India and France launch 7 billion dollar project: joint engine for fifth-generation fighter

AMCA will get a new engine — and a new chance

India is taking a decisive step towards its own fifth-generation fighter jet. According to sources, the country is preparing to launch a large-scale partnership with France for the joint development and production of a jet engine for Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The project is estimated at $7 billion and will be one of the most ambitious in the history of the Indian defense industry.

So far, AMCA has been in the shadows — a good plan, but the main thing was missing: an engine that could provide supersonic sound without afterburners, low visibility and sufficient thrust. Now, it seems, this gap will begin to close.

Why France, and not your own?

India has been trying to create its own engine for a long time, for example, the Kaveri project. But technologies of this level stubbornly resist. An engine is not just metal and blades. These are materials that keep the temperature above the melting point of steel, these are control, cooling, and reliability systems. All this requires decades of experience.

France, through Safran, offers this experience. They already have developments on engines for the Rafale, and now they are working on a power plant for their own sixth-generation fighter. This is exactly the level that India is still far from reaching. Instead of treading on the same rake for years, it is more logical to take the hand of someone who has already walked the path.

Safran and DRDO: how the union works

The project is based on a deep division of labor. Safran, as the leader, will take over the key technologies: compressors, combustion chamber, control system. DRDO and Indian companies — production, localization, assembly, and in the future — modernization and development.

It is important that we are not talking about buying a ready-made engine, but about joint development. This means that India will have access to know-how, will be able to adapt the engine to its needs and enter its own production in the future. This is not a footboard, but a ladder.

More than an engine: a strategy for independence

India has a long—standing dream to stop depending on arms purchases. Today, it is one of the largest importers: Russian fighter jets, Israeli radars, and American helicopters. This is not only expensive, but also dangerous — when the policy changes, supplies can freeze.

Creating an AMCA with a collaborative engine is an attempt to break out of this addiction. Yes, first with the help of France. But the goal is that in 15-20 years, the next generation of fighter jets will be completely made in India. And this engine will become the foundation.

What does this mean for the balance of power in the region

The new engine and AMCA are not just a fleet upgrade. This is a signal to China and Pakistan that India will not just buy protection, but will create it itself. A successful fifth-generation fighter will change the balance in South Asia.

In addition, the partnership with France is another step towards a multipolar strategy. New Delhi is not tied to any block, but is strengthening ties with those who are willing to share technology. Paris, in turn, gets a powerful ally in Asia — and a market with huge potential.

India has selected German Type 214 submarines for the Project program

 

Type 214 official approval after long delays

The Indian government has officially approved the German Type 214 submarine as the winner of the Project 75 program, one of the most anticipated and long—awaited modernization projects of the country's Navy. This decision, made after more than six months of delay, paves the way for the construction of six modern diesel-electric submarines with air-independent power plants (AIPS), which will significantly enhance the combat capability of the Indian submarine fleet.

Six boats with AIP worth $8.4 billion

The project is estimated at approximately $8.4 billion. All six submarines will be equipped with an AIP system that allows them to stay underwater for up to 20-25 days without recharging, making them inconspicuous and effective on long-term combat patrols. This is critically important in the context of the growing activity of submarine forces in the Indo-Pacific region, especially given the expanding presence of China.

MDL and TKMS — start of construction negotiations

The state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) will begin negotiations with German contractor ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) on the details of technology transfer, construction schedule and localization of production. As in previous programs, the boats will be built under license in India with a phased increase in the share of domestic components, which corresponds to the "Make in India" strategy.

The first boat is expected to be launched in the late 2020s.

Exclusion of the Spanish S-80 project and strategic consequences

The Type 214 approval definitively excludes the Spanish S-80 project submitted by Navantia from consideration. Despite its competitive characteristics and political support from the EU, the S-80 was inferior in key parameters, including the maturity of AIP technology, export experience, and the level of lifecycle support.

