Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has delivered 100 Control Centres for the Air Defence Control and Reporting system (Akashteer) to the Indian Army. These control centres will play a crucial role in protecting the country from aerial threats like missile and rocket attacks. The successful delivery highlights India’s commitment to strengthening its military self-reliance. It also emphasizes the modernization of India’s defense infrastructure, enhancing overall security capabilities.

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The Third 25T Bollard Pull Tug, named Ashva, was launched on October 3, 2024, in Kolkata. Ashva is part of the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative. It was built following the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS) classification rules.
The tug will boost the Indian Navy’s operational capabilities, aiding in critical tasks and enhancing maritime support infrastructure.

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Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi unveiled ‘Agniastra,’ a multi-target detonation device, at the Army Commanders Conference in Gangtok. It improves room interventions and bunker destruction, aiding counter-terrorism operations. The device, known as WEDC, enhances safety and reliability over the older Exploder Dynamo Capacitor, which had a limited range of 400 meters. The new microprocessor-based detonation system, developed by Major Rajprasad, operates in both wired and wireless modes with a range of 2.5 km. It allows selective and simultaneous firing of multiple targets, making it highly effective for safe demolition operations. This innovation significantly enhances counter-terrorism efforts and IED destruction, ensuring better safety for troops during critical missions.

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The Indian Navy recently launched Samarthak, the first vessel of the Multi-Purpose Vessel (MPV) project at L&T Shipyard, Kattupalli. This initiative is part of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India programs, promoting indigenous shipbuilding. Samarthak, meaning “Supporter,” is designed for various roles including towing ships, launching targets, and testing weapons. The vessel is 106 meters long, 16.8 meters wide, and can reach speeds of 15 knots. The project strengthens the Navy’s focus on self-reliance in maritime defense.

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The ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’ is conducted by the Sudarshan Chakra Corps at Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi. This exercise focuses on integrating niche and emerging technologies into the Indian Army’s offensive strategies. It involves approximately 1,800 personnel and showcases over 50 new technology equipment (NTEs) from more than 40 industry partners, including advanced drones and robotic systems. The aim is to enhance combat readiness and foster collaboration between the Indian Army and the defence industry, boosting indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.

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Engine manufacturer General Electric has announced that its LM2500 marine engines will power the Indian Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV). These heavily armed vessels, built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) at a cost of Rs 9,805 crore, will incorporate stealth, high speed, and offensive capabilities. Six NGMVs are under construction, with delivery set to begin in March 2027, primarily serving to enhance offensive operations against enemy warships, merchantmen, and land targets.

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INS Trikand and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft recently took part in the Indo-Oman naval exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr in Goa. This exercise, initiated in 1993, reflects the strong strategic ties between India and Oman. Oman is the first GCC country to conduct bilateral naval exercises with India. The exercise included two phases: a harbour phase with professional interactions and sports, followed by a sea phase. During the sea phase, both navies conducted gun firings, anti-aircraft operations, and replenishment maneuvers. The Dornier aircraft provided Over-the-Horizon Targeting data, enhancing interoperability and understanding of best practices.

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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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The 15th edition of Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR took place at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA. This follows the last exercise held in December 2023 in Meghalaya and is the second joint exercise this year, after Exercise YUDH ABHYAS in Rajasthan. The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation, interoperability, and special operations tactics between the two countries. Activities includes joint planning, reconnaissance missions, using unmanned aerial systems, and psychological warfare drills.

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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.