Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is testing DURGA-2, a prototype of its Directionally Unrestricted Ray Gun Array. This system utilizes lasers, microwaves, or particle beams to damage or destroy targets, offering advantages over conventional munitions. It operates at the speed of light, unaffected by gravity or atmospheric drag, and boasts precision and customizable effects. Its implementation could revolutionize warfare, joining other countries like Russia, France, Germany, the UK, Israel, and China in possessing similar technology.

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The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has achieved a milestone by creating the nation’s lightest Bullet Proof Jacket, designed to withstand Level 6 threat of BIS ammunition. Recently tested at TBRL, Chandigarh, it incorporates novel materials and processes for enhanced protection. The front Hard Armour Panel (HAP) utilizes a monolithic ceramic plate with polymer backing, providing both durability and comfort for operatives during missions, as affirmed by the Ministry of Defence.

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The United States is providing Army Tactical Missile Systems (ATACMS) to Ukraine to aid in its conflict with Russia, aiming for use within Ukraine’s borders. The decision stems from Russia’s heightened assaults on civilian infrastructure and suspicions of North Korea supplying ballistic missiles to Russia. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the ATACMS is a surface-to-surface artillery weapon with a range of up to 300km, surpassing existing Army capabilities. Previous versions had ranges around 160km.

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Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor took charge as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) Training Command on May 1, 2024. Commissioned in 1986, he’s a veteran with over 3400 flying hours and notable stints as Commanding Officer and Station Commander. His roles include Chief Instructor at Air Force Academy, Defence Attaché in Pakistan, and staff positions in strategy and air defense. Prior to TC, he was Air Officer-in-Charge Personnel at Air HQ.

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The Indian Army’s Kharga Corps, with the Western Command, conducted a three-day joint exercise, “Gagan Strike-II,” with the Indian Air Force in Punjab. Utilizing assets like Apache helicopters and UAVs, the exercise focused on validating attack helicopters’ role in supporting mechanized operations. It aimed to refine protocols and enhance coordination for ground offensives, including live fire maneuvers, in developed terrains.

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The Indian Army and Navy are set to receive Hermes-900 drones, or Drishti-10, enhancing their surveillance capabilities. Hermes-900, a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial system, boasts over-the-horizon, multi-mission capabilities with a payload capacity of 350 kgs. It facilitates area dominance, Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR), ground support, and maritime patrol missions, enabling integrated multi-platform, multi-sensor operations.

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The India-U.S. joint urban counter terrorism exercise, involving the NSG and U.S. SOF, concludes in Kolkata, the seventh edition. Started on April 22, 2024, following the previous edition in Chennai, January 2023. Focuses on building relations and interoperability between forces. Aims at enhancing bilateral cooperation in combating terrorism, including sharing tactics and procedures for urban operations like close quarter battles and hostage rescues.

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Project Udbhav, a collaboration between the Indian Army and USI, aims to blend ancient Indian military strategies from texts like the Mahabharata with modern warfare tactics. Named ‘Udbhav’ meaning ‘origin’, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern military education. It aims to tap into India’s 5000-year-old intellectual legacy to tackle contemporary security challenges effectively.

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Indian Naval Ship Kiltan arrived at Muara, Brunei, warmly welcomed by the Royal Brunei Navy. This indigenously-built anti-submarine warfare stealth corvette is the third Kamorta-class corvette under Project 28. Designed by the Indian Navy and built by GRSE in Kolkata, it features a carbon fibre composite superstructure for enhanced stealth and lower maintenance. It hosts advanced indigenous weapons and sensors, including torpedoes, ASW rockets, and air surveillance radar.

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The Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully flight-tested the RudraM-II air-to-surface missile from a Su-30 MK-I aircraft off Odisha’s coast. The test met all objectives, validating its propulsion, control, and guidance systems. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised the achievement. The RudraM-II, a solid-propelled missile, enhances the Armed Forces’ capabilities, utilizing advanced DRDO technologies.