The Indian Air Force (IAF) has released a landmark video showcasing the Sudarshan S-400 long-range air defense missile system in operational action for the first time. Dropped ahead of the prestigious Vayu Shakti-2026 exercise, the footage offers a rare public glimpse into one of India’s most advanced and closely guarded military assets. Shared on the social media platform X, the video demonstrates the S-400—referred to as the Sudarshan Chakra in Indian service—tracking and neutralizing simulated aerial threats during rigorous drills. The demonstration highlights the system’s seamless integration into India’s layered air defense network.
Accompanying the release, the IAF celebrated a historic achievement: the longest-range kill ever recorded in military history. This milestone occurred during Operation Sindoor in May 2025, amid rising cross-border tensions, when the system intercepted drones and missiles targeting Indian cities and military bases. Operation Sindoor was a critical moment for India’s air defenses, as IAF units deployed the S-400 to prevent large-scale incursions along vulnerable borders. Its precise operations averted significant damage, cementing its role as a key asset in protecting Indian airspace.
In a recent X post, the IAF described its forces as “infallible, impervious, and precise,” following a full-dress rehearsal at Pokhran ahead of Vayu Shakti-26. All simulated targets were successfully neutralized, confirming full operational readiness for the main event on 27 February in Pokhran, Jaisalmer. The S-400 Triumf, procured from Russia under a multi-billion-dollar deal, is among the world’s most capable surface-to-air missile systems. It features detection, tracking, and engagement ranges of up to 400 kilometers against aircraft, drones, and cruise missiles.
This capability significantly extends India’s defensive perimeter, enabling early warning and long-range interception that outperforms many regional adversaries. During Operation Sindoor, it proved pivotal in countering sophisticated aerial threats, earning recognition as a game-changing asset. India plans to further expand its capabilities by acquiring five additional S-400 squadrons from Russia. These negotiations, aimed at strengthening air defense in light of rising regional tensions, are set to be discussed at high-level India-Russia talks. The new units will enhance coverage in critical border sectors, reinforcing India’s commitment to technological superiority in a volatile security environment.
Compared with indigenous systems like Akash and QRSAM, the S-400 offers unmatched range and multi-target engagement. While domestic systems excel in mobility and cost-effectiveness, the Russian platform’s advanced radars and missile versatility provide a complementary high-end layer. Key S-400 features include the 91N6E Big Bird radar with up to 600 km surveillance, multi-missile compatibility (from the 40N6 long-range missile to short-range Pantsir integration), and AI-assisted target discrimination. The system can simultaneously track 300 targets and engage 36, adapting to stealth and hypersonic threats. Its mobility allows rapid deployment via transporter-erector-launchers, with units spaced up to 100 km apart for networked defense. AI integration in Indian service refines threat prioritization and reduces false positives in complex airspace.
Vayu Shakti-2026 will showcase the IAF’s capabilities with over 100 aircraft, including fighters such as Tejas, Rafale, Jaguar, Mirage-2000, Sukhoi-30MKI, MiG-29, and Hawk conducting precision strikes and air superiority missions. Transport aircraft including C-130J, C-295, and C-17 will demonstrate rapid airlift and logistics, essential for disaster relief, while helicopters such as Chetak, ALH MK-IV, Mi-17 IV, LCH Prachand, Apache, and Chinook will display assault, reconnaissance, and heavy-lift operations.
Remotely Piloted Aircraft will participate in simulated combat scenarios, highlighting networked warfare, alongside overseas evacuation and rescue missions, reflecting the IAF’s growing global reach. This unveiling comes as India balances foreign acquisitions with indigenous defense development. The S-400’s operational success reinforces strategic partnerships—particularly with Russia—while spurring domestic research in missile technology.
