1. US clarifies AMRAAM missile sale to Pakistan

The US Department of War has clarified reports regarding the sale of AMRAAM missiles to Pakistan.

On September 30, 2025, the Department released a list of standard contract announcements, referring to an amendment to an existing Foreign Military Sales contract for sustainment and spares for several countries, including Pakistan.

The Administration emphasised that, contrary to media speculation, no part of this contract modification involves new deliveries of Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) to Pakistan. The sustainment package does not include any upgrade to Pakistan’s existing capabilities.

2. Taiwan unveils ‘T-Dome’ air defence system

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te announced plans to develop the “T-Dome” air defence system, designed to provide multi-layered protection against enemy threats. He also urged China to renounce the use of force to seize Taiwan.

Democratically governed Taiwan continues to face heightened military and political pressure from China, which claims the island as its own.

Taiwan is increasing defence spending and modernising its forces but faces a vastly larger Chinese military equipped with advanced platforms, including stealth fighters, aircraft carriers, and an extensive missile arsenal.

3. Thirty Palestinians killed in Israeli air strike

Thirty Palestinians have been killed in Gaza since Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire under US President Donald Trump’s Gaza Peace Plan, CNN reported, citing a Palestinian health official. Residents described smoke and explosions across the enclave.

Mohammed Abu Salmiya, director of Al-Shifa Hospital, confirmed the casualties, while Gaza’s Civil Defence said over 40 people were trapped under rubble in northern Gaza’s Al-Sabra neighbourhood.

4. Israeli cabinet approves outline of hostage deal

Israel’s Cabinet early Friday approved President Donald Trump’s plan for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas — a key step towards ending a two-year war that has destabilised the Middle East.

A brief statement from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said the Cabinet approved the “outline” of the deal to release hostages, without elaborating on other contentious details.

The broader ceasefire plan leaves many questions unanswered — including whether Hamas will disarm and who will govern Gaza. Yet, both sides appear closer than in months to ending a war that has killed tens of thousands, devastated Gaza, and left dozens of hostages in captivity.

5. India and the Czech Republic enhance defence cooperation

India and the Czech Republic strengthened defence cooperation during the 7th Joint Defence Committee Meeting held in Prague.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Additional Secretary and DG (Acquisition) Shri A. Anbarasu led the Indian delegation, while Ms Radka Konderlová, Director General of the Industrial Cooperation Division, represented the Czech Ministry of Defence.

Talks focused on defence industrial collaboration, military training, and expanding bilateral cooperation. An India–Czechia Defence Industry Seminar also saw active participation from both sides, exploring new avenues of partnership.

6. India orders Thales LMM missiles from the UK

India has agreed to procure multi-role missiles manufactured by Thales in the United Kingdom in a £350 million ($468 million) deal, the UK government announced on October 9.

The agreement to deliver Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) to the Indian Army was signed during UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Mumbai, paving the way for a broader partnership in complex weapons.

The LMM, also known as the Martlet, is a lightweight, versatile missile derived from Starstreak technology and can be launched from air or surface platforms against aerial or surface targets. Both systems are produced by Thales in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

7. Germany approves more Eurofighters

According to Defense News, Germany’s parliament has approved defence procurements worth over €7 billion ($8.14 billion), with new combat jets topping the list.

The purchase of twenty tranche-five Eurofighters will cost about €3.75 billion ($4.36 billion), with deliveries expected between 2031 and 2034. The Luftwaffe will also receive maintenance parts and upgraded simulators worth €412 million.

8. US to deploy 200 troops in Israel

Reuters reports that the United States will deploy up to 200 troops to Israel to establish a task force supporting stabilisation efforts in Gaza. No US personnel are expected to be deployed inside the Palestinian enclave.

The US Central Command will stand up the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CMCC) for the mission.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the deployed personnel will monitor the Gaza agreement and coordinate with other international forces on the ground.

Arjun Dev Singh

Arjun Dev Singh has a deep interest in defence, security, and strategic affairs. With a strong analytical lens and a passion for military and geopolitical developments, Arjun strives to bring clarity and context to complex national and international issues.