The choice of German technology strengthens military-technical cooperation between India and Germany and demonstrates New Delhi's commitment to acquiring proven and reliable systems capable of providing underwater superiority for the coming decades.

The United States is preparing to introduce a new air-to-air weapon: AIM-260 from Lockheed Martin

After the incident when Pakistan shot down Indian fighter jets with a Chinese-made missile, the United States stepped up its efforts to develop advanced weapons systems. Budget applications for 2025 mention that the US Air Force and Navy may soon receive a new air-to—air missile, the AIM-260, developed by Lockheed Martin. This system, which has been under development for eight years, is now in production, which opens up new horizons for American military power.

Context and reason for development

The development of the AIM-260 was initiated in response to the growing threats in the airspace, especially after incidents involving the use of Chinese technology. Pakistan's success in shooting down Indian fighter jets highlighted the need to modernize American weapons systems. The AIM-260 is designed to replace outdated systems and provide air combat superiority, which is especially important in modern conflicts.

Features and capabilities of the AIM-260

The AIM-260 represents a significant improvement over previous models. It has increased accuracy, increased range and improved maneuverability, which allows it to effectively counter modern and future threats. The missile is also equipped with advanced guidance systems, which increases its effectiveness in various combat conditions. These characteristics make the AIM-260 one of the most advanced air-to-air systems in the world.

Influence on the US military strategy

The introduction of the AIM-260 will significantly strengthen the U.S. position in the field of air defense and attack. This missile will allow the US Air Force and Navy to act more confidently and effectively in various scenarios, whether it is patrolling airspace or participating in combat operations. The AIM-260 will also improve the United States' ability to deter potential aggressors by providing them with air combat superiority.

Future prospects and development

With the introduction of the AIM-260 into service, the United States plans to continue to develop and improve this system. In the future, we can expect improvements in fire control, integration with other weapons systems, and increased range and accuracy. This will allow the US military to remain at the forefront of technology and effectively counter new and evolving threats.

India has successfully tested an Agni-5 ballistic missile capable of delivering a warhead to any region of China.

Successful launch of Agni-5 rocket in Odisha

On Wednesday, India successfully tested its longest—range ballistic missile, the Agni-5. The launch was carried out from a test site on the island of Abdul Kalam (formerly Veli) in the state of Odisha, located on the east coast of the country. According to the Ministry of Defense, the missile "confirmed all operational and technical parameters," which indicates the high accuracy and reliability of the system.

The test was conducted as part of India's strategic forces modernization program and underscores its desire to strengthen its nuclear capabilities in the face of growing geopolitical tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

Technical characteristics and flight range

The Agni-5 is a solid—fuel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) with a range of about 5,000-5,500 kilometers, which allows it to reach anywhere in China, including its eastern provinces and the capital Beijing. The rocket has a length of about 17 meters, a diameter of 1.3 meters and a launch weight of about 50 tons.

It is equipped with an inertial navigation system and satellite control, which ensures high accuracy when hitting targets. The Agni-5 is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead weighing up to 1.5 tons and can be launched from both a mobile launcher and mine complexes, which increases its survivability and stealth.

Strategic importance for India's defense

The introduction of the Agni-5 into service will be an important milestone in the development of India's triad of nuclear forces (land, submarine and air components). The missile fills a critical gap in the country's ability to strike back at long range, especially with regard to China, with which India maintains tense relations over the border in the Himalayas.

Agni-5 is considered as a key element of the deterrence strategy. Its mobility, range and accuracy make it an effective tool for maintaining the balance of power in the region and demonstrating India's technological independence in developing defense systems.

Reaction to the geopolitical situation in Asia

The Agni-5 test comes amid increased Chinese military activity in the South China Sea, the growth of its nuclear arsenal, and the strengthening of military ties with Pakistan, India's traditional rival. The presence of a missile capable of reaching strategic targets in China strengthens New Delhi's position in diplomatic and military negotiations.

