India has been actively engaged in bolstering its defense capabilities through a series of missile tests and modernization initiatives. Recent activities include the successful test-firing of Agni-1 and Prithvi-II ballistic missiles, as well as the Akash Prime air defense system. These tests underscore India's commitment to maintaining a robust and technologically advanced military.

Agni and Prithvi Missile Tests On July 17, 2025, India conducted successive tests of the Prithvi-II and Agni-1 short-range, nuclear-capable ballistic missiles from the Integrated Test Range in Chandipur, Odisha. These tests were carried out by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) and validated all operational and technical parameters. The Ministry of Defence stated that the launches were part of routine training and validation exercises, reaffirming the missiles' accuracy and operational readiness.

• Agni-1: This missile has a strike range of 700 km and can carry a payload of 1,000 kg. It is a solid-fuelled missile.
• Prithvi-II: This is a short-range ballistic missile with a range of 350 km, known for its accuracy. It is a liquid-fuelled, surface-to-surface missile.

These missiles are primarily geared towards Pakistan, while other missiles in the Agni series, such as Agni-5, are geared towards China. India is also developing the new-generation Agni-Prime ballistic missile, which will gradually replace the Agni-1 and Agni-2 missiles in the country's nuclear arsenal.

Akash Prime Air Defence System In addition to the Agni and Prithvi missile tests, the Indian Army conducted a high-altitude test of the indigenously developed Akash Prime air defense system in Ladakh. The Akash Prime system successfully destroyed two high-speed aerial targets at an altitude of approximately 15,000 feet. This upgraded version of the Akash weapon system is customized to operate at high altitudes and includes an indigenously developed radio frequency seeker.

The Akash Prime missile system is designed to intercept and destroy aerial threats like fighter jets, drones, and cruise missiles. The recent test confirmed the missile's effectiveness in extreme weather and challenging terrain. Following the successful trial, Akash Prime will be inducted into the third and fourth regiments of the Army's Akash missile units.

Defence Modernisation and "Year of Reforms" The Ministry of Defence has declared 2025 as the "Year of Reforms," with the aim of transforming the armed forces into a technologically advanced, combat-ready force capable of multi-domain integrated operations. Key focus areas for reform include:

• Integrated Theatre Commands: Establishing unified commands where personnel and assets of the Army, Navy, and Air Force operate together in specific geographical areas.
• Focus on New Warfronts: Developing capabilities in cyberspace, space, and artificial intelligence.
• Simplified Defence Acquisitions: Streamlining and accelerating the military modernization process.
• Indigenous Defence Production: Promoting domestic defense equipment production under the 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' initiative.

India's defence budget is projected to reach USD 415.9 billion between 2025-2029, reflecting its commitment to modernizing military infrastructure and capabilities.

Safran's Role in India's Defence Sector Safran, a French multinational aerospace, defence and security corporation, has been a long-standing partner of the Indian Army since the 1950s. Safran is involved in the development of the Indian civil and military aeronautics industry, supplying engines, equipment, and support services for aircraft and helicopters. Safran is also a major contributor to the 36 Rafale fighter aircraft acquired by India in 2016. Safran Aircraft Engines and Safran Electricals & Power operate facilities in Hyderabad, manufacturing components for the LEAP engine and electrical harnesses for Rafale jets. Safran is planning to establish a new subsidiary in Hyderabad for the maintenance and overhaul of Rafale's M88 engines.