Defence

Nashik, 17th Oct 2025: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third Production Line of Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A and the second Production Line of Hindustan Turbo Trainer-40 (HTT-40) at the Nashik facility of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) on October 17, 2025. He also flagged-off the first LCA Mk1A produced at the facility. In his address, Raksha Mantri described the flight of the state-of-the-art aircraft as a shining symbol of India’s growing Aatmanirbharta in defence. Highlighting the transformation of the defence sector in the last decade under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, he asserted that the country, which once imported 65-70% of critical military hardware, is now manufacturing 65% of the equipment on its own soil. He voiced the Government’s resolve of increasing domestic manufacturing to 100% in the times to come. “When we came to power in 2014, we realised that without self-reliance, we can never be truly secure. In the beginning, we faced numerous challenges, the biggest being ‘limited defence preparedness’ and ‘import dependency’. Everything was limited to Government enterprises, and the private sector had no significant participation in the production ecosystem. In addition, there was not enough focus on defence planning, advanced technology, and innovation. This forced us to depend on other countries for critical equipment and cutting-edge systems, which increased costs & created strategic vulnerabilities. This challenge encouraged us to move forward in the direction of new thinking and reforms. The results are visible today. We not only reduced import dependency, but also strengthened our commitment to indigenisation. Whatever we used to buy from abroad, we are now manufacturing it domestically, be it fighter aircraft, missiles, engines and electronic warfare systems,” said Shri Rajnath Singh. Listing out other feats achieved due to the Government’s consistent efforts, Raksha Mantri stated that annual defence production, which was worth Rs 46,429 crore in 2014-15, has surged to a record figure of over Rs 1.50 lakh crore in 2024-25, with exports touching an all-time high of Rs 25,000 crore from less than Rs 1,000 crore a decade ago. “We have now set a target of increasing defence manufacturing to Rs 3 lakh crore and exports to Rs 50,000 crore by 2029,” he added. On the constantly-evolving nature of modern-day warfare, Shri Rajnath Singh underscored the importance of staying ahead of the curve as Artificial Intelligence, cyber warfare, drone systems & next-generation aircraft are shaping the future, and wars are being fought across multiple frontiers. “India must always stay ahead in this new race, and not lag behind,” he said, exhorting HAL to make its mark in the fields of next-generation aircraft, unmanned systems & civil aviation, and not limit itself to LCA Tejas or HTT-40. As Raksha Mantri voiced the Government’s commitment towards inducting state-of-the-art, indigenous technologies, he appreciated the role of HAL in carrying forward the vision, terming the Defence Public Sector Undertaking as the backbone of India’s defence sector. While he praised HAL for providing operational support to the recently-decommissioned MiG-21, he also shed light on its valuable contribution during Operation Sindoor. “In our security history, there have been only a few instances when the entire system has truly been tested simultaneously. Operation Sindoor was one such mission. Our forces not only demonstrated valor and commitment, but also displayed their confidence in indigenous platforms. HAL provided support at various operational sites 24 hours a day during the operation. It ensured the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness by carrying out prompt maintenance on fighter jets and helicopters. The Nashik team performed the crucial task of installing the BrahMos missile on the Su-30, which destroyed terrorist hideouts during the operation. This proved that when it comes to national security, we can make our own equipment and protect ourselves with it,” said Shri Rajnath Singh. Raksha Mantri lauded HAL Nashik for playing a pivotal role in taking India’s defence manufacturing capabilities to newer heights for over six decades – from manufacturing and overhauling fighter jets such as MiG-21 & MiG-27 to becoming the production house of Su-30, terming the campus as a glowing symbol of self-reliance. Shri Rajnath Singh pointed out that the ongoing construction of the LCA Tejas and HTT-40 aircraft is also the result of collaboration between various industry partners of the country. “This collaboration is proof that if the government, industries, and academia work together, no challenge is too big,” he said, acknowledging the trust placed by the Indian Air Force in aircraft such as Tejas and HTT-40. On the joint Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul facility for both civil and military aviation established in the Nashik division, Raksha Mantri exuded confidence that the initiative will create new employment opportunities in Nashik and surrounding areas. He also took note of the fact that the entire HAL complex is now paperless, digital, and completely sustainable. He called it a true symbol of New India’s technological leap. Speaking on the occasion, Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar