formally elevated their bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership, unveiling an ambitious five-year roadmap aimed at deepening cooperation across trade, semiconductors, clean energy, maritime security, defence, and emerging technologies.
SPH Aviation launches iQuantara brand: Gurugram — SPH Aviation Pvt Ltd has announced the launch of iQuantara, a new defence-oriented drone technology brand aimed at strengthening indigenous unmanned aerial systems development for India’s security and surveillance ecosystem.
Skyroot becomes unicorn with $60 million funding: HYDERABAD — India’s private space sector marked a historic milestone on May 7, as Skyroot Aerospace, the country’s leading private rocket company, announced raising nearly $60 million at a pre-money valuation of $1.1 billion, making it the nation’s first space-tech unicorn. The funding round comes at a pivotal moment, with the company preparing for the maiden flight of its Vikram-1 orbital rocket.
Bharat Forge financial result, order book in FY 2026: Bharat Forge Limited on May 7 reported a strong sequential recovery in the fourth quarter of FY26, driven by improving export demand, sustained domestic automotive momentum, and continued growth in its industrial and defence businesses, reinforcing optimism for the upcoming financial year.
ECLGS 5.0 Scheme for Airlines: India’s Union Cabinet has approved a new phase of the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS), providing additional financial support to airlines and small businesses facing mounting economic pressure from rising fuel costs and operational disruptions linked to tensions in West Asia.
CAE and InterGlobe’s Pilot Training Centre:Mumbai: CAE Simulation Training Private Limited (CSTPL), a joint venture between CAE and InterGlobe Enterprises, has officially opened its fourth advanced pilot training centre in India. Located in Mumbai, the new 44,000-square-foot facility aims to bolster the country’s growing aviation training sector and expand domestic pilot training capacity.
India-Austria summit meeting on defence, education and startups:New Delhi — India and Austria on Thursday elevated their bilateral ties with a sweeping set of agreements and initiatives spanning defense, technology, education, business, and culture, following high-level talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker in the Indian capital.
India’s Private Space Sector: India’s space sector is entering a new phase of growth and innovation, with a notable increase in the involvement of private industries in space research and satellite launches. The government’s efforts to encourage private sector participation have already yielded significant outcomes, with numerous satellite launches and ambitious projects lined up for the coming decades.
India Space Startup Fund – Antariksh Venture Capital Fund: India’s push to build a globally…
DCX Systems wins major order for maritime patrol radar: New Delhi: DCX Systems has secured a significant purchase order worth ₹563.45 crore (≈ $60.6 million), marking a major milestone for the Bengaluru-based defence electronics firm and reinforcing its role in India’s rapidly expanding indigenous defence ecosystem.
Solar Defence and Aerospace’s uav and robotics factory Nagpur: New Delhi: In one of the largest private-sector investments in India’s defence manufacturing space, Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited has announced plans to invest ₹128 billion ($1.36 billion) in a cutting-edge robotics and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production facility in Nagpur.
Amara Raja Group enters Defence Electronics: Hyderabad, March 19, 2026: In a significant move towards strengthening India’s defence self-reliance, Amara Raja Design Alpha (ARDA), a specialised engineering R&D firm and a part of the $2 billion Amara Raja Group, has ventured into the defence electronics sector with the successful development of an indigenous Power Conditioning Cabinet (PCC) for naval sonar systems. This marks the company’s first foray into mission-critical defence technology, reflecting its expanding capabilities and commitment to supporting India’s growing naval indigenisation efforts.
Bharat Forge and Liebherr-Aerospace’s Advanced Landing Gear Machining Facility: Pune: In a significant boost to India’s aerospace manufacturing ambitions, Bharat Forge and Liebherr-Aerospace & Transportation SAS have inaugurated a state-of-the-art landing gear components machining facility in Pune, marking a new chapter in the country’s integration into the global aerospace supply chain.
SMPP Wins Order for 10,000 Bulletproof Jackets for Paramilitary Forces: New Delhi — Indian defence manufacturer SMPP Limited has secured an additional order to supply 10,000 bulletproof jackets (BPJs) to India’s paramilitary forces, strengthening the company’s role as a major domestic supplier of advanced ballistic protection systems.
New Delhi, March 9, 2026: Paras Defence and Space Technologies has secured a significant defence contract worth ₹80.28 crore from India’s premier military research body, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), marking another step in the country’s push to strengthen indigenous defence technologies.
Green Aero jet engine: Bengaluru: In a breakthrough that could reshape India’s small-engine defence ecosystem, Bengaluru-based startup Green Aero has successfully test-fired a sub-kilonewton (sub-kN) jet engine designed to military-grade specifications, marking a major step toward indigenous propulsion solutions for drones and loitering munitions.
