Defence

Delhi, 12th February 2026: Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), Transport Aircraft Division, Kanpur for the acquisition of eight Dornier 228 Aircraft along with Operational Role Equipment for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) at a cost of Rs 2,312 crore under Buy (Indian) category. The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh in New Delhi on February 12, 2026. The programme is expected to generate significant direct & indirect employment by strengthening the HAL’s production ecosystem and supporting a broad network of MSMEs & ancillary industries. It will also create sustained opportunities in Maintenance, Repair & Overhaul and life cycle technical support. The contract reinforces the Government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make-in-India while bolstering India’s maritime security architecture. Courtesy: PIB/MOD

Tel Aviv, 12th February, 2026: Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has delivered the 350th F-35 fighter aircraft wing to Lockheed Martin, marking a significant milestone in the long-standing F-35 program. The wing was produced and assembled using advanced and innovative technologies at IAI’s facilities. This milestone was marked during a special ceremony held at IAI’s F-35 wing assembly line, attended by senior Israeli government officials, including Israel’s Minister of Defense, as well as senior management from Lockheed Martin and IAI. Lockheed Martin’s F-35 is the world’s most advanced stealth fighter aircraft, operated by the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marine Corps, as well as the Israeli Air Force and numerous militaries worldwide. It is operationally active with the Israeli Air Force, where it plays a significant role in missions across multiple arenas, contributing directly to Israel’s aerial security and national defense. Israeli Minister of Defense, Israel Katz said, “The delivery of the 350th F-35 fighter jet wing marks a significant milestone. The strategic alliance between Israel and the United States is more than a partnership, it is a deep and enduring friendship rooted in shared values. Together, we are stronger, as demonstrated time and again in recent months, most notably during the historic Operation Rising Lion and Operation Midnight Hammer, which dealt a devastating blow to Iran’s nuclear program. This strength will guide us in facing any future challenge. Thanks to U.S. President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the bond between our nations is stronger than ever and will stand firm against any test ahead. I extend my sincere appreciation to the employees of IAI and our partners at Lockheed Martin for making this achievement possible.” U.S. Ambassador in Israel, Mike Huckabee said “The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a powerful symbol of the ironclad partnership between the United States and Israel. This is more than a manufacturing milestone; it’s a testament to our shared commitment to security through technological excellence. When Israeli innovation and American industry collaborate, the result is unmatched capability that strengthens both our nations. We are proud to stand with IAI and Lockheed Martin in celebrating this remarkable achievement.” Vice President of Operations, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics, Nick Drazic said,“The ongoing success of the F-35 program is enabled by a network of dedicated suppliers like IAI around the world. For four decades, IAI has been a collaborative, innovative and reliable partner, ensuring Lockheed Martin’s fighter aircraft deliver the capability our customers need to maintain peace through strength.” President and CEO of IAI, Boaz Levy said,”The delivery of the 350th F-35 wing is a testament to the strength of IAI’s long-standing partnership with Lockheed Martin and the broader defense and aerospace collaboration between Israel and the United States. This milestone reflects decades of close cooperation with American industry, built on shared values, advanced technological capabilities and a mutual commitment to supporting critical defense programs.” VP and GM of IAI Aviation, Yaacov Berkovitz said, “This milestone reflects the day-to-day cooperation between IAI Aviation and Lockheed Martin across the F-35 wing assembly line. Since 2014, our teams have consistently delivered high-quality wings through advanced manufacturing methods and disciplined assembly processes. Reaching the 350-wing mark demonstrates the strength of our production capabilities and the dedication of our team”. IAI has been producing the F-35 wings since 2014, playing an instrumental role in the F-35 program. The strategic collaboration between IAI and Lockheed Martin dates back to the late 1980s, reflecting decades of trusted partnership, technological cooperation and a shared commitment to mission success. ( News published unedited on the basis of press release)