described the inauguration of two production lines as a symbol of India’s growing technological confidence, industrial strength, and strategic foresight. “The event marks a new chapter in HAL’s journey, one that enhances our nation’s production capacity and strengthens the foundation of a robust, self-sustaining aerospace ecosystem. The Secretary (DP) termed LCA Tejas Mk1 as not merely a fighter aircraft; but a statement of India’s design and manufacturing excellence – conceived, developed and produced indigenously through the collaboration of HAL, Aeronautical Development Agency, DRDO and the Indian Air Force. He added that the HTT-40, fully designed and developed by HAL, stands as a shining example of the company’s ability to conceptualise, design and deliver critical defence platforms completely indigenously. CMD, HAL Dr DK Sunil termed the successful operationalisation of the LCA Mk1A and HTT-40 production from Nashik as a testament to HAL’s capacity for expansion. “HAL’s Nashik Division’s capacity to produce indigenous advanced fighters in addition to Su-30MKI has added momentum to our production efforts to meet delivery timelines. It has also resulted in the creation of around 1,000 jobs

Sydney, 10th Oct. 2025: The Minister of Defence Rajnath Singh addressed the maiden India-Australia Defence Industry Business Round Table in Sydney, reaffirming the growing synergy between the two nations across strategic, industrial, and technological domains. “Under the banner of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, established in 2020, we stand at a pivotal juncture to re-position our defence relations, not merely as partners, but as co-creators of a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” stated Raksha Mantri. He also added that the Round Table is not merely a dialogue, it is a declaration of intent to make India and Australia natural allies in business, industry and innovation. Rajnath Singh recalled the series of high-level engagements that have strengthened bilateral relations including the India-Australia Summit in November 2024, the 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in October 2024, the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister of Australia to India in June 2025 and his ongoing visit to Australia. He underlined that the foundation of the bilateral relationship lies in shared democratic values and institutional similarities. “Both India and Australia are part of the Commonwealth of Nations. Our shared history is built on democracy, diversity, liberty, and similar governance structures,” he added. The MoD highlighted that strong bilateral ties rest on three essential pillars: a forward-looking government-to-government collaboration, people-to-people connect and convergence of business interests. “Our governmental frameworks are robust and getting further strengthened. On the people’s front, we have a large Indian diaspora in Australia, complemented by an increasing Australian presence in India. However, our defence industrial partnership, based on joint R&D, innovation, co-creation and co-production, still has untapped potential,” he stated. Rajnath Singh highlighted the details of India’s recent economic and industrial achievements, stating that India is on a transformative journey of structural reforms, particularly in manufacturing. “Today, India is globally the fourth-largest economy and the fastest-growing large economy in the world. Our defence production touched Rs 1.51 lakh crore (approximately USD 18 billion) last financial year, the highest ever with an 18% increase from the previous year. Our defence exports reached Rs 23,622 crore (USD 2.76 billion), with Indian companies now exporting to nearly 100 countries,” he added. Calling for closer industrial collaboration, Rajnath Singh stated, “I see this forum as an important instrument to make India and Australia natural allies in business and industry too. This alliance has compelling economic reasons to be successful and mutually beneficial.” MoD underscored that Australia excels in niche technologies such as quantum systems, autonomous underwater vehicles and advanced maritime surveillance, while India offers vast manufacturing scale, software capabilities, and indigenous strength in shipbuilding, missile technology and space. “This Round Table can be a great catalyst to tap the unrealised potential in our defence industry collaboration,” he added. MoD underlined that initiatives such as Make in India, Production Linked Incentive schemes and digital transformation have created an enabling environment for innovation and investment. He stated that government has liberalised the FDI policy up to 74% under the automatic route and beyond that with government approval, especially when modern technology is introduced. Shri Rajnath Singh added that the defence production ecosystem is being continuously liberalised through policy interventions and simplification of compliance mechanisms. “To accelerate defence R&D in the private sector, we have opened avenues for free-of-cost technology transfer through DRDO. There are attractive schemes for development of cutting-edge technologies and they are giving excellent results,” highlighted Rajnath Singh while underscoring the steps taken to promote research and innovation. He added that the DRDO and Australia’s