Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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The 14th edition of Exercise MAITREE-XIV commenced at Joint Training Node (JTN), Umroi, Meghalaya. Exercise MAITREE is a joint military exercise between India and Thailand, instituted in 2006. It is part of the military-to-military exchange programme, enhancing cooperation, interoperability, and mutual understanding between the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army. The exercise reinforces bilateral defence cooperation and commitment to peace, stability, and security in the region. The 13th edition was held at Fort Vachiraprakan, Tak Province, Thailand. Indian Army is represented by a Battalion of the Madras Regiment.

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Israel launched its new spy satellite “Ofek-19” into orbit on September 2, 2025. The launch took place from Palmachim Airbase in Israel. Ofek-19 is a Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) satellite with advanced surveillance abilities. It successfully entered orbit, transmitted first data, and cleared all initial tests. The satellite can capture high-resolution images day and night in all weather. It can detect objects smaller than 50 cm, improving intelligence accuracy. The launch boosts Israel’s regional intelligence and defense capabilities.

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The Nepali Army and China’s People’s Liberation Army launched the fourth joint exercise, Sagarmatha Friendship-2025, in Kathmandu. The drill runs until 16 September 2025. It aims to enhance cooperation in counter-terrorism, disaster management, and United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions. The exercise, first held in 2017, alternates between Nepal and China. Sagarmatha Friendship-2025 focuses on building capacity, addressing security challenges, and fostering mutual trust and military-to-military ties.

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China showcased its military power at the ‘Victory Day’ parade in Beijing on September 3. It officially unveiled the JL-1 air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM), a nuclear-capable weapon. JL-1 is deployed from the H-6N strategic bomber and can strike targets 3,000–4,000 km away. Unlike gravity bombs, it can be launched mid-air, avoiding hostile airspace entry. H-6N bombers have aerial refueling capability, extending range to 5,000 km for long-distance strikes. JL-1 strengthens China’s nuclear triad, joining the U.S. and Russia in full land-sea-air nuclear strike ability. It boosts China’s “second strike capability,” ensuring retaliation even after a first strike. Analysts warn it makes nuclear attacks harder to detect or intercept, heightening global security concerns.

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A recent video shocked Washington showing a US Hellfire missile bouncing off a UFO near Yemen. The Hellfire is an air-to-ground, laser-guided, subsonic tactical missile with strong anti-tank power. It can also act as an air-to-air weapon against helicopters and slow-moving aircraft. It was developed by the United States in 1972 to counter Soviet armor formations. It is a laser-guided, air-to-ground tactical missile used by the U.S. military and more than 30 allied nations for precision striking capabilities against various targets.

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Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh flagged off Samudra Pradakshina, an all-women tri-services sailing expedition, from Gateway of India. It is a symbol of Nari Shakti, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, military diplomacy, and global vision. Ten women officers will sail on IASV Triveni, covering 26,000 nautical miles in nine months, crossing the equator twice and sailing around Capes Leeuwin, Horn, and Good Hope. IASV Triveni, a 50-foot yacht built in Puducherry, will stop at ports in Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and South Africa. The voyage highlights India’s progress in women empowerment, maritime adventure, and global recognition.

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The Annual Joint Exercise Siam Bharat 2025 was conducted from 08–11 September 2025 at Pattaya, Thailand. The exercise involved the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) focusing on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). Both air forces exchanged knowledge and niche technology to enhance inter-operability and operational synergy. The exercise reinforced bilateral friendship and strengthened strategic ties between India and Thailand.

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STAR (Supersonic TARget) missile is India’s indigenous high-speed target missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It simulates hostile supersonic threats, including modern anti-ship cruise missiles, to train Indian Armed Forces in realistic conditions. It has a two-stage propulsion: solid booster rocket for lift-off and Liquid Fuel Ramjet (LFRJ) for sustained supersonic flight. DRDO is developing two variants: Air-Launched STAR for LCA Tejas and joint exercises, Ground-Launched STAR for mobile Navy/Army drills. STAR ends dependence on expensive imports and supports Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) in missile training and R&D.

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Recently, South Korea, the United States, and Japan launched their five-day trilateral multi-domain exercise ‘Freedom Edge’ from September 15–19 in international waters near Jeju Island. This is the third round of the drills, after earlier editions in June and November 2024. It is the first such exercise under South Korean President Lee Jae Myung and US President Donald Trump. The exercise focuses on ballistic missile defence, air defence, medical evacuation, and maritime interdiction training. The goal is to boost interoperability and strengthen trilateral security cooperation in the Asia-Pacific.

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Project Vijayak of Border Roads Organisation (BRO) celebrated its 15th Raising Day at Kargil, Ladakh on 21 September 2025, marking entry into its 16th year. It was launched in 2010 by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) and named after Operation Vijay to reflect the connection between the battle theatre and the project area. It has built 1,400 km of roads and 80 major bridges across Ladakh. In April 2025, it achieved a record by reopening the Zojila Pass in just 31 days after winter closure. The project has improved operational preparedness of Armed Forces and connectivity for Ladakh’s people.