DEFENCE MINISTRY APPROVAL
India may 'facilitate' magnet relief for auto cos as China keeps rare earth keys
The Indian government is intervening to help its auto industry secure rare earth magnets from China, as delays in approvals threaten manufacturing schedules. Companies have submitted end-user certificates, and industry representatives will visit China with government support to expedite the process. The situation is complicated by tense India-China relations, with potential production disruptions looming if approvals are not granted soon.
Centre eases rules for buying scientific equipment, consumables by R&D institutes
The government has eased financial regulations for scientific institutions, including those in defense, allowing greater autonomy in procuring research equipment and consumables. Researchers can now bypass the GeM portal for specialized purchases, with increased financial limits for various procurement methods. These changes aim to foster innovation and reduce bureaucratic hurdles, aligning India's scientific practices with global standards.
Shortage of rare earth magnets can decelerate India's automotive ride, Crisil says
Rare earth magnets, low in cost but critical in function, could emerge as a key supply-side risk for India's automotive sector if China's export restrictions and delays in shipment clearances persist, according to a report by Crisil Ratings.
North Korea launches repaired destroyer, Kim vows two more to come
North Korea successfully refloated a damaged naval destroyer, the Kang Kon, after a previous failed launch, with Kim Jong Un overseeing the event. Kim approved plans for two more destroyers, emphasizing the need to bolster naval power against perceived U.S. and allied threats.
US-China Trade Deal: From magnets and minerals to markets, what Trump’s China deal really means for trade, tech, and students
US-China trade deal: The United States and China have reached a tentative trade agreement that would see Beijing lift curbs on rare earth mineral exports in exchange for reduced trade restrictions, including access for Chinese students to American universities. Donald Trump said the deal would bring total U.S. tariffs on China to 55% and described the relationship as “excellent.” Though final approval from both Trump and Xi Jinping is pending, the agreement may ease months of tension that disrupted global supply chains, especially in the automotive sector.
Rare earths roadblock: India’s automakers await China’s nod for magnet talks
Indian auto industry representatives are seeking expedited rare earth magnet imports from China due to new export restrictions imposed in April. The restrictions, requiring special licenses and end-use disclosures, have led to potential production issues, especially for electric vehicles.
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11 years of India's defence sector: From indigenous production to global exports and redefined national security
India's defence sector sees big changes in the last eleven years. Defence budget rises, leading to record production and export growth. Private industry plays a key role with focus on local manufacturing. Government signs many contracts with Indian companies. Defence corridors attract investments. India's defence exports increase significantly. The country takes strong action on counter-terrorism and internal security.
Trump must tell Netanyahu 'enough is enough': Ex-Israeli PM Olmert
Former Israeli PM Ehud Olmert urges Donald Trump to pressure Netanyahu to end the Gaza war, calling it a “crime” driven by personal interests. Olmert advocates a two-state solution with land swaps, promoted alongside ex-Palestinian FM Al-Qidwa. Both insist peace is achievable but require new leadership on both Israeli and Palestinian sides.
Rapido’s fresh funding; Starlink’s gotcha moment
Rapido has bagged fresh capital from an investor ahead of its food delivery rollout. This and more in today’s ETtech Top 5.
India looking for other magnet sources after China's curbs on rare earth metals
India is negotiating with China to secure supplies of permanent magnets made from rare earth minerals, crucial for manufacturing cars, electric vehicles, and renewable energy equipment, said Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. China controls 90% of these supplies and recently imposed export restrictions requiring special licenses and assurances that the magnets won’t be used by the US or defense sectors.
Centre approves additional amount of Rs 25 cr as compensation for houses damaged by Pakistan's shelling
The Centre approved ₹25 crore in additional compensation for homes damaged by Pakistani shelling during Operation Sindoor in Jammu & Kashmir. Fully and partially damaged homes will receive ₹2 lakh and ₹1 lakh respectively. The aid, announced by PM Modi and facilitated by Home Minister Amit Shah, also extends to Punjab’s border areas.
India's technical textiles power play: NTTM & PLI are flipping the script
India's technical textiles sector is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by government initiatives like the National Technical Textiles Mission (NTTM) and the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme. These efforts aim to boost domestic manufacturing, innovation, and exports, positioning India as a global hub.
Indian Army to get Rs 30,000 crore QRSAM air defence missile system boost
aircraft, missile and drones attacks under Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army is all set to get Rs 30,000 crore boost with a new surface-to-air missile system expected to be cleared for acquisition by the Defence Ministry soon.
China rare earth curbs choke India automakers, add to tensions
Indian automakers are facing challenges in importing rare earth magnets from China, leading to potential production disruptions. China has reportedly rejected India-bound shipments while approving those to other countries.
China's rare earth weapon changes contours of trade war battlefield
China is strategically weaponizing its supply chain, mirroring U.S. export controls. Recent rare earth export license issues, highlighted by a Trump-Xi call, reveal China's refined trade war tactics. Modelled after U.S. sanctions, China's system grants insight into critical supply chain points.
Germany to boost military by up to 60,000 troops under new NATO targets
Germany plans to increase its military strength to around 260,000 troops. This is due to new NATO targets. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said that Germany needs up to 60,000 additional soldiers. NATO is increasing its forces because of the perceived threat from Russia. The alliance seeks to address shortfalls in troops, weapons and ammunition.
