
Germany’s coalition government has agreed on a new military service model that begins as a voluntary programme but allows parliament to introduce conscription if recruitment falls short.

HAL has entered into a contract with GE Aerospace to procure 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines and support services for its LCA Mk1A fighter-jet programme, with engine deliveries scheduled from 2027 to 2032 in support of 97 aircraft. The engine deal follows a previous contract in 2021 under which HAL ordered 99 F404-GE-IN20 engines for the LCA Mk1A.

L&T and BEL have added Dynamatic Technologies as an exclusive partner in India’s AMCA fifth-generation fighter program, combining strengths in aerostructures, engineering, and electronics to boost domestic aerospace manufacturing. The AMCA program, being developed by the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), is intended to equip the Indian Air Force with an indigenous, stealth-capable multirole combat aircraft.

Russia’s United Aircraft Corporation has handed over a new batch of Su-34 fighter-bombers to the Russian Ministry of Defense with production continuing at the Novosibirsk Aircraft Plant. Rostec stated that the Su-34 continues to serve as a key platform for frontline aviation, with the capacity to carry a variety of weapons ranging from unguided bombs to precision-guided missiles.

A Russian Navy Pacific Fleet detachment including large anti-submarine ships and corvettes conducted air defence and anti-submarine warfare exercises in the Sea of Japan, engaging simulated missile and submarine targets as part of scheduled combat training. According to the Russian Navy, these exercises are part of ongoing fleet training to enhance coordination between surface ships and aviation units in anti-submarine and air defence operations.

The Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles joint venture has received its first contract to supply 21 A2CS Combat vehicles to the Italian Army, marking a major step in Italy–Germany defence cooperation and European industrial integration. The supply is part of the Italian Army’s A2CS – Army Armoured Combat System program, which plans for a total acquisition of 1,050 armoured combat vehicles to replace its current heavy vehicle fleet.