1. Indian Navy P-8I aircraft and contingent participate in RIMPAC 2026

The Indian Navy’s P-8I aircraft and contingent continue to participate in Exercise RIMPAC 2026, being held from June 24 to July 31. This is the first time that the Indian Navy is undertaking the role of Deputy Commander Task Force for theatre-level anti-submarine warfare during the exercise.

2. Australia raises concerns with India over China’s ballistic missile test

Australia has raised concerns with India regarding China’s recent long-range submarine-launched ballistic missile test. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese discussed the issue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the latter’s visit to Australia from July 8 to 10. On July 6, China conducted a ballistic missile test from a submarine into the Pacific Ocean.

3. INS Sudarshini heads to Boston

After participating in the International Naval Review 250 and SAIL250 celebrations in New York, commemorating the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, INS Sudarshini is now proceeding to Boston to participate in Sail Boston 2026. The event, to be held from July 10 to 16, will feature 50 ships from 21 countries.

4. Belgium to acquire 10 NASAMS air-defence systems

At the NATO Summit in Ankara, Belgium signed a cooperation agreement with the Netherlands for the acquisition of 10 NASAMS air-defence systems. Contract negotiations are still underway. NASAMS can employ a variety of missiles, including the AMRAAM, AMRAAM-ER and AIM-9X Sidewinder, providing both short- and extended-range air-defence capabilities.

5. Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall sign MoU for ATACMS

During the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum, Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall signed a memorandum of understanding to establish the first European centre of excellence for the manufacture, integration and distribution of ATACMS for NATO and allied European forces. ATACMS is a conventional surface-to-surface missile system with a range of up to 300 km and is launched from the HIMARS and M270 MLRS platforms.

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.