The Ministry of Defence has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to acquire a next-generation Air Defence Gun (ADG‑NG) system for the Indian Army, aimed at countering evolving aerial threats, including drones, swarm UAVs, rockets, artillery, and mortars. This move comes in the wake of lessons learned from Operation Sindoor, where adversaries on the western front used drones and swarm tactics for reconnaissance and attacks on civilian and military targets, highlighting the changing dynamics of aerial warfare.
Officials note that the system is intended to address critical short-range air defence gaps, enabling rapid detection, tracking, and neutralisation of low-signature targets, particularly electrically powered drones that evade conventional radar and infrared detection. The Army requires the system to include at least 50% indigenous content, emphasizing domestic manufacturing and technology transfer as part of the broader defence indigenisation initiative.
Designed as a mobile platform—either vehicle-mounted or towed—the ADG‑NG will feature an integrated Electro-Optical Fire Control System for autonomous target detection, tracking, and engagement under all weather and lighting conditions. The system is expected to provide terminal air defence for vulnerable zones and critical assets, capable of engaging a wide array of threats, including aircraft, helicopters, drones, cruise missiles, precision-guided munitions, and rocket, artillery, and mortar fire.
The gun must have a minimum firing range of 4 km, engage targets traveling up to 500 m/s, and achieve a firing rate of at least 300 rounds per minute, with a ceiling of 2.5 km or higher. It should also counter unconventional aerial objects like microlight aircraft, paragliders, and paramotors, reflecting the Army’s need to neutralize diverse low-cost threats. Ammunition requirements include programmable smart rounds with pre-fragmented or proximity-fused capabilities, conventional high-explosive rounds with tracers, and a self-destruct mechanism, with a minimum shelf life of 10 years.
The system should feature an autoloader operable by up to two personnel and flexible power options, including generators, batteries, and mains supply, with provisions for silent operation. Modularity and future upgrades are prioritized, with integration planned with existing radar and navigation systems.
Detection, recognition, and identification parameters cover a wide range of targets, from small commercial drones like the DJI Mavic Pro 3 to helicopters and frontline fighter jets such as the Chinese JF-17, illustrating the breadth of threats the ADG‑NG must handle. Vendors are required to submit technical specifications and product details by 11 June 2026, marking the first stage of a high-profile procurement program as the Army adapts to drone-heavy battlefields.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
A car traveling at high speed breached the Delhi Assembly complex’s security by crashing through Gate No. 2. The vehicle, which had a Uttar Pradesh registration number, smashed the iron gate before a man exited and placed a “flower bouquet” inside the premises. After doing so, the man quickly fled the scene, according to Delhi police.
Police sources stated that the CRPF personnel stationed at the gate could not stop the car due to its speed. Fortunately, upon inspection, authorities confirmed that the bouquet did not contain any explosives or suspicious items. The incident triggered immediate alert and security protocols within the Assembly complex.
An eyewitness shared details with ANI, describing the car as white. “I saw a white car hit the gate and enter the Delhi Assembly. It drove inside for about five minutes. When a security guard ran toward it, the car rushed out of the premises,” the eyewitness said. The man reportedly left the scene before security personnel could intercept him. Following the breach, authorities have initiated a city-wide search for the vehicle involved. Delhi police have cordoned off relevant areas and are reviewing CCTV footage to trace the man’s movements.
Despite the alarming nature of the breach, the situation within the Assembly complex is currently under control. Officials emphasized that no threat was found, and normal functioning continues, although the investigation remains active. Police are probing the motive behind the incident and working to identify the individual responsible for the act. Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses. Security measures at the Assembly are likely to be reviewed and strengthened in response to this unusual incident, ensuring that future breaches are prevented.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
An Iran-backed Iraqi militia, Kataib Hezbollah, has threatened to attack energy infrastructure if there are any attempts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz by force, according to Press TV. The group’s Secretary-General, Abu Hussein al-Hamidawi, warned that such actions would lead to the destruction of all oil and gas facilities in the area. He stated that the strait would not be accessible to what he called “enemies” and cautioned against using military force, adding that current conditions demand either shared security and prosperity or none at all.
Al-Hamidawi also criticized attacks on civilian infrastructure as the conflict enters its fifth week and called for financial support to be directed toward Lebanon. At the same time, Iran’s Navy said the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has changed permanently and will not return to how it was before, especially for adversaries like the US and Israel. It emphasized that regional developments have created a new balance in which outside powers, particularly the US, can no longer dominate or freely operate in Iran’s nearby waters.
According to Press TV, Iran is working toward a regional security framework led by countries bordering the Persian Gulf, excluding foreign forces. Measures include increased naval presence, advanced surveillance, and rapid-response coordination to protect its waters and maintain energy flow through the strait.
