Hours after Ukraine, for the first time, fired British Storm Shadow missiles into Russian territory, the United Kingdom government announced defense cuts worth $500 million. Defense Secretary John Healey, in UK Parliament, said that his government will scrap six major programs across the Armed Forces, decommissioning ships, drones, and helicopters ahead of their schedule as part of cost-saving measures. Watch in for more details!

UK: Keir Starmer Government Slashes £500 Million From Defence

The US has plans to invest nearly $800m in Tinian, a remote island part of the Northern Mariana Islands, in order to build up defence operations. The governor of the Northern Mariana Islands has welcomed the US military upgrade plan as it comes amid concerns over China’s recent missile tests in the region.

U.S. Upgrades Remote Pacific Island Airbase Amid China Threat

At the Zhuhai Airshow, China showcases its latest military technology, including cutting-edge stealth fighters and drones, underscoring its growing defense capabilities.

China's Zhuhai Airshow Unveils Advanced Stealth Fighters and Drones

The Union government has ordered the complete withdrawal of the counter-terrorist commando force NSG from VIP security duties and handing over its nine "high-risk" VIPs to the CRPF by the next month, official sources said Wednesday (Oct 16).

India: Fresh Battalion Of CRPF Sanctioned

Airbus plans to cut up to 2,500 posts in its Defence and&nbsp;Space division after spiralling losses on satellite projects, two people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

The European planemaker aims to implement the cuts, which represent seven&nbsp;per cent of its workforce in the Defence &amp; Space unit, by the middle of 2026, they said, asking not to be identified on measures that have not yet been publicly announced.

Airbus declined to comment.

Airbus builds satellites, and transport planes and has key shares in European missile, fighter, and space launch programmes.

Its business has been hit by heavy charges in space systems, including OneSat, and delays and rising costs in defence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/huge-beluga-airbus-lands-in-kolkata-airport-766709">Also read: Airbus Beluga XL aircraft lands in Kolkata airport</a>

The job cuts, first reported by the French news agency AFP, follow a longstanding efficiency review in the defence and space business, code-named ATOM.

Airbus has also been drawing up a specific turnaround plan for its struggling Space Systems business, without waiting for the outcome of recent satellite consolidation talks that include Italy's Leonardo as well as France's Thales.

Watch |&nbsp;Probe into Airbus A350's engines of Cathay Pacific Airways aircraft continues

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But the job cuts will not be confined purely to the space business, which has had 1.5 billion euros in charges in recent quarters, the sources said.

Reuters reported in July that Airbus had launched an urgent cash containment plan across the wider Defence and Space unit, where managers have declared the cost situation "critical".

CEO Guillaume Faury told reporters earlier this year that Airbus was looking at opportunities to create scale in defence, space and particularly satellites where traditional players have been heavily disrupted by the success of new constellations.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Airbus plans to cut up to 2,500 posts in its Defence and Space division after spiralling losses on satellite projects, two people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday.

Airbus plans to cut up to 2,500 posts in its Defence and Space division after spiralling losses on satellite projects, two people familiar with the matter said on Wednesday. The European planemaker aims to implement the cuts, which represent seven per cent of its workforce in the Defence & Space unit, by the middle of 2026, they said, asking not to be identified on measures that have not yet been publicly announced. Airbus declined to comment. Airbus builds satellites, and transport planes and has key shares in European missile, fighter, and space launch programmes. Its business has been hit by heavy charges in space systems, including OneSat, and delays and rising costs in defence. Also read: Airbus Beluga XL aircraft lands in Kolkata airport The job cuts, first reported by the French news agency AFP, follow a longstanding efficiency review in the defence and space business, code-named ATOM. Airbus has also been drawing up a specific turnaround plan for its struggling Space Systems business, without waiting for the outcome of recent satellite consolidation talks that include Italy's Leonardo as well as France's Thales. Watch | Probe into Airbus A350's engines of Cathay Pacific Airways aircraft continues × But the job cuts will not be confined purely to the space business, which has had 1.5 billion euros in charges in recent quarters, the sources said. Reuters reported in July that Airbus had launched an urgent cash containment plan across the wider Defence and Space unit, where managers have declared the cost situation "critical". CEO Guillaume Faury told reporters earlier this year that Airbus was looking at opportunities to create scale in defence, space and particularly satellites where traditional players have been heavily disrupted by the success of new constellations. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Airbus to cut 2,500 jobs in defence, space division after spiralling losses

The United States has approved a $175 million defense deal with India, marking a significant boost to India's maritime capabilities. Under the deal, India will acquire advanced lightweight torpedoes, enhancing its naval defense systems. This agreement strengthens defense ties between the two nations and supports India's efforts to modernize its military in response to growing regional security challenges. The deal reflects ongoing cooperation between the US and India in the defense sector, further solidifying their strategic partnership.

US Approves $175 Million Defence Deal To India, India To Get Lightweight Torpedoes

At present, there are approximately 12,100 nuclear warheads in existence. Nearly 88 per cent of these are held by just two countries, Russia and the United States, according to Statista.

Other nations that possess nuclear weapons include France, China, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea. Russia holds the largest number of confirmed nuclear weapons, with more than 5,500 warheads in its arsenal.

Former Russian minister Andrei Kozyrev believes President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to use nuclear weapons against the West. However, Putin has made what some see as threats to use them if his invasion of Ukraine faces further interference.

Nuclear weapons are seen as the most destructive on Earth. When detonated, they cause massive destruction and release intense heat and radiation, leading to long-term environmental damage that can last for years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-did-russia-use-father-of-all-bombs-the-odab-9000-vacuum-bomb-on-ukraine-763906">Also Read:&nbsp;Did Russia use 'father of all bombs', the ODAB-9000 vacuum bomb, on Ukraine?</a>

As reported by express.co.uk, a single bomb has the potential to wipe out an entire city, and the impact can be felt as far as 53 miles (around 85 km) away, depending on the bomb's size. People within this range may even experience temporary blindness if they are looking directly at the explosion.

Nuclear bombs have been used only once in history when the United States dropped two on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. While the exact number of deaths is uncertain, it’s estimated that around 140,000 people were killed in Hiroshima and at least 74,000 in Nagasaki.

The bombs released nuclear radiation that led to thousands more deaths from radiation sickness over the following weeks, months, and even years.

The creation of these powerful weapons started the Nuclear Arms Race, a competition for dominance in nuclear warfare between the United States, the Soviet Union, and their allies in the years that followed.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: New NATO Chief Rutte Wants Ukraine to 'prevail' in Kyiv Trip

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This race continued throughout the Cold War, reaching its height in 1986 when over 64,000 nuclear warheads were believed to be in circulation worldwide.

But as the Soviet Union collapsed and the Cold War ended, tensions between the East and West eased, leading to the beginning of nuclear disarmament.

Since the 1980s, Russia's nuclear stockpile has reportedly shrunk by nine times, while the US&nbsp;arsenal is now six times smaller.

<h2>Can nuclear bombs be intercepted?</h2>

In short, nuclear bombs can be intercepted, but it's a very challenging task.

Ballistic missiles are used to carry and launch nuclear bombs along a specific flight path.

In the 1960s, during the height of the Nuclear Arms Race, the Soviet Union created anti-ballistic missiles to defend the USSR from ballistic missile threats.

These anti-ballistic missiles (ABMs) are designed to intercept and destroy nuclear missiles before they reach their target.

ABMs work by detecting and tracking an incoming ballistic missile, and then launching an interceptor to destroy it.

This is typically done using a booster rocket that either collides with the missile to destroy it on impact or uses a blast fragmentation warhead to detonate the missile's payload without causing a nuclear explosion.

Even if an ABM successfully destroys a missile, there’s still a chance that plutonium or uranium could be scattered in the area, leading to a radiation risk.

However, this outcome is still far better than the destruction of an entire city.

<h2>How do nuclear bombs work?</h2>

The effects of a nuclear explosion can vary widely based on several factors. These include the type of weapon (whether it uses fission or fusion) and its power. The location of the blast also matters—whether it occurs in the air (and at what height), on the ground, underground, or underwater. Weather conditions, environmental factors, and the nature of the target (such as a city, countryside, or military site) all play significant roles in determining the impact.

When a nuclear weapon explodes, it creates a fireball with temperatures as hot as the Sun's core or centre. The energy released spreads in different ways.

About 85 per cent&nbsp;of the energy from a nuclear explosion goes into creating a powerful blast and intense heat. The other 15 per cent is released as radiation. This includes immediate radiation within the first minute and lasting radiation over time, which can include local fallout.

Local fallout (radioactive debris that falls back to the ground) refers to the radioactive particles that settle back to Earth after a nuclear explosion.

<h2>Blast&nbsp;</h2>

When a nuclear explosion occurs, extremely hot gases expand rapidly, creating a shock wave that moves outward at high speed.

The "overpressure," or intense pressure, at the front of the shock wave, can be measured in pascals (or kilopascals (kPa)), pounds per square inch (psi), and kilograms per square centimetre (kg/cm²). For reference, 1&nbsp;psi is about 6.9 kPa or 0.07 kg/cm².

The higher the overpressure, the more likely a building will be damaged by the sudden force of the shock wave.

Another damaging effect is the "dynamic pressure," which is the strong, fast-moving (or high-velocity) wind that follows the shock wave.

A typical two-story, wood-frame house will collapse under an overpressure of about 0.35 kg/cm² (five&nbsp;psi).

Atmospheric pressure at sea level is about 14.7 psi (10.3 kg/cm²). A pressure of 5&nbsp;psi (0.35 kg/cm²) is significantly higher than normal atmospheric pressure (14.7 psi is what we experience constantly). When a sudden additional pressure of five&nbsp;psi from a shock wave hits, it exerts a powerful force that can cause structural damage, leading to collapse.

A one-megaton (about 1,000,000 kilograms of TNT) explosion at 3,000 metres&nbsp;(10,000 feet) high can create this level of overpressure (5 psi) up to 7&nbsp;km (about 4&nbsp;miles) from the blast.

