INTELLIGENCE SURVEILLANCE RECONNAISSANCE
Decisive advantage in modern warfare lies in ability to see first, farthest, most accurately: Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit
Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit emphasized the crucial role of surveillance and electro-optic systems in modern warfare, drawing lessons from recent global conflicts. He highlighted the need for superior situational awareness and leveraging private sector innovation to enhance surveillance capabilities. Lieutenant General Vineet Gaur underscored the importance of advanced surveillance, particularly space-based assets, for India's defense preparedness.
I-STAR: India’s eyes in the sky? IAF set to get Rs 10,000 crore indigenous spy planes
India's Defence Ministry is set to review a Rs 10,000 crore project. This project aims to acquire three advanced spy planes. These planes will enhance the Indian Air Force's surveillance capabilities. They will provide detailed air-to-ground intelligence. This will enable precision strikes on enemy targets. The ISTAR system will be indigenously developed by DRDO.
After drones, a new warfare straight out of science fiction
Recent drone warfare and advancements in space technology are reshaping modern battlefields. Nations like the US, Russia, China, and India are developing space warfare capabilities. These include satellite dogfights and anti-satellite missile systems. America's proposed Golden Dome aims to create a space-based missile defense shield. This has raised concerns about a potential arms race in space.
Nigeria arrests Pakistani terror operatives abetting Boko Haram group
Nigeria has apprehended four Pakistani nationals accused of training and arming Boko Haram terrorists. The presence of foreign mercenaries within Boko Haram has prompted Nigeria to enhance its counterterrorism efforts, including deploying drones and collaborating with neighboring countries. India has also strengthened its defense and counterterrorism partnership with Nigeria to combat the escalating threat.
A lesson from China’s defence tech
India needs to prepare for challenges from China's advanced defense technology. China aims to challenge the US and is rapidly developing its military capabilities. India must boost domestic defense production and collaborate with other countries. The focus should be on technological superiority and joint ventures. Government of India needs to involve IT companies and startups in defense research.
Former ISRO scientists' startup Orbitt Space raises $1 million from Pi Ventures, IIMA Ventures
Orbitt Space, a startup founded by former ISRO scientists, has raised $1 million in pre-seed funding led by Pi Ventures. The Ahmedabad-based firm is developing electric propulsion and avionics systems for ultra low earth orbit satellites, aiming to improve satellite manoeuvrability, reduce costs, and enable advanced earth observation and communication missions.
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What US intelligence reveals about India's enemies
A US intelligence report reveals that China aims to challenge US global leadership and unify Taiwan, modernizing its military and expanding its nuclear arsenal. Pakistan prioritizes countering India's military advantage through nuclear modernization and faces internal security challenges from militant groups. Both nations engage in military cooperation, with China providing economic and military support to Pakistan.
Groww files for IPO; FirstCry, Nazara, Awfis report Q4 earnings
Wealthtech platform Groww is heading for the public markets after confidentially filing its draft IPO papers. This and more in today’s ETtech Top 5.
India develops anti-stealth Surya VHF radar as China plans to give stealth 5th genereation fighter jets to Pakistan: Report
Anti-stealth Surya VHF radar: India's air defense receives a boost with the delivery of the first indigenous Surya VHF radar to the Indian Air Force in March 2025. Developed by a Bengaluru-based company, this stealth-detecting radar enhances the nation's ability to track low-observable aerial targets. Its deployment follows Operation Sindoor and aims to strengthen India's multi-layered defense approach.
Space-tech companies get an opening as India seeks more eyes in the sky
Following Operation Sindoor, India is accelerating its satellite-based ISR capabilities to enhance persistent coverage. Lt Gen AK Bhatt (Retd) emphasises the urgency to fast-track the SBS-III program, aiming for real-time imagery from 52 indigenous satellites, with significant private sector involvement, to reduce reliance on foreign data and bolster national security.
We anticipated this...did a counter drone exercise to tackle attacks at Army chief's behest: Top Army Air Defence officer
Lieutenant General Sumer Ivan D'Cunha highlighted India's readiness for modern warfare. This included neutralizing drones during Operation Sindoor. India anticipated Pakistan's drone usage and conducted simulation exercises. The Indian Army adopted tactical approaches and utilized advanced surveillance. Offensive strikes targeted key Pakistani airbases. Drones played a significant role in recent global conflicts. Ukraine and Russia are increasing drone production.
Akashteer neutralised barrage of Pakistani missiles, drones
India's indigenous Akashteer air defence system played a crucial role in neutralizing Pakistani aerial attacks, including drones and missiles, during a recent military confrontation. The system, manufactured by BEL, demonstrated superior performance compared to Pakistan's imported HQ-9 and HQ-16 systems. Akashteer's automated capabilities enabled rapid engagement and protection of Indian airspace, marking a shift towards proactive air defence.
Drones, space, cyberspace add new paradigm to military conflicts: Ex-DGMO Anil Bhatt
Retired Lt Gen Anil Kumar Bhatt emphasizes the growing importance of drones, space, and cyberspace in modern warfare, drawing lessons from conflicts like Operation Sindoor and the Azerbaijan-Armenia war. He cautions against warmongering and highlights the necessity of war as a last resort, advocating for strategic preparedness to deter conflict with adversaries like Pakistan and China.
Indian armed forces used domestic strategic space assets, foreign commercial satellites for Operation Sindoor: Report
During Operation Sindoor, Indian defence forces strategically utilized a combination of domestic and international space assets, including ISRO's Cartosat and RISAT series, alongside commercial data from Maxar. ISRO facilitated repeatable data access, enhancing surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Upcoming launches, like the EOS-09 or Risat-1B with advanced radar technology, will further bolster India's all-weather surveillance, reinforcing support for the armed forces.
Defence, drone startups roll up sleeves to boost production
Industry experts pointed to Israel developing advanced defence technologies arising from necessity due to conflicts, later benefiting from large export orders. India hasn't faced the same urgency so far, but stakeholders need to collaborate when the country's sovereignty is threatened, they emphasised.
Nagastra, Harpy, Kamikaze, and more: What Operation Sindoor against Pakistan reveals about India’s readiness for the future of drone wars
Drones have become integral to modern warfare, as highlighted by recent clashes between India and Pakistan, echoing trends observed in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. From their origins in World War I to their current armed capabilities, drones offer precision strikes without risking pilots' lives.
Rafale vs F-16: Why Pakistan’s F-16s can’t match India’s Rafales after Operation Sindoor
India's Rafale jets, used in the recent Operation Sindoor, have reignited scrutiny of the India–Pakistan air power balance. Compared to Pakistan's ageing F-16 fleet, the Rafale offers superior radar, missile range, electronic warfare, and multi-role capabilities. With a decisive advantage in long-range engagements and deep strike missions, the Indian Air Force now holds the upper hand in potential aerial confrontations. Pakistan’s reliance on F-16s, limited by U.S. restrictions, adds to its operational disadvantage in a sustained air campaign.
India Pakistan War: How an airbase in Tajikistan is giving sleepless nights to Pakistan
Following the Pahalgam terror attack, India considers military options against Pakistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi grants operational freedom to the armed forces. A strategic airbase in Tajikistan, upgraded with Indian support, could enable missions beyond Pakistan's eastern defenses. Pakistan anticipates a strike and has heightened border security. The Tajikistan base offers India strategic advantages for surveillance and potential operations.
India conducts maiden flight-trials of stratospheric airship platform
India successfully conducted the first flight trials of a stratospheric airship platform developed by the DRDO in Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh. Launched to an altitude of 17 kms, the airship aims to enhance India's surveillance capabilities. The system will uniquely enhance India's earth observation and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities.
Indian Air Force eyes surveillance UAVs to fly in stratosphere
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to acquire three high-altitude platform system (HAPS) aircraft for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, especially amid tensions with Pakistan and China. These unmanned aerial vehicles, operating in the stratosphere, offer a cost-effective alternative to satellites, providing persistent ISR capabilities and acting as airborne data relays.
