1. DRDO scouting alternatives to GE F414 engines

The Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is actively evaluating alternative engine options for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) prototype, according to a report by Asianet News. The projected cost of the American GE Aerospace F414 engines has reportedly risen to nearly three times the originally anticipated figure. The F414-INS6 turbofan engine is planned as the interim powerplant for the AMCA Mk1, expected to power the first 2–4 squadrons, comprising around 60–70 fighters, as well as the LCA Tejas Mk-2. Rolls-Royce and Safran are among the contenders being considered as alternatives to the GE F414.

2. RFP for Rafale fleet support triggers debate

A Request for Proposal (RFP) issued by the Indian Air Force to French firm Safran has sparked debate on social media. The RFP pertains to support for the IAF’s fleet of 36 Rafale fighter aircraft. The development has drawn attention in the context of Pakistan’s claim that it shot down a Rafale during Operation Sindoor in May 2025. The IAF is seeking a five-month ‘bridge support’ arrangement beyond September 18, 2026.

3. India’s Ambassador to China meets Army Chief

Vikram K. Doraiswami, India’s Ambassador to the People’s Republic of China, called on General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff. Discussions focused on the evolving regional and global strategic environment. The two sides also reviewed the current state of bilateral engagement and deliberated on measures to further strengthen existing mechanisms of cooperation and dialogue.

4. India and United Kingdom hold Executive Steering Group meeting

The 15th India–United Kingdom Executive Steering Group (ESG) meeting was held in the United Kingdom from June 17–19. The engagement included visits to the UK Trials & Experimental Group, the ESG meeting at the Ministry of Defence in London, and MBDA in Stevenage. Discussions focused on advancing multi-layered military cooperation through enhanced interoperability, bilateral exercises and training, subject-matter expert exchanges in niche and emerging technologies, exploration of new training opportunities, and increased engagement between defence think tanks.

5. IAF to receive first Made-in-India C-295MW in September

The Indian Air Force is set to receive its first Made-in-India C-295MW transport aircraft in September. India signed a ₹21,935 crore contract in 2021 for the acquisition of 56 aircraft. Of these, 16 have already been delivered, while the remaining 40 are being manufactured in India. On June 10, the first Made-in-India Airbus C-295 military transport aircraft completed its maiden test flight from the Final Assembly Line in Vadodara.

6. Poland plans Airbus A330 MRTT acquisition with Spain

Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, has announced plans to acquire Airbus A330 MRTT (Multi Role Tanker Transport) aircraft for the Polish Air Force in cooperation with Spain. The A330 MRTT is an aerial refuelling and military transport aircraft derived from the civilian Airbus A330 platform.

The aircraft is currently operated by 18 nations, including Australia, Canada, France, South Korea, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Spain, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and NATO’s Multinational MRTT Fleet, which includes Germany, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Norway, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, and Sweden.

Notably, the Airbus A330 MRTT emerged as the winner in two Indian Air Force aerial refueller competitions but was ultimately not selected due to cost considerations.

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.