The strong winds following the blast can throw a person against a wall with several times the force of gravity.

The force of gravity is the pull that Earth exerts on objects, measured as 9.8 metres&nbsp;per second squared (m/s²).

Within 8&nbsp;km (5&nbsp;miles) of the blast, few people outside or in regular buildings are likely to survive.

The initial shock wave creates huge amounts of debris, like bricks, glass, wood, and metal, which fly at speeds over 160 km/h (100 mph), causing more destruction.

<h2>Thermal Radiation&nbsp;</h2>

About 35 per cent&nbsp;of the energy from an airburst is released as thermal radiation, which includes light and heat. This can cause skin burns, and eye injuries, and start fires over long distances.

The shock wave can spread fires even more. If these fires are large enough, they can merge into a firestorm. This creates a huge column of hot air that pulls in fresh air from around it.

Winds rushing inward and the intense heat in a firestorm burn almost everything that can catch fire.

<h2>Initial radiation&nbsp;</h2>

A unique aspect of a nuclear explosion is the release of nuclear radiation, which is divided into initial radiation and residual radiation.

Initial radiation, or prompt radiation, includes gamma rays and neutrons released within a minute of the explosion. It also produces beta particles (free electrons) and a small number of alpha particles (helium nuclei i.e., two protons and two neutrons bound together), but these usually don't reach the ground if the explosion happens high above the ground.

Gamma rays and neutrons can harm living things and remain dangerous over long distances because they can penetrate most buildings.

Although gamma rays and neutrons make up only about three&nbsp;per cent of the energy from a nuclear blast, they can cause a large number of injuries and deaths. They can lead to radiation sickness, cancer, and other serious health issues.

<h2>Residual radiation&nbsp;</h2>

Residual radiation is the radiation released more than one minute after the explosion. In an airburst, this mainly comes from the weapon's debris.

If the explosion happens on or near the ground, dirt, water, and nearby materials are pulled up by the rising cloud, leading to local and global fallout.

Delayed fallout arrives after the first day. It consists of tiny particles carried by the wind, spreading thinly over large areas of the Earth.

A nuclear explosion creates a complex mix of over 300 different isotopes from many elements. These isotopes have half-lives ranging from fractions of a second to millions of years.

The radioactivity of fission products is very high initially but decreases quickly due to radioactive decay.

Seven hours after a nuclear explosion, the leftover radioactivity drops to about 10 per cent of its level at one hour. After 48 more hours, it decreases to one&nbsp;per cent.

As a simple guideline, for every seven times increase in time after the explosion, the radiation level drops by ten times.

For example, if the radiation level is 100 units one hour after an explosion, seven hours later it would decrease to 10 units. After 49 hours (seven times seven), it would drop to 1 unit.

At present, there are approximately 12,100 nuclear warheads in existence. Nearly 88 per cent of these are held by just two countries, Russia and the United States, according to Statista.