Shoft Shipyard Private Limited Wins Indian Navy’s Self-Propelled Fuel Barge Contract: New Delhi — March 3, 2026 — India’s Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Shoft Shipyard Private Limited, Thane, for the construction of four 500-tonne self-propelled fuel barges for the Indian Navy. The contract was finalised on March 2, 2026.
Noida International Airport Inauguration: New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to inaugurate the Noida International Airport in Jewar next month, a project that is poised to become the largest airport in India. The airport is being developed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, with the Uttar Pradesh government allocating ₹750 crore for its first phase.
LAT Aerospace Acquires Sharang Shakti; New Delhi: LAT Aerospace, backed by Zomato founder Deepinder Goyal, has acquired Gurugram-based defense robotics startup Sharang Shakti. This acquisition represents the first major move by LAT Aerospace to consolidate its technological base as it shifts focus toward building indigenous capabilities in both the defense and civilian aviation sectors.
AISATS-CCPL MoU for Cargo Hub at Noida International Airport: Singapore/Greater Noida: AISATS and Continental Carriers Pvt. Ltd. (CCPL) signed an MoU on February 20, 2026, to streamline cargo movement from Delhi’s air freight station to the new air cargo terminal at Noida International Airport. This partnership aims to ensure the efficient and cost-effective transfer of customs-compliant export transshipment cargo, thereby reducing logistics costs for exporters.
Tata Airbus H-125 Helicopter Plant India: On February 17, 2026, a significant chapter in the evolving India-France defence partnership was marked with the virtual inauguration of the final assembly line for the Airbus H-125 Light Utility Helicopter. The event, streamed from Mumbai, saw Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron joining virtually, with the physical ceremony held at Tata Advanced Systems’ (TASL) facility in Vemagal, Karnataka. Alongside them, key figures from both governments participated, including Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs Catherine Vautrin, Union Minister of Civil Aviation K. R. Naidu, and Karnataka’s Minister for Large & Medium Industries, Dr. M.B. Patil.
Marine Jet Power Waterjet Production Facility: Panaji, Goa | February 13, 2026: In a major boost to India’s maritime indigenisation drive, Director General of the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) Paramesh Sivamani inaugurated a state-of-the-art Waterjet Production & Testing Facility established by Marine Jet Power (MJP) India in Goa.
Solar Defence 125kg Air Dropped Bomb: New Delhi: In a notable boost to India’s quest for defence self-reliance, Solar Defence on Monday unveiled its indigenously developed Air Bomb 125 kg, a precision-guided munition that has successfully cleared a comprehensive series of trials. Developed under the MAKE-II category of the Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020, the bomb marks a significant milestone in private sector participation in advanced munitions manufacturing.
India’s Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2026: The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has uploaded the draft Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP)-2026 on its official website and invited comments and suggestions from stakeholders. The announcement was made by the the Defence Ministry on February 10, 2026.
Olee Space’s AI-powered autonomous laser powered sniper for CUAS operations: Pune-based defence technology firm olee.space has unveiled what it describes as the world’s most compact 2-kilowatt AI-enabled laser sniper system mounted on an Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV), marking a significant advancement in autonomous ground combat systems. The indigenous platform has successfully completed field testing with key defence stakeholders and is now ready for operational deployment and sale, officials familiar with the programme confirmed.
AAI-Apogee Aerospace Partnership: Amphibian Aerospace Industries (AAI), a subsidiary of Amphibian Aircraft Holdings (AAH), and Apogee Aerospace Pvt Ltd on February 5 announced a strategic collaboration aimed at establishing amphibious aviation as a strategically important capability for India. The partnership is anchored by the Albatross 2.0 amphibious aircraft platform and reflects a shared vision to position India at the forefront of this niche yet increasingly vital aviation domain.
Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, has won a prestigious defence export order from the Government of the Sultanate of Oman to supply a state-of-the-art naval training vessel for the Royal Navy of Oman (RNO).
Airbus Centre of Excellence at Gatishakti Vishwavidyala (GSV): Airbus has inaugurated a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for aerospace studies at Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV), India’s industry-driven university focused on transportation and logistics, located in Vadodara, Gujarat. The initiative marks a significant step in Airbus’ long-term commitment to strengthening India’s aerospace ecosystem through research, innovation, and talent development.
Adani Defence – Leonardo Partnership Agreement: New Delhi, February 3, 2026 – Adani Defence & Aerospace (AD&A), the flagship defence and aerospace arm of Adani Enterprises, and Leonardo, a global leader in defence and aerospace, announced a strategic partnership to develop a comprehensive helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India.
