1. CSIR-NAL introduces NJ100 turbojet engine for UAVs and compact cruise missiles

CSIR-NAL introduced the NJ100, an indigenous small turbojet engine, on March 16. It delivers 100 kgf of thrust and is roughly the size of a backpack. The NJ100 is intended for UAVs, drone interceptors, and compact cruise-missile-class platforms.

2. Indian Navy deploys two task forces to escort ships from the Strait of Hormuz

The Indian Navy has deployed two task forces of warships to help ensure the safe transit of merchant vessels and tankers carrying gas and crude oil to India after crossing the Strait of Hormuz near Iran. According to a post on X cited by ANI, all possible assistance and support are being provided to vessels escorted by Indian Navy warships.

3. Pakistan strikes a hospital in Kabul

Pakistan struck a hospital in Kabul on March 16. According to media reports, 400 people were killed and 250 wounded. Pakistan has denied the claims, stating it targeted only military installations, while Taliban officials have described the strike as a crime against humanity.

4. NIA arrests seven foreign nationals for alleged terrorist activities

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested seven foreign nationals, including an American, for allegedly conspiring to carry out terrorist activities against India on March 16, according to a report by The Print.

The US citizen and six Ukrainian nationals were taken into custody on Friday after being booked under relevant charges, including Section 18 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.

5. Rockets and drones launched at the US Embassy in Iraq

Rockets and at least five drones were launched at the US Embassy in Baghdad early on March 17, from areas around the city, according to a report by Reuters. Iraqi security officials described the attack as the most intense since the start of the US-Israel war with Iran.

A Reuters witness saw at least three drones heading towards the embassy. The C-RAM air defence system shot down two of them, while a third struck inside the embassy compound, from where fire and smoke were seen rising, the witness said.

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.