Paris: Amid growing concerns over Russian aggression in Europe, France has for the first time publicly showcased its nuclear-capable supersonic cruise missile, the ASMPA-R, mounted on the Rafale M fighter jet. The demonstration, conducted by the French Naval Nuclear Aviation Force, was part of Operation Diomede, simulating a nuclear strike without loading an actual warhead. According to the French Defense Ministry, the ASMPA-R missile was officially inducted into the Naval Nuclear Aviation Force on November 10, 2025. Though operational since 2023 within the strategic air forces, this public display marks its first visual confirmation on the Rafale M platform, which both the French Air Force and Navy employ for missile launches. Enhanced Range and Speed The ASMPA-R boasts a range o...

Islamabad: Following the failure of Turkish combat drones during Operation Sindoor, the Pakistan Army is now shifting its focus from Ankara to Russia, Ukraine, and European countries in search of advanced drone technology. Pakistani officials are negotiating with these nations to acquire military-grade, medium-altitude, long-endurance drones, a move that has caught the sharp attention of Indian defense authorities. Previously, the Pakistan Army relied heavily on drones from Turkey and China, but the shortcomings observed during Operation Sindoor have prompted senior Pakistani officials to explore alternatives. Reports indicate that a technology transfer agreement has been signed between a European company and Pakistan’s state-owned Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT). Sources reveal that Isla...

The COP30 United Nations Climate Change Conference is currently underway in Belém, a small city nestled within the dense Amazon rainforest in Brazil. Against the backdrop of rising global temperatures, countries are urgently discussing measures to mitigate climate change, promote clean energy, and build resilience against extreme weather events. From India to Indonesia, the impacts of global warming are increasingly visible, with floods, droughts, and heatwaves affecting millions. Key Themes: Fossil Fuels, Finance, and Forests Three words echoed throughout the conference: fossil fuels, finance, and forests. Global leaders highlighted the need to transition away from coal, oil, and gas, increase funding for climate-resilient infrastructure, and protect forests as a critical line of de...

In a development that could significantly impact Indian professionals, the U.S. is reportedly preparing to phase out the H-1B visa program. Republican lawmaker Marjorie Taylor Greene has announced plans to introduce a bill aimed at gradually ending the program to curb large-scale displacement of American workers. If passed, this legislation could intensify ongoing debates in Congress regarding the future of H-1B visas and broader immigration reforms. A Setback for Indian Professionals The H-1B visa has long been a gateway for Indian professionals seeking work opportunities in the U.S., as well as a pathway toward green cards and eventual citizenship. The recent proposal comes shortly after the U.S. government raised H-1B visa fees, making the program more costly and challenging for a...