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The Latest Breaking News from the Indian Air Force

IAF more powerful than China's air force, retains world's No. 3 rank for fifth consecutive year: WDMMA

The Indian Air Force maintains its third global ranking for the fifth year. This assessment considers fleet size, technology, and operational capabilities. The IAF's quality fleet outweighs China's larger numerical strength. Acquisitions like Rafale and Tejas will enhance fighter capabilities significantly. Future inductions and indigenous development support long-term modernization plans.

The Economic Times

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit to be next Vice Chief of IAF, relinquishes CISC appointment

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, a decorated pilot with extensive flying experience, is slated to become the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff on July 1st. He takes over from Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor. Air Marshal Dixit, an alumnus of prestigious defence institutions, brings a wealth of expertise from his…

The Economic Times

Government officially names, for the first time, 6 Indian military personnel killed in Operation Sindoor

For the first time, the government has officially named six Indian soldiers, including five from the Army and one from the Air Force, who died during Operation Sindoor. Their names are now on the National War Memorial's Roll of Honour, marking the first formal acknowledgement of casualties from the May…

The Economic Times

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Ladakh administration calls for SoPs to curb unauthorised photography, videography as IAF raises concern

Authorities in Leh are implementing strict Standard Operating Procedures to curb unauthorized photography and videography of sensitive areas, including the dual-use airport. This move follows concerns raised by the Indian Air Force regarding the circulation of operational images on social media. The administration is also reinforcing existing regulations and launching…

The Economic Times

Did Pakistan really down India's Rafale fighter jets during Operation Sindoor? Latest IAF tender reveals the truth

The Indian Air Force has issued a tender seeking a five-month bridge support package for all 36 Rafale fighter jets acquired from France, ahead of the expiry of the current maintenance arrangement in September 2026. The move counters Pakistan's claims that several Rafale aircraft were lost during Operation Sindoor, as…

The Economic Times

IAF launches project to produce indigenous long-range kamikaze drones

The Indian Air Force is developing long-range kamikaze drones with Indian companies. This initiative aims to strengthen preparedness for future drone warfare. The project focuses on indigenous design, development, and manufacturing. The drones will operate at high altitudes and in all conditions. This move promotes self-reliance in defence production. The…

The Economic Times

India aims to co-develop, co-design, co-produce, co-manufacture: MEA on Rafale deal with France

India is boosting its defence manufacturing through the 'Make in India' initiative. Discussions with France focus on co-developing and co-producing Rafale fighter jets. This significant deal aims for substantial local production. India seeks to enhance its indigenous capabilities and address fighter aircraft shortages. The agreement will see Rafale aircraft manufactured…

The Economic Times

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A final video call, a last photo: Bihar families mourn IAF personnel killed in Assam crash

Tragedy struck two Bihar villages as Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar and Agniveervayu Danish Alam were among five IAF personnel killed in an aircraft crash in Assam. Their families cherish final mobile phone memories. Kumar spoke to his mother hours before the crash. Alam sent a photo from inside an aircraft.…

The Economic Times

Why Pakistan's Sargodha, targeted by the IAF during Operation Sindoor, is central to Imtiaz Ali's Main Vaapas Aaunga

Imtiaz Ali's film "Main Vaapas Aaunga" highlights Sargodha, a Pakistani city with deep roots in Partition-era memories. Established by the British in 1903, Sargodha's history is intertwined with agriculture and a significant airbase. The city recently gained international attention following Indian Air Force strikes on its airfield complex in May…

The Economic Times

Tata, Airbus conduct first test flight of maiden 'Made in India' C295 military transport aircraft

India's first Airbus C295 military transport aircraft, manufactured in Vadodara, has successfully completed its initial test flight. This marks a significant step towards delivering 40 such aircraft to the Indian Air Force this year. The programme signifies a new era in India's defence manufacturing capabilities, with private sector involvement and…

The Economic Times

India weighs action against HAL for delayed Tejas fighter deliveries

In light of ongoing delays in the delivery of Tejas Mk1A fighter jets, the Defence Ministry is contemplating penalties for Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. To date, the Indian Air Force has yet to receive a single Tejas Mk1A, despite HAL having procured engines and structural elements. The Ministry insists on HAL…

The Economic Times

IAF being engaged to transport NEET question papers: NTA DG

The Indian Air Force will transport NEET question papers for the June 21 national test. Enhanced security measures are in place. Telangana is preparing 208 centers for 73,000 students. Officials are ensuring smooth arrangements for infrastructure, transport, and security. Police will maintain vigilance and monitor social media to counter misinformation.…

The Economic Times

Rafale fires MICA NG missile designed to hunt stealth jets in first supersonic test

