1. Garuda Aerospace deploys drones in Andhra Pradesh for Cyclone Relief Operations

Chennai-based drone manufacturer Garuda Aerospace has deployed over 100 drones to support the Andhra Pradesh Drones Corporation in Cyclone Montha relief operations across the state. Garuda’s logistics and delivery drones are playing a vital role in aerial inspection, surveillance, and the delivery of medicines and essential supplies to areas severely impacted by the cyclone.

These drones are also being utilised for real-time aerial mapping, monitoring flood-affected regions, and identifying choke points to enable faster emergency response. Equipped with payload delivery systems, the drones are transporting medical kits, emergency equipment, and relief materials to remote and cut-off locations where ground access remains difficult due to flooding. The logistics drones use AI and machine learning to enhance efficiency, while the delivery drones can transport materials with a payload capacity of up to 25 kg. The drones are currently deployed in Amalapuram.

2. DRDO hands over 12 licensing agreements for technology transfer

The DRDO handed over 12 Licensing Agreements for Transfer of Technology (LAToTs) for eight products to industry partners during the inaugural session of SAMANVAY 2025, a two-day industry synergy meet organised by the Electronics & Communication Systems (ECS) Cluster, DRDO, in Bengaluru on October 29.

3. India–Russia military cooperation meeting concludes

The 5th meeting of the Working Group on Military Cooperation under the India–Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military & Military-Technical Cooperation (IRIGC-M&MTC) concluded successfully in New Delhi. It was held from October 28–29.

Co-chaired by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC), and Lt Gen Dylevsky Igor Nikolaevich, Deputy Chief of the Main Operational Directorate, Russia, the Working Group reviewed current defence cooperation plans and explored new avenues for collaboration and knowledge-sharing.

4. Japanese military delegation visits AATS Agra

A delegation from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), comprising 14 members of the Training, Evaluation, Education, Research, and Development Command, visited the Army Airborne Training School (AATS) in Agra on October 29, 2025, according to a post on X by the Indian Army.

The delegation was briefed on various aerial delivery equipment, indigenously developed controlled aerial delivery systems, and the military combat parachute system, along with the time-tested training pedagogy of AATS.

5. Pakistan–Afghanistan ceasefire talks fail

Pakistan authorities on October 29 confirmed that talks with the Afghan Taliban to tackle cross-border terrorism had failed, saying Kabul backtracked on its commitments to control militancy.

The four-day talks, which began on October 25, were facilitated by Türkiye, where officials from Pakistan and Afghanistan attempted to find common ground but failed to reach a consensus.

6. Spain to acquire 45 Hurjet trainer aircraft

The Spanish government has approved a €3.12 billion agreement for the acquisition of 45 Hurjet training aircraft, designed and manufactured by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), according to a report by Ekathimerini.com.

The Hurjet, a single-engine advanced jet trainer and light combat aircraft, will be produced at TAI’s facilities in Turkey, while Airbus España will handle the integration of the mission computer, communications, and selected avionics systems. According to the production schedule, the first aircraft deliveries are expected by 2028.

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.