23 January 2025.*DEFENCE UPDATE* 1. *Turkey-Pakistan Joint Fighter Jet Factory*: Turkey and Pakistan have established a joint factory for producing the fifth-generation stealth fighter jet, KH, to replace their aging F-16 fleets. 2. *Advanced Thermal Barrier Coating for Hypersonic Missiles*: India's Defence Research and Development Laboratory has developed a ceramic-based thermal barrier coating for use in hypersonic missiles, enabling them to withstand extreme temperatures. 3. *Indian Navy's Interest in Indigenous UAVs*: The Indian Navy is keen on procuring indigenous male UAVs to reduce the operational burden on its Boeing P-8I fleet. 4. *Astra Mark II Missile Deployment Delayed*: The Astra Mark II missile is not expected to enter service until 2031 due to extensive testing and validation requirements. 5. *TBO Imaging's Anti-UAV System Exported to Armenia*: TBO Imaging has exported its Vault anti-UAV system to Armenia to enhance its counter-drone capabilities. 6. *Next-Generation Lightweight Torpedo Development*: India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is developing a second-generation lightweight torpedo with advanced battery technology. 7. *Indian Navy's Interest in Hypersonic Anti-Ship Missile*: The Indian Navy plans to deploy a 1,500 km range hypersonic anti-ship missile in coastal regions to deter naval incursions. 8. *New Aerospace and Defence Policy in UP*: The Uttar Pradesh government has approved a new aerospace and defence unit and employment promotion policy, attracting ₹50,000 crore in investments. 9. *Rejection of Proposals for Project 75I*: The Indian Defence Ministry has rejected proposals from L&T, ThyssenKrupp, and Navantia for not meeting Indian Navy requirements under Project 75I. 10. *Construction of Next-Generation Conventional Submarines*: The Indian Defence Ministry will proceed with constructing six next-generation conventional submarines with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders. 11. *Potential Acquisition of F-35A Fighter Jets*: India may acquire 120-140 F-35A fighter jets if allowed in the competition, with a potential budget of $25 billion for the MRFA program.