At the same time, India stresses its policy of "minimal deterrence," stating that its nuclear forces are purely defensive in nature. Nevertheless, the successful Agni-5 trials signal that the country is ready to defend its interests at a new technological level.

India's largest Rafale fighter jet deal under threat due to source code dispute

India's largest fighter purchase in history, the acquisition of 36 Rafale aircraft from the French company Dassault Aviation— has faced serious complications. The deal, concluded in 2016, initially included a requirement from the Indian side to transfer the source codes of the aircraft's on-board software, which is necessary for the independent integration of Indian weapons and the modernization of systems in the future.

However, Dassault Aviation has reportedly categorically refused to provide access to the source codes, citing French national security concerns and commercial confidentiality. This refusal calls into question India's ability to fully adapt the fighters to its tactical needs, as well as limits long-term autonomy in the maintenance and modernization of the Rafale fleet.

The situation is aggravated by the fact that the Indian Air Force is currently experiencing a critical shortage of combat aircraft. The number of squadrons has reached a historic low of about 31 squadrons, compared to 42. This creates a serious gap in combat readiness and the ability to ensure air superiority in potential conflicts.

The Indian military and experts have expressed concern that dependence on a foreign manufacturer for software could become a strategic vulnerability. This is especially true against the background of India's plans to purchase even more fighter jets, including a possible new deal with France.

Without access to the source codes, India risks being left in a position where even simple upgrades or integration of new weapons will require Dassault's approval and participation, which slows down the processes and increases the cost of operation.

India has suspended the purchase of six Boeing P-8I patrol aircraft in response to US duties and rising contract costs

The Indian Ministry of Defense has suspended negotiations on the purchase of six Boeing P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft in response to the US imposition of 25 percent import duties on Indian goods from August 7-8, 2025. Washington's measure has become a means of putting pressure on India to stop buying Russian oil and reduce defense purchases from Russia. The contract for the purchase of six P-8I aircraft, approved by the US State Department in 2021, was initially estimated at $2.42 billion, but due to sharp inflation and other factors, the cost increased by about 50% to $3.6 billion by mid-2025.

The suspension of purchases reflects a broader gap in defense cooperation between the countries and a strategic reassessment of bilateral ties in light of trade tensions and soaring prices. Indian officials expressed "shock and disappointment" over tariffs and high cost increases, which played a key role in the decision to freeze the project. The visit of the Indian Defense Minister to Washington, where it was planned to discuss new purchases, was also canceled.

At the same time, India already owns a fleet of 12 such aircraft and had previously completed the delivery of the first batch. In the future, the deal may be renewed if the US offers more competitive prices or eases trade pressure.

The suspension also affected or may affect other defense purchases from the United States, including Stryker armored vehicles and Javelin anti-tank missiles. Related sources note that India may increase purchases of Russian weapons, including Su-57 fighter jets.

Thus, India's decision is related to trade and political pressure from the United States, a sharp increase in the cost of the contract and the desire to maintain strategic autonomy in choosing suppliers of military equipment.

India is building its answer to the B-21 and Tu-160: an ultra-long-range stealth bomber is already in development

India is making a big move in a big geopolitical game. The country has officially announced the development of its own strategic stealth bomber, which will be called the "Ultra-long Range Strike Aircraft" (ULRSA). This will not just be an upgrade of old models, but a step into a completely new class of military aircraft.

The goal of the ambitious project is to make India one of the world's aviation powers. It is assumed that the combat radius of the new bomber will be up to 12,000 kilometers. This means that from a base in India, he will be able to reach and strike almost anywhere — from Europe and Africa to the Pacific region and even the Arctic.

This range dramatically expands the country's strategic capabilities. Prior to this, the Indian Air Force mainly operated on a regional scale — against Pakistan and China. Now we are talking about the possibility of global deterrence, from responding to threats in the Indian Ocean to potentially participating in a long—range strategic game.