New Delhi, February 3, 2026: Adani Defence & Aerospace, the flagship defence and aerospace arm of Adani Enterprises Ltd and a frontrunner in India’s defence sector, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Leonardo, the global leader in defence, aerospace, and security. This landmark partnership will establish a fully integrated helicopter manufacturing ecosystem in India, addressing surging military demands and propelling the nation toward self-reliance in helicopter production. Targeting the Indian Armed Forces’ requirements, particularly for Leonardo’s advanced AW169M and AW109 TrekkerM helicopters, the collaboration will deliver phased indigenization, robust maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities, and comprehensive pilot training. By fusing Leonardo’s world-class helicopter design and engineering prowess with Adani Defence’s end-to-end defence and aerospace expertise, the initiative advances the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, strengthens national defence readiness, with the potential to be extended to civil aviation applications and international supply chain integration. This ecosystem promises transformative economic impact: thousands of high-skill jobs in engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and sustainment services, while cementing India as a competitive hub for helicopter production. Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace, stated: “This alliance with Leonardo is a pivotal stride toward a resilient, future-proof helicopter ecosystem in India. Merging global  excellence with our industrial momentum, we will drive enduring value, high-skill Company General Use employment, and alignment with Aatmanirbhar Bharat to position India as a global aerospace powerhouse.” Ashish Rajvanshi, CEO, Adani Defence & Aerospace, added: “With the Indian Armed Forces projecting demand for over 1000 helicopters in the coming decade, this partnership realizes our vision for sovereign manufacturing. It will accelerate indigenization, strengthen supply chains, and establish India as a world-class production base.” Gian Piero Cutillo, Managing Director, Leonardo Helicopters, affirmed: “We’re extremely pleased to join forces with Adani to provide our contribution to India’s vision for an even stronger and growing role of their rotorcraft industry, and to enable the country to access the level of modern technology and operational capability it deserves. We look forward to making progress in this endeavour, leveraging our complementary expertise to deliver the best solutions.” This strategic partnership redefines India’s aerospace landscape, strengthening defence autonomy and position the country as a trusted global hub for helicopter manufacturing and sustainment.

Adani Defence & Aerospace and Embraer announce a strategic partnership to develop, manufacture, and sustain the regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India New Delhi, Jan 27, 2026: In a move to give boost to Indian Aviation, Embraer and Adani Defence & Aerospace have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to develop an integrated regional transport aircraft ecosystem in India. The companies aim to collaborate on opportunities in aircraft manufacturing, supply chain, aftermarket services, and pilot training. The collaborative industrial partnership will aim to establish an assembly line, followed by a phased increase in indigenization to advance India’s Regional Transport Aircraft (RTA) program, in alignment with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative and the UDAN regional connectivity vision. “India is a pivotal market for Embraer, and this partnership combines our aerospace expertise with Adani’s strong industrial capabilities and commitment to indigenisation,” said Arjan Meijer, President and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation. “Together, we will evaluate the most viable, advanced, and efficient solutions in support of India’s RTA ambitions and their potential for implementation.” This potential partnership will leverage Embraer’s deep engineering and aircraft manufacturing expertise alongside Adani’s aviation value-chain footprint, which includes airport infrastructure, aerospace manufacturing, MRO services, and pilot training. “Regional aviation is the backbone of economic expansion. With initiatives like UDAN transforming air connectivity across Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities, the need for an indigenous regional aviation ecosystem has become critical,” said Jeet Adani, Director, Adani Defence & Aerospace. “This partnership will also strengthen strategic relations between India and Brazil, bringing complementary capabilities together.” The proposed ecosystem is geared towards supporting domestic demand while generating significant direct and indirect employment across engineering, manufacturing, logistics, and support services. “We are shaping India’s regional transport aircraft ecosystem, a bold stride toward Aatmanirbhar aviation that bridges urban-rural divides, generates high-skill employment, and elevates India’s position in the global aerospace industry,” said Ashish Rajvanshi, President & CEO, Adani Defence & Aerospace. Embraer has a growing footprint and long history in India, with nearly 50 Embraer aircraft and 11 aircraft types currently operating across commercial, defense, and business aviation. Embraer aircraft operated by the Indian Air Force include the Legacy 600 aircraft and the ‘Netra’ AEW&C aircraft based on the Embraer ERJ145 platform, while Star Air operates a fleet of 13 E175 and ERJ145 aircraft.

