The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has unveiled striking images of its Kawasaki EC-2 electronic warfare (EW) aircraft prototype, signaling a planned service entry in 2027. The EC-2 is derived from the C-2 transport platform, and its development coincides with Tokyo’s deliberations over the remaining C-2 production slots.
On 12 March, the JASDF Air Development and Test Command released photos of the aircraft at Gifu Air Base. Converted from the first delivered C-2, the EC-2 features a heavily modified airframe optimized for electronic attack missions. Its most notable feature is the ‘Platypus’ nose, believed to house advanced radar-jamming antennas, enabling the aircraft to engage targets while disrupting enemy radar from a safe distance.
Additional modifications include lateral fairings along the rear fuselage, likely containing side-looking ECM and ESM sensors, and two dorsal humps—one possibly for satellite communications and the other for specialized jamming systems to disrupt enemy networks. The aircraft is powered by two GE Aerospace CF6 turbofans, maintaining the C-2’s proven performance. Japan’s Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics Agency (ATLA) expects development to conclude by the end of fiscal 2026, with operational deployment set for 2027 at Iruma Air Base, strengthening the JASDF’s EW capabilities.
The exact number of EC-2s to be procured is still under review, though plans suggest up to four, replacing the single EC-1 standoff jammer retired in 2025. The JASDF currently operates 18 C-2s, but with conversions—including the EC-2 and an RC-2 electronic intelligence variant—16 remain in standard transport roles. With only four C-2 production slots remaining, Tokyo must decide between additional transports or EW platforms, a choice that will shape the force’s capabilities amid rising regional tensions.
These developments reflect Japan’s focus on self-reliant EW solutions to address modern threats, reducing dependence on aging or foreign systems. ATLA has also explored options to enhance heavy-lift capability, including potential second-hand Boeing C-17s or Airbus A400Ms, though no decisions have been finalized. The C-130H fleet’s future remains uncertain, with sustainment and upgrades under review.
Notably, the JASDF tested the US Air Force’s Rapid Dragon concept on a C-2 in FY2023-24, deploying palletized long-range cruise missiles from the cargo ramp. This trial may inform future dual-role strike capabilities, which, combined with the EC-2’s EW systems, could provide Japan with potent networked strike options. As production slots shrink and the FY2027 operational date approaches, Tokyo’s decisions on the EC-2 will impact its Indo-Pacific security posture. Procuring four EC-2s would close a critical gap in electronic warfare, enhance spectrum dominance, and reinforce Japan’s defense innovation.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@alpha_defense.
Ahead of the Assam legislative assembly elections, MP Pradyut Bordoloi resigned from the Congress party and on Wednesday formally joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the presence of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Assam BJP President Dilip Saikia. Bordoloi confirmed his decision to join the BJP when approached by the media.
He cited being sidelined by the Congress leadership and alleged internal mistreatment as reasons for ending his long-standing association with the party. Bordoloi emphasized that his resignation was driven by “multiple issues” rather than just ticket allocation for the Assam Assembly elections. “For me, securing a ticket was not a matter of life and death. My priority was to leave with dignity. Congress has given me a lot,” he said. He added that, despite being in his second term as a Lok Sabha MP with three years remaining, he chose to step down rather than accept humiliation.
Navajyoti Talukdar, who resigned as Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) Vice-President yesterday, confirmed that Bordoloi would join the BJP, praising Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma as a dynamic leader. Following Bordoloi’s resignation, Congress has nominated his son to contest from the Margherita Assembly constituency in the upcoming polls. Bordoloi’s exit comes a month after former Assam Congress chief Bhupen Kumar Borah, who spent three decades with the party, also joined the BJP.
The Assam Assembly elections, covering all 126 constituencies, are scheduled for April 9, with vote counting on May 4. The contest will pit the incumbent BJP-led NDA government against the Congress, with the BJP aiming for a third consecutive term under Chief Minister Sarma, while Congress seeks to reclaim power.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
The Union government has confirmed that the song “Sarke Chunariya” has been banned following widespread criticism over its lyrics and visuals. Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Ashwini Vaishnaw, announced the decision in the Lok Sabha in response to a question from Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadouria.
Vaishnaw stated that the government had already taken action against the song and emphasized that freedom of speech in India is subject to constitutional limits. He highlighted that expression must adhere to reasonable restrictions outlined in the Constitution. “The song has already been banned,” he said, adding, “Freedom of speech cannot be absolute. It has to be in the context of society and culture, following the reasonable restrictions set by the Constitution’s creators.”
The minister referenced Article 19(2), which permits restrictions on speech in the interest of public order, decency, morality, and other concerns. He also noted that with the rapid spread of content through digital platforms, the government is prepared to take strict measures to protect society, particularly children, women, and marginalized groups.
