Defence Current Affairs MCQs

Notes:
INS Nireekshak reached Colombo to participate in IN–SLN DIVEX 2026 (India–Sri Lanka Navy Diving Exercise). It is a Diving Support and Submarine Rescue Vessel of the Indian Navy. The exercise (21–27 April 2026) focuses on diving operations, training, and interoperability. It strengthens maritime cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The exercise aligns with MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions) vision in the Indian Ocean Region.

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Defence Research and Development Organisation unveiled Advanced Armoured Platforms (tracked & wheeled) on April 25, 2026, at Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra. These platforms were developed by Vehicles Research and Development Establishment to meet evolving operational needs of Indian defence forces. They feature an indigenously developed 30 mm crewless turret with a 7.62 mm PKT gun and Anti-Tank Guided Missile capability.

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The first edition of Exercise ‘Pragati’ is scheduled to take place at Umroi, Meghalaya, from May 18–31, 2026. Exercise Pragati (Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region) involves 11 friendly countries. It aims to enhance defence cooperation, interoperability, and mutual trust among participating nations. The exercise reflects a shared commitment to regional security and stability in the Indian Ocean Region.

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Russia announced the deployment of the Sarmat strategic nuclear Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM), also known by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) designation “Satan II.” It is developed by Russia. The missile is considered one of the world’s most powerful nuclear-capable missiles and is designed to strike targets across long distances in the United States and Europe. Sarmat is the first post-Soviet Russian ICBM classified as “super heavy.” The missile reportedly has a range exceeding 35,000 km and carries a warhead yield significantly greater than Western counterparts.

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Sanghmitra was launched at Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers in Kolkata under the Indian Navy’s indigenous shipbuilding programme. The vessel is part of the Indian Navy’s project to build 11 Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs) at GRSE and Goa Shipyard Limited. These indigenously built ships will support maritime surveillance, coastal defence, anti-piracy patrols, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The vessel is named after Sanghamitra, reflecting India’s cultural heritage.

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The Defence Minister recently reviewed the progress of major HAL projects, including delays in the delivery of the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mk1A. The Ministry of Defence has signed a contract with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for the procurement of 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). Tejas Mk1A is developed by HAL. It is regarded as one of the world’s lightest fighter aircraft in its class. The aircraft is capable of offensive air support, air combat, and ground attack missions.

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The Government of India has decided to build a new ₹13,000-crore greenfield civil-military airport under the Great Nicobar Project. The new airport will be developed on Great Nicobar Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The government has chosen this plan instead of expanding the existing INS Baaz naval airfield. INS Baaz is an Indian naval air station located near Campbell Bay on Great Nicobar Island. It was commissioned in 2012 and is the first air station in the Nicobar Islands. The air station plays a major role in intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) in the Indian Ocean region.

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Recently, the first of six indigenous Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) was inducted into service by the Indian Coast Guard in Goa. The Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) are being built by Chowgule and Company Private Limited. An Air Cushion Vehicle (ACV), commonly known as a hovercraft, operates on a cushion of air and can travel over land, water, mudflats, and marshy terrain. The induction aims to enhance the Coast Guard’s maritime surveillance, coastal security, search and rescue, and rapid response capabilities. The project supports the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative by promoting indigenous defence manufacturing.

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Russia’s Burevestnik missile recently drew attention after research suggested that its flight may leave a trail of radioactive material due to its nuclear-powered propulsion system. Burevestnik, meaning “Storm Petrel”, is a ground-launched, low-flying, nuclear-powered and nuclear-armed cruise missile developed by Russia. It is regarded as the world’s first nuclear-powered cruise missile. The missile was among the six strategic weapons unveiled by Russian President Vladimir Putin in 2018. NATO designates the missile as SSC-X-9 Skyfall.

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has achieved a major milestone by granting Final Operational Clearance (FOC) to the indigenous Netra Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) system for induction into the Indian Air Force. The system was developed jointly by DRDO, Indian Air Force (IAF), and industry partners to enhance airborne surveillance, situational awareness, and battle management capabilities. The Netra AEW&C had earlier received Initial Operational Clearance (IOC) in 2017, marking its gradual progression to full operational readiness. The system reflects India’s progress in indigenous defence technology and self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat.