Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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The joint military exercise Yudh Abhyas, initiated in 2004, focuses on enhancing military cooperation between India and the US. The latest edition, Yudh Abhyas 2024, took place at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges in Rajasthan from September 9 to 22. This exercise aims to improve interoperability and conduct counter-terrorism operations. Both nations have emphasized the importance of joint training and sharing best practices to strengthen their military capabilities in a sub conventional context under the UN Charter’s Chapter VII.

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The Indian Army inducted 100 robotic Multi-Utility Legged Equipment (MULE) for combat areas, especially in high altitudes. MULEs enhance combat and surveillance missions with thermal cameras and radars for reconnaissance in tough terrains. These robots operate in extreme temperatures (-40 to +55°C), carry a 15kg payload, and can climb stairs and hills. They are durable, agile, and equipped with electro-optics and infrared tech for object recognition, even moving through rivers. MULEs improve surveillance and supply delivery, reducing reliance on animal transport by 50-60% by 2030.
China also uses robotics, hinting at a new military technology race.

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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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IIT-Madras Pravartak has launched a cyber commandos training program for police. This six-month residential program is an initiative of the Union Home Ministry. It aims to provide specialized cyber training for law enforcement agencies across India. Unlike existing cybercrime cells that focus on reactive measures, this program will develop a proactive force to tackle cyber threats. The training will enhance the capabilities of police in effectively combating and preventing cybercrimes.

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DRDO completed development trials of the 4th Generation Very Short Range Air Defence System (VSHORAD) with three successful tests at Pokhran, Rajasthan. VSHORAD is a Man Portable Air Defence System (MANPAD) designed to neutralize low-altitude aerial threats at short ranges. It was developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat, Hyderabad, with industry partners. The missile features advanced technologies like a miniaturised Reaction Control System (RCS) and integrated avionics, and is propelled by a dual-thrust solid motor.

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India hosts the joint naval exercise of Quad nations from October 8 to 18 in Visakhapatnam. The exercise, named Malabar 2024, includes sea and harbor phases focusing on cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. It features various Indian naval platforms, such as guided missile destroyers, submarines, and fighter aircraft. The Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a US-India drill and evolved into a multilateral event to enhance interoperability and address maritime challenges. Recent Quad meetings emphasized maritime security cooperation and announced joint coast guard operations and a new regional Maritime Initiative for Training (MAITRI).

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The Indian Navy’s aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya recently participated in a joint exercise with the Italian Navy’s Carrier Strike Group, including the aircraft carrier ITS Cavour. This historic maritime engagement took place off the Goa coast from October 1 to 6, 2024, and involved various complex operations, showcasing interoperability between the two navies. The exercise highlighted the importance of collaboration in maintaining maritime security and addressing challenges such as piracy and threats to commercial shipping in the Indian Ocean region.

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Russia recently claimed a Kinzhal missile strike on Ukraine. The Kh-47M2 Kinzhal is a Russian hypersonic, air-launched ballistic missile, operational since December 2017. It can travel at speeds up to Mach 10 (12,350 km/h) and penetrate targets more effectively than slower missiles. The Kinzhal has a range of 1,500-2,000 km and carries a 480 kg nuclear or conventional payload. Launched from MiG-31 jets at 18 km altitude, it can also be deployed from other aircraft like Tu-160M and Su-34. The missile can maneuver during flight to evade air defenses and hit both static and mobile targets, including aircraft carriers.

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India signed a deal with the US to buy 170 AGM-114R Hellfire missiles. The AGM-114 Hellfire is a laser-guided, short-range air-to-ground missile used by the US military and 30 allies. It was developed by USA in 1972 to counter Soviet tanks and is used against armored vehicles, radar systems, helicopters, and more. Hellfire missiles are used on UAVs like Predator and Reaper drones.

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The ‘Exercise SWAVLAMBAN SHAKTI’ is conducted by the Sudarshan Chakra Corps at Babina Field Firing Ranges near Jhansi. This exercise focuses on integrating niche and emerging technologies into the Indian Army’s offensive strategies. It involves approximately 1,800 personnel and showcases over 50 new technology equipment (NTEs) from more than 40 industry partners, including advanced drones and robotic systems. The aim is to enhance combat readiness and foster collaboration between the Indian Army and the defence industry, boosting indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.