Embraer-Adani Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) India: New Delhi, January 27, 2026 — Brazilian aerospace major Embraer and Adani Defence & Aerospace on Tuesday announced a strategic partnership aimed at developing a comprehensive regional transport aircraft (RTA) ecosystem in India, marking a significant step toward strengthening indigenous aerospace manufacturing and regional connectivity.
Paras Defence Launches Paras Semiconductor for Defence Chip Packaging: Mumbai, January 21: Paras Defence and Space Technologies Ltd has announced a strategic foray into the semiconductor sector with the launch of a new subsidiary, Paras Semiconductor Pvt. Ltd, marking a significant expansion into advanced and critical technologies.
Rajnath Singh – Solar Group Medium Caliber Ammunition Factory: Nagpur, 19 January 2026: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday inaugurated a Medium Calibre Ammunition Manufacturing Facility at Solar Defence & Aerospace Limited in Nagpur, Maharashtra, underscoring the government’s commitment to achieving self-reliance in ammunition manufacturing and positioning India as a global production hub in the defence sector.
Indian Navy Bottom Opening Non-Propelled Barrage Suryadipta Projects Private Limited: New Delhi, January 19, 2026: The Indian Navy has signed a contract with M/s Suryadipta Projects Private Limited, Thane, for the construction and delivery of three 200-tonne Bottom Opening Non-Propelled Barges. The agreement was concluded on January 16, 2026, according to an announcement issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), Delhi, on Monday.
NBC Bearings-Ahamani Advanced Inc Partnership for Drone Manufacturing in India: National Engineering Industries Ltd. (NBC Bearings), the flagship engineering company of the multi-billion-dollar CKA Birla Group, has entered into a strategic partnership with Ahamani EV Technology India Pvt. Ltd., the Indian subsidiary of Taiwan-based Ahamani Advanced Inc., to accelerate the commercialisation and adoption of advanced drone technologies in India. The partnership was announced on January 16 in New Delhi.
Bharat Forge Limited Drone Order: Pune-based Bharat Forge Limited (BFL), through its Aerospace Division, has achieved a major milestone in India’s defence modernisation efforts by securing contracts worth approximately Rs 300 crore under the Government of India’s ongoing Emergency Procurement–VI (EP-VI) framework. The contracts have been awarded to meet urgent operational requirements of the Indian Armed Forces and reflect growing confidence in indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
New Delhi, 30 Dec 2025 – The Ministry of Defence on Tuesday signed contracts totalling ₹4,666 crore (about $518 million) for key defence procurements, in a bid to modernise India’s ground and naval forces. The agreements were formalised in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh at South Block, New Delhi.
Navi Mumbai International Airport Commences Commercial Operations: Mumbai, December 25, 2025: Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) officially began commercial operations today with the arrival of its first flight, IndiGo 6E460 from Bengaluru, which received a ceremonial water cannon salute—an enduring aviation tradition marking a new chapter in India’s civil aviation.
Belrise Industries-Plasan’s ATEMM Electric Military Vehicle: New Delhi: India’s Belrise Industries and Israel-based defence company Plasan Sasa have signed a three-year strategic agreement to jointly produce, customise and deploy the ATEMM (All-Terrain Electric Mission Module) platform for the Indian Armed Forces, strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries and supporting India’s push for indigenous manufacturing.
Sasmos Larsen-Toubro High Power Radar Electric Wire Harness: Bengaluru: SASMOS, a leading provider of advanced design and manufacturing solutions for defence and aerospace platforms, has begun delivery of the first lot of wiring harnesses for high-power radar systems to L&T Precision Engineering & Systems under a strategic multi-year contract.
Adani Group Plans Expansion into Aircraft MRO and Freighter Conversion Services: India’s Adani Group has announced plans to expand its aviation footprint by entering two major service segments: aircraft engine maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and passenger-to-freighter (P2F) aircraft conversion. The move is aimed at capitalising on India’s rapidly growing aviation market while further diversifying the conglomerate’s infrastructure-led portfolio.
Tata Advanced Systems C-130J Defence MRO Facility in India: Bengaluru, December 8, 2025 — Tata Advanced Systems and Lockheed Martin have officially broken ground on a new Defence Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India to support the C-130J Super Hercules fleet. The facility is expected to significantly enhance in-country sustainment for the Indian Air Force (IAF) while opening opportunities for regional and global C-130 operations.
Sagar Defence Liquid Robotics Pune Facility for Uncrewed Underwater System: Pune, India – December 5, 2025: Sagar Defence Engineering Pvt. Ltd., a pioneering Indian defence startup, has inaugurated a new state-of-the-art facility in Pune dedicated to the manufacturing of Uncrewed Surface Vehicles (USVs). This plant marks a significant milestone in the company’s collaboration with Liquid Robotics, a Boeing company, to co-develop and co-produce advanced maritime systems.