The establishment of ULRSA will transform India from a regional military power into a full-fledged player in strategic aviation. Currently, only the United States (B-2 and B-21), Russia (Tu-160, Tu-95) and China (Xian H-20, Tu-22M licensed) have heavy bombers with an intercontinental range. India aims to join this closed club.

Although the exact technical specifications are still being kept secret, it is known that the ULRSA will have:

- stealth technology (low radar visibility),

- nuclear capability — the ability to carry cruise missiles with nuclear warheads,

- high degree of automation and integration into the digital battlefield,

- modern electronic warfare systems to counter air defense.

The ULRSA is not just a new aircraft. This is a strategic turn in India's military policy. The creation of such a bomber will not only strengthen its position in South Asia, but also provide an opportunity to participate in global strategic calculations. If the project can be implemented, India will receive a tool capable of changing the balance of power in the region and taking the country to a new level in international affairs.

Multiple UFOs in the sky of New Delhi, India

 

Multiple UFOs in the sky of New Delhi, India, captured on July 15, 2025.

The Indian Air Force used AI during Operation Sindoor: the X-Guard system thwarted Pakistan's attacks

 

In May 2025, during the large-scale military operation Sindoor, the Indian Air Force (IAF) used artificial intelligence (AI) for the first time in real combat conditions. According to sources, French Rafale fighters equipped with an advanced X-Guard towed trap were able to neutralize several aerial threats from Pakistan. This event marked an important milestone in the development of electronic warfare and showed how AI-based technologies can change the nature of future air battles.

The X-Guard system is an autonomous device that is towed by an airplane and uses artificial intelligence to jam enemy radars. It is capable of simulating the radar signals of the Rafale fighter itself, creating false targets and misleading the guidance systems of anti-missile systems. Due to this, India's technological advantage has made it possible to effectively protect aviation from being hit in the air.

The system is particularly valuable due to its reusability and the ability to update data in real time. This means that the X-Guard can adapt to new threats in the course of a combat mission, making it a universal means of electronic warfare. Experts emphasize that it is precisely such technologies that are becoming key in modern conflicts, where not only firepower is crucial, but also the ability to deceive the enemy.

Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, 2025, was India's response to the terrorist attack in the city of Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Air Force announced that it had completed all its tasks, including targeted strikes against targets in Pakistan. However, it was the use of new technologies, especially AI systems, that attracted the most attention from experts, which became a factor of strategic influence on the outcome of air collisions.

This event also highlighted the growing role of electronic deception in modern warfare. Whereas previously the main focus was on the speed and maneuverability of fighters, today the ability to deceive the enemy's radar and interceptor is increasingly being decided. Technologies such as X-Guard allow you not only to survive in a difficult aerial environment, but also to dictate your own rules in battle.

India faced three opponents during Operation Sindoor: China and Turkey supported Pakistan

During the recent Indian military operation called Sindur, the situation on the border escalated dramatically when India unexpectedly faced not only Pakistan, but also the indirect intervention of China and Turkey. According to intelligence sources, these two countries provided assistance to Pakistan, which significantly complicated the situation for the Indian armed forces. This event was a vivid reminder that regional security requires increased combat readiness and interagency coordination.

Operation Sindoor began against the backdrop of escalating border conflicts between India and Pakistan, which repeatedly occurred in 2025, including shootings in late April and missile attacks using drones in May. However, the involvement of China and Turkey in supporting Pakistan has become a new and dangerous element in this equation. Experts suggest that such a coalition against India may be linked to the increasing geopolitical pressure on the country from states interested in weakening its strategic position in South Asia.

The operation involved modern air defense systems, including the Russian S-400 Triumph, which proved highly effective in repelling Pakistan's missile strikes. In turn, India also retaliated against air defense systems and radars in Pakistan. However, reports that some of the targets had been lost, including the destruction of some equipment, caused concern among the military leadership.

The fact that China and Turkey are involved in military support for Pakistan is particularly important, as it points to the formation of new strategic alliances in the region. China, in particular, has long supported Pakistan in the military-technical sphere, supplying it with modern air defense systems such as the HQ-9, which creates additional difficulties for India.

