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Straits Times
04-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Think like criminals, anticipate cyber attack tactics: Experts
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox SINGAPORE - Organisations need to think like cyber criminals and proactively run simulated real-world attacks internally to better prepare their cyber defenders in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), speakers at a cybersecurity conference said. 'Globally, we are seeing growing interest, and increasingly brazen activity, against critical infrastructure: ports, utilities, telecommunications, transport networks,' said Singapore's Defence Cyber Chief on July 4. 'Not perhaps for immediate disruption or commercial gain, but to map dependencies, identify vulnerabilities and pre-position for possible future leverage,' Colonel (COL) Clarence Cai. 'Now add AI to the mix — and this threat landscape goes on steroids.' Urging organisations to use AI to anticipate attack tactics, he said: 'This mindset shift might be the most important variable in the fight to come.' COL Cai was one of several speakers at ST Engineering's Cybersecurity Summit 2025, which brought together industry leaders to discuss AI-powered cyber attacks, and plans to stay ahead in an increasingly complex threat landscape. Cyber attackers can run countless permutations on how to breach systems, considering factors such as credentials to unlock systems and potential points of exploitation, he said. In sharp contrast, defenders often think in a more checklist-oriented manner, he said during his keynote address at the event. He added that this fundamental difference gives attackers the upper hand - unless defenders learn to adopt the dynamism that attackers have, which would level the playing field. He said that the mindset shift has already taken place in the military, citing what is being done at Singapore's Cyber Defence Test and Evaluation Centre (CyTEC). CyTEC was established in 2015, and falls under the banner of the Defence Cyber Command (DCCOM). It provides a virtual sandbox environment that simulates cyber threat scenarios to test defenders' skills and responses. 'CyTEC is where our most promising cyber minds—including national servicemen—develop AI-native workflows for red teaming and defence,' he said. Red teaming is when ethical hackers simulate cyber attacks so organisations can test the effectiveness of their cybersecurity system. In his speech, COL Cai said defence is no longer just about where uniformed personnel meet, but also about where vulnerabilities exist. People and commercial organisations face non-kinetic, military-grade threats, said COL Cai, citing the cyber attack on Marks & Spencers earlier in the year which resulted in an estimated £300 million (S$522 million) loss in profit. 'The T-72 (battle tank) never rolled in - but the digital equivalent of a precision strike did,' he added. Military conflicts also no longer just target weapon platforms, but also the digital infrastructure that people rely on, said COL Cai. He said: 'During recent hostilities between Israel and Iran, the world watched hypersonic missiles light up the night sky. But in the shadows, cyber attacks disrupted air traffic, spoofed the global positioning system, and interfered with hospital and financial services. 'These attacks weren't just at the front line, they were levelled at the foundations of modern society.' Urging all organisations, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to prepare early and systematically, the chief executive of Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore David Koh likened cybersecurity to brakes on a car. 'If you want to go fast, you need good brakes. If you want to digitalise, you need good cybersecurity,' said Mr Koh. He added that digital resilience is a basic requirement for everybody, to succeed in an increasingly digital economy. 'When the security posture of SMEs is strengthened, then there is a multiplicative effect. The protection extends beyond the SMEs themselves into the wider supply chain ecosystem, which all of us depend on.' During the summit, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How said Singapore has built a strong cybersecurity foundation. He cited initiatives such as the Infocomm Media Development Authority's CTO-as-a-Service, which gives SMEs access to expert digital guidance, and CSA's CISO-as-a-Service, which helps SMEs overcome resource constraints and knowledge barriers they may face in implementing cybersecurity. However, he added that consistently building on this foundation is important to keep up with the evolving threat landscape. Eight in 10 Singapore organisations had experienced a cybersecurity incident in 2023, said Mr Tan, citing CSA's Singapore Cybersecurity Health Report 2023. Of these, 99 per cent reported suffering business impacts, with the top three being business disruption, data loss, and reputational damage. 'Some SMEs hold the view that they are too small or too unimportant to be targeted,' said Mr Tan, adding that he hears this feedback sometimes from SMEs. 'I often explain that threat actors may target small companies as a way to reach bigger targets,' he added. 'And when one firm is compromised, the impact may cascade through the broader industry sector - potentially disrupting services, leaking data, and even compromising national infrastructure,' he said, urging firms to up their game. 'Let us not be remembered for what we failed to protect, but for what we had the foresight to be prepare for.'
India.com
02-07-2025
- Business
- India.com
Masterstroke by Modi govt as Russia agrees to...., India set to boost it's arsenal by buying deadly weapons like...