JSW Defence’s UAS Factory in Hyderabad, India: Hyderabad, India – December 2, 2025: In a significant step towards boosting India’s defence capabilities and self-reliance in unmanned aerial systems (UAS), JSW Defence Pvt. Ltd., part of the US$ 23 billion JSW Group, today officially commenced construction of its next-generation UAS manufacturing facility in Hyderabad. This state-of-the-art facility, located at EMC Maheshwaram, will be a cornerstone in India’s ambition to lead the global defence technology market, particularly in the realm of military drones.
HAL-Hensoldt Offer Obstacle Avoidance System for Indian Military Helicopters: Dubai, UAE – November 2025 – Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and HENSOLDT, a leading German provider of sensor solutions, have reached a significant milestone in defense collaboration with the signing of a major contract for the transfer of technology and integration of an advanced Obstacle Avoidance System (OAS) for Indian military helicopters. The deal, announced at the Dubai Airshow 2025, marks a transformative step in Indo-German defense ties and strengthens India’s aerospace capabilities.
Mumbai | November 14, 2025, In a major boost to India’s indigenous unmanned aerial systems ecosystem, ideaForge Technology Limited, one of the country’s leading UAV manufacturers, has won ₹100 crore worth of new orders from the Indian Army for its latest products — the ZOLT Tactical UAV and the SWITCH V2 Hybrid VTOL UAV. The orders reaffirm the Army’s trust in ideaForge’s operationally proven drone technologies and highlight the company’s growing leadership in the defence UAV market.
India-Vietnam Defence Cooperation: India and Vietnam reaffirmed their steadily growing defence partnership at the 15th edition of the India–Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue (DPD) held in Hanoi on November 10, 2025. The dialogue, co-chaired by India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of National Defence Sr Lt Gen Hoang Xuan Chien, resulted in significant new agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral military cooperation, particularly in maritime security and high-technology domains.
Airbus Helicopters Hosts Symposium to Boost Rotorcraft Safety Awareness in India: New Delhi, October 31, 2025 — In a bid to strengthen safety standards within India’s rapidly expanding rotorcraft sector, Airbus Helicopters organized a comprehensive symposium focused on ‘Safety and Support & Services’ in New Delhi on Thursday. The event brought together key stakeholders in the helicopter industry, including regulators, operators, and aviation experts, to discuss critical issues around accident prevention, operational best practices, and the future of safety in India’s growing rotorcraft ecosystem.
Adani Airport – AIONOS AI Partnership: New Delhi, October 30, 2025 — Adani Airport Holdings Limited (AAHL), the largest operator of Public Private Partnership airports in India, has entered into a strategic partnership with AIONOS, an InterGlobe Enterprises company and a global leader in enterprise AI, to implement an advanced AI-driven system aimed at enhancing the passenger experience across its airports. This collaboration, announced on October 30, introduces a multi-lingual, omni-channel agentic AI solution designed to provide personalized, consistent, and seamless support to travelers.
Sanlayan Versabyte Partnership: Bengaluru, October 27, 2025 — In a significant move aimed at boosting India’s defense sector, Sanlayan Technologies (Sanlayan) has announced a strategic investment in Versabyte Data Systems (Versabyte), a leading player in the defense power electronics market. The partnership is set to accelerate the nation’s push for technological self-reliance in defense and aerospace technologies, with a focus on enhancing indigenous capabilities across key sectors.
PTC Industries Secures GTRE Order for Single Crystal Turbine Blades: New Delhi: PTC Industries Limited has achieved a major milestone by receiving an order from the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) for the production of Single Crystal “Ready-to-Fit” Turbine Blades — a critical component for advanced aero-engines.
QNu Labs Puts India on the Global Quantum Security Map at IMC 2025: New Delhi, India – As India positions itself as a digital powerhouse, QNu Labs has emerged at the forefront of a quantum security revolution, showcasing its cutting-edge hybrid end-to-end quantum cybersecurity portfolio at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2025. Held under the theme “Innovate to Transform”, IMC 2025 highlighted India’s rapid strides in emerging technologies, including quantum communication, 6G, semiconductor technology, and Li-Fi, with QNu Labs making a significant mark in the realm of quantum security.
Embraer-Mahindra Group Forge Strategic Alliance for C-390 Millennium: New Delhi, India – In a significant move to bolster India’s aerospace capabilities, Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Group have entered into a landmark Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) to advance the C-390 Millennium aircraft for the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program. This partnership, unveiled on October 17 alongside the inauguration of Embraer’s new office in Aerocity, New Delhi, aims to create a robust foundation for local manufacturing, assembly, and supply chain infrastructure in India, marking a bold step toward India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) vision.