France has successfully tested its advanced MICA NG missile from a Rafale fighter jet. This new weapon is designed to counter stealth aircraft and drones. The test marks a significant step towards integrating the missile with the Rafale. India is also advancing plans to acquire 114 Rafale fighter jets, with…

The Economic Times

Who is Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit? All about new IAF Vice Chief with 3,300+ flying hours on MiG-21, other aircrafts

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, a decorated fighter and test pilot, is set to become the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff from July 1. His extensive experience includes enhancing jointness among defence forces and championing indigenous fighter projects. With over 3,300 flying hours on various aircraft, his leadership has…

The Economic Times

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The Economic Times

DRDO, IAF successfully test RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from Su-30MKI fighter; hits target with pin-point accuracy

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation and the Indian Air Force have successfully conducted flight tests of the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile. The indigenously developed missile demonstrated pinpoint accuracy, engaging its target successfully. These trials validate the missile's critical subsystems and mark a significant step towards Aatmanirbharta in advanced weapon systems.

The Economic Times

Srinagar Airport to remain shut on these days: Check important advisory if you are planning a trip to Kashmir

Srinagar Airport faces potential flight disruptions from July to October 2026 due to proposed Indian Air Force runway maintenance. Operations may be limited on Mondays and Tuesdays from July to September, with a complete shutdown planned for the first half of October. Passengers are urged to follow official updates for…

The Economic Times

Srinagar Airport announces partial runway closures for maintenance starting July 2026; total runway shutdown from October 1

Srinagar Airport faces flight disruptions due to Indian Air Force runway maintenance. As part of the maintenanace, the runway will be unavailable on Mondays and Tuesdays from July 1 to September 30, 2026. A complete closure is planned from October 1 to October 16, 2026. Passengers must check with airlines…

The Economic Times

India issues formal request to France for 114 Rafales in Rs 3.25 lakh crore deal

India has requested France for 114 Rafale fighter jets. This major deal is valued at approximately 3.25 lakh crore rupees. A significant portion of these jets will be manufactured in India. This move aims to bolster the Indian Air Force's fighter aircraft squadrons. The agreement is expected to be finalized…

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The Economic Times

Stealth, skies and sovereignty: India's fighter jet plan takes off

The Defence Ministry has issued tenders for India’s indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme to three private sector-led groups — Tata Advanced Systems, the Larsen & Toubro-Bharat Electronics Limited alliance, and the Bharat Forge-BEML combine — marking a major shift from India’s traditional state-led defence production model.

The Economic Times

Defence Ministry issues RFP for indigenous 5th-gen Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft project to 3 shortlisted bidders

India's Defence Ministry has issued a Request for Proposal for its indigenous fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft project. Three companies are shortlisted. This initiative aims to boost India's defence capabilities. A new flight testing centre is being established to accelerate development. The AMCA is designed for the Indian Air Force…

The Economic Times

Defence Ministry issues AMCA fighter jet tenders to Tata, L&T-BEL, Bharat Forge-BEML: Report

India's defence ministry has moved forward with its indigenous fifth-generation fighter jet program. The Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft RFP has been issued to three shortlisted companies. This marks a significant step towards developing a stealth fighter for the Indian Air Force. Prototypes are expected to fly by 2032. Deliveries of…

The Economic Times

Known for their jaw-dropping manoeuvres in skies, IAF's Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team turns 30

From its debut in 1996, it has been part of over 800 breathtaking displays across India and abroad, including marquee events in the country - Aero India and Air Force Day.

The Economic Times

114 Rafale jets deal moves ahead as India finalises LoR for France: Report

India is nearing a significant defence deal with France for 114 Rafale fighter jets, with a Letter of Request expected soon. This acquisition aims to bolster the Indian Air Force's capabilities, with a substantial portion to be manufactured domestically. The deal, estimated at ₹3.25 lakh crore, is a crucial step…

The Economic Times

Apache vs Prachand: Why India operates both attack helicopters and how they differ

India is acquiring support for Boeing AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. This acquisition renews discussions on India's use of foreign and indigenous platforms. The LCH Prachand, developed by HAL, is designed for high-altitude operations. The Apache is suited for plains and deserts. Both helicopters serve distinct roles in India's defense modernization.

The Economic Times

Indian Air Force chief bats for self-reliance in defence capabilities

Air Chief Marshal A P Singh stressed self-reliance for India's defence. He spoke at the Air Force Test Pilots School graduation. Seventeen officers completed rigorous training. These graduates will boost indigenous defence capabilities. They will work to strengthen India's aerospace ecosystem. The Chief of Air Staff urged them to uphold…

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