The Indo-Pacific region has become a major focal point in the recent times. China's hostility has been put under the lens by many. One of the strongest voice has been from the United States. To counter Beijing's growing footprint, Washington and New Delhi have decided to join hands.

WION Dispatch: India looks at diversifying its arsenal, Washington and New Delhi join hands

Indo-Pacific region back in focus, drones launched from airplanes to be produced

A senior Pentagon official announced on Thursday that the United States and India will co-develop drones as Washington wants tighter ties with Delhi as a means of fending off China.

This official stated that India would produce these <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-captures-the-extent-of-nigerias-deadly-floods-518444">drones</a>&nbsp;and export them to other nations in the neighbourhood.

Delhi wants to diversify its primarily Russian-made armaments while simultaneously growing its own defence industry.

"And we want to support India on both fronts and are doing so," Eli Ratner, assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs, told a group of reporters and defense experts.

"In practical terms, that means that we're going to be working closely with India on co-producing and co-developing capabilities that will support India's own defense modernization goals," Ratner said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/tibetan-spiritual-leader-dalai-lama-says-he-would-prefer-dying-in-india-518836">India</a> can then "export to our partners across the region, including in South and Southeast Asia at affordable price points."

Ratner mentioned the potential for creating drones that are launched from aircraft as well as anti-drone defence systems.

He also said the Pentagon is considering in the near and medium term "opportunities to co-produce major capabilities," but did not say which ones.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-denies-exporting-weapons-to-russia-518564">North Korea denies exporting weapons to Russia</a>

Relations between the United States and India were strained for a long time, but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump, the nations' shared fear of an assertive China helped to forge stronger ties.

After designating India as a "major defence partner" in 2016, the two nations have subsequently negotiated agreements to make it easier to transfer high-end weapons and expand their military cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A senior Pentagon official announced on Thursday that the United States and India will co-develop drones as Washington wants tighter ties with Delhi as a means of fending off China.

A senior Pentagon official announced on Thursday that the United States and India will co-develop drones as Washington wants tighter ties with Delhi as a means of fending off China. This official stated that India would produce these drones and export them to other nations in the neighbourhood. Delhi wants to diversify its primarily Russian-made armaments while simultaneously growing its own defence industry. "And we want to support India on both fronts and are doing so," Eli Ratner, assistant secretary of defense for Indo-Pacific security affairs, told a group of reporters and defense experts. "In practical terms, that means that we're going to be working closely with India on co-producing and co-developing capabilities that will support India's own defense modernization goals," Ratner said. India can then "export to our partners across the region, including in South and Southeast Asia at affordable price points." Ratner mentioned the potential for creating drones that are launched from aircraft as well as anti-drone defence systems. He also said the Pentagon is considering in the near and medium term "opportunities to co-produce major capabilities," but did not say which ones. Also read | North Korea denies exporting weapons to Russia Relations between the United States and India were strained for a long time, but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former President Donald Trump, the nations' shared fear of an assertive China helped to forge stronger ties. After designating India as a "major defence partner" in 2016, the two nations have subsequently negotiated agreements to make it easier to transfer high-end weapons and expand their military cooperation. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

With an eye on China, US to co-develop drones with India

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is planning to move forward with 'Project Cheetah'. The project is in line with the Make in India initiative. Under the project, India would weaponise Israeli Heron drones with strike capabilities.

What is IAF's Project Cheetah? India plans to weaponise Israeli Heron drones with missiles

The United States placed some sanctions on an Iranian company that helped ship drones reportedly to Russia, it also now warned non-Iranian and non-Russian firms against getting involved in helping out Iran either to make or to ship drones.

Three Iranian drone manufacturers sanctioned; US warns firms against shipping Iran's UAVs

Amid rising tensions between Taiwan and China, the frontline soldiers of the island nation were seen demonstrating an intercept for unidentified drones flying in restricted zones in Kinmen. This development comes after Taiwanese soldiers downed an unidentified drone for the first time on September 1.

Taiwan deploys anti-drone guns at Kinmen; vows tough measures against Chinese intrusions

Taliban defence minister Mohammed Yakoob Mujahid has accused Pakistan of providing airspace for US drones to enter Afghanistan. He characterised incursions by the drones as continuation of USA's 'invasion'. His comments came less than month after US President Joe Biden announced that al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri had been killed in Kabul in a drone strike. Mujahid said that US drones are seen flying over Kabul even now.

"Our information shows that they (US drones) are entering into Afghanistan from Pakistan, using the airspace of Pakistan," Mujahid told reporters when asked where the drones were coming from.

"We demand that Pakistan should not allow its airspace to be used against us."

There was no immediate reaction from Pakistan on Taliban's claims. Pakistan military has previously denied allowing use of the country's airspace.

"Deploying these drones in&nbsp;Afghanistan is still a clear invasion of Afghanistan and its airspace by the Americans,"&nbsp;Mujahid said.

"They are doing this shamelessly. We condemn this illegal act and demand that the Americans put an end to it."

After two decades of military campaign, US and other forces left Afghanistan last year. This paved way for the Taliban to recapture power in the country.