Nag ATGM Fired From Zorawar Light Tank: New Delhi, October 17, 2025: In a significant development for India’s defence capabilities, the Indian Army successfully fired the indigenous Nag Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) from the Zorawar light tank, a highly mobile and versatile combat vehicle designed for high-altitude warfare. The successful test, conducted earlier this week, marks a new milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in military technology.
UNTCC Chiefs’ Conclave 2025: New Delhi, October 16, 2025: The UNTCC (United Nations Troop-Contributing Countries) Chiefs’ Conclave 2025, hosted by the Indian Army from October 14-16, concluded today, marking a significant milestone in the global commitment to reinforcing United Nations peacekeeping operations. The three-day event, held in New Delhi, featured high-level deliberations, solemn ceremonies, and key discussions aimed at addressing the evolving challenges of global peacekeeping.
MoD Signs $79 Million Deal with MKU Limited for Advanced Night Sights for Indian Army’s Assault Rifles: New Delhi, October 15, 2025: In a significant step towards enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract worth $79 million (₹659.47 crore) for the procurement of advanced Night Sight (Image Intensifier) systems for the 7.62 x 51mm SIG 716 Assault Rifles. The agreement, finalized on October 15, 2025, involves a consortium led by M/s MKU Ltd and M/s Medbit Technologies Pvt Ltd. This cutting-edge technology is set to provide Indian soldiers with enhanced operational effectiveness during night operations, particularly by improving target acquisition in low-light conditions.
Goodluck India Begins Commercial Production of Artillery Shells: New Delhi, India – In a major development for India’s defence sector, Goodluck India Limited, through its defence arm Goodluck Defence and Aerospace Ltd, has officially commenced the commercial production of artillery shells at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Sikandrabad, Uttar Pradesh. This move is expected to significantly contribute to India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative, strengthening the country’s indigenous defence capabilities.
DSEI 2025 -Bharat Forge and Windracers Forge Strategic MoU: September 12, 2025, In a groundbreaking move set to enhance India’s UAV capabilities, Bharat Forge Limited (BFL), India’s largest forging and advanced engineering group, has announced a strategic collaboration with Windracers Limited, a leading UK-based manufacturer of the world’s most advanced dual-use heavy-lift drone. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to deploy, localize, and apply Windracers’ ULTRA Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) across India, marking a significant step in India’s technological and defense innovation.
KSSL, UAE’s EDGE Group entity MP3 International Contract for Artillery Spare Parts: Abu Dhabi, UAE — In a historic move marking a significant step in India’s growing influence in the global defence market, Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a subsidiary of Bharat Forge Limited, has secured a landmark contract with the UAE’s MP3 International for the supply of critical spare parts for large-calibre artillery systems. The agreement, signed between Khalifa Al Ali, CEO of MP3 International, and Neelesh Tungar, CEO of KSSL, underscores India’s rising stature as a reliable and trusted supplier of defence equipment to key international partners.
Indian Navy Gets Indra-Tata Advanced Systems Commission Lanza Naval 3D Air Surveillance Radar: New Delhi, India — Indra, a global leader in aerospace, defence, and mobility engineering, in collaboration with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL), has successfully delivered and commissioned the first-ever Lanza Naval 3D Air Surveillance Radar (3D-ASR – Lanza-N) aboard an Indian Navy warship. The advanced radar system, developed through a strategic partnership, marks a significant milestone in the enhancement of India’s naval defence capabilities.
DRDO DTTC MSME Defence Technology Conclave – Uttar Pradesh’s Defence Industrial Corridor: In a major initiative to bolster the defence manufacturing ecosystem, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) organized a conclave aimed at empowering Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) and start-ups to play a more integral role in India’s defence sector. Held on September 6, 2025, at the DRDO’s Defence Technology and Test Centre (DTTC) in Lucknow, the conclave focused on advancing Uttar Pradesh’s Defence Industrial Corridor, a key strategic initiative to make India a global leader in defence technology and innovation.
Mahindra Aerostructures Secures H-125 Helicopter Fuselage Manufacturing Order from Airbus: Bengaluru, India – In a significant step forward for India’s aerospace industry, Airbus has awarded Mahindra Aerostructures Pvt Ltd (MASPL) a contract to manufacture the main fuselage for the H125 helicopter. This development marks another milestone in the growing collaboration between Airbus and Indian companies, further reinforcing the government’s Make in India initiative.
India’s Defence Production Hits Record $16.56 Billion in FY 2024-25: NEW DELHI – India’s annual defence production has reached a new record high of ₹1,50,590 crore (approximately $16.56 billion) for the financial year (FY) 2024-25. This significant milestone was announced by the government, underscoring a period of robust growth and a concerted push towards self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector.