India plans rare earth magnet incentives as supply threat mounts
India is negotiating with companies to build long-term stockpiles of rare earth magnets by offering fiscal incentives to boost domestic production, aiming to reduce dependence on China, which controls 90% of magnet processing and recently restricted exports.
Why rare earths are the new battleground in US-China trade war
China Rare Earths Policy: Two months after China enforced strict export controls on key rare earth elements, manufacturing industries across the United States, Europe, and India face mounting disruptions. These elements are vital to defence, electronics, and electric vehicles. India’s Bajaj Auto has issued a public warning, citing looming production halts. With global dependency on China’s rare earth dominance, the trade standoff is sparking urgent diplomatic efforts and renewed calls for supply chain diversification.
Israel arms exports hit all time high in 2024: ministry
Israel's defence exports reached a record high of $14.7 billion in 2024. The Defence Ministry announced a significant increase in deals with Arab Gulf states. Missiles and air defence systems accounted for a large portion of exports. Sales to Abraham Accords countries also saw a sharp rise. Defence Minister Israel Katz stated that the world recognizes Israeli strength.
Taiwan detects Chinese military incursions near its territory
Taiwan's Ministry of Defence reported increased PLA activity, with aircraft crossing the median line and entering its ADIZ. In response to these escalating tensions, Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council is planning stricter regulations for civil servants visiting China, aiming to enhance national security and mitigate potential infiltration risks. The proposed changes seek to standardize travel protocols for all government employees.
Operation Shield: India prepares for future threats with massive civil defence drills across border states
India is initiating Operation Shield, a large-scale civil defence exercise across states bordering Pakistan, in response to escalating regional tensions and recent terrorist attacks. The drill, overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs, aims to address gaps in civil defence preparedness through simulated war-like scenarios, including blackouts and mock evacuations.
Bharat Dynamics shares rally 6% as govt plans Rs 40,000 crore defence R&D push
Bharat Dynamics shares jumped 5.6% after reports said the government plans to raise defence R&D spending to Rs 40,000 crore next year and double it over five years, allowing private players to compete with PSUs. Separately, a Rs 2,000–3,000 crore missile order for BDL is in the works. The company is also expanding output amid rising demand.
'Military equipment got war-tested': DRDO chief says defence exports to go up after Operation Sindoor
DRDO Chairman Samir V Kamat anticipates a boost in defence exports following Operation Sindoor, as indigenous military equipment has been "war-tested." The execution model for India's AMCA project has been approved, with the first prototype flight expected by the end of 2029 and production starting in 2035. This model encourages private sector participation in fighter aircraft development.
Defence experts hail govt's decision to approve AMCA Programme Execution Model, calls it a 'game-changing step'
Defence experts are praising the government's approval of the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program, calling it a game-changer for India's defence sector. This decision emphasizes indigenization and Make in India, with private sector involvement expected to accelerate production. The move aims to enhance India's air power amid global advancements in aircraft technology.
Defence exports to go up after Operation Sindoor, says Secretary Defence R&D
DRDO Chairperson Samir V Kamat anticipates a surge in indigenous defence equipment exports following 'Operation Sindoor,' as the conflict has validated their effectiveness. Kamat highlighted that the weapons' performance during the four-day military conflict with Pakistan has instilled confidence among potential importing nations.
Rajnath Singh calls AMCA ‘bold, decisive’ move to strengthen India’s defence arsenal
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme, a key step in developing India’s fifth-generation fighter jets. The project, involving both public and private sectors, aims to enhance self-reliance in defence and boost aerospace manufacturing. Amid rising regional threats and global advancements, the AMCA will strengthen India’s air force and support Prime Minister Modi’s ‘Make in India’ vision. The first prototype is expected by 2031, with production starting in 2035.
Govt activates theatre command: What we know about the tri-service integration that can make armed forces more deadly
India has taken a key step towards implementing integrated theatre commands by notifying rules under the Inter-Services Organisations (Command, Control and Discipline) Act, 2023. These rules grant military commanders full administrative and disciplinary powers over personnel across the Army, Navy, and Air Force serving under joint commands. This move aims to strengthen jointness, command efficiency, and operational synergy among the armed forces. The reforms come amid ongoing efforts to unify India’s military forces under theatre commands for coordinated warfighting.
Why Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka are fighting over this aeronautics company
A controversy ignited between Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh following a proposal to relocate HAL's LCA and AMCA production units. Karnataka vehemently opposes the move, emphasizing HAL's historical significance and Bengaluru's aerospace dominance. The Defence Ministry's approval of the AMCA program further intensifies concerns, highlighting Bengaluru's central role in India's indigenous defence efforts.
India’s 5th-gen stealth fighter jet project gets greenlight as AMCA programme enters execution phase
India advances its indigenous defence capabilities. The Defence Ministry approves the AMCA execution model. This paves the way for India's first fifth-generation stealth fighter. The DRDO commits to delivering AMCA by 2035. India also tests a directed energy weapon, neutralising drones. These developments signal a strategic shift in India's defence outlook. The nation aims for self-reliance in advanced military technologies.
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