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In the wilds of Minnesota, an unsuspecting <keyword id="20596698" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="tesla-cybertruck" source="keywords">Tesla Cybertruck</keyword> owner recently discovered that <keyword id="22463425" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="raccoons" source="keywords">raccoons</keyword> have no respect for futuristic engineering. During what was supposed to be a serene camping trip, the owner found their truck's tonneau cover – or as <keyword id="19895433" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tesla" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Tesla" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Tesla">Tesla</keyword> likes to optimistically call it, "the vault" – covered in adorable yet incriminating muddy paw prints. As shared on the <keyword id="20596699" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Cybertruck-Owners-Club" source="keywords" meta.keywordsubtype="org" meta.entityname="Cybertruck Owners Club" meta.hostid="261" meta.entityid="Cybertruck Owners Club">Cybertruck Owners Club</keyword> forum, the raccoons (or perhaps just one particularly determined raccoon) made a bold attempt to break into the vault overnight. Despite its reputation for ruggedness, the <keyword id="19906969" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Cybertruck" source="keywords">Cybertruck</keyword>'s trim piece was no match for the sharp teeth and persistence of these masked bandits, resulting in significant damage and some hefty repair costs ahead. <div type="twitter" handle="niccruzpatane" handlename="niccruzpatane" favoritecount="0" retweetcount="0" id="1811862232642293776"></div>The photos of the damage stirred a mix of reactions from the forum members. One user quipped, "I guess the vault is raccoon-proof! Hopefully, that trim piece isn't too expensive to replace." "Other trucks get around this problem by not looking like a dumpster," another user joked. This incident has added to the growing list of unexpected issues faced by the Cybertruck, a vehicle <keyword id="19903807" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Elon-Musk" source="keywords">Elon Musk</keyword> has marketed as “built for any planet”. From accelerator pedals that stick to batteries with a penchant for failing, and now raccoon invasions, it's becoming clear that the Cybertruck's <keyword id="22463427" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="armoured-defences" source="keywords">armoured defences</keyword> might need a bit of a rethink. Elon Musk, the face of Tesla and its ambitious projects, has often described the Cybertruck as a glimpse into the future, complete with bulletproof construction and even boat-like capabilities. However, the truck’s reputation has been marred since its less-than-impressive delivery event in November, kicking off a series of <keyword id="22463426" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="mechanical-failures" source="keywords">mechanical failures</keyword> and odd incidents. It seems that the Cybertruck is quickly becoming infamous for attracting mishaps, given the relatively small number that have actually been delivered so far. <div type="Article" hostid="261" msid="111713473" title="This Tesla YouTuber had 2 broken Cybertrucks, but still calls it his &amp;#39;dream car&amp;#39;" mstype="2" mssubtype="0"></div>In one particularly bizarre case, a redditor recounted getting rear-ended because the other driver was distracted by their Cybertruck while FaceTiming. While the other truck was totaled, the Cybertruck's repairs amounted to a steep $7,500, not including labour costs. And let's not forget the constant fingerprint smudges and rust spots appearing on the stainless steel exterior from curious onlookers. As Cybertruck owners continue to share their tales of woe and wonder, it’s clear that this vehicle, while innovative, might not yet be as indestructible as its creators intended. Whether facing off against raccoons or dealing with day-to-day wear and tear, the Cybertruck’s journey is proving to be as unpredictable as the raccoons themselves.

Tesla's Cybertrucks are being mistaken for garbage cans by dumpster-diving raccoons!

