While most countries pour billions into building armies, tanks, and fighter jets, a handful of nations spend nothing, literally $0 on defence. Yet, they remain among the world’s safest and most peaceful places. Here’s how they manage it.

While most countries pour billions into building armies, tanks, and fighter jets, a handful of nations spend nothing, literally $0 on defence. Yet, they remain among the world’s safest and most peaceful places. Here’s how they manage it.

5 nations that spend $0 on defence and still sleep peacefully

The UN arms embargo since 1992 prevents Somalia from importing heavy weapons or combat aircraft. Today, the country relies entirely on international peacekeeping forces and foreign allies for air support.

The UN arms embargo since 1992 prevents Somalia from importing heavy weapons or combat aircraft. Today, the country relies entirely on international peacekeeping forces and foreign allies for air support.

Top 5 countries banned from owning fighter jets and why

Through its military exports, energy partnerships, and role in global diplomacy, Russia has multiple levers to quietly discourage Saudi military adventurism. Rather than overt threats, Moscow would use backchannel pressure to keep Riyadh in check.

Through its military exports, energy partnerships, and role in global diplomacy, Russia has multiple levers to quietly discourage Saudi military adventurism. Rather than overt threats, Moscow would use backchannel pressure to keep Riyadh in check.

Why Russia may block Saudi Arabia from directly confronting India during a war against Pakistan?

The US benefits massively from Saudi arms purchases, in 2022 alone, deals exceeded $3 billion. Supporting Saudi defence initiatives keeps the US defence industry profitable, but Washington must balance this without jeopardising India’s trust.

The US benefits massively from Saudi arms purchases, in 2022 alone, deals exceeded $3 billion. Supporting Saudi defence initiatives keeps the US defence industry profitable, but Washington must balance this without jeopardising India’s trust.

Does the US have a hidden angle in Saudi–Pakistan defence pact to counter India?

India’s nuclear deterrence, naval dominance, and global partnerships give it the edge, while Saudi Arabia risks losing vital trade and diplomatic standing. 

India’s nuclear deterrence, naval dominance, and global partnerships give it the edge, while Saudi Arabia risks losing vital trade and diplomatic standing.&nbsp;

India vs Saudi Arabia: What would happen if they faced off militarily after defence pact with Pakistan?

Even under its pact, Saudi Arabia could opt for logistical, financial, and intelligence support, arms supplies, or diplomatic cover for Pakistan, without crossing the line into open hostilities with India.

Even under its pact, Saudi Arabia could opt for logistical, financial, and intelligence support, arms supplies, or diplomatic cover for Pakistan, without crossing the line into open hostilities with India.

Pakistan-Saudi Defence Pact: Could oil be used as a weapon against India in a conflict?

Most countries maintain a military for national defence. But a handful have chosen another path, relying on allies, treaties, or police forces instead of standing armies. Here are 20 countries that live without their own armies.


Most countries maintain a military for national defence. But a handful have chosen another path, relying on allies, treaties, or police forces instead of standing armies. Here are 20 countries that live without their own armies.

Are you a conqueror? List of 20 countries with 'no army' of their own to defend

Drone technology is rapidly transforming modern warfare. Countries across the globe are investing billions into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance, combat, and intelligence-gathering missions. Here’s a look at 8 nations leading the drone revolution.

Drone technology is rapidly transforming modern warfare. Countries across the globe are investing billions into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for surveillance, combat, and intelligence-gathering missions. Here’s a look at 8 nations leading the drone revolution.

