India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has progressed its Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) project by shortlisting three industry bidders to develop prototypes, according to The Indian Express. This marks a critical step in creating the country’s first indigenous fifth-generation stealth fighter, aimed at strengthening the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The selected contenders are TATA Advanced Systems Ltd (solo bid), a consortium led by Larsen & Toubro (L&T) in partnership with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), and a group led by Bharat Forge along with BEML Limited and Data Patterns. These were chosen from seven consortia that responded to the Aeronautical Development Agency’s (ADA) July 2025 tender.
The AMCA is designed as a single-seat, twin-engine stealth fighter featuring advanced coatings, internal weapons bays, next-generation avionics, supercruise capability, enhanced situational awareness, and network-centric warfare integration, putting it on par with global fifth-generation jets. Over 125 units are planned, with induction into the IAF expected around 2035—addressing the service’s current shortfall of under 30 squadrons versus the sanctioned 42.
Successful AMCA production would place India among nations operating fifth-generation fighters, such as the U.S. (F-22, F-35), China (Chengdu J-20), and Russia (Sukhoi Su-57). HAL’s bid was disqualified over a paperwork issue, though it may participate in later stages; the prototype developer is likely to gain priority for full production rights. HAL’s chairman DK Sunil noted the program’s long-term horizon and expressed confidence in future participation.
The shortlisted companies will receive government funding to build prototypes, with final production contracts awarded after evaluations. Around 90 jets are expected to be produced domestically, supporting the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and encouraging private sector involvement. TATA brings UAV and transport aircraft experience, L&T-BEL offers structural and avionics expertise, and Bharat Forge contributes metallurgical and electronics capabilities vital for stealth airframes. Key challenges include developing a new 110 kN-class engine with DRDO’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE) and potential foreign partners, along with integrating AI-based avionics and low-observable materials.
This development coincides with broader defense procurement, such as the Defence Acquisition Council approving six more Boeing P-8I Poseidon aircraft for the Indian Navy. French President Emmanuel Macron’s February 2026 visit may highlight aerospace collaborations, including Rafale Marine offsets or engine technology transfers relevant to AMCA. The AMCA shortlisting underscores India’s push to indigenize air power, reduce reliance on foreign supply chains, and strengthen strategic deterrence in a volatile region.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
The mother of 23-year-old Sahil Dhaneshra, who was killed in a car crash in Delhi on February 3, said the accident occurred while a minor was speeding in an SUV to shoot reels. The incident happened in Dwarka when the 17-year-old, driving a Scorpio without a licence, collided head-on with Sahil’s motorcycle. The SUV then crashed into a parked car, seriously injuring a nearby resting taxi driver.
In an interview with ANI, Sahil’s mother, Inna Makan, a single parent, alleged the teen was focused on recording reels, driving in the wrong lane, and performing stunts. She said the collision caused severe damage to the bus, parked car, and injured the taxi driver. Makan described the incident as criminal, noting the teen had prior speeding challans and criticized the parents for not restraining him.
Initially, Delhi Police listed the accused’s age as 19 to try him as an adult, but documentation later confirmed he is 17. His father was briefly detained, and will still face charges under the Motor Vehicles Act. The minor was sent to a juvenile observation home and later granted interim bail to appear for his Class 10 board exams.
In a video message, Makan said she raised her son alone and called on Dwarka residents and media to support her fight for justice. The police registered cases under sections for rash driving, causing death by negligence, and endangering lives under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The accident occurred near Lal Bahadur Shastri College around noon. All three vehicles were seized and inspected, and CCTV footage collected. The investigation is ongoing.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from India Today.
Samajwadi Party MP Rajeev Rai has accused the BJP of using Vande Mataram-related issues to create division and divert public attention from the “agreement with America.” Speaking to ANI, Rai claimed, “The BJP, which has no historical contribution to India’s independence, keeps diverting attention. I would urge BJP leaders to name five of their predecessors who went to jail, were hanged, shot, or beaten after singing Vande Mataram.”
He alleged that the ruling party is trying to shift focus from important debates: “They are raising these issues solely for polarisation, to divert attention from the America agreement, and to distract from the Epstein files.” Addressing Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s comments, Rai added, “I ask Yogi ji again to explain the meaning of Vande Mataram. They don’t even understand it or know the history of the freedom struggle. Those pretending to be patriots today should first apologise for their misdeeds.”
BJP MP Ravi Kishan expressed support for the government’s recent Vande Mataram notification, saying it reflects the aspirations of the country’s youth. He told ANI, “Everyone should read the verses. The youth want the verses recited at independence to be remembered, and along with ‘Jana Gana Mana,’ they should also memorise Vande Mataram. The youth have welcomed this.”
