Defence Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) sanctioned seven new private sector projects under the Technology Development Fund (TDF) scheme. Established to promote self-reliance in defence technology under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, the TDF is a Ministry of Defence program executed by DRDO. It supports MSMEs and startups, providing up to 90% funding for projects costing up to INR 50 crore, with a maximum development period of four years.

Notes:
Armenia’s interest in India’s Pralay missile presents a significant opportunity for India. The Pralay missile is a 350-500 km short-range, quasi-ballistic surface-to-surface missile with a 500-1,000 kg payload, developed by DRDO for defense needs. It features solid-fuel propulsion, inertial guidance, and a DSMAC seeker for terminal guidance. Capable of evasive maneuvers, it has various warhead options and a reduced radar signature.

Notes:
Indian Army has participated in the 21st KHAAN QUEST multinational military exercise in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia from 27 July to 9 August 2024. Co-sponsored by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command and hosted by the Mongolian Armed Forces, KHAAN QUEST promotes regional peace and security. Initially a U.S.-Mongolia bilateral exercise in 2003, it became multilateral in 2008. The Indian Army, a regular participant, sends 40 personnel this year, including three female soldiers. The exercise focuses on peacekeeping operations, enhancing skills for future UN peacekeeping missions.

Notes:
The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully flight-tested the Phase-II Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system. This phase aims to validate intercept systems for ballistic missiles in the 5000 km range. The Phase-II AD Endo-atmospheric missile is an indigenously developed, two-stage, solid-propelled system designed to counter various ballistic missile threats within endo- to low exo-atmospheric regions. In 2022, DRDO tested the AD-1 long-range interceptor missile for both exo- and endo-atmospheric interception.

Notes:
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) recently unveiled the “Wind Demon,” an advanced air-to-surface cruise missile designed for precise, long-range attacks at low cost. Developed by IAI, it can be launched from helicopters or aircraft to strike mobile and stationary targets without operator intervention. The missile has a range of over 200 kilometers, weighs 140 kg, and boasts a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of 1 meter. It flies at low altitudes to avoid detection and features an advanced electro-optical seeker with thermal and laser spot tracking capabilities. The missile includes a Man-in-the-Loop control system for human supervision during critical mission phases.

Notes:
The Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) tested the Russian-made Typhoon-K vehicle at its Transport Battalion in Chandigarh. This 4×4 Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle, developed by Remdiesel (a subsidiary of KamAZ), is designed for troop and cargo transport in high-risk mine areas. It can be configured as a command post, ambulance, or logistics vehicle. The Typhoon-K can carry eight troops, withstand substantial explosions, and is equipped with advanced surveillance and weapon systems.

Notes:
Exercise Pitch Black 2024, a biennial multinational exercise hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force, concluded in Darwin, Australia. This year’s edition was the largest in its 43-year history, with 20 countries, over 140 aircraft, and 4,400 military personnel participating. The exercise, focused on night-time flying, saw the Indian Air Force participate, continuing its involvement from the 2018 and 2022 editions.

Notes:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) participated in the bilateral Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 with the Royal Malaysian Air Force. The exercise took place in Kuantan, Malaysia, from 6-9 August 2024. Both air forces deployed seven Sukhoi-30 fighter planes, which are purchased from Russia. India’s Sukhoi-30 planes, mostly produced by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), are the Su-30MKI variant, specifically modernized for India. Exercise Udara Shakti 2024 included Training Exercises and Subject Matter Expert Exchange concepts. Training Exercises focused on air combat involving Su-30 planes from both countries.

Notes:
DRDO and the Indian Army successfully tested the Man Portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) at Pokhran Field Firing Range. MPATGM is a shoulder-launched, portable missile system designed to target enemy tanks and armored vehicles. The system includes a launcher, target acquisition system, and fire control unit. It has advanced infrared homing sensors and integrated avionics, making it effective for day and night operations.

Notes:
DRDO successfully conducted the first flight test of the Long Range Glide Bomb (LRGB), GAURAV, from an Indian Air Force Su-30 MK-I. GAURAV is a 1,000 kg air-launched glide bomb designed to strike targets at long distances. It is equipped with conventional warheads to destroy enemy airstrips, bunkers, and buildings. The bomb integrates with fighter aircraft and uses an Inertial Navigation System with GPS data for precise targeting. Developed by the Research Centre Imarat (RCI) in Hyderabad, it hit the target with pinpoint accuracy during the test, with complete data captured.