'From India to Israel': 8 countries investing heavily in drone warfare

The Ghatak (English: “deadly”) is an Indian stealth drone made for combat missions. It is a type of unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), which means it can fly and fight without a pilot inside. Because the project is highly secret, many details are not shared with the public. But the information available shows that it is an advanced and powerful weapon system for the future.The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones. The goal is to give the IAF a home-made stealth combat drone that can carry out missions even in dangerous enemy-controlled skies.The Ghatak project follows India’s “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) defence plan. Its purpose is to cut down dependence on foreign weapons and to strengthen India’s own military technology.The Ghatak came from an earlier idea called the Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft (AURA), first shown in 2007. The goal was to build a self-controlled or autonomous combat drone (UCAV). While DRDO led the project, the design work was later given to the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).In the early planning stage, the project was officially named Ghatak. In 2016, it got government approval and funding, which began the main development work.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/india-s-space-dream-soars-isro-s-air-drop-test-success-marks-gaganyaan-milestone-1756084248326">India’s space dream soars: ISRO’s air drop test success marks Gaganyaan milestone</a>Because the project is very complex, it is being developed in phases. Work first started with a test drone called the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT). This was used to check aerodynamics, self-flying or autonomous controls, and stealth features. In 2022, the prototype had its first successful flight.The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) planned to start building the full Ghatak UCAV in Bengaluru by 2024. But due to government delays and funding issues, the first full test flight is now expected only by 2025-26, and the Indian Air Force may get it by 2030.<h2>Specifications</h2>The full-size Ghatak drone will weigh around 13 tons, making it bigger than most drones in the world. Though many details are secret, here are the known points:● Weight: 13,000 kg (28,660 lbs)● Shape: Flying wing design for better stealth● Speed: High-subsonic (just below the speed of sound),usually means around 950–1,100 km/h.● Engine: First with a Russian turbofan, later may use India’s Kaveri engine (by 2035) with better efficiency and low heat signature● Payload: Can carry up to 1.5 tons of weapons and sensors inside a hidden bay for stealth● Control: Fully autonomous, but can be managed from the ground if needed● Stealth: Low radar visibility because of its special design<h2>Technical Development</h2>The most important feature of the Ghatak UCAV is its stealth ability, which needed a lot of Indian research and development. It is being developed together with the AMCA fighter jet project, so both can share stealth technologies.The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to give the drone advanced AI technology and autonomous systems. This will allow it to do automatic takeoff and landing, follow preset routes, and use smart decision-making in combat.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/when-mysore-s-young-maharaja-made-india-fly-the-forgotten-hero-of-our-aviation-story-1756085551929">When Mysore's young maharaja made India fly: The forgotten hero of our aviation story</a>India’s military plans to build different versions of the Ghatak drone, including one for Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and air-superiority missions. Instead of a single model, there will be a family of UCAVs for different tasks. The goal is to get at least 150 Ghatak units, according to reports from Grey Dynamics UK’s intelligence platform media.<h2>Mission</h2>India is building the Ghatak drone because of ongoing tensions with Pakistan and China. It will help the Indian Air Force in long-range strikes, watching sensitive border areas, and destroying enemy air defense systems.The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) calls the Ghatak a fast, self-defending drone that can also fire weapons. Its roles will include precision strikes and ISR missions (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance).The Ghatak UCAV can also act as a “loyal wingman”, flying alongside fighter jets to do forward scouting and attack targets, while keeping the pilots at a safer distance.The 13-ton size of the Ghatak gives room for more weapons, advanced sensors, and longer missions. Its stealth design lets it enter dangerous airspaces safely without risking human pilots.<h2>Criticism and Challenges</h2>Even with good technical progress, the project is stuck due to government approvals not being cleared. This has pushed the timeline to 2030, which may create a gap in India’s military strength.In 2024, the project’s first director raised concerns after parts of the work moved from the successful ADA agency to ADE, which has a weaker track record.<h2>Conclusion</h2>The DRDO Ghatak is an important step in India’s plan to build stealth autonomous drones. It shows India’s push for homegrown defence technology focused on stealth and autonomy.The knowledge gained from this project can help build future Indian autonomous systems. But there are still challenges like engine development, government approvals, and finishing the project. Even so, the Ghatak’s role in air combat missions proves India’s growing strength in aerospace defence.

The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones.