India’s Defence Acquisition Council Clears Proposals Worth Over $7 Billion: NEW DELHI – India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), under the chairmanship of Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, has approved several new proposals with a total cost of approximately ₹67,000 crore (around $7.37 billion). The approvals, which were granted on August 5, 2025, are designed to enhance the operational capabilities and readiness of the country’s armed forces.
India and Israel Reaffirm Strategic Defence Partnership in High-Level Bilateral Meeting: New Delhi, July 23, 2025 – In a significant boost to strategic ties, India and Israel have agreed to strengthen long-term defence cooperation during a high-level bilateral meeting held in New Delhi on July 23, 2025. The talks were led by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and Major General (Res) Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defence, underscoring the growing synergy between the two nations in security, defence technology, and counter-terrorism efforts.
Indian Navy-DRDO’s Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket: New Delhi, India – July 8, 2025 – In a significant boost to its anti-submarine warfare capabilities, the Indian Navy has successfully concluded the user trials of the indigenously developed Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ERASR). The rigorous trials, conducted from the INS Kavaratti between June 23 and July 07, 2025, demonstrated the advanced capabilities of this crucial new weapon system, paving the way for its imminent induction into the naval fleet.
India’s ISRO Transfers 10 New Technologies to Indian Companies: AHMEDABAD, India – In a significant stride towards fostering a robust public-private partnership and accelerating the commercialization of space technology, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has transferred 10 state-of-the-art technologies to six Indian companies. This landmark move, facilitated by the Indian National Space Promotion and Authorisation Centre (IN-SPACe), is set to unlock ISRO’s vast repository of innovations for wider industrial application, propelling India’s ambition for self-reliance in the space domain.
Defence Acquisition Council Approves Defence Procurement worth Rs 1.05 Lakh Crore ($12.5 Billion): New Delhi, India – July 3, 2025 – In a significant stride towards bolstering self-reliance in defence manufacturing, India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, today greenlit ten pivotal capital acquisition proposals valued at approximately Rs 1.05 lakh crore (over $12.5 billion USD). The approvals, all falling under the ‘Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured)’ category, underscore the nation’s unwavering commitment to strengthening its armed forces through domestic innovation and production.
SMPP Secures Twin Indian Army Contracts for Protective Gear: New Delhi – July 2, 2025 – SMPP, an Indian manufacturer of defense equipment, has been awarded two contracts by the Indian Army. The contracts, issued under Emergency Procurement 5 on June 22, 2025, are for the supply of Bulletproof Jackets and Advanced Ballistic Helmets. The total value of these orders exceeds ₹300 crore (approximately $36.14 million USD).
Mahindra Aerostructure-Aernnova $300 million contract for supply of Airbus, Embraer Aircrafts Components: Paris, France – In a significant move poised to reshape global aerospace supply chains, Aernnova Aerospace, SAU, and Mahindra Aerostructures Pvt. Ltd (MASPL) have announced the signing of a multi-year contract valued at approximately $300 million. This landmark agreement solidifies a decade-long partnership, entrusting MASPL with the critical manufacturing of metal sub-assemblies and components for a broad spectrum of Airbus and Embraer aircraft, including the formidable Embraer C390 Millennium military transport.
Max Aerospace to Invest $960 Million in Helicopter Facility in Nagpur: Nagpur, Maharashtra – Nagpur, the second capital of Maharashtra, is poised for a significant leap in India’s defence and aerospace landscape, as Max Aerospace and Aviation Pvt Ltd announces a massive investment of Rs 8,000 crore (approximately $960 million USD) to establish a state-of-the-art helicopter manufacturing facility. This ambitious project is set to unfold over the next eight years, marking a pivotal moment for indigenous defence production.
Pixxel Bags iDEX Grant to Develop Hyperspectral and Mid-Wave Infrared Payloads: Bengaluru – Pixxel, a pioneering Bengaluru-based space technology firm renowned for developing the world’s highest-resolution hyperspectral satellite constellation, has announced a significant stride in its collaboration with the Indian defence ecosystem. The company has formally signed a second agreement with the Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX), under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, securing a crucial SPARK (Support for Prototype and Research Kickstart) Grant.
Dassault-Tata Advanced Systems Limited to Manufacture Rafale Jet Parts in India: The partnership will see TASL play a crucial role in the global supply chain for the Rafale, manufacturing critical components for the advanced fighter jet. This move is a departure from Dassault’s earlier joint venture with Reliance Defence and is seen by analysts as a more robust and technologically significant step towards creating a defense-industrial ecosystem in India.
