1. Indian Army celebrates 78th Army Day

The Indian Army celebrated its 78th Army Day. President of India Droupadi Murmu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh extended their greetings to the force on this auspicious occasion.

The nation pays heartfelt tribute to the brave men and women in uniform whose courage, discipline, and selfless service safeguard the sovereignty and integrity of the country. Army Day signifies national pride, self-reliance, and the indomitable spirit that defines India.

2. Japan Coast Guard Commandant meets Defence Secretary

Japan Coast Guard Commandant Admiral Seguchi Yoshio called on Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh to discuss ways to enhance ICG–JCG cooperation. The meeting also focused on implementing key aspects of the India–Japan Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation adopted at the August 2025 summit-level meeting, according to a post on X by the Ministry of Defence.

3. Indian Navy and Sri Lankan Navy Staff Talks conclude

The 13th edition of the Indian Navy–Sri Lankan Navy Staff Talks concluded successfully on 14 January in Colombo. The talks were co-chaired by Rear Admiral Srinivas Maddula, Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Foreign Cooperation and Intelligence), and Rear Admiral Ruwan Rupasena, Director General Training.

Discussions focused on strengthening established bilateral engagements, enhancing ongoing cooperation, and advancing collaborative efforts towards maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

4. Rafale deal to be inked in 2026

India and France have agreed on the modalities for the procurement of 114 Rafale F4* fighters for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Official formalities are expected to be completed by the end of 2026 or early 2027, according to a report by The Print.

The proposed project, estimated at around ₹3.25 lakh crore, entails the procurement of 18 aircraft in fly-away condition, with the remaining to be manufactured in India. Indigenous content is expected to reach up to 60 per cent

5. GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin test Rotating Detonation Ramjet for hypersonic missiles

GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin completed a series of engine tests demonstrating the viability of a liquid-fuelled rotating detonation ramjet for use in hypersonic missiles. This marks the first initiative between the companies under a broader joint technology development arrangement.

The fuel-efficient rotating detonation ramjet promises faster speeds, including hypersonic flight, and longer range at reduced cost compared to other ramjet options. Its compact design allows for increased fuel or payload capacity, lowers production costs, and improves thrust generation. Ignition at lower speeds enables the use of smaller boosters for ramjet start.

6. US Army unveils prototype of M1E3 Abrams at Detroit Auto Show

The U.S. Army unveiled an early prototype of the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank at the Detroit Auto Show in Michigan, USA. The new tank reportedly emphasises digital systems and modular, interchangeable capabilities to keep pace with rapidly evolving technology.

The M1E3 is expected to be powered by a commercial diesel engine, operated by a crew of three, and may feature an autoloader for its 120mm smoothbore main gun. The prototype showcased an R400 remote weapon station with a top-mounted Javelin anti-armour missile.

Chakra Desk

Chakra News is a specialised digital media platform committed to in-depth coverage of India’s defence, national security, geopolitics, and critical technologies.