The Ghatak (English: “deadly”) is an Indian stealth drone made for combat missions. It is a type of unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), which means it can fly and fight without a pilot inside. Because the project is highly secret, many details are not shared with the public. But the information available shows that it is an advanced and powerful weapon system for the future. The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones. The goal is to give the IAF a home-made stealth combat drone that can carry out missions even in dangerous enemy-controlled skies. The Ghatak project follows India’s “Aatmanirbharta” (self-reliance) defence plan. Its purpose is to cut down dependence on foreign weapons and to strengthen India’s own military technology. The Ghatak came from an earlier idea called the Autonomous Unmanned Research Aircraft (AURA), first shown in 2007. The goal was to build a self-controlled or autonomous combat drone (UCAV). While DRDO led the project, the design work was later given to the Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA). In the early planning stage, the project was officially named Ghatak. In 2016, it got government approval and funding, which began the main development work. Also read | India’s space dream soars: ISRO’s air drop test success marks Gaganyaan milestone Because the project is very complex, it is being developed in phases. Work first started with a test drone called the Stealth Wing Flying Testbed (SWiFT). This was used to check aerodynamics, self-flying or autonomous controls, and stealth features. In 2022, the prototype had its first successful flight. The Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) planned to start building the full Ghatak UCAV in Bengaluru by 2024. But due to government delays and funding issues, the first full test flight is now expected only by 2025-26, and the Indian Air Force may get it by 2030. Specifications The full-size Ghatak drone will weigh around 13 tons, making it bigger than most drones in the world. Though many details are secret, here are the known points: ● Weight: 13,000 kg (28,660 lbs) ● Shape: Flying wing design for better stealth ● Speed: High-subsonic (just below the speed of sound),usually means around 950–1,100 km/h. ● Engine: First with a Russian turbofan, later may use India’s Kaveri engine (by 2035) with better efficiency and low heat signature ● Payload: Can carry up to 1.5 tons of weapons and sensors inside a hidden bay for stealth ● Control: Fully autonomous, but can be managed from the ground if needed ● Stealth: Low radar visibility because of its special design Technical Development The most important feature of the Ghatak UCAV is its stealth ability, which needed a lot of Indian research and development. It is being developed together with the AMCA fighter jet project, so both can share stealth technologies. The Indian Air Force (IAF) plans to give the drone advanced AI technology and autonomous systems. This will allow it to do automatic takeoff and landing, follow preset routes, and use smart decision-making in combat. Also read | When Mysore's young maharaja made India fly: The forgotten hero of our aviation story India’s military plans to build different versions of the Ghatak drone, including one for Combat Air Patrol (CAP) and air-superiority missions. Instead of a single model, there will be a family of UCAVs for different tasks. The goal is to get at least 150 Ghatak units, according to reports from Grey Dynamics UK’s intelligence platform media. Mission India is building the Ghatak drone because of ongoing tensions with Pakistan and China. It will help the Indian Air Force in long-range strikes, watching sensitive border areas, and destroying enemy air defense systems. The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) calls the Ghatak a fast, self-defending drone that can also fire weapons. Its roles will include precision strikes and ISR missions (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance). The Ghatak UCAV can also act as a “loyal wingman”, flying alongside fighter jets to do forward scouting and attack targets, while keeping the pilots at a safer distance. The 13-ton size of the Ghatak gives room for more weapons, advanced sensors, and longer missions. Its stealth design lets it enter dangerous airspaces safely without risking human pilots. Criticism and Challenges Even with good technical progress, the project is stuck due to government approvals not being cleared. This has pushed the timeline to 2030, which may create a gap in India’s military strength. In 2024, the project’s first director raised concerns after parts of the work moved from the successful ADA agency to ADE, which has a weaker track record. Conclusion The DRDO Ghatak is an important step in India’s plan to build stealth autonomous drones. It shows India’s push for homegrown defence technology focused on stealth and autonomy. The knowledge gained from this project can help build future Indian autonomous systems. But there are still challenges like engine development, government approvals, and finishing the project. Even so, the Ghatak’s role in air combat missions proves India’s growing strength in aerospace defence.

The Ghatak is being built by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for the Indian Air Force (IAF). It is still in the early stage of development. This project shows India’s effort to step into the strategic field of autonomous drones.

Delayed but deadly: Can the Ghatak drone overcome its hurdles?

For the first time in 90 years, Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital on Friday (August 8). This move comes amid Tokyo's efforts to deepen strategic ties in the South Pacific Ocean. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury. The warships arrived from Sydney, where the Japanese military participated in the war games in August, which involved New Zealand, Australia and other countries.&nbsp;Japan's only treaty ally is the US, and it has increasingly sought to deepen bilateral military cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions. Makoto Osawa, Japan's envoy to Wellington, was quoted by news agency AFP, he said, "Our defence force are developing cooperative work, not only with New Zealand and Australia but also many Pacific Island countries."&nbsp;He added, "Our main goal is the free and open Indo-Pacific."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vs-russia-who-rules-under-the-sea-how-the-submarine-fleets-of-the-countries-compare-in-firepower-1754631320166">US vs Russia: Who rules under the sea? How do the submarine fleets of the countries compare in firepower</a>&nbsp;"On August 8, helicopter carrier JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force arrived at Wellington Port. Japan and New Zealand share a strong, long-standing relationship, as well as a commitment to global and regional security. Both countries recently took part in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia. This visit marks another step toward deeper maritime ties and lasting peace and stability in the region," the Embassy of Japan in New Zealand posted on X.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">On August 8, helicopter carrier JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force arrived at Wellington Port. 🇯🇵🤝🇳🇿 Japan and New Zealand share a strong, long-standing relationship, as well as a commitment to global and regional security. Both countries… <a href="https://t.co/VcqBnVzmoE">pic.twitter.com/VcqBnVzmoE</a>&mdash; Embassy of Japan, New Zealand 🇳🇿 🇨🇰 🇳🇺 (@AmbassadorofJa1) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbassadorofJa1/status/1953749868381606102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 8, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The envoy's statement came after Australia's government announced that Japanese firm Mitsubishi Heavy Industries had won the bid for a contract to build Australian warships. Officials in Canberra hailed it as the biggest defence industry agreement between the countries. They also called the Japanese proposal the best and cheapest after they beat a German company in the bid.