Given the scale of the threat, experts recommend that India accelerate the modernization of its air defense system and develop closer military cooperation with other democratic powers in order to maintain a balance of power in the region.

India seeks to strengthen air defense shield with Russian S-500 Prometheus missile system after S-400 triumph

 

S-500 Prometheus

India is considered as one of the first potential foreign buyers of the Russian S-500 Prometheus fifth-generation anti-aircraft missile system after the Russian army is fully equipped with these systems. India has previously successfully acquired and operated S-400 systems, which have shown high efficiency, which reinforces its interest in the more modern S-500 complex.

The S-500 Prometheus is a universal long-range and high-altitude anti-aircraft missile system capable of hitting ballistic missiles, aerodynamic targets, including aircraft, helicopters and cruise missiles. The complex is equipped with advanced radar systems, such as the Yenisei radar, which is capable of detecting targets at altitudes over 100 km and at ranges over 600 km. This significantly expands the capabilities of missile defense and air defense.

The delivery of the S-500 to India will be a logical step in the development of military-technical cooperation between the two countries, given the long-standing partnerships and joint projects in the field of armaments. However, deliveries will begin only after the Russian troops are fully equipped, which, according to official statements, will not happen in the coming years.

Thus, after the impressive success with the S-400, India is seeking to strengthen its air defense system by including the latest Russian S-500 Prometheus complex, which will significantly enhance its defense potential in the face of growing regional threats.

The Strait of Hormuz: a geographical hub capable of sinking the global economy

  

The Strait of Hormuz is one of the most strategically important and vulnerable areas on the world map. Located between Iran and Oman, it connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman and serves as a key transportation artery for global energy supplies. It is through it that a significant part of the world's exports of oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) pass.

In recent years, this narrow waterway has become a symbol of geopolitical tension, especially in the context of Iran's threats to block the strait, which could be a response to external pressure or military influence. Although such actions remain in the warning stage, the consequences of such a scenario can be catastrophic.

Key facts about the Strait of Hormuz:

1. 21 million barrels of oil per day: About 21 million barrels of oil pass through the strait every day, which is about a third of the world's total maritime oil trade.

2. Territorial waters, not international ones: At the narrowest point of the strait (only 34 km wide) there are no international waters — there are exclusively territorial waters of Iran and Oman, which makes it particularly vulnerable to control or blockade by Tehran.

3. The price of oil will soar to $ 100-120 per barrel: The closure of the strait will cause an instant shock in the energy market. Experts predict a sharp jump in oil prices — at least to the level of $ 100-120 per barrel, which will hit the budgets of countries and the cost of living around the world.

4. China, India, Japan, South Korea are the main victims: These countries depend on cross-strait supplies more than others. Blocking the way will be an economic crisis for them, which will cause an increase in fuel and energy prices, which will inevitably provoke a surge in inflation and a slowdown in growth.

The United States and its allies have repeatedly stated that they will protect free navigation in the region by any means. However, given the growing tension around Iran and its nuclear program, as well as after a series of provocations and attacks on tankers in the area, the question is not about intentions, but about the real possibility of preventing escalation.

The Strait of Hormuz is not just a strip of water. It is the blood vessel of the global economy, and any damage to it can lead to a systemic crisis. And Iran, as the party controlling one of the sides of the strait, has a powerful instrument of pressure in its hands — even without a direct military conflict.

India has acknowledged the loss of fighter jets in the conflict with Pakistan, but has not disclosed their number

The Chief of the Indian Defense Staff, General Anil Chauhan, has officially confirmed for the first time that the Indian Armed Forces have lost several fighter jets in the recent conflict with Pakistan. However, he declined to specify the exact number of aircraft, stressing that it was more important to understand the causes of these losses rather than their number.

The general also denied Pakistan's claims that six Indian planes had been shot down, calling the data "absolutely incorrect." According to Chauhan, the key is to analyze why the fighters were shot down and what mistakes were made during the fighting.