Defence Science & Technology Group are already collaborating on towed array sensors, and discussions are advancing in quantum technology, AI, cyber security, information warfare, and advanced science and technology. The MoD brought light to the fact that India welcomes Australian companies to co-develop and co-produce high-end systems, including propulsion technologies, autonomous underwater vehicles, flight simulators, and advanced materials. He underlined that the ventures can help build interoperable platforms aligned with the strategic objectives of both nations. Highlighting specific areas for partnership, Rajnath Singh stated that India with its robust shipbuilding capabilities, diverse manufacturing base and a growing ecosystem of private sector innovators & start-ups, stands ready to be a trusted partner. “Our shipyards have a proven track record in building and maintaining a wide range of naval platforms. Indian yards can offer refit, mid-life upgrades, and maintenance services to the Royal Australian Navy and vessels under Australia’s Pacific Maritime Security Program,” he added. MoD cited examples of active industrial partnerships such as Indo-MIM Pvt. Ltd. with Thales Australia, Tata Advanced Systems with W&E Platt Pty Ltd, and Munitions India Ltd. with Aqusport. “These examples show how our industrial ecosystems complement each other and how businesses can become the driving force behind our governments’ strategic intent.” He exuded confidence that this list can grow much bigger in the near future, allowing both sides to fully benefit from the existing potential. Rajnath Singh also welcomed Australia’s proposal for a reciprocal provision of defence articles and services MoU. “We welcome this initiative. Importantly, Australia has identified India as a Top Tier Partner, removing certain regulatory barriers to enable easier technology sharing. This is a testament to the trust and confidence that bind us,” he added. Rajnath Singh underlined the vast opportunities that lie ahead for the two nations. “There are huge opportunities for co-production of naval vessels and sub-systems, ship repair, refits and MRO support in India for Australian and partner nation vessels, joint R&D in autonomous systems and green shipbuilding technologies,” he highlighted. Rajnath Singh stated that by diversifying supply chains, building joint capacities and investing in innovation, the two nations can contribute to a resilient, secure, and self-reliant Indo-Pacific. “I invite the Australian business community to invest, collaborate, and innovate with India. Together, we can develop cutting-edge technologies, build advanced platforms, and ensure that our industries are not just suppliers, but strategic enablers of peace and security in the region,” underscored Rajnath Singh. He urged them to seize this moment to build a partnership that is not only economically beneficial but also

Mumbai, 10th Oct 2025: Minister of Defence( State) Sanjay Seth held a bilateral meeting with the United Kingdom’s Minister of State for Defence (Minister for the House of Lords), Vernon Coaker, in Mumbai on October 10, 2025. The meeting was held on the sidelines of the visit of the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG) to India. During the meeting, both sides reviewed the ongoing defence engagements and discussed ways to further deepen cooperation between India and the United Kingdom. Raksha Rajya Mantri noted with satisfaction that the UK CSG, led by Prince of Wales, successfully completed the sea phase of the bilateral maritime exercise Konkan-25 with the Indian Navy off the western coast of India. The CSG is currently engaged in the harbour phase activities at Mumbai and Goa. Shri Sanjay Seth emphasized that such operational interactions enhance mutual understanding of operational philosophies and significantly contribute to interoperability between the two navies. During the meeting, both ministers reviewed the various facets of bilateral defence cooperation and discussed about India’s growing capabilities in manufacturing equipment and development of indigenous systems bolstering Aatmanirbharta. They reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen the ties in all spheres including collaboration and opportunities in Global Defence Supply Chains. They also reiterated their commitment to strengthen maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region in support of a free, open and rules-based world order to ensure freedom of navigation. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to a robust, multifaceted and mutually beneficial defence partnership, guided by the India-UK Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the ‘India-UK Vision 2035’, adopted during the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi in July 2025 to the United Kingdom. (Courtesy: PIB)