On Friday (August 8), Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital for the first time since 1936. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury.

For the first time in 90 years, Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital on Friday (August 8). This move comes amid Tokyo's efforts to deepen strategic ties in the South Pacific Ocean. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury. The warships arrived from Sydney, where the Japanese military participated in the war games in August, which involved New Zealand, Australia and other countries. Japan's only treaty ally is the US, and it has increasingly sought to deepen bilateral military cooperation amid ongoing regional tensions. Makoto Osawa, Japan's envoy to Wellington, was quoted by news agency AFP, he said, "Our defence force are developing cooperative work, not only with New Zealand and Australia but also many Pacific Island countries." He added, "Our main goal is the free and open Indo-Pacific." Also read: US vs Russia: Who rules under the sea? How do the submarine fleets of the countries compare in firepower "On August 8, helicopter carrier JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force arrived at Wellington Port. Japan and New Zealand share a strong, long-standing relationship, as well as a commitment to global and regional security. Both countries recently took part in Exercise Talisman Sabre in Australia. This visit marks another step toward deeper maritime ties and lasting peace and stability in the region," the Embassy of Japan in New Zealand posted on X.

On Friday (August 8), Japanese warships were docked in New Zealand's capital for the first time since 1936. Over 500 crew and two destroyers, JS Ise and destroyer JS Suzunami, sailed into Wellington harbour accompanied by New Zealand navy ship HMNZS Canterbury.

First time in 90 years, Japanese warships dock in New Zealand

Dassault Aviation is a French aerospace giant known for building some of the world’s most advanced warplanes. While the Rafale is its star, Dassault’s line-up includes legendary fighters, bombers, business jets, and futuristic drones.

From Rafale fighter to Falcon private jets, what else has Dassault Aviation built? (See in pics)

India-France defence ties in 2025 are about much more than Rafale jets. From joint naval drills to space satellites and advanced tech sharing, this partnership is now a pillar of India’s security and self-reliance.


'From Rafale to satellites': 6 key India-France alliances that make them one of most trusted allies

ISIS’s drone strategy was initially supported by a wave of foreign recruits with technical expertise. Engineers and tech professionals played a major role in building and maintaining these systems. 

Operation Sindoor: How Pakistan uses ISIS-inspired drone tactics against India

NASA’s cleanrooms, built to be ultra-sterile, have surprised scientists. A new study found 26 new species of bacteria inside them. These microbes could survive extreme conditions like space and may change how we think about life beyond Earth.

This bacteria found at NASA may help future space missions!

After the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7. The operation hit terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK. Here are the 5 key weapons that gave India a strong and precise advantage in the battle.

Operation Sindoor: How Indian air strikes changed Pakistan's Nur Khan airbase (Check out pics)

India has raised two operational Rafale squadrons—No. 17 ‘Golden Arrows’ based in Ambala, Haryana, and No. 101 ‘Falcons’ based in Hasimara, West Bengal. This east-west deployment reflects India's need to counter both Pakistan and China simultaneously.

Operation Sindoor: Which Indian bases are home to Rafale fighter jets?

Rafales can’t be cleaned like your average SUV. Due to sensitive avionics, stealth coatings, and high-precision sensors, maintenance crews follow strict protocols using approved cleaning fluids and techniques. 

Operation Sindoor: How much water does it take to clean a Rafale fighter jet?

Developed by Almaz-Antey, the system had been built to intercept not just advanced aerial threats including ballistic missiles, hypersonic projectiles, but even satellites in low Earth orbit.

