India and France have elevated their partnership to a Special Global Strategic Partnership, focusing on deeper technological and defence cooperation, including new Rafale fighter jet procurements.
An opinion piece argues for a shift in European defense strategy, advocating for concrete actions like acquiring Rafale jets and implementing cyberoffensives, rather than relying on empty words and declared indignation.
France has submitted a detailed proposal to India regarding its request for 114 Rafale fighter jets, with the $34 billion deal advancing after the DAC cleared the purchase of military hardware worth ₹3.6 lakh crore, including the jets, in February.
French-made Rafale fighter jets and the Croatian 'Wings of Storm' aerobatic team performed a joint acrobatic display over Knin, showcasing their aerial maneuvers.
A former French naval aviation fighter pilot has been charged with intelligence with China, facing accusations of espionage. This development has led to a treason investigation in France.
The anticipated contract for Ukraine's purchase of 16 Rafale fighter jets has not yet been finalized, with its terms and financing mechanism still awaiting final approval from the French government.
France's chief of defence staff, General Fabien Mandon, visited India to further strengthen strategic ties, with recent agreements including Rafale jet deliveries and helicopter assembly underscoring growing defense cooperation.
Germany is set to participate for the first time in a nuclear exercise conducted by France, marking a significant step in European nuclear cooperation. This participation will involve German aircraft operating alongside French Rafale jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons.
Rafale fighter jets are scheduled to conduct regular flights over six Croatian counties today, with the possibility of breaking the sound barrier and causing temporary noise.
Violent thunderstorms, bringing risks of very large hail, destructive wind gusts, and potentially a tornado, are threatening several regions of Europe, particularly northern Italy.
France held its largest military parade ever on Bastille Day, featuring allied nations and a strong message of European unity and support for Ukraine. The event was seen as a signal to Moscow and Washington, with several European leaders and military contingents participating.
France has granted Ukraine permission to produce French-designed missiles within its own territory. This agreement was announced by French President Macron, who also confirmed new orders for Rafale jets.
An analysis details how active stealth and advanced electronic warfare systems protect the Indian Air Force's Rafale fighter jet in combat, highlighting its 4.5-generation platform and multi-mission capabilities.
Croatian political analyst Božo Kovačević and military analyst Mario Galić discussed the relationship between Croatian leaders and Galić commented on Serbia's military capabilities, suggesting Serbian 'Rafales' would outperform Croatian ones.
Europe is experiencing a severe heatwave, with several countries like Germany, Poland, and the Czech Republic breaking temperature records, reaching over 40 degrees Celsius. The World Health Organization has reported more than 1,300 excess deaths linked to the extreme heat across the continent.
An Indian Air Force document indicates ongoing planning for the maintenance and support of all 36 Rafale fighter jets acquired from France, thereby puncturing Pakistan's claim of having downed Rafales.
A NATO fighter jet shot down a drone over Latvia, an incident that has heightened concerns about the potential spread of the Ukraine war. This event marks a significant moment as it is the first confirmed instance of a NATO aircraft downing a drone in the region, with new video footage emerging of the incident.
China's latest air-to-air missile, the PL-16, is speculated to have a range exceeding 300km due to a variable-thrust rocket motor, following weeks after the first image of the US equivalent emerged.
A rare exhibition of equipment and a demonstration of capabilities by the Croatian Armed Forces, including Rafale jets and Black Hawks, took place on Jarun for Armed Forces Day and Statehood Day.
India is reportedly close to finalizing a mega contract for 114 Rafale fighter jets, with a Letter of Request (LoR) prepared for submission to France soon.
Indonesia is moving to significantly build up its defense capabilities through the acquisition of new aircraft, including Rafale jets. This initiative aims to further strengthen the country's air force and overall military strength.
The FBI has offered a $200,000 reward for information leading to the capture of Monica Witt, a former US Air Force counterintelligence officer. Witt is accused of defecting to Iran and providing classified information to the Iranian government.
Lithuania is purchasing an additional multiple rocket launcher battery, while French Rafale fighter jets are conducting an air policing mission in the region.
One year after its execution, 'Operation Sindoor' is being remembered as India's decisive response to terrorism, involving precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan. The high-tech military action showcased India's advanced arsenal, including Rafale jets and kamikaze drones.
