Defence Current Affairs MCQs

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Rajasthan will host the India-UAE joint military exercise ‘Desert Cyclone 2024’. The inaugural edition of this bilateral drill will be conducted from January 2nd to January 15th, 2024 in Rajasthan. The aim is to enhance interoperability between the Indian Army and UAE forces by exchanging best practices in areas like urban operations. This comes under expanding defense ties between the two nations who are strategic partners.

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The elite unit of the Indian Navy involved in the successful rescue of 21 crew members, including 15 Indians, from the Liberian-flagged vessel MV Lila Norfolk was the MARCOS (Marine Commandos). This rapid response operation was initiated following an attempted hijacking in the North Arabian Sea. The operation showcased the Indian Navy’s capability and readiness to handle maritime security threats, employing various assets including a warship, maritime patrol aircraft, helicopters, P-8I aircraft, and Predator MQ9B drones. The sanitization operation carried out by the MARCOS commandos confirmed the absence of hijackers on the vessel, thereby ensuring the safety and security of the crew onboard. The MARCOS unit is known for its expertise in maritime operations and plays a crucial role in safeguarding India’s maritime interests.

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SAMBHAV (Secure Army Mobile Bharat Version) is an end-to-end secure mobile ecosystem developed by the Indian Army. It operates on 5G technology and aims to provide secure communication and instant connectivity. Command Cyber Operations Support Wings enhance cyber capabilities at operational and tactical levels. SAMBHAV addresses the vulnerability of mobile networks to eavesdropping, offering end-to-end security. Developed in collaboration with experts, it leverages existing public cellular networks and deploys 35,000 sets in two phases, reinforcing India’s stance in hybrid warfare and civil-military fusion.

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Japan recently inked a deal with the US for the purchase of 400 Tomahawk missiles, versatile long-range cruise missiles. Manufactured in the US, these missiles can be launched from ships or submarines, targeting fixed locations like communication and air-defense sites. Flying at low altitudes, Tomahawks use satellite navigation and TERCOM radar for precise guidance. Propelled initially by solid propellant and later by a heat-efficient turbofan engine, they offer strategic advantages in high-risk scenarios, enhancing Japan’s defense capabilities.

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NASA has successfully re-established contact with its Ingenuity helicopter on Mars. Launched aboard the Perseverance rover, Ingenuity made history on April 19, 2021, as the first aircraft to achieve powered, controlled flight on another planet. Operating independently of the rover’s science mission, it flew to a height of 10 feet, hovered for 30 seconds, and descended in a groundbreaking 39.1-second flight, demonstrating the feasibility of flight in Mars’ challenging atmosphere using onboard systems.

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The new Mahindra Armado, India’s first Armoured Light Specialist Vehicle (ALSV), debuted at the Republic Day Parade. Designed and built by Mahindra Defence Systems, it’s intended for the Indian armed forces in counter-terrorism, Special Forces, reconnaissance, and border patrolling. With a seating capacity of six (expandable to eight), it boasts a 1,000 kg load capacity, B7-level ballistic protection, and a 3.2-liter diesel engine generating 216 hp. Armado accelerates from 0 to 60 kmph in 12 seconds, reaching speeds exceeding 120 kmph, equipped with self-cleaning exhaust and air filtration for extreme climates.

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Navy Chief Admiral R Hari Kumar inaugurated Precision Approach Radar (PAR) at INS Utkrosh in Andaman and Nicobar Islands during his 3-day visit to bolster the strategic tri-service command. The PAR, manufactured by a Chennai company, enhances aircraft landing safety in low visibility conditions, such as heavy rain and fog, offering precise horizontal and vertical guidance. This system strengthens the Andaman and Nicobar Command’s defense capabilities.

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The 12th edition of the MILAN naval exercise took place in Visakhapatnam from February 19–27, 2024. The exercise, which has the theme “Forging Naval Alliances for a Secure Maritime Future,” aims to strengthen collaboration between participating navies.

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An Indian Air Force Chinook helicopter made a precautionary landing in Punjab due to a technical snag. The Chinook/CH-47F, manufactured by Boeing, is a tandem rotor heavy-lift helicopter used for troop and supply transport. India operates 15 Chinooks, featuring advanced cargo handling, a fully integrated digital cockpit, and a triple hook system. With a maximum speed of 160 knots, it can carry 55 troops or 10 tonnes of cargo, showcasing its versatility in military operations.

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The Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) has signed an MoU with the Indian Air Force (IAF) to enhance the Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’. The collaboration aims to integrate future weapons and sensors, crucial for modernizing in the current war scenario. The technology transfer for weapons and sensors integration has begun, enhancing Tejas’ operational capabilities, including independent sensor functionality, seamless weapons integration, and access to flight tests. ADA’s successful development of Tejas, with 10,000+ sortie credits, has led to the formation of two Air Force squadrons, with two-seater aircraft being inducted.