Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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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 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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Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched two Fast Patrol Vessels (FPVs), Amulya and Akshay, for the Indian Coast Guard. The launch highlights GSL’s focus on technological and operational excellence. GSL achieved a 100% growth in Gross Revenue, surpassing ₹2,000 crore. The shipyard is recognized as a leading Indian shipbuilder with advanced indigenous capabilities.

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India has successfully tested the Bhargavastra, its first micro-missile system to counter swarm drones. It is designed to counter the threat of swarm drones. It was developed by Economic Explosives Ltd. Bhargavastra detects small flying machines over 6 km and hits targets over 2.5 km. It uses guided micro-munitions and can fire more than 64 micro missiles simultaneously. The system operates in all terrains, including high-altitude areas. It fulfills Army Air Defence requirements, marking India’s first counter-drone system with micro missiles.

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The Union Government launched Bharat Ranbhoomi Darshan to promote battlefield tourism in India. It is a joint initiative by the Indian Army and the Ministry of Tourism. The program focuses on showcasing 77 historic battlefields and border sites where significant military actions occurred. Notable sites include Galwan Valley (2020 India-China clashes), Doklam (2017 India-China standoff), Dras (Kargil War), Siachen Base Camp (highest battlefield), Longewala (1971 India-Pakistan war), and Bum La and Kibithu (Arunachal Pradesh).

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INS Mumbai, an indigenously built guided missile destroyer, is participating in the fourth edition of Exercise LA PEROUSE. The exercise involves navies from Australia, France, the UK, the US, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Canada. It focuses on enhancing maritime situational awareness, surveillance, interdiction, air operations, and information sharing. The exercise highlights India’s naval synergy, interoperability, and commitment to a rules-based maritime order. It aligns with India’s SAGAR vision to ensure security and growth in the Indo-Pacific region.

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DRDO showcased the Advanced Towed Artillery Gun System (ATAGS) during the 76th Republic Day parade. ATAGS is a 155mm, 52-calibre howitzer developed indigenously by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It has a range of 48 km, making it one of the longest-range towed artillery systems globally. It can operate in extreme temperatures and has high mobility due to its 6×6 towing platform. The gun achieves precision strikes with future Long Range Guided Munitions (LRGM).

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Wing Commander Akshay Saxena of the Indian Air Force received the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for supporting the Navy’s anti-piracy operations. The mission was part of Operation Sankalp, launched by the Indian Navy on March 16 last year in the Arabian Sea. The operation aimed to counter piracy and Houthi rebel threats to merchant vessels in the Indian Ocean. Key areas of operation included the Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and off the East Coast of Somalia. The Navy saved lives, seized narcotics, and rescued hijacked merchant vessels during the operation.

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The upcoming India-US defence deal includes co-production of Stryker infantry combat vehicles. Stryker is an eight-wheel-drive combat vehicle developed for the US Army by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS). It was the first new military vehicle inducted into the US Army since the 1980s. The Stryker family includes different variants like infantry carriers, mobile gun systems, and medical evacuation vehicles. It is known for speed and flexibility in urban warfare. The vehicle has a range of 483 km, top speed of 100 km/h, and is air-transportable by C-17 and C-130 aircraft.