Defence Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
The “Eagles of Civilisation 2026” is a bilateral joint air exercise held between the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) of China and the Egyptian Air Force. This joint military drill is designed to enhance tactical interoperability, joint combat capabilities, and military-to-military cooperation between the two nations. This engagement underscores Egypt’s diversifying defense relations with global powers beyond Western nations, highlighting strategic security partnerships in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Notes:
The Indian Navy continues to monitor and escort merchant vessels transiting the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait amid security concerns in the Red Sea–Gulf of Aden region. The deployment forms part of India’s broader maritime-security efforts, including Operation Sankalp. Operation Sankalp was launched by the Indian Navy in June 2019 in response to the deteriorating maritime-security situation in the Gulf region. The operation was initiated particularly after attacks on merchant ships in the Gulf of Oman. Its primary objective is to ensure the safe passage of Indian-flagged merchant vessels through strategically important maritime routes. The operation covers the Persian Gulf, Gulf of Oman and Strait of Hormuz.

Notes:
DRDO successfully tested the indigenous Military Combat Parachute System (MCPS) at 22,000 feet in Nyoma-Mudh, Ladakh. The trial was conducted at around −15°C, demonstrating the system’s suitability for high-altitude and extreme cold conditions. The parachute was deployed at 20,000 feet, with the test jumpers landing safely at 13,700 feet. The trial also validated indigenous subsystems such as the para computer, specialised oxygen systems and specialised jumpsuits. The test strengthens India’s indigenous defence capabilities and operational readiness in high-altitude environments.

Notes:
India is planning to acquire the US-made FGM-148 Javelin, a shoulder-fired anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) system. The development was announced by US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, who described it as a significant step in India-US defence relations. The Javelin uses fire-and-forget technology, allowing the operator to move away after launching the missile. The system is designed to engage armoured vehicles and tanks and is known for its portability and advanced guidance capabilities.

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Recently, Indonesia and the United States launched the annual “Super Garuda Shield” military exercise on 31 August 2026. The exercise is held in Indonesia. It involves more than 4,700 personnel from Indonesia, the US and 13 other countries. Participating countries include Japan, South Korea, Australia and Canada. The exercise covers airborne operations, missile firing, jungle warfare, naval manoeuvres, infiltration drills and cyber defence.

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The 16th edition of Aero India, the premier biennial aerospace and defence exhibition, is scheduled to be held at the Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru, Karnataka, in February 2027. Yelahanka Air Force Station has been hosting this prestigious international event since its inception in 1996. The exhibition serves as a vital platform for global and domestic aerospace industries to showcase advanced aviation technologies, promote defence indigenisation, and foster international collaborations in the manufacturing and export sectors.

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The Indian Army’s Konark Corps conducted the high-intensity ‘Rudra Raptors’ joint exercise in the desert sector of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The exercise was held under the theme “One Team, One Purpose, Absolute Battlefield Dominance.” AH-64E Apache attack helicopters of Thar Raptors and tanks of the Black Mace Brigade participated in the exercise. It focused on air-ground integration, combat readiness, communication, manoeuvre and battlefield dominance. The exercise also highlighted the Indian Army’s focus on Atmanirbharta, innovation and advanced battlefield technologies.

Notes:
Russia has publicly unveiled the S-71K Kovyor, a new air-launched stand-off weapon designed for the Su-57E fifth-generation fighter aircraft. It is designed to provide a lower-cost option between expensive cruise missiles and attack drones. The S-71K is reportedly powered by an R500 turbojet engine and has a range of approximately 300 km. The unveiling comes as Russia is seeking to expand Su-57E sales and possible production cooperation with India.

Notes:
Eager Lion 2026 is the 12th iteration of the joint military exercise between the United States and Jordan. The 2026 edition is scheduled to be hosted at Fort Carson, Colorado, USA. The exercise is conducted between US Central Command (CENTCOM) and the Jordanian Armed Forces. Traditionally, Eager Lion has been held in Jordan, making the 2026 edition notable for its change of location. It is a multi-domain military exercise aimed at improving interoperability between participating forces. The exercise focuses on addressing regional security threats and strengthening defence cooperation between the US and Jordan.

Notes:
The VIMARSH 2026 conclave was held in New Delhi in September 2026, focusing on indigenising India’s defence manufacturing sector. The event was organized under the theme “Varta se Vikas” (Development through Dialogue). During this event, the Union Defence Minister announced key policy measures to enhance the integration of MSMEs and deep-tech start-ups into the domestic defence supply chain. The event addressed key structural challenges in defence production, including high capital intensity, testing bottlenecks, and long procurement cycles.