New Delhi,23rd January 2026: The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted its Press Preview for the Republic Day Parade (RDP) 2026 today, providing a detailed overview of the marching contingent, Veterans’ tableau and the flypast that will feature prominently during the national celebrations at Kartavya Path. Briefing the media, the IAF stated that Republic Day Parade serves as a powerful symbol of national unity, reflecting India’s military strength and technological progress. In alignment with the IAF’s motto, “Touch the Sky with Glory,” all participating elements will be reflecting the IAF’s commitment to safeguard the Nation’s skies while contributing to nation-building. This year the IAF, is the lead service for conduct of all ceremonial events related to the Republic Day celebrations. The resplendent ceremonial Guard of Honour marking the commencement of the Republic Day Parade, where the Hon’ble Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi will pay homage to the fallen Heroes will be commanded by Squadron Leader Hemant Singh Katyal. The briefing commenced with the introduction to the IAF marching contingent, which will be representing a distinguished blend of tradition and modernity. Composed of 144 young Air Warriors selected from across the service in recognition of their exemplary military bearing, the contingent has undergone weeks of rigorous training to honour a legacy of pride and glory, while steadfastly upholding the core values of the Indian Air Force. The IAF marching contingent is led by Squadron Leader Jagdesh Kumar, with Squadron Leader Nikita Choudhary, Flight Lieutenant Prakhar Chandrakar and Flight Lieutenant Dinesh as Supernumerary Officers. The IAF Band, led by Sergeant Charles Antony Daniel, will be supporting the marching contingent. The band comprises of 72 elite musicians, including 57 Agniveervayu and 9 Agniveervayu women (who are being introduced for the first time), along with 3 Drum Majors. As the band passes the Presidential dais, it will perform the tune “Sound Barrier,” showcasing its versatility and the modern composition of the Force. The major highlight of the briefing was the unveiling of the theme for the Veteran’s Tableau, “Sangram se Rashtra Nirman Tak” (From Battle to Nation Building), fielded by the IAF for this year’s Republic Day Celebrations. The front portion of the tableau feature the Amar Jawan Jyoti, 3D models of historical war machines, which include the T-55 and Vijayant Tank, Hunter, MiG-21, Mirage and Jaguar aircraft, INS Mysore and INS Rajput, and representations from the 1965, 1971 wars and 1999 Kargil Operation Vijay. The rear portion highlights the role of veterans in national development, focusing on their voluntary efforts in flood relief, medical services, education and the ‘Make in India’ initiative. The briefing concluded with a presentation on this year’s flypast, which will feature 29 aircraft, comprising 16 fighters, 4 transport, and 9 helicopters operating from six different bases. Organized into eight distinct formations, the flypast will commence with the Dhwaj formation, where four Mi-17 IV helicopters will carry the National Flag alongside the flags of the three services. The display will showcase the capabilities of the Rafale, Su-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar aircraft, complemented by strategic assets which will include the C-130 and C-295, as well as the Indian Navy’s P-8i aircraft. Attack helicopters, such as the IAF’s ALH MK IV and the Indian Army’s ALH WSI, Apache and Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) will also participate in the flypast showcasing jointmanship. A primary highlight of the event is the “Operation Sindoor” formation, demonstrating air power and precision that embodies the IAF theme,” Achook, Abhedya va Sateek. Courtesy: PIB/IAF

Aatmanirbharta in defence is a national imperative & necessity for long-term strategic autonomy, says Defence Secretary at Defence Skilling Conclave Chandigarh, 10th Jan 2026: At the Defence Skilling Conclave in Chandigarh,Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said, “India is at a decisive moment in its defence and industrial journey, where self-reliance has emerged as a national imperative.” He addressed the delegates while inaugurating the Defence Skilling Conclave on Defence, Aerospace and Strategic Sector Skill Development in Chandigarh on January 10, 2026. Highlighting the transformation of India’s defence industrial ecosystem over the past decade, he stated that guided by the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the sector has moved from import dependence to a vibrant ecosystem comprising Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs), private industry, MSMEs and start-ups. The Defence Secretary stressed that concerted efforts towards Ease of Doing Business and continued policy reforms have catalysed an indigenous manufacturing surge, encouraging domestic design and production of platforms ranging from UAVs and sensors to complex systems like Artillery Guns, Armoured Vehicles, and Missiles. He noted that over 788 industrial licenses have been issued to 462 companies, significantly boosting private sector participation, while defence exports have crossed Rs 23,162 crore in 2025, reflecting a nearly 35-fold increase since 2014. Rajesh Kumar Singh described indigenous platforms such as the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas, Astra Beyond Visual Range Missile, Dhanush artillery guns and INS Vikrant as shining examples of the growing synergy among the industry, research, and skilled manpower. He reiterated that Aatmanirbharta in defence is not merely an economic objective, but a necessity aimed at achieving long-term strategic autonomy, adding that evolving global supply chains and rapidly advancing technologies present both challenges and unprecedented opportunities for India’s defence sector. Emphasising the importance of human capital, the Defence Secretary stated that true strategic autonomy requires not only indigenisation of hardware but also sovereignty over skills, technology, and intellectual capital. He highlighted the Government of India’s efforts under the Skill India Mission, with agencies such as the National Skill Development Corporation and Directorate General of Training mapping existing capabilities and future skill requirements for the defence and aerospace sectors. Referring to the Prime Minister’s Skilling and Employment through Technology Upgradation (PM-SETU) programme, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh said the initiative has been launched to bridge gaps among academia, industry and defence R&D. With a total outlay of Rs 60,000 crore over five years, including 50 per cent Government of India funding, PM-SETU aims to establish Centres of Excellence, promote dual apprenticeships, introduce AI-enabled training tools, and integrate Agniveers and veterans into structured skilling pathways. He called upon state governments and industry partners to anchor the PM-SETU programme through an outcome-driven approach, with apprenticeships and on-the-job training, forming the backbone of all skilling pathways, ensuring the creation of industry-ready talent. The Defence Secretary highlighted the untapped potential of Punjab in defence manufacturing. He outlined the need for defence ecosystem networks, enhanced MSME linkages with defence R&D institutions, and dedicated skill and testing infrastructure to enable the state’s emergence as a defence manufacturing hub. Highlighting the crucial role being played by Agniveers, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh asserted that the Agnipath scheme has created a pool of disciplined and technically trained youth who can be seamlessly integrated into defence manufacturing and strategic sectors through the National Skill Qualification Framework-aligned skill certification. The conclave has been organised by the Government of Punjab in collaboration with the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Confederation of Indian Industry. The Defence Secretary stated the conclave reaffirmed the collective commitment of government, industry, and academia to build a secure, self-reliant, and technologically advanced India. He expressed confidence that with coordinated efforts, Punjab and the northern region can emerge as key drivers of defence-led growth. Industry leaders, senior officials, academia representatives and the Armed Forces attended the event. (Courtesy: PIB. Published with required editing

Delhi, 2nd January 2026: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) celebrated its 68th Foundation Day on January 01, 2026. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth visited the DRDO Headquarters and reviewed the achievements of DRDO in 2025 and targets for 2026. Later, Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO Dr Samir V Kamat addressed the DRDO fraternity at DRDO Bhawan, which was streamed live across all the laboratories of DRDO. Extending warm wishes to DRDO employees and their families, Dr Kamat stated that the efforts of DRDO have given a quantum jump to India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence as part of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. He called upon DRDO scientists to focus on next generation needs including cyber security, space and artificial intelligence. The immense potential available generated through DRDO R&D has been a catalyst for the development of industries in the defence manufacturing sector, he said. Highlighting the achievements of DRDO in 2025, the Chairman DRDO said that several systems developed were delivered, inducted or handed over to the users. He stressed that DRDO should focus to work together with all stakeholders in the defence ecosphere to meet the country’s futuristic challenges and fulfill the Prime Minister vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat. He expressed satisfaction that the 22 Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) been accorded by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) and the Services Procurement Board (SPB) for induction of several DRDO developed systems worth approx. Rs 1.30 lakh crores to be manufactured by Indian Industries which is the highest in any single year in history. Some of the notable systems for which AoN has been accorded include Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS), Conventional Ballistic Missile System, Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile System ‘Anant Shastra’, Long Range Air to Surface Supersonic Cruise Missile (LRASSCM), Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (IDDIS) MK II, Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) Astra Mk-II, Anti-Tank NAG Missile System (Tracked) Mk-2, Advanced Light Weight Torpedo, Processor-based Moored Mine – Next Generation (PBMM NG), Air-borne Early Warning & Control (AEW&C) Mk-1A, Mountain Radars, Full Mission Simulator for Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A. Dr Kamat informed that 11 contracts for acquisitions valued at Rs 26,000 crore have been signed with DRDO production partners for Nag Missile System, Ashwini Low Level Transportable Radar, Air Defence Fire Control Radar (ADFCR), Electronic Warfare Suite for Mi-17 V5 Helicopter, Area Denial Munition (ADM) Type-1 and High Explosive Pre-Fragmented (HEPF) Mk-I (Enhanced) for the Pinaka Multiple Launch Rocket System, Infantry Foot Bridge Floating, Wargaming System, and Automatic Chemical Agent Detector & Alarm (ACADA) and Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS). He added that a significant number of products developed by DRDO were inducted into the services of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), Police & National Disaster Response Force in 2025. The DRDO Chairman also highlighted that the User Evaluation Trials for several systems have either been completed in 2025 or are in the final stages. These include Surface to Surface Missile ‘Pralay’, Surface to Air Missile Akash NG, Guided Extended Range Rocket ‘Pinaka’, Advanced Light Weight Torpedo, Integrated Combat Suits for Submarines, Extended Range Anti-Submarine Rocket (ER-ASR), Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM), Electronic Warfare Systems for Plains & Deserts, Border Surveillance System (BOSS), Software Defined Radio for Indian Army, CBRN Water Purification System. He further said that several other systems have either completed or are in the various stages of Development trials, which includeIndian Light Tank, Very Short-Range Air Defence System (VSHORADS), Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile, Short range Naval Anti-Ship Missile (NASM-SR), Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile, Air-to-Surface Missile Rudram-2, UAV Launched Precision Guided Missile (ULPGM)-V3, Cannon Launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile for MBT Arjun, Long Range Glide Bomb ‘Gaurav’, Long Range Radar, VHF Surveillance Radar, High Power Microwave System, Medium Range Microwave Obscurant Chaff Rockets, On Board Oxygen Generating System (OBOGS)-centric Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) on LCA and Automatic Fire Protection System in DORNIER-228 Aircraft. Dr Kamat expressed confidence that the laboratories will strive to ensure that most of the systems which are under User trials and under final stages of developmental trials get accepted by the user in 2026 so that they are ready for induction. He also stated that DRDO has been partnering with industry for realisation of its systems, sub systems and components, and, so far, 2,201 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technologies (LAToT) have been handed over to the Indian Industries out of which 245 LAToTs were signed in 2025. 