At present, there are approximately 12,100 nuclear warheads in existence. Nearly 88 per cent of these are held by just two countries, Russia and the United States, according to Statista. Other nations that possess nuclear weapons include France, China, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, India, Israel, and North Korea. Russia holds the largest number of confirmed nuclear weapons, with more than 5,500 warheads in its arsenal. Former Russian minister Andrei Kozyrev believes President Vladimir Putin is unlikely to use nuclear weapons against the West. However, Putin has made what some see as threats to use them if his invasion of Ukraine faces further interference. Nuclear weapons are seen as the most destructive on Earth. When detonated, they cause massive destruction and release intense heat and radiation, leading to long-term environmental damage that can last for years. Also Read: Did Russia use 'father of all bombs', the ODAB-9000 vacuum bomb, on Ukraine? As reported by express.co.uk, a single bomb has the potential to wipe out an entire city, and the impact can be felt as far as 53 miles (around 85 km) away, depending on the bomb's size. People within this range may even experience temporary blindness if they are looking directly at the explosion. Nuclear bombs have been used only once in history when the United States dropped two on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. While the exact number of deaths is uncertain, it’s estimated that around 140,000 people were killed in Hiroshima and at least 74,000 in Nagasaki. The bombs released nuclear radiation that led to thousands more deaths from radiation sickness over the following weeks, months, and even years. The creation of these powerful weapons started the Nuclear Arms Race, a competition for dominance in nuclear warfare between the United States, the Soviet Union, and their allies in the years that followed. Watch | Russia-Ukraine War: New NATO Chief Rutte Wants Ukraine to 'prevail' in Kyiv Trip × This race continued throughout the Cold War, reaching its height in 1986 when over 64,000 nuclear warheads were believed to be in circulation worldwide. But as the Soviet Union collapsed and the Cold War ended, tensions between the East and West eased, leading to the beginning of nuclear disarmament. Since the 1980s, Russia's nuclear stockpile has reportedly shrunk by nine times, while the US arsenal is now six times smaller. Can nuclear bombs be intercepted? In short, nuclear bombs can be intercepted, but it's a very challenging task. Ballistic missiles are used to carry and launch nuclear bombs along a specific flight path. In the 1960s, during the height of the Nuclear Arms Race, the Soviet Union created anti-ballistic missiles to defend the USSR from ballistic missile threats. These anti-ballistic missiles (ABMs) are designed to intercept and destroy nuclear missiles before they reach their target. ABMs work by detecting and tracking an incoming ballistic missile, and then launching an interceptor to destroy it. This is typically done using a booster rocket that either collides with the missile to destroy it on impact or uses a blast fragmentation warhead to detonate the missile's payload without causing a nuclear explosion. Even if an ABM successfully destroys a missile, there’s still a chance that plutonium or uranium could be scattered in the area, leading to a radiation risk. However, this outcome is still far better than the destruction of an entire city. How do nuclear bombs work? The effects of a nuclear explosion can vary widely based on several factors. These include the type of weapon (whether it uses fission or fusion) and its power. The location of the blast also matters—whether it occurs in the air (and at what height), on the ground, underground, or underwater. Weather conditions, environmental factors, and the nature of the target (such as a city, countryside, or military site) all play significant roles in determining the impact. When a nuclear weapon explodes, it creates a fireball with temperatures as hot as the Sun's core or centre. The energy released spreads in different ways. About 85 per cent of the energy from a nuclear explosion goes into creating a powerful blast and intense heat. The other 15 per cent is released as radiation. This includes immediate radiation within the first minute and lasting radiation over time, which can include local fallout. Local fallout (radioactive debris that falls back to the ground) refers to the radioactive particles that settle back to Earth after a nuclear explosion. Blast When a nuclear explosion occurs, extremely hot gases expand rapidly, creating a shock wave that moves outward at high speed. The "overpressure," or intense pressure, at the front of the shock wave, can be measured in pascals (or kilopascals (kPa)), pounds per square inch (psi), and kilograms per square centimetre (kg/cm²). For reference, 1 psi is about 6.9 kPa or 0.07 kg/cm². The higher the overpressure, the more likely a building will be damaged by the sudden force of the shock wave. Another damaging effect is the "dynamic pressure," which is the strong, fast-moving (or high-velocity) wind that follows the shock wave. A typical two-story, wood-frame house will collapse under an overpressure of about 0.35 kg/cm² (five psi). Atmospheric pressure at sea level is about 14.7 psi (10.3 kg/cm²). A pressure of 5 psi (0.35 kg/cm²) is significantly higher than normal atmospheric pressure (14.7 psi is what we experience constantly). When a sudden additional pressure of five psi from a shock wave hits, it exerts a powerful force that can cause structural damage, leading to collapse. A one-megaton (about 1,000,000 kilograms of TNT) explosion at 3,000 metres (10,000 feet) high can create this level of overpressure (5 psi) up to 7 km (about 4 miles) from the blast. The strong winds following the blast can throw a person against a wall with several times the force of gravity. The force of gravity is the pull that Earth exerts on objects, measured as 9.8 metres per second squared (m/s²). Within 8 km (5 miles) of the blast, few people outside or in regular buildings are likely to survive. The initial shock wave creates huge amounts of debris, like bricks, glass, wood, and metal, which fly at speeds over 160 km/h (100 mph), causing more destruction. Thermal Radiation About 35 per cent of the energy from an airburst is released as thermal radiation, which includes light and heat. This can cause skin burns, and eye injuries, and start fires over long distances. The shock wave can spread fires even more. If these fires are large enough, they can merge into a firestorm. This creates a huge column of hot air that pulls in fresh air from around it. Winds rushing inward and the intense heat in a firestorm burn almost everything that can catch fire. Initial radiation A unique aspect of a nuclear explosion is the release of nuclear radiation, which is divided into initial radiation and residual radiation. Initial radiation, or prompt radiation, includes gamma rays and neutrons released within a minute of the explosion. It also produces beta particles (free electrons) and a small number of alpha particles (helium nuclei i.e., two protons and two neutrons bound together), but these usually don't reach the ground if the explosion happens high above the ground. Gamma rays and neutrons can harm living things and remain dangerous over long distances because they can penetrate most buildings. Although gamma rays and neutrons make up only about three per cent of the energy from a nuclear blast, they can cause a large number of injuries and deaths. They can lead to radiation sickness, cancer, and other serious health issues. Residual radiation Residual radiation is the radiation released more than one minute after the explosion. In an airburst, this mainly comes from the weapon's debris. If the explosion happens on or near the ground, dirt, water, and nearby materials are pulled up by the rising cloud, leading to local and global fallout. Delayed fallout arrives after the first day. It consists of tiny particles carried by the wind, spreading thinly over large areas of the Earth. A nuclear explosion creates a complex mix of over 300 different isotopes from many elements. These isotopes have half-lives ranging from fractions of a second to millions of years. The radioactivity of fission products is very high initially but decreases quickly due to radioactive decay. Seven hours after a nuclear explosion, the leftover radioactivity drops to about 10 per cent of its level at one hour. After 48 more hours, it decreases to one per cent. As a simple guideline, for every seven times increase in time after the explosion, the radiation level drops by ten times. For example, if the radiation level is 100 units one hour after an explosion, seven hours later it would decrease to 10 units. After 49 hours (seven times seven), it would drop to 1 unit.

