Defense

The developments were disclosed in HAL’s latest annual report, which identifies them among technologies designed and developed from the ground up for the LCA Mk2 platform. While neither system attracts the attention normally associated with radar, electronic warfare or weapons, they represent the kind of underlying aircraft technology that determines reliability, safety, maintainability and operational availability over a fighter’s service life.

Announced on 31 August 2026, CITADEL — short for Critical Infrastructure Threat Detection & Electronic Layer — represents an expansion of counter-drone technology beyond conventional military bases and battlefield environments. Zen Technologies has positioned the system as a configurable protective layer for facilities whose uninterrupted operation has become increasingly important to India’s digital, industrial and strategic infrastructure.

A self-protection jammer is an electronic-warfare system designed to improve a fighter aircraft’s survivability against hostile radars and radar-guided weapons. It works by transmitting carefully generated radio-frequency signals intended to disrupt or confuse enemy radar tracking and targeting.

Major Rajprasad, an officer of the Corps of Engineers and 7 Engineer Regiment, began developing the system after examining the risks faced by troops while dealing with IEDs and clearing terrorist hideouts. Government records from the earlier stages of the project identify him as Captain Rajprasad R.S. and recognise Xploder under the iDEX4Fauji initiative as an unmanned IED-disposal remotely operated vehicle. The project subsequently matured as he continued his service and development work.

The specialised vessel was commissioned at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on 31 August 2026, with Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Krishna Swaminathan presiding over the ceremony. Its induction gives the Navy another large, purpose-built platform capable of supporting some of the most demanding underwater operations undertaken by a modern naval force.

At first glance, Martlet and VSHORADS appear to occupy almost the same battlefield space. Both are compact guided missiles intended to defeat threats operating at relatively short ranges and low altitudes. Their design philosophies, guidance systems and tactical employment, however, are markedly different.

AXISCADES’ Board approved the transaction on 28 August 2026, while the company issued a detailed press release on 30 August. The acquisition values Cloud Wave at an enterprise value of approximately ₹260 crore, subject to finalisation of accounts and adjustments under the definitive agreements. The initial 90% stake will be acquired for cash, with completion targeted by 30 September 2026. AXISCADES may subsequently acquire the remaining 10%, subject to the terms of the agreements.