Meteorologists have issued yellow and orange code warnings for strong winds across Romania and Moldova on Sunday, with gusts expected to reach up to 90 km/h in low areas and 120 km/h at high altitudes. Moldova's State Hydrometeorological Service specifically issued an orange code for its entire territory.
France is reportedly planning to propose that Greece transfer 43 Mirage 2000 fighter jets and spare parts to Ukraine, in exchange for favorable terms on purchasing Rafale aircraft.
French President Emmanuel Macron is set to visit Greece, where he will meet with Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, visit a frigate, sign new agreements, and reportedly propose exchanging 43 Mirage jets for 43 Rafale jets.
French President Emmanuel Macron is preparing for a visit to Athens, where he will hold a series of meetings focused on defense and security, foreign direct investment (FDI), and the Greek-French agreement, including Rafale jets.
A 38-year-old nightclub bouncer was killed by multiple gunshots in a shooting in downtown Grenoble, France, on Saturday night, with a 26-year-old woman also injured in the incident.
Storm Erminio has caused significant disruptions across Greece, including landslides, widespread flooding, and a man's death near Athens. Emergency services have received over 1,100 calls, primarily in Attica and Crete, as heavy rain, gale-force winds, and a Saharan dust storm continue to batter the country.
India has approved military purchases worth $25 billion, which include aircraft and Russian S-400 missile systems, following a previous $40 billion deal for Rafale jets and Boeing P-8I aircraft.
The ambitious Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program, a symbol of European defense cooperation, is stalling due to an ongoing deadlock between Airbus and Dassault Aviation, prompting a final attempt by France and Germany to reach an agreement by an April deadline.
High consumption of MICA air-to-air missiles, used by French pilots on Rafale aircraft to intercept Iranian Shahed drones over the United Arab Emirates, is creating serious tensions in...
Renault's Austral, Espace, and Rafale models have been enhanced with new driver assistance systems, improved connectivity, greater personalization options, and additional equipment.
French President Emmanuel Macron said in a televised address on Tuesday evening that he had ordered an aircraft carrier group to the Mediterranean in response to the widening Middle East conflict,…
La medida busca hacer frente a posibles ataques, como el efectuado contra la base aérea británica de Akrotiri, donde se estrelló un avión iraní no tripulado Leer
Prancūzija dislokavo virš Jungtinių Arabų Emyratų (JAE) naikintuvus „Rafale“, kad apsaugotų savo karinio jūrų laivyno ir aviacijos bazes nuo Irano atakų, antradienį pranešė užsienio reikalų ministras…
French Rafale fighter jets could deploy to Cyprus, the deputy government spokesman said on Monday, as the island scrambled to reinforce its defences following a day that saw an Iranian drone strike RAF Akrotiri, a second wave of drones intercepted, Paphos airport evacuated and an IRGC general threaten to bombard the island with missiles. Yiannis […]
French President Emmanuel Macron has committed to increasing indigenous content in Rafale jets, affirming their role in bolstering India's military capabilities.
India and France are strengthening their strategic partnership with the launch of a new H125 helicopter assembly line in Karnataka, alongside discussions for a potential multi-billion dollar Rafale jet deal.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in India for a three-day visit focused on artificial intelligence cooperation, defence deals, and strategic partnerships.
The Serbian Air Force is conducting intensive training with its Mig-29 squadron, anticipating the arrival of Rafale fighter jets purchased from France.
Dassault Aviation has submitted its detailed proposal to India for the procurement of 114 Rafale fighter jets. This acquisition is expected to significantly expand India's combat aircraft fleet and deepen cooperation, with the deal including local production and extensive technology transfer.
Serbia's Finance Minister Siniša Mali is under scrutiny for a half-billion euro payment for Rafale jets made six months ahead of schedule, while simultaneously assuring the public about pension and veteran aid.
Croatian Minister Medved announced that preparations are complete for the 'Oluja' (Storm) celebration in Knin, which will include Rafale fighter jet flyovers over liberated areas and the repeal of veteran pension reductions from 2002.
France is bracing for violent storms, hail, and strong gusts across its central and eastern regions on Friday, July 31st. The arrival of these stormy showers is expected to bring a welcome, though potentially temporary, respite from the persistent high temperatures.
Typhoon Noul made landfall in southern China, bringing torrential rains and strong winds, leading to the evacuation of hundreds of thousands of people in China and Hong Kong. The typhoon caused minor damage in Hong Kong and raised concerns about widespread flooding in the region.