<ul class="summary-list"><li>Fighting in Ukraine has given some of the ex-convicts Russia recruited their swag back.</li><li>These men are granted freedom after surviving their military service.</li></ul>Ex-convicts who fought for Russia in Ukraine are heading home with newfound wealth and swagger, <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/06/world/europe/russia-convicts-war-murder.html">The New York Times</a> reported on Saturday. Olga Romanova, who heads a Russian NGO focusing on prisoner issues, told The Times that around 15,000 ex-convicts have returned to Russia after fighting in Ukraine. The returning men, who are released without any rehabilitation, often go on to commit crimes once back home. Kirill Titaev, a Russian sociologist at Yale University, told The Times that the wave of "invisible violence" was a "big problem for the society." Experts The Times spoke to said some former prisoners gained confidence after their stints in Ukraine, and see their wartime service as a form of rehabilitation. Fighting in Ukraine has also left them financially well-off, as they were paid a base monthly salary of about $2,000 from The Wagner Group, a Russian mercenary organization, per The Times. That is also more than double the average salary of a Russian worker, who makes around $756 a month, Russia's statistics agency said in a <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/almost-half-russians-say-salary-does-not-cover-basic-spending-survey-2023-10-23/">survey</a> released in October. Romanova told The Times that even the local police officers are afraid of the returning convicts and their newly-attained veteran status. Russia's <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-losing-about-1000-soldiers-daily-not-stop-mass-attacks-2024-4">reliance on attrition warfare,</a> however, has seen the country <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-recruited-over-100-000-prisoners-to-fight-in-ukraine-report-2023-12">continually drawing on its prison population</a> to boost its military manpower. Wagner first started the practice of recruiting inmates to bolster its ranks, offering the convicts full pardons if they <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/prigozhin-russia-tells-ex-con-wagner-fighters-not-rape-free-2023-1">survived a six-month stint in Ukraine</a>. The practice was then <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-copies-wagner-prisoner-recruitment-10000-signed-up-april-uk-2023-5">adopted by Russia's defense ministry</a> in 2023. Sending prisoners to the battlefield, the UK's defense ministry said in May, would allow Russia "<a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://twitter.com/DefenceHQ/status/1656535955338063873?s=20">to avoid implementing new mandatory mobilization, which would be very unpopular with the Russian public.</a>" The move, however, has not been without controversy. In November, <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.sibreal.org/a/vlasti-vypustili-na-svobodu-ubiytsu-4-chelovek-i-lyudoeda-s-sahalina/32696512.html">Russia</a><a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://76.ru/text/criminal/2023/11/21/72933266/"> media</a> reported that <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-frees-2-men-convicted-cannibals-fought-in-ukraine-reports-2023-11">two prisoners who were convicted of murdering and eating their victims</a> had been released after fighting in Ukraine. But even Russia's prison population is a finite resource. A local official told lawmakers last month that some prisons would be shut down due to "<a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-shutter-prisons-inmates-ukraine-war-2024-3">a one-time large reduction in the number of convicts</a>." Russia's need to recruit more troops could put further pressure on its economy. Besides dealing with <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-economy-putin-ukraine-war-moscow-outlook-2024-3">crippling sanctions</a> from the West, Russia has had to grapple with <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-economy-worker-shortage-ukraine-war-military-wages-unemployment-2024-1">severe labor shortages</a>. The <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-short-around-48-million-workers-2023-crunch-persist-izvestia-2023-12-24/">Russian Academy of Science's Institute of Economics</a> said in December that the Russian economy had a <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.businessinsider.com/russia-lacks-workers-ukraine-war-labor-crisis-worker-shortage-2023-12">shortage of around 5 million workers</a>. "Unemployment is 3% and in some regions, it is even lower. This means there are practically no workers left in the economy," Russian Central Bank Governor <a target="_blank" class="editor-rtfLink" href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/europe/russias-depleted-workforce-threatening-economic-growth-says-central-bank-2023-11-09/">Elvira Nabiullina</a> told lawmakers in November. "The situation with personnel is really very acute." Representatives for Russia's defense ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Business Insider sent outside regular business hours.

Russian convicts who earned their freedom fighting Ukraine are going home with swagger and a stash of money to burn: NYT

New Delhi (India), July 10 (ANI): In a major development, India is planning to buy 26 Rafale fighter aircraft and three <keyword id="4045841" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Scorpene-class" source="Orion">Scorpene class</keyword> conventional submarines from France. The proposals have been placed before the Defence Ministry by the defence forces and are likely to be announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France this week, government sources told ANI. As per the proposals, the Indian Navy will get 22 single-seated Rafale Marine aircraft along with four trainer aircraft. The Navy had been pressing for acquiring these fighter aircraft and submarines urgently as they have been facing shortages in view of the security challenges around the country. The aircraft carriers INS Vikramaditya and Vikrant have been operating the MiG-29s and need the <keyword id="925199" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Rafales" source="Orion">Rafales</keyword> for operations on both carriers. Meanwhile, the three Scorpene class submarines would be acquired under the repeat clause by the Navy as part of Project 75 where they would be built in the Mazagon Dockyards Limited in Mumbai. The deals are estimated to be worth over Rs 90,000 crore but the final cost would be clear only after the contract negotiations are completed which will be held after the deal is announced. India is likely to seek price concessions in the deal and would be insisting on having more 'Make-in-India' content in the plan, sources said. Industry sources said for the Rafale M deal, India and France are expected to form a joint team to negotiate the deal like it was done for the previous Rafale deal for 36 fighter aircraft. The proposals have been discussed in the defence ministry at high-level meetings already and are likely to be placed before the defence acquisition council in the next few days and expected to be accorded Acceptance of Necessity by the government before the announcement in France. (ANI)

India to buy 26 Rafales, 3 Scorpene submarines from France, deals likely to be announced during PM Modi's visit

