Current Affairs - Defence

INS Udaygiri and INS Kavaratti concluded their port call in Vietnam as part of India's operational deployment in the Southeast Asia region. During the visit, the Indian Navy engaged in professional interactions and bilateral maritime exercises with the Vietnam People's Navy. The deployment, led by the Flag Officer Commanding Eastern Fleet, was conducted under India's Act East Policy and the MAHASAGAR vision, focusing on maritime security, operational cooperation, and strengthening defence ties. The visit highlighted the growing strategic partnership between India and Vietnam and reinforced India's commitment to ensuring a secure and stable Indo-Pacific region.

The 5th India-Tajikistan Joint Working Group (JWG) on Counter-Terrorism was held in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, on June 24, 2026. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, violent extremism, radicalisation, terrorist financing, and drug trafficking. Both countries also emphasised preventing the misuse of technology for terrorist activities and strengthening collaboration through international platforms such as the United Nations, SCO-RATS, and the Eurasian Group. The dialogue reaffirmed the shared commitment of India and Tajikistan to addressing regional and global security challenges through coordinated efforts.

India's first Made-in-India C295 transport aircraft is scheduled for delivery to the Indian Air Force in September 2026, marking a major milestone in the country's defence manufacturing sector. Built by Tata Advanced Systems Limited in partnership with Airbus, it is the first military aircraft to be manufactured by India's private sector. The C295 is a versatile tactical transport aircraft capable of carrying troops, cargo, and medical evacuation missions while operating from short and unprepared runways. The programme supports the modernisation of the Indian Air Force by replacing the ageing Avro HS-748 fleet and strengthening the vision of self-reliance in defence production.

On June 17, 2026, the United States formally notified a $482.2 million sustainment support package for India's AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers. The package includes long-term engineering, technical, logistics, and maintenance support for India's existing military platforms. Apache support is being provided through Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin, while BAE Systems is responsible for M777A2 howitzer support. India operates 28 Apache helicopters acquired through separate deals and previously procured 145 M777A2 howitzers under the Foreign Military Sales program. The support package aims to enhance operational readiness and long-term capability sustainment.

The Indian Air Force has decided to acquire nine retired SEPECAT Jaguar fighter aircraft from the United Kingdom to support its ageing Jaguar fleet. These aircraft will not be inducted into active service but will be used as a source of spare parts, including engines, avionics systems, airframe structures, and other critical components. Since Jaguar production has ended and India remains the only country operating the aircraft in frontline service, obtaining spare parts has become increasingly difficult. This acquisition will help extend the operational life of existing Jaguar squadrons and support the IAF in maintaining combat readiness until newer fighter aircraft gradually replace the fleet.