The drone attack in July that killed Osama bin Laden's successor Zawahiri&nbsp;was the first known strike by the US on a target in Afghanistan since Washington withdrew its forces from the country on August 31 last year.

Mujahid said the authorities were investigating Biden's claims of killing Zawahiri.

"We will share the details when it is complete," he said.

Taliban have still neither confirmed Zawahiri's presence in Afghanistan nor acknowledged his death.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Taliban defence minister Mohammed Yakoob Mujahid has accused Pakistan of providing airspace for US drones to enter Afghanistan. He characterised incursions by the drones as continuation of USA's 'invasion'.

Taliban defence minister Mohammed Yakoob Mujahid has accused Pakistan of providing airspace for US drones to enter Afghanistan. He characterised incursions by the drones as continuation of USA's 'invasion'. His comments came less than month after US President Joe Biden announced that al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri had been killed in Kabul in a drone strike. Mujahid said that US drones are seen flying over Kabul even now. "Our information shows that they (US drones) are entering into Afghanistan from Pakistan, using the airspace of Pakistan," Mujahid told reporters when asked where the drones were coming from. "We demand that Pakistan should not allow its airspace to be used against us." There was no immediate reaction from Pakistan on Taliban's claims. Pakistan military has previously denied allowing use of the country's airspace. "Deploying these drones in Afghanistan is still a clear invasion of Afghanistan and its airspace by the Americans," Mujahid said. "They are doing this shamelessly. We condemn this illegal act and demand that the Americans put an end to it." After two decades of military campaign, US and other forces left Afghanistan last year. This paved way for the Taliban to recapture power in the country. The drone attack in July that killed Osama bin Laden's successor Zawahiri was the first known strike by the US on a target in Afghanistan since Washington withdrew its forces from the country on August 31 last year. Mujahid said the authorities were investigating Biden's claims of killing Zawahiri. "We will share the details when it is complete," he said. Taliban have still neither confirmed Zawahiri's presence in Afghanistan nor acknowledged his death. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Pakistan providing airspace to US drones for entering Afghanistan: Taliban

Drones have become the top focus in Ukraine as thousands are being used by both sides to hit targets behind the enemy lines. Molly Gambhir tells you how drones are shaping this war.

WION Fineprint: How drones are shaping the Ukraine war

NASA is not only going to scrap their original plan of sending another rover to Mars, but they’re also going to send two new helicopter drones.

NASA plans to send  2 more drones to Mars

In an effort to increase livestock productivity, Rwanda is using drones to deliver aid to farmers. Road transportation is proving to be challenging.

Rwanda uses drones to deliver aid to farmers as road transportation proves challenging

In the last decade, countries that have fielded superior drones have often gained an upper hand on battlefield. Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report.

World at War: Episode 12 | How drones have turned the tide of Russia-Ukraine war?

The extensive of drones in the war between Russia and Ukraine and other modern conflicts is raising the question of just how much need there is for human pilots to fly expensive fighter jets and other aircraft or whether unmanned aerial vehicles could do the job. It's a debate that's been playing out for years in the real world. Could drones replace fighter pilots in future wars?

Tech in Trend | Could drone tech redefine what it means to be a 'Top Gun'

Could drones replace fighter pilots in future wars? Algorithms, data and machines are taking on a bigger role in the cockpit - but there's still a role for humans when it comes to fighter jets. Molly Gambhir explains.

WION Fineprint | Tomorrow’s ‘Top Gun’ May Have A Drone Wingman

The Israeli defense forces have for the first time lifted the lid on a long known secret- their use of military drones but the question is Why now? What do they want the public to know and Who do they want to take to notice? Our correspondent Jodie Cohen brings you this report, take a look!

Israel reveals use of armed drones in war

The Israeli defence forces have revealed about the country's use of military drones for the first time. But, why now? What do they want the public to know and who are they hoping will take notice?

Israel acknowledges use of attack drones for first time

Almost 10 days after the US warned about how the Iranian government was preparing to send several hundred drones including some equipped with weapons to Russia, Tehran has now announced that it is ready to export unmanned aerial vehicles to friendly states.

Iran to export drones to 'friendly countries'

Jake Sullivan, the White House national security advisor said that Iran is planning to supply hundreds of drones with combat weapon capabilities to Russia for use in Ukraine.

US Security Advisor: Iran will supply combat drones to Russia

After Mali accused the French Army of spying using drones to film a military base, France alleged mercenaries were burying bodies in it as the junta said France did not have a "legal basis" for carrying out military operations in the country.

The country's foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop said it will be ending the 2014 defence cooperation agreement with France.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-the-ukraine-war-russian-gas-supplies-to-china-soar-by-60-in-2022-report-476197">Also Read |&nbsp;Russian gas supplies to China soar by 60% in 2022: Report</a>

"So, as of May 2, the agreement covering Barkhane and the agreement covering Takuba cease taking an effect with regard to Mali which means that as of this moment, there is no legal basis for France to operate on Malian soil," Diop said.

France had deployed fighter planes and drones Barkhane operation as allies fought the jihadists. However, relations between France and Bamako began to slide after a coup as officers seized power in 2020 while toppling&nbsp;Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita.