The conflict between India and Pakistan occurred in early May 2025 and was accompanied by intense air battles. Despite the escalation, the general noted that the parties had never been close to a nuclear war.

Earlier, information appeared in the media about the losses of Indian Dassault Rafale, MiG-29 and Su-30 fighters, but the official authorities limited the publication of details. As a result of the conflict, the parties agreed to return troops to peacetime positions.

Pakistan considers Chinese HQ-19 system to neutralize Indian missile threat

HQ-19

Pakistan considers the HQ-19 missile defense system, developed by the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), as a key element in its strategy to neutralize the missile threat from India. The HQ-19 is designed to intercept intermediate-range and intermediate-range ballistic missiles at the final stage of their descent, providing effective protection against possible attacks.

In terms of its functions and purpose, the HQ-19 is similar to the American THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense) system, which was deployed by the United States and its key allies to protect against ballistic missiles. The Chinese-made system is capable of detecting, tracking and destroying enemy missiles at high altitudes, which significantly increases the level of missile defense.

The introduction of the HQ-19 will allow Pakistan to strengthen its defense infrastructure and enhance its ability to deter potential missile threats emanating from India. It also reflects the growing military-technical cooperation between Pakistan and China in the field of security and defense.

India strengthens strategically important Siliguri corridor and deploys Rafale fighter jets and S-400 air defense system

India has strengthened its defense capabilities in the most vulnerable but strategically important area, the Siliguri Corridor, also known as the "Chicken Neck." To protect this narrow land corridor, only 20-22 kilometers wide, which connects the main part of India with its northeastern states, modern Rafale fighter jets and the Russian S-400 air defense system were deployed.

The Siliguri Corridor is of critical importance for India, as it is the only land link with the northeastern regions of the country. This site is located at the intersection of the borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan and China, which makes it vulnerable to potential military threats and strategic challenges.

The deployment of Rafale fighters with high combat capabilities and modern avionics significantly increases the air defense of the region. These fifth-generation aircraft are capable of effectively responding to any air threats and provide air superiority.

The S-400 air defense system, known for its range and ability to hit various aerial targets, including airplanes, missiles and drones, provides reliable protection against possible attacks from the air. The integration of the S-400 into the defensive structure of the Siliguri corridor significantly complicates any attempts by the enemy to disrupt the security of this strategic area.

The strengthening of the Siliguri Corridor reflects India's desire to protect its national interests and ensure the security of the northeastern states, which play an important role in the economic and social development of the country. These measures are also aimed at containing potential threats from neighboring States and maintaining regional stability.

Air Battle between India and Pakistan: Lessons for world aviation and air warfare strategies

The air battle between India and Pakistan, which took place in early May 2025, became one of the largest and longest in the modern history of aviation. About 125 fighters from both sides participated in the battle, which exchanged blows for more than an hour without leaving the airspace of their countries. The exchange of missile strikes took place at distances exceeding 160 kilometers, which indicates the use of modern means of air combat and tactical techniques.

This conflict, caused by the escalation of tension after the terrorist attack in the Jammu and Kashmir region, led to significant losses, including the downing of Indian fighter jets. At the same time, the parties avoided crossing the border, probably taking into account the experience of previous incidents and trying to prevent the direct capture of pilots and political complications.

Douglas Barry, a senior researcher at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), noted that this air battle will be the subject of close attention from the military communities of China, the United States and Europe. An analysis of tactics used in combat, the effectiveness of missile systems and strategies will allow us to gain valuable experience in improving air operations in modern conflicts.

Of particular interest is which methods and systems have been successful and which have not, which will help adapt weapons and tactics for future combat operations. This battle has actually become an indirect clash between China and the West through the prism of the regional conflict, which underlines its global significance.

Thus, the air battle between India and Pakistan not only reflects regional contradictions, but also serves as an important testing ground for testing and developing modern concepts of air warfare, influencing the strategic decisions of the leading world powers.

