India has conducted the first salvo launch of the NASM-SR anti-ship missile from a helicopter off Odisha. The test involved two missiles fired in quick succession and demonstrated targeting and guidance systems developed by DRDO.
Northrop Grumman has delivered the 70th E-2D Advanced Hawkeye to the U.S. Navy. The aircraft provides airborne early warning and battle management capabilities and is also in service with Japan, with ongoing upgrades to meet operational needs.
Australia has selected Northrop Grumman for formal engagement to develop domestic solid rocket motor production. The initiative will involve local suppliers and aims to build manufacturing capacity to support defence systems and long-range strike capabilities.
India and Sri Lanka conducted IN–SLN DIVEX 2026 in Colombo, focusing on deep-sea diving and underwater operations. The exercise involved INS Nireekshak and Sri Lankan Navy divers, improving coordination in rescue and salvage missions.
The Indian Navy has received the stealth frigate Mahendragiri, the sixth Project 17A vessel, built at Mazagon Dock in Mumbai. The warship is equipped for multi-mission operations and reflects ongoing naval modernisation and domestic shipbuilding efforts.
The U.S. Pentagon has signed agreements with eight technology companies to deploy artificial intelligence tools on classified networks. The move covers sensitive systems and aims to support military operations, intelligence work, and internal functions.
The UK has tested its new Skyhammer interceptor missiles in Jordan to counter drone threats. The system, developed by Cambridge Aerospace, is part of a new defence contract, with deliveries to UK forces expected to begin in May.
Israeli defence firm Rafael is in talks to take over Volkswagen’s Osnabrück plant as production winds down. The site could be repurposed to support Iron Dome components, with some jobs potentially retained.
The UK Ministry of Defence will conduct a major wargame with five defence companies to assess how supply chains would perform during sustained conflict. The exercise will examine risks, capacity constraints and policy responses to maintain military equipment supply.
Airbus and Spanish industry have launched the Integrated Combat Training System programme to replace Spain’s F-5 fleet. The project includes 30 SAETA II aircraft, simulators, and training systems, with deliveries planned between 2031 and 2035.
Boeing and the U.S. Navy have completed the first test flight of the MQ-25A Stingray unmanned aircraft. The two-hour demonstrated autonomous taxi, takeoff, flight, and landing, along with integration with ground control systems as part of carrier preparation.
Germany’s chancellor said the U.S. is struggling in its conflict with Iran, warning there is no clear path to end it. He said the situation is complex and affecting economies, while tensions continue to impact global trade.
Global military spending reached $2.89 trillion in 2025, according to SIPRI, marking the 11th consecutive annual increase. Growth was driven by higher expenditure in Europe and Asia, while US spending declined due to reduced military aid approvals.
Germany plans to send a minehunter to the Mediterranean ahead of a possible mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The move supports efforts to secure shipping routes after tensions disrupted global trade.
DRDO has flagged off indigenous Advanced Armoured Platforms under the Vikram VT 21 programme, developed with Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Forge. The tracked and wheeled vehicles feature a 30 mm crewless turret, modular protection, and are designed for multiple combat roles.
Germany’s chancellor said Ukraine’s path to EU membership is key to ending the war with Russia and suggested ‘part of Ukrainian territory will no longer be Ukrainian.’
The U.S. Army has tested the Braker drone-delivered warhead at Redstone Arsenal, moving from concept to live-fire in two weeks. The system is designed for use with small unmanned aircraft and supports rapid development and integration of new battlefield capabilities.
A German court hearing for five activists accused of damaging an Israeli defence firm site in Ulm was disrupted by protests and legal disputes. The case relates to a 2025 break-in causing about €1 million in damage.
The Australian Government has committed AU$750 million for 268 next-generation Bushmaster vehicles to be built by Thales Australia. Production will begin in 2027, with upgrades to protection, mobility, and modular systems and a left-hand drive version for the export market.
Germany has ordered €1 billion in infantry equipment from Rheinmetall, including protective gear and digital systems. The package aims to improve coordination and battlefield awareness for thousands of soldiers.