New Delhi, <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="India" source="Orion">India</keyword> on Thursday accorded an initial approval to defence acquisition projects worth Rs 2.23 lakh crore that included procurement of 97 <keyword id="6376012" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tejas" source="Orion">Tejas</keyword> light combat aircraft and 156 Prachand combat helicopters, in a major move to significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the armed forces. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, cleared the projects, at a time India is locked in a bitter military standoff with China at a number of friction points in eastern Ladakh for over three years. The defence ministry said 98 per cent of the total procurement worth Rs 2.23 lakh crore will be sourced from the domestic industries and that the move will give a substantial boost to the Indian defence industry in achieving the goal of 'Aatmanirbharta' (self-reliance) in defence industry. The DAC also approved a proposal of the Indian Air Force to upgrade its Su-30 fighter fleet by state-run aerospace major Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (<keyword id="68124" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="HAL" source="Orion">HAL</keyword>). The DAC further accorded Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) or initial approval for procurement of two types of anti-tank munitions namely area denial munition (ADM) type-2 and type-3. The top body on procurement of military hardware also cleared acquisition and integration of automatic target tracker (ATT) and digital basaltic computer (DBC) for T-90 tanks besides approving another proposal to buy medium range anti-ship missiles (MRAShM) for the Indian Navy. The MRAShM is a lightweight surface-to-surface missile which will be a primary offensive weapon onboard various Indian naval ships. "The DAC accorded AoNs for procurement of Light Combat Helicopter for Indian Air Force and Indian Army and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk-1A for IAF from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) under Buy (Indian-IDDM) category," the ministry said. Though it did not mention the specific numbers, official sources said 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (Mark 1A) are being procured for the IAF and 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) are being procured for the Army and the Air Force. In February 2021, the defence ministry sealed a Rs 48,000 crore deal with the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd for procurement of 83 Tejas MK-1A jets for the IAF. With the additional fleet, the number of indigenously-developed Tejas aircraft being procured by the IAF would go up to 180. "The AoNs have also been accorded by the DAC for upgradation of Su-30 MKI aircraft indigenously from HAL. "While procurement of these equipment will provide enormous strength to the IAF, acquisition from domestic defence industries will take the indigenous capability to a new height," the ministry said in a statement. "It will also reduce dependability on foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) substantially," it added.

India approves defence acquisition projects worth Rs 2.23 lakh cr

Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles will travel to Ahmedabad to witness the summit clash between <keyword id="3658" type="General" weightage="100" keywordseo="india" source="Orion">India</keyword> and <keyword id="6355478" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="australia" source="Orion">Australia</keyword> at the <keyword id="3859" type="General" weightage="20" keywordseo="cricket-world-cup" source="Orion">cricket World Cup</keyword> on Sunday. Marles, who is also Australia's <keyword id="32723" type="General" weightage="80" keywordseo="defence" source="Orion">defence</keyword> minister, and Foreign Minister Penny Wong are visiting India to co-chair the second edition of the "2+2" ministerial dialogue along with their Indian counterparts on Monday. The defence ministry on Saturday announced the Australian deputy prime minister's two-day visit to India from November 19-20 primarily for the "2+2" dialogue that is expected to focus on boosting the overall defence and strategic ties between the two countries. It said Marles will also attend the cricket World Cup final between India and Australia on Sunday. "Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Richard Marles will visit India from November 19 to 20 to co-chair the second India-Australia 2+2 ministerial dialogue with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh," the ministry said in a statement. The Indian delegation at the "2+2" dialogue will be led by Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. "During his visit, Minister Marles will also attend the Cricket World Cup final between India and Australia in Ahmedabad, Gujarat on November 19," the ministry said. It said Singh and Marles will hold a bilateral meeting on November 20 that would be followed by the "2+2" dialogue. "India and Australia are pursuing a comprehensive strategic partnership and the visit of Minister Marles is expected to give further impetus to the collaboration as well as bilateral defence cooperation," the defence ministry said. "The two countries are expected to discuss wide-ranging issues of mutual interest during the 2+2 dialogue and the bilateral defence ministers' meeting," it added. The two sides are expected to focus extensively on further ramping up the overall defence and security ties and boost the strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region during the "2+2"dialogue. Both Australia and India are part of the Quad or Quadrilateral coalition that is focused on working towards ensuring a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific. The other two members of the Quad are the United States and Japan. The situation in West Asia in view of the Hamas-Israel conflict, China's increasing military muscle flexing in the Indo-Pacific and issues relating to regional security is expected to figure in the talks, people familiar with the preparation for the dialogue said. The inaugural "2+2" ministerial dialogue between India and Australia took place in September 2021. India has such a framework for talks with a very few countries, including the US and Japan. The latest edition of the India-US foreign and defence ministerial dialogue took place in New Delhi on November 10. The bilateral defence and strategic ties between India and Australia are on an upward trajectory in the last few years. In June 2020, the two countries elevated their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership and signed a landmark deal for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support. The <keyword id="10796857" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mutual-logistics-support-agreement" source="Orion">Mutual Logistics Support Agreement</keyword> (<keyword id="449908" type="General" weightage="50" keywordseo="mlsa" source="Orion">MLSA</keyword>) allows the militaries of the two countries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies, besides facilitating scaling up of the overall defence cooperation. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/sports/webstories/ind-vs-aus-icc-world-cup-final-past-battles-head-to-head-record-and-more/slidelist/105309620.cms">India vs Australia ICC World Cup final – Past battles, head-to-head record and more</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/telecom/news/jio-strengthens-market-leadership-with-3-25-mn-new-subscribers-vis-decline-slows/articleshow/105289414.cms">Jio strengthens market leadership with 3.25 mn new subscribers, Vi’s decline slows</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/news/indias-pc-market-surges-to-4-5-million-devices-in-q3-2023/articleshow/105285251.cms">India’s PC market shipments surge in Q3 amidst import restrictions talks</a>

