On May 27, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the programme execution model for India's fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). This model mandates that Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) must compete with private firms for manufacturing rights, marking a shift from previous practices where HAL was the default choice. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under DRDO will oversee design, with an expression of interest to be issued soon. This initiative aims to bolster indigenous defence capabilities and foster a robust domestic aerospace ecosystem. The decision follows Operation Sindoor, highlighting the need for advanced air combat assets amid regional tensions, particularly with Pakistan. (PC: Mint & Outlook India)

India has moved a step closer to joining the elite club of nations with fifth-generation stealth fighters, as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved a Rs 15,000-crore execution plan for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). The indigenous jet, equipped with stealth, supercruise, and multi-role capabilities, will be developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) in collaboration with Indian industry. Prototype rollout is expected by 2029, with induction into the Indian Air Force by 2034. With tensions rising in the Indo-Pacific, AMCA is seen as a strategic game-changer, aimed at boosting India’s self-reliance and countering China's growing air dominance. (PC: AMCA)

US urban warfare expert John Spencer hailed India’s military prowess, stating that its BrahMos missile strike during Operation Sindoor proved that India can target Pakistan “anytime, anywhere.” Spencer emphasized that Pakistan’s Chinese-supplied air defences were no match for India’s advanced systems. Lauding the precision and impact of BrahMos, he said the operation would be studied as a model for counter-terrorism worldwide. He urged the West to abandon “both-side-ism” and call out Pakistan’s terror links. Spencer also praised India’s strategic move to suspend the Indus Water Treaty, calling it a smart pressure tactic in the evolving regional conflict. (PC: Business Today)

India is poised to bolster its defence budget with an additional ₹50,000 crore allocation, following the success of Operation Sindoor. This supplementary funding, expected to be approved in the upcoming Winter session of Parliament, aims to enhance the procurement of new weapons, ammunition, and advanced technology. The operation, which targeted nine terror camps in Pakistan without breaching the border, demonstrated India's superior defence capabilities, including its indigenous multi-layered air defence system that effectively neutralised incoming threats. The current defence budget stands at ₹6.81 lakh crore, marking a significant increase from ₹2.29 lakh crore in 2014-15, reflecting the government's commitment to strengthening national security and military modernization. (PC: India Today, Hexagon Safety & Observer Research Foundation)

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh convened a high-level security review with Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and the three service chiefs. The meeting emphasized the need for a joint military vision to prepare for future conflicts. Discussions included the proposed establishment of three theatre commands targeting China, Pakistan, and the Indian Ocean Region, aiming to streamline operations by replacing the current 17 single-service commands. Singh highlighted the importance of analyzing global conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Gaza, to anticipate potential challenges. He stressed the necessity for a synergized, swift, and proportionate response to provocations, underscoring India's commitment to peace through strength.

On May 2, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a landmark exercise on Uttar Pradesh's under-construction Ganga Expressway, showcasing its operational readiness by performing both day and night landings and take-offs. This marked India's first expressway equipped for nocturnal fighter jet operations, enhancing its strategic infrastructure. The drill featured aircraft such as the Rafale, SU-30 MKI, and Mirage-2000, demonstrating the expressway's potential as an emergency runway during national crises. Locals and students gathered to witness the spectacle, capturing the event on social media. The exercise underscores India's commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities amid escalating regional tensions. (PC: EurAsian Times & CNBC)

In a landmark military exercise, the Indian Air Force conducted a spectacular "land and go" drill on a 3.5-km stretch of the Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Fighter jets including Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29, and transport aircraft like C-130J showcased day and night operational readiness. A highlight was the rare night landing between 9–10 pm, underscoring the IAF’s advanced combat capabilities. Thousands of spectators, including villagers and schoolchildren, watched the breathtaking manoeuvres. The dual-use expressway, India’s first 24/7 airstrip, is set to bolster national defence and disaster response, with full expressway completion expected by November 2025. 

On May 2, 2025, the Indian Air Force (IAF) will conduct take-off and landing drills on the Ganga Expressway in Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. Advanced fighter jets, including Rafale and Jaguar, will participate in the exercise, assessing the expressway's viability as an alternative runway. This marks the first airstrip in India designed for both day and night fighter landings. High-level security measures are in place for the event. The exercise aims to enhance the IAF's operational readiness and flexibility in utilizing non-traditional airstrips during emergencies. The Ganga Expressway, upon completion, will be one of the longest expressways in India, further bolstering the country's defense infrastructure. (PC: Defence News India)

Following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed at least 26 tourists, the Indian Navy shared missile-firing videos asserting it stands “Combat-Ready,” just a day after the Indian Army reiterated it is “Always Prepared.” This show of strength comes as India weighs its response, blaming Pakistan-backed groups for the massacre. The Home Ministry has handed over the investigation to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). Prime Minister Narendra Modi vowed to pursue the perpetrators “to the ends of the earth,” reflecting the nation’s seething anger. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s army chief struck a hardline tone, amplifying tensions across the Line of Control.

The Indian Air Force launched "Exercise Aakraman" on Thursday, a major combat drill in the central sector, simulating long-range strikes and precision bombing missions amid rising India-Pakistan tensions post-Pahalgam attack. Led by cutting-edge Rafale jets, the exercise involves high-intensity combat simulations across mountain and ground terrains. Key assets were repositioned from the eastern sector, and top IAF pilots are executing complex sorties, including electronic warfare. The drill aims to boost readiness for deep-strike operations. Senior leadership is closely monitoring the exercise, with similar training planned. This show of strength comes as regional hostilities escalate. (PC: India Today)