Amid persistent drone threats from Pakistan and China, the Sudarshan S-400 forms a cornerstone of India’s aerial defense. Its record-setting performance during Operation Sindoor sends a clear signal of India’s resolve and readiness. Vayu Shakti-2026 not only celebrates these capabilities but also previews future technologies, including AI-driven autonomy and hypersonic defense, reaffirming the IAF’s evolution into a technologically advanced and formidable force.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
Telugu actor Allu Sirish has announced that he will marry Nayanika on March 6, with pre-wedding celebrations planned at Allu Studios in Hyderabad. Sharing the dates on his X account, Sirish said the wedding will be a private affair with close family and friends, while the pre-wedding festivities on March 2 will be celebrated with members of the Telugu film industry. He wrote, "Nayanika & I are having an intimate wedding with family & friends on 6th March. We are excited to celebrate our Pre Wedding Celebrations with the Telugu film industry prestigiously at Allu Studios on the 2nd March."
The couple got engaged last year, with Allu Sirish sharing photos from the ceremony on social media. The event was attended by close family and friends. In the engagement pictures, Sirish wore a traditional white outfit, and Nayanika looked stunning in a detailed red ensemble, as the couple exchanged rings amid cheers from loved ones.
Allu Sirish, the younger brother of actor Allu Arjun, made his acting debut as a lead with Gouravam in 2013, directed by Radha Mohan and starring Yami Gautam. He later appeared in films such as Kotha Janta, Srirastu Subhamastu, Okka Kshanam, and Urvasivo Rakshasivo. His most recent film, the 2024 release Buddy, was written and directed by Sam Anton and produced by KE Gnanavel Raja and Aadhana Gnanavelraja under Studio Green. The movie also featured Gayatri Bhardwaj, Prisha Rajesh Singh, and Ajmal Ameer in key roles.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Insta@allusirish.
After being discharged by the court in the Delhi excise policy case, Manish Sisodia, former Deputy Chief Minister of Delhi, described the verdict as a significant moment in Indian politics. He accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of orchestrating a conspiracy using central agencies such as the ED and CBI to retain power. Sisodia noted that the Supreme Court of India had earlier observed that the case would not stand trial, a view he said was reaffirmed by the trial court. He also mentioned that an inquiry has been initiated against a CBI officer and urged the BJP to admit that the allegations were false.
Delhi Leader of Opposition Atishi defended Arvind Kejriwal and Sisodia, calling them “kattar imaandar” and asserting that the case proved how central agencies conspired against the Aam Aadmi Party. She said the truth about the Prime Minister and the BJP had now been exposed. AAP MP Sanjay Singh echoed similar sentiments, stating that the court’s ruling demonstrated that the cases were fabricated as part of a conspiracy to tarnish the reputations of Kejriwal, Sisodia, and the party.
The Rouse Avenue Court discharged Kejriwal and Sisodia, observing that the alleged central conspiracy could not be substantiated. The court said the accusations did not withstand judicial scrutiny, found no criminal intent on Sisodia’s part, and held that the conspiracy theory could not stand against a constitutional authority. Reacting to the verdict, Sunita Kejriwal expressed happiness and stated that truth ultimately prevails.
The CBI had filed its first chargesheet in 2022 and later submitted supplementary chargesheets, alleging that ₹100 crore was paid by a “south lobby” to influence the now-withdrawn excise policy. A total of 23 individuals were chargesheeted in the case. The CBI maintained that the alleged criminal conspiracy should be assessed as a whole and that the adequacy of evidence should be examined during trial. However, Kejriwal’s counsel argued that there was no incriminating material linking him to the conspiracy. The defence pointed out that his name appeared only in the fourth supplementary chargesheet and not in the earlier ones, contending that the allegations merely repeated previous claims and that he was acting within his official capacity as Chief Minister.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
A fresh surge in phishing scams is targeting citizens through fraudulent “e-challan” SMS messages, prompting new warnings from the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre under the Ministry of Home Affairs. According to officials, victims receive text messages claiming a traffic e-challan has been issued against their vehicle. The SMS typically includes a link urging immediate payment to avoid penalties. Trusting the message to be genuine, recipients click on the link and are redirected to a fake website that closely mimics the official M-Parivahan portal of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Cyber experts explain that this is where the phishing process begins. The counterfeit site asks users to enter sensitive details such as vehicle number, mobile number, OTPs, and even banking or card information under the guise of settling the challan. Once submitted, the data is captured by cybercriminals, who then siphon funds from bank accounts or misuse the information for further fraud.