Australian Deputy PM Marles to watch India-Australia World Cup cricket final in Ahmedabad

INS Beas is the first of Brahmaputra Class Frigate to be re-powered from steam to diesel propulsion. After completion of Mid Life Upgrade and Re- Powering in 2026, INS Beas will join the active fleet of the Indian Navy with a modernized weapon suite and upgraded combat capability. The transformative maiden re-powering project marks a significant stride in the maintenance philosophy of the Indian Navy and repair capabilities of CSL. The project would involve more than 50 MSMEs and would lead to generation of employment for more than 3500 personnel, the defence ministry said.

Cochin Shipyard bags Rs 313cr deal to upgrade Indian Navy warship

<ul><li>India and the US have signed a new landmark defence pact called the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA).</li><li>It allows the US to share satellite and other surveillance data to improve Indian navigation and targeting capabilities.</li><li>This will improve the accuracy of India’s automated hardware systems and weapons like cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and drones. </li></ul>India and the US have added another layer to the military cooperation between them by signing the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) amid the 2+2 ministerial talks happening in Delhi today. Defence ministry’s Additional Secretary Jivesh Nandan signed the agreement on behalf of India. BECA is essentially an agreement between the US’ National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency and India’s Ministry of Defence to share military information. This includes maps, nautical charts, aeronautical charts, unclassified imagery, and other types of data. Within the agreement, there is a provision that allows for the sharing of classified information and the proper safeguards in place to ensure that the same information isn’t shared with any third parties. All of this intelligence will provide India’s military with advanced navigational aid and geospatial information. This will improve the accuracy of its automated hardware systems and weapons like cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, and drones. It’s the fourth and final ‘foundational’ agreement between the US and India. They serve as the framework for cooperation and interoperability between the US and India’s defence ministries. <table style="border-width: initial; border-style: none; width: 468pt; table-layout: fixed;"></colgroup><tbody><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Four foundational agreements between the US and India </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Year </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Goal </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">General Security Of Military Information Agreements (GSOMIA) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">2002 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Enable the sharing of classified data between government entities </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">2016 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Allows both parties to benefit from each other’s logistics infrastructure, resources and consumables </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">2018 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Enables secure communications between the forces and governs access to sensitive US communications equipment and encryption </td></tr><tr><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">2020 </td><td style="border-left:solid #000000 1pt;border-right:solid #000000 1pt;border-bottom:solid #000000 1pt;border-top:solid #000000 1pt;vertical-align:top;padding:5pt 5pt 5pt 5pt;overflow:hidden;overflow-wrap:break-word;">Allows the US to share satellite and other surveillance data to improve Indian navigation and targeting capabilities </td></tr></tbody></table> The Observer Research Foundation (<a href="https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/third-india-us-22-dialogue-breaking-the-mould-on-post-war-model-of-bilateral-ties/">ORF</a>) notes that even though the US reportedly shared intelligence with India during the Doklam issue, that cooperation was inherently limited by the lack of formal structures to enable rapid and secure dissemination of information. BECA could be the next step in fine-tuning that process, especially concerning the tensions currently simmering between India and China in Eastern Ladakh. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/science/space/news/china-launches-three-new-spy-satellites-amid-border-dispute-with-india-and-tensions-in-the-south-china-sea/articleshow/78886330.cms">China launches three new spy satellites amid border dispute with India and tensions in the South China Sea</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/kotak-mahindra-bank-share-price-jumps-after-earning-reports-and-possible-msci-inclusion/articleshow/78887434.cms">Kotak Mahindra Bank surges 10% on earnings upgrades and potential MSCI inclusion</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/corporates/news/hcl-tech-is-looking-to-expand-operations-in-canada-if-h-1b-visa-issues-persist/articleshow/78884838.cms">EXCLUSIVE: HCL Tech is expanding operations in Canada as H-1B visa issues persist</a>