The high-stakes gamble: Can missile defence systems truly intercept nuclear warheads?

The country has been exporting military hardware to roughly 85 countries, with local enterprises involved in the manufacturing of a wide array of equipment, including missiles, artillery guns, rockets, armoured vehicles, offshore patrol vessels, radars, surveillance systems, and personal protective gear.

India Aims At Exporting Armored Vehicles, Asian African Nations to Import Tanks

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Sunday (Sep 29) that it was on heightened alert after detecting "multiple waves" of missile firing in inland China. This comes days after Beijing test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile.&nbsp;

The ministry said they detected the firing by China's Rocket Force and army in the provinces and regions of Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, and Xinjiang from 6:50 am (local time) on Saturday.&nbsp;

"The military has continuously monitored relevant developments, and the air defence forces maintain a high degree of vigilance and strengthen their alert," Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-43-aircraft-8-navy-ships-around-taiwan-in-fresh-provocation-act-762043">Also read:&nbsp;China sends 43 aircraft, 8 navy ships around Taiwan in fresh provocation act</a>

"The security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region are related to global development. Any threatening and provocative actions will seriously undermine regional stability," it added.

Reuters reported that China's defence ministry did not respond to the calls seeking comment outside of office hours.&nbsp;

Taiwan has been keeping an eye on China's military activities as it has been tracking a rise in its activities across the vicinity of the democratically governed island.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Taiwan-China Tensions Escalates With Chinese Warplanes Newar Taiwan

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The recent firings come after China test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday, firing it into the Pacific Ocean in its first such exercise in decades.&nbsp;

The launch, however, triggered protests from countries in the region. Taiwan also strongly condemned the action and urged Beijing to "exercise restraint and cease its reckless military drills which inflame regional tension".

(With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Sunday (Sep 29) that it was on heightened alert after detecting "multiple waves" of missile firing in inland China. This comes days after Beijing test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile.

Taiwan's defence ministry said on Sunday (Sep 29) that it was on heightened alert after detecting "multiple waves" of missile firing in inland China. This comes days after Beijing test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile. The ministry said they detected the firing by China's Rocket Force and army in the provinces and regions of Inner Mongolia, Gansu, Qinghai, and Xinjiang from 6:50 am (local time) on Saturday. "The military has continuously monitored relevant developments, and the air defence forces maintain a high degree of vigilance and strengthen their alert," Taiwan's defence ministry said in a statement. Also read: China sends 43 aircraft, 8 navy ships around Taiwan in fresh provocation act "The security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region are related to global development. Any threatening and provocative actions will seriously undermine regional stability," it added. Reuters reported that China's defence ministry did not respond to the calls seeking comment outside of office hours. Taiwan has been keeping an eye on China's military activities as it has been tracking a rise in its activities across the vicinity of the democratically governed island. Watch | Taiwan-China Tensions Escalates With Chinese Warplanes Newar Taiwan × The recent firings come after China test-launched an intercontinental ballistic missile on Wednesday, firing it into the Pacific Ocean in its first such exercise in decades. The launch, however, triggered protests from countries in the region. Taiwan also strongly condemned the action and urged Beijing to "exercise restraint and cease its reckless military drills which inflame regional tension". (With inputs from agencies)

Taiwan on heightened alert after 'multiple waves' of missile firing in inland China

One of the largest multinational air exercises Tarang Shakti 24 is currently being hosted by the Indian Air Force in Jodhpur. The Indian air force is also hosting the India Defence Aviation Exposition (IDAX-24) on the sidelines of this exercise. Watch in for more details!

Tarang Shakti 2024: Tejas, F-16s, A10 Thunderbolt, Rafale, EA18 growlers take to skies

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Predator drone deal on July 30, and the Defence Ministry is likely to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the much-anticipated acquisition to be signed in the upcoming month.&nbsp;

While the Defence Ministry is silent on the process, it is learned that the Cost Negotiation Committee (CNC) has locked the final price for acquisition at around USD 3.1 billion from US-based General Atomics. Before getting the final stamp from CCS, the Defence Ministry will approach the Finance Ministry for the expenditure approval. However, the acquisition must be signed before October 31, or the prices will be revised by the manufacturer.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/desperate-families-dig-through-deep-craters-as-israeli-strike-on-humanitarian-zone-in-gaza-kills-40-757262">40 killed, 60 injured as Israel strikes Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone in Gaza</a>

<h2>Distribution of Predator drones among Indian security forces</h2>

The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is purchasing 1 MQ 9B drones with air-to-surface missiles and laser-guided bombs from General Atomics on a government-to-government basis. The 31 drones will be divided among the three Indian security forces wherein 16 will be provided to the Indian Navy to ensure maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, eight will be with the Indian Army, and the remaining eight will be with the Indian Air Force for tailored strike missions across land borders. The Predator drone has a proven record in the Middle East and Afghanistan with precision bombings and high-value targets.