French manufacturer Dassault Aviation, following a strong first half of 2026, has closed the chapter on the Franco-German combat aircraft project and is now prioritizing the development of the new Rafale F5 and a large combat drone.
France will supply its most modern combat aircraft, the Rafale fighter jet, to Ukraine, significantly upgrading Ukraine's air defense capabilities against Russian Sukhoi jets.
Multiple European regions, including France, Serbia, and Luxembourg, are under orange alert for severe thunderstorms, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. Gusts up to 130 km/h are expected in some areas.
The Kyiv Declaration has been adopted amidst ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with reports of casualties from a Russian attack on Zaporizhzhia. President Zelensky confirmed Ukraine will receive 16 French Rafale jets after pilot training, while Russian leader Vladimir Putin reportedly seeks to counter threats from Ukraine.
French Rafale fighter jets are actively patrolling Europe's borders from Lithuania, deterring Russian aggression as part of a broader European defense strategy.
Ukraine and nine European nations have established a new anti-ballistic missile coalition to enhance air defense capabilities against Russian threats. The initiative aims to build shared European anti-ballistic systems, with discussions also including Ukraine's future acquisition of Rafale fighter jets.
The Croatian government has adopted a decision to commit €64 million for the maintenance of Rafale aircraft until 2029, with an annual expenditure of €18 million, according to the specialized portal Obrana i sigurnost.
Croatian officials have acknowledged France's sale of Rafale fighter jets to Serbia, stating that while they cannot forbid the sale, Serbia will not receive NATO-level equipment. This development has prompted discussions within Croatia regarding its own defense capabilities.
The Eiffel Tower was struck by lightning during severe thunderstorms that brought hail and strong gusts of wind to the Île-de-France region. Spectacular images and videos captured the moment the iconic landmark was hit.
The BJP has strongly criticized Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of echoing Pakistan's propaganda regarding Rafale jets during Operation Sindoor, citing a recent IAF tender for support for all 36 Rafale jets as counter-evidence.
Renault, in collaboration with Thales Group, presented the 4 Troop tactical military prototype, based on the Rafale SUV, at the Eurosatory 2026 defense exhibition in Paris.
A rooftop bar in Brooklyn, New York, was hit by a sudden storm featuring strong gusts of up to 95 km/h and heavy downpours, causing panic among patrons.
The Indian Air Force chief is on a four-day visit to France to progress a deal for 114 multirole Rafale fighter jets, following the Defence Ministry's issuance of a Letter of Request to Paris.
France is reportedly planning to deploy Rafale jets equipped with tactical nuclear bombs to Poland and other EU states. This move is intended as "forward deterrence" against Russia, raising concerns about the risk of nuclear war.
A leading French presidential candidate has stated that European countries seeking nuclear protection should purchase Rafale fighter jets instead of F-35s. This condition links defense cooperation with military aircraft procurement.
The weather in Belgium will remain unstable on Monday, with new showers, sometimes stormy and locally accompanied by hail, according to the Royal Meteorological Institute (IRM).
Pakistan claims to have shattered Indian arrogance and demonstrated dominance by downing a Rafale jet, asserting success on narrative, military, and diplomatic fronts during 'Marka-e-Haq'.
Various media organizations, including TVN24 and JUGpress, are celebrating significant anniversaries of their operations with special events and broadcasts. Concurrently, cultural events like immersive theater performances and air force celebrations are taking place, highlighting diverse public engagements.
French Rafale fighter jets from Gascony are conducting daily air policing missions to protect Baltic skies, involving interceptions and rapid decision-making.
Meteorologists have issued orange and yellow code alerts for strong winds across all of Romania, valid on Sunday. Gusts could reach up to 90 km/h, and up to 120 km/h in high mountain areas.
The United States has offered a $10 million reward for information leading to the leader of an Iran-backed Iraqi armed group, identified as Kataib Sayyid al-Shuhada. This bounty targets the head of the Shiite militia, which Washington considers a terrorist organization.
NATO fighter jets were scrambled to intercept Russian military aircraft, including bombers and fighters, flying over international waters in the Baltic Sea. The interceptions were described as routine responses to Russian flights near NATO airspace.
French Rafale fighter jets have arrived at the Lielvārde military base, demonstrating their presence in the region. This deployment underscores international military cooperation and readiness.
India's defence ministry is preparing to issue a Request For Proposal (RFP) to Dassault for Rafale jets in May, with a key focus on ensuring the aircraft can carry indigenous missiles.
Romania's National Meteorological Administration has issued a yellow code warning for unstable weather across the country, including significant rainfall, strong wind gusts, and snow at high altitudes, valid from Thursday morning until Saturday evening.
Romania's National Meteorological Administration has issued yellow and orange code warnings for severe weather in mountainous regions, with blizzards, strong winds up to 120 km/h, and visibility below 50 meters.
India's Air Force is set to significantly enhance its capabilities by concluding major contracts for 114 Rafale fighter jets, up to 60 medium transport aircraft, and additional airborne early warning systems by fiscal year 2026-27.
Romania's National Meteorological Administration forecasts warmer-than-normal temperatures in Bucharest and strong winds in other regions, with a yellow code warning issued for Caraș-Severin.
France has deployed Rafale fighter jets to its military bases in the UAE to protect its airspace, as confirmed by the Foreign Minister, amidst the escalating conflict in the Middle East.
The procurement of the Rafale jets is not just fleet expansion. It is a structural shift in how India positions itself within global defence hierarchies. Securing access to mission software and autonomy to integrate weapons in fighter aircraft is central to advancing India’s efforts to indigenise defence development.
Following statements by President Emmanuel Macron, a French nuclear deterrence program could resemble the American Nuclear Sharing model, potentially involving the stationing of Rafale jets in participating countries.
France has hundreds of navy, air force and army personnel based in the United Arab Emirates. Its Rafale aircraft are stationed at the Dhafra base near Abu Dhabi
India has requested France to increase the 'Make-in-India' component to 50% for the upcoming 114 Rafale fighter jet deal, including engine manufacturing.
French President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron arrived in Mumbai for a three-day visit, meeting with Prime Minister Modi to strengthen the India-France strategic partnership, with discussions expected on the Rafale deal, AI, and trade.
India is pursuing the acquisition of 114 additional Rafale fighter jets from France's Dassault Aviation, aiming to bolster its air force fleet and address existing capability gaps, with a focus on significant local production.
Croatian Minister Anušić highlighted that the human element is crucial for defense, stating that advanced technology like the Rafale jet is merely 'a piece of steel' without a pilot, while also announcing improved material rights for Croatian soldiers.
Massive wildfires are sweeping across multiple regions in Greece, including Rethymno, Lasithi, and Lesbos, leading to widespread evacuations and claiming the lives of three firefighters. Authorities have made several arrests in connection with the fires, which have also impacted parts of Turkey and are being monitored for smoke spread.
Radu Miruță published the invoice for his vacation in Turkey to refute media reports that claimed the trip cost 10,000 euros. He described the accusations as 'rafales of lies and false accusations' and provided evidence to clarify the actual expenses.
France is bracing for a sudden shift from high temperatures to violent storms this weekend, with several regions potentially experiencing heavy rain, hail, and wind gusts over 100 km/h.
A report from the Landivisiau naval air base in Brittany, known as the 'granite aircraft carrier,' highlights its role since the 1960s as the home of French embarked fighter aviation, currently housing three Rafale squadrons.
Germany and France have initiated their first practical steps towards cooperation in nuclear deterrence, with joint exercises involving the refueling of a French Rafale fighter jet at Nörvenich Air Base near Cologne.
Ukraine has reportedly purchased 16 Rafale fighter jets from France, with plans to acquire over 100 aircraft in total. Details of the acquisition have been released.
WorldTimes of Indiahindustan-timesnaftemporiki+1ukrinform1mo ago4 sources
France has approved the sale of Rafale jets, advanced air defense systems, and missile production capabilities to Ukraine. This deal will allow Ukraine to use European loans to acquire these French-Italian next-generation defense assets.
French President Emmanuel Macron announced that France will license Ukraine to produce SCALP cruise missiles, Aster interceptors, and AASM guided bombs, and will also supply 16 Rafale fighter jets. This initiative aims to bolster Ukraine's air defense capabilities and establish an anti-ballistic missile shield in Europe.
The Croatian government approved 28 million euros for the procurement of additional equipment and maintenance services for its Rafale aircraft, under a 2024 contract with Dassault Aviation.
Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić has announced his intention to resign, sparking speculation about the motives behind his decision. German media, Deutsche Welle, suggests that Vučić, known for his authoritarian influence across state institutions, the Church, and media, may be making a strategic move.
