Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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Rajnath Singh laid the foundation of the Large Cavitation Tunnel (LCT) at Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam. NSTL is a premier lab under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). The Large Cavitation Tunnel (LCT) is a strategic facility for advanced hydrodynamic research and testing of naval systems. It will enable indigenous design, development, and testing of ships, submarines, and propulsion systems. It supports stealth, noise reduction, and next-generation underwater technologies. The facility allows both closed-loop (submarine) and free-surface (surface ship) simulations.

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North Korea confirmed testing new cluster-warhead systems on Hwasong-11A short-range ballistic missiles, designed to destroy wide targets. The Hwasong-11A (also known as KN-23) is a short-range ballistic missile developed by North Korea. The tests demonstrated the ability to disperse bomblets over a 6 to 7-hectare area using Hwasong-11 missiles, aiming to maximize damage against soft targets and infrastructure.

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Exercise Brahmastra, a major live-firing exercise by the Indian Army, was held at the Pokhran Field Firing Range in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. The purpose of this exercise is to showcase the combat capabilities of the newly inducted AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and test coordination between air and ground forces. The Boeing AH-64 Apache is a multi-role attack helicopter equipped with a 30 mm chain gun, AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, and rockets for precision strikes. The exercise tested operational readiness, coordination between pilots and ground crews, and precision targeting in simulated battlefield conditions.

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Recently, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited handed over four ALH Mk III Maritime Role helicopters to the Indian Coast Guard, boosting maritime capabilities. ALH Mk III is the maritime variant of the indigenous Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter. It is indigenously designed and manufactured in India, supporting self-reliance in defence. It is a multi-role, twin-engine helicopter suited for complex maritime operations. It enhances operational readiness, rapid response, and surveillance efficiency of the Indian Coast Guard.

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Russia has approved the sale of the R-37M (Russian long-range air-to-air missile), also known as AA-13 Axehead (North Atlantic Treaty Organization reporting name), to India to enhance its air combat capability. The missile is designed for BVR (Beyond Visual Range) combat, allowing it to strike targets at very long distances without direct visual contact. It is developed to destroy enemy fighter jets, drones, and other aerial threats effectively. The missile is nicknamed an “AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System) Killer” because it can target high-value aircraft like radar planes, refuelling tankers, and jamming systems.

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INS Mahendragiri is the sixth Nilgiri-class (Project 17A) stealth frigate delivered to the Indian Navy on 30 April 2026. It was constructed at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited in Mumbai, marking progress in indigenous warship building. Project 17A frigates are advanced multi-mission warships with improved stealth, survivability, and combat capabilities. The ship was designed by the Warship Design Bureau using an integrated construction approach. It uses Combined Diesel or Gas (CODOG) propulsion along with Controllable Pitch Propellers (CPP).

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The Indian Army contingent has reached Cambodia for the second edition of the India–Cambodia joint military exercise CINBAX-II 2026. The exercise is held at Techo Sen Phnom Thom Mreas Training Centre in Kampong Speu Province, Cambodia from May 4 to 17, 2026. Around 120 Indian personnel, mainly from the Maratha Light Infantry Regiment, are participating. The Cambodian side is represented by about 160 personnel from the Royal Cambodian Army. The exercise is conducted under the framework of Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate. It focuses on counter-terrorism operations in sub-conventional and semi-urban environments.

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Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Achal was recently commissioned by the Indian Coast Guard at Goa Shipyard Limited. It is a new-generation Adamya-class Fast Patrol Vessel (FPV), and “Achal” means firm. It is the fifth among eight Fast Patrol Vessels being built by Goa Shipyard Limited for the Indian Coast Guard. The vessel is powered by two 3000 kilowatt advanced diesel engines and can achieve a top speed of 27 knots. It has an operational endurance of 1500 nautical miles and includes advanced systems such as Integrated Bridge System and Automated Power Management System.

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The Girder Laying Ceremony for the 4th, 5th, and 6th Air Cushion Vehicle of the Indian Coast Guard was held at the Rassaim Yard of Chowgule Shipyard in Goa on 11 May 2026. These Air Cushion Vehicles are being manufactured under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative with around 50% indigenous content. The contract for six indigenously designed and built Air Cushion Vehicles was signed with Chowgule & Company Private Limited in October 2024. The vehicles will be used for coastal patrolling, reconnaissance, interception, interdiction, and search-and-rescue operations.

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Exercise PRAGATI 2026 began at Umroi Military Station, Meghalaya, with participation from 12 friendly nations, including Bhutan, Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, and the Philippines. PRAGATI stands for “Partnership of Regional Armies for Growth and Transformation in the Indian Ocean Region.” The exercise is organised by the Indian Army to strengthen regional military cooperation, defence ties, and intelligence-sharing mechanisms. The two-week exercise focuses on counter-terrorism operations in semi-mountainous and jungle terrain.