France had earlier decided to pull out troops from Mali including a special forces unit. France however said Mali's decision on ending the military cooperation agreement was&nbsp;"unjustified".

The junta had earlier accussed the French forces of "illegally" flying a drone over Gossi base as French forces handed it back to Mali.

France later claimed Russian mercenaries were covering bodies to accuse the French of war crimes as Mali's military ordered an inquiry into mass graves found at the Gossi base.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

After Mali accused the French Army of spying using drones to film a military base, France alleged mercenaries were burying bodies in it as the junta said France did not have a "legal basis" for carrying out military operations in the country.

After Mali accused the French Army of spying using drones to film a military base, France alleged mercenaries were burying bodies in it as the junta said France did not have a "legal basis" for carrying out military operations in the country. The country's foreign minister Abdoulaye Diop said it will be ending the 2014 defence cooperation agreement with France. Also Read | Russian gas supplies to China soar by 60% in 2022: Report "So, as of May 2, the agreement covering Barkhane and the agreement covering Takuba cease taking an effect with regard to Mali which means that as of this moment, there is no legal basis for France to operate on Malian soil," Diop said. France had deployed fighter planes and drones Barkhane operation as allies fought the jihadists. However, relations between France and Bamako began to slide after a coup as officers seized power in 2020 while toppling Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita. France had earlier decided to pull out troops from Mali including a special forces unit. France however said Mali's decision on ending the military cooperation agreement was "unjustified". The junta had earlier accussed the French forces of "illegally" flying a drone over Gossi base as French forces handed it back to Mali. France later claimed Russian mercenaries were covering bodies to accuse the French of war crimes as Mali's military ordered an inquiry into mass graves found at the Gossi base. (With inputs from Agencies) Watch WION LIVE Here Decode the geostrategy, diplomacy, and ideologies of the world’s unending wars. Catch our special series ‘World at War’ every Saturday at 8:30 PM IST and Sunday at 10:30 PM IST only on WION.

After drone spying row, Mali to exit defence pact with France

Israel’s defence ministry on Thursday announced that its new laser missile defence system successfully neutralised drones, rockets, mortars, and anti-tank missiles in a recent test.

According to Defence Minister Benny Gantz, this Israeli-made laser system will complement the country’s air defence system, including the famed Iron Dome, adding that it will be inducted “as soon as possible”, news agency AP reported.

Israel aims to deploy the laser systems—dubbed Iron Beam—around its borders, especially near the Gaza Strip.

According to the Times of Israel newspaper, the test, described as&nbsp;“game changer”, was conducted in March this year at an undisclosed location in southern Israel’s Negev desert.

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Israel has successfully tested the new “Iron Beam” laser interception system. 
 
This is the world’s first energy-based weapons system that uses a laser to shoot down incoming UAVs, rockets &amp; mortars at a cost of $3.50 per shot. 
 
It may sound like science fiction, but it's real. <a href="https://t.co/nRXFoYTjIU">pic.twitter.com/nRXFoYTjIU</a>
— Naftali Bennett בנט (@naftalibennett) <a href="https://twitter.com/naftalibennett/status/1514661060011245571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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It was initially planned to deploy the laser system by 2024, but the military wants to be inducted as soon as possible.

Prime Minister Naftali Bennett had announced&nbsp;in February that Israel would deploy the system within the year, the newspaper reported.

The ground-based laser system is being developed with the Rafael weapons manufacturer.

“The successful series of tests proved the uniqueness of the system, intercepting a wide range of threats in a variety of scenarios,” Times of Israel newspaper quoated Rafael Advanced Defense Systems director-general Yoav Har-Even as saying.

“The cooperation between Rafael and the Defence Ministry [research team] has led to a technological breakthrough and the completion of a significant milestone, one that will allow us to reach initial operational capability in a short time,” he added.

According to the ministry, Israel is among the first countries in the world to succeed in using&nbsp;powerful laser technology to develop a working air defence system and to demonstrate interceptions in operational scenarios.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel’s defence ministry on Thursday announced that its new laser missile defence system successfully neutralised drones, rockets, mortars, and anti-tank missiles in a recent test.

Israel’s defence ministry on Thursday announced that its new laser missile defence system successfully neutralised drones, rockets, mortars, and anti-tank missiles in a recent test. According to Defence Minister Benny Gantz, this Israeli-made laser system will complement the country’s air defence system, including the famed Iron Dome, adding that it will be inducted “as soon as possible”, news agency AP reported. Israel aims to deploy the laser systems—dubbed Iron Beam—around its borders, especially near the Gaza Strip. According to the Times of Israel newspaper, the test, described as “game changer”, was conducted in March this year at an undisclosed location in southern Israel’s Negev desert. Israel has successfully tested the new “Iron Beam” laser interception system. This is the world’s first energy-based weapons system that uses a laser to shoot down incoming UAVs, rockets & mortars at a cost of $3.50 per shot. It may sound like science fiction, but it's real. pic.twitter.com/nRXFoYTjIU — Naftali Bennett בנט (@naftalibennett) April 14, 2022 × It was initially planned to deploy the laser system by 2024, but the military wants to be inducted as soon as possible. Prime Minister Naftali Bennett had announced in February that Israel would deploy the system within the year, the newspaper reported. The ground-based laser system is being developed with the Rafael weapons manufacturer. “The successful series of tests proved the uniqueness of the system, intercepting a wide range of threats in a variety of scenarios,” Times of Israel newspaper quoated Rafael Advanced Defense Systems director-general Yoav Har-Even as saying. “The cooperation between Rafael and the Defence Ministry [research team] has led to a technological breakthrough and the completion of a significant milestone, one that will allow us to reach initial operational capability in a short time,” he added. According to the ministry, Israel is among the first countries in the world to succeed in using powerful laser technology to develop a working air defence system and to demonstrate interceptions in operational scenarios. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Game changer’: Israel successfully tests new laser defence system 

