The Indian Navy will commission its sixth indigenously built Project 17A stealth frigate, Mahendragiri (F38), at Visakhapatnam on July 11. The advanced warship represents another major step in India's drive towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing and the expansion of its naval capabilities. Named after the Mahendragiri mountain range in the Eastern Ghats, the frigate embodies strength, resilience and determination. As the first naval vessel to carry this name, Mahendragiri is expected to carve out a distinguished legacy while contributing to India's growing maritime strength.

The warship has been designed by the Indian Navy's Warship Design Bureau (WDB) and constructed by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai. It is the sixth vessel under the Project 17A programme, showcasing India's increasing expertise in designing and building sophisticated warships domestically. Built with modern stealth technology, Mahendragiri features a reduced radar signature, improved survivability and extensive onboard automation. It is powered by a Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion system, enabling high-speed operations along with the endurance required for a wide range of naval missions.

With more than 75% of its components sourced within India, the frigate reflects the government's Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Its construction involved a broad network of Indian manufacturers, including numerous Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), helping generate employment while strengthening the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem.

The vessel is equipped with a comprehensive array of advanced indigenous weapons and sensors, including surface-to-surface and surface-to-air missile systems, electronic warfare equipment, anti-submarine warfare capabilities and an integrated Combat Management System. These systems enable the frigate to conduct anti-air, anti-surface and anti-submarine operations, while also supporting maritime security patrols, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), search and rescue operations, and sustained deployments at sea.

The induction of Mahendragiri marks another important milestone in the Project 17A programme. As more ships of this class join the fleet, they are expected to significantly enhance the Indian Navy's operational capabilities and further establish India as a leading nation in indigenous warship construction. With India playing an increasingly important role in ensuring security across the Indian Ocean Region, Mahendragiri is expected to serve as a powerful force multiplier, protecting the country's maritime interests while contributing to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. Guided by its motto, "Mighty, Majestic, Matchless," the frigate is set to play a key role in the Navy's future operations.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.

The Indian Navy’s P-8I Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti-Submarine Warfare aircraft has reached Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam in Honolulu, Hawaii, to take part in the 30th edition of the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise. Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam is a US military installation located on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.

In a post on X, Indian Navy spokesperson Captain Vivek Madhwal from Naval Headquarters said India’s participation in one of the world’s largest multinational maritime exercises reflects the Navy’s commitment to a “free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.” The Navy also described the deployment as a “Bridge of Friendship” between India and the United States.

The post further stated that the P-8I aircraft has arrived in Honolulu for RIMPAC 2026, one of the largest multinational maritime exercises, scheduled from 1 to 31 July 2026. It highlighted that the deployment strengthens interoperability, maritime domain awareness, and operational cooperation with partner navies while reaffirming India’s commitment to a rules-based Indo-Pacific region. The Indian Navy also participated in Exercise Sea Dragon 2026 at Andersen Air Force Base in Guam with its P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, according to a statement from the US Department of War. The P-8I had previously taken part in RIMPAC 2024 at Joint Base Pearl Harbor–Hickam as well.

During RIMPAC 2024, the Indian Navy shared visuals of the P-8I landing at Pearl Harbor after completing anti-submarine missions alongside the US Navy and other participating forces. The Indian multirole stealth frigate INS Shivalik, deployed in the South China Sea and North Pacific, also participated in the 29th edition of RIMPAC that year.

According to the US Department of War, RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime exercise, which began on June 24 around the Hawaiian Islands. The 30th edition this year brings together around 30,000 personnel from multiple nations, offering a platform to enhance collective readiness and cooperation for a free and open Indo-Pacific.

First conducted in 1971, the biennial exercise runs through July 31 and includes a wide range of operations such as amphibious warfare, gunnery and missile drills, anti-submarine warfare, air defence, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, counter-piracy, mine clearance, explosive ordnance disposal, and diving and salvage operations.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@indiannavy.

India is moving closer to finalising a major defence procurement deal worth around ₹30,000 crore for the indigenous Anant Shastra Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM) system, a move expected to significantly strengthen the Indian Army’s mobile air defence capabilities. The proposed acquisition is aimed at providing the Army with a fast-moving and advanced missile shield capable of protecting frontline troops, armoured formations and strategic locations from growing aerial threats, including drones, helicopters, aircraft and precision-guided weapons.

The deal represents an important milestone in India’s push towards defence self-reliance, as the system has been developed domestically by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The project is expected to involve major Indian defence companies for production and integration.

The Anant Shastra system, earlier associated with the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile programme, is designed for high mobility and rapid deployment. Unlike traditional air defence systems that require fixed positions, the QRSAM platform can move along with military formations, allowing troops to receive continuous protection during operations.

Defence experts believe the system will help bridge a critical gap in India’s layered air defence network. It will work alongside existing platforms and provide an additional protective layer against modern battlefield threats, especially the increasing use of drones and unmanned aerial systems in conflicts around the world.

The growing importance of mobile air defence has been highlighted by recent global conflicts, where low-cost drones and precision weapons have challenged conventional defence systems. India’s move to induct Anant Shastra reflects the changing nature of warfare and the need for quick-response technologies. The procurement is also expected to give a boost to India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem. Companies involved in missile production, radar technology, electronics and vehicle integration are likely to benefit from the large-scale programme.

With security challenges increasing along India’s borders and aerial threats becoming more advanced, the induction of Anant Shastra is expected to enhance the operational readiness of the armed forces. The ₹30,000 crore project is being seen as another major step towards building a stronger, indigenous and future-ready air defence network for India.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from rnamedia.

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has introduced the ‘Rakshita’ bike ambulance, a compact and affordable emergency response vehicle designed to provide quick medical assistance in areas where traditional ambulances cannot reach. Built for narrow streets, disaster-hit locations, and challenging operational zones, the vehicle focuses on faster casualty evacuation during critical situations.

Developed by DRDO’s Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS) in partnership with Skylane Power Solution, the Rakshita was originally designed for the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Around 21 units were inducted into CRPF operations, especially in remote and Maoist-affected regions, before the technology attracted attention from hospitals and civilian emergency services.

The bike ambulance is equipped with a specially developed casualty evacuation seat made from high-strength alloys. The ergonomic design includes an adjustable headrest, lumbar support, movable armrests, and a reclining feature that allows the patient to be positioned comfortably during transportation. The seat can also be converted into a stretcher, offering flexibility during rescue operations.

For enhanced patient safety, the Rakshita includes a head immobilisation system, secure harness arrangements, and adjustable footrests. The vehicle carries essential medical equipment such as a compact oxygen cylinder, IV fluid support, splints, medicines, and a first-aid kit. A built-in telescopic IV stand further improves convenience for medical responders.

A major feature of the Rakshita is its integrated health monitoring system, which tracks vital parameters including oxygen levels, ECG readings, and other physiological data. These details can be transferred through Bluetooth to nearby medical centres, allowing doctors to prepare for treatment before the patient reaches the hospital. Designed for quick movement through crowded areas, the ambulance comes with sirens and emergency flashing lights. Its small size makes it especially useful in flood zones, disaster-affected regions, urban lanes, and remote locations where regular ambulances face mobility challenges.

Priced at around ₹3.5 lakh, the Rakshita costs significantly less than a conventional ambulance, making it a practical option for security forces, hospitals, and emergency response organisations. Its low cost, advanced features, and mobility highlight DRDO’s focus on developing indigenous solutions for India’s unique healthcare and rescue requirements. By combining speed, affordability, and medical support capabilities, the Rakshita bike ambulance aims to reduce delays in emergency care and ensure that critical assistance reaches patients within the crucial golden hour.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from The Economic Times.

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.