Masterstroke by Modi govt as Russia agrees to...., India set to boost it's arsenal by buying deadly weapons like... Russian President Vladimir Putin is coming to Delhi in September this year to participate in the annual summit between India and Russia. This is the first time that the Russian President is visiting India since war with Ukraine. During this time, Russia is expected to offer both conventional and nuclear submarines and long-range cruise missiles. What is Russia expected to offer? According to reports, Russia is offering the lease and transfer of a second Akula class nuclear-powered attack submarine, at least six refurbished Kilo class submarines and 1500-kilometer-range Caliber cruise missiles. India currently has 17 conventional submarines, two-thirds of which were purchased in the 1980s and now these submarines are getting old. Their service life is ending. Therefore, India now needs new submarines. What are the benefits to India from Russia's proposal? Russia has been India's largest defense equipment supplier for the last five decades. Even today, 60% of India's military assets are of Russian origin, including T-72 and T-90 tanks, Kilo class submarines, and most importantly SU-30MKI fighter jets. The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, which India recently used to attack Pakistani airbases during Operation Sindoor, is a joint project of Russia and India. Although in the last few years India has reduced its dependence on Russia alone and started buying weapons from countries like Israel, South Korea, Germany, France and the US, Russia still remains India's largest defense partner. Why is Russian President's visit to India very important? This visit of Putin will be his first visit to India after the Russia-Ukraine war. This comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Moscow on his first bilateral visit after becoming PM for the third time in July 2024 last year to participate in the 22nd India-Russia dialogue. Now, ahead of the 23rd dialogue, Russia is making offers to India in areas where the US cannot compete, such as nuclear submarines, long-range cruise missiles and S-500 air defense systems. The US has neither sold nor leased its nuclear submarine to any country till date. Apart from this, the US has also given its Tomahawk missile only to Britain. In such a situation, Russia remains the only most reliable option for India. The 1500 km range Caliber land-attack cruise missile is considered a major strategic offer from Russia.
News18
26-06-2025
- Business
- News18
Which Country Has Most Tanks In 2025? India In Top 5
Last Updated: China's rise to the top in 2025 with 6,800 tanks, overtaking the US and Russia, is due to rapid military modernisation, domestic production, and AI integration in warfare Amid growing global security concerns, many countries have significantly increased their defence spending, focusing on strengthening their military capabilities. According to the Global Firepower 2025 report, several nations have expanded their tank fleets. India ranks fifth in the world, while its hostile neighbour Pakistan has dropped to seventh place. According to the Global Firepower Rankings 2025, the top 10 countries based on tank fleet strength are: Rank Country Number of Tanks 1 China 6,800 2 Russia 5,750 3 United States 4,640 4 North Korea 4,344 5 India 4,201 6 Egypt 3,620 7 Pakistan 2,627 8 Türkiye 2,238 9 South Korea 2,236 10 Iran 1,713 India's Well-Balanced And Strategically Deployed Tank Force India's tank force, consisting primarily of T-90, T-72, and Arjun tanks, is geared towards maintaining a balance on both its western border with Pakistan and northern border with China. With 4,201 tanks, India not only surpasses Pakistan but also stands as one of the world's largest tank forces. Despite lagging behind, Pakistan, with 2,627 tanks, remains a significant threat. Pakistan's rapidly modernising tank units and military support from China, including the incorporation of new technology like VT-4 tanks, continue to enhance its capabilities. Why Are Tanks Still Important Tanks remain vital in conventional warfare, despite the prominence of drones, missiles, and cyber warfare in recent years. Tanks provide heavy firepower, can operate in difficult terrain, and offer strong support to infantry. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict underscores their continued importance. China's Massive Leap In Armoured Power China's remarkable rise to the number one position with 6,800 tanks in 2025, surpassing traditional giants like the US and Russia, can be attributed to rapid military modernisation, domestic tank production, and the integration of AI technology. Get breaking news, in-depth analysis, and expert perspectives on everything from politics to crime and society. Stay informed with the latest India news only on News18. Download the News18 App to stay updated!