India signs landmark military pact with the US to make its drones and missiles more accurate

In the midst of the <keyword id="6389936" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="pegasus">Pegasus</keyword> snooping controversy, the defence ministry on Monday said it did not have any transaction with the <keyword id="3598670" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="NSO-Group">NSO Group</keyword>, which sells the spyware. NSO Group, an Israeli surveillance software company, has been under increasing attack following allegations that its Pegasus software was used for surveillance of phones of people in several countries, including <keyword id="3658" type="COUNTRY" weightage="20" keywordseo="India">India</keyword>. "<keyword id="6369097" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="ministry-of-defence">Ministry of Defence</keyword> has not had any transaction with <keyword id="3598687" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="nso-group-technologies">NSO Group Technologies</keyword>," Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt said while replying to a question in Rajya Sabha. He was asked whether the government had carried out any transaction with the NSO Group Technologies. The opposition parties have been targeting the central government over the snooping row and disrupting proceedings in <keyword id="6354721" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="parliament">Parliament</keyword> since it met on July 19 for the <keyword id="6358301" type="DEFINITION" weightage="20" keywordseo="monsoon">Monsoon</keyword> session. IT and Communications Minister Ashwini Vaishnawhad had dismissed media reports on the use of Pegasus software to snoop on Indians, saying the allegations levelled just ahead of the Monsoon session of Parliament were aimed at maligning Indian democracy. In a suo motu statement in Lok Sabha, Vaishnaw had said that with several checks and balances being in place, "any sort of illegal surveillance" by unauthorised persons is not possible in India. The controversy erupted after an investigation by a global media consortium based on leaked targeting data claimed evidence that the military-grade malware from the NSO Group was being used to spy on politicians, journalists, human rights activists and others. SEE ALSO: <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/oyo-takes-first-step-towards-a-1-2-billion-ipo/articleshow/85176310.cms">OYO takes first step towards a $1.2 billion IPO, reportedly appoints 3 investment banks</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link c-message_attachment__title_link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/nuvoco-vistas-ipo-nirma-group-backed-this-company-ipo-recommended-by-analysts/articleshow/85176371.cms">Nirma Group backed Nuvoco Vistas IPO: Analysts are bullish on the cement sector and recommend the IPO for long term</a>

Pegasus scandal: No transaction with NSO Group which deals with spyware, says India's defence ministry

<ul><li>Indian IT companies like <keyword id="6357585" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="tata-consultancy-services">Tata Consultancy Services</keyword>, <keyword id="43217" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Tech-Mahindra">Tech Mahindra</keyword>, <keyword id="141968" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="HCL-Tech">HCL Tech</keyword>, and Wipro could help develop India’s defence technology ecosystem. </li><li>Historically these companies have not been very active in the defence sector but could reap the benefits through a public-private partnership. </li><li>Virtual warfare is bringing cyber technology to the forefront, and Indian IT companies could play an important role in boosting exports, at the most, and reducing Indian reliance on imports, at the least.</li></ul>Companies like Tata Consultancy Services (<keyword id="6357150" type="ORGANIZATION" weightage="20" keywordseo="tcs">TCS</keyword>), <keyword id="30331" type="CITY" weightage="20" keywordseo="HCL-Technologies">HCL Technologies</keyword>, Tech Mahindra, and Wipro aren’t known to be the biggest players in defence — but they could be. The import ban on defence items announced by India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh could be a boon for Indian IT companies looking to explore new horizons. Today warfare is fought not just on the ground but also on the virtual battlefield. The US, Russia, and China are leading the world when it comes to cyber technology. India, though not staggeringly behind, is playing catch up. “This offers opportunities for Indian IT companies such as Tech Mahindra, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Wipro, and HCL Technologies, which have so far played a restricted role in the Indian military’s technological modernisation,” said Sameer Patil, a fellow at Mumbai-based thinktank Gateway House. Why is cyber technology in defence so important? It’s inevitable to deny the role of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), swarming drones, blockchain, and quantum computing, among other things when it comes to future-proofing the military. Even when a war is being fought on the ground, navigation satellites are doing half the work. When it comes to aircraft, data analysis by the digital modules on board is crucial for efficiency. Using Internet-of-Things (IoT) can boost the manufacturing of defence items. In addition to this, cyber technology plays a critical role in defending against advanced cyber threats, like deep fakes and social engineering attacks — like <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/apps/news/tinder-bumble-and-ok-cupid-banned-by-indian-army-to-keep-soldiers-from-being-honey-trapped/articleshow/76866610.cms">honey trapping Indian soldiers.</a> Having better defences will keep data from getting weaponised against India. IBM, for instance, provides the <a href="https://www.ibm.com/industries/federal/national-security">US government</a> with defence and national security solutions, which include military readiness and intelligence analysis. Where do Indian IT companies come in? The finer points of using IT in warfare can only be grasped through government-military-industry collaboration, according to Patil. “These companies can help the military better identify global technological trends,” he said. Indian IT companies can also help identify critical technologies, especially those that may be denied to India as part of the International Strategic Export Controls regime — which includes restrictions on electronics, computers, and IT encompassing information security. Some may argue that Tata Advanced Systems and other players are already active in the area. But none deal with data. TAS’ role thus far has primarily been on aeronautics and more recently on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones. “The private sector has already established a certain degree of competency in cyber and has the necessary foreign tie-ups,” said Patil explaining the advantages of Indian IT companies. For instance, Tech Mahindra already has a partnership going with Israel’s Elta Systems to create cyber security-based products. Given the rate at which technology is changing by the day, India has historically lagged when it comes to next-generation weaponry. Having Indian IT companies like TCS, HCL Tech, Wipro, or Tech Mahindra on board could create the required defence technology ecosystem faster. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/finance/banks/news/icici-bank-sets-floor-price-for-qip-at-351-36-per-share-to-decide-on-allotment-on-august-14/articleshow/77464319.cms">ICICI Bank's share price jumps over 2% after it set floor price for QIP at ₹351.36 per share</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/markets/news/bank-of-baroda-opens-2-lower-after-reporting-864-crore-loss-on-higher-provisions/articleshow/77476538.cms">Bank of Baroda opens 2% lower after reporting ₹864 crore loss on higher provisions</a>

