India witnessed a series of significant defence-related developments, spanning counter-terror operations, indigenous weapons research, border surveillance upgrades, and high-level military diplomacy. These developments underline the country’s continued focus on national security, technological self-reliance, and strategic partnerships.
Army Concludes Operation ‘Kiya’ in Jammu and Kashmir
The Indian Army and security forces concluded Operation ‘Kiya’ on 4 February 2026, neutralising three terrorists in two separate encounters in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to official sources, the operation was intelligence-led and involved coordinated action by multiple security units. The successful conclusion of the operation reinforces ongoing counter-terror efforts aimed at maintaining stability in the region.
Authorities stated that such operations are part of sustained measures to prevent infiltration and dismantle terror networks operating across the border.
Russia Pushes Su-57 Offer Aligned with ‘Make in India’
Russia has intensified efforts to sell its fifth-generation Su-57 Felon stealth fighter to India, tailoring the proposal to align with New Delhi’s Make in India initiative.
The offer centres on a customised Su-57E variant, with substantial participation from Indian defence industry partners and integration of indigenous subsystems.
Defence analysts note that the proposal reflects India’s growing emphasis on technology transfer, local manufacturing, and long-term strategic autonomy in defence procurement.
CDS Anil Chauhan Holds Talks with Armenian Defence Minister
India’s Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan held key discussions with Armenia’s Defence Minister Suren Papkyan during an official visit to Yerevan.
The talks focused on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, training exchanges, and potential collaboration in defence technology and logistics.
The meeting highlights India’s expanding defence diplomacy beyond traditional partners, particularly in strategically sensitive regions.
SSB Upgrades Border Surveillance with Advanced Technology
The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), responsible for guarding India’s borders with Nepal and Bhutan, has significantly enhanced its surveillance capabilities.
The force has inducted unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), micro-UAVs, and advanced monitoring systems equipped with automatic face recognition and auto number-plate recognition technologies.
These upgrades aim to strengthen vigilance along the 2,400-kilometre border, improving real-time monitoring and rapid response to cross-border challenges.
DRDO Successfully Tests SFDR Propulsion Technology
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) achieved a major milestone with the successful ground test of its Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR) technology.
The test was conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, off the Odisha coast.
SFDR technology is expected to significantly enhance missile range and speed, offering next-generation propulsion capabilities for future air-to-air and surface-to-air missile systems.
DRDO Confirms Development of Land-Attack LR-AShM
DRDO has confirmed that work is underway on a land-attack variant of the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LR-AShM).
DRDO Chairman Dr. Samir V. Kamat stated that the development builds on the missile’s successful hypersonic tests, positioning India among a select group of nations with advanced strike capabilities.
The project aligns with India’s broader strategy to enhance precision strike and deterrence capabilities.
Divakar Jayant Takes Charge as Director General of Naval Armament
Divakar Jayant has assumed charge as the Director General of Naval Armament, a key position overseeing naval weapons systems and armament development.
His appointment is expected to strengthen the Indian Navy’s weapons acquisition, integration, and indigenous development programmes.
Veterans Criticise Withdrawal of Tax Exemption on Disability Pension
The Union government’s decision in the latest budget to withdraw income tax exemption on disability pension for certain categories of retired defence personnel has drawn criticism from military veterans.
Under the revised provision, only personnel invalidated out of service due to disability will be eligible for the exemption, while those retiring after completing full service will not.
Veterans have argued that the move undermines long-standing welfare assurances for armed forces personnel, prompting calls for a review of the policy.
Strategic Overview
Collectively, these developments reflect India’s multi-dimensional defence approach—combining operational readiness, indigenous technological advancement, enhanced border security, and active defence diplomacy.
As regional and global security dynamics evolve, policymakers and military leadership continue to balance modernisation efforts with personnel welfare and strategic partnerships.
