DRDO conducts three flight trials of VSHORADS off Odisha coast; induction planned
The Defence Research and Development Organisation conducted three consecutive flight trials of the indigenous Very Short Range Air Defence System, VSHORADS, off the coast of Odisha. The tests occurred from Chandipur on 27 February 2026 and demonstrated the system’s ability to intercept high speed aerial threats across varying ranges and altitudes. Developed by DRDO and led by the Research Centre Imarat, the project involved collaboration with several DRDO laboratories and Indian industry partners. The system is designed as a man portable air defence system and is now poised for induction into the Indian armed forces. This marks a milestone in India’s indigenous defence technology and self reliance.
Three flight trials completed on 27 February 2026
Interception of high speed aerial threats across ranges/altitudes
Indigenous development by DRDO; led by RCI
MANPADS design; channeled for close-range defence
Poised for induction into Indian armed forces
Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia assumes charge as AOC‑in‑C, Eastern Air Command
Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia took charge as Air Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief (AOC‑in‑C) of the Indian Air Force’s Eastern Air Command, succeeding Air Marshal Surat Singh who retired on 31 January 2026. Walia has extensive experience across multiple MiG variants and previously served as Defence Attache in Japan and South Korea. The appointment strengthens IAF leadership in the eastern theatre, including operations in the northeast and at surrounding airfields. Walia’s leadership comes as the IAF continues to modernize its fleet and expand regional capabilities.
New AOC-in-C: Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia
Command: Eastern Air Command
Prev. role: defence attache in Japan and South Korea
Succeeds: Air Marshal Surat Singh (retired Jan 31, 2026)
Context: IAF fleet modernization ongoing
Ravi Kota named next CMD of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) from May 2026
Ravi Kota, currently HAL’s Director (Operations), is set to become Chairman and Managing Director of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited in May 2026. Kota’s background includes leadership of the LCA Tejas program and negotiating HAL’s largest defense contract. His appointment follows the Public Enterprises Selection Board’s recommendation and is subject to requisite clearance. The move is seen as a strategic step to strengthen HAL’s role in Indian defense production and to advance the expansion of the LCA Mk1A fleet for the Indian Air Force.
Person: Ravi Kota named HAL CMD
Upcoming term: May 2026
Background: Director (Operations) at HAL
Notable work: LCA Tejas program leadership
Impact: strengthen HAL’s defense manufacturing
Agni Pariksha joint exercise conducted by Indian Army and ITBP in Arunachal Pradesh
The Indian Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) conducted the six‑day joint training exercise Agni Pariksha in Arunachal Pradesh. Held from 19 to 24 January at Sigar in East Siang district, the drill aimed to improve combat synergy, jointmanship and artillery procedures for infantry personnel. The exercise sought to familiarise non‑artillery units with artillery coordination and firing missions, breaking traditional role silos and enhancing cross‑force interoperability. Defence officials described the exercise as a meaningful step toward integrated operations and readiness in contested border environments.
Exercise: Agni Pariksha, 19–24 January
Locations: Sigar, East Siang district, Arunachal Pradesh