Wars in Ukraine, West Asia, and closer home, “Op Sindoor” have been dominated by use of air power. Aerospace has become the most preferred means of prosecution of war and has seen the fastest evolution since WW II. Recent wars have highlighted the importance of cheaper drones, air defence systems, and innovative exploitation of platformsContinue reading “IAF Becoming a Future Ready Force Imbibing Next-Gen technologies”
Author Archives: Anil Chopra
Rafale F4/F5 Getting Closer to the Make in India Deal
A suspected leak from France’s Ministry of the Armed Forces a few days back suggests that India intends to procure 90 Rafale F4 multirole fighter aircraft, with an additional option for 24 next-generation Rafale F5 variants for the Indian Air Force (IAF). The IAF had also reportedly moved a case for possible purchase of 114Continue reading “Rafale F4/F5 Getting Closer to the Make in India Deal”
Global Aggressor Fighter Aircraft Squadrons – IAF’s CoBRA a Unique Blend
After the Balakot air strikes and the more recent Op Sindoor, aerial engagements remained a subject of intense debate and continue to do so. Aerial engagements have hogged maximum news headlines since aviation began. Baron von Richthofen, or the Red Baron, was a fighter pilot with the German Air Force during World War I. HeContinue reading “Global Aggressor Fighter Aircraft Squadrons – IAF’s CoBRA a Unique Blend”
Putin Visit – Significant Outcomes – Global Signalling of Reinforced Strategic Autonomy
As the world remains mired in wars, sanctions, and Trump tariffs, India and Russia played cool and moved substantially forward on constructive engagement in multiple disciplines. Bonhomie and mutual respect was displayed when Prime Minister Modi received President Putin at the base of the aircraft ladder and then drove him in his “made-in-India” Toyota Fortuner while Putin’s high security, specially flown-in, “Aurus Senat limousine” remained standing by. Putin’sContinue reading “Putin Visit – Significant Outcomes – Global Signalling of Reinforced Strategic Autonomy”
Putin’s Visit to New Delhi – Hopes and Realities of Military Aviation Deals
Russian President Vladimir Putin will visit India on December 4-5. The visit is part of the annual bilateral summit which started in 2000, and there have been 22 such summits alternatively in India and Russia. The visit is set to reinforce “special and privileged strategic partnership”, and exchange views on regional and global issues amid increasing Western pressure on India. ThisContinue reading “Putin’s Visit to New Delhi – Hopes and Realities of Military Aviation Deals”
2026 outlook: India set to rise amid a turbulent world
As we come to the end of the year 2025, we have seen the ongoing trend of chaos, conflict, and, at times, confusion in the geopolitical arena. The war in Ukraine continues, with a possible closure in 2026. Much to European angst, Vladimir Putin, the “Wizard of the Kremlin”, continues to stand steadfast and call the shots in his ownContinue reading “2026 outlook: India set to rise amid a turbulent world”
As India Pakistan Tensions Heighten – Let us look at the Air Power
The dust has still to settle, and the blood continues to boil as India unfolds a slew of harsh responses after the gruesome massacre of innocent holiday makers at Pahalgam. Practically all world leaders have condemned the attack and stand in solidarity with India. UN Security Council has passed a resolution, albeit made milder by Pakistan’s iron-brother China. This will not be allowedContinue reading “As India Pakistan Tensions Heighten – Let us look at the Air Power”
Su-35s for Iran How Does it Change Dynamics with Israel
Iran has purchased Russian-made Sukhoi Su-35 fighter jets, amid Western concerns about Iran and Russia’s growing military cooperation. Ali Shadmani, the deputy coordinator of the Khatam-ol-Anbia Central Headquarters, who was quoted by media, did not clarify how many jets were purchased or whether they had already been delivered to Iran. “Whenever necessary, we make military purchases to strengthen our air, land, and navalContinue reading “Su-35s for Iran How Does it Change Dynamics with Israel”
World Class Russian Missiles – Continued Interest of India
New Delhi. “Op Sindoor”, the four day India–Pakistan conflict, saw great play between the missile systems of the two countries. The Indian side was armed mainly with Russian, French, Israeli and Indian missiles. Pakistan with American and Chinese missiles. Missiles have become more accurate; the effective operational ranges have become larger; no escape zones have increased; they have become more autonomous; and can operate in heavy electronic countermeasures environment. InContinue reading “World Class Russian Missiles – Continued Interest of India”
Pakistan Pushing for J-35 Fifth Generation Aircraft – Way Ahead India
Midst of Op Sindoor, Pakistan once again announced that it will start acquiring around 40 Chinese fifth-generation fighter J-35A, as early as August 2025. Pakistan’s Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar reportedly finalized the logistics and financing details of the J-35 fighter jet deal during his visit to China immediately after Op Sindoor. Can China fast-track the production and deliveries of an aircraft which has just begun production remains aContinue reading “Pakistan Pushing for J-35 Fifth Generation Aircraft – Way Ahead India”
Air Power Asia 