Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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DRDO recently conducted the first flight test of its Long Range Land Attack Cruise Missile (LRLACM). The LRLACM can launch from mobile ground-based systems and frontline ships using a universal vertical launch module. It can perform complex maneuvers at various speeds and altitudes, showcasing precision and versatility. Equipped with advanced avionics and software, it follows terrain-hugging paths, making it harder to detect and intercept. Developed by DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Establishment with support from BDL and BEL. Approved as a Mission Mode Project by the Defence Acquisition Council, the successful test boosts India’s long-range precision strike capabilities.

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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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Russia’s Defence Ministry reported that Ukraine fired six US-made Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) at Russia’s Bryansk region. ATACMS is a surface-to-surface artillery weapon system. It is manufactured by Lockheed Martin, US defence company. It is capable of striking targets beyond the range of standard artillery and was first used in the 1991 Gulf War. Other operators include Bahrain, Greece, South Korea, Taiwan, and the UAE. The missile has a range of 190 miles (305 km) and uses single-stage solid propellant. It is launched from HIMARS and MLRS platforms and can carry cluster munitions to target larger areas.

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The RS-26 Rubezh is a mobile intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) launched by Russia, marking its first use in the Ukraine conflict. With a range of 5,000–6,000 kilometers, it can deliver nuclear warheads, posing a significant threat to Europe and the U.S. This strike follows Ukraine’s use of long-range missiles, escalating tensions further. The missile is derived from the RS-24 Yars and represents a modernized capability in Russia’s arsenal, reinforcing its deterrent posture against NATO and Western involvement in the ongoing war.

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The Oreshnik hypersonic missile, recently tested by Russia, has a range of 3,000-5,500 km and can strike targets in Europe and the western US. Its unique feature is the ability to carry multiple warheads, akin to intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs). President Vladimir Putin indicated that this missile’s deployment was a response to Ukraine’s use of Western missiles, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The missile is designed to be highly accurate and currently lacks effective countermeasures against it.

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India successfully tested the nuclear-capable K-4 submarine-launched ballistic missile from INS Arighaat. The test occurred off Visakhapatnam in the Bay of Bengal and marked a major milestone. The K-4 missile, powered by solid fuel, has a range of 3,500 km and was launched from a 6,000-tonne submarine. This was the first launch from an operational submarine, moving beyond previous tests with submersible pontoons. The test aimed to validate performance parameters, with results under analysis. A public warning and NOTAM were issued for this intermediate-range missile test.

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The Indian Army launched “Eklavya,” an online learning platform to enhance training and education. It was developed by Headquarters Army Training Command, sponsored by Army War College, and created by Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics” (BISAG-N), Gandhinagar, with support from the Directorate General of Information Systems. The platform is hosted on the Army Data Network with scalable architecture, allowing seamless integration of multiple training establishments and extensive courses. This initiative aligns with the Indian Army’s “Decade of Transformation” vision and the 2024 theme, “Year of Technology Absorption.”

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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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‘Sampark 4.0’ is an outreach initiative by the Indian Navy to provide quality healthcare services to naval veterans and their families. It emphasizes communication between veterans and ECHS (Navy), focusing on those in remote areas of Maharashtra. The program includes interactive sessions at various ECHS Polyclinics, fostering trust and awareness about healthcare services, entitlements, and procedures available to veterans.

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The seventh Missile Cum Ammunition (MCA) Barge , LSAM 14 (Yard 82), was launched on December 12, 2024, at Mira Bhayandar, Maharashtra, by M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, Visakhapatnam. The contract for eight Missile Cum Ammunition Barges was signed on February 19, 2021, with M/s SECON Engineering Projects Pvt Ltd, an MSME shipyard. These indigenously designed barges were developed with an Indian Ship Design firm and tested at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory, Visakhapatnam, for seaworthiness. Six barges have been delivered, supporting the Indian Navy’s transportation and operational needs. The project aligns with the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.