NIBE Limited has received a large export order from an Israeli technology company

NIBE Limited, a leading Indian manufacturer of critical defense systems, has announced the receipt of a significant export contract worth 17.52 million US dollars. The order came from a world-renowned leading technology company from Israel, which highlights the high level of trust and recognition of NIBE products in the international defense technology market.

This contract is an important milestone in the development of NIBE Limited, strengthening its position as a key player in the field of defense production. The supply of equipment and systems for this order will expand cooperation between India and Israel in the field of high-tech defense solutions.

NIBE Limited specializes in the development and manufacture of mission-critical systems used in the most advanced defense complexes. Thanks to innovative technologies and strict quality control, the company ensures the reliability and efficiency of its products, which is especially important for customers from the defense sector.

The export order worth USD 17.52 million demonstrates the growing international demand for NIBE products and opens up new opportunities for further business expansion in the global market. The company plans to complete the order on time, while ensuring high standards of quality and technical support.

Thus, the successful conclusion of this contract strengthens the reputation of NIBE Limited as a reliable partner in the field of defense technology and contributes to the development of strategic cooperation between India and Israel.

Taiwan joins countries studying the wreckage of the Chinese PL-15 missile

 Taiwan has officially joined the growing circle of countries seeking access to the wreckage of China's PL-15 line-of-sight (BVR) air-to-air missile after remnants of the weapon were discovered deep inside Indian territory following an intense air clash between Pakistan and India.

It is assumed that the debris of the PL-15 air-to-air missile, detected by India beyond the line of sight, was launched by a fighter jet of the Pakistani Air Force.

For Taipei, Facing daily incursions and pressure from China's increasingly aggressive military posture, the opportunity to study the real components of the PL-15 is a rare and extremely important intelligence find.

Remnants of the Chinese PL-15 air-to-air missile

Rheinmetall and Reliance Defense have entered into a strategic partnership in the field of ammunition production

The German defense company Rheinmetall and the Indian Reliance Defense have announced the start of strategic cooperation in the field of ammunition supplies. The official launch of the partnership was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) representatives of both companies.

The central element of the agreement was the announcement by Reliance of plans to establish a new manufacturing facility in the Watad Industrial Area located in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra, India. This company will specialize in the production of modern ammunition, which will strengthen the country's defense sector and increase exports of military products.

Cooperation with Rheinmetall, one of the leading European developers of weapons and security systems, provides India with access to advanced technologies and production standards. In turn, the German company gets the opportunity to expand its presence in the rapidly growing Indian arms market and participate in the implementation of the "Made in India" program aimed at developing local production.

This partnership can be an important step in modernizing the Indian defense industry and strengthening its role in the international arena.

India is faced with the problem of access to the source code of Rafale fighter jets: a technological limitation amid rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific region

Rafale fighter jet

In the context of growing geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific region, especially against the background of worsening relations with China and Pakistan, India is facing a serious challenge — France refuses to provide access to the source code of Dassault Rafale combat aircraft systems acquired under a contract in 2016.

Despite persistent diplomatic efforts New Delhi, the French company Dassault Aviation still does not agree to transfer key software elements governing aspects such as flight control systems, weapons integration and avionics. For India, this creates significant difficulties in terms of modernizing the fighter fleet and adapting them to its own needs.

The Indian authorities considered the possibility of independent updating and modification of the systems as an important step towards achieving technological independence and increasing  the combat effectiveness of the Air Force. However, the lack of access to the source code calls into question the full operational autonomy of these promising but strategically limited machines.

This issue is particularly acute now, as  China is strengthening its military presence in the South China Sea and is actively modernizing its aviation, and Pakistan is developing ties with Russia and other countries to purchase modern weapons.

Although France continues to support India through the QUAD+ trilateral cooperation, the issue of access to critical technologies remains a stumbling block in bilateral relations.