India unveils plans for a dedicated 'Rocket Force' akin to China’s PLARF, aimed at bolstering its strategic defense capabilities in underwater warfare. The move follows the announcement of testing a 500 km range submarine-launched cruise missile. With an eye on countering China’s naval presence and Pakistan’s missile advancements, India aims to enhance its sea-based deterrent. The Rocket Force will integrate submarine-launched cruise missiles (SLCMs) with land-based rocket systems, enhancing its non-contact warfighting capabilities. The strategic initiative seeks to bridge the capability gap with Beijing, amid regional power dynamics and security challenges.

Cabinet Committee on Security granted approval for a ₹19,000-crore deal, greenlighting the acquisition of over 200 BrahMos extended-range supersonic cruise missiles. The contract, slated for signing in March between BrahMos Aerospace and the Ministry of Defence, aims to bolster the Indian Navy's capabilities. BrahMos Aerospace, a joint venture between India's DRDO and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyeniya, has been instrumental in indigenizing the BrahMos missile system. This decision follows the recent nod for the procurement of maritime surveillance and patrol aircraft, signaling a substantial boost to India's defence capabilities.

Indian aircraft maker Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) has offered the Philippines the option to locally assemble the Tejas light combat aircraft naval variant. The offer, if accepted, would mark a major milestone for Indian defense exports. HAL is currently ramping up facilities to fulfill Indian Air Force orders for 83 and 97 Tejas Mk1A variants. Reports indicate HAL has proposed local assembly of the Tejas Mk1 at the Philippine Aerospace Development Corp. Along with the assembly offer, India is offering soft loans to help the Philippines modernize its military with the indigenous jet.

In response to escalating tensions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, the Indian Army's Central Command undergoes a strategic overhaul. Headquarters Uttar Bharat transforms into the 18 Corps, bolstering its operational capabilities with additional artillery, aviation, and engineering brigades. This move aims to streamline deployments and address ad hoc changes implemented after the Galwan clash in 2020. With the formation of the 18 Corps, the Central Command transitions from an administrative to a combatised role. The Army, now with seven dedicated corps, fortifies its readiness along the LAC, signaling a proactive stance against potential threats.

The Indian Air Force demonstrated its offensive prowess in Exercise Vayu Shakti-24 at the Pokhran air-to-ground range. Over 120 aircraft, including indigenous platforms like Tejas and Prachand, executed precision strikes against simulated targets. Fighter jets deployed ordnance, while helicopters engaged in tactical operations, showcasing diverse capabilities. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and top military officials witnessed the display. The exercise underscores IAF's readiness and technological advancements in combat, emphasizing its ability to deliver decisive strikes in various scenarios.

The Defence Acquisition Council, led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, greenlit the purchase of Rs 84,560 crore worth of indigenous equipment, enhancing the armed forces' combat capabilities. The approved acquisitions encompass multi-mission maritime aircraft, air defence tactical control radar, heavy-weight torpedoes, and more. Emphasizing 'Made in India,' the procurement includes medium-range maritime reconnaissance and multi-mission maritime aircraft for the Navy and Coast Guard. The move aims to strengthen air defence systems, detect low-flying targets, and bolster mechanized forces with canister-launched anti-armour munition systems. Additionally, the approval for Flight Refueller Aircraft enhances the Indian Air Force's operational reach.

A tragic incident unfolded in Delhi's Alipur area as a fire engulfed a paint factory, claiming the lives of at least seven individuals. The blaze, preceded by a blast, prompted a swift response from the Delhi Fire Service, with 22 tenders deployed to combat the flames. Charred bodies of three victims were recovered from the factory premises, with authorities continuing their search amidst the cooling off operation. Police have initiated investigations into the cause of the fire, forming specialized teams for thorough examination. The community mourns the loss as efforts persist to understand and address the circumstances surrounding this devastating event.

A Hawk trainer aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF) crashed during a routine training sortie at Kalaikunda airbase in West Bengal. Both pilots ejected safely, avoiding casualties or civilian property damage. A Court of Inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the mishap, considering technical malfunctions or human error. The Hawk aircraft, manufactured by HAL and used for pilot training, is renowned for its global deployment in air forces. This incident underscores the inherent risks associated with military aviation training. Investigations are ongoing to ascertain the exact circumstances leading to the crash.

Despite the induction of the Indian Navy's first indigenously manufactured survey vessel, INS Sandhayak, concerns arise over China's overwhelming presence in research vessel operations. With only one vessel compared to China's fleet of 60, India faces a significant capability gap in mapping the Indian Ocean Region. The importance of research vessels in hydrographic surveys for sea control and dispute settlement underlines India's need for expansion. China's extensive survey activities in the region, including submarine navigation optimization and intelligence gathering, underscore the strategic significance of research vessels in maritime operations.

Flight testing for India's next-generation BrahMos-NG cruise missile, developed in collaboration with Russia, is set to commence by late 2025. BrahMos Export Director Pravin Pathak revealed this development at the World Defense Show, citing no hindrances to meeting the stated deadlines. The new missile, expected to be lighter and stealthier, will bolster India's cruise missile capability against evolving security threats. With orders worth $7 billion in its portfolio, the BrahMos joint venture seeks further market expansion. Military analysts anticipate enhanced combat potential for Indian jets, including integration into indigenous aircraft like the LCA Tejas.