Tata Electronics and Bharat Electronics Partnership for Semiconductor Sector: Mumbai, India – In a significant move to bolster India’s domestic electronics and semiconductor manufacturing capabilities, Tata Electronics and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) have entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement, signed on June 5, 2025, aims to jointly develop indigenous solutions to meet the nation’s growing demand for advanced electronics, aligning with the Indian government’s “Make in India” and self-reliance initiatives.
India Clears 5th Generation AMCA Fighter: NEW DELHI – In a move poised to fundamentally transform India’s aerial combat capabilities and bolster its strategic autonomy, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today officially approved the “execution model” for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. This landmark decision greenlights the indigenous development of India’s first fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, signaling a robust commitment to self-reliance in advanced defense technology.
Germany’s Rheinmetall, India’s Reliance Group Join Forces to Make Ammunition in India: Düsseldorf, Germany & Mumbai, India – [Date of Release, e.g., November 15, 2016] – In a significant move highlighting burgeoning German-Indian defense cooperation, Düsseldorf-based Rheinmetall AG and India’s Reliance Defence Ltd have officially entered into a strategic partnership focused on the crucial field of ammunition. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) cementing this collaboration has been signed by representatives of both leading companies.
India’s Adani Defence, Sparton MoU for Anti-Submarine Warfare Technology: New Delhi, India – Adani Defence and Aerospace announced on Sunday a collaboration agreement with Sparton (DeLeon Springs LLC), a subsidiary of Elbit Systems, focused on the indigenisation of advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) systems for the Indian market. The partnership aims to localise the assembly of complex electronic systems and advanced ASW solutions, catering to both domestic and international demands.
KSSL Showcases Mounted Artillery Gun (MArG) to European Customers at DEFEA 2025: Athens, Greece – Indian defence major Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), the defence arm of Bharat Forge, is making a significant bid for the European artillery market by showcasing its state-of-the-art Mounted Artillery Gun (MArG) 155mm self-propelled howitzers at the DEFEA 2025 international defence exhibition. The event is scheduled for May 6-8, 2025, at the Metropolitan Exhibition Center near Athens International Airport.
Israel’s IAI, India’s DCX form JV company ELTX: BANGALORE, INDIA: In a significant development highlighting the evolving and deepening defense relationship between Israel and India, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), a global aerospace and defense giant, and DCX Systems Limited, a leading Indian manufacturer of electronic systems, officially announced the establishment of a new joint venture (JV) on Monday, April 21st. Named “ELTX,” the venture is strategically positioned to bolster India’s defense sector by focusing on high-end technologies, particularly airborne radars and ground-based systems, directly supporting the Indian government’s ambitious ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-Reliant India) and ‘Make in India’ initiatives.
India startup AeroShul to build loitering munition swarms for Indian Army: New Delhi: In a significant leap towards modernizing its artillery capabilities, the Indian Army has selected Gurugram-based startup AeroShul Technologies Pvt Ltd to develop its ambitious Multi-Barrel Loitering Munition (MBLM) system. This cutting-edge project, born from the Defence Minister’s ADITI 2.0 initiative, aims to transform existing artillery rocket systems into precision strike platforms with extended range and enhanced lethality.
Ashok Leyland Bags Rs 700 Crore Indian Army Vehicle Order: Chennai, India – Hinduja Group’s Ashok Leyland announced on Friday that its defence business has been awarded multiple orders valued at over Rs 700 crore ($81.9 million) to supply a range of logistics vehicles to the Indian Army. Deliveries of these vehicles are scheduled to commence in the next financial year.
Bharat Forge Bags $806 Million ATAGS Order: Pune, India – In a significant stride towards enhancing India’s indigenous defense capabilities, Bharat Forge Limited has secured a substantial order from the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the supply of the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS), developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). This landmark contract marks a pivotal moment in the modernization of the Indian Army’s artillery regiments.
India-Airbus Negotiate Procurement of Additional 10 C-295 Transport Aircraft: New Delhi, India – In a significant move to modernize its aging military transport capabilities, India is actively negotiating the acquisition of an additional 10 Airbus C-295 aircraft. This potential purchase would augment the nation’s existing order of 71 C-295s, marking a substantial expansion of its fleet and reinforcing its strategic partnership with Airbus and the Tata Group.
The patent, granted under the Indian Patents Act, covers Zen Technologies’ Hard Kill Firearm Mounting System, which was initially filed on October 15, 2022, and is now protected until October 15, 2042. This achievement marks Zen Technologies’ third patent in the 2025 calendar year and its thirteenth in the 2024-25 fiscal year, underscoring the company’s dedication to developing indigenous defense solutions.
SAMTEL-Hensoldt MoU Aero India 2025: BENGALURU – In a significant boost to India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities, SAMTEL Avionics (SA) and HENSOLDT Avionics have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to co-produce cutting-edge avionics products within India. The agreement, finalized on February 12th, paves the way for a long-term partnership focused on enhancing aviation safety and efficiency in both civil and military domains.