The Croatian military, alongside allies, conducted a large-scale naval exercise named 'Combat Power 26' in the Adriatic Sea, featuring Rafale fighter jets, ships, and 3,000 soldiers. The exercise showcased Croatia's combat capabilities and cooperation with partners.
The Indian Air Force has issued a tender seeking a support package for all 36 Rafale jets, which debunks Pakistan's earlier claims regarding the aircraft.
The Rafale fighter jet deal is expected to align with India's 'Make-in-India' initiative, emphasizing domestic manufacturing and sourcing. This commitment was highlighted in a recent interview, indicating a strategic focus on local production.
NATO's large-scale air exercise 'Ramstein Flag 26' is underway, involving over 50 foreign military aircraft and personnel from various nations, including Greece and Finland. Greek F-16s and Rafale jets are participating in the exercise, which spans from Norway to Spain, while Finland hosts numerous foreign military aircraft.
WorldTimes of Indiahindustan-times2mo ago2 sources
India is moving closer to finalizing a mega deal with France for 114 Rafale fighter jets. This acquisition aims to address the Indian Air Force's fighter shortage.
Violent storms, intense rainfall, and strong wind gusts are expected across a significant portion of France on Tuesday, with temperatures dropping slightly below seasonal averages.
Croatian Air Force Rafale multi-role fighter jets performed spectacular acrobatic maneuvers at low altitude over Zagreb, creating significant noise, as announced by the Ministry of Defense.
India is in the final stages of preparing a request letter to France for the acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets, signaling an upcoming defense deal.
French aviators are protecting airspace with Rafale fighter jets, following a previous contingent that undertook a similar mission a couple of years ago.
The Greek Air Force celebrated its 95th anniversary with an impressive airshow over Faliro, featuring aerial formations by Rafale, F-16, and Phantom jets. Officials, including Nikos Dendias, extended congratulations for the milestone.
Serbia's budget deficit saw a significant increase in January, reportedly quadrupling, primarily due to the payment of an installment for Rafale fighter jets. This payment had a substantial impact on the country's financial balance for the month.
The far-right in France aims to strengthen the country's military under strictly "French" terms, advocating for a halt to European defense integration and shifting decision-making from Brussels back to Paris.
French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Athens for an official visit, engaging in discussions with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis at the Roman Agora and attending a dinner at the Presidential Mansion. His arrival was reportedly delayed by an hour.
France has reportedly proposed that Greece send its Mirage 2000 fighter jets to Ukraine in exchange for acquiring Rafale aircraft at a preferential price. Athens is said to be considering the French plan, though a Greek official has denied negotiations.
Two people, including a 12-year-old girl and a worker, were killed in southern Italy after strong gusts of wind caused a tree and a lighting pole to fall.
The United Arab Emirates has withdrawn from negotiations for the upgraded F5 fighter jet program, leading France to solely finance the project. The collapse of the deal is attributed to a lack of local industry involvement and technology access for the UAE.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has sharply criticized Spain and other European NATO allies for their limited support in the war with Iran, calling their alleged lack of assistance 'very disappointing' and suggesting Washington might reassess its relationship with the alliance after the conflict concludes, questioning the benefits of the alliance for the US.
India is considering a plan for its Air Force in FY26-27, which includes deals for Rafale jets to be made in India by Dassault Aviation and a local partner, along with transport aircraft.
Storm Thérèse, originating from Southern Europe, is expected to hit the French coast with strong gusts of wind reaching up to 120 km/h on Wednesday morning before moving inland.
French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said that Rafale jets have been deployed to protect the hundreds of navy, air force and army personnel based in the United Arab Emirates.
France has deployed Rafale fighter jets over the United Arab Emirates to protect its naval and air bases against Iranian attacks, Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said Tuesday.
The Indian Air Force is gearing up for Exercise Vayushakti-26 on February 27, 2026, at Pokhran to demonstrate its full-spectrum operational capabilities, including precision strikes and multi-domain operations.
French President Emmanuel Macron is in India to advance discussions on a Rafale fighter jet deal and explore collaborations in artificial intelligence, aiming to bolster strategic ties between the two nations.
India approved a massive US$40 billion defense equipment purchase, including 114 French-made Rafale fighter jets, which is expected to benefit local fighter jet manufacturers.