1. DRDO hosts 24th Indo-US Joint Plenary Meeting

DRDO hosted the 24th Indo-US Joint Technical Group Plenary Meeting in New Delhi on 3–4 February, reviewing defence science and technology cooperation and advancing collaboration in critical and emerging technologies under the India-US Major Defence Partnership. Discussions also covered academia-industry participation and cooperation between DRDO and the US Defence Innovation Unit, culminating in the signing of a project agreement.

The plenary was conducted in line with the vision and policy guidance of the India-US Major Defence Partnership framework signed by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and the US Secretary of War, Mr Pete Hegseth, in October 2025. The delegations reviewed ongoing cooperation in defence S&T, discussed associated challenges, and examined proposals to further strengthen collaboration in critical and emerging defence technologies to meet evolving requirements.

2. LCA Tejas MK-1A to fly in June–July

The first lot of the Tejas Mk-1A, which was to be delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF) in March 2024, is now likely to be inducted only by June–July this year, marking a delay of over two years, according to a report by The Print.

Sources in the defence and security establishment told The Print that this timeline represents a best-case scenario, even as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) stated on Thursday that five aircraft are ready for induction.

3. SDHI secures defence export order from Sultanate of Oman

Swan Defence and Heavy Industries Limited (SDHI), India’s largest shipbuilding and heavy fabrication company, has secured a prestigious defence export order from the Government of the Sultanate of Oman to supply a state-of-the-art training ship. The vessel, which will support the Royal Navy of Oman’s (RNO) advanced naval training and maritime operations, is expected to be delivered within 18 months.

Measuring 104.25 m in length, with a beam of 13.88 m and a displacement of up to 3,500 tonnes, the training vessel will be equipped with modern classrooms, training offices, and accommodation facilities. It will also feature an auditorium to provide a world-class learning environment at sea for up to 70 officer cadets, along with a state-of-the-art navigation system, an advanced communications suite, and the capability to conduct helicopter operations.

4. Defence Ministry to discuss 114 Rafale jets next week

Ahead of the French President’s visit, the Defence Ministry is likely to discuss the ₹3.25 lakh crore deal for 114 Rafale fighter jets next week. According to reports, the Indian Air Force will receive 88 single-seat and 26 twin-seat Rafale aircraft.

Around 80 per cent of the fighters are expected to be manufactured in India by Dassault Aviation. Once the deal is completed, the Indian Air Force will operate 150 Rafale fighter jets, while 26 Rafale aircraft will be in service with the Indian Navy.

5. Israel MoD signs deal with Elbit Systems for DIRCM on CH-53K ‘Pereh’ helicopters

As part of preparations to induct the CH-53K “Pereh” helicopters, the Defense Procurement Directorate (DPD) of the Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has signed a deal with Elbit Systems to integrate advanced Israeli technologies on the fleet. These include command and control, avionics, electronic warfare systems, and the advanced DIRCM anti-missile protection system.

The systems will be installed on 12 new helicopters that will replace the Israel Defense Forces’ ageing “Yas’ur” fleet. The deal, led by the Deputy Director of the DPD for Air and Sea Procurement, is valued at approximately $130 million (over NIS 400 million).

6. Oshkosh Defence to deliver additional FMTV A2 vehicles

Oshkosh Defence has been awarded an additional $25 million contract from the US Army to deliver FMTV A2 Low-Velocity Airdrop (LVAD) 4×4 cargo vehicles and kits. This order follows a recent Army contract for 97 vehicles awarded on 20 January and reflects sustained demand for mission-critical tactical mobility solutions in extreme environments.

To date, the US Army has placed orders for 797 Oshkosh FMTV A2 LVAD vehicles, underscoring its commitment to modernising airborne and expeditionary logistics capabilities. Designed to be parachuted from aircraft, the FMTV A2 LVAD fills a critical sustainment gap by delivering essential supplies along with a mission-ready vehicle, reducing reliance on vulnerable ground convoys during early deployment phases.

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.