13 new DcPP/PAs were chosen last year for Mission Mode projects. Total number of DcPP awarded till now is 145. DRDO has also opened its test facilities to industries and more than 4,000 tests have been carried out for private industries/ DPSUs in 2025. He further said that 15 DRDO Industry Academia Centres of Excellence are steering translational research activities in identified research verticals are performing very well. In 2025, 66 projects were sanctioned with total cost of Rs 228 crore in which 214 researchers have been engaged. This makes it to total of 341 sanctioned project at cost of Rs 1,218 crore engaging 1,255 researchers and 65 academia institutes. He concluded his speech with highlighting the reforms undertaken in 2025. Courtesy: MoD/PIB

New Delhi, 1st January 2026: As the curtains came down on ‘Year of Reforms 2025’, Ministry of Defence, under the leadership of Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, has recorded significant progress in implementing wide-ranging reforms aimed at strengthening jointness, enhancing defence preparedness, promoting self-reliance and improving welfare delivery mechanisms. These reforms, undertaken across the Ministry, reflect a whole-of-government approach towards building a modern, integrated and future-ready defence ecosystem. Acquisition Approvals: Defence Acquisition Council approved capital acquisition proposals worth a total of cost of over Rs 3.84 lakh crore since January 2025 to enhance the country’s defence readiness, with focus on modernisation through indigenisation. Contracts Signed: In the Financial Year 2025-26 till the end of December 2025, Ministry of Defence has signed capital contracts amounting to Rs 1.82 lakh crore for the modernisation of the Armed Forces. Expenditure: Ministry of Defence has achieved 80% (Approx. Rs 1.2 lakh crore) expenditure under Capital Acquisition Budget by the end of December 2025. The allocation under this is spent on modernisation of the Armed Forces. The overall capital expenditure of MoD has also reached upto 76% which includes expenditure on Infrastructure, land, R&D etc in addition to capital acquisition. Defence Industry & Innovation Enablement: To promote greater indigenisation in defence and secure supply chains, private sector participation has been increased. This includes streamlining defence manufacturing licenses, mapping the competencies of MSMEs, and preparing Market Intelligence Reports to enhance demand-supply analysis in defence procurement. Additionally, testing and trial infrastructure lab facilities are being shared with the private sector. 25% of defence research grants are also being allocated to them along with academic institutions and MSMEs to encourage innovation & strengthen collaboration in the defence sector. Acquisition & Procurement Reforms: Procurement processes have been streamlined to reduce timelines, including Simplification of the iDEX manual, Rationalisation of defence export permissions, Revamping of the Defence EXIM Portal, Simplification of Technology Transfer policy and Decentralisation through revised Delegation of Financial Powers and Procurement Manuals (Defence Procurement Manual 2025, implemented w.e.f. November 01, 2025). Defence Policy & International Engagement: Review and revision of Defence Acquisition Procedure 2020, Encouragement of Foreign Direct Investment in defence, Enhanced engagement with friendly countries, Defence Lines of Credit including Bharat Maitri Shakti, and Rationalisation of restricted distance norms near defence establishments are under progress. Defence Production & Quality Enhancement: Formation of an Export Promotion Body, Implementation of Quality Assurance 4.0 & Industry 4.0 in DPSUs and Establishment of a National Integrated Test Laboratory for defence platforms are being advanced. Jointness & Future Preparedness: Establishment of Joint Operations Control Centre, promulgation of Vision 2047 for the Armed Forces, Creation of a Future Operations Analysis Group, Promotion of joint training programmes and Finalisation of the Integrated Capability Development Plan are under various stages of implementation. Steps taken in this direction bore fruit during the planning and execution of Operation Sindoor. Operational Integration & Capability Enablement: Deployment of Tri-Service Geographical Information System, Review and Harmonisation of policies, SOPs and Tactics, Techniques & Procedures for Tri-service uniformity, Expansion of women’s roles in combat and leadership positions, Promotion of military tourism and Preparation of a long-term roadmap for operational infrastructure and accommodation have been completed. Veterans’ Welfare Reforms: To