The I4C has reported a noticeable rise in such SMS-based phishing campaigns, especially in urban areas where digital traffic enforcement systems are common. Scammers exploit public familiarity with legitimate e-challan systems to create panic, often threatening heavy fines or legal consequences for non-payment.
Authorities have clarified that genuine e-challans are issued only through authorised government platforms. Citizens are advised to verify any notice directly via official state traffic police websites or the Parivahan portal rather than clicking on SMS links. The latest advisory urges people not to click on suspicious links, share OTPs, or disclose financial information on unverified websites. The I4C has asked victims to immediately report incidents to the national cybercrime helpline 1930 or through the official cybercrime reporting portal to limit financial damage. As phishing tactics grow more sophisticated, the agency has warned that even a single click on a fake e-challan link can trigger a chain of digital fraud, highlighting the importance of vigilance.
The Ministry of Home Affairs recently geo-blocked command-and-control servers linked to the ‘Wingo’ app network, describing it as a “telecom mule as a service” platform that offers earnings for SMS-based tasks. Authorities also blocked four Telegram channels with around 1.53 lakh subscribers and more than 53 related YouTube videos promoting the app as part of the crackdown. The I4C subsequently issued a public warning against the Wingo app, cautioning citizens against downloading or using it. The agency noted that several similar apps are involved in spreading malicious SMS links and advised Android users to stay particularly alert.
Established by the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre serves as the central nodal agency for addressing cybercrime in India. It works closely with state and Union Territory law enforcement agencies to identify emerging threats, analyse cybercrime trends, and coordinate large-scale actions against fraud networks operating through fake websites, malicious apps, mule accounts, and social media platforms. It also collaborates with telecom providers and technology companies to block phishing domains, fraudulent applications, and command-and-control servers used by cybercriminals.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) has launched a Floating Dry Dock (FDD) for the Sri Lanka Navy, marking a key milestone in India-Sri Lanka defence cooperation. Provided as a $20 million grant, the dock will be stationed at Trincomalee, allowing the navy to service larger vessels that current dry docks cannot accommodate, saving an estimated $2.1 million annually in external repairs. The FDD, with a lifting capacity of 4,000 tonnes, complements Sri Lanka’s fleet, including AOPVs like SLNS Sayurala and SLNS Sindurala, enabling underwater repairs and overhauls locally. Overseen by the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS), it meets international standards and reinforces bilateral maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region. This project builds on past collaboration and highlights India’s commitment to regional stability, defence self-reliance, and strategic support through grants. It also positions Trincomalee as a potential hub for ship maintenance, boosting local capabilities and employment.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address showcased America’s economic successes and ambitious promises, projecting a confident vision for the nation’s future. But how accurate are these claims, and what issues still linger? Hairianto Diman and Elakeyaa Selvaraji analyze the main themes and their potential implications for the country’s future, with insights from Steven Okun, CEO of APAC Advisors.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
Under President Lee Jae Myung’s guidance, investor confidence in South Korea has surged, fueled by ambitious reforms—from proposed corporate governance improvements and regulatory adjustments to efforts aimed at revitalizing the stock market. His pro-market policies have shifted sentiment positively, attracting both domestic and international investors and pushing the Kospi to new highs. But is this surge sustainable, or merely a short-term spike? Hairianto Diman and Elakeyaa Selvaraji explore the outlook with Betty Wang, Head of Northeast Asia Research at Oxford Economics.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
On Saturday, President Donald Trump increased the US global import tariff to 15%, following the Supreme Court’s ruling that invalidated much of his previous tariff program. Trump described the new 15% rate as “fully allowed and legally tested,” replacing the earlier 10% plan, and said it would be temporary under current trade law for 150 days. Questions remain about how enforceable this measure is and what will happen once the 150-day period ends. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman discuss the implications with Angela Mancini, Partner and Head of the Global Risk Analysis Practice for Asia Pacific at Control Risks.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
In his first remarks following the arrest of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese described the former prince’s situation as an extraordinary fall from grace. Although Albanese supports a republican Australia, he stated that this scandal would not trigger another referendum. Speaking with Guardian Australia’s political editor Tom McIlroy, the PM also criticized Pauline Hanson’s remarks about Muslim Australians and addressed the potential return of the 34 wives and children of Australian Islamic State fighters currently in Syria.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