These developments follow strong remarks by US President Donald Trump, who warned of severe consequences if Iran continues restricting access to the strait. Iranian authorities have indicated that the waterway remains open, but not to vessels linked to the US, Israel, and their allies. Axios reported that the US, Iran, and regional mediators are discussing the possibility of a 45-day ceasefire that could pave the way for a lasting resolution to the conflict.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Former diplomat K. P. Fabian on Monday criticized the United States’ stance as unfortunate and reflective of arrogance. Speaking to ANI, he said Iran’s ability to shoot down American aircraft should not be underestimated. Fabian noted that while deep strikes near Isfahan were technically impressive, Iran’s relatively limited air defence and air force must also be considered. At the same time, he pointed out that Iran appears to have downed one or two US transport aircraft, which deserves acknowledgment.
He described the situation as a mixed outcome but added that it may be better things unfolded this way, given President Donald Trump’s temperament. Fabian warned that if Iran had captured American personnel, it could have provoked an even more extreme reaction from Trump, whom he accused of already showing poor judgment, citing his use of offensive language. Fabian further criticized the US for its rhetoric and approach, saying it reflects both ignorance and arrogance. He objected to the use of religious references during Holy Week and accused US leaders of disregarding international humanitarian law by openly discussing strikes on civilian targets.
On India-Iran relations, Fabian said a recent call from Iran’s foreign minister indicates Tehran values strong ties with India. However, he noted that India is not directly involved in resolving the conflict, despite Iran urging it, as BRICS chair and a Global South leader, to take a more vocal stance. Regarding claims that the US destroyed its own aircraft to prevent them from falling into Iranian hands, Fabian said such assertions cannot be confirmed and may have emerged later as a justification, especially since initial evidence released by Iran showed wreckage without any US response.
He also expressed concern about the potential escalation of the conflict, pointing out that Trump has been repeatedly shifting deadlines and ultimatums, suggesting uncertainty in decision-making. Fabian warned that unpredictable reactions from a leader in such a powerful position could pose serious risks. According to Reuters, both the US and Iran have been presented with a proposal to end hostilities. The plan, reportedly facilitated by Pakistan, outlines a two-step process involving an immediate ceasefire followed by broader negotiations, which could also lead to the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju on Thursday told the Rajya Sabha that the House would be adjourned and reconvene soon to take up a “very important” bill, amid plans to increase Lok Sabha seats for women’s reservation. He said Thursday’s agenda would include the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation (Amendment) Bill and the Jan Vishwas (Amendment) Bill, and added that the important bill would be taken up in the next 2–3 weeks. Rijiju stressed the government’s commitment to fulfilling its promise to women, while the Opposition called for caution, citing long-term implications and alleged political motives, which Rijiju denied.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Business Standard.
As thousands of U.S. troops and marines deploy to the Middle East, Iran accuses Washington of secretly planning a ground attack while publicly promoting ceasefire negotiations. Donald Trump has threatened to “destroy” Iran’s energy infrastructure, stated that he would “prefer to take the oil,” and suggested that U.S. forces could capture the country’s export hub on Kharg Island, all while claiming to be negotiating with a new “reasonable regime.” At the same time, Yemen’s Houthi forces have joined the conflict, raising the risk of further disruptions to the global economy.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
In 1998, tobacco companies in the United States were made responsible for the damage caused by the products they produced and sold through the Tobacco Settlement. Today, a similar question arises for Big Tech: it is not only about the content on their platforms but also whether these platforms were intentionally created to keep users addicted. Daniel Martin explores this issue with Rajesh Sreenivasan, Head of Technology, Media, and Telecommunications at Rajah and Tann Singapore.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
On “Destination Anywhere,” Melanie Oliveiro chats with Regina Lee, a travel and home influencer, about her journey through northern Xinjiang. From the shimmering turquoise waters of Sayram Lake to the lush rolling landscapes of Nalati Grasslands and the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains, Regina recounts the region’s beauty and charm. She guides listeners through glacier valleys, picturesque villages, vibrant lakes, and lively bazaars, while also sharing practical tips on how to fully experience this remarkable frontier of China.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
This week, as the repercussions of the US-Israel conflict with Iran continue, Australians are feeling the pinch from a worsening fuel crisis. At the same time, the Liberal Party faces a critical moment as voters increasingly shift toward One Nation. In this edition of the Guardian’s Australian Politics podcast, political editor Tom McIlroy talks with Andrew Hastie, shadow minister for industry and sovereign capability, about Australia’s approach to the global fuel shock, the need for reindustrialisation, and his perspective on how the Liberal Party should respond to the rise of One Nation.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