improve delivery of medical cover for veterans and their dependents under ECHS, pan-India doorstep delivery of medicines to 70 year plus Ex-servicemen (ESM) with infirmity introduced, authorised local chemist limits doubled, eSeHAT tele-medicine consultation introduced, pan-India rollout underway; AYUSH treatment at ECHS introduced, Stress management facilities created, Common drug list enhanced, Upgradation of some ECHS polyclinics, Creation of some new polyclinics underway. Enhancement of welfare grants to ESM and their dependents including Penury, Education & Marriage grants implemented. SPARSH Pension Portal: 31.69 lakh defence pensioners have been onboarded on SPARSH, India’s largest digital pension platform. Out of 6.43 lakh discrepant cases migrated from previous systems, 6.07 lakh have been normalised without affecting pensioners’ entitlements. The sustained reform momentum during the ‘Year of Reforms 2025’ has strengthened India’s defence preparedness and institutional efficiency. These reforms are not isolated initiatives, but part of a continuous process to build a modern, integrated and self-reliant defence ecosystem capable of safeguarding the nation’s security interests in the decades ahead. ( News is published unedited. Courtesy: PIB/MoD)

New Delhi, 23 December 2025: In a major step towards Make-in-India program, India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking, has signed a collaboration agreement with Safran Electronics & Defense for Transfer of Production of two high-precision, combat-proven systems, paving the way for their local manufacturing. The systems are: SIGMA 30N Digital Ring Laser Gyro Inertial Navigation System, used in artillery guns, air defence systems, missiles and radars; and CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight, designed for artillery guns and anti-drone systems. The agreement was signed by CMD, IOL Tushar Tripathi and Head of the Defence Global Business Unit for Safran Electronics & Defense Alexandre Ziegler in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar in New Delhi on December 22, 2025. Building on the MoU signed in January 2024, this new agreement confirms the commitment of both the partners to manufacture and support these advanced systems in India. Under the partnership, IOL will be responsible for manufacturing, final assembly, testing, quality control and full life-cycle support, ensuring the systems meet the operational needs of the Indian Army. By combining IOL’s industrial capabilities in India with Safran Electronics & Defense’s recognised expertise in high-end inertial navigation and fire-control technologies, the partnership contributes to strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem while enhancing the readiness and performance of its land forces.

New Delhi, 4th December 2025: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh and the Defence Minister of Russia Andrei Belousov co-chaired the 22nd session of India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi on December 04, 2025. Both sides reiterated that the India-Russia relationship is based on a deep sense of trust, common principles and mutual respect. This meeting precedes the 23rd India-Russia Annual Summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of Russia Vladimir Putin. Rajnath Singh voiced the Government of India’s determination for capacity building of its indigenous defence industry for both local production and exports, under the vision of ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’. He also stressed on new opportunities for enhancing collaboration between both counties across niche technologies. The Russian Defence Minister emphasised on deepening relationship between both the countries which is based on mutual trust. He highlighted that both countries are united by many years of friendship and strategic cooperation. He stated that the Russian Defence Industry is ready to support India towards becoming self-reliant in the field of defence production. Minister Belousov also invited Shri Rajnath Singh to visit Russia to co-chair the 23rd session of IRIC-M&MTC in 2026. At the end, the two Ministers signed the protocol of the 22nd IRIGC-M&MTC meeting highlighting the ongoing and prospective areas of cooperation. Prior to the meeting, Raksha Mantri and the Russian Defence Minister laid the wreath at the National War Memorial, New Delhi and paid respect to the Indian bravery who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. The visiting dignitary also inspected the Ceremonial Tri-service Guard of Honour. ( Source: PIB/MoD. Only the headline is changed)