From its decisive role in 1971 war to its presence in the Kargil conflict, the Balakot airstrike & Operation Sindoor the MiG-21 proved its mettle in multiple theatres of conflict: RM “Excelled as an interceptor, ground-attack platform, frontline Air Defence & trainer aircraft. MiG-21 was a Bird of all seasons” “More than 11,500 MiG-21s built worldwide, approx. 850 served with the IAF, Testifying its popularity, credibility & multi-dimensional capabilities” “MiG-21 taught us never to fear change, but to embrace it with confidence. Today, India’s defence ecosystem is working in unison to take this legacy forward” New Delhi, 26th Sept 2025: “The legacy of the MiG-21 will live on in India’s pursuit of Aatmanirbharta in defence. The aircraft symbolises the continuity of courage, discipline and patriotism that will inspire the development of indigenous platforms such as LCA-Tejas and the upcoming Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA),” stated Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh during the Decommissioning Ceremony of the Indian Air Force (IAF) MiG-21 in Chandigarh on September 26, 2025. The ceremony marked the final operational sortie of the MiG-21, bringing to a close an illustrious chapter of more than six decades in the history of the IAF. Raksha Mantri underlined that when the world looks at India tomorrow, it should see a nation that began with the MiG-21 and now leads with futuristic defence technologies. Shri Rajnath Singh saluted the valour and dedication of the air warriors of the IAF who have, through courage & sacrifice, safeguarded the sovereignty, unity and integrity of the nation. He paid glowing tribute to the MiG-21, describing it as more than just a machine, but rather a symbol of India’s rise in military aviation, a shield of national defence, and a faithful companion of the Armed Forces since its induction in 1963. Raksha Mantri pointed out that more than 11,500 MiG-21s were built worldwide, of which approximately 850 served with the IAF, which testify the aircraft’s popularity, credibility and multi-dimensional capabilities. Raksha Mantri recalled how the MiG-21 proved its mettle in multiple theatres of war and conflict, from its decisive role in the 1971 war, where it attacked the Governor’s House in Dhaka under hostile conditions and hastened India’s victory, to its presence in the Kargil conflict, the Balakot airstrike, and Operation Sindoor. “In every historic mission, the MiG-21 carried the Tricolour with honour. Its contribution has never been limited to a single event or battle, it has been a pillar of India’s air power for decades,” he highlighted. Highlighting the aircraft’s versatility, Shri Rajnath Singh described the MiG-21 as the “bird of all seasons” which excelled in every conceivable role as an interceptor deterring enemy aircraft, a ground-attack platform displaying offensive capability, a frontline air defence jet protecting Indian skies, and a trainer aircraft that groomed countless pilots. “The foundation of our highly skilled fighter pilots was laid on the MiG-21. Standing on this legendary platform, generations of air warriors learned to fly, adapt, and succeed in the toughest conditions. Its role in shaping India’s air strategy cannot be overstated,” he underlined. Shri Rajnath Singh further stated that the MiG-21 performed far beyond expectations of both its designers and operators, evolving from a 1950s-era jet into a formidable, upgraded platform known by names such as Trishul, Vikram, Badal and Bison. He added that this adaptability is what kept the MiG-21 at the heart of the IAF’s inventory for so long. “The MiG-21 taught us never to fear change, but to embrace it with confidence. Today, India’s defence ecosystem, our research labs, academia, DPSUs, private sector, startups and youth is working in unison to take this legacy forward,” he underscored. Raksha Mantri also addressed misconceptions regarding the age of the aircraft. He clarified that while the initial MiG-21s inducted in the 1960s and 70s were retired long ago, the aircraft in service until now were at most 40 years old, a lifespan considered normal for fighter jets worldwide. He underlined that the MiG-21 was continuously upgraded with advanced radars, avionics and weapon systems, thanks to the efforts of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Commending HAL engineers and scientists, he stated that their relentless work kept the aircraft technologically relevant and battle-ready for decades. Shri Rajnath Singh emphasised that this farewell should not be seen merely as a ceremonial military tradition, but as an extension of India’s civilisational ethos. Drawing from Indian philosophy, he said, “Our ancient culture teaches us that divinity resides not only in living beings, but also in non-living objects. Just as we worship the earth, rivers, trees and tools that serve us, today’s farewell to the MiG-21 is an act of gratitude towards a machine that protected our skies and inspired confidence in our people for over 60 years.” He added that this moment was akin to the rituals performed for weapons on Dussehra, reflecting a continuity of respect towards all that empowers the nation. Underscoring the special significance of Chandigarh as the venue, Raksha Mantri stated that it was this place that India’s supersonic journey began with the induction of the MiG-21 into No. 28 Squadron, the ‘First Supersonics’. “This soil has witnessed a glorious chapter that redefined India’s air power. Today, history comes full circle as we bid farewell to that very aircraft from the same place,” he added. The ceremony was marked by a spectacular flypast led by Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, a rare and symbolic gesture that reflected the deep respect the IAF holds for the legendary aircraft. The event featured a series of aerial displays including a skydiving demonstration by Akash Ganga, formation take-offs by MiG-21s, the Badal and Panther formations, precision drill movements by the Air Warrior Drill Team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and a symbolic flypast showcasing Jaguars and MiG-21s in a historical recreation of Combat Air Patrol. A joint MiG-21 and LCA Tejas flypast highlighted the transition from the legendary Bison to the indigenous Tejas. A ceremonial switch-off of six MiG-21 aircraft in front of the dignitaries marked the