Operation Sindoor: Why India could be interested in Russia's S-500 defence system? Know its power, range, strike capabilities and more

The Rafale fighter jet's exceptional performance is significantly attributed to its twin Safran M88 engines, which are considered among the most advanced and reliable in modern military aviation. Designed and manufactured by Safran Aircraft Engines, the M88 has surpassed one million operating hours, underscoring its operational excellence and durability.

Operation Sindoor: Which engine powers India's Rafale fighter jet?

During Operation Sindoor, India struck terror camps with precision but showed restraint. Many of India’s most advanced fighter jet missiles were not used, signalling that Operation Sindoor was against terrorism, not Pakistan.

Operation Sindoor: 7 powerful missiles India didn’t use against Pakistan during the strike

India is building its warships, tanks, and fighter jets at home. With initiatives like Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat, the country is reducing its foreign reliance and boosting defence exports. Here are 7 key milestones of this journey.


Operation Sindoor: 7 'Made in India' weapons that are ready to wreak havoc on the enemy

The S-400 is a powerful air defence system that India bought from Russia. It can detect, track, and destroy enemy aircraft, drones and missiles. India’s S-400 is like an invisible shield watching the skies and protecting the nation 24/7.

Operation Sindoor: How the S-400 defence system shields India from Pakistan’s missiles

India’s missile arsenal is among the world’s best. With missiles like BrahMos, Agni, and Pralay, India can flatten enemy bases in just minutes. These missiles are a key part of India’s defence and Operation Sindoor.


Operation Sindoor: India's top 5 missiles capable of striking Pakistan in a wartime scenario

As 'Sindoor' is still underway, with tensions rising, here is the list of some of the fiercest operations launched by the Indian army on Pakistan and their code names.


Operation Sindoor: India’s top 7 cross-border operations and their code names

The B-2 Spirit, also known as the Stealth Bomber, designed by Northrop Grumman, ranks amongst the most advanced and strategic aircraft in the US Air Force's inventory. 

Meet the B-2 Spirit: America’s most deadly and dangerous weapon! Only 20 of them exist

The Minuteman III has a range of over 13,000 kilometres, allowing it to strike targets virtually anywhere on Earth. It reaches speeds of over 24,000 km/h during flight.

Meet Minuteman III: The US ballistic missile that can hit you anywhere on Earth

The ALH Dhruv is an indigenously designed and developed twin-engine helicopter manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). 

What is India's 'Dhruv' helicopter? Know strength, capabilities, power and more

Originally designed to yield 100 megatons, the Tsar Bomba’s strength was reduced by half to avoid excessive nuclear fallout. Even with the reduction, the explosion generated a fireball eight kilometres wide and a mushroom cloud over 60 kilometres high.

What is the Tsar Nuclear Bomb and how it could destroy the entire Earth within a few hours

Both forces use advanced weaponry like the SIG Sauer rifles, Glock pistols, and MP5 submachine guns. MARCOS also use specialised naval equipment, while NSG are equipped with thermal imaging scopes, breaching tools, and armoured vehicles like the 'Sherpa'.

Inside India’s deadliest forces: Decoding the fearsome reputation of MARCOS and NSG commandos

The Dassault Rafale, a French-made, multi-role fighter, is known for its excellent strike capabilities, versatility, and advanced electronics. Whether it’s for air-to-air combat or precision bombing, the Rafale is a true force multiplier for India’s air defence strategy.


'Rafale, Mirage, Tejas and more': These 7 Indian fighter jets are absolute monsters in the sky

