Get all your news in one place.

100's of premium titles.
One app.

Get all your news in one place.

100's of premium titles. One news app.

HISTORICAL FACTS: The indian air force | History Defined

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

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

From analysis to the latest developments in health,
read the most diverse news in one place.

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

Read news from The Economist, FT, and more,
with one subscription

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

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…

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

Get all your
news in one place.

100's of premium titles.
One news app.

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…

Get all your
news in one place.

100's of premium titles.
One news app.

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…

The Economic Times

AFCAT 2 notification 2026 released for 379 vacancies at afcat.cdac.in; Check eligibility, selection process, application dates and how to apply

The Indian Air Force has opened applications for AFCAT 2 2026, announcing 379 officer vacancies across Flying and Ground Duty branches. Aspiring candidates can apply online from May 20 to June 19, 2026. The selection involves a written test, AFSB interview, and medicals, with training commencing July 2027. Thoroughly review…

The Economic Times

Indian Air Force Jaguar aircraft issue deepens with shortage of critical ejection seat parts, can indigenous solution work?

The Indian Air Force is grappling with a critical shortage of spare parts for its ageing Jaguar fighter jets. This issue particularly affects vital ejection seat systems. With India being the sole operator of the Jaguar, global retirements have complicated procurement. Efforts are underway to develop indigenous ejection seats as…

The Economic Times

'100% confident that Tejas Mk1A will be delivered this year': Defence Production Secy Sanjeev Kumar

Secretary of Defence Production Sanjeev Kumar expressed 100% confidence in the Indian Air Force receiving Tejas Mark 1A fighter jets this financial year, despite delays. He cited engine supply issues from GE Aerospace and ongoing development as reasons, assuring that 90% of the aircraft is ready and integration of weapons…

The Economic Times

Long before Tejas, how India’s indigenous fighter jet Marut met a painful death that still haunts India today

India's HF-24 Marut was its first indigenous jet fighter. Developed with German expertise, it faced engine issues limiting its speed. Despite this, the Marut proved vital in the 1971 war, attacking enemy formations. It conducted over 200 sorties, destroying tanks and vehicles. The aircraft retired in 1990, leaving a legacy…

The Economic Times

IAF begins process to replace VIP transport fleet, issues RFI for new long-range business jets

The Indian Air Force is starting to replace its old VIP transport planes. They have issued a request for information to buy four to six new Long Range Business Jets. These jets will provide secure and fast travel for senior military leaders and government officials. The current fleet is nearing…

1 2 3 4 5

People

From analysis to the latest developments in health,
read the most diverse news in one place.

Organisations

Read news from The Economist, FT, and more,
with one subscription

Topics

Places

Fourteen days free

Download the app

One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.