military procurement

Leaked records reveal Iran's Revolutionary Guards secretly acquired advanced Chinese satellite communication equipment via a UAE-based procurement network. The technology, crucial for Tehran's drone and missile programs, was shipped through Dubai, highlighting sophisticated methods to bypass Western sanctions and reach Iran's military apparatus.

The US Department of Defense has secured a $9.69 billion, five-year agreement with Microsoft to consolidate software licenses across military and intelligence agencies. This initiative aims to reduce redundant spending and enhance efficiency by centralizing purchases of Microsoft 365 tools and other services.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's India visit highlights a deepening defence partnership, now a comprehensive strategic alliance in the Indo-Pacific. Discussions focused on sustained progress and regional security. India is a vital US partner, with cooperation in security, trade, and technology central to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Key agreements and joint exercises are enhancing interoperability and information sharing.

Armenia is bolstering its defence with India, seeking robust military hardware and training to counter threats from Azerbaijan, which is supported by Pakistan and Turkey. Recent high-level visits and significant arms deals, including Akash missile systems, highlight New Delhi's growing role as Armenia's key strategic partner in the South Caucasus.

India's defence exports have soared to an unprecedented Rs 38,424 crore, with the US emerging as the top buyer for sub-systems and components. This remarkable growth, nearly tripling in five years, is fueled by strategic partnerships like the proposed Reciprocal Defence Procurement Agreement with the US and domestic reforms, positioning India as a global defence exporter.

The Pentagon is forging new partnerships with companies like Anduril and Leidos to rapidly boost US strike capabilities. The Low-Cost Containerized Missiles (LCCM) program aims to procure over 10,000 affordable cruise missiles by 2027, while a separate deal with Castelion will scale low-cost hypersonic solutions. This initiative emphasizes speed, innovation, and private sector investment to rebuild America's military might.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's South Korea visit deepens defence ties, exploring collaboration on missile systems and the KIND-X initiative. This builds on India's historical humanitarian role during the Korean War, commemorated by a new memorial. The partnership aims for co-development of advanced defence technologies, fostering innovation and industrial integration between the two nations.

Defence analysts warn the issue is not just the quantity of weapons today but the speed at which industry can regenerate what has been used. A single week of heavy combat in either theatre can consume months of production output for certain precision munitions and interceptors. This has transformed a temporary logistical challenge into a broader strategic concern.

Fresh US intelligence suggests Iran has resumed military production, including drones, much sooner than anticipated, raising concerns about its rapid arsenal regeneration. Tehran's strategy of decentralized manufacturing and reliance on commercially available components allows for swift replenishment of weapons like Shahed drones and Fateh missiles, even after recent strikes.

On May 11, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing Rath's murder had arrested three people before widening its probe across multiple states. The cops suspected that hired sharpshooters were brought in from outside West Bengal to carry out the killing with military-style precision. A key breakthrough came after investigators traced a UPI payment made at the Nivedita Setu toll plaza on May 6.

Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) and Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) are revolutionizing naval operations and civilian sectors with their stealth, persistence, and risk reduction capabilities. Navies are investing heavily in these platforms for surveillance, mine warfare, and reconnaissance, while also finding dual-use applications in disaster response and oceanographic research.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth defended President Trump's proposed $1.5 trillion military budget amid congressional scrutiny over the Iran war's escalating costs, now at $29 billion. Lawmakers questioned the strain on weapons stockpiles, while Hegseth acknowledged increased production to support ongoing operations and future needs.

India is set to revolutionize its mechanized warfare with the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) program, replacing aging BMPs with advanced, indigenous platforms. This multi-billion dollar initiative emphasizes drone integration, digitization, and high-mobility capabilities, marking a significant shift towards self-reliance in defense manufacturing and modernizing the Army's battlefield prowess.

During a Beijing visit, President Trump observed China's military might, signaling a shift in global power. While the US faces munitions shortages and slow production, China's defense industry operates at wartime pace, excelling in drones, AI, and satellite tech. This evolving warfare, particularly concerning Taiwan, highlights a contest for future global dominance.

The unveiling of Russia's two-seater Su-57D fighter jet marks a significant shift in military dynamics, potentially rekindling India's aspirations after stepping away from the FGFA program.

Pakistan's Fatah-3 missile test sparks debate, potentially challenging India's BrahMos dominance in precision strikes. Analysts question if it's a Pakistani leap or Chinese hardware, highlighting China's growing military influence. Operation Sindoor showcased India's advanced capabilities, underscoring the importance of integrated systems beyond just missile technology.

The US State Department is offering up to $15 million for information on financial networks linked to Iran's IRGC, targeting its illicit oil trade. This move, part of expanded sanctions, aims to disrupt funding for proxy groups and regional aggression. The US also sanctioned a network involved in selling Iranian oil and three IRGC officials.

SpaceX is preparing for a historic IPO, aiming for a $1.75-$2 trillion valuation and seeking to raise $75 billion by June 2026. Despite significant revenue growth from Starlink, the company reported substantial losses in 2025 and Q1 2026, largely due to heavy investments in its new AI unit following the xAI acquisition.

India is significantly boosting defence spending and prioritizing domestic production, aiming for self-reliance and export growth. New policies like 'Make in India' and DAP 2020 are reshaping procurement, encouraging local manufacturing and foreign collaboration. Despite global supply chain challenges, indigenous production and exports are rising, signaling a strategic shift towards greater defence capability and autonomy.

The US has sanctioned ten individuals and companies, including those in China and Hong Kong, for aiding Iran's drone and ballistic missile programs. These measures aim to curb Iran's military capabilities and its threat to regional shipping. The sanctions target entities involved in procuring weapons components and raw materials, with a warning to foreign firms engaged in illicit Iranian trade.

While President Trump maintains a gentle approach in his dialogue with China, the US military is gearing up for any possible scenarios. Strengthening its presence in the Indo-Pacific, America is reactivating established bases and fortifying partnerships.

India is no stranger to austerity measures. Every time the country needs to tighten its belt, leaders seize the opportunity to present themselves as making sacrifices and sharing in the hardships of ordinary citizens