WATCH |&nbsp;Indian Air Force begins ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’: Rafale &amp; Mirage 2000 part of mega exercise

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&nbsp;

India has been operating two units of Sea Guardian, an unarmed version of Predator, on lease from General Atomics. The Sea Guardian is being operated from INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu for maritime domain awareness. The lease of two Sea Guardians drones expired in January 2024, but the Indian Navy extended it for four years as the drone provides real-time awareness from the Sunda Straits in Indonesia to the Suez Canal in the West and South Indian Ocean.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/direct-attack-on-democracy-pakistan-police-arrests-top-pti-leaders-imran-khan-supporters-in-islamabad-757287">Pakistan police arrests top PTI leaders, Imran Khan supporters in Islamabad</a>

<h2>Why is acquisition of armed drones important for India?&nbsp;</h2>

The acquisition of armed drones such as the Predator drone has become a priority for India because the neighbouring countries China and Pakistan are operating CH-4 weaponised aerial vehicles, with Beijing selling these to Rawalpindi.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Predator drone deal on July 30, and the Defence Ministry is likely to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the much-anticipated acquisition to be signed in the upcoming month.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) cleared the Predator drone deal on July 30, and the Defence Ministry is likely to approach the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for the much-anticipated acquisition to be signed in the upcoming month. While the Defence Ministry is silent on the process, it is learned that the Cost Negotiation Committee (CNC) has locked the final price for acquisition at around USD 3.1 billion from US-based General Atomics. Before getting the final stamp from CCS, the Defence Ministry will approach the Finance Ministry for the expenditure approval. However, the acquisition must be signed before October 31, or the prices will be revised by the manufacturer. Also Read | 40 killed, 60 injured as Israel strikes Al-Mawasi humanitarian zone in Gaza Distribution of Predator drones among Indian security forces The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi is purchasing 1 MQ 9B drones with air-to-surface missiles and laser-guided bombs from General Atomics on a government-to-government basis. The 31 drones will be divided among the three Indian security forces wherein 16 will be provided to the Indian Navy to ensure maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, eight will be with the Indian Army, and the remaining eight will be with the Indian Air Force for tailored strike missions across land borders. The Predator drone has a proven record in the Middle East and Afghanistan with precision bombings and high-value targets. WATCH | Indian Air Force begins ‘Tarang Shakti 2024’: Rafale & Mirage 2000 part of mega exercise × India has been operating two units of Sea Guardian, an unarmed version of Predator, on lease from General Atomics. The Sea Guardian is being operated from INS Rajali in Tamil Nadu for maritime domain awareness. The lease of two Sea Guardians drones expired in January 2024, but the Indian Navy extended it for four years as the drone provides real-time awareness from the Sunda Straits in Indonesia to the Suez Canal in the West and South Indian Ocean. Also Read | Pakistan police arrests top PTI leaders, Imran Khan supporters in Islamabad Why is acquisition of armed drones important for India? The acquisition of armed drones such as the Predator drone has become a priority for India because the neighbouring countries China and Pakistan are operating CH-4 weaponised aerial vehicles, with Beijing selling these to Rawalpindi. (With inputs from agencies)

India to finalise Predator drone deal with US before October 31, check details

Germany's military put the first Iris-T air-defence system into service on its own soil Wednesday having delivered several of them to war-torn Ukraine to intercept Russian rockets, drones and missiles.

Iris-T SLM: Here is all you need to know about Germany's new shield

#Gravitas The Indian Defence Ministry has cleared 10 projects worth Rs 1.45 lakh crore for defence services. These include future-ready combat vehicles, tanks, air defence fire control radars, and next-generation fast patrol vessels. These additions will boost the Indian military's readiness with locally made hardware and further establish the country as a formidable force, especially in the Global South.

New Tanks, Jets, Ships: The Rising Muscular Power of Indian Defence

The best option to minimise the chance that an asteroid someday smashes into the Earth – possibly wiping out life – is through the use of nuclear weapons, according to scientists at China’s deep space exploration programme.

China's plan: Nuclear warheads for asteroid defence

Prime ministers of India and Malaysia sought to reset relations between the two countries on Tuesday as they agreed to boost trade, movement of workers and the use of their own currencies to settle bilateral transactions.

Malaysia is home to nearly 3 million people of Indian heritage, but relations soured around late 2019 following remarks by largely Muslim Malaysia's then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad against New Delhi removing the autonomy of India's only Muslim-majority region Kashmir.

That had also hit purchases of Malaysian palm oil by India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils like palm.

But the Malaysian approach has changed under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who took office in 2022 and previously told Reuters he was keen to have good ties with India.

The two countries started settling trade in their own rupee and ringgit currencies in April last year, and India's palm oil imports from Malaysia has also increased.

"With the support of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, there has been a new momentum and energy in our partnership," Modi said, as Anwar stood by his side during his first visit to New Delhi as prime minister.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-governments-cancels-lateral-entry-amid-mass-protest-from-opposition-751572">Indian government's U-turn on lateral entry: Asks UPSC to cancel advertisement</a>

"Today we have decided that our partnership will be elevated to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'. We believe that there is still a lot of potential in economic cooperation. Bilateral trade and investment should be expanded."