The Russian onslaught is getting deadlier by the day and the Ukrainian resistance is getting fiercer. And the west continues to keep &nbsp;President Volodymyr Zelensky at an arm's length. But that could change as the Biden administration is going to arm Ukraine with killer drones.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden has announced an additional $800 million in security assistance to Ukraine on Wednesday. &nbsp;Biden says America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend itself.&nbsp;

"This new package on its own is going to provide unprecedented assistance to Ukraine, and includes 800 anti-aircraft systems," Biden said, to stop Russian planes and helicopters attacking Ukrainians.&nbsp;

In a landmark virtual address to the U.S Congress, Ukraine's leader on Wednesday made an emotive appeal to lawmakers for greater Western intervention against Russia. Zelensky invoked September 11 and Pearl Harbor during his impassioned address to the US Congress, imploring Washington to step up military aid and impose a no-fly zone to counter the Russian invasion closing in on Kyiv. But that request involves a direct engagement of NATO forces and has been repeatedly refused by the West.&nbsp;

<img alt="Drone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e898a67-800b-4a71-88da-06812645d435" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/AeroVironment%20image%202%20%281%29.PNG" />

(Image: AeroVironment)

Among the weaponry which Washington is sending, the most potent in the U.S made 'Switchblade' drones. These kamikaze drones are manufactured by AeroVironment, an American defence contractor. The small and lightweight drones are effectively remote-controlled bombs.

Anti-armour loitering munitions have more range and precision and cost less than present-day anti-tank weapons. It basically means the drone can orbit the battlefield until its ground controller guides it onto a target. The advantage of having loitering ammunition is that it has the ability to patrol for extended periods, remain hidden and then immediately strike stationary or moving targets.&nbsp;

With the west unwilling to provide its fighter jets, a proposal floated by Poland which was shot down by the U.S, the drones are a relatively cheap and very cost-effective means of destruction. The Ukrainian army has suffered heavy losses and it’s a David vs Goliath battle.

But these tactical drones are lightweight and can be launched from a tube-like mortar shell and require minimum handling &amp; training, unlike other weaponry.

The Switchblade 600 weighs 22 Kg and can hover over a target for 40 minutes before zooming down at speeds of 185kph. It is programmed and equipped to pierce armour and destroy a tank or an armoured vehicle. These Switchblades are designed to be easily portable, fitting into a rucksack and perfectly suits the Ukrainian army which along with the volunteers is giving a tough fight to the Russian troops.&nbsp;

Mike McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, reveals that the U.S is indeed providing advanced anti-aircraft weapon systems which would give Ukraine an edge as it's taken on a much superior adversary in Russia.&nbsp;

Moscow isn't taking the bonhomie between Ukraine &amp; West kindly. On Sunday, a barrage of Russian missiles hit a large Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. A local Ukrainian official said 35 people were killed and 134 were wounded.

Russia's defence ministry says a large number of weapons supplied by foreign nations were being stored at the sprawling training facility. The attack on the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a base just 25 km from the Polish border. It had previously hosted NATO military instructors.&nbsp;

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday (12th March 2022) said its troops could target supplies of Western weapons in Ukraine. He told the state television, 'We warned the United States that the orchestrated pumping of weapons from a number of countries is not just a dangerous move, it is a move that turns these convoys into legitimate targets'.&nbsp;

Clearly, Moscow has made its intent clear and with this latest move of providing Ukraine with weapons that could inflict heavy damage to the Russian forces, the tensions continue to only rise further.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Russian onslaught is getting deadlier by the day and the Ukrainian resistance is getting fiercer. And the west continues to keep President Volodymyr Zelensky at an arm's length.

