In Episode 8 of the CTRL ALT DEFENCE  Podcast, Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor ask a hard question: Is India too late with the AMCA stealth fighter? With Pakistan set to receive the J-35 and China already flying sixth-generation prototypes, will India's AMCA—scheduled for induction only by 2035—still be relevant? We explore India's stealth strategy, air defense alternatives, the global stealth race, and the risks of delay. Should India go for a stopgap fighter like the Su-57 or F-35? What are the technological hurdles, and is the AMCA enough for future warfare? Tune in for a deep-dive discussion.

The black box of the Air India Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner that crashed immediately after take-off in Ahmedabad yesterday has been found. The hardy device which records vital data in an aircraft was found on the roof of the doctors' hostel that was hit by the aircraft. But why was it so important to find this device? And what is a black box or a DFDR? These and many more questions are answered by Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor in the seventh episode of CTRL ALT Defence.

The landmark production transfer agreements announced by Dassault Aviation, which manufactures the Rafale fighter, and Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) may be a key first step towards meeting a future Indian Air Force requirement for 114 multi-role fighters. But many have questions. Can we call it 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' or 'Make In india' if only a part of Rafale is being built by Tata? Why have many long-standing jet demands not been fulfilled? Why India needs to change many systems related to manufacturing infrastructure? The questions are heavy but not to worry, NDTV's Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor are here to answer all your queries!

Was Pakistan rational during escalations after Operation Sindoor? Or was CDS Anil Chauhan incorrect? What 'tactical mistakes' did we make? Why did the air force not reveal the exact extent of damage caused to Pakistan? In this bonus episode of CTRL ALT DEFENCE, Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor decode CDS Anil Chauhan's statements to Bloomberg and why it is extremely important to rationalise during war like situations.

Discover the incredible journey of Samtel-an Indian company at the forefront of defence innovation. In this special episode of Ctrl + Alt + Defence, Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor delve into how Samtel is revolutionising India's defence technology and redefining the nation's strategic edge.

 

In this bonus episode of CTRL ALT Defence, Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor dive into the incredibly important role of Indian-made (or 'atmanirbhar') drones in Operation Sindoor. From tiny reconnaissance UAVs to powerful loitering munitions, Indian drone startups and major companies have transformed warfare in the subcontinent. Discover how these indigenous drones were deployed across the battlefield - from surveillance in PoK to precision strikes on enemy targets - and what this means for the future of drone warfare in India and beyond. Join us as we explore cutting-edge technology, frontline combat stories, and the rising Indian drone ecosystem that's challenging global players.

In the second episode of CTRL ALT Defence, Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor highlight the Indian Navy's crucial but understated role in Operation Sindoor. From the impressive INS Vikrant carrier battle group to the formidable MiG-29Ks and cutting-edge warships equipped with advanced MF-STAR radars, discover how India's naval forces controlled the seas, restricted Pakistani military air movement, and secured maritime dominance. Join us as we unpack the scale, technology, and strategic impact of the Indian Navy's deployment - a true game-changer in modern naval warfare.

In the pilot episode of NDTV's new Defence podcast, CTRL + ALT + Defence, Vishnu Som and Shiv Aroor discuss the many weapons used to either attack during Operation Sindoor (India's response to the terrible Pahalgam terror attack) or the machinery used to defend the country at the borders and in the skies.

The duo brings decades of experience, knowledge, ground expertise, and a sheer passion for everything related to India's defence systems. Tune in to follow along the fiery, uncensored takes of NDTV's in-house experts - Shiv Aroor and Vishnu Som.