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya praised the Union Home Ministry’s directive requiring all six verses of Vande Mataram to be sung before the national anthem, calling it a “matter of pride.” He said, “Vande Mataram has been notified in the gazette; now all Indians should sing it as the national song. I congratulate the Home Minister for this.” BJP MP Sudha Murthy also voiced support, saying, “I like Vande Mataram and Jana Gana Mana.” These reactions come after the Ministry of Home Affairs issued guidelines stating that at events where both the National Anthem and National Song are performed, all six stanzas of the official version of Vande Mataram must be presented first.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
The Indian Army is steadily transforming into a data-driven, AI-enabled force, fully aligned with India’s vision of technological self-reliance and secure digital capability. At the India AI Summit 2026, the Army highlighted a range of indigenous AI solutions designed to deliver substantial value across both defence and civilian domains. These initiatives reflect a broader commitment to enhancing operational efficiency, situational awareness, and disaster response, while also strengthening national technological capabilities.
Major General VTS Varaich, ADG of Information Systems in the Indian Army, explained that the Army’s journey toward implementing AI and other core technologies began long ago and has been carefully planned over the years. Speaking to ANI, he emphasized that the adoption of AI is not just a technological exercise but a strategic approach aimed at improving the effectiveness of commanders and soldiers on the ground. He highlighted the importance of co-partnerships with Indian industry, stating that collaboration will help develop world-class solutions that enhance operational efficiency and serve the nation at large. Major General Varaich described the seminar as a significant achievement for Indian industry, noting that initiatives led by the Confederation of Indian Industry and SIDM demonstrate how AI can be leveraged to strengthen defence capabilities.
He further elaborated that the Army’s focus is not merely on acquiring technology but on implementing functional, mission-oriented solutions. With long-term vision, dedicated funding, and consistent efforts, the Army has established integrated networks that support multi-domain operations, encompassing land, air, and cyber domains. He stressed that the Army’s progress is driven by its will, commitment, and persistence rather than budget constraints, exemplified by the continuous implementation of public-private partnerships and various technology projects.
Addressing potential risks, Major General Varaich cautioned about challenges like deepfakes and highlighted ongoing work to ensure AI applications maintain accuracy above 99.5 percent through trust-based algorithms. This illustrates the Army’s balanced approach—adopting AI for operational and strategic advantage while safeguarding against misuse and cyber threats.
The Army’s AI initiatives are wide-ranging, covering education, training, situational awareness, disaster prediction, security, and logistics. Systems like AI-based assessment tools for training, geospatial situational awareness platforms, air-gapped AI cloud solutions for secure data handling, climatology prediction tools, facial recognition systems, mobile telemetry reporting platforms, driver fatigue detection devices, portable edge AI platforms, AI-enabled fleet monitoring systems, and deepfake detection and cybersecurity tools demonstrate the Army’s commitment to leveraging AI across multiple operational areas.
Together, these efforts signify a decisive shift toward a networked, AI-empowered ecosystem that enhances defence preparedness, disaster resilience, and national development. By integrating AI deeply into its operations, the Indian Army is positioning itself as a forward-looking, technologically advanced force, capable of achieving high operational efficiency while fostering strong collaboration with India’s technology sector to develop solutions that are globally competitive.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
U.S. forces boarded the vessel Veronica III after it attempted to evade a quarantine ordered by President Donald Trump, the U.S. Department of Defense reported. The incident occurred within the INDOPACOM area of responsibility, as shown in a handout video dated February 16, 2026.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
On Saturday (14 Feb), hundreds of thousands joined global protests against the Iranian government. Daniel Martin talks with Malminderjit Singh, Founder and MD of Terra Corporate Affairs.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
With decisions delegated, chatbots replacing friends, and nature sidelined, Silicon Valley is shaping a life stripped of real connection. Escape is possible—but it will require a united effort.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
The Barries have returned, and Angus Taylor has emerged victorious in the Liberal leadership contest, defeating Sussan Ley. Speaking on Friday afternoon, the newly elected leader stressed that he had no intention of becoming “One Nation lite,” but vowed to “close the door” to those who do not share “Australian values.” However, the leadership spill was not the only major development in Australian politics this week. Barrie Cassidy and Tony Barry also examine the challenges facing Taylor, the growing momentum of One Nation, and the recent visit by Israeli president Isaac Herzog.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
When Donald Trump returned to the White House last year, he pledged to eliminate what he called “woke” culture in America. From the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts to the Smithsonian Institution and the Stonewall National Monument, his administration has sought to reshape American cultural institutions and historical narratives to reflect its own priorities. Jonathan Freedland and the Guardian’s Washington bureau chief, David Smith, examine how Trump’s efforts to recast history and culture in his own image could affect millions of Americans.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
