military drones

Hezbollah's deployment of cheap, fibre-optic drones is presenting a significant challenge to Israeli forces in southern Lebanon. These low-tech, untraceable devices, unlike GPS-guided ones, are difficult to counter, forcing the Israeli military to adapt its tactics. The group is manufacturing these drones domestically, exploiting perceived weaknesses in Israeli defenses.

Iran is reportedly considering using mine-carrying dolphins against US warships in the Strait of Hormuz amid rising regional tensions and an economic blockade. This unusual tactic, reflecting a push for new weapons, follows Iran's past acquisition of military-trained dolphins. The move comes as hardliners view the blockade as an act of war, potentially leading to renewed conflict.

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.

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.

Oil prices surged Tuesday as Iranian-linked attacks and military clashes heightened fears of disruption in the Strait of Hormuz. Brent crude rose 6% to $114.44 a barrel, while WTI settled 4% higher at $106.42. The Fujairah Oil Industry Zone was struck by a drone, with Emirati officials blaming Iran.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that the forces have struck two Russian oil tankers near Novorossiysk port. This action highlights Ukraine's ongoing strategy to disrupt Russia's energy sector. Drone warfare has intensified, with Ukraine increasingly targeting Russian territory. Russia has also conducted extensive drone attacks across Ukraine. Diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire are ongoing.

Google quietly withdrew from a Pentagon competition to build voice-controlled autonomous drone swarms—after initially being selected as a successful submission. The $100 million contest, run by Special Operations Command and the Defense Innovation Unit, seeks technology to direct drone swarms in real-time battlefield scenarios. Google cited "resourcing" issues, but the exit is said to be followed by an internal ethics review. OpenAI, Palantir, and xAI remain in the running.

Punjab counter-intelligence has busted two ISI-controlled spy modules, arresting three suspects for using solar-powered CCTV cameras to monitor military locations. Footage was transmitted live to Pakistan-based handlers via mobile apps. The cameras, equipped with 4G connectivity, were strategically placed to bypass traditional wiring for surveillance.

Iran is meticulously studying the Ukraine war to enhance its military strategy, particularly focusing on drone technology and AI. Senior commanders are advocating for increased investment in drones, mobile units, and AI integration. This learning process, observed in military journals, is shaping Iran's approach to modern warfare and defense capabilities.

India ranked as the fifth largest military spender globally in 2025, with an 8.9% increase to $92.1 billion, influenced by the India-Pakistan conflict. Global military expenditure reached $2,887 billion, an 11th consecutive year of growth, driven by Europe and Asia, despite a US spending decrease.

Cites Israel’s ‘Op Grim Beepers’ Pager Blasts

Mali faced coordinated attacks on Saturday. Gunfire and explosions were heard in the capital Bamako and near a military camp housing Russian mercenaries. Unidentified terrorist groups targeted several positions. Fighting continued in the capital and other regions. Security forces responded to the unfolding situation. Al-Qaeda affiliate JNIM is suspected of involvement.

Hundreds of Google employees are protesting a potential Pentagon contract, urging CEO Sundar Pichai to block the use of the company's AI for secret military projects. Workers fear their technology could be used for lethal autonomous weapons and mass surveillance, demanding Google reject all classified workloads to ensure AI benefits humanity.

Global military expenditure has hit a record $2.9 trillion, signalling a world preparing for prolonged instability. India’s increased defence spending reflects a broader strategic doctrine focused on modernisation, indigenisation and preparedness for multi-front challenges

Ukraine has intensified its attacks on Russian, targeting its military and energy targets. Overnight drone strikes targeted two Russian landing ships in Sevastopol Bay of Crimea. The Tuapse oil refinery was also hit for the second time in a week. Russian officials confirmed damage to transport infrastructure at Tuapse port. One person was killed and another injured in the latest strike.

Mamata Banerjee, calling herself a 'free bird,' refuses to resign, alleging vote looting by BJP and EC. Raghav Chadha met President Murmu, claiming he's the AAP-led Punjab government's next target for switching parties. The US sank Iranian boats in the Strait of Hormuz amid UAE attacks. Kejriwal accused BJP of 'murdering democracy' after poll wins.

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.