IdeaForge’ SWITCH MINI UAV Certified for Military Use: Mumbai, India – January 23, 2025 – ideaForge Technology Limited, a global leader in drone technology, today announced that its SWITCH MINI UAV has successfully obtained the prestigious “Fit for Indian Military Use” certification. This significant milestone, granted by the Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) following rigorous evaluations, solidifies the SWITCH MINI as the first small UAV to meet the Indian military’s stringent quality and performance standards.
India’s Lotus Advance Technologies-Israel’s Steadicopter to manufacture RUVAs in India: New Delhi, January 18, 2025 – India’s Lotus Advance Technologies has joined forces with Israel’s Steadicopter to manufacture Tactical Rotary Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (RUAVs) domestically. This partnership, announced yesterday, aims to bolster India’s defense capabilities by producing advanced drones tailored to the needs of the Indian Armed Forces and Paramilitary Forces.
Paras Defence Will Manufacture Light Machine Guns (LMGs): India’s domestic defence manufacturer Paras Defence & Space Technologies has received a significant boost to its defense manufacturing capabilities with the granting of an Industrial License for the production of Light Machine Guns (LMGs) by the Department of Industries & Internal Trade, Government of India.
Garuda Aerospace Registers 20 Patents: [Chennai, December 23, 2024] – Drone startup Garuda Aerospace announced today that it has been granted its 20th patent, a significant milestone for the company. This includes six international patents covering a wide range of agriculture drone solutions, encompassing mapping, surveying, spraying, inspections, crop health monitoring, field surveillance, yield monitoring, and seed dropping.
India MoD Orders 100 Additional K9 Vajra Guns from Larsen and Toubro: New Delhi – In a significant boost to its artillery modernization efforts, the Indian Ministry of Defence has inked a ₹7,628.70 crore (approximately $897.5 million USD) contract with Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) for the procurement of 155 mm/52 calibre K9 VAJRA-T Self-Propelled Tracked Artillery Guns.
Indian Light Tank (ILT) clears high-altitude trials: New Delhi, December 12, 2024: In a significant stride towards enhancing India’s military capabilities, the Indian Light Tank (ILT) has successfully completed a series of high-altitude trials, demonstrating its ability to operate effectively in challenging terrains. The tank, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Larsen & Toubro, fired multiple rounds at various ranges, achieving consistent accuracy at an altitude exceeding 4,200 meters.
Adani Defence Delivers Drishti-10 Starline Drone to Indian Navy: New Delhi: Adani Defence and Aerospace, a leading player in India’s defense sector, has further bolstered the Indian Navy’s maritime surveillance capabilities with the delivery of a second state-of-the-art Drishti-10 Starliner drone. This advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) is set to revolutionize the way India monitors its vast coastline and maritime borders.
SAIL-John Cockerill India MoU: New Delhi, November 29, 2024 – In a strategic move to bolster India’s manufacturing and defense capabilities, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has announced a significant partnership with John Cockerill India to produce specialized steel products. The collaboration, formally unveiled yesterday, is set to enhance India’s self-reliance in the defense and aerospace sectors by producing high-quality steel tailored for critical applications, including defense-grade equipment, heavy industries, and high-end infrastructure projects.
Guided Pinaka Missile System: New Delhi, India – November 14, 2024 – The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a significant milestone in the development of advanced artillery systems with the successful completion of flight tests for the Guided Pinaka Weapon System.
Tata-Airbus C295 Plant: Vadodara, India. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Spanish counterpart Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez Monday jointly inaugurated India’s first private military production facility in Vadodara in Western State of Gujarat. This Tata-Airbus joint facility has been built in collaboration with European defence and aerospace giant Airbus. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation stone for this aircraft production facility in October 2022.
India PM Narendra Modi, Spain PM Pedro Sanchez to open Tata-Airbus C-295 production facility: Vadodara, India (October 28, 2024): India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez will today jointly open the Tata-Airbus joint venture’s state-of-the-art facility to manufacture C-295 military transport aircraft in Vadodara, Gujarat. This facility, which is India’s first private sector production facility to manufacture military aircraft in the country, is dedicated to the manufacturing of the C-295 military transport aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Zen Technologies bags major defence maintenance contract: New Delhi, India – Zen Technologies Limited, a leading Indian defense technology company, has secured a significant annual maintenance contract (AMC) valued at Rs 46 crore (approximately $5.5 million) with the India’s Ministry of Defence. The five-year contract will cover the upkeep and maintenance of various simulators designed and developed by Zen Technologies.
Indian Air Force MKU Netro Night Vision Goggles: New Delhi, India – A significant milestone…