India is set to deploy its own long-range air defence system, the indigenous Long-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LR-SAM), by 2028-29. Developed under Project Kusha by DRDO, the LR-SAM boasts interception capabilities comparable to the Russian S-400 Triumf. The system, costing Rs 21,700 crore, will provide comprehensive air defence cover, targeting incoming stealth fighters, aircraft, drones, and missiles at ranges up to 350 km. Firing units will integrate with the IAF’s air defence network, enhancing India's airspace security. The LR-SAM project represents a significant leap in India's indigenous defence capabilities. [ Representative Image]      

Indian and Russian officials are set to meet to finalize the delivery schedule for the remaining two S-400 air defense missile squadrons. India had signed a contract worth over Rs 35,000 crore for five squadrons, of which three are already operational along the borders with China and Pakistan. The delivery of the remaining two squadrons was delayed due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Despite unclear timelines from the Russian side, India remains focused on acquiring its own systems. The Indian Air Force is also advancing its Long Range Surface to Air Missile system, capable of striking down enemy aircraft and missiles at 400 km ranges.

Recent satellite imagery suggests that China likely moved its Combined Arms Brigade (CAB) from the Lampug clash site to Ritang in Lhantse Dzong shortly after the Arunachal clashes. This reflects a broader trend in the Indo-Tibetan border area, where there's an increased deployment of PLA assets compared to the pre-Galwan clash period. The construction of a dual-use airport in Lhantse Dzong, closer to the McMahon Line and Tawang, is altering the status quo in the region. Observers, like Nature Desai, point out that China appears to be enhancing its force deployment along the Tibet-Arunachal Pradesh border to gain an advantage in infrastructure and logistics over India.

Defense Minister Rajnath Singh visited forward areas along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Arunachal Pradesh on Tuesday. He interacted with troops deployed at frontline locations, performed Shastra Puja with them for Dussehra, and reviewed operational preparedness. He highlighted India's increasing self-reliance in defense production under PM Modi's 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative. He noted that while India earlier relied on imports for military equipment, domestic industry is now manufacturing major platforms. Singh asserted bolstering defense capabilities is essential given the global scenario. He also paid tributes at the Tawang War Memorial for soldiers who sacrificed lives in the 1962 war.

The Indian Air Force unveiled a new ensign at its annual Air Force Day parade, replacing the existing one adopted over 70 years ago. Air Chief Marshal V.R. Chaudhari released the new ensign in Prayagraj. The new design incorporates the IAF crest in the top right corner, shedding remnants of the colonial past. This change comes over a year after the Indian Navy updated its ensign. The previous IAF ensign was adopted in 1950, replacing the Royal Indian Air Force ensign. The Air Chief stated this marks a new chapter in the IAF's history and called for striving towards excellence. The annual parade was held in Prayagraj this year.

Indian Army warns Sikkim residents as floods sweep away firearms and explosives in Teesta river, triggering urgent alerts from authorities. The Defence PRO in Guwahati stated that military equipment was carried away, urging vigilance and reporting of suspicious items. The Army has established lookout teams along the river downstream to monitor the situation closely. A cloudburst over Lhonak Lake led to flash floods, displacing thousands and leaving over 100 people missing, with the death toll at 22. Sikkim's Chief Minister cited damages worth crores, including severed road connections and washed-out bridges.

On Wednesday, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) handed over the first LCA Tejas twin-seater aircraft to the Indian Air Force in a ceremony attended by Union Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt and Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari. The Bengaluru-based company highlighted the aircraft's capabilities for training and its potential as a fighter. The LCA Tejas twin-seater, a 4.5-generation aircraft, incorporates advanced technologies like fly-by-wire flight control and digital avionics systems. HAL has an order of 18 twin-seaters, with plans to deliver eight in 2023-24 and the rest by 2026-27, and expects more orders from the IAF.

India intends a massive naval buildup involving additional aircraft carriers, submarines, and assets to match China's growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean region. Plans include a 45,000-ton repeat order of indigenous carrier INS Vikrant. The navy targets 175 warships by 2035, up from around 155-160 currently. Augmenting drones, helicopters, and aircraft is also planned to boost reach and flexibility. However, the navy is yet to get approval for a 3rd carrier critical for countering China's projected 555 warships. India's first homemade INS Vikrant took over a decade, highlighting the challenges in indigenous production.

In a major boost to 'Make in India', the Indian Air Force is likely to place orders for 156 additional indigenous 'Prachand' Light Combat Helicopters to be deployed along the China and Pakistan borders. The move comes after the IAF and Army successfully inducted 15 Prachand choppers over the last 15 months. As per defence officials, the IAF has proposed the joint acquisition of 156 more Prachand helicopters which is expected to get approval soon. The deployment of the new fleet will significantly enhance India's surveillance capabilities along the sensitive borders with China and Pakistan. (Image Courtesy: ANI)

The Ministry of Home Affairs has extended the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) in select regions of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh for another 6 months. After reviewing the law and order situation, AFSPA will be extended in 8 districts and parts of 5 other districts in Nagaland from October 1st. In Arunachal Pradesh, AFSPA will be extended in Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts as well as specific police stations in Namsai district bordering Assam. AFSPA gives armed forces the power to maintain public order in “disturbed areas” (Image Courtesy: ANI)