1. Indian Army Southern Command hosts international journalists

The Indian Army’s Konark Corps under Southern Command hosted a delegation of international defence journalists from 25 countries in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, showcasing its journey in the “Decade of Transformation” with a strong focus on Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing. The delegation was briefed on indigenous weapon systems, next-generation platforms, and advanced technologies enhancing operational capability in the desert sector.

The visit also highlighted Military-Civil Fusion initiatives driving border area development, infrastructure growth, and socio-economic progress in western Rajasthan.

2. Indian Embassy in Germany hosts defence seminar

The Embassy of India in Germany hosted a defence seminar in Nürnberg on 24 February 2026 to advance India–Germany defence industrial cooperation.

Keynote addresses were delivered by Major General Stefan Schulz of the Bundeswehr; Dr Garima Bhagat, Joint Secretary (Land Systems), Department of Defence Production, Ministry of Defence, India; Mr Arun T. Ramchandani, President of SIDM; and Dr Hans Christoph Atzpodien, Managing Director of BDSV (German Security and Defence Industry Association).

Dr Garima Bhagat highlighted India’s defence reforms, industry-friendly policies, and opportunities for collaboration in land systems, drones, counter-drone systems, electronic warfare, and next-generation technologies under the Make in India framework.

3. BAE Systems delivers 100,000th APKWS guidance kit

BAE Systems recently delivered its 100,000th APKWS laser-guidance kit, marking a major production milestone as it continues to provide U.S. armed forces and allies with low-cost, reliable precision munitions.

The APKWS guidance kit is a combat-proven, multi-mission solution designed to counter a range of threats while enabling cost-effective operations. It is a highly effective and affordable solution for counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) missions and is already deployed internationally to combat emerging threats.

The system transforms unguided 2.75-inch rockets into precision-guided munitions, allowing accurate strikes with minimal collateral damage. It can be deployed from multiple platforms, including rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft, unmanned aircraft systems, static and mounted ground platforms, and maritime vessels.

The APKWS kit enables air-to-surface, surface-to-surface, surface-to-air, and air-to-air engagements. It can be easily integrated with new and existing rocket motors, warheads, and fuzes, and requires minimal training and maintenance, making it an efficient precision-strike solution.

4. US Navy FA-XX programme gets $750 million boost

The US Navy’s FA-XX fighter jet programme has received $750 million from the Pentagon to accelerate development ahead of a key milestone decision. This comes after earlier internal resistance over concerns that the defence industrial base could not support two sixth-generation fighter programmes simultaneously, as Boeing develops the Air Force’s F-47 under NGAD.

Northrop Grumman and Boeing are competing for the FA-XX programme, which is intended to replace the F/A-18 Super Hornet and EA-18 Growler fleets in service with the US Navy.

The funding is tied to critical design work, risk reduction, and technology maturation, supporting a decision on full-scale development and production. However, the fiscal 2026 defence request reflected caution, with the Navy seeking reduced funding compared to the previous year, indicating a potential slowdown despite growing threat pressures.

Congress has since signalled strong support for advancing the programme and avoiding delays that could widen the capability gap.

5. BAE Systems awarded $500M contract for M109A7 howitzers

BAE Systems has been awarded a $500 million contract to produce additional M109A7 Paladin self-propelled howitzers and M992A3 ammunition carriers for the US Army.

The M109A7’s advanced digital fire control systems and adaptable chassis make it a significant upgrade on the battlefield, equipping warfighters with modern artillery capabilities for future operations.

Awarded in December 2025, the contract will strengthen the Army’s ability to meet critical operational requirements, particularly for its Armoured Brigade Combat Teams (ABCTs).

The platform remains central to the future of the Paladin programme, ensuring soldiers are equipped with mission-ready artillery systems across diverse and challenging conditions. While being one of the lighter tracked self-propelled howitzer systems, it features an adaptable chassis and next-generation capabilities.

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.