The Russian onslaught is getting deadlier by the day and the Ukrainian resistance is getting fiercer. And the west continues to keep President Volodymyr Zelensky at an arm's length. But that could change as the Biden administration is going to arm Ukraine with killer drones. US President Joe Biden has announced an additional $800 million in security assistance to Ukraine on Wednesday. Biden says America will continue to give Ukraine weapons to fight and defend itself. "This new package on its own is going to provide unprecedented assistance to Ukraine, and includes 800 anti-aircraft systems," Biden said, to stop Russian planes and helicopters attacking Ukrainians. In a landmark virtual address to the U.S Congress, Ukraine's leader on Wednesday made an emotive appeal to lawmakers for greater Western intervention against Russia. Zelensky invoked September 11 and Pearl Harbor during his impassioned address to the US Congress, imploring Washington to step up military aid and impose a no-fly zone to counter the Russian invasion closing in on Kyiv. But that request involves a direct engagement of NATO forces and has been repeatedly refused by the West. (Image: AeroVironment) Among the weaponry which Washington is sending, the most potent in the U.S made 'Switchblade' drones. These kamikaze drones are manufactured by AeroVironment, an American defence contractor. The small and lightweight drones are effectively remote-controlled bombs. Anti-armour loitering munitions have more range and precision and cost less than present-day anti-tank weapons. It basically means the drone can orbit the battlefield until its ground controller guides it onto a target. The advantage of having loitering ammunition is that it has the ability to patrol for extended periods, remain hidden and then immediately strike stationary or moving targets. With the west unwilling to provide its fighter jets, a proposal floated by Poland which was shot down by the U.S, the drones are a relatively cheap and very cost-effective means of destruction. The Ukrainian army has suffered heavy losses and it’s a David vs Goliath battle. But these tactical drones are lightweight and can be launched from a tube-like mortar shell and require minimum handling & training, unlike other weaponry. The Switchblade 600 weighs 22 Kg and can hover over a target for 40 minutes before zooming down at speeds of 185kph. It is programmed and equipped to pierce armour and destroy a tank or an armoured vehicle. These Switchblades are designed to be easily portable, fitting into a rucksack and perfectly suits the Ukrainian army which along with the volunteers is giving a tough fight to the Russian troops. Mike McCaul, the top Republican on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, reveals that the U.S is indeed providing advanced anti-aircraft weapon systems which would give Ukraine an edge as it's taken on a much superior adversary in Russia. Moscow isn't taking the bonhomie between Ukraine & West kindly. On Sunday, a barrage of Russian missiles hit a large Ukrainian base near the border with NATO member Poland. A local Ukrainian official said 35 people were killed and 134 were wounded. Russia's defence ministry says a large number of weapons supplied by foreign nations were being stored at the sprawling training facility. The attack on the Yavoriv International Centre for Peacekeeping and Security, a base just 25 km from the Polish border. It had previously hosted NATO military instructors. Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov on Saturday (12th March 2022) said its troops could target supplies of Western weapons in Ukraine. He told the state television, 'We warned the United States that the orchestrated pumping of weapons from a number of countries is not just a dangerous move, it is a move that turns these convoys into legitimate targets'. Clearly, Moscow has made its intent clear and with this latest move of providing Ukraine with weapons that could inflict heavy damage to the Russian forces, the tensions continue to only rise further. (With inputs from agencies)

US sending Switchblade drones to Ukraine

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence that India's rising capability in the drone sector will give the world a new leadership, as he flagged off 100 'kisan drones' in different parts of the country for spraying pesticides and other farm materials.

Modi launched the drones on Friday with officials describing it as a "very novel and exciting initiative" for farmers.

In his speech, the prime minister said a new culture of drone start-ups is getting ready in India. Their numbers will soon be in thousands from over 200 now, leading to the generation of employment opportunities on a massive scale.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-meet-afghan-sikh-hindu-community-members-soon-454207">PM Modi to meet Afghan Sikh, Hindu community members soon</a>

He said his government will ensure that there is no impediment in the sector's development and has already undertaken several reforms and policy measures to facilitate its rise. This is an example of how high the country can fly if policies are right, Modi said, noting that drones were mostly associated with the defence sector until a few years back.

This is a new chapter in providing modern farming facilities in the 21st century, and not only will it prove to be a milestone in the development of the drone sector but also open infinite possibilities, he said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/a-nation-to-protect-priyam-gandhi-modys-book-brings-out-indias-fight-against-covid-454427">A Nation to Protect: Priyam Gandhi-Mody's book brings out India's fight against Covid</a>

The prime minister said his government did not waste time on apprehensions about opening up the drone sector but trusted India's young talent and moved ahead with a new mindset. He said his government has given priority to technology and innovations in the Budget and policy measures.

Noting that drones have diverse usages, Modi said, they have been used in the 'Swamitva Yojana' aimed at creating a record of land ownership in villages and transporting medicines and vaccines.

Watch |&nbsp;PM Modi to hold India-UAE summit with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince virtually

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&nbsp;