Rabat, Morocco, 22nd Sept 2025: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Morocco’s Defence Minister Abdeltif Loudiyi held a bilateral meeting in Rabat on September 22, 2025, where both ministers signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation. The MoU provides for a robust institutional framework to the growing partnership and paves the way for collaboration in defence industry, joint exercises, military training and capacity building. Both leaders decided to intensify defence industry collaboration and agreed on a comprehensive roadmap covering counter-terrorism, maritime security, cyber defence, peacekeeping operations, military medicine, and expert exchanges. The discussions between the two Ministers reflected the shared resolve to further strengthen the longstanding friendship between India and Morocco. To give momentum to these initiatives, Defence Minister announced the opening of a new Defence Wing at the Embassy of India in Rabat. He also highlighted the maturity of India’s defence industry and its cutting-edge capabilities, including drone and counter-drone technologies, assuring the Moroccan side that Indian companies are well-positioned to meet the requirements of Morocco’s defence forces. Both Ministers underscored the importance of enhancing exchanges between Armed Forces, facilitating training programmes and exploring opportunities for co-development and co-production in the defence sector. They also stressed the need for multilateral cooperation to address global and regional security challenges and welcomed closer coordination in maritime security given the strategic significance of the Indian Ocean and Atlantic corridors. Defence Minister also extended a formal invitation to Loudiyi to visit India for further discussions on expanding defence cooperation. The meeting marks a significant milestone in the bilateral defence relationship, reflecting the growing convergence of strategic interests between India and Morocco.

Confins, Brazil, September 19, 2025: Embraer had presented the new visual identity of the KC-390 Millennium demonstrator aircraft. Held in Confins, Minas Gerais, the event took place at GOL Aerotech’s facilities, where the aircraft received its new livery. This presentation celebrates the extremely positive momentum of the KC-390 Program through a new and striking visual identity, which reflects the characteristics that have led the Millennium to solidify its position as a global leader in the medium segment of military tactical transport. “This new visual identity represents an important milestone in the history of the KC-390 Millennium, the multi-mission aircraft of the 21st century. Its unbeatable combination of speed, agility, robustness, reliability, technology and efficiency—unique in the segment—not only strengthens the defense capabilities of its operators, but also promotes strategic interoperability among allied nations,” said Bosco da Costa Júnior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. Driven by growing global interest in the KC-390 Millennium, Embraer Defense & Security will intensify marketing and demonstrations to potential customers using the new visual identity, with the first international appearance taking place by the end of this year. The painting of the demonstrator aircraft at GOL Aerotech’s facilities also opens up the possibility of future painting of customers’ aircraft, in addition to the expansion of Embraer’s production capacity to meet the global demand for the KC-390.

Bangkok, August 26, 2025: Saab has signed a contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and received an order for four Gripen E/F fighter aircraft from FMV for the Kingdom of Thailand. The order value is approximately SEK 5.3 billion and deliveries will take place 2025-2030. The contract between Saab and FMV includes three Gripen E and one Gripen F aircraft as well as associated equipment, support and training. Saab has also signed a contract with the Royal Thai Air Force to deliver a long-term offset package to Thailand as part of the fighter acquisition plan. This will include significant transfer of defence technology and industrial cooperation with Thailand together with new investments across many sectors of the national economy. “We welcome Thailand as the latest customer for Gripen E/F. Thailand is already a well-established Gripen user and familiar with the strengths that Gripen brings to the Royal Thai Armed Forces. Thailand has chosen the most modern fighter on the market with which to build its next generation of strategic, independent capabilities,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab. The Royal Thai Air Force currently operates one squadron of Gripen C/D multi-role fighters. Once in operation, the new Gripen E/F fighters will operate alongside Thailand’s existing Gripen fighter force.

