ballistic missiles

DRDO is ready for the Agni-VI missile program pending government approval, while also advancing two hypersonic weapons programs: a glide missile and a cruise missile. The organization is also considering a conventional missile force structure and nearing completion of the Pralay missile.

India's indigenous fighter jet production is gaining momentum with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) procurement process advancing. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh revealed plans for sixth-generation fighter collaborations and a multi-layered missile force. Diversifying production is seen as strategically beneficial, with ambitious defence export targets set to be met comfortably.

India has successfully test-fired a long-range hypersonic anti-ship missile off the Odisha coast, reaching a remarkable 1,500 km range. Developed by DRDO, this advanced weapon, capable of speeds up to Mach 10, significantly boosts India's naval defense capabilities. The test validated its precision and ability to engage critical targets, marking a major stride in indigenous defense innovation and self-reliance.

President Trump's ambitious Golden Dome missile defense initiative faces significant hurdles. Doubts are mounting over funding, congressional backing, and technical feasibility, despite Pentagon assurances. The project's immense cost, potentially trillions, is a major concern for lawmakers, particularly Republicans wary of budget reconciliation tactics ahead of elections. Key components are slated for 2028.

North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles into the sea from its east coast on Sunday, prompting South Korea to heighten surveillance and convene an emergency meeting. Japan also detected the launches, protesting the violation of UN resolutions and the threat to regional peace.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Tuesday accused Russia of "utter cynicism" for launching deadly attacks while also seeking a truce to stage its May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow. "It is utter cynicism to ask for a ceasefire in order to hold propaganda celebrations while carrying out such missile and drone strikes every single day leading up to it," Zelensky said in a statement in response to the attacks.

Israel has reportedly sent its advanced 'Iron Beam' laser defence system and surveillance tech to the UAE to counter Iranian threats, marking a significant defence cooperation step. This deployment, alongside US military sales to regional allies, underscores escalating tensions and a bolstered regional security posture amid the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

India's INS Dhruv plays a crucial role in tracking long-range missile tests over the Bay of Bengal and Indian Ocean. This advanced vessel gathers vital telemetry data, aids in anti-ballistic missile system development, and provides early warning against hypersonic threats. Its capabilities also extend to monitoring Low Earth Orbit satellites, offering a significant strategic advantage to the nation's armed forces.

A recent report highlights that while the US can sustain a conflict with Iran for now, it's depleting critical missile stockpiles. This drawdown significantly impacts readiness for potential future conflicts, particularly with China. Rebuilding these advanced munitions will take years, posing a strategic vulnerability for America's global position.

The US Navy has intensified maritime pressure on Iran with a recent interception, even as diplomatic talks involving American envoys and Iran are underway in Pakistan. The advanced USS Rafael Peralta seized an Iranian vessel, part of a broader crackdown. Meanwhile, indirect negotiations aim to de-escalate regional tensions amid ongoing instability.

In a significant shift, Israel has deployed its advanced Iron Dome air defence system to the UAE amid sustained Iranian attacks. This marks the first operational deployment outside Israel, highlighting deepening regional military ties. The system successfully intercepted numerous projectiles, bolstering UAE defenses and solidifying alliances against common threats.

As a two-month conflict with Iran escalates, cracks are appearing in the US-Israel alliance. While both nations initially targeted Tehran, their post-strike objectives diverge, with Washington seeking negotiation and Jerusalem aiming for regime change. This fundamental difference, exacerbated by past events and differing pressures, raises questions about their long-term alignment.

While extending a fragile ceasefire with Iran, the US is simultaneously deploying significant naval and ground forces to the Middle East. This dual approach suggests President Trump is preserving military options, including potential limited ground action, should diplomatic talks fail to secure new terms on Iran's nuclear program and regional security.

This risky double-game may dent Islamabad’s relations with Beijing, as also cause international humiliation

Iran still possesses thousands of ballistic missiles and can rebuild its arsenal. US intelligence indicates many launchers were damaged but are recoverable. While drone stocks are depleted, cruise missiles remain. US officials claim significant degradation of Iran's capabilities. Analysts caution that even reduced capacity allows Iran to remain a dominant regional power.

Israel's alleged hacking of Tehran's street cameras for assassinations highlights a grave vulnerability in India's extensive, often insecure CCTV networks. With AI amplifying risks, these systems, including those with Chinese components, could be weaponised by foreign intelligence agencies, posing a significant threat to national security and critical infrastructure.

Ukraine is showcasing remarkable resilience against Russia through its innovative defense industry. The nation is producing millions of drones, long-range missiles, and robotic systems. These advanced weapons allow Ukraine to strike deep behind enemy lines and preserve its soldiers. This technological prowess is enabling Ukraine to effectively counter a larger adversary, demonstrating a new model of national resistance.