In a strong push to strengthen regional security and maritime ties, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday flagged off Indian Navy&rsquo;s patrol vessel INS Sunayna from Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka. The ship is part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR mission.
According to a report by Press Information Bureau (PIB), Singh also inaugurated major naval infrastructure under 'Project Seabird' to boost India&rsquo;s maritime power. 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m94acbmo-4s5hqz5w-4slfsa4z">
Raksha Mantri Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/rajnathsingh?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rajnathsingh</a> will flag off <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSSunayna?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSSunayna</a> as the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR with 44 personnel from 9 navies embarked onboard, from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Karwar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Karwar</a> today. IOS SAGAR will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming India's commitment to&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/8V6tj0md4b">pic.twitter.com/8V6tj0md4b</a>
&mdash; रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/DefenceMinIndia/status/1908350747210559682?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 5, 2025</a></blockquote>
<h2 dir="ltr">What is the SAGAR mission?</h2>
The SAGAR mission stands for Security and Growth for all in the region. It aims to promote peace, stability, and free movement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
This year, INS Sunayna is carrying 44 naval officers from nine friendly nations: Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. The ship will visit ports in Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Maldives.
During the voyage, the officers will take part in joint training with the Indian Navy. They will learn firefighting, damage control, engine room handling and more.
&nbsp;&ldquo;India&rsquo;s deployment in the IOR is for the safety of our friends too,&rdquo; the defence minister said. &ldquo;We support peace and free navigation in these waters,&rdquo; he added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/22-meters-above-sea-level-pm-modi-to-inaugurate-first-vertical-lift-sea-bridge-on-ram-navami-8929537">'22 meters above sea level': PM Modi to inaugurate first vertical lift sea bridge on Ram Navami</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">Big boost to Indian Navy under Project Seabird</h2>
The defence minister also opened new infrastructure at Karwar Naval Base. The upgraded base can now support up to 32 ships and submarines. These facilities, worth Rs 2,000 crore, will boost India's ability to operate in the region.
He was welcomed with a 'guard of honour' and interacted with Navy officers and staff. 
After the completion of construction activities, Karwar will become one of Asia&rsquo;s largest naval bases. The base is being developed under 'Project Seabird Phase-IIA' to meet India&rsquo;s growing maritime needs.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbse-class-10-results-2025-expected-shortly-class-12-updates-also-awaited-8929753">CBSE class 10 results 2025 expected shortly, class 12 updates also awaited</a>
<h2 dir="ltr">India&rsquo;s growing role in the Indian Ocean</h2>
The twin developments IOS SAGAR and Project Seabird highlight India&rsquo;s commitment to maritime peace and regional cooperation. &ldquo;India will not let anyone dominate this region by force,&rdquo; Singh said. &ldquo;We want to grow together with our neighbours.&rdquo;
The Indian Navy also live streamed the flag-off event on its YouTube channel, letting people witness this key moment.

The SAGAR mission stands for Security and Growth for all in the region. It aims to promote peace, stability, and free movement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

In a strong push to strengthen regional security and maritime ties, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday flagged off Indian Navy’s patrol vessel INS Sunayna from Karwar Naval Base in Karnataka. The ship is part of the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR mission. According to a report by Press Information Bureau (PIB), Singh also inaugurated major naval infrastructure under 'Project Seabird' to boost India’s maritime power. Raksha Mantri Shri @rajnathsingh will flag off #INSSunayna as the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR with 44 personnel from 9 navies embarked onboard, from #Karwar today. IOS SAGAR will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the Indian Ocean Region, reaffirming India's commitment to… pic.twitter.com/8V6tj0md4b — रक्षा मंत्री कार्यालय/ RMO India (@DefenceMinIndia) April 5, 2025 What is the SAGAR mission? The SAGAR mission stands for Security and Growth for all in the region. It aims to promote peace, stability, and free movement in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). This year, INS Sunayna is carrying 44 naval officers from nine friendly nations: Comoros, Kenya, Madagascar, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. The ship will visit ports in Tanzania, Mozambique, Mauritius, Seychelles, and Maldives. During the voyage, the officers will take part in joint training with the Indian Navy. They will learn firefighting, damage control, engine room handling and more. “India’s deployment in the IOR is for the safety of our friends too,” the defence minister said. “We support peace and free navigation in these waters,” he added. Also read: '22 meters above sea level': PM Modi to inaugurate first vertical lift sea bridge on Ram Navami Big boost to Indian Navy under Project Seabird The defence minister also opened new infrastructure at Karwar Naval Base. The upgraded base can now support up to 32 ships and submarines. These facilities, worth Rs 2,000 crore, will boost India's ability to operate in the region. He was welcomed with a 'guard of honour' and interacted with Navy officers and staff. After the completion of construction activities, Karwar will become one of Asia’s largest naval bases. The base is being developed under 'Project Seabird Phase-IIA' to meet India’s growing maritime needs. Also read: CBSE class 10 results 2025 expected shortly, class 12 updates also awaited India’s growing role in the Indian Ocean The twin developments IOS SAGAR and Project Seabird highlight India’s commitment to maritime peace and regional cooperation. “India will not let anyone dominate this region by force,” Singh said. “We want to grow together with our neighbours.” The Indian Navy also live streamed the flag-off event on its YouTube channel, letting people witness this key moment.

Rajnath Singh inaugurates INS Sunayna and other navy infrastructure worth Rs 2000 crore

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