The Indian Navy is investigating an innovative concept called Rearming by Drone (REARM‑D) at Sea, which proposes using multi‑rotor drones to reload surface‑to‑air missiles into vertical launch system (VLS) cells on warships while they remain at sea. As part of this initiative, the Navy has issued an official problem statement under the Defence India Start-Up Challenge 14, focused on addressing the complex challenge of replenishing VLS cells without requiring ships to return to port. This forward-looking approach aims to strengthen operational endurance and reduce reliance on shore-based facilities for critical munitions resupply.

The REARM‑D concept revolves around deploying autonomous, robust drones capable of lifting and precisely positioning heavy missile canisters in difficult maritime conditions. These drones would be designed to manage the weight and size of surface-to-air missile reloads, ensuring safe transfer from supply vessels or onboard storage to the VLS cells of frontline warships.

By embracing drone-based rearming, the Navy seeks to overcome one of modern naval warfare’s most challenging logistical tasks: maintaining missile readiness during extended deployments. Traditionally, reloading vertical launch systems has been a slow, resource-intensive process that requires calm conditions, cranes, and port facilities. REARM‑D aims to bypass these constraints, enabling warships to stay combat-ready even in remote or contested waters.

This initiative also highlights the Navy’s growing focus on unmanned systems as force multipliers. Multi‑rotor drones, capable of hovering and precise payload delivery, are ideally suited to align and insert missile canisters into VLS cells accurately. The technical specifications for these drones are ambitious. They must carry payloads exceeding 900 kg to handle missile canisters, operate for over two hours, and likely use a hybrid propulsion system with an internal combustion engine to resist strong sea winds. Equally important is their ability to hover steadily and lower missiles into designated VLS cells using a winch system, demonstrating high guided precision.

If deployed, these drones would mark a significant advancement in integrating unmanned technology into core naval operations beyond surveillance and reconnaissance. Operationalizing REARM‑D will require improvements in drone endurance, payload capacity, and stabilization systems to handle the dynamic open-sea environment. Seamless integration with shipboard systems is also critical to ensure safe operation around radar masts, antennas, and other superstructures.

The initiative underscores India’s commitment to innovation in naval logistics and aligns with global trends where modern navies are exploring unmanned solutions for resupply and maintenance. Success with REARM‑D could set a precedent, positioning drones as a key component in sustaining missile-armed fleets during long missions.

The Indian Navy’s push for drone-based rearming reflects a strategic understanding that endurance and autonomy are as vital as firepower in contemporary maritime operations. By enabling warships to reload at sea without shore support, REARM‑D could significantly enhance India’s capability to project power and maintain readiness across the Indo-Pacific region.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.

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.

The Indian Armed Forces have recently rolled out two innovative partnership models to accelerate the development of indigenous defence platforms and components. These initiatives aim to simplify collaboration, cut costs, and shorten development timelines by reducing dependence on traditional Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs).

The first approach, the User–Academia–Industry Partnership, creates a triangular collaboration among operational users, research institutions, and private industry. This structure ensures that the armed forces’ requirements directly inform academic research and industrial design, fostering a cycle where practical needs drive innovation and production. By integrating academia, the model taps into advanced research, while industry provides the capacity to turn ideas into deployable systems.

The second framework, the Base Depot (User)–Industry Partnership, emphasizes direct collaboration between military depots and private manufacturers. Base depots, responsible for maintenance and logistics, serve as primary equipment users. This partnership enables rapid prototyping, repairs, and component upgrades without the bureaucratic delays often associated with DPSUs. It is particularly effective in meeting urgent operational needs and keeping equipment mission-ready.

Moving away from DPSUs has proven to be a pragmatic strategy. While DPSUs have historically been central to India’s defence production, they have faced criticism for inefficiencies, delays, and cost overruns. Leaner, more flexible partnerships allow the armed forces to achieve faster turnaround times and more cost-effective solutions. Additionally, these models encourage private sector participation, fostering competition and innovation within the defence ecosystem.

These initiatives represent a major step toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing. They align with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and strengthen India’s strategic autonomy by reducing reliance on foreign suppliers. Focusing on indigenous development enables the armed forces to create solutions tailored to their operational needs, enhancing both effectiveness and resilience.

If scaled successfully, these partnerships could transform India’s defence industrial landscape. They promise a future in which the armed forces, academia, and industry collaborate seamlessly to deliver cutting-edge technologies while building a strong domestic supply chain. This shift underscores India’s move toward modernisation and efficiency, equipping the country to address contemporary warfare challenges with home-grown solutions.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.

