India expands military reach through aircraft procurement and Southeast Asian drills

India is expanding its military capabilities and regional presence through significant procurement and strategic engagements in Southeast Asia. The Indian Ministry of Defence has launched a tender to acquire 60 new multirole transport aircraft, valued at approximately 9 billion euros. This initiative aims to replace aging Antonov AN-12 and Ilyushin Il-76 fleets. The tender specifically targets Indian industries, such as Tata Advanced Systems, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Mahindra Defence, and Adani Defence, requiring them to partner with original equipment manufacturers to establish local assembly and maintenance lines.

Simultaneously, India is strengthening its Act East policy through increased military cooperation. The Indian Air Force is currently conducting Exercise Udara Shakti 2026 in Malaysia, involving Rafale fighter jets and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft training alongside the Royal Malaysian Air Force. Additionally, an Indian Army contingent is scheduled to deploy to Thailand for Exercise Maitree, underscoring New Delhi’s growing defense engagement within the Indo-Pacific region.