India Gazette
29-05-2025
- Business
- India Gazette
Rajnath Singh approves Miniratna status to three Defence Public Sector Undertakings
New Delhi [India], May 29 (ANI): Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved the grant of 'Miniratna' status Category-I for Munitions India Limited (MIL), Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) & India Optel Limited (IOL), the Ministry of Defence said in a press release. Congratulating these Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) for their transformation from a government organization to a profit making corporate entity in a short span of three years, Defence Minister expressed his satisfaction over the initiatives taken by the management of MIL, AVNL and IOL to increase the turnover of the company, maximize indigenisation and meet other performance parameters for grant of Miniratna (Category-I) status. Munitions India Limited has achieved significant milestones after inception, including stellar growth in sales from Rs 2571.6 Cr in 2021-22 (H2) to Rs 8282 Cr (provisional) in FY 2024-25. On the Export front, MIL has achieved a growth from Rs 22.55 Cr in FY 2021-22 (H2) to Rs 3081 Cr in FY 2024-25 (Provisional). The major products of MIL include small, medium and high calibre ammunition, mortars, rockets, hand grenades etc. with in-house manufacturing of initiatory compositions, propellants and high explosives. Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited has witnessed a significant growth in sales from Rs 2569.26 Cr in 2021-22 (H2) to Rs 4986 Cr (provisional) in FY 2024-25. AVNL has also achieved 100 percent indigenization of Engines for all the 3 platforms viz. T-72, T-90 and BMP-II. The major products of AVNL include Armoured/ Combat Vehicles (T-90, MBT Arjun, Infantry Combat Vehicles 'BMP-II Sarath' etc.), support vehicles (MPV, AERV etc.) and Defence mobility solutions (Stallion, LPTA etc.) India Optel Limited, over the past three years, has pushed its sales from Rs 562.12 Cr in 2021-22 (H2) to Rs 1541.38 Cr (provisional) in FY 2024-25. The main products of IOL include Opto-Electronic systems and vision equipment which are used in land system platforms and weapons like battle tanks T-90, T-72, Infantry Combat Vehicle BMP-II, Artillery Guns, Naval Guns etc. The bestowal of Miniratna status to MIL, AVNL and IOL will further empower these companies to achieve accelerated growth trajectory and new heights in defence production and exports. To enhance functional autonomy, efficiency and unleash new growth potential and innovation, erstwhile Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) was converted into seven Defence Public Sector Undertakings, including these three DPSUs w.e.f. October 1, 2021. While MIL and AVNL are Schedule 'A' new Defence Public Sector Undertaking (DPSU), IOL is a Schedule 'B' DPSU under the administrative control of Department of Defence Production (DDP). (ANI)
NZ Herald
23-05-2025
- Politics
- NZ Herald
Kiwi joins Ukrainian Army to fight Russian invasion
He is in the 23rd Separate Mechanised Brigade - a brigade of the Ukrainian Ground Forces formed in February 2023, during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. 'I did a fair bit of personal training before coming here, so I could pass the physical fitness requirements.' Cass arrived in Ukraine in January. In his first hours in Ukraine, just after stepping off the train, he immediately heard an air-raid warning. He said it's hard to articulate what being in combat is like to those who haven't experienced it. 'You definitely have to shut out the thought of dying and just focus on the mission. It's mentally and physically taxing, though often you don't really notice it building up. 'It's quite draining, but I have a whole lot of people and things to fight for, so I won't give up. You never know what a mission will be like before you go. 'I hate going to and from the combat positions more than I dislike actually being there. FPVs buzzing around and artillery hitting close by definitely keep the adrenaline pumping.' While he didn't have previous military training, he does have a passion for video games. 'I play Shadow of Chernobyl and War Thunder with my squadmates. Funny story about War Thunder - the modelling of tank armour in that game is quite realistic, so one time during an anti-armour mission, I remembered the weak part of a T-72 we killed based on my knowledge from that game.' Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, starting the largest and deadliest war in Europe since World War II. New Zealand authorities have condemned the attack by Russia since the invasion began. He admits it's upsetting to travel through Ukrainian towns, not unlike some New Zealand towns, and see them destroyed by the war, but what gets him through is remembering who he's fighting for. 'If I dwell on it too much, yeah, it's pretty upsetting to think about. 'I'm always amazed by the resilience of people trying to live their lives here. Just like back home, people are just trying to get by; they go to work, go home to their families, even as war rages around them, they live on and endure.' Cass said friends and caregiver [whom he considers his mum] have supported his decision, but are still worried for his safety. 'My friends have been super supportive and lovely, and sent me care packages from back home. I've always liked to say that my friends are my family. 'I think of them when I fight. I think of my friends at home in NZ and around the world too. I would rather fight the Russian invaders here than risk the chance they win and move to invade somewhere even closer to home.' Despite being thrown into combat, he said he is lucky not to have sustained many injuries. '[I] buggered my hand up pretty badly after having an ammunition crate dropped on it but nothing too crazy, haven't lost any limbs or anything. He is the only Kiwi in his tight-knit team, whom he describes as his brothers. One of the biggest challenges is the language barrier, but his brothers-in-arms are helping him learn alongside his girlfriend in Kyiv. 'My lovely girlfriend and Duolingo are also great helpers. 'It's funny, I came here for war and found love instead. Well, I've found both really.' After the war, he said he wants to stay in Ukraine. 'They'll never defeat Ukraine's greatest weapon: our spirit.'