Paras Defence shares in focus after Q4 profit surges 97% YoY; board approves stock split
Paras Defence posted a stellar Q4FY25, with net profit soaring 97% YoY to Rs 19.7 crore and revenue up 36% to Rs 108.2 crore. EBITDA surged over 7x, and margins expanded sharply. The company also announced a stock split and inked a key drone tech deal with Israel's MicroCon Vision, further boosting its presence in defence and ISR technologies.
BrahMos missiles, Rafales, Sukhoi & drones: What is India's defence muscle if it ever has to attack?
India is much more prepared to act against terrorist groups in Pakistan than in 2019, given the addition of assets such as Rafale fighter jets, the S-400 air defence system and a range of stand-off weapons like loitering munitions, said people with knowledge of the matter. For instance, the Rafales, equipped with the 300 km-plus range SCALP ground attack missiles, can strike targets with pinpoint accuracy deep inside Pakistan, while still flying over Indian territory.
Amid high tensions with India, a disillusioned Pakistan claims it forced IAF Rafales to 'retreat' but provides no evidence
Pakistan air force news (Google Trends): Pakistan is on high alert, citing intelligence of a possible Indian military strike. Islamabad claims its air force repelled Indian jets near the Line of Control. These claims lack evidence. Pakistan warns of a decisive response to any aggression. Imran Khan cautions India against reckless actions. The UN and US urge dialogue amid rising tensions. The situation remains tense.
Pahalgam Attack: PM Modi chairs CCS meeting a day after giving army 'full freedom' to decide military response
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded the Cabinet Committee on Security meeting after the Pahalgam terror attack. The attack killed 26 people. India considers military and diplomatic responses. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty. The military is on high alert. Preliminary evidence points to Pakistan-based terror cell Lashkar-e-Taiba. Pakistan faces internal struggles. The government seeks national unity before any potential strike.
If Trump abandons Ukraine, can Europe help Kyiv fight on? The clock is ticking to answer that
Donald Trump is urging Ukraine to give land to Russia to end the war. He might withdraw support if a deal is hard to reach. This is causing concern in Europe. Allies are looking for ways to help Ukraine militarily. Europe is trying to find funds and weapons. They are also trying to replace advanced American weapons.
Operation Zeppelin: Inside Adani's counter to Hindenburg
Hindenburg Research, a forensic financial firm, targeted the Adani Group in January 2023 with a report alleging stock manipulation and accounting fraud, which led to a dramatic drop in Adani’s stock value. The fallout threatened the conglomerate’s stability but Adani responded swiftly, using a mix of public relations, legal maneuvers, and strategic actions to regain investor confidence.
US Commander gives strident warning about China's threat
Admiral Samuel Paparo warns of China's rapid military modernization and aggressive behavior, posing threats to the US and its allies. China employs multifaceted tactics, including military pressure and economic coercion. Xi Jinping is escalating pressure on Taiwan, while the Philippines faces Chinese bullying. China's actions in the Yellow Sea mirror its South China Sea tactics.
Deeptech imaging startup Optimized Electrotech raises $6 million from Blume Ventures, Mela Ventures, others
The funds will support AI-powered imaging solutions for surveillance and international expansion. Optimized Electrotech serves defence and aerospace clients and aligns with India’s push for self-reliance in strategic technologies. It also plans to strengthen its AI team and accelerate commercialisation.
Drones, not diplomats: China’s new warfare strategy is loud, fast, autonomous — and already war-ready
China is reshaping the future of war with drones—lots of them. Entrepreneur Naval Ravikant and investor Marc Andreessen believe traditional warfare is fading, replaced by fleets of autonomous machines. From hypersonic spy drones to mass-produced kamikaze UAVs, China is investing big in scale, speed, and cutting-edge designs. Backed by state firms and private giants like DJI, the country is preparing for a new age of conflict—one with fewer boots, more bots, and a shifting balance of power.
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