Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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7th edition of ‘Exercise Eastern Bridge VII’ was conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Royal Air Force of Oman (RAFO) to enhance military cooperation and interoperability. It was held at Masirah (Oman). It involved complex air operations and tactical drills, improving strategic capabilities. The exercise fostered camaraderie through joint briefings and cultural exchanges, highlighting the commitment of both nations to regional peace and security. This collaboration aims to strengthen ties and prepare for emerging security challenges in the region.

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The Navika Sagar Parikrama II expedition features the Indian Naval Sailing Vessel Tarini, which will navigate 21,600 nautical miles around the globe. This mission, led by Lieutenant Commander Roopa A and Lieutenant Commander Dilna K, emphasizes India’s maritime heritage and commitment to empowerment and innovation. The expedition will challenge the crew with treacherous waters, including passages around Cape Leeuwin, Cape Horn, and the Cape of Good Hope, showcasing their resilience and spirit.

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The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) and IIT Delhi have developed lightweight bulletproof jackets called ABHED. These jackets are made from polymers and indigenous boron carbide ceramic material. The design is based on high strain rate material characterization, modeling, and simulation with DRDO’s collaboration. The armour plates have successfully passed all necessary R&D trials. The jackets offer high threat level protection and are lighter than the Indian Army’s weight limits, weighing 8.2 kg and 9.5 kg for different BIS levels. They feature a modular design with front and rear armours for 360-degree protection.

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The 8th edition of Exercise KAZIND takes place from 30th September to 13th October 2024 in Auli, Uttarakhand. It is an annual joint military exercise between India and Kazakhstan. The Indian side will be represented by 120 personnel from the KUMAON Regiment and the Indian Air Force. Kazakhstan’s contingent includes personnel from Land Forces and Airborne Assault Troopers. The exercise aims to enhance joint military capabilities for counterterrorism operations in semi-urban and mountainous terrain. It focuses on interoperability, tactical drills, and sharing best practices to strengthen defence cooperation and bilateral relations.

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The Indian Navy launched the ‘Missile Cum Ammunition Barge, LSAM 12 (Yard 80)’, marking the sixth vessel in a series of eight. These barges are designed to enhance the Navy’s operational logistics by transporting ammunition and supplies. LSAM 12 was built by SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd in Visakhapatnam, an MSME shipyard. The contract for the barges was signed on February 19, 2021. The barge facilitates the movement of ammunition to naval platforms at jetties and outer harbours. This initiative supports India’s goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the Make in India policy.

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The Cabinet Committee on Security approved phase III of the Space Based Surveillance (SBS) mission for enhanced land and maritime awareness for civilian and military use. The National Security Council Secretariat and Defence Space Agency are handling the project. SBS 1 began in 2001 with the launch of four surveillance satellites; SBS 2 followed in 2013 with six satellites. SBS 3 will see India launch 52 satellites in the next decade, costing Rs 26,968 crore. ISRO will launch 21 satellites, and private companies will launch 31, with dedicated satellites for the Army, Navy, and Air Force.

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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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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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On October 21, 2024, the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) started the 12th Joint Military Training (JMT) exercise at Air Force Station Kalaikunda, West Bengal. The bilateral phase will run from November 13 to 21, 2024, focusing on advanced air combat simulations and joint mission planning. This phase aims to improve interoperability and combat readiness while promoting knowledge exchange. RSAF is sending its largest contingent yet, including aircrew and support for F-16, F-15, G-550 AEW&C, and C-130 aircraft. The IAF will use Rafale, Mirage 2000, Su-30 MKI, Tejas, MiG-29, and Jaguar aircraft.

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NTPC and the Indian Army are setting up a solar hydrogen-based microgrid in Chushul, Ladakh, to ensure stable, green power for off-grid Army sites. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh laid the foundation stone via video conferencing. This microgrid is designed to function independently, with hydrogen as the storage medium, replacing diesel generators. The system will provide sustainable power even in extreme winter conditions, supporting clean energy use in remote Army locations.