Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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The 12th edition of the Multilateral Naval Exercise (MILAN) will take place in Visakhapatnam from February 19–27, 2024. The Indian Navy will host the exercise, which is expected to have over 50 countries and nearly 20 ships participating. The exercise will include both harbor and sea phases, and will focus on strengthening maritime cooperation and security. MILAN is a biennial event that has been a cornerstone of maritime collaboration and cooperation since 1995. The previous edition of MILAN, in 2022, had 39 countries participating.

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NASA has successfully re-established contact with its Ingenuity helicopter on Mars. Launched aboard the Perseverance rover, Ingenuity made history on April 19, 2021, as the first aircraft to achieve powered, controlled flight on another planet. Operating independently of the rover’s science mission, it flew to a height of 10 feet, hovered for 30 seconds, and descended in a groundbreaking 39.1-second flight, demonstrating the feasibility of flight in Mars’ challenging atmosphere using onboard systems.

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has completed crucial tests on the Insat-3DS satellite, a collaborative effort with the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Part of a climate observatory satellite series, it aims to enhance climate services. The satellite, along with INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR already in orbit, will be launched using the more advanced Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F14), featuring cryogenic liquid propellants. INSAT-3DR boasts improvements like imaging in the Middle Infrared band for night-time cloud and fog pictures and enhanced accuracy in Sea Surface Temperature estimation.

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The new Mahindra Armado, India’s first Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV), debuted at the Republic Day Parade. Designed and built by Mahindra Defence Systems, it’s intended for the Indian armed forces in counter-terrorism, Special Forces, reconnaissance, and border patrolling. With a seating capacity of six (expandable to eight), it boasts a 1,000 kg load capacity, B7-level ballistic protection, and a 3.2-liter diesel engine generating 216 hp. Armado accelerates from 0 to 60 kmph in 12 seconds, reaching speeds exceeding 120 kmph, equipped with self-cleaning exhaust and air filtration for extreme climates.

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The Indian Navy’s INS Sumitra, a Saryu-class patrol vessel, rescued hijacked fishermen off Somalia’s east coast. Commissioned in 2014, it’s the last vessel of its class, constructed by Goa Shipyard. Based in Chennai under the Eastern Naval Command, its primary roles include EEZ surveillance, anti-piracy patrols, fleet support, maritime security, and escort operations. The recent successful rescue underscores its vital contributions to regional security.

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently achieved success with four flight trials of ‘ABHYAS,’ a high-speed expendable aerial target. Developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment, ABHYAS serves as a realistic threat scenario for weapon systems practice and validates Armed Forces equipment for aerial engagement. It features an autonomous flying design, an indigenously made autopilot, and a laptop-based Ground Control System for integration and analysis.

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IIT Madras and Munitions India Limited are partnering to create India’s first domestically designed 155 Smart Ammunition. The two-year initiative, under the Ministry of Defence, aims to achieve a Circular Error Probable of 10 meters, significantly improving precision in defense operations. The project focuses on enhancing accuracy and lethality using guidance systems and advanced technologies. The 155mm Indian Smart Ammunition is compatible with existing artillery guns, featuring fin stabilization, canard control, and a 3-mode fuse operation for various tactical requirements, marking a crucial stride towards self-reliance in defense production.

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An Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter made a precautionary landing in Punjab due to a technical snag. The Chinook/CH-47F, manufactured by Boeing, is a tandem rotor heavy-lift helicopter used for troop and supply transport. India operates 15 Chinooks, featuring advanced cargo handling, a fully integrated digital cockpit, and a triple hook system. With a maximum speed of 160 knots, it can carry 55 troops or 10 tonnes of cargo, showcasing its versatility in military operations.

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The Vajra Sentinel System is an anti-drone technology that can detect, track, and neutralize drones. The system was recently in the news because it is related to defense against unmanned aerial threats. The Vajra Sentinel System was developed by Big Bang Boom Solutions (BBBS) and has secured a contract with the Indian Army and Air Force. The system uses passive radio frequency sensors to identify and track drones. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently entered into a contract for the Vajra Sentinel System under the iDEX (Indian Defence Exhibition) initiative.

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The naval forces of China, Iran, and Russia recently launched a joint exercise called the “Maritime Security Belt-2024” near the Gulf of Oman. The exercise, which began on March 11 and lasted until 15, is the fifth common military exercise between the three countries in recent years. The exercise aims to safeguard regional maritime security and strengthen maritime cooperation. The exercise is organized in three phases: harbor, sea, and summarize. The exercise focuses on anti-piracy and search and rescue training courses, and includes the participation of Russian warships and aviation.