Modi noted that Malaysia had invested $5 billion in India in the past year and identified semiconductors, financial technology, the defence industry and artificial intelligence as areas of possible cooperation.

Anwar said his country would reinvigorate relations with India in all fields and that their potential had not been tapped in the past few years.

Indian foreign ministry official Jaideep Mazumdar told a press conference the country would make a one-off export of 200,000 metric tons of non-basmati rice to Malaysia, making an exception to a ban on such shipments.

Mazumdar said India is also keen to sell defence equipment to Malaysia, as well as aircraft manufactured by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.

The two countries also agreed a framework for the welfare of Indian workers going to Malaysia, which sources labour from some 15 countries including India for its palm plantations and other industries.

There are already some 140,000 Indian workers in Malaysia, the highest ever, and this total could rise as India seeks job opportunities for people at home and abroad

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Prime ministers of India and Malaysia sought to reset relations between the two countries on Tuesday as they agreed to boost trade, movement of workers and the use of their own currencies to settle bilateral transactions.

Prime ministers of India and Malaysia sought to reset relations between the two countries on Tuesday as they agreed to boost trade, movement of workers and the use of their own currencies to settle bilateral transactions. Malaysia is home to nearly 3 million people of Indian heritage, but relations soured around late 2019 following remarks by largely Muslim Malaysia's then-Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad against New Delhi removing the autonomy of India's only Muslim-majority region Kashmir. That had also hit purchases of Malaysian palm oil by India, the world's biggest buyer of edible oils like palm. But the Malaysian approach has changed under Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who took office in 2022 and previously told Reuters he was keen to have good ties with India. The two countries started settling trade in their own rupee and ringgit currencies in April last year, and India's palm oil imports from Malaysia has also increased. "With the support of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, there has been a new momentum and energy in our partnership," Modi said, as Anwar stood by his side during his first visit to New Delhi as prime minister. Also Read | Indian government's U-turn on lateral entry: Asks UPSC to cancel advertisement "Today we have decided that our partnership will be elevated to a 'Comprehensive Strategic Partnership'. We believe that there is still a lot of potential in economic cooperation. Bilateral trade and investment should be expanded." Modi noted that Malaysia had invested $5 billion in India in the past year and identified semiconductors, financial technology, the defence industry and artificial intelligence as areas of possible cooperation. Anwar said his country would reinvigorate relations with India in all fields and that their potential had not been tapped in the past few years. Indian foreign ministry official Jaideep Mazumdar told a press conference the country would make a one-off export of 200,000 metric tons of non-basmati rice to Malaysia, making an exception to a ban on such shipments. Mazumdar said India is also keen to sell defence equipment to Malaysia, as well as aircraft manufactured by state-run Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. The two countries also agreed a framework for the welfare of Indian workers going to Malaysia, which sources labour from some 15 countries including India for its palm plantations and other industries. There are already some 140,000 Indian workers in Malaysia, the highest ever, and this total could rise as India seeks job opportunities for people at home and abroad Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

India and Malaysia look forward to boost trade, defence ties

The war in Ukraine and the looming US presidential election dominated a NATO summit in Washington this month but, away from the public stage, the alliance’s military planners have been focused on assessing the enormous cost of fixing Europe’s creaking defences. Watch in for more details!

NATO finds gaping holes in Europe's defence

Taiwan meanwhile has reacted to the US Presidential candidate Donald Trump's remarks that it should pay the United States for its defense. Now the Island's Premier Cho Jang-Tai has said that Taiwan is in fact committed to strengthening its own defense.

Taiwan reacts to Trump's 'pay US' comment; dedicated to bolster our defence: Taiwan

The metal 3D printers of Nikon Corp. are being explored by US defence and aerospace companies, according to the president of the Japanese precision equipment manufacturer.&nbsp;

In an interview with Bloomberg TV, Muneaki Tokunari, who serves as Nikon's chief financial officer, disclosed interest from those industries. According to Tokunari, Nikon is raising its global customer base and diversifying into sectors like digital manufacturing amid rigorous interest coming in from the US defence and aerospace industries.

With Japan ramping up its defence spending, a growing number of Japanese firms are expanding into military-use products. Nikon, known for its cameras and chipmaking lithography equipment, took its footprint last year in California following its acquisition of Germany's 3D-printing specialist SLM Solutions Group. In what may have been a politically savvy move, a Nikon subsidiary, Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc., last month appointed Mike Mullen, former chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, as a strategic adviser.

Moreover, Nikon is jointly making a handheld camera that NASA is going to send to the south pole of the moon. This collaboration reflects Nikon's paradigm that it will further its technology to other developing avenues different from the traditional market.

A London-based activist investor Silchester International Investors had, in an earlier development this year, acquired a 5 per cent stake in Nikon. Silchester hinted it may demand higher dividends, share buybacks, and other changes to Nikon's capital policy. The move saw Nikon shares soar upwards by the most in more than a decade.