The controversy began after the song, featuring Nora Fatehi and Sanjay Dutt, was released, with critics accusing it of vulgar lyrics and visuals objectifying women. Public backlash grew quickly, with demands for the song’s removal and filing of FIRs. Several figures and organizations, including the Haryana and Karnataka Women Commissions, actor-politicians Ravi Kishan and Kangana Ranaut, and singer Armaan Malik, criticized the track. An advocate also approached the CBFC, seeking a ban, citing its potential harm to minors.
The song was launched at an event attended by Nora Fatehi, director Prem, composer Arjun Janya, Rakshitha, Reeshma Nanaiah, and the film’s lead Dhruva Sarja. Produced by Venkat K Narayana under KVN Productions, KD: The Devil is a period action film inspired by real events from 1970s Bangalore. The movie stars Dhruva Sarja in the titular role, alongside Sanjay Dutt, Shilpa Shetty Kundra, Ramesh Aravind, Reeshma Nanaiah, and V Ravichandran, and is set to release theatrically on April 30, 2026.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
The Himachal Pradesh government has issued new guidelines requiring its employees to strictly follow the prescribed dress code and exercise responsible behaviour on social media, warning that violations could lead to disciplinary action. In an official order dated March 16, the Department of Personnel instructed administrative secretaries, department heads, divisional and deputy commissioners, and officials of boards, corporations, and autonomous bodies to ensure these rules are followed.
The guidelines state that employees must wear formal, clean, and modest clothing in subdued colours while at work or attending court. Casual or party wear is not allowed. Male employees are advised to wear shirts and trousers or collared shirts with pants, along with proper footwear. Female employees should wear sarees, formal suits, salwar-kameez, churidars, or kurtas with dupattas, paired with suitable footwear. The use of jeans and T-shirts in offices has been specifically prohibited to maintain professionalism and decorum. The government noted that despite earlier instructions issued in 2017, many employees have not complied with the dress code, and it emphasized the importance of proper grooming and hygiene.
Regarding social media, employees have been reminded to follow the Central Civil Services Conduct Rules, 1964, maintaining integrity, neutrality, and responsible conduct both on and off duty. They have been warned against making unauthorized remarks on government policies or sharing official information on personal platforms. The order also bans employees from expressing political or religious opinions publicly, including on social media, blogs, or vlogs, without permission. Sharing official documents with unauthorized individuals is strictly prohibited.
It further states that any public statements that could criticize government policies or harm intergovernmental relations may result in disciplinary action. Employees participating in public discussions must clarify that their views are personal. All departments have been directed to ensure strict implementation of these rules. Violations will be taken seriously and may lead to appropriate disciplinary measures. The government has also instructed that these guidelines be widely circulated and acknowledged by all employees.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang and SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won were in attendance at the NVIDIA GTC global AI conference held in San Jose, California, showcasing the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and fostering collaboration between the tech giant and global industry leaders.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Nigel Farage, leader of Reform UK, has been earning substantial income by sending paid personalized videos on Cameo. Over five years, he has made at least £374,893 from these recordings, often producing several videos per day. While many use Cameo for lighthearted messages, an investigation of over 4,000 of Farage’s videos revealed concerning content. Some videos included endorsements of neo-Nazi events, repetition of extremist slogans, and references to antisemitic conspiracies. He even made a £155 video for a man reportedly sentenced to 16 months for participating in a far-right riot. Farage also made misogynistic remarks about left-wing politicians, including a comment about US congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. A spokesperson for Reform UK emphasized that these videos were informal, not political statements, and that Farage opposes extremism and political violence. They also noted that occasional mistakes are inevitable given the volume of videos he records. Investigations correspondent Henry Dyer told Helen Pidd that the videos reveal what Farage is willing to say or do for money — raising questions about the judgment of someone who aspires to be prime minister.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
The Prime Minister assures that the UK will not be pulled into a broader Middle East conflict and promises help for households struggling with heating oil costs. Pippa Crerar and Kiran Stacey discuss the government’s measures to support people amid the cost-of-living crisis and the impact of the war. Additionally, there’s a focus on Brussels, where the government is working on another EU reset to strengthen ties.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
Melanie Oliveiro presents Episode 2 of her new Made in SG series titled EverNew versus EverGreen. The show features discussions and sometimes debates between industry veterans and younger or emerging talents. Renowned Singaporean jazz musician and Cultural Medallion recipient Jeremy Monteiro shares insights on the growth and evolution of the local jazz scene and talks about his ongoing work as a pianist, singer songwriter, and composer. He is joined by the younger generation of musicians, including multitalented Chok Kerong and flutist Rit Xu, both of whom have also established themselves in the music scene.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
In spring 2003, the initial euphoria over Saddam Hussein’s fall quickly turned into deadly chaos across Iraq. Guardian reporters, whether working independently or embedded with military units, witnessed the violence and disorder firsthand, documenting the rapid shift from jubilation to conflict, looting, and unrest that marked the early days following the invasion and the collapse of Saddam’s regime.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