TCS, HCL, Wipro, Tech Mahindra could help develop India's defence technology ecosystem

<ul><li>India and Australia signed two new landmark agreements to boost their cooperation in defence. </li><li>This includes the ‘Australia-India Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement’ (MLSA) and the ‘Defence Science and Technology Implementing Arrangement’.</li><li>“We have a strong shared interest in working together to support a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” said Austalia’s Minister for Defence, Linda Reynolds. </li></ul>India’s Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced two landmarks defence agreements between the two countries — the ‘Australia-India Mutual Logistics Support Arrangement’ (MLSA) and the ‘Defence Science and Technology Implementing Arrangement’. “We share an ocean and we share a responsibility for that ocean. Its health, well being and security,” said Morrison during the virtual summit between the two countries on Thursday, June 4. The central theme of both the agreements of maintaining a ‘rules-based’ maritime order in the region based on international law as put forward by the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). This includes tackling issues like terrorism, piracy, drugs and arms smuggling, irregular migration, poaching of marine species, and other challenges. An indirect message to China as military interoperability gets a boost Australia’s Minister of Defence, Linda Reynolds explained that the MLSA will enhance military interoperability between the two countries. This means that all segments of the Armed Forces, especially the Navy, are likely to hold most joint operations. Reynolds said that the arrangement will enable more complex military engagements and greater combined responsiveness to regional humanitarian disasters. “We have a strong shared interest in working together to support a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific,” she said. The MEA re-iterated that both countries have shared interest in ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight in the <keyword id="1574110" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indo-Pacific-region">Indo-Pacific region</keyword>. Given that India and Australia are “natural partners” in maintaining open, safe and efficient sea lanes for transportation and communication, “Both sides agreed to continue to deepen and broaden defence cooperation,” it said explaining that the scope and complexity of their military exercises will find new ways to address security challenges. These “security challenges” may also include incursions by China in the South China Sea although it wasn’t specifically mentioned during the summit. It has been involved in a number of disputes with Southeast Asian countries including Vietnam, the Philippines and Japan. The US and other nations have frequently expressed their concerns over what they see as China expanding its power in the region, especially with the fortification and militarization of smaller islands. Beijing, on the other hand, has always maintained that it poses no threat to the free flow of commerce and navigation through the seas. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/policy/foreign-policy/news/india-and-australia-pump-12-7-million-into-ai-quantum-computing-and-robotics/articleshow/76194354.cms">India and Australia pump $12.7 million into AI, quantum computing and robotics — renewing their cyber and critical technology partnership</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/defense/news/india-and-australia-ink-landmark-defence-pact-after-modi-morrison-online-summit/articleshow/76192782.cms">India and Australia ink landmark defence pact after Modi-Morrison online summit</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/defense/news/china-responds-to-prime-minister-narendra-modi-and-us-president-donald-trump-conversation/articleshow/76188158.cms">China responds to Modi-Trump conversation — ‘there is no need for any third party to intervene’</a>