“One of my assignments is to ask patience of investors, while tackling my colleagues to please rush to make the products faster than the plan,” 64-year-old Tokunari said.

Even though Nikon let the Netherlands' ASML Holding NV corner the market for cutting-edge lithography market, Nikon and Canon Inc. have both gained from the surge in demand for legacy tools used in baking simpler semiconductors for autos and appliances.

The strategic diversification that Nikon may make into defence, aerospace, and sophisticated manufacturing testifies to the adaptability and ability of the company to look ahead. The fact that the company has been able to attract interest in big tickets and forge important partnerships underlines its relevance and potential for growth in changing times.

The metal 3D printers of Nikon Corp. are being explored by US defence and aerospace companies, according to the president of the Japanese precision equipment manufacturer.

The metal 3D printers of Nikon Corp. are being explored by US defence and aerospace companies, according to the president of the Japanese precision equipment manufacturer. In an interview with Bloomberg TV, Muneaki Tokunari, who serves as Nikon's chief financial officer, disclosed interest from those industries. According to Tokunari, Nikon is raising its global customer base and diversifying into sectors like digital manufacturing amid rigorous interest coming in from the US defence and aerospace industries. With Japan ramping up its defence spending, a growing number of Japanese firms are expanding into military-use products. Nikon, known for its cameras and chipmaking lithography equipment, took its footprint last year in California following its acquisition of Germany's 3D-printing specialist SLM Solutions Group. In what may have been a politically savvy move, a Nikon subsidiary, Nikon Advanced Manufacturing Inc., last month appointed Mike Mullen, former chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, as a strategic adviser. Moreover, Nikon is jointly making a handheld camera that NASA is going to send to the south pole of the moon. This collaboration reflects Nikon's paradigm that it will further its technology to other developing avenues different from the traditional market. A London-based activist investor Silchester International Investors had, in an earlier development this year, acquired a 5 per cent stake in Nikon. Silchester hinted it may demand higher dividends, share buybacks, and other changes to Nikon's capital policy. The move saw Nikon shares soar upwards by the most in more than a decade. “One of my assignments is to ask patience of investors, while tackling my colleagues to please rush to make the products faster than the plan,” 64-year-old Tokunari said. Even though Nikon let the Netherlands' ASML Holding NV corner the market for cutting-edge lithography market, Nikon and Canon Inc. have both gained from the surge in demand for legacy tools used in baking simpler semiconductors for autos and appliances. The strategic diversification that Nikon may make into defence, aerospace, and sophisticated manufacturing testifies to the adaptability and ability of the company to look ahead. The fact that the company has been able to attract interest in big tickets and forge important partnerships underlines its relevance and potential for growth in changing times.

Nikon's bold foray into defence and aerospace

Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg wrapped up NATO's 75th Anniversary Summit in Washington. At the summit, allies decided to further strengthen deterrence and defence they decided to bolster long-term support to Ukraine and deepen Global Partnerships.

NATO Summit 2024: Divide within NATO over Ukraine?

NATO Summit 2024: NATO allies pledge more support and weapons for Ukraine

The 75th anniversary summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation or NATO, is underway in Washington. From Biden's reelection bid to bolstering support for Ukraine there are several concerns that will dominate the agenda and discussions. The backdrop Russian forces press their advantage along Ukraine's Eastern front as the war grinds into its third year but in focus of the Summit is the host himself. Watch in for more details!

NATO summit 2024: Can the veteran President unite NATO against a rising Russia?

NATO summit 2024: Birthday bash amidst war and uncertainty

The 75th anniversary summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation or NATO, is underway in washington. From Biden's reelection bid to bolstering support for Ukraine there are several concerns that will dominate the agenda and discussions.

NATO summit: NATO vows lasting support for Ukraine

India and Russia have been working closely in the Strategic domain of nuclear energy in fact India's largest nuclear power plant project is built with Russian support. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin are looking to further this cooperation by establishing larger Russian designed nuclear power plants in India. Watch in for more details!

India-Russia eye civil nuclear collaboration: Will India buy Russia's floating nuclear power plants?

Russia has announced new defence deals with India ahead of PM Narendra Modi's 2-day visit to Moscow. Watch to know more.

Russian agency announces production of 'mango' missiles for Indian army's tanks

India-Russia ties: Russian agency announces production of 'mango' missiles for India

India-Russia ties: Russia to produce 'Mango' missiles for T-72 & T-90 tanks in India

Shares of Indian defense companies were buzzing in trade, surging up to 13% on July 5 after Defense Minister Rajnath Singh announced that the country's defense production recorded its highest-ever growth in 2023-24. Watch in for more details!

Indian defence stocks surge 13% following record defence production growth

Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud received a warm welcome on Tuesday during his first visit to Turkey since he took office in 2022. The prince was hosted by Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and pledged to boost Saudi-Turkish defense ties.

Saudi defence minister pledges to boost ties with Turkey

State-owned Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) announced early on Thursday it signed three memorandums of understanding (MoUs) with Turkish companies to "support the localisation of defence industries" in the kingdom.

Saudi Arabia-Turkiye to boost defence ties

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