New Delhi, 31st July 2025: India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation during the 13th India-UAE Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting, held at the Secretary level for the first time, in New Delhi on July 30, 2025. The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh and UAE’s Under Secretary of Defense, Lt General Ibrahim Nasser M. Al Alawi, who is leading a high-level defence delegation on a two-day official visit to India. Both sides agreed to elevate defence ties to match the growing momentum in areas such as trade, investment, and people to people relations. The two sides agreed to enhance military training cooperation and discussed their respective training requirements. India offered to provide customised training courses tailored to the UAE’s needs. They also agreed to cooperate on maritime security through sharing of information. In a bid to explore new avenues of defence collaboration, both countries held discussions on training cooperation, defence industrial partnerships, and Service-to-Service engagements. They agreed to pursue joint manufacturing initiatives, including models similar to the collaboration between ICOMM (India) and CARACAL (UAE) for small arms production. The potential for co-developing next generation defence technologies in emerging areas such as Artificial Intelligence was also discussed, alongside opportunities in shipbuilding including refits and upgrades, and maintenance of common platforms. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Indian Coast Guard and the UAE National Guard to establish a framework for enhanced cooperation in search and rescue operations, pollution response, anti-piracy efforts, and related maritime security domains. In the run-up to the JDCC, India and UAE also held the 4th Army-to-Army, 9th Navy-to-Navy, and inaugural Air-to-Air Staff Talks from July 28-29, 2025. These deliberations focused on enhancing military exercises, training, and Subject Matter Expert Exchange. The UAE delegation is scheduled to call on the Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth on July 31, 2025, and will participate in the 2nd India-UAE Defence Industry Partnership Forum, co-inaugurated by the UAE Under Secretary and India’s Secretary (Defence Production) Shri Sanjeev Kumar. India and UAE share a robust and growing defence relationship, underpinned by the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established during the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to the UAE in 2015. India’s upcoming participation in the Dubai Air Show in November 2025 is set to further reinforce this momentum. (Courtesy: PIB/MoD)

Tamilnadu, 29th July 2025: Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed an MoU to establish a state-of-the-art testing facility in Mechanical & Material domain Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor in Tiruchirappalli under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS), on July 28, 2025 in New Delhi. The MoU was exchanged between the senior officials of MoD and Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited (TIDCO), in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production), MoD Shri Sanjeev Kumar. The DTIS provides up to 75% government funding as ‘Grant-in-Aid’, with the remaining 25% funded by the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), comprising Indian private entities and State/Central Governments. For the Mechanical & Material domain testing facility, Micro Labs, a private entity, is the lead SPV member. Other members of the SPV consortium are Tamilnadu Industrial Development Corporation Limited, Bharat Earth Movers Limited, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Vaidheswaran Industries. Upon the completion of the project, it will provide advanced testing equipment and services to both government and private industry, thus giving a boost to ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defence. With an outlay of Rs 400 Crore, the DTIS was launched by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, to set up state-of-the-art testing facilities in collaboration with private industry and Central/State Government. The objective is to promote Aatmnirbharta through indigenous defence production and by reducing military equipment imports. To provide impetus to defence and aerospace sectors within the Defence Industrial Corridors, seven testing facilities were approved – four in Tamil Nadu and three in Uttar Pradesh.

Delhi, 24th July 2025: Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held a bilateral meeting with Director General, Israel Ministry of Defence Major General (Res) Amir Baram in New Delhi on July 23, 2025. The two sides agreed to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation with a long-term perspective. They concurred to work towards developing an institutional framework for further deepening of defence ties. The Israel DG condemned the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and conveyed full support for India’s fight against terrorism. Defence Secretary reiterated India’s zero tolerance approach to terrorism and condemned the October 07, 2023 terrorist attacks in Israel and called for the release of all hostages. The two sides also reviewed the progress of the ongoing defence collaboration activities since last Joint Working Group meeting held in July 2024 in India. This visit by DG Israel MoD marks a pivotal step in India-Israel defence relations and reinforces both sides’ commitment to enhance their strategic partnership.