India and Australia sign defence deal to support a 'stable' and 'rules-based' Indo-Pacific region

India and Australia on Thursday inked a landmark agreement for reciprocal access to military bases for logistics support besides firming up six more pacts to further broadbase ties after Prime Minister <keyword id="6354477" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Narendra-Modi">Narendra Modi</keyword> and his Australian counterpart <keyword id="826044" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Scott-Morrison">Scott Morrison</keyword> held an online summit. The Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (MLSA) will allow militaries of the two countries to use each other's bases for repair and replenishment of supplies besides facilitating scaling up of overall defence cooperation. India has already signed similar agreements with the US, France and Singapore. The other pacts will provide for bilateral cooperation in areas of cyber and cyber-enabled critical technology, mining and minerals, military technology, vocational education and water resources management. In the talks, the two sides also deliberated on a host of key issues including dealing with growing threat of terrorism, maritime security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, reform in the World Trade Organisation and ways to deal with the coronavirus crisis. According to a joint statement issued after the Modi-Morrison talks, both sides discussed the issue of taxation of offshore income of Indian firms through the use of the India-Australia Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and sought early resolution of the issue. It said both sides also decided to re-engage on a bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement (CECA) while suitably considering earlier bilateral discussions where a mutually agreed way forward can be found. The two countries recognised that terrorism remains a threat to peace and stability in the region and strongly condemned the menace in all its forms and manifestations, stressing that there can be no justification for acts of terror on any grounds whatsoever. The joint statement said both sides support a comprehensive approach in combating terrorism, including by countering violent extremism, preventing radicalisation, disrupting financial support to terrorists and facilitating prosecution of those involved in acts of terror. The two sides also called for early adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT). In his opening remarks, Modi also pitched for a coordinated and collaborative approach to come out of the adverse economic and social impact of the epidemic that has infected around 65 lakh people and killed 3.88 lakh globally. He said a process of comprehensive reforms covering almost all areas has been initiated in India as his government viewed the coronavirus crisis as an "opportunity". Referring to the virtual summit, the prime minister termed it "a new model of India-Australia partnership, a new model of conducting business". It was the first time that Modi held a "bilateral" virtual summit with a foreign leader. The prime minister described his talks with Morrison as "an outstanding discussion", covering the entire expanse of ties between the two strategic partners. "Our government has decided to view this crisis as an opportunity. In India, a process of comprehensive reforms has been initiated in almost all areas. It will soon see results at the ground level," the prime minister said. Modi also conveyed his appreciation to Morrison for taking care of the Indian community in Australia, especially the students during the "difficult time". In his remarks, Morrison complemented Modi for his "constructive and very positive" role including at the G-20 role in pushing for a concerted global approach in dealing with the coronavirus crisis. Modi said he believed that it is the "perfect time and perfect opportunity" to further strengthen the relationship between India and Australia. "We have immense possibilities to make our friendship stronger," Modi said, adding: "How our relations become a 'factor of stability' for our region and for the world, how we work together for global good, all these aspects need to be considered." The prime minister said India was committed to expand its relations with Australia on a wider and faster pace, noting that it is important not only for the two countries, but also for the Indo-Pacific region and the world. "The role of our comprehensive strategic partnership will be more important in this period of global epidemic. The world needs a coordinated and collaborative approach to get out of the economic and social side effects of this epidemic," he said. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/defense/news/china-responds-to-prime-minister-narendra-modi-and-us-president-donald-trump-conversation/articleshow/76188158.cms">China responds to Modi-Trump conversation — ‘there is no need for any third party to intervene’</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/defense/news/india-china-border-standoff-reaches-lieutenant-general-level-military-negotiation/articleshow/76167405.cms">India-China border standoff reaches Lieutenant-General level military negotiation</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/defense/news/china-is-a-bully-says-us-representative-on-india-china-border-issue/articleshow/76147159.cms">China is a ‘bully’ says US Representative on India-China border issue</a>

