Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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IIT-Madras Pravartak has launched a cyber commandos training program for police. This six-month residential program is an initiative of the Union Home Ministry. It aims to provide specialized cyber training for law enforcement agencies across India. Unlike existing cybercrime cells that focus on reactive measures, this program will develop a proactive force to tackle cyber threats. The training will enhance the capabilities of police in effectively combating and preventing cybercrimes.

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DRDO completed development trials of the 4th Generation Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD) with three successful tests at Pokhran, Rajasthan. VSHORAD is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges. It was developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, with industry partners. The missile features advanced technologies like a miniaturised Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, and is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Indian Navy’s second Very Low Frequency (VLF) radar station in Damagudem forest, Telangana. It is the Navy’s second VLF communication transmission station in India. The first VLF radar station, INS Kattabomman, is located in Tirunelveli, Tamil Nadu.

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India signed a deal with the US to buy 170 AGM-114R Hellfire missiles. The AGM-114 Hellfire is a laser-guided, short-range air-to-ground missile used by the US military and 30 allies. It was developed by USA in 1972 to counter Soviet tanks and is used against armored vehicles, radar systems, helicopters, and more. Hellfire missiles are used on UAVs like Predator and Reaper drones.

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Hybrid warfare combines conventional military tactics with non-traditional methods, such as cyber attacks and psychological operations. It reflects the evolving nature of conflict, as seen in recent global conflicts like Russia-Ukraine and Israel-Palestine. The Indian Parliamentary Standing Committee on Defence is focusing on this concept to assess military preparedness against such threats. Understanding hybrid warfare is crucial as it can involve both military and non-military stakeholders, potentially leading to conflicts being won without traditional combat.

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A contingent of 25 Indian Army personnel has participated in Exercise GARUD SHAKTI 24 from November 1 to 12, 2024. This is the 9th edition of the India-Indonesia Joint Special Forces exercise, featuring troops from the Parachute Regiment (Special Forces). The exercise aims to familiarize both sides with each other’s procedures and enhance cooperation and interoperability. This exercise includes tactical military drills, planning special operations, and sharing advanced skills and techniques.

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The fifth Vietnam-India Bilateral Army Exercise (VINBAX) 2024 conducted in Ambala, Haryana. VINBAX-2024 aims to strengthen the joint military capabilities of India and Vietnam. For the first time, the exercise includes Bi-Service participation, with personnel from both countries’ Army and Air Force. India’s contingent consists of 47 members, mainly from a Regiment of the Corps of Engineers, alongside personnel from other services.

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The INSV Tarini successfully completed the Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition, a 39-day non-stop voyage from Goa to Fremantle, Australia, covering 4900 nautical miles. Flagged off by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi on October 2, 2024, this expedition aimed to promote gender equality and global maritime cooperation. The crew, consisting of Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A, faced challenging weather conditions but showcased resilience and determination throughout the journey, marking a significant achievement for the Indian Navy and its commitment to maritime heritage.

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France is evaluating India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch (MBRL) system for its requirements. The system, developed by DRDO, is named after “Pinaka,” a mythical weapon of Lord Shiva. It can hit targets up to 75 kilometers and beyond. The Pinaka MBRL can launch 12 rockets in 44 seconds, making it effective for overwhelming enemy defenses. Armenia was the first export customer for Pinaka, with other countries also expressing interest in the system.

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The Defence Space Agency has launched India’s first space exercise, Antariksha Abhyas – 2024, in New Delhi. This exercise focuses on addressing growing threats to space-based assets and services. It aims to secure national strategic space objectives and integrate India’s space capabilities into military operations. The exercise will deepen understanding of operational dependencies on space assets and identify vulnerabilities if space services are disrupted. Participants include the Defence Space Agency, Army, Navy, Air Force, and specialist branches like the Defence Cyber Agency, Defence Intelligence Agency, and Strategic Forces Command.