Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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China’s stockpile of DF-26 Intermediate-Range Ballistic Missiles (IRBMs) has grown, with nearly 60 new launchers observed at a major production site. The DF-26 missile, or Dong Feng-26, is an advanced Chinese IRBM designed for both land and maritime strikes. It measures 14 meters in length, 1.4 meters in diameter, and weighs 20,000 kg at launch. Powered by two-stage solid propellant, it can hit targets up to 3,000-4,000 km away. The missile’s modular design allows it to carry two nuclear and multiple conventional warheads. Its anti-ship version, DF-26B, targets naval vessels, including aircraft carriers.

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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.

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The Indian Navy will conduct the fourth ‘Pan-India’ Coastal Defence Exercise ‘Sea Vigil-24’ on November 20-21, 2024. This large-scale exercise involves six ministries, 21 organizations, and covers all coastal states, UTs, Lakshadweep, and Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The Coastal Defence & Security Readiness Evaluation (CDSRE) phase began in October to audit coastal defence infrastructure. For the first time, officials from the National Security Council Secretariat will join CDSRE teams, along with State Marine Police, Coast Guard, and Fisheries. The exercise aims to protect coastal assets and involve local communities, with participants from the Indian Army, Air Force, and the fishing community.

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India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed an MoU with Russia’s Rosoboronexport (ROE) to collaborate on variants of the Pantsir air defense missile-gun system. The MoU was signed at the 5th India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission Subgroup meeting in Goa. This partnership strengthens India-Russia defense ties and aims to enhance India’s air defense capabilities. The Pantsir system protects against aerial threats, including aircraft, drones, and precision-guided munitions. It combines short- to medium-range missiles with dual 30mm cannons, has advanced radar, and engages targets up to 36 km away and 15 km high with rapid response.

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China has increased the range of its supersonic cruise missile DF-100 (Dongfeng-100 or Changjian-100). It was introduced during China’s 70th National Day parade on October 1, 2019. DF-100 is designed for precision strikes on diverse targets, including land-based infrastructure, bunkers, and large warships. It is a land-based system with a range of 3,000–4,000 km and can also be launched from bombers. The missile is over 9 meters long, with a payload capacity of 500+ kg. Powered by a ramjet engine, it reaches Mach 5 speeds in its terminal phase.

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The Indian Coast Guard hosted SAREX-24 in Kochi from November 27-30, 2024, under the National Maritime Search and Rescue Board. The event aims to validate the National Maritime Search and Rescue (M-SAR) framework through an inclusive, collaborative approach. It addresses India’s vast 4.6 million sq km Search and Rescue Region (ISRR), emphasizing cooperation with agencies, littorals, and friendly nations. The focus will be on Mass Rescue Operations (MRO) during large-scale sea contingencies. The theme, “Enhancing Search and Rescue capabilities through Regional Collaboration,” highlights ICG’s dedication to providing aid across ISRR.

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The 4th India-Malaysia Joint Military Exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI conducted at Bentong camp, Pahang, Malaysia. It is scheduled from December 2 to 15, 2024. It involves 78 Indian personnel from the MAHAR Regiment and 123 Malaysian personnel from the Royal Malaysian Regiment. The exercise focuses on counter-insurgency operations in jungle terrain under the UN Mandate’s Chapter VII. It includes cross-training, simulated drills like Anti-MT Ambush, Recce Patrol, and terrorist area attacks. This annual event alternates between the two countries, enhancing interoperability, defence cooperation, and bilateral ties.

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The 1st edition of Joint Table Top Exercise, CINBAX, conducted at Foreign Training Node, Pune, between the Indian and Cambodian Armies. The exercise focuses on joint Counter Terrorism (CT) operations under the UN Charter, with personnel from both armies participating. The exercise has three phases: orientation, Table Top exercises, and finalization of plans. It aims to enhance trust, interoperability, and showcase India’s indigenous defense capabilities.

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A 334-member Indian Army contingent is participating in the 18th Surya Kiran exercise hosted by the Nepali Army in Saljhandi, Nepal, from 31st December 2024 to 13th January 2025. The annual exercise is alternately hosted by India and Nepal; the 17th edition was held in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand, in 2023. Surya Kiran aims to strengthen bonds between Indian and Nepali army personnel and improve their professional skills.