He said 'kisan drones' are the beginning of a new revolution. Farmers can use high-capacity drones in the coming times to transport their produce like fruits, vegetables and flowers to markets in a minimal time, boosting their income.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence that India's rising capability in the drone sector will give the world a new leadership, as he flagged off 100 'kisan drones' in different parts of the country for spraying pesticides and other farm materials.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence that India's rising capability in the drone sector will give the world a new leadership, as he flagged off 100 'kisan drones' in different parts of the country for spraying pesticides and other farm materials. Modi launched the drones on Friday with officials describing it as a "very novel and exciting initiative" for farmers. In his speech, the prime minister said a new culture of drone start-ups is getting ready in India. Their numbers will soon be in thousands from over 200 now, leading to the generation of employment opportunities on a massive scale. Also read | PM Modi to meet Afghan Sikh, Hindu community members soon He said his government will ensure that there is no impediment in the sector's development and has already undertaken several reforms and policy measures to facilitate its rise. This is an example of how high the country can fly if policies are right, Modi said, noting that drones were mostly associated with the defence sector until a few years back. This is a new chapter in providing modern farming facilities in the 21st century, and not only will it prove to be a milestone in the development of the drone sector but also open infinite possibilities, he said. Also read | A Nation to Protect: Priyam Gandhi-Mody's book brings out India's fight against Covid The prime minister said his government did not waste time on apprehensions about opening up the drone sector but trusted India's young talent and moved ahead with a new mindset. He said his government has given priority to technology and innovations in the Budget and policy measures. Noting that drones have diverse usages, Modi said, they have been used in the 'Swamitva Yojana' aimed at creating a record of land ownership in villages and transporting medicines and vaccines. Watch | PM Modi to hold India-UAE summit with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince virtually He said 'kisan drones' are the beginning of a new revolution. Farmers can use high-capacity drones in the coming times to transport their produce like fruits, vegetables and flowers to markets in a minimal time, boosting their income.

PM flags off 100 'kisan drones', says new drone start-up culture rising in country

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdoğan over the tensions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone call with his Turkish counterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan

Indian drone firm Garuda Aerospace is working on fulfilling orders from foreign customers for 8,000 drones that serve purposes including agriculture (pesticide spraying), industrial inspection, and mapping.

Besides these drones that will have to be delivered to clients across the UAE, Malaysia, and Panama, the company is working on fulfilling orders with Indian government-run and private entities.

WION&nbsp;spoke to Agnishwar Jayaprakash, the Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, to understand how the company is scaling up capacity to meet the demand.&nbsp;

Garuda’s drones recently completed mapping of over 1000 villages for Survey of India - Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh as part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swamitva scheme, which aims to provide digital records of land ownership. When queried about the pace at which this was done and the scale of operation, Agnishwar explained that a single drone was able to map five villages (each measuring up to 3 sq km) in a day and that they had deployed a sizable fleet to map 1000 villages in a month. Their work involved not just aerial mapping, but also providing the final output of processed map data.&nbsp;

Their work for clients in India includes services such as pipeline inspection for Indian Oil Corporation Limited, the National Highways Authority of India Surveillance Project (to monitor highway construction) and catering to the mapping and topographical survey needs of energy companies like Reliance, Adani, Vedanta, and Tata projects, among others.&nbsp;

On the steep target of having to deliver 8,000 drones to foreign clients by March 2022, Agnishwar said that the company has ramped up manufacturing capacity by opening two new facilities. "Earlier, we could churn out up to 30 drones per day from our lone Chennai facility, but with the new units in Gurgaon and Hosur, we can produce up to a total of 100-150 drones a day. We had the opportunity to invest and expand this way owing to the new orders and encouraging revenue, " he added.&nbsp;

According to Agnishwar, selling agriculture and mapping drones to foreign countries would mean that Garuda would have to setup an assembly facility and provide support services in the respective countries, as well. "They will give us the land and manpower support. We’ll send a small team, parts, tools, and equipment to supervise and provide training.

While he does admit that delivery of all 8,000 drones by March 2022 is an aggressive target, he hopes to enable delivery of a significant portion of the order within the deadline.&nbsp;

Indian drone firm Garuda Aerospace is working on fulfilling orders from foreign customers for 8,000 drones that serve purposes including agriculture (pesticide spraying), industrial inspection, and mapping.

Indian drone firm Garuda Aerospace is working on fulfilling orders from foreign customers for 8,000 drones that serve purposes including agriculture (pesticide spraying), industrial inspection, and mapping. Besides these drones that will have to be delivered to clients across the UAE, Malaysia, and Panama, the company is working on fulfilling orders with Indian government-run and private entities. WION spoke to Agnishwar Jayaprakash, the Founder and CEO of Garuda Aerospace, to understand how the company is scaling up capacity to meet the demand. Garuda’s drones recently completed mapping of over 1000 villages for Survey of India - Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh as part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Swamitva scheme, which aims to provide digital records of land ownership. When queried about the pace at which this was done and the scale of operation, Agnishwar explained that a single drone was able to map five villages (each measuring up to 3 sq km) in a day and that they had deployed a sizable fleet to map 1000 villages in a month. Their work involved not just aerial mapping, but also providing the final output of processed map data. Their work for clients in India includes services such as pipeline inspection for Indian Oil Corporation Limited, the National Highways Authority of India Surveillance Project (to monitor highway construction) and catering to the mapping and topographical survey needs of energy companies like Reliance, Adani, Vedanta, and Tata projects, among others. On the steep target of having to deliver 8,000 drones to foreign clients by March 2022, Agnishwar said that the company has ramped up manufacturing capacity by opening two new facilities. "Earlier, we could churn out up to 30 drones per day from our lone Chennai facility, but with the new units in Gurgaon and Hosur, we can produce up to a total of 100-150 drones a day. We had the opportunity to invest and expand this way owing to the new orders and encouraging revenue, " he added. According to Agnishwar, selling agriculture and mapping drones to foreign countries would mean that Garuda would have to setup an assembly facility and provide support services in the respective countries, as well. "They will give us the land and manpower support. We’ll send a small team, parts, tools, and equipment to supervise and provide training. While he does admit that delivery of all 8,000 drones by March 2022 is an aggressive target, he hopes to enable delivery of a significant portion of the order within the deadline.