India and Australia ink landmark defence pact after Modi-Morrison online summit

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) on Friday cleared the issuing of a Request For Proposal (RFP) for the <keyword id="6355100" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Navy">Indian Navy</keyword>'s mega deal to procure six <keyword id="117400" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Submarines">submarines</keyword> under Project-75I through a strategic partnership route worth over ₹45,000 crore. Two Indian companies and five foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers had already been shortlisted earlier. The mega deal was approved during the DAC meet on Friday led by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The mega submarine project for building of indigenous submarines for the <keyword id="42407" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Navy">Navy</keyword> got the final clearance wherein two Indian companies that can work in collaboration with a foreign manufacturer. The RFP has been issued to Mazagon Docks (MDL) and private company <keyword id="45475" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Larsen-Toubro">Larsen &amp; Toubro</keyword>. Under the Project 75I, the submarines for the Indian Navy are going to be constructed in India and will be through ToT by the OEMs. This project is under the strategic partnership model which was adopted in an effort to ensure building capacity in the Indian industry. The idea is that this is going to help in the local manufacturing of major military platforms. The project received a clearance from the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) way back in 1999 and Acceptance of Necessity granted in 2007. The strategic partnership model aims at promoting India as a manufacturing hub for defence equipment, in addition to establishing an industrial and R&amp;D eco-system capable of meeting the future requirements of the Armed Forces besides giving boost to exports. The Indian Navy currently has 12 submarines. In addition there are two nuclear submarines <keyword id="45878" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="INS-ARIHANT">INS Arihant</keyword> and INS Chakra in the navy's fleet. Upgrading its submarine operations and the naval fleet has been the top priority for the Indian Navy in wake of the increased presence of Chinese vessels in the Indian Ocean region. SEE ALSO <a target="_blank" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/oneplus-nord-ce-5g-mobile-phone-full-specifications-leaked-days-ahead-of-launch/articleshow/83195375.cms">OnePlus Nord CE 5G full specifications leaked days ahead of launch – heavily inspired by the original Nord</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/business/startups/news/top-five-fintech-ideas-that-are-drawing-the-most-amount-of-money/slidelist/83194276.cms">Five fintech ideas that are raking in the most amount of money</a> <a target="_blank" class="c-link" href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/reliance-industries-rossari-biotech-tata-power-and-other-stocks-to-watch-out-for-on-june-3/slidelist/83193921.cms">Reliance Industries, Rossari Biotech, Tata Power and other stocks to watch out for on June 3</a>

Defence Ministry clears Indian Navy's ₹45000 crore deal to procure six submarines

The <keyword id="43909" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Defence-ministry">Defence Ministry</keyword> on Friday sealed a deal with state-run Bharat Dynamics Ltd (<keyword id="469076" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="BDL">BDL</keyword>) to acquire 4,960 anti-tank guided <keyword id="41758" type="PERSON" weightage="20" keywordseo="Missiles">missiles</keyword> at a cost of ₹1,188 crore for the <keyword id="6354416" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Indian-Army">Indian Army</keyword>. The missiles, having a range of 1,850 metres, can be fired from ground as well as vehicle-based launchers and their induction is planned to be completed in three years, the <keyword id="48413" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Ministry">ministry</keyword> said. In the last few months, the ministry finalised a range of procurement projects for the three forces to enhance their overall combat capabilities. "The acquisition wing of the <keyword id="6369097" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="ministry-of-defence">Ministry of Defence</keyword> signed a contract with defence public sector undertaking <keyword id="129646" type="COMPANY" weightage="20" keywordseo="Bharat-Dynamics-Limited">Bharat Dynamics Limited</keyword> (BDL) for supply of 4,960 MILAN-2T anti-tank guided missiles to Indian Army at a cost of ₹1,188 crore," the ministry said in a statement. The missiles are being produced by BDL under license from French defence major MBDA Missile Systems. "These missiles can be fired from ground as well as vehicle-based launchers and can be deployed in anti-tank role for both offensive and defensive tasks," the ministry said. "Induction of these missiles will further enhance the operational preparedness of the armed forces. Induction is planned to be completed in three years," it added. SEE ALSO: <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/easemytrip-ipo-listing-price-at-13-5-premium/articleshow/81581828.cms">EaseMyTrip lists at 13.5% premium – but gives up some of the listing gains soon after</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/oneplus-9-pro-specs-oneplus-9e-specs-and-price-leak-and-oneplus-9-series-launch-date/articleshow/81168227.cms">OnePlus 9 series specifications and features leaked – here's everything we know about the upcoming OnePlus smartphones</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/checkout-review-of-moto-g10-power-mobile-phone-review-and-features-information/articleshow/81583548.cms">Moto G10 Power mobile review – big battery on a shoestring budget</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/stock-market/news/future-retail-shares-take-a-massive-hit-as-it-loses-the-case-against-amazon-in-delhi-high-court/articleshow/81583165.cms">Future Retail shares take a massive hit as it loses the case against Amazon in Delhi High Court</a> <a href="https://www.businessinsider.in/tech/mobile/news/oneplus-9r-will-be-the-companys-next-affordable-smartphone-india-launch-confirmed-for-march-23/articleshow/81586104.cms">OnePlus 9R will be the company’s next affordable smartphone, India launch confirmed for March 23</a>

You Searched For "Defence deal" and got 13 results

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TCS, HCL, Wipro, Tech Mahindra could help develop India's defence technology ecosystem

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