The early arrival of Rafale fighter jets for the Indian Navy could mark a major turning point in India’s overall combat aviation modernisation, going far beyond a simple replacement of existing aircraft. If reports are accurate, the induction of the first twin-seat Rafale-M trainers between August and September would significantly accelerate the Navy’s transition to a more advanced carrier-capable aircraft, well ahead of the original timeline for fully combat-ready jets. These initial deliveries, likely consisting of four twin-seat variants, are expected to operate from land bases rather than aircraft carriers. Their main role will be to train pilots and ground personnel, develop instructors, and familiarise the Navy with the aircraft’s sophisticated systems, weapons, and maintenance requirements.

This phased approach follows global best practices, where training and infrastructure are prioritised before frontline deployment. As per existing agreements, combat-configured Rafale-M jets are expected only around mid-2028, roughly 37 months after contract signing. Receiving training aircraft earlier effectively shortens the transition period by preparing personnel in advance—the most time-intensive part of introducing a new aviation platform.

The Navy plans to acquire 26 Rafale-M aircraft, including 22 single-seat carrier fighters and four twin-seat trainers. These jets will initially operate from INS Vikrant and possibly future indigenous carriers. Starting training on land-based aircraft will reduce risks when integrating the jets into carrier operations, including deck landings and ski-jump launches. The Rafale-M will gradually replace the MiG-29K fleet, which, despite offering multi-role capabilities, has faced issues with reliability and outdated systems. In contrast, the Rafale-M provides advanced avionics, superior sensors, and strong multi-role performance across air defence, strike, and maritime missions.

For naval aircrew, transitioning to Rafale-M will require a complete shift in operational approach, including mastering new cockpit systems, sensor fusion, and advanced weapon usage. Training will also involve adapting tactics for coordinated operations with ships, submarines, and surveillance aircraft. Ground crews will also need to adjust to modern maintenance practices, including digital diagnostics and condition-based servicing. Establishing supply chains, technical support, and maintenance infrastructure will be critical, and early trainer induction provides valuable preparation time.

Another key advantage is interoperability. The Indian Air Force already operates Rafale jets, allowing both services to share training, logistics, and operational experience. This supports India’s broader goal of improving joint operations among its armed forces, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. The Rafale-M strengthens India’s naval power projection, enabling better defence of carrier groups, long-range strike capability, and maritime dominance. Equipped with advanced weapons and sensors, it enhances the Navy’s ability to counter threats and secure sea lanes.

Training will focus on complex operations such as night flying, refuelling, precision strikes, and coordinated missions. Simulators and advanced training systems will play a vital role in preparing crews for high-risk scenarios. This development also aligns with India’s self-reliance goals. While Rafale is a foreign platform, associated support systems and integration efforts can boost domestic capabilities in avionics, maintenance, and weapons development, benefiting future indigenous programs like Tejas and AMCA.

Operating Rafale variants across both the Navy and Air Force will create strong synergies through shared training and doctrine, reducing redundancy and improving efficiency. The early induction of Rafale-M trainers signals India’s intent to build a modern, capable naval aviation force. In an increasingly contested maritime environment, these aircraft will enhance survivability, flexibility, and deterrence. More than just an early delivery, this step represents the beginning of a broader transformation in India’s carrier aviation, aligned with a larger military modernisation strategy.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.

Amid rising tensions in the U.S.–Israel–Iran conflict, airlines are diverting flights away from major Middle East routes that connect Asia and Europe. This shift raises the question: could new aviation hubs emerge beyond established centers like Dubai and Doha? How might this affect ticket costs, cargo transport, and the broader landscape of global air travel? Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman explore these issues with Shantanu Gangakhedkar, Principal Consultant and Commercial Aviation Lead at Frost & Sullivan.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Whether it is issuing military threats toward Colombia and Cuba, suggesting the takeover of Greenland from Denmark, or capturing oil tankers in European and Caribbean seas, Donald Trump’s actions are forcing global leaders into constant crisis management. His renewed brand of American imperialism is reshaping international politics at a rapid pace. Jonathan Freedland discusses this shifting global landscape with Pulitzer Prize–winning author Anne Applebaum, examining what lies ahead in a world being rapidly transformed by the decisions of the US president.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

The United States’ confiscation of a sanctioned Venezuelan oil tanker represents a significant escalation, denounced by Caracas as “international piracy.” Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman examine the underlying strategic signal the Trump administration is sending to Latin America in the context of China’s expanding influence, alongside Ross Feingold, Head of Research at Caerus Consulting. They assess whether this aggressive move qualifies as a justified national security action, whether it accomplished its intended objectives, and how neighbouring countries have responded in the immediate aftermath.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

On September 3, China held its largest military parade to date in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. The event featured tens of thousands of soldiers, along with hundreds of aircraft, ground vehicles, and advanced weaponry. More than just a show of military might, the parade was intended as a symbol of deterrence, national solidarity, and a display of Xi Jinping’s authority in a period of global uncertainty. Andrea Heng discussed the significance of the event with Dr. Mustafa Izzuddin, Senior International Affairs Analyst at Solaris.
Disclaimer: This Podcast is taken from CNA.