This Indian firm to deliver 8,000 agro, mapping, and inspection drones to UAE, Malaysia, and Panama

Pentagon documents show that the US air wars in the Middle East have been marked by "deeply flawed intelligence" and resulted in thousands of civilian deaths, including children.

Pentagon report: Civilian deaths undercounted | US Air Drone Strikes

Houthi rebels said on Sunday (November 21) that they launched 14 bomb-laden drones to attack airports and Armco oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. The rebels said this was done in response to "Saudi-led coalition escalation in Yemen".

"We targeted the King Khalid Air Base in Riyadh city with four drones, hitting military targets at the King Abdullah International Airport and Aramco oil refineries in Jeddah city with four drones, striking a military target in Abha International Airport in Abha city with a drone, targeting other military sites in the cities of Jazan, Najran and Abha with five drones," Houthi military spokesman Yehya Sarea said in a statement.

Meanwhile, Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV has reported that the coalition intercepted an explosive-laden drone launched by the Houthis from Sanaa International Airport in Yemen toward Saudi Arabia, and "it is dealing with other Houthi threats", reports Xinhua news agency.

Houthi rebels fighting against the Yemen government are supported by Iran. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition against Houthi rebels.

Houthi rebels have recently intensified cross-border missile and drone attacks.

In February, the rebel group began a major offensive against the Saudi-backed government army to capture the oil-rich province of Marib.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Houthi rebels said on Sunday (November 21) that they launched 14 bomb-laden drones to attack airports and Armco oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. The rebels said this was done in response to "Saudi-led coalition escalation in Yemen".

Houthi rebels said on Sunday (November 21) that they launched 14 bomb-laden drones to attack airports and Armco oil facilities in Saudi Arabia. The rebels said this was done in response to "Saudi-led coalition escalation in Yemen". "We targeted the King Khalid Air Base in Riyadh city with four drones, hitting military targets at the King Abdullah International Airport and Aramco oil refineries in Jeddah city with four drones, striking a military target in Abha International Airport in Abha city with a drone, targeting other military sites in the cities of Jazan, Najran and Abha with five drones," Houthi military spokesman Yehya Sarea said in a statement. Meanwhile, Saudi-owned Al-Arabiya TV has reported that the coalition intercepted an explosive-laden drone launched by the Houthis from Sanaa International Airport in Yemen toward Saudi Arabia, and "it is dealing with other Houthi threats", reports Xinhua news agency. Houthi rebels fighting against the Yemen government are supported by Iran. Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition against Houthi rebels. Houthi rebels have recently intensified cross-border missile and drone attacks. In February, the rebel group began a major offensive against the Saudi-backed government army to capture the oil-rich province of Marib. (With inputs from agencies)

Houthi rebels claim launching 14 bomb-laden drones at Saudi targets

A British defence company Ultra Electronics has unveiled a working prototype of a mind-controlled drone at the defence and security expo in Malvern, England.&nbsp;

The technology allows a person sitting behind a computer screen to control the movements through his or her thought and all there is to do is focus one's attention and eyes on specific circles on the computer screen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-rivers-of-lava-drone-footage-shows-lava-flowing-from-spains-cumbre-vieja-volcano-426535">Watch | 'Rivers of lava': Drone footage shows lava flowing from Spain's Cumbre Vieja volcano</a>

Interestingly, the laptop doesn't use its webcam to look at the user, it is the human mind which instructs the drone through the brain sensor worn on the user's head.

A pilot can control the drone and make it take off, land and even rotate it in the air through the power of the mind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-coaxing-wayward-elephants-home-with-drones-and-bananas-404631">Also Read:&nbsp;China coaxing wayward elephants home with drones and bananas</a>

The drone could prove to be a "gamechanger" for the defence sector since it reduces the number of hand-held controllers for soldiers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/over-3000-drones-take-over-skies-in-china-setting-a-world-record-375454">Also Read:&nbsp;Over 3,000 drones take over skies in China setting a world record</a>

The developers say the technology can be applied in many sectors from unmanned ground vehicles to unmanned naval vessels. There are plans to develop a fully wearable device and test it on the battlefield.

A British defence company Ultra Electronics has unveiled a working prototype of a mind-controlled drone at the defence and security expo in Malvern, England. The technology allows a person sitting behind a computer screen to control the movements through his or her thought and all there is to do is focus one's attention and eyes on specific circles on the computer screen.

A British defence company Ultra Electronics has unveiled a working prototype of a mind-controlled drone at the defence and security expo in Malvern, England. The technology allows a person sitting behind a computer screen to control the movements through his or her thought and all there is to do is focus one's attention and eyes on specific circles on the computer screen. Watch | 'Rivers of lava': Drone footage shows lava flowing from Spain's Cumbre Vieja volcano Interestingly, the laptop doesn't use its webcam to look at the user, it is the human mind which instructs the drone through the brain sensor worn on the user's head. A pilot can control the drone and make it take off, land and even rotate it in the air through the power of the mind. Also Read: China coaxing wayward elephants home with drones and bananas The drone could prove to be a "gamechanger" for the defence sector since it reduces the number of hand-held controllers for soldiers. Also Read: Over 3,000 drones take over skies in China setting a world record The developers say the technology can be applied in many sectors from unmanned ground vehicles to unmanned naval vessels. There are plans to develop a fully wearable device and test it on the battlefield.

British firm unveils prototype of mind-controlled drone

Until now, the drones were controlled through hand-held devices, our next report tells you how the prototype of a mind-controlled drone is taking shape.

New drone technology unveiled, your mind can now instruct a drone to fly

Chinese drones are falling from the sky. Chinese realtors are going broke. But Xi Jinping is only concerned about his expansionist mission in Taiwan. Is a Chinese invasion imminent? What can the US do to bolster Taiwan? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Crashing drones, rising debt: China's rough patch

Taliban on Wednesday warned the US of 'consequences' over its use of drones in Afghan airspace. Calling itself 'sole legal entity' and 'custodian of Afghanistan's land and airspace', the Taliban alleged that Afghan airspace was being 'invaded' by US drones.

The Taliban also claimed&nbsp;that the US was violating commitments made to Taliban during negotiations that took place in Doha, Qatar.

To justify its warning, the Taliban attempted to underline that all countries were sole owners of their airspace. It called on the US and other countries to uphold 'international rights, laws and commitments' and spoke of 'mutual respect'.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-was-advised-to-keep-troops-in-afghanistan-say-top-us-generals-416696">Biden was advised to keep troops in Afghanistan, say top US generals</a>

The statement was tweeted by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid

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About airspace of Afghanistan<a href="https://t.co/3SmnYkCpHN">https://t.co/3SmnYkCpHN</a> <a href="https://t.co/huIue3NXD2">pic.twitter.com/huIue3NXD2</a>
— Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) <a href="https://twitter.com/Zabehulah_M33/status/1443066840557707267?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 29, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Taliban took over Afghanistan in a lightning offensive during and immediately after US withdrawal.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/ban-on-saloon-girls-education-return-of-public-executions-is-afghanistan-going-back-in-time-416682">Ban on saloon, girls’ education &amp; return of public executions: Is Afghanistan going back in time?</a> 
 
On Monday, top US generals said that they had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-was-advised-to-keep-troops-in-afghanistan-say-top-us-generals-416696">advised US President Joe Biden against total withdrawal</a> and suggested that 2500 US troops be kept back in Afghanistan. This squarely went against Biden's recent assertion that he did not recall having received such an advice.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-brutally-kill-child-after-suspecting-father-belonged-to-afghan-resistance-forces-416664">Taliban brutally kill child after suspecting father belonged to Afghan resistance forces</a>

The statements came from General Mark Milley and General Frank McKenzie as they testified before US Congress.

Taliban on Wednesday warned the US of 'consequences' over its use of drones in Afghan airspace. Calling itself 'sole legal entity' and 'custodian of Afghanistan's land and airspace', the Taliban alleged that Afghan airspace was being 'invaded' by US drones.

Taliban on Wednesday warned the US of 'consequences' over its use of drones in Afghan airspace. Calling itself 'sole legal entity' and 'custodian of Afghanistan's land and airspace', the Taliban alleged that Afghan airspace was being 'invaded' by US drones. The Taliban also claimed that the US was violating commitments made to Taliban during negotiations that took place in Doha, Qatar. To justify its warning, the Taliban attempted to underline that all countries were sole owners of their airspace. It called on the US and other countries to uphold 'international rights, laws and commitments' and spoke of 'mutual respect'. Also Read | Biden was advised to keep troops in Afghanistan, say top US generals The statement was tweeted by Taliban spokesperson Zabihullah Mujahid About airspace of Afghanistanhttps://t.co/3SmnYkCpHN pic.twitter.com/huIue3NXD2 — Zabihullah (..ذبـــــیح الله م ) (@Zabehulah_M33) September 29, 2021 × Taliban took over Afghanistan in a lightning offensive during and immediately after US withdrawal. Also Read | Ban on saloon, girls’ education & return of public executions: Is Afghanistan going back in time? On Monday, top US generals said that they had advised US President Joe Biden against total withdrawal and suggested that 2500 US troops be kept back in Afghanistan. This squarely went against Biden's recent assertion that he did not recall having received such an advice. Also Read | Taliban brutally kill child after suspecting father belonged to Afghan resistance forces The statements came from General Mark Milley and General Frank McKenzie as they testified before US Congress.

Taliban warn US of 'consequences' over drones in Afghan airspace

Workers safety of coal mine workers is always a serious concern, moving ahead in this way, Australia has started using drones to take care of mine workers. Watch this report for more details.

Drones venture underground in Australia

You may have heard about a lot of countries that are experimenting with drone delivery operations. The good news is that India is also among them. The government has overhauled the civil drone regime and some exciting pilot programmes are